Retail giant is being forced to lock up chocolate in plastic boxes as shoplifting increases

FRUIT & Nut chocolate bars costing just £1.35 are stocked in lockers at Co-op branches.

The treats became the latest everyday item to be protected from thieves during the shoplifting epidemic.

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Cadbury’s other favourite, Dairy Milk Caramel, has also been locked down.

Cooperatives in posh Cambridge and parts of London have put them in plastic boxes with tags.

Matthew Moore, who was browsing the shelves in London, said: “It’s extraordinary. I stopped and stared, thinking maybe there was something special about the chocolate.

“What’s next? A Freddo with a 25 cent security tag?

Readers have also seen instant coffee, butter, shortbread and oven chips with security labels in stores across the country.

A Co-op spokesperson said: “The safety of our staff is a top priority and security matters are part of a range of preventive measures to deter thieves.

“Retail crime is caused by repeat and frequent offenders and is often a focal point for abuse and attacks on retail staff.

“Products in security cases are usually high-value items, but other goods can be secured if there is a local problem.”

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