…Researched and contributed by Solomon Thomas.
Morrisons, a UK-based supermarket chain, has installed a “buzz for booze” button in its alcohol aisle at a branch off Hagley Road in Five Ways, Birmingham.
The move comes as a way to deter thieves as the alcohol is now locked behind screen doors, making it inaccessible to customers.
Instead, shoppers must press the button and wait for a shop assistant to arrive and unlock the door to allow them to purchase the alcohol.
The decision to lock the alcohol came after a customer complained on Facebook back in February that Morrisons was selling alcohol under lock and key, and that he had to request an authorized assistant to give him the booze.
Kurtis Roberts, a customer who was shopping at the store on Wednesday, noticed customers waiting around the alcohol aisle for employee assistance.
He believes that the decision to lock the alcohol is due to the increase in theft caused by the cost of living crisis.
He said, “It’s a shame Morrisons has to resort to this, but with the cost of living crisis I suppose that theft is on the increase.”
Another customer said that Morrisons’ decision to lock the alcohol was their “last resort” before they stopped stocking spirits altogether.
It is not clear whether Morrisons will roll out the “buzz for booze” button across other stores.
The move to lock the alcohol has generated mixed reactions from customers. While some believe it is a good idea to deter thieves, others find it inconvenient and a nuisance to have to wait for an employee to unlock the doors.