A FRUSTRATED customer has called out a popular supermarket chain for its updated bag policy.
The retailer is enforcing the new rule at stores to prevent inventory loss.
Shoppers at Giant Foods locations in the Washington DC area are not allowed to bring in duffels, suitcases, or any zippered bags larger than 14 by 14 by 6 inches, per local ABC affiliate WJLA.
The policy was implemented in May by Giant Foods, who said they made the change due to theft.
Giant Foods explained that — with the bag rule — stores can ideally “mitigate the unprecedented levels of product theft that have become unstable for our business, per a statement to the outlet.
“We need to be able to run our stores safely and profitably, and we take these responsibilities seriously,” the brand added.
“The tactics we deploy are only one of the solutions to our problem.”
The retailer said the thefts resulted in a poor shopping experience for customers, fewer products available, and safety concerns.
While it could prevent thieves from sneaking items out in bags, some customers feel it’s caused more “inconvenience” than assistance.
Johnny, an Uber Eats delivery driver in the DC area, told WJLA he was immediately stopped with his backpack by a security guard when trying to head into Giant Foods for an order.
He noted that while he understands the need for the policy, there could be better options.
“Makes it extremely inconvenient,” Johnny said.
“I get it. A lot of people are taking from stores, but there are so many things that are already in place.”
“I’m not throwing anything in here,” he continued.
“I mean who is gonna let me walk out throwing gallons of milk or eggs in this bag? Nobody.”
Another customer said it was “sad” to see the bag policy, but blamed thieves for making it difficult for grocery stores and shoppers.
Anti-theft measures rolled out by retailers
Retailers across the US and Canada have rolled out strategies designed to combat theft. The U.S. Sun has compiled a list of measures that have been implemented at stores.
- Locking items in cabinets.
- Security pegs.
- Security cameras.
- Signs warning about the impact of theft.
- Receipt scanners.
- Receipt checks.
- Carts with locking technology
PREVENTION-FOCUSED
Many shoppers nationwide have seen drastic security measures implemented at retail giants to mitigate theft since the height of the coronavirus pandemic.
Target has taken some serious steps, locking items behind glass at hundreds of stores.
Some locations in areas with significantly higher theft rates went as far as to close self-checkout areas and have ID checks at the door, with those under 18 not allowed to enter without a parent or guardian.
Walmart also followed suit at some locations with items locked behind glass and removing self-checkouts entirely from stores.
A fed-up customer asked Target to “hire more workers” to help get rid of some anti-theft measures.
A shopper at Walmart who spotted Tide detergent behind glass last month also cried out that it’s a “sad world we live in” to have items locked away.