Thieves targeting formula for resale or to mix with drugs
Boots, the popular pharmacy chain, has been forced to remove baby milk from its shelves after being targeted by shoplifting gangs. Experts believe that these thieves have their eye on formula and other "hot products" to sell to dodgy outlets or buyers abroad. Some individuals also want the powder to mix with drugs. Boots' store in Purley, South London, has taken products such as Aptimil, which can cost up to £19 per pack, off its shelves. As a result, customers now need to present paper photocopies at the counter to purchase these items.
'Fortress Stores': Retailers implementing new tactics
Emmeline Taylor, professor of criminology at City, University of London, explains that some retailers are creating what she calls "Fortress Stores" in their hardest hit locations. These tactics include dummy displays, locked cabinets, more sophisticated tagging, increased staff training, and enhanced security measures. This proactive approach aims to deter theft and protect valuable inventory from shoplifting gangs. While many assume that families struggling financially are responsible for theft, Taylor believes that the issue is more complex and cannot be attributed solely to the cost-of-living crisis.
Boots calls for tougher action against shoplifting
Last month, Boots called for tougher action to combat shoplifting and violence against shop staff. In response to the increasing incidents of theft, Boots has been using security tags on products or removing items from shelves and replacing them with empty boxes or cutouts. The decision on which items to protect in this manner is made at the store level and is based on the risk of theft in that particular area. Baby formula is often targeted for theft with the intent to resell, prompting Boots to take steps to protect their stock and ensure availability for customers in need.
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