Pricing accuracy at grocery stores and other retail stores using scanners

Abstract

In recent years there have been many inquiries and studies by government agencies, media reporters, and academic institutions about pricing accuracy at retail stores that use scanners. Some of these reports have even accused retailers of using scanners to intentionally overcharge customers. This study is based on checking 146,518 items in over 2,000 stores in nine states. Analysis of these data found a price accuracy rate of 96.13 per cent with undercharges occurring more frequently than overcharges. In addition, there was a statistically significant difference between pricing accuracy at grocery stores and other retail stores. Grocery stores recorded a higher accuracy level. There is still room for improvement. Only 58 per cent of the stores inspected reached a 98 per cent pricing accuracy standard recommended by the National Conference of Weights and Measures.

Citation

Clodfelter, G.R. (1998), "Pricing accuracy at grocery stores and other retail stores using scanners", International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management, Vol. 26 No. 11, pp. 412-420. https://doi.org/10.1108/09590559810246368