Coles supermarkets has unveiled a series of new high-tech security measures currently being trialed at its Highpoint West store in Melbourne. These initiatives include weighted shelves that trigger alarms, audio reminders about CCTV surveillance, and locked display cabinets. The move is part of an effort to address the increasing number of thefts targeting supermarkets across Australia.
Although the technology is currently limited to one store, Coles plans to extend these measures to other locations nationwide. However, according to Yahoo News, not every store will require the new security systems. “While most of our customers do the right thing, unfortunately, a small number don’t,” a Coles spokesperson explained to Yahoo News, justifying the change.
Rising Retail Theft Prompts New Measures
The introduction of these security measures comes amid “record levels” of investment in technology, security personnel, and safety training. Despite these efforts, Coles staff continue to face “unacceptable” levels of abuse and threatening behavior, particularly in Victoria, where the trial is taking place.
The weighted shelves are designed to sound an alarm if a shopper removes too many high-value items, such as baby formula and meat, at once. This prompts staff to investigate the situation. Additionally, audio reminders will inform shoppers about the presence of CCTV cameras, and high-theft items like cosmetics will be secured in locked display cabinets, accessible only by staff monitoring the CCTV.
Targeting Organised Crime
While similar security initiatives have faced backlash from shoppers in the past, Coles maintains that the enhanced surveillance is not aimed at “petty criminals” but rather at organized crime gangs. According to Coles, these syndicates are responsible for repeatedly stealing high-value items and selling them illicitly.
“This is real criminal activity and it’s something that’s been a problem, particularly in Victoria now, for over a year,” Coles Chief Operations and Supply Chain Manager Matt Swindells stated.
Shoplifting in Victoria reportedly accounts for 71 percent of all organized crime nationally. Swindells emphasized that the new measures are not an attempt to overreach but a necessary response to a significant problem.
Wider Implications and Industry Response
The retail industry has experienced a 20 percent surge in incidents over the past year. In response, other retailers like Bunnings have also increased their security spending. Bunnings, for instance, revealed that an additional $6 million per year is now allocated to tactical security in Victoria to combat attacks on retail workers.
Westfarmers, the parent company of Bunnings and Kmart, reported that 70 percent of retailers have seen an increase in customer theft. The Australian Retail Association’s research indicates that over half of retailers experience physical abuse monthly.
Bunnings Managing Director Michael Schneider previously told Yahoo News, “No one should be subjected to abuse, threats, or physical violence simply for doing their job or going about their day.”
As Coles continues its trial of these security measures, the retail industry will be closely watching the outcomes. The success of this initiative could set a precedent for how supermarkets and other retailers handle the growing challenge of organized retail crime.
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