NTUC FairPrice’s recently introduced policy, which restricts the use of personal bags and trolleys before payment, has sparked a wave of online backlash.
Images: Fairprice, Reddit/jinboliao
A recently introduced policy by NTUC FairPrice, prohibiting the use of personal bags and trolleys before payment, has ignited a storm of criticism among customers. Shoppers have taken to social media, particularly Reddit, to express frustrations about the practicality of the rule, which forces them to juggle supermarket baskets without the convenience of placing items directly into their own reusable bags or trolleys.
The use of personal bags and trolleys has surged since July, when the Government mandated that larger supermarket chains, including FairPrice, charge at least five cents for each disposable bag. This prompted many shoppers to switch to reusable bags and trolleys to avoid accumulating extra charges.
Image: X/The Straits Times
However, just as Singaporeans are adjusting to bringing their own bags and trolleys to supermarkets, NTUC FairPrice’s new policy has struck a nerve. Under the rule, shoppers can only use their personal bags and trolleys after making payment, with FairPrice staff conducting random purchase verifications to prevent theft.
A signage spotted at a FairPrice Finest outlet, and subsequently posted online by Redditor jinboliao, outlines the policy: "Personal bags and trolleys can only be used after payment. Our team may perform random purchase verifications. Any shoplifting incidents will be reported to the police."
Image: The Straits Times/Shintaro Tay
The policy has drawn sharp criticism, with many arguing that it treats customers like potential criminals rather than trusted patrons. Some have voiced concerns that it undermines the convenience of reusable bags and personal trolleys, which are intended to reduce reliance on single-use plastic bags.
Calls are growing for NTUC FairPrice to reconsider the policy, with some customers urging the retailer to strike a better balance between security and convenience in order to maintain goodwill.
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