Drawing on existing research on automation, computers, and the effects of technology in the workp... more Drawing on existing research on automation, computers, and the effects of technology in the workplace, this paper examines the effects of automated self-checkout lanes on employment in the retail food industry. Using BLS employment data as well as interviews with store managers and union officials, this paper finds that the overall effect of automation on cashiers' skills is mixed, reducing the need for some routine tasks (e.g., scanning) while enhancing others (e.g., supervising), a trend consistent with existing literature examining the effects of technology on skill demands. Similar to Walsh's (1991, 1993) previous research on technological innovation in the retail food industry, a combination of social and political factors shape and limit the use of self-checkout lanes in supermarkets including chronic turnover, concerns regarding theft and loss, perceptions of customer service, maintenance, and perhaps most importantly, specific labor contract provisions regarding the use of technology in the workplace. However, growing pressure from low-wage nonunion competitors (e.g., WalMart) may cause supermarkets to consider expanding automation beyond current levels, thereby significantly affecting current employment patterns.
Drawing on existing research on automation, computers, and the effects of technology in the workp... more Drawing on existing research on automation, computers, and the effects of technology in the workplace, this paper examines the effects of automated self-checkout lanes on employment in the retail food industry. Using BLS employment data as well as interviews with store managers and union officials, this paper finds that the overall effect of automation on cashiers' skills is mixed, reducing the need for some routine tasks (e.g., scanning) while enhancing others (e.g., supervising), a trend consistent with existing literature examining the effects of technology on skill demands. Similar to Walsh's (1991, 1993) previous research on technological innovation in the retail food industry, a combination of social and political factors shape and limit the use of self-checkout lanes in supermarkets including chronic turnover, concerns regarding theft and loss, perceptions of customer service, maintenance, and perhaps most importantly, specific labor contract provisions regarding the use of technology in the workplace. However, growing pressure from low-wage nonunion competitors (e.g., WalMart) may cause supermarkets to consider expanding automation beyond current levels, thereby significantly affecting current employment patterns.
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Papers by Stefano Bonsi