Sainsbury’s is set to implement controversial facial recognition technology in its stores for the first time. The UK’s second-largest supermarket chain intends to use this technology as a measure to combat shoplifting by automatically scanning customers’ faces through CCTV. The scanned data will aid in identifying and potentially barring individuals who exhibit violent, aggressive, or thieving behavior within the store.
Despite the supermarket’s intentions, the use of facial recognition technology has faced criticism from privacy advocates. Big Brother Watch, a campaign group, has condemned the move as “Orwellian,” highlighting concerns that it could unjustly target innocent shoppers and have severe consequences on people’s lives.
Sainsbury’s is initiating an eight-week trial of this technology in two of its stores: the Sydenham superstore in London and the Bath Oldfield Sainsbury’s Local branch, with potential nationwide expansion if successful. The company clarified that the primary focus is on identifying serious offenders engaging in violent or criminal activities, rather than monitoring its employees or loyal customers.
Partnering with facial recognition firm Facewatch for the trial, Sainsbury’s assured that any records not recognized by the software will be promptly deleted. The system operates by issuing alerts based on criminal behavior reports from the store or neighboring retailers utilizing Facewatch technology.
Addressing the escalating incidents of theft, abuse, and disruptive behavior, Sainsbury’s emphasized the necessity of prioritizing safety. Simon Roberts, the chief executive, acknowledged the concerns raised by colleagues and customers, emphasizing the importance of taking action against rising abuse and violence within the retail sector.
While the shopworkers’ union, Usdaw, welcomed Sainsbury’s efforts to enhance safety in stores, Big Brother Watch’s senior advocacy officer, Madeleine Stone, criticized the trial as disproportionate and chilling. Stone expressed concerns about the potential misuse of facial recognition technology in creating secret watchlists and falsely accusing innocent individuals.
In a similar vein, Asda, a competitor supermarket, has also initiated live facial recognition trials in several stores to combat retail crime, following the footsteps of other retailers like Iceland. The use of facial recognition technology in the UK has sparked debates over privacy and the need for governmental intervention to regulate its unchecked proliferation.
