Americans continue to grapple with tight budgets that push some toward shoplifting basic goods.
A LendingTree survey of 2,000 adults shows 30% admitted to shoplifting in the past year.
That’s an increase from 24% in 2024.
Ninety percent of those who stole pointed to cost concerns and wider economic conditions as the main drivers.
Participants most often took food and nonalcoholic drinks, followed by clothing and hygiene items, with some also grabbing toys, electronics or school supplies.
Many viewed large chains as easier targets, with nearly half naming Walmart as the simplest option, ahead of Family Dollar, Amazon Fresh, and Kroger.
Says LendingTree chief consumer finance analyst Matt Schulz,
“These findings are concerning because they suggest many people aren’t shoplifting for thrills or resale, but because they feel squeezed by basic affordability challenges.
That doesn’t excuse shoplifting, but it does highlight how financially vulnerable many consumers are.
When people are risking arrest or fines to obtain food, hygiene products or other essentials, it suggests inflation and stagnant cash flow may push some households toward desperate choices.”
Follow us on X, Facebook and Telegram
Don’t Miss a Beat – Subscribe to get email alerts delivered directly to your inbox
 
Disclaimer: Opinions expressed at The Daily Hodl are not investment advice. Investors should do their due diligence before making any high-risk investments in Bitcoin, cryptocurrency or digital assets. Please be advised that your transfers and trades are at your own risk, and any losses you may incur are your responsibility. The Daily Hodl does not recommend the buying or selling of any assets including cryptocurrencies, nor is The Daily Hodl an investment advisor. Please note that The Daily Hodl participates in affiliate marketing.
Generated Image: Midjourney
The post Americans Increasingly Admit to Shoplifting, Targeting Walmart, Amazon Fresh, Family Dollar and Kroger: Survey appeared first on The Daily Hodl.
