Greggs Tests Self-Service: How Purchases Will Change at Bakeries.

Self-Service System at Greggs

According to The Sun: The Greggs chain is testing a new system in its bakeries that allows customers to avoid queues. Known for its baked goods, the brand is trialing self-service screens in a number of stores in North East England.

Ten bakeries have already been equipped with the new technology, which allows customers to view menus, place orders, and pay through touchscreens. This test is at an early stage and started this year.

Don't expect all stores to be equipped with these systems after the trials are completed. Customers will still have the ability to order and pay for purchases at the checkout.

Some Greggs fans have already seen the innovations in their local outlets.

“Ordering without the fear that my pronunciation of mocha will be judged? I like it.”

Another added:

“I can still order at the checkout and use these screens, so I see no problem? I prefer the screens to browse the whole menu.”

Similar Solutions in Fast Food

Self-service systems are becoming increasingly popular in fast food establishments in the UK. McDonald's has been using such screens since 2015, and KFC since 2017. The healthy café chain Leon has also provided this option to its customers.

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Other Changes at Greggs

This is another innovation from Greggs. The company has phased out self-service fridges in several of its stores due to rising theft levels. Items such as sandwiches and drinks have been moved behind the counter in at least five branches.

This decision came as a result of an investigation by The Sun, which revealed that brazen thieves attempt to steal items from some stores every 20 minutes.

New Autumn Menu

Greggs has also launched a new autumn menu ahead of the colder months, which includes the new Chicken Fajita Bake. This pastry is filled with grilled peppers and spicy fajita sauce, wrapped in flaky pastry and topped with black pepper.

Sweets lovers can try the hot Pumpkin Spice Latte, which is priced at £2.75, cheaper than Starbucks, where the smallest size costs £4.90.

Here’s the full list of new menu items:

• Chicken Fajita Bake, £2.10, 419 calories
• Firecracker Crispy Chicken Burger, £4.00, 521 calories
• Firecracker Chicken Wrap, £3.80, 490 calories
• Pumpkin Spice Latte, £2.75, 208 calories
• Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte, £3.10, 170 calories
• Caramel Mocha, £2.80, 336 calories
• Caramel Hot Chocolate, £2.80, 332 calories
• Cheese and Ham Toastie, £3.65, 543 calories
• Cheese and Onion Chutney Toastie, £3.65, 530 calories
• BBQ Chicken Toastie, £3.65, 619 calories
• Pizza Box Hot Firecracker (6), £9.95, 628 calories per slice
• Pumpkin Spice Doughnut, £1.40, 310 calories
• Toffee Fudge Muffin, £1.55, 352 calories
• Free Range Egg Pot (2 pack), £1.60, 127 calories

Greggs customers can expect the convenience of new self-service technologies and enjoy new flavors in the autumn menu. The implementation of screens is recommended in light of reduced expectations of queues and increased competition in the fast food market. However, in light of the growing theft issues, the chain is also taking measures to protect its goods.