Full Breakdown
Take Back Power Plans Mass Shoplifting at Waitrose
1/19/2026, 7:59:49 PM
Activist Group's Strategy and Objectives
Take Back Power (TBP), a non-violent civil resistance group, has announced plans for mass shoplifting at Waitrose supermarkets as part of its campaign against economic inequality. The group aims to "clear out" shelves and redistribute food to local communities, citing "skyrocketing" prices as a primary motivator. Co-founder Arthur Clifton stated, "We have seen that food is locked behind skyrocketing prices. Less and less people can afford less and less food." TBP has previously gained attention for its protests, including throwing apple crumble and custard at the Crown Jewels in the Tower of London, which resulted in four arrests.
Background and Context
TBP emerged as a successor to the Just Stop Oil movement, advocating for a "House of the People" — a citizens' assembly with the authority to tax extreme wealth and address social issues. The group has raised approximately £58,000 through crowdfunding to support its initiatives, which include public meetings and training sessions across eight cities. Clifton referenced the Sudanese revolution as an inspiration for their grassroots approach, emphasizing the need to rebuild society from the ground up.
Official Statements & Responses
A spokesperson for Waitrose expressed concern over TBP's plans, stating, "Our priority is to keep our employees, who are partners in our business, and our customers safe." They argued that targeting Waitrose would harm ordinary workers, contradicting TBP's claims of helping the community. The spokesperson highlighted the company's commitment to democratic principles and ethical business practices.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of TBP's tactics, including UK government officials, have condemned the group's approach as harmful to society. Conservative MP Chris Philp stated, "When thugs and anarchists like this steal, they put up prices for everyone else and may cause businesses to go bust." He called for law enforcement to arrest and prosecute those involved in such actions, likening them to the disturbances seen during the 2011 London Riots.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Less and less people can afford less and less food.” — Arthur Clifton, Co-founder of Take Back Power
- “A Waitrose spokesman said: “Our priority is to keep our employees, who are partners in our business, and our customers safe.” — Waitrose Spokesperson
- “Mr Philp told The Telegraph: “When thugs and anarchists like this steal, they put up prices for everyone else and may cause businesses to go bust.” — Chris Philp, Conservative MP
What's Next
TBP plans to mobilize for a week of action in April, involving 50 to 100 participants in their planned shoplifting events. The group aims to continue its campaign against economic inequality and push for a citizens' assembly that would empower ordinary people in political decision-making.
