Customer theft in large Maltese supermarkets : an analysis of anti-theft controls

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this dissertation is to evaluate the utilisation of anti-theft controls, by large local supermarkets, in order to manage the increasing problem of customer theft. In addition to this, this dissertation also aims to assess the strengths and weaknesses of such anti-theft controls. Design: The objective of this study was achieved through two major approaches. Firstly, on-site inspections were carried out at the eight largest local supermarkets, forming the subject matter of this dissertation. In addition to this, structured interviews were then held with management personnel from a number of different supermarkets to evaluate the results of the on-site observations. Findings: From the on-site inspections it was found that whilst some anti-theft controls are implemented by the majority of the large supermarkets, others are employed in a less fashionable manner. Responses from the structured interviews indicate that many of the anti-theft controls are not implemented due to the fact that doing so may result in the loss of respected clientele. Conclusion: This dissertation concluded that there is no one anti-theft control that can prevent all forms of shoplifting. A supermarket needs to find the right combination of controls, within a feasible financial budget, to reduce the level of customer theft to an acceptable level. Value: This dissertation aims to draw attention to the problem of customer theft occurring in large, local supermarkets. Recommendations aim to provide solutions to such a problem.