Germany: Shoplifts rise to $3 billion in 2023

Retailers in Germany are facing a growing problem of shoplifting, according to a study by the Institute for Business Research (EHI).

According to the study, thieves stole goods from stores in Germany worth 2.8 billion Euros ($3 billion) last year, up 15% compared to 2022.

The study pointed to a rise in thefts in food and clothing stores as well as pharmacies.

Study author Frank Horst attributed this to multiple reasons, “Due to the high prices of many products, some people have faced financial crises and often stolen”.

Horst added that the other problem is the shortage of skilled workers in retail, “There is a decline in the number of employees in many stores today… This makes it easier for thieves, as employees prevent theft indirectly through their presence”.

According to the study, the product groups targeted by shoplifters, in particular, are tobacco products, beauty products and razors, energy drinks, as well as baby food and coffee, as well as meat, sausages and cheese.

Most of the perpetrators are unprofessional, but at least a quarter of them operate in a gang-like manner.

Overall, inventory differences increased by 5% to €4.8 billion ($5.15 billion) in 2023, and the figure includes losses caused by theft by customers or employees, supply and service workers, as well as regulatory deficiencies such as incorrect pricing.

This also has negative effects on the German state, losing an estimated 560 million euros ($601.6 million) in sales tax revenue.