This Is Rigged protest anti-shoplifting measures
The group set up on Byers Road to protest the retailer's policy
Last updated 25th Aug 2023
Demonstrators have set up shop on Byers Road to protest anti-shoplifting measures introduced by Waitrose.
The retailer is offering free cups of coffee to on-duty police officers in an effort to deter potential shoplifters.
Activists from climate change protest group, This Is Rigged, stood outside the store in Glasgow’s West End with a sign reading “Not a Copper? Have a Cuppa!”, while handing out drinks to passersby.
"Not a Copper? Have a Cuppa!"
In a statement released on social media, the group said:
“Waitrose want us to get the tiny violins out because retail chains have reportedly lost a billion pounds due to the rise in shoplifting, but the top four UK retail chains alone have still profited by over 3 billion pounds in the most recent financial year.”
The groups claim the current cost of living crisis is linked to climate change, and people are resorting to shoplifting, adding people are being forced to choose between paying bills, feeding their children, and feeding themselves.
"Waitrose want us to get the tiny violins out"
Community food coordinator, Xander Cloudsley, who took action today said: “Waitrose are making it very clear that they do not care about the plight of ordinary people and that they are perfectly happy to side with an institutionally abusive and violent police force.
“Rather than ask why people are shoplifting more often now, they would rather expend money and resources into further punishing a group of people who are already desperately struggling during a cost of living crisis.
“Waitrose clearly prefer the stick to the carrot.”
"We do not tolerate bullies"
Community worker, Hannah Bright said: “Food prices are at a 45 year high, and corporations are responding by criminalising folk who are trying to get by.
“We stand with our communities, and against profiteering and intimidation.”
She added: “We do not tolerate bullies.”
A Waitrose spokesperson said: "Rising levels of shoplifting are not being driven by people stealing to put food on the table.
"Instead, retailers are working to counteract a rise in professional shoplifters, stealing for greed not need.
“We already offer free hot drinks to our customers, via our myWaitrose loyalty scheme.
"Police forces can benefit from this too - and can use our facilities on their break, should they need to - as we work together to tackle crime."