Tesco is rolling out new artificial intelligence (AI) powered cameras at some of its self-service checkouts, a move that has quickly drawn comparisons to football’s Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system among shoppers. While the supermarket giant says the technology is designed to improve the scanning process, it’s also a clear response to the significant surge in shoplifting across the UK.
The introduction of these overhead cameras has sparked a range of reactions online, from lighthearted mockery to serious concerns about privacy and surveillance.
How the “VAR” System Works at Tesco
The AI cameras are installed above the self-checkout machines. Their primary function is to detect when an item placed in the bagging area hasn’t been properly scanned by the customer.
If the system identifies an unscanned item, it doesn’t just stop there. A live-action video replay of the scanning attempt is instantly displayed on the checkout screen, accompanied by a clear message. The message prompts the customer, “The last item wasn’t scanned properly. Remove from bagging area and try again.”
Tesco states that the technology aims to help customers easily identify any missed scans, claiming it will make the self-service checkout process “quicker and easier” for everyone.
The Driving Force: Record Shoplifting Rates
While presented partly as a customer aid, the timing of this rollout coincides with alarming figures on retail crime. Shoplifting in the UK has reached record highs, posing a major challenge for retailers.
According to data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), police recorded 516,971 shoplifting offences in England and Wales last year – a staggering 20% increase. Retailers themselves report an even more significant problem; figures from the British Retail Consortium (BRC) reveal 20.4 million instances of theft in the year leading up to last September. This represents a rise of 3.7 million incidents compared to the previous year, costing the retail sector an estimated £2 billion. The scale of the issue is further highlighted by ONS data showing that despite the rise in reported cases, only about a fifth result in a charge, with many investigations closing without identifying a suspect. This context underscores retailers’ urgent need for new solutions.
Tesco’s head of security, Emma Sparrock, commented on the development, stating their commitment to colleague and customer safety “has never been stronger,” framing the move as a sign of the team’s “growth.”
Shopper Reactions: From Pitch-Side Jokes to Privacy Fears
The public response to the new camera system has been notably mixed.
Humorous VAR Comparisons: Many shoppers have taken to social media to joke about the system’s resemblance to football’s video assistant referee. Comments like “VAR Decision – Tuna Disallowed” and “Clearly off side” have frequently appeared. A video demonstrating the technology on Instagram reportedly garnered over 3.5 million views, filled with similar playful reactions.
Concerns Over Surveillance: On the other hand, a significant number of customers view the cameras as an unwelcome step towards increased surveillance. Some have voiced fears about privacy, questioning what further monitoring measures might follow, such as “drones to follow… you about the store?” as one user put it.
Boycotting Self-Checkout: For some, the introduction of the cameras is a step too far, leading them to declare they will stop using self-service checkouts altogether. This sentiment echoes reactions to other recent anti-theft measures implemented by Tesco, such as the large trolley scales trialled at its Gateshead store, which prompted one Reddit user to humorously ask, “Am I at border control or Tesco?”
A Broader Trend Across Retail
Tesco’s move is not an isolated incident but rather part of a wider industry effort to combat escalating theft.
Sainsbury’s has also reportedly rolled out similar AI recognition technology at self-service checkouts in some stores, with a spokesperson stating their security decisions balance crime prevention with ensuring a “smooth checkout experience.” Reports suggest Sainsbury’s has seen a reduction in checkout thefts shortly after implementing comparable technology.
Greggs recently announced plans to move self-serve food and drinks behind the counter in locations experiencing high levels of theft.
In 2023, social media photos highlighted supermarkets security-tagging everyday items like steaks and cheese, and even replacing real coffee jars with dummy ones on shelves in a bid to deter thieves.
The implementation of AI cameras at self-checkouts is the latest front in retailers’ battle against rising crime. While aiming to deter theft and potentially assist customers with scanning accuracy, the technology is also sparking a debate among shoppers about privacy and the changing nature of the checkout experience. The success of such measures could even lead to changes in how other products are protected in the future.
References
- https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c20q5q92y2yo
- https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c20q5q92y2yo
- https://www.yahoo.com/news/tesco-shoppers-mock-var-style-230242781.html
- https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/uk-news/tesco-change-self-service-tills-31730297
