Loss prevention is a major concern for retailers, especially in the large-scale retail, pharmacy and DIY sectors . Knowing which products are most targeted by theft makes it possible to adapt security strategies and better protect stock.
🌂 Alcohol and spirits
Easy to conceal, small in size and high in value, bottles of alcohol top the list of most stolen items. Their resale appeal makes them a frequent target. Thieves often operate in groups, targeting premium brands such as whiskies, vodkas or champagnes. Reselling can happen via parallel circuits, notably online or at markets. This type of theft represents a significant financial loss for retailers, especially during the festive season.
🍼 Baby products
Infant formulas, nappies and wipes are essential goods, and their high demand means they are frequently stolen. Their elevated cost and constant replenishment make them a prime target for resale. Some thieves resell them at a discount, taking advantage of the economic pressure on families. Theft of these items is often linked to precarious situations.
💋 Cosmetics and perfumes
Beauty items, especially premium perfumes and make-up, are frequently taken due to their small size and high market value. These products attract both opportunistic thieves and organised gangs, often to supply online resale platforms. Major brands are particularly sought after due to strong demand. Some thieves even use foil-lined bags to evade security gates.
💊 Over-the-counter medicines
In pharmacies, painkillers, dietary supplements and other OTC products are common targets. Their small size makes them easy to steal. Some medicines can be diverted from their primary use, making them even more attractive. In addition, their sometimes high price fuels thefts for under-the-counter resale or personal use. Pharmacies must therefore balance prevention and monitoring without hindering accessibility.
🌟 Batteries and small electronics
Batteries, memory cards and phone accessories are among the most stolen items, particularly in DIY or convenience stores. Their compact size and high unit value make them easy to steal and resell. They are frequently targeted due to high demand. Sometimes thefts happen in series, targeting entire aisles in poorly monitored areas.
👔 Razors and blades
Despite being basic, disposable razors and refills are often stolen due to their high price and compact packaging. Their discreet packaging makes them easy to conceal. Many thieves target them for personal use, but also for resale online or at markets. These items carry a high replacement cost for stores, which must increase protection with anti-theft boxes.
💰 Gift cards and prepaid vouchers
Taken before activation, these cards are sometimes stolen en masse, especially for resale or fraudulent use. Their very thin format makes them easy to steal at the checkout or from shelves near the exits.
🥛 Cheese and packaged meats
In the food sector, these high-value products are highly sought after, particularly for their popularity. Food theft is often motivated by immediate needs, but can also be organised on a large scale.
🏋️ Clothing and accessories
Clothing items, especially small accessories, sunglasses or caps, are often targeted on the shelves. Trendy brands are a particular target for resale on second-hand platforms. Some thieves organise shop tours to amass stock intended for resale.
🧬 DIY tools and materials
In DIY stores, screwdrivers, drill bits and small equipment are frequently stolen as they are easy to hide and resell. Demand is constant, especially among professionals or casual DIYers, making them a lucrative target. Stores need to step up monitoring of technical aisles and restrict access to certain products.
🛡️ Anticipating with behavioural detection
Rather than simply monitoring products, innovative retailers are adopting solutions based on the analysis of suspicious gestures . By using artificial intelligence to identify risky behaviours in real time , it becomes possible to prevent thefts without compromising the customer experience.
Technologies such as those from Oxania offer precise, non-intrusive detection tailored to each type of store, enabling in-store teams to react quickly while creating a safer environment for everyone.
📆 In conclusion
Understanding which products are most at risk is a vital first step. But by combining this knowledge with smart AI tools, it becomes possible to reduce losses, improve profitability and protect brand image . Behavioural technology is now a major ally for tomorrow's retail.
