The 9 Most Stolen Items from Walmart in Arizona

There was a time when Arizona Walmarts were on the brink of ripping out the self-checkout kiosks. They initially installed them to cut labor costs, shifting checkout to customers. They didn't anticipate that the shift would end up costing them more than they saved, prompting them to rethink the move.

For years, stores across Arizona have redirected the work once done by store employees onto customers. Many people have expressed anger, annoyance, and irritation about having to perform this duty amid rising prices and declining customer service.

RELATED: Why Are Arizona Shoppers Frustrated With Self-Checkout Kiosks?

Walmart Faces a Serious Problem: Theft

Walmart admits it loses billions of dollars every year. The problem: shrinkage, as it's known in business. Theft or shoplifting, as it's known to the rest of the world.

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In parts of Arizona, incidents of shoplifting and theft are not rigorously or consistently prosecuted. Studies have shown that these places have higher rates of shrinkage, which includes theft, damage, and errors.

How Walmart is Taking Action Against "Shrinkage"

Theft-detection devices, like merchandise tags that activate security, are one way stores work to prevent shrinkage. Big-ticket items like televisions and cameras not only have theft deterrents attached but also require an employee to release them. The customer then has to pay at the department where the item is displayed, such as the electronics department.

READ MORE: 15 Things You Should Never Buy at Arizona Walmart

Deterring Theft at Self-Checkout Kiosks in Arizona Walmarts

Self-checkout machines are most often exploited by thieves, so measures are in place to prevent theft.

Barcode scanning, weight comparison, camera and video analysis, security personnel, and random audits are a few ways stores try to keep merchandise from walking out of the store unpaid. As you can guess, these measures don't always work.

Some of The Most Commonly Stolen Items from Walmart

• Small Electronics
• Cosmetics
• Food
• Personal Care Items
• Over-the-Counter Medications
• Clothing, Accessories, and Jewelry
• Toys
• Alcohol
• Baby Formula

Some of these items are stolen because they're high-ticket items, easily concealable, and in high demand.