Amid the rising issue of retail crime, Iceland is exploring high-tech solutions.
- CEO Richard Walker is open to trialling facial recognition in Iceland stores.
- Walker highlights the need for enhanced legal powers for security staff.
- Facial recognition is seen as a potential deterrent for professional criminals.
- The move aligns with broader industry efforts to manage shoplifting.
Retail crime is on the rise, prompting Iceland to look into advanced solutions. CEO Richard Walker expressed his openness to trial facial recognition technology in the company’s stores. In a statement shared on LinkedIn, Walker said, “Whilst we don’t yet use it, I will happily trial and use legal, proportionate facial recognition technology as an effective response to the very real threat my colleagues face.” This reflects a shift towards technology-driven security measures in the retail industry.
Walker also pointed out the limitations faced by security personnel in effectively managing criminal activities. He stated, “Security guards are very limited in their ability to act against brazen, professional criminals who operate without fear of consequence.” This highlights the need for a review of current security protocols to empower staff dealing with such incidents.
Enhancing the legal authority for security staff could be critical in providing a stronger deterrent against shoplifting. It could also play a significant role in improving the overall safety of retail environments. Walker’s comments follow recent developments by the crime and policing minister, Dame Diana Johnson, who announced plans to eliminate the current £200 threshold in the shoplifting charter. This move aims to address retail crime more robustly.
Iceland’s approach resonates with broader industry trends where supermarkets like Tesco and Morrisons are already implementing technological security measures. Tesco has introduced security robots, while Morrisons has trialed mobile ‘RoboCop’ style cameras. These actions signify a collective effort in the retail sector to adapt to the increasing challenges posed by shoplifting.
The potential adoption of facial recognition technology by Iceland could significantly contribute to reducing retail crime while enhancing safety for both staff and customers.
