Coles supermarkets have announced the trial of advanced security measures at their Highpoint West store in Melbourne, aiming to tackle the increasing incidents of theft plaguing supermarkets across Australia. The new measures include weighted shelves that trigger alarms, audio reminders of CCTV surveillance, and locked display cabinets.
The trial comes as part of Coles’ response to a surge in shoplifting, particularly in Victoria, despite substantial investments in technology, security personnel, and safety training. A Coles spokesperson emphasized that while the majority of customers are honest, a minority continue to pose challenges, leading to unacceptable levels of abuse and threatening behavior towards staff.
Understanding the New Security Measures
The weighted shelves are designed to alert staff when a shopper attempts to remove multiple high-value items, such as baby formula and meat, simultaneously. This prompt allows for immediate staff intervention. Additionally, an audio system will remind customers of active CCTV cameras, and high-theft items like cosmetics will be secured in locked cabinets, accessible only by staff monitoring the surveillance footage.
While similar security initiatives have previously sparked controversy among shoppers, Coles maintains that this high-scale surveillance targets organized crime syndicates rather than minor shoplifters. The supermarket giant is focused on dismantling these groups, which are responsible for repeated thefts of high-value goods for resale.
Organized Crime: A Growing Concern
According to Coles, organized crime syndicates have been a persistent issue, particularly in Victoria, where shoplifting accounts for 71% of all organized crime activities nationwide. Matt Swindells, Coles’ Chief Operations and Supply Chain Manager, stated,
“This is real criminal activity and it’s something that’s been a problem, particularly in Victoria now, for over a year now.”
The past year has seen a dramatic 20% increase in retail theft incidents. This trend mirrors broader concerns within the retail sector, with Westfarmers, the parent company of Bunnings and Kmart, reporting that 70% of retailers have experienced a rise in customer theft. The Australian Retail Association’s research indicates that over half of retailers face physical abuse monthly.
Retail Sector’s Response to Rising Threats
Last week, Bunnings revealed an additional $6 million annual expenditure on tactical security measures in Victoria, as the state intensifies efforts to protect retail workers from violent attacks. Michael Schneider, Bunnings Managing Director, previously remarked to Yahoo News,
“No one should be subjected to abuse, threats or physical violence simply for doing their job or going about their day.”
These developments highlight the retail industry’s ongoing struggle with theft and violence, prompting companies like Coles to innovate in security technology. The success of the trial at Highpoint West may determine whether these measures are implemented more broadly across the country.
As Coles continues to assess the effectiveness of these security innovations, the broader retail community watches closely, considering similar strategies to safeguard their operations and staff.
