1 in 4 Australians call for removal of self-serve checkout cameras, households spending $188 weekly on groceries.

Shoppers are expressing frustration over feeling like suspects rather than customers at the checkout, as per recent research conducted by Finder, Australia’s leading comparison site.

A Finder survey of 1,039 respondents uncovered that nearly 1 in 4 Australians (22%)—equivalent to 4.5 million individuals—advocate for the removal of cameras from self-serve checkouts.

Despite this sentiment, 59% of respondents believe anti-theft mechanisms should remain in place, while 18% remain undecided.

Grocery giants

Graham Cooke, head of consumer research at Finder, remarked on the increasing reliance of grocery giants on high-tech security measures due to escalating theft rates, but noted that not all shoppers are content with this approach.

“While these cameras monitor customer movements, their limitations can result in misinterpretations, leading to unnecessary staff intervention. This can significantly slow down the self-service checkout process for some customers.”

Cooke emphasized that rising grocery prices are exacerbating people’s frustrations.

“Many households are already grappling with tight budgets, and nearly half of them experience stress while shopping. Excessive security measures may drive honest shoppers away from these stores.”

Australians allocate significant time and money to supermarket visits, with the average household spending $188 weekly on groceries in February, according to Finder’s Consumer Sentiment Tracker.

Cooke suggested that despite heightened security measures, there are still strategies for Australians to save money at the checkout.

“Planning meals in advance and adhering to shopping lists can help avoid impulse purchases and stick to budgets. Additionally, shoppers should compare prices across stores, seek out weekly specials, and leverage loyalty program rewards.”