Preventing thefts in your retail store can be an entire job on its own, and with shoplifting on the rise securing your retail store is even more important.
In 2019 there were 140,286 reported shoplifting incidents under $5,000 in Canada (this is compared to 99,907 in 2015). And Western Canada accounted for more than 50 percent of these incidents.
The good news is, there are lots of easy ways you can help deter criminals from targeting your retail store. So, if you’re looking for ways to reduce theft and other crimes in your retail store, consider these 16 tips.
- Have clear sight lines throughout your store to avoid giving thieves hiding places to commit their crimes.
- Remove displays and signs from window areas so that passersby can see into your store. Even if they don’t come into your store, knowing that people outside may witness a crime can be enough of a deterrent for criminals.
- Keep small items that are easy to pocket close to the cash register or inside of display cases.
- Don’t put expensive merchandise near doors where some one can easily grab it while walking by.
- Keep any door that is not the main entrance locked.
- Install good lighting both inside and outside of your store.
- Encourage local authorities to visit your location or use your parking lot in the evening and throughout the night to deter criminals.
- Install a verified security system to prevent crime and ensure a quick police response if a crime does happen.
- Minimize the amount of cash you have on site.
- Don’t count cash or open safes in view of the public. If possible, do these tasks in an office without public access.
- Consider installing panic buttons in offices and at the cash register in case of an emergency.
- Avoid routine patterns that criminals can work around. (i.e. you want to make regular bank deposits but don’t do it at the same time every day)
- When making bank deposits make sure that your cash is in unmarked packages.
- Greet every customer and ask loitering customers if they need assistance. Criminals don’t want to be identified or given too much attention.
- Pay close attention to people who avoid eye contact, stay in hard to see places, carry large bags or take large numbers of items into change rooms. These are common signs of criminal activity.
- If a group enters your store, pay close attention… especially if they all split up. They may be trying to divide your attention.
For more information on protecting your retail store or for a free security audit please contact Sonitrol Western Canada today. Our team of security specialists are ready to help.
