At NRF PROTECT 2025, professionals from across loss prevention, asset protection, fraud and cybersecurity came together to tackle the most urgent threats impacting retailers today.
Returning to the expo floor this year was the NRF Fusion Center, a destination for retailers to forge and strengthen vital public-private partnerships with law enforcement agencies, mall security and organized retail crime associations.
Participating agencies included the Cook County Sheriff’s Police Organized Retail Crime team, Dallas Police Department, Fairfax (Va.) County Police, New York State Police and the United States Postal Inspection Service. Together, these agencies highlighted the importance of working with retailers directly to better support them.
“Building effective relationships between retailers and law enforcement is a high priority as the industry continues to battle rising retail crime and violence,” says NRF Vice President of Asset Protection and Retail Operations David Johnston.
“By providing a dedicated space at the NRF PROTECT expo floor and inviting both groups to engage in content, it invites dialogue and discussion while strengthening this important relationship for when it is needed back in the communities they serve.”
Throughout the event, the agencies provided key insights into the tactics that have benefited their work:
Having dedicated teams focused on retail crime allows agencies to more effectively support businesses.
Keeping a pulse on the latest technology and fraud issues has been vital. For the Fairfax County Police department, tools such as license plate readers have assisted with capturing shoplifters at popular shopping centers in the area.
Remaining up to date with the latest fraud techniques is beneficial. Whether it’s a new gift card scam or a new retail return fraud method, being aware of these techniques early can help to fight the issue.
Building strong and open relationships between retailers and law enforcement agencies is vital. The Cook County Sheriff’s Police Organized Retail Crime team credits much of its success to building strong partnerships with retailers and keeping communications frequent and open. In just two years, the team has recovered $5 million in stolen merchandise across cases.
Visitors to the Fusion Center were also treated to a special K-9 unit demonstration from the Dallas Police Department. Attendees were given an overview of how the department uses the K-9 unit in everyday scenarios, and the opportunity to ask questions during a Q&A segment. As highlighted throughout the Fusion Center, resources such as K-9 units are just one of many tools police departments can use to combat the issue of retail crime.
Interested in participating in the NRF Fusion Center at NRF PROTECT 2026? Contact programs@nrf.com for more information.
