Sheer scale of self-checkout theft
This incident is an example of an escalating trend of retail theft. In 2023, U.S. retailers reported 93% more shoplifting incidents than in 2019, and 90% more monetary losses as a result of that theft.
When it comes to self-checkout theft, more than 20 million Americans have shoplifted in this way and 41% plan to do it again, according to Capital One.
Walmart CEO Doug McMillon told CNBC that theft is increasing across the Walmart chain, and noted that it could contribute to higher prices or store closures.
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Learn MoreHow retailers are fighting back
To combat self-checkout theft, Walmart has begun using 'invisible barcodes' that scanners can capture on items even if the codes are invisible to the naked eye.
As an added protection, staff are checking receipts against items in shoppers' bags. As more shoplifters use fake receipts, Walmart employees are scanning receipts as customers leave the store. This has outraged some.
"Instead of having all these people standing at the doors, why don’t you have people work at the register that could actually ring up all the items & then you won’t have to worry about people not payin" one wrote.
"Just shop at Target, they don’t treat you like a criminal after being forced to check yourself out," said another.
Some stores are making it harder to steal high-value, oft-stolen items by locking them up, but this can backfire as shoppers choose to make purchases elsewhere rather than waiting for an employee to unlock an item. Despite retailers’ best efforts, shoplifters continue to find new ways to exploit self-checkout systems, turning theft prevention into a constant game of cat and mouse.
As technology evolves and security measures tighten, one thing is clear: Retailers will have to find new ways to stay one step ahead.
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