The LP Magazine “Magpie” Awards offer a means to celebrate industry accomplishments on an ongoing basis, recognizing the loss prevention professionals, teams, solution providers, law enforcement partners, and others who demonstrate a stellar contribution to the profession.
The ability to influence change is a product of drive, creativity, and determination, but it also requires a unique ability to create a shared vision that others will understand, respect, support, and pursue. Each of the following recipients reflects that standard of excellence, representing the quality and spirit of leadership that makes a difference in our lives, our people, and our programs. Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of our latest honorees.
Excellence in Partnerships
“I have been in both the retail and law enforcement worlds at different points in my career, which has given me a unique perspective on the importance of these relationships and what it takes to make them work,” says Fritz. “I understand loss prevention and the rules and policies that can frustrate law enforcement at times, as well as the frustration loss prevention can have with law enforcement. But I also understand the hard work and dedication that goes into both roles. We are all just doing our best to make a difference, in the stores and in the community.”
Fritz was first introduced to loss prevention at Shopko while working his way through college. He feels this role gave him a new sense of ownership and responsibility, and he remained on the retail side for around seventeen years. Working with the various officers from across the community, he developed strong relationships and eventually applied with the Boise Police.
“Ten years later, I still enjoy being the crime prevention supervisor,” he says. “Every day I get to work with an amazing group of men and women who choose to serve their communities while finding new ways to create and foster partnerships. Together, these experiences have provided an amazing blueprint for what that partnership could become and what we were capable of accomplishing together.” He also serves as chair of the Organized Retail Crime Association of Idaho.
From a career standpoint, Fritz believes that you should never be defined by your setbacks. “Take them as an opportunity to grow and pursue even greater success. Each day we have the opportunity to have an effect on another person’s life—for good or bad. That is an amazing place to be in, but also a huge responsibility. Choose to make that a positive experience in each interaction you have.”