Walmart is testing out employees wearing body cameras to create a safer environment. The pilot program is happening in the area of Denton, Texas, with the potential to be added to more locations.
While Walmart isn’t commenting on the specific reasons for starting the body camera initiative, it comes at the height of the holiday shopping season when interactions with customers tend to be more stressful.
President Stuart Appelbaum of the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union thinks employees need training on de-escalation and not just body cameras.
“There’s too much harassment that goes on through the year, but especially during the holiday season… It’s even worse,” Appelbaum told CNBC. “Everyone is stressed out.”
In a company document titled “Providing Great Customer Service While Creating a Safer Environment,” staff are instructed on how to use the body camera devices. They are told to record an event if an interaction with a customer is escalating. After the incident happens, staff are supposed to discuss it with another team member who can help them log the event.
The National Retail Federation revealed in a 2023 study what it calls “unprecedented levels” of retail crime, violence and theft. According to the data, 88% of stores reported shoplifters were more aggressive compared to the previous year.
A former retail employee who spoke to CNBC said they’re doubtful body cameras would actually work to minimize aggressive behavior, adding they don’t think the customer would care in the moment, even with the camera facing them.
Last year some stores, including T.J. Maxx, started using body cameras to try and prevent theft. The company’s finance chief said the devices have been effective in reducing lost inventory.
