A supermarket has introduced licensed security personnel as part of initiatives to improve safety for staff and customers.
White’s IGA on Jones Street in Mooloolah Valley has been using security guards at various times throughout the day, with owner Roz White confirming the measures had been introduced across the business over the past year.
“Like many retailers across Australia, we have seen an increase in theft-related incidents in recent years,” Ms White said.
“Over the past 12 months, we have introduced a range of security measures across our stores, including the use of licensed security personnel at various times throughout the day.”
Ms White said the measures were designed to support staff, protect customers and help deter criminal activity.
The presence of a security guard at the Jones Street store entrance has also been discussed by local residents in a community Facebook group.
However, Queensland Police said only two incidents had been reported on Jones Street since January 1 this year.
A QPS spokesperson said one report involved shop stealing at a supermarket, although police could not confirm the name of the business.
The other was a public nuisance incident in the vicinity of the supermarket, but not outside it.
Police said the incident was not violent and nobody was injured.
Ms White said the security measures were part of the business’s responsibility to provide a safe workplace and shopping environment.
“As a family-owned business deeply connected to the communities we serve, we believe it is important to take proactive steps that protect people without placing an additional burden on our customers,” she said.
Local journalists supporting local people. Help keep independent and fair Sunshine Coast news coming by subscribing to our FREE daily news feed. All it requires is your email at the bottom of this article.
She said the measures had not resulted in price increases and the business remained committed to offering value while investing in safety.
“We appreciate the ongoing support of our customers and encourage anyone with questions or concerns to speak with our store teams,” Ms White said.
