Helpful Security Tips for the Small Retailer

Reduce Shrinkage

Small retailers are prone to losses from shoplifting, burglary and internal theft.  Here are some safety tips to help protect your shop.  

Always be vigilant when opening or closing the store. It’s common for criminals to force staff into the shop and get them to open the safe or tills.

Close up at night and leave the till drawer open when the shop is closed.

Don't place spirits or high value goods in the shop window.  It’s an irresistible invitation for opportunists to ‘smash and grab’.

Install safety glass, it is highly effective at deterring break-ins.

Always carefully check details on credit cards.  Be suspicious if the person looks nervous and is making purchases of items close to the credit limit.

Shoplifters often work in teams. While one is distracting the staff the others are taking stock or opening the till.

Be vigilant!

If someone tries to commit a robbery or theft - do not try to stop them. They are often desperate and dangerous people and many carry weapons.

Always remember to switch on the alarm when locking up.

If you have CCTV make sure it is recording 24 hours a day.

Keep the back door locked. Thieves often enter store rooms and remove stock while staff are on the shop floor.

Check all bank notes – you’d be surprised how many are counterfeit.

Keep any personal items you bring to work in a locker or locked room.

Keep high value goods on top shelves, close to the counter or inside locked cases where staff can see them.

Position cameras towards the door/counter and high value goods.

Install convex mirrors that allow employees to easily observe all corners and aisles.

Use electronic tags that cannot be removed by a non-employee without damaging the merchandise.

To protect against employee theft, screen all employees before hiring them — it is the best defence against internal theft.

Install a closed-circuit television system. It allows you to monitor employees and serves as a very strong deterrent when employees know one is in place.

Install silent alarms to notify police and give them a better chance to catch perpetrators.

Work with a security supplier who can offer a tailored solution to your security needs. Your location, store layout, stock and customer profile makes you unique.