- Retail stores in accessible locations holding valuable merchandise are common targets for around 300,000 annual US robberies.
- The absence of staff training, late operating hours, and cash-heavy transactions elevate the risk of retail store robberies.
- Investing in robust locks and security cameras can significantly diminish the risk of burglaries in retail stores.
- Hiring security guards and conducting regular robbery prevention training for employees are essential preventative measures.
- Implementing strict cash management protocols reduces available cash, lowering the robbery risk.
Retail stores have always been a hot target of robbers and shoplifters due to the presence of valuable merchandise and cash. As a retailer, it’s crucial to understand why your store is more prone to such crimes and take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of your store and employees. Here’s what you need to know about robberies, why your retail store could be vulnerable, and how to deal with them.
Robberies in The U.S.
It’s estimated that there are nearly 300,000 robberies committed in the United States every year, with retail establishments being one of the most common targets. These robberies can result in significant losses for businesses, as well as pose a threat to the safety and well-being of employees and customers.
Why Are Retail Stores Prone to Robberies?
Several factors make retail stores more vulnerable to robberies than other types of businesses. Here are some of them:
1. Easily Accessible Location
One of the main reasons retail stores are prone to robbery is their location. Most retail stores are located in highly accessible areas like shopping malls, busy streets, or even highways. Such locations make it easier for robbers to enter and exit the store without being noticed by the staff or customers. Retailers should take extra measures to ensure the safety of their stores, such as installing security cameras and hiring security guards.
2. Valuable Merchandise
Retail stores are known for their valuable merchandise, including electronics, jewelry, and designer clothing. Such items are not only targets of robbers but also attract dishonest employees and shoplifters. Retailers can minimize this risk by investing in high-security display cases and tagging items to protect against theft.
3. Lack of Training
One of the retailers’ biggest mistakes is neglecting their staff’s robbery prevention and safety training. Employees should be trained on how to act in a dangerous situation, as well as how to prevent theft. Retailers should also have a protocol for handling such situations, ensuring the safety of their employees and customers.
4. Late-Night Operating Hours
Retail stores that operate late into the night are more prone to robbery. For example, quite recently, 7-Eleven stores had more robberies than usual. The risks of such incidents increase when working with limited staff, who may feel overwhelmed. It’s crucial to assess if the benefits of operating during such hours outweigh the risks. If it’s necessary to work late hours, retailers should install security systems and adequate lighting around their stores to deter potential robbers.
5. Cash Heavy Business
Retail stores that handle many cash transactions pose a higher risk of robbery. It’s crucial to have a secure cash management system, such as a safe. It’s also essential to have a protocol for handling cash during the day, especially at the opening and closing of the store.
How to Make Your Office Less Prone to Robberies?
Retailers can take various measures to protect their stores against robberies and minimize the likelihood of such incidents. Here are a few ways you can make your retail store less prone to robberies:
Get Robust Locks
You must get robust locks for your business. Heavy-duty cylindrical locks are a safe choice. They are more resilient to break-ins and are challenging to pick. Moreover, you should ensure that all locks are changed when an employee leaves the store or if a key is lost.
Install Security Cameras
Security cameras can be a great deterrent for potential robbers and provide valuable evidence in case of an incident. Place them strategically around your store, especially near the entry and exit points.
Hire Security Guards
Having security guards on the premises can significantly reduce the risk of robberies. They can act as a visible deterrent and handle any dangerous situations.
Train Your Employees
Ensure that all employees undergo proper robbery prevention and safety training. This includes how to spot potential threats, what to do in case of an incident, and how to use any security equipment installed in the store.
Implement Cash Management Protocols
It’s essential to have protocols for handling cash, such as having multiple employees counting money and depositing it into a safe regularly. This reduces the amount of cash on hand and lowers the risk of robbery.
While retail stores are often the targets of robberies, there are proactive steps that can be taken to reduce this risk. By investing in robust security measures, retailers can ensure a safer environment for their staff and customers. However, it’s important to remember that security is an ongoing concern and requires constant vigilance, regular reviews, and updates to keep up with evolving threats. The safety of your employees, customers, and assets should always be a top priority.
