Southsea Co-op supermarket barricades alcohol in effort to crack down on shoplifting

The Co-op Food store on South Parade cordoned off its aisle stocking beers, wines and ciders on Saturday, June 3 and Sunday, June 4 after shoplifters stole some of the drinks. A barrier was created with cage trolleys, and a worker was stationed behind it to fetch drinks for customers.

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A Co-op spokesperson said: ’As a responsible retailer, Co-op works closely with police and, following the theft of alcohol in our South Parade store last weekend, a decision was taken locally to temporarily restrict access to the area of the store where these products are sold.’

A worker, who did not wish to comment in an official capacity, added that the shop is doing everything it can to prevent under-age drinking and that the barrier will go back up if required.