A GROCERY chain has rolled out a new bag rule that stops customers at the store entrance.
Store managers have admitted the change is “inconvenient” and customers have blasted their decision.
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The strict move has gone into effect at a Grocery Outlet location in Hemet, California, about two hours east of Los Angeles.
The store, located in the Inland Empire, announced the change on Facebook, and blamed a rise in theft for forcing their hand.
Managers said shoppers are no longer allowed to carry their own bags while browsing and must use hand baskets or carts instead.
Customers now have to hand over reusable shopping bags and any personal bags bigger than a small handbag at the front counter.
Management said customers can grab wallets, phones, and other essentials from their bags before handing them over.
However, shoppers weren’t happy with the new rule change and one said: “Hemet’s Grocery Outlet is taking a big step to prevent theft.
“I understand the reasoning, but it’s still inconvenient for customers who bring their reusable bags, it’s a shame that a few bad apples have to ruin it for everyone.”
“Oh hell no,” added another.
One shopper explained: “Because a lot of teens are coming in and stealing and stashing stuff in purses and backpacks.
“I worked at grocery stores before and we had to do the same thing . It don’t work., teens and hoodlums stash stuff down their pants, socks, even jackets or sweaters in the sleeves.”
“For all the “iTs HeMEt” folks… it’s going to end up like this everywhere, the way people keep stealing. Hell, I’m shocked isn’t already,” said another.
While another insisted: “My personal purse will stay at my side at all times.”
“Yeah right, NOT going to happen,” agreed another.
Managers also explained in their post: “”While this has always been posted on our front door, we have had some take advantage and walk out of store without stopping by the register.
Anti-theft measures rolled out by retailers
Retailers across the US and Canada have rolled out strategies designed to combat theft. The U.S. Sun has compiled a list of measures that have been implemented at stores.
- Locking items in cabinets
- Security pegs
- Security cameras
- Signs warning about the impact of theft
- Receipt scanners
- Receipt checks
- Carts with locking technology
“We know this is inconvenient for everyone, but we want to ensure that we have products for you all as well as not lose any so we can keep pricing affordable.”
Store bosses said theft is hitting hard because the location is independently owned.
Retail theft has been surging across California since the pandemic, with many stores locking up more items.
Medications, baby formula, electronics, and even low-cost items like socks have been imprisoned behind plexiglass walls.
Shoplifting across the state jumped nearly 40% in 2023, according to the Public Policy Institute of California.
That spike pushed lawmakers and voters to support stricter laws last year.
In 2024, Californians passed Proposition 36, tightening penalties for theft and drug crimes.
The new law reversed parts of Proposition 47, which since 2014 had treated shoplifting under $950 as a misdemeanour.
Under Proposition 36, the felony threshold is now back down to $450.
Grocery Outlet’s move comes as many chains look for new ways to crack down on theft without driving customers away.
