The increase in shoplifting is causing concern among retailers in Germany. Experts see several reasons for this.
Retailers in Germany have a growing problem with shoplifting. According to a study by the EHI retail research institute, thieves stole goods worth 2.8 billion euros last year. In addition, goods worth 910 million euros were stolen by their own employees. Damage amounting to 370 million euros was caused by theft by suppliers and service companies.
The damage caused to the trade is 15 percent higher than in the previous year. There has been an increase in the food and clothing trade as well as in drugstores.
There are several reasons for this. “Due to the price increases for many products, some people have got into financial difficulties and have stolen more often,” said study author Frank Horst. Another problem is the shortage of skilled workers in retail. “Many stores now have fewer staff. This makes it easier for thieves. Staff presence indirectly prevents theft,” said Horst.
Shoplifting: A large proportion are opportunistic offenders
The product groups that are particularly popular with thieves in supermarkets and discount stores include spirits, tobacco products, cosmetic products, razor blades, energy drinks, baby food and coffee. Meat, sausage and cheese are also mentioned more frequently. Most of the offenders are opportunistic offenders, but at least a quarter of the cases are committed by professional offenders who work in gangs.
Overall, inventory discrepancies rose by 5 percent to 4.8 billion euros in 2023. The figure includes losses due to theft by customers, employees and staff from suppliers and service companies, as well as organizational deficiencies such as incorrect pricing. This also causes damage to the German state, which loses sales tax revenue of around 560 million euros.
Source: Stern
