A new study by the National Retail Federation (NRF) highlights a dramatic 93% rise in shoplifting incidents in 2023 compared to pre-COVID levels in 2019, accompanied by a 90% increase in financial losses. The report, The Impact of Retail Theft & Violence 2024, conducted with the Loss Prevention Research Council and sponsored by Sensormatic Solutions, underscores how theft and violence have intensified in the retail sector.
The findings reveal alarming trends: shoplifters are exhibiting more aggression, with 91% of retailers observing increased violence compared to 2019. Multi-person thefts and organized retail crime (ORC) are also surging, with ORC incidents up 57% from 2022. Nearly 76% of respondents say ORC-linked shoplifting is a growing concern.
Retailers are investing in safety, with 71% increasing workplace violence training budgets. However, industry leaders stress the need for a collaborative approach and federal support to address these challenges.
“Retail crime is a sophisticated and evolving issue,” said Dr. Read Hayes of the Loss Prevention Research Council. NRF continues to advocate for the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act to bolster law enforcement coordination at all levels.
The Impact of Retail Theft & Violence 2024
