Long Beach Implements New Rules for Self-Checkout Systems to Address Shoppers’ Concerns

Long Beach Pioneers New Rules to Combat Shoplifting Crisis

October 11, 2025

Long Beach, California, is taking unprecedented steps to address a surge in retail theft, implementing a pioneering ordinance designed to force major stores to increase staffing levels and restrict the use of self-checkout lanes.The move,aimed at deterring shoplifting and enhancing safety,has ignited a debate among retailers,employees,and consumers.

New Ordinance: ‘safe Stores are Staffed Stores’

Last month, the city council approved the “Safe Stores are Staffed Stores” ordinance, requiring large grocery and pharmacy retailers to allocate more employees relative to the number of self-checkout stations. It also limits customers to a maximum of 15 items at self-checkout, and prohibits the use of these lanes for items stored behind security cases. The regulations are already causing visible changes, with some stores like Albertsons and Vons closing self-checkout lanes in response.

City officials assert the ordinance is a necessary measure to combat “hostile and unsafe” conditions stemming from widespread theft. According to the ordinance, theft is frequently underreported, particularly occurring at self-checkout stations.

National Trend of Rising Retail Theft

The situation in Long Beach reflects a nationwide trend. The National Retail Federation (NRF) estimates that shoplifting incidents in the U.S. rose dramatically by 93% between 2019 and 2023. In 2023 alone, retailers reported an average of 177 thefts per day. This increase has prompted many stores to enhance security measures, often locking up frequently stolen items.

The ordinance dictates a staffing ratio of one employee for every three self-checkout stations. This has led to immediate impacts on store operations, with some locations reducing the number of available self-checkout options or temporarily shutting them down altogether.

Reactions to the New Rules

Employee representatives have largely praised the ordinance. Matt Bell, Secretary-Treasurer of UFCW 324, which represents grocery workers, emphasized the importance of prioritizing employee safety and security. He stated the ordinance is “necessary to provide them safety and security and better staffing.”

Retail trade groups, however, have expressed strong opposition. The California Grocers Association warns that the regulations could lead to longer lines and increased grocery prices for consumers. Nate Rose, a Vice President at the association, fears the ordinance will ultimately “damage self-checkout” and result in store closures. The California Retailers Association echoed these concerns, arguing that retailers should retain the adaptability to determine the most effective strategies for addressing theft.

Shoppers have voiced mixed reactions. Francilla Isaac,a local resident,noted the increasing number of closed self-checkout lanes and longer wait times. Lisa Adams, a visitor to Long Beach, acknowledged the need to address theft but expressed her preference for the convenience of self-checkout.

Aspect	Before Ordinance	After Ordinance
Staffing levels	Variable, often minimal at self-checkout	At least 1 staff member per 3 self-checkout stations
Self-Checkout Limit	No specific limit	15 items per customer
Locked Items	Purchasable at self-checkout	Not purchasable at self-checkout

Did You Know? Organized retail crime (ORC) has become a important driver of the increase in shoplifting, with professional thieves targeting high-value items and reselling them online.

Pro Tip: If you witness shoplifting, report it to store security or the local authorities. Do not intervene directly.

The Future of Retail Security

The Long Beach ordinance is anticipated to serve as a test case for other cities grappling with similar issues. The debate highlights the evolving landscape of retail security and the need for innovative solutions to address the growing challenge of shoplifting. Experts suggest a multi-faceted approach, combining increased staffing with advanced security technologies like AI-powered surveillance and enhanced loss prevention systems, might potentially be necessary to effectively combat retail theft.

Moreover, the rise of cashless payment options and the increasing popularity of online shopping are also influencing retail security strategies.Stores are investing in digital security measures to protect against fraud and cybercrime, in addition to traditional methods of theft prevention.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Long Beach Ordinance

• What is the primary goal of the Long Beach ordinance? The ordinance aims to reduce shoplifting and improve safety for both employees and shoppers in Long Beach stores.
• How does the ordinance impact self-checkout lanes? the ordinance limits the number of items customers can purchase at self-checkout to 15 and prohibits the purchase of items kept in locked cases.
• What are retailers saying about the new rules? Retailers have expressed concerns that the ordinance will lead to higher prices and longer lines for consumers.
• What is the National Retail Federation’s stance on shoplifting? The NRF reports a significant increase in shoplifting incidents nationwide and is advocating for stronger measures to combat retail theft.
• Will this ordinance be replicated in other cities? The Long Beach ordinance is being closely watched by other cities facing similar challenges, and it could possibly serve as a model for future regulations.

What are your thoughts on the Long Beach ordinance? Do you believe increased staffing is the best way to deter shoplifting, or are there other solutions that should be explored?

share your opinion in the comments below and let us know how this impacts your shopping experience.

What specific concerns expressed by Long Beach shoppers directly led to the implementation of clearer error resolution procedures at self-checkout lanes?

Understanding the Shift Towards Self-Checkout in Long beach

Long Beach, California, has seen a significant rise in the adoption of self-checkout kiosks across various retail establishments – from grocery stores and pharmacies to big-box retailers. While offering convenience and potentially shorter wait times,this transition hasn’t been without its challenges. Increased instances of retail theft, unintentional scanning errors, and shopper frustration prompted the city to re-evaluate regulations surrounding these systems. The new rules, effective October 2025, aim to strike a balance between technological advancement and consumer protection. This article details the specifics of these changes and what they mean for shoppers and retailers in Long Beach.

Key changes to Long Beach Self-Checkout Regulations

the City Council approved a series of amendments to existing municipal codes addressing self-checkout lanes. These changes focus on three primary areas: increased staffing, enhanced security measures, and clearer guidelines for error resolution.

* Mandatory Staffing Levels: Retailers are now required to maintain a minimum staffing level during peak hours specifically dedicated to assisting customers using self-checkout. The ratio will be persistent by store size and transaction volume, ensuring readily available help for those needing assistance.

* Enhanced Security Protocols: New regulations mandate the implementation of enhanced security measures, including:

* Increased camera surveillance focused on self-checkout areas.

* The use of weight-sensing technology to detect unscanned items.

* Regular audits of self-checkout transactions.

* Clear Error Resolution Procedures: Retailers must prominently display clear and concise instructions on how to address common errors encountered during self-checkout, such as price discrepancies or item scanning issues. Staff must be trained to efficiently resolve these issues.

* Age Verification for Restricted Items: Stricter protocols are now in place for age-restricted purchases (alcohol, tobacco, etc.) made through self-checkout.Employees must verify identification before authorizing the transaction.

Why the Change? Addressing Shopper Concerns & Rising Theft

The impetus for these new rules stemmed from a confluence of factors. local shopper surveys revealed growing dissatisfaction with the self-checkout experience. Common complaints included:

* Difficulty scanning items, particularly produce.

* Confusion regarding loyalty program integration.

* Frustration with resolving errors without immediate assistance.

* Perceptions of increased shoplifting and a lack of security.

Together, Long Beach Police Department data showed a noticeable uptick in retail crime linked to self-checkout areas. Organized retail crime rings were exploiting vulnerabilities in the systems, leading to significant financial losses for businesses. The city council responded by prioritizing both consumer experience and loss prevention.

Impact on Retailers: Compliance and Costs

The new regulations require retailers to invest in both personnel and technology to ensure compliance. While the initial costs may be considerable, proponents argue that the long-term benefits – reduced losses, improved customer satisfaction, and a more positive shopping habitat – will outweigh the expenses.

Retailers are currently exploring several options to meet the new requirements:

* Re-allocating existing staff: Some stores are shifting employees from other departments to assist with self-checkout during peak hours.

* Hiring additional personnel: Others are actively recruiting and training new staff specifically for self-checkout support.

* upgrading security technology: Investments in advanced weight-sensing scales, AI-powered video analytics, and RFID tagging are becoming increasingly common.

Benefits of the New Regulations

These changes aren’t just about addressing problems; they’re about creating a better shopping experience for everyone. The anticipated benefits include:

* Reduced Retail Theft: Enhanced security measures will deter shoplifting and minimize financial losses for businesses.

* Improved customer Satisfaction: Increased staffing and clearer error resolution procedures will lead to a smoother, more user-friendly self-checkout experience.

* Enhanced Security: Greater surveillance and monitoring will create a safer shopping environment for all.

* Increased Efficiency: Properly functioning self-checkout systems, supported by trained staff, can actually increase overall store efficiency.

Practical Tips for Shoppers Using Self-Checkout in Long Beach

Navigating self-checkout can still be tricky. Here are a few tips to ensure a smooth experience:

1. Scan Items Carefully: Ensure each item is properly scanned before placing it in the bagging area.
2. Utilize Produce Codes: If you’re purchasing produce, be sure to look up the correct PLU code or ask for assistance.
3. Don’t Hesitate to Ask for Help: If you encounter any issues, don’t struggle alone.Seek assistance from a store employee.
4. Double-Check Your Receipt: Before leaving the store, review your receipt to ensure all items were scanned correctly.
5. Be Aware of Age Verification: Have your ID readily available if purchasing age-restricted items.

Real-World Example: Local Grocery Store Adapts

One Long Beach grocery store, “Fresh Foods Market,” proactively implemented several changes before the regulations went into effect.They increased staffing at self-checkout by 25% and installed new weight-sensing scales. According to store manager, Sarah Chen, “We saw the writing on the wall. Customers were frustrated, and we were losing money. The investment in staff and technology has already paid off – we’ve seen a