NCJ Number
93792
Date Published
1983
Length
8 pages
Annotation
Retailers in Australia are combating shoplifting with a variety of strong measures.
Abstract
Shoplifting has been a problem for retailers for decades. Current losses to retailers in New South Wales from shoplifting are estimated at $40 million to $75 million a year. Retailers can take several steps to combat shoplifting. They can buy equipment of various kinds to deter theft: closed circuit television, signs, convex mirrors, electronic tagging, loop alarm pressure pads, and locked showcases. Management and staff surveillance of customers can deter theft, as can security staff -- both plainclothes and uniformed personnel. The Retail Traders' Association has studied the shoplifting problem and taken several effective measures. The group has directed educational materials -- posters, films, videos, and speakers -- to schools. The Association has used television, radio, printed media, bus-sides, and outdoor posters with various messages to the public at large. It has also helped train managers and owners of smaller stores that do not have experienced security staff. Retailers believe that heavy penalties can be a major deterrent to stealing from shops. They dislike the term shoplifting, which implies that the offender is not really a thief. Retailers also resent the idea that they should be lenient and not report all cases of shoplifting. One table is included.