In a festive-themed act of civil disobedience, a group of activists has carried out a high-profile supermarket theft in Canada to draw attention to the ongoing cost of living crisis.
The Festive Heist
The incident took place in Montreal, where the group known as 'Robins des ruelles' – which translates to 'Robins of the Alleys' – executed their plan. On Monday 22 December 2025, members dressed in full Santa Claus and Elf costumes entered a supermarket and proceeded to take items with a total value of C$3,000, equivalent to approximately £1,623.
The activists later posted footage of their action online. In their statement, they accused businesses of holding vital necessities hostage and branded them the real 'thieves' in the current economic climate. Their chosen name is a direct reference to the English folk hero Robin Hood, who famously stole from the rich to give to those in need.
Distribution in the Spirit of Christmas
True to their stated ethos, the stolen food was not kept for personal gain. The group distributed all of the groceries to the local community. Some of the items were symbolically placed under a public Christmas tree in a square, while the remainder was donated to community fridge initiatives designed to provide free food to those struggling.
A Protest Against Soaring Prices
This theatrical protest underscores the deepening frustration felt by many over rising inflation and stagnant wages. By using the imagery of Santa Claus, a figure synonymous with generosity, the activists created a stark contrast with what they see as corporate greed. Their action highlights a growing trend of direct action aimed at food insecurity, positioning it as a political issue rather than merely a charitable one.
While the legality of their method is unquestionably contentious, the protest has successfully ignited conversation about wealth distribution, the right to food, and the pressures of the cost of living crisis as the holiday season amplifies financial strain for many families.
