Retail theft is a big issue in our country right now.  Minnesota-based Target announced recently that 9 stores were closing due to the issue.  Now, a Minnesota boutique owner is also sharing an emotional message with a glimpse of what businesses are truly dealing with on a daily basis.

READ MORE: Minnesota-Based Target Closing 9 Stores Due to Theft and Crime

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Minnesota Boutique Owner Writes Emotional Letter to the Thieves Stealing From Her Store

 

I hate that I have to post this..

 

Stealing is a big problem at Real Deals. This isn’t something that I wish to talk about. In fact, I avoid it since my goal with our family’s store is to maintain a happy, fun, home-away-from-home for you all. I also truly don’t want to burden you all with this.

Real Deals
Real Deals
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But when I see on a DAILY basis that people have such little regard for this store that my family and I built from the ground up, I have to speak up. We have people sneaking jewelry and home decor out in their purses. We have people wearing Real Deals shoes right out of the store. And now we even have people full on RUNNING out of the store with baskets full of merchandise. Whoever you are, I hope you read this post. I hope you realize that these faces below are who you are stealing from. I travel all over the country to hand pick and purchase products I think you all will love.

 

We work hard every single week to make sure our employees get paid so they can provide for their families. We ALL work hard to make sure we can give back to our community and families in need. That is who you are stealing from. Your crimes are not victimless. And you should know, we are now investing in an upgraded security system. You should know that if you choose to have sticky fingers, we do plan on pressing charges and getting the law involved. We are not like big-box stores. Real Deals loses money when you steal from us. Money meant to keep this store open, keep our employees supported, and money meant to support my family.

Credit: Real Deals
Credit: Real Deals
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My employee’s hearts break over this. Andrew’s heart breaks over this. My heart breaks over this. And to all of my loyal and faithful customers.. You mean the world to us. We truly can’t run this place without your support. I ask that if you are in the Shoppe and see anything suspicious, that you please inform us or one of our employees. It truly is my heart to keep Real Deals running as a wholesome and happy atmosphere and keep our merchandise at a Real Deals price. Share or comment if you feel so inclined so we can get the word out about this problem!

 

Ashley, Andrew, and the Real Deals Family❤️

 

To The Thieves That Ran Out Of This Minnesota Boutique...STOP!

Not sure why you are thinking it is ok to steal from this business, but if you are doing it here you are most likely doing it somewhere else too.  It is not ok.  In fact, it is against the law.  Just stop.  If you need help because you can't stop, ask for it.  Before you shove that jewelry in a spot I don't want to see, ask yourself if the thrill is worth it...because once that better security footage comes, I don't have a problem writing a story with your photo front and center.

Ashley, let me know if you get those photos.

mobile connect with security camera
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Here's a Solution to the Theft Issue at Real Deals in Rochester, Minnesota

Just a thought, but I think all of us who love Ashley and her store should just start taking shifts at the door.  We can look at receipts and what is purchased just like they do at Walmart and Costco.  And if people are shoving product where it doesn't belong, we make everyone do the YMCA dance before they are allowed through the doors.  I'll set up a Sign-up Genius so we can all take a shift.  ;)

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