Paris-based startup Veesion deploys gesture-recognition AI in over 5,000 stores worldwide to flag suspicious behavior and prevent retail theft.
June 23, 2025 | Paris/New York
A French artificial intelligence startup is changing the way brick-and-mortar retailers battle shoplifting—by detecting suspicious behavior before a theft even occurs. The startup, Veesion, has developed a gesture-recognition algorithm that identifies movements associated with potential shoplifting and sends real-time alerts to store staff, all without relying on biometrics or personal data.
Founded in 2018, Veesion’s system is now installed in over 5,000 retail stores across Europe, the US, and Canada. The company recently raised ₹373 crore ($43 million) in Series B funding to expand globally.
🎥 How It Works
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Unlike conventional CCTV systems—where footage often goes unwatched—Veesion’s tech analyzes live security footage using computer vision and AI. It detects the presence of shoppers, monitors their gestures and interactions with items, carts, bags, or shelves, and flags anomalous or suspicious movements, such as attempts to conceal merchandise.
“The algorithm doesn’t care about what people look like. It just cares about how your body parts move over time,” said Benoit Koenig, co-founder of Veesion.
The flagged video clips are immediately sent to store personnel via a mobile app, allowing them to intervene proactively.
🚫 No Biometrics, No Privacy Violation
A key advantage of Veesion’s system is its non-invasive approach. It does not collect or analyze personal details such as faces, fingerprints, or any biometric markers.
“The system is designed with privacy in mind. It integrates seamlessly into existing surveillance infrastructure and requires no personal data,” Koenig explained.
💡 Real-World Impact
Koenig cited the case of a US client who reduced losses in the health and beauty segment by 50% within just three months of using the technology. Additionally, the AI system has proven effective in curbing internal theft, as employees become more cautious knowing that surveillance is automated and intelligent.
🛒 Automation & Cost-Saving
Veesion’s system not only prevents theft but also reduces the need for extra surveillance staff, making it cost-effective for retailers struggling with razor-thin margins and staffing challenges.
“This tech acts as a deterrent, reduces losses, and improves operational efficiency. Retailers finally have real-time defense against theft—without compromising privacy,” Koenig said.
🏷️ Tags:
Veesion AI, Shoplifting Prevention, Retail Tech, AI Surveillance, Privacy-Friendly AI, Gesture Recognition, Anti-Theft Technology, Real-Time Security Alerts, Smart Retail, Artificial Intelligence in Stores