Through Jeroslyn JoVonn
January 8, 2026
Wegmans is facing criticism after admitting it collects customer biometric data at select locations across the chain.
Grocery chain Wegmans is facing backlash after posting signs informing customers that their biometric data is being collected upon entry.
The popular supermarket chain, with more than 100 stores in nine states, confirmed that it collects biometric data after a photo of a sign at a New York City location went viral, Fox News reports. The sign informed customers that “biometric identification information” is being collected at that store.
“Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. collects, stores, converts, stores or shares customers’ biometric identification information, which may include: facial recognition, eye scans and voiceprints,” the sign reads.
Wegmans stated that the biometric collection underscores how “the safety of our customers and associates is a top priority.”
“Like many retailers, we use cameras to help identify individuals who pose a risk to our people, customers or operations. In a small portion of our high-risk stores, we have deployed cameras equipped with facial recognition technology,” the company said.
Wegmans says its facial recognition tool is used at only a few locations to identify individuals previously flagged for misconduct, and in New York City the technology complies with local regulations.
“Individuals of interest are determined by our asset protection team based on incidents that occur on our premises and on a case-by-case basis, based on information from law enforcement agencies for criminal or missing persons cases,” Wegmans said.
It also notes that data is not shared with third parties.
“Facial recognition technology serves as a single lead for us. We never base our decisions on a single clue alone,” the statement concluded. “Our goal is simple: keep our stores safe.”
Facial recognition technology is highly visible at airports, but at some grocery stores, including Walmart and now Wegmans, the cameras are largely hidden from view, raising concerns about how customer data is used.
“It’s kind of an invasion of privacy. I could see that. It’s good and bad,” said shopper Victor Cash. “It can be a little annoying, but ultimately I don’t think it will ever stop me from coming here.”
“You never know for what purpose the information is collected,” said Ivan Klimkou. “I mean, I’m not a shoplifter, so it’s not a problem for me.”
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