After Asda and Currys, Sainsbury’s tests facial recognition to lower theft

To reduce theft, the UK’s second-largest food retailer, Sainsbury’s (2024 turnover: €42.9 billion, up by 1%), has been using facial recognition technology since September 3, 2025 with Facewatch technology. For eight weeks, staff at two supermarkets in London and Bath will be alerted if an individual reported as a shoplifter is recognised. The database is compiled from shoplifters identified by Facewatch customers – Budgens, Sports Direct, Costcutter, B&M, Home Bargains and Flannels....