FEATURE ARTICLE
From The Retailer Report...
By Interlink Telecom
Retail crime is increasing and 86% loss of stock through crime or wastage was attributed to crime in 2005, according to a report released
by the Centre for Retail Research in the latter part of that year.
The survey covered a large number of retail businesses, who returned results that suggested that external burglary and theft by staff were
the biggest causes of loss.
It's clear that deterring crime is a major challenge for retailers all over the world and, as with many such challenges, a combination of
approaches is often the best solution.
Suspicious behavior
Learning to identify suspicious behavior is a key part of crime prevention. Retail managers and staff should be properly trained so that
they know what to look for in terms of body language, verbal questions and recognized shoplifting tactics. The more skilled staff are in
spotting these behaviors, the more likely they are to raise the alarm or step in before a crime is committed.
Placing of stock and monies
Most retailers want to put their best goods in the window or near to the entrance, to attract shoppers into the store. Unfortunately,
unprotected, high-value goods can also attract criminals, so use alternative methods of display that deter thieves from trying to steal the
merchandise. Examples of this could be lockable cases for jewelry and visible electronic tags for clothing. Similarly, you should have a
secure method of dealing with cash payments, including times when money needs to be taken from the till.
Monitoring systems
A highly visible and advertised CCTV (closed circuit television) system can also act as a deterrent to retail criminals. Strategically-placed
cameras that can be easily seen by staff and customers, together with noticeable warnings that monitoring is in place and the consequences
of attempting to steal from your store can be very effective. You can always take advice from retail security specialists or community
police officers who can advise you on the best way to run a CCTV system.
You can get a FREE BUSINESS ANALYSIS of your store with One Step Retail Solutions - schedule your appointment with one of
their expert retail consultants to determine solutions for your needs.
