Case Study:  Aldi is a discount supermarket. It is one of the most popular Aldi stores in Wollongong, making an average of $100,000 in weekly sales. The store currently operates with 26 employees, ranging from ages 18-60, and maintains a good work environment with positive employee relations. It is a stand-alone store with a separate entry and exit door. The store layout consists of 4 main aisles and sells a multitude of products. Every Wednesday and Saturday, Aldi releases new 'Special Buy' products that range from TVs to gardening equipment and much more. Unfortunately, the 'Special Buys' have become a main target for thieves. 

 

The case of theft at Aldi is a serious workplace issue that has hindered the store's operations. In the context of a retail store such as Aldi, theft is defined as the illegal act of taking or removing products from the store without paying for those items legitimately. It is a prevalent issue that has been on the rise in the recent months, specifically customers shop lifting. Theft events at Aldi have resulted in financial losses, damage to the store's brand, and a severe influence on employee morale. A key theory behind the increase in theft is inflation. Prices of products within Aldi are also set to increase on November 7. Currently, Aldi has a bag check policy where every bag, A4 size or over, must be checked. This is a condition of entry, however customers have become creative and begin to find alternate methods to stealing items, such as putting products in clothes or running out the door. Currently, the only security measures in place are security cameras, bag checks, and an alarmed entry door when trying to exit. 

 Undertake a systems analysis using SD as the methodology:

a. Problem Articulation 

b. Dynamic Hypothesis

c. Causal Loop Diagram/s