Retail Security Tips at Christmas

The cost of retail crime and shoplifting has been rising at an exponential rate in the UK. The British Retail Consortium reported this year that the direct financial cost of retail crime in 2015-16 was £660million, a rise of more than 240% over the past ten years. But while the cost of crime has risen, the number of crimes has fallen, with criminals employing more sophisticated and targeted methods to target shops on the high street and online. The BRC conservatively estimates that only 15% of retail crime is cyber, or cyber enabled. Protecting your business from shoplifters or organised criminals is an important consideration, especially at Christmas when busy high streets can camouflage nefarious behaviour. 

Service with a Smile

Train your staff to be vigilant and able to spot likely shoplifters, and to know what to do if they suspect someone of shoplifting. Employing good customer service is often an easy way to spook a potential thief. Teach staff to make suspects aware they’ve been spotted - ask them if they need assistance, or tidy shelving nearby to make them aware of your presence. 

Increase Visibility 

Keep shorter displays close to the tills and taller displays close to the perimeter to increase visibility. Avoid creating blind spots and hideaways, create a layout that is both best for genuine customers and makes it easier for staff to tackle any potential wrongdoing. 

CCTV

Cameras inside and outside your shop will deter criminals as well as help you catch them. Real-time monitoring is easier than ever, with smart tech that lets you monitor your premises from the tills, store office or from home. These real-time systems are especially helpful for small businesses where there may only be one employee present, monitoring the shop from the counter or register means surveillance isn’t a secondary concern. 

Shutters and Grilles

These tips are great for when the shop is open, but what about after hours? Securing a shop overnight or on days like Christmas Day and New Years Day means protecting from intruders and damage. As well as an alarm system, installing exterior protection will keep your store safe. Shutters and grilles can be used to protect shops with an open or glass frontage. We’ve expertly installed shutters and grilles for many businesses and can advise you on the best product for your premises. 

Security Doors

Back doors and fire exits can become weak spots if the right product hasn’t been used or properly installed. Steel security doors have reinforced sub -frames and patented dog bolt hinges, which make it difficult for an intruder to force entry. 

Maintenance

By law business owners are required to ensure that all internal and external doors are kept in good working order. We provide maintenance contracts so we can identify and remedy any potential faults before they develop or put your business at risk. In case of any problems arising, we have a 24-hour call out service to offer emergency door repairs and maintenance. 

Get in touch with our team and book a free survey online, call 0800 0180340 or email sales@cooksdoors.co.uk. 

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