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Asda Weighs Vending Machines for High-Theft Store Items

Asda is considering installing vending machines in stores to tackle shoplifting by securing "high-theft items" like batteries, razor blades, and perfumes that are frequently targeted by criminals.
Shoplifting remains a significant challenge for retailers, with 5.5 million recorded incidents last year costing nearly £400m, prompting supermarkets to invest more than £5bn over five years in security measures including CCTV.
Trialing the technology in an Ashton-under-Lyne store since 2024, Asda uses vending machines to sell vapes and cigarettes, requiring customers to pay before accessing products through a two-ticket system.
An Asda spokesperson stated, "There are no immediate plans to install new vending machines for any products in our stores whilst a trial in our Ashton store is ongoing," though the retailer continues exploring ideas.
Other supermarkets like Morrisons and Sainsbury have also tested vending-machine technology to combat crime, while shop workers union Usdaw advocates for physical security, with 59% of members preferring guards for better deterrence.

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Asda to put perfume and batteries in vending machines to stop blackmarket thefts

Asda is trialling a new method of tackling shoplifters (Picture: Getty) Asda could soon be putting perfume and batteries into vending machines to prevent thieves from stealing them to order. Batteries, razor blades and perfumes are easy for gangs to sell on the black market, so supermarket bosses have been thinking up ways to make customers pay for ‘high-theft’ items before gaining access to them. It follows a trial at a store in Ashton-under-Ly…

11 hours ago·London, United Kingdom

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