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Sainsbury’s will reportedly begin an eight-week trial of facial recognition technology in two stores this week, with the possibility of expanding the scheme nationwide, according to The Standard.
The technology, provided by Facewatch, will be introduced at the Sydenham superstore in London and the Bath Oldfield Sainsbury’s Local.
It will be used to identify individuals previously reported for theft, violence or aggressive behaviour. The supermarket told the Standard that faces not matched to reported offenders will be deleted immediately.
The trial comes as retailers face a rise in shoplifting and abuse towards staff. The supermarket stated that incidents of theft and threatening behaviour “continue to rise” despite collaboration with police and government.
It stressed that the system is “not about monitoring colleagues or customers” but about preventing further harm from repeat offenders.
Chief executive Simon Roberts told the publication: “The retail sector is at a crossroads, facing rising abuse, anti-social behaviour and violence. We must put safety first.”
However, privacy group Big Brother Watch criticised the move.
Senior advocacy officer Madeleine Stone told the Standard: “Sainsbury’s decision to trial Orwellian facial recognition technology in its shops is deeply disproportionate and chilling. The government must urgently step in to prevent the unchecked spread of this invasive technology.”
In contrast, unions have taken a more supportive stance. Joanne Thomas, general secretary of Usdaw, said: “We welcome Sainsbury’s ongoing programme of work to protect retail workers and customers from the continued threat of abuse and violence in stores. We look forward to seeing the results of the trial.”
Other retailers, including Home Bargains, Flannels and Sports Direct, are reported to have used similar systems.
Roberts concluded: “We understand that facial recognition technology can raise valid questions about data and privacy.
“This trial and subsequent roll out is not about monitoring colleagues or our valued customers. It’s focused solely on identifying serious offenders who have committed acts of violence, aggression, or theft, helping our teams prevent further harm.”
