2023-06-05 15:55:40
One of the effects of the rising cost of living is the increase in thefts from hardware stores.
• Read also: Shoplifting: Quebec hardware stores deplore a growing scourge
The phenomenon would be on the rise since it is increasingly easy to resell stolen products thanks to platforms on the web, such as Facebook Marketplace.
“There is no supervision on these platforms,” explains Richard Darveau, president and CEO of the Quebec Hardware and Building Materials Association.
Mr. Darveau believes that it would be wise for online resale platforms to require individuals to add a photo of the invoice for the product they wish to sell, if it is not used.
“The consumer would feel more comfortable,” he says. “Government may have a small role to play in helping consumers wake up.”
The expert suggests that we add a banner at the bottom of the resale site to warn consumers where we could read: “when you buy new merchandise, if you do not ask to see the invoice, it may that you are an accomplice to a theft,” said Mr. Darveau.
Moreover, the Éducaloi site reminds users to navigate these sites with caution, since it is prohibited to have in one’s possession an object that has been obtained illegally.
Screenshot of Éducaloi
Although inflation and the cost of living are constantly increasing, Mr. Darveau believes that the real culprits are the resale sites.
“Poor people who can’t make ends meet who need a hammer, we turn a blind eye and let them go with the hammer,” he said. “Now it’s organized gangs, people who know the employee-to-client ratio is deficient.”
According to AQMAT, 68% of employers have noticed an increase in thefts in their store and 89% believe that it is common.
Watch the full interview in the video above…
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