Next is trialing innovative AI scanners capable of detecting stolen items concealed in undergarments like bras and underwear. This technology utilizes body heat changes to identify hidden weapons, explosives, cash, and drugs.
The “Thruvision Passive Terahertz Screening System” has undergone testing in Next UK warehouses and distribution centers and might soon be implemented in stores. Steve Teatum, the Head of Group Loss Prevention at Next, discussed this system on a recent episode of the Retail Crime Uncovered podcast.
Teatum explained that the technology exposes individuals attempting to conceal merchandise on their bodies, making it challenging for traditional security measures to detect such hidden items. Despite continued attempts at theft, this technology has proven highly effective in preventing such incidents.
In related news, shoplifting in England and Wales has surged to its highest level in over 20 years, with offenses reaching 530,643 in the year ending March – the highest number recorded since 2003. Home Bargains has also adopted AI cameras to combat theft at self-checkouts by identifying unscanned items, partnering with tech companies SAI and Everseen for a trial run.
These AI cameras are programmed to detect “misscans” and “skip scans” at self-checkouts, alerting staff to any discrepancies in the items scanned. Home Bargains operations director, Paul Rowland, noted that this technology has proven more effective than traditional security measures.
This anti-theft measure aims to curb rising incidents of retail crime, following the launch of a confidential hotline by Home Bargains in 2023 for customers to report shoplifting and other criminal activities at their stores.