Shehzad, the pram expert who literally bled to get Tiny Feet open on Putney High Street, is planning security upgrades after a £500 pram was stolen from his shop over the weekend.
Someone walked into the store, grabbed one of the display prams (a Cybex Coya), and simply walked out with it. With prams a common sight on the high street, passersby didn’t think twice about someone pushing one along the pavement.
Shehzad has reported the theft to police and is waiting to hear back about next steps. He’s also speaking with Positively Putney to see if CCTV footage from nearby businesses might help identify the thief.
“It’s frustrating,” he told Putney.news. “I’d rather it didn’t happen.” While it wasn’t one of his more expensive models, it’s still money out of his pocket and another challenge for the independent retailer.
He’s now weighing security options. An alarm system that triggers when a pram leaves the shop without being purchased is one possibility. CCTV cameras – which he’s been planning to install – will be going in soon.
Trick or treat
He’s considered the John Lewis approach of tethering prams with security cables, but he’s not keen on the idea. Shehzad encourages customers to properly test prams – he even has a little test track in the shop – and security cables would interfere with that hands-on experience.
The theft comes during what Shehzad describes as a naturally slow period for the business. Two major baby fairs, including one at Olympia, draw customers away this time of year – even though he says he can match the deals they offer at the fairs.
Despite the setback, his enthusiasm for Putney remains undimmed. He recently joined the Halloween trick-or-treat trail, welcoming local kids into the shop. A few Halloween decorations still linger, testament to his community involvement.
And in a surprising development, Shehzad and his wife are eyeing expansion. They’re considering opening a fish and chip shop in one of the High Street’s vacant units, inspired by the steady stream of football fans passing by each weekend.
From prams to plaice – if determination is the key ingredient, Putney might have its next great chippie.
