In a bid to enhance security, Morrisons has introduced cutting-edge anti-shoplifting technology at select stores, sparking a divisive response among customers. The high-tech, four-legged pods equipped with a 360-degree array of CCTV cameras are being considered for a nationwide rollout. These cybernetic sentinels monitor shoppers closely, relaying real-time footage to a control room.
However, controversy surrounds the pods' unique approach to suspected theft. When triggered, the pods emit a blaring siren at a staggering 120 decibels, equivalent to the noise level of a jackhammer. One shopper drew parallels to the cyborg enforcer from the 1987 sci-fi film RoboCop, expressing dissatisfaction with what they perceive as a robotic substitute for human staff.
This move by Morrisons has ignited a conversation about the balance between technology-driven security measures and the human touch in retail environments. Critics argue that the intrusive alarms create an unwelcoming atmosphere for shoppers, questioning the effectiveness of these robotic guardians compared to traditional, human-staffed security. In this ongoing discourse, the retail giant faces a challenge in finding the equilibrium between leveraging advanced technology and maintaining a customer-friendly shopping experience.
Warwickshire resident Mark Powlett expressed his dissatisfaction with Morrisons' new security measure, stating that the robotic "Robocop" surveillance felt unwelcoming. He highlighted the challenge of finding staff as the self-service tills were managed by a single person, emphasising the shift toward more automated systems.
Another shopper, Anna Mac, questioned the futuristic appearance of the surveillance pods, humorously referring to them as something out of a dystopian setting. Some customers argued that the devices essentially function as additional CCTV cameras and suggested that increased security measures were prompted by shoplifting concerns.
Contrastingly, legal expert Daniel ShenSmith, known as the Black Belt Barrister on YouTube, reassures concerned shoppers about Morrisons' surveillance. He clarifies that the Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR mandate secure and limited storage of personal data, usually around 30 days. Shoppers worried about their images can request their data via a Data Subject Access Request, with Morrisons obliged to obscure others in the footage. In his view, the risk to individuals is minimal, providing valuable insights into the privacy safeguards surrounding the new surveillance technology at Morrisons.
Paddy Lillis, representing the Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers, supports Morrisons' trial of Safer's 'POD S1 Intruder Detector System.' Originally designed for temporary sites, this innovative technology is being tested in supermarkets for the first time. Morrisons aims to decide on nationwide implementation following a Christmas trial. The system is lauded for deterring violence and abuse. This signals a growing trend in adopting advanced security measures for a safer shopping environment, encompassing the dynamic transformations in the technical fabric of retail security.
