With inflation driving up costs and retailers facing rising theft incidents, major companies like Walmart are testing new solutions to improve security while enhancing the customer experience. In Illinois, Walmart is rolling out an innovative security measure designed to minimize in-store theft while making shopping more efficient.
Walmart’s New Anti-Theft System
To combat theft and streamline shopping, Walmart is introducing a technology-driven security system aimed at reducing the need for frequent employee assistance. This initiative comes after the retailer faced repeated store robberies, particularly targeting smaller, high-theft items such as:
- Toothpaste
- Razors
- Laundry detergent
- Clothing
While securing these products is necessary for loss prevention, locking them behind plexiglass has frustrated many shoppers. Customers must typically wait for an employee to unlock the case, often leading to delays and abandoned purchases.
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Now, Walmart is moving toward a more customer-friendly approach by using technology to streamline the process while still maintaining security.
How the New System Works
Walmart has introduced mobile unlocking technology, allowing select shoppers to unlock secured products without employee assistance.
Facial Recognition & Mobile Access:
Shoppers subscribed to Walmart+, the retailer’s paid membership program, can use their phones to unlock certain locked products via a facial recognition system called «Freedom Case.»
Eliminates the Need for Employee Assistance:
Rather than waiting for a Walmart associate to unlock a case, eligible customers can instantly access protected items, improving the shopping experience.
Encourages More Membership Sign-Ups:
This feature is exclusive to Walmart+ members, incentivizing more customers to join the program for added convenience and other benefits.
Why Walmart is Implementing This Change
A recent survey by Numerator, a data technology firm, found that about 25% of shoppers abandon their purchases when encountering locked-up products. Many of these customers go online to shop elsewhere, often choosing a competitor over Walmart.
By making it easier for shoppers to access these products without long wait times, Walmart hopes to:
- Reduce cart abandonment
- Encourage in-store purchases instead of online alternatives
- Enhance security without frustrating honest shoppers
- Boost Walmart+ memberships by offering exclusive benefits
Will This Technology Solve the Problem?
Walmart’s new approach attempts to balance customer convenience with theft prevention. While it may reduce shopper frustration, the requirement to sign up for Walmart+ could be a barrier for some customers who prefer not to pay an annual membership fee.
However, if the system proves successful in Illinois, it could expand to more locations across the U.S. in the future.
FAQs:
1. What is Walmart’s new security measure?
Walmart is introducing mobile unlocking technology using a facial recognition system called Freedom Case, allowing Walmart+ members to unlock secured items without waiting for employee assistance.
2. Why is Walmart locking up products?
To prevent theft of high-theft items such as razors, toothpaste, and detergent, Walmart has secured these products behind locked cases.
3. How does the «Freedom Case» work?
Walmart+ members can use their phone and facial recognition to unlock secured products instantly, eliminating the need for an employee to assist them.
