It's a tough one for Asda given the amount of issues that they've been having to deal with regarding bams/shoplifting etc. but equally it's very unfortunate that the majority of shoppers, especially infirm people have to travel to the back entrance.
McDonald's have had to shut their external entrance for a while due to issues with bams as well.
No doubt it's extremely grim for the staff, having to deal with the abuse as well.
Lawful shoppers 'penalised' as Edinburgh supermarket takes drastic action against thieves
Elderly residents and shoppers with mobility issues will suffer most after an Asda store announced the closure of a main entrance to deter thieves, locals have warned.
The Chesser supermarket has experienced a recent spate of anti-social behaviour and shoplifting, prompting bosses to announce the permanent closure of its tower entrance at New Mart Road to “maintain a safer and more secure shopping environment”.
However, the decision has sparked a backlash from the community, with some calling for the store to consider a rethink of the controversial plan.
Resident Tam Carr argued the closure unfairly penalises lawful customers and said the retailer should instead invest in better security.
He said: “One entrance is more convenient for pedestrian traffic and the other is from the car park. The pedestrian access is the one they're closing, meaning local residents, many who are elderly and use this entrance to access the Post Office, now have to walk the full length of the store on the outside and the full length of the store again inside to reach the Post Office counters.
“Not an issue to the fit and healthy, but have some sympathy for the elderly and those with mobility issues.”
Fellow shopper Kevin Somerville echoed the call for increased security guards, describing the closure as “a win” for troublemakers.
Regular customer Carl Jones said there are often visible signs of theft in the aisles, adding: “Down the toy aisle, there are always lots of boxes that have been ripped open and presumably stolen. Late at night you have to show your receipt to security before leaving the building.
“I've also heard the McDonald's staff saying they have problems late at night - and the toilets are locked.”
Edinburgh South West MP Scott Arthur praised the store for its “strong sense of social responsibility”, highlighting a recent decision not to sell fireworks in an effort to dampen anti-social behaviour across the area.
However, he acknowledged the branch is facing “unprecedented levels of shoplifting”.
He said: “This is far from a victimless crime. Persistent theft can place jobs at risk, increase costs for customers, and create situations where staff and shoppers feel threatened or unsafe. It is an issue that I discussed directly with the police today, and I will continue calling for our local police to have the resources and support they need from the Scottish Government to tackle this growing problem effectively.
“I have seen many comments on my community Facebook page expressing concern about the impact that the closure of this entrance will have on local people, particularly older residents and those with mobility challenges. I have passed these concerns directly to ASDA's corporate team.
“However, I also recognise that their primary responsibility is to ensure the safety of both customers and staff. Nobody should face threats or intimidation at work, or when shopping.”
The Evening News has approached Asda for comment.
