Walgreens Employees Battle Rising Retail Theft: Cosmetics Targeted as Policies Limit Intervention

Walgreens Employees Frustrated by Retail Theft and Company Policies

Walgreens, one of many retailers grappling with increased theft in recent years, is facing criticism from its own employees regarding the company’s approach to addressing the issue. A customer service associate at a Walgreens store, speaking on condition of anonymity, has revealed that retail theft is a regular occurrence at their location, with cosmetics and personal care items being prime targets.

According to the employee, high-value cosmetic products, particularly serums priced at $50 or more, are frequently stolen due to their small size and ease of concealment. In response, store staff have devised improvised anti-theft measures, such as keeping beauty products in the back room and displaying empty boxes on shelves.

However, the employee claims that Walgreens’ policies restrict staff from actively preventing theft. The associate recounted an incident where they were reprimanded for following a suspected shoplifter out of the store, stating they were told they could lose their job for such actions. This approach aligns with policies at other major retailers, including Walmart.

While Walgreens has security cameras that can potentially provide footage to local police, the employee reports being unaware of this ever occurring at their store. The company’s apparent inability to address theft effectively is believed to be hurting business, according to the employee.

The issue of retail theft extends beyond Walgreens, with major retailers like Target and Lowe’s also reporting significant losses. Many stores have resorted to locking up items to deter thieves, though this strategy can negatively impact the shopping experience for legitimate customers.

In June, Walgreens announced plans to close some of its stores, noting that approximately 25% of its 8,600 U.S. locations do not contribute to adjusted operating income. While the store where the interviewed employee works is not scheduled for closure, concerns about theft’s impact on business persist.

A Walgreens spokesperson stated that the company implements preventative measures against theft, such as installing anti-theft devices, based on theft data and to improve product availability. However, the company did not address questions about policies preventing employees from intervening in theft incidents.

As retailers continue to grapple with the challenges of theft, the balance between loss prevention and customer experience remains a critical issue for the industry.