Five Ways Bottle Service Can Build Your Business – Part 2

July 21, 2016 by Leave a Comment
Bottle Service- 5                                                                                                                            WC Blog 163
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nightclub-4
Five Ways Bottle Service Can Build Your Business – Part 2
     In Part one of this series I discussed the concern that millennials are not frequenting nightclubs in the numbers they had in the past.  For club owners, this should be a concerning issue.  Citing the results of an anonymous survey, there were a number of reasons given by those surveyed for not going to clubs as frequently as they used to go.  Of the reasons listed, there were five which I felt could be easily remedied, partially by a business starting a bottle service that incorporates bottle locks as well.  In part two of this series, I want to focus on high priced drinks mentioned as a reason  millennials are not going out as frequently as they once may have done.  
     How can starting a bottle service impact the high price of drinks?  To start with it is just that, a service that provides varying degrees of VIP service to purchasers.  The club or bar owner decides on what will be included in service packages based on how large a group is.  I have seen packages for as few as two people and large group packages for such things as bachelorette parties or a corporate team building events. A small group package may provide one bottle of a select wine or liquor, chosen in advance by the group coordinator.  The larger the group the more bottles should be made available (understanding that the cost of the package goes up as well).  A well thought out service will provide VIP guest treatment, and again, depending on the amount of the package a prime seating location.  A bottle service waiter or waitress with a detachment key for bottle locks is in charge of ensuring the group has a good time and drinks are controlled and mixed by the waiter or waitress.  The cost of drinks is controlled by the package price.  Barring additional purchases, a patron can have a good idea of what they will be spending for the evening. 
     
     Add to bottle service the use of bottle locks on the bottles of liquor or wine provided as part of the package and a server holding the key to the locks and you have a controlled service.  No one outside of the party can access the drinks without the okay of the waitress or waiter.  Since only the waiter pours the drinks and mixers, drinks are measured out more accurately than if party members poured their own and bottles stretch further (which translates to value for the customers).  Another advantage, albeit for the nightclub owner, is that by having the dedicated waiter/waitress and using bottle locks, the chance of an underage member of the group getting served is minimized.  Also the server is able to be alert to the party member who may be getting too intoxicated and can partner with nightclub management to intervene before an incident occurs.  For the group, the advantage is that if they choose to limit themselves to the bottles provided by the service, they can choose not to pay for more drinks at the prices which they had been concerned about.
     You may be asking yourself, “If the customer uses the service once, why will they come back and use it again?  They had their VIP treatment so they probably won’t want the experience again.”  If management establishes a program focused on providing a movie-star quality service, with a reasonable price which include a top shelf liquor or wine, patrons will return again and again and advertise by word of mouth, often the best kind of advertisement.  Also, the other club goers will see the service and undoubtedly inquire about it.
     To quote business trainer and consultant Kate Zabriskie, “The customer’s perception is your reality.”  What will your “reality” be?  Add a bottle service and bottle locks to your nightclub, make it reasonably priced and change your customer’s perception of what a night out can be.
Get more information on bottle service, contact us or call 1.770.426.0547 today.
     
     
       

In Part one of this series I discussed the concern that millennials are not frequenting nightclubs in the numbers they had in the past. For club owners, this should be a concerning issue. Citing the results of an anonymous survey, there were a number of reasons given by those surveyed for not going to clubs as frequently as they used to go. Of the reasons listed, there were five which I felt could be easily remedied, partially by a business starting a bottle service that incorporates bottle locks as well. In part two of this series, I want to focus on high priced drinks mentioned as a reason  millennials are not going out as frequently as they once may have done.  
     

How can starting a bottle service impact the high price of drinks? To start with it is just that, a service that provides varying degrees of VIP service to purchasers. The club or bar owner decides on what will be included in service packages based on how large a group is. I have seen packages for as few as two people and large group packages for such things as bachelorette parties or a corporate team building events. A small group package may provide one bottle of a select wine or liquor, chosen in advance by the group coordinator. The larger the group the more bottles should be made available (understanding that the cost of the package goes up as well). A well thought out service will provide VIP guest treatment, and again, depending on the amount of the package a prime seating location. A bottle service waiter or waitress with a detachment key for bottle locks is in charge of ensuring the group has a good time and drinks are controlled and mixed by the waiter or waitress. The cost of drinks is controlled by the package price. Barring additional purchases, a patron can have a good idea of what they will be spending for the evening. 
          

Add to bottle service the use of bottle locks on the bottles of liquor or wine provided as part of the package and a server holding the key to the locks and you have a controlled service. No one outside of the party can access the drinks without the okay of the waitress or waiter. Since only the waiter pours the drinks and mixers, drinks are measured out more accurately than if party members poured their own and bottles stretch further (which translates to value for the customers). Another advantage, albeit for the nightclub owner, is that by having the dedicated waiter/waitress and using bottle locks, the chance of an underage member of the group getting served is minimized. Also the server is able to be alert to the party member who may be getting too intoxicated and can partner with nightclub management to intervene before an incident occurs. For the group, the advantage is that if they choose to limit themselves to the bottles provided by the service, they can choose not to pay for more drinks at the prices which they had been concerned about.
     

You may be asking yourself, “If the customer uses the service once, why will they come back and use it again? They had their VIP treatment so they probably won’t want the experience again.” If management establishes a program focused on providing a movie-star quality service, with a reasonable price which include a top shelf liquor or wine, patrons will return again and again and advertise by word of mouth, often the best kind of advertisement. Also, the other club goers will see the service and undoubtedly inquire about it.
     

To quote business trainer and consultant Kate Zabriskie, “The customer’s perception is your reality.” What will your “reality” be? Add a bottle service and bottle locks to your nightclub, make it reasonably priced and change your customer’s perception of what a night out can be.

 

Get more information on bottle service, contact us or call 1.770.426.0547 today.
     
     

       

 

Filed Under: antishoplifting

Does Your Business REALLY Need A Checkpoint System?

July 6, 2016 by Leave a Comment

 

CP Systems-3 , Stop Shoplifting-3 , CP Labels-3 , CP Tags-3
Does Your Business REALLY Need A Checkpoint System?
It’s the American Dream: Own your own business and sustain yourself and your family with your own success.  Don’t rely on “the man” for your prosperity.  That totally makes sense and people start their own small businesses every day.  The stakes are high though, and while there are many that thrive, a large percentage of start ups don’t make it.  It’s not always because of low profits that a business folds though.  Sometimes it is because of repeat merchandise thefts that causes an owner to throw up their hands and give up when they don’t think they can stop shoplifting.   An investment into Checkpoint Systems is one way to combat that problem though and give a business more control and visibility of their inventory.   
What types of businesses can use Checkpoint Systems?  
1. Clothing Stores
Whether a store sells new merchandise or even second hand items, Checkpoint tags and Checkpoint Labels can be used to protect almost any type of garment or accessory.  They can be attached in obvious ways so the shopper is completely aware of their presence, or they can be hidden in pockets and seams for an inconspicuous approach.  Many small businesses operate with a small staff anyway, and most times there is only one person on duty at any given time.  This saves money on payroll expenses, but allows criminals the perfect opportunity to get out the door with concealed merchandise.  In order to stop shoplifting, employing Checkpoint Systems at a clothing store can be a real advantage. 
2.  Hardware Stores 
Expensive tools, replacement parts, and even nuts, bolts and fuses are the top categories of loss in the major home improvement chains.  That means it’s probably the same for the small seller as well.  You could be mixing paint or making a key for one chatty customer, while the guy he came in with is sneaking out the door with a high dollar chainsaw or just a few boxes of deck screws.  If there were Checkpoint Labels inside the boxes, you would be alerted to their scam when it happened and not later that day when you walk past an empty shelf.  
3. Cell Phone Sales or Computer Repair Businesses
Let’s say a couple women come in to your electronics shop.  So, one woman is asking you questions, maybe even flirting a little, and you are completely distracted.  The other woman is just browsing, and appears to be just killing time while her friend figures out what she needs.  What she’s really doing is scoping out the place, looking to see if anything has Checkpoint tags on it.  She’s waiting on her chance to stuff her bag with some cell phone accessories that you’ve got displayed just a little too close to the front door.  Then she’s going to say “I’ll just go wait in the car” and that’s the cue to let her friend know it’s time to get out of here before you notice what has happened.  Checkpoint Systems would have detected the Checkpoint tags on the stuff she had dropped in her bag and alerted you.  
Those are just a few examples.  These aren’t just crazy schemes I’ve made up though; these situations happen and criminals take advantage of small businesses every day just like their big box counterparts.  Don’t be their next victim and have to tell your story for the local newspaper’s crime edition.  Checkpoint tags and Checkpoint labels are easy to apply to almost any type of merchandise you sell, and they help stop shoplifting in its tracks.  
Take a stand and see what Checkpoint Systems can do for you, contact us or call 1.770.426.0547

It’s the American Dream: Own your own business and sustain yourself and your family with your own success. Don’t rely on “the man” for your prosperity. That totally makes sense and people start their own small businesses every day. The stakes are high though, and while there are many that thrive, a large percentage of start ups don’t make it. It’s not always because of low profits that a business folds though. Sometimes it is because of repeat merchandise thefts that causes an owner to throw up their hands and give up when they don’t think they can stop shoplifting. An investment into Checkpoint Systems is one way to combat that problem though and give a business more control and visibility of their inventory. 

 

What types of businesses can use Checkpoint Systems?  

1. Clothing Stores

Whether a store sells new merchandise or even second hand items, Checkpoint tags and Checkpoint Labels can be used to protect almost any type of garment or accessory. They can be attached in obvious ways so the shopper is completely aware of their presence, or they can be hidden in pockets and seams for an inconspicuous approach. Many small businesses operate with a small staff anyway, and most times there is only one person on duty at any given time. This saves money on payroll expenses, but allows criminals the perfect opportunity to get out the door with concealed merchandise. In order to stop shoplifting, employing Checkpoint Systems at a clothing store can be a real advantage. 

 

2.  Hardware Stores 

Expensive tools, replacement parts, and even nuts, bolts and fuses are the top categories of loss in the major home improvement chains. That means it’s probably the same for the small seller as well. You could be mixing paint or making a key for one chatty customer, while the guy he came in with is sneaking out the door with a high dollar chainsaw or just a few boxes of deck screws. If there were Checkpoint Labels inside the boxes, you would be alerted to their scam when it happened and not later that day when you walk past an empty shelf.  

 

3. Cell Phone Sales or Computer Repair Businesses

Let’s say a couple women come in to your electronics shop. So, one woman is asking you questions, maybe even flirting a little, and you are completely distracted. The other woman is just browsing, and appears to be just killing time while her friend figures out what she needs. What she’s really doing is scoping out the place, looking to see if anything has Checkpoint tags on it. She’s waiting on her chance to stuff her bag with some cell phone accessories that you’ve got displayed just a little too close to the front door. Then she’s going to say “I’ll just go wait in the car” and that’s the cue to let her friend know it’s time to get out of here before you notice what has happened. Checkpoint Systems would have detected the Checkpoint tags on the stuff she had dropped in her bag and alerted you. 

 

Those are just a few examples. These aren’t just crazy schemes I’ve made up though; these situations happen and criminals take advantage of small businesses every day just like their big box counterparts. Don’t be their next victim and have to tell your story for the local newspaper’s crime edition. Checkpoint tags and Checkpoint labels are easy to apply to almost any type of merchandise you sell, and they help stop shoplifting in its tracks.

 

Take a stand and see what Checkpoint Systems can do for you, contact us or call 1.770.426.0547

 

 

Filed Under: antishoplifting Tagged With: , , ,

CHECKPOINT SYSTEMS, AN INVESTMENT WORTH MAKING

June 7, 2016 by Leave a Comment

 

CHECKPOINT SYSTEMS, AN INVESTMENT WORTH MAKING
Each day you open your doors, you’re faced with a myriad of choices and decisions that need to be made. What items need to be re-ordered, what sizes need to be discontinued, what do you need more of, what’s driving sales and what’s pulling them down. The last thing you need to be worried about is shoplifters walking out with your merchandise. The sad reality here is that’s it’s a fact of life in a retail environment. A sound operation is not only customer-centric, but to be profitable you have to factor in ways to stop shoplifting. 
Imagine that you’re a shoplifter for a minute. Your 8-5 is to go out every day and steal as much as possible without getting caught. You have choices, just as any normal shopper. You can go to that big box retail store that has a robust CCTV system, a really good Checkpoint security system and in store Loss Prevention agents, or you can go to the smaller store down the road that may not have those strategies deployed. Shoplifters are like water; they follow the path of least resistance. Chances are, if you’re not securing your merchandise, your store will be very inviting to thieves. So how do you stop shoplifting without breaking the bank?
There are a few basics that retailers of all sizes and shapes should follow. First, whether you’re 10,000 square feet, or 200,000, a few cameras and a public view monitor and the front door is the best deterrent. While a camera system will not stop shoplifting outright, it will be a major deterrent. It will also allow you to go back and review any past criminal activity that may have taken place when you were not around, such as employee theft, or even after-hour burglaries. 
Now, often overlooked by smaller retailers (and in my opinion, much more important that CCTV) is a Checkpoint security system. Having a strong EAS program in your store can reduce shoplifting almost overnight. By securing high theft/high risk items with an EAS device, a shoplifter is not as likely to try to steal the item. Again, think path of least resistance. Why would they take the chance of being caught going out the door? 
The majority of small retail stores think that installing a Checkpoint security system is a multi-thousand dollar investment, but in reality, it’s not. There’s a wide range of solutions out there that can fit any store design and accommodate just about any budget. So the next time you find those empty packages, or ripped barcodes in your store, think of Checkpoint security systems and how they can help you stop shoplifting in your store!
 
Need information on Checkpoint Security Systems? Give us a call at 1.770.426.0547 now. 

Each day you open your doors, you’re faced with a myriad of choices and decisions that need to be made. What items need to be re-ordered, what sizes need to be discontinued, what do you need more of, what’s driving sales and what’s pulling them down. The last thing you need to be worried about is shoplifters walking out with your merchandise. The sad reality here is that’s it’s a fact of life in a retail environment. A sound operation is not only customer-centric, but to be profitable you have to factor in ways to stop shoplifting. 

 Imagine that you’re a shoplifter for a minute. Your 8-5 is to go out every day and steal as much as possible without getting caught. You have choices, just as any normal shopper. You can go to that big box retail store that has a robust CCTV system, a really good Checkpoint security system and in store Loss Prevention agents, or you can go to the smaller store down the road that may not have those strategies deployed. Shoplifters are like water; they follow the path of least resistance. Chances are, if you’re not securing your merchandise, your store will be very inviting to thieves. So how do you stop shoplifting without breaking the bank?

 There are a few basics that retailers of all sizes and shapes should follow. First, whether you’re 10,000 square feet, or 200,000, a few cameras and a public view monitor and the front door is the best deterrent. While a camera system will not stop shoplifting outright, it will be a major deterrent. It will also allow you to go back and review any past criminal activity that may have taken place when you were not around, such as employee theft, or even after-hour burglaries. 

 Now, often overlooked by smaller retailers (and in my opinion, much more important that CCTV) is a Checkpoint security system. Having a strong EAS program in your store can reduce shoplifting almost overnight. By securing high theft/high risk items with an EAS device, a shoplifter is not as likely to try to steal the item. Again, think path of least resistance. Why would they take the chance of being caught going out the door? 

 The majority of small retail stores think that installing a Checkpoint security system is a multi-thousand dollar investment, but in reality, it’s not. There’s a wide range of solutions out there that can fit any store design and accommodate just about any budget. So the next time you find those empty packages, or ripped barcodes in your store, think of Checkpoint security systems and how they can help you stop shoplifting in your store!

 

Need information on Checkpoint Security Systems? Give us a call at 1.770.426.0547 now. 

 

 

Filed Under: antishoplifting Tagged With: , ,

Theft From Where You Least Expect It

May 9, 2016 by Leave a Comment

 

CP Labels-3 , CP Systems-3 , EAS-1 , Stop Shoplifting-1
Theft From Where You Least Expect It
Think about your relationship with your vendors. Vendors can be classified as the entities you buy merchandise from for resell, as well as the repair services you use. When the representatives come in your store, do you give them free reign in your building or do you monitor them?  Store owners and managers certainly need to have a good working relationship with the vendors that provide goods and services, but sometimes that trust can be taken advantage of. Electronic article surveillance and invoice audits are just a couple of examples of how there have been many vendors caught red-handed stealing from retailers. If you and your staff already work hard to stop shoplifting, don’t fall victim to an inside job.
First of all, never sign an invoice or work order until you verify what you are agreeing to. We sell magazines, and the driver used to have us sign the invoice when he delivered each week. Then we started noticing the totes had shortages.  It would just be one or two titles, but when we called to report the problem, the operator would tell us there was nothing they could do to reconcile it because we had signed the invoice, which to them meant everything was accounted for.  We had no way of knowing if it was the driver ripping us off or if it was the people packing the totes. Either way, we were paying for everything listed on that invoice. Over time, even just a few magazines short every week can add up.  
As tame as that first example is, here’s one that is cringe-worthy:  I work for a small retail pharmacy, and we buy many drugs from an outside vendor. They are delivered by a carrier service five days a week. Sometimes, depending on the purchase, the Checkpoint Systems would activate when they rolled through the door. One guy would cause it to activate on his way out though, when the totes should have been empty.  He would always wave at us, claiming it was his cell phone causing it. We knew better. Our Checkpoint Systems was functioning properly, so we also knew he was up to something.  We started watching his routine, and soon figured out his action plan. He would leave the pharmacy counter and then take the long way out the door, always stopping at the small electronics section. He would linger there for a moment and then leave. We performed some cycle counts in the section and sure enough, there was missing inventory.  So, we went through the section and fixed his little red wagon, so to speak. We adhered Checkpoint labels to the items back there, but we concealed them on the packaging. The cool thing about our Checkpoint labels is they have our store name and number printed on them.  The next time he came, we were ready. He walked his usual route through the store, and when he got to the door, thanks to the hidden Checkpoint labels, the alarm sounded just as we expected. He tried “the wave”, but I stood between him and the door, and told him to open the totes. He started stammering about being in a hurry, but I didn’t budge. Finally, he opened them and there were headphones sitting there. He couldn’t even speak, just stood there with his mouth open.  I picked them up, and told him I would be calling his supervisor. After that conversation, as I’m sure you can guess, we never saw him again. Checkpoint Systems-1, Dumb Vendor-0.
For more information on how Checkpoint Systems, contact us: 1.770.426.0547

Think about your relationship with your vendors. Vendors can be classified as the entities you buy merchandise from for resell, as well as the repair services you use. When the representatives come in your store, do you give them free reign in your building or do you monitor them? Store owners and managers certainly need to have a good working relationship with the vendors that provide goods and services, but sometimes that trust can be taken advantage of. Electronic article surveillance and invoice audits are just a couple of examples of how there have been many vendors caught red-handed stealing from retailers. If you and your staff already work hard to stop shoplifting, don’t fall victim to an inside job.

 

First of all, never sign an invoice or work order until you verify what you are agreeing to. We sell magazines, and the driver used to have us sign the invoice when he delivered each week. Then we started noticing the totes had shortages.  It would just be one or two titles, but when we called to report the problem, the operator would tell us there was nothing they could do to reconcile it because we had signed the invoice, which to them meant everything was accounted for.  We had no way of knowing if it was the driver ripping us off or if it was the people packing the totes. Either way, we were paying for everything listed on that invoice. Over time, even just a few magazines short every week can add up.  

 

As tame as that first example is, here’s one that is cringe-worthy:  I work for a small retail pharmacy, and we buy many drugs from an outside vendor. They are delivered by a carrier service five days a week. Sometimes, depending on the purchase, the Checkpoint Systems would activate when they rolled through the door. One guy would cause it to activate on his way out though, when the totes should have been empty. He would always wave at us, claiming it was his cell phone causing it. We knew better. Our Checkpoint Systems was functioning properly, so we also knew he was up to something.  We started watching his routine, and soon figured out his action plan. He would leave the pharmacy counter and then take the long way out the door, always stopping at the small electronics section. He would linger there for a moment and then leave. We performed some cycle counts in the section and sure enough, there was missing inventory. So, we went through the section and fixed his little red wagon, so to speak. We adhered Checkpoint labels to the items back there, but we concealed them on the packaging. The cool thing about our Checkpoint labels is they have our store name and number printed on them. The next time he came, we were ready. He walked his usual route through the store, and when he got to the door, thanks to the hidden Checkpoint labels, the alarm sounded just as we expected. He tried “the wave”, but I stood between him and the door, and told him to open the totes. He started stammering about being in a hurry, but I didn’t budge. Finally, he opened them and there were headphones sitting there. He couldn’t even speak, just stood there with his mouth open.  I picked them up, and told him I would be calling his supervisor. After that conversation, as I’m sure you can guess, we never saw him again. Checkpoint Systems-1, Dumb Vendor-0.

For more information on how Checkpoint Systems, contact us 1.770.426.0547

 

 

Filed Under: antishoplifting Tagged With: , ,

A Better Way To Stop Shoplifting

April 5, 2016 by Leave a Comment

I was out shopping recently and it didn’t take long for me to get irritated.  It wasn’t the crowds, the prices, or the customer service. It was the signs. Smile, you’re on camera!, We are watching you!, and other obnoxious little printed and handwritten messages were hung all over the place. Like the song says: Signs, Signs, Everywhere Signs! Folks, here’s the deal: If you want to stop shoplifting, you have to get past these. If you’re paying someone to sit and watch cameras, you are wasting valuable payroll and labor. The solution to preventing external theft is so much simpler. Here’s a guide for some of the electronic article surveillance tools you could be utilizing to secure your store’s valuable inventory. 

 

Start with Checkpoint Systems. There are many options for which system best fits your needs.  Here are just a few of those offered:

  1. Classic Street System- Plastic and alloy pedestals, available in select different colors, advertising panels so you can customize with marketing materials if desired.
  2. Classic N10 System- Wall mounted, perfect for smaller spaces like convenience stores, offices, etc.
  3. F10 Floor System- Blends in to store design, invisible to customer, withstands heavy loads, flooring can be installed over.
  4. Evolve Series- Sleek, see-through design for upscale atmosphere, enhanced with technology like people counting, connects with high speed internet for remote service

 

Get the tools you need to work with Checkpoint Systems. Depending on what you’re selling, you can choose from a huge variety of gadgets that will activate the alarm if there is a theft attempt. Let’s start with the basics and build from there:

 

  1. Checkpoint Labels– These super versatile labels can be used on almost anything you sell. You can choose from many shapes, sizes and colors. They can be sewn into a garment or hidden pocket, or they can be adhered to the package. They are also available in a food-safe option for high priced meats and other commonly stolen grocery items. (Footnote: you will also need to purchase a deactivation pad if you choose to employ Checkpoint Labels.
  2. Checkpoint Hard Tags– These are the ones that give thieves nightmares. They pin right onto clothing, shoes, handbags, and almost any accessory you can think of. If you would rather not attach them with pins, many of these can be attached via lanyard instead. They can protect sports equipment, electronics, and much, much more. (Footnote: you will also need to purchase a detacher to remove these. They are one hundred percent reusable! Checkpoint Hard Tags can be attached and detached quickly and easily.)

 

 

 

Checkpoint Systems means you invest in these products and the tools do the work for you. They deter theft starting right at the front door because shoplifters know you mean business when they see the labels and hard tags being used. And when you have those that want to test it and try to steal, you will be immediately made aware of the situation.  You don’t have to find an empty shelf later. If you’re still not convinced, look at who else is utilizing Checkpoint Systems. Check around your community and see what your competitors are using. Check reviews on the products mentioned above and give us a call. The biggest challenge you may have is to put down your sharpie, put away your paper, and give those signs a rest. 

 

For more information on the many advantages of Checkpoint Systems, contact us or call 1.770.426.0547

Filed Under: antishoplifting Tagged With: , ,

Red Tape In Retail Theft Prevention

March 11, 2016 by Leave a Comment
Checkpoint Systems-3
Red Tape In Retail Theft Prevention
From small business to big box, all retailers have to have policies and guidelines to keep their operations going in the right direction.  Cash control, hiring and training, and loss prevention measures, among other key business factors, should be consistent and fully understood by all members of your staff.  I am a firm believer that employees should never quote policy in a customer service situation, but the company’s policies should be known and applied.  These rules can sometimes be very stringent and restricting when it comes to how the staff can stop shoplifting issues.  I work for a retail pharmacy, and our staff must meet several components before making a stop.
1. Only a member of management can make the stop.
2. The manager must see the person conceal merchandise.
3. They must be able to articulate exactly what the person has.  (for example: I need to speak to you about the bottle of ibuprofen in your pocket.)  
4. They must not lose sight of the suspect.  If sight is lost at any point, the person cannot be stopped.
5. The person must be past the point of purchase. (for example: Between the registers and the Checkpoint Systems pedestals.)
6. Employees may not exit the building to follow or question a suspected shoplifter.  No physical contact with the suspect is allowed.
I could say I have followed these rules every time I have made a stop. But that would put me in jeopardy of being struck by lightning, so I won’t.  
Rules are made for good reasons.  They are made to keep us, our customers, and our company safe.  The thing is that sometimes you just can’t stick with them.  Let’s say you are sitting in the office and you notice a suspicious character.  They are darting around, filling a bag with expensive merchandise, like high end blue jeans.  Or they have just emptied a couple of pegs of phone chargers or other electronics.  Do you really want to wait on them to make a run for it?  The Checkpoint Systems will alarm and go berserk, but it will be too late.  No, I am not saying to go accuse them of plotting to steal.  Don’t ever do that.  But there is nothing stopping you from approaching them and offering some excellent customer service.  Let them know you know what’s going on.  Tell them their basket or bag looks awful heavy and tell them you will put it behind the checkout counter for them to pay for when they are ready.  Same thing goes if they just have a handful of those electronics. 
Take a look at the new trend of thieves coming in pairs.  One gathers the merchandise while the other remains in the background.  The staff is not even aware of the second person being part of this.   The first one doesn’t pay any mind to cameras, or even attempt to hide what they are doing.  They sometimes take the stuff to a restroom, where the accomplice is waiting.  They don’t even bother trying to remove any Checkpoint Labels or other anti-shoplifting hardware.  The gatherer comes out of the restroom with the bag, while it’s actually the accomplice that has the concealed items with them.  Staff stops the first guy while the second guy gets away.  They may even choose to make this exchange right near the front door, anticipating the alarm sounding, so during the distraction the store staff again naturally detains the wrong person.  My solution to this may sound bad, but it makes more sense to stop this in its tracks.  Otherwise, productivity halts, reports have to be written, and court dates will loom if you are able to make a successful recovery during one of these scams.  The most likely scenario is second guy gets away, and you were too covered up dealing with the first guy to get any description or details about the one that got out anyway.   
Of course, you have to make sure it all jives with your immediate supervisor, but I say stop the first guy while it is in progress.  Before they even try to get past your Checkpoint Systems, take it all away from the one gathering, and put it behind the counter.  Show them who’s in charge.
For more information on Checkpoint Systems, contact us or call 1.770.426.0547

From small business to big box, all retailers have to have policies and guidelines to keep their operations going in the right direction. Cash control, hiring and training, and loss prevention measures, among other key business factors, should be consistent and fully understood by all members of your staff. I am a firm believer that employees should never quote policy in a customer service situation, but the company’s policies should be known and applied. These rules can sometimes be very stringent and restricting when it comes to how the staff can stop shoplifting issues. I work for a retail pharmacy, and our staff must meet several components before making a stop.

1. Only a member of management can make the stop.

2. The manager must see the person conceal merchandise.

3. They must be able to articulate exactly what the person has.  (for example: I need to speak to you about the bottle of ibuprofen in your pocket.)  

4. They must not lose sight of the suspect.  If sight is lost at any point, the person cannot be stopped.

5. The person must be past the point of purchase. (for example: Between the registers and the Checkpoint Systems pedestals.)

6. Employees may not exit the building to follow or question a suspected shoplifter. No physical contact with the suspect is allowed.

 

I could say I have followed these rules every time I have made a stop. But that would put me in jeopardy of being struck by lightning, so I won’t.  


Rules are made for good reasons. They are made to keep us, our customers, and our company safe. The thing is that sometimes you just can’t stick with them. Let’s say you are sitting in the office and you notice a suspicious character. They are darting around, filling a bag with expensive merchandise, like high end blue jeans. Or they have just emptied a couple of pegs of phone chargers or other electronics.  Do you really want to wait on them to make a run for it? The Checkpoint Systems will alarm and go berserk, but it will be too late. No, I am not saying to go accuse them of plotting to steal. Don’t ever do that. But there is nothing stopping you from approaching them and offering some excellent customer service. Let them know you know what’s going on. Tell them their basket or bag looks awful heavy and tell them you will put it behind the checkout counter for them to pay for when they are ready. Same thing goes if they just have a handful of those electronics. 

Take a look at the new trend of thieves coming in pairs. One gathers the merchandise while the other remains in the background. The staff is not even aware of the second person being part of this. The first one doesn’t pay any mind to cameras, or even attempt to hide what they are doing. They sometimes take the stuff to a restroom, where the accomplice is waiting. They don’t even bother trying to remove any Checkpoint Labels or other anti-shoplifting hardware. The gatherer comes out of the restroom with the bag, while it’s actually the accomplice that has the concealed items with them. Staff stops the first guy while the second guy gets away. They may even choose to make this exchange right near the front door, anticipating the alarm sounding, so during the distraction the store staff again naturally detains the wrong person. My solution to this may sound bad, but it makes more sense to stop this in its tracks. Otherwise, productivity halts, reports have to be written, and court dates will loom if you are able to make a successful recovery during one of these scams. The most likely scenario is second guy gets away, and you were too covered up dealing with the first guy to get any description or details about the one that got out anyway.   


Of course, you have to make sure it all jives with your immediate supervisor, but I say stop the first guy while it is in progress. Before they even try to get past your Checkpoint Systems, take it all away from the one gathering, and put it behind the counter. Show them who’s in charge.


For more information on Checkpoint Systems, contact us or call 1.770.426.0547

 

Filed Under: antishoplifting Tagged With: , , , ,

There’s Plenty To Lose Without Checkpoint Systems

February 12, 2016 by Leave a Comment

 

Stop Shoplifting-2  , Checkpoint Systems-4 , Checkpoint Tags-2  , Retail Theft Prevention-1
There’s Plenty To Lose Without Checkpoint Systems
I work for a small retail pharmacy.  We are located in an inner city setting within close proximity to several highways so we battle petty theft as well as the professional boosters.  It’s a perfect storm.  I try to shop local small businesses when I need something, whether it be for my home or even for my store.  I am always on the lookout for new ways to stop shoplifting and I tend to pay close attention to what my neighbors are doing.  The first thing I look for is the presence of Checkpoint Systems.  If they do have a system in place, I look around to see what types of items or categories they have incorporated Checkpoint tags.  It’s a good idea to know what is being targeted in other stores because you never know what you may get hit for next, especially if you carry similar items.  
I had to go to a local dollar store last week because I needed supplies for my store that we don’t sell.  For one, someone had stolen the toilet paper roller from the restroom.  Yes, someone really stole that from our public restroom, presumably because they needed one.  I hope it wasn’t just to be a jerk.  Anyway, I went to this store and I made my usual observations.  First of all, Checkpoint Systems were clearly in place and being utilized.  And by being utilized, I actually mean they were working it to death.  It was like I was in a Checkpoint Systems wonderland.  This store staff tags EVERYTHING.  I was in the back of the store checking around the housewares and I was simply amazed.  Shower curtains, window curtains, sheet sets, and even table cloths all had Checkpoint Tags attached.  They put them on the packs of socks, baby blankets, and even on bug spray bombs.  These employees had tags on all the bags of beef jerky!  Obviously, retail theft prevention is a priority for the manager or owner of this location.  I could see cameras on the ceiling that looked like the whole place was covered with surveillance.  It was, in my mind, a loss prevention department’s dream.  When I walked up to the guy running the front I had to ask about the extreme measures they were taking to stop shoplifting.  I told him about our restroom bandit and my reason for being there.  He said they had to tag all their stuff because of all the theft that occurred there before.  He then smirked at me and said they still steal the soap from our bathrooms.  Oh well, you can’t win them all.
Now I have to admit, I don’t think I have the time or energy to start mega-tagging like this store does.  And honestly, I don’t have that kind of need for it either.  However, as a store manager, I do what I need to do and so do they.  There’s another store close by that I shop and they don’t have a clue.  Merchandise walks out of that store on a daily basis, and if they know it, they don’t make any changes to their business model.  Checkpoint Systems will give you a return on your investment.  When you use serious asset protection tools, you keep your bottom line in the black.  Shrink can be reduced and thefts can be deterred as long as you know what you are losing and you do something about it.
For more information on Checkpoint Systems, contact us or call 1.770.426.0547 

I work for a small retail pharmacy. We are located in an inner city setting within close proximity to several highways so we battle petty theft as well as the professional boosters. It’s a perfect storm. I try to shop local small businesses when I need something, whether it be for my home or even for my store. I am always on the lookout for new ways to stop shoplifting and I tend to pay close attention to what my neighbors are doing. The first thing I look for is the presence of Checkpoint Systems. If they do have a system in place, I look around to see what types of items or categories they have incorporated Checkpoint tags. It’s a good idea to know what is being targeted in other stores because you never know what you may get hit for next, especially if you carry similar items.  

I had to go to a local dollar store last week because I needed supplies for my store that we don’t sell. For one, someone had stolen the toilet paper roller from the restroom. Yes, someone really stole that from our public restroom, presumably because they needed one.  I hope it wasn’t just to be a jerk. Anyway, I went to this store and I made my usual observations. First of all, Checkpoint Systems were clearly in place and being utilized. And by being utilized, I actually mean they were working it to death.  It was like I was in a Checkpoint Systems wonderland. This store staff tags EVERYTHING. I was in the back of the store checking around the housewares and I was simply amazed. Shower curtains, window curtains, sheet sets, and even table cloths all had Checkpoint Tags attached. They put them on the packs of socks, baby blankets, and even on bug spray bombs. These employees had tags on all the bags of beef jerky! Obviously, retail theft prevention is a priority for the manager or owner of this location. I could see cameras on the ceiling that looked like the whole place was covered with surveillance.  It was, in my mind, a loss prevention department’s dream. When I walked up to the guy running the front I had to ask about the extreme measures they were taking to stop shoplifting. I told him about our restroom bandit and my reason for being there. He said they had to tag all their stuff because of all the theft that occurred there before. He then smirked at me and said they still steal the soap from our bathrooms. Oh well, you can’t win them all.

Now I have to admit, I don’t think I have the time or energy to start mega-tagging like this store does. And honestly, I don’t have that kind of need for it either. However, as a store manager, I do what I need to do and so do they. There’s another store close by that I shop and they don’t have a clue. Merchandise walks out of that store on a daily basis, and if they know it, they don’t make any changes to their business model. Checkpoint Systems will give you a return on your investment. When you use serious asset protection tools, you keep your bottom line in the black. Shrink can be reduced and thefts can be deterred as long as you know what you are losing and you do something about it.

For more information on Checkpoint Systems, contact us or call 1.770.426.0547 

 

 

Filed Under: antishoplifting Tagged With: , , ,

Checkpoint Systems Will Stop You from Appearing on the Shoplifter’s “Favorites”

January 13, 2016 by Leave a Comment

 

RWHBLOG13
Checkpoint Systems Will Stop You from Appearing on the Shoplifter’s “Favorites”
“No one’s looking; go ahead and do it.”  Little did they know that one of the 400 + cameras in the store was watching them intently as they struggled to remove the Alpha spider-wrap by Checkpoint systems that was protecting the game system from leaving the store without going through checkout.  They moved from one system to another, hoping the result would be different and they would defeat the Checkpoint tag present in that spider-wrap that would ultimately give them away when they tried to leave.  They at least knew they had to get the wrap off the merchandise if they were going to steal the merchandise, finally resorting to tearing into the box to remove the merchandise.
Of course the state where the store was located had anti-shoplifting laws that made it a crime to try to remove retail theft prevention devices.  We stopped the individuals while they were still in the store and took them to detention.  When asked why they spent so much time working on the spider-wraps their only answer was, “We knew we had to get the *@#! thing off before we could get away or it would activate the alarm at the door.”  They were absolutely correct as the systems deployed in the store included electronic article surveillance (EAS) antennae at each exit from the store.  Chalk another one up to Alpha anti-shoplifting spider-wraps and the Checkpoint systems for an assist in taking these two shoplifters into custody and preventing an expensive loss to the company in the three game systems they were trying to steal.
The store had a policy of placing Alpha spider-wraps and other anti-shoplifting devices on any merchandise valued at $50 or more and smaller than a large laptop computer.  This policy was strictly enforced and audited and has prevented an uncountable number of shoplifters from taking some very high-dollar merchandise.  It also allowed the high-dollar merchandise to be displayed on the retail floor where customers can interact with the merchandise with minimal risk of theft.
Besides Alpha spider-wraps, other retail theft prevention solutions are deployed throughout the store, including cableloks to secure display merchandise along with other display solutions for cell phones and tablets, allowing them to still be displayed and interacted with by the customer.  Alpha keepers are also deployed on games and CDs to make them visible while ensuring the game is alarmed if someone tries to remove it from the store. In addition, it is a Checkpoint labels were put on the game itself prior to placing it in the Alpha keeper.  This gives you layered protection.  The key to success is a strong policy that is audited.  Have your sales staff or managers check samples of merchandise to ensure that their anti-shoplifting devices are placed on the merchandise appropriately and verify that you cashiers are removing those devices or deactivating the Checkpoint systems EAS tags so you do not unduly alarm your customers.
Once your policies and audits are in place, you just have to enforce them and make sure that your staff knows that it is an important part of your job and that retail theft prevention is on everyone’s position description.  Combine the solution provided by Checkpoint systems with your usual good customer service.  This will make the potential shoplifter look at much softer targets in town and bypass doing business with you—a kind of business you can do without!
Yes, the store I was describing is a “big-box” store with a large CCTV system and security staff; however, it doesn’t matter.  Checkpoint systems anti-shoplifting solutions can work just as well in the small sole proprietorship as they can in the large franchised store.  They are an affordable solution that when deployed properly with policy and auditing to back it up will help reduce your shrink and take you off the shoplifter’s –even the organized retail criminal’s—“favorites’ list.
For more information on Checkpoint Systems contact us or call 1.770.426.0547

No one’s looking; go ahead and do it.” Little did they know that one of the 400 + cameras in the store was watching them intently as they struggled to remove the Alpha spider-wrap by Checkpoint systems that was protecting the game system from leaving the store without going through checkout. They moved from one system to another, hoping the result would be different and they would defeat the Checkpoint tag present in that spider-wrap that would ultimately give them away when they tried to leave. They at least knew they had to get the wrap off the merchandise if they were going to steal the merchandise, finally resorting to tearing into the box to remove the merchandise.

Of course the state where the store was located had anti-shoplifting laws that made it a crime to try to remove retail theft prevention devices. We stopped the individuals while they were still in the store and took them to detention. When asked why they spent so much time working on the spider-wraps their only answer was, “We knew we had to get the *@#! thing off before we could get away or it would activate the alarm at the door.” They were absolutely correct as the systems deployed in the store included electronic article surveillance (EAS) antennae at each exit from the store. Chalk another one up to Alpha anti-shoplifting spider-wraps and the Checkpoint systems for an assist in taking these two shoplifters into custody and preventing an expensive loss to the company in the three game systems they were trying to steal.

The store had a policy of placing Alpha spider-wraps and other anti-shoplifting devices on any merchandise valued at $50 or more and smaller than a large laptop computer. This policy was strictly enforced and audited and has prevented an uncountable number of shoplifters from taking some very high-dollar merchandise. It also allowed the high-dollar merchandise to be displayed on the retail floor where customers can interact with the merchandise with minimal risk of theft.

Besides Alpha spider-wraps, other retail theft prevention solutions are deployed throughout the store, including cableloks to secure display merchandise along with other display solutions for cell phones and tablets, allowing them to still be displayed and interacted with by the customer. Alpha keepers are also deployed on games and CDs to make them visible while ensuring the game is alarmed if someone tries to remove it from the store. In addition, it is a Checkpoint labels were put on the game itself prior to placing it in the Alpha keeper. This gives you layered protection. The key to success is a strong policy that is audited. Have your sales staff or managers check samples of merchandise to ensure that their anti-shoplifting devices are placed on the merchandise appropriately and verify that you cashiers are removing those devices or deactivating the Checkpoint systems EAS tags so you do not unduly alarm your customers.

Once your policies and audits are in place, you just have to enforce them and make sure that your staff knows that it is an important part of your job and that retail theft prevention is on everyone’s position description. Combine the solution provided by Checkpoint systems with your usual good customer service. This will make the potential shoplifter look at much softer targets in town and bypass doing business with you—a kind of business you can do without!

Yes, the store I was describing is a “big-box” store with a large CCTV system and security staff; however, it doesn’t matter. Checkpoint systems anti-shoplifting solutions can work just as well in the small sole proprietorship as they can in the large franchised store. They are an affordable solution that when deployed properly with policy and auditing to back it up will help reduce your shrink and take you off the shoplifter’s –even the organized retail criminal’s—“favorites’ list.

For more information on Checkpoint Systems contact us or call 1.770.426.0547

 

 

Filed Under: antishoplifting Tagged With: , , ,

CHECKPOINT SECURITY SYSTEM: A VISUAL AND ACTIVE DETERRENT TO SEND THIEVES RUNNING

December 14, 2015 by Leave a Comment

 

BF014
Retail theft prevention -3
Stop shoplifting- 3
Checkpoint security system- 3
CHECKPOINT SECURITY SYSTEM: A VISUAL AND ACTIVE DETERRENT TO SEND THIEVES RUNNING
There aren’t too many variables when it comes to the overall goal of loss prevention professionals. It’s quite simple to stop loss and reduce shrink. The only way this can get done is with a sound loss prevention plan and one that includes the proper tools to achieve the goal. Retail theft prevention measures are most effective when used in conjunction with all available resources. One such resource is having a first line of defense with a Checkpoint security system.
I recall one time where I was working in a retail store where the management had a lax program in place. It was so bad that after we would apprehend them, thieves would actually make jokes about the measures that were in place. Telling us “Man this place is a joke”. Or, “I lift here more than the gym!” I’ve heard it all. What I also heard was that if management didn’t bother to install some sort of EAS (Electronic Article Surveillance) system soon, that we would never stop shoplifting in that store. The lack of accountability at the door was one of the things that thieves counted on at the store. They knew that if they could conceal it, they could get it out the door.
See an important part of retail theft prevention is being able to thwart the loss that you don’t always see or even know about. There is no way to tell just how much product is leaving your store really but with the use of EAS measures like a Checkpoint security system, you’ll at the very least know about attempted occurrences. The five finger crooks that brazenly lift your store blind will no longer have a free ticket to just waltz right out the front door with your product. It’s this degree of accountability at the very least that makes all of the difference. See, by installing an EAS system in your store, you add an element of utter inconvenience and deterrence to your plan to stop shoplifting.
EAS systems work by using RF (Radio Frequency) technology within your store. Some systems also include the use of AM (Acoustic Magnetic) technology. The differences between the two technologies are in the way the system interacts with your products. In both cases, select items are tagged with small asset tags, labels or stickers that are unobtrusively placed somewhere on the products themselves. Once the tags come within a prescribed proximity of the EAS pedestals installed at the store exits, the system will alarm alerting store staff. 
This form of technology is widely available to you as a retailer and comes with various options and installation configurations. It is important to understand that the use of EAS systems can provide a much needed visual deterrent to ‘would-be’ shoplifters above and beyond totally embarrassing the ones that fail to estimate the full functionality of them. The casual shoplifter may not know how they work to their disadvantage however; they do know that they are there. You can hardly miss the pedestals at the front of the stores and almost all of us have witnessed them being triggered before whether accidentally or intently. Since most people recognize the EAS pedestals as an anti-shoplifting resource, when they see them in your store, they know you aren’t playing around. They know your serious and plan to stop shoplifting in your store.
The presence of the EAS pedestals alone may even be enough to make casual shoplifters think twice about stealing from your store actually. Hypothetically, even if the system was inactive (powered off) the simple visual presence of them alone would still have a strong visual impact on all that notices them. The bottom line though is that if you install these retail theft prevention items in your store, it is absolutely going to stop shoplifting in your store to some extent. In the long term, the system will more than pay for itself monetarily when you consider the shrink you are preventing. Thieves will be less cocky about how easy it is to steal from your store and casual shoplifters will be stopped in their tracks.
For more information about the Checkpoint security system please contact us at 1-770-426-0547.

There aren’t too many variables when it comes to the overall goal of loss prevention professionals. It’s quite simple to stop loss and reduce shrink. The only way this can get done is with a sound loss prevention plan and one that includes the proper tools to achieve the goal. Retail theft prevention measures are most effective when used in conjunction with all available resources. One such resource is having a first line of defense with a Checkpoint security system.

I recall one time where I was working in a retail store where the management had a lax program in place. It was so bad that after we would apprehend them, thieves would actually make jokes about the measures that were in place. Telling us “Man this place is a joke”. Or, “I lift here more than the gym!” I’ve heard it all. What I also heard was that if management didn’t bother to install some sort of EAS (Electronic Article Surveillance) system soon, that we would never stop shoplifting in that store. The lack of accountability at the door was one of the things that thieves counted on at the store. They knew that if they could conceal it, they could get it out the door.

See an important part of retail theft prevention is being able to thwart the loss that you don’t always see or even know about. There is no way to tell just how much product is leaving your store really but with the use of EAS measures like a Checkpoint security system, you’ll at the very least know about attempted occurrences. The five finger crooks that brazenly lift your store blind will no longer have a free ticket to just waltz right out the front door with your product. It’s this degree of accountability at the very least that makes all of the difference. See, by installing an EAS system in your store, you add an element of utter inconvenience and deterrence to your plan to stop shoplifting.

EAS systems work by using RF (Radio Frequency) technology within your store. Some systems also include the use of AM (Acoustic Magnetic) technology. The differences between the two technologies are in the way the system interacts with your products. In both cases, select items are tagged with small asset tags, labels or stickers that are unobtrusively placed somewhere on the products themselves. Once the tags come within a prescribed proximity of the EAS pedestals installed at the store exits, the system will alarm alerting store staff. 

This form of technology is widely available to you as a retailer and comes with various options and installation configurations. It is important to understand that the use of EAS systems can provide a much needed visual deterrent to ‘would-be’ shoplifters above and beyond totally embarrassing the ones that fail to estimate the full functionality of them. The casual shoplifter may not know how they work to their disadvantage however; they do know that they are there. You can hardly miss the pedestals at the front of the stores and almost all of us have witnessed them being triggered before whether accidentally or intently. Since most people recognize the EAS pedestals as an anti-shoplifting resource, when they see them in your store, they know you aren’t playing around. They know your serious and plan to stop shoplifting in your store.

The presence of the EAS pedestals alone may even be enough to make casual shoplifters think twice about stealing from your store actually. Hypothetically, even if the system was inactive (powered off) the simple visual presence of them alone would still have a strong visual impact on all that notices them. The bottom line though is that if you install these retail theft prevention items in your store, it is absolutely going to stop shoplifting in your store to some extent. In the long term, the system will more than pay for itself monetarily when you consider the shrink you are preventing. Thieves will be less cocky about how easy it is to steal from your store and casual shoplifters will be stopped in their tracks.

For more information about the Checkpoint security system contact us or call 1-770-426-0547.

 

 

Filed Under: antishoplifting Tagged With: , , ,

What You Don’t Know Can Hurt You

November 10, 2015 by Leave a Comment
EVOLVE-Store-5
What You Don’t Know Can Hurt You
Checkpoint Systems has come up with a new innovation: EVOLVE-Store.  This is a new app that the manager or owner can access from their smart phone or tablet from anywhere at any time.  There is a battery of information this app can supply, and it is all in real time.  You can get accurate, up to the minute, customer counts.  It reports to you if the system is working properly, and if it is turned off at any time.  You will be able to look at reports and check for patterns in alarm activations.  When it comes to booster groups, you know they tend to have their routes planned out, and generally hit about the same time of day.  You will also be able to use it as a training tool.  If you have video surveillance, you can look at your alarm activation times, and see exactly how your staff handled the situation.  Did they wave that regular customer on through the door.  What if it was one of your employees that caused that alarm to sound?
EVOLVE-Store will definitely aid in stopping boosters, but it will also help in identifying any internal theft issues as well.  I hate discovering an internal theft issue and that terrible sinking feeling that comes with it.  It is obviously important to investigate and put an immediate stop to it.  You have to gather all the pertinent information, including the who, what, and why.  Another big part of that is to learn how the theft was pulled off.  I am right smack in the middle of a drug investigation at this time, and part of me dreads what I am sure to find.  In the past two weeks, we have made some odd discoveries in our pharmacy.  The first time, we had some anxiety medications disappear.  These are a CIII classification, meaning they are not required to be locked up.  We searched for the missing medication, and when they were not found, we corrected the count to zero so we could get them back in.  Then a few days later, we found the missing bottle hidden in a different section of the pharmacy, behind some boxes of inhalers.  This happens to be the one area back there without any camera coverage.  Then just days after we found that bottle, we found a pack of medication patches in that same place.  These are also CIII, and they are used to treat opium addiction.  So, now we have two drugs that are commonly abused, that were not returned to their proper shelf, and appear to have been staged for a future theft.  I’ll bet you are asking yourself how EVOLVE-Store could help with this issue.  We process more that 3,000 prescriptions every week, so we have a lot of technicians, and we are always busy.  Sometimes we get too busy to notice little things.  In order to keep everyone in line, we adhere Checkpoint labels to drug packages, to discourage thefts.  We also wrap clear tape around them, so they cannot be peeled off and discarded.  If one of our technicians decides to try to remove a package from the pharmacy, they will inevitably activate the Checkpoint Systems.  This one only goes off when the delivery guy comes to the store and brings our stuff in.  Otherwise, these pedestals remain silent, as they should.  There should be no shrink back here.  If I am at home and I get an alert that these pedestals have activated, you can bet I am going to get to the bottom of it.  I know when we get deliveries, so I could easily rule that out.  But I do not have the EVOLVE-Store app yet.  So, it’s going to be several hours of mindlessly scanning video footage instead.   I’m so excited I just can’t hide it.
I have already told my boss about this new app, and I am hoping he is as impressed by these capabilities as I am.  I also hope he is sharing it with the powers that be.  Whether it is internal or external, we spend a lot of time data mining, watching video, hunting for reports with similarities, and just searching for that one nugget that will shed light on any kind of theft.  It would be nice if something was doing some of the work for us.  With all the technology in the world, it’s about time for an innovation like this.  EVOLVE-Store is going to be a hit!  
For more information about EVOLVE-Store, contact us or call 1.770.426.0547 or Antishoplifting.net

Checkpoint Systems has come up with a new innovation: EVOLVE-Store. This is a new app that the manager or owner can access from their smart phone or tablet from anywhere at any time. There is a battery of information this app can supply, and it is all in real time. You can get accurate, up to the minute, customer counts. It reports to you if the system is working properly, and if it is turned off at any time. You will be able to look at reports and check for patterns in alarm activations. When it comes to booster groups, you know they tend to have their routes planned out, and generally hit about the same time of day. You will also be able to use it as a training tool. If you have video surveillance, you can look at your alarm activation times, and see exactly how your staff handled the situation. Did they wave that regular customer on through the door.  What if it was one of your employees that caused that alarm to sound?

EVOLVE-Store will definitely aid in stopping boosters, but it will also help in identifying any internal theft issues as well. I hate discovering an internal theft issue and that terrible sinking feeling that comes with it. It is obviously important to investigate and put an immediate stop to it. You have to gather all the pertinent information, including the who, what, and why. Another big part of that is to learn how the theft was pulled off. I am right smack in the middle of a drug investigation at this time, and part of me dreads what I am sure to find. In the past two weeks, we have made some odd discoveries in our pharmacy. The first time, we had some anxiety medications disappear. These are a CIII classification, meaning they are not required to be locked up. We searched for the missing medication, and when they were not found, we corrected the count to zero so we could get them back in. Then a few days later, we found the missing bottle hidden in a different section of the pharmacy, behind some boxes of inhalers. This happens to be the one area back there without any camera coverage. Then just days after we found that bottle, we found a pack of medication patches in that same place. These are also CIII, and they are used to treat opium addiction. So, now we have two drugs that are commonly abused, that were not returned to their proper shelf, and appear to have been staged for a future theft. I’ll bet you are asking yourself how EVOLVE-Store could help with this issue. We process more that 3,000 prescriptions every week, so we have a lot of technicians, and we are always busy. Sometimes we get too busy to notice little things.  In order to keep everyone in line, we adhere Checkpoint labels to drug packages, to discourage thefts. We also wrap clear tape around them, so they cannot be peeled off and discarded. If one of our technicians decides to try to remove a package from the pharmacy, they will inevitably activate the Checkpoint Systems. This one only goes off when the delivery guy comes to the store and brings our stuff in. Otherwise, these pedestals remain silent, as they should. There should be no shrink back here. If I am at home and I get an alert that these pedestals have activated, you can bet I am going to get to the bottom of it. I know when we get deliveries, so I could easily rule that out. But I do not have the EVOLVE-Store app yet. So, it’s going to be several hours of mindlessly scanning video footage instead. I’m so excited I just can’t hide it.

I have already told my boss about this new app, and I am hoping he is as impressed by these capabilities as I am. I also hope he is sharing it with the powers that be. Whether it is internal or external, we spend a lot of time data mining, watching video, hunting for reports with similarities, and just searching for that one nugget that will shed light on any kind of theft. It would be nice if something was doing some of the work for us. With all the technology in the world, it’s about time for an innovation like this. EVOLVE-Store is going to be a hit!  

For more information about EVOLVE-Store, contact us or call 1.770.426.0547 

 

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