Shoplifting is a global problem. In past blog entries I have noted how rampant it is in the United States. I recently read a report in the Irish Times about how prevalent it is in the Land of Erin as well.

One study estimates that shoplifting costs Irish merchants over €500 million a year, or $640 million US dollars per year. Shoplifting, cash robberies and fraud are a major and increasing problem for Irish retailers. As reported in www.irishtimes.com.

The survey of 33 retail companies, which have over 800 shops and employ about 67,500 people across the country, found 52 per cent of retailers have experienced an increase in crime in the last two years. Overall, 82 per cent have suffered from shoplifting at some point, while 39 per cent experienced theft of stock by employees.

The current survey shows a significant increase in retail theft since 2005 when theft cost retailers an estimated €380 million.

It is believed that this figure is in fact quite low as many retailers choose not to report minor thefts.

So what is the answer? First, shops need to take measures to decrease the level of theft. Floor layout should make shoplifting more difficult and shops should also place security tags on less expensive items. Second, Ireland needs to implement mandatory stop theft classes for all children beginning at the age of 12.