Curious how a Parisian AI startup is flipping theft prevention on its head? Here’s the scoop: Veesion’s gesture-driven AI, deployed in over 5,000 stores, just snagged $43 million in Series B funding to make brick-and-mortar shopping safer—without sacrificing vibe or privacy.
Key Takeaways
- $43M Series B (part of €38M round) led by White Star Capital, Red River West, Bpifrance
- 5,000+ stores across 25 countries already using Veesion
- Shrinkage drop up to 50% in key sectors like beauty products
- Privacy-first AI no biometrics, just gestures
- Expansion underway: US office opening, co-founder relocating, hiring +80 staff
What is Veesion?
Veesion is an AI platform that monitors in-store security footage to detect suspicious gestures—like hiding or bagging items—and alerts staff in real time. It works with existing CCTV setups, doesn’t collect personal data, and helps retailers reduce theft while preserving customer experience.
Why Veesion’s AI Is a Retail Gamechanger
Gesture, Not Face – Keeping Privacy Intact
Unlike facial recognition, Veesion focuses on movement. It analyzes palm-to-pocket gestures or unusual concealment motions—never faces—so privacy stays intact.
ROI in Action
Stores using Veesion report shrinkage reductions of up to 50%, especially in high-risk areas like makeup or supplements. One US retailer saw theft in their beauty aisle halved in just three months.
Easy Install, Fast Results
No new hardware needed—just plug into existing cameras and use their mobile app. Within days, staff are getting real-time alerts and gaining control.
Credibility Backed by Research & Experts
- Founder insight: Benoît Koenig (co-founder) shared that 85% of alerts prove relevant, translating alerts into action.
- Market analysts: Retail shrink, once upwards of $120B/year globally (€5B in France alone), is a chronic pain point; Veesion tackles it head-on.
- Investor endorsements: Funds like White Star Capital describe Veesion as a “true disruptive player,” with unmatched accuracy and ethical design.
Real‑World Success Stories
- Nisa (London): “Cut shoplifting losses by 90%,” using gesture detection to empower store staff.
- Pharmacy chain: Saw a major drop in internal theft after staff knew AI was monitoring.
- 7‑Eleven franchise: “Tripled the amount of thefts stopped,” easing staff stress and workload.
Scaling Up — A Strategic Series B
$43M Fueling U.S. Growth
The latest round totals $43M in equity (plus €15M non-dilutive), bringing total funding to €53M (~$60M).
Ground Game in the U.S.
Veesion plans to open its first U.S. office in June 2025. Co-founder Benoît Koenig is relocating to lead the charge, tapping into a market hungry for theft solutions.
Hiring & Tech Expansion
They’ll hire 80+ more staff (data engineers, AI specialists, support) and open up new use cases: shelf restocking, self-checkout monitoring, slip-and-fall alerts, and even safety in hospitals or warehouses.
Conclusion
Veesion is proving that AI can be both smart and sensitive—detecting bad behavior while respecting customer privacy. With 5,000+ stores already on board and fresh funds fueling U.S. expansion, they’re poised to revolutionize loss prevention worldwide. Retailers—from small pharmacies to mega‑chains—now have a tool that’s ethical, effective, and human‑centric.