A state supermarket giant is going high-tech to stop a surge in shoplifting. In an Australian first, Drakes is putting GPS trackers on its meat – a favourite target of thieves.
South Australian Supermarket Chain Innovates to Combat Shoplifting with GPS Trackers on High-End Meat
In an unprecedented move within the Australian retail industry, the South Australian supermarket chain Drakes is rolling out GPS tracking technology on high-end meat products to curb the rising tide of shoplifting. This initiative marks a significant step forward in the use of technology to enhance store security and product protection.
Drakes, a leading name with 67 stores across South Australia and Queensland, has decided to tackle the issue of theft head-on by implementing GPS trackers on select meat products, which are particularly attractive to thieves. Among the items targeted for this high-tech security measure are premium meats such as Wagyu beef, known for their high value.
The decision to employ GPS technology comes in response to a worrying trend of shoplifting incidents, some involving individuals attempting to abscond with up to 38 items in a single go. By placing these valuable products in containers equipped with GPS trackers, Drakes aims to activate alarms when unpaid items are taken past the checkout, thereby deterring potential thieves.
Currently, the GPS tracking system is being trialed in two stores within South Australia, with plans to extend the initiative to more locations over the ensuing months. This approach not only seeks to reduce theft but also to safeguard the shopping experience for honest customers.
J.P. Drake, the Director of Drakes, is well-known for his active stance against retail theft, often using his social media platform @shake.and.drake to spotlight shoplifters by sharing surveillance footage and calling for community assistance in identifying culprits. This latest move with GPS trackers is in line with Drakes’ ongoing efforts to combat shoplifting and promote a safer retail environment.
The prevalence of shoplifting in Australia, exacerbated by financial strains and the increasing cost of living, is highlighted in findings from the comparison website Finder. According to their survey, which included over 1,000 participants, 12% confessed to shoplifting in the past year, underscoring the economic pressures faced by many Australians.
Drakes’ innovative use of GPS tracking technology represents a broader effort within the retail sector to address the challenge of shoplifting and preserve the integrity of the industry. As this pilot program unfolds, it may set a precedent for other retailers to follow suit, leveraging technology to protect their merchandise and ensure a secure shopping environment for all customers.
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