In response to rising retail crime, major supermarkets Morrisons and Tesco are introducing body cameras for employees.
- Morrisons is trialing body cameras in 25 stores, following Tesco’s recent implementation for all staff.
- British retail workers face increased violence, a situation that has worsened since pre-COVID levels.
- Despite the trend, Asda opts against a widespread application of body cameras for employees.
- Co-op and Waitrose explore alternative strategies to mitigate theft and increase security.
In a significant move to enhance worker safety, Morrisons has aligned with Tesco, initiating a trial of body cameras for employees in 25 of its stores. This decision comes in the wake of escalating retail crime rates, which have become a pressing concern for the industry. Should the trial prove successful, Morrisons is poised to expand this measure nationwide, complementing its current use of security guards equipped with body cameras and high-visibility vests.
The introduction of body cameras is a growing trend among retailers, as demonstrated by Tesco’s recent deployment of the devices across all its stores. Reports indicate that physical assaults on Tesco staff have surged, exceeding 200 incidents monthly. This alarming escalation underscores the urgent need for enhanced safety protocols in retail settings. By equipping workers with body-worn cameras, retailers aim to deter potential offenders and provide crucial evidence in incidents of employee abuse.
Compounding these concerns, a report from the British Retail Consortium highlights that abuse against retail employees has nearly doubled compared to pre-pandemic levels. This revelation paints a sobering picture of the retail environment, driving more businesses to adopt technology-driven solutions for staff protection.
However, not all retailers are adopting this approach. Asda’s chairman, Lord Stuart Rose, expressed reservations regarding the unilateral use of body cameras, emphasizing the importance of balancing staff safety with privacy considerations. Despite the growing trend, Asda remains cautious of creating an environment where surveillance becomes pervasive.
Alternative methods to counter retail crime are being explored by other chains as well. Waitrose, for instance, offers complimentary coffee to police officers, aiming to foster a law enforcement presence in its stores. Similarly, Co-op has expanded its use of anti-theft ‘dummy display packaging’ to deter shoplifters. These inventive strategies highlight the diverse approaches being taken to tackle the same issue.
As crime continues to pose challenges for retailers, various strategies including technological solutions are being considered to ensure the safety of employees and customers alike.
