The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) has welcomed the announcement of a new code of practice on facial recognition technology, describing it as an important step forward for retailers using the technology to identify and report prolific offenders.
The Home Office announced today that it will introduce both public and private sector codes of practice for facial recognition technology. In a submission to the government earlier this year, ACS welcomed plans for a code of practice as a way to give retailers confidence that the technology providers they use are fully compliant with the law.
Retailers' Response to the Announcement
ACS chief executive Ed Woodall said: "Facial recognition has become an important tool for retailers in the fight against crime in their stores, identifying prolific offenders more quickly and alerting other local businesses of potential issues.
"We have long called for clarity on the use of facial recognition technology to ensure that retailers stay on the right side of GDPR and other privacy laws, and will work closely with the Home Office on the practical application of the new code of practice in the convenience sector."
Investment in Crime Prevention
Figures from the 2026 ACS Crime Report show that convenience retailers spent over £300m last year on crime prevention and detection measures, with CCTV being the top investment priority. More than one in five convenience retailers (22%) currently have facial recognition technology in their businesses, with a further 35% planning to invest in the technology in the future.
