Recent research by the Loss Prevention Research Council (LPRC) in collaboration with Verkada highlights concerning safety issues affecting retail workers.
The "State of Retail Safety" report reveals that over half (52%) of retail employees may leave their jobs in the next year, attributed predominantly to personal safety anxieties. The study showcases a rise in workplace violence over recent years and proposes strategies intended to safeguard both employees and consumers while minimizing conflict.
Increase in Workplace Safety Concerns
The report indicates a growing apprehension among retail workers about their safety on the job
The report indicates a growing apprehension among retail workers about their safety on the job. Currently, 35% of retail employees feel unsafe, a significant increase from 27% in 2024.
Instances of physical assaults have risen by 22% year-over-year, accompanied by a notable escalation in aggressive behavior from both former employees and current colleagues, which surged by 28% and 26%, respectively. Furthermore, nearly 40% of workers express concern about theft and verbal harassment during their workday.
Impact on Employee Retention
The retail sector, already grappling with high staff turnover, faces additional challenges due to safety concerns. One-quarter of retail workers, up from 19% the previous year, have contemplated seeking new employment owing to these worries. Among those who have experienced violence, 53% are contemplating a job change.
Notably, men are more inclined to leave their positions over safety issues compared to women (63% vs. 39%). Store managers have also remarked an increase to 49%, up from 37% in 2024, identifying safety concerns as a significant hindrance to hiring new staff.
Customer Frustration with Theft Prevention Measures
Security measures such as locked cabinets and checkout gates are perceived as weak by nearly half
Security measures such as locked cabinets and checkout gates are perceived as counterproductive by nearly half of retail workers, who feel these measures impede their efficiency.
This sentiment is echoed by 60% of U.S. adults who find these theft prevention tools disruptive to their shopping experience, with 74% stating certain measures deter them from shopping in-store.
Workers in stores implementing these measures report higher rates of violence, indicating that customer frustration with these barriers can provoke confrontations. A reported 54% of verbal threats originate from displeased customers.
Continued Efforts by LPRC
"Retail remains a critical cornerstone of the American economy, contributing $5.3 trillion annually to GDP and supporting more than one in four jobs," commented Read Hayes, Ph.D., Executive Director of the Loss Prevention Research Council.
Read adds, "Nothing is more important than protecting the frontline retail associates who power this economic engine, and this report builds on the LPRC's ongoing efforts to provide a roadmap for retailers on how to make sure these workers feel safe."
A Call to Action for Retailers
"Everyone deserves to feel safe, but our research shows that more than one in three retail workers has felt the opposite," stated Alana O'Grady Lauk, Vice President of Public Affairs at Verkada.
Alana adds, "With the busiest shopping season around the corner, millions of retail workers will experience increased foot traffic, longer hours, and rushed shoppers. This data gives retailers a clear roadmap to protect their teams when it matters most – and the urgency to act on it now."
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