Is Lidl testing cameras to catch shoplifters at self-checkouts?

Lidl is introducing a significant change to its self-service checkouts as part of a new initiative to combat shoplifting. The discount supermarket chain is testing cameras designed to detect when a customer fails to scan an item, in an effort to curb theft.

Is Lidl testing VAR style AI cameras at checkouts to reduce theft?

Lidl is rolling out a major update to its self-service tills, trialling new cameras aimed at tackling shoplifting. The budget-friendly supermarket is piloting technology that spots when shoppers fail to scan an item, in a move to reduce theft.

Do self-checkout scanners have cameras?

Cameras. A common question is, “Are there cameras in self-checkout systems?” For many self-checkout systems, the answer is yes.

Does Lidl have self-scanners?

Lidl is adding a self-scanning feature to its loyalty app to save shoppers time at the checkouts. The feature will allow Lidl Plus app users to scan items as they pick up their shopping around the store. They can then simply scan the app again at a self-checkout and pay to complete the purchase.

Can you get caught not scanning items at self-checkout?

When an item isn't scanned at self-checkout, retailers may classify it as shoplifting or theft. Even if the failure to scan was unintentional, you could still face charges.

Man ‘tricks’ self check-out machines into giving him cash

What is the banana trick at self-checkout?

On the shop floor of supermarkets there is one shoplifting tactic which has become so commonplace, staff have given it its own name. The “banana trick” consists of putting an item through a self-checkout as a cheap fruit or vegetable product and walking out with a much more expensive item.

Does Lidl use facial recognition?

All facial images collected as part of our non-scan detection cameras are pixelated and no facial recognition technologies are used.” Lidl said it had no current plans to roll out the non-scan detection technology more widely.

Why do Lidl scan so fast?

Getting you through the checkouts quicker.

We have printed our barcodes twice on most of our products so that it's quicker and easier for our efficient cashiers to scan each item, getting you through the checkouts as quickly as possible.

Does Lidl have security?

Lidl has become the second retailer in the UK to introduce a new anti-theft software that has been dubbed 'supermarket VAR'. In a bid to reduce shoplifting, the store has installed overhead cameras at its self-checkouts, to identify when a customer has failed to scan an item properly.

Do stores always check security cameras?

Most stores don't monitor footage constantly, but they do check it regularly—especially when there's an incident. With the rise of AI-powered systems and smarter NVR setups, modern surveillance is more effective, automated, and responsive than ever.

What are the cameras for at self-checkout?

The new technology uses overhead cameras to monitor self-checkout activity and replay footage on-screen when an item fails to scan.

Do self-checkouts record?

Supermarkets can only use what is known as a mirror monitor at the self checkouts and it is not allowed to record at any time.

Can AI detect shoplifting?

AI cameras can also monitor crowd behavior, which is essential in high-traffic retail areas like malls or department stores. By analyzing group movements and detecting unusual behaviors, AI-powered cameras can identify potential thefts that may be taking place in crowded spaces.

Is Lidl introducing self scanning and anti theft technology to UK stores?

Lidl has become the latest major supermarket to trial new "VAR-style" self-service checkouts in select UK stores as retailers battle record levels of shoplifting. The German discounter has installed the technology at two London stores, featuring cameras that detect when shoppers fail to scan items properly.

Can security cameras detect stealing?

Yes, CCTV cameras with advanced facial recognition technology can identify known shoplifters.

Is it actually cheaper to shop at Lidl?

Aldi has been the cheapest supermarket every month since November 2023 and it was also the overall cheapest supermarket last year. However, Lidl is invariably close behind and is the second-cheapest supermarket every month, charging £1.99 more than Aldi, on average, across 2024.

Why are Lidl barcodes so big?

A strategic solution to save time, the gigantic barcodes sprawled on boxes and packages can help cashiers, as well as customers at self-checkout kiosks, to locate the barcodes more quickly and speed up the checkout process. Hence, why barcodes are also often scattered on an item multiple times.

How to speed up the scanning process?

If scanning becomes slow, try these solutions: Scan your original at a lower resolution, if possible. Make sure your system meets the requirements for your operating system. If you are scanning a high-resolution image, you may need more than the minimum requirements.

How long does Lidl keep CCTV footage?

How long do we store your personal data? CCTV footage is kept for a period of up to 31 days from the time of recording unless specified separately under licence requirements.

How to avoid facial recognition in stores?

Which supermarkets use facial recognition?

The supermarket chain has installed the controversial surveillance technology in five stores in Ashton-Under-Lyne, Chadderton, Eastlands, Harpurhey and Trafford Park as part of a trial. Asda is the first UK-wide supermarket to install live facial recognition.

How do grocery stores monitor self-checkout?

How do grocery stores prevent theft at self-checkout? Install weight sensors to flag when scanned items don't match what's bagged. Position staff or security nearby to offer support and discourage fraud. Display signage to remind shoppers that the area is monitored.

What is passing at self-checkout?

The pass-around: This tactic involves moving an item to the bagging area without scanning it.