Waitrose and John Lewis Entice On-Responsibility Police with Free Espresso

In a bid to discourage shoplifters, Waitrose and John Lewis have taken an modern strategy by offering on-duty cops with complimentary sizzling drinks.

The target is to foster a stronger police presence, doubtlessly making potential thieves rethink their intentions.

Nicki Juniper, the safety head of the John Lewis Partnership, which owns each the John Lewis and Waitrose manufacturers, acknowledged, “There’s a seen enhance in retail crime throughout the board.”

Juniper made it clear that this wasn’t pushed by a necessity to feed oneself however fairly by skilled shoplifters pushed by greed. The pandemic has additionally seen a rise in aggressive behaviour from prospects, in keeping with the retailer’s studies.

It’s surmised that providing free espresso will enhance the probability of a visual police presence close to the shops. As Juniper acknowledged, “Even simply having a police automobile parked exterior could make folks assume twice about shoplifting.”

The British Retail Consortium, an business physique, has reported that retailers have misplaced a whopping £1bn to shoplifting prior to now yr. The variety of thefts has risen by 26% prior to now yr.

Police and group assist officers can solely take up the supply at Waitrose cafes if they convey a reusable cup, the retailer stated.