Yeah, the ziplock trick is a total game changer. I take it a step further and use a vacuum sealer for anything that won't get crushed, like pasta or oatmeal. It turns a bulky bag into a flat brick. Just remember to label them with a sharpie because everything looks the same once it's sealed.

Look at the big picture though. Self-checkout means the store can stay open longer and maybe even lower prices for everyone. Those cashier jobs were always going to change. Maybe your friend can learn to fix the machines or manage the self-checkout area. Progress is hard but we can't just stop new tech to save a few old jobs. The store has to compete or it closes and then everyone loses.

Maybe 5 years left" is the home inspector's way of saying "start saving now.

Right? Like what's the deeper reason they keep bringing it up?

That "half a day guessing" part is the real cost. What kind of work does your shop mostly do, just basic stuff or more advanced diagnostics?