In 2024, the number of indicated shoplifting steels decreased by 4.9%. This emerges from the police crime statistics published in early April. In the case of heavy shop theft, the number even fell by 6.8%. Nevertheless, the results continue to move at a very high level, the trade association Germany notes. “The identified minor decline in the displayed shoplifting is not a reason for the all-clear,” said HDE general manager Stefan Genth. “The decline compared to the maximum values registered in 2023 must not hide the fact that the figures for 2024, like the values found for 2023, exceed all values identified for 2023.”
Based on the statistics, the HDE assumes economic damage to the industry by shoplifting in the amount of around 2 billion euros. Since the police crime statistics also only record the displayed cases, it cannot be ruled out that the statistics draw a distorted image of reality. Accordingly, many retailers are frustrated, Genth continues. “The HDE has submitted comprehensive proposals to combat shop theft better, which should take up the coalition partners and implement them in the new legislative period,” says Genth.
Shopping steels 2024: HDE estimates damage of 2 billion euros
