Organized Retail Crime (ORC) refers to the coordinated theft of goods by criminal networks, often targeting multiple store locations to steal large quantities of merchandise for resale. These criminal rings are not only sophisticated but relentless, causing millions of dollars in losses annually. ORC has evolved into a significant challenge for retailers across the nation. Retailers face mounting pressure as repeated hits from these groups affect not just bottom lines but employee and customer safety. The need for effective deterrents and investigative tools has never been greater.

The Pain of ORC

For many retailers, the impact of ORC is felt across multiple fronts:

• High levels of shrink and loss that chip away at profit margins
• Repeated targeting by violent organized crime rings that disrupt operations and put employees at risk
• The time-consuming nature of investigations, which takes away from addressing other pressing issues

How Flock Safety Changes the Game

Flock Safety’s advanced license plate recognition (LPR) technology, when combined with live and recorded video, provides retailers with an unparalleled advantage in tackling ORC:

• Actionable Evidence: With LPR cameras, retailers gain detailed vehicle data, helping link suspects to crimes across multiple incidents and various store locations. This aids in identifying and dismantling ORC rings by revealing patterns of vehicle movement and habitual offenders.
• Structured Intelligence: Flock’s easy-to-search LPR and video data accelerates investigations, allowing retailers to spot trends quickly and address the most impactful cases with precision.
• Collaboration: Sharing crucial data, such as license plate details, across store networks and with law enforcement helps retailers collaborate effectively to catch repeat offenders and protect their assets.
• Employee Safety: Flock Safety helps keep store employees safe with earlier threat indicators such as Custom Hot List alerts and proactive de-escalation.

Real Results

A major retailer’s use of Flock Safety’s technology led to the apprehension of a multi-state ORC group responsible for $250,000 in losses. This case, like many others, exemplifies the power of combining proactive technology with strategic law enforcement collaboration.

In addition, Tulsa Hills Shopping Center saw a nearly 70% reduction in theft cases since implementing Flock Safety. Read the full case study HERE.

While ORC remains a prevalent issue for retailers, implementing Flock Safety’s technology is a highly effective tool to combat these threats while bringing peace of mind to employees and customers.

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