How to run a secure retail business in the UK?
Retail Security Checklist.
“Retail crime costs retailers £587k for every £822m in sales.”
Retail crime reduces business margins and puts employees and customers in danger, whether it’s staff theft, corruption, or shoplifting. Integrating retail security services such as shoplifting rules, regular stock takes, and CCTV is critical in preventing theft. Here are some top retail security tips to run a secure retail business in the UK:
i) Integrate Access Control Systems
Access control technology enables retailers to restrict who has access to certain areas of their stores. Access control systems are computerised keyless entry systems that keep your retail store safe from unauthorised users while making life easier for you and your employees.
For example, if an employee decides to exploit their access privileges and commit theft or fraud, you can determine who did it by reviewing the access history.
Fingerprints, access cards, and codes are the most popular ones used in various businesses, and biometric and smartphone verification are also becoming popular because of the high level of safety and reliability that they provide.
Instead of changing keys or locks, access control allows you to modify the codes or access permissions for certain users. When someone tries to verify their credentials, the system records the time, location, and details about the person. This tracking tool can assist retail business owners in keeping track of when their staff arrive and depart from work.
ii) Install in CCTV systems
CCTV systems are an extremely powerful tool in security precautions. Video surveillance allows numerous individuals and organisations to monitor several areas of their property. Due to the fear of being observed, recorded, and maybe caught, CCTV cameras are one of the most effective deterrents against incursions, burglaries, or anyone planning to commit a crime. The CCTV footage can be used to identify the culprits and assist law enforcement officers. Rather than manning every nook and crevice of your store, investing in CCTV cameras for constant monitoring is the ideal way to reduce not only exterior security dangers but internal hazards as well.
Licences & CCTV laws for businesses
Since all businesses are recommended to utilise CCTV cameras for security, a strict code of conduct must be adhered to to ensure compliance with the law. CCTV laws for enterprises are practised seriously, with violations leading to criminal penalties and fines of up to £500,000.
Placement of the cameras:
Try to incorporate surveillance cameras in the following areas of your retail store:
- Behind cash machines.
- Inventory or storage rooms within the building.
- close to all entrances and exits.
- In parking garages
Incorporating a professional monitoring service into your CCTV system adds an extra layer of security, knowing that your shop is being observed by security experts all the time, ensuring its protection from all kinds of threats.
iV) Determine at-risk objects
Some products in your store are more likely to be stolen than others and can be valuable objects that are easily accessible. You can place them in locked display cases, near the cash register or allow employees nearby to keep a keen eye on them. The emphasis is currently shifting to high-priced confectionery, clothing, shoes, food items or electronics.
v) Implementing Shoplifting policy measures
A team might effectively manage a range of circumstances that might occur, by developing a shoplifting policy and training your staff.
This policy and training teach the individuals the way to detect a shoplifter and what to do if they see someone taking their goods and trying to leave the business. If your employee chooses to confront them, they should do so after they have left the store, ideally with another employee.
Recover the commodities and contact the police to handle the issue accordingly. The offender should be led back to the store.
vi) Hiring Right Employees
Retailers should be very cautious with who they recruit and make background checks a component of their store’s security practices. Implementing store security measures is up to your staff, so ensure you’re hiring employees who will maintain rather than undermine your retail security. For example, you’re hiring a receptionist or secretary, a basic background check consisting of address, job verification and criminal records should be necessary. If you’re bringing in warehouse and delivery men, you would like to add drug tests and motor vehicle reports to investigate. In any case, be certain that you conduct due diligence on everyone who joins your staff.
vii) Conduct stock takes and displays signage
If you are clueless about your stock, it will be hard to know if something was stolen. While being aware of your stock takes and inventories, it will help you spot any patterns of theft if it occurs frequently. So, you’ll be able to make the necessary adjustments to minimise the risk of theft. Signs indicating CCTV usage or shoplifters will be punished, serve as a warning and help to prevent theft. The purpose of these signs is to warn thieves, not to scare honest buyers. Place a sign near or at the entrance of your store so that it is the first thing guests see when they enter.
viii) Setup Monitored Alarms:
During a break-in, timing is crucial, as it takes only a few minutes for crooks to break into your store. Install monitored alarms to stay connected to your store. These sensors can detect an open door, a smashed window, or movement. When activated, an audio alarm sounds to deter burglars. Simultaneously, an alert is delivered to your mobile device and the monitoring centre, which notifies the appropriate authorities.
ix) Modify your layout
If you can adjust the layout of your retail store, the following tactics will make it more difficult for shoplifters to steal:
- Place your cashier near the door so that clients must go through you when they leave.
- Reduce blind spots by relocating displays, putting mirrors around the store and upgrading lighting
- Lower displays to allow customers to see them in the store
- Lock dressing rooms and allow limited number of items that each individual can take
Protect your retail store against all threats!
There are numerous methods you can take to protect, catch, and prevent illegal activity in your business. Retail Security prevents any harm or theft to products and customers at a shopping centre or retail store. Agile Guarding’s SIA-licensed and trained security officers take care of everything and maintain a secure environment at your retail store. Business owners gain peace of mind as they do not have to worry about shoplifting or theft at their premises. Customers would love to return to a store where they had a great shopping experience.
Reduce security risks at your retail property today to let your customers have a fun and safe shopping experience.
Get a free quote from a retail security consultant now.