In what comes as a disheartening blow to the community, popular retailer Regalo Bello has announced its decision to shut its flagship store's doors. For over 20 years, the shop, known for its French country-inspired décor, clothes, and unique gifts, has been a staple in Stockton. However, owners Stephanie Dondero and Shaunna Conway-Brandt cite escalating crime and shoplifting as the reasons behind the closure.
"I'm going to cry now, so, it's hard," said a visibly emotional Dondero, as she relayed the distressing news to long lines of dedicated shoppers who had gathered outside the store.
"Every day, we had people stealing, shoplifting, just getting very aggressive to us, spitting on us," Dondero recounted. "It's really, really bad."
The situation is far from unique to Regalo Bello. The Stockton police have registered 20 calls for service reported at the Stonecreek Village Shopping Center. A strong-arm robbery at the boutique was reported in March 2021, reflecting the grave situation. Recently, due to an officer shortage, the department announced a shift in how it will respond to calls, with shoplifting incidents now requiring reports to be filed online or through a non-emergency line.
A National Retail Federation survey indicates a near $100 billion problem with retail loss. David Johnston, vice president of asset protection and retail operations, said, "Retailers continue to report an increase in violence occurring during shoplifting events," highlighting that the issue extends beyond the mere loss of merchandise.
Regular customers have noted the impact of the crimes on their shopping experience, with incidents frequently requiring security intervention. "I've been in here when incidents have happened, and they needed to call security," stated Priscilla Williams, a local shopper.
Despite the rising crime, the decision to close has not been easy for the store's owners, but they view it as a necessary step to protect themselves and the business. The owners are now focusing on expanding their Linden location.
As the Stockton store prepares for its final days, the community is left to grapple with the loss of a beloved retailer and the larger implications of escalating retail crime.
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