Walmart is testing new technology in Canada to tackle rising theft at self-checkout lanes, as the US retail giant grapples with increasing shoplifting rates. The company's US CEO, Doug McMillon, warned in December that theft levels are higher than historically seen, potentially leading to price hikes or store closures if the problem persists.
The new measures are being trialled in Canadian stores, with a possible rollout to other locations. Gonzalo Gebara, Walmart's President and CEO in Canada, told CTV News that the company is investing in technology and collaborating with the Retail Council of Canada (RCC) to make stores safer for customers and staff.
Despite concerns that self-checkouts contribute to theft, Walmart insists it has no plans to reduce their number. Gebara emphasised that customers still have the choice between self-checkout and manned registers. Jim Cormier, Atlantic director of the RCC, stressed that shoplifting has real consequences, affecting retail workers and not just corporate balance sheets.
Other retailers have already imposed restrictions. A Giant supermarket in Maryland limits self-checkout to 20 items, while Canadian chain No Frills introduced a 15-item limit in 2021. Some shoppers have expressed frustration, with one stating that law-abiding customers are inconvenienced due to the actions of criminals.
