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Retail stores are prime targets for shoplifters, burglary, and break-ins. According to the National Retail Federation, 80% of retail theft is due to shoplifting and employees. Many national retail chains have installed full video monitoring systems to secure the entire store, security guards, and alarm systems that automatically shut and lock all doors when triggered. Each item tagged with a radio frequency (RFID) tag that will trigger the alarm at entry/exit doors if not removed from the item at the check out counter. That is a very effective solution, however, most small business retailers cannot afford such a costly solution.
Retail stores are prime targets for shoplifters, burglary, and break-ins. According to the National Retail Federation, 80% of retail theft is due to shoplifting and employees. Many national retail chains have installed full video monitoring systems to secure the entire store, security guards and alarm systems that automatically shut and lock all doors when triggered. Each item tagged with a radio frequency (RFID) tag that will trigger the alarm at entry/exit doors if not removed from the item at the check-out counter. That is a very effective solution, however, most small business retailers cannot afford such a costly solution.
How can a small retailer install security measures on a smaller budget? At the very least, a retailer should use the following security features to protect the store from theft.
1. Appropriate locks. High security commercial grade deadbolts on exterior doors are fairly affordable and can withstand serious blows and not give way. They cannot be opened by sliding a credit card or other object between the door edge and the doorjamb the way many regular locks can preventing intruders after hours.
2. An alarm system. A basic silent central alarm system installed to trigger when entry/exit doors are tampered with will alert the police that a break-in is in progress. Some insurance providers will reduce your insurance premium if you install a silent central alarm system, which can help offset the cost of the system. If a silent central alarm system is not within your business’s budget you should install a building local alarm, which will set off a siren or bell outside the store if the doors are tampered with. Such an alarm can also be effective in deterring burglars. A locksmith can provide guidance on the best alarm system to suit your needs within your budget.
3. A security camera. While advanced security camera systems can be expensive, a basic system is within reach for a small retail store owner. 24-hour Security cameras covering the store entrance and exit doors deter criminals and can provide a record of events for investigation later.
4. A strong safe. Retailers should secure valuables and money in a strong safe hidden from view and bolted down. If the store is broken into, a burglar-resistant safe can deter a burglar. Most insurance companies will provide a reduced insurance premium for the use of such safes, which can help defray the cost of the safe.
You have invested a lot of money into your store and your inventory; it only makes sense to protect that investment. The FBI estimates that 60% of burglaries go unsolved each year. It is hard for police to prevent and detect thieves unless they catch them in the act, a witness comes forward or there is visual evidence to identify the criminal. Often times, by the time a robber is caught, they have already disposed of the stolen property.
It is up to the storeowner to install security measures to deter and prevent shoplifters and robbers. A professional locksmith can come out and assess your store and recommend security measures that they can install that are cost-effective
NO RETAIL STORE CAN AFFORD TO BE WITHOUT SECURITY
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