Theft, Staffing Shortages Are Top Stressors for Retailers: Survey

The continued issues with retail theft, rising rent prices and staffing shortages are top concerns for retailers, according to a survey released by NP Digital.

More than half of brick-and-mortar retailers say they feel pressure when it comes to retail theft. Only 10 percent of the 1000 retail professionals surveyed said they did not have any concerns about theft. According to the survey, smaller retailers are disproportionately affected.

In addition, 70 percent said they saw their rent increase within the past year. Nearly half say rising rent affects their profits. Two-thirds said they considered closing because of the rent increases.

More than 75 percent of retailers surveyed said they were concerned about staffing shortages and nearly one-third said they have trouble finding workers.