Shoplifting

Shops are often seen as easy targets for thieves.  National statistics show that:

• Britain has topped the European shoplifting rankings for the past 7 years, with more than 1.5 billion worth of products being stolen every year.
• 21% of shoplifters regard supermarkets as the easiest place for shoplifting followed by DIY centres.
• Razor blades are the most stolen item followed by cosmetics, alcohol, toiletries, lingerie, CD’s and DVD’s.

Source: BRC, Checkpoint Systems, Times archives, BBC

Top tips to help prevent

• Install deterrents in places where a shoplifter could take items unobserved, such as mirrors, CCTV cameras and signs saying ‘shoplifters will be prosecuted’.

• Establish a policy for security alerts with all staff. Train them to be your eyes and ears and report anything suspicious to their supervisor or set up a warning system.
• Either empty packets of high value goods or put them behind or near checkout areas.
• If you are designing your shop try and use low-level aisles so your staff can see customers at all times. Use mirrors to reduce blind spots.
• Consider investing in a store security guard or join a retail radio scheme if one operates in your area – this means you can be alerted if known shoplifters are near your premises.