Greggs Removes Self-Service Cabinets in Shoplifting Hotspots
Greggs has removed self-service display cabinets in bakery stores most affected by shoplifting incidents. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to address the rising problem of theft on the high street. Official data from last year indicated a significant increase in annual shoplifting offences across England and Wales, prompting many retailers to report elevated crime levels within their premises.
In selected Greggs outlets, self-service cabinets are being replaced with a system where staff members hand over sandwiches and sausage rolls from behind theft-proof counters. This change is currently being trialed in branches located in Croydon and Peckham in south London; Whitechapel and Upton Park in east London; as well as in Wilford, Nottinghamshire.
Additionally, Greggs is implementing software solutions designed to transmit information directly to police stations, enhancing the response to theft incidents. This trial follows Greggs’ emergence as a target for shoplifters, while competitors such as Pret a Manger and Costa have reportedly hired security personnel to protect their merchandise.
Last week, Archie Norman, chair of Marks & Spencer, commented on the issue, stating:
"Self-checkouts have been fuelling a rise in shoplifting among ‘good, honest people’."
In February, the British Retail Consortium (BRC) highlighted that criminal gangs are "systematically" targeting retail stores, with shoplifting costing the industry an estimated £400 million annually. The BRC also warned of widespread violence against shop workers, who experienced an average of 36 violent incidents involving weapons each day last year.
Greggs issued a statement regarding the changes:
"This is one of a number of initiatives we are trialling across a very small number of shops which are exposed to higher levels of antisocial behaviour."
