Top Rite-Aid exec unveils two extreme new anti-theft measures following spike in self-checkout theft

A TOP Rite Aid executive has revealed two controversial anti-theft solutions following the rising wave of shoplifting-related crimes.

Andre Persaud, the popular dispensary’s chief retail officer, told analysts that the company was considering locking up more products and deploying police officers in certain locations.

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Retail crime is up 26 percent in 2021 and crime is becoming increasingly violent, according to the National Retail Federation.

According to a Washington Post report, Rite Aid tries “to put literally everything behind display cases to ensure products are there for customers who want to buy them.”

The executive allegedly added that they may even have to use off-duty cops at some stores as an additional measure of surveillance.

Not all buyers are receptive to the introduced changes.

In fact, many customers have previously criticized retailers like Walmart, CVS, and Target for taking “extreme measures” that hurt customer service.

By trying to address the theft problem, the retailer might just create another one as the excessive measures discourage shoppers from making a purchase.

According to the Washington Post, shoppers like Sheila Schlegel don’t appreciate the extra step of unlocking products.

“When you come into the store, there’s a person in that store, and that person you know has been there for 15 hours,” Schlegel said. “You don’t want to ask her for something if you don’t have to, to have.”

If shoppers hesitate to ask overworked staff for extra help unlocking a product, the retailer could be missing out on sales.

The increased security could also alienate certain consumers, particularly people of color.

In 2020, major retailers like CVS, Sephora, and Walmart faced backlash for banning products only for black customers.

Rite Aid will have much to consider as they navigate the changing shopping tides amid rising crime.

However, the store has also affirmed that it is committed to finding other ways to keep customers happy.

Earlier this year, the pharmacy partnered with Grubhub to offer over-the-counter Home dDelivery before the peak flu season.

Initiatives like delivery could also reduce the risk of in-store theft.

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