Bosses believe an increased police presence around the chain’s supermarkets and department stores will act as a powerful deterrent to would-be thieves.

And West Mercia Police Federation secretary Pete Nightingale is sure members will take advantage of the offer.

He said: “We welcome this initiative and I have no doubt our members will be popping into Waitrose and John Lewis from time to time to pick up a coffee or tea.

“It makes sense from a business perspective because any police presence is bound to have an impact - either as a reassurance for shoppers or a deterrent for shoplifters.

“Hopefully people intent on stealing goods from these shops and supermarkets will think twice when they see a police car pull onto the car park or a bobby walk in for a cuppa.”

John Lewis Partnership, which owns both brands, has written to the Police Federation to say officers can make the most of the offer as long as they bring a reusable cup.

In Waitrose, police officers and community support officers will be able to get drinks from in-store coffee machines.

In John Lewis, police officers will be able to use staff cafeterias for breaks and will also be able to buy discounted food.

Head of security Nicki Juniper said having a police car parked outside might help cut crime.

Nicki Juniper, head of security for the John Lewis Partnership, said: “Retail crime is a national problem and requires a national solution.

“Just having a police car parked outside can make people think twice about shoplifting from our branches, or becoming aggressive towards our staff.”

John Lewis Partnership chair Dame Sharon White has written to Home Secretary Suella Braverman calling for tougher action against repeat and violent offenders.

The group has increased the number of security guards and is also training staff to stop and detain shoplifters.

The British Retail Consortium said shoplifting in England and Wales soared by 26 per cent in 2022.

Its crime survey found nearly 850 incidents were taking place every day, with staff facing physical assault and being threatened with weapons on some occasions.

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