Newhaven Morrisons Daily Targeted By Shoplifting Threats Before Opening

A new convenience store in Newhaven has reportedly been targeted by online shoplifting threats before it has even opened to customers.

The former Tates petrol station on Avis Way is currently being refurbished ahead of reopening later this month as a Morrisons Daily franchise.

According to Tates, several comments were posted publicly online by an individual claiming he intended to be the first person to shoplift from the new store.

Executive director Benjamin Tate said the comments appeared underneath a number of the company’s launch posts and prompted a strong reaction from local residents.

He said the business had since received multiple messages from members of the public about the same individual, with some expressing frustration about shoplifting in the area.

Benjamin Tate said:

“We’re working hard to create a welcoming local shop for Newhaven, so it was disappointing to receive shoplifting threats before we had even opened.

“We appreciate a bit of humour online, but multiple threats of theft from local businesses is not harmless.

"We are investing in the area, creating jobs, and want the shop to be a positive addition to the town.”

The family-run company says it is investing in Newhaven to create local jobs, support local suppliers and contribute to the local economy.

The business has also confirmed that security measures will be in place at the store, including CCTV, security monitoring and AI-powered theft detection technology called Veesion.

The new Morrisons Daily store is due to open on Thursday 14 May.

Benjamin Tate, who took control of Tates Forecourts in January, said he plans to focus on value, customer service and community investment as part of wider ambitions for the business.