Watching a documentary on shoplifting on the Discovery channel was shocking. As a retailer I understood theft is an ongoing never ending issue. I did not understand how big of an issue shoplifting is. It really is killing business for some people. People struggle to make sales only to have the five finger discounts walk away with any profit.
The real problem is that most people are unaware that the great deal they are getting on eBay, some online stores, flea markets and even some discount stores started off on a store shelf. How can an honest person know what was stolen? A seller of stolen product is going to strive for a golden reputation, great feedback and a very professional image just like those who are not selling stolen product.
What can the average person do? Think before buying, if a deal seems to be too good to be true that is a good sign it is. However as long as we don’t know for sure an item is stolen most of us are going to take the deal. Sometimes it is the only way to afford the things we need or want. Do I want to be buying stolen product, no. Can I be 100% sure that I am not, no. Not even when I am buying in a store.
