Shoplifting is widespread in retail establishments, yet accurate data on its extent are not available. Most retail theft is established by audit rather than witnessed, hence it is not clear whether the theft is perpetrated by customers, staff or suppliers.
A 2-3 per cent loss of sales to shoplifting can amount to about 25 per cent loss in profit. For some smaller establishments or those on otherwise tight margins, retail theft not only affects their productivity and competitiveness, but also threatens their economic existence. The costs of this crime are not merely confined to the “front line”. Consumers become the victims, subsidising losses through elevated prices. Ultimately, society as a whole suffers when business viability becomes vulnerable.
Despite the significant problems posed by shop theft, there has been little systematic research into the issue in Australia. But it is only when we are armed with accurate information that we can look at effective preventive measures, which aim to minimise the extent of this crime.