“Frustrated” Tesco shoppers have been left confused as some have spotted new security devices added to shelves in a UK store.
It comes as a video has gone viral on TikTok, showing a customer sliding creaking plastic covers from side to side, which seem to be shielding products.
Some of the protected items include chocolate bars and boxes from brands such as Dairy Milk, Lindt and Ferrero Rocher.
The clip posted on social media currently has more than 60,000 likes and 3,000 comments.
What's the Difference Between Best Before and Use-By?
Tesco shoppers slam 'crazy' new security devices in supermarket
It’s thought the move is to prevent shoplifting and theft in the supermarket, but consumers have described the plastic covers as “absolutely crazy” while others have threatened to "stop shopping".
One TikTok user was not alone as they asked: “How does this stop shoplifting?”
Another commented: “So you can slide it over and get what you need so how is going to stop shop lifters?”
A third queried: “I don’t see how that stops someone from not paying for it.”
Someone who questioned “what’s the point of this exactly?” continued: “Bc that isn’t stopping people from stealing we other super markets need to follow Lidl need to scan you’re receipt to get out the store.”
@kirkpap1 Tescos New Security Devices Will It Work ? #Fyp #Foryourpage #Tesco #Security @Tesco ♬ original sound - kirk
“Tesco just making it more frustrating for genuine shoppers to purchase items. A shoplifter will just snap that cover straight off, they don't care,” said this person.
In agreement, a user added: “Snapped off within seconds…”
Many customers said they would “stop” shopping at Tesco if this was introduced into their local store, as one said: “If I have to do that imma stop shopping at Tesco.”
A second profile put: “Forget stopping shoplifting, that just stops shopping entirely.”
This shopper shared: “I would just walk out and shop somewhere else.”
“That is absolutely crazy,” wrote one person.
However, some were in favour of the new security devices as this retail worker shared: “I work in retail I think it’s a decent idea it’s loud so you can hear it and it stops customers from loading up a bag full of product so gives you time to get there.”
Recommended reading:
- Tesco to offer free food to customers after 9:30pm in 'revolutionary' move
- 'Treated like a thief': Tesco shoppers slam 'Orwellian' self-checkout measure
- Tesco apologises as it discontinues milk described as 'best drink ever made'
Also in support, this person posted: “The purpose of this is to make noise so that staff in the shop can hear that products are being picked up and can go to that isle to perhaps watch you to make sure the goods your picking up aren’t rob.”
Have you noticed these plastic covers in a shop near you? Let us know in the comments below.
Newsquest has contacted Tesco for comment.
Share