Kmart trials artificially intelligent detection systems at self-checkouts

Kmart has rolled out new technology at its self-checkouts following similar changes made by major supermarkets in Australia.

Artificially intelligent detection systems have been fitted at self-serve registers at select stores to detect when items have not been scanned, the budget retailer has confirmed.

The technology would also pick up whether a product has been incorrectly scanned as another item.

READ MORE: Coles staff to wear body cameras in supermarkets to combat theft and violence

Kmart said the technology was being trialled in order to "keep prices low" for those "doing the right thing" during the nation's cost of living crisis.

"The reason we are exploring technology options like this … is because they have been shown to be effective in managing what is becoming a larger issue in Australia and help us continue to keep prices low for the vast majority of our customers who are doing the right thing," a spokesperson said.

"For the vast majority of our customers, there will be no impact on their shopping experience.

"Customers can opt-out by having a team member assist them in their checkout, and there is signage in store explaining the purpose of the trial."

The same artificially intelligent surveillance was earlier introduced at self-checkouts at Coles, Woolworths and other retailers in the industry.

Coles went the extra mile with overheard tracking cameras, trolley locking, smart gates at exits, security guards and electronic tags.

It recently equipped its staff at high-risk locations with body cameras to overcome theft and violence.

READ MORE: Woolworths unveils new security measures to deter shoplifting

Woolworths has also locked up certain items behind glass doors at some locations and recently trialled new sensor technology that assigns each shopper a digital identity, which is coloured red until they have walked into the self-checkouts.

The sensors were implemented at select stores in New South Wales and Victoria in an effort to reduce stock loss.

Australian businesses lose up to $9 billion each year to shoplifting, robbery and vandalism, according to the National Retail Association.