NSLC sees 55% increase in thefts compared to last year
Numbers show growing trend of thefts across Canada in 2024
The Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation had a 55 per cent increase in thefts across all retail stores in the province during 2024.
In an email, spokesperson Terah McKinnon said the NSLC is seeing "a similar trend to what other retailers are seeing across Canada." McKinnon declined to be interviewed.
Numbers released by Statistics Canada show that shoplifting crimes nationwide rose in 2023, with theft of $5,000 or under increasing by 18 per cent.
The same report shows Nova Scotia had the highest shoplifting rates nationwide, with 7,167 reported cases of shoplifting in the same year.
McKinnon said the NSLC has a security team and "processes in place" to monitor theft.
She said that "team members are trained to handle these situations by approaching suspected shoplifters" but adds that "we are seeing many shoplifters ignore our assistance and walk out the door with product."
McKinnon said the NSLC encourages shoppers not to intervene if they see a theft happening, a sentiment extended by the RCMP.
"You never know if the incident could turn to violence," said RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Guillaume Tremblay.