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By Scott Pethuyne | Nov. 20, 2025
How AI-Powered Analytics and Technology Help Uncover Hidden Retail Losses
Retail has always fascinated me. It’s a dynamic industry that demands constant attention to detail, an ability to adapt, and a focus on solving problems that can threaten both profits and customer trust. After spending over a decade in retail asset protection and now working with Zebra Technologies, I know firsthand how challenging it can feel to combat losses while keeping operations running smoothly.
In a recent webinar, I joined Byron Coleman, another industry veteran, to discuss how retailers can tackle organized retail crime (ORC), internal theft, and operational inefficiencies. We shared how retailers like you can use data and technology to address these challenges head-on. I wanted to take this opportunity to give you a glimpse into the key takeaways from our session and invite you to watch the recorded version to learn more.
Facing the Hidden Threats of Retail Loss
Retail losses don’t just happen in plain sight. ORC grabs attention because of its sheer audacity and the emotional impact of viral videos, but it’s only part of the story. Internal theft and operational inefficiencies quietly chip away at profitability every day. I’ve seen it from both sides; working in retail and helping retailers address these very issues with technology.
According to our recently released 18th Annual Global Shopper Study, retailers face mounting pressure to reduce losses while meeting shoppers' rising expectations. A staggering 46% of retail decision-makers reported an increase in shrink rates over the past year, driven by factors like theft, fraud, and administrative errors.
One thing I’ve learned: treating all losses as isolated incidents doesn’t work. Retailers need to approach loss prevention holistically. You can’t focus solely on ORC or internal theft. Instead, you need to step back, look at the bigger picture, and ask yourself where the data points you. Only then can you understand the full scope of the problem and decide how to act.
Using AI-Powered Analytics to Act Smarter
When I worked in retail, data often felt like a puzzle with missing pieces. We might know a product was missing but couldn’t pinpoint why or where the loss happened. Those gaps made it hard to act quickly or effectively.
Today, I get to show retailers how Zebra’s Workcloud Actionable Intelligence solution fills those gaps. By combining data from point-of-sale systems, inventory management tools, and e-commerce platforms, this solution gives retailers a connected view of their operations. It empowers teams to spot anomalies in real time, whether they stem from employee errors, fraud, or inefficiencies.
For example, RFID technology allows retailers to track inventory at the item level. This visibility helps identify missing products and uncover patterns. A better understanding of where and how losses occur also helps you restock faster, improve asset visibility, and avoid disappointing customers with empty shelves.
Balancing Security with Customer Experience
I know from experience that balancing security with customer experience creates unique challenges. Locking up merchandise or adding too many safeguards might reduce theft, but it can also frustrate shoppers.
Our 18th Annual Global Shopper Study revealed that 52% of shoppers left a store without items they planned to buy due to inventory gaps or locked-up merchandise. This trend sends a clear signal that outdated loss prevention strategies cost more than revenue. They erode customer trust and loyalty.
So how do you protect your assets without alienating your customers? The answer lies in smarter solutions. AI-powered analytics and exception reporting systems let you focus resources where they matter most. Instead of applying broad measures across your store, you can pinpoint problem areas and address them with precision.
This approach also strengthens internal accountability. By identifying suspicious patterns early, you can intervene before issues escalate. Whether it’s coaching an employee on best practices or addressing a potential theft, you can act proactively rather than reactively.
Building a Collaborative Approach
Retail loss prevention doesn’t operate in isolation, nor should it. Preventing losses effectively requires a collaborative effort that bridges the traditional silos of asset protection, operations, and IT teams. Each of these groups brings unique expertise to the table, but when they work independently, blind spots develop, and critical insights get lost.
Why Watch the Webinar?
This webinar allowed Byron and I to share decades of experience with a focus on practical solutions. It’s more than a discussion of challenges. It’s a roadmap for the future of retail loss prevention. By watching the recorded session, you’ll gain:
- Insights into the latest trends in ORC, internal theft, and operational losses.
- Practical strategies for leveraging AI-powered analytics and exception reporting systems.
- Real-world examples of how retailers are using technology to reduce shrink and improve efficiency.
- Expert advice on balancing security with customer satisfaction.
Don’t miss your chance to learn from industry veterans who’ve been on both sides of the retail equation. Watch the recorded webinar today and discover how AI-powered analytics can help you uncover hidden losses and turn insights into action.
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