A curious aside to that, I've noticed the "manned" register cashiers acting way more friendly and actually standing at the head of their line trying to coax shoppers in. Some must see their jobs on the future chopping block.
Walmart has a ten foot rule. Any time a customer comes within ten foot of an associate, they’re supposed to ask if the customer needs help. Walmart recognizes customer service as key to building loyalty.
I suspect associates have been reminded.