Angry store bosses have slammed Robbie Williams for his “disgraceful” post asking for shoplifting tips.
The multi-millionaire Angels singer joked to his 2.4million followers: “Thinking of getting into shoplifting. Anyone got any tips?’’ Williams, 49, followed the first tweet with a message saying: “I’m just going to the shops… anyone want anything?’’
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He then posted a photo claiming he managed to get “some scotch guard, an umbrella and a figurine of St. Joseph”, adding: “It was thrilling.’’ But his gags came as store thefts are at an all-time high – costing retailers more than £1billion a year.
Thousands of retail workers have been threatened or assaulted by thieves. Professor Joshua Bamfield, director of the Centre For Retail Research, said: “The Robbie Williams comment is a disgrace.’’
(Image: Dave Benett/Getty Images)
James Lowman, chief executive of the Association of Convenience Stores, said: “Dealing with theft definitely isn’t funny for the thousands of retailers that are being targeted on a daily basis.’’ Luke Johnson, chief executive officer of Gail’s Bakery, said: “A vastly rich ex-pop star mocking a serious social and economic problem shows a celebrity truly lost in showbiz.’’
Neil Mackay, who owns hardware shop Mackays of Cambridge, said: “As much as I admire Robbie Williams’ singing I think he needs to be singing a different tune.’’
(Image: @robbiewilliams/X)
While Robbie’s post frustrated retail workers, it seems those who follow him took a slightly lighter response. Hundreds of his followers told him to “start lighter” when it comes to “lifting”, teasing a fitness angle instead.
The post did seem an odd turn of events from Robbie’s usually updates, with his previous comment the day before his shoplifting gag being a celebration of his most recent show. After the brief “shoplifting” frenzy, his posting returned to normal once more.
(Image: Dave Benett/Getty Images)
He has since been giving fans sneak-peeks of his upcoming four-part documentary series which features unseen footage. The Netflix documentary sees him discuss his career in Take That before embarking on a solo journey.
With snippets from decades earlier all the way up to his career today, Robbie has left no stone unturned. It’s expected to come to Netflix next month.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
