A Tesco cafe in Sheerness, Kent, is facing criticism after introducing self-service kiosks and a cashless payment policy, sparking concerns about accessibility and job losses.
The cafe, located in Bridge Road, recently underwent a refurbishment, which included a new layout, seating, and decor. As part of the changes, three touchscreen kiosks were installed, allowing customers to order and pay for their food and drinks. However, the new system only accepts card or smartphone payments, excluding cash.
Local resident, Gerry Cunningham, who often visits the cafe, expressed his disapproval of the new cashless system. He argues that the cafe's popularity stems from its social aspect, where people can gather for a cuppa and chat. "I don't think it's going to affect customers," Cunningham said, "but I think it's going to affect their profits. They've shot themselves in the foot doing that."
Cunningham's concerns are shared by other residents, including Alan Welch, who believes the change will disproportionately impact vulnerable groups like the elderly, who may not have easy access to online banking or card payments. "If it's card only, just refuse to use it," Welch suggested, advocating for a boycott of the cafe as a means of forcing a policy change.
Cllr Dolley Wooster, Labour councillor for Sheerness, shares concerns about the potential job losses that could result from the introduction of self-service kiosks. "What we need are jobs that don't particularly need lots of qualifications," she explained, highlighting the importance of part-time positions for individuals returning from maternity leave. "Those positions are invaluable because they fit around school times, get them into the workplace and set them up for success."
Sheerness, located on the Isle of Sheppey, has a population of over 40,000 and has already faced the closure of its TSB branch, leaving only Nationwide as the remaining bank on the island. Local residents are worried that the cashless policy at the Tesco cafe is another indication of a larger trend towards the exclusion of cash and a potential loss of community spaces for interaction.
Tesco maintains that the refurbishment is intended to offer customers a "better experience" by reducing queue times with the use of technology. They have also stated that the changes have been well-received at other branches and that no jobs were lost as a result of the change.
However, the introduction of the new system has ignited a debate about accessibility, job security, and the growing trend towards cashless transactions. While Tesco touts the benefits of improved efficiency, many in the community are concerned about the potential social and economic consequences of these changes. Only time will tell how these changes will ultimately impact the cafe and the wider community of Sheerness.
