Looking for a pen in the office only to discover that it has disappeared is not a rare fact. However, what drives employees to take office supplies home remains a mystery with many theories. Various studies have revealed the surprising reasons behind “petty theft,” highlighting that even the simplest items can become the most coveted and detailing which items are most commonly chosen for small thefts.
The most stolen office supplies by workers, from pencils to toners.
Several studies reveal that office supply theft remains a persistent problem in many companies. Small and easy-to-hide items top the list of those most stolen by employees. H. C. Long and S. P. Jones in their study “Employee Theft and Workplace Deviance: An Empirical Investigation” provide a detailed analysis of minor theft behaviors in offices, revealing which office items are most commonly stolen. On the other hand, K. B. Dawson and J. R. Kivisto in “The Impact of Organizational Culture on Employee Theft: A Comparative Analysis” examine how different organizational cultures affect theft rates in the workplace, highlighting that small and low-value items are the most stolen.
Among the most stolen items are pens and pencils, which due to their everyday use and size, often disappear from desks. They are followed by paper in various forms, such as loose sheets, notebooks, and notepads, as well as popular Post-it sticky notes, which are often taken without being noticed.
In addition, smaller items such as staples and paper clips, despite seeming insignificant, are stolen in small quantities. A notable discovery is the theft of printer toners, due to their high cost, and although less common, they also represent a significant loss for companies.
Other common items that disappear include folders and file organizers, essential for office organization, as well as USB drives, which due to their small size and personal utility, are frequently stolen. Calculators, especially pocket calculators, also feature on the list of stolen objects.
This phenomenon, often underestimated, represents a considerable cumulative cost for companies. Organizations are beginning to take stricter measures to control the inventory of these materials and reduce losses, implementing more rigorous access controls and fostering a culture of responsibility among employees.
For a more detailed exploration of the reasons behind this trend and how companies can address it: Detailed exploration.
A4toner is a leader in the stationery and printing sector, dedicated to marketing compatible and original items. With a commitment to efficiency and innovation, A4toner strives to maintain high standards in printing.
Source: MiMub in Spanish
