The Complete Guide to Safeguard Your Retail Store

Retail has changed, but some things are timeless, like safeguarding inventory, making sales, and shrinking inventory, which is the bane of retailers' existence.

?We invite you to explore this all-inclusive guide to your business.

?The Importance of Physical Security

?Today, retailers recognize the significance of creating an in-store experience that differentiates your business from online retailers. Customers frequent stores for the hands-on, immersive experiences that are unavailable online, such as product interaction, personalized service, and the pleasant atmosphere of a well-crafted store. Providing this experience also requires that you'll need to be safe. The makeup of modern Physical security solutions—such as surveillance cameras, access control, motion detection, and alarms—are crucial for preventing theft and ensuring the safety of both customers and employees. Retailers who neglect to offer a secure, captivating shopping experience risk losing customers to online alternatives that already provide convenience and safety as a standard.

?Eye-Opening Statistics        

?According to the National Retail Federation, retail shrinkage, which includes losses from theft, damage, and errors, reached a staggering $61.7 billion in 2020. This encompasses shoplifting, employee theft, administrative errors, and vendor fraud, significantly impacting the bottom line.

?Considering the staggering $61.7 billion in retail shrinkage that encompasses theft, damage, and errors, many businesses use advanced surveillance systems to mitigate these losses. Surveillance technology is crucial in deterring theft, identifying perpetrators, and enhancing overall security within retail environments.?

Surveillance Systems: The Backbone of Retail Security

Today, Digital technologies are the era in which we live. So, how are retailers protecting data breaches, inventory, safety, and security? Surveillance Systems are designed to protect internal and external threats, but how?

?Let's break it down.

Starting with Internal threats: what does that equate to?

?Internal threats from someone within your business can be classified as accidental or intentional.

?Here are the top four:

?·????? Internal Theft-employees leading the charge

·????? Carefree staff members accidentally leave restricted areas open

·????? Non-intentionally security team mistakes

·????? Hazardous infrastructure or hazardous work conditions

?As you can see, these threats can also come from human and non-human sources, such as fires caused by faulty, doors left open, or cameras not positioned strategically positioned correctly in a space. Internal theft from rouge employees can be tracked via RFID-enabled access controls.

?So, what does that mean for external threats?

?External threats are anything that will compromise your business, products, and safety. Examples can include the following:

?·????? Brake-ins/Forced entry

·????? Vandalism

·????? Unauthorized entry of non-employee or approved visitor

?We have unpacked the internal and external threats and where they can originate. Key considerations include strategic camera placement to cover entrances, exits, and high-traffic areas, real-time monitoring, and secure cloud storage.

?Effective Access Control

?Controlling store access is critical. Options include electronic access control (EAC) systems with key cards, biometric scanners, and PIN codes. Physical barriers like gates, turnstiles, and locked doors prevent unauthorized entry.

?Alarms and Sensors: First Line of Defense

Intrusion alarms, motion sensors, glass break sensors, and door/window sensors are essential components of a robust security system. These technologies detect unauthorized movements and trigger alerts, providing crucial protection.

?Employee Training: The Secret Weapon

?Technology is only as effective as the people using it. Employee training is vital for identifying suspicious behavior and knowing what to do in emergencies. Engaged employees act as a deterrent, with simple actions like offering assistance making a significant difference.

?Building a Security Culture

?Creating a security-conscious culture involves regular security audits, open communication for reporting suspicious activities, and rewarding proactive security measures. Some questions to ask yourself are: Does my staff know the security protocols and roles they are responsible for if a problem or security threat happens? If the answer is no, this is an excellent opportunity to prepare your staff. This fosters an environment where security is a shared responsibility and shared assurance and empowerment.

?The Bottom Line

?Physical security in retail is a multifaceted challenge, but stores can be kept safe with the right strategies and tools. It's not just about preventing theft but about creating a secure environment where customers and employees feel protected. By staying vigilant and implementing effective security measures, retailers can keep their profits secure and reduce the frequency of "shrinkage.”

?The statistics on internal and external retail threats that can lead to shrinkage underscore the pressing need for robust physical security measures within the retail sector. By acknowledging the significant impact of shrinkage due to theft, damage, and errors, businesses can proactively invest in surveillance systems to safeguard their assets. Combining technology with comprehensive employee training and operational protocols can effectively mitigate the risks associated with retail shrinkage. Prioritizing security protects the bottom line and enhances the overall shopping experience for customers. As referenced in the National Retail Federation report, embracing advanced surveillance solutions is pivotal in addressing the multifaceted challenges of retail shrinkage and fortifying the industry against potential losses.

?Are you looking for more information on enhancing your retail security??

Let's Chat.

National Retail Federation. (2020). National Retail Security Survey 2020. https://nrf.com/research/national-retail-security-survey-2020

Citations:

[1] https://nrf.com/research/national-retail-security-survey-2020