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I expect lighting, store position, lots of cameras, hidden security tags, diligent security and psychology would minimize losses and maximize the chances of catching people stealing items.
It’s organized theft rings with someone likely on the inside providing info. It’s not random people taking items because they’re broke.
There are organized groups, but they mainly operate through removing and slap-tagging (placing an adhesive barcode for a cheap product over an expensive one).
Some of them get very specific. When I worked at a major outdoors chain, they'd get a $3,000+ Hummingbird sonar unit and put on a tag for a $100 Hummingbird unit, so the cashier would see the correct brand name pop up on the screen.
When I was a teenager I worked at a grocery store. We’d replace the cases of red Bull barcodes with tuna fish can barcodes and go through self checkout with it.
Retailers fault thinking they can save $ by automating away jobs.
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I'm sure it's all sorts - teams, meth heads, kids, desperates, employees whatever. These "loss prevention" units have to figure the best way to deter theft before it happens, detect theft when it happens, trespass / prosecute thieves, and minimize loss of sales all at once. It's a difficult calculus I'm sure.
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When asked for an inventory of items stolen, the CEO said "it's still printing."
I just cut shit off the racks or tear the packaging. If it's in a cage I'm going somewhere else.
Same and I don't even shoplift. I feel like interacting with a human should not be required in order to go shopping. I just want to grab my stuff in peace, check it out myself, and go.
Same reason why I ignore the receipt checkers. I just walk on by. Unless you're at Costco, they're not going to stop you.
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Stopped at my local Best Buy the other day. Needed an SSD that was locked behind glass. After attempting to get help for a half hour I ordered one on eBay from the parking lot and drove home. I've honestly tried to support brick and mortar where I can but I give up.
this post was submitted on 15 Jan 2025
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