Thornton Hardware Store Combats Rising Shoplifting with AI Surveillance

A hardware store in Thornton, Colorado, is turning to artificial intelligence to address a persistent issue with shoplifting. The store has experienced a recurring pattern of theft, with suspects taking items ranging from small hand tools to high value equipment such as snowblowers. To counter these losses, management has integrated a new camera system that uses AI to monitor store activity.

Richard McLamb, the store manager, explained that employees face shoplifting attempts several times each week. He noted that some thieves have specifically targeted larger merchandise. McLamb recalled a specific incident where a snowblower was seen exiting the store, highlighting the significant potential loss involved in such cases.

The implemented system monitors live video feeds from cameras positioned throughout the retail space. When the software detects behavior it classifies as suspicious, it immediately sends a video clip of the incident to the employees. This allows staff to respond quickly to potential thefts before the merchandise leaves the building.

McLamb described the speed of the alerts, noting that the system can send a video of the act within ten seconds. He explained that this rapid notification enables staff to approach customers promptly. In one instance, an employee could point out to a customer that an item was in their purse immediately after receiving the alert.

The technology is provided by Veesion, a company that offers AI powered video surveillance solutions for retailers. Hiren Mowji, the director of sales at Veesion, stated that the system is designed to identify suspicious activity through live video streams. He emphasized that the alerts come with attached footage, giving retailers clear proof of the incident in hand.

Veesion currently serves nearly 7,000 stores globally, with almost 1,000 locations in the United States using the software. Mowji indicated that the company aimed to provide a practical solution for business owners dealing with the challenges of retail theft. He described the problem as a sector wide issue that continues to worsen annually.

Mowji cited the scale of the problem, stating it is a problem worth over $100 billion. He expressed that the company saw an opportunity to deliver a real world solution that benefits businesses. The technology aims to help retailers address this growing financial burden effectively.

For McLamb, the system provides an additional layer of awareness for the staff. The alerts allow employees to intervene before merchandise exits the store. He recounted an incident where a person was caught on camera hiding screwdrivers and hammers in their pants. McLamb stopped the individual, recovered the items, and contacted the police.

The manager believes that the extra set of eyes provided by the AI system allows staff to focus more on customer service. McLamb noted that attentive service can help discourage theft. He explained that when employees are aware of who is in the store and provide outstanding service, customers are less likely to steal because they feel watched and assisted.

The store continues to use the AI system as a primary tool for loss prevention. The combination of real time alerts and video evidence has changed how staff interact with potential thieves. By addressing the issue with technology and attentive service, the store aims to reduce losses and improve the overall shopping experience.