NRF: Shoplifting is Up 93% From Pre-Pandemic Levels

New research finds that retailers are struggling with theft and violence.

December 30, 2024

Retailers reported a 93% increase in the average number of shoplifting incidents per year in 2023 compared to 2019, and a 90% increase in dollar loss due to shoplifting over the same time period, according to research from the National Retail Federation (NRF). 

The NRF survey was conducted among senior loss prevention and security executives in the retail industry and contains results from mid-size to large retailers across 164 retail brands, which accounted for $1.52 trillion in annual sales in 2023 or 30% of total retail sales.

“Retailers continue to navigate a rising retail theft landscape that has evolved significantly over time,” NRF Vice President for Asset Protection and Retail Operations David Johnston said. “Protecting store associates and customers, coupled with reducing today’s levels of violence and retail crime, requires a whole-community approach and collaboration across all stakeholders.”

Retailers surveyed reported an average of 177 shoplifting incidents per day in 2023. However, that number can reach over 1,000 depending on the retail sector.

Violence “remains a major concern” for the retail industry. About 73% of those surveyed said that shoplifters are exhibiting more violence and aggression than they were a year ago. In response, “retailers continue to take measures to keep those within their retail environments safe. Compared with their last fiscal year, 71% of retailers have increased their budgets to support employee training related to workplace violence.”

The NRF said that multi-person theft incidents are also on the rise, with 62% of survey respondents saying that two to three individuals working together to steal multiple items is more of a concern than it was a year ago.

According to the survey, 94% respondents “believe federal legislation is needed to effectively combat this issue.”

Earlier this month, NACS held its first Loss Prevention and Safety Symposium in Dallas. The event convened industry experts in asset protection, safety and loss prevention to navigate how retailers can support and protect their people and their stores.