When handling an associate theft situation, who must be contacted?

Contacting the store manager in an associate theft situation is essential because they are responsible for overseeing all operations within the store, including managing personnel and addressing issues related to theft. The store manager can take immediate action, ensure adherence to company policies, and initiate the appropriate protocol for investigating and resolving the incident. They also serve as the point of communication between departments, ensuring that all necessary personnel are informed and involved in the process.

While other individuals, such as human resources or local law enforcement, may be involved later depending on the severity of the theft, the initial report and immediate action should always begin with the store manager. This helps maintain an organized response and mitigates further issues that could arise from a theft incident. Other associates are not the appropriate contacts for this situation, as it can lead to complications and breaches of protocol regarding confidentiality and the investigative process.