Interactive training system for merchandise bag packing and apparatus for same

Abstract: A bagging apparatus includes a bag support for thermoplastic merchandise bags in a bag pack, a bag opener holding open a bag mouth of the bags, a scale weighing items placed in the bag and a first indicator displaying information related to weight of items placed in the bag. The apparatus includes an item counter determining the number of items in the bag and a mechanism determining the volume of items in the bag. A second indicator signals when the counter reaches a predetermined item count. A third indicator signals when the mechanism indicates a predetermined volume is reached. A bag counter determines the number of bags removed from the apparatus. Circuitry transmits the weight-related, volume and item count information to a computer program for tracking the information for each bag filled. The circuitry also interfaces with a bag inventory system and generates bagger performance tracking information for each user.