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Organized retail crime (ORC) is a significant driver of criminal activity that extends beyond property loss. ORC involves professional groups that engage in large-scale theft and fraud for financial gain. The National Retail Federation (NRF) reports that many ORC groups have direct links to other serious crimes, including drug trafficking, weapons offenses, and human trafficking (National Retail Federation, 2024). Retailers and law enforcement agencies have identified cases in which ORC operations were used to fund or facilitate these activities, either by directly exchanging stolen merchandise for narcotics or by using profits to support other criminal enterprises (National Retail Federation, 2024).

Law enforcement agencies and the NRF emphasize that ORC is not a victimless crime. Retailers lose billions of dollars annually due to ORC, with industry-wide losses reaching an estimated $112.1 billion in 2022 (National Retail Federation, 2024). These losses contribute to higher prices for consumers, reduced availability of products, and increased operating costs for businesses. In areas with high ORC activity, some stores are forced to reduce hours or close, negatively impacting local communities and limiting access to essential goods (National Retail Federation, 2024).

Physical violence and threats against employees are also common in ORC incidents. The NRF survey found that 67% of retailers reported an increase in violence and aggression associated with organized theft in 2022 (National Retail Federation, 2024). Staff and customers may be put at risk during thefts, especially when perpetrators use weapons or physical force.

ORC is linked to larger criminal networks that rely on the proceeds of retail theft to finance additional crimes. The U.S. Department of Justice and the FBI recognize that ORC can serve as a source of funding and logistical support for groups involved in drug trafficking, organized crime, and human trafficking (Federal Bureau of Investigation, 2024). These connections mean the harm extends far beyond retailers and their immediate losses, affecting public safety and the well-being of entire communities.

References

Federal Bureau of Investigation (2024) ‘Organized Retail Theft’.

National Retail Federation (2024) National Retail Security Survey 2023. Available at: https://nrf.com/research/national-retail-security-survey-2023 (Accessed: 6 July 2025).

National Retail Federation (2024) Organized Retail Crime. Available at: https://nrf.com/advocacy/policy-issues/organized-retail-crime (Accessed: 6 July 2025).