Transactions at self-service kiosks in North America will surpass $607 billion this year, an amount that will more than triple by 2012 to over $1.7 trillion, according to a new research study conducted by retail technology consultancy IHL Group.
 
"We expect continued double-digit growth in the revenue generated by self-service transactions for the foreseeable future," said Lee Holman, lead retail analyst of IHL. "The results of this study confirm what we've been seeing for the past several years, namely, that consumers are showing a preference for self-service kiosk activity of all kinds. The benefit to retailers is that this technology can significantly increase customer loyalty, as well as customer satisfaction. "
 
The devices are also a hedge against increasing expenses during a tough economic climate, added Holman. "They allow retailers to schedule their labor resources for high-volume periods without sacrificing service during non-peak times."
 
The new research study, "2008 North American Self-Service Kiosks," examines the increasing use of six types of self-service kiosks where payment is accepted: self-checkout systems, ticketing kiosks, check-in kiosks, food ordering, postal systems, and other retail kiosks.
 
It covers self-service kiosks in the United States and Canada, with details on the number and type of kiosks shipped historically. It also provides forecasts for each type of kiosk -- in terms of units shipped and revenue transacted. In addition, the report highlights best practices and best-in-class machines for each class of kiosk.
 
For more information, visit www.ihlservices.com