Next is currently trialing advanced AI scanners to uncover stolen items concealed by customers in undergarments like bras and underwear. This cutting-edge technology operates by identifying changes in body heat and has the capability to detect not only stolen goods but also concealed weapons, explosives, cash, and drugs.
The “Thruvision Passive Terahertz Screening System” has undergone successful testing at Next UK warehouses and distribution centers and may soon be implemented in retail stores. Steve Teatum, the Head of Group Loss Prevention at Next, highlighted the effectiveness of this new system on a recent episode of the Retail Crime Uncovered podcast.
Teatum explained how the technology has helped expose individuals attempting to smuggle items by concealing them on their bodies, particularly in sensitive areas like bras and crotches. Despite ongoing efforts by some to engage in such theft methods, the implementation of Thruvision has proven to be highly effective in preventing such incidents.
In related news, shoplifting in England and Wales has reached its peak in more than two decades, with reported offenses increasing by 20% to 530,643 in the year ending March. Home Bargains has also incorporated AI cameras in a trial initiative to combat theft at self-checkouts by identifying unscanned items. The retailer has partnered with tech companies like SAI and Everseen to enhance security measures.
This new technology is designed to detect irregularities such as “misscans” and “skip scans” at self-checkouts, alerting staff to any discrepancies in the items being scanned. Home Bargains’ operations director, Paul Rowland, emphasized the effectiveness of the technology compared to traditional security methods.
These measures are being implemented to address the surge in retail crime, with Home Bargains also introducing a confidential hotline for customers to report incidents of shoplifting and criminal activities within their stores.
