Target is making big changes impacting customers who use self-checkout at some stores.

Target is conducting a trial at select stores, where customers using self-checkout are limited to 10 items or fewer.

The retailer aims to reduce wait times and gain insights into customer preferences with this experiment, though the exact number of stores involved remains undisclosed.

One such store, located in Edina, Minnesota, displays signs stating “self-checkout is now 10 items or fewer” at some kiosks.

While the item limit will surely move customers through the self checkout lines faster, it curious whether this is the real impetus or if it is rampant theft major retailers have been experiencing.

This development follows Target’s announcement to close nine stores due to issues related to violence and business disruptions attributed to theft. Over the past year, the retailer has grappled with increasing “shrink,” which refers to product losses, often attributed to theft.

REALTED: Target Announces Closure of Nine Stores Due to Increased Violent Crime and Shoplifting

Self-checkout, a feature introduced decades ago to reduce labor costs, is facing challenges, primarily linked to theft. To address this, some retailers like Costco now require employee verification of shoppers’ membership cards before allowing them to use self-checkout, aiming to deter customers from sharing memberships.

Others, such as Walmart, have opted to remove specific self-checkout kiosks altogether. Recently, Walmart eliminated self-checkout from three stores in Albuquerque, New Mexico, after customer complaints that the kiosks frequently prompted employee intervention even when no theft was involved.

However, Target has not confirmed whether concerns over shoplifting prompted this move.

Target’s decision to impose item limits on self-checkout aligns with a broader trend in the retail industry. Retailers are reassessing the effectiveness of self-checkout systems in light of theft concerns and customer satisfaction issues.

As Target continues to test this restriction, retailers across the industry are navigating a changing landscape. They seek to strike a balance between convenience, cost reduction, and loss prevention while closely monitoring evolving customer preferences.

The outcome of Target’s experiment will surely impact other locations if successful.

RELATED: Sheriff Blasts Target for Preventing Officers from Fighting Shoplifters in Viral Social Media Post