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Tesco’s AI-powered self-checkout technology has sparked controversy over surveillance and shoplifting prevention, with some customers expressing concerns over the level of monitoring and potential invasion of privacy.
The introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) technology to some self-checkouts at Tesco has led to a mix of reactions from customers, with some joking about the resemblance to the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology used in football. While Tesco aims to reduce shoplifting by installing overhead cameras and live-action replays, others express concerns over the level of surveillance and potential invasion of privacy.
Shoplifting has hit a record high in the UK, with 516,971 offences recorded by police in England and Wales last year, representing a 20% increase from the previous year. Retailers estimate that shoplifting rates are even higher, with 20.4 million incidents reported by retailers themselves, costing £2 billion.
Shoplifting is a form of larceny where an individual takes possession of merchandise from a retail store without paying for it.
According to the National Retail Federation, shoplifting costs retailers billions of dollars annually.
Common causes include economic hardship, peer pressure, and impulse control issues.
Consequences can range from fines and community service to imprisonment.
Statistics show that shoplifting rates are higher during holiday seasons and in areas with high foot traffic.
Tesco has introduced the technology across some of its stores to help customers using self-service checkouts identify if an item hasn’t scanned properly. If an item fails to scan, customers are shown a video on the self-service screen with a message saying ‘The last item wasn’t scanned properly. Remove from bagging area and try again.‘ This is similar to Sainsbury’s, which has also implemented AI recognition technology at some of its stores.
However, some customers have expressed concerns over the level of surveillance and potential invasion of privacy. Gaming developer John O’Reilly stated that he found the systems in his local Tesco ‘deeply invasive‘ and wondered how anyone can consent to such technology. Others, like Heather from Nottingham, feel uncomfortable with the cameras following them around the store and the punishment of shoppers who use self-scan as intended.
Tesco’s spokesperson said that the decision to implement security measures is based on a range of factors, including offering customers a smooth checkout experience. The company aims to reduce shoplifting by making the checkout process quicker and easier. However, some retailers have taken a different approach, such as Greggs announcing that it will move its self-serve food and drinks behind the counter at sites with high levels of theft.
In response to the rising shoplifting rates, supermarkets have introduced various security measures, including giant trolley scales and security tags on products. Some retailers have also explored alternative solutions, such as fitting products with dummy jars or moving self-serve areas behind the counter.
