Checkpoint security tags available in a variety of shapes and sizes

October 14, 2010 by Leave a Comment

If you are considering the use of retail anti theft devices take a look at checkpoint security tags.   Checkpoint Systems is the world leader in EAS (Electronic Article Surveillance) systems likely due both to their ability to keep up with trends and their use of industry leading technology.

Whether you are protecting handbags, leather jackets, shoes, boutique apparel, men’s, women’s or children’s clothing, accessories, hardware such as electric drills and expensive tools, CD music, DVD’s & Blue Ray discs, ipods, memory cards, health and beauty products such as cosmetics, razors, drugs or baby formula, even liquor bottles…in other words anything you can sell in a retail setting can be protected by checkpoint security tags and or with their Alpha High Theft line of anti theft devices.

Some of the tags are called 3 alarm.  They will not only set off the alarm at the door, they have tamper sensitivity and built in sirens that will go off at any time the tag is tampered with…and that same siren will go off if the product is taken out of the store bringing attention to the shoplifter in a big way. You may have seen some of these in what are called “spider wraps”… security devices with cables wrapped around boxed items such as GPS units, small LCD digital photo frames etc…

If you are in the retail business you are losing inventory due to theft.  There is no way to avoid the presence of thieves, but what you can do is send them on to unprotected store by using anti theft devices such as checkpoint security tags and Alpha High Theft security products.

For more info visit: checkpoint security tags or Alpha High Theft Solutions

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Checkpoint Systems Tricks And Tips

October 13, 2010 by Leave a Comment

There are some little known anti shoplifting features built into your Checkpoint Security system . One is that the antennas have a built in relay output. This output can be connected to any low voltage device that can take a momentary trip. So let’s say a customer that is shoplifting trips the checkpoint security system . The relay could be used to send a signal to your camera system to begin recording. Most new Digital Video Recorders (DVR) have a buffer built into them and when it is tripped it will grab that 5 to 10 seconds of video in the buffer before the relay trips it and record that plus real time going forward.

This relay can also trip a remote sounder or chime in the back room or office. In the past some customers have asked us to connect the checkpoint security system relay to a mag lock on the door so when the system alarms the front door automatically locks. Although this sound likes a great idea there are several problems with this. One is that it is against fire code. As a loss prevention professional with 30 years of experience I can also tell you that it is probably not a good idea to lock a potentially angry or hostile criminal in with you.

The relay could also be attached to a programmable sounder that plays a pre-recorded wav file message.

The newer Checkpoint systems can also be configured to count customers both coming in and going out the same door. Another feature is Metal Point. This detects “booster bags” that are used in shoplifting to steal merchandise. A booster bag is a foil-lined bag.

Another trick to deter damage and wear to your Checkpoint security system antennas is to install bumper guards. The new bumper guards are real slick looking and keep shopping carts from hitting the antennas. In most cases they prevent people from accidentally kicking or running into the base of the antenna.

Are you having problems with people walking around the outside of the Checkpoint systems antennas? Another anti shoplifting technique is to purchase a couple of dollars of PLASTIC chain at a hardware store and attach it from the antenna to the door-frame, display or wall.

For more information about shoplifting , anti shoplifting devices or checkpoint security systems contact us at Checkpoint Systems or call 1.770.426.0547

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Checkpoint Systems Deactivation

October 11, 2010 by Leave a Comment

Deactivation of checkpoint labels is an important part of any successful EAS program – achieves its full potential with radio frequency (RF) technology. No other EAS deactivation technology comes close in a feature-for-feature comparison. For retailers focused on customer service, Checkpoint Systems patented RF-EAS deactivation technology streamlines throughput so that checkout proceeds rapidly and deactivation takes place discreetly.

With deactivation heights unmatched in the industry, RF deactivation ensures that RF labels – no matter what the orientation are deactivated. For retailers, this means the virtual elimination of the number one cause of false alarms: failure to deactivated, common with other EAS technologies. For a retailer’s customers, this means no embarrassing moments as they leave the store with legitimately purchased merchandise.

Checkpoint Systems continues to enhance and refine RF deactivation technology. The only EAS technology to truly integrate scan/deactivation, RF deactivation blends into existing operations without the need to invest in costly check stand renovations or the burden of on-going training. Scanners are available today directly form the manufacture, with built-in checkpoint systems RF deactivation capability.

Checkpoint security systems has expanded the role of RF-EAS deactivation to address other areas of shrinkage. Interlock, which allows deactivation after a valid scan, addresses cashier sliding; POS-scanner verification, which locates non-deactivated labels after the scanning verification process, can alert the cashier that checkpoint labels are not deactivated. Post-scanner verification can also be used to alert the store manager that an internal theft attempt might be occurring, or activate a CCTV system to record the event.

Integrated scan and deactivation from Checkpoint Security Systems revolutionized the security aspects of retail point-of-sale transactions. As one of the many revolutionary and evolutionary developments of RF-EAS technology developed by checkpoint systems , RF deactivation streamlines the retailer’s POS operation. Deactivation heights up to 15 inches above the checkpoint security system deactivation pad are common and increase store staff’s confidence in the systems performance.

Checkpoint Security Systems RF deactivation electronics are integrated into the most popular bar code scanners, from manufactures such as NCR, ICL/Fujitsu, PSC/Spectra-Physics, Symbol Technologies, Scantech and Metrologic. Today, many popular scanners can be purchased with built-in Checkpoint Systems RF deactivation capabilities.

The Counterpoint pad deactivates RF labels at a range of up to 15 inches above the pad. In addition, deactivation at speeds of more than 100 products per minute is possible with integrated scan/deactivation. And, Checkpoint Security System RF deactivation solutions work with Checkpoint Security Systems complete range of EAS sensors. Retailers using RF deactivation are using the power of RF technology to streamline POS operations, speed customer throughput and enhance customer service.

For more information on deactivation or checkpoint labels contact us at Checkpoint Security System or call 1.770.426.0547

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Alpha EASy Guard’e Anti Shoplifting Bottle Cap

October 7, 2010 by Leave a Comment

If your liquor store is experiencing shoplifting and “customers” opening and taking a drink then you need some new anti theft devices . For example one of the most popular targets of the shoplifting public is Grey Goose. Put an EASy Guard’e on the top of your Grey Goose bottle caps and the shoplifter will go elsewhere.

Alpha is a division of Checkpoint systems who produces the best anti shoplifting devices made

These anti theft devices fit over the top of the bottle and encase the cap and upper bottleneck in a very tough hard plastic. The top of the EASy Guard’e is clear so you can see Tax ID stamps.

The slim clear top allows for a much cleaner looking display. In will not interfere with your display. Besides being anti theft devices the EASy Guard’e will prevent customers from opening the bottle until it has been purchased.

These Checkpoint systems anti theft devices come in different sizes to insure a snug fit that provides maximum protection. They are easy to use and can only be removed by your staff with an S3 key.

The EASy Guard’e comes with either a RF or AM tag embedded inside. This non-deactivatable tag cannot be reached or damaged. The EASy Guard’e has the word “alarm” printed on the front to let the shoplifting customers know that they are playing with fire.

The new S3 EASy Guard’e combines the highest level of protection with optimal merchandise aesthetics. This sleek design is perfect for high-end displays and maximum merchandising.

Bring your liquor anti shoplifting program to new heights and start keeping your hard earned money on the bottom line.

For more information about Alpha, checkpoint systems , anti theft devices  contact us at anti shoplifting or call 1.770.426.0547

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Don’t Pressure Wash Your Checkpoint Systems…No Really!

September 27, 2010 by Leave a Comment

Your Checkpoint security system is very robust commercial grade equipment. Checkpoint systems R & D has invested millions of dollars in design. It is not a cheap knock off system.

Checkpoint systems are installed by factory trained Technicians that understand not only how to bolt the system down but more importantly the radio frequency (RF) technology that surrounds it. Our Technicians use Checkpoint computer software or an oscilloscope to tune it.

So after all of that please use common sense when maintaining it. Here are a few stories from our files of customer “errors”:

One customer decided to move the system. When doing this they did not power the Checkpoint security system down properly. They simply cut the wiring! This resulted in blowing out two electronic boards that cost in excess of $500 each to replace. Oh and by the way even if he would have successfully powered the system down and moved it. The Checkpoint security system would have probably not worked right since it must be returned for the new location, even if it was only moved a few feet.

Another customer decided that they couldn’t get the anchor bolts loosened on the antennas so they just rocked it back and forth until the antenna snapped off.

Yet another did not see any problem with allowing children to climb on an antenna like a ladder. That Checkpoint systems antenna was a complete loss.

And yes, we had someone use a pressure washer on two antennas. Needless to say both Checkpoint security system antennas were a complete loss. Ouch!

Oh well I guess it is just money?!?

Wherever you are in the U.S. we can send one of our Technicians to take care of your Checkpoint systems.

For more information contact us at: checkpoint systems or call 1.770.426.0547

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Checkpoint Systems – The ONLY solution to Shoplifting?

September 25, 2010 by Leave a Comment

Get real! There is no way that any one tool even something as sophisticated yet simple as checkpoint systems can be the only anti shoplifting solution. However, it gets close. What is missing? Training and employee support.

Training and employee support! How many times have you been in a retail store and the Checkpoint systems have alarmed as a customer was walking out the door and the employee just “waved them on”? This shows that the employee is not trained or simply does not care. Shoplifters know and watch for this kind of apathy. A person who is shoplifting looks at this situation as pure gold. They conceal an item on themselves, purchase several other items, set off the Checkpoint systems and wait for the wave on.

Or how about the employee that take their job and responsibility to the company serious. When this happens they approach the customer and say “My apologies, our inventory control system has picked up a tag that we must have failed to remove or deactivate. Let me take care of that now.”

Wow what a difference! Once the employee has sorted out the alarm they may find that it was a case of shoplifting.

Another point to keep in mind is that Checkpoint systems are designed to give you additional anti shoplifting support when you employee coverage is low to the customers on the floor. Gee, I can’t imagine that people that are shoplifting could create a situation like that to keep your staff busy? The Checkpoint systems are working 24/7 not time off, vacation or sick days (well, maybe a sick day if someone breaks it).

Shoplifting is not going away. It is getting worse and will continue to do so with our present economy. However, even in the best of times you cannot afford to allow profit to walk out the door!

For more information contact us at: anti shoplifting or call 1.770.426.0547

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Checkpoint security tags fit into the profit puzzle

September 22, 2010 by Leave a Comment

The use of checkpoint security tags play an important role in the retail world other than protecting merchandise from theft.  The use of anti theft devices such as a checkpoint security system will significantly reduce retail theft and just as significantly if not more significantly boost profit margins.

Think about this if you are a retailer.  If you lose a $10 item, what is the effect that has?  Did you just lose $10?  Or if your net profit margin is 3% did you lose $7?  That is the thinking we hear from our clients when we first discuss this with them.

Think about this.  If the net margin on a $10 item is 3% then in order to produce $10 of profit to replace the stolen item you need to divide $10 by 3%.  That number is $333.33.  So if you lose $100 the sales required to replace that would be $3,333.33 and the numbers go from there.

According to the University Of Florida’s National Retail Security Survey large national retailers average about 2% net profit and lose around 2%.  These retailers typically have well managed Loss Prevention departments managing inventory and cash losses daily.

So an average retailer doing $1 mil will loose $20,000 if they have the same loss prevention program in place, most do not and lose double, triple, quadruple that and more.  Many do not really know what they are losing because they do not have programs in place to watch loss.

Back to boosting profits…you can easily cut your losses in half by using checkpoint security tags so let’s look at the effect on margin.  Go from a 5% loss to a 2.5% loss in a $1mil retail business that has a net margin of 3% before using checkpoint systems  anti shoplifting solutions then the $25,000 you saved bumps the net margin from 3% to 5.5% which is a 54% increase in net margin.

For more info on how you can boost profits by incorporating loss prevention solutions go to:  checkpoint security tags 

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Checkpoint Systems And Habitual Shoplifters

September 18, 2010 by Leave a Comment

A study that I saw some time back said that habitual shoplifters, even after they have been caught, will return to the same store to steal again because the chance of being caught is only 2% unless you have an Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) system like Checkpoint Systems.

Wow! Even when they are caught they are going to hit you again because you do not have protection. I understand this because the time you caught them was probably not the first time they were shoplifting in your store.

The only way to shut them down cost effectively is with an EAS system. When I was a Director of Loss Prevention I saw immediate results when we would role out Checkpoint systems in our stores. The shoplifters simply went somewhere else. Shoplifting was no longer a given in our stores. We made it much more difficult. People who are involved in shoplifting are lazy for the most part. They would rather steal than work. Make it difficult and they will take the path of least resistance.

This also allowed us to target specific merchandise that the shoplifting groups would be after. If we noticed an increase in shoplifting for an item we would apply checkpoint tags to that item and the theft would stop.

Checkpoint tags and labels can be applied to almost any merchandise.  Checkpoint systems labels are disguised in a number of ways and are paper thin. The other systems tags are simple for a person who is  shoplifting to spot and remove. Another trick is to put two checkpoint tags in different places on particularly hot merchandise.

If you want to keep shoplifting losses down you will have to be proactive and make your store an uncomfortable place for a shoplifter to be. But the trick is to create this environment while your good customers do not feel it at all. Paying close attention to your customers creates a positive customer service experience. Greet them when they walk in, follow up with them on the sales floor and make sure that they can reach you easily. Shoplifters hate this very concept!

For more information contact us at: Checkpoint Systems or call 1.770.426.0547

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Checkpoint labels available in printable price tag form

September 7, 2010 by Leave a Comment

Retailers looking to cut labor time and increase loss prevention measures are moving towards printable checkpoint labels.  If you are a retailer using checkpoint systems to stop shoplifting problems and you are currently labeling your merchandise you should take a look at your options with checkpoint labels.  Checkpoint systems offers a variety of printable labels both in thermal transfer and direct transfer media.

A thermal transfer label will receive ink from a ribbon in the printer.  This method is preferable due to a couple factors.  The print shows up much better and the labels do not discolor like the direct transfer labels.  Direct transfer labels are coated with a material that reacts through a static electricity type process to make the coating generate an image.  There are no ink ribbons in this type which may seem to be a benefit; however without the ink the image produced is less prominent and the labels can fade as well as discolor due to their nature.

Aside from thermal transfer or direct transfer checkpoint labels you can choose size of label.  There are two that are most popular, the checkpoint 410 and the checkpoint 615.  The 410 is 1.5″ X 1.5″ and the 615 is 1.125″ X 2.25″.

The labels can also be purchased pre printed with your choice of printing on them.  This offers a great disguise such as “Great Buy” or “Sale” etc…  You can even get your logo printed on them.

For more information go to:  checkpoint labels

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Newer small option for Checkpoint tags

September 7, 2010 by Leave a Comment

Checkpoint systems is now offering a small option in its line of  checkpoint tags.  The “pencil tag” is  checkpoint systems smallest anti theft tag measuring .5″ x 2.2″.   Shown below with optional lanyard:

Also available in grey:

These checkpoint tags are small enough for very small merchandise such as bikinis, shoes, hats and accessories.  They offer security without being obtrusive allowing for better merchandise visibility and display-ability.

These and other checkpoint security tags are held in place with pins

Inside of the  checkpoint tags are clutches that grab the pin locking it into place and they can not be pulled out.  To detach the pins a special detacher must be used.  This detacher is mounted to the cash wrap and allows the cashier to quickly and easily remove the security tags to be re used on other merchandise.

There are several checkpoint tags available that come in many shapes and sizes and colors.  They can be used with pins only or also with a lanyard of varying lengths for looping the security tag through or onto merchandise that can not be pinned.

If you have a checkpoint security system the key is to always use genuine checkpoint tags and labels.  There are cheaper copies out there mostly from Asia and there are several issues with the copy cat products.  The copies can be easily broken open at the seams due to cheap manufacturing, the have a high failure to alarm rate and the copycat labels will both not deactivate but also reactivate at a 15% to 25% rate.  This is a huge hassle since failed labels will cause staff to stop and address the alarms that are not shoplifting issues.

For more information visit: checkpoint tags

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