During the program, Lincoln Wymer, retailer and board member of Master Grocers Australia, shared his concerns about the escalating problem. He described the situation as deeply troubling, noting that theft is now a daily challenge for many businesses and is occurring openly, with offenders showing little fear of consequences.

Wymer highlighted that this issue is not limited to metropolitan areas; regional stores are also experiencing significant losses. For small businesses operating on tight margins, these thefts are having a severe financial impact and threatening their long-term viability.

Retailers report feeling powerless, as current deterrents and enforcement measures are failing to curb the trend. Wymer called for stronger penalties and proactive policing, warning that without immediate intervention, the problem will continue to escalate and jeopardize the survival of local businesses.

Master Grocers Australia is urging government and law enforcement agencies to collaborate with retailers to implement effective solutions, including improved security measures and tougher consequences for repeat offenders.