Waitrose hangs anti-theft posters to deter stealing… in staffrooms

Anti-theft posters have been put up in Waitrose’s staff areas, warning employees they could lose their jobs or go to jail if they are caught stealing.

Notices are now displayed in supermarket staff rooms encouraging workers to speak to managers if they are experiencing financial difficulties.

The posters read: ‘The first time you play may be the last time you play. You will lose your job and could be fined or imprisoned.’

Although some staff say they only recently noticed the signs, Waitrose insists they have been in use for two years, according to reports.

Employee theft is on the rise in the retail industry, with a 2023 study suggesting staff are responsible for up to 40 percent of incidents.

Retail Economics, which conducted the research, said two-thirds of business leaders believe the cost of living crisis is fueling the rise.

The John Lewis Partnership, which owns Waitrose, has previously taken steps to ease pressure on staff.

It has given full-time employees a £500 cost of living payment in 2022 and offered free meals over the festive period in 2021 and 2022.

The program was discontinued last year, but permanent staff can still apply for financial hardship grants and interest-free loans.

The Telegraph reported last month’s official figures showed inflation had risen to 3.8 per cent, the highest in 19 months.

Retailers are also struggling with record theft levels; Almost three thefts are reported every minute, with estimated losses last year estimated at £2bn; This is the equivalent of £133 added to each household’s shopping bill.

The Daily Mail has approached Waitrose for comment.