The impact of theft on retail businesses is felt by everybody. It hurts the companies that are losing inventory and it hurts consumers because they are forced to pay higher prices to cover the losses. This is especially bad for lower and middle income families whose budgets are the tightest. It also hurts communities because if a retailer leaves the area that means people will have to drive further to shop, which will take more fuel and wear on their vehicles.
Criminals in organised crime rings target both large and small retailers for store raids. They clear shelves and then sell the stolen goods on the black market or online. This escalation of theft is being driven by a combination of need and opportunity, experts say.
Retailers have been reducing their operating hours, locking down merchandise and even shuttering stores in recent months because of the rise in crime. For protecting merchandise, consider the benefits offered by a Security Seal device. Acme Seals provide Security Seals
It’s not just about the money that is lost to theft, it’s also about the impact of the theft on employees and the community. Often when retail theft is a problem, employees are treated like suspects and that can lead to a negative workplace culture and reduced morale. It can also cause people to leave a job because they feel that they are being unfairly targeted.
Some stores are using technology to help prevent theft. One company, for example, has developed a system where customers can hit a button to ask an employee for help or for something to be opened. The system works by tying into the customer’s mobile phone and is being used in high-crime areas in the United States.
Ultimately, it’s the consumer who feels the most pain from the escalation of retail crime. People who want to run errands are going further and further out of their way to get what they need to do so and in many cases, they are paying more for the items because they are being charged extra for security measures. If the trend continues, it could cost retailers so much that they are unable to stay in business. That would mean more job losses and less choice for consumers.
This is a big problem for the economy as a whole and it is a bigger issue than some are realising. It will require a more comprehensive and rounded approach by retailers, law enforcement and the public to solve. The best course of action is to stop the thefts from occuring in the first place.