Organized retail crime (ORC) is a growing national issue with wide-reaching impacts on retailers, employees, consumers, and entire communities. Unlike isolated shoplifting, these crimes are driven by coordinated, often transnational networks engaged in broader illegal activity, including cargo theft, financial fraud, and even drug trafficking.
Retailers continue to face increasing losses, safety concerns, and rising operational costs as they combat highly organized theft rings targeting everything from electronics to essential goods. Consumers are feeling the effects too, with reduced product availability and heightened in-store security measures.
Law enforcement and public officials are raising alarms. In a letter sent this February, 38 state attorneys general urged Congress to take swift federal action, calling ORC a nationwide “epidemic.” In response, the bipartisan Combating Organized Retail Crime Act of 2025 (S.1404/H.R.2853) has been reintroduced. It proposes a federal coordination center, improved data sharing, and enhanced penalties to disrupt criminal operations more effectively.
With growing momentum in Congress, WR encourages members to stay informed and engaged. ORC is more than a retail issue, it threatens economic stability, public safety, and supply chain security across the country. Federal support and cross-sector collaboration are critical to turning the tide.
