Shoplifting most often occurs by concealing merchandise in a purse, pocket or bag but can occur by a variety of methods. Most shoplifters are amateurs. However, there are growing numbers of people who make their living by stealing from retail stores. Amateur shoplifter can be highly skilled, and some steal almost every day, but don't do it to make a living. Most amateurs are opportunistic, crude in their methods, and are detected more often than others.
Professional shoplifters run the gamut from being highly skilled to thug-like.
Some professionals work in teams or use elaborate distraction scenarios. Being a professional means that they steal merchandise for a living and like other trades, practice makes perfect. Thoughtful professionals are very difficult to stop in a society where retail stores openly display their merchandise. Shoplifters come in all shapes and sizes, ages and sexes, and vary in ethnic background, education, and economic status. Some shoplifters steal for the excitement, some steal out of desire, some steal for need, some steal out of peer pressure, and some steal because it is simply a business transaction to them.