Next is currently trialing advanced AI scanners to detect stolen items concealed in undergarments like bras and underwear. The cutting-edge technology utilizes body heat changes to identify hidden goods such as weapons, explosives, cash, and drugs.
The innovative “Thruvision Passive Terahertz Screening System” has undergone successful testing at Next UK warehouses and distribution centers and may soon be implemented in stores. Steve Teatum, Head of Group Loss Prevention at Next, discussed the system on a recent episode of the Retail Crime Uncovered podcast.
Teatum explained how the AI system, known as Thruvision, has helped uncover individuals attempting to steal by concealing items in personal areas. The technology has significantly improved security measures by detecting hidden items that traditional screenings often miss.
According to Teatum, shoplifting incidents in England and Wales have surged to the highest levels in over two decades, with offenses reaching 530,643 in the year ending March. To combat this rise in retail crime, Home Bargains has adopted AI cameras to identify theft at self-checkouts by detecting unscanned items.
The AI technology is designed to identify discrepancies such as “misscans” and “skip scans” at self-checkouts, alerting staff to potential theft incidents. Home Bargains’ operations director, Paul Rowland, emphasized the effectiveness of the technology over traditional security methods.
The implementation of AI surveillance aims to deter shoplifters amidst the escalating rates of retail crime. Home Bargains’ proactive measures include the introduction of a confidential hotline for customers to report incidents of theft and crime within their stores.