Many continue to struggle with the skyrocketing cost of living.

Unfortunately, as people try and barely manage to make ends meet, this has also led to the rise of shoplifting cases across Australia.

This stark reality was brought front and centre with one thief's haul from a Queensland Woolworths that sparked a fierce debate online.

A local community Facebook group shared an image of the loot stolen from a Woolies store—a basket containing two Hot Roast Chickens, several meat packs, a jar of Nutella, and more.

A basket of stolen goods from Woolworths cost a total of $398.39. Image source: Facebook.

'Today in Woolworths a so-called customer tried to steal this basket full,' the caption read.

'If you listened to the TV report on shoplifting, we the people who pay for our goods also pay for theirs because we pay a loss percentage which is built into every item we pay for.'

But what really stunned internet users was the total cost of these items: a whopping $398.39.

This included savings of $93.40, which means the total could have been as high as $491.79.

While any other similar incident would have immediately led to instant condemnation—stealing is, after all, against the law—the reactions to the incident were of grim understanding, and maybe even sympathy for a desperate act.

This angered many other users with one saying: 'The fact the basket full is $398 is no doubt the real crime!'

'I am more shocked that basket of food came to $400. I would expect to fill my trolley up for that amount,' another added.

While a third replied: 'Twenty-seven items for $398?!'

And a fourth commented: 'Nearly $500 without the “savings”.'

Some users took aim at those who shamed 'people who are forced to steal to survive'.

'With the cost of living, no wonder people are stealing,' one person wrote.

But not all who saw the costly haul were swayed, as some users zeroed in on the contents of the basket.

Other users pointed out that the items on the cash register were not essential as it included $11 skincare items and several Bonds buys.

'You don’t NEED plump serum or Bonds brand items to survive—unless you can afford it then get the cheaper items,' one said.

'If you need help, ask for it. There are lots of places out there that would be able to help you,' another added.

This news comes after Woolworths recent decision to take a step further towards improving their stores’ security by trialling some bold new techniques.

This includes the installation of automatic gates and high-tech surveillance in their self-serve checkout areas.

Currently, these changes are being tested in select stores across Australia.

Similarly, Coles implemented an anti-theft measure where trolley wheels would be locked up if it contained alleged stolen items.

You can read more about this security feature here.

Key Takeaways

• A basket of stolen Woolworths groceries has caused a debate on social media due to the high cost of the items.
  
• The basket, with 27 items, totalled $398.39. This included $93.40 in savings, so the original cost could’ve been as much as $491.79.
  
• Many on social media criticised both the high price of the items and the community group's potential 'shaming' of those forced to steal due to financial constraints.
  
• Others pointed out that several items in the basket—such as an $11 skincare product and Bonds brand items—weren't essential purchases.
  

What do you think about this latest news, members? Let us know in the comments below!

 

[AlanQ]

There are 27 items on the total, not just what is shown in the basket. Blind Freddie can see that the amount shown is less than $100:. Unfortunately, what is going to eventuate is ALL customers will be treated like thieves and as such a quick shop will result in a long process of inspection, much like Costco does.

 

[Abby2]

i call this out that docket doesnt even add up to that amount so why would you even print such a story without checking it out first

The story is from https://7news.com.au/lifestyle/inte...s-basket-of-stolen-woolworths-food-c-12161170

 

[Tygie]

Many continue to struggle with the skyrocketing cost of living.

Unfortunately, as people try and barely manage to make ends meet, this has also led to the rise of shoplifting cases across Australia.

This stark reality was brought front and centre with one thief's haul from a Queensland Woolworths that sparked a fierce debate online.

A local community Facebook group shared an image of the loot stolen from a Woolies store—a basket containing two Hot Roast Chickens, several meat packs, a jar of Nutella, and more.

View attachment 31911

A basket of stolen goods from Woolworths cost a total of $398.39. Image source: Facebook.

'Today in Woolworths a so-called customer tried to steal this basket full,' the caption read.

'If you listened to the TV report on shoplifting, we the people who pay for our goods also pay for theirs because we pay a loss percentage which is built into every item we pay for.'

But what really stunned internet users was the total cost of these items: a whopping $398.39.

This included savings of $93.40, which means the total could have been as high as $491.79.

While any other similar incident would have immediately led to instant condemnation—stealing is, after all, against the law—the reactions to the incident were of grim understanding, and maybe even sympathy for a desperate act.

This angered many other users with one saying: 'The fact the basket full is $398 is no doubt the real crime!'

'I am more shocked that basket of food came to $400. I would expect to fill my trolley up for that amount,' another added.

While a third replied: 'Twenty-seven items for $398?!'

And a fourth commented: 'Nearly $500 without the “savings”.'

Some users took aim at those who shamed 'people who are forced to steal to survive'.

'With the cost of living, no wonder people are stealing,' one person wrote.

But not all who saw the costly haul were swayed, as some users zeroed in on the contents of the basket.

Other users pointed out that the items on the cash register were not essential as it included $11 skincare items and several Bonds buys.

'You don’t NEED plump serum or Bonds brand items to survive—unless you can afford it then get the cheaper items,' one said.

'If you need help, ask for it. There are lots of places out there that would be able to help you,' another added.

This news comes after Woolworths recent decision to take a step further towards improving their stores’ security by trialling some bold new techniques.

This includes the installation of automatic gates and high-tech surveillance in their self-serve checkout areas.

Currently, these changes are being tested in select stores across Australia.

Similarly, Coles implemented an anti-theft measure where trolley wheels would be locked up if it contained alleged stolen items.

You can read more about this security feature here.

Key Takeaways

• A basket of stolen Woolworths groceries has caused a debate on social media due to the high cost of the items.
• The basket, with 27 items, totalled $398.39. This included $93.40 in savings, so the original cost could’ve been as much as $491.79.
• Many on social media criticised both the high price of the items and the community group's potential 'shaming' of those forced to steal due to financial constraints.
• Others pointed out that several items in the basket—such as an $11 skincare product and Bonds brand items—weren't essential purchases.

What do you think about this latest news, members? Let us know in the comments below!

The SCUM that steal might be saving themselves (so they think) money BUT they are costing us all more and driving up the prices even further.
If they can't afford it either go cheaper or don't get it. They should think about someone other than themselves for once and grow the F up. That is a ridiculous amount to spend on such a small amount at a shop.

 

[marni]

a BASKET full of items that totaled nearly $500 before discount, are you kidding me. You really have to ask yourself who is the real thief here ?.......WHO is ROBBING who ?

 

[marni]

The thief is robbing everyone of us - they should get a job - if they are able to shop they are able to serve. So many places are looking for staff. Thieves always go for the most expensive items - some even stock their own cafe's or market stalls by theft.

 

[Macarj]

Without knowing what is in the basket it's impossible to say it's overpriced