To combat theft, Walmart tests the unlocking of its display cases by smartphone

The world’s largest retailer Walmart (sales of US$648 billion up 5.5% in 2023, up by 5.4% in Q2 to July 2024) is stepping up efforts against theft. While many products with average face value are now placed behind secure display cases in the U.S.A. (baby formula, shampoo, deodorant or underwear), Walmart has been testing a mobile window unlocking system since early November 2024. The project, in beta phase, involves more than 100 stores and is a pilot with sales staff, according to Bloomberg. Members of the Walmart+ program should then use the service. The aim is to streamline a customer experience by reducing waiting times, and lighten the load on staff by avoiding the need to call a human whenever a window is required to be opened. 

To remember: In the U.S.A., where food inflation has reached 18.7% over 3 rolling years at the end of June 2024, theft is on the rise. Last April, Walmart rolled out a computer vision solution to Sam’s Club stores and reduced access to self-checkouts in Walmart stores. Target, Dollar General and Five Below have also adjusted “self checkouts” to limit theft.

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Facing theft issues, Target, Walmart and Dollar General reduce access to self-checkout