Tesco shoppers have taken to mocking the supermarket’s introduction of AI technology at some self-checkout tills, comparing it to the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system used in football. The aim is to reduce shoplifting by installing overhead cameras that identify when an item fails to scan properly and show a live-action replay of the item not scanning.
The move comes after UK shoplifting reached a record high in 2024, with 516,971 offences recorded by police in England and Wales. Retailers reported even higher theft numbers, with 20.4 million incidents costing £2 billion.
Tesco’s system uses cameras to show customers a video on the self-service screen if an item hasn’t been scanned properly. Customers are then asked to remove the item from their bagging area and try again.
While some shoppers have joked about the VAR-like technology, others have expressed concerns it’s too invasive and could lead to more surveillance measures. “We regularly review our security measures,” said a Tesco spokesperson. The supermarket aims to offer customers a smooth checkout experience while addressing shoplifting.
Similar moves have been made by other retailers, including Sainsbury’s, which has implemented AI recognition technology at some self-service checkouts. Critics argue that such measures could erode trust between shoppers and businesses.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c20q5q92y2yo