Toronto FreshCo Cashiers Wearing Bodycams Spark Debate
Shoppers in downtown Toronto are noticing a new kind of security measure — FreshCo cashiers wearing body cameras. The move, part of a pilot project by Sobeys Inc., has sparked debate over safety, privacy, and employee protection.
A spokesperson for Sobeys confirmed the pilot after cameras were seen on employees at the Sherbourne and Isabella Street FreshCo location. The company says the devices are meant to reduce harassment, assaults, and theft.
“We’ve seen a significant decrease in violence and aggression toward employees and customers since cameras were introduced,” said Caitlin Gray, spokesperson for Sobeys.
According to the company, the cameras record only when activated during an incident and are not used to monitor staff. Sobeys also said all participating stores follow privacy laws and post signs notifying customers of video use.
Safety vs. Surveillance
Not everyone agrees bodycams make stores safer.
James Turk, director of the Centre for Free Expression at Toronto Metropolitan University, says the cameras could increase risks instead of reducing them.
“They make employees more vulnerable — someone might try to grab the camera off them,” Turk told CBC Toronto.
He also argues that fixed security cameras can achieve the same results without putting workers at risk.
Privacy experts share similar concerns. The Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada said organizations using bodycams must ensure the public is informed and that any footage is destroyed or anonymized when no longer needed.
Growing Trend Across Retail
Sobeys isn’t the only retailer testing wearable surveillance.
Loblaw Companies Ltd. confirmed it has been running a bodycam pilot in some stores for two years.
Rui Rodrigues, executive advisor for the Retail Council of Canada (RCC), supports the move, saying violence and theft in retail stores have increased in recent years.
“The key is the knowledge that it’s there — it’s visible, in your face, and that’s a deterrent,” Rodrigues said.
Toronto police data shows reported shoplifting incidents over $5,000 jumped from 32 in 2020 to 105 in 2024.
While Rodrigues believes bodycams provide valuable footage, Turk urges employees who feel unsafe to speak with their employers or unions.
“If someone feels wearing a bodycam puts them at risk, they have a right to refuse,” Turk said.
