To protect your business, retail loss prevention should be a top priority, which is why it's necessary to design an optimal security program to protect customers, employees and property. Here are four tips to help you design a security program that is optimized for your needs and retail loss prevention.
Every business has its own unique security vulnerabilities. To properly protect your business, consider potential security threats.
Neighborhood demographics and crime rates.
Point-of-entry security.
On-site inventory, merchandise and cash.
Store layout.
Employee integrity.
Identifying these potential hazards allows your security provider to design a program to mitigate security breaches and improve the overall shopping experience for your customers.
To stay ahead of savvy shoplifters and prevent loss, consider electronic article surveillance (EAS). EAS security is an anti-store theft system with tags attached to clothing and other merchandise. EAS provides store owners with immediate notification of theft and may reduce the confidence of store pickpockets.
When considering a retail EAS security system, be sure to invest in one that includes tamper-resistant technology. Sometimes those involved in organized retail crime will use tools to try to prevent EAS tags from functioning.
Before investing in a retail EAS security system, consider the product you are offering to determine if it is practical. Tagging every item is impractical when the items you shoplift most often are small and inexpensive. Your security provider can work with you to determine the best EAS security solution for your business.
Stay in touch with your business through video surveillance. Use your computer or smartphone to monitor your business in real time and receive immediate alerts of unusual activity, such as loitering or shoplifting.
In addition, video surveillance allows you to monitor point-of-sale (POS) such as cash registers and payment kiosks. Placing surveillance cameras near point-of-sale channels helps prevent fraudulent transactions and employee misconduct.
With transaction data and POS monitoring, you can better track your business and ensure security. You should also consider posting signs to let shoppers know that the store is protected by video surveillance and security. This may deter some pickpockets and let them know that security is taken seriously.
A dimly lit property may look attractive to thieves. Use proper outdoor lighting to ensure your business is secure. Position lights to illuminate steps, sheltered areas, sidewalks and parking lots for added security. The type used will vary depending on the needs of your business, but may include spotlights, floodlights, step lights and lamp posts.
If you own a business and would like to learn more about how a retail loss prevention or electronic merchandising surveillance system can help you, contact the experts at ENGUARD today.
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