Walmart is the largest retailer in the United States, with 66 stores in Washington state. Walmart has had to constantly deal with the problem of “shrink,” or theft from consumers, and “insider crime” in the retail industry.
With the shrinkage comes rising prices to make up for the losses and stock shortages for those honestly wanting to buy goods.
Let's take a look at what's most stolen at Washington's Walmart.
What item is most commonly missing from Walmart shelves here in Washington?
Beer
Although beer and wine at Walmart aren't particularly expensive, underage kids (or broke alcoholics) sometimes steal them.
sunglasses
The combination of small size, resalability, and relatively easy-to-remove packaging makes sunglasses a prime target.
clothing
Understaffed fitting rooms make it easy for thieves to wear them under other clothes or stuff them into a bag.
Mobile Phone Accessories
Mobile phone accessories such as chargers and cases are frequently stolen because they are small, can be of medium to high value, and are resealable.
cosmetics
Some Walmarts require you to check cosmetics in that area, but there are always tons of cameras in that section as well.
Baby Formula
The shortage has caused the price of formula to skyrocket, with desperate parents and unethical scalpers stealing the powder, pushing the price up even further.
Deli meat
Deli meats are more likely to be stolen because they are relatively expensive and individually packaged, but they will likely be quite cool to the touch of a thief's skin.
detergent
Detergent may seem like it would be hard to steal, but small bottles are.
Small Electronic Devices
Small electronics like earphones are stolen because they have resale value, and even if they are locked and have security features, thieves will find a way to steal them.
Small collectible toys
Toys seem like an odd category for theft (for anyone over the age of 8), but small, expensive toys like action figures and Legos have resale value.
jewelry
Although the precious gemstones are kept in a locked location, thefts of silver-plated and cubic zirconia are still common.
Over-the-counter medications
It's pricey, but the bottle is small, making it the perfect combination that “fits” into your wallet.
Office/School Supplies
We've all had a pen stolen accidentally (after entering a giveaway), but some people go to Walmart and steal them on purpose.
Razor
Many razors end up being stored in locked areas as they are small, expensive items that are often stolen.
toilet paper
Small packages get “lost” all the time at Walmart.
Video Games and Accessories
Many video games and their accessories are stored under lock and key, but if they have high resale value, thieves will find a way.
According to Crazy Coupon Lady, Walmart's coupon policy has changed
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