Kroger, one of America’s largest supermarket chains, has adopted new security measures at one of its Atlanta locations. The new security measures are being called intimidating and racist by members of the local community.

CBS46 reported a College Park Kroger installed a large glass screen, locking some of the store’s household items and separating them from the rest of the store.

The security system has only one entrance which forces people to enter one-by-one. Other parts of the store were blocked off with protective barriers.

Shoppers in the area, including a mother of three children, said walking through the glass dividers made them feel stereotyped, intimidated and uncomfortable.

CBS46 reported there were also additional security guards and off-duty police officers posted around the store.

“You won’t see that in Fayetteville or maybe Cobb County anywhere, doubt it,” the mother said.

A longtime shopper at the grocery store said theft has been an issue and she believes precautionary measures should be taken to prevent stealing, but added that no one wants to feel afraid. 

“Of course you don’t want to come in to where you’re afraid to shop, because you’re afraid someone’s going to steal or you’re afraid you’re going to be enclosed in the environment of them stealing, so of course you’re going to take precautions, but I don’t know if that’s the safest precaution,” the woman said.

After receiving backlash, a Kroger spokesperson issued a statement about the increased security.

“Thank you for reaching out to us. These changes are being implemented to help improve operational efficiencies, provide better inventory management and increase profitability. We take pride in keeping our shelves fully stocked with the items our customers want and need and we believe these changes, which are part of a pilot project, will help us do so,” the spokesperson said. 

Walmart has also been criticized for locking away skin and hair products predominately used by Black people. A woman later sued Walmart for racial discrimination, saying the company “segregated” and singled out Black beauty products in comparison to other items, as Blavity previously reported.