Coles has introduced new security screens in the middle of popular aisles to deter potential thieves. Photo: Jarryd Rowley.
New security measures have been implemented in some Coles stores to identify potential thieves, display them on a screen, and use speakers to call them out.
The new screens and speakers have been placed in high-theft locations within the stores, including the confectionery, cosmetics and protein powder aisles.
Coles confirmed that the new screens, speakers and cameras have been installed to deter theft.
The supermarket giant said the technology uses in-aisle motion sensors, which are designed to send an alert if there is suspicious activity, such as someone sweeping large amounts of product off the shelf in a short space of time.
“While most of our customers do the right thing, unfortunately, a small number don’t,” a Coles spokesperson said.
“Measures like this ultimately help us deliver better availability for our customers looking for these products. We have been working hard to address retail crime and create a safe environment for our team and customers.
“Along with working closely with police on this issue, we also have a range of safety and security measures in place, including CCTV, motion sensors, electronic article surveillance (EAS), security guards and de-escalation training for our team.
“The activity this technology targets is organised retail crime, where individuals are targeting high-value items in large quantities.”
While the technology is said to target only wannabe thieves, some shoppers say they are unsure how to feel about the new, constant surveillance.
Annette, a regular customer, said she was shocked to hear the speaker alert when shopping for hair products.
“At first I thought it was the voice of God, I had no clue what it was,” she said.
“It told me that I was being recorded. I looked up and saw myself on a screen, a red box around me.
“It feels a bit strange. I felt like I was being put on some sort of watchlist just for reading the back of the box. It definitely made me feel a bit uncomfortable.”
Customer Ashley Hayward said it’s no surprise supermarkets are adding extra security measures.
“Shoplifting and antisocial behaviour have become so rampant everywhere of late, and stores have next to no power to do anything about it,” he said.
“You can’t blame them for having to treat pretty much everyone as criminals. It’s not ideal, but I figure it’s not a problem if you have nothing to hide.”
Coles said the technology does not use AI or store any data.
Original Article published by Jarryd Rowley on Region Canberra.
