Co-op is trialling cutting-edge AI technology to tackle the surge in retail crime.
- The company’s retail crime-related losses have risen by 20% to £39.5m.
- AI technology is being trialled in 14 stores, identifying item thefts and concealed weapons.
- The AI system does not use facial recognition and can detect staff assaults, alerting a central team.
- Despite positive sales, Co-op staff increasingly face attacks and abuse daily.
In response to escalating crimes, Co-op has initiated a trial of artificial intelligence technology across 14 of its stores to mitigate the incidence of theft and violent attacks. The system is sophisticated enough to detect not only stolen items and concealed weapons but also acts of physical aggression towards store employees. This innovative approach aims to reduce the substantial financial losses experienced by the store due to these crimes.
Recent figures have highlighted a concerning trend, with Co-op’s retail crime losses increasing by nearly 20% to a staggering £39.5 million during the first half of 2024. In conjunction with this, Co-op has invested £18 million in enhanced security measures to safeguard its employees, including fortified kiosks and body-worn cameras, reflecting its commitment to staff safety amidst increasing retail crime.
An important feature of the AI system is its ability to function without facial recognition technology. It is designed to identify potentially harmful situations such as physical assault on employees and subsequently alert a centralised monitoring station managed by Mitie, which can then coordinate the necessary support. This approach signifies a crucial step forward in using technology to protect retail workers and assets.
Matt Hood, Co-op’s Managing Director of Food, has expressed concern over the frequency of staff assaults, which have escalated significantly. ‘Every day, four of our colleagues are attacked, and an additional 115 experience serious abuse,’ Hood stated, emphasising the severity of the situation. Despite this, he acknowledges that a complete turnaround will take time and depends on legislative changes as well.
In light of these challenges, Co-op has reported a return to profitability after last year’s losses, attributing this to strong sales performance in its food stores and online platforms. Moving forward, the company has ambitious plans to expand its footprint by opening 120 new stores over the next 18 months, demonstrating a proactive strategy in growing its business despite the ongoing challenges.
Co-op’s implementation of AI technology represents a forward-thinking approach to tackling retail crime, reflecting the retailer’s commitment to safety and business growth.
