Greggs, the popular bakery chain, has resorted to extreme measures to combat shoplifting by padlocking its drinks fridge. Bottles of water and fizzy drinks can now only be ordered at the counter following a series of thefts. The store in Archway, North London, even has a bicycle-style combination padlock around the fridge handles. In addition to this, Greggs has moved its sweet treats behind the till, hoping to deter thieves. Although not a policy adopted by all stores, CCTV cameras are also in operation at the Archway branch.
Combating a daily occurrence
According to a staff member, shoplifting is a daily occurrence at the Archway branch. The decision to padlock the fridge was made after individuals would take bottles and sell them nearby. The thefts were not limited to drinks, as the staff member stated that thieves would take anything that was not nailed down.
Following in the footsteps of other retailers
Greggs is not the only retailer resorting to such measures. Iceland, a popular supermarket chain, recently started locking clothes detergents in plastic boxes to prevent thefts. Similarly, home furnishing chain Dunelm began using PIN-protected cabinets for its duvets and pillowcases at a Bournemouth store. Several supermarkets have also resorted to using security tags on high-theft items such as cheese, chocolate, and Lurpak butter.
Customer reactions
While some customers may find the padlocked fridge method extreme, others understand the necessity. One customer expressed that they had no judgement and believed that the shop needed to do what was necessary to protect its business. In the face of increasing thefts, retailers are taking bold actions to ensure the sustainability of their business.
Greggs declined to comment on this recent measure.
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