Elkjøp Store in Stavanger Implemented Receipt Checks on Tuesday Amid Reported Theft Increase
Stavanger,Norway - December 3,2025 – Elkjøp’s central Stavanger location took the unusual step of requiring all customers to present a receipt before exiting the store on Tuesday,December 2,2025,a measure implemented in response to a reported increase in theft. The unprecedented check, which affected all shoppers, lasted for several hours and sparked discussion among customers.
The temporary policy reflects a growing concern among retailers regarding inventory loss,especially during the busy pre-holiday shopping season. While Elkjøp has not disclosed specific figures regarding the increase in theft, the decision to implement such a widespread check indicates a significant disruption to normal operations and a proactive attempt to address the issue. The incident highlights the challenges faced by brick-and-mortar stores in balancing security measures with customer experience.
According to a caption accompanying a photograph of the scene taken by Erlend Falk, Elkjøp implemented the measures in central Stavanger. The store did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the duration of the checks or the specific triggers that prompted the action. Elkjøp, a leading electronics retailer in the Nordic countries, operates over 400 stores across Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, and the Faroe Islands. The company is owned by the British retail group Currys.