Supermarket worker fired after 17 years for tackling shoplifter who tried stealing Easter eggs
A London supermarket veteran says he lost his job after stopping a shoplifter carrying a bag of Easter chocolates, but the situation has triggered public outcry and even a job offer from a competing chain.
Walker Smith, 54, had been a loyal employee at Waitrose in Clapham, South London, for 17 years when the confrontation occurred.
Smith recounted that a man grabbed a large number of Lindt Gold Bunny Easter eggs, each priced around $16 (£13), and stuffed them into a bag. “I’ve been there 17 years. I’ve seen thefts happen constantly over the last five years,” he told reporters.
He said he intervened after noticing the theft, taking hold of the bag and briefly struggling with the suspect. During the scuffle, the bag tore and chocolates fell onto the floor. The shoplifter escaped, and Smith acknowledged that he had previously been advised against physically confronting thieves, but said repeated incidents pushed him to act.
Afterward, Smith admitted he threw a broken piece of chocolate in frustration, insisting it was not directed at anyone. He apologized to his manager, but the report was made regardless.
Within days, Smith was called into a meeting and dismissed. He described leaving the store “demoralized,” ending nearly two decades of employment while being escorted out through the back.
The story quickly drew attention in political circles.
British politician and President Trump ally Nigel Farage criticized the firing, saying it demonstrated that the country was “favoring criminals over law enforcers” and declared, “Britain is broken.”
Members of the Conservative Party have called for Waitrose to reinstate Smith. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp said the case highlights a wider issue in the country, with offenders acting with “little fear of consequence.” Waitrose, however, disputed some of Smith’s account, stating that media coverage “does not reflect the full facts” and emphasized that confronting shoplifters is a “serious danger to life.” The company confirmed that proper procedures were followed and that an appeal was an option.
The dismissal quickly drew widespread public support for Smith. He thanked supporters online, joking about his long experience in customer service—“except dealing with shoplifters.” He said he didn’t expect the story to go viral and that he was now focused on securing a new position.
He may not have to look far.
Iceland, a rival grocery chain, offered Smith a role publicly. Chairman Richard Walker wrote on LinkedIn: “You’re welcome to a job with us. We even share the same name…” The company confirmed that discussions are progressing after a positive interview.
About Post Author
