CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Lots of drug stores have been locking up their products to prevent theft, but retail experts say it's now preventing sales for many businesses.
Retail theft is a big problem for stores nationwide right now. In response, many major retailers, like CVS, Target and Walmart, have turned to locking up products to prevent it. However, locking up merchandise doesn't appear to be the answer.
A rise in retail crimes has been cutting into a lot of retailers' profits. As a result, more stores are securing their merchandise behind plexiglass cases or locked compartments. While this may successfully thwart some thieves, it's also proving to be a deterrent for honest customers.
Many shoppers find the inconvenience of waiting for an employee to unlock something like toothpaste or shampoo frustrating, especially when convenient online alternatives are readily available.
The situation has created a double-edged sword for businesses. On one hand, they face substantial losses to theft. On the other, they risk alienating customers with a shopping experience that feels like more a trip to a high-security facility than a welcoming store. As the problem persists, retailers are caught in a difficult position, struggling to find a balance between protecting their merchandise and maintaining customer satisfaction.
WCNC Charlotte To Go is a daily news and weather podcast you can listen to so you can start your day with news that impacts you from the team at WCNC Charlotte.
SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts || Spotify || Pandora || TuneIn || Google Podcasts || iHeart
All of WCNC Charlotte's podcasts are free and available for both streaming and download. You can listen now on Android, iPhone, Amazon, and other internet-connected devices. Join us from North Carolina, South Carolina, or on the go anywhere.