Definition
Shrinkage, in a retail context, refers to the loss of inventory due to theft, damage, or error. It's the difference between what a store should have on the books and what it actually has in stock. 📉 Think of it as the mysterious disappearance of items. It can be caused by shoplifting, employee theft, administrative errors, or damage to merchandise. It's a major concern for retailers, as it directly impacts their profits. It’s not just about theft, but any reason the count is off.