Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Co-op Staff Barred from Stopping Shoplifters Amid Surge

3/25/2026

34 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Co-op store management has warned staff not to intervene in shoplifting to avoid potential violence.
The policy has sparked backlash among employees as shoplifting rates surged last year, with nearly three thefts per minute.
One worker expressed frustration that staff are prohibited from stopping thieves, leading to stolen goods being taken freely.
The store has started locking up certain items, such as wine, to deter theft.

1 of 1

Story summary

Co-op store management has warned staff not to intervene in shoplifting to avoid potential violence.
The policy has sparked backlash among employees as shoplifting rates surged last year, with nearly three thefts per minute.
One worker expressed frustration that staff are prohibited from stopping thieves, leading to stolen goods being taken freely.
The store has started locking up certain items, such as wine, to deter theft.