Smart & Final’s New Queue Tips

Smart & Final of Los Angeles is streamlining checkout in the age of social distancing with a new queuing system that it says will guide customers more efficiently through the purchasing process. 

The system, which resembles that used in places such as Whole Foods Market stores in New York, is expected to be installed in all Smart & Final stores before Memorial Day, and according to the company, reinforces its commitment to the health and safety of its customers and store associates. 

In lieu of each check stand having individual lines, customers will now queue up in a single line toward the front of the store.A digital screen at the front of the line will tell customers where and when a new register is available. 

A swing gate will create a barrier where the line will start, and customers can wait until the monitor and flashing lights call them forward.

The digital screen will also display other messages, such as reminders about social distancing guidelines. Single queueing ensures both social distancing at 6 feet, as well as getting the next customer to the quickest lane to check out.