Abstract: To improve space utilization at checkout counters, some preferred embodiments of the present invention employ a retail product storage and dispensing device located beneath the check-out counter. In this manner, areas beneath check-out counters that were previously either empty, occupied by support structure, or otherwise under-utilized are converted into valuable retail space. The under-counter storage and dispensing device of the present invention preferably transfers retail items from beneath the check-out counter to a position above or beside the check-out counter at which the retail items can be taken by a user. The check-out counter can have a dispenser opening through which the retail items can be dispensed or otherwise presented to a user. In some embodiments, the check-out counter also includes a user-manipulatable control panel for selection of products to be dispensed by the under-counter storage and dispensing device.

Abstract: To improve space utilization at check-out counters, some preferred embodiments of the present invention employ a retail product storage and dispensing device located beneath the check-out counter. In this manner, areas beneath check-out counters that were previously either empty, occupied by support structure, or otherwise under-utilized are converted into valuable retail space. The under-counter storage and dispensing device of the present invention preferably transfers retail items from beneath the check-out counter to a position above or beside the check-out counter at which the retail items can be taken by a user. The check-out counter can have a dispenser opening through which the retail items can be dispensed or others presented to a user. In some embodiments, the check-out counter also includes a user-manipulatable control panel for selection of products to be dispensed by the under-counter storage and dispensing device.