Physical retail stores are generally prone to theft because of the high foot traffic and easy access. Customers come and go, which can put commercial stores at risk. These stores can be targets for robbery and other security concerns, especially without a robust security system. Aside from the loss of sales, a security-related incident may affect the business’s reputation.
As an owner of a retail store, taking the necessary security measures is critical to avoid issues that might affect your business. That said, here’s a six-item list of ways you can enhance your retail store’s security:
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Invest In Convex Mirrors
One way to protect your retail store from security risks is by installing convex mirrors. This type of mirror allows you to view traffic around corners and see different aisles in your store, says ESE Direct.
In case of emergency, this type of mirror can also be used as a backup system for security cameras. If thieves intend to steal something from your store, they will have to pass by the convex mirror before reaching the merchandise. It will give you time to call the authorities and stop the crime.
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Employ Professional Security Personnel
Hiring security personnel to provide safety is also an effective approach to protecting your store from intruders. Their physical presence adds another layer of security, giving your employees and customers peace of mind whenever they’re working and shopping at your retail store. And should an emergency happen, they have the ability to protect anyone in your store.
When hiring security guards, ensure they have the right skills and enough experience. The most qualified ones have been certified by their respective agencies or have worked with similar stores. In addition, when you interview them for the job, ask for their qualifications, training, and how many years they have been doing the job. It would help if you also asked for references from previous employers to prove their credibility.
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Invest And Set Up A Security System
Aside from convex mirrors, installing CCTV cameras is another great way to protect your store from theft. Aside from having 24/7 surveillance in your store, criminals are likely to feel discouraged from attempting any robbery, as they won’t risk getting caught by such cameras. Surveillance cameras can also help you monitor possible suspicious behavior from your employees. For example, suppose your cashier is planning to steal. The CCTV can capture the incident, enabling you to take the necessary actions.
But aside from cameras, other anti-theft technologies are a must-have for any retail store looking to boost the security of their stores and prevent theft. It includes technologies like radio frequency identification (RFID) labels that can help you track individual items and prevent you from losing any product from your retail store.
You can further boost the security measures of your retail store by investing in sturdy locks for doors. This way, you can still be assured your store is safe from intruders even after store hours.
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Train Your Retail Store Workers
During security emergencies, it can help if your retail store employees know what to do and what steps to take. While store security isn’t generally part of their job, having enough knowledge goes a long way in keeping them and other people in the store safe.
That said, consider implementing clear protocols or guidelines for what to do in unpredictable situations. It’s also advisable to have security awareness, preparedness, and response seminars. Besides educating them on what to do or how to report an incident, training can equip employees with the right information on how to prevent threats by detecting potential shoplifters or handling aggressive or threatening customers.
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Use A Safe For Valuable Items
If you have expensive merchandise to be placed in a normal retail display case, consider storing them inside a safe. This can help keep such products secure from the prying eyes of potential robbers because they’re not in the open where they can easily be stolen. In addition, you can also use a safe to store valuable items like critical business documents and cash.
Wrapping It Up
Much like a business’s cybersecurity, a retail store’s physical security is as important, especially for large retailers that have customers drop by at all hours. A robust security system can bring peace of mind to your employees and more confidence to your customers to visit and shop more in your retail store.
The insights above are just some security tactics you can integrate into your store. And implementing them can be a good start in enhancing your retail store’s security and minimizing security-related instances, such as robberies or theft.
