Supermarkets across Victoria are taking unprecedented measures as violent gangs of armed youths increasingly target stores, leaving staff and customers in constant fear. These groups, often carrying weapons such as machetes, move rapidly from one shop to another, causing disruption, stealing alcohol, cigarettes and cash, and leaving a trail of intimidation in their wake. Alarmingly, many of those caught are granted bail within hours, returning quickly to the streets and continuing their activities.
Retailers say the situation has now reached crisis point, particularly in Victoria, where the problem has escalated sharply compared with neighbouring states. Supermarket chains that operate in New South Wales and Queensland report far fewer security concerns, underlining the concentration of the issue within Victoria itself. This has sparked renewed criticism of the state’s handling of law and order, with business leaders pointing to a lack of meaningful deterrents in the justice system.
The rise in organised shoplifting has had a major financial impact. Some supermarket operators estimate their annual losses from theft have more than doubled over the past three years, with one retailer alone recording losses of around $15 million. This growing pressure comes on top of already tight margins in the grocery sector, where rising supply chain costs and fierce competition are constant challenges. For many operators, the added burden of crime is becoming unsustainable.
Behind the statistics are incidents that highlight the scale and boldness of the problem. In June 2024, CCTV footage from a store in Mount Waverley captured one of the most striking examples to date. A vehicle pulled up directly outside the entrance just before opening hours. Within seconds, five hooded youths dressed in black ran into the supermarket. Two vaulted over the counter, grabbing cigarettes and money as a frightened elderly woman moved quickly out of their way. Others scattered through the aisles, searching for goods to take.
During the raid, an unsuspecting customer entered the store and found himself face to face with the offenders. In a moment that underlined both the courage and the danger facing ordinary people, he attempted to confront them before the group fled. Incidents like this serve as a stark reminder that these crimes place not only businesses but also members of the public at serious risk.
The growing sense of insecurity has led some supermarkets to begin locking their doors, particularly during quieter hours when staff numbers are low. While this provides a degree of protection, it also creates an atmosphere of fear and distrust. For customers, shopping in an environment where doors are bolted and staff remain on high alert undermines the simple act of buying groceries.
Retailers are increasingly calling for a stronger response from authorities. The current pattern, where offenders are quickly released back into the community, is widely seen as ineffective. Business leaders argue that unless tougher sentencing, stronger policing and clearer support for retailers are introduced, crime will continue to spiral. The concern is that this cycle could normalise violence and theft, embedding it into daily life across Victoria.
The impact extends beyond immediate financial losses. Staff working in affected stores face the stress of potential confrontations each day. Many report feeling unsafe, particularly during early mornings and late evenings when attacks are more common. This not only affects morale but also risks higher staff turnover, adding further strain to businesses already battling labour shortages.
For communities, the problem is equally troubling. Supermarkets are essential local services, and when they become the target of organised crime, the entire neighbourhood feels the consequences. Families shopping with children, older residents and those who rely on stores for daily essentials are all exposed to an unsettling environment. If the trend continues, it could erode trust in local centres and drive customers away.
Industry observers warn that the cost of doing nothing will be far greater than the expense of stronger intervention. Left unchecked, the rise of violent gangs targeting supermarkets threatens to undermine not only retail businesses but also community safety and confidence in the state’s ability to maintain law and order. With supermarkets forming part of the fabric of daily life, the urgency to address the issue has never been greater.
As the problem deepens, the message from retailers is clear. Unless decisive action is taken to curb violent theft and hold offenders accountable, Victoria risks entrenching a culture of lawlessness where supermarkets and their customers remain on the frontline of a growing crime crisis.
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