CRAVED model
Q: What does the C in CRAVED stand for?
Concealable
The difference between what inventory records say and what the store actually has
What is shrink?
Q: Cameras (CCTV) mainly help by doing what?
Deterring and documenting incidents (not stopping every theft)
A cashier forgets to scan water on the bottom of the cart. What type of loss is this?
Operational/administrative error
Wireless earbuds are high-risk because they’re small, popular, and expensive. Name 3 CRAVED letters that fit.
Answer: Any 3 of: C, R, A, V, E, D (commonly all apply)
Q: What does the R in CRAVED stand for?
Removable
Customer shoplifting is what type of loss?
External theft
What is an EAS tag used for?
To trigger an alarm if unpaid items leave the store
A customer returns an item with no receipt, and it looks used. Biggest risk?
Return fraud
Razor blade cartridges are stolen a lot because they’re pricey and easy to resell. Name 2 CRAVED letters.
Valuable + Disposable (also Concealable/Removable can fit)
What does the A in CRAVED stand for?
Available
Q: Employee stealing is what type of loss?
Internal theft
Putting high-theft items in a locked case is an example of what strategy?
Access control (limits removal)
You notice suspicious behavior. What should you do first?
Notify manager/AP and follow store policy (don’t accuse/confront)
Vitamins/supplements are risky because people want them and brands resell quickly online. Name 2 CRAVED letters.
Enjoyable/Desired + Disposable (also Valuable)
What does the E in CRAVED stand for?
Enjoyable (desirable)
Mistakes like wrong counts, pricing errors, or paperwork errors are called what?
Administrative/operational error
Counting a small set of items daily/weekly instead of the entire store once a year is called what?
Cycle counting
Inventory shows 12 phone chargers, but only 7 are on the peg and none in backstock. What’s the best next step?
Recount/verify, check recent sales/receiving/transfer, report to manager/AP
Laundry detergent pods are bulky, so “Concealable” is weaker—but they still get stolen. What CRAVED letters fit best?
R, A, V, E, D (C varies)
Q: Which CRAVED letter best matches “easy to resell or return for quick money”?
Disposable
True or False: Damaged, spoiled, or expired products can count as shrink.
TRUE
Name one return policy rule that reduces loss/fraud.
Receipt required / ID required / time limit / manager approval / item must be sealed (any one)
Give one ethical way to prevent loss without treating customers unfairly.
Consistent policies, respectful service, secure displays, clear signage, staff presence (any one)
A thief targets phone fast-charger blocks near checkout. Which store change reduces risk MOST without hurting sales?
Locking peg/keeper box or move behind counter or spider wrap (any strong security placement change)