German discounter Lidl told just-food today (27 March) that it did not use secret cameras in its stores to spy on staff.

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A report published in German magazine Stern accused Lidl of spying on its workers with secret cameras and private detectives.


According to the report, Lidl composed a dossier that included information on a variety of topics, from the frequency of toilet breaks to personal relationships between employees.


“The cameras were installed to combat shoplifting,” a spokesperson for the company told just-food.


The retailer admitted using private detectives but claimed they too were employed to combat shoplifters.

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Lidl said in a statement that it was “shocked” by the allegations, adding that it no longer employs private investigators and only uses visible cameras.


Nonetheless, authorities in the German region of Baden-Wuerttemberg, where Lidl is headquartered, are investigating the claims.