In response to rising thefts, supermarkets are increasing security measures, including sealing grape bags to prevent customers from sampling before purchasing. This change has sparked frustration among some customers, as highlighted by an Australian TikToker, @breakfastshirts, who shared his annoyance over his local supermarket's new grape security protocol.
This initiative is part of broader retail efforts to combat the significant losses due to shoplifting, which reached $112 billion in 2022 in the U.S. alone. These enhanced security measures range from limiting items at self-checkouts to hiring security guards, reflecting the increasing challenges retailers face in preventing theft.