Keep order in the store
In order to partially stop shoplifting, it is recommended to keep order in the store. All goods must be visible so that in the event of theft, you can immediately notice something amiss. For example, an empty shelf would be a good "hint". If there are too many goods, and they are not ordered, it will be possible to notice the theft only during the inventory process. However, it will be too late.
Change of price tags
Shoplifting is not just a crime in which a thief takes goods out of a store. Price tag substitution also applies to theft. A shoplifter can swap the price tag for a cheaper product. Yes, they may still pay some of the cost for the item, but not the full amount. False returns are another form of deception. Often a customer purchases a product, uses it, and then returns it under a false pretense. While returns and exchanges do not necessarily equate to loss, it is a common problem that many retailers face.
How to stop a shoplifter?
Attention should be paid to the behavior of the suspect. Stopping unreasonably can cost employees trouble. Therefore, it is worth remembering the typical behavior of a thief:
· a suspect spends more time watching the cashier or seller than shopping
· a customer takes several items to the dressing room, but comes out with one item only
· often a suspect wears baggy clothing
· a buyer acts nervously and impartially and collects random items
Excellent customer service
Good customer service is an effective tactic to stop shoplifting. How to use this tactic to stop a shoplifter:
· Employees should welcome every buyer; he needs to know that employees are aware of his presence
· There should always be enough service personnel in the shop
· Large bags and rucksacks should be left behind the counter or in special cabins
· Cashiers must be well trained and know the prices of goods
Use of signs
A visual reminder of a video surveillance system can be an effective and cheap method to stop potential shoplifters. Signs “work” all the time during the day and can have an effect on novice thieves in particular. It’s better to use signage near the front door. Therefore, buyers will see it for sure. Retail owners should also place them high up where thieves are more likely to check security cameras.
Use of anti-theft devices
Items that are usually stolen from shops must be equipped with security devices. This hardware is expensive to set up, but for stores that have chronic theft issues, it is well worth it. The novice trader should learn a lot about protective equipment. Today high technologies show excellent results. Manufacturers offer a wide variety of solutions for any wallet.
You can’t stop professional shoplifters
Even with the highest quality technology, it is very difficult to stop a professional thief. According to statistics, professional shoplifters in total occupy a small percentage in terms of quantity. However, traders suffer the most from them. Professional thieves use special shoplifting equipment. These are often disguised jammers; the best option for today is a jammer for radio frequency and acoustic magnetic gates, 2 in 1 - jammeramrf. The jammer is disguised in a power bank and no one will be able to detect it. A more economical option is to use a booster bag made of shielding fabric fabric. A regular beige rucksack or a black grocery bag will not raise suspicion among the guards.