Poll question: Crime and prevention

Organized retail crime cost the retail industry almost $100B in 2021, according to the National Retaill Federation. And there is no shortage of opinions suggesting the problem is getting worse.

Target reported a 50% increase in shoplifting incidents last year, accounting for a whopping $400 million in losses. Walmart CEO Doug McMillan said theft is higher than its historic levels.

Lowe’s has tested a program to fight crime through a technology it calls “Project Unlock.” The crime-fighting system activates power tools – automatically -- when they’re purchased fair and square at the point of sale. Otherwise, they remain deactivated, and useless to thieves.

Meanwhile, videos of smash-and-dash robberies are proliferating online as retailers of all stripes balance safety, security, shop-ability and , of course, profitability.

This week’s poll seeks your feedback: Is it getting worse? Is your business taking steps to mitigate what seems like a growing problem? Share with us your thoughts here.

And please participate in our poll below: