Incidents involving threats and violence at Bunnings stores have surged over the past four years, prompting the retailer to trial facial recognition technology at two locations in Hamilton.
According to a report by Stuff, company data shows “threatening incidents” have more than doubled, rising from 303 to 697, with repeat offenders accounting for 34% of all reported cases. In response, Bunnings has released CCTV footage highlighting the seriousness of the issue, including an incident in Porirua where a man approaches staff with a knife while pushing two full trolleys out of the store. Another clip from Takanini in South Auckland shows an individual colliding with a worker using a large box before fleeing.
The retailer plans to introduce facial recognition systems at its Te Rapa and Hamilton South stores. The technology is designed to identify repeat offenders as they enter, enabling store managers to respond appropriately in real time, Stuff has reported.
Retail NZ chief executive Carolyn Young says the sector is grappling with rising levels of abuse and violence, often driven by repeat offenders who also contribute to stock loss and property damage.
“We know from the Foodstuffs North Island trial that, when used fairly and accurately, facial recognition technology can be a valuable intervention tool to help keep employees and customers safe,” as quoted by Stuff.
Young adds that while the technology is not a standalone solution, it can be effective when combined with other security measures such as guards, fog cannons, staff training, body cameras, panic alarms and CCTV.
Bunnings has signalled plans to expand the use of facial recognition technology across all its stores nationwide as part of a broader effort to improve safety for staff and customers, as reported by Stuff.