While it's crucial to enhance security measures in supermarkets to reduce theft and shoplifting, it's equally important to strike a balance.

An excessive focus on security can unintentionally create an unwelcoming atmosphere, making innocent shoppers feel like 'criminals' as they go about their routine grocery shopping.

Coles recently experienced this firsthand when the supermarket giant announced a series of intense security changes.

These included the installation of more overhead surveillance cameras and the introduction of body cameras for workers.

Unfortunately, these security enhancements fueled customer resentment, especially after Coles faced accusations of price gouging and revealed a $1.1 billion profit in the last financial year.

Customer dissatisfaction is growing as Coles stands firm on its beefed-up security measures. Credit: Shutterstock.

Social media is buzzing with dissatisfied customers discussing Coles' recent crackdown on theft, which has led to noticeable changes in customers' shopping experiences at their stores.

Amidst shoppers sharing their experiences and engaging in online debates about this controversy, one customer drew a vivid comparison, likening the new checkout security gates to something akin to a gate used for herding sheep.

Another customer even expressed feeling somewhat 'untrusted' and 'ostracised' throughout their shopping trip.

They elaborated on their experience, describing how they approached the self-checkout area where an assistant was wearing a camera on their vest, giving off a somewhat authoritative aura—like a police officer.

'Then I start scanning my stuff, and I notice there is a camera pointed directly at me and also down at what I'm scanning,' they added.

'I go to leave, and I show the guy my receipt, and he opens up a security barrier.'

Coles had also implemented an anti-theft measure where trolley wheels would be locked up if the trolley contained alleged stolen items.

One shopper took to the internet to share his experience and warned other customers to exercise caution when leaving the store.

The man said he was pushing his toddler in a trolley—with nothing but empty reusable bags in it—out of a Coles store when an alarm was suddenly triggered. As the alarm began to beep, he realised the trolley wheels had locked up and could not move.

'Trolley lock technology has been in place at a number of our stores in recent years, and this technology uses sensors to prevent trolleys leaving the store if someone hasn't first paid at a register,' said a Coles spokesperson.

Coles emphasised the significance of implementing these new measures to reduce theft alongside considerations for staff safety.

A spokesperson from Coles acknowledged that most of their customers follow the rules, but there is a small minority that does not. They then went on to outline the recently introduced security measures.

'Coles has a range of security measures in place to reduce theft from our stores, including CCTV, electronic article surveillance (EAS) and in some stores, new smart gate technology that automatically opens as customers make payment for their products.'

Key Takeaways

• Coles supermarket has faced criticism over new, intense security measures which leave many customers feeling like criminals.
• The security changes include increased overhead surveillance cameras, the introduction of body cams on workers, and new checkout security gates.
• Coles has seen a backlash against these changes on social media, with customers stating it makes them feel untrusted and ostracised.
• Despite the customer dissatisfaction, Coles defended the measures as necessary to minimise theft and ensure staff safety; they did not comment on the negative feedback.

We have written about this topic before, and the reactions and responses from members have been really varied. While some were in support of these security changes, others think the supermarket is going too far.

'That's really very invasive technology…' said member @Rey, with member @chinkapook agreeing and adding, 'What an invasion of privacy.'

Member @elaine41 also commented: 'Another good reason never to use self-checkout. I refuse to do the job of a checkout operator & do not want to see my picture up on a screen.'

Meanwhile, member @GsGirl argued: 'If you aren't a thief, then you will have nothing to worry about.'

'I think it is such a sad state of affairs that it has come to this, but anything to stop theft is okay in my books,' member @Liz went on to say.

'I am sure they have to warn you that these cameras and sound are in place under the privacy act.'

What about you? What are your thoughts on these security changes at Coles? Do you think these will prove effective in preventing theft and shoplifting in supermarkets? Let us know in the comments below!

 

[Topher]

No - with increasing amounts of shoplifting (including giving the kids in the trolley sweets and other treats from the shelves to consume while Mum is shopping) with no intention of paying for them, anything to prevent $9 BILLION in losses each year (which we end up paying for) nis a plus in my books. Only the guilty can feel upset, surely.

 

[Joedgo]

I you are not trying to steal anything then there is nothing to worry about. Only the guilty object (from experience as a self service employee)

 

[mylittletibbies]

Why are we continually rehashing this.
You will always have people who are going to feel offended, etc etc etc
For God's sake get over yourself, if you don't like the security at self serve, and if you feel like a thief, thou I don't understand why you would, if you aren't, then stop whinging about it and use the manned checkout.

 

[Veggiepatch]

Here's an idea!

If your shopping centre has another store that uses trolleys, try one of their's. They won't lock up....hopefully!

 

[Observer]

Only the guilty worry about security. I have no problems with it.
I get in, grab what I need to buy, either self checkout or through a register.
Sit back and think about it.

 

[KiwiTrish]

While it's crucial to enhance security measures in supermarkets to reduce theft and shoplifting, it's equally important to strike a balance.

An excessive focus on security can unintentionally create an unwelcoming atmosphere, making innocent shoppers feel like 'criminals' as they go about their routine grocery shopping.

Coles recently experienced this firsthand when the supermarket giant announced a series of intense security changes.

These included the installation of more overhead surveillance cameras and the introduction of body cameras for workers.

Unfortunately, these security enhancements fueled customer resentment, especially after Coles faced accusations of price gouging and revealed a $1.1 billion profit in the last financial year.

View attachment 31031

Customer dissatisfaction is growing as Coles stands firm on its beefed-up security measures. Credit: Shutterstock.

Social media is buzzing with dissatisfied customers discussing Coles' recent crackdown on theft, which has led to noticeable changes in customers' shopping experiences at their stores.

Amidst shoppers sharing their experiences and engaging in online debates about this controversy, one customer drew a vivid comparison, likening the new checkout security gates to something akin to a gate used for herding sheep.

Another customer even expressed feeling somewhat 'untrusted' and 'ostracised' throughout their shopping trip.

They elaborated on their experience, describing how they approached the self-checkout area where an assistant was wearing a camera on their vest, giving off a somewhat authoritative aura—like a police officer.

'Then I start scanning my stuff, and I notice there is a camera pointed directly at me and also down at what I'm scanning,' they added.

'I go to leave, and I show the guy my receipt, and he opens up a security barrier.'

Coles had also implemented an anti-theft measure where trolley wheels would be locked up if the trolley contained alleged stolen items.

One shopper took to the internet to share his experience and warned other customers to exercise caution when leaving the store.

The man said he was pushing his toddler in a trolley—with nothing but empty reusable bags in it—out of a Coles store when an alarm was suddenly triggered. As the alarm began to beep, he realised the trolley wheels had locked up and could not move.

'Trolley lock technology has been in place at a number of our stores in recent years, and this technology uses sensors to prevent trolleys leaving the store if someone hasn't first paid at a register,' said a Coles spokesperson.

Coles emphasised the significance of implementing these new measures to reduce theft alongside considerations for staff safety.

A spokesperson from Coles acknowledged that most of their customers follow the rules, but there is a small minority that does not. They then went on to outline the recently introduced security measures.

'Coles has a range of security measures in place to reduce theft from our stores, including CCTV, electronic article surveillance (EAS) and in some stores, new smart gate technology that automatically opens as customers make payment for their products.'

Key Takeaways

• Coles supermarket has faced criticism over new, intense security measures which leave many customers feeling like criminals.
• The security changes include increased overhead surveillance cameras, the introduction of body cams on workers, and new checkout security gates.
• Coles has seen a backlash against these changes on social media, with customers stating it makes them feel untrusted and ostracised.
• Despite the customer dissatisfaction, Coles defended the measures as necessary to minimise theft and ensure staff safety; they did not comment on the negative feedback.

We have written about this topic before, and the reactions and responses from members have been really varied. While some were in support of these security changes, others think the supermarket is going too far.

'That's really very invasive technology…' said member @Rey, with member @chinkapook agreeing and adding, 'What an invasion of privacy.'

Member @elaine41 also commented: 'Another good reason never to use self-checkout. I refuse to do the job of a checkout operator & do not want to see my picture up on a screen.'

Meanwhile, member @GsGirl argued: 'If you aren't a thief, then you will have nothing to worry about.'

'I think it is such a sad state of affairs that it has come to this, but anything to stop theft is okay in my books,' member @Liz went on to say.

'I am sure they have to warn you that these cameras and sound are in place under the privacy act.'

What about you? What are your thoughts on these security changes at Coles? Do you think these will prove effective in preventing theft and shoplifting in supermarkets? Let us know in the comments below!

Doesn’t worry me if you’re not doing anything wrong what’s the problem? Perhaps it’s the people they are trying to stop stealing that are complaining the most! Wake up people we are the ones paying the price risers for the people who think it’s ok to take what they want

 

[Trouble1]

While it's crucial to enhance security measures in supermarkets to reduce theft and shoplifting, it's equally important to strike a balance.

An excessive focus on security can unintentionally create an unwelcoming atmosphere, making innocent shoppers feel like 'criminals' as they go about their routine grocery shopping.

Coles recently experienced this firsthand when the supermarket giant announced a series of intense security changes.

These included the installation of more overhead surveillance cameras and the introduction of body cameras for workers.

Unfortunately, these security enhancements fueled customer resentment, especially after Coles faced accusations of price gouging and revealed a $1.1 billion profit in the last financial year.

View attachment 31031

Customer dissatisfaction is growing as Coles stands firm on its beefed-up security measures. Credit: Shutterstock.

Social media is buzzing with dissatisfied customers discussing Coles' recent crackdown on theft, which has led to noticeable changes in customers' shopping experiences at their stores.

Amidst shoppers sharing their experiences and engaging in online debates about this controversy, one customer drew a vivid comparison, likening the new checkout security gates to something akin to a gate used for herding sheep.

Another customer even expressed feeling somewhat 'untrusted' and 'ostracised' throughout their shopping trip.

They elaborated on their experience, describing how they approached the self-checkout area where an assistant was wearing a camera on their vest, giving off a somewhat authoritative aura—like a police officer.

'Then I start scanning my stuff, and I notice there is a camera pointed directly at me and also down at what I'm scanning,' they added.

'I go to leave, and I show the guy my receipt, and he opens up a security barrier.'

Coles had also implemented an anti-theft measure where trolley wheels would be locked up if the trolley contained alleged stolen items.

One shopper took to the internet to share his experience and warned other customers to exercise caution when leaving the store.

The man said he was pushing his toddler in a trolley—with nothing but empty reusable bags in it—out of a Coles store when an alarm was suddenly triggered. As the alarm began to beep, he realised the trolley wheels had locked up and could not move.

'Trolley lock technology has been in place at a number of our stores in recent years, and this technology uses sensors to prevent trolleys leaving the store if someone hasn't first paid at a register,' said a Coles spokesperson.

Coles emphasised the significance of implementing these new measures to reduce theft alongside considerations for staff safety.

A spokesperson from Coles acknowledged that most of their customers follow the rules, but there is a small minority that does not. They then went on to outline the recently introduced security measures.

'Coles has a range of security measures in place to reduce theft from our stores, including CCTV, electronic article surveillance (EAS) and in some stores, new smart gate technology that automatically opens as customers make payment for their products.'

Key Takeaways

• Coles supermarket has faced criticism over new, intense security measures which leave many customers feeling like criminals.
• The security changes include increased overhead surveillance cameras, the introduction of body cams on workers, and new checkout security gates.
• Coles has seen a backlash against these changes on social media, with customers stating it makes them feel untrusted and ostracised.
• Despite the customer dissatisfaction, Coles defended the measures as necessary to minimise theft and ensure staff safety; they did not comment on the negative feedback.

We have written about this topic before, and the reactions and responses from members have been really varied. While some were in support of these security changes, others think the supermarket is going too far.

'That's really very invasive technology…' said member @Rey, with member @chinkapook agreeing and adding, 'What an invasion of privacy.'

Member @elaine41 also commented: 'Another good reason never to use self-checkout. I refuse to do the job of a checkout operator & do not want to see my picture up on a screen.'

Meanwhile, member @GsGirl argued: 'If you aren't a thief, then you will have nothing to worry about.'

'I think it is such a sad state of affairs that it has come to this, but anything to stop theft is okay in my books,' member @Liz went on to say.

'I am sure they have to warn you that these cameras and sound are in place under the privacy act.'

What about you? What are your thoughts on these security changes at Coles? Do you think these will prove effective in preventing theft and shoplifting in supermarkets? Let us know in the comments below!

WAKE UP Woolworths, Coles et. al.
DITCH self serve bays.
EMPLOY PEOPLE!

 

[Veggiepatch]

Coles draws flak for beefed-up security at stores.​

Have you seen how obese some of these "security" dudes are? Beefed-up? They already are!

 

[mylittletibbies]

Coles draws flak for beefed-up security at stores.​

Have you seen how obese some of these "security" dudes are? Beefed-up? They already are!

Good morning Veggiepatch,
You're in fine form today, as usual, lol.

 

[Jest]

While it's crucial to enhance security measures in supermarkets to reduce theft and shoplifting, it's equally important to strike a balance.

An excessive focus on security can unintentionally create an unwelcoming atmosphere, making innocent shoppers feel like 'criminals' as they go about their routine grocery shopping.

Coles recently experienced this firsthand when the supermarket giant announced a series of intense security changes.

These included the installation of more overhead surveillance cameras and the introduction of body cameras for workers.

Unfortunately, these security enhancements fueled customer resentment, especially after Coles faced accusations of price gouging and revealed a $1.1 billion profit in the last financial year.

View attachment 31031

Customer dissatisfaction is growing as Coles stands firm on its beefed-up security measures. Credit: Shutterstock.

Social media is buzzing with dissatisfied customers discussing Coles' recent crackdown on theft, which has led to noticeable changes in customers' shopping experiences at their stores.

Amidst shoppers sharing their experiences and engaging in online debates about this controversy, one customer drew a vivid comparison, likening the new checkout security gates to something akin to a gate used for herding sheep.

Another customer even expressed feeling somewhat 'untrusted' and 'ostracised' throughout their shopping trip.

They elaborated on their experience, describing how they approached the self-checkout area where an assistant was wearing a camera on their vest, giving off a somewhat authoritative aura—like a police officer.

'Then I start scanning my stuff, and I notice there is a camera pointed directly at me and also down at what I'm scanning,' they added.

'I go to leave, and I show the guy my receipt, and he opens up a security barrier.'

Coles had also implemented an anti-theft measure where trolley wheels would be locked up if the trolley contained alleged stolen items.

One shopper took to the internet to share his experience and warned other customers to exercise caution when leaving the store.

The man said he was pushing his toddler in a trolley—with nothing but empty reusable bags in it—out of a Coles store when an alarm was suddenly triggered. As the alarm began to beep, he realised the trolley wheels had locked up and could not move.

'Trolley lock technology has been in place at a number of our stores in recent years, and this technology uses sensors to prevent trolleys leaving the store if someone hasn't first paid at a register,' said a Coles spokesperson.

Coles emphasised the significance of implementing these new measures to reduce theft alongside considerations for staff safety.

A spokesperson from Coles acknowledged that most of their customers follow the rules, but there is a small minority that does not. They then went on to outline the recently introduced security measures.

'Coles has a range of security measures in place to reduce theft from our stores, including CCTV, electronic article surveillance (EAS) and in some stores, new smart gate technology that automatically opens as customers make payment for their products.'

Key Takeaways

• Coles supermarket has faced criticism over new, intense security measures which leave many customers feeling like criminals.
• The security changes include increased overhead surveillance cameras, the introduction of body cams on workers, and new checkout security gates.
• Coles has seen a backlash against these changes on social media, with customers stating it makes them feel untrusted and ostracised.
• Despite the customer dissatisfaction, Coles defended the measures as necessary to minimise theft and ensure staff safety; they did not comment on the negative feedback.

We have written about this topic before, and the reactions and responses from members have been really varied. While some were in support of these security changes, others think the supermarket is going too far.

'That's really very invasive technology…' said member @Rey, with member @chinkapook agreeing and adding, 'What an invasion of privacy.'

Member @elaine41 also commented: 'Another good reason never to use self-checkout. I refuse to do the job of a checkout operator & do not want to see my picture up on a screen.'

Meanwhile, member @GsGirl argued: 'If you aren't a thief, then you will have nothing to worry about.'

'I think it is such a sad state of affairs that it has come to this, but anything to stop theft is okay in my books,' member @Liz went on to say.

'I am sure they have to warn you that these cameras and sound are in place under the privacy act.'

What about you? What are your thoughts on these security changes at Coles? Do you think these will prove effective in preventing theft and shoplifting in supermarkets? Let us know in the comments below!

these people are the ones not to be trusted so good on coles for safeguarding the rest of us. those who are complaining are the security problem.

 

[Leenie]

Doesn’t worry me if you’re not doing anything wrong what’s the problem? Perhaps it’s the people they are trying to stop stealing that are complaining the most! Wake up people we are the ones paying the price risers for the people who think it’s ok to take what they want

The point is we are all being as as if we dishonest, when 99% are not , I don’t even think about cameras watching I go I shop and out ,although it’s not nice to be watched when not doing anything wrong. Security has gone too far.

 

[Observer]

Whether withdrawing, depositing, or even transferring funds at an ATM, there have been cameras installed in those for many many years now.
You have been watched since they were introduced so why would you worry about cameras at a supermarket unless you have something to hide.

 

[Jo Piper3]

If you are honest you have nothing to worry about. I only use staffed checkouts and have no problems.

 

[Time to chat]

While it's crucial to enhance security measures in supermarkets to reduce theft and shoplifting, it's equally important to strike a balance.

An excessive focus on security can unintentionally create an unwelcoming atmosphere, making innocent shoppers feel like 'criminals' as they go about their routine grocery shopping.

Coles recently experienced this firsthand when the supermarket giant announced a series of intense security changes.

These included the installation of more overhead surveillance cameras and the introduction of body cameras for workers.

Unfortunately, these security enhancements fueled customer resentment, especially after Coles faced accusations of price gouging and revealed a $1.1 billion profit in the last financial year.

View attachment 31031

Customer dissatisfaction is growing as Coles stands firm on its beefed-up security measures. Credit: Shutterstock.

Social media is buzzing with dissatisfied customers discussing Coles' recent crackdown on theft, which has led to noticeable changes in customers' shopping experiences at their stores.

Amidst shoppers sharing their experiences and engaging in online debates about this controversy, one customer drew a vivid comparison, likening the new checkout security gates to something akin to a gate used for herding sheep.

Another customer even expressed feeling somewhat 'untrusted' and 'ostracised' throughout their shopping trip.

They elaborated on their experience, describing how they approached the self-checkout area where an assistant was wearing a camera on their vest, giving off a somewhat authoritative aura—like a police officer.

'Then I start scanning my stuff, and I notice there is a camera pointed directly at me and also down at what I'm scanning,' they added.

'I go to leave, and I show the guy my receipt, and he opens up a security barrier.'

Coles had also implemented an anti-theft measure where trolley wheels would be locked up if the trolley contained alleged stolen items.

One shopper took to the internet to share his experience and warned other customers to exercise caution when leaving the store.

The man said he was pushing his toddler in a trolley—with nothing but empty reusable bags in it—out of a Coles store when an alarm was suddenly triggered. As the alarm began to beep, he realised the trolley wheels had locked up and could not move.

'Trolley lock technology has been in place at a number of our stores in recent years, and this technology uses sensors to prevent trolleys leaving the store if someone hasn't first paid at a register,' said a Coles spokesperson.

Coles emphasised the significance of implementing these new measures to reduce theft alongside considerations for staff safety.

A spokesperson from Coles acknowledged that most of their customers follow the rules, but there is a small minority that does not. They then went on to outline the recently introduced security measures.

'Coles has a range of security measures in place to reduce theft from our stores, including CCTV, electronic article surveillance (EAS) and in some stores, new smart gate technology that automatically opens as customers make payment for their products.'

Key Takeaways

• Coles supermarket has faced criticism over new, intense security measures which leave many customers feeling like criminals.
• The security changes include increased overhead surveillance cameras, the introduction of body cams on workers, and new checkout security gates.
• Coles has seen a backlash against these changes on social media, with customers stating it makes them feel untrusted and ostracised.
• Despite the customer dissatisfaction, Coles defended the measures as necessary to minimise theft and ensure staff safety; they did not comment on the negative feedback.

We have written about this topic before, and the reactions and responses from members have been really varied. While some were in support of these security changes, others think the supermarket is going too far.

'That's really very invasive technology…' said member @Rey, with member @chinkapook agreeing and adding, 'What an invasion of privacy.'

Member @elaine41 also commented: 'Another good reason never to use self-checkout. I refuse to do the job of a checkout operator & do not want to see my picture up on a screen.'

Meanwhile, member @GsGirl argued: 'If you aren't a thief, then you will have nothing to worry about.'

'I think it is such a sad state of affairs that it has come to this, but anything to stop theft is okay in my books,' member @Liz went on to say.

'I am sure they have to warn you that these cameras and sound are in place under the privacy act.'

What about you? What are your thoughts on these security changes at Coles? Do you think these will prove effective in preventing theft and shoplifting in supermarkets? Let us know in the comments below!

If you don’t shoplift you have nothing to worry about.

 

[Gil]

The statement "If you don’t shoplift you have nothing to worry about" is the biggest BS cop out.
Whether you are a thief or a law-abiding citizen, you are having your constitutional rights invaded.
If I put security cameras in my home, by law I have to put a visible sign out front warning that they are there.
If I put CCTV cameras around the outside of my home, I must make sure that they are not pointed in a direction that will compromise neighbours privacy. There are many laws that govern what can and what cannot be done with surveillance. Even when the city place CCTV cameras around, they also placed signs warning people that they may be under surveillance in some areas. I do not see any warning signs on entering my local Coles. How come they are exempt.
Another point: When the average person is asked to complete a task unsupervised, they usually carry it out without mistakes, however when asked to carry out that task under close scrutiny, they tend to "panic" and do make mistakes. I can see the same thing happening with the scrutinised self-checkouts. Many innocent people will either make a mistake or take much longer in an attempt to minimise embarrasment.
Having said all this, I am in favour of the supermarkets attempting to curtail theft, but there must be some other ways of going about it. Why not use a portion of their profits to employ a larger amount of internal surveillance people, like the old time "floor-walkers".

 

[IAN3005]

While it's crucial to enhance security measures in supermarkets to reduce theft and shoplifting, it's equally important to strike a balance.

An excessive focus on security can unintentionally create an unwelcoming atmosphere, making innocent shoppers feel like 'criminals' as they go about their routine grocery shopping.

Coles recently experienced this firsthand when the supermarket giant announced a series of intense security changes.

These included the installation of more overhead surveillance cameras and the introduction of body cameras for workers.

Unfortunately, these security enhancements fueled customer resentment, especially after Coles faced accusations of price gouging and revealed a $1.1 billion profit in the last financial year.

View attachment 31031

Customer dissatisfaction is growing as Coles stands firm on its beefed-up security measures. Credit: Shutterstock.

Social media is buzzing with dissatisfied customers discussing Coles' recent crackdown on theft, which has led to noticeable changes in customers' shopping experiences at their stores.

Amidst shoppers sharing their experiences and engaging in online debates about this controversy, one customer drew a vivid comparison, likening the new checkout security gates to something akin to a gate used for herding sheep.

Another customer even expressed feeling somewhat 'untrusted' and 'ostracised' throughout their shopping trip.

They elaborated on their experience, describing how they approached the self-checkout area where an assistant was wearing a camera on their vest, giving off a somewhat authoritative aura—like a police officer.

'Then I start scanning my stuff, and I notice there is a camera pointed directly at me and also down at what I'm scanning,' they added.

'I go to leave, and I show the guy my receipt, and he opens up a security barrier.'

Coles had also implemented an anti-theft measure where trolley wheels would be locked up if the trolley contained alleged stolen items.

One shopper took to the internet to share his experience and warned other customers to exercise caution when leaving the store.

The man said he was pushing his toddler in a trolley—with nothing but empty reusable bags in it—out of a Coles store when an alarm was suddenly triggered. As the alarm began to beep, he realised the trolley wheels had locked up and could not move.

'Trolley lock technology has been in place at a number of our stores in recent years, and this technology uses sensors to prevent trolleys leaving the store if someone hasn't first paid at a register,' said a Coles spokesperson.

Coles emphasised the significance of implementing these new measures to reduce theft alongside considerations for staff safety.

A spokesperson from Coles acknowledged that most of their customers follow the rules, but there is a small minority that does not. They then went on to outline the recently introduced security measures.

'Coles has a range of security measures in place to reduce theft from our stores, including CCTV, electronic article surveillance (EAS) and in some stores, new smart gate technology that automatically opens as customers make payment for their products.'

Key Takeaways

• Coles supermarket has faced criticism over new, intense security measures which leave many customers feeling like criminals.
• The security changes include increased overhead surveillance cameras, the introduction of body cams on workers, and new checkout security gates.
• Coles has seen a backlash against these changes on social media, with customers stating it makes them feel untrusted and ostracised.
• Despite the customer dissatisfaction, Coles defended the measures as necessary to minimise theft and ensure staff safety; they did not comment on the negative feedback.

We have written about this topic before, and the reactions and responses from members have been really varied. While some were in support of these security changes, others think the supermarket is going too far.

'That's really very invasive technology…' said member @Rey, with member @chinkapook agreeing and adding, 'What an invasion of privacy.'

Member @elaine41 also commented: 'Another good reason never to use self-checkout. I refuse to do the job of a checkout operator & do not want to see my picture up on a screen.'

Meanwhile, member @GsGirl argued: 'If you aren't a thief, then you will have nothing to worry about.'

'I think it is such a sad state of affairs that it has come to this, but anything to stop theft is okay in my books,' member @Liz went on to say.

'I am sure they have to warn you that these cameras and sound are in place under the privacy act.'

What about you? What are your thoughts on these security changes at Coles? Do you think these will prove effective in preventing theft and shoplifting in supermarkets? Let us know in the comments below!

Shop at Coles and Woollies and put up with it. Or don't shop there. They posted a billion $ profit so theft is not an issue......

 

[Leenie]

Shop at Coles and Woollies and put up with it. Or don't shop there. They posted a billion $ profit so theft is not an issue......

Maybe they can use some of the profits and employ humans and everyone will be happy. Our rights are being eroded everyday,there is too much surveillance where does it stop.

 

[Trish21]

While it's crucial to enhance security measures in supermarkets to reduce theft and shoplifting, it's equally important to strike a balance.

An excessive focus on security can unintentionally create an unwelcoming atmosphere, making innocent shoppers feel like 'criminals' as they go about their routine grocery shopping.

Coles recently experienced this firsthand when the supermarket giant announced a series of intense security changes.

These included the installation of more overhead surveillance cameras and the introduction of body cameras for workers.

Unfortunately, these security enhancements fueled customer resentment, especially after Coles faced accusations of price gouging and revealed a $1.1 billion profit in the last financial year.

View attachment 31031

Customer dissatisfaction is growing as Coles stands firm on its beefed-up security measures. Credit: Shutterstock.

Social media is buzzing with dissatisfied customers discussing Coles' recent crackdown on theft, which has led to noticeable changes in customers' shopping experiences at their stores.

Amidst shoppers sharing their experiences and engaging in online debates about this controversy, one customer drew a vivid comparison, likening the new checkout security gates to something akin to a gate used for herding sheep.

Another customer even expressed feeling somewhat 'untrusted' and 'ostracised' throughout their shopping trip.

They elaborated on their experience, describing how they approached the self-checkout area where an assistant was wearing a camera on their vest, giving off a somewhat authoritative aura—like a police officer.

'Then I start scanning my stuff, and I notice there is a camera pointed directly at me and also down at what I'm scanning,' they added.

'I go to leave, and I show the guy my receipt, and he opens up a security barrier.'

Coles had also implemented an anti-theft measure where trolley wheels would be locked up if the trolley contained alleged stolen items.

One shopper took to the internet to share his experience and warned other customers to exercise caution when leaving the store.

The man said he was pushing his toddler in a trolley—with nothing but empty reusable bags in it—out of a Coles store when an alarm was suddenly triggered. As the alarm began to beep, he realised the trolley wheels had locked up and could not move.

'Trolley lock technology has been in place at a number of our stores in recent years, and this technology uses sensors to prevent trolleys leaving the store if someone hasn't first paid at a register,' said a Coles spokesperson.

Coles emphasised the significance of implementing these new measures to reduce theft alongside considerations for staff safety.

A spokesperson from Coles acknowledged that most of their customers follow the rules, but there is a small minority that does not. They then went on to outline the recently introduced security measures.

'Coles has a range of security measures in place to reduce theft from our stores, including CCTV, electronic article surveillance (EAS) and in some stores, new smart gate technology that automatically opens as customers make payment for their products.'

Key Takeaways

• Coles supermarket has faced criticism over new, intense security measures which leave many customers feeling like criminals.
• The security changes include increased overhead surveillance cameras, the introduction of body cams on workers, and new checkout security gates.
• Coles has seen a backlash against these changes on social media, with customers stating it makes them feel untrusted and ostracised.
• Despite the customer dissatisfaction, Coles defended the measures as necessary to minimise theft and ensure staff safety; they did not comment on the negative feedback.

We have written about this topic before, and the reactions and responses from members have been really varied. While some were in support of these security changes, others think the supermarket is going too far.

'That's really very invasive technology…' said member @Rey, with member @chinkapook agreeing and adding, 'What an invasion of privacy.'

Member @elaine41 also commented: 'Another good reason never to use self-checkout. I refuse to do the job of a checkout operator & do not want to see my picture up on a screen.'

Meanwhile, member @GsGirl argued: 'If you aren't a thief, then you will have nothing to worry about.'

'I think it is such a sad state of affairs that it has come to this, but anything to stop theft is okay in my books,' member @Liz went on to say.

'I am sure they have to warn you that these cameras and sound are in place under the privacy act.'

What about you? What are your thoughts on these security changes at Coles? Do you think these will prove effective in preventing theft and shoplifting in supermarkets? Let us know in the comments below!

If you havnt done anything wrong why would it worry you I am not bothered about it

 

[gordon1940]

The statement "If you don’t shoplift you have nothing to worry about" is the biggest BS cop out.
Whether you are a thief or a law-abiding citizen, you are having your constitutional rights invaded.
If I put security cameras in my home, by law I have to put a visible sign out front warning that they are there.
If I put CCTV cameras around the outside of my home, I must make sure that they are not pointed in a direction that will compromise neighbours privacy. There are many laws that govern what can and what cannot be done with surveillance. Even when the city place CCTV cameras around, they also placed signs warning people that they may be under surveillance in some areas. I do not see any warning signs on entering my local Coles. How come they are exempt.
Another point: When the average person is asked to complete a task unsupervised, they usually carry it out without mistakes, however when asked to carry out that task under close scrutiny, they tend to "panic" and do make mistakes. I can see the same thing happening with the scrutinised self-checkouts. Many innocent people will either make a mistake or take much longer in an attempt to minimise embarrasment.
Having said all this, I am in favour of the supermarkets attempting to curtail theft, but there must be some other ways of going about it. Why not use a portion of their profits to employ a larger amount of internal surveillance people, like the old time "floor-walkers".

Andrews Liver Salts may be the answer.