How Organized Retail Crime is Threatening the Retail Industry

Organized Retail Crime (ORC) is a growing threat to the retail industry, with average case costs reaching a staggering $244,509. As a response, retailers are turning to modern security solutions, such as emerging technologies, to combat ORC, maintain customer safety, and enhance loss prevention efforts.

July 21, 2025

Organized Retail Crime (ORC), a form of systematic theft by coordinated groups, is escalating at an alarming rate. The average cost per case has soared to $244,509 amid consistent yearly growth in theft cases. The consequences are severe, forcing major retailers like Target and Walmart to close dozens of stores in 2023 due to ORC. To protect themselves and ensure customer safety, retailers must adopt modern, tactical security measures. Emerging technologies are proving to be a pivotal tool for enhancing loss prevention and expediting investigations to combat this evolving threat and protect the industry.