Lowe’s Shoplifting Policy In 2024: A Comprehensive Guide
As one of the largest home improvement retailers in the US, Lowe’s sells high-value merchandise that can attract shoplifters looking to make a quick profit. However, Lowe’s has robust policies and procedures to deter theft and prosecute offenders. This article will examine Lowe’s industry-leading shoplifting prevention in 2024.
A Look at Shoplifting in the Retail Sector
Shoplifting is a major problem for retailers, causing losses of around $50 billion annually in the United States according to the National Retail Federation. Home improvement stores often report higher rates of theft, with power tools, appliances, and electronics being common targets.
To protect their inventory, many major retailers now use a combination of security tactics:
- CCTV cameras
- Electronic sensors on merchandise
- Security guards or asset protection staff
- Staff training on shoplifting prevention
- Working closely with local law enforcement
Lowe‘s uses all of these best practices, as we‘ll explore below.
An Overview of Lowe‘s Shoplifting Prevention
| Security Measure | Details |
|---|---|
| CCTV Cameras | Hundreds of digital cameras per store covering all areas |
| Electronic Sensors | On high-value merchandise over $100 |
| Asset Protection Staff | Average of 3 per store, 40 hours training |
| Staff Training | All employees learn shoplifting prevention |
| Law Enforcement Relations | Work closely with police on prosecutions |
This multilayered approach aims to create a complete view of any theft incident while preventing confrontations between staff and shoplifters.
CCTV Camera Surveillance at Lowe‘s
Lowe’s invests heavily in state-of-the-art digital camera systems for their stores. While camera numbers vary by store size, there are typically several hundred cameras covering the sales floor, warehouse, exits, and parking areas.
Studies show visible security cameras can deter potential thieves. And the footage provides invaluable evidence if a shoplifting case goes to prosecution.
Electronic Security Tags on Merchandise
For products over $100 in value, Lowe’s uses electronic anti-theft tags. These Sensormatic Ultra Max tags set off alarms if someone tries leaving the store without removing them at checkout.
Retailers report sensored merchandise sees up to 60% less theft. For higher-priced items, Lowe’s may also use safer, more tamper-resistant hard tags requiring special tools for removal.
Asset Protection Associates Key for Theft Prevention
Lowe’s employs Asset Protection Associates (APAs) in every store dedicated to preventing shrinkage from theft, fraud, or other losses.
APAs receive extensive training on:
- Identifying potential shoplifters through behavior cues
- Overseeing the sales floor and monitoring high-theft areas
- Investigating and documenting all theft incidents
- Assisting with prosecutions by providing video evidence and statements
Having an APA presence has been shown to reduce shoplifting, even beyond surveillance cameras alone. And APAs allow other Lowe’s staff to focus on customer service instead of theft intervention.
What is Lowe‘s Policy on Shoplifter Confrontation?
To maintain a safe environment, Lowe’s policy strictly prohibits employees from pursuing or confronting shoplifters. Only trained APAs or law enforcement should intervene in theft incidents.
Lowe’s staff are empowered to alert asset protection or the police to any suspicious activity. But they should not attempt to detain or engage suspects. This no-contact approach protects employees and avoids conflict escalation.
Partnering with Law Enforcement to Prosecute Shoplifters
Rather than handle shoplifting cases internally, Lowe’s works closely with local police departments and prosecutors. Sharing video evidence and statements from APAs assists police in filing the appropriate charges against offenders.
Lowe’s also advocates for stronger legislation and enforcement around retail crime. In 2022, they supported a new California law increasing penalties for serial shoplifters. This sends the message that Lowe’s takes theft seriously.
Consequences of Shoplifting at Lowe’s
Getting caught stealing from Lowe’s results in legal prosecution and permanent loss of store privileges nationwide. Depending on state laws, offenders can face:
- Misdemeanor charges for under $950 of merchandise
- Felony charges for over $950 worth of products
- Fines up to $10,000
- Jail time of up to 3 years
Lowe’s will fully cooperate with authorities to prosecute shoplifters and have implemented sophisticated asset protection technology to catch criminals. Ultimately, the strong shoplifting deterrence helps Lowe’s maintain low prices by reducing losses from theft.
