ALDI makes shocking response to theft spike
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In a move that has surprised many shoppers, an ALDI store in Sydney's Waterloo has taken the step of temporarily removing shopping baskets from its entrance due to a significant increase in thefts.
This drastic measure has left customers with the sole option of using trolleys, which require a $1 or $2 coin to unlock, a minor inconvenience that underscores a larger issue.
The supermarket chain, which has been a favourite among Australians for its competitive pricing and no-frills shopping experience, confirmed the basket shortage.
The disappearance of the baskets has been so pronounced that one staff member estimated up to 2,000 baskets had been ‘stolen’.
This figure was neither officially confirmed by an ALDI spokesperson nor did they offer a reason behind the disappearance of baskets.
However, the supermarket will take action on illegal activities as detected by its CCTV used to monitor theft.
Theft in Australian supermarkets has been a growing concern, exacerbated by the cost-of-living crisis affecting millions nationwide.
While other major chains like Coles and Woolworths have implemented various security measures, including security gates at self-service checkouts, ALDI has traditionally taken a more relaxed approach.
Earlier this year, it was reported that ALDI's self-service checkouts did not use the responsive weight plates other supermarkets employ to detect discrepancies in the bagging area.
Despite the challenges, ALDI is working to address the basket issue swiftly.
'We are working to replenish the baskets as quickly as possible and have introduced a smaller 105-litre trolley at the Waterloo store to ensure our customers can continue to enjoy a comfortable shopping experience,' an ALDI spokesperson stated.
It's worth noting that ALDI only introduced shopping baskets to its Australian stores in 2022, a move that was well-received by customers who had long requested them.
Despite the need to adjust prices in response to financial pressures, ALDI has consistently been recognised for its value, winning the title of Australia's favourite supermarket for six consecutive years in Canstar's Supermarket Satisfaction awards.
This popularity suggested that while ALDI may face challenges like theft and price increases, its commitment to affordability and customer satisfaction remains strong.
Have you noticed changes in your local supermarkets due to theft? How do you feel about removing shopping baskets and the potential for increased security measures? Let us know in the comments below.
This drastic measure has left customers with the sole option of using trolleys, which require a $1 or $2 coin to unlock, a minor inconvenience that underscores a larger issue.
The supermarket chain, which has been a favourite among Australians for its competitive pricing and no-frills shopping experience, confirmed the basket shortage.
The disappearance of the baskets has been so pronounced that one staff member estimated up to 2,000 baskets had been ‘stolen’.
ALDI temporarily removed its shopping baskets in response to theft spike. Credit: Shutterstock
This figure was neither officially confirmed by an ALDI spokesperson nor did they offer a reason behind the disappearance of baskets.
However, the supermarket will take action on illegal activities as detected by its CCTV used to monitor theft.
Theft in Australian supermarkets has been a growing concern, exacerbated by the cost-of-living crisis affecting millions nationwide.
While other major chains like Coles and Woolworths have implemented various security measures, including security gates at self-service checkouts, ALDI has traditionally taken a more relaxed approach.
Earlier this year, it was reported that ALDI's self-service checkouts did not use the responsive weight plates other supermarkets employ to detect discrepancies in the bagging area.
Despite the challenges, ALDI is working to address the basket issue swiftly.
'We are working to replenish the baskets as quickly as possible and have introduced a smaller 105-litre trolley at the Waterloo store to ensure our customers can continue to enjoy a comfortable shopping experience,' an ALDI spokesperson stated.
It's worth noting that ALDI only introduced shopping baskets to its Australian stores in 2022, a move that was well-received by customers who had long requested them.
Despite the need to adjust prices in response to financial pressures, ALDI has consistently been recognised for its value, winning the title of Australia's favourite supermarket for six consecutive years in Canstar's Supermarket Satisfaction awards.
This popularity suggested that while ALDI may face challenges like theft and price increases, its commitment to affordability and customer satisfaction remains strong.
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