(NewsNation) — Target is testing new technology to allow shoppers to lock and unlock store shelves using their smartphones, an anti-theft solution that has been explored by competitors like Walmart.
The tech move was announced during an internal staff call Thursday by Chief Stores Officer Adrienne Costanzo, according to Bloomberg News.
The technology would enable shoppers to the ability to quickly access items without the assistance of a store employee with physical keys, marking a shift in tactics as the company works to curb retail theft.
Costanzo reportedly told staff that the company is “actively testing” this technology and may even extend this capability to its Shipt delivery team members and paid membership program users.
Nike warns ‘surgical’ price increases are coming soon
To combat a rise in retail theft in recent years, many stores have begun locking away items in clear display cases that require employee assistance to access. However, long wait times have deterred some shoppers from coming into stores.
If successful, retailers are hopeful that unlocking technology could bring customers back to in-store shopping.
