The retailer first introduced the NCR FastLane self-checkout aisles in 2005 in an effort to improve front-end operations while providing more options for shoppers. Today, 136 of Home Depot Canada's 155 stores have self-checkout aisles, with most stores having as many as four lanes.

About 35 percent of all Home Depot transactions are taking place at self-checkout lanes. The company plans to build 10 to 15 more stores this year.

“When customers shop at the Home Depot, they come for great service, expert know-how and a wide variety of choices,” said Annette Verschuren, president of Home Depot Canada and Home Depot Asia.

“Self-checkouts provide them with yet another choice. By combining traditional, full-service checkout with self-service lanes, we're able to speed up the checkout process, and also enhance overall customer service by moving associates onto the store floor where they can provide further value-added service and expertise,” Verschuren said.

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Stock %Chg Industry Mkt Cap Home Depot $27.64 +0.95% Home Improvement $46.4B Quote data as of: 03/31/2008 12:02 PM