Coles trials security tags on selected items in some stores

Coles is trialling a new security measure in some of its stores in a bid to lower shoplifting rates.

Coles have begun slapping security tags on meat as shoplifting rates increase in line with the cost of living crisis.

The supermarket giant has taken new anti-shoplifting measures at some stores, fixing steaks and other items with security tags that trigger alarms if stolen.

Coles have taken to slapping security tags on meat as shoplifting rates increase in line with the cost of living crisis. Picture: Reddit

Images of the meat were posted in the Reddit thread r/Melbourne, attracting widespread disdain from Reddit users.

“Considering they’re worth more than gold, a security tag is the lightweight solution,” one user wrote.

“Love walking into my grocery like a prison too. Hope they bring in pat downs next month.”

Another person said such measures would encourage them to go to a butcher instead of the supermarket.

“It’s a good day to be vegetarian, they ain’t guarding the tofu.”

One person wrote: “Security tags on food, no matter what sort, is depressing.”

“Down down, standards are down,” someone wrote.

The tags need to be removed by a staff member but can still be taken through self-serve check-outs.

The supermarket giant has taken new anti-shoplifting measures at some stores, fixing steaks and other items with security tags that trigger alarms if stolen. Picture: Reddit

A Coles spokesman said the tags were part of a “very small trial” in only 10 stores in Victoria, and that the majority of customers “do the right thing in store”.

“Measures like this are for the ones who don’t,” they told Nine News.

“We are always reassessing and trying new security measures, and are keen to hear local feedback on the trial.”

Despite a rise in shoplifting rates, there has been limited outrage from the community due to supermarket price gouging and the cost of living crisis.

Coles Group supermarkets recognised a total sales revenue growth from continuing operations of 5.9 per cent to $40.5bn during the 2023 financial year.

“If you ever see someone stealing food, no the f**k you didn’t,” one person commented on Reddit with 26 boosts to the comment.

Originally published as Coles trials security tags on selected items in some stores