A recent trend at Walmart reveals an innovative way for employees to access locked items: using their phones. A TikToker by the name of Lee (@leesbby) shared a video showcasing this new method in action, which quickly went viral, amassing an impressive 2.1 million views and sparking thousands of comments. Although Lee appeared optimistic, suggesting this method might reduce wait times, not everyone shared her enthusiasm.
In the video, Lee narrates, “We got a new system. The phone,” as a Walmart employee uses what looks like a smartphone to unlock a store cabinet. This innovative approach aims to simplify the shopping experience.
This Walmart change poses questions
However, this change raises questions about employee compensation. In a text overlay, Lee questions whether Walmart compensates associates for using their personal phones on the job.
She asks, “Does Walmart pay the associates for the use of their own phone at work? Is there a discount percentage offered for using your own phone for work? Do they get a check refund for using their own phone?”
Lee’s video highlights the shift in the company’s operational strategy, stating, “UPDATE…Walmart has a new system, no more waiting for a team member, they all have keys now…THE PHONE.” While this technological advancement aims to enhance efficiency, it opens up a conversation about the implications for employee resources and compensation.
In this part of the video, it seems like the device starts emitting a beeping noise, catching the attention of the TikToker. “Doesn’t seem like it wants to open, huh?” she remarks.
Fortunately, these concerns are quickly put to rest. The worker manages to turn the knob, successfully disengaging the locking mechanism. At last, the cabinet opens, allowing the shopper to access the goods she’s eager to purchase. “Ope, there you go,” she comments as the worker retrieves the item and hands it over to her.
Advertisement: Can Customers Do It Too?
According to a Bloomberg Law post from November 2024, Walmart might soon enable shoppers to use this functionality themselves. At the beginning of the article, the outlet mentions that “some staff can use mobile devices to unlock display cases.”
However, this innovative capability might not be limited to only the employees of the giant retailer. If you’re a Walmart+ subscriber, you might have the opportunity to unlock display cases on your own. Bloomberg notes, “Technology could be offered to Walmart+ loyalty members.”
According to a recent article, there are now “a few hundred stores” where employees can conveniently unlock cases using their phones. This new approach is aimed at enhancing the shopping experience by reducing wait times and improving efficiency.
No More Waiting Games
As per the Daily Dot, the frustration of Walmart shoppers dealing with locked items is frequent. One customer shared their decision to leave the store after enduring an excessively long wait.
They found it hard to believe that a mere $4 battery would warrant such security measures. The lack of staff only amplified their frustration, making the wait for a key feel never-ending.
Many have criticized the retail giant for its seemingly excessive use of lock-up tactics. One shopper expressed shock upon discovering the store’s laundry inventory secured behind barriers.
According to reports from The Street, Walmart has closed dozens of stores throughout 2023 and 2024 due to rampant theft. This action came months after CEO Doug McMillon warned that Walmart would reconsider its business locations if crime continued to be an issue.
Recent news about the phone unlock functionality being linked to a Walmart+ subscription has sparked frustration among some shoppers. Many have expressed their dissatisfaction with the emergence of self-checkout “paywalls.” As some stores have eliminated self-service kiosks, customers now require a Walmart+ membership to scan and pay for their products independently.
Shoppers Share Their Thoughts
In response to Lee’s video, one commenter found Walmart’s selective approach to phone functionality puzzling. “But can’t get Apple Pay,” they remarked.
Another shopper expressed their reluctance to have items unlocked in-store, stating that the phone verification method wouldn’t change their habits. “Once I see it’s locked, I just walk out and order on Amazon. Ain’t got no time for games,” they shared.
Insights from Walmart Employees
A Walmart employee also weighed in on the issue, noting their preference for physical keys. “As a Walmart employee, I can tell you that not all employees have access to the phones. Different areas require different security level access, and sometimes the system doesn’t cooperate. Keys are better by far,” they explained.