The well-known US department store Macy's has introduced the sale of small electronic goods such as iPods, cameras and mobile phones through vending machines in 400 of its stores.
According to Macy’s, a successful trial of what it calls ‘e-Spot automated shops’ had prompted the decision to extend the number of machines.
Chris Mizer, senior vice president of Macy’s customer operations, said: "Customers tell us they love the no-pressure environment e-Spot provides."
The idea of lower staffing costs is of course an attraction to retailers. Back in February Macy’s announced it was cutting 2,300 jobs after a decline in sales at the beginning of the year.
It has, however, been suggested by some technology experts believe that not all countries will take to the idea of buying high value products through vending machines, with some customers insisting on a higher level of customer service.
