With the cost of living soaring and inflation hitting households hard, it's no wonder so many of our members are flocking to discount supermarkets like ALDI to make their precious dollars stretch further.

And recently, ALDI, our favourite low-cost, bulk-buy supermarket, has been in the news, and it’s regarding a noteworthy change in their checkout policy.

This announcement could impact your habit of bypassing the baskets and going for the bags, so let’s get into it.

It's come to light that some ALDI store employees in the UK have been told to refrain from servicing customers who don’t put their shopping bags on the checkout belts for inspection to ensure they are empty.

Explored initially by The Grocer magazine and confirmed by a store worker's revelation, ALDI has implemented this policy seemingly to deter shoplifting–an unfortunate reality that has seen an uptick in recent times.

An ALDI store worker said the store had introduced a new bag-checking policy. Credit: Shutterstock

The ALDI shop worker said: ‘We are asking that they allow us to look in the bags to see if they are empty. We have been asking to look in the bags to make sure none of our items are in there.’

In the wake of the cost-of-living crisis and an inflation-driven hike in food prices, the rule could be seen as a necessary albeit unpleasant deterrent against theft.

The crux here is that customers who decline these searches may be refused a sale. However, it appears this policy is yet to be enforced across the UK and that bag checks are only conducted with the shopper's consent.

The employee also shared that customers walking out of the store may be stopped by security if they were suspected of shoplifting.

ALDI Australia’s website also mentions a similar policy. It states: ‘It is a condition of entry that all bags, parcels, prams and containers are presented for inspection.’

The ALDI worker claimed that those refusing to comply with the search would also be refused the sale. Credit: Shutterstock

This newly induced rule sparked diverse opinions among local ALDI personnel.

One worker stated: ‘New policy at ALDI, all empty shopping bags must be on the belt plus all shopping.’

While others are more concerned about situations where shoppers could be stopped by security upon exiting the store suspected of theft.

A spokesperson for the retailer told reporters that these searches were only taking place in select stores as a ‘short-term measure’ and shoppers will not be stopped from buying anything or leaving the store.

This policy is also separate from the rules enforced by security guards, said the spokesperson.

‘This only covers the bags they're using to pack their shopping, not handbags or personal bags,’ they explained.

Apparently, the bag check policy isn't a fresh idea and has been reported as early as May. And it's not only ALDI; several retailers are tightening up security as shoplifting rates climb.

Shoppers have the following rights in Australia. Credit: The Seniors Discount Club

To add context, food costs are on the rise mainly due to the ongoing war in Ukraine and poor harvests in some European countries. This has caused food inflation to reach a whopping 19.4 per cent in March, according to the Office for National Statistics.

Many supermarkets are reacting by increasing security, including stricter security tags and even lock boxes on everyday items such as cheese, coffee, and chocolate.

If you do encounter any problems while shopping, it’s best to politely check with the store employees or manager.

Key Takeaways

• ALDI stores in the UK have implemented a new policy where staff can refuse service to customers who do not comply with bag checks.
• The supermarket claims this policy is a short-term measure and is only carried out with the consent of shoppers.
• Shoplifters suspected on the premises can be stopped by security.
• ALDI Australia’s website also mentions a similar policy, stating that a condition of entry into each store includes an inspection of all bags, parcels, prams and containers.

What are your thoughts on this policy? Have you encountered anything similar while out shopping? Let us know in the comments below!

 

[Cougar]

With the cost of living soaring and inflation hitting households hard, it's no wonder so many of our members are flocking to discount supermarkets like ALDI to make their precious dollars stretch further.

And recently, ALDI, our favourite low-cost, bulk-buy supermarket, has been in the news, and it’s regarding a noteworthy change in their checkout policy.

This announcement could impact your habit of bypassing the baskets and going for the bags, so let’s get into it.

It's come to light that some ALDI store employees in the UK have been told to refrain from servicing customers who don’t put their shopping bags on the checkout belts for inspection to ensure they are empty.

Explored initially by The Grocer magazine and confirmed by a store worker's revelation, ALDI has implemented this policy seemingly to deter shoplifting–an unfortunate reality that has seen an uptick in recent times.

View attachment 26677

An ALDI store worker said the store had introduced a new bag-checking policy. Credit: Shutterstock

The ALDI shop worker said: ‘We are asking that they allow us to look in the bags to see if they are empty. We have been asking to look in the bags to make sure none of our items are in there.’

In the wake of the cost-of-living crisis and an inflation-driven hike in food prices, the rule could be seen as a necessary albeit unpleasant deterrent against theft.

The crux here is that customers who decline these searches may be refused a sale. However, it appears this policy is yet to be enforced across the UK and that bag checks are only conducted with the shopper's consent.

The employee also shared that customers walking out of the store may be stopped by security if they were suspected of shoplifting.

ALDI Australia’s website also mentions a similar policy. It states: ‘It is a condition of entry that all bags, parcels, prams and containers are presented for inspection.’

View attachment 26678

The ALDI worker claimed that those refusing to comply with the search would also be refused the sale. Credit: Shutterstock

This newly induced rule sparked diverse opinions among local ALDI personnel.

One worker stated: ‘New policy at ALDI, all empty shopping bags must be on the belt plus all shopping.’

While others are more concerned about situations where shoppers could be stopped by security upon exiting the store suspected of theft.

A spokesperson for the retailer told reporters that these searches were only taking place in select stores as a ‘short-term measure’ and shoppers will not be stopped from buying anything or leaving the store.

This policy is also separate from the rules enforced by security guards, said the spokesperson.

‘This only covers the bags they're using to pack their shopping, not handbags or personal bags,’ they explained.

Apparently, the bag check policy isn't a fresh idea and has been reported as early as May. And it's not only ALDI; several retailers are tightening up security as shoplifting rates climb.

View attachment 26713

Shoppers have the following rights in Australia. Credit: The Seniors Discount Club

To add context, food costs are on the rise mainly due to the ongoing war in Ukraine and poor harvests in some European countries. This has caused food inflation to reach a whopping 19.4 per cent in March, according to the Office for National Statistics.

Many supermarkets are reacting by increasing security, including stricter security tags and even lock boxes on everyday items such as cheese, coffee, and chocolate.

If you do encounter any problems while shopping, it’s best to politely check with the store employees or manager.

Key Takeaways

• ALDI stores in the UK have implemented a new policy where staff can refuse service to customers who do not comply with bag checks.
• The supermarket claims this policy is a short-term measure and is only carried out with the consent of shoppers.
• Shoplifters suspected on the premises can be stopped by security.
• ALDI Australia’s website also mentions a similar policy, stating that a condition of entry into each store includes an inspection of all bags, parcels, prams and containers.

What are your thoughts on this policy? Have you encountered anything similar while out shopping? Let us know in the comments below!

 

[Jo Piper3]

With the cost of living soaring and inflation hitting households hard, it's no wonder so many of our members are flocking to discount supermarkets like ALDI to make their precious dollars stretch further.

And recently, ALDI, our favourite low-cost, bulk-buy supermarket, has been in the news, and it’s regarding a noteworthy change in their checkout policy.

This announcement could impact your habit of bypassing the baskets and going for the bags, so let’s get into it.

It's come to light that some ALDI store employees in the UK have been told to refrain from servicing customers who don’t put their shopping bags on the checkout belts for inspection to ensure they are empty.

Explored initially by The Grocer magazine and confirmed by a store worker's revelation, ALDI has implemented this policy seemingly to deter shoplifting–an unfortunate reality that has seen an uptick in recent times.

View attachment 26677

An ALDI store worker said the store had introduced a new bag-checking policy. Credit: Shutterstock

The ALDI shop worker said: ‘We are asking that they allow us to look in the bags to see if they are empty. We have been asking to look in the bags to make sure none of our items are in there.’

In the wake of the cost-of-living crisis and an inflation-driven hike in food prices, the rule could be seen as a necessary albeit unpleasant deterrent against theft.

The crux here is that customers who decline these searches may be refused a sale. However, it appears this policy is yet to be enforced across the UK and that bag checks are only conducted with the shopper's consent.

The employee also shared that customers walking out of the store may be stopped by security if they were suspected of shoplifting.

ALDI Australia’s website also mentions a similar policy. It states: ‘It is a condition of entry that all bags, parcels, prams and containers are presented for inspection.’

View attachment 26678

The ALDI worker claimed that those refusing to comply with the search would also be refused the sale. Credit: Shutterstock

This newly induced rule sparked diverse opinions among local ALDI personnel.

One worker stated: ‘New policy at ALDI, all empty shopping bags must be on the belt plus all shopping.’

While others are more concerned about situations where shoppers could be stopped by security upon exiting the store suspected of theft.

A spokesperson for the retailer told reporters that these searches were only taking place in select stores as a ‘short-term measure’ and shoppers will not be stopped from buying anything or leaving the store.

This policy is also separate from the rules enforced by security guards, said the spokesperson.

‘This only covers the bags they're using to pack their shopping, not handbags or personal bags,’ they explained.

Apparently, the bag check policy isn't a fresh idea and has been reported as early as May. And it's not only ALDI; several retailers are tightening up security as shoplifting rates climb.

View attachment 26713

Shoppers have the following rights in Australia. Credit: The Seniors Discount Club

To add context, food costs are on the rise mainly due to the ongoing war in Ukraine and poor harvests in some European countries. This has caused food inflation to reach a whopping 19.4 per cent in March, according to the Office for National Statistics.

Many supermarkets are reacting by increasing security, including stricter security tags and even lock boxes on everyday items such as cheese, coffee, and chocolate.

If you do encounter any problems while shopping, it’s best to politely check with the store employees or manager.

Key Takeaways

• ALDI stores in the UK have implemented a new policy where staff can refuse service to customers who do not comply with bag checks.
• The supermarket claims this policy is a short-term measure and is only carried out with the consent of shoppers.
• Shoplifters suspected on the premises can be stopped by security.
• ALDI Australia’s website also mentions a similar policy, stating that a condition of entry into each store includes an inspection of all bags, parcels, prams and containers.

What are your thoughts on this policy? Have you encountered anything similar while out shopping? Let us know in the comments below!

I always show the person scanning the groceries that my bags are empty.

 

[McGee's Ewe]

Aldi has always requested to check bags. I've never had an issue with this and most often have them ready for inspection. I understand the unfortunate need for this, as some people do the wrong thing. It impacts the rest of us as a result.
The cashiers are following their job requirements and it frustrates me to see some shoppers take it out on them.

Exactly as I was planning to say. I have nothing to hide and respect their position.
If you don't want your personal bags checked, leave them in your car. If that's not possible be prepared for inspection. It is a condition of entry. If you refuse that condition the staff have the right to refuse to serve you. Too many people get on their high horses about their rights. If that's your stand, don't enter the store. What about the rights of the staff protecting the business they work for.

 

[Trudi]

The right to check bags has been in place for several decades now, so I don't see why this would ruffly anybody's feathers! When asked, I have no issues opening my shopping bags and also my handbag. There is nothing "personal" in my handbag, just my purse, mobile phone, usually some shopping receipts and some paper tissues.

 

[Janice McKay]

With the cost of living soaring and inflation hitting households hard, it's no wonder so many of our members are flocking to discount supermarkets like ALDI to make their precious dollars stretch further.

And recently, ALDI, our favourite low-cost, bulk-buy supermarket, has been in the news, and it’s regarding a noteworthy change in their checkout policy.

This announcement could impact your habit of bypassing the baskets and going for the bags, so let’s get into it.

It's come to light that some ALDI store employees in the UK have been told to refrain from servicing customers who don’t put their shopping bags on the checkout belts for inspection to ensure they are empty.

Explored initially by The Grocer magazine and confirmed by a store worker's revelation, ALDI has implemented this policy seemingly to deter shoplifting–an unfortunate reality that has seen an uptick in recent times.

View attachment 26677

An ALDI store worker said the store had introduced a new bag-checking policy. Credit: Shutterstock

The ALDI shop worker said: ‘We are asking that they allow us to look in the bags to see if they are empty. We have been asking to look in the bags to make sure none of our items are in there.’

In the wake of the cost-of-living crisis and an inflation-driven hike in food prices, the rule could be seen as a necessary albeit unpleasant deterrent against theft.

The crux here is that customers who decline these searches may be refused a sale. However, it appears this policy is yet to be enforced across the UK and that bag checks are only conducted with the shopper's consent.

The employee also shared that customers walking out of the store may be stopped by security if they were suspected of shoplifting.

ALDI Australia’s website also mentions a similar policy. It states: ‘It is a condition of entry that all bags, parcels, prams and containers are presented for inspection.’

View attachment 26678

The ALDI worker claimed that those refusing to comply with the search would also be refused the sale. Credit: Shutterstock

This newly induced rule sparked diverse opinions among local ALDI personnel.

One worker stated: ‘New policy at ALDI, all empty shopping bags must be on the belt plus all shopping.’

While others are more concerned about situations where shoppers could be stopped by security upon exiting the store suspected of theft.

A spokesperson for the retailer told reporters that these searches were only taking place in select stores as a ‘short-term measure’ and shoppers will not be stopped from buying anything or leaving the store.

This policy is also separate from the rules enforced by security guards, said the spokesperson.

‘This only covers the bags they're using to pack their shopping, not handbags or personal bags,’ they explained.

Apparently, the bag check policy isn't a fresh idea and has been reported as early as May. And it's not only ALDI; several retailers are tightening up security as shoplifting rates climb.

View attachment 26713

Shoppers have the following rights in Australia. Credit: The Seniors Discount Club

To add context, food costs are on the rise mainly due to the ongoing war in Ukraine and poor harvests in some European countries. This has caused food inflation to reach a whopping 19.4 per cent in March, according to the Office for National Statistics.

Many supermarkets are reacting by increasing security, including stricter security tags and even lock boxes on everyday items such as cheese, coffee, and chocolate.

If you do encounter any problems while shopping, it’s best to politely check with the store employees or manager.

Key Takeaways

• ALDI stores in the UK have implemented a new policy where staff can refuse service to customers who do not comply with bag checks.
• The supermarket claims this policy is a short-term measure and is only carried out with the consent of shoppers.
• Shoplifters suspected on the premises can be stopped by security.
• ALDI Australia’s website also mentions a similar policy, stating that a condition of entry into each store includes an inspection of all bags, parcels, prams and containers.

What are your thoughts on this policy? Have you encountered anything similar while out shopping? Let us know in the comments below!

I don't mind them looking into my bags. They even asked to check my purse. Only if you shoplift would you object. It's no skin off my nose.

 

[g-d]

A few weeks ago I shopped at Aldi in Melbournes East. I was wearing a back pack and I was asked to open it for inspection, as I had not taken anything it was not a problem but I did feel uncomfortable having to open a personal bag, on the other hand I understand shoplifting is a big problem hence my cooperation.

This can only get worse. At Kmart, 8 years ago people would search the car park, trolleys etc for register slips, gather the items in the shop & return them for a cash refund. Fitting room ways of disguising theft beyond belief.

 

[Isis]

With the cost of living soaring and inflation hitting households hard, it's no wonder so many of our members are flocking to discount supermarkets like ALDI to make their precious dollars stretch further.

And recently, ALDI, our favourite low-cost, bulk-buy supermarket, has been in the news, and it’s regarding a noteworthy change in their checkout policy.

This announcement could impact your habit of bypassing the baskets and going for the bags, so let’s get into it.

It's come to light that some ALDI store employees in the UK have been told to refrain from servicing customers who don’t put their shopping bags on the checkout belts for inspection to ensure they are empty.

Explored initially by The Grocer magazine and confirmed by a store worker's revelation, ALDI has implemented this policy seemingly to deter shoplifting–an unfortunate reality that has seen an uptick in recent times.

View attachment 26677

An ALDI store worker said the store had introduced a new bag-checking policy. Credit: Shutterstock

The ALDI shop worker said: ‘We are asking that they allow us to look in the bags to see if they are empty. We have been asking to look in the bags to make sure none of our items are in there.’

In the wake of the cost-of-living crisis and an inflation-driven hike in food prices, the rule could be seen as a necessary albeit unpleasant deterrent against theft.

The crux here is that customers who decline these searches may be refused a sale. However, it appears this policy is yet to be enforced across the UK and that bag checks are only conducted with the shopper's consent.

The employee also shared that customers walking out of the store may be stopped by security if they were suspected of shoplifting.

ALDI Australia’s website also mentions a similar policy. It states: ‘It is a condition of entry that all bags, parcels, prams and containers are presented for inspection.’

View attachment 26678

The ALDI worker claimed that those refusing to comply with the search would also be refused the sale. Credit: Shutterstock

This newly induced rule sparked diverse opinions among local ALDI personnel.

One worker stated: ‘New policy at ALDI, all empty shopping bags must be on the belt plus all shopping.’

While others are more concerned about situations where shoppers could be stopped by security upon exiting the store suspected of theft.

A spokesperson for the retailer told reporters that these searches were only taking place in select stores as a ‘short-term measure’ and shoppers will not be stopped from buying anything or leaving the store.

This policy is also separate from the rules enforced by security guards, said the spokesperson.

‘This only covers the bags they're using to pack their shopping, not handbags or personal bags,’ they explained.

Apparently, the bag check policy isn't a fresh idea and has been reported as early as May. And it's not only ALDI; several retailers are tightening up security as shoplifting rates climb.

View attachment 26713

Shoppers have the following rights in Australia. Credit: The Seniors Discount Club

To add context, food costs are on the rise mainly due to the ongoing war in Ukraine and poor harvests in some European countries. This has caused food inflation to reach a whopping 19.4 per cent in March, according to the Office for National Statistics.

Many supermarkets are reacting by increasing security, including stricter security tags and even lock boxes on everyday items such as cheese, coffee, and chocolate.

If you do encounter any problems while shopping, it’s best to politely check with the store employees or manager.

Key Takeaways

• ALDI stores in the UK have implemented a new policy where staff can refuse service to customers who do not comply with bag checks.
• The supermarket claims this policy is a short-term measure and is only carried out with the consent of shoppers.
• Shoplifters suspected on the premises can be stopped by security.
• ALDI Australia’s website also mentions a similar policy, stating that a condition of entry into each store includes an inspection of all bags, parcels, prams and containers.

What are your thoughts on this policy? Have you encountered anything similar while out shopping? Let us know in the comments below!

Shop lifters are making us pay, they have to raise prices to cover it. I always show my bag , I don’t have anything to be afraid of so what’s the problem. My thoughts go to the por people who have to ask you and sometimes get a telling off. Just show your bags folks

 

[IamJane]

As far as I am concerned, I do not permit a search of my personal items, be it bags of pockets. If they want to search then I demand Police & a Solicitor be present & warn them that I have the right to privacy. They have never pursued the matter. If they choose to request me not to return then I don't care.
If they want us to shop there then they should provide bags and pack them, that way we do not have to take bags inside.

Remind me - what's the male equivalent of a "Karen"?

 

[g-d]

As far as I am concerned, I do not permit a search of my personal items, be it bags of pockets. If they want to search then I demand Police & a Solicitor be present & warn them that I have the right to privacy. They have never pursued the matter. If they choose to request me not to return then I don't care.
If they want us to shop there then they should provide bags and pack them, that way we do not have to take bags inside.

That is a shame you feel that way. The shop cannot take each & every customer like yourself to court. Prices would increase & the courts are too busy anyway. Is our privacy going to protect us against threats when it comes to those on our life.

 

[alteredstate]

As far as I am concerned, I do not permit a search of my personal items, be it bags of pockets. If they want to search then I demand Police & a Solicitor be present & warn them that I have the right to privacy. They have never pursued the matter. If they choose to request me not to return then I don't care.
If they want us to shop there then they should provide bags and pack them, that way we do not have to take bags inside.

Most stores have a disclaimer on entry they reserve the right can check bags I think its fair and reasonable if you dont have anything to hide?

 

[The winner is]

With the cost of living soaring and inflation hitting households hard, it's no wonder so many of our members are flocking to discount supermarkets like ALDI to make their precious dollars stretch further.

And recently, ALDI, our favourite low-cost, bulk-buy supermarket, has been in the news, and it’s regarding a noteworthy change in their checkout policy.

This announcement could impact your habit of bypassing the baskets and going for the bags, so let’s get into it.

It's come to light that some ALDI store employees in the UK have been told to refrain from servicing customers who don’t put their shopping bags on the checkout belts for inspection to ensure they are empty.

Explored initially by The Grocer magazine and confirmed by a store worker's revelation, ALDI has implemented this policy seemingly to deter shoplifting–an unfortunate reality that has seen an uptick in recent times.

View attachment 26677

An ALDI store worker said the store had introduced a new bag-checking policy. Credit: Shutterstock

The ALDI shop worker said: ‘We are asking that they allow us to look in the bags to see if they are empty. We have been asking to look in the bags to make sure none of our items are in there.’

In the wake of the cost-of-living crisis and an inflation-driven hike in food prices, the rule could be seen as a necessary albeit unpleasant deterrent against theft.

The crux here is that customers who decline these searches may be refused a sale. However, it appears this policy is yet to be enforced across the UK and that bag checks are only conducted with the shopper's consent.

The employee also shared that customers walking out of the store may be stopped by security if they were suspected of shoplifting.

ALDI Australia’s website also mentions a similar policy. It states: ‘It is a condition of entry that all bags, parcels, prams and containers are presented for inspection.’

View attachment 26678

The ALDI worker claimed that those refusing to comply with the search would also be refused the sale. Credit: Shutterstock

This newly induced rule sparked diverse opinions among local ALDI personnel.

One worker stated: ‘New policy at ALDI, all empty shopping bags must be on the belt plus all shopping.’

While others are more concerned about situations where shoppers could be stopped by security upon exiting the store suspected of theft.

A spokesperson for the retailer told reporters that these searches were only taking place in select stores as a ‘short-term measure’ and shoppers will not be stopped from buying anything or leaving the store.

This policy is also separate from the rules enforced by security guards, said the spokesperson.

‘This only covers the bags they're using to pack their shopping, not handbags or personal bags,’ they explained.

Apparently, the bag check policy isn't a fresh idea and has been reported as early as May. And it's not only ALDI; several retailers are tightening up security as shoplifting rates climb.

View attachment 26713

Shoppers have the following rights in Australia. Credit: The Seniors Discount Club

To add context, food costs are on the rise mainly due to the ongoing war in Ukraine and poor harvests in some European countries. This has caused food inflation to reach a whopping 19.4 per cent in March, according to the Office for National Statistics.

Many supermarkets are reacting by increasing security, including stricter security tags and even lock boxes on everyday items such as cheese, coffee, and chocolate.

If you do encounter any problems while shopping, it’s best to politely check with the store employees or manager.

Key Takeaways

• ALDI stores in the UK have implemented a new policy where staff can refuse service to customers who do not comply with bag checks.
• The supermarket claims this policy is a short-term measure and is only carried out with the consent of shoppers.
• Shoplifters suspected on the premises can be stopped by security.
• ALDI Australia’s website also mentions a similar policy, stating that a condition of entry into each store includes an inspection of all bags, parcels, prams and containers.

What are your thoughts on this policy? Have you encountered anything similar while out shopping? Let us know in the comments below!

 

[featherfour]

One of the things I hate about shopping at ALDI is their assumption that everyone is a shoplifter and they insist on looking inside my handbag. Puts me off going there

 

[AlanQ]

As far as I am concerned, I do not permit a search of my personal items, be it bags of pockets. If they want to search then I demand Police & a Solicitor be present & warn them that I have the right to privacy. They have never pursued the matter. If they choose to request me not to return then I don't care.
If they want us to shop there then they should provide bags and pack them, that way we do not have to take bags inside.

Nice to know you stand up for your perceived rights, but equally, the T&C that are clearly on display at these stores state your bags can be inspected. Your rights end when they violate another's rights, including retailers. So the rights of the retailer also come into consideration. When I've witness the sort of 'my rights' etc commentary it's generally because the person being challenged has stolen something. Staff are told not to put themselves into any form of danger that can quickly escalate from a simple request to a stand off. Stores do have a legal right to inspect bags. If you don't want to put your bag up for a quick check, then the assumption is you are stealing. End of story.

 

[Veggiepatch]

As far as I am concerned, I do not permit a search of my personal items, be it bags of pockets. If they want to search then I demand Police & a Solicitor be present & warn them that I have the right to privacy. They have never pursued the matter. If they choose to request me not to return then I don't care.
If they want us to shop there then they should provide bags and pack them, that way we do not have to take bags inside.

I tell them that I have my pet snake in my bag.

They soon back off.

 

[McGee's Ewe]

One of the things I hate about shopping at ALDI is their assumption that everyone is a shoplifter and they insist on looking inside my handbag. Puts me off going there

How else are they going to deter shop lifting? Do you feel intimidated at Coles or Woolies or other stores who check? Unfortunately the rising incidents of shop lifting has led to this. Do you really believe the perpetrators should get away with it? Anyone with nothing to hide should be more than willing to support them.

 

[Coxy09]

With the cost of living soaring and inflation hitting households hard, it's no wonder so many of our members are flocking to discount supermarkets like ALDI to make their precious dollars stretch further.

And recently, ALDI, our favourite low-cost, bulk-buy supermarket, has been in the news, and it’s regarding a noteworthy change in their checkout policy.

This announcement could impact your habit of bypassing the baskets and going for the bags, so let’s get into it.

It's come to light that some ALDI store employees in the UK have been told to refrain from servicing customers who don’t put their shopping bags on the checkout belts for inspection to ensure they are empty.

Explored initially by The Grocer magazine and confirmed by a store worker's revelation, ALDI has implemented this policy seemingly to deter shoplifting–an unfortunate reality that has seen an uptick in recent times.

View attachment 26677

An ALDI store worker said the store had introduced a new bag-checking policy. Credit: Shutterstock

The ALDI shop worker said: ‘We are asking that they allow us to look in the bags to see if they are empty. We have been asking to look in the bags to make sure none of our items are in there.’

In the wake of the cost-of-living crisis and an inflation-driven hike in food prices, the rule could be seen as a necessary albeit unpleasant deterrent against theft.

The crux here is that customers who decline these searches may be refused a sale. However, it appears this policy is yet to be enforced across the UK and that bag checks are only conducted with the shopper's consent.

The employee also shared that customers walking out of the store may be stopped by security if they were suspected of shoplifting.

ALDI Australia’s website also mentions a similar policy. It states: ‘It is a condition of entry that all bags, parcels, prams and containers are presented for inspection.’

View attachment 26678

The ALDI worker claimed that those refusing to comply with the search would also be refused the sale. Credit: Shutterstock

This newly induced rule sparked diverse opinions among local ALDI personnel.

One worker stated: ‘New policy at ALDI, all empty shopping bags must be on the belt plus all shopping.’

While others are more concerned about situations where shoppers could be stopped by security upon exiting the store suspected of theft.

A spokesperson for the retailer told reporters that these searches were only taking place in select stores as a ‘short-term measure’ and shoppers will not be stopped from buying anything or leaving the store.

This policy is also separate from the rules enforced by security guards, said the spokesperson.

‘This only covers the bags they're using to pack their shopping, not handbags or personal bags,’ they explained.

Apparently, the bag check policy isn't a fresh idea and has been reported as early as May. And it's not only ALDI; several retailers are tightening up security as shoplifting rates climb.

View attachment 26713

Shoppers have the following rights in Australia. Credit: The Seniors Discount Club

To add context, food costs are on the rise mainly due to the ongoing war in Ukraine and poor harvests in some European countries. This has caused food inflation to reach a whopping 19.4 per cent in March, according to the Office for National Statistics.

Many supermarkets are reacting by increasing security, including stricter security tags and even lock boxes on everyday items such as cheese, coffee, and chocolate.

If you do encounter any problems while shopping, it’s best to politely check with the store employees or manager.

Key Takeaways

• ALDI stores in the UK have implemented a new policy where staff can refuse service to customers who do not comply with bag checks.
• The supermarket claims this policy is a short-term measure and is only carried out with the consent of shoppers.
• Shoplifters suspected on the premises can be stopped by security.
• ALDI Australia’s website also mentions a similar policy, stating that a condition of entry into each store includes an inspection of all bags, parcels, prams and containers.

What are your thoughts on this policy? Have you encountered anything similar while out shopping? Let us know in the comments below!

These people that get shitty saying it invades their privacy. What a joke. Shop anywhere and you don’t have any privacy. Coles, Woolies big stores etc etc they know all about you and your shopping habits. it’s a part of life these days. As for you not showing your empty bags get rid of your ego, you are just being difficult because you can. If you are not a thief then you would be happy to show them. Do you have something to hide? Other shoppers near you probably are thinking you are hiding something. If you are honest just show your bags and get over the high and mighty attitude.

 

[Veggiepatch]

On a serious note, a bag search must be performed within certain guidelines. In Victoria, bags searches are conducted where NO item is to be touched in the bag by the "searcher". If this does occur, the "searcher" can be charged with a technical form of assault by police.

At the start of the year, I witnessed a disabled woman crying and screaming at the front of the local Coles. Her bag was being emptied all over the floor by an overzealous "security" employee. I intervened and informed this security bully that he was committing an assault and I was confronted with a dumbfounded look. He started replacing the items into the bag when I told him to stop and the woman could do it herself.

I got a few cheers from the gathering crowd but not even a boo from the woman. Oh well!

I feel that these "security" thugs must have been bullied at school or failed the entrance requirements for the police force. They mostly have a huge chip on their shoulders.

 

[Littleboy8]

I'm sorry, but that is the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard
One of the reasons they can keep their prices down is that you pack yourself.
Why make such a mountain out of a molehill and making yourself look so silly in the process
Really, the police and a solicitor, you must have money to burn, perhaps you could also pay the solicitor to do your shopping for you and save the terrible inconvenience of having your bag checked. What on earth do you keep in your bag that is soooo private
LOL

 

[Veggiepatch]

They even asked to check my purse.

"Sorry madam, I didn't realise I had a 10kg bag of dog food in my purse".

Yeah sure!

 

[Inot54]

With the cost of living soaring and inflation hitting households hard, it's no wonder so many of our members are flocking to discount supermarkets like ALDI to make their precious dollars stretch further.

And recently, ALDI, our favourite low-cost, bulk-buy supermarket, has been in the news, and it’s regarding a noteworthy change in their checkout policy.

This announcement could impact your habit of bypassing the baskets and going for the bags, so let’s get into it.

It's come to light that some ALDI store employees in the UK have been told to refrain from servicing customers who don’t put their shopping bags on the checkout belts for inspection to ensure they are empty.

Explored initially by The Grocer magazine and confirmed by a store worker's revelation, ALDI has implemented this policy seemingly to deter shoplifting–an unfortunate reality that has seen an uptick in recent times.

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An ALDI store worker said the store had introduced a new bag-checking policy. Credit: Shutterstock

The ALDI shop worker said: ‘We are asking that they allow us to look in the bags to see if they are empty. We have been asking to look in the bags to make sure none of our items are in there.’

In the wake of the cost-of-living crisis and an inflation-driven hike in food prices, the rule could be seen as a necessary albeit unpleasant deterrent against theft.

The crux here is that customers who decline these searches may be refused a sale. However, it appears this policy is yet to be enforced across the UK and that bag checks are only conducted with the shopper's consent.

The employee also shared that customers walking out of the store may be stopped by security if they were suspected of shoplifting.

ALDI Australia’s website also mentions a similar policy. It states: ‘It is a condition of entry that all bags, parcels, prams and containers are presented for inspection.’

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The ALDI worker claimed that those refusing to comply with the search would also be refused the sale. Credit: Shutterstock

This newly induced rule sparked diverse opinions among local ALDI personnel.

One worker stated: ‘New policy at ALDI, all empty shopping bags must be on the belt plus all shopping.’

While others are more concerned about situations where shoppers could be stopped by security upon exiting the store suspected of theft.

A spokesperson for the retailer told reporters that these searches were only taking place in select stores as a ‘short-term measure’ and shoppers will not be stopped from buying anything or leaving the store.

This policy is also separate from the rules enforced by security guards, said the spokesperson.

‘This only covers the bags they're using to pack their shopping, not handbags or personal bags,’ they explained.

Apparently, the bag check policy isn't a fresh idea and has been reported as early as May. And it's not only ALDI; several retailers are tightening up security as shoplifting rates climb.

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Shoppers have the following rights in Australia. Credit: The Seniors Discount Club

To add context, food costs are on the rise mainly due to the ongoing war in Ukraine and poor harvests in some European countries. This has caused food inflation to reach a whopping 19.4 per cent in March, according to the Office for National Statistics.

Many supermarkets are reacting by increasing security, including stricter security tags and even lock boxes on everyday items such as cheese, coffee, and chocolate.

If you do encounter any problems while shopping, it’s best to politely check with the store employees or manager.

Key Takeaways

• ALDI stores in the UK have implemented a new policy where staff can refuse service to customers who do not comply with bag checks.
• The supermarket claims this policy is a short-term measure and is only carried out with the consent of shoppers.
• Shoplifters suspected on the premises can be stopped by security.
• ALDI Australia’s website also mentions a similar policy, stating that a condition of entry into each store includes an inspection of all bags, parcels, prams and containers.

What are your thoughts on this policy? Have you encountered anything similar while out shopping? Let us know in the comments below!

Your bags are checked at virtually every shop/store you go in and then out of either by a staff member asking or those panels you walk between on exiting. A staff member asking just makes the check more visible to the customers. Not a problem to me but if you’re worried about it I guess you could shop for everything on line and never enter any shop at all!! Bit of a strange life, but?!