Morrisons becomes 1st UK Supermarket to install AI Cameras

Morrisons has become the UK’s first supermarket chain to install AI-powered cameras across its stores in a bid to help staff fill shelves faster.

The supermarket has teamed up with US-based AI firm Focal Systems and trials reportedly found the devices boosted availability and made staff more efficient.

The camera monitoring shelves have four categories – OOS (out of stock), PLANO (planogram non-compliance), LOW (low stock) and RESTOCKED (a product is back on the shelf).

This data is then fed to applications that work out where shelves need restocking.

The idea behind the project is for staff to become aware more quickly where stocks are running low, which can free them up to focus more on customer service.

According to Focal Systems, its technology can automate all decision-making in-store.

However, it suggests supermarkets could become less reliant on human staff in future.

Morrisons is believed to have seen better availability in stores involved in the pilot of the technology, which has already been used at thousands of Walmart shops in Canada.

Former Carrefour boss Rami Baitieh, who was appointed Morrisons chief executive in September 2023, believes improving availability is a key part of improving his stores.

A Morrisons source said: “It is exciting on the one hand and something staff are becoming aware of.

“The trials are thought to have been successful and people have seen benefits and good results.

“But that is a fear for the future of retail staff? Is this a sign of the future? Where does it leave people?”

Morrisons is hoping to install the AI cameras before the end of 2024.

Toby Pickard, global insight leader at the Institute of Grocery Distribution, said:

“This is an interesting technology advancement by Morrisons, that should help enhance the in-store shopping experience and improve its operations.

“Over recent years, IGD has seen many retailers trialling shelf-edge cameras to monitor stock availability.

“What is most surprising about this initiative is the speed at which they are moving from trial to full rollout.

“It is aiming to have the solution in every store by the end of summer, which implies the trials have been successful.”

Other British supermarkets are also trialling AI technology.

Sainsbury’s has installed AI security cabinets to help prevent shoplifting in alcohol aisles.

Freedom Case is a locked self-service cabinet which holds high-price spirits. Customers are required to complete a touchscreen process to open the shelf.

The company behind the unit, Indyme, says it uses AI and built-in sensors to identify potential thefts by tracking activity such as how long the door has been opened and if anything inside has been moved.

Morrisons are also upgrading security and has acquired a ‘Buzz for Booze’ button that requires staff to unlock alcohol fridges for shoppers.

In New York, AI cameras have been at a Walmart store since 2019 to monitor it in real-time so its staff can quickly restock shelves or fix other problems.