5 Things to Know Today Your morning briefing on what's moving Canadian wallets and markets — Thursday, June 5, 2026. 1 / Benefits Your Grocery Benefit Cheque Lands Today Today is the day millions of Canadians have been watching their bank accounts for. The federal government is issuing a one-time Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) top-up to more than 12 million eligible Canadians starting June 5, 2026. The payment equals roughly 50% of your annual GST/HST credit entitlement — so if you normally receive that credit, expect to see a notably larger-than-usual deposit. The numbers: a family of four could receive up to $1,890 in 2026 (including the top-up), while a single person could receive up to $950 . Your bank statement may still label the deposit as "GST/HST Credit" or "GST/HST RC150" — that's normal. The full rebrand to CGEB takes effect July 3, 2026, when the regular quarterly payments resume at a permanent 25% increase for the next five...
Self-checkout systems, a common sight in modern retail, are undergoing a critical evaluation. Initially hailed for their potential to streamline shopping and reduce labor costs, these systems have also brought frustration and challenges. Here’s a brief look at the current state of self-checkout:
Customer Frustration: Some shoppers express discontent with the cumbersome technology and feel that checking out has become a laborious task, meriting a discount for their efforts.
Retailer Reactions: Some stores are imposing item limits at self-checkout stations, while others, like British chain Booths, are removing them due to customer backlash. Theft and loss prevention remain significant concerns.
Labor Implications: The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes a decline in cashier jobs, attributed to self-checkout and online sales. Some workers find the new system brings a different kind of monotony and concern for safety.
Technological Advances: Despite the issues, innovations continue. Kroger uses AI to detect scanning errors, and Amazon’s “just walkout technology” offers a checkout-free experience, hinting at the future of retail.
As the industry navigates these challenges, the fate of self-checkout hangs in the balance, with customer satisfaction and operational efficiency at the forefront of this retail revolution.
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