The highly anticipated 2023 Retail Security Survey, conducted by the National Retail Federation, offers a glimpse into the current landscape of national retail security and organized retail crime. Drawing from insights contributed by retailers spanning the entire nation, this comprehensive report portrays the industry's security challenges and trends.

Here are some key highlights from the survey:

Organized Retail Crime Remains a Top Concern Among Retailers

Among retailers, Organized Retail Crime (ORC) has surged to the forefront as a concern demanding heightened attention and resources. The statistics from this survey reveal an uptick in the average shrink rate among retailers, rising from 1.4% in the previous year to a notable 1.6%.

While retail shrink encompasses a variety of loss factors, according to the survey, it's predominantly fueled by theft, including both internal and external sources. An astounding 65% of retailers' shrinkage can be attributed to theft, with external theft, including ORC, contributing an average 36% to overall loss.

Violence Associated with Retail Crime Becomes a Growing Issue

As retailers continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of both shoppers and employees, the escalating violence associated with retail crime has emerged as a pressing concern.

Compared with one year ago, 88% of retailers report that shoplifters are somewhat more or much more aggressive and violent.

These developments come with significant ramifications. Beyond endangering employees and shoppers, this surge in violence threatens to disrupt the ability to recruit and retain staff, poses challenges in maintaining commonly stolen inventory, and fosters an overall negative perception among the public regarding the retailer's overall safety and environment.

Ecommerce Emerges as an Escalating Realm of Retail Theft

Beyond the traditional boundaries of physical storefronts, this year's survey has unveiled an emerging challenge – ecommerce fraud. ORC groups have now adapted to new methods of acquiring stolen merchandise, venturing into the digital and ecommerce realm.

A staggering 52% of survey respondents have experienced a surge in ecommerce fraud over the past year, including tactics such as 'buy online, pick up in store' (BOPIS).

As a result, loss prevention teams are stepping into an expanded role, shouldering the responsibility of overseeing ecommerce fraud prevention and implementing innovative strategies to prevent this growing avenue of theft.

Elevating Retail Security: Implementing Innovative Strategies and Solutions 

In the ever-evolving landscape of retail security, loss prevention teams are actively pursuing cutting-edge solutions designed to detect, deter, prevent, or minimize losses.

In response to this, 53% of survey respondents have taken steps to intensify their training efforts in employee workplace violence. In an environment where violence poses one of the most significant risks, this commitment to preparedness underscores the industry's dedication to the safety of its workforce.

Moreover, 54% of retailers have bolstered their investment in technology and software solutions over the past year, while an additional 48% have allocated more capital towards enhancing their LP/security equipment arsenal to combat criminal activity.

If you're looking for ways to better protect your people, assets and property – download our free ORC Guide for 3 Steps for Safer Stores.