Northampton shoppers challenged to guess cost of items commonly stolen from supermarkets
“The activity proved to be a great conversation starter and was well received by those who took part” – Northampton Neighbourhood Policing Team
Shoppers at a Northampton supermarket were challenged to guess the value of a basket filled with commonly stolen goods as police highlighted the impact of shoplifting on local businesses.
Police community support officers (PCSOs) from Northampton Neighbourhood Policing Team held a community engagement event outside the Co-op on Bushland Road, giving residents and customers an opportunity to discuss crime and community safety.
One of the main attractions was a challenge called "How Much Does the Basket Cost?", which encouraged shoppers to estimate the combined price of products frequently targeted by shoplifters.
The basket contained items including meat, baby formula, alcohol, household products and confectionery.
According to Northamptonshire Police, the activity helped start conversations about retail crime and its wider impact on businesses, staff and the community.
Officers also offered practical crime prevention advice and distributed purse bells and RFID card holders, designed to help residents protect themselves against theft and fraud.
The event provided an opportunity for members of the public to raise concerns directly with local officers and share feedback about policing in their neighbourhood.
A spokesperson for Northampton Neighbourhood Policing Team said the shopping basket challenge had been particularly popular with those attending.
"The activity proved to be a great conversation starter and was well received by those who took part," the team said.
Police said the supermarket's staff and management had welcomed the officers' presence and appreciated the opportunity to work together to address retail crime.
The force described the event as a success, helping to increase police visibility, strengthen relationships with residents and raise awareness of shoplifting.
Officers said such engagement activities also provided valuable opportunities to listen to concerns and promote practical steps people could take to protect themselves and their belongings.
The initiative formed part of the team's wider community engagement work.