Abstract: A check-out counter having an optical scanning system mounted therein includes, a cover member located on the top surface of the check-out counter. The cover member contains a plurality of apertures through which the optical scanning system will scan a coded label on a merchandise item. A raised housing member having an inclined top surface in which is located a display is secured to the top surface of the counter. The display is orientated to allow the customer to observe, simultaneously, the display, which displays the price of the item being scanned, and the item itself as it moves past the aperture during a scanning operation.