Retail
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April 9, 2025
Home Bargains, a major discount retailer in the United Kingdom, is testing anti-theft software at its self-checkout lanes. The system utilizes artificial intelligence integrated with the store’s CCTV coverage to monitor whether items passing through self-checkouts have been properly scanned, according to a Daily Mail report.
The U.K.-wide chain, founded in Liverpool, has partnered with technology companies SAI, Storewide Active Intelligence and Everseen for this initiative. Currently being trialed in two stores, the aim is to deter «swipers,» a term used for shoppers who intentionally fail to scan items, particularly produce and baked goods, at self-service checkouts. Studies in the UK have indicated that a significant percentage of customers engage in this form of theft at self-checkouts.
This AI initiative follows a previous effort in 2023 where Home Bargains offered approximately $625 (£500) as a bonus to customers who reported shoplifters.