Retail Struggles As Shoppers Pull Back, Theft Rises: Major Companies Warn Of Billions In Losses

Retailers report billions in lost profits due to dropping sales and rising costs like theft in an uncertain economic environment.
Home Depot, Target, and Walmart report slowing sales growth and warn investors that losses will significantly impact profits.
Shoppers are buying more necessities but fewer higher-margin discretionary goods, raising concerns about the overall economy.
Organized retail crime has become an increasing problem, with some companies attributing up to $1 billion in losses to theft.
After a strong couple of years, the retail industry is facing major headwinds that threaten profits and growth.