Illinois Customers Shocked As Walmart And Target Put New Items Under Lock And Key

As shoppers, we are used to some items being put under lock. Sometimes it's tech other times it's more personal items. Sadly 2024 has even more items being locked up in an effort to prevent shoplifting.

Many online videos and stories have already shown that both Walmart and Target have locked up underwear and other undergarments in stores to prevent shoplifting.

Underwear, undergarments like socks, and shampoos are reportedly being locked up in certain stores Across America.

Needless to say, many customers are upset while others defend this new choice. thestreet.com went on to report,

Much of this can be chalked up to a rise in inventory shrink, or the industry term for theft and loss of product. According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), the average national shrink rate rose 1.4% in 2021 and 1.6% in 2022. Numbers for last year aren't out yet, so we can look to recent fiery comments by a handful of CEOs to take our bets.

Most reports state that this is a result of theft in larger areas.

Large cities have seen some of the biggest increases in retail crime since 2019. Many urban areas have seen double digit increases in theft, and critics began eulogizing San Francisco for its softness on crime and inability to combat flight from the city as a result.

You can see that full video here.

What do you think of these new items being locked up? Is it justified, or is this crossing a line? Let us know what you think.