An Australian supermarket has made the decision to permanently remove self-serve checkouts, citing a rather unfortunate circumstance.

Exploring the cutting-edge strategies supermarkets employ to combat theft. Discover the latest advancements in surveillance systems and smart tagging technology that are helping stores outsmart thieves. A Brisbane supermarket has made the decision to permanently remove its self-serve checkouts, citing a rather unfortunate circumstance.

IGA Greenslopes has made the decision to permanently close its automated checkout system and return to traditional manned checkouts. A sign in the store claims that a significant increase in shoplifting prompted the implementation of this change, sparking controversy. As supermarket giants Woolworths and Coles significantly increased their in-store security measures, some customers felt frustrated.

In a recent interview with ABC Radio Brisbane, Gary Mortimer, a retail expert from QUT, shed light on the significant financial impact of shoplifting on Australian retailers. According to Mortimer, the annual cost of this criminal activity amounts to a staggering $9 billion. Furthermore, independent retailers like IGA might not have the same security measures as larger supermarkets, which could make them more susceptible to shoplifting.

“It’s significant. It’s not just the big supermarkets and the big retailers that are impacted,” he said.

“I think we’re going to see more of this take place where self-service is one of those areas where we do see a significant lift in shop stealing.

“It demonstrates that you can either master the task with high-end technology or opt for simpler methods but run the risk of theft.”

In an effort to tackle shoplifting, Coles and Woolworths have introduced a range of enhanced security measures at their self-serve checkouts in recent months. Artificial intelligence, security cameras, and even automated gates are among these cutting-edge technologies designed to prevent unauthorised exits in cases of suspected theft.

Meanwhile, Drakes Supermarkets has taken extraordinary measures by placing high-value cuts of meat in secure boxes equipped with GPS trackers. A recent survey has revealed that a significant number of Australians, approximately 1 in 8, have engaged in shoplifting within the past year, potentially influenced by the prevailing cost of living crisis.

Finder’s recent study reveals that approximately 2.4 million Australians have committed petty crimes. Surprisingly, five percent of the population has openly confessed to stealing at supermarket self-checkouts. A small percentage (four percent) of individuals were found to be engaging in deceptive practices by scanning high-priced items as lower-priced ones, such as substituting an avocado for a carrot.

Australians are grappling with the impact of a significant cost of living crisis, which hit its highest point in December 2022 with a sharp 7.9 percent increase in inflation. Despite a decrease in inflation to 6 percent in June 2023, the cost of food continues to rise, with a 7.5 percent increase compared to last year. Australians are now spending an average of $740 per month on groceries.

Justin Lance Marcel Lavadia

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Justin Lavadia is a content producer and editor at Public Spectrum with a diverse writing background spanning various niches and formats. With a wealth of experience, he brings clarity and concise communication to digital content. His expertise lies in crafting engaging content and delivering impactful narratives that resonate with readers.

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