Retail Theft Surges Across U.S. Cities, Costing Billions and Endangering Workers

Organized retail crime is increasing in major U.S. cities, costing retailers over $112 billion according to a recent survey. Los Angeles tops the list for the 5th straight year.

Thieves often use social media to coordinate smash-and-grab robberies across multiple businesses. This causes inventory losses and sometimes violence.

The average retailer shrink rate rose to 1.6% in 2022, up from 1.4% in 2021, based on a survey of 177 companies representing $1.6 trillion in sales.

Lawmakers have proposed the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act to involve multiple agencies in tackling the problem, which impacts small and large retailers.

Beyond financial losses, retail crime endangers employees and increases costs for consumers. Retailers have added security but need more help combating the issue.