Next is currently trialing innovative AI scanners that can identify stolen items hidden in undergarments such as bras and underwear. This cutting-edge technology operates by detecting changes in body temperature and can also detect concealed weapons, explosives, cash, and drugs.
The “Thruvision Passive Terahertz Screening System” has undergone successful testing at Next’s warehouses and distribution centers in the UK and may soon be implemented in their retail stores. Steve Teatum, the Head of Group Loss Prevention at Next, discussed the system on a recent episode of the Retail Crime Uncovered podcast, as reported by The Sun.
Teatum mentioned that the system has proven effective in detecting individuals attempting to steal by concealing items on their bodies, particularly in personal areas like bras and undergarments. The technology has significantly improved the detection of such theft methods, making it challenging for traditional security measures to identify hidden items.
Shoplifting rates in England and Wales have surged to a record high in over two decades, reaching 530,643 offenses in the year leading up to March, according to official data. To combat this trend, Home Bargains has adopted AI cameras to monitor self-checkouts for theft, working in collaboration with tech companies SAI and Everseen for a trial run.
The AI cameras are designed to identify instances of “misscans” and “skip scans” at self-checkouts, alerting staff to unscanned items passing through the checkout process. Home Bargains’ operations director, Paul Rowland, expressed that the technology has proven more efficient than traditional security methods in preventing theft.
This initiative by Home Bargains aims to deter shoplifters amidst a rise in retail crime. It follows the launch of a confidential hotline for customers to report incidents of theft and criminal activity at Home Bargains stores.