Waitrose and John Lewis are taking a novel approach to combat shoplifting by offering free hot drinks to on-duty police officers. The initiative, aimed at deterring potential

thieves, comes amidst increasing reports of retail crime across various stores. The parent company, John Lewis Partnership, has communicated to the Police Federation that officers can avail themselves of the offer, provided they bring a reusable cup.

The head of security for the group, Nicki Juniper, emphasized that the mere presence of a police car outside the store could discourage criminal activities. The scheme allows police officers and community support officers to access in-store coffee machines at Waitrose for complimentary beverages. At John Lewis, officers can utilize staff cafeterias during breaks and also purchase discounted food.

Dame Sharon White, the chair of the John Lewis Partnership, has additionally reached out to Home Secretary Suella Braverman, urging tougher action against repeat and violent offenders.

Retail crime has prompted the company to increase the number of trained staff and security personnel aimed at apprehending shoplifters. In an effort to deter crime, the retailer has also experimented with a customer-centric approach called "love bombing," which involves heightened attention to customers' needs.

Similar concerns have arisen across the retail sector, with the Co-op voicing alarm over record-high levels of crime in its stores. Co-op highlighted the increasing incidents of crime, shoplifting, and anti-social behavior in its outlets.

The British Retail Consortium reported that retail thefts in England and Wales surged by 26% in 2022, costing retailers nearly £1 billion in the 2021 financial year. The consortium emphasized that the funds could be better utilized to reduce prices and enhance the customer experience. Photo by Derek Harper, Wikimedia commons.