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

Lost And Stolen Keys Can Impede The Effectiveness Of Retail Anti-Theft Devices; Put Strong Key Control Procedures In Place

August 24, 2017 by Leave a Comment

 

Retail Anti-Theft Devices-3                                                                                                                  WC blog 326
Alpha 2 Alarm-4
Prevent shoplifting-3
Lost And Stolen Keys Can Impede The Effectiveness Of Retail Anti-Theft Devices; Put Strong Key Control Procedures In Place
     My daughter works for a small box retail clothing store as a sales associate and cashier. Several times these past few weeks she has told be about finding duffel bags they sell in the store filled with empty packages, Alpha 2 Alarm Hard Tags and other retail anti-theft devices. She said that the tags looked intact as though someone had used a detachment key to remove them. She also told me that merchandise came from all different areas of the store so the culprit was moving around the store as he/she was stealing. I asked if anyone had reported anything suspicious and she told me that the store was busy, they were calling back-ups to the register and she thought the salesfloor coverage was frequently on the POS. She was very angry that people were getting away with the amount of items they were taking. I know the feeling. Having been a Loss Prevention Manager for many years, I am familiar with the frustration that comes with finding empty packages and evidence of theft. Truly angering is when it is apparent that a detachment tool was used to remove tags. Often these devices are stolen from retailers when careless employees fail to take care of them, especially the portable detachment keys. Stores need to treat detachment tools with the same importance they place on store keys. Failing to do so makes it difficult to prevent shoplifting not only in their stores, but in numerous other stores across the country.
     Alpha 2 Alarm tags effectively prevent shoplifting due to their visible deterrence value. Anyone thinking about stealing will readily recognize a device when it is attached to merchandise. Most devices have the words “Alpha and Alarm” printed on them, clear evidence that the product is protected with a retail anti-theft device. Some devices even have a flashing red LED indicator light which draws a customer’s attention to it. When we describe the 2 Alarms part of the devices we are referring to the loud, 95 decibel tone released when a device is tampered with. It also describes the alarm that is activated in the electronic article surveillance (EAS) towers when a tag comes within the detection field of the tower. The tags also require a special detachment tool to remove them from merchandise which is why the loss of keys and theft of them is a big deal.
     Store managers should be placing controls on their portable detachment keys. First each of the keys has a serial number on them. This number should be recorded in a control log and periodically audited to ensure it is up to date. Over time the portable keys do start to break due to wear and tear. When this happens, they should be pulled from use and sent back to the manufacturer with a request for a new key. When pulled from service there should be a column on the control log to indicate when it was removed. When the replacement key arrives, notate that serial number in the log book. A key sign out log should also be used requiring the associate to print and sign for the keys and enter the date and time the keys are being received. They also need to sign them back in when they are done.
     Are portable keys necessary? Can a store get by with only the counter mounted units? Portable keys are necessary so tags can be placed on products and sometimes there is a need to remove tags on the salesfloor or in the stockroom. For instance you may have a separate locked stockroom for electronics and you have your team apply Alpha 2 alarm spider wrap on items while they are still in a secure area of the store. Your salesfloor employees may need to remove clothing from the salesfloor to send back to a vendor. It is much easier for them to remove Alpha hard tags while working with the merchandise on the floor. You will find it can be much easier to accomplish some tasks with a portable removal device than the mounted units. 
     Retail anti-theft devices are an absolute necessity and can save you money and reduce shortage exponentially. Alpha 2 alarm devices prevent shoplifting and employee theft through deterrence and detection. Just remember it is still important to give great customer service to deter thieves and control your Alpha detachment tools in order to optimize their effectiveness.
Retail anti-theft devices are important and we can help you with them. Call 1.770.426.0547 and let’s talk.
     
      

My daughter works for a small box retail clothing store as a sales associate and cashier. Several times these past few weeks she has told be about finding duffel bags they sell in the store filled with empty packages, Alpha 2 Alarm Hard Tags and other retail anti-theft devices. She said that the tags looked intact as though someone had used a detachment key to remove them. She also told me that merchandise came from all different areas of the store so the culprit was moving around the store as he/she was stealing. I asked if anyone had reported anything suspicious and she told me that the store was busy, they were calling back-ups to the register and she thought the salesfloor coverage was frequently on the POS. She was very angry that people were getting away with the amount of items they were taking. I know the feeling. Having been a Loss Prevention Manager for many years, I am familiar with the frustration that comes with finding empty packages and evidence of theft. Truly angering is when it is apparent that a detachment tool was used to remove tags. Often these devices are stolen from retailers when careless employees fail to take care of them, especially the portable detachment keys. Stores need to treat detachment tools with the same importance they place on store keys. Failing to do so makes it difficult to prevent shoplifting not only in their stores, but in numerous other stores across the country.

Alpha 2 Alarm tags effectively prevent shoplifting due to their visible deterrence value. Anyone thinking about stealing will readily recognize a device when it is attached to merchandise. Most devices have the words “Alpha and Alarm” printed on them, clear evidence that the product is protected with a retail anti-theft device. Some devices even have a flashing red LED indicator light which draws a customer’s attention to it. When we describe the 2 Alarms part of the devices we are referring to the loud, 95 decibel tone released when a device is tampered with. It also describes the alarm that is activated in the electronic article surveillance (EAS) towers when a tag comes within the detection field of the tower. The tags also require a special detachment tool to remove them from merchandise which is why the loss of keys and theft of them is a big deal.

Store managers should be placing controls on their portable detachment keys. First each of the keys has a serial number on them. This number should be recorded in a control log and periodically audited to ensure it is up to date. Over time the portable keys do start to break due to wear and tear. When this happens, they should be pulled from use and sent back to the manufacturer with a request for a new key. When pulled from service there should be a column on the control log to indicate when it was removed. When the replacement key arrives, notate that serial number in the log book. A key sign out log should also be used requiring the associate to print and sign for the keys and enter the date and time the keys are being received. They also need to sign them back in when they are done.

Are portable keys necessary? Can a store get by with only the counter mounted units? Portable keys are necessary so tags can be placed on products and sometimes there is a need to remove tags on the salesfloor or in the stockroom. For instance you may have a separate locked stockroom for electronics and you have your team apply Alpha 2 alarm spider wrap on items while they are still in a secure area of the store. Your salesfloor employees may need to remove clothing from the salesfloor to send back to a vendor. It is much easier for them to remove Alpha hard tags while working with the merchandise on the floor. You will find it can be much easier to accomplish some tasks with a portable removal device than the mounted units. 

Retail anti-theft devices are an absolute necessity and can save you money and reduce shortage exponentially. Alpha 2 alarm devices prevent shoplifting and employee theft through deterrence and detection. Just remember it is still important to give great customer service to deter thieves and control your Alpha detachment tools in order to optimize their effectiveness.

 

Retail anti-theft devices are important and we can help you with them. Call 1.770.426.0547 and let’s talk.

     

      

 

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: , , ,

USE MORE THAN CHECKPOINT SYSTEMS TO SPOT A SHOPLIFTER – PT 1

August 4, 2017 by Leave a Comment
USE MORE THAN CHECKPOINT SYSTEMS TO SPOT A SHOPLIFTER – PT 1
By the time a shoplifter passes through the tower with an item that still has some of your Checkpoint Tags attached, you’re reacting to the theft. If you really want to Stop Shoplifting, you have to be able to spot a thief from a mile away; but what does a shoplifter look like? Well, there’s no common appearance to a shoplifter. There are however, common indicators that can help you, and your team identify those with ill-intent so you can take a pro-active approach to stop losses. Remember that the best way to prevent external losses is by offering exceptional levels of customer service!
#1. Clearing of pegs / shelves
It’s probably a bit suspicious if someone walks in, completely clears a peg, rack, or other display and walks to a secluded section of the store. This person needs some heavy doses of customer service. Granted, there is often a legitimate customer, but I can guarantee you that they won’t mind the extra service. 
#2. Looking up and around
Is the customer paying attention to the product in front of them, or are they more concerned with looking at the ceiling and at you and your employees? In my experience, normal shoppers couldn’t care less about what’s above them, and pay no mind to your security cameras. This should be a strong indicator that something is out of the ordinary. Go give that guy some top-notch customer service!
#3. No regard to size or style
Stop Shoplifting by paying attention to this behavior. If you have a customer that is passing by clothing racks and simply grabbing as much as possible, you might have a shoplifter. If you notice that this customer is more concerned with your Checkpoint Tags than the size, color or price of the clothing, this person needs some customer service! This is usually a tell-tale sign of someone that will layer the clothing in your fitting room, or perhaps just run out of your front door. 
#4. Watch those high-priced items
Normally, if you go into a store to make a high dollar purchase, you generally have an idea of what you want. Rarely is a $200+ purchase made solely on impulse these days. Take note to customers who seem to hover around displays of high value merchandise. This is a perfect time to play offense and Stop Shoplifting before it happens. And hey, if they are truly a legit customer, they’ll will appreciate the service and you may even boost your sales for the day. 
#5. Avoiding employees
Most shoppers love getting that personal level of customer service; wouldn’t you? I know it makes me feel appreciated as a customer when store employees go out of their way to assist me, answer my questions and help me find the best item for me, and not their bottom line. Shoplifters though, HATE customer service. If you have a shopper that is purposely dodging you and your team, or replying to your offering of service with a quick “no”, then they may be up to no good. 
These are just a few of the ways to spot a lifter; there are many more! Remember, the best thing you can do to avoid shoplifting loses (second to your Checkpoint Tags), is to provide the best customer service possible. Not only will your shoplifters HATE this, but your customers will love it and keep coming back. Shoplifters… not so much!
For more information about Checkpoint Systems, contact us or call 1.770.426.0547.

By the time a shoplifter passes through the tower with an item that still has some of your Checkpoint Tags attached, you’re reacting to the theft. If you really want to Stop Shoplifting, you have to be able to spot a thief from a mile away; but what does a shoplifter look like? Well, there’s no common appearance to a shoplifter. There are however, common indicators that can help you, and your team identify those with ill-intent so you can take a pro-active approach to stop losses. Remember that the best way to prevent external losses is by offering exceptional levels of customer service!

 

 #1. Clearing of pegs / shelves

It’s probably a bit suspicious if someone walks in, completely clears a peg, rack, or other display and walks to a secluded section of the store. This person needs some heavy doses of customer service. Granted, there is often a legitimate customer, but I can guarantee you that they won’t mind the extra service. 

 

 #2. Looking up and around

Is the customer paying attention to the product in front of them, or are they more concerned with looking at the ceiling and at you and your employees? In my experience, normal shoppers couldn’t care less about what’s above them, and pay no mind to your security cameras. This should be a strong indicator that something is out of the ordinary. Go give that guy some top-notch customer service!

 

#3. No regard to size or style

Stop Shoplifting by paying attention to this behavior. If you have a customer that is passing by clothing racks and simply grabbing as much as possible, you might have a shoplifter. If you notice that this customer is more concerned with your Checkpoint Tags than the size, color or price of the clothing, this person needs some customer service! This is usually a tell-tale sign of someone that will layer the clothing in your fitting room, or perhaps just run out of your front door. 

 

 #4. Watch those high-priced items

Normally, if you go into a store to make a high dollar purchase, you generally have an idea of what you want. Rarely is a $200+ purchase made solely on impulse these days. Take note to customers who seem to hover around displays of high value merchandise. This is a perfect time to play offense and Stop Shoplifting before it happens. And hey, if they are truly a legit customer, they’ll will appreciate the service and you may even boost your sales for the day. 

 

 #5. Avoiding employees

Most shoppers love getting that personal level of customer service; wouldn’t you? I know it makes me feel appreciated as a customer when store employees go out of their way to assist me, answer my questions and help me find the best item for me, and not their bottom line. Shoplifters though, HATE customer service. If you have a shopper that is purposely dodging you and your team, or replying to your offering of service with a quick “no”, then they may be up to no good. 

 

 These are just a few of the ways to spot a lifter; there are many more! Remember, the best thing you can do to avoid shoplifting loses (second to your Checkpoint Tags), is to provide the best customer service possible. Not only will your shoplifters HATE this, but your customers will love it and keep coming back. Shoplifters… not so much!

 

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

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With:

A Book, A Backpack And A Story Of How Retail Anti-Theft Devices Protect Merchandise And Property

July 18, 2017 by Leave a Comment

 

Alpha Security-5                                                                                                                        WC Blog 324
Prevent Shoplifting-3
Retail Anti-Theft Devices-4
A Book, A Backpack And A Story Of How Retail Anti-Theft Devices Protect Merchandise And Property
     This is a true story of an incident that I dealt with just the other night in my job at a college library. I was talking with my fellow supervisor who was leaving for the night as his shift had just ended. While we were recapping the day’s events the alarm pedestal at one of the entry/exit doors activated. I approached the couple who had been exiting the building and asked if they had any materials they had forgotten to check out. The gentleman had a few things in his hand and I had him re-enter and he did not activate the alarm. The young woman with him had a backpack on and I asked her to step back inside. She did so and the alarm sounded. My Loss Prevention background kicked in (this isn’t much different than when I would prevent shoplifting in a store). I asked her again if she had anything that may have set off our towers. She was insistent she did not and began rummaging through her book bag while telling me she only had her laptop and some personal items. I watched her dig around, all the while looking over her shoulder into the bag but, calling on my LP Manager skills, not handling the bag myself. As in my prior life in L.P. when I would respond to electronic article surveillance (EAS) tower alarms set off by Alpha Security devices, I asked the patron to walk through again without the bag. No alarm sounded. I then asked her to pick up the backpack and try it again. You guessed it, the pedestal alarm came to life, beeping and LED lights flashing. I then pointed out a zipper pouch the student had not looked in during her frustrated digging. Low and behold, she pulled out a book and her friend sheepishly said he thought they had put the book down before leaving. I took the book and thanked them for their time and wished them a good night. In the old days I could have counted this for my recovery stats! Now, I have to handle alarms a little differently. However, what is the same between my current job and my L.P. job is that I find retail anti-theft devices and EAS work!
     Whether it is an EAS or RFID label or an Alpha Security hard tag, retail anti-theft devices can and do prevent shoplifting, theft or accidental losses due to unintentional walk-outs. Having had experience using Alpha Security products while I worked in Loss Prevention, I can attest to their ability to deter theft and detect it when a thief attempts to steal protected merchandise. Alpha’s products are designed to be visible to shoplifters so when criminals see the tags and their flashing red LED light, they choose not to attempt to steal. The devices all have EAS radio frequency technology built in that activates pedestals if merchandise is carried too close to the doors and someone attempts to walk out with protected items. Merchandise is also protected when a shoplifter attempts to tamper with Alpha’s devices. Most have tamper resistant protections that sound a sharp, piercing 95 decibel screech if thieves try to forcibly remove them. This leads to merchandise being abandoned and bad guys scurrying out of the store. 
     Aside from the deterrence value of Alpha’s retail anti-theft devices my LP teams and I made merchandise recoveries due to alarm activations from Alpha Security products, similar to the book recovery I mentioned at the beginning of the article. I can think of multiple situations when we recovered Spider wrapped vacuum cleaners and DVD players (when they were the hot commodity) being rolled out through EAS pedestals. We responded to the alarms and prevented thefts. On the occasion when we were not available, front end supervisors responded to alarms and conducted receipt checks and prevented shoplifting attempts.
     As someone who works in a library I won’t be silent about this, Alpha Security products along with a reliable EAS tower can keep your shelves full and shortage low. Learn more about the ABC’s of EAS and retail anti-theft devices and how you can improve profitability.
Get more information on Alpha Security, contact us or call 1.770.426.0547 today.
 

This is a true story of an incident that I dealt with just the other night in my job at a college library. I was talking with my fellow supervisor who was leaving for the night as his shift had just ended. While we were recapping the day’s events the alarm pedestal at one of the entry/exit doors activated. I approached the couple who had been exiting the building and asked if they had any materials they had forgotten to check out. The gentleman had a few things in his hand and I had him re-enter and he did not activate the alarm. The young woman with him had a backpack on and I asked her to step back inside. She did so and the alarm sounded. My Loss Prevention background kicked in (this isn’t much different than when I would prevent shoplifting in a store). I asked her again if she had anything that may have set off our towers. She was insistent she did not and began rummaging through her book bag while telling me she only had her laptop and some personal items. I watched her dig around, all the while looking over her shoulder into the bag but, calling on my LP Manager skills, not handling the bag myself. As in my prior life in L.P. when I would respond to electronic article surveillance (EAS) tower alarms set off by Alpha Security devices, I asked the patron to walk through again without the bag. No alarm sounded. I then asked her to pick up the backpack and try it again. You guessed it, the pedestal alarm came to life, beeping and LED lights flashing. I then pointed out a zipper pouch the student had not looked in during her frustrated digging. Low and behold, she pulled out a book and her friend sheepishly said he thought they had put the book down before leaving. I took the book and thanked them for their time and wished them a good night. In the old days I could have counted this for my recovery stats! Now, I have to handle alarms a little differently. However, what is the same between my current job and my L.P. job is that I find retail anti-theft devices and EAS work!

Whether it is an EAS label or an Alpha Security hard tag, retail anti-theft devices can and do prevent shoplifting, theft or accidental losses due to unintentional walk-outs. Having had experience using Alpha Security products while I worked in Loss Prevention, I can attest to their ability to deter theft and detect it when a thief attempts to steal protected merchandise. Alpha’s products are designed to be visible to shoplifters so when criminals see the tags and their flashing red LED light, they choose not to attempt to steal. The devices all have EAS radio frequency technology built in that activates pedestals if merchandise is carried too close to the doors and someone attempts to walk out with protected items. Merchandise is also protected when a shoplifter attempts to tamper with Alpha’s devices. Most have tamper resistant protections that sound a sharp, piercing 95 decibel screech if thieves try to forcibly remove them. This leads to merchandise being abandoned and bad guys scurrying out of the store. 

Aside from the deterrence value of Alpha’s retail anti-theft devices my LP teams and I made merchandise recoveries due to alarm activations from Alpha Security products, similar to the book recovery I mentioned at the beginning of the article. I can think of multiple situations when we recovered Spider wrapped vacuum cleaners and DVD players (when they were the hot commodity) being rolled out through EAS pedestals. We responded to the alarms and prevented thefts. On the occasion when we were not available, front end supervisors responded to alarms and conducted receipt checks and prevented shoplifting attempts.

As someone who works in a library I won’t be silent about this, Alpha Security products along with a reliable EAS tower can keep your shelves full and shortage low. Learn more about the ABC’s of EAS and retail anti-theft devices and how you can improve profitability.

 

Get more information on Alpha Security, contact us or call 1.770.426.0547 today.

 

 

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: ,

Clothing Thieves Can Be Curbed When You Use Clothing Alarms

July 3, 2017 by Leave a Comment

 

Clothing Alarm-4                                                                                                                       WC Blog 305
Clothing Security-4
Checkpoint Tags-4
Clothing Thieves Can Be Curbed When You Use Clothing Alarms
     What is a clothing alarm? Someone seeing me in shorts and flip flops would say they experienced a clothing alarm. Some might say wearing white after Labor Day is a clothing faux pas that would cause an alarm. The recent surge in people wearing clown suits and lurking around neighborhoods can be alarming. None of these is the type of clothing alarm I am speaking of.  I am concerned with clothing security or the lack of it in many cases. You are probably not aware that according to the Global Retail Theft Barometer Report for 2014-2015, globally, footwear ranked number one for “Most Stolen Items” in the “Apparel and Fashion Accessories” category and sports related clothing ranked third in the same category (page 23). In North America for the “Apparel and Fashion Accessories” section, shoe theft was number one and sports related clothing ranked number two (page 55). If you own or manage a store that sells any type of footwear or clothing the theft of fashion apparel is one trend you don’t want to take the lead on.
      Clothing security starts with using Checkpoint Tags on clothes. Tags include hard and soft versions that work in conjunction with electronic article surveillance (EAS) towers. EAS pedestals are usually located within stores near entrance and exit points (I have been seeing them more recently installed near hallways leading to restrooms). Tagged merchandise carried too close to a tower activates a loud, beeping alarm and causes pulsating LED lights built in the tower to turn on. Store management or employees trained on proper response quickly determine the reason for the activation and recover goods or prompt the offender to purchase the item(s). 
     Hard styles of Checkpoint Tags are pinned to merchandise in a highly visible area, with the intention of deterring potential thieves from even attempting to take merchandise in the first place. This type of tag requires a detachment tool only available from Checkpoint to remove the tag at the point of sale. A soft tag comes on a roll of tags and can be peeled off and applied to a clothing manufacturer tag. Some store Loss Prevention Officers and retail managers stick them inside a pocket to fool thieves who might tear the manufacturer tag off and try to defeat the security measure.  Unlike the hard tag, soft tags are not removed for reuse, they are deactivated at the point of sale so they won’t active EAS pedestals. The idea behind the tags being visible is that it deters the criminal act in the first place and the thieves go shopping elsewhere. 
     I mentioned footwear as the number one stolen item in the “Apparel and Fashion Accessories” category and some of you may be wondering how you can use clothing security on shoes. The hard Checkpoint tags can be pinned through shoe eyelets and buckles preventing damage to shoes while still making it hard for a shoplifter to wear a pair out of a store without being seen or setting off alarms. Soft tags can be placed inside a shoe down towards the toes or in some cases under a sole insert within the shoe. 
     The thought of shoes and sports apparel being ripped off from your store should give you concern over what your next inventory results will look like. The hit to your bottom line can’t just be ignored or erased, it must be addressed quickly. Clothing alarm protection and Checkpoint tags can help ensure the bad guys won’t be the best dressed thieves in town because they picked on your stores. Don’t get caught with your pants down, be proactive and address theft and fraud before it becomes a major issue. Start using clothing security tags today.
Clothing Alarms are important and we can help you with it. Call 1.770.426.0547 and let’s talk. 

What is a clothing alarm? Someone seeing me in shorts and flip flops would say they experienced a clothing alarm. Some might say wearing white after Labor Day is a clothing faux pas that would cause an alarm. The recent surge in people wearing clown suits and lurking around neighborhoods can be alarming. None of these is the type of clothing alarm I am speaking of. I am concerned with clothing security or the lack of it in many cases. You are probably not aware that according to the Global Retail Theft Barometer Report for 2014-2015, globally, footwear ranked number one for “Most Stolen Items” in the “Apparel and Fashion Accessories” category and sports related clothing ranked third in the same category (page 23). In North America for the “Apparel and Fashion Accessories” section, shoe theft was number one and sports related clothing ranked number two (page 55). If you own or manage a store that sells any type of footwear or clothing the theft of fashion apparel is one trend you don’t want to take the lead on.

Clothing security starts with using Checkpoint Tags on clothes. Tags include hard and soft versions that work in conjunction with electronic article surveillance (EAS) towers. EAS pedestals are usually located within stores near entrance and exit points (I have been seeing them more recently installed near hallways leading to restrooms). Tagged merchandise carried too close to a tower activates a loud, beeping alarm and causes pulsating LED lights built in the tower to turn on. Store management or employees trained on proper response quickly determine the reason for the activation and recover goods or prompt the offender to purchase the item(s). 

Hard styles of Checkpoint Tags are pinned to merchandise in a highly visible area, with the intention of deterring potential thieves from even attempting to take merchandise in the first place. This type of tag requires a detachment tool only available from Checkpoint to remove the tag at the point of sale. A soft tag comes on a roll of tags and can be peeled off and applied to a clothing manufacturer tag. Some store Loss Prevention Officers and retail managers stick them inside a pocket to fool thieves who might tear the manufacturer tag off and try to defeat the security measure. Unlike the hard tag, soft tags are not removed for reuse, they are deactivated at the point of sale so they won’t active EAS pedestals. The idea behind the tags being visible is that it deters the criminal act in the first place and the thieves go shopping elsewhere. 

I mentioned footwear as the number one stolen item in the “Apparel and Fashion Accessories” category and some of you may be wondering how you can use clothing security on shoes. The hard Checkpoint tags can be pinned through shoe eyelets and buckles preventing damage to shoes while still making it hard for a shoplifter to wear a pair out of a store without being seen or setting off alarms. Soft tags can be placed inside a shoe down towards the toes or in some cases under a sole insert within the shoe. 

The thought of shoes and sports apparel being ripped off from your store should give you concern over what your next inventory results will look like. The hit to your bottom line can’t just be ignored or erased, it must be addressed quickly. Clothing alarm protection and Checkpoint tags can help ensure the bad guys won’t be the best dressed thieves in town because they picked on your stores. Don’t get caught with your pants down, be proactive and address theft and fraud before it becomes a major issue. Start using clothing security tags today.

 

Clothing Security is important and we can help you with it. Call 1.770.426.0547 and let’s talk. 

 

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: , , ,

Don’t Get Wrapped Up In Trying To Tie Everything Down; Allow Alpha Spider Wrap To Work For You And Your Customers Too

June 20, 2017 by Leave a Comment

 

Alpha Spider Wrap-4                                                                                                                 WC Blog 293
Retail Anti-Theft Devices-3
Prevent Shoplifting-4
Alpha Security-3
Don’t Get Wrapped Up In Trying To Tie Everything Down; Allow Alpha Spider Wrap To Work For You And Your Customers Too 
     I was strolling through a store today doing some shopping with my wife. We went through clothing, electronics and the food departments. We continued in the main aisle of this store walking past the household appliances and an endcap with two popular, single cup coffee maker boxes on it. No, it wasn’t the coffee makers that caught my eye; rather it was the retail anti-theft devices being used to prevent shoplifting. Each of the boxes was protected with an Alpha Spider Wrap securely tightened around the merchandise ensuring a would-be thief would be hard pressed to steal the items. Then something else about the display caught my attention, a cable locking the spider wraps together and the other end attached to the base deck of the endcap. I stopped my wife and asked her what was wrong with the display. After an audible sigh (she doesn’t always share my enthusiasm about security) she looked at the endcap and confessed she didn’t know. I explained to her the silliness of what had been done with the devices and how they were defeating the purpose of Alpha Spider Wrap.
     Alpha Spider Wrap is an anti-theft device designed of aircraft grade steel cable in a sturdy housing unit. The housing unit contains the cable and loosens and tightens the cable so it can be cinched tightly around merchandise and loosened and removed at the point of sale. The housing also holds an electronic article surveillance (EAS) coil. For stores that have EAS antennas located at doors and entryways, the wraps will activate antenna alarms when carried with the detection range of the antennas. The audible and visual alerts of the antennas can prevent shoplifting by warning employees that a theft attempt may be taking place. Wraps also have tamper alarms that sound when a thief attempts to cut a length of the cable in order to remove it from merchandise.  The use of these retail anti-theft devices acts as both a visual deterrent and a physical deterrent to theft through alarm activations. 
     Alpha Security retail anti-theft devices are created with the purpose of securing merchandise to prevent shoplifting while at the same time keeping goods accessible to customers. Tools such as Alpha Spider Wrap have given retailers the ability to take products from behind locking display cases or minimizing the amount of merchandise on shelves. Customers can pick up merchandise, view it, read label information, carry product around the store as they continue to shop and check out at their leisure. Some stores keep only one item on a shelf to prevent theft. When the one item sells shoppers have to wait for an employee to “check the back” for more product. Using Spider Wrap means more units can be maintained on a shelf for more customers.  Alpha Security products drive up sales because customers were leaving stores rather than wait for service. They also improve a store’s productivity because an employee is not tied to an area waiting to open a showcase for a customer to simply browse merchandise.
     This brings me back to my endcap escapade. The idea of securing the Spider Wrapped merchandise to the endcap was absurd. I am sure someone was well intentioned however they missed the point of using the wrap in the first place. IF I had wanted the coffee maker someone would have had to come by with a portable detachment tool (there was no call button), unlocked the unit and carried it to the checkout lane for me. Worse, in this situation I would have had to look for an employee since no one was in the area. That is a recipe for a disgruntled customer and can have a negative effect on future sales, even the potential loss of a patron. 
     Use Alpha Security products as they were designed and let them work in your favor. You will improve your staffing model, payroll and drive sales all at the same time. You will also prevent shoplifting and improve stock shortage, adding profit to your bottom line, and who doesn’t want to run a profitable business?
Get more information on Alpha Spider Wrap, contact us or call 1.770.426.0547 today.

I was strolling through a store today doing some shopping with my wife. We went through clothing, electronics and the food departments. We continued in the main aisle of this store walking past the household appliances and an endcap with two popular, single cup coffee maker boxes on it. No, it wasn’t the coffee makers that caught my eye; rather it was the retail anti-theft devices being used to prevent shoplifting. Each of the boxes was protected with an Alpha Spider Wrap securely tightened around the merchandise ensuring a would-be thief would be hard pressed to steal the items. Then something else about the display caught my attention, a cable locking the spider wraps together and the other end attached to the base deck of the endcap. I stopped my wife and asked her what was wrong with the display. After an audible sigh (she doesn’t always share my enthusiasm about security) she looked at the endcap and confessed she didn’t know. I explained to her the silliness of what had been done with the devices and how they were defeating the purpose of Alpha Spider Wrap.

Alpha Spider Wrap is an anti-theft device designed of aircraft grade steel cable in a sturdy housing unit. The housing unit contains the cable and loosens and tightens the cable so it can be cinched tightly around merchandise and loosened and removed at the point of sale. The housing also holds an electronic article surveillance (EAS) coil. For stores that have EAS antennas located at doors and entryways, the wraps will activate antenna alarms when carried with the detection range of the antennas. The audible and visual alerts of the antennas can prevent shoplifting by warning employees that a theft attempt may be taking place. Wraps also have tamper alarms that sound when a thief attempts to cut a length of the cable in order to remove it from merchandise. The use of these retail anti-theft devices acts as both a visual deterrent and a physical deterrent to theft through alarm activations. 

 

Alpha Security retail anti-theft devices are created with the purpose of securing merchandise to prevent shoplifting while at the same time keeping goods accessible to customers. Tools such as the Alpha Spider Wrap have given retailers the ability to take products from behind locking display cases or minimizing the amount of merchandise on shelves. Customers can pick up merchandise, view it, read label information, carry product around the store as they continue to shop and check out at their leisure. Some stores keep only one item on a shelf to prevent theft. When the one item sells, shoppers have to wait for an employee to “check the back” for more product. Using Spider Wrap means more units can be maintained on a shelf for more customers.  Alpha Security products drive up sales because customers were leaving stores rather than wait for service. They also improve a store’s productivity because an employee is not tied to an area waiting to open a showcase for a customer to simply browse merchandise.

This brings me back to my endcap escapade. The idea of securing the Spider Wrapped merchandise to the endcap was absurd. I am sure someone was well intentioned however they missed the point of using the wrap in the first place. IF I had wanted the coffee maker someone would have had to come by with a portable detachment tool (there was no call button), unlocked the unit and carried it to the checkout lane for me. Worse, in this situation I would have had to look for an employee since no one was in the area. That is a recipe for a disgruntled customer and can have a negative effect on future sales, even the potential loss of a patron. 

Use Alpha Security products as they were designed and let them work in your favor. You will improve your staffing model, payroll and drive sales all at the same time. You will also prevent shoplifting and improve stock shortage, adding profit to your bottom line, and who doesn’t want to run a profitable business?

 

Get more information on Alpha Spider Wrap, contact us or call 1.770.426.0547 today.

 

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: , ,

Barely Making A Profit Due To Clothing Theft? Address The Problem By Using Security Tags On Clothes

June 5, 2017 by Leave a Comment

 

Clothing Security-5                                                                                                                WC Blog 302
Security Tags on Clothes-3
Checkpoint Tags-5
Barely Making A Profit Due To Clothing Theft? Address The Problem By Using Security Tags On Clothes
     Wardrobe malfunctions seem to be an all too familiar term in the entertainment industry. Who can forget the one that seemed to start it all, the Superbowl XXXVIII half-time escapade? No, this is not a re-visitation of the (YUCK) sordid event. This is an article on clothing security but when I speak of clothing security, I don’t mean using suspenders to prevent pants from falling down or ensuring buttons are properly secured so clothing doesn’t come undone. The only big reveal here is going to show you how you can prevent clothes from being stolen. When garments aren’t properly secured shoplifters take advantage of the situation and remove them…from your store. The result is lost profit for the store, increased stock shortage, and the need to increase prices on other items to make up for the loss. How can a retailer prevent shelves and racks from being stripped bare? Retailers can stop theft by using security tags on clothes.
     Checkpoint tags are an effective means of discouraging thieves from attempting to deprive you of your products. All of the tags are built with radio frequency (rf) technology that works with electronic article surveillance (EAS) towers usually located at store entry/exit points. Garments that are protected with clothing security tags set off the tower alarms when the merchandise is carried into the receiver’s detection field. Whether a tag is hidden in a pocket or pinned directly to the item, the pedestal can “sense” the Checkpoint tags and begin alarming appropriately. Beeping noises and flashing lights let employees know that a tag has been detected and unpaid merchandise is about to be removed from the store. Staff then respond and recover clothes through receipt checks or a thief dumping product and running.
      Clothing security tags can be in a soft version that is peeled off of a roll of tags. They can be stuck to hang tags, plastic bags that hold socks or undergarments and even hidden in a jacket, pant or shirt pocket. Hiding a tag is useful if a “visible” soft tag is hung on a manufacturer’s hang tag. Should a thief pull the hang tag off they won’t think to look for a hidden Checkpoint tag and the pedestal will still alarm. The hard tag versions are pinned to the garment with the intention that they are visible to thieves and immediately deter any thought of theft. Hard Checkpoint tags are built to be almost impossible to pry off. If a shoplifter decides to try to force one of these clothing security tags off they damage the item and render it unserviceable. So not only do tags act as a deterrent to shoplifting they also stop it dead in its tracks.
     The naked truth about security tags on clothes is that while they are an effective means of reducing theft, they are rarely used to their fullest potential. Many retailers will apply them to high end or more expensive merchandise but fail to place them on everything. These half measures make little sense. More protection would mean more savings from reduced shortage. Think about it like this, how many people would leave home and only lock the front door? Why lock the back door too when 50% of the home is secure? No one does this. They lock all the doors to ensure NOTHING is stolen. You don’t buy a home insurance policy to protect half of a house you buy it to protect the whole thing. Store managers should protect all of the clothing in a store and take full advantage of the benefits of a Loss Prevention system.
     Security tags on clothes prevent exposure to needless theft and profit loss. Use Checkpoint tags and EAS pedestals to cover your store against shoplifters and see how much money can be added to your bottom line.
Need information on clothing security? Give us a call at1.770.426.0547 now.
      

Wardrobe malfunctions seem to be an all too familiar term in the entertainment industry. Who can forget the one that seemed to start it all, the Superbowl XXXVIII half-time escapade? No, this is not a re-visitation of the (YUCK) sordid event. This is an article on clothing security but when I speak of clothing security, I don’t mean using suspenders to prevent pants from falling down or ensuring buttons are properly secured so clothing doesn’t come undone. The only big reveal here is going to show you how you can prevent clothes from being stolen. When garments aren’t properly secured shoplifters take advantage of the situation and remove them…from your store. The result is lost profit for the store, increased stock shortage, and the need to increase prices on other items to make up for the loss. How can a retailer prevent shelves and racks from being stripped bare? Retailers can stop theft by using security tags on clothes.

Checkpoint tags are an effective means of discouraging thieves from attempting to deprive you of your products. All of the tags are built with radio frequency (rf) technology that works with electronic article surveillance (EAS) towers usually located at store entry/exit points. Garments that are protected with clothing security tags set off the tower alarms when the merchandise is carried into the receiver’s detection field. Whether a tag is hidden in a pocket or pinned directly to the item, the pedestal can “sense” the Checkpoint tags and begin alarming appropriately. Beeping noises and flashing lights let employees know that a tag has been detected and unpaid merchandise is about to be removed from the store. Staff then respond and recover clothes through receipt checks or a thief dumping product and running.

Clothing security tags can be in a soft version that is peeled off of a roll of tags. They can be stuck to hang tags, plastic bags that hold socks or undergarments and even hidden in a jacket, pant or shirt pocket. Hiding a tag is useful if a “visible” soft tag is hung on a manufacturer’s hang tag. Should a thief pull the hang tag off they won’t think to look for a hidden Checkpoint tag and the pedestal will still alarm. The hard tag versions are pinned to the garment with the intention that they are visible to thieves and immediately deter any thought of theft. Hard Checkpoint tags are built to be almost impossible to pry off. If a shoplifter decides to try to force one of these clothing security tags off they damage the item and render it unserviceable. So not only do tags act as a deterrent to shoplifting they also stop it dead in its tracks.

The naked truth about security tags on clothes is that while they are an effective means of reducing theft, they are rarely used to their fullest potential. Many retailers will apply them to high end or more expensive merchandise but fail to place them on everything. These half measures make little sense. More protection would mean more savings from reduced shortage. Think about it like this, how many people would leave home and only lock the front door? Why lock the back door too when 50% of the home is secure? No one does this. They lock all the doors to ensure NOTHING is stolen. You don’t buy a home insurance policy to protect half of a house you buy it to protect the whole thing. Store managers should protect all of the clothing in a store and take full advantage of the benefits of a Loss Prevention system.

Security tags on clothes prevent exposure to needless theft and profit loss. Use Checkpoint tags and EAS pedestals to cover your store against shoplifters and see how much money can be added to your bottom line.

 

Need information on clothing security? Give us a call at1.770.426.0547 now.

      

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: , , ,

The Alpha Multi Tag Can Protect Your Expensive Glasses, Without Hindering Your Customer’s Shopping Experience

June 3, 2017 by

 

AA blog 35
Multi Tag:  5
Prevent shoplifting:  3
The Alpha Multi Tag Can Protect Your Expensive Glasses, Without Hindering Your Customer’s Shopping Experience
Every year during my annual eye exam I am told that I need to not only wear glasses or contacts but I also need to have a good pair of sunglasses to protect my eyes from the UV lights.  I always wear sunglasses because if I don’t I get headaches really bad from squinting.  Although, if you ask my husband he will tell you that when it comes to sunglasses, I am very irresponsible.  I can’t even tell you how many pairs of sunglasses I have either broken, scratched or lost over the years.  I always tried to keep them in my purse, but inevitably they would get broken to bent or scratched to the point that I couldn’t even wear them anymore.  I also tend to leave them laying around, which results in me forgetting where I put them or leaving them somewhere.  My husband knows not to buy me expensive sunglasses for this reason.  I typically buy the $5-$10 pair so that when I break them or lose them I don’t feel too bad about it, but they are not the highest quality of glasses.  They tend to not provide the level of UV protection I need and they tend to be uncomfortable and not that appealing to look at.  This year I decided that I needed to actually spend the money and make the commitment to take care of a quality pair of sunglasses.  So my husband and I went to the mall looking for sunglasses.  What an adventure that was!  The store we went to only sold sunglasses and accessories, which was really nice.  There were a ton of options and frames to choose from, but I also learned really quickly how expensive sun glasses can be. Several hundred dollars for a pair of sunglasses seemed excessive to me, but I was determined to get a decent pair that I could hopefully keep long term.  While trying them on, I did notice that the store had taken steps to prevent shoplifting by adding Multi tags to their more expensive glasses.  I was aware of these types of tags, but I hadn’t really been to a store that used them so predominantly.
The Multi tag is designed like any other hard tag, while still allowing the customer the ability to try on the item, without detracting from the product.  These tags are easily attached to the frame of the glasses so that the customer can still try them on and determine if they are a good fit and style.  They are equipped with EAS technology that provides an audible alarm to prevent shoplifting.  They are very small, lightweight tags, which provide the retailer with an added level of protection for a low cost.  The Multi tags are easily removed at point of sale, and are re-useable.  They are made of a durable material that makes it difficult to remove without damaging the product or setting off the alarm.  These can also be used by optometrist offices and other retailers who sell any type of glasses.  As prices for these types of items continue to increase, it is imperative that we take adequate steps to protect our merchandise from theft.       
Personally experiencing the process of shopping for expensive eyewear, I can say that the Multi tag did not deter or detract from my shopping experience.  I felt like they were an ideal product to mitigate the store’s risk without hindering my shopping experience.  If I ever decide to sell any highline glasses in my stores, I will definitely consider these tags as a means to prevent shoplifting, and reduce my exposure to theft.  For those of you in this particular industry I would suggest you look into these tags as a means to reduce loss and increase profit.
Need information on the Multi tag?  Give us a call at 1.770.426.0547 now.

Every year during my annual eye exam I am told that I need to not only wear glasses or contacts but I also need to have a good pair of sunglasses to protect my eyes from the UV lights. I always wear sunglasses because if I don’t I get headaches really bad from squinting. Although, if you ask my husband he will tell you that when it comes to sunglasses, I am very irresponsible. I can’t even tell you how many pairs of sunglasses I have either broken, scratched or lost over the years. I always tried to keep them in my purse, but inevitably they would get broken to bent or scratched to the point that I couldn’t even wear them anymore. I also tend to leave them laying around, which results in me forgetting where I put them or leaving them somewhere. My husband knows not to buy me expensive sunglasses for this reason. I typically buy the $5-$10 pair so that when I break them or lose them I don’t feel too bad about it, but they are not the highest quality of glasses. They tend to not provide the level of UV protection I need and they tend to be uncomfortable and not that appealing to look at. This year I decided that I needed to actually spend the money and make the commitment to take care of a quality pair of sunglasses. So my husband and I went to the mall looking for sunglasses. What an adventure that was! The store we went to only sold sunglasses and accessories, which was really nice. There were a ton of options and frames to choose from, but I also learned really quickly how expensive sun glasses can be. Several hundred dollars for a pair of sunglasses seemed excessive to me, but I was determined to get a decent pair that I could hopefully keep long term. While trying them on, I did notice that the store had taken steps to prevent shoplifting by adding Multi Tags to their more expensive glasses. I was aware of these types of tags, but I hadn’t really been to a store that used them so predominantly.

 

The Multi Tag is designed like any other hard tag, while still allowing the customer the ability to try on the item, without detracting from the product. These tags are easily attached to the frame of the glasses so that the customer can still try them on and determine if they are a good fit and style. They are equipped with EAS technology that provides an audible alarm to prevent shoplifting. They are very small, lightweight tags, which provide the retailer with an added level of protection for a low cost. The Multi Tags are easily removed at point of sale, and are re-useable. They are made of a durable material that makes it difficult to remove without damaging the product or setting off the alarm. These can also be used by optometrist offices and other retailers who sell any type of glasses. As prices for these types of items continue to increase, it is imperative that we take adequate steps to protect our merchandise from theft.       

 

Personally experiencing the process of shopping for expensive eyewear, I can say that the Multi Tag did not deter or detract from my shopping experience. I felt like they were an ideal product to mitigate the store’s risk without hindering my shopping experience. If I ever decide to sell any highline glasses in my stores, I will definitely consider these tags as a means to prevent shoplifting, and reduce my exposure to theft. For those of you in this particular industry I would suggest you look into these tags as a means to reduce loss and increase profit.

 

Need information on the Multi tag? Give us a call at 1.770.426.0547 now.

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized

AYE, YOU! YOU GOTTA STOP SHOPLIFTING OVA HERE!

May 22, 2017 by Leave a Comment

 

AYE, YOU! YOU GOTTA STOP SHOPLIFTING OVA HERE!
I’m not a big city fan by any means, but recently my girlfriend and I decided to spend our anniversary in the Big Apple. I thoroughly enjoyed the time in the city and eating. I mostly enjoyed eating. It was crazy to see the big box retailers, the corner stores and the mom and pop shops all crammed together in the sprawling metropolis, lining each city block with more stuff than anyone could ever buy… or eat. Me, being the LP guy, couldn’t help but wonder, how much of this stuff gets stolen? How do these small business stop shoplifting?
The short answer is they probably don’t and that’s pretty sad. It’s sad that retailers today, with all the advancements in EAS tech, still don’t protect their profits from sticky-fingered little brats. Some of these little places were so wonderful; the people so amazing and they are just trusting that the constant flow of visitors won’t rip them off. They are living in a fantasy. These shops, especially around Time Square and the more densely populated areas probably see thousands of customers pass through the doors each day. If only 2% of the crowd swipes something at an average of $10/ item, that’s a daily loss of about $800, or almost $300,000 a year. Think you can’t afford a retail anti-theft device?
Let’s just take a few of the more popular “tourist” items I came across pretty regularly, just for the sake of this paragraph. Head over to Battery Park and for blocks and blocks around, you have shops displaying, in a myriad of sizes, scale replicas of Lady Liberty. Oh, how easy it is to steal one of these, especially when there are dozens and dozens and dozens of tourists and only one or two shop-keepers. Guess what though? There’s a retail anti-theft device for that. 
Catch a subway down to the Empire State Building and you’ll see the same thing. Street vendors, stores and gift shops for blocks around all want to send you home with a building replica, a t-shirt, keychain or hat. They all have the same thing in common… other than being gimmicky touristy junk. I know they get stolen and these shop owners are doing nothing to prevent shoplifting. 
Perhaps you own a store like this. Perhaps you don’t reside in the city that never sleeps, but maybe Atlanta, New Orleans, Chicago, Seattle, or somewhere in between. Maybe you’ve seen your profits disappear over time and can’t quite figure out what to do? Well, first you have to admit you have a problem and resolve to prevent shoplifting in your business. Second, go out and research and buy some retail anti-theft devices. There can be no excuse for any retail store to be without this type of protection. Don’t think that you’re dealing with a “good” crowd, since they’re all tourists. Remember, thieves take a vacation every now and then too. 
Alpha Tech is important and we can help you with it. Call 1.770.426.0547 and let’s talk. 

I’m not a big city fan by any means, but recently my girlfriend and I decided to spend our anniversary in the Big Apple. I thoroughly enjoyed the time in the city and eating. I mostly enjoyed eating. It was crazy to see the big box retailers, the corner stores and the mom and pop shops all crammed together in the sprawling metropolis, lining each city block with more stuff than anyone could ever buy… or eat. Me, being the LP guy, couldn’t help but wonder, how much of this stuff gets stolen? How do these small business prevent shoplifting?

 

The short answer is they probably don’t and that’s pretty sad. It’s sad that retailers today, with all the advancements in EAS tech, still don’t protect their profits from sticky-fingered little brats. Some of these little places were so wonderful; the people so amazing and they are just trusting that the constant flow of visitors won’t rip them off. They are living in a fantasy. These shops, especially around Time Square and the more densely populated areas probably see thousands of customers pass through the doors each day. If only 2% of the crowd swipes something at an average of $10/ item, that’s a daily loss of about $800, or almost $300,000 a year. Think you can’t afford a retail anti-theft device?

 

Let’s just take a few of the more popular “tourist” items I came across pretty regularly, just for the sake of this paragraph. Head over to Battery Park and for blocks and blocks around, you have shops displaying, in a myriad of sizes, scale replicas of Lady Liberty. Oh, how easy it is to steal one of these, especially when there are dozens and dozens and dozens of tourists and only one or two shop-keepers. Guess what though? There’s a retail anti-theft device for that. 

 

Catch a subway down to the Empire State Building and you’ll see the same thing. Street vendors, stores and gift shops for blocks around all want to send you home with a building replica, a t-shirt, keychain or hat. They all have the same thing in common… other than being gimmicky touristy junk. I know they get stolen and these shop owners are doing nothing to prevent shoplifting. 

 

Perhaps you own a store like this. Perhaps you don’t reside in the city that never sleeps, but maybe Atlanta, New Orleans, Chicago, Seattle, or somewhere in between. Maybe you’ve seen your profits disappear over time and can’t quite figure out what to do? Well, first you have to admit you have a problem and resolve to prevent shoplifting in your business. Second, go out and research and buy some retail anti-theft devices. There can be no excuse for any retail store to be without this type of protection. Don’t think that you’re dealing with a “good” crowd, since they’re all tourists. Remember, thieves take a vacation every now and then too. 

 

Alpha Tech is important and we can help you with it. Call 1.770.426.0547 and let’s talk. 

 

 

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