Supermarkets put security tags on packs of Werther’s Originals and slippers after rise in ‘silver shoplifters’

SECURITY tags are being put on packs of Werther’s Original sweets and slippers following a rise in “silver shoplifters”.

The cost of living crisis has been linked to an increase in over 60s stealing from stores.

And both the slippers and hard-boiled caramels now have extra protection from thieves.

Last week Aldi added yellow protective stickers to Werther’s bags worth £1.35.

Snaps online show other stores appearing to add alarms to pairs of comfy grandad slippers.

One customer asked: “Are there roving gangs of grandparents swiping them and shoving them on some OAP black market?”

Another joked: “Decent slippers are at least £20 a pop and I’m sure in this climate nobody would be averse to buying a pair half price in the pub.”

Last year 301 people aged over 60 were charged with stealing from shops, up eight per cent in six years.

Age UK found one in three over 70s cut food and drink spending by more than a third due to an increased cost of living.

A retail source said: “With shoplifting up by a third in the last year, it feels like there has been an increase across all age groups.

“Stereotypes about only young people nicking things are now outdated.”

Aldi was approached for a comment.