In response to the theft of packages of steak, Coles has started testing a new strategy aimed at preventing it from happening.
A Reddit user shared a picture of a security tag attached to a steak package, which some Australians found distressing.
One user noted that the security tags attached to food are depressing, and they make one feel like they are a criminal.
Others said that the issue appeared to be simple: The company has introduced a security measure to prevent items from being stolen.
A spokesperson for Coles said that the company had started testing the idea in a small trial in Victoria.
The spokesperson for Coles noted that although the majority of customers follow the company’s guidelines, some individuals do not.
To address this issue, the company has various security measures in place. These include the use of surveillance cameras and security personnel.
The post on Reddit showed that the security tags were attached to a meat product, and it was a small trial in ten stores in Victoria.
The spokesperson for Coles noted that the company was always looking for new ways to improve its security.
It’s believed that the security tags are being tested on various meat products, mainly beef.
In 2023, the company introduced various security measures, such as body cameras, CCTV, and smart gate technology.
In October, a study revealed that 12 percent of Australian consumers admitted to stealing due to financial troubles.
According to Graham Cooke, a consumer research expert, both Coles and Woolies mentioned the increasing number of shoplifting incidents during their earnings announcements.
He said that Australians are resorting to criminal behavior due to the rising cost of living.
In its annual report released in 2023, Coles noted that the company’s stock loss had increased by 20 percent.