(NewsNation) — Retailers have locked up everything from pricy electronics to socks and underwear but Walmart customers could soon be able to open security locks from their cell phones.
The American retail giant is reportedly testing a new technology that allows employees to unlock cases without manually using keys. The tech is already live in a few hundred Walmart stores, according to Bloomberg.
Eventually, the company could roll out mobile unlocking to customers, specifically Walmart+ loyalty members, a person familiar with the matter told Bloomberg.
Stores lock up socks, underwear to combat shoplifting
If the new tech catches on it could relieve a major pain point for shoppers who have grown increasingly frustrated at retailers’ efforts to curb shoplifting.
A recent survey conducted by data tech firm Numerator found that roughly a quarter of shoppers regularly abandon their purchase when they come across locked-up products. Those consumers were more likely to spend their money online instead.
Shoplifting is up 24% from 2023: Report
Other retailers like CVS are also testing out mobile unlocking at some stores. In a recent video shared on LinkedIn, the company’s VP of merchandising showed how customers can unlock products with the CVS app.
Another company called Indyme has developed a “Freedom Case” that lets customers unlock merchandise using their cell phone number, an app, a store loyalty card, or even their face, according to its website.
Earlier this year CNN reported that 26 retailers were using the Freedom Case. Major stores like Kroger, Safeway and Lowe’s were listed on Indyme’s website but their company logos were later taken down, CNN said.
While crimes like burglary and drug offenses fell in the first half of 2024, rates of reported shoplifting increased by 24% compared to the same period a year earlier, according to a report published by the Council on Criminal Justice (CCJ) in July.
