Why are people stealing from stores more?

The battle against store theft is heating up. Major grocers like Kroger, Giant Food, and Safeway are taking new steps to cut their losses.

Kroger is checking receipts and banning large bags in some Ohio stores. They say people like it. Customers and workers both feel safer. But honestly, who likes having their bags checked or checking someone’s bag?

Giant Food is also saying no to big bags limiting bags to 14 inches wide, except for your shopping bags, of course. Last year, they started checking receipts in some locations due to theft. 

Safeway is going further. In some California stores, they’re getting rid of self-checkouts. They think this might stop people from stealing.

A new survey found small shops are also struggling. About 68% say they’re losing more than 1.5% of their stuff to theft—that's a lot for a small business.

Stores are trying everything—from cameras and smart layouts to training employees on how to spot and stop shoplifters.

But none of this touches the root causes. 

Why is everyone stealing? Some say lax laws. Others say desperation. I say, it's likely both, and 

But is all this enough? What do you think about these security measures? Are they too much, or just enough to keep stores safe?

Let’s talk more about this online at james brown tv dot substack dot com.

On that note, I’m James Brown, and as always, be well.