Some LCBO stores will soon require certain customers to show a photo ID to a security guard before entering as part of a pilot program aimed at combating retail theft.
In a media release on TuesdayThe Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) has announced that it will implement entrance controls at six stores in the northern region of the province.
“Providing a great experience for our customers and employees is our top priority, so our goal is to make this new process quick and easy,” John Summers, LCBO’s chief retail officer, said in a statement. That’s what I do.”
“While it may add a few extra minutes to your visit, we believe this is a minor inconvenience for a safer and more enjoyable shopping experience.”
According to the LCBO, controlled entrances include exterior doors, vestibules, and interior doors. Customers who appear to be 17 years of age or older must show identification to a security guard at the entrance, and if all requirements are met, the interior door will open and they can begin shopping.
The LCBO said photo IDs will be scanned to ensure they are legal and valid, and that the customer is over 19 years old and has no record of a previous incident at the store.
The LCBO said anyone who does not meet the requirements will be prohibited from entering the store, adding that only one customer will be allowed in the store at a time during the pilot.
“Unfortunately, incidents of theft involving minors do occur from time to time. It is also our responsibility to ensure that alcohol is not available in our stores to minors under the age of 19,” the Crown corporation said. He explained why controlled entrances are in place.
Which LCBO stores are participating in this pilot?
Four of the six stores selected for the pilot are in Thunder Bay, and the other two are in Kenora and Sioux Lookout.
“These stores were chosen because their locked-down geography allows us to measure the effectiveness of entrance controls without transferring theft to other stores,” the LCBO said, adding that in the spring, 12 The company plans to begin trial operation for a month.
“While we will communicate with customers closer to deployment, we may not share the anticipated deployment date as this could exacerbate the situation and compromise our safety and security efforts.”
The LCBO said no decisions have been made at this time on whether to make the pilot permanent and expand it to other stores.
Manitoba Liquor and Lottery (MBLL) implemented a similar policy in 2020. According to the websitesince the installation of controlled entrances, robberies have been “virtually eliminated” and thefts have plummeted from hundreds to just a few each week.
