Tesco Introduces Significant Adjustment at Self-Scan Checkouts to Enhance Anti-Theft Measures
Tesco Introduces AI-Powered Replays at Self-Checkouts to Prevent Shoplifting
Tesco has followed in the footsteps of their competitors by implementing video replay technology at self-checkout stations, aiming to reduce instances of brazen theft. The system, inspired by VAR (Video Assistant Referee) from football, uses artificial intelligence (AI) to record and analyze packing actions at scan-and-go tills.
Shoppers who fail to scan a product correctly are shown an instant replay of themselves committing the error. The move is believed to have already implemented changes at Sainsbury's, where similar cameras were covertly introduced last month, reducing shoplifting incidents. Supermarket executives hope that thieves who have been caught on tape are far more likely to pay for their unscanned items.
However, it remains unclear when Tesco installed the equipment on their tills. Would-be shoplifters now encounter a message stating, "The last item wasn't scanned properly. Remove from bagging area, and try again." If successful, this high-tech approach may eliminate the need for lock-boxes and security stickers on everyday items such as teabags, chocolate, and Spam tins.
An anonymous retail source stated that initial indications suggest this measure is effective. Unlike traditional live cameras, this system's visual deterrent is expected to encourage some shoplifters to choose the legal option. While some thieves may continue their criminal activities, this method is expected to dissuade a number of them.
In recent years, shoplifting incidents have been on the rise, with a record-breaking 516,971 reported to the police in 2024, up from 429,873 in 2023. While a fifth of these cases resulted in charges, more than half ended without a suspect identified. The British Retail Consortium reported that shoplifting was costing the industry approximately £2 billion annually, accompanied by escalating violence and abuse against staff.
A Tesco spokesperson commented that the company is constantly seeking ways to utilize technology to make the customer experience more straightforward. They confirmed the installation of a new system at some stores that helps customers using self-service checkouts identify if an item has not been scanned properly, making the checkout process speedier and more convenient.
Consumer theft has become a significant concern for the retail industry, with the finance sector and the larger business community losing millions due to shoplifting each year. With Tesco's introduction of AI-powered replay technology at self-checkouts, it is possible that a decline in shoplifting rates may contribute to optimizing financial outcomes for retail stores.
