Stores are installing security elements on more expensive items to prevent theft. In recent years, theft has also occurred with common grocery items, such as ground meat.
Prisma's security manager Alar Olup said their goal is to prevent theft as effectively as possible. Each store is different, and security measures must be adapted accordingly. For example, Prisma uses gates in self-checkout that open with a receipt.
Security elements are most commonly used for expensive alcohol products and small electronics. These items are very tempting for thieves. However, groceries are also stolen, especially if they are expensive or special.
Coop's communications manager Siiri Liiva said theft has increased over the past three years. This is closely related to the economic downturn and people's more difficult living conditions.
Coop's largest stores, such as Maksimarkets, use many security elements. Especially for clothing and electronics. Various measures are used, such as spider tags and security stickers.
Maxima has set threshold values from which security elements are used. They are usually not used for everyday food items, such as bread and milk.
Prisma and Coop are constantly trying to improve their security measures. Coop is testing technological solutions to make theft more difficult at self-checkout counters.
Olup said most thieves use shopping carts and self-checkout. Both adults and children steal. Among children, cosmetics and sweets are popular in the summer.
Sometimes unexpected items are stolen, such as toilet paper or toothbrushes. But these are rather rare cases. Olup emphasized that stores do not want to label anyone but to provide a safe and honest shopping environment.