Theft is a huge problem in the retail sector. For example, shoplifting cost the UK retail sector roughly £1.9bn in 2019. This means that thieves are very active and looking to get their goods on as many goods as possible.
This may have you wondering what steps you can take to protect your bottom line and minimize theft in your retail business. Well, you’ve come to the right place. Here are some simple ways to reduce theft in your business.
In-Store Security
One of the most effective steps you can take is to have security staff in your store. Simply seeing them will deter many thieves who may have been considering your store as a target. Furthermore, these staff will be trained on the typical signs of shoplifting, so they can catch shoplifters in the act.
They can also perform bag checks, inspect receipts, and stop identified offenders from entering your store again.
Have a Fitting Room Policy
Fitting rooms are a great place for shoplifters to go about their business. Thanks to the private nature of the rooms, they can get away with a lot behind closed doors such as hiding garments and switching tags. How can minimize the risk in this area?
First, have a member of staff stationed in the fitting room at all times. Next, have a maximum number of items allowed in the fitting room at once. Then ask that all items are returned if they don’t wish to buy them. This will help you to keep a better eye on what is going in and out of your fitting rooms. If you want to take an extra step, you could ask that customers only take small bags such as purses in with them, and leave larger bags to be looked after by a member of staff.
You might not catch everyone, but you’ll certainly limit the opportunities available to potential shoplifters.
Have Security Tags on Items
Security tags are another effective measure that you can use to prevent shoplifters. They’re hard to get off, they spray ink when they’re broken, and they will set off detectors when taken out of the store.
Put up Warning Signs
Putting up signs is another method that you can take to help deter shoplifters. If you have CCTV, have signs stating this throughout the store. You can also have signs saying “Shoplifters will be prosecuted” as well.
Install CCTV
CCTV will not only help you to prevent shoplifting but also catch those that have been successful in stealing from you.
Educate your Staff
There is plenty of great training that you can provide to help your staff better spot shoplifters and prevent them from stealing from your store. This won’t be an expense, but instead, an investment that will protect your business from future losses.
Final Thoughts
Whilst there are certainly many more steps that you can take, these are some effective steps that you can take to minimize shoplifting in your retail business. Hiring a facilities management company can help you to implement these measures with ease.
