What Do We Cover In This Article?
Why is security important for your stores safety?
What Common Security Challenges Do Retailers Face?
Retail stores in the UK all face the common security challenges or combatting theft, fraud, vandalism, and alarmingly more violence against their staff. Shoplifting in 2022 cost UK retailers approximately £953 million. Organised retail crime contributed heavily to these losses.
Flexible return policies have also been exploited over recent years which has led to further investment in training and technology to stamp out return fraud. Disputes over store policies or refusal of returns has also spiked violence and aggression towards store staff. All of these challenges have impacted both large retailers and smaller businesses, affecting their bottom line have pushing more retailers to hire retail security to solve the problem.
How Do Security Guards Help Stop Theft, Fraud and Violence Against Staff?
Firstly, manned security are a visible deterrent to known or potential offenders. Secondly, with their training they can identify behaviours, recognise known offenders often associated with shoplifting and dynamically risk assess and control a situation as and when it occurs. Security guards are often positioned at the entrance and exit points or in high risk areas that hold high value stock. Experienced retail security officers are also trained in fraud prevention and can be called upon to give additional assistance to a member of staff who is feeling uncomfortable or suspects fraud. For any violence against staff the security guard is trained in conflict management and physical intervention which enables them to safely eject or restrain the individual if they are an immediate threat to another persons wellbeing.
What other Security Measures Aid in Loss Prevention?
Mainly technology and training assists loss prevention. However it is mostly operated or used by security guards. For instance CCTV and alarm systems are no good if nobody is there to watch or respond to it in real time. Shoplifters are quick and will be gone if nobody is positioned on the door to immediately call them back in. In-store surveillance systems enable guards to monitor high-risk areas more efficiently and then track and follow that person if they have seen them conceal an item. Guards who use CCTV to actively track and monitor staff would need a CCTV licence and in order to stop the individual they would need a security guard licence. (So effectively be dual licenced.)
Ultimately the duties of security and the use of technology will only be practical and useful if everyone who holds the role is properly trained and then has a good flow of communication directly to store management (generally via radio) and, if necessary, with the local retail crime unit to handle incidents with minimal disruption to the business.
By combining on-site security personnel with surveillance and communication systems, retail stores create a comprehensive security framework that deters theft and fosters a secure shopping experience for customers and employees alike.
Why Does Every Retail Store Need Security Guards?
Every store needs security guards for the following reasons:
- Deterring and preventing theft: Security guards protect stock by deter shoplifting and theft.
- Increased levels of health and safety: A by product of a retail security service is a safer shopping environment from risks and hazards.
- Better Employee Protection: Security personnel ensure the safety of staff, reducing workplace stress and increasing morale.
- Immediate Incident Management: Trained guards can handle disputes and emergencies effectively, maintaining order and safety.
- Overall Asset Protection: Security helps safeguard merchandise, equipment, and the overall store infrastructure.
- Loss Prevention: Presence of security reduces the likelihood of organized retail crime and other security threats.
- Legal Compliance: Having security guards can help meet regulatory requirements and prevent potential legal issues.
- Positive Brand Image: A visible security presence enhances the store’s reputation for safety and reliability.
These factors combined make security guards an essential component of effective retail management.
Studies showing that 81% of UK shoppers prefer stores where visible security measures, such as guards, are in place. So from a customer service standpoint security gives customers extra reassurance and make them feel more comfortable and assured when shopping in a more secure environment. Guards are often the first touchpoint for a customer when they enter your store so a smile and a greeting upon entry and exit can go along way to how they perceive your store especially in more premium and luxury retail settings.
Any successful retailer will tell you that customer experience plays a major role in the success of a brand. Having security guards in place is an investment in that customer experience and they should add to it!
What Are The Main Benefits of Retail Security Guards?
Retail security guards provide many benefits that serve to enhance the overall operation of retail stores. One direct benefit is reducing theft which will increase your profit margins. Secondly, by deterring shoplifters and internal theft, security guards help create a safer environment that improves customer trust and brand loyalty. Recent research indicated that overt security measures leads to higher customer satisfaction, which in turn enhances store reputation. One last benefit worthy of a mention is that the increased sense of safety among customers indirectly supports revenue growth through repeat business and positive reviews.
Why Should Retailers View Security as an Investment?
Retailers should view security as an investment because it will help protect their business, staff, customers, reputation and stock. It will save them money which is especially important in industries with tight margins. Eliminating 1-2% of stock loss a year will make a big difference and security would have paid for itself at this point for a larger retailer.
Also for certain types of retailers such as luxury fashion or jewellery stores they will generally benefit from a reduction in insurance premium by taking the proactive approach of hiring security guards.: Also retailers spend millions each year trying to draw in customers so when they do visit they should feel confident that they can shop without being pick pocketed or subject to anti social behaviour by another person. Another big investment retailers make is in their staff so if security enhances your staff’s morale then it makes sense to use the service. Lastly, security measures can help retailers comply with legal requirements such as having a qualified first aider in the workplace.
Need help with your security needs? Reach out to discuss how licensed security professionals can make a difference for your business.
This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The practices and strategies discussed may not be suitable for all businesses or compliant with local laws. We recommend consulting with legal experts to ensure that any security measures you implement meet legal requirements and are appropriate for your specific circumstances and country. The statistics and scenarios mentioned are based on generalized information and should not be taken as specific advice or insights tailored to individual cases. The implementation of security personnel and surveillance measures must comply with the regulations applicable in your location.
