Grocery store chain defends strict new receipt check anti-theft measure

SHOPPERS will be met with a new receipt check policy at Harris Teeter as it is working to secure a safe shopping environment.

The grocery chain started receipt checks on Tuesday and also will no longer allow people to bring in duffel bags, oversized backpacks, suitcases, and roller bags at stores in Washington D.C.

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Harris Teeter emphasized how the move comes to improve safety for everyone at its D.C. stores. 

“Ensuring a safe shopping environment for both our customers and our valued associates is critical,” Harris Teeter said in a statement to ABC affiliate WJLA.

“We will implement improved safety measures at stores in [the] District of Columbia, including the checking of receipts as customers exit the store.

“And a new policy prohibiting suitcases, duffel bags, oversized backpacks, and roller bags.”

INCREASED CRIME & THEFT

Harris Teeter insists the strict anti-theft measures will help keep the costs of its products lowered.

This is because it won’t have to make up for lost merchandise due to people stealing. 

The statement continued, “These measures will help us maintain a safe shopping experience and continue providing the best service and goods at competitive prices to our customers.”

“By implementing receipt checks and actively preventing theft, we can maintain our competitive prices. 

“When theft occurs, it impacts everyone. 

“We absorb the losses, which can lead to increased prices.”

A D.C. resident who works near a Harris Teeter, Joy Plater, said crime in the area has gotten bad recently.

“It’s scary. Crime in the area is scary,” she told CBS affiliate WUSA-TV 

“We had that shooting last month. 

“Coming to work everything was blocked off and we couldn’t get to work.” 

RECEIPT CHECK RULES 

Stores are able to request if they can see your receipt, but they can not demand it.

Shoppers are only allowed to be detained by a store if they have a reasonable belief that you stole. 

Receipt checks are also only allowed to be demanded if you are part of a membership store. 

Attorney Ugo Lord confirmed that receipt checks can not be forced onto shoppers in a video on YouTube.

“Ladies and gentlemen unless you belong to a membership store such as Costco or Sam’s Club.

“There’s actually no legal requirement to show your receipt before exiting the building.”

“Yes under Shopkeeper’s Privilege, they could investigate whether you own the item if you don’t show a receipt, but they legally cannot require you to show that receipt upon exit.”