You're on camera! The truth about shopping at Coles and Woolies nowadays
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Stepping into a supermarket today can feel like accidentally wandering onto the set of a spy movie. Locations? Coles and Woolworths. The main actors? Every unsuspecting customer who’s just popped in for a quick grocery shopping trip!
Coles and Woolworths have increased security measures, carefully tracking shoppers' every move at self-service checkouts.
Imagine this, during grocery shopping, you find yourself face-to-face with your image on a screen!
Yes, that's right! Every swipe, scan, and bagging manoeuvre you make is closely observed and judged by the vigilant eye of the supermarket attendant.
It may seem overwhelming, and we understand your concerns. However, before you let frustration take over, let's delve deeper into this modern-day grocery store drama.
In 2019, the introduction of cameras at self-service checkouts served a fascinating purpose: to deter shoplifting.
As Australia faced rising costs, including a 9.6 per cent increase in food prices recorded by both Coles and Woolworths in the past year, a few individuals succumbed to temptation and helped themselves to items without paying.
In the face of adversity, one might think: 'How about hiring more employees to help monitor?'
However, the supermarket duopoly had a different solution: more cameras! Yes, they opted for an increased surveillance approach.
As you do your regular shopping routine, picture yourself under a virtual magnifying glass.
Even harmless items like fruit can raise suspicions, and a simple mistake like misidentifying a cucumber could momentarily label you as a person of interest in this ongoing supermarket situation.
Every small action you take can trigger an alert to the attendant, creating a sense of unease in what used to be a simple and peaceful errand.
If that wasn’t enough, this drama heightens when the attendant rushes over to review the footage flagged as suspicious!
As an innocent shopper, you can't help but feel a rush of guilt, turning your mundane grocery trip into an adrenaline-fueled adventure.
However, amidst this intense scrutiny, a surprising and ironic weak point in the system emerges.
Some sources suggest that the inspecting cameras are unable to monitor the contents of your reusable bags, creating a unique pocket of privacy amidst the surveillance throughout the store.
This world of extensive surveillance is hard to ignore. The feeling of being watched and judged is a stark departure from the more relaxed times we once knew.
While preventing theft is undoubtedly a priority for businesses, it is equally important to maintain the trust and comfort of customers.
Striking a balance between implementing security measures and preserving a welcoming atmosphere is essential for cultivating positive customer experiences.
Members, have you experienced these changes during your supermarket trips? How has it affected your shopping experience? Share your thoughts, and let's get talking!
Coles and Woolworths have increased security measures, carefully tracking shoppers' every move at self-service checkouts.
Imagine this, during grocery shopping, you find yourself face-to-face with your image on a screen!
Yes, that's right! Every swipe, scan, and bagging manoeuvre you make is closely observed and judged by the vigilant eye of the supermarket attendant.
Surveillance cameras in grocery stores serve as a security measure to deter theft and monitor the shopping environment, ensuring the safety of both customers and employees. Image by igorovsyannykov from Pixabay
It may seem overwhelming, and we understand your concerns. However, before you let frustration take over, let's delve deeper into this modern-day grocery store drama.
In 2019, the introduction of cameras at self-service checkouts served a fascinating purpose: to deter shoplifting.
As Australia faced rising costs, including a 9.6 per cent increase in food prices recorded by both Coles and Woolworths in the past year, a few individuals succumbed to temptation and helped themselves to items without paying.
In the face of adversity, one might think: 'How about hiring more employees to help monitor?'
However, the supermarket duopoly had a different solution: more cameras! Yes, they opted for an increased surveillance approach.
As you do your regular shopping routine, picture yourself under a virtual magnifying glass.
Even harmless items like fruit can raise suspicions, and a simple mistake like misidentifying a cucumber could momentarily label you as a person of interest in this ongoing supermarket situation.
These cameras also help store management identify and address potential incidents, maintain inventory control, and enhance overall operational efficiency. Image by agk42 from Unsplash
Every small action you take can trigger an alert to the attendant, creating a sense of unease in what used to be a simple and peaceful errand.
If that wasn’t enough, this drama heightens when the attendant rushes over to review the footage flagged as suspicious!
As an innocent shopper, you can't help but feel a rush of guilt, turning your mundane grocery trip into an adrenaline-fueled adventure.
However, amidst this intense scrutiny, a surprising and ironic weak point in the system emerges.
Some sources suggest that the inspecting cameras are unable to monitor the contents of your reusable bags, creating a unique pocket of privacy amidst the surveillance throughout the store.
This world of extensive surveillance is hard to ignore. The feeling of being watched and judged is a stark departure from the more relaxed times we once knew.
While preventing theft is undoubtedly a priority for businesses, it is equally important to maintain the trust and comfort of customers.
Striking a balance between implementing security measures and preserving a welcoming atmosphere is essential for cultivating positive customer experiences.
Members, have you experienced these changes during your supermarket trips? How has it affected your shopping experience? Share your thoughts, and let's get talking!
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