Although it's not possible to completely eradicate theft, there are ways to resist and deter shoplifters in stores large and small.
According to the Websites ShopKeep, Shopify, and SquareUp, here are some of the most effective defensive measures:
* Install checkouts at the front door. Greet and make eye contact with customers as they come and go. Use a bell or buzzer on doors to alert you and the customer.
* Keep your store organized and clean. Know where every product is on display, and keep track of each as it is sold. Pull all products to the front edge of the shelf to create a solid wall of product. That way spaces will be obvious.
* Build relationships with your customers. Loyal customers may bring some suspicious behavior to your attention.
* Since the main method of detecting internal theft is a tip from an employee, build relationships with them, too.
* Highlight security systems with in-store signage. Research shows that bragging about your internal security video cameras — and the fines and maximum criminal charges they can produce — are a strong deterrent to shoplifting. Signage that contains a pair of eyes even doubles the probability of compliance.
* Consider electronic article surveillance, a system of fastening coded tags to high-value items and clothing. Though costly, these tags are remarkably effective in ensuring that expensive items are protected at all times.
* Since shoplifters are attracted to small, valuable, easy-to-hide items (jewelry, in particular), be sure to store these pieces in a locked case near your checkout area.
