Waitrose under pressure to reinstate employee sacked after stopping shoplifter
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Waitrose is facing pressure to reinstate Walker Smith, a long-term employee who was fired after intervening in a shoplifting incident at the Clapham Junction branch. Smith, a 17-year employee, stopped a shoplifter attempting to steal Lindt chocolate Easter eggs, leading to a brief struggle and the items falling to the floor. Despite Smith's history with the company and the fact that the shoplifter was a repeat offender, Waitrose terminated his employment, citing company policy against intervening in such situations. The firing has sparked public outcry, with a fundraiser launched in support of Smith and criticism from politicians like Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp, who called for his reinstatement and a bonus for his actions. The incident occurs amidst a reported rise in shoplifting offenses.
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AI-ExtractedStaff safety must come first. But dismissing a long-serving employee in these circumstances sends entirely the wrong message.
Shoplifting offences increased 5% in the year to September 2025.
A fundraiser for the sacked employee has raised more than £2,000.
Waitrose sacked an employee of 17 years after he stopped a shoplifter stealing Lindt Gold Bunny Easter eggs.
There is a serious danger to life in tackling shoplifters.
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