Shoplifting incidents in the U.S. surged 93% in 2023 compared to pre-pandemic levels, with retailers experiencing a 90% rise in monetary losses, according to a new study by the National Retail Federation (NRF). The “Impact of Retail Theft & Violence 2024” report underscores the growing severity of organized retail crime and its increasing violence.
The NRF’s study, conducted with the Loss Prevention Research Council, found that shoplifting incidents increased by 26% in 2023 alone. The data revealed an average of 177 shoplifting incidents per day, but some retail sectors reported over 1,000 daily incidents. David Johnston, NRF vice president of asset protection and retail operations, explained that organized crime groups are driving these numbers by reselling stolen goods in bulk.
“This isn’t the shoplifting I was apprehending 30 years ago,” Johnston told FOX Business. “These shoplifters know they have an outlet to sell this merchandise.” Johnston emphasized that stolen goods are often resold through local, regional, or even transnational networks, fueling a cycle of theft.
The report also highlighted an alarming trend of increased violence. About 73% of retailers surveyed reported more violent shoplifting incidents compared to the previous year, and 91% noted higher aggression levels than in 2019. In response, retailers have ramped up protective measures, such as locking up high-theft items—a deterrent that frustrates both staff and customers.
Some companies, including TJ Maxx and Walmart, are testing body-worn cameras to enhance employee safety. Additionally, 71% of retailers have increased their budgets for employee training related to workplace violence.
Despite state-level efforts to curb organized retail crime, Johnston argues that federal legislation is essential. Currently, 48 states have organized retail crime associations that facilitate cooperation between law enforcement and retailers. However, Johnston stresses the need for greater coordination at the national level.
The NRF is advocating for the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act, which would boost federal coordination with state and local law enforcement. The bill proposes creating a coordination center within the Department of Homeland Security to streamline investigations and dismantle organized crime networks.
“When you dismantle one of those [networks], you dissolve the underlying shoplifting operations,” Johnston explained. The bill aims to unite federal agencies, state and local resources, and private sector partners to combat the surge in retail crime.
As organized retail crime continues to escalate, retailers are urging swift legislative action to protect employees, customers, and businesses.
