In recent months, numerous videos of supermarket trolleys automatically locking when someone attempts to take them beyond the store perimeter have gone viral. What may appear to be magic at first glance is actually our invisible anti-theft technology.
These videos show far more than a simple locking system; they demonstrate the solution to a problem that affects many businesses every day, damaging the customer experience and significantly reducing profitability.
Behind these solutions are CartControl and Purchek, working together to tackle two key issues: shopping trolley theft and the theft of products within the store.
How does the invisible anti-theft technology that locks trolleys in real time work?
Trolleys are an asset that is constantly in use within any retail establishment. When they disappear, supermarkets must bear the replacement cost while also dealing with reduced availability for customers, disruption on the shop floor and additional work for staff.
Added to this is another challenge: attempts to leave the premises without passing through the checkout.
To address these situations, supermarkets are increasingly adopting Carttec’s invisible anti-theft technology. These systems operate automatically, discreetly and effectively.
Among their main advantages are:
- Prevention of trolley loss: CartControl creates an invisible barrier that prevents trolleys from leaving the authorised perimeter. If someone attempts to cross that boundary, the Smartwheel locks automatically.
- Control of theft attempts: Purchek verifies that the purchasing process has been completed before allowing the trolley to exit. If no authorisation exists, the system activates invisible alerts and locks the trolley to prevent goods from being removed.
- Greater availability and an improved customer experience: by reducing losses and keeping trolleys within the premises, resources remain available so customers can shop comfortably.
- Reduced operating costs: fewer replacements, fewer incidents and greater control over assets result in more efficient management.
The technology featured in these viral videos is Carttec’s answer to a widespread problem. The objective is to help supermarkets protect their resources, reduce losses and ensure a safe and seamless shopping experience.
With solutions such as CartControl and Purchek, security becomes a preventive tool capable of acting before losses occur.
