In the pharmaceutical sector, shoplifting remains a real issue. Even though pharmacies are seen as trustworthy places, they are not immune to losses caused by theft. But which products are most often targeted… and more importantly, how can this be addressed in a modern and intelligent way?
Check out below the 6 most commonly stolen items in pharmacies , and how innovative solutions like suspicious gesture detection can significantly reduce these losses while improving the customer experience.
💊 1. Over-the-counter medicines
Painkillers, cold remedies, antacids and other self-service medicines are frequent targets. Easy to access and compact in size, they can be hidden in an instant.
How to address it?
Real-time detection of suspicious gestures (such as hiding a product under clothing, in a bag or in a pram) allows staff to be alerted without disturbing customers.
🪥 2. Oral hygiene products
Electric toothbrushes, whitening kits, or branded toothpaste are frequent targets. Their higher price makes them appealing for opportunistic thieves.
Benefit of smart surveillance:
With precise gesture analysis, it’s possible to identify abnormal behaviour without resorting to intrusive monitoring.
🧴 3. Cosmetics and beauty products
Facial creams, anti-ageing serums, high-end makeup… These items combine a small size with high value, a perfect recipe for theft.
The solution?
An artificial intelligence system like the one offered by
Oxania
detects abnormal behaviour even before a theft occurs, allowing proactive prevention.
🚼 4. Baby products
Baby formula, nappies and wipes are also regularly targeted.
Artificial intelligence for an effective approach:
With gesture-based detection, staff can intervene in a considerate way without creating tension with customers.
🧼 5. Premium body care products
Essential oils, organic lotions or dermatological creams are often stolen in urban pharmacies. Their placement on easily accessible shelves makes them easy to take.
AI advantage:
Cameras equipped with intelligent algorithms continuously analyse movement, without storing personal data, thus ensuring privacy is respected.
🧠 6. Food supplements
Vitamins, fat burners, slimming or sleep aids are among the most popular — and most frequently stolen — products.
Loss reduction:
By identifying risky behaviour (quick concealment, suspicious gestures), teams can react quickly and efficiently.
🤖 Technology supporting security… and customer experience
Today, it’s possible to secure pharmacies without turning the place into a fortress. Innovative solutions like suspicious gesture detection via artificial intelligence offer a modern response to the challenges of shoplifting.
👉 They help reduce losses , optimise staff vigilance and most importantly, provide a smooth and calm experience for customers .
Companies like Oxania offer powerful and privacy-friendly technologies already adopted by many businesses in the industry.
🛍️ In conclusion
Theft in pharmacies is real, but it’s not inevitable. By combining smart prevention , cutting-edge technology and a customer-focused approach , pharmacies can create a safer environment for everyone.
💡 Want to learn more about intelligent detection solutions for suspicious behaviour? Contact us for a personalised demo.
