Scan & Go: Thalia launches cashless payment system

As announced, Thalia has introduced the Scan & Go payment system in its branches. With Scan & Go there is no need to go to the checkout at all, as customers scan the goods themselves and pay online. The free Thalia app is required for this.

If this is installed, users need to log in with their Thalia account or create a new one. The products to be purchased are scanned in via the app. At the end of the purchase, the goods are paid for directly in the app. The usual payment options are available to users, which can also be used for normal online purchases.

In order not to be confused with shoplifters by the shop staff, Scan & Go customers have to use a special bag that they receive at the entrance to the Thalia branches. Books and other goods that are bought via Scan & Go are to be put into these. According to Thalia, after shopping, customers can simply leave the store with their bags and keep them.

Concept should also be based on trust

It is not known to what extent there are random checks as to whether all goods have been paid for. Theoretically, there is a risk that customers will not pay for goods and still leave the store – especially during the hectic Christmas business. However, this is theoretically not difficult even with the self-payment registers that are already established. Ikea, for example, carries out spot checks at such cash registers in which employees compare the goods with the receipt.

According to Thalia, Scan & Go is intended to help reduce contact points during the corona pandemic, as customers no longer have to queue at the checkout.