Gift cards are burning holes in many a pocket and customer service counters are taking back the presents people just can't wait to return.

NPR: The Worst Gift Ever

There are full-service counters for fruit, vegetables, meat and cheese, shelves stocked with dry goods, a bakery and a discount section that circles the perimeter.

FORBES: The Anti-Wal-Mart

These robots are being used at Foxconn for the same reason that self-service checkout counters are being used in supermarkets, for the same reason that self-service yoghurt shops proliferate.

FORBES: Foxconn to Automate: Be Careful What You Wish For

The Smarter Checkout solution also allows the customers to use their mobile devices to process orders, redeem digital coupons, access loyalty points, and pay for purchases at IBM self-service pay counters.

FORBES: IBM Scores In Retail With Smarter Checkout

Everyone acknowledges that high technology is immensely expanding productivity, but bean counters haven't figured out in this service-cum-high-tech economy how to measure that.

FORBES: Fact and Comment

Service resumed Saturday, when the lights flickered back on to reveal water damage to the walls, counters and floors, Carney said.

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