🛍️ Washington Now Leads the Nation in Retail Theft

If you’re a small business owner in the South Sound, there’s a rising issue that’s grabbing both local headlines and legislative attention — and it’s hitting especially hard in cities like Tacoma, Lakewood, and Federal Way.

Washington now ranks No. 1 in the nation for retail theft, according to a recent survey by Forbes Advisor. The report highlights the alarming surge in organized retail crime (ORC) — coordinated groups stealing large amounts of merchandise and reselling it for profit.

📊 How Bad Is It?
Washington’s top ranking is based on several key factors, including:

• Reported retail theft incidents per capita

• Dollar amount of losses

• Police reports and industry surveys from large and mid-sized retailers

• Anecdotal data from local chambers of commerce and business groups

For perspective, Washington now outranks historically high-theft states like California, which has also been battling widespread retail losses.

📍 South Sound Business Owners Are Feeling It
State Rep. Mari Leavitt, who represents the University Place area, says she’s hearing from business owners and chamber leaders who are increasingly concerned — not just about shoplifting, but well-organized theft rings targeting everything from electronics and beauty products to over-the-counter medication and brand-name clothing.

Many retailers have reported:

• Repeat thefts by the same individuals

• Armed confrontations with staff

• Reduced hours or store closures due to safety issues

• Higher insurance premiums and loss prevention costs

This isn’t limited to big-box stores. Independent retailers, convenience shops, and even neighborhood grocery stores are reporting rising losses that threaten their ability to operate.

🗣️ Lawmakers Are Paying Attention
Rep. Leavitt and others in Olympia are signaling that new legislative action may be needed in the 2025 session to help combat the growing trend of organized retail crime. While details haven’t been finalized, proposals may include:

• Additional funding for local law enforcement

• Stronger penalties for ORC activity

• Partnerships between prosecutors and retail groups

• More coordination between jurisdictions and state agencies

It’s part of a broader call to action, as retail theft is now being treated not just as a nuisance — but as a public safety and economic stability issue.

🏬 What Comes Next?
As we head into the busy holiday shopping season and beyond, South Sound businesses — especially those in downtown districts and high-traffic corridors — will be watching closely.

Expect more conversations around:

• Store security

• Community policing

• Economic impacts on small business viability

• The real-world consequences of unchecked theft

📨 I’m Aaron Thomas, a local realtor sharing stories about growth, development, and business trends across the South Sound.
Every Friday, we publish the South Sound Report — covering what’s next for Tacoma, Lacey, Olympia, and beyond.

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