Kmart Australia under fire for big changes at every store – but do you agree?

A Kmart customer has targeted the retail giant over a controversial change of all stores across Australia.

Taking to Facebook, the Victorian shopper expressed concerns about Kmart’s decision to move its checkouts to the center of stores.

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In particular, he said he was offended that the decision meant all customers’ bags and purchases had to be checked by Kmart employees and security guards before they could exit the store.

“Why put the checkout area in the middle of the store when you treat EVERY SHOPPER like a shoplifter on the way out?” he asked.

The post drew a strong reaction from Facebook users, with many agreeing with his point.

“It’s so frustrating,” said one. “Then they put 15-year-old kids outside and expect them to be security guards.

“It’s appalling on both sides of this transaction.”

Adding another: “I’m with you mate. It’s the DUMBEST idea they’ve ever had. Now some Kmarts have self checkout near the door.”

Said a third: “I know right. I totally agree with you.”

Wrote another one: “Sermon”.

But other customers said they thought Kmart’s decision to move the checkouts to the center of the store was a smart one.

“I used to think it was crazy, but it makes sense,” argued one Facebook user.

“Previously, the only way out of Kmart was through the tills, whether you bought something or not. It created a bottleneck and required more staff attention than posting a person at the exit.

“Under the old system, once you paid you were out of business – you’re less likely to return if you forgot to buy something.

“That way you’re good at the store after you’re done shopping and there’s a chance you’ll see something else to buy on the way out. It’s a way of getting you to walk past some items a second time.”

Kmart replies

A Kmart spokesman told 7NEWS.com.au the decision had been made to move checkouts so there would be less queues and clutter at store entrances.

“At Kmart, we strive to provide a pleasant and convenient shopping experience for all of our customers, whether they shop with us in-store or online,” the spokesman said.

“The decision was made a few years ago to place Kmart cash registers in the middle of the store to make shopping more convenient, ensure store entrances are free of queues and clutter, and allow customers easy entry and exit.

“This current layout is more open and spacious without the tills being at the front of the store, which can get crowded at busy times of the year like Christmas.

“As with many retailers, it is also a condition of entry to all our stores that, upon request, customers present all bags and receipts for inspection before exiting the store.

“This is a standard procedure that takes place regardless of how a customer makes their purchase, whether it’s at our service desk, at self-checkout or if they were assisted by a team member.

“We look forward to continuing to serve all of our customers in the many different ways they love to shop.”