Supermarket using dummy boxes of Ferrero Rocher chocolates to thwart surge in shoplifters

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 7737

Dummy 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.