Walgreens is testing a new concept: almost all goods behind a barrier

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I understand this is because of uncontrolled crime (at least that's what gets reported).

But I see an upside for consumers. I'm generally not in the drug store to browse, it would be nice to just go ul to the counter and get what I want. There are going to be UX issues of course, checkout software is usually "enterprise" as in nobody buys it with the user in mind. But in principle it would be nice.

It's less good for CPG companies that don't get to have displays anymore... and I can see some shenanigans arising as different strategies are tried to get customers to buy particular brands.

The end of self service.

I assume you pay first before receiving the merchandize.

The end of self service in certain regions. Large franchises will learn to adapt to local conditions. One strategy fits all is a bad strategy.

Did you know in Japan there are food vending stands which is just.. racks of food with price on them, and a little piggy bank you drop money in? It's entirely honor based. And it works. Because in Japan this is the optimal solution.

In Chicago this would be a hilariously bad solution.

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