Major New Zealand retailers have thrown their support behind the use of facial recognition technology (FRT) in stores, saying it is a vital tool to protect workers and customers from repeat offenders responsible for theft, violence, and abuse.

In a joint statement released on Wednesday, the heads of companies including Briscoe Group, Bunnings, Farmers Trading Company, Foodstuffs, Michael Hill, Mitre 10, One NZ, Spark, The Warehouse Group and Woolworths New Zealand said they support the “fair and accurate” use of the technology to deter retail crime and improve safety.

Retail NZ said the technology had already been trialled by Foodstuffs North Island, with oversight from the Office of the Privacy Commissioner. A survey of 1000 New Zealanders found 89 percent supported the use of FRT if it reduces harm by even 10 percent.

“Our teams face high rates of verbal and physical abuse from repeat offenders who pose a risk to our employees, customers and other visitors to our stores,” the retailers said.

“A significant proportion of retail crime is committed by repeat offenders. It is these recidivist offenders that we are able to target with FRT.”

They said the technology allows for rapid identification of individuals of interest, enabling security staff to manage threats in real time and intervene if needed.

Retail NZ said the use of FRT is intended solely for safety and is subject to the Privacy Act.

“Technology must be used in a fair and accurate way. Guardrails are needed to support customers’ privacy, and to guard against potential bias and discrimination,” Retail NZ Chief Executive Carolyn Young said.

Retail NZ said it will continue working with its members to develop best practice to ensure the technology is used responsibly.