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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.

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.

Competitor IQ – A Division of DALBAR Inc., a leading provider of innovative data intelligence solutions (www.ciqdata.com), today released findings from two micro studies, revealing surprising insights that challenge conventional wisdom in beauty retail and fast-casual dining. These reports offer important insights for businesses looking to align with changing customer expectations.

Competitor IQ – A Division of DALBAR Inc., a leading provider of innovative data intelligence solutions (www.ciqdata.com), today released findings that shed light on the intricacies of the mortgage market and consumer financial habits. Through our proprietary mystery shopping methodology, we uncovered data that goes beyond surface-level statistics, providing a deeper understanding of market dynamics.

Competitor IQ is thrilled to announce the appointment of Steve Worthy as Head of Growth tasked with driving the company's expansion plan.

DALBAR Inc. (Canada), a leading provider of data intelligence solutions in Canada for over 30 years, is thrilled to announce its rebranding to Competitor IQ – A Division of DALBAR Inc. as part of its strategic initiative to expand its services from Canada to include the United States and international markets.