Six Tips for Preventing Shoplifting

According to the National Retail Federation, organized retail crime costs the retail industry approximately $45 billion each year. Retail theft has become increasingly prevalent in recent years and the impact on retail stores can be crippling. At LiveView Technologies, we take pride in arming people with the tools and information they need to protect their businesses. Here are six tips that will help you keep your retail location safe from theft.

1. Be aware of high-risk items

Small, high-value items are likely targets for shoplifters. Consider putting these kinds of items in locked cases or securing them to a counter with a cord. If you know that a specific section of your store contains high-risk items, consider stationing employees in that section so that those items are under constant surveillance.

2. Educate your employees 

‍When was the last time you trained your employees on common shoplifting methods and how to prevent them? Here are some tips you might consider sharing with your staff: 

• Keep an eye out for people who take several items into dressing rooms and leave with only one.
• Watch for shoppers who anxiously watch sales clerks as they browse. 
• Stolen items are often hidden in baggy clothing, handbags, or even purchased merchandise, so be aware of customers who carry these items. 

3. Place visual cues around your store‍

At LVT, we are firm believers in the power of overt security. When people know they are being watched and are aware of the potential consequences, they tend to behave better. One study by the Loss Prevention Research Council found that over 50% of shoplifters indicated they would either go to another store or not steal anything if those signs were present in an area where they were trying to steal. Placing visual cues that warn people of the consequences of shoplifting around your store is a simple task that can make a big difference. 

4. Keep your inventory organized‍

While organizing and tracking inventory might be time-consuming, these are two steps you can’t afford to skip. Minimizing your displays and taking note of what is and isn’t in stock consistently will help you ensure that everything in your store is accounted for. 

5. Encourage employees to engage with customers

‍Encouraging your employees to engage with customers isn’t just good for customer service—it’s also a great way to lower the likelihood of customers stealing from you. Be sure to greet customers when they enter the store and check in with them often as they explore your store. When people know they are under surveillance, they are less likely to try and pull any sneaky stunts.

6. Install a security system‍

While investing in a surveillance solution may not prevent theft from ever happening at your retail location, it will give you the tools you need to prosecute thieves if incidents do occur. Furthermore, it will allow you to ensure that the people on your property are protected at all hours of the day. There is nothing more important than the safety of your employees, customers, and products. Contact our team today to see how our solutions can help you find the peace of mind you deserve.