Asda, the UK value supermarket chain, is considering introducing vending machines to secure high-theft items in its stores as part of a trial to curb rising shoplifting incidents. The system, already being tested at the company's Ashton-under-Lyne store in Greater Manchester, is used for products such as vapes and cigarettes. It could be expanded to include other high-risk goods like razor blades.
How the Ticket System Works
Under the proposed system, customers would select an item on a screen and receive a ticket to take to a checkout for payment. Once payment is made, a second ticket is issued that activates the vending machine to dispense the product. This approach aims to reduce theft by eliminating direct access to valuable items.
Current Status of the Trial
While company officials have discussed expanding the approach to other high-risk goods, no final decisions have been made, according to Retail Customer Experience. A broader rollout is not expected in the near term as the trial continues. Retailers across the UK have been investing heavily in loss-prevention strategies.
Shoplifting Statistics and Security Spending
According to data from the British Retail Consortium, 5.5 million shoplifting incidents were recorded in the country last year, costing approximately $542 million. However, the actual number is likely higher due to underreporting. In response, supermarkets have spent more than $6.77 billion on security upgrades over the past five years.
Security Upgrades Include CCTV and Staff
These security upgrades include expanded CCTV coverage and additional in-store personnel. Other retailers are also taking action; for example, bakery chain Greggs has moved self-service fridges and shelves behind the counter in some high-risk locations to fend off looters. This means customers in those areas cannot pick up items before paying; instead, staff retrieve products from behind the till.
