Careful hiring practices help prevent internal theft before it starts. Background checks and reference verification can identify potential risk factors in an applicant’s history.
Once hired, employees need clear training on inventory procedures and loss prevention. Regular sessions keep security awareness high and demonstrate the company’s commitment to reducing shrinkage.
Training topics should include how to spot suspicious behavior, proper inventory handling, and the financial impact of shrinkage on the business and employee wages or bonuses.
A well-designed store layout naturally reduces theft opportunities. Low shelving units and clear sightlines make it harder for shoplifters to conceal their actions. Place high-value or frequently stolen items in visible areas near staff stations rather than in corners or blind spots. Use mirrors to improve visibility in areas that can’t be directly observed.
Good lighting throughout the store eliminates shadows where theft might occur unnoticed. This simple fix improves both security and the shopping experience for your customers.
Radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags provide electronic protection for merchandise. These tags trigger alarms if they pass through store exits without being deactivated at checkout. RFID technology also improves inventory accuracy by allowing quick scanning of stock without handling each item individually. This makes discrepancies easier to spot and address quickly.
For especially valuable items, consider locked displays that require staff assistance to access. This adds a layer of security while still allowing customers to see products.
Attentive customer service is a powerful loss prevention tool. Greeting customers as they enter and checking in with them throughout their visit makes potential thieves aware they’re being noticed.
Train employees to maintain a helpful presence throughout the store, especially in high-risk areas. This approach improves both security and customer satisfaction. Clear signage about security measures and consequences for theft can also deter shoplifters without creating an unwelcoming atmosphere for honest customers.
