DUMMY boxes of Ferrero Rocher chocs are being used in Co-op stores — to thwart shoplifters.
The empty display packs need to be exchanged for the £7.35 real deal at checkouts.
© Jon Super/ UNP 0845 600 7737Dummy boxes of Ferrero Rocher chocs are being used in Co-op stores — to thwart shoplifters[/caption]
They are among about 50 such dummy products, including Lindt and Thorntons chocolates, coffee and dishwasher tablets, used by the supermarket chain.
Bosses say the move is a response to bulk shoplifting — in which thieves sweep costly products into bags, suitcases and even wheelie-bins.
They then often violently confront staff trying to stop them leaving.
The supermarket has seen record levels of crime, shoplifting and anti-social behaviour this year, with almost 1,000 incidents each day in the six months to June.
Director Kate Graham said: “It is an ongoing challenge for all retailers.”
The dummy packaging will be used in higher-risk stores.
Other security measures include bodycams for staff and GPS-tracked security cases on the most expensive items.