Shoplifting remains a real issue in the pharmacy sector. Even though pharmacies are seen as trusted places, they’re not immune to losses from theft. But which products are most often targeted… and most importantly, how can we address this in a modern and smart way?
Discover below the 6 products most frequently stolen from pharmacies , and how innovative solutions like suspicious gesture detection can dramatically reduce these losses, all while improving the customer experience.
💊 Over-the-counter medicines
Painkillers, cold and flu remedies, antacids and other pharmacy-only products are commonly targeted. Easy to access and small in size, they can be hidden in a split second.
How to address it?
Real-time detection of suspicious gestures (such as hiding a product under clothing, in a bag or even a pram) allows staff to be alerted without disrupting customers.
🪥 Oral hygiene products
Electric toothbrushes, whitening kits and branded toothpastes are frequent targets. Their higher price point makes them attractive to opportunistic thieves.
Benefit of smart surveillance:
With accurate gesture analysis, it’s possible to identify abnormal behaviours without resorting to intrusive monitoring.
🧴 Cosmetics and beauty products
Face creams, anti-ageing serums, premium makeup... These products combine small size and high value—a perfect combo for theft.
The solution?
An artificial intelligence system like the one offered by
Oxania
can detect abnormal behaviours before a theft even happens, enabling proactive prevention.
🚼 Baby products
Infant formula, nappies and baby wipes are also regularly targeted.
Artificial intelligence for an effective approach:
Gesture-based detection lets staff intervene supportively, without creating tension with customers.
🧼 Premium body care
Essential oils, organic lotions and dermatological creams are often stolen from urban pharmacies. Their placement on easily accessible shelves makes them easier to steal.
AI advantage:
Cameras with smart algorithms continuously analyse movements without storing personal data, thus ensuring privacy is respected.
🧠 Dietary supplements
Vitamins, fat burners, slimming products and sleep aids are among the most popular—and most stolen—items.
Reducing losses:
By spotting risky behaviours (quick concealment, suspicious gestures), teams can act quickly and efficiently.
🤖 Technology for Security… and the Customer Experience
These days, it’s possible to secure pharmacies without turning the space into a fortress. Innovative solutions like suspicious gesture detection powered by artificial intelligence offer a modern answer to the challenge of shoplifting.
👉 They allow you to reduce losses , optimise staff vigilance and most importantly, provide customers with a smooth and stress-free experience .
Companies like Oxania offer cutting-edge, privacy-friendly technologies already adopted by numerous businesses in the sector.
🛍️ In Conclusion
Theft in pharmacies is a reality, but it’s not inevitable. By combining intelligent prevention , advanced technology and a customer-focused approach , pharmacies can create a safer environment for everyone.
💡 Want to learn more about smart detection solutions for suspicious behaviour? Contact us for a personalised demonstration.
