3 Ways to Prevent Theft in Your Retail Space

When you start building a commercial security system in your Jacksonville, FL retail shop, it's easy to get caught up on the technology. What kind of camera system should you get? Where can you put sensors for the greatest effect? Can you control everything with a single, smart system? But when it comes to loss prevention, you can do a lot more than use technology. Smart security starts with you. In this blog, we'll give you some smart tips on avoiding theft that goes beyond technology. Keep reading for more.  

See Also: 3 Reasons Why a Commercial Surveillance System Is Essential to Your Business  

Stay Organized

There’s no easier way to shoplift than when the shop is a disorganized mess. If you don’t know where each item is supposed to be, a potential thief can exploit that and walk out with valuable merchandise. To keep an eye on everything, ensure that you and your employees are keeping the shelves neatly stocked and organized. That way, you’ll know exactly what’s missing the minute you do your inventory count. When you train staff to keep an eye on things like organizing the stock, you also receive the double benefit of their presence throughout the space. A thief is much less likely to target an aisle when an employee is present, so having them regularly maintain the shelves will help you avoid empty areas of the shop.  

Build Relationships

Obviously, your shop should provide the best, friendly service to everyone who walks through the door. But when it comes to loss prevention, some less sophisticated retailers tend to target specific customers as potential threats based on superficial factors. The reality is that anyone can be a thief and you're doing yourself a disservice by targeting particular types. In fact, according to a study conducted by the University of Florida, the typical shoplifter doesn’t fit many of the stereotypes at all. So, how do you know who to watch? The best way is to build a relationship with your customers. Who are your regulars? When a new customer walks through the door, do you make an effort to get to know them? Not only will this help you determine who's more likely to steal, but you'll also encourage a network of repeat customers who come back to a place they know and love.  

Work with Local Authorities

Among the best ways to minimize loss is by building a relationship with your local authorities. A police presence in and around your business will effectively ward off most potential shoplifters. Don’t worry about overdoing it – a loss is a loss, and if you suspect theft (especially if you’ve captured footage on a surveillance camera) make sure to call the police right away, even for small items. This will help you foster a relationship with the local authorities, and they may also increase their presence in high-risk areas. Plus, you can maintain a constant watch on your inventory and employees with a 24/7 monitoring service. When a theft or other emergency occurs, you can count on them to alert the police so you can get the problem resolved as quickly as possible. Of course, there's a lot more to learn about maintaining a secure business. If you want to get started right away, click the button and chat with a live representative right now.   Or you can click here and set up a free consultation today!