Eyes on your pies: Australians fed up over supermarket security
Aussies are sick of being made to feel like criminals at the checkout, according to new research by Finder.
A Finder survey of 1,039 respondents revealed almost 1 in 4 (22%) Australians – equivalent to 4.5 million people – believe cameras should be removed from self-serve checkouts.
The research found 59% don't think the anti-theft mechanisms should be removed, while 18% are unsure.
Graham Cooke, head of consumer research at Finder, said grocery giants are increasingly relying on high-tech security amid rising theft, but not all shoppers are happy about it.
"While these cameras track customer movement, their limitations can lead to misinterpretations, causing unnecessary staff intervention.
"The need to verify potential theft can significantly slow down the self-service checkout process for some customers."
Cooke said rising grocery prices are testing people's patience.
"Many households are already operating on tight budgets, and nearly half of them are under stress while shopping.
"Overly aggressive security measures can push honest shoppers to shop elsewhere."
Australians spend a lot of time and money at the supermarket with the average household forking out $188 a week on groceries in February, according to Finder's Consumer Sentiment Tracker.
Cooke said despite these measures, there are still ways Aussies can save at the checkout.
"Plan your meals ahead of time and stick to that list. That way you'll avoid impulse buys and keep to your budget.
"The best thing you can do is shop around and compare prices. Look for weekly specials, and loyalty program rewards you can take advantage of," Cooke said.
| Do you think anti-theft mechanisms at self-serve checkouts should be removed from supermarkets (e.g. video cameras at checkouts)? | |
|---|---|
| Yes | 22% |
| No | 59% |
| I don't know | 18% |
| Source: Finder survey of 1,039 respondents, December 2023 |