Description:  Some call them job killers, those automated checkouts that seem to be spreading in the retail world. According to a survey from Dalhousie University, about 25% of those sampled had never used a self-checkout. Automation obviously allows for companies to cut costs. Some argue, though, that technological change leads to job growth.

Date:  December 8, 2018

Source:  cbc.ca

Link: https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/self-checkout-cashier-jobs-retail-automation-1.4937040

Discussion points:

1)  Are you a regular user of the self-checkout? Why or why not?

2) How will these advancements in technology impact the Canadian economy?

3) In the article, you can read a comment from citizen Dan Morris of Brockville who said “Machines don’t pay taxes, they don’t pay into the pension plan.” Where do companies account for their pension liabilities in their financial statements? Hint: See page 62 of Wiley’s Financial Accounting: Tools for Business Decision-Making.