Alar Olup, Prisma’s security chief, said a large proportion of shoplifting has been done when using scanner and self-service facilities, while the tough economic situation means the profile of many shoplifters has changed in recent months to include what he called “completely ordinary” people.

At the same time, more stereotyped culprits remain.

“It is difficult to point out clear patterns of an ‘average thief.’ Thefts are being committed by both adults and minors, with cosmetics and sweets being particularly popular among children in summertime. In some cases, there is also a visible link between the theft of certain products and addiction problems,” Olup said.

Less expected items such as toilet paper and toothbrushes are being stolen, if less frequently, he noted.

More read: ERR.EE