Some Walmart employees wearing body cameras in stores for safety

Walmart's Body Camera Pilot Program - Walmart is testing body cameras for employees in select Texas stores as part of a pilot program aimed at enhancing employee safety [1] - The program is currently limited to stores in Denton, Texas, located about 40 miles north of Dallas [1] - Walmart plans to evaluate the results of the pilot before making any long-term decisions [3] - The body camera initiative is part of a broader safety and security program, not specifically designed as an anti-theft measure [3] Industry Context and Trends - TJX Companies, parent company of TJ Maxx, Marshalls, and HomeGoods, has also equipped employees with body cameras to deter theft [4] - TJX began using body cameras in certain U S stores over the past year to de-escalate incidents and demonstrate a commitment to safety [5] - The cameras are worn by loss prevention associates, and footage is shared only with law enforcement or in response to a subpoena [6] Retail Theft and Safety Concerns - Retail theft cost businesses $112 1 billion in 2022, according to the National Retail Federation's 2023 survey [6] - 91% of surveyed retailers report increased violence and aggression from shoplifters compared to 2019 [6] - Retailers are actively exploring new technologies, including body cameras, to enhance safety and security [7] - The use of body cameras in retail is still a relatively new technology, and companies are experimenting to determine its effectiveness [7]