How To Reduce Shoplifting In Your Store
On average, retailers lose about 1.6% of their revenue to shoplifting. This is why it’s important to take steps against shoplifters. Below are just some of the simple preventative measures you can take.
Display Anti-Theft Signs
Anti-theft signs can make opportunistic thieves think twice. These typically take the form of warning signs with text such as ‘thieves beware’, ‘smile you’re on CCTV’ or ‘shoplifters will be prosecuted’, which are designed to make shoplifters more apprehensive or guilty about following through. Display these signs near items that are most likely to get stolen.
Install Security Cameras
CCTV monitoring can be a great way to record evidence of shoplifting. This can help you when reporting crimes to the police, or when making insurance claims. However, the biggest benefit of security cameras is that they’re also a deterrent. Many experienced shoplifters will look out for cameras and will avoid stealing items if they know they’re being monitored. Just make sure that, in order for cameras to be effective, they are placed in areas where you can clearly see what most customers are up to. Many stores will install multiple cameras in different places around the store. These can be streamed live on TVs near the counter so that you can monitor your store in real time.
Use A Security Tagging System
It could be worth adding security tags to commonly shoplifted items and then adding security sensors either side of your store’s exit. If someone walks out with a tagged item, the sensors will then trigger an alarm to alert you that an item has been stolen. Items that are commonly tagged by retailers include alcoholic drinks, clothing and electronic gadgets. There are a few different types of security tags which could be worth looking into. Make sure to train employees how to remove these tags.
Eliminate Blind Spots
The layout of your store is important to consider. Customers are more likely to try to steal items from areas of the store that are out of the line of sight of staff. In a small store, you may be able to eliminate these blind spots by considering the position of the counter (where your staff are most likely to be) and what you can see from here. For example, if your counter is located at the back of the store, consider arranging aisles running vertically away from it instead of horizontally, or opt for low tables in the centre for displaying products instead of high shelves. You can even position your counter on a raised platform to look over the store. Alternatively, simply position cameras in areas that are hard to see from the counter.
Hire Security Guards
Hiring a security guard to stand by the entrance can be one of the most effective deterrents. Unfortunately, this is an expensive option that most stores can’t afford. However, many stores do hire temporary security guards during high-risk periods such as the lead up to Xmas or during sales. You can look into security guard hire services online.
