June 10th 2024.
A Tesco store in east London has recently implemented a new security measure in response to the rising levels of shoplifting in the UK. Pictures shared online over the weekend revealed that the store, located in Newham, had placed popular chocolate bars under lock and key to deter potential thieves.
The store's shelves now feature plastic cases containing a variety of sweet snacks such as Dairy Milk, Milkybar, and Galaxy. These cases are carefully locked and can only be opened by a staff member, ensuring that customers cannot simply take their desired chocolate without notifying an employee first.
Interestingly, while the regular-sized chocolate bars are kept in these locked cases, the larger share size bags of chocolate are not. The lock boxes all bear a sticker instructing customers to "ask the staff," with the most expensive chocolate bar being the Dairy Milk Creations bar priced at £2.25. However, customers with a Clubcard can purchase it for 25p less at £2.
It's no surprise that this measure has sparked some reactions on social media. With the current economic climate causing prices to skyrocket, many users have expressed their outrage at the high cost of these chocolate bars. Some even argue that the real thieves here are the companies selling them at such inflated prices.
This isn't the first time a supermarket has resorted to locking up their prized goods. Last year, a Co-op store in Norwich made headlines for hiding its olive oil stocks after experiencing a string of thefts. The bottles were displayed in security cases that could only be opened by staff upon request.
A spokesperson for Co-op explained that this decision was made to protect the safety of their employees, as shoplifting can often lead to violence against workers. While this may not be a nationwide policy, stores may choose to implement product security measures if they are facing a particular issue.
Unfortunately, shoplifting has become a growing concern in the UK, with data from the Office For National Statistics showing a significant increase in recorded incidents over the past few years. In fact, in 2023 alone, there were over 430,000 reported cases in England and Wales, the highest figures since police records began in 2003.
Amidst all of this, one thing is clear – stealing is never acceptable. However, it's also important for companies to consider the impact of their pricing on customers. As for the Tesco store in Newham, it remains to be seen if their new security measure will effectively deter shoplifters. Have you encountered a similar situation? Share your story by emailing us.
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