Whole Foods Shoplifting Policy Raises Eyebrows

By aaroncynic in News on Jul 10, 2010 2:30PM

Whole Foods loves its customers. In fact, according to their mission, they believe that customers are “fellow human beings with feelings and emotions like our own” and are equals deserving to be treated with respect and courtesy. Lisa Portes however, may have a different opinion. Chicago Magazine reported on Lisa, head director at the DePaul University Theater School, mother and regular Whole Foods shopper who was accused and banned for shoplifting, a claim which she refutes.

In April, Lisa left the Lincoln Park Whole Foods after purchasing approximately $40 worth of groceries. Unfortunately for her and the store, she also left with a bottle of $13 vitamins in her bag that she didn’t purchase. When questioned on the matter by security, Lisa stated that in the midst of a hectic shopping experience, she forgot to pay for them and offered the money on the spot. Store management instead banned her for life (the ban was later lifted).

Speaking via email, spokeswoman Kate Klotz wasn’t able to produce statistics for Whole Foods nationwide, but she was able to tell us that situations like Lisa’s have occurred before. We were assured, however, that, "Each situation is viewed case-by-case." As for the $250 bill, which is nearly 20 times what the vitamins were worth, Kate told us, "The damages are calculated by the state or city. It is damages incurred by our third-party security vendor. A letter, like what Ms. Portes received is issued by this third party automatically when the situation arises."

While claiming “I forgot to pay,” is a pretty common technique among professional or habitual shoplifters, we find it hard to believe that Portes is either. Even though the statistics for shoplifting losses in retail are staggering, certain situations do require more than a cookie cutter policy. Whole Foods bills and sells itself on the idea of creating strong relationships with the community. To assume every member of that community is a liar when they offer to make amends for being accused of a crime isn’t the way to foster a community spirit.