Tue, 27 May 2025

Tue, 27 May 2025 Tesco shoppers mock 'VAR'-style cameras at self-checkout

The supermarket's latest use of technology to crack down on shoplifting has led to both jokes and complaints.
The move comes after record high shoplifting in the UK, with 20% rise in shoplifting offences recorded by police in England and Wales to 516,971 last year. The British Retail Consortium reported 20.4 million thefts in the year to last September, costing retailers £2bn. Tesco said it has rolled out the technology to make the checkout process "quicker and easier", showing a video on the self-service screen if an item fails to scan properly. Sainsbury's also introduced similar AI recognition technology at its stores. Some customers joked that the tech was like VAR, with comments saying "VAR Decision – Tuna Disallowed" and "Clearly off side". Others voiced fears about surveillance measures, while some said they would avoid using self-checkouts after the introduction of the technology. The move marks another attempt by retailers to combat shoplifting, which has risen significantly in recent years. Tesco also introduced giant trolley scales at its Gateshead store earlier this year, and Greggs announced it will move its self-serve food and drinks behind the counter due to high levels of theft.
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