Abstract

Food waste apps (FWAs) have emerged as multi -sided platforms within the sharing economy, connecting retailers with consumers to redistribute surplus food at reduced prices. While their environmental and economic benefits are acknowledged, less is known about their broader societal effects. Using the routine activity theory (RAT) and a quasi -experimental difference -in-differences design, this study examines the entry of FWAs in U.S. grocery stores and supermarkets and its association with local shopli fting incidents. The findings reveal that FWAs intermittently reduce local shoplifting incidents in these establishments following their implementation, compared to regions without FWAs. This research contributes to the understanding of platform spillover effects, highlighting how sharing economy infrastructures may reshape not only resource access but also behavioral patterns within local retail environments

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