NewsRising thefts cost German retailers $3 billion in lost goods

Rising thefts cost German retailers $3 billion in lost goods

Increase in thefts in German grocery and clothing stores, as well as in drugstores
Increase in thefts in German grocery and clothing stores, as well as in drugstores
Images source: © Licensor | ullstein bild - Müller-Stauffenberg

8:19 PM EDT, July 1, 2024, updated: 8:53 AM EDT, July 2, 2024

The EHI Retail Research Institute reports that store thefts are becoming an increasingly significant problem for retailers in Germany. According to its findings, thieves stole goods worth $3 billion last year, a 15% increase from the previous year.

Shoplifting is on the rise in Germany. Thieves stole goods worth $3 billion last year.

According to the EHI study, thefts increased in grocery and clothing stores and drugstores, reports the RND portal.

Several reasons contribute to this situation. Due to the rising prices of many products, some people are experiencing financial hardship and are stealing more frequently, said the study's author, Frank Horst.

Lack of staff

Another problem highlighted is the shortage of qualified workforce in the retail sector. Many stores currently have fewer employees, which facilitates theft.

The most popular items among thieves in supermarkets and discount stores include alcohol, tobacco products, cosmetics, energy drinks, baby food, and coffee.

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