Combating shoplifting is a major challenge for retailers, who are constantly striving to protect their products while offering an impeccable customer experience. Two main categories of solutions are generally implemented: video surveillance systems and anti-theft systems . In this article, we will explore these technologies, how they work, and how they can be optimised through Artificial Intelligence innovations.
Traditional surveillance cameras remain a cornerstone of retail security. They allow for viewing and recording suspicious behaviour, often serving as an effective deterrent. However, their effectiveness largely depends on human vigilance, which can lead to errors or intervention delays.
AI-powered video surveillance is revolutionising this approach. Through behavioural analysis, AI detects suspicious gestures specific to shoplifting in real-time. Oxania offers solutions capable of automatically identifying suspicious actions, reducing losses while freeing up time for security teams.
🎥 Video Surveillance Systems
Surveillance cameras are the first line of defence against malicious behaviour. Installed at strategic points, they cover sensitive areas such as checkouts, high-value aisles, or exits. Their presence is a deterrent, and recordings can serve as evidence. However, they require constant human monitoring for maximum effectiveness, which can be costly for retailers.
This is where AI-powered video surveillance comes in. Instead of relying solely on human observation, intelligent systems automatically identify anomalies in behaviour. For example, gestures like concealing items under clothing or repetitive movements around a shelf can be detected and flagged in real-time. Oxania offers AI technologies that integrate these features.
By combining traditional recordings and intelligent analysis, retailers gain in responsiveness and efficiency, while respecting customer privacy through precise configuration of behavioural analysis systems.
🔒 Anti-theft Systems
Classic anti-theft systems , complementary to video surveillance, allow for physical action against theft attempts. Adhesive or rigid anti-theft tags are attached to sensitive products. When someone attempts to leave the store without deactivating the tag, an alarm is automatically triggered by gates installed at the exit. This simple yet effective system is now widely used across all sectors, from ready-to-wear to DIY.
Among gate technologies, three main categories can be distinguished: radio frequency (RF) gates , electromagnetic (EM) gates , and acousto-magnetic (AM) gates . Each type has its advantages, depending on the nature of the protected products and the store configuration. AM systems, for instance, are particularly resistant to interference and suitable for high-traffic environments.
In addition, specific devices such as anti-theft badges and bottle anti-theft devices are used to secure highly targeted products. Bottle anti-theft devices are popular in the food sector for effectively protecting bottles without compromising their visual presentation.
🚀 Towards Enhanced Security Through Innovation
The future of loss prevention lies in the integration of smarter technologies capable of combining physical surveillance with automated behavioural analysis. Retailers who adopt a proactive approach and invest in modern solutions like those offered by Oxania observe a reduction in shoplifting.
Thanks to the intelligent analysis of suspicious gestures associated with shoplifting , security teams can focus on genuinely problematic situations rather than staring at screens for hours. This improves operational efficiency and reduces workplace stress, while strengthening asset protection.
Adopting solutions combining intelligent video surveillance and effective anti-theft systems thus becomes an essential strategy for any business aiming to combine security, a smooth customer experience, and increased profitability. The path to safer and more welcoming stores goes through intelligent innovation.
