Ideal ways to protect against shoplifters in retail
If you run a small retail business, then shoplifters can be an ongoing frustration. Your stock is your livelihood, and if you have people taking that stock without paying for it, then your business is at serious risk. Small businesses are particularly susceptible because profit margins are often tight, and there is a lack of financial support to invest in expensive security systems. Retail outlets are especially vulnerable to shoplifters, and while it might be impossible to eradicate shoplifting completely, there are some quick and easy ways to cut down the chances for people to steal from you. If you’re trying to prevent shoplifting in your store, here are some ideal ways to protect your business.
Stay Organised
If your store is a mess, then you may be a victim of theft and not even know it. If you don’t have clean and organised premises, then you increase your chances of shoplifters having a field day. Make sure that there is a place for everything and everything in its place. The more organised you are, the more likely you will be able to recognise when something is missing.
Get Rid of Loiterers
If your store often has crowds of teens hanging around close by, then your chances of shoplifters can increase. That’s not to say that all teenagers will steal from you, but bored groups of teens may start stealing just for something to do. You can stop anti-social behaviour by teenagers outside your premises by installing a Mosquito alarm. This is a low-cost way to have more control over the exterior of your store and could have a dramatic effect on your vulnerability to theft.
Know Your High-Risk Products
Some goods will always be a high priority for shoplifters. Alcohol is a common target, but you should also keep a closer eye on those goods that can be resold easily. Packaged meats are particularly highly-valued by shoplifters, as are razor blades and cosmetics. Think about how your store is arranged and keep those commonly stolen items more secure and harder to reach.
Use Mirrors
While CCTV systems can be expensive, mirrors can be a low-cost way to keep more of your store in view at all times. Check for those areas where a five-finger discount is easier. Dark corners can be very attractive to criminals, who might even buy some goods to distract you from the things they’ve hidden in their pockets. Check for blind spots, and use mirrors where needed.
Use the Police
If you catch a shoplifter, then don’t fall into the trap of thinking that it's a minor crime. Shoplifting costs the UK millions of pounds every year, and crime figures show that it is a crime that is only growing. You might think that calling the police because you've caught someone stealing a can of Coke or a pack of batteries is a waste of police time, but it needs to be done. By having a no-tolerance approach to shoplifting, you make it clear to other criminals that they are running a risk by stealing from you.
Shoplifting is on the rise, and small businesses are more vulnerable than ever. If you lack the resources to install cutting-edge CCTV and you don’t have the time to watch every customer, then these tips could save you money and protect your business. Don’t assume that shoplifting costs are part and parcel of running a business in modern Britain. Take the time to work on your security, and your business will only be safer.
