How 'chat checkouts' are making grocery shopping a more sociable experience

Carrefour has launched ‘Blablabla Caisses’ or ‘chat checkouts’ that are aimed primarily at the elderly or socially isolated. Photo: AFP

Fancy a chat? Shoppers in France can now head to a “Blablabla Caisse” or “chat checkout” where there’s plenty of time to talk while paying for groceries at the supermarket. Hailing from the Netherlands, this concept is starting to take hold in other countries.

Who hasn’t found themselves getting annoyed about a long queue at the supermarket at some time or another! But sometimes, it’s also nice to take your time and chew the fat with the cashier.