📷 Big news from Sainsbury’s! The supermarket giant is trialling facial recognition tech in two UK stores, hoping to roll it out nationwide if all goes well. The technology aims to tackle the rise in retail crime by identifying shoplifters and those causing trouble.
Starting this week, shoppers at the Sydenham superstore in London and Bath Oldfield’s Sainsbury’s Local will be part of the eight-week test run. Sainsbury’s assures everyone that this move isn’t about keeping tabs on staff or customers, but is focused on enhancing safety and reducing incidents of theft and aggression in stores.
They’re collaborating with Facewatch, the same tech used in other retailers like Home Bargains, Sports Direct, and Flannels. Concerns about privacy are being raised, with critics calling the plan “chilling” and urging the Government to step in. Yet, Sainsbury’s maintains that the trial is a necessary step to protect both employees and customers from rising threats.
Immediate deletion of unrecognized faces and alerts based solely on reported criminal behaviour are some of the safeguards promised. Sainsbury’s assures its focus is on identifying serious offenders who’ve committed violent, aggressive acts, or theft.
Sainsbury’s boss, Simon Roberts, says: “Safety first!” He acknowledges valid questions on data and privacy but stresses the trial isn’t about snooping on staff or customers.
Retail sector union USDAW is backing Sainsbury’s efforts to protect workers from in-store violence. They’ll be watching the trial closely to ensure it’s used responsibly and based on evidence. What do you think about this tech trial? Let us know in the comments! 📷🛒