Woolworths is to install controversial security gates that will prevent customers from leaving without paying, following the example of Coles.
The gates are part of an advanced security system that uses sensors on the store’s roof to track customers as they enter the self-checkout area.
The sensor then sends a signal to open the exit gate, allowing customers to leave once they have paid for their items.
However, if the sensors detect a customer stealing something, the gates remain closed and they can no longer get out.
Woolworths told Daily Mail Australia that customers cannot be identified throughout the process as the technology does not use facial recognition or CCTV.
The supermarket giant began rolling out the barriers in August last year and they have since been installed at eight locations across New South Wales and Victoria.
The security gates have been installed at eight locations in New South Wales and Victoria.
They will reportedly be installed in more stores once they are upgraded.
Such a gate was recently installed in Sydney’s Central Park shopping centre.
“Exit gates are one of many initiatives, both covert and overt, to minimise the incidence of crime in the Group’s store networks,” a spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia.
Woolworths is rolling out controversial security gates to more stores in Australia that will prevent customers from leaving without paying
Coles introduced similar security gates in several stores last year.
Coles uses security cameras above its self-checkouts to monitor every item being scanned and placed into bags.
If any irregularities are detected, the smart gates close and an alarm sounds, ensuring the customer remains inside the store.
If that doesn’t help deter a suspected thief from leaving the store, the wheels of the new, advanced shopping carts lock completely once the thief leaves the store.