Next Rolls Out AI Scanners to Detect Concealed Theft in 500 UK Stores
Source: Next installs AI scanners that can see through clothes to spot stolen items (2025-11-25)
Next has begun deploying advanced AI-powered scanners across its 500 UK retail locations, aiming to revolutionize theft prevention with cutting-edge technology capable of seeing through clothing. This innovative system, known as the "Thruvision Passive Terahertz Screening System," leverages AI and terahertz imaging to identify stolen items hidden beneath garments, including undergarments, by detecting variations in body temperature. The technology has already demonstrated significant success in reducing theft at Next’s warehouses and distribution centers, which support its online sales. The company is now considering expanding its use into physical stores, where it could serve as a formidable deterrent against shoplifting. This development marks a significant milestone in retail security, reflecting a broader trend toward integrating AI and biometric technologies to enhance safety and reduce losses. The use of terahertz scanners is not limited to theft detection; they are also capable of identifying concealed weapons, explosives, cash, and illegal drugs, making them a versatile tool for security personnel. The deployment of such systems aligns with global efforts to modernize retail security infrastructure, especially as shoplifting and organized retail crime continue to pose challenges worldwide. Recent advancements in AI and biometric security have led to the development of more sophisticated detection systems. For instance, AI algorithms now analyze thermal signatures and body movements in real-time, improving accuracy and reducing false positives. Additionally, the integration of these scanners with existing CCTV and security networks allows for seamless monitoring and rapid response. Retailers are increasingly adopting these technologies to protect their assets, staff, and customers, especially in high-theft environments. The implementation of AI scanners at Next is part of a broader trend of technological innovation in retail, driven by the need for more effective loss prevention strategies. According to industry reports, global retail losses due to theft and organized crime amount to hundreds of billions annually, prompting retailers to seek smarter solutions. The use of AI and terahertz imaging is also being explored in other sectors, such as airports and public transportation, for security screening purposes. Furthermore, the ethical and privacy considerations surrounding such intrusive detection methods are actively being addressed. Retailers and technology providers emphasize that these systems are designed to focus solely on security threats, with strict data handling protocols to protect individual privacy rights. As regulations evolve, transparency and accountability will be critical in maintaining public trust while deploying these advanced security measures. In addition to theft prevention, the adoption of AI-driven security systems offers benefits such as improved operational efficiency and enhanced customer experience. By reducing shoplifting incidents, stores can allocate resources more effectively and create a safer shopping environment. Moreover, the data collected through these systems can provide insights into theft patterns, helping retailers develop targeted strategies to combat organized retail crime. The rollout of AI scanners by Next is also expected to influence industry standards and inspire other retailers to adopt similar technologies. As the retail landscape becomes increasingly competitive and security threats grow more sophisticated, embracing innovation will be essential for maintaining profitability and customer trust. Experts predict that AI and biometric security solutions will become commonplace in retail environments within the next few years, transforming traditional loss prevention methods. In conclusion, Next’s deployment of AI-powered scanners capable of seeing through clothing represents a significant leap forward in retail security technology. By combining AI, terahertz imaging, and thermal detection, these systems offer a powerful tool to combat theft and organized crime, while also raising important questions about privacy and ethical use. As more stores adopt such innovations, the retail industry is poised to become safer, more secure, and more technologically advanced, setting new standards for loss prevention and customer safety in the digital age.