REPORTS of self-checkout-related thefts have become more widespread in recent years, leading to stark warnings from execs at major retailers.
Walmart CEO Doug McMillon said shoplifting is at a “historically high” level, adding it could cause prices to rise or shops to shut if it’s not addressed.
Technology has been developed that not only enhances the quality of self-checkout machines but could stop suspected shoplifters from using tactics such as the "banana trick", Retail Wire reported.
That's where customers scan an expensive item with a code for a cheaper item.
The AI tech, produced by Edgify, allows the machine to see the items that are scanned through.
In a YouTube clip that showed the machine in operation, a shopper checked out two varieties of apples – a Red Delicious and a Pink Lady.
There was a 30-cent difference in the price of the fruit.
The man put one of the apples on the scales.
He then tapped the name of the item that appeared on the screen, before repeating the process.
The enhanced machine detects items such as potatoes that have been placed in a plastic bag.
Theft-related incidents have become a major issue for supermarkets such as Walmart.
Last month, McMillon issued a stark shoplifting warning while appearing on CNBC’s Squawk Box.
He said: “It’s higher than what it has historically been.”... (Read more)
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