Combating shoplifting is a major challenge for retailers, who are constantly seeking 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 security in retail. They allow for the visualisation and recording of suspicious behaviours, often serving as an effective deterrent. However, their effectiveness largely depends on human vigilance, which can lead to errors or delays in intervention.
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 merchandise 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 represent a high cost for retailers.
This is where AI-powered video surveillance comes in. Rather than 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 functionalities.
By combining traditional recordings with intelligent analysis, retailers gain in responsiveness and efficiency, while respecting customer privacy through precise configuration of behavioural analysis systems.
🔒 Anti-Theft Systems
Traditional 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 a person attempts to leave the store without deactivating the tag, an alarm automatically triggers thanks to the gates installed at the exit. This simple but effective system is now widely used across all sectors, from ready-to-wear to DIY.
Among gate technologies, three main categories are 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's configuration. AM systems, for example, 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 very popular in the food sector for effectively protecting bottles without detracting from their visual presentation.
🚀 Towards Enhanced Security Through Innovation
The future of loss prevention involves integrating 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 are seeing a reduction in shoplifting.
Thanks to 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 work-related stress, while strengthening asset protection.
Adopting solutions that combine intelligent video surveillance and effective anti-theft systems thus becomes an essential strategy for any business wishing to combine security, a seamless customer experience, and increased profitability. The path to safer and more welcoming stores lies in intelligent innovation.
