There are those who enter a supermarket just to buy bread and end up with an uncomfortable story to tell even before reaching the corridors. In recent days, complaints from Mercado clients have been multiplied that they have been approached at the entrance and invited to show the contents of backpacks or even the shopping cart.
Customer opinion
The report of a client, who described the moment as “was humiliating,” opened an intense debate on social networks about what can or can not be required in such a commercial space. According to the site specializing in finance and economy, Executive Digest, many of these situations were shared by consumers themselves on social platforms, increasing the controversy.
The criticisms were not for the comments. Many consumers demanded a clear position from the company about this type of approach, especially because orders would be made before any purchase or passage through the boxes. The indignation spread quickly and forced the Spanish giant public to clarify the issue.
Mercado Response
According to the Valencian distribution chain, no one is required to open backpacks, bags or personal cars when an employee makes such order.
In a response left in its official profile on network X, the company stated: “If, in any case, the cashier makes him this request, he can refuse.” The phrase was widely shared, confirming what many were unaware of: the right to say simply.
According to the same source, Mercado recalled that all stores are equipped with consigns to the entrance, with a key that is in possession of the customer for all the time that remains inside the supermarket.
The company considers that this system avoids embarrassment and protects the personal belongings of consumers.
What the law says
This is not the first time the theme has come to light. Last year, in another episode reported through social networks, the company chaired by Juan Roig had already admitted that employees have no authority to demand the opening of personal effects.
Even so, the subject returned with new strength after several people report similar situations in different stores.
According to official consumer protection bodies, the law is clear: no one can be forced to show the content of bags, backpacks or cars just because someone asks for the entrance of a supermarket.
Only duly accredited private security guards can make this request – yet only when there is a concrete suspicion of theft or other illicit.
As in these cases, customers maintain the right to refuse direct access to their belongings. That is, security guards can only retain the person on the scene until the police arrive, if they consider that there is a real suspicion. Outside these contexts, the request is only optional and the customer can refuse without consequences.
Supermarket position
According to the same source, the company’s official position is now clear: no employee has legitimacy to force customers to open their belongings.
In addition, any attempt can be refused. For many, this clarification arrives late, but has confirmed that, if in doubt, the law is on the consumer side.
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