Shoplifting, it’s a year round problem that spikes during holiday season. The injured economy doesn't help. From shoes, to jewelry to jeans...nothing's safe from shopping thieves.
Christina Baker, the Manager at Charlotte Russe, says “ We've defiantly had some incidents where some shoplifters have concealed some merchandise.” She's not alone in the fight against shoplifting. The National Association of Shoplifting Prevention says $13 billion worth of goods are stolen from retailers each year. That's more than $35 million a day.
And around Christmas those numbers climb. Baker says “It gets a little difficult just because we are so busy and there are so many people in our stores, to really make sure we are paying attention to everyone.”
To stop theft, they staff-up at the front door. Baker says “We always try and have someone whose upfront of the store getting, asking right away if there's anything we can help customers with. So that way when shoplifters do come in they know we saw them and were are aware they are there.”
There are well known shoplifters called "professionals." They make a living by stealing, and bring the tools of the trade with them. Baker says “Some of them have special shopping bags they they've lined with foil they can help deter the Sensormatic in stores, or they have sensor removers.”
Baker says those shoppers get a little extra attention. She says “If they do try to conceal something we will make sure to let them know that we know they have it whether it's by pointing out the item, or telling them that sweater you were looking at is on sale.”
They've given a chance to put the item back, but it they don't Police are called. NASP prevention says one in 11 people will steal. That same group reports that shoplifters say they're caught only once in every 48 times they try.
