Shrink and Theft Losses Near $1 Billion at Lowe’s — Here’s How Much They’re Costing Other Retailers

A CNBC analysis of several retailers reveals that inventory losses due to shrink and retail theft are generally only a small fraction of the retailers' net sales. This is in stark contrast to other factors like excessive discounts and promotions, which exert more pressure on profit margins. While some companies, like Lowe's, have disclosed significant shrink numbers reaching nearly $1 billion, the overall impact seems less dire than certain retailers and trade associations have suggested.