The benefits of scanning: A comparison of US and British experiences

Some two and a half years ago the Universal Product Code was introduced into the United States, and a number of American supermarket groups installed scanning systems. In spite of some initial problems, certain positive advantages soon emerged. NCR in America recently carried out a survey amongst their customers using slot scanners and produced an analysis of the benefits, which we outline here. This is compared with likely advantages that could be anticipated in the UK when the system comes into use over here.