Zara’s Security System Faces Unprecedented Challenge as Shoplifters Evade Detection — Retail Bum

Fashion retailer Zara is encountering difficulties with its anti-shoplifting system that the company initially rolled out in July 2023.

The system, which leverages RFID technology as a substitute for conventional security tags on garments, has encountered setbacks as the new security tags were found to be easily detectable and removable in initial trials, as reported by Bloomberg.

The company has, however, denied running into any issues.

“The in-store implementation process of the new soft-alarm system, which uses several technologies, is going according to plan, without any significant incidents,” a company spokesperson said.

The new security system, which replaces traditional security tags, is a component of Inditex’s strategy to seamlessly merge its eCommerce operations with its physical retail outlets. The primary goal of this system is to achieve a 60% reduction in theft.

Earlier this year, Inditex initiated trials at select Zara outlets in Spain, leveraging unique RFID tag placements that employ a unique thread comprising a miniature RFID tag encased within textile yarn and integrated into the seams of garments.