Shoplifters Eyeing Your Sunglasses And Designer Frames? Eyewear Tags Take Away Their Temptation And Save YOU Money!

September 22, 2017 by Leave a Comment
Eyewear Tag-5                                                                                                                               WC Blog 334
Alpha Security-4
Retail Anti-Theft Devices-4
Shoplifters Eyeing Your Sunglasses And Designer Frames? Eyewear Tags Take Away Their Temptation And Save YOU Money!
     I have a bad habit of going through sunglasses far too quickly. I misplace them, I lose them, and I sit on them when I put them on the seat of my car. I have bought a pair for each of my cars just to avoid moving them between vehicles and guess what…I still lose them. For this reason I have stopped purchasing expensive sunglasses and I have made stores that specialize in dollar merchandise my go to sunglass provider. For most people sunglasses are an important part of their style and they spend money to make sure they get a pair that expresses who they are while protecting their eyes from the brightness and glare of the sun, especially when driving. Some buy them for the outdoor sports they love or for the job they do. Whatever the reason, people will spend a lot of money on a quality pair of glasses, just not me because I can’t take care of them. For the stores that carry a better quality of sunglasses, theft is always a concern and trying to prevent shoplifting is a challenge. In spite of this challenge there are retail anti-theft devices from Alpha Security that can deter criminals who would clean out your inventory if given half a chance.
     The Alpha Security Eyewear Tag gives store owners the advantage of electronic article surveillance protection (EAS) while allowing shoppers the ability to try on glasses without affecting the way they fit. The tags are reusable so there is no need for constant replenishment of these retail anti-theft devices. When the customer is ready to make a purchase the glasses are taken to the point of sale where a special Alpha Security detachment tool is used by the cashier to remove the tag. Tags are then stored in a bin until ready for application on new products received by the store. Stores that invest in EAS pedestals, like those sold by Checkpoint Systems, have the advantage of alarm protection should a thief attempt to walk out with a protected pair of glasses. The pedestals sound a loud, beeping alert and flash colorful LED lights to alert employees that a tagged item is carried too close to the doors. Often this is enough to deter a theft since shoplifters don’t want to chance being caught. For store owners that have chosen not to invest in EAS pedestals the Eyewear Tag still provides ample deterrence value. In order to try to remove a tag a thief would have to try to force a tag off of the arm of the sunglasses and we all know how fragile those arms can be (especially me)! 
     How effective is this retail anti-theft device in protecting product? On the Alpha Security website they have a “Hard Tag Infographic” and in it they have posted, “A leading sunglasses chain began using the Eyewear Tag. Shrink went from more than 20% to ZERO! Even with no EAS!” Having worked in Retail Loss Prevention for nearly 20 years, being a L.P. Manager for 13 of those years, I can tell you I have NEVER seen any other shortage reduction strategy that has been THAT effective! Think about that if you own a small eyewear store(s) and have annual sales of $100,000 a year, 20% shrink is $20,000! What could you do with a windfall of $20,000 added back to your profit line?  Could you use that money to add another part-time employee to your staff thereby increasing customer service and increasing sales even more? Could you use it for pay raises and thereby increase employee morale and their desire to improve their own sales performance? You may choose to expand your business or simply enjoy the fruits of your labor and investment. 
     Retail anti-theft devices are proven to be effective at shortage reduction through deterrence and tag detection adding to store profitability. For sunglass and eyeglass stores, Eyewear Tags may be the ultimate solution for eliminating theft in your business and driving theft-related shortage to zero.
Eyewear Tags are important and we can help you with them. Call 1.770.426.0547 and let’s talk.
     
     

I have a bad habit of going through sunglasses far too quickly. I misplace them, I lose them, and I sit on them when I put them on the seat of my car. I have bought a pair for each of my cars just to avoid moving them between vehicles and guess what…I still lose them. For this reason I have stopped purchasing expensive sunglasses and I have made stores that specialize in dollar merchandise my go to sunglass provider. For most people sunglasses are an important part of their style and they spend money to make sure they get a pair that expresses who they are while protecting their eyes from the brightness and glare of the sun, especially when driving. Some buy them for the outdoor sports they love or for the job they do. Whatever the reason, people will spend a lot of money on a quality pair of glasses, just not me because I can’t take care of them. For the stores that carry a better quality of sunglasses, theft is always a concern and trying to prevent shoplifting is a challenge. In spite of this challenge there are retail anti-theft devices from Alpha Security that can deter criminals who would clean out your inventory if given half a chance.
     

The Alpha Security Eyewear Tag gives store owners the advantage of electronic article surveillance protection (EAS) while allowing shoppers the ability to try on glasses without affecting the way they fit. The tags are reusable so there is no need for constant replenishment of these retail anti-theft devices. When the customer is ready to make a purchase the glasses are taken to the point of sale where a special Alpha Security detachment tool is used by the cashier to remove the tag. Tags are then stored in a bin until ready for application on new products received by the store. Stores that invest in EAS pedestals, like those sold by Checkpoint Systems, have the advantage of alarm protection should a thief attempt to walk out with a protected pair of glasses. The pedestals sound a loud, beeping alert and flash colorful LED lights to alert employees that a tagged item is carried too close to the doors. Often this is enough to deter a theft since shoplifters don’t want to chance being caught. For store owners that have chosen not to invest in EAS pedestals the Eyewear Tag still provides ample deterrence value. In order to try to remove a tag a thief would have to try to force a tag off of the arm of the sunglasses and we all know how fragile those arms can be (especially me)! 
     

How effective is this retail anti-theft device in protecting product? On the Alpha Security website they have a “Hard Tag Infographic” and in it they have posted, “A leading sunglasses chain began using the Eyewear Tag. Shrink went from more than 20% to ZERO! Even with no EAS!” Having worked in Retail Loss Prevention for nearly 20 years, being a L.P. Manager for 13 of those years, I can tell you I have NEVER seen any other shortage reduction strategy that has been THAT effective! Think about that if you own a small eyewear store(s) and have annual sales of $100,000 a year, 20% shrink is $20,000! What could you do with a windfall of $20,000 added back to your profit line?  Could you use that money to add another part-time employee to your staff thereby increasing customer service and increasing sales even more? Could you use it for pay raises and thereby increase employee morale and their desire to improve their own sales performance? You may choose to expand your business or simply enjoy the fruits of your labor and investment. 
     

Retail anti-theft devices are proven to be effective at shortage reduction through deterrence and tag detection adding to store profitability. For sunglass and eyeglass stores, Eyewear Tags may be the ultimate solution for eliminating theft in your business and driving theft-related shortage to zero.

 

Eyewear Tags are important and we can help you with them. Call 1.770.426.0547 and let’s talk.
     
     

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With:

Policies and Procedures Concerning Shoplifting

September 19, 2017 by Leave a Comment

Shoplifting crimes increase every year.  Mall security, loss prevention personnel and police departments across the nation work together to prevent shoplifting. But, that is not enough. The National Association for Shoplifting Prevention states that the United States loses billions of dollars every year due to shoplifting, and those statistics are not getting better.  Police departments across the nation are constantly called to these retail store due to a shoplifting incident that they have to take care of. By knowing what the response to a shoplifting is, your employees can readily take care of the problem without jeopardizing their safety.

For more about this and othe r topics, follow the links below.

Winnipeg mom carrying diaper bag refused entry to Canadian Tire

What was supposed to be a quick pit stop at a local Canadian Tire has left a Winnipeg mom angry and speaking out.

On Friday, Stephanie Stachowich was trying to go shopping at the Regent Avenue location to buy a few items.

She had her two daughters, 3-years-old and 7-months-old, with her and was carrying a diaper bag filled with necessities along with her keys and wallet.

“As I walked in I saw a staff member spot me right away,” Stachowich told Global News.  “She simply told me straight out I could not bring my diaper bag into the store.”

Stachowich said there were no signs regarding bag policies posted and she wasn’t given a choice to have her bag searched or checked. She was simply told the diaper bag was not allowed in the store.

Theft and drugs having affects on Retail business

A panel of retail and law enforcement representatives discussed recent trends related to drug laws, sentencing reform and retail theft at the Council of State Retail Association’s (CSRA) Annual Meeting in Portland earlier this month.

The topic resonated with the audience for several reasons. The link between drug addiction and property crimes is well-known and drives many policy discussions related to criminal justice reform. And retailers have a front row seat to witness the effects of both addiction and changes in sentencing guidelines.

After voters passed Proposition 47 in 2014, California implemented some of the nation’s sharpest reductions in penalties, reducing many drug-related and theft crimes to misdemeanors. Property crimes in many counties have increased more than 25% since the ballot measure passed and made all thefts of less than $950 a misdemeanor.

Another factor driving up thefts has been the opioid crisis, said Sacramento County District Attorney Anne Marie Schubert. Some California counties had more opioid prescriptions than people in 2016, she said, citing a Sacramento Bee article. (To read the article, click here.)

Convenience store manager fires gun after shoplifting incident

INDIANAPOLIS (WTHR) – An E. Washington St. convenience store manager is under investigation for firing his gun at a shoplifter.

It happened Monday night at Sam’s Food Mart & Tobacco Store.

Eyewitness News spoke with one of the store clerks about why the manager decided to fire his weapon.

The clerk said the shooting happened after his co-worker chased a customer through the front door and into the parking lot. The shoplifter left with a couple of items without paying for them.

Someone flagged down an IMPD officer to report the incident.

Eyewitness News has learned the shoplifter stole a bag of Planters peanuts and a package of Hostess Zingers.

 

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Do You Know Who Is Stealing From You?

September 11, 2017 by Leave a Comment

Do you know who is stealing from you? It could be anyone.  Shoplifting rings across the United States are now a common practice.  Millions of dollars are stolen every day due to shoplifting, and many millions more are because of employee theft. 

The shoplifter can be anyone; from a grandma, a city employee, or a government official, shoplifters come in all shapes and form.  Police officers have been known to be apprehended when shoplifting, and  juveniles are notorious for stealing merchandise when they visit a store.  Training and awareness from you as a store manager, and from the employees at your supervision, can limit the amount these shoplifters take from your store.

For more about this and other topics, follow the links below.

Feds Break Up $20M Shoplifting Ring That Stole Clothing From Coast To Coast

Federal authorities say they’ve arrested more than a dozen people and broken up a massive shoplifting network that trafficked in some $20 million in apparel and other items stolen from stores all over the country and then sold in Mexico.

According to a grand jury indictment [PDF] unsealed this week, the San Diego-based defendants allegedly assembled “crews” of shoplifters who would steal items from a variety of stores — Victoria’s Secret, Hollister, American Eagle, Banana Republic — at malls both local and thousands of miles away.

Prosecutors say that this ring pilfered items at stores as far-flung as Washington state, Illinois, and Maryland, all with the intention of transporting the stolen goods back to the San Diego area, and then on to a fence in Mexico.

The indictment details the various roles given to the shoplifters involved in any given theft. There were “team leaders” who selected stores and targeted items within the store, while doing advance scouting for the presence of police or loss-prevention staff. When it came time to shoplift, the team leader would relocate the items targeted for shoplifting, putting them in spots within a store that made it easier for others to steal them.

Former school district employee charged with felony theft

Former St. Cloud school district buildings and grounds supervisor Bryan Brown was charged Friday with felony theft for using public funds for personal purchases, according to a complaint filed in Stearns County District Court.

Brown resigned April 3 after 27 years with the district. He began working for the district as a custodian in 1990. In 2011, he became the buildings and grounds supervisor.

Brown’s supervisor, former executive director of business services Kevin Januszewski, resigned April 6.

After the resignations, the district asked St. Cloud Police Department to investigate the possible theft of public funds at the school district, according to the complaint. That investigation was launched April 7.

Employee theft cost US businesses an average of $1.13 million in losses, according to 2017 Hiscox Embezzlement Study™

NEW YORK, NY, Aug. 23, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hiscox, the international specialist insurer, today released the 2017 Hiscox Embezzlement Study™, an examination of employee theft in the US. The findings reveal that US businesses impacted by employee theft lost an average of $1.13 million last year. Small and mid-sized companies (fewer than 500 employees) continue to be disproportionally victimized by employee theft, representing approximately 68 percent of cases.

This is the third annual Hiscox Embezzlement Study, which examines employee theft cases that were active in the US federal court system in 2016.

“There is a necessary level of trust between employees and their employer that is required of successful businesses,” said Doug Karpp, Crime & Fidelity Product Head at Hiscox. “When there is a breach in that trust because an employee or executive steals, it can have a significant impact on the entire organization both financially and emotionally. Business owners and executives need to make the shift from blind trust to intelligent trust to ensure they are able to spot and prevent employee theft.”

 

Filed Under: Shoplifting Prevention Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Retail Theft Prevention Strategies Should Include Building Relationships Part 1

September 10, 2017 by Leave a Comment
Checkpoint Systems-3                                                                                                                         WC Blog 344
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Retail Theft Prevention Strategies Should Include Building Relationships Part 1
     Retail theft prevention is something I have enjoyed since the day I started working in it. If I were to be asked what my favorite part about doing Loss Prevention work is, I would have a hard time saying one thing. That’s because at different times in my career there were various parts of the job that really made my job rewarding. It was fun to stop shoplifting when I started out my career, watching a theft transpire and the adrenaline kicked in as I readied myself for the concealment and the stop I would be making.  As I advanced and became a Loss Prevention Manager I continued to catch shoplifters every so often but I started having to train employees about shortage reduction and the expectations upon them in preventing theft and fraud. These sessions usually took place during new employee orientations. I found that training others was a piece of shortage reduction I found to be rewarding (I also found I could start picking out potential future dishonest employees by their questions and their attention in class).  As the L.P. Manager I also had interactions with various vendors, such as the property management officials, closed circuit television technicians and Checkpoint Systems technicians who worked on our electronic article surveillance equipment. As I progressed in my career I took these early lessons in building partnerships to create closer ties that became part of our shortage reduction culture.
     I found that as I built strong partnership with vendors I was able to get improved service for the store. One example was an upgrade we did with our CCTV system. The contract was with a new company and the workers came out, completed the upgrades, took time to explain the changes and trained me on what I would need to know. I completed a positive survey of their work for my company. A few years later we underwent another upgrade and because of my survey this company received the contract. The technicians went out of their way to show me how they crimped BNC connectors rather than using twist-ons like I was used to and they left me extras and a crimping tool. My relations with the Checkpoint Systems vendors were great as well. I didn’t place “urgent” requests in unnecessarily. If I had a repair need and the technician called we would talk about the issue. If it was something that could wait until he could get to my store a few days later due to other calls, I would do my best to work with him. It might have been a checklane that had a faulty deactivation unit. If I didn’t have a spare unit I would shut down that register for a few days. If my request was going to have a significant impact on retail theft prevention and shortage such as a pedestal not working then I would get the faster service. I can tell you that this mutual respect paid off when I would request a system check just before the holidays to ensure our system was running at peak performance. I always seemed to be at the top of his list of priorities.
     I already had friendships I had built with local law enforcement from my job as a Loss Prevention Officer, but using the skills I was developing with vendor relations I found I was able to create a new level of partnership with my police department. Nothing enhances store security more than having police cars parked at the curb of the store or a couple of police bikes located inside the doors to the building. Police stopped at our store for no other reason than to come and visit with our L.P. team in our office. When the police department wanted to conduct a children’s I.D. session for families, our store allowed them to set up a table up front. When they started a Santa’s Helper’s program the store manager made sure we were the retailer to volunteer to help out by adding extra staff and feeding the kids and officers lunch. Since the officers were spending time at our store, I took the time to attend a citizen’s class they offered (about an 8 week program) to let them know I valued what they offered. Like my partnership with Checkpoint Systems, when I was in need of help from the police, I can attest that I rarely had to wait long on a response.
     In Part 2 I will provide some other strategies I learned along the way that made Loss Prevention rewarding AND helped me in creating a strong retail theft prevention program. Loss Prevention programs are important to shortage reduction and partnerships with others enhances those programs.
Get more information on Retail Theft Prevention, contact us or call 1.770.426.0547 today.

Retail theft prevention is something I have enjoyed since the day I started working in it. If I were to be asked what my favorite part about doing Loss Prevention work is, I would have a hard time saying one thing. That’s because at different times in my career there were various parts of the job that really made my job rewarding. It was fun to stop shoplifting when I started out my career, watching a theft transpire and the adrenaline kicked in as I readied myself for the concealment and the stop I would be making.  As I advanced and became a Loss Prevention Manager I continued to catch shoplifters every so often but I started having to train employees about shortage reduction and the expectations upon them in preventing theft and fraud. These sessions usually took place during new employee orientations. I found that training others was a piece of shortage reduction I found to be rewarding (I also found I could start picking out potential future dishonest employees by their questions and their attention in class).  As the L.P. Manager I also had interactions with various vendors, such as the property management officials, closed circuit television technicians and Checkpoint Systems technicians who worked on our electronic article surveillance equipment. As I progressed in my career I took these early lessons in building partnerships to create closer ties that became part of our shortage reduction culture.
     

I found that as I built strong partnership with vendors I was able to get improved service for the store. One example was an upgrade we did with our CCTV system. The contract was with a new company and the workers came out, completed the upgrades, took time to explain the changes and trained me on what I would need to know. I completed a positive survey of their work for my company. A few years later we underwent another upgrade and because of my survey this company received the contract. The technicians went out of their way to show me how they crimped BNC connectors rather than using twist-ons like I was used to and they left me extras and a crimping tool. My relations with the Checkpoint Systems vendors were great as well. I didn’t place “urgent” requests in unnecessarily. If I had a repair need and the technician called we would talk about the issue. If it was something that could wait until he could get to my store a few days later due to other calls, I would do my best to work with him. It might have been a checklane that had a faulty deactivation unit. If I didn’t have a spare unit I would shut down that register for a few days. If my request was going to have a significant impact on retail theft prevention and shortage such as a pedestal not working then I would get the faster service. I can tell you that this mutual respect paid off when I would request a system check just before the holidays to ensure our system was running at peak performance. I always seemed to be at the top of his list of priorities.
     

I already had friendships I had built with local law enforcement from my job as a Loss Prevention Officer, but using the skills I was developing with vendor relations I found I was able to create a new level of partnership with my police department. Nothing enhances store security more than having police cars parked at the curb of the store or a couple of police bikes located inside the doors to the building. Police stopped at our store for no other reason than to come and visit with our L.P. team in our office. When the police department wanted to conduct a children’s I.D. session for families, our store allowed them to set up a table up front. When they started a Santa’s Helper’s program the store manager made sure we were the retailer to volunteer to help out by adding extra staff and feeding the kids and officers lunch. Since the officers were spending time at our store, I took the time to attend a citizen’s class they offered (about an 8 week program) to let them know I valued what they offered. Like my partnership with Checkpoint Systems, when I was in need of help from the police, I can attest that I rarely had to wait long on a response.
     

In Part 2 I will provide some other strategies I learned along the way that made Loss Prevention rewarding AND helped me in creating a strong retail theft prevention program. Loss Prevention programs are important to shortage reduction and partnerships with others enhances those programs.

 

Get more information on Retail Theft Prevention, contact us or call 1.770.426.0547 today.

 

Filed Under: antishoplifting Tagged With: , ,

Employee Theft

September 6, 2017 by Leave a Comment

Addiction is a big factor is some shoplifters’s lives.  They steal to then sell the stolen merchandise to be able to purchase drugs and alcohol.  Employees with a drug addiction problem are dangerous to a retail store, specially those employees that are given a position of power, or have some type of freedom with merchandise, cash or even the security of the store.

Employees that feel as deserving employees that are not being properly compensated can be a liability to a retail store as well.  Anger, bad attitudes, and eventually theft can be a big problem for the store where they are employed.

Retailers and employers in the United States and around the globe loose billions of dollars to shoplifting and employee theft every year. Periodic inventory of employees, merchandise and security of the store are not only necessary but imperative to the health of the business. 

If as an owner, any part of the proper management of the store is left unattended, the results can be catastrophic.

For more about this and other topics follow the links below.

Your Loyal, Hardworking, and Intelligent Employee Might Be Stealing From Your Business

Most perpetrators are middle-aged, longtime employees who never take vacation, says new study.

Last June, Linda Clark, a 68-year-old bookkeeper, who worked for a credit union in Iowa, plead guilty to embezzling almost $2.5 million from her employer between 1978 until she resigned in 2015.

The SCICAP Credit Union in Chariton, Iowa, had to liquidate due to Clark’s 37-year-long scheme, during which she diverted small sums of money into her bank account as well as those of her children.

Clark fits the profile of the average embezzler, according to a studythat looked at over 400 embezzlement cases in federal court, conducted by insurance provider Hiscox. The study found the average embezzler to be a small-business, middle-aged employee who works in the accounting and finance department. Perps were female in 41 percent of the cases.

Clark’s scheme went on longer than average, but the majority of schemes, 28.7 percent, go on for five years with an average theft amount of $2.2 million. For schemes that last 10 years, the average loss hits $5.4 million.

Employee theft cost US businesses an average of $1.13 million in losses, according to 2017 Hiscox Embezzlement Study™

NEW YORK, NY, Aug. 23, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hiscox, the international specialist insurer, today released the 2017 Hiscox Embezzlement Study™, an examination of employee theft in the US. The findings reveal that US businesses impacted by employee theft lost an average of $1.13 million last year. Small and mid-sized companies (fewer than 500 employees) continue to be disproportionally victimized by employee theft, representing approximately 68 percent of cases.

This is the third annual Hiscox Embezzlement Study, which examines employee theft cases that were active in the US federal court system in 2016.

“There is a necessary level of trust between employees and their employer that is required of successful businesses,” said Doug Karpp, Crime & Fidelity Product Head at Hiscox. “When there is a breach in that trust because an employee or executive steals, it can have a significant impact on the entire organization both financially and emotionally. Business owners and executives need to make the shift from blind trust to intelligent trust to ensure they are able to spot and prevent employee theft.”

 

Filed Under: Shoplifting Prevention Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

USE MORE THAN CHECKPOINT SYSTEMS TO SPOT A SHOPLIFTER – PT 2

September 3, 2017 by Leave a Comment
USE MORE THAN CHECKPOINT SYSTEMS TO SPOT A SHOPLIFTER – PT 2
I had so much fun writing some ways that you can spot a thief, I thought I’d continue with a few more ways that you and your teams can identify potential external theft. Remember, the very best way to Stop Shoplifting is to provide exceptional customer service. This scares off the crooks and keeps your customers coming back week, after week. So, without delay, here’s a few other ways that you can identify a probable shoplifter. 
#6. Out of season clothing
if it’s 90 degrees outside, and someone walks into the store wearing a heavy coat, chances are there wasn’t a sudden blizzard that you didn’t know about. I’ve caught several shoplifters who’ve told me that they thought that a heavy coat would block the Checkpoint Tags from sounding the alarm. Wrong. Just wrong on so many levels. So the next time that you see someone with a heavy parka and a beanie in the middle of summer, go offer some service; and perhaps a water. 
#7. Erratic shopping behavior
it’s one thing to shop around the store, especially if you’re gift shopping, or maybe just killing time. I’m guilty of that, especially around lunch time. There is a line that can be crossed from simple wandering, to erratic behavior that should cue your Spidey Senses. Shoppers that almost run from department to department and grab whatever they can and toss it in the basket could be a red flag. Shoppers that seem “wired” or under the influence can also be strong indicators of a possible theft. Shoppers that bite your Checkpoint Tags should be a giant, waving red flag (that’s a story for another time). If you have a shopper exhibiting this behavior, then please, by all means, go offer some service; at your own risk… 😊
#8. Flat and empty purses
Most ladies carry a purse. To that point, the spectrum is pretty wide on what is carried in those purses. I know some that carry virtually everything needed for a three-day hike in the Himalia’s, where others stick to the bare essentials. What really should stand out to you is purses that are COMPLETELY flat. Purses that are folded up on top of a basket, or folded flat under the shopper’s arm. Chances are, if someone is bringing a completely empty purse into the store, they probably want to fill it with goodies. 
#9. Staging merchandise
Sometimes, shoplifters have to build up the courage to do the deed. If you want to Stop Shoplifting, you should be able to quickly identify this behavior. In this scenario the shoplifter takes a product, like clothing, or other items from the home location and brings them to an area of the store that is somewhat secluded. Perhaps they remove the Checkpoint Tags here, but the merchandise is then placed on the shelf, or hidden behind other product. This shoplifter may make this trip several times before going back and finally loading up before exiting. Pay attention to shoppers that do this and if you see it, get in there and provide some customer service!
#10. Placing merchandise on top of a purse
This is a combination of the two indicators above. Take special note of shoppers that take items (clothing, small items, etc), fold them up and place them on top of their purse, which is in turn sitting on the top portion of their basket. I’ve seen this one a thousand time. This is usually a middle-age female, who may be a regular customer. She may spend a significant amount of money, but she’s also robbing you blind. By folding the product and placing it right on top of the purse, it can be concealed in a matter of seconds. ANY time I see this action in my store, I immediately provide the very best customer service. Often, I’ll remark on specific items that I see, so that the shoppers sees that I’m aware of what they are in possession of.
Remember, there are dozens of indicators that can alert you to a potential shoplifter, the end result to discourage them is always the same. Customer service can and will Stop Shoplifting. Train your teams to provide the best possible to everyone, and it will increase your sale and ultimately decrease shrink. 
For more information about Checkpoint Systems contact us or call 1.770.426.0547.

I had so much fun writing some ways that you can spot a thief, I thought I’d continue with a few more ways that you and your teams can identify potential external theft. Remember, the very best way to Stop Shoplifting is to provide exceptional customer service. This scares off the crooks and keeps your customers coming back week, after week. So, without delay, here’s a few other ways that you can identify a probable shoplifter. 

 

 #6. Out of season clothing

if it’s 90 degrees outside, and someone walks into the store wearing a heavy coat, chances are there wasn’t a sudden blizzard that you didn’t know about. I’ve caught several shoplifters who’ve told me that they thought that a heavy coat would block the Checkpoint Tags from sounding the alarm. Wrong. Just wrong on so many levels. So the next time that you see someone with a heavy parka and a beanie in the middle of summer, go offer some service; and perhaps a water. 

 

 #7. Erratic shopping behavior

It’s one thing to shop around the store, especially if you’re gift shopping, or maybe just killing time. I’m guilty of that, especially around lunch time. There is a line that can be crossed from simple wandering, to erratic behavior that should cue your Spidey Senses. Shoppers that almost run from department to department and grab whatever they can and toss it in the basket could be a red flag. Shoppers that seem “wired” or under the influence can also be strong indicators of a possible theft. Shoppers that bite your Checkpoint Tags should be a giant, waving red flag (that’s a story for another time). If you have a shopper exhibiting this behavior, then please, by all means, go offer some service; at your own risk… 😊

 

 #8. Flat and empty purses

Most ladies carry a purse. To that point, the spectrum is pretty wide on what is carried in those purses. I know some that carry virtually everything needed for a three-day hike in the Himalia’s, where others stick to the bare essentials. What really should stand out to you is purses that are COMPLETELY flat. Purses that are folded up on top of a basket, or folded flat under the shopper’s arm. Chances are, if someone is bringing a completely empty purse into the store, they probably want to fill it with goodies. 

 

 #9. Staging merchandise

Sometimes, shoplifters have to build up the courage to do the deed. If you want to Stop Shoplifting, you should be able to quickly identify this behavior. In this scenario the shoplifter takes a product, like clothing, or other items from the home location and brings them to an area of the store that is somewhat secluded. Perhaps they remove the Checkpoint Tags here, but the merchandise is then placed on the shelf, or hidden behind other product. This shoplifter may make this trip several times before going back and finally loading up before exiting. Pay attention to shoppers that do this and if you see it, get in there and provide some customer service!

 

 #10. Placing merchandise on top of a purse

This is a combination of the two indicators above. Take special note of shoppers that take items (clothing, small items, etc), fold them up and place them on top of their purse, which is in turn sitting on the top portion of their basket. I’ve seen this one a thousand time. This is usually a middle-age female, who may be a regular customer. She may spend a significant amount of money, but she’s also robbing you blind. By folding the product and placing it right on top of the purse, it can be concealed in a matter of seconds. ANY time I see this action in my store, I immediately provide the very best customer service. Often, I’ll remark on specific items that I see, so that the shoppers sees that I’m aware of what they are in possession of.

 

 Remember, there are dozens of indicators that can alert you to a potential shoplifter, the end result to discourage them is always the same. Customer service can and will Stop Shoplifting. Train your teams to provide the best possible to everyone, and it will increase your sale and ultimately decrease shrink. 

 

For more information about Checkpoint Systems, contact us or call 1.770.426.0547.

 

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With:

Don’t “Bug” Your Customers With Cumbersome Security Products, Get The Bug Tag 2 Today!

September 1, 2017 by

 

AA Blog 47
Bug tag 2:  5
Stop shoplifting:  3
Don’t “Bug” Your Customers With Cumbersome Security Products, Get The Bug Tag 2 Today!
My daughter just started college recently and I wanted to get her something useful as a graduation/college present.  I decided that I wanted to get her a computer for class so she could do homework, research, take notes and complete assignments easily.  I did a lot of research to find the right computer for the job.  I really wanted something with good memory, good battery life and something that was small enough to pack around with her.  During this process I went to numerous stores looking at my options, reading reviews, and talking to associates about the different options available.  During that process I noticed that the stores were tethering their store models, so you could manipulate the product and test it out.  This was fine for me and seemed to work fine for the retailers, but when it came to buying the computer I noticed various security solutions used to protect their products.  I felt that some were better than others, some being more convenient and timelier than others.  As a member of the loss prevention world I have seen most of the security devices that are used to stop shoplifting.  Many companies use the large security cable-wrap devices for their larger, more expensive items, such as:  televisions, computers, stereo equipment etc.  These are great devices that can work on various large or oddly shaped items, and come in various sizes.  Although, these devices can be bulky and time consuming to apply and remove, which adds unwanted cost to the retailer and inconvenience to the customer.  I have purchased products with these types of security devices in the past and have had limited success in getting out of the store in a timely manner.  The last item I purchased was a television, which required a manager to come over to unlock and remove the device.  I am sure this was their policy, but it was rather inconvenient for me to have to wait until they could locate a manager to respond.  The other customers behind me weren’t all that happy either.  I was pleasantly surprised on my most recent purchase, when I noticed they were using the Bug tag 2.  
The bug tag 2 is a great way to protect computers, tablets and I-Pads from theft.  These security devices are very versatile and can be attached to an item with an adhesive for easy application and removal.  They can safely be applied directly to the computer, for display models, or to any box.  The best part about this device is the disposable sled, which allows the tag to be re-used.  Now you can retain the Bug tag 2 modules and simply replace the disposable adhesive sleds to save on cost.  These items are equipped with 2 & 3 EAS alarm technology, which alerts associates to breaches and theft.  These tags are designed to be small and less cumbersome, so customers can easily view, use and manipulate the device.  These devices when used on floor models could allow your customers the opportunity to sit down with the product and become more familiar with the features and make an educated shopping decision.  I know it was much more convenient than being tethered to a table, I can attest to that.  These are very lightweight and provide a low cost solution in the fight to stop shoplifting.
The Bug tag 2 provides an efficient, unobtrusive, and cost-efficient means to protect your high end computer related equipment. Its small stature allows customers the ability to conveniently test the products while ensuring product safety.  Obviously as retailers our goal is to stop shoplifting and sell merchandise, but often times those two goals conflict.  This tag provides the ability to do both, while offering a re-useable sled to reduce cost, and increase profit.  
Get information on the Bug tag 2, contact us or call 1.770.426.0547 today.    
      

My daughter just started college recently and I wanted to get her something useful as a graduation/college present. I decided that I wanted to get her a computer for class so she could do homework, research, take notes and complete assignments easily. I did a lot of research to find the right computer for the job. I really wanted something with good memory, good battery life and something that was small enough to pack around with her. During this process I went to numerous stores looking at my options, reading reviews, and talking to associates about the different options available. During that process I noticed that the stores were tethering their store models, so you could manipulate the product and test it out. This was fine for me and seemed to work fine for the retailers, but when it came to buying the computer I noticed various security solutions used to protect their products. I felt that some were better than others, some being more convenient and timelier than others. As a member of the loss prevention world I have seen most of the security devices that are used to stop shoplifting. Many companies use the large security cable-wrap devices for their larger, more expensive items, such as: televisions, computers, stereo equipment etc. These are great devices that can work on various large or oddly shaped items, and come in various sizes. Although, these devices can be bulky and time consuming to apply and remove, which adds unwanted cost to the retailer and inconvenience to the customer. I have purchased products with these types of security devices in the past and have had limited success in getting out of the store in a timely manner. The last item I purchased was a television, which required a manager to come over to unlock and remove the device. I am sure this was their policy, but it was rather inconvenient for me to have to wait until they could locate a manager to respond. The other customers behind me weren’t all that happy either. I was pleasantly surprised on my most recent purchase, when I noticed they were using the Bug tag 2.  

 

The bug tag 2 is a great way to protect computers, tablets and I-Pads from theft. These security devices are very versatile and can be attached to an item with an adhesive for easy application and removal. They can safely be applied directly to the computer, for display models, or to any box. The best part about this device is the disposable sled, which allows the tag to be re-used. Now you can retain the Bug tag 2 modules and simply replace the disposable adhesive sleds to save on cost. These items are equipped with 2 & 3 EAS alarm technology, which alerts associates to breaches and theft. These tags are designed to be small and less cumbersome, so customers can easily view, use and manipulate the device. These devices when used on floor models could allow your customers the opportunity to sit down with the product and become more familiar with the features and make an educated shopping decision. I know it was much more convenient than being tethered to a table, I can attest to that. These are very lightweight and provide a low cost solution in the fight to stop shoplifting.

 

The Bug tag 2 provides an efficient, unobtrusive, and cost-efficient means to protect your high end computer related equipment. Its small stature allows customers the ability to conveniently test the products while ensuring product safety. Obviously as retailers our goal is to stop shoplifting and sell merchandise, but often times those two goals conflict. This tag provides the ability to do both, while offering a re-useable sled to reduce cost, and increase profit.  

 

Get information on the Bug tag 2, contact us or call 1.770.426.0547 today.    

      

 

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Do Shoplifters have Rights?

August 29, 2017 by Leave a Comment

Shoplifting and shoplifters have been a constant reliable problem the retail industry has had for many years.  The billions of dollars lost due to shoplifting is not a laughing matter.  The millions of dollars the retail industry suffers daily due to shoplifting, cripples local economies and leaves them unable to fund social programs that benefit those communities.  The tax loss from stolen merchandise affects those communities as well.

It is very hard to empathize with a shoplifter. Shoplifting is a crime after all but, we must remember that shoplifters have rights and whether security personnel likes it or not they must follow the law.  The procedures a security employee must take when apprehending a shoplifter are very clear.  Law enforcement personnel must follow procedures as well. Shoplifters have rights, and as a security employee you must follow them.

For more about this and other topics, follow the links below.

LP Interrogation Techniques Can Work as Negotiation Tactics

Negotiation tactics are synonymous with terms ranging from compromise and mediation to haggle and interrogation. It is not difficult to argue the fact that interrogations represent the hardest form of negotiating. When people enter into negotiations or mediations, they understand they may need to sacrifice some of their interests in order to reach a mutual agreement because both parties, at some level, have shared interests.

On the contrary, when subjects enter into loss prevention interrogation, they have no intentions of sacrificing any of their interests. Interrogation subjects are typically motivated to stake themselves to a position of innocence and to vehemently defend that position. Skilled interrogators overcome these obstacles by creating shared interests, reducing their subject’s resistance, and creating perceived benefits for confessing.

Many corporate executives view negotiating tactics and skills as both critical to their success and professional development.

Court rules company extorts money from accused shoplifters

SAN FRANCISCO (KTVU) – A State Superior Court judge has ruled that a “corrective education” scheme for accused shoplifters is considered “extortion.”

San Francisco City Attorney Dennis Herrera filed the lawsuit against Corrective Education Company, which partners with retailers like Walmart, Bloomingdale’s, Burlington Coat Factory, Abercrombie & Fitch, Ralph’s grocery chain and Kroger’s.

Suspected shoplifters at those retailers don’t get handcuffed by police, instead, Herrera says they answer to a private business called CEC or Corrective Education Company.

“They basically would intimidate and get someone they suspected of being a shoplifter and say uh, unless you sign this form and and pay us money, we’re gonna report you to the police,” said Herrera.

The problem with that, Herrera says… it’s illegal.

“The law is clear. This is a textbook case of extortion and false imprisonment,” said Herrera who filed the lawsuit back in November of 2015.

This week, California’s State Superior court agreed.

Burlington Coat Factory Security Guard Arrested After Shooting

​A security guard who shot a man Tuesday during a confrontation over an alleged shoplifting incident in San Francisco has been arrested, police said today.

The shooting occurred shortly after 2:30pm in the area of Fifth and Howard streets at a Burlington Coat Factory store where the guard, a 42-year-old man, confronted a suspected shoplifter, according to Officer Robert Rueca.

A struggle ensued that moved outside of the store, and the guard shot the 33-year-old man in the leg, Rueca said.

The victim was taken to a hospital with injuries that are not considered life-threatening.

The guard, whose identity has not yet been released, was arrested on suspicion of assault with a firearm and shooting at an inhabited dwelling.

 

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Ashleigh’s 2 Year Anniversary!

August 28, 2017 by Leave a Comment

By Bill Bregar, CEO Loss Prevention Systems, Inc.

We have just celebrated our very own Ashleigh Berry’s two year mark with Loss Prevention Systems. Ashleigh is a perfect fit for the duties she performs. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice she has the mind set to read between the lines when she conducts our client’s employee background checks. Many times perspective employees will omit or distort information on their application regarding their background. Ashleigh works very hard at spotting these discrepancies. In one case, an applicant completed the release form and did not list any convicted crimes. Upon reviewing his criminal history, the applicant was convicted of 2 traffic misdemeanors, 1 violent crime and 1 felony. The applicant has admitted to 4 convictions and was applying for a job that would allow access to the public and vehicles! It’s important to know of a prospective employee’s background. What they don’t tell you will hurt you.

Ashleigh has championed our quick turnaround speed. Same day or next day for many criminal records checks is our target and standard.

Generally Ashleigh is also the first person a new customer to Loss Prevention Systems talks to about their shoplifting problems and the use of a Checkpoint System. She takes the time to understand what an individual retailer is going through and gathers the information necessary to allow us to solve his/her shoplifting problem once and for all. This goes hand in glove with LPSI’s consultative sales approach.

As CEO, I am very proud of her work and accomplishments. But more importantly, Ashleigh’s unwavering positive attitude and charming demeanor, is a joy to have here at LPSI. If you need something from us, do not hesitate to ask for Ashleigh and experience real Southern Charm at its best.

Ashleigh is also a Ford Mustang car enthusiast.

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Can You Hear Me Now? Active Listening is Important To Great Customer Service

August 28, 2017 by Leave a Comment

How often does it happen? You are in front of your television watching your favorite college football team playing a game and your spouse starts talking to you about their day or what you need from the grocery store. Then suddenly the conversation takes a nasty turn and you are asked for input about the conversation you weren’t really engaged in. The textbook reply, “Yes Dear” or “Sounds good Honey” are the first line of defense but your spouse is suspicious of your response and asks, “What did I say?”  Oops, you’re caught, you weren’t listening and you really have no idea what was said. The same thing can happen in retail but with a much different outcome and one that can cost you money. With your spouse you may be in the doghouse and it can be uncomfortable for a bit but usually things have a way of working out in the end. For a retailer,  it may end up with an  exasperated customer who won’t shop at your store any more.

Actively listening is critical for ALL retail associates. It requires paying attention to what your customer is saying and sometimes keeping an ear out for what is not being said. It is a skill that often has to be taught because we do not always give our full attention to what others say to us as I gave in my example of above. How does one really actively listen? By asking clarifying questions and repeating back what the customer has said to you. Here are some examples:

  • A customer is returning a shirt. A simple situation right? Do the refund and give the customer their money back and everything should be good. Not necessarily. What was the reason for the return? Was the merchandise defective? Did it not fit the way the customer thought it would? Did someone fail to give them proper assistance when they were looking for the shirt in the first place? By asking the right questions you may turn a bad experience into better one. If the merchandise was defective, what was the defect? Is it possible to prevent a bad experience for others by pulling that shirt brand and style from the floor and requesting a credit from the vendor? What appears to be a simple problem may have underlying issues that you would not know if you aren’t listening and asking customers questions about their returns.  Doing so let’s the customer know you do care about them.
  • Perhaps you are selling jewelry to a customer. Showing your shopper merchandise is fine but learning about the customer and what they need the jewelry for can build an invaluable rapport with your clients. Is the jewelry for a special occasion? What style and color of outfit is being worn? How about inquiring if the client is allergic to any metals? You may need to look for hypoallergenic jewelry. It is possible by asking the right questions you might be able to accessorize the sale or better yet sell the entire outfit.

A key part of active listening is the inquiry process and asking the probing questions that lead to a clear picture of what a patron wants.

In addition to the probing questions another essential part of active listening is repeating what the customer has said to you. Sometimes when we are listening to someone we hear one thing but what the customer meant was something totally different. Here is a good example from a social media post I saw the other day:

  • I want to eat Grandma
  • I want to eat, Grandma

Both have the same words but two TOTALLY different meanings. When we repeat back what we have heard in the form of a question we ensure we truly understand what our customer is asking for. We can ask our customer, “So, if I understand you correctly you want to eat your grandmother, would you like that with or without ketchup?” Our customer can then make it clear they do not want to eat grandma at all, that wouldn’t be very nice. The patron can rephrase the question and give more details on what they want. Giving our full attention helps us give our clients exactly what they want and need as we make recommendations based on what they have told us.

Focus on customer service by listening to your customers and make them the center of your attention. They will return the favor by coming back to shop time after time and spreading the word to their friends.    

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