Next is currently experimenting with innovative AI scanners capable of identifying stolen items concealed in undergarments such as bras and underwear. This cutting-edge technology operates by detecting changes in body heat and has the ability to uncover hidden weapons, explosives, cash, and drugs.
The “Thruvision Passive Terahertz Screening System” has undergone successful trials by Next UK warehouse and distribution center staff and may soon be implemented in Next retail stores. Steve Teatum, the Head of Group Loss Prevention at Next, discussed this new system on a recent episode of the Retail Crime Uncovered podcast, as reported by The Sun.
Teatum explained how the Thruvision system has been instrumental in identifying individuals attempting to conceal stolen goods on their person, making it challenging for traditional security screenings to detect such 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 two decades, with statistics indicating a 20% increase in offenses to 530,643 in the year ending March. The Mirror highlighted how Home Bargains has taken steps to combat theft at self-checkouts by utilizing AI cameras to detect unscanned items, in partnership with tech companies SAI and Everseen.
These AI cameras are designed to identify and alert staff to instances of “misscans” and “skip scans” at self-checkout points, where items pass through without being properly scanned. Home Bargains’ operations director, Paul Rowland, noted that the technology has proven more effective than traditional security measures in preventing theft.
This initiative by Home Bargains aims to curb rising retail crime rates, following the launch of a confidential hotline for customers to report shoplifting and other criminal activities at their stores.
