Shutting out shop thieves

CLOSED BY THIEVES: They won’t steal any more of these on Saturdays. NZ Safety Blackwoods in Grey Street opens its doors only five days a week now, a measure taken because of shoplifting and concerns for staff security on Saturdays, when only one person can be rostered on. Manager Paul Evans says staff safety is priority number one. Picture by Paul Rickard

A GISBORNE business has been forced to shut its doors on Saturdays to combat theft from the shop and because of security concerns for staff who work that day.

NZ Safety Blackwoods in Grey Street has put a sign up on the front door that says “Our staff’s safety is number one priority and, due to ongoing security issues, we are no longer open for trading on Saturday”.

Store manager Paul Evans explained the decision was made to close on Saturday because of shoplifting.

“We have only one staff member rostered on Saturdays and, given the theft issue, we felt it was best to close our door on that day.”

Mr Evans said one man recently convicted of theft from the shop grabbed a handful of clothing and walked out with it.

“Shoplifting is getting worse and we are mindful of the need to protect our staff. With just one person able to work Saturdays, we have decided to open only Monday to Friday when we have more staff on duty.

“It is disappointing to have to take this step and we apologise to our regular customers but, we feel this is the best option at this stage.”