New Kmart store layout a 'fail' for even the most die-hard of fans, according to new poll

A Kmart redesign that has brought cash registers into the middle of the store - instead of on the way out - has been deemed a design "fail" by disgrunted shoppers.

In a recent News Corp poll, customers overwhelmingly said they were dissatisfied with the new layout, calling it "disorientating" and "inefficient".

Security guards are now stationed at the front of the store to check receipts, leading some people to say they felt like suspected shoplifters when they left the store.

The discount retailer decided to change its store layout a year ago, re-fitting 148 outlets across Australia.

“I don’t like it. Surely it would increase theft too? One woman at the door can’t check through every bag and trolley thoroughly,” one complainant said.

“Hate it, you end up lining up twice, especially when it’s really busy and they only have one person on the door checking bags and all check-outs are open,” said another.

Retails analysts believe the central cash register concept is designed to make customers buy more.

It's part of a global trend in retailing that works on the idea that the shopper will see more "ancillary" items between the cash register and the exit, and go back to buy more.

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There is a fine science to store layout, retail analysts say, and the middle of a store - traditionally regarded as a dead zone - is being reconceptualised as the centre of the action.

However, it has clearly not been a hit with Australian Kmart devotees, according to the recent poll.