Shoplifting is an unfortunate reality that costs retail businesses billions of dollars every year. It is extremely difficult to completely prevent shoplifting incidents, but there are steps you can take to reduce the number of occurrences.
1. Watch for Suspicious Behavior
You do not want your employees to follow customers around the store. However, it is a good idea to be observant of any suspicious behavior. Ask your team to keep an eye out and report anything that seems off. You may also want to employ a closed-circuit tv installation Orange Park FL, which will allow your security team to observe what is going on in your store, without annoying customers. Pay particular attention to unusual behaviors such as wearing extremely baggy clothing that could be used to conceal stolen items, lingering for long periods in the same part of the store, checking to see if anyone is watching and carrying unusually large bags or purses.
2. Do Not Profile
There are many harmful myths associated with race, age, socioeconomic status and gender that result in some store owners watching certain customers more closely than others. This is not only ethically questionable behavior but weakens your security effort. If you are spending your time focusing on customers who fit the stereotypes in your mind about shoplifters, you will not be paying enough attention to other customers who are just as likely to be thieves.
3. Keep Your Store Organized
It is difficult to spot potential shoplifters in a messy, disorganized store. Keep your shelves neat and organized. Make sure you have good sightlines. Do not let clutter create areas for shoplifters to hide.
Shoplifting is a difficult and expensive problem to confront. However, having a plan in place to reduce shoplifting occurrences can minimize the impact shoplifting has on your bottom line.