Shopkeepers Beware: Here Are The Top 10 Stolen Items In Retail
Shoplifting and burglaries occur across the United States in a variety of businesses, both online and in person. In fact, an estimated $4.5 billion worth of property was lost because of burglaries and thefts in 2013.
Of course, shoes are going to be stolen at shoe stores and other niche businesses will experience theft of certain items. But as a whole, there are a number of items that are more likely to be stolen than others. Here are the top 10 items that are most likely to be shoplifted in the United States.
1. Clothing
From designer clothing to five-pack pairs of underwear, clothing is the most commonly stolen item across the board. Even second-hand stores, which usually sell affordable clothing, are commonly targeted.
2. Baby formula
Baby formula is expensive for the new parent, but surprisingly enough, it’s rarely the parents who steal. There’s a thriving underground market for baby formula and some criminals even make off with thousands of dollars at a time.
3. Liquor
Liquors of all kinds, but particularly high-end liquor, is a greatly desired item among thieves. These thefts are typically performed by alcoholics and the occasional black market reseller. This is why you’ll notice high-end video surveillance equipment in most liquor stores.
4. Ink cartridges
Ink is worth a lot of money nowadays and many resellers want to profit from this highly desired market. Almost every supermarket or retailer offers ink cartridges, making this a threat in many different locations.
5. Razors
More and more retailers have begun to lock their razors in glass boxes over the last couple of years. Strangely enough, the trend of reselling these hot-commodity items continues; few people steal razors to shave. Instead, these razors are heading for the black market.
6. Makeup
Makeup products are easy to steal because of their small size. Lipsticks, eyeliners, and small eyeshadow palettes can be tucked away in a pocket in one swift movement. This makes it a popular item for college students on a budget and resellers alike. Selling the real thing will make you more than the countless knock-off brands available.
7. Handbags
Handbags and purses are sold pretty much everywhere. Big box retailers, your local supermarket, even convenience stores have jumped on the bandwagon.
8. Teeth whitening strips
Looking at the price tag of teeth whitening strips, it’s no surprise people have sticky fingers when it comes to improving their smile.
9. Small electronics
Fitbits are all the rage and headphones have never left the spotlight. These items are highly prized among criminal resellers due to their smaller sizes and high-return value.
10. Jewelry
Not surprisingly, jewelry is another hot-ticket item for criminals. However, many stores have beefed up their security in order to deter criminals. Alarm systems for businesses have worked wonders stemming the presence of crime for highly desired items.
How do you keep these items safe? The best way is through business security systems, including a CCTV camera solution and alarm system. Many criminals will forgo a burglary if they notice video surveillance equipment pointed at them. On top of that, criminals are also more likely to stop an attempted robbery if they discover an alarm when they’re already committing the act.
Sonitrol Delaware even offers a hi-tech audio-based intrusion detection system to stop theft from the start. When it works in conjunction with our video surveillance equipment, we will help bring your burglar to justice. Call today for more information when you want to better protect your business.