Liberal San Francisco has been plagued with crime in recent years, with many stores experiencing shoplifting. Recently, one store decided that it had enough and decided to provide customers with a one-on-one shopping experience.
Fredericksen Hardware and Paint now has their employees escort customers around the store to deter thieves. The new procedures have been in place for three weeks.
Longtime #SanFrancisco business Fredericksen’s Hardware & Paint takes measures to curb “rampant shoplifting” at Cow Hollow store by blocking entrance and offering one-on-one shopping w/ clerk. “The theft has gotten really bad,” says manager Sam Black. @kron4news pic.twitter.com/wpLDAMHx0i
— Dan Thorn (@DanThorn_) February 22, 2024
“It’s pretty bad,” manager Sam Black told local news outlet KRON4. “I mean, the dollar amounts are pretty significant, and with the tools and now we’re getting snatch-and-grabs when they take whole displays, so it’s getting kind of dangerous for the employees and the customers.”
During certain hours, a table is set up in front of the store to keep potential thieves from freely walking through the store.
“Due to the rampant shoplifting, Fredericksen has introduced a one-on-one shopping experience,” the sign on the table blocking off access to the store reads. “Wait here, and a clerk will be right with you to help you with your shopping needs. We’re sorry for the inconvenience!”
The store has also installed locking systems to keep people from pocketing tools and other items. Black stated that the store decided to implement the changes after receiving no help from law enforcement.
Of course, the conditions have angered many loyal customers. It has also cut into the store’s profit. Since customers are no longer allowed to freely browse the store without an escort, they are no longer buying additional items.
Black, who has worked at the hardware store for 24 years, said that the latest theft has been the worst he has seen.
Several businesses have already closed in the area due to theft, weakening the local economy.
San Francisco supervisor Catherine Stefani issued a statement calling the situation “embarrassing” and arguing that the city needs to have more police presence on the streets. She plans on pushing agencies to fill the hundreds of police vacancies next month to ensure the safety of residents and businesses.
Stefani would have an easier job filling the mass police vacancies if the city’s leftist policies did not push toward defunding the police.
