Retailers are combating the problem by adding security guards and cameras to stores, locking up goods and making use of facial recognition software to help identify repeat offenders. Macy’s is using radio frequency identification (RFID) tags to better track inventory, adding more security personnel to stores and securing high-end brands with locked cables and sensors.

Retailers and shoppers say there is a fine line between deterring criminals and annoying honest customers. “Retailers are locking up everything from shaving cream to soap,” said one customer. “These should be things that are quick and easy to grab and go. But now I’ve got to find an employee to unlock them for me.”  Some retailers agree they may have gone too far in their theft-prevention measures. Macy’s used to keep German shepherds in its Manhattan flagship for security sweeps, but discontinued the practice in 2015.  NYC police now ask shoppers to take off their face masks before entering stores, a measure intended to help them better identify criminals. The plea came after four men stole  $1.1 million of goods from a jewelry store.

This post provided courtesy of Jay and Barry’s OM Blog at www.heizerrenderom.wordpress.com. Professors Jay Heizer and Barry Render are authors of Operations Management , the world’s top selling textbook in its field, published by Pearson.