10 Security Tips to make sure your Retail Store is Secure at all times!

Shoplifting may seem pretty significant for retailers, however it’s not always easy to throw money at the problem and it can have a crippling effect on retail stores.

But, what can store owners do to fight the problem and prevent it from happening in the first place?

Here are 10 proven security tips that can enhance the security of your retail store…

1. Increase Visibility

By making it easier to see all the merchandise you have, you’ll be able to keep an eye on it at all times. Install mirrors in corners to avoid blind spots and understand that having a tidy store will help keep track of what is amiss and identify any lost items.

2. Install a Security System

Having a suitable security and surveillance system is vital when it comes to your stores security. The best thing about installing a security system is having the ability to keep real time monitoring when the store is closes, plus it’ll keep your employees on their toes.

3. Have a clear Shoplifting Policy

Your shoplifting policy should be placed around your store so every customer and employee can see at all times. It’ll work well in deterring those who have the intention to steal something. Keep a lookout for these common shoplifting traits:

- Spending more time watching the cashier than actually shopping
- Taking a lot of items into the dressing room, but only leaving with one
- Acting nervous and suspicious and picking up random items with no interest

4. Lock up Merchandise when necessary

Merchandise is there for the customers to see, but it may not be wise to keep everything out in the open. Perhaps keep some of the more valuable merchandise such as jewellery and electronics behind glass or plastic.

5. Always be alert and aware

A bit of training may be needed for this, but it is vital that both you and your employees are aware and alert at all times. This is especially necessary when you are opening and closing the store.

6. Implement a bag-Check Policy

Don’t allow your customers to take bags or backpacks into the changing room where they can hide things away, otherwise if a customer insists, have an employee check their bags when they leave.

7. Teach your Employees how to be Safety Conscious

Train yourself as well as your employees to keep regular eye contact with customers who are just “browsing” without making them feel suffocated or uneasy. By doing this, unwanted people who are not genuinely there to buy something will be kept at bay.

8. Optimize your Stores Design and Layout

Place your cash registers in a location that can be clearly seen from outside the windows. This is a simple precaution that is often overlooked by store owners, by placing your registers in a location that is visible from the street; it will deter thieves from attempting a robbery.

9. Signage, Signage and more Signage!

Visual signage that state the store is watched by security cameras as well as anti-theft signs

10. Inspect all Purchases

When the customer is at the register, take a minute or two to double-check the merchandise, as well as their purses and baskets.

It may not be possible to completely eliminate shoplifting, but you can certainly make it more difficult for thieves to rob your store!

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