London— Shoppers across the UK are noticing an unusual sight in supermarket aisles: ribeye steaks, blocks of cheese, and other high-value groceries locked inside clear plastic boxes marked “Protected by GPS.”

The security measures, recently spotted in Co-op stores, are part of a growing effort by retailers to curb shoplifting as food prices remain high. The boxes carry warning labels stating that the devices must be removed at checkout before leaving the store.

While the “GPS” branding gives the impression of satellite tracking, retail security experts suggest the technology is more often a deterrent than literal tracking. The cases typically use electronic article surveillance (EAS) systems that trigger alarms if taken past the tills.

Theft on the rise

The British Retail Consortium (BRC) has reported a sharp increase in shoplifting across the country, with incidents more than doubling since 2022. Rising living costs, combined with inflation in meat and dairy prices, have made certain everyday items prime targets for theft.

Retailers argue that the new security measures are necessary to protect stock and reduce losses. But critics say the sight of basic groceries being locked away highlights a deeper social crisis.

A sign of the times

Social media users have widely shared images of steaks, butter, and even baby formula kept under lock and key, describing it as a “late-stage capitalism” phenomenon. Many commenters see the move as a symbol of inequality, where essential goods are treated like luxury items.

A Co-op spokesperson told International News UK:

“We’ve seen a continued rise in retail crime that impacts not only our stores but also our colleagues and customers. Security devices are used selectively on high-value products to deter theft and keep prices fair for paying shoppers.”

Wider implications

Food poverty charities argue that theft is often a symptom of desperation. “People don’t steal ribeye steaks because they want to — they do it because they can’t afford nutritious food,” said one campaigner.

As inflation shows signs of easing, retailers may hope that such drastic security measures won’t be permanent. But for now, shoppers will continue to find their sirloin and ribeye steaks packaged with the same level of protection as smartphones and tablets.