Walmart employees in select stores are trying out body cameras as part of a test

Walmart is testing out body cameras on employees in some U.S. stores.

The company did not release many details on the plan, stating that it is a pilot being tested in one market. They mentioned that they would assess the results before making any long-term decisions.

A CNBC report states that a company document instructs employees to “record an event if an interaction with a customer is escalating.”

“The retail industry is facing challenges related to increasing levels of shoplifting and violence, often linked to organized retail crime groups,” commented David Johnston from the National Retail Federation.

Walmart isn’t the only retailer doing this.

Earlier this year, TJX, the parent company of TJ Maxx, Homegoods and Marshalls, began equipping some workers with body cameras.

This issue has become more prominent as retail theft, especially through smash-and-grab incidents, has seen a rise in recent years. Many critics argue that the existing laws are perceived as being “too lenient on crime.”

“Retailers have implemented a number of safety and security measures, including adding or increasing uniform security or law enforcement presence in stores,” said Johnston.

Many stores like CVS Pharmacy and Walgreens have been locking up products like makeup, toothpaste and toilet paper, requiring a clerk to unlock them.

Retailers reported a 93% increase in shoplifting incidents last year compared to before the pandemic, according to ABC News, costing them more than $121 billion.