Asda’s CCTV network will scan images and alert security when there is a threat
Asda launches facial recognition in five Greater Manchester stores to tackle shoplifting and assaults(Image: Manchester Family / MEN)
Five Greater Manchester Asda stores have become the first to use facial recognition in a crackdown on shoplifting and abuse.
The technology is being trialled in stores from Monday, March 31, in a bid to improve colleague and customer safety in store.
The trial comes at a time when retailers are facing ‘an epidemic of retail crime’. According to the BRC trade body, there are more than 2,000 incidents of violence and abuse against shopworkers every day – a threefold increase since 2020.
Asda itself recorded circa 1,400 assaults on colleagues last year, an average of four per day.
The trial will take place at stores in Ashton, Chadderton, Harpurhey, Eastlands and Trafford Park for an initial period of two months and the results assessed before any decision is taken on whether to extend the trial or roll it out to further locations.
Asda Trafford Park is one of the stores where the technology is being used (Image: Manchester Family / MEN)
The technology is integrated into Asda’s existing CCTV network and works by scanning images and comparing the results to a known list of individuals who have previously committed criminal activity on an Asda site.
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If a match is found by the automated system, in a matter of seconds a member of the Asda head office security team will conduct a check and feedback to the store in real time.
Liz Evans, chief commercial officer of non-food and retail at Asda, said: “The rise in shoplifting and threats and violence against shopworkers in recent years is unacceptable and as a responsible retailer we have to look at all options to reduce the number of offences committed in our stores and protect our colleagues.
“We consistently look for new ways to improve the security in our stores and this trial will help us understand if facial recognition technology can reduce the number of incidents and provide greater protection to everybody in our stores.”