"About time": Coles bold parking move sparks debate
Frustrated staff at a Coles-owned bottle shop in Brisbane have taken matters into their own hands and retaliated against drivers flouting parking rules outside their store.
Management at a First Choice Liquor Market store in Newstead have locked in cars taking advantage of the customer-only spaces.
It is understood that some cars remain parked in the 15-minute spots for extended periods, sometimes overnight, despite signs saying that fines apply.
A photo shared on Facebook showed a car with P-plates blocked in by a yellow bollard and note that read: "Due to you not adhering to the parking rules, your vehicle has been locked in by management and will be kept on record."
"Please see First Choice management to discuss your options".
A local woman who shared the photos said there "were at least two other cars locked in" when she was passing by this week.
Locals were divided by the store's actions, but many supported their decision.
"About time. Pub takes all the spaces," one said. "I’ve been there when the store opens and there have been no car spaces available".
"Don’t park where you shouldn’t. It’s simple," another added.
A third said it was "about bloody time" something was done about the parking.
However, a few others had a more understanding approach, with one local saying that the limited parking in a large apartment complex across the road could be contributing to the limited parking.
Another suggested the staff had gone too far, noting the importance of being able to "flee" in a hurry, particularly in violent situations.
"The thought of their vehicle being blocked in by bollard, should an unthinkable situation arise, is horrific to think of," she said.
"While I understand this would be frustrating for your shop, it could be putting someone’s life in danger — as another perspective to think of."
Coles have responded to the management's actions explaining that their commitment to customers means providing "parking and clear access to our stores."
"The Newstead store carpark is owned by Coles and has signage throughout the carpark informing locals about parking time restrictions which are also painted on the parking bays," a Coles spokesperson told Yahoo News.
"To ensure we are making our stores more accessible for customers, our store team may use its discretion to remind the community of the parking rules.”
Images: Facebook