A Walmart shopper criticized the retailer’s anti-theft policies.
Customers were left furious after discovering products locked up in the health and beauty section of a supermarket.
Locking items in cabinets is just one measure Walmart leaders have put in place to combat shoplifting.
Experts from the National Retail Federation warned that theft is impacting the retail industry at an unprecedented level.
According to the agency’s 2023 Retail Security Survey, the average shrinkage rate in 2022 increased to 1.6% from 2021.
Storing items in cabinets isn’t just a Walmart. The measure is being rolled out at Target and CVS stores across the United States.
“I noticed that you keep a ‘marriage grant’ in the HBA section. Goodbye sales.” X Users were outraged.
“We’re not asking the clerk to lock the cabinet to buy lube.”
Shoppers have documented their in-store experiences when faced with long wait times.
Customers need to press a button to get staff’s attention, but staff don’t always respond immediately.
Shopper Sueski (@quilt gc) When he tried to buy Lego, he had to wait for 10 minutes.
Common items that can be locked include cosmetics and razor blades.
Even everyday items such as toothpaste have been blocked, leaving some shoppers perplexed.
Inside Edition reporters revealed that they had to wait 24 minutes to get an electric toothbrush at a Walmart store in New Jersey.
Journalist Lisa Guerrero said she had to press the help button three times before a Target employee helped her.
She was stunned when she discovered that her socks and underwear were trapped on shelves at a Manhattan store.
Last year, Dollar Tree executives warned that discount retailers could follow suit and adopt the measure, according to CBS.
But the speculation has some shoppers perplexed.
“If I get locked up, I just get out of there. Next If you’re in a hurry, go there,” Karina Gonzalez told the outlet.
Meanwhile, Dollar General CEO Todd Vasos warned that shoppers will see fewer items on shelves this year.
He said operations will be streamlined at both distribution centers and stores.
Mayors hope the move will improve efficiency.