Trying to balance retail security and frictionless customer experience? Find out what customers say they want, and what you should do about it.

Is your Loss Prevention strategy hurting your sales? Discover why locking up merchandise is damaging consumer trust and why they’re shopping elsewhere.

Introducing Competitor IQ’s Trusty Sidekick, Tippy. Serving Up Fresh Competitive Intelligence Insights to You Weekly.

New logo. Same level of commitment. We’re evolving to serve you better

It’s time to move beyond omnichannel silos. Discover why a “single brain” for inventory and data is the only way to survive the 2026 retail margin squeeze.

Retail theft is rising—but how customers feel about security may matter just as much as shrink.

The 2026 Retail Security & Loss Prevention Study reveals how today’s shoppers view theft, safety, and in-store security—and where retailers risk losing trust, convenience, and sales. Based on direct customer feedback, the study uncovers a critical balancing act: visible security measures can improve perceptions of safety, but excessive friction—such as locked merchandise and store closures—can actively damage the shopping experience and lead to abandoned purchases.

As theft increasingly impacts frontline operations, this research highlights what customers actually support, which security tactics quietly erode loyalty, and how retailers can protect assets without pushing shoppers away. The result is a practical, data-driven roadmap for loss prevention strategies that align security, customer confidence, and revenue protection.

Essential reading for retail leaders navigating the intersection of shrink, safety, and customer experience.

Don’t rely on your rearview mirror to drive into a storm. Learn why competitive win rates and real-time shopper data help you to de-risk in 2026. 

Choose the best AI model for retail by answering these outcomes-first tech questions.

Boost sales and customer experience (CX) through Employee Experience (EX). Plus, create safe and motivating work environments. 

State of U.S. Retail Banking 2026: Where Digital Convenience Meets Human Trust

The State of U.S. Retail Banking study reveals a sector performing strongly at its core—yet facing critical gaps that will shape the next phase of competition. Drawing on mystery shopping and consumer surveys collected across eight months, the research highlights a powerful truth: digital channels are essential, but human interaction remains the foundation of trust and loyalty.

While 71% of consumers use digital banking weekly or daily, more than one‑third of clients aged 45+ engage online less than once per month—signaling untapped opportunity. In branches, courtesy and confidence score highly, but proactive recommendations and digital education remain limited. With a Net Promoter Score of +73%, banks are well‑positioned—yet vulnerable to shifting expectations around convenience, personalization, transparency, and rewards.

This report delivers actionable insights for bank leaders, outlining where client journeys excel, where friction persists, and how institutions can convert satisfaction into long‑term advocacy in an increasingly competitive environment.