Summer sales are a busy time for retailers, who attract large crowds ready to purchase products at discount prices or take advantage of special promotions. However, the increased foot traffic and crowds drawn to stores present a heightened risk of shoplifting. Retail security guards are integral to preventing theft and ensuring a safe shopping environment. In this blog, we’ll dive into the ways retail security guards prevent shoplifting.
1. Visual Deterrence
One of the most effective and simple ways retail security guards prevent shoplifting is through their visible presence. The sight of uniformed guards patrolling the store acts as a powerful deterrent to potential thieves. Knowing that trained security personnel are on-site makes would-be shoplifters think twice before committing a theft.
Uniformed security guards are typically stationed at the front entrance of stores, operating as a store’s front line of defence. This vantage point allows them to see which customers trigger in-store anti-theft alarm systems, as well as provide a warning to potential thieves upon their entry to the store.
However, retail security guards function as more than just defence. They also provide a warm welcome and a sense of security for legitimate customers. At Blackbird Security, our guards receive customer service training to equip them with important skills needed to assist customers, adding an extra layer of value to the retail security guard service.
2. Conducting Bag Checks
During busy summer sales, security guards may conduct random bag checks at store exits. If a security alarm is triggered, a security guard will check the bags and receipts of the customer who triggered the alarm. This practice serves as both a deterrent and a method of catching shoplifters in the act. Guards receive training to carry out these checks professionally and respectfully, ensuring a positive customer experience while maintaining security.
3. Collaborating with Store Staff
Retail security guards work closely with store employees to proactively prevent shoplifting. They inform staff on how to recognize suspicious behaviour and the proper procedures to follow if they suspect theft. Should an employee see a theft in action, they will alert the store’s security team who will take action. This collaboration ensures a coordinated response to potential shoplifting incidents, increasing the chance of apprehension.
4. Performing Regular Patrols
Frequent and random patrols throughout the store, including less visible areas such as fitting rooms and back aisles, help to deter shoplifting. Loss prevention security guards are typically used to patrol store areas, as their plainclothes appearance reduces the likelihood that a potential thief will spot them.
Loss prevention security guards vary their routes and schedules to prevent shoplifters from predicting their movements. These patrols ensure that all areas of the store are monitored, minimizing opportunities for theft.
5. Responding Quickly to Shoplifting Incidents
When a shoplifting incident occurs, retail security guards are trained to respond quickly, safely, and appropriately. They follow established protocols to apprehend the suspect, recover stolen merchandise, and coordinate with law enforcement depending on the value of the stolen merchandise. A typical response to a retail theft involves moving the suspect to the back room and recording their identity for store records.
Blackbird Security’s tactical security guards are sometimes required for certain stores located in high-crime areas. These guards receive comprehensive use-of-force training, allowing them to safely apprehend criminals using industry-standard techniques.
6. Providing a Safe Shopping Environment
Beyond preventing theft, retail security guards contribute to creating a safe and secure shopping environment for customers. Their presence helps to reassure customers and staff, promoting a positive shopping experience during busy sales periods. A secure environment encourages customer loyalty and repeat business.
In addition to creating a safe environment, security guards assist employees and customers through peaceful de-escalation. The stress of the summer sales period often brings out high emotional responses from customers. In these cases, security guards will calmly diffuse the situation, maintaining a safe and comfortable environment for staff and customers alike.
7. Conducting Post-Incident Analysis
After a shoplifting incident, security guards will conduct a thorough report to identify how the theft occurred and what measures can be implemented to prevent future incidents. This process may include analyzing CCTV footage, conducting interviews with staff members, and environmental analysis. This approach helps to fill gaps in security strategies while ensuring continuous improvement.
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Retail security guards are essential in preventing shoplifting during summer sales. Their visible presence, vigilance, and proactive approach help to deter theft, protect merchandise, and ensure a safe shopping experience for all customers. Large-scale stores should always have a professional security presence on hand to help with sale seasons.
Blackbird Security protects several big box retailers including Canadian Tire, Best Buy, MEC, and H&M. If you’re interested in securing your store with us, get in touch through the form below.
In addition to retail security, we provide services in the following areas:
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