A spike in brazen shoplifting and violence saw Australia's leading supermarkets fighting back with new high-tech surveillance measures.

However, experts now warn these ‘Orwellian tactics’ could erode consumer trust and even encourage more petty theft.

Shoplifting in Australia has reached new proportions. Liquor stores, chemists and supermarkets experienced astronomical rises in theft over the past two years. It was also reported that the industry incurs $9 billion in losses yearly due to theft.

Coles has seen a 20 per cent increase in retail crime nationwide.

The supermarket industry incurs $9 billion in yearly losses due to theft. Credit: Franki Chamaki/Pexels

Emboldened bands of shoplifters brazenly raid stores, sweeping armloads of hot ticket items like meat and baby formula straight into bags.

Checkout theft is also rampant, with many simply walking out without paying after 'forgetting' to scan items.

Violence against retail staff trying to intervene has also escalated alarmingly.

To combat this crime wave, stores have increased surveillance to track every customer's move.

Overhead cameras monitor each aisle, while enhanced AI technology tracks scanning at checkout. There are new 'smart' lock gates that automatically close if someone tries to bolt without paying.

Some stores even equipped staff with body cameras, like those worn by police.

But experts argue this surge in surveillance could backfire by eroding consumer trust.

‘Nine times out of ten, most shoppers are doing the right thing,’ Consumer Psychology Expert Professor Nitika Garg of the University of New South Wales Business School said.

'A sense of trust is lost when supermarkets increase surveillance with little explanation,' she added.

She explained that people have a ‘natural psychological reaction’ when they feel that their freedom is being limited or curtailed.

'No one likes to be watched. Cameras impinge on our privacy. We, as consumers, are unsure of how that data is being used. Not having an explanation or little reassurance adds to the negative reaction,' Professor Garg shared.

She said that instead of discouraging shoplifting, it may actually encourage others to steal.

‘This is a consequence of psychological reactance; it pushes people to do the opposite of what they are told,’ she continued.

She also mentioned that the enhanced security measures are particularly grating since major supermarkets nationwide have reported record profits, with Coles earning $1.1 billion and Woolworths earning $1.62 billion in 2022-2023.

While increased security cameras will likely reduce theft, consumers may abandon stores if they feel too uncomfortable. At the very least, Professor Garg suggested chains explain the need for extra surveillance and conduct public campaigns.

‘This will help,’ she remarked.

You may watch 7News Australia’s report here:

​

Key Takeaways

• Major supermarket chains in Australia have introduced new surveillance measures to combat the surge in shoplifting.
  
• A consumer behaviour expert warns that these step-up measures may lead to a loss of customer trust in brands and could ironically incite more theft.
  
• Customers have raised concerns about the surveillance measures, particularly the positioning of overhead cameras that could potentially expose their personal information.
  
• Professor Nitika Garg from the University of New South Wales Business School suggested supermarkets publicise a campaign to explain the new changes, as increasing surveillance without clear explanations can trigger negative reactions.
  

What’s your take on this story, members? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

 

[Zemo]

... and a Greens candidate for the upcoming Queensland election came up with the thought bubble that it'd be OK for somebody who was feeling the cost-of-living pinch to do a bit of five-finger discounting now and then to help out with the budget. Now beat that!

 

[Wendyevans]

A spike in brazen shoplifting and violence saw Australia's leading supermarkets fighting back with new high-tech surveillance measures.

However, experts now warn these ‘Orwellian tactics’ could erode consumer trust and even encourage more petty theft.

Shoplifting in Australia has reached new proportions. Liquor stores, chemists and supermarkets experienced astronomical rises in theft over the past two years. It was also reported that the industry incurs $9 billion in losses yearly due to theft.

Coles has seen a 20 per cent increase in retail crime nationwide.

View attachment 33081

The supermarket industry incurs $9 billion in yearly losses due to theft. Credit: Franki Chamaki/Pexels

Emboldened bands of shoplifters brazenly raid stores, sweeping armloads of hot ticket items like meat and baby formula straight into bags.

Checkout theft is also rampant, with many simply walking out without paying after 'forgetting' to scan items.

Violence against retail staff trying to intervene has also escalated alarmingly.

To combat this crime wave, stores have increased surveillance to track every customer's move.

Overhead cameras monitor each aisle, while enhanced AI technology tracks scanning at checkout. There are new 'smart' lock gates that automatically close if someone tries to bolt without paying.

Some stores even equipped staff with body cameras, like those worn by police.

But experts argue this surge in surveillance could backfire by eroding consumer trust.

‘Nine times out of ten, most shoppers are doing the right thing,’ Consumer Psychology Expert Professor Nitika Garg of the University of New South Wales Business School said.

'A sense of trust is lost when supermarkets increase surveillance with little explanation,' she added.

She explained that people have a ‘natural psychological reaction’ when they feel that their freedom is being limited or curtailed.

'No one likes to be watched. Cameras impinge on our privacy. We, as consumers, are unsure of how that data is being used. Not having an explanation or little reassurance adds to the negative reaction,' Professor Garg shared.

She said that instead of discouraging shoplifting, it may actually encourage others to steal.

‘This is a consequence of psychological reactance; it pushes people to do the opposite of what they are told,’ she continued.

She also mentioned that the enhanced security measures are particularly grating since major supermarkets nationwide have reported record profits, with Coles earning $1.1 billion and Woolworths earning $1.62 billion in 2022-2023.

While increased security cameras will likely reduce theft, consumers may abandon stores if they feel too uncomfortable. At the very least, Professor Garg suggested chains explain the need for extra surveillance and conduct public campaigns.

‘This will help,’ she remarked.

You may watch 7News Australia’s report here:

​

Key Takeaways

• Major supermarket chains in Australia have introduced new surveillance measures to combat the surge in shoplifting.
• A consumer behaviour expert warns that these step-up measures may lead to a loss of customer trust in brands and could ironically incite more theft.
• Customers have raised concerns about the surveillance measures, particularly the positioning of overhead cameras that could potentially expose their personal information.
• Professor Nitika Garg from the University of New South Wales Business School suggested supermarkets publicise a campaign to explain the new changes, as increasing surveillance without clear explanations can trigger negative reactions.

What’s your take on this story, members? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

I find it sad that it’s come to this, with cameras at checkouts watching you. I recently went into BWS bought a couple of bottles of wine wrapped in a BWS bag then into woolies and went to self checkout as I only had a couple of things and the checkout wouldn’t let me checkout said I had left something in the trolley! So then I had to get the service girl to check my bag before I could checkout. Making me feel like a criminal. So it’s not fair to the majority of people who don’t steal.

 

[sheilmac]

A spike in brazen shoplifting and violence saw Australia's leading supermarkets fighting back with new high-tech surveillance measures.

However, experts now warn these ‘Orwellian tactics’ could erode consumer trust and even encourage more petty theft.

Shoplifting in Australia has reached new proportions. Liquor stores, chemists and supermarkets experienced astronomical rises in theft over the past two years. It was also reported that the industry incurs $9 billion in losses yearly due to theft.

Coles has seen a 20 per cent increase in retail crime nationwide.

View attachment 33081

The supermarket industry incurs $9 billion in yearly losses due to theft. Credit: Franki Chamaki/Pexels

Emboldened bands of shoplifters brazenly raid stores, sweeping armloads of hot ticket items like meat and baby formula straight into bags.

Checkout theft is also rampant, with many simply walking out without paying after 'forgetting' to scan items.

Violence against retail staff trying to intervene has also escalated alarmingly.

To combat this crime wave, stores have increased surveillance to track every customer's move.

Overhead cameras monitor each aisle, while enhanced AI technology tracks scanning at checkout. There are new 'smart' lock gates that automatically close if someone tries to bolt without paying.

Some stores even equipped staff with body cameras, like those worn by police.

But experts argue this surge in surveillance could backfire by eroding consumer trust.

‘Nine times out of ten, most shoppers are doing the right thing,’ Consumer Psychology Expert Professor Nitika Garg of the University of New South Wales Business School said.

'A sense of trust is lost when supermarkets increase surveillance with little explanation,' she added.

She explained that people have a ‘natural psychological reaction’ when they feel that their freedom is being limited or curtailed.

'No one likes to be watched. Cameras impinge on our privacy. We, as consumers, are unsure of how that data is being used. Not having an explanation or little reassurance adds to the negative reaction,' Professor Garg shared.

She said that instead of discouraging shoplifting, it may actually encourage others to steal.

‘This is a consequence of psychological reactance; it pushes people to do the opposite of what they are told,’ she continued.

She also mentioned that the enhanced security measures are particularly grating since major supermarkets nationwide have reported record profits, with Coles earning $1.1 billion and Woolworths earning $1.62 billion in 2022-2023.

While increased security cameras will likely reduce theft, consumers may abandon stores if they feel too uncomfortable. At the very least, Professor Garg suggested chains explain the need for extra surveillance and conduct public campaigns.

‘This will help,’ she remarked.

You may watch 7News Australia’s report here:

​

Key Takeaways

• Major supermarket chains in Australia have introduced new surveillance measures to combat the surge in shoplifting.
• A consumer behaviour expert warns that these step-up measures may lead to a loss of customer trust in brands and could ironically incite more theft.
• Customers have raised concerns about the surveillance measures, particularly the positioning of overhead cameras that could potentially expose their personal information.
• Professor Nitika Garg from the University of New South Wales Business School suggested supermarkets publicise a campaign to explain the new changes, as increasing surveillance without clear explanations can trigger negative reactions.

What’s your take on this story, members? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

I am one of the 9 out of 10 honest customers but I have no problem with the stores employing whatever it takes to catch thieves.

 

[Time to chat]

A spike in brazen shoplifting and violence saw Australia's leading supermarkets fighting back with new high-tech surveillance measures.

However, experts now warn these ‘Orwellian tactics’ could erode consumer trust and even encourage more petty theft.

Shoplifting in Australia has reached new proportions. Liquor stores, chemists and supermarkets experienced astronomical rises in theft over the past two years. It was also reported that the industry incurs $9 billion in losses yearly due to theft.

Coles has seen a 20 per cent increase in retail crime nationwide.

View attachment 33081

The supermarket industry incurs $9 billion in yearly losses due to theft. Credit: Franki Chamaki/Pexels

Emboldened bands of shoplifters brazenly raid stores, sweeping armloads of hot ticket items like meat and baby formula straight into bags.

Checkout theft is also rampant, with many simply walking out without paying after 'forgetting' to scan items.

Violence against retail staff trying to intervene has also escalated alarmingly.

To combat this crime wave, stores have increased surveillance to track every customer's move.

Overhead cameras monitor each aisle, while enhanced AI technology tracks scanning at checkout. There are new 'smart' lock gates that automatically close if someone tries to bolt without paying.

Some stores even equipped staff with body cameras, like those worn by police.

But experts argue this surge in surveillance could backfire by eroding consumer trust.

‘Nine times out of ten, most shoppers are doing the right thing,’ Consumer Psychology Expert Professor Nitika Garg of the University of New South Wales Business School said.

'A sense of trust is lost when supermarkets increase surveillance with little explanation,' she added.

She explained that people have a ‘natural psychological reaction’ when they feel that their freedom is being limited or curtailed.

'No one likes to be watched. Cameras impinge on our privacy. We, as consumers, are unsure of how that data is being used. Not having an explanation or little reassurance adds to the negative reaction,' Professor Garg shared.

She said that instead of discouraging shoplifting, it may actually encourage others to steal.

‘This is a consequence of psychological reactance; it pushes people to do the opposite of what they are told,’ she continued.

She also mentioned that the enhanced security measures are particularly grating since major supermarkets nationwide have reported record profits, with Coles earning $1.1 billion and Woolworths earning $1.62 billion in 2022-2023.

While increased security cameras will likely reduce theft, consumers may abandon stores if they feel too uncomfortable. At the very least, Professor Garg suggested chains explain the need for extra surveillance and conduct public campaigns.

‘This will help,’ she remarked.

You may watch 7News Australia’s report here:

​

Key Takeaways

• Major supermarket chains in Australia have introduced new surveillance measures to combat the surge in shoplifting.
• A consumer behaviour expert warns that these step-up measures may lead to a loss of customer trust in brands and could ironically incite more theft.
• Customers have raised concerns about the surveillance measures, particularly the positioning of overhead cameras that could potentially expose their personal information.
• Professor Nitika Garg from the University of New South Wales Business School suggested supermarkets publicise a campaign to explain the new changes, as increasing surveillance without clear explanations can trigger negative reactions.

What’s your take on this story, members? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

I find it’s sad that the high cost of living has encouraged people to shoplift. It makes it so hard for honest people because we have to face even higher prices. There are so many charities that can help in these hard times. Shoplifting shouldn’t be an option.

 

[Colette 3799]

I am one of the 9 out of 10 honest customers but I have no problem with the stores employing whatever it takes to catch thieves.

It doesn’t bother me either. I’m just doing my shopping - nothing to see here, why should I care who’s watching

 

[Col@45]

A spike in brazen shoplifting and violence saw Australia's leading supermarkets fighting back with new high-tech surveillance measures.

However, experts now warn these ‘Orwellian tactics’ could erode consumer trust and even encourage more petty theft.

Shoplifting in Australia has reached new proportions. Liquor stores, chemists and supermarkets experienced astronomical rises in theft over the past two years. It was also reported that the industry incurs $9 billion in losses yearly due to theft.

Coles has seen a 20 per cent increase in retail crime nationwide.

View attachment 33081

The supermarket industry incurs $9 billion in yearly losses due to theft. Credit: Franki Chamaki/Pexels

Emboldened bands of shoplifters brazenly raid stores, sweeping armloads of hot ticket items like meat and baby formula straight into bags.

Checkout theft is also rampant, with many simply walking out without paying after 'forgetting' to scan items.

Violence against retail staff trying to intervene has also escalated alarmingly.

To combat this crime wave, stores have increased surveillance to track every customer's move.

Overhead cameras monitor each aisle, while enhanced AI technology tracks scanning at checkout. There are new 'smart' lock gates that automatically close if someone tries to bolt without paying.

Some stores even equipped staff with body cameras, like those worn by police.

But experts argue this surge in surveillance could backfire by eroding consumer trust.

‘Nine times out of ten, most shoppers are doing the right thing,’ Consumer Psychology Expert Professor Nitika Garg of the University of New South Wales Business School said.

'A sense of trust is lost when supermarkets increase surveillance with little explanation,' she added.

She explained that people have a ‘natural psychological reaction’ when they feel that their freedom is being limited or curtailed.

'No one likes to be watched. Cameras impinge on our privacy. We, as consumers, are unsure of how that data is being used. Not having an explanation or little reassurance adds to the negative reaction,' Professor Garg shared.

She said that instead of discouraging shoplifting, it may actually encourage others to steal.

‘This is a consequence of psychological reactance; it pushes people to do the opposite of what they are told,’ she continued.

She also mentioned that the enhanced security measures are particularly grating since major supermarkets nationwide have reported record profits, with Coles earning $1.1 billion and Woolworths earning $1.62 billion in 2022-2023.

While increased security cameras will likely reduce theft, consumers may abandon stores if they feel too uncomfortable. At the very least, Professor Garg suggested chains explain the need for extra surveillance and conduct public campaigns.

‘This will help,’ she remarked.

You may watch 7News Australia’s report here:

​

Key Takeaways

• Major supermarket chains in Australia have introduced new surveillance measures to combat the surge in shoplifting.
• A consumer behaviour expert warns that these step-up measures may lead to a loss of customer trust in brands and could ironically incite more theft.
• Customers have raised concerns about the surveillance measures, particularly the positioning of overhead cameras that could potentially expose their personal information.
• Professor Nitika Garg from the University of New South Wales Business School suggested supermarkets publicise a campaign to explain the new changes, as increasing surveillance without clear explanations can trigger negative reactions.

What’s your take on this story, members? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

If the supermarkets bring back "Service"....which seems to be a thing of the past, would stop a lot of this thieving. Checkouts at the front manned by humans and have those as the only exit ! It's too easy for people to just walk out with a full trolley without paying for it!!

 

[jazzer8542]

A spike in brazen shoplifting and violence saw Australia's leading supermarkets fighting back with new high-tech surveillance measures.

However, experts now warn these ‘Orwellian tactics’ could erode consumer trust and even encourage more petty theft.

Shoplifting in Australia has reached new proportions. Liquor stores, chemists and supermarkets experienced astronomical rises in theft over the past two years. It was also reported that the industry incurs $9 billion in losses yearly due to theft.

Coles has seen a 20 per cent increase in retail crime nationwide.

View attachment 33081

The supermarket industry incurs $9 billion in yearly losses due to theft. Credit: Franki Chamaki/Pexels

Emboldened bands of shoplifters brazenly raid stores, sweeping armloads of hot ticket items like meat and baby formula straight into bags.

Checkout theft is also rampant, with many simply walking out without paying after 'forgetting' to scan items.

Violence against retail staff trying to intervene has also escalated alarmingly.

To combat this crime wave, stores have increased surveillance to track every customer's move.

Overhead cameras monitor each aisle, while enhanced AI technology tracks scanning at checkout. There are new 'smart' lock gates that automatically close if someone tries to bolt without paying.

Some stores even equipped staff with body cameras, like those worn by police.

But experts argue this surge in surveillance could backfire by eroding consumer trust.

‘Nine times out of ten, most shoppers are doing the right thing,’ Consumer Psychology Expert Professor Nitika Garg of the University of New South Wales Business School said.

'A sense of trust is lost when supermarkets increase surveillance with little explanation,' she added.

She explained that people have a ‘natural psychological reaction’ when they feel that their freedom is being limited or curtailed.

'No one likes to be watched. Cameras impinge on our privacy. We, as consumers, are unsure of how that data is being used. Not having an explanation or little reassurance adds to the negative reaction,' Professor Garg shared.

She said that instead of discouraging shoplifting, it may actually encourage others to steal.

‘This is a consequence of psychological reactance; it pushes people to do the opposite of what they are told,’ she continued.

She also mentioned that the enhanced security measures are particularly grating since major supermarkets nationwide have reported record profits, with Coles earning $1.1 billion and Woolworths earning $1.62 billion in 2022-2023.

While increased security cameras will likely reduce theft, consumers may abandon stores if they feel too uncomfortable. At the very least, Professor Garg suggested chains explain the need for extra surveillance and conduct public campaigns.

‘This will help,’ she remarked.

You may watch 7News Australia’s report here:

​

Key Takeaways

• Major supermarket chains in Australia have introduced new surveillance measures to combat the surge in shoplifting.
• A consumer behaviour expert warns that these step-up measures may lead to a loss of customer trust in brands and could ironically incite more theft.
• Customers have raised concerns about the surveillance measures, particularly the positioning of overhead cameras that could potentially expose their personal information.
• Professor Nitika Garg from the University of New South Wales Business School suggested supermarkets publicise a campaign to explain the new changes, as increasing surveillance without clear explanations can trigger negative reactions.

What’s your take on this story, members? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

 

[David567]

Cameras don't bother me. What annoyes me is the fact that honest customers are the ones who pay for these extra security measures and for all the stolen goods. We will all see this through rising prices and next years higher profits.

 

[Ronloby]

Serviced checkouts are the ONLY way to stop theft so bring them back. Helps employment as well.

 

[magpie1]

well if after installing all of this hi tech equipment the number of shoplifters being caught rises, then the revenue loss to shoplifting should decrease and lead to LOWER prices. Time to pass on the savings they have made back to those that shop lawfully.

 

[Rob44]

Price-ouging is also theft.

 

[Penny4]

Some supermarkets employ a security guard, however it should be mandatory with all stores imo.

 

[weezza]

A spike in brazen shoplifting and violence saw Australia's leading supermarkets fighting back with new high-tech surveillance measures.

However, experts now warn these ‘Orwellian tactics’ could erode consumer trust and even encourage more petty theft.

Shoplifting in Australia has reached new proportions. Liquor stores, chemists and supermarkets experienced astronomical rises in theft over the past two years. It was also reported that the industry incurs $9 billion in losses yearly due to theft.

Coles has seen a 20 per cent increase in retail crime nationwide.

View attachment 33081

The supermarket industry incurs $9 billion in yearly losses due to theft. Credit: Franki Chamaki/Pexels

Emboldened bands of shoplifters brazenly raid stores, sweeping armloads of hot ticket items like meat and baby formula straight into bags.

Checkout theft is also rampant, with many simply walking out without paying after 'forgetting' to scan items.

Violence against retail staff trying to intervene has also escalated alarmingly.

To combat this crime wave, stores have increased surveillance to track every customer's move.

Overhead cameras monitor each aisle, while enhanced AI technology tracks scanning at checkout. There are new 'smart' lock gates that automatically close if someone tries to bolt without paying.

Some stores even equipped staff with body cameras, like those worn by police.

But experts argue this surge in surveillance could backfire by eroding consumer trust.

‘Nine times out of ten, most shoppers are doing the right thing,’ Consumer Psychology Expert Professor Nitika Garg of the University of New South Wales Business School said.

'A sense of trust is lost when supermarkets increase surveillance with little explanation,' she added.

She explained that people have a ‘natural psychological reaction’ when they feel that their freedom is being limited or curtailed.

'No one likes to be watched. Cameras impinge on our privacy. We, as consumers, are unsure of how that data is being used. Not having an explanation or little reassurance adds to the negative reaction,' Professor Garg shared.

She said that instead of discouraging shoplifting, it may actually encourage others to steal.

‘This is a consequence of psychological reactance; it pushes people to do the opposite of what they are told,’ she continued.

She also mentioned that the enhanced security measures are particularly grating since major supermarkets nationwide have reported record profits, with Coles earning $1.1 billion and Woolworths earning $1.62 billion in 2022-2023.

While increased security cameras will likely reduce theft, consumers may abandon stores if they feel too uncomfortable. At the very least, Professor Garg suggested chains explain the need for extra surveillance and conduct public campaigns.

‘This will help,’ she remarked.

You may watch 7News Australia’s report here:

​

Key Takeaways

• Major supermarket chains in Australia have introduced new surveillance measures to combat the surge in shoplifting.
• A consumer behaviour expert warns that these step-up measures may lead to a loss of customer trust in brands and could ironically incite more theft.
• Customers have raised concerns about the surveillance measures, particularly the positioning of overhead cameras that could potentially expose their personal information.
• Professor Nitika Garg from the University of New South Wales Business School suggested supermarkets publicise a campaign to explain the new changes, as increasing surveillance without clear explanations can trigger negative reactions.

What’s your take on this story, members? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Take out self service, and put staff back. We know we are always being watched and tracked, but Cameras are an invasion of privacy when they are attached to a person’s clothes. Shoplifting has got worse because governments over spend that’s the real reason we have high inflation.

 

[Jay Jay]

A simple solution to this problem - Suoermarket 'giants' need to employ sufficient staff to bring back all their FULL SERVICE checkouts. The only exit from a store should be at the front, through a checkout, even if you are leaving without any products to purchase.
I totally disagree with all the 'treat everyone as a thief' surveillance.

To all large retail companies, and especially our supermarket chains:

Spend some of your, in some cases, enormous, profits on employing more staff NOT on more invasuve technology; staff premises suitably; site checkouts at the front; and STOP thinking customers are all crims. Customers are the direct cause of your profits. Do not continually put us off-side or we will take our purchasing power elsewhere.

 

[Penny4]

The thing is supermarkets can't do anything about it. I've witnessed customers walk out with full trolleys without paying. Something has to change with security at the entrance/exit.

 

[Babbie]

I am one of the 9 out of 10 honest customers but I have no problem with the stores employing whatever it takes to catch thieves.

Cameras don't bother me. What annoyes me is the fact that honest customers are the ones who pay for these extra security measures and for all the stolen goods. We will all see this through rising prices and next years higher profits.

Take out self service, and put staff back. We know we are always being watched and tracked, but Cameras are an invasion of privacy when they are attached to a person’s clothes. Shoplifting has got worse because governments over spend that’s the real reason we have high inflation.

I like self serve check outs, so do a lot of my friends. It is quick and easy. I couldn’t care less if staff want to check my bags, they are well to do so. If you don’t like it, shop somewhere else. Simple!

 

[IAN3005]

I've provided the solution.....

 

[Noknojon]

If the supermarkets bring back "Service"....which seems to be a thing of the past, would stop a lot of this thieving. Checkouts at the front manned by humans and have those as the only exit ! It's too easy for people to just walk out with a full trolley without paying for it!!

Also, you often form a bond by only trying to go through 1 or 2 checkout persons, and you have that 3 or 5 minute chat as you pass through and call the operator by name.