The beauty of technology is that it constantly comes up with new ways to make our lives easier. And many of us know that one thing that can often make or break your shopping experience at the supermarket is stock availability.

Nowadays, supermarkets are open for longer hours, often leading to empty shelves or disorganised aisles as we try to locate our favourite items.

Well, Woolworths is aware of this struggle and is trialling a novel solution to keep their customers happier and their shelves fuller.

The Woolworths store in Wetherill Park, NSW, has taken the initiative to install more than 500 tiny cameras throughout the shop to keep a watchful eye on stock levels.

These innovative ‘bite-sized’ cameras have been discreetly placed under the shelves, near the price tags, to capture images every hour.

The store will be able to monitor its stock levels thanks to the mini cameras. Credit: Woolworths

The images allow the staff to conveniently assess which items need restocking, saving them time and effort in checking inventory manually.

A Woolworths spokesperson explained the rationale behind the camera system, stating, ‘We've recently begun a trial of new camera technology at the store to assist our teams by reducing manual processes and with replenishment tasks, such as real-time inventory management and restocking prioritisation.’

The spokesperson added, ‘This is expected to improve product availability throughout the day for all our customers, not just at regular intervals.’

The response to the trial will determine whether it is expanded to other locations, as the spokesperson said: ‘We'll listen to feedback from our Wetherill Park customers and team members over the coming months before assessing our next steps’.

Around 500 mini cameras have been installed in one Woolworths store. Credit: Woolworths

Not only do these cameras aim to provide a better shopping experience for customers, but they also apparently respect their privacy.

According to Woolworths, any customers captured by the cameras will be silhouetted from the images.

The Wetherill Park store has also placed signs at its entrance to inform customers about the ongoing trial.

This is not Woolworths' first foray into using cameras to ‘enhance the customer experience’. In February last year, they began a trial of installing cameras at self-service checkouts to reduce scanning errors.

The system automatically replays the footage captured on the screen for the customer if a scanning error occurs, allowing for easy rectification of the problem. Now, more than 250 stores have adopted the change in 2023.

‘It helps reduce mis-scans and is one of a number of initiatives we’ve rolled out across our checkouts to make shopping more convenient and seamless,’ a spokesperson explained at the time.

‘While most customers do the right thing at our self-serve checkouts, we’re all busy, and mistakes can easily happen.’

This decision also comes after Woolworths introduced a new security measure in some of its stores to protect its workers from harm.

According to Woolworths, numerous reports of assault, including verbal, physical, and sexual, were brought to the attention of the executives at the supermarket giant. Thus, the retailer decided to trial body cameras.

The captured footage will only be made available to Woolworth’s legal teams and the police when appropriate.

However, this security measure sparked a divide on social media after some called it an invasion of privacy. You can read the rest of the story here.

While technology may at times feel overwhelming, these innovations have brought undeniable conveniences to our lives.

Should this trial prove successful, it could herald the advent of significant changes to how supermarkets function.

Key Takeaways

• Woolworths is trialling a new in-store camera system at their Wetherill Park store in NSW to help monitor stock levels.
• More than 500 mini cameras have been mounted on shelves to take photos every hour, allowing staff to see which items need restocking.
• The camera system is expected to improve product availability throughout the day for customers.
• The trial of self-service cameras that began in February last year has seen more than 250 stores adopting the change to help reduce scanning errors and improve the checkout process.

What can you say about this trial, members? Do you have any opinions on the cameras? Let us know in the comments.

 

[GranniCaz]

The beauty of technology is that it constantly comes up with new ways to make our lives easier. And many of us know that one thing that can often make or break your shopping experience at the supermarket is stock availability.

Nowadays, supermarkets are open for longer hours, often leading to empty shelves or disorganised aisles as we try to locate our favourite items.

Well, Woolworths is aware of this struggle and is trialling a novel solution to keep their customers happier and their shelves fuller.

The Woolworths store in Wetherill Park, NSW, has taken the initiative to install more than 500 tiny cameras throughout the shop to keep a watchful eye on stock levels.

These innovative ‘bite-sized’ cameras have been discreetly placed under the shelves, near the price tags, to capture images every hour.

View attachment 22060

The store will be able to monitor its stock levels thanks to the mini cameras. Credit: Woolworths

The images allow the staff to conveniently assess which items need restocking, saving them time and effort in checking inventory manually.

A Woolworths spokesperson explained the rationale behind the camera system, stating, ‘We've recently begun a trial of new camera technology at the store to assist our teams by reducing manual processes and with replenishment tasks, such as real-time inventory management and restocking prioritisation.’

The spokesperson added, ‘This is expected to improve product availability throughout the day for all our customers, not just at regular intervals.’

The response to the trial will determine whether it is expanded to other locations, as the spokesperson said: ‘We'll listen to feedback from our Wetherill Park customers and team members over the coming months before assessing our next steps’.

View attachment 22061

Around 500 mini cameras have been installed in one Woolworths store. Credit: Woolworths

Not only do these cameras aim to provide a better shopping experience for customers, but they also apparently respect their privacy.

According to Woolworths, any customers captured by the cameras will be silhouetted from the images.

The Wetherill Park store has also placed signs at its entrance to inform customers about the ongoing trial.

This is not Woolworths' first foray into using cameras to ‘enhance the customer experience’. In February last year, they began a trial of installing cameras at self-service checkouts to reduce scanning errors.

The system automatically replays the footage captured on the screen for the customer if a scanning error occurs, allowing for easy rectification of the problem. Now, more than 250 stores have adopted the change in 2023.

‘It helps reduce mis-scans and is one of a number of initiatives we’ve rolled out across our checkouts to make shopping more convenient and seamless,’ a spokesperson explained at the time.

‘While most customers do the right thing at our self-serve checkouts, we’re all busy, and mistakes can easily happen.’

This decision also comes after Woolworths introduced a new security measure in some of its stores to protect its workers from harm.

According to Woolworths, numerous reports of assault, including verbal, physical, and sexual, were brought to the attention of the executives at the supermarket giant. Thus, the retailer decided to trial body cameras.

The captured footage will only be made available to Woolworth’s legal teams and the police when appropriate.

However, this security measure sparked a divide on social media after some called it an invasion of privacy. You can read the rest of the story here.

While technology may at times feel overwhelming, these innovations have brought undeniable conveniences to our lives.

Should this trial prove successful, it could herald the advent of significant changes to how supermarkets function.

Key Takeaways

• Woolworths is trialling a new in-store camera system at their Wetherill Park store in NSW to help monitor stock levels.
• More than 500 mini cameras have been mounted on shelves to take photos every hour, allowing staff to see which items need restocking.
• The camera system is expected to improve product availability throughout the day for customers.
• The trial of self-service cameras that began in February last year has seen more than 250 stores adopting the change to help reduce scanning errors and improve the checkout process.

What can you say about this trial, members? Do you have any opinions on the cameras? Let us know in the comments.

Perhaps the intrusion and cost of cameras ( or is that perhaps why the Everyday Extras package has been “refined” in Woolworths favour !!) could have been avoided by employing more humans?

 

[sharkfin1]

Another way to replace people I refuse to use the checkout I would rather have a human do my checkout

 

[ToniaKisliakov]

The beauty of technology is that it constantly comes up with new ways to make our lives easier. And many of us know that one thing that can often make or break your shopping experience at the supermarket is stock availability.

Nowadays, supermarkets are open for longer hours, often leading to empty shelves or disorganised aisles as we try to locate our favourite items.

Well, Woolworths is aware of this struggle and is trialling a novel solution to keep their customers happier and their shelves fuller.

The Woolworths store in Wetherill Park, NSW, has taken the initiative to install more than 500 tiny cameras throughout the shop to keep a watchful eye on stock levels.

These innovative ‘bite-sized’ cameras have been discreetly placed under the shelves, near the price tags, to capture images every hour.

View attachment 22060

The store will be able to monitor its stock levels thanks to the mini cameras. Credit: Woolworths

The images allow the staff to conveniently assess which items need restocking, saving them time and effort in checking inventory manually.

A Woolworths spokesperson explained the rationale behind the camera system, stating, ‘We've recently begun a trial of new camera technology at the store to assist our teams by reducing manual processes and with replenishment tasks, such as real-time inventory management and restocking prioritisation.’

The spokesperson added, ‘This is expected to improve product availability throughout the day for all our customers, not just at regular intervals.’

The response to the trial will determine whether it is expanded to other locations, as the spokesperson said: ‘We'll listen to feedback from our Wetherill Park customers and team members over the coming months before assessing our next steps’.

View attachment 22061

Around 500 mini cameras have been installed in one Woolworths store. Credit: Woolworths

Not only do these cameras aim to provide a better shopping experience for customers, but they also apparently respect their privacy.

According to Woolworths, any customers captured by the cameras will be silhouetted from the images.

The Wetherill Park store has also placed signs at its entrance to inform customers about the ongoing trial.

This is not Woolworths' first foray into using cameras to ‘enhance the customer experience’. In February last year, they began a trial of installing cameras at self-service checkouts to reduce scanning errors.

The system automatically replays the footage captured on the screen for the customer if a scanning error occurs, allowing for easy rectification of the problem. Now, more than 250 stores have adopted the change in 2023.

‘It helps reduce mis-scans and is one of a number of initiatives we’ve rolled out across our checkouts to make shopping more convenient and seamless,’ a spokesperson explained at the time.

‘While most customers do the right thing at our self-serve checkouts, we’re all busy, and mistakes can easily happen.’

This decision also comes after Woolworths introduced a new security measure in some of its stores to protect its workers from harm.

According to Woolworths, numerous reports of assault, including verbal, physical, and sexual, were brought to the attention of the executives at the supermarket giant. Thus, the retailer decided to trial body cameras.

The captured footage will only be made available to Woolworth’s legal teams and the police when appropriate.

However, this security measure sparked a divide on social media after some called it an invasion of privacy. You can read the rest of the story here.

While technology may at times feel overwhelming, these innovations have brought undeniable conveniences to our lives.

Should this trial prove successful, it could herald the advent of significant changes to how supermarkets function.

Key Takeaways

• Woolworths is trialling a new in-store camera system at their Wetherill Park store in NSW to help monitor stock levels.
• More than 500 mini cameras have been mounted on shelves to take photos every hour, allowing staff to see which items need restocking.
• The camera system is expected to improve product availability throughout the day for customers.
• The trial of self-service cameras that began in February last year has seen more than 250 stores adopting the change to help reduce scanning errors and improve the checkout process.

What can you say about this trial, members? Do you have any opinions on the cameras? Let us know in the comments.

 

[ToniaKisliakov]

Anyone who has ever "sampled" something without paying is a thief, very simple isn't it?

 

[Bill MacL]

Will the cameras check the use by date as well?

 

[Penny4]

They can stuff their new aisle cameras for all I care.
My local Woolies has changed the software on their self checkouts. I often have empty shopping bags or sometimes a couple of bags from shopping at Aldi etc. in the trolley. When I'm ready to pay, the machine won't let me, therefore makes the staff check this new camera on the screen. The staff tells me that the camera has picked up my shopping bags in the trolley. Even though I have receipts, they still have to check my bags, before I'm allowed to pay. I was told this is a deterrent, but I told them I wasn't happy and very unimpressed. It completely wastes time and I feel like a shoplifter. I'm being their cashier, and if they can't trust me, then it's their problem ... not mine.

 

[ElCee]

The beauty of technology is that it constantly comes up with new ways to make our lives easier. And many of us know that one thing that can often make or break your shopping experience at the supermarket is stock availability.

Nowadays, supermarkets are open for longer hours, often leading to empty shelves or disorganised aisles as we try to locate our favourite items.

Well, Woolworths is aware of this struggle and is trialling a novel solution to keep their customers happier and their shelves fuller.

The Woolworths store in Wetherill Park, NSW, has taken the initiative to install more than 500 tiny cameras throughout the shop to keep a watchful eye on stock levels.

These innovative ‘bite-sized’ cameras have been discreetly placed under the shelves, near the price tags, to capture images every hour.

View attachment 22060

The store will be able to monitor its stock levels thanks to the mini cameras. Credit: Woolworths

The images allow the staff to conveniently assess which items need restocking, saving them time and effort in checking inventory manually.

A Woolworths spokesperson explained the rationale behind the camera system, stating, ‘We've recently begun a trial of new camera technology at the store to assist our teams by reducing manual processes and with replenishment tasks, such as real-time inventory management and restocking prioritisation.’

The spokesperson added, ‘This is expected to improve product availability throughout the day for all our customers, not just at regular intervals.’

The response to the trial will determine whether it is expanded to other locations, as the spokesperson said: ‘We'll listen to feedback from our Wetherill Park customers and team members over the coming months before assessing our next steps’.

View attachment 22061

Around 500 mini cameras have been installed in one Woolworths store. Credit: Woolworths

Not only do these cameras aim to provide a better shopping experience for customers, but they also apparently respect their privacy.

According to Woolworths, any customers captured by the cameras will be silhouetted from the images.

The Wetherill Park store has also placed signs at its entrance to inform customers about the ongoing trial.

This is not Woolworths' first foray into using cameras to ‘enhance the customer experience’. In February last year, they began a trial of installing cameras at self-service checkouts to reduce scanning errors.

The system automatically replays the footage captured on the screen for the customer if a scanning error occurs, allowing for easy rectification of the problem. Now, more than 250 stores have adopted the change in 2023.

‘It helps reduce mis-scans and is one of a number of initiatives we’ve rolled out across our checkouts to make shopping more convenient and seamless,’ a spokesperson explained at the time.

‘While most customers do the right thing at our self-serve checkouts, we’re all busy, and mistakes can easily happen.’

This decision also comes after Woolworths introduced a new security measure in some of its stores to protect its workers from harm.

According to Woolworths, numerous reports of assault, including verbal, physical, and sexual, were brought to the attention of the executives at the supermarket giant. Thus, the retailer decided to trial body cameras.

The captured footage will only be made available to Woolworth’s legal teams and the police when appropriate.

However, this security measure sparked a divide on social media after some called it an invasion of privacy. You can read the rest of the story here.

While technology may at times feel overwhelming, these innovations have brought undeniable conveniences to our lives.

Should this trial prove successful, it could herald the advent of significant changes to how supermarkets function.

Key Takeaways

• Woolworths is trialling a new in-store camera system at their Wetherill Park store in NSW to help monitor stock levels.
• More than 500 mini cameras have been mounted on shelves to take photos every hour, allowing staff to see which items need restocking.
• The camera system is expected to improve product availability throughout the day for customers.
• The trial of self-service cameras that began in February last year has seen more than 250 stores adopting the change to help reduce scanning errors and improve the checkout process.

What can you say about this trial, members? Do you have any opinions on the cameras? Let us know in the comments.

I already will not use the self service because of the cameras..not that I have anything to hide.. it is very inconvenient to have the person come and check the trolley and watch the video just because you have a bag on the back of your trolley that you didn't use.. this could be the last straw. I'll shop elsewhere. And will it work. I watched some kids shoplift some items (they were not good at it), told the operated at the x checkout, was told it had already been reported and there was nothing they could do about it. REALLY! This is just another way to harass the innocent, which is most of us.

 

[Ricki]

The beauty of technology is that it constantly comes up with new ways to make our lives easier. And many of us know that one thing that can often make or break your shopping experience at the supermarket is stock availability.

Nowadays, supermarkets are open for longer hours, often leading to empty shelves or disorganised aisles as we try to locate our favourite items.

Well, Woolworths is aware of this struggle and is trialling a novel solution to keep their customers happier and their shelves fuller.

The Woolworths store in Wetherill Park, NSW, has taken the initiative to install more than 500 tiny cameras throughout the shop to keep a watchful eye on stock levels.

These innovative ‘bite-sized’ cameras have been discreetly placed under the shelves, near the price tags, to capture images every hour.

View attachment 22060

The store will be able to monitor its stock levels thanks to the mini cameras. Credit: Woolworths

The images allow the staff to conveniently assess which items need restocking, saving them time and effort in checking inventory manually.

A Woolworths spokesperson explained the rationale behind the camera system, stating, ‘We've recently begun a trial of new camera technology at the store to assist our teams by reducing manual processes and with replenishment tasks, such as real-time inventory management and restocking prioritisation.’

The spokesperson added, ‘This is expected to improve product availability throughout the day for all our customers, not just at regular intervals.’

The response to the trial will determine whether it is expanded to other locations, as the spokesperson said: ‘We'll listen to feedback from our Wetherill Park customers and team members over the coming months before assessing our next steps’.

View attachment 22061

Around 500 mini cameras have been installed in one Woolworths store. Credit: Woolworths

Not only do these cameras aim to provide a better shopping experience for customers, but they also apparently respect their privacy.

According to Woolworths, any customers captured by the cameras will be silhouetted from the images.

The Wetherill Park store has also placed signs at its entrance to inform customers about the ongoing trial.

This is not Woolworths' first foray into using cameras to ‘enhance the customer experience’. In February last year, they began a trial of installing cameras at self-service checkouts to reduce scanning errors.

The system automatically replays the footage captured on the screen for the customer if a scanning error occurs, allowing for easy rectification of the problem. Now, more than 250 stores have adopted the change in 2023.

‘It helps reduce mis-scans and is one of a number of initiatives we’ve rolled out across our checkouts to make shopping more convenient and seamless,’ a spokesperson explained at the time.

‘While most customers do the right thing at our self-serve checkouts, we’re all busy, and mistakes can easily happen.’

This decision also comes after Woolworths introduced a new security measure in some of its stores to protect its workers from harm.

According to Woolworths, numerous reports of assault, including verbal, physical, and sexual, were brought to the attention of the executives at the supermarket giant. Thus, the retailer decided to trial body cameras.

The captured footage will only be made available to Woolworth’s legal teams and the police when appropriate.

However, this security measure sparked a divide on social media after some called it an invasion of privacy. You can read the rest of the story here.

While technology may at times feel overwhelming, these innovations have brought undeniable conveniences to our lives.

Should this trial prove successful, it could herald the advent of significant changes to how supermarkets function.

Key Takeaways

• Woolworths is trialling a new in-store camera system at their Wetherill Park store in NSW to help monitor stock levels.
• More than 500 mini cameras have been mounted on shelves to take photos every hour, allowing staff to see which items need restocking.
• The camera system is expected to improve product availability throughout the day for customers.
• The trial of self-service cameras that began in February last year has seen more than 250 stores adopting the change to help reduce scanning errors and improve the checkout process.

What can you say about this trial, members? Do you have any opinions on the cameras? Let us know in the comments.

How about if the only way out is to go through a check out with real people which will lessen the chance of customers making "mistakes " in pricing and shoplifting. Gawd I hate self-serve checkouts. I like a smile and a little chat which self-serve checkouts can't give you.

 

[peteloo]

The beauty of technology is that it constantly comes up with new ways to make our lives easier. And many of us know that one thing that can often make or break your shopping experience at the supermarket is stock availability.

Nowadays, supermarkets are open for longer hours, often leading to empty shelves or disorganised aisles as we try to locate our favourite items.

Well, Woolworths is aware of this struggle and is trialling a novel solution to keep their customers happier and their shelves fuller.

The Woolworths store in Wetherill Park, NSW, has taken the initiative to install more than 500 tiny cameras throughout the shop to keep a watchful eye on stock levels.

These innovative ‘bite-sized’ cameras have been discreetly placed under the shelves, near the price tags, to capture images every hour.

View attachment 22060

The store will be able to monitor its stock levels thanks to the mini cameras. Credit: Woolworths

The images allow the staff to conveniently assess which items need restocking, saving them time and effort in checking inventory manually.

A Woolworths spokesperson explained the rationale behind the camera system, stating, ‘We've recently begun a trial of new camera technology at the store to assist our teams by reducing manual processes and with replenishment tasks, such as real-time inventory management and restocking prioritisation.’

The spokesperson added, ‘This is expected to improve product availability throughout the day for all our customers, not just at regular intervals.’

The response to the trial will determine whether it is expanded to other locations, as the spokesperson said: ‘We'll listen to feedback from our Wetherill Park customers and team members over the coming months before assessing our next steps’.

View attachment 22061

Around 500 mini cameras have been installed in one Woolworths store. Credit: Woolworths

Not only do these cameras aim to provide a better shopping experience for customers, but they also apparently respect their privacy.

According to Woolworths, any customers captured by the cameras will be silhouetted from the images.

The Wetherill Park store has also placed signs at its entrance to inform customers about the ongoing trial.

This is not Woolworths' first foray into using cameras to ‘enhance the customer experience’. In February last year, they began a trial of installing cameras at self-service checkouts to reduce scanning errors.

The system automatically replays the footage captured on the screen for the customer if a scanning error occurs, allowing for easy rectification of the problem. Now, more than 250 stores have adopted the change in 2023.

‘It helps reduce mis-scans and is one of a number of initiatives we’ve rolled out across our checkouts to make shopping more convenient and seamless,’ a spokesperson explained at the time.

‘While most customers do the right thing at our self-serve checkouts, we’re all busy, and mistakes can easily happen.’

This decision also comes after Woolworths introduced a new security measure in some of its stores to protect its workers from harm.

According to Woolworths, numerous reports of assault, including verbal, physical, and sexual, were brought to the attention of the executives at the supermarket giant. Thus, the retailer decided to trial body cameras.

The captured footage will only be made available to Woolworth’s legal teams and the police when appropriate.

However, this security measure sparked a divide on social media after some called it an invasion of privacy. You can read the rest of the story here.

While technology may at times feel overwhelming, these innovations have brought undeniable conveniences to our lives.

Should this trial prove successful, it could herald the advent of significant changes to how supermarkets function.

Key Takeaways

• Woolworths is trialling a new in-store camera system at their Wetherill Park store in NSW to help monitor stock levels.
• More than 500 mini cameras have been mounted on shelves to take photos every hour, allowing staff to see which items need restocking.
• The camera system is expected to improve product availability throughout the day for customers.
• The trial of self-service cameras that began in February last year has seen more than 250 stores adopting the change to help reduce scanning errors and improve the checkout process.

What can you say about this trial, members? Do you have any opinions on the cameras? Let us know in the comments.

Honestly, the cams are to watch the isles.
Times have changed - we live in a world of possible hacks, entitlement and self-gratification , thrill-seeking fun - possibly impacting store security (theft).
If Woolworths really wants to check stock levels, they should be using their internal system to monitor by QR codes.
The items have QR codes, and the quantities on shelves are linked to specific QR codes. When the items are purchased, scanning the QR codes will deduct quantities on shelves automatically.
The only caveat is the “misplaced” items arising from unshelved returns, last minute non-purchase, and customers picking-placing items back at the wrong shelves - these will mess up the item quantities meant to be in the proper shelves.

 

[Jennylolo]

They can stuff their new aisle cameras for all I care.
My local Woolies has changed the software on their self checkouts. I often have empty shopping bags or sometimes a couple of bags from shopping at Aldi etc. in the trolley. When I'm ready to pay, the machine won't let me, therefore makes the staff check this new camera on the screen. The staff tells me that the camera has picked up my shopping bags in the trolley. Even though I have receipts, they still have to check my bags, before I'm allowed to pay. I was told this is a deterrent, but I told them I wasn't happy and very unimpressed. It completely wastes time and I feel like a shoplifter. I'm being their cashier, and if they can't trust me, then it's their problem ... not mine.

I always take in a bundle of bags as I don't fill my bags (weight), and have some left over. I would be angry if this stopped me from paying for goods without a check. Doesn't happen at checkouts

 

[Supernan1950]

The beauty of technology is that it constantly comes up with new ways to make our lives easier. And many of us know that one thing that can often make or break your shopping experience at the supermarket is stock availability.

Nowadays, supermarkets are open for longer hours, often leading to empty shelves or disorganised aisles as we try to locate our favourite items.

Well, Woolworths is aware of this struggle and is trialling a novel solution to keep their customers happier and their shelves fuller.

The Woolworths store in Wetherill Park, NSW, has taken the initiative to install more than 500 tiny cameras throughout the shop to keep a watchful eye on stock levels.

These innovative ‘bite-sized’ cameras have been discreetly placed under the shelves, near the price tags, to capture images every hour.

View attachment 22060

The store will be able to monitor its stock levels thanks to the mini cameras. Credit: Woolworths

The images allow the staff to conveniently assess which items need restocking, saving them time and effort in checking inventory manually.

A Woolworths spokesperson explained the rationale behind the camera system, stating, ‘We've recently begun a trial of new camera technology at the store to assist our teams by reducing manual processes and with replenishment tasks, such as real-time inventory management and restocking prioritisation.’

The spokesperson added, ‘This is expected to improve product availability throughout the day for all our customers, not just at regular intervals.’

The response to the trial will determine whether it is expanded to other locations, as the spokesperson said: ‘We'll listen to feedback from our Wetherill Park customers and team members over the coming months before assessing our next steps’.

View attachment 22061

Around 500 mini cameras have been installed in one Woolworths store. Credit: Woolworths

Not only do these cameras aim to provide a better shopping experience for customers, but they also apparently respect their privacy.

According to Woolworths, any customers captured by the cameras will be silhouetted from the images.

The Wetherill Park store has also placed signs at its entrance to inform customers about the ongoing trial.

This is not Woolworths' first foray into using cameras to ‘enhance the customer experience’. In February last year, they began a trial of installing cameras at self-service checkouts to reduce scanning errors.

The system automatically replays the footage captured on the screen for the customer if a scanning error occurs, allowing for easy rectification of the problem. Now, more than 250 stores have adopted the change in 2023.

‘It helps reduce mis-scans and is one of a number of initiatives we’ve rolled out across our checkouts to make shopping more convenient and seamless,’ a spokesperson explained at the time.

‘While most customers do the right thing at our self-serve checkouts, we’re all busy, and mistakes can easily happen.’

This decision also comes after Woolworths introduced a new security measure in some of its stores to protect its workers from harm.

According to Woolworths, numerous reports of assault, including verbal, physical, and sexual, were brought to the attention of the executives at the supermarket giant. Thus, the retailer decided to trial body cameras.

The captured footage will only be made available to Woolworth’s legal teams and the police when appropriate.

However, this security measure sparked a divide on social media after some called it an invasion of privacy. You can read the rest of the story here.

While technology may at times feel overwhelming, these innovations have brought undeniable conveniences to our lives.

Should this trial prove successful, it could herald the advent of significant changes to how supermarkets function.

Key Takeaways

• Woolworths is trialling a new in-store camera system at their Wetherill Park store in NSW to help monitor stock levels.
• More than 500 mini cameras have been mounted on shelves to take photos every hour, allowing staff to see which items need restocking.
• The camera system is expected to improve product availability throughout the day for customers.
• The trial of self-service cameras that began in February last year has seen more than 250 stores adopting the change to help reduce scanning errors and improve the checkout process.

What can you say about this trial, members? Do you have any opinions on the cameras? Let us know in the comments.

The trial sounds good if it keeps the staff safe and the shelves stocked but will it take away jobs from people in the future I hope not.

 

[Ricci]

What a load of rot Woolies are spouting. They already have real time knowledge of stocked items via the checkout. They know how many of an item is on the shelf and know via the checkouts how many have been sold and if they don't know how to take one figure from the other I'll go and teach them. They do not carry huge stocks of items out the back so how do they have the replenishment capability. Sold item numbers are sent to the warehouse and that's how they get the deliveries for the next and coming days.

 

[siameezer]

They can stuff their new aisle cameras for all I care.
My local Woolies has changed the software on their self checkouts. I often have empty shopping bags or sometimes a couple of bags from shopping at Aldi etc. in the trolley. When I'm ready to pay, the machine won't let me, therefore makes the staff check this new camera on the screen. The staff tells me that the camera has picked up my shopping bags in the trolley. Even though I have receipts, they still have to check my bags, before I'm allowed to pay. I was told this is a deterrent, but I told them I wasn't happy and very unimpressed. It completely wastes time and I feel like a shoplifter. I'm being their cashier, and if they can't trust me, then it's their problem ... not mine.

Yes the camera picked up on my walking stick and handbag when I went through self-checkout and I had to have the young lad check my trolley. I understand he was just doing his job so I did not get upset and certainly didn't tell him what I thought of him needing to do so as I understand if people didn't steal from the supermarket this wouldn't be necessary.

 

[Penny4]

Yes the camera picked up on my walking stick and handbag when I went through self-checkout and I had to have the young lad check my trolley. I understand he was just doing his job so I did not get upset and certainly didn't tell him what I thought of him needing to do so as I understand if people didn't steal from the supermarket this wouldn't be necessary.

I didn't get upset with the staff person. As a law abiding customer, I just politely told him I wasn't happy about it. I totally agree it's not the staff's fault. It's the head honchos in the CEO office who make these decisions. I was told by this staff member, that stealing is a huge problem since self serve checkouts opened.
It's completely open to theft, so they should abandon this concept if that's the case.

 

[Rosalie30]

As the checkout queues at my local Woolies were busy I recently used the self checkout. This article reminded me that there appeared to be a camera/mirror facing me as I checked out my couple of items. What is this? Getting a bit fed up with this Big Brother society! btw I don’t usually use self-checkout!

 

[Tygie]

The beauty of technology is that it constantly comes up with new ways to make our lives easier. And many of us know that one thing that can often make or break your shopping experience at the supermarket is stock availability.

Nowadays, supermarkets are open for longer hours, often leading to empty shelves or disorganised aisles as we try to locate our favourite items.

Well, Woolworths is aware of this struggle and is trialling a novel solution to keep their customers happier and their shelves fuller.

The Woolworths store in Wetherill Park, NSW, has taken the initiative to install more than 500 tiny cameras throughout the shop to keep a watchful eye on stock levels.

These innovative ‘bite-sized’ cameras have been discreetly placed under the shelves, near the price tags, to capture images every hour.

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The store will be able to monitor its stock levels thanks to the mini cameras. Credit: Woolworths

The images allow the staff to conveniently assess which items need restocking, saving them time and effort in checking inventory manually.

A Woolworths spokesperson explained the rationale behind the camera system, stating, ‘We've recently begun a trial of new camera technology at the store to assist our teams by reducing manual processes and with replenishment tasks, such as real-time inventory management and restocking prioritisation.’

The spokesperson added, ‘This is expected to improve product availability throughout the day for all our customers, not just at regular intervals.’

The response to the trial will determine whether it is expanded to other locations, as the spokesperson said: ‘We'll listen to feedback from our Wetherill Park customers and team members over the coming months before assessing our next steps’.

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Around 500 mini cameras have been installed in one Woolworths store. Credit: Woolworths

Not only do these cameras aim to provide a better shopping experience for customers, but they also apparently respect their privacy.

According to Woolworths, any customers captured by the cameras will be silhouetted from the images.

The Wetherill Park store has also placed signs at its entrance to inform customers about the ongoing trial.

This is not Woolworths' first foray into using cameras to ‘enhance the customer experience’. In February last year, they began a trial of installing cameras at self-service checkouts to reduce scanning errors.

The system automatically replays the footage captured on the screen for the customer if a scanning error occurs, allowing for easy rectification of the problem. Now, more than 250 stores have adopted the change in 2023.

‘It helps reduce mis-scans and is one of a number of initiatives we’ve rolled out across our checkouts to make shopping more convenient and seamless,’ a spokesperson explained at the time.

‘While most customers do the right thing at our self-serve checkouts, we’re all busy, and mistakes can easily happen.’

This decision also comes after Woolworths introduced a new security measure in some of its stores to protect its workers from harm.

According to Woolworths, numerous reports of assault, including verbal, physical, and sexual, were brought to the attention of the executives at the supermarket giant. Thus, the retailer decided to trial body cameras.

The captured footage will only be made available to Woolworth’s legal teams and the police when appropriate.

However, this security measure sparked a divide on social media after some called it an invasion of privacy. You can read the rest of the story here.

While technology may at times feel overwhelming, these innovations have brought undeniable conveniences to our lives.

Should this trial prove successful, it could herald the advent of significant changes to how supermarkets function.

Key Takeaways

• Woolworths is trialling a new in-store camera system at their Wetherill Park store in NSW to help monitor stock levels.
• More than 500 mini cameras have been mounted on shelves to take photos every hour, allowing staff to see which items need restocking.
• The camera system is expected to improve product availability throughout the day for customers.
• The trial of self-service cameras that began in February last year has seen more than 250 stores adopting the change to help reduce scanning errors and improve the checkout process.

What can you say about this trial, members? Do you have any opinions on the cameras? Let us know in the comments.

Oh great more tech taking jobs from people! all this means is the staff can be lazier and woollies profits go up more.
how long will it be before these cameras get 'houdini'ed' by naughty people?
The stores already spy on customers more than enough and trust us even less.

 

[MariaG]

What a load of rot Woolies are spouting. They already have real time knowledge of stocked items via the checkout. They know how many of an item is on the shelf and know via the checkouts how many have been sold and if they don't know how to take one figure from the other I'll go and teach them. They do not carry huge stocks of items out the back so how do they have the replenishment capability. Sold item numbers are sent to the warehouse and that's how they get the deliveries for the next and coming days.

Took the words right out of my mouth Ricci.
All the major outlets have been using automatic ordering systems. You buy it, scan it, the bar code automatically deducts the item from stock levels, and when the stock runs low, the automatic order system comes into play.
I don't believe the reasoning the supermarket is dishing out. I think it is more about monitoring stock levels out back vs how quickly staff refill the shelves.
They have already cost jobs at the checkouts. Are we going to see robotic shelf fillers in the near future?

 

[robby G]

I already will not use the self service because of the cameras..not that I have anything to hide.. it is very inconvenient to have the person come and check the trolley and watch the video just because you have a bag on the back of your trolley that you didn't use.. this could be the last straw. I'll shop elsewhere. And will it work. I watched some kids shoplift some items (they were not good at it), told the operated at the x checkout, was told it had already been reported and there was nothing they could do about it. REALLY! This is just another way to harass the innocent, which is most of us.

Agree! I have changed my shopping habits because I feel like a criminal with the cameras at the checkouts. I only go in there to buy the specials and the paper for mum. This is definitely the last straw. I have already switched to Coles to do my major shop.

 

[Gsr]

My guess is this is woollies trying to catch dishonest customers, but it is not fair to all the honest customers, who by far outweigh the thieves. Businesses set their prices to cover the losses they incur from stealing, so I don’t see why they need to have these cameras ata lol.