Veesion

Veesion is a French startup that provides retail surveillance software to detect shoplifting incidents in supermarkets and stores. The company's artificial intelligence (AI) technology analyzes video footage from existing security cameras to monitor customers' gestures and movements. If any suspicious behavior associated with potential theft is detected, the system sends real-time alerts to security personnel. Veesion claims its solution can reduce retail shrinkage by up to 60%.

As of March 2023, Veesion's software was deployed in over 2,500 stores across 25 countries. Major French retail chains like Leclerc, Carrefour, G20, Système U, Biocoop, Kiabi, and Fnac were among Veesion's clients in France. The company reported over 100 employees and revenues exceeding EUR 5 million in 2023.

However, Veesion's operations have been marred by legal controversies. Both the French data protection authority (CNIL) and the government have acknowledged that the company's AI-powered surveillance system is illegal under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) as it processes biometric data without explicit legal basis. Despite being aware of the illegality, Veesion has continued to raise funds, with the startup securing over EUR 10 million in investment in March 2023.