The Co-operative Group is launching new self-service checkouts featuring ‘cash hoppers’ that accept both notes and coins at the same time in a bid to speed up transactions.

The CINEO checkout terminals, which feature extra-large touchscreens, will initially operate in 12 stores - four in each - but the society plans to fit 30 shops with the system by the end of the year.

Currently, two thirds of Co-op customers pay for goods using cash. The new terminals mean they will no longer have to insert coins and notes separately, as the money is counted automatically.

Co-op Group CIO and supply chain director Mark Hale said the Wincor Nixdorf technology would save time at the checkouts and reduce the length of queues.

“We are continuing to develop the checkout options available to customers and effectively responding to customer demand for greater choice and higher levels of service,” he said.

Ed Brindley, director of marketing and business development at Wincor Nixdorf, added: “The newest generation of self-service points are quicker and easier to use for customers than ever before.”