Supermarket Tackles Crime with Advanced Security Measures
- Asda trials facial recognition technology in five stores in Greater Manchester
- Facial recognition integrated with existing CCTV network
- Over 1,400 incidents of assault against Asda store colleagues last year
- Technology compares images to known list of offenders
- Real-time feedback to stores if a match is detected
- Asda chief commercial officer supports exploring new security options
Asda is testing facial recognition technology at five of its stores in Greater Manchester to combat the rise in retail crime. The supermarket chain has partnered with FaiceTech for a two-month trial at Ashton, Chadderton, Eastlands, Harpurhey, and Trafford Park locations. With over 1,400 incidents of assault against store employees last year, the technology integrates with the existing CCTV network to scan images and compare them to a list of known offenders. If a match is detected, head office security will be alerted in real-time. Asda’s chief commercial officer for non-food and retail, Liz Evans, emphasizes the need to explore new ways to improve store security and protect staff. The supermarket is also considering outsourcing customer service roles to cut costs.
Factuality Level: 8
Factuality Justification: The article provides accurate and relevant information about Asda’s trial of facial recognition technology in its stores to combat crime and protect employees. It also mentions the rise in incidents of assault against store colleagues. However, it includes a brief mention of outsourcing customer service roles which may be tangential to the main topic.
Noise Level: 3
Noise Justification: The article provides relevant information about Asda’s trial of facial recognition technology to combat crime in its stores and mentions the rise in shoplifting and violence against store employees. It also briefly discusses cost-cutting measures by outsourcing roles. However, it could provide more details on the effectiveness of the technology and potential consequences or alternatives for employee positions.
Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: No
Financial Rating Justification: The article discusses Asda’s trial of facial recognition technology to combat retail crime and its potential impact on store security. Although it mentions the financial aspect of cutting costs by outsourcing roles, the main focus is on the implementation of new technology in stores rather than directly affecting financial markets or companies.
Presence Of Extreme Event: No
Nature Of Extreme Event: Other
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: Minor
Extreme Rating Justification: There is no extreme event mentioned in the text and it mainly discusses a trial of facial recognition technology for security purposes in Asda stores.
www.retailgazette.co.uk