Greggs has implemented significant changes in some of its stores as part of a proactive effort to deter shoplifters. The bakery chain has repositioned self-service fridges and shelves behind the counter in certain locations to combat brazen thieves. In these high-risk areas, customers will no longer have direct access to items like sandwiches and drinks; instead, staff will retrieve these items from behind the till.
This decision comes in response to the surge in annual shoplifting incidents, surpassing 500,000 cases, as retailers strive to protect their inventory from theft. One of the Greggs outlets in West Croydon, south London, recently unveiled a revamped layout with all food and beverages now placed behind the counter.
Similar modifications are being tested in other locations, including stores in Peckham and Whitechapel in south and east London, respectively, as well as branches in Upton Park, Wilford, Nottingham, and Birmingham. This pilot initiative aims to address the rising shoplifting incidents at Greggs, especially after videos capturing thieves stealing from the chain surfaced.
Previously, Greggs and other food chains resorted to hiring security personnel at select stores to safeguard against shoplifters. The current shift in store design represents a new strategy to enhance security measures.
A patron at the redesigned West Croydon Greggs remarked that the new setup leaves little for opportunistic theft, with only minor items like sugar or napkins accessible for customers to take without payment. A Greggs spokesperson mentioned that these changes are part of multiple trials in a few shops facing heightened anti-social behavior, ensuring that customers can still enjoy the full range of popular Greggs products available from behind the counter.
In a separate incident, a repeat offender, Adam Gosling, managed to steal nearly £2,000 worth of goods from a Greenford branch of Greggs over a span of 38 thefts. Despite his extensive theft spree, Gosling avoided jail time and received a suspended sentence following his court appearance at Uxbridge Magistrates’ Court.
Gosling expressed remorse for his actions and vowed never to repeat them, emphasizing his regret and willingness to apologize to Greggs for the thefts.