Retail crime was a hot topic throughout 2023, and it’s easy to see why. According to the National Retail Security Survey, losses attributed to retail theft rose to $112.1 billion in 2022, up from $93.9 billion in 2021 — and experts expect this year’s total to continue to rise. Respondents also overwhelmingly indicated that shoplifters — particularly those affiliated with organized retail crime (ORC) — have grown increasingly violent in recent years, adding another layer to the challenge. Cracking down on retail crime isn’t just about stopping thieves anymore. It’s about keeping employees and shoppers safe.
