Shoplifting on the Rise: How Retailers Can Respond

Surprised woman caught stealing a t-shirt in a store, confronted by an employee.
Surprised woman caught stealing a t-shirt in a store, confronted by an employee.

Table of Contents

Shoplifting has seen an increase. This phenomenon is particularly concerning for retail stakeholders, especially in the food, hardware, and pharmacy sectors. So, how can retailers respond to this trend while preserving the customer experience?


🔎 Better Understanding New Forms of Theft

Shoplifting is no longer just the act of isolated individuals. Today we are seeing:

  • Organized group thefts,
  • Discreet and rapid behaviors,
  • Strategies adapted to the blind spots of traditional cameras.

These new methods make detection more difficult and require more intelligent surveillance tools .


🤖 Technology Serving Security

To combat this trend, many retailers are turning to artificial intelligence. Behavioral detection systems now enable:

  • Identifying suspicious gestures in real time,
  • Alerting staff before a theft is committed,
  • Reducing the pressure on security personnel by automating surveillance.

Solutions like Oxania , a specialist in AI-assisted suspicious gesture detection, offer an innovative approach: they complement existing systems without burdening the customer environment. AI detects suspicious gestures with great precision, without facial analysis or violating privacy .


🏢 Maintaining a Positive Customer Experience

Security should not interfere with customer welcome and comfort. Modern solutions make it possible to combine protection and peace of mind in stores. By identifying suspicious behaviors rather than individuals, AI-based systems minimize unnecessary interventions and judgment errors.


✅ A Winning Strategy for Retailers

Adopting smart detection technology allows you to:

  • Reduce losses due to theft,
  • Optimize human resources in stores,
  • Reassure staff and customers ,
  • Strengthen the image of a modern and responsible retail business.


🚀 Conclusion: Innovating to Protect Better

In the face of increasing shoplifting, technological innovation appears to be a key lever. By relying on artificial intelligence, retailers can not only protect their revenue , but also offer a safer and smoother shopping experience.

Together, Let’s Make a Difference