Kohl's funnels shoppers through two aisles of impulse buys before checkout, and workers say why

Kohl’s has come under scrutiny online after shoppers described checkout layouts that route customers past two full aisles of impulse-buy items before reaching the registers. In a Reddit thread, a user said the displays contained items characterized as “garbage,” questioning whether the tactic truly drives sales. Commenters suggested the setup can also reduce pressure on staffing by keeping customers occupied, making waits feel shorter while nudging additional purchases. Former Kohl’s employees reportedly echoed concerns about being pulled to cash despite other job duties, describing cashiering as a recurring task due to limited staff at checkout. The discussion broadened to other retail chains, including Marshalls, Ross, Michaels, HomeGoods, and Five Below, implying a wider trend. The article frames impulse displays as a factor increasing waste and extra resource use, with displays featuring low-need accessories and novelty goods. It also notes suggestions to use lists, strict budgets, or online and curbside options when layouts feel manipulative.