NewsA wave of shoplifting surges in Germany amidst economic struggles

A wave of shoplifting surges in Germany amidst economic struggles

Increase in the number of thefts in German grocery stores and clothing shops, as well as in drugstores
Increase in the number of thefts in German grocery stores and clothing shops, as well as in drugstores
Images source: © Licensor | ullstein bild - Müller-Stauffenberg
Przemysław Ciszak

2 July 2024 21:03

Thefts in shops are becoming an increasingly significant problem for retailers in Germany, reports the EHI Retail Research Institute. According to its findings, thieves stole goods worth £2.4 billion last year, which means the damages were 15% higher than the previous year.

A wave of shoplifting is rising in Germany. Thieves stole goods worth £2.4 billion last year.

According to the EHI study, the number of thefts in grocery, clothing, and chemist stores increased, writes the RND portal.

Several factors contribute to this situation. Due to the rising prices of many products, some people have found themselves in financial hardship and are stealing more frequently, said the study's author, Frank Horst.

Lack of staff

Another problem indicated is the shortage of qualified workforce in the retail sector - currently, many shops have fewer employees, which facilitates theft for thieves.

Alcohol, tobacco products, cosmetics, energy drinks, baby food, and coffee are the most popular goods among thieves in supermarkets and discount stores.

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