Retail NZ has expressed strong support for facial recognition technology (FRT) as an effective tool to protect retail workers and reduce crime.
This follows the release of findings from Foodstuffs North Island’s trial of the technology, which has shown measurable success in deterring criminal activity.
Retail NZ Chief Executive Carolyn Young said the results of the trial are promising and set a benchmark for the wider retail sector.
“We applaud the huge amount of time and effort that Foodstuffs North Island has put into this trial to achieve strong outcomes that lead the way for the wider retail sector,” Young said.
She added that New Zealand retailers continue to face escalating rates of violence and crime, which not only endanger staff and customers but also threaten the financial viability of businesses.
According to Retail NZ, over 92% of retailers in the country are affected by retail crime, which costs more than $2.6 billion annually.
“Retailers across New Zealand have been watching this trial closely, and many are investigating the use of FRT for their own operations. While it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, FRT is a valuable tool that can be considered alongside other crime prevention measures such as security guards, fog cannons, staff training, and body cameras,” Young said.
The trial comes as organised crime groups, drug addicts, and youths seeking social media notoriety are driving retail crime rates higher.
Retail staff frequently encounter threatening, violent, or abusive behaviour, making workplace safety a growing concern.
Retail NZ has established a working group of major retailers to develop agreed approaches to crime prevention, including the potential application of FRT. The organisation is also collaborating with the government through the Ministerial Advisory Group on Retail Crime to identify and implement solutions to address the rise in retail crime.
While FRT has shown promise, Young acknowledged it might not be suitable for all businesses or locations, noting that its use should be tailored to specific store needs and circumstances.