Locks Are Placed on Toothpaste and Detergents in Stores... Shoplifting Drives US Economy

Sharp Rise in Theft of Daily Necessities... "Need to Lock Up"
Some Major Brands Halt Sales Completely
61% of Americans Say "Inflation, Economic Hardship"

As theft crimes increase in supermarkets across the United States, more companies are completely stopping the sale of essential items such as soap. It has been reported that some even lock the shelves containing essential goods to prevent theft.

"If displayed, they disappear"... US halts sales of some major brand products

Toothpaste stored in a locked display case. Stock photo. [Image source=AFP Yonhap News]

According to the Washington Post (WP) on the 5th (local time), Giant, a retail chain operating in Washington, Virginia, and Maryland, recently announced that it will completely stop selling major national brand health and beauty products at all its stores in Washington.

This means that products from major brands commonly used in American households, such as Colgate toothpaste, Tide detergent, and Advil pain relievers, will be removed from the shelves. However, private label products that are not from major brands will still be available.

Aira Kress, CEO of Giant, said, "Of course, we want to sell these products, but realistically, it is impossible. Once they are placed on the shelves, they disappear, so these brands effectively do not exist on the shelves."

Inflation drives up essential goods theft... receipt checks implemented

[Image source=Pixabay]

The reason Giant has taken this decision is related to the recent surge in theft of essential goods in the United States. According to data released last year by the National Retail Federation, organized retail theft increased by 26.5% in 2021 compared to the previous year. In particular, theft of essential goods has been rising mainly in high-crime areas of major US cities.

Some attribute the increase in retail theft crimes to inflation (rising prices). In fact, a Gallup poll conducted in May found that 3 out of 5 Americans (61%) reported experiencing economic hardship due to rising prices. Low-income households were found to feel a greater burden compared to high-income households. Additionally, weak enforcement and penalties related to theft appear to have contributed to the increase in theft crimes.

To prevent theft crimes, Giant has also decided to check customers' receipts. Customers must have their receipts checked by staff before leaving the store. Initially, the company increased security and restricted backdoor access to prevent theft, but when these measures proved ineffective, they resorted to this drastic step.

Meanwhile, some retail chains such as Walmart have locked essential items like soap with padlocks or at least only display the products on shelves in areas with frequent thefts such as Washington. The well-known US pharmacy chain Walgreens also stores items targeted for theft, such as bandages, snacks, and batteries, separately in downtown Chicago and only accepts online orders for these products.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.