Are supermarkets secretly watching you? The shocking reason behind their increased surveillance

Over the last couple of years, supermarkets have increased surveillance measures to secure their store shelves and discourage pesky thieves. While these measures might seem intrusive to many, they result from a rather unfortunate increase in theft incidents across the nation.


Remember when Coles used to put out bold signage warning customers that shoplifting was a crime? Well, they soon realised that treating shoppers as potential thieves wasn’t the ‘best’ approach, so they started revamping the stores and even sold beautiful flowers at the entrances to enhance the aesthetic appeal of their stores, so they looked more welcoming.


shutterstock_1690627621.jpg
Major supermarkets have increased surveillance due to the increasing theft rate. Credit: Dr. Victor Wong/Shutterstock


But fast-forward to the present day, a different bloom has sprouted: retail theft. Major supermarkets have reported a startling 20 per cent increase in stock loss annually–comprising both theft and food wastage.

As per information given by the Australian Retailers Association (ARA), theft alone accounts for 2 per cent to 3 per cent of the total retail sales, and according to the supermarkets, that’s big enough to poke a hole in supermarket profits, causing them to act.


The retailers have varied responses, including heightened surveillance, biometric tracking, and self-checkout cameras. Of course, these measures have not gone unnoticed by the everyday shopper, sparking criticism and raising the question: Are supermarkets secretly watching you?

Dr Paula Dootson, an Associate Professor at Queensland University of Technology, is concerned about the emotional impact of these surveillance technologies on customers.

'Until we can come together to give that social license to operate… and they get some kind of informed consent, I don’t know how effective these measures are going to be in having longevity', she said.

One of the leading supermarket giants, Woolworths, adopted Auror’s retail crime intelligence platform in 2020 to identify known shoplifters or aggressive patrons. The system is employed across all Woolworths supermarkets, Metro, and BIG W stores.


But even with such security measures in place, Woolworths CEO Brad Banducci stated that these measures are there to protect staff almost as much as it is about protecting merchandise.

‘It is partly about theft, but it is partly about aggression towards our team… we see that as more important than the theft issue,’ Mr Banducci claimed. ‘We have seen a rise in aggression.’

One popular measure amongst others is the $50 million 'assisted scan' technology at self-checkouts. A feature of this is the red marker assigned to you that'll turn green once you've paid, allowing the gates to open automatically as you approach.

Last week, we reported an incident where a 68-year-old Woolies shopper was accused of theft by this technology. The cameras at the checkout flagged that the customer had not scanned a bottle of juice.

The shopper expressed frustration at the incident: 'To put it bluntly, I was p***ed off, I just couldn't believe it.'

You can read more about that story here.


Now, Coles, not wanting to be left behind, has trialled trolley locking systems, standard security gates and CCTV in stores.


27034-compressed-shutterstock_1835146768.jpeg
A new security measure at Coles causes trolleys to be locked up and unable to move. Credit: Rusty Todaro/Shutterstock


A spokesperson shared, ‘Trolley lock technology has been in place at a number of our stores in recent years, and this technology uses sensors to prevent trolleys leaving the store if someone hasn't first paid at a register.’

‘Like most businesses and public spaces, we use surveillance technologies in accordance with stringent privacy laws, and we have strict protocols in place around access to the footage,’ they added.


However, Samantha Floreani from Digital Rights Watch raises valid concerns about the environment of heightened data collection and surveillance in supermarkets, making them uncomfortable for some patrons.

‘Even if customers are aware and may be uncomfortable with it, many people have no choice but to continue to shop at the major supermarkets because of a lack of competition,’ she stated.

Ms. Floreani believed customers should be able to shop without being tracked and monitored.

‘It’s telling that major supermarkets are prioritising investment in privacy-invasive surveillance technology in the middle of a cost-of-living crisis rather than considering other ways that might lower rates of theft, such as reining in their huge profit margins and lowering prices. It’s really cynical, and it’s really punitive,’ she said.


While the reasons behind the uptick in theft are multifaceted, one reason that surfaces frequently is connected to a surge in grocery prices, creating a strain on households. You must have noticed, right? And it's no secret that high prices have turned common grocery items like baby formula and meat into attractive targets for organised crime.

But apart from the tech side of things, the human aspect of this problem shouldn't be ignored. The majority of people do feel a level of immunity toward large supermarket chains, particularly after their remarkable pandemic profit surge.

‘These retailers are just not seen as victims, either by organised crime or by everyday people who are impacted by cost of living pressures,’ Dr Dootson claimed.

She added: ‘My research on understanding deviant consumer behaviour suggests if you don’t perceive the retailer to be a victim, then you can justify your behaviour.’


The Australian Retailers Association's chief executive, Paul Zahra, adopts a pragmatic stance towards these new security adaptations.

‘It’s employed to not only protect inventory but also people, which is why I’ve been a strong advocate,’ Zahra declared. ‘The need to invest in security is becoming first and foremost.’

So, the next time you’re deciding between apples and oranges, remember: you might not be the only one watching.

Key Takeaways
  • Australian supermarkets are experiencing a surge in retail theft, with increased stealing from cash-strapped shoppers and organised crime.
  • In response to the rise in theft, supermarkets have invested in covert security, self-checkout cameras, and biometric trackers, triggering privacy concerns.
  • Woolworths has used the Auror retail crime intelligence platform since 2020 to help identify known shoplifters; the system also helps to protect staff against aggressive customers.
  • Coles has trialled trolley locking systems, standard security gates and CCTV, and many measures are put in place under stringent privacy laws.


What do you think of this story, members? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
 

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Over the last couple of years, supermarkets have increased surveillance measures to secure their store shelves and discourage pesky thieves. While these measures might seem intrusive to many, they result from a rather unfortunate increase in theft incidents across the nation.


Remember when Coles used to put out bold signage warning customers that shoplifting was a crime? Well, they soon realised that treating shoppers as potential thieves wasn’t the ‘best’ approach, so they started revamping the stores and even sold beautiful flowers at the entrances to enhance the aesthetic appeal of their stores, so they looked more welcoming.


View attachment 29596
Major supermarkets have increased surveillance due to the increasing theft rate. Credit: Dr. Victor Wong/Shutterstock


But fast-forward to the present day, a different bloom has sprouted: retail theft. Major supermarkets have reported a startling 20 per cent increase in stock loss annually–comprising both theft and food wastage.

As per information given by the Australian Retailers Association (ARA), theft alone accounts for 2 per cent to 3 per cent of the total retail sales, and according to the supermarkets, that’s big enough to poke a hole in supermarket profits, causing them to act.


The retailers have varied responses, including heightened surveillance, biometric tracking, and self-checkout cameras. Of course, these measures have not gone unnoticed by the everyday shopper, sparking criticism and raising the question: Are supermarkets secretly watching you?

Dr Paula Dootson, an Associate Professor at Queensland University of Technology, is concerned about the emotional impact of these surveillance technologies on customers.

'Until we can come together to give that social license to operate… and they get some kind of informed consent, I don’t know how effective these measures are going to be in having longevity', she said.

One of the leading supermarket giants, Woolworths, adopted Auror’s retail crime intelligence platform in 2020 to identify known shoplifters or aggressive patrons. The system is employed across all Woolworths supermarkets, Metro, and BIG W stores.


But even with such security measures in place, Woolworths CEO Brad Banducci stated that these measures are there to protect staff almost as much as it is about protecting merchandise.

‘It is partly about theft, but it is partly about aggression towards our team… we see that as more important than the theft issue,’ Mr Banducci claimed. ‘We have seen a rise in aggression.’

One popular measure amongst others is the $50 million 'assisted scan' technology at self-checkouts. A feature of this is the red marker assigned to you that'll turn green once you've paid, allowing the gates to open automatically as you approach.

Last week, we reported an incident where a 68-year-old Woolies shopper was accused of theft by this technology. The cameras at the checkout flagged that the customer had not scanned a bottle of juice.

The shopper expressed frustration at the incident: 'To put it bluntly, I was p***ed off, I just couldn't believe it.'

You can read more about that story here.


Now, Coles, not wanting to be left behind, has trialled trolley locking systems, standard security gates and CCTV in stores.


View attachment 29597
A new security measure at Coles causes trolleys to be locked up and unable to move. Credit: Rusty Todaro/Shutterstock


A spokesperson shared, ‘Trolley lock technology has been in place at a number of our stores in recent years, and this technology uses sensors to prevent trolleys leaving the store if someone hasn't first paid at a register.’

‘Like most businesses and public spaces, we use surveillance technologies in accordance with stringent privacy laws, and we have strict protocols in place around access to the footage,’ they added.


However, Samantha Floreani from Digital Rights Watch raises valid concerns about the environment of heightened data collection and surveillance in supermarkets, making them uncomfortable for some patrons.

‘Even if customers are aware and may be uncomfortable with it, many people have no choice but to continue to shop at the major supermarkets because of a lack of competition,’ she stated.

Ms. Floreani believed customers should be able to shop without being tracked and monitored.

‘It’s telling that major supermarkets are prioritising investment in privacy-invasive surveillance technology in the middle of a cost-of-living crisis rather than considering other ways that might lower rates of theft, such as reining in their huge profit margins and lowering prices. It’s really cynical, and it’s really punitive,’ she said.


While the reasons behind the uptick in theft are multifaceted, one reason that surfaces frequently is connected to a surge in grocery prices, creating a strain on households. You must have noticed, right? And it's no secret that high prices have turned common grocery items like baby formula and meat into attractive targets for organised crime.

But apart from the tech side of things, the human aspect of this problem shouldn't be ignored. The majority of people do feel a level of immunity toward large supermarket chains, particularly after their remarkable pandemic profit surge.

‘These retailers are just not seen as victims, either by organised crime or by everyday people who are impacted by cost of living pressures,’ Dr Dootson claimed.

She added: ‘My research on understanding deviant consumer behaviour suggests if you don’t perceive the retailer to be a victim, then you can justify your behaviour.’


The Australian Retailers Association's chief executive, Paul Zahra, adopts a pragmatic stance towards these new security adaptations.

‘It’s employed to not only protect inventory but also people, which is why I’ve been a strong advocate,’ Zahra declared. ‘The need to invest in security is becoming first and foremost.’

So, the next time you’re deciding between apples and oranges, remember: you might not be the only one watching.

Key Takeaways

  • Australian supermarkets are experiencing a surge in retail theft, with increased stealing from cash-strapped shoppers and organised crime.
  • In response to the rise in theft, supermarkets have invested in covert security, self-checkout cameras, and biometric trackers, triggering privacy concerns.
  • Woolworths has used the Auror retail crime intelligence platform since 2020 to help identify known shoplifters; the system also helps to protect staff against aggressive customers.
  • Coles has trialled trolley locking systems, standard security gates and CCTV, and many measures are put in place under stringent privacy laws.


What do you think of this story, members? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
I think it is just awful that you cannot shop without being seen on a camera all the time. We have no privacy these days! I hate & loathe self checkouts. We are not paid staff!!!!! Soon there will be NO staff!!!!
 
More cameras, more staff, open all counters, staff to meet and great when you enter and say high when walking round the store. Let the customers now that you now they are in store and valued. Some stores need less stackers on the floor during main shopping times(camera can’t see behind boxes. Uniformed security but has to be the right type of person, friendly and visible
Reduce shoplifting should reduce cost of goods which must be passed on to customers
 
Over the last couple of years, supermarkets have increased surveillance measures to secure their store shelves and discourage pesky thieves. While these measures might seem intrusive to many, they result from a rather unfortunate increase in theft incidents across the nation.


Remember when Coles used to put out bold signage warning customers that shoplifting was a crime? Well, they soon realised that treating shoppers as potential thieves wasn’t the ‘best’ approach, so they started revamping the stores and even sold beautiful flowers at the entrances to enhance the aesthetic appeal of their stores, so they looked more welcoming.


View attachment 29596
Major supermarkets have increased surveillance due to the increasing theft rate. Credit: Dr. Victor Wong/Shutterstock


But fast-forward to the present day, a different bloom has sprouted: retail theft. Major supermarkets have reported a startling 20 per cent increase in stock loss annually–comprising both theft and food wastage.

As per information given by the Australian Retailers Association (ARA), theft alone accounts for 2 per cent to 3 per cent of the total retail sales, and according to the supermarkets, that’s big enough to poke a hole in supermarket profits, causing them to act.


The retailers have varied responses, including heightened surveillance, biometric tracking, and self-checkout cameras. Of course, these measures have not gone unnoticed by the everyday shopper, sparking criticism and raising the question: Are supermarkets secretly watching you?

Dr Paula Dootson, an Associate Professor at Queensland University of Technology, is concerned about the emotional impact of these surveillance technologies on customers.

'Until we can come together to give that social license to operate… and they get some kind of informed consent, I don’t know how effective these measures are going to be in having longevity', she said.

One of the leading supermarket giants, Woolworths, adopted Auror’s retail crime intelligence platform in 2020 to identify known shoplifters or aggressive patrons. The system is employed across all Woolworths supermarkets, Metro, and BIG W stores.


But even with such security measures in place, Woolworths CEO Brad Banducci stated that these measures are there to protect staff almost as much as it is about protecting merchandise.

‘It is partly about theft, but it is partly about aggression towards our team… we see that as more important than the theft issue,’ Mr Banducci claimed. ‘We have seen a rise in aggression.’

One popular measure amongst others is the $50 million 'assisted scan' technology at self-checkouts. A feature of this is the red marker assigned to you that'll turn green once you've paid, allowing the gates to open automatically as you approach.

Last week, we reported an incident where a 68-year-old Woolies shopper was accused of theft by this technology. The cameras at the checkout flagged that the customer had not scanned a bottle of juice.

The shopper expressed frustration at the incident: 'To put it bluntly, I was p***ed off, I just couldn't believe it.'

You can read more about that story here.


Now, Coles, not wanting to be left behind, has trialled trolley locking systems, standard security gates and CCTV in stores.


View attachment 29597
A new security measure at Coles causes trolleys to be locked up and unable to move. Credit: Rusty Todaro/Shutterstock


A spokesperson shared, ‘Trolley lock technology has been in place at a number of our stores in recent years, and this technology uses sensors to prevent trolleys leaving the store if someone hasn't first paid at a register.’

‘Like most businesses and public spaces, we use surveillance technologies in accordance with stringent privacy laws, and we have strict protocols in place around access to the footage,’ they added.


However, Samantha Floreani from Digital Rights Watch raises valid concerns about the environment of heightened data collection and surveillance in supermarkets, making them uncomfortable for some patrons.

‘Even if customers are aware and may be uncomfortable with it, many people have no choice but to continue to shop at the major supermarkets because of a lack of competition,’ she stated.

Ms. Floreani believed customers should be able to shop without being tracked and monitored.

‘It’s telling that major supermarkets are prioritising investment in privacy-invasive surveillance technology in the middle of a cost-of-living crisis rather than considering other ways that might lower rates of theft, such as reining in their huge profit margins and lowering prices. It’s really cynical, and it’s really punitive,’ she said.


While the reasons behind the uptick in theft are multifaceted, one reason that surfaces frequently is connected to a surge in grocery prices, creating a strain on households. You must have noticed, right? And it's no secret that high prices have turned common grocery items like baby formula and meat into attractive targets for organised crime.

But apart from the tech side of things, the human aspect of this problem shouldn't be ignored. The majority of people do feel a level of immunity toward large supermarket chains, particularly after their remarkable pandemic profit surge.

‘These retailers are just not seen as victims, either by organised crime or by everyday people who are impacted by cost of living pressures,’ Dr Dootson claimed.

She added: ‘My research on understanding deviant consumer behaviour suggests if you don’t perceive the retailer to be a victim, then you can justify your behaviour.’


The Australian Retailers Association's chief executive, Paul Zahra, adopts a pragmatic stance towards these new security adaptations.

‘It’s employed to not only protect inventory but also people, which is why I’ve been a strong advocate,’ Zahra declared. ‘The need to invest in security is becoming first and foremost.’

So, the next time you’re deciding between apples and oranges, remember: you might not be the only one watching.

Key Takeaways

  • Australian supermarkets are experiencing a surge in retail theft, with increased stealing from cash-strapped shoppers and organised crime.
  • In response to the rise in theft, supermarkets have invested in covert security, self-checkout cameras, and biometric trackers, triggering privacy concerns.
  • Woolworths has used the Auror retail crime intelligence platform since 2020 to help identify known shoplifters; the system also helps to protect staff against aggressive customers.
  • Coles has trialled trolley locking systems, standard security gates and CCTV, and many measures are put in place under stringent privacy laws.


What do you think of this story, members? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
If supermarkets keep expecting people to use self checkouts and pack their own groceries, then they should expect some people to steal.
Wouldn't mind so much if there was a discount offered for self serve, but no such thing of course and the prices just keep going up !
What happened to good old fashioned service in supermarkets ?
Coles and Woolworths will keep ripping everyone off while making huge profits at the same time.
From their point of view it's a don't care attitude for the ones that are struggling to make ends meet. 🤢
 
Over the last couple of years, supermarkets have increased surveillance measures to secure their store shelves and discourage pesky thieves. While these measures might seem intrusive to many, they result from a rather unfortunate increase in theft incidents across the nation.


Remember when Coles used to put out bold signage warning customers that shoplifting was a crime? Well, they soon realised that treating shoppers as potential thieves wasn’t the ‘best’ approach, so they started revamping the stores and even sold beautiful flowers at the entrances to enhance the aesthetic appeal of their stores, so they looked more welcoming.


View attachment 29596
Major supermarkets have increased surveillance due to the increasing theft rate. Credit: Dr. Victor Wong/Shutterstock


But fast-forward to the present day, a different bloom has sprouted: retail theft. Major supermarkets have reported a startling 20 per cent increase in stock loss annually–comprising both theft and food wastage.

As per information given by the Australian Retailers Association (ARA), theft alone accounts for 2 per cent to 3 per cent of the total retail sales, and according to the supermarkets, that’s big enough to poke a hole in supermarket profits, causing them to act.


The retailers have varied responses, including heightened surveillance, biometric tracking, and self-checkout cameras. Of course, these measures have not gone unnoticed by the everyday shopper, sparking criticism and raising the question: Are supermarkets secretly watching you?

Dr Paula Dootson, an Associate Professor at Queensland University of Technology, is concerned about the emotional impact of these surveillance technologies on customers.

'Until we can come together to give that social license to operate… and they get some kind of informed consent, I don’t know how effective these measures are going to be in having longevity', she said.

One of the leading supermarket giants, Woolworths, adopted Auror’s retail crime intelligence platform in 2020 to identify known shoplifters or aggressive patrons. The system is employed across all Woolworths supermarkets, Metro, and BIG W stores.


But even with such security measures in place, Woolworths CEO Brad Banducci stated that these measures are there to protect staff almost as much as it is about protecting merchandise.

‘It is partly about theft, but it is partly about aggression towards our team… we see that as more important than the theft issue,’ Mr Banducci claimed. ‘We have seen a rise in aggression.’

One popular measure amongst others is the $50 million 'assisted scan' technology at self-checkouts. A feature of this is the red marker assigned to you that'll turn green once you've paid, allowing the gates to open automatically as you approach.

Last week, we reported an incident where a 68-year-old Woolies shopper was accused of theft by this technology. The cameras at the checkout flagged that the customer had not scanned a bottle of juice.

The shopper expressed frustration at the incident: 'To put it bluntly, I was p***ed off, I just couldn't believe it.'

You can read more about that story here.


Now, Coles, not wanting to be left behind, has trialled trolley locking systems, standard security gates and CCTV in stores.


View attachment 29597
A new security measure at Coles causes trolleys to be locked up and unable to move. Credit: Rusty Todaro/Shutterstock


A spokesperson shared, ‘Trolley lock technology has been in place at a number of our stores in recent years, and this technology uses sensors to prevent trolleys leaving the store if someone hasn't first paid at a register.’

‘Like most businesses and public spaces, we use surveillance technologies in accordance with stringent privacy laws, and we have strict protocols in place around access to the footage,’ they added.


However, Samantha Floreani from Digital Rights Watch raises valid concerns about the environment of heightened data collection and surveillance in supermarkets, making them uncomfortable for some patrons.

‘Even if customers are aware and may be uncomfortable with it, many people have no choice but to continue to shop at the major supermarkets because of a lack of competition,’ she stated.

Ms. Floreani believed customers should be able to shop without being tracked and monitored.

‘It’s telling that major supermarkets are prioritising investment in privacy-invasive surveillance technology in the middle of a cost-of-living crisis rather than considering other ways that might lower rates of theft, such as reining in their huge profit margins and lowering prices. It’s really cynical, and it’s really punitive,’ she said.


While the reasons behind the uptick in theft are multifaceted, one reason that surfaces frequently is connected to a surge in grocery prices, creating a strain on households. You must have noticed, right? And it's no secret that high prices have turned common grocery items like baby formula and meat into attractive targets for organised crime.

But apart from the tech side of things, the human aspect of this problem shouldn't be ignored. The majority of people do feel a level of immunity toward large supermarket chains, particularly after their remarkable pandemic profit surge.

‘These retailers are just not seen as victims, either by organised crime or by everyday people who are impacted by cost of living pressures,’ Dr Dootson claimed.

She added: ‘My research on understanding deviant consumer behaviour suggests if you don’t perceive the retailer to be a victim, then you can justify your behaviour.’


The Australian Retailers Association's chief executive, Paul Zahra, adopts a pragmatic stance towards these new security adaptations.

‘It’s employed to not only protect inventory but also people, which is why I’ve been a strong advocate,’ Zahra declared. ‘The need to invest in security is becoming first and foremost.’

So, the next time you’re deciding between apples and oranges, remember: you might not be the only one watching.

Key Takeaways

  • Australian supermarkets are experiencing a surge in retail theft, with increased stealing from cash-strapped shoppers and organised crime.
  • In response to the rise in theft, supermarkets have invested in covert security, self-checkout cameras, and biometric trackers, triggering privacy concerns.
  • Woolworths has used the Auror retail crime intelligence platform since 2020 to help identify known shoplifters; the system also helps to protect staff against aggressive customers.
  • Coles has trialled trolley locking systems, standard security gates and CCTV, and many measures are put in place under stringent privacy laws.


What do you think of this story, members? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
I don't feel sorry for any of the supermarkets and trade stores who have chosen to put money before service. They want you to shop in their stores, do your own checkout scanning,pack your own groceries or goods all without training and very little help from staff. If the customer makes a " mistake" scanning goods then all hell breaks loose and you are treated like a criminal. This is all to keep their investors happy and fat cat directors in comfort and style. How about supporting the customers who pay for all of this???
 
The supermarkets shouldn’t treat everyone as potential thieves but should ban thieves caught from their stores. Photos and names displayed at front of store.
They have to do something, theft just adds to rising prices
To be honest, I don't care, I'm not doing anything wrong. I don't use self serve, but if I did and was in the situation of the man the other day, I would just accept that a mistake occurred.
People get their knickers in a knot about every little thing these days, just cause more stress to themselves, Miles worse things happen to people every day.
 
Every time I walk into a major supermarket, I am the victim of shoplifting. The store is the perpetrator by raising the prices every couple of weeks.

For example, Coles had Eclipse Mints on special at the beginning of last week for $2.80 per tin. Down from $3.50. Over the last week, the price went back to "normal", that is $4.00!

My wallet has been violated.
 
Over the last couple of years, supermarkets have increased surveillance measures to secure their store shelves and discourage pesky thieves. While these measures might seem intrusive to many, they result from a rather unfortunate increase in theft incidents across the nation.


Remember when Coles used to put out bold signage warning customers that shoplifting was a crime? Well, they soon realised that treating shoppers as potential thieves wasn’t the ‘best’ approach, so they started revamping the stores and even sold beautiful flowers at the entrances to enhance the aesthetic appeal of their stores, so they looked more welcoming.


View attachment 29596
Major supermarkets have increased surveillance due to the increasing theft rate. Credit: Dr. Victor Wong/Shutterstock


But fast-forward to the present day, a different bloom has sprouted: retail theft. Major supermarkets have reported a startling 20 per cent increase in stock loss annually–comprising both theft and food wastage.

As per information given by the Australian Retailers Association (ARA), theft alone accounts for 2 per cent to 3 per cent of the total retail sales, and according to the supermarkets, that’s big enough to poke a hole in supermarket profits, causing them to act.


The retailers have varied responses, including heightened surveillance, biometric tracking, and self-checkout cameras. Of course, these measures have not gone unnoticed by the everyday shopper, sparking criticism and raising the question: Are supermarkets secretly watching you?

Dr Paula Dootson, an Associate Professor at Queensland University of Technology, is concerned about the emotional impact of these surveillance technologies on customers.

'Until we can come together to give that social license to operate… and they get some kind of informed consent, I don’t know how effective these measures are going to be in having longevity', she said.

One of the leading supermarket giants, Woolworths, adopted Auror’s retail crime intelligence platform in 2020 to identify known shoplifters or aggressive patrons. The system is employed across all Woolworths supermarkets, Metro, and BIG W stores.


But even with such security measures in place, Woolworths CEO Brad Banducci stated that these measures are there to protect staff almost as much as it is about protecting merchandise.

‘It is partly about theft, but it is partly about aggression towards our team… we see that as more important than the theft issue,’ Mr Banducci claimed. ‘We have seen a rise in aggression.’

One popular measure amongst others is the $50 million 'assisted scan' technology at self-checkouts. A feature of this is the red marker assigned to you that'll turn green once you've paid, allowing the gates to open automatically as you approach.

Last week, we reported an incident where a 68-year-old Woolies shopper was accused of theft by this technology. The cameras at the checkout flagged that the customer had not scanned a bottle of juice.

The shopper expressed frustration at the incident: 'To put it bluntly, I was p***ed off, I just couldn't believe it.'

You can read more about that story here.


Now, Coles, not wanting to be left behind, has trialled trolley locking systems, standard security gates and CCTV in stores.


View attachment 29597
A new security measure at Coles causes trolleys to be locked up and unable to move. Credit: Rusty Todaro/Shutterstock


A spokesperson shared, ‘Trolley lock technology has been in place at a number of our stores in recent years, and this technology uses sensors to prevent trolleys leaving the store if someone hasn't first paid at a register.’

‘Like most businesses and public spaces, we use surveillance technologies in accordance with stringent privacy laws, and we have strict protocols in place around access to the footage,’ they added.


However, Samantha Floreani from Digital Rights Watch raises valid concerns about the environment of heightened data collection and surveillance in supermarkets, making them uncomfortable for some patrons.

‘Even if customers are aware and may be uncomfortable with it, many people have no choice but to continue to shop at the major supermarkets because of a lack of competition,’ she stated.

Ms. Floreani believed customers should be able to shop without being tracked and monitored.

‘It’s telling that major supermarkets are prioritising investment in privacy-invasive surveillance technology in the middle of a cost-of-living crisis rather than considering other ways that might lower rates of theft, such as reining in their huge profit margins and lowering prices. It’s really cynical, and it’s really punitive,’ she said.


While the reasons behind the uptick in theft are multifaceted, one reason that surfaces frequently is connected to a surge in grocery prices, creating a strain on households. You must have noticed, right? And it's no secret that high prices have turned common grocery items like baby formula and meat into attractive targets for organised crime.

But apart from the tech side of things, the human aspect of this problem shouldn't be ignored. The majority of people do feel a level of immunity toward large supermarket chains, particularly after their remarkable pandemic profit surge.

‘These retailers are just not seen as victims, either by organised crime or by everyday people who are impacted by cost of living pressures,’ Dr Dootson claimed.

She added: ‘My research on understanding deviant consumer behaviour suggests if you don’t perceive the retailer to be a victim, then you can justify your behaviour.’


The Australian Retailers Association's chief executive, Paul Zahra, adopts a pragmatic stance towards these new security adaptations.

‘It’s employed to not only protect inventory but also people, which is why I’ve been a strong advocate,’ Zahra declared. ‘The need to invest in security is becoming first and foremost.’

So, the next time you’re deciding between apples and oranges, remember: you might not be the only one watching.

Key Takeaways

  • Australian supermarkets are experiencing a surge in retail theft, with increased stealing from cash-strapped shoppers and organised crime.
  • In response to the rise in theft, supermarkets have invested in covert security, self-checkout cameras, and biometric trackers, triggering privacy concerns.
  • Woolworths has used the Auror retail crime intelligence platform since 2020 to help identify known shoplifters; the system also helps to protect staff against aggressive customers.
  • Coles has trialled trolley locking systems, standard security gates and CCTV, and many measures are put in place under stringent privacy laws.


What do you think of this story, members? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Nothing better than placing a Security guard in the self checkout area. A talking 😀uniform usually better than any machine and not as costly
They have to do something, theft just adds to rising prices
To be honest, I don't care, I'm not doing anything wrong. I don't use self serve, but if I did and was in the situation of the man the other day, I would just accept that a mistake occurred.
People get their knickers in a knot about every little thing these days, just cause more stress to themselves, Miles worse things happen to people every day.
 
Given the the unwarranted price increases that occur each week it is no wonder that Coles and Woolworth are seeing more stuff stolen from their shelves. A couple of the latest price-gouges: last week a leg of boned ham was a bit more than $19 and last night the same stuff was priced at $22. Two packs of plain ordinary sausages $15 to those who don't want to be a "member" of Woolworths and $12 for a "member". Two 680gram loaves of bread at $6 to a "member" and $7 to someone who does not want to give their email address and probably mobile phone number to Woolworth. And so it goes; ok carry your Woolworth's ID card with you when shopping.

Woolworth and Coles have screwed the family-run grocery business because we are too stupid to have objected to their 7-day a week extended hours shopping; they are now reducing staff to get us to use our plastic cards in their automated check-out machines and now they employ facial recognition technology etc to spy on us.

Now about scams. Just how secure are Woolworth's and Coles' data-bases? ' Medibank got hacked; Optus got hacked...............?

And I wonder how much Woolworth's wholesale arm charges its retail arm for the groceries we have to buy? And does the wholesale arm also control the supply of groceries to what remains of the independent grocers we might find occasionally.
 
How about giving a person a job. Put one Security guard in the self checkout area. I am sure this will not annoy customers as much as your electronics and a uniform still helps trying to talk sense into some kids. I know, my husband works in a center.
 
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All well and good talking about security guards. They technically have no more powers than the Average Joe.

No powers of arrest, they cannot detain or search you or your property UNLESS you agree and under strict guidelines. But then, there's a chance they were refused admission into the Police Force. Hence their "sense" of self importance and fake toughness.
 
Awwww, whinge, whinge, whinge, whinge!

I KNOW there are cameras in every store and not just supermarkets. I am not bothered by it because, unfortunately, with so many thieving shoppers around, they are a necessity.

I exclusively use the self service checkouts because I am sick of having a staff member asking "how are you today" - which instantly puts me in a bad mood and I am also tired of telling them that I will pack my own stuff because they wouldn't know how to pack a bag.
 
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The increase of theft is not only in the self check out. Only yesterday I witnessed a Chinese girl (no racism, just a fact) who took some nuts from the dispenser and started eating it whilst walking away 😡 I also see this happening with fresh grapes … absolutely hideous! Theft is theft and there is no justification. I suggest security guards (3-4) are employed on a daily basis and around the supermarket - end of story.
 
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Over the last couple of years, supermarkets have increased surveillance measures to secure their store shelves and discourage pesky thieves. While these measures might seem intrusive to many, they result from a rather unfortunate increase in theft incidents across the nation.


Remember when Coles used to put out bold signage warning customers that shoplifting was a crime? Well, they soon realised that treating shoppers as potential thieves wasn’t the ‘best’ approach, so they started revamping the stores and even sold beautiful flowers at the entrances to enhance the aesthetic appeal of their stores, so they looked more welcoming.


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Major supermarkets have increased surveillance due to the increasing theft rate. Credit: Dr. Victor Wong/Shutterstock


But fast-forward to the present day, a different bloom has sprouted: retail theft. Major supermarkets have reported a startling 20 per cent increase in stock loss annually–comprising both theft and food wastage.

As per information given by the Australian Retailers Association (ARA), theft alone accounts for 2 per cent to 3 per cent of the total retail sales, and according to the supermarkets, that’s big enough to poke a hole in supermarket profits, causing them to act.


The retailers have varied responses, including heightened surveillance, biometric tracking, and self-checkout cameras. Of course, these measures have not gone unnoticed by the everyday shopper, sparking criticism and raising the question: Are supermarkets secretly watching you?

Dr Paula Dootson, an Associate Professor at Queensland University of Technology, is concerned about the emotional impact of these surveillance technologies on customers.

'Until we can come together to give that social license to operate… and they get some kind of informed consent, I don’t know how effective these measures are going to be in having longevity', she said.

One of the leading supermarket giants, Woolworths, adopted Auror’s retail crime intelligence platform in 2020 to identify known shoplifters or aggressive patrons. The system is employed across all Woolworths supermarkets, Metro, and BIG W stores.


But even with such security measures in place, Woolworths CEO Brad Banducci stated that these measures are there to protect staff almost as much as it is about protecting merchandise.

‘It is partly about theft, but it is partly about aggression towards our team… we see that as more important than the theft issue,’ Mr Banducci claimed. ‘We have seen a rise in aggression.’

One popular measure amongst others is the $50 million 'assisted scan' technology at self-checkouts. A feature of this is the red marker assigned to you that'll turn green once you've paid, allowing the gates to open automatically as you approach.

Last week, we reported an incident where a 68-year-old Woolies shopper was accused of theft by this technology. The cameras at the checkout flagged that the customer had not scanned a bottle of juice.

The shopper expressed frustration at the incident: 'To put it bluntly, I was p***ed off, I just couldn't believe it.'

You can read more about that story here.


Now, Coles, not wanting to be left behind, has trialled trolley locking systems, standard security gates and CCTV in stores.


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A new security measure at Coles causes trolleys to be locked up and unable to move. Credit: Rusty Todaro/Shutterstock


A spokesperson shared, ‘Trolley lock technology has been in place at a number of our stores in recent years, and this technology uses sensors to prevent trolleys leaving the store if someone hasn't first paid at a register.’

‘Like most businesses and public spaces, we use surveillance technologies in accordance with stringent privacy laws, and we have strict protocols in place around access to the footage,’ they added.


However, Samantha Floreani from Digital Rights Watch raises valid concerns about the environment of heightened data collection and surveillance in supermarkets, making them uncomfortable for some patrons.

‘Even if customers are aware and may be uncomfortable with it, many people have no choice but to continue to shop at the major supermarkets because of a lack of competition,’ she stated.

Ms. Floreani believed customers should be able to shop without being tracked and monitored.

‘It’s telling that major supermarkets are prioritising investment in privacy-invasive surveillance technology in the middle of a cost-of-living crisis rather than considering other ways that might lower rates of theft, such as reining in their huge profit margins and lowering prices. It’s really cynical, and it’s really punitive,’ she said.


While the reasons behind the uptick in theft are multifaceted, one reason that surfaces frequently is connected to a surge in grocery prices, creating a strain on households. You must have noticed, right? And it's no secret that high prices have turned common grocery items like baby formula and meat into attractive targets for organised crime.

But apart from the tech side of things, the human aspect of this problem shouldn't be ignored. The majority of people do feel a level of immunity toward large supermarket chains, particularly after their remarkable pandemic profit surge.

‘These retailers are just not seen as victims, either by organised crime or by everyday people who are impacted by cost of living pressures,’ Dr Dootson claimed.

She added: ‘My research on understanding deviant consumer behaviour suggests if you don’t perceive the retailer to be a victim, then you can justify your behaviour.’


The Australian Retailers Association's chief executive, Paul Zahra, adopts a pragmatic stance towards these new security adaptations.

‘It’s employed to not only protect inventory but also people, which is why I’ve been a strong advocate,’ Zahra declared. ‘The need to invest in security is becoming first and foremost.’

So, the next time you’re deciding between apples and oranges, remember: you might not be the only one watching.

Key Takeaways

  • Australian supermarkets are experiencing a surge in retail theft, with increased stealing from cash-strapped shoppers and organised crime.
  • In response to the rise in theft, supermarkets have invested in covert security, self-checkout cameras, and biometric trackers, triggering privacy concerns.
  • Woolworths has used the Auror retail crime intelligence platform since 2020 to help identify known shoplifters; the system also helps to protect staff against aggressive customers.
  • Coles has trialled trolley locking systems, standard security gates and CCTV, and many measures are put in place under stringent privacy laws.


What do you think of this story, members? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
I suppose the answer is, if you do not steal you have nothing to worry about. Theft can only cause prices to rise
 
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