Coles has attributed a significant surge in retail theft across its 1,800 stores to Victoria’s “lack of consequences” for shoplifters. According to the supermarket giant, 71 percent of thefts nationwide occur in Victoria, with organized crime syndicates allegedly targeting high-value items.
Matt Swindells, Coles’ Chief of Operations and Supply Chain, has publicly criticized the Jacinta Allan government, urging legislative changes to curb the escalating crime rate. “We are repeating what we’ve been asking for over a year now… We are asking for support from the police, from a retail task force, so we can nip this in the bud,” Swindells stated.
Impact on Business Operations
While Coles has refrained from disclosing the exact financial impact, the company describes the losses as “material.” Swindells highlighted the thin profit margins, noting, “Of $100 spent in Coles, the net profit after tax is about $2.50. We can’t afford as a business to have organized gangs steal in high volume and on sell.” He compared the situation to “some third world place where there’s no law and order.”
Swindells pointed out that Victoria’s crime rate is exacerbated by the absence of strict theft prevention laws, unlike other states such as New South Wales, Queensland, and South Australia, which have dedicated retail theft task forces. “South Australia has the least number of crimes because it doesn’t muck around when it comes to retail theft laws,” he added.
Comparative State Analysis
Swindells emphasized the effectiveness of different approaches in other states, stating, “The really sad part is, South Australia, NSW, and Queensland have shown there are different approaches to this that work.” He called for the Victorian government to introduce proven legislation, while acknowledging the police’s efforts in handling crime effectively.
“There is no consequence, and when I say no consequence, someone can come in and steal from a store, be arrested, be taken away and out on bail and back in the store again within hours,” Swindells told 3AW Drive.
Innovative Deterrents and Safety Measures
In an effort to deter anti-social behavior, Coles has resorted to playing opera music at a “challenged” Prahran store. Swindells explained, “We have a lot of technology we’ve invested in and a lot of training to keep our staff safe but we have to do more.” The initiative was sparked by feedback from residents and a team member’s suggestion.
The challenges extend beyond Prahran, with Swindells noting, “We have high levels of crime that’s both threats but worse than those threatening situations towards our staff and customers.” Over the past 12 to 18 months, Coles has invested in safety measures such as body cameras, headsets, and smart gates to prevent theft.
“But these are criminal gangs, they are very well organized, they are stealing in high volume, high value items and selling them,” Swindells emphasized.
Government Response and Future Steps
Coles’ call for action coincides with the Victorian government facing increased pressure over crime rates. In response, the Allan government has deployed eleven private security guards to patrol Melbourne’s CBD, targeting key hotspots to reduce violent crimes.
The officers will focus on areas such as Elizabeth Street South, Bourke Street, Swanston Street, and other locations in Southbank, Carlton, the Docklands, Kensington, and East Melbourne. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to address public safety concerns.
As Coles continues to push for legislative changes, the spotlight remains on the Victorian government to implement effective measures that balance public safety with economic stability. The ongoing dialogue between retailers and policymakers will be crucial in shaping the future of retail crime prevention in the state.
