A Conversation About Clothing Security

June 4, 2019 by Leave a Comment

 

Clothing Security –3                                                                                                                     WC Blog 818
Sensormatic tags -3
A Conversation About Clothing Security
     I am sitting here in the college library where I work and I am hearing a conversation behind me about clothing security. The speaker is loud and I cannot help but overhear the discussion, though trust me I would rather not hear most of it. I did hear him talk about working in a fitting room at the store where he is employed and finding that someone had stolen merchandise. I could not catch all of what he was saying but somehow he or the people in the store knew that the same person had been in the store twice stealing. That got me to thinking, how did you know that the same person was in the store twice in one day stealing? Did someone review video and see this? I also want to know how someone was able to steal if the fitting is attended by an associate? I could not hear particulars and just as quickly as it started the conversation switched to another topic and was just as annoying but now I was on to writing my article. This conversation provided the perfect lead in. Just how do you prevent clothing theft and should you be concerned with everything or just certain items?
     Since the yappy student behind me started the whole thing let’s begin with the way to prevent shoplifting. Your first instinct may be to say that using Sensormatic tags and security system is going to be my first recommendation. Your first instinct is going to be wrong. What I am going to tell you is that the first thing you need to do to reduce clothing theft is to get Manager training on how to stop shoplifting and also employee theft. That’s right, shoplifters aren’t the only people carting off clothing. Merchandise theft is an internal problem as much as an external one and in some cases it involves both. Owners and store managers have to know how to identify the signals and indicators that gives thieves away. That can only be possible when someone has undergone proper training. Once that is done you can begin training employees on how to help stop the shortage too. 
     Now you just know that the next step is going to involve placing Sensormatic tags and installing a security system. Again, you are wrong. You want to reduce theft? Start using pre-employment background screening and drug testing. No, you aren’t testing your customers. You test the people you are thinking about hiring. You eliminate the riff-raff and improve the chances that your staff is filled with honest personnel who do not pose security concerns for your business.
     You know what’s coming now don’t you, yup now is when you install that Sensormatic system and begin using clothing security tags on merchandise. You don’t necessarily have to tag everything to begin seeing results. Tag merchandise your inventory results point to as high theft departments and begin to prevent shoplifting there. If your store sells shoes place tags on the most popular brands. I would not encourage you to tag flip flops or low-end designs. Tag what shoplifters are stealing. Fashion accessories such as purses, wallets, scarves and neckties can also be high theft items in the clothing world. Purses are highly vulnerable since they can be tossed over a shoulder and look like it belongs to the carrier. The same holds true for hats, you put it on your head and walk out of the store. Unless employees are paying attention hats are easy to steal. 
     This brings us full circle to where that annoying conversation comes in to play. Attention is a requirement for employees to help prevent shoplifting. If they are not paying attention to what is taking place around them the shoplifters are going to go unnoticed and commit their crimes. You can use clothing security tags on merchandise but if your workers are inattentive or apathetic they are not going to be effective in responding to electronic article surveillance alarms at the doors. They will also be careless in inspecting what people are taking in and out of the fitting rooms.  The same thief will be able to enter the store numerous times during a day and no one will notice. 
     Install a Sensormatic system and use Sensormatic tags on the clothes that are being stolen. Train your managers on how to stop theft. Use pre-employment screening to reduce the chance for theft in your store and finally make sure employees are actively engaging customers. You do this and the conversation I heard in the library will be a non-issue for you. 
For more information on about clothing security contact us or call 1.770.426.0547 

I am sitting here in the college library where I work and I am hearing a conversation behind me about clothing security. The speaker is loud and I cannot help but overhear the discussion, though trust me I would rather not hear most of it. I did hear him talk about working in a fitting room at the store where he is employed and finding that someone had stolen merchandise. I could not catch all of what he was saying but somehow he or the people in the store knew that the same person had been in the store twice stealing. That got me to thinking, how did you know that the same person was in the store twice in one day stealing? Did someone review video and see this? I also want to know how someone was able to steal if the fitting is attended by an associate? I could not hear particulars and just as quickly as it started the conversation switched to another topic and was just as annoying but now I was on to writing my article. This conversation provided the perfect lead in. Just how do you prevent clothing theft and should you be concerned with everything or just certain items?

Since the yappy student behind me started the whole thing let’s begin with the way to prevent shoplifting. Your first instinct may be to say that using Sensormatic tags and security system is going to be my first recommendation. Your first instinct is going to be wrong. What I am going to tell you is that the first thing you need to do to reduce clothing theft is to get Manager training on how to stop shoplifting and also employee theft. That’s right, shoplifters aren’t the only people carting off clothing. Merchandise theft is an internal problem as much as an external one and in some cases it involves both. Owners and store managers have to know how to identify the signals and indicators that gives thieves away. That can only be possible when someone has undergone proper training. Once that is done you can begin training employees on how to help stop the shortage too. 

Now you just know that the next step is going to involve placing Sensormatic tags and installing a security system. Again, you are wrong. You want to reduce theft? Start using pre-employment background screening and drug testing. No, you aren’t testing your customers. You test the people you are thinking about hiring. You eliminate the riff-raff and improve the chances that your staff is filled with honest personnel who do not pose security concerns for your business.

You know what’s coming now don’t you, yup now is when you install that Sensormatic system and begin using clothing security tags on merchandise. You don’t necessarily have to tag everything to begin seeing results. Tag merchandise your inventory results point to as high theft departments and begin to prevent shoplifting there. If your store sells shoes place tags on the most popular brands. I would not encourage you to tag flip flops or low-end designs. Tag what shoplifters are stealing. Fashion accessories such as purses, wallets, scarves and neckties can also be high theft items in the clothing world. Purses are highly vulnerable since they can be tossed over a shoulder and look like it belongs to the carrier. The same holds true for hats, you put it on your head and walk out of the store. Unless employees are paying attention hats are easy to steal. 

This brings us full circle to where that annoying conversation comes in to play. Attention is a requirement for employees to help prevent shoplifting. If they are not paying attention to what is taking place around them the shoplifters are going to go unnoticed and commit their crimes. You can use clothing security tags on merchandise but if your workers are inattentive or apathetic they are not going to be effective in responding to electronic article surveillance alarms at the doors. They will also be careless in inspecting what people are taking in and out of the fitting rooms.  The same thief will be able to enter the store numerous times during a day and no one will notice. 

Install a Sensormatic system and use Sensormatic tags on the clothes that are being stolen. Train your managers on how to stop theft. Use pre-employment screening to reduce the chance for theft in your store and finally make sure employees are actively engaging customers. You do this and the conversation I heard in the library will be a non-issue for you. 

 

For more information on about clothing security, contact us or call 1.770.426.0547 

 

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: ,

Clothing Security – A Local Problem Or Something Bigger? Part 3

May 1, 2019 by Leave a Comment

Sensormatic tags -3                                                                                                                    WC Blog 763
clothing security – 5

Clothing Security – A Local Problem Or Something Bigger? Part 3

     In Parts 1 and 2 I discussed the problem clothing security when merchants have to combat opportunistic shoplifters and Organized Retail Crime rings. We discussed the international reach some of these groups can have in their theft activity. We also looked at the difficulty retailers can have in distinguishing between opportunists and professional shoplifters. Does it make a difference to identify one versus the other? In our examples of Organized crime we saw the impact on one national chain and how they are getting hit for thousands of dollars in theft on multiple incidents and in different parts of the nation. I pointed out that the anti-theft tactics of retail stores has to be multi-layered. It starts with the cultivation of a strong customer service focus. Employees must actively seek out and interact with shoppers. With a very few rare exceptions thieves do not want to be seen or assisted. Anonymity gives them the cover they need to steal.

     The use of electronic article surveillance and Sensormatic tags is the next layer of protection. Shoplifters would prefer to steal clothing that has no security device on it. Anti-theft tags pose the risk of alarm activations and they require some means of removal if the clothes they are on are lifted successfully from a store. I did mention in the earlier articles that professional theft rings may use booster bags that are intended to defeat electronic article surveillance devices but Sensormatic tags provide the ultimate protection since they are not affected by these theft tools.

     The next layer of anti-theft protection a store can incorporate is training to prevent shoplifting. You can use clothing security tags to prevent theft but if your store management team and employees have not received training to stop shoplifting then you are not doing all you can to put a stop to crime. You may think you are training your managers to ensure all customers are receiving customer service but I am here to tell you that is not enough. To truly take steps to address shoplifting a store owner has to have a team trained in all aspects of theft prevention. If you can do that you will deter the casual crook and the professional pilferer.  The in-depth training I am alluding to does not come from the novice but a business built around helping retailers improve shortage results and increase profits. 

     Loss Prevention Systems, Inc. (LPSI) specializes in retail theft prevention offering everything from clothing security options to store risk assessments and a wide range of training options. With LPSI’s services, a retail owner can schedule live, in-person training seminars, live webinar training, emailed Loss Prevention tips and online monthly newsletters with articles from experienced Loss Prevention Professionals. Did you know there are proper ways to respond to electronic article surveillance alarm activations? Are you aware that an anti-theft system that is not functioning properly can become a liability to your customer service efforts and they can also impact the effectiveness of a system? There are best practices for the placement of Sensormatic tags on clothing; do you know what those best practices are? Do you and your team know how to identify common characteristics of shoplifters? Do you know the differences between Organized Retail Crime organizations and opportunistic shoplifters? Do you and your team know how to deter each and when it is appropriate to contact police about suspicious activity? LPSI can train your staff on all of these issues and how they can stay safe in the process. 

     Since this series on clothing security has been about Organized Retail Crime and training I want to give a word of caution to store managers and owners. Shoplifting is not a “victimless crime” and in cases involving organized theft rings it can be dangerous. Some of the people involved can be extremely aggressive. If you take the steps I have outlined in these articles you will enhance clothing security (and the security of other merchandise) while keeping your employees safe. Above all else, THAT should be your number one priority.
For more information on clothing security contact us or call 1.770.426.0547

In Parts 1 and 2 I discussed the problem clothing security when merchants have to combat opportunistic shoplifters and Organized Retail Crime rings. We discussed the international reach some of these groups can have in their theft activity. We also looked at the difficulty retailers can have in distinguishing between opportunists and professional shoplifters. Does it make a difference to identify one versus the other? In our examples of Organized crime we saw the impact on one national chain and how they are getting hit for thousands of dollars in theft on multiple incidents and in different parts of the nation. I pointed out that the anti-theft tactics of retail stores has to be multi-layered. It starts with the cultivation of a strong customer service focus. Employees must actively seek out and interact with shoppers. With a very few rare exceptions thieves do not want to be seen or assisted. Anonymity gives them the cover they need to steal.
     

The use of electronic article surveillance and Sensormatic tags is the next layer of protection. Shoplifters would prefer to steal clothing that has no security device on it. Anti-theft tags pose the risk of alarm activations and they require some means of removal if the clothes they are on are lifted successfully from a store. I did mention in the earlier articles that professional theft rings may use booster bags that are intended to defeat electronic article surveillance devices but Sensormatic tags provide the ultimate protection since they are not affected by these theft tools.
     

The next layer of anti-theft protection a store can incorporate is training to prevent shoplifting. You can use clothing security tags to prevent theft but if your store management team and employees have not received training to stop shoplifting then you are not doing all you can to put a stop to crime. You may think you are training your managers to ensure all customers are receiving customer service but I am here to tell you that is not enough. To truly take steps to address shoplifting a store owner has to have a team trained in all aspects of theft prevention. If you can do that you will deter the casual crook and the professional pilferer.  The in-depth training I am alluding to does not come from the novice but a business built around helping retailers improve shortage results and increase profits. 
     

Loss Prevention Systems, Inc. (LPSI) specializes in retail theft prevention offering everything from clothing security options to store risk assessments and a wide range of training options. With LPSI’s services, a retail owner can schedule live, in-person training seminars, live webinar training, emailed Loss Prevention tips and online monthly newsletters with articles from experienced Loss Prevention Professionals. Did you know there are proper ways to respond to electronic article surveillance alarm activations? Are you aware that an anti-theft system that is not functioning properly can become a liability to your customer service efforts and they can also impact the effectiveness of a system? There are best practices for the placement of Sensormatic tags on clothing; do you know what those best practices are? Do you and your team know how to identify common characteristics of shoplifters? Do you know the differences between Organized Retail Crime organizations and opportunistic shoplifters? Do you and your team know how to deter each and when it is appropriate to contact police about suspicious activity? LPSI can train your staff on all of these issues and how they can stay safe in the process. 
     

Since this series on clothing security has been about Organized Retail Crime and training I want to give a word of caution to store managers and owners. Shoplifting is not a “victimless crime” and in cases involving organized theft rings it can be dangerous. Some of the people involved can be extremely aggressive. If you take the steps I have outlined in these articles you will enhance clothing security (and the security of other merchandise) while keeping your employees safe. Above all else, THAT should be your number one priority.

 

For more information on clothing security contact us or call 1.770.426.0547

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: ,

Clothing Security – A Local Problem Or Something Bigger? Part 2

April 4, 2019 by Leave a Comment

 

                                                                                                                                                       WC Blog 762
Sensormatic Tags – 4
Clothing Security-4
Clothing Security – A Local Problem Or Something Bigger? Part 2
      In Part 1 of this series on clothing security I challenged retailers to begin looking at the problem of shoplifting as more than a local issue. I referenced an article I found on an international Organized Retail Crime (ORC) group that was caught in Australia. The international flavor to the story was that this group was based out of Chile and one member had been caught in a police raid on a hotel room in the Los Angeles, California area in 2018. One store that was specifically mentioned in the article that had been targeted by these people was Victoria’s Secret. I have more to say on that in a bit. What I am concerned about is whether or not retailers are looking at their merchandise shortage and assuming that they are just being targeted by opportunists? Are retailers using Sensormatic tags and systems to protect clothes from theft? Are all possible steps being taken to stop this activity?
     National chain store Loss Prevention Departments already know about Organized Retail Theft gangs and how they get away with their activity. Smaller, independent store owners may not be familiar with these gangs. Managers may not recognize that missing merchandise can be more than just shoplifting by people looking for kicks it may be something more ominous. Now I can’t be of much assistance to the national chain stores as they have their Loss Prevention Departments and most have decided on what their model of theft prevention is going to be. I CAN help those of you who own your own stores. I will tell you that if you don’t use Sensormatic tags and electronic article surveillance pedestals you are being hurt by shoplifters. They are emptying your shelves and keeping real patrons from being able to purchase those items. I can also tell you as I mentioned in Part 1 that there are layers to a strong anti-theft culture. It starts with customer service from the time a customer enters the store until the time they leave. I am not talking about haranguing someone but just greeting people, offering assistance being observant and being available. 
     The next layer to an anti-theft culture is the use of clothing security tags on merchandise. The security devices used in your store should be Sensormatic tags. Professional shoplifters, as mentioned in the news article in Part 1, use “booster bags”. These are bags lined with tin foil with the purpose of interfering with electronic article surveillance systems. Acousto-magnetic Sensormatic tags are immune to these bags so theft attempts are thwarted at the towers as a shoplifter approaches. Other brands of security tags will set off pedestals but a booster bag will prevent them from working correctly. I will also say that other brands are not as reliable as those manufactured by Sensormatic, especially if they are made by an unknown manufacturer.
     I pointed out that Victoria’s Secret was specifically mentioned as a victim by this international criminal theft ring. It would appear from the research I was able to do on this retailer that this chain uses for clothing security. If that is true then there is something going on that is not working properly in their protection strategy.  I do know that in searching articles on shoplifting this store pops up a lot. Many of those news items indicated the theft incidents were in the thousands of dollars. After finding out about a national organized retail crime organization stealing from there, I wondered how many similar theft activities might also be international in scope. Here are some examples of what I mean:
• Gwinnet Daily Post, Jan 2, 2019 by Isabel Hughes – “Shoplifters steal over $300,000 from Gwinnett Victoria’s Secret stores”
• Myrtlebeachonline.com, Dec 5, 2018 by Hannah Strong – “’Professional Shoplifters?’ Thieves stuff clothes in bags at Victoria’s Secret, cops say”. The story reports three people stole around $3,800 in clothes.
• Greenvilleonline.com, Oct 9, 2018 by Teddy Kumala – “Men in bonnets shoplift thousands from Spartanburg Victoria’s Secret store”
• Abc7chicago.com, March 13, 2018, “Women arrested for trying to steal 11Kworth of Victoria’s Secret bras”
I want to say that I am not being critical of Victoria’s Secret as they are the victim of these criminals. I am saying there is something that is going on that is creating these kinds of headlines. It is also making them a target of extremely significant shoplifting activity.
    The final layer in a strong anti-theft culture involves the training of store managers and personnel. In Part 3 of this series I will discuss the importance of manager training to prevent shoplifting and employee theft and how it relates to clothing security. 
Need information on clothing security? Give us a call at 1.770.426.0547 now.

In Part 1 of this series on clothing security I challenged retailers to begin looking at the problem of shoplifting as more than a local issue. I referenced an article I found on an international Organized Retail Crime (ORC) group that was caught in Australia. The international flavor to the story was that this group was based out of Chile and one member had been caught in a police raid on a hotel room in the Los Angeles, California area in 2018. One store that was specifically mentioned in the article that had been targeted by these people was Victoria’s Secret. I have more to say on that in a bit. What I am concerned about is whether or not retailers are looking at their merchandise shortage and assuming that they are just being targeted by opportunists? Are retailers using Sensormatic tags and systems to protect clothes from theft? Are all possible steps being taken to stop this activity?

National chain store Loss Prevention Departments already know about Organized Retail Theft gangs and how they get away with their activity. Smaller, independent store owners may not be familiar with these gangs. Managers may not recognize that missing merchandise can be more than just shoplifting by people looking for kicks it may be something more ominous. Now I can’t be of much assistance to the national chain stores as they have their Loss Prevention Departments and most have decided on what their model of theft prevention is going to be. I CAN help those of you who own your own stores. I will tell you that if you don’t use Sensormatic tags and electronic article surveillance pedestals you are being hurt by shoplifters. They are emptying your shelves and keeping real patrons from being able to purchase those items. I can also tell you as I mentioned in Part 1 that there are layers to a strong anti-theft culture. It starts with customer service from the time a customer enters the store until the time they leave. I am not talking about haranguing someone but just greeting people, offering assistance being observant and being available. 

The next layer to an anti-theft culture is the use of clothing security tags on merchandise. The security devices used in your store should be Sensormatic tags. Professional shoplifters, as mentioned in the news article in Part 1, use “booster bags”. These are bags lined with tin foil with the purpose of interfering with electronic article surveillance systems. Acousto-magnetic Sensormatic tags are immune to these bags so theft attempts are thwarted at the towers as a shoplifter approaches. Other brands of security tags will set off pedestals but a booster bag will prevent them from working correctly. I will also say that other brands are not as reliable as those manufactured by Sensormatic, especially if they are made by an unknown manufacturer.

I pointed out that Victoria’s Secret was specifically mentioned as a victim by this international criminal theft ring. It would appear from the research I was able to do on this retailer that this chain uses for clothing security. If that is true then there is something going on that is not working properly in their protection strategy.  I do know that in searching articles on shoplifting this store pops up a lot. Many of those news items indicated the theft incidents were in the thousands of dollars. After finding out about a national organized retail crime organization stealing from there, I wondered how many similar theft activities might also be international in scope. Here are some examples of what I mean:

• Gwinnet Daily Post, Jan 2, 2019 by Isabel Hughes – “Shoplifters steal over $300,000 from Gwinnett Victoria’s Secret stores”

• Myrtlebeachonline.com, Dec 5, 2018 by Hannah Strong – “’Professional Shoplifters?’ Thieves stuff clothes in bags at Victoria’s Secret, cops say”. The story reports three people stole around $3,800 in clothes.

• Greenvilleonline.com, Oct 9, 2018 by Teddy Kumala – “Men in bonnets shoplift thousands from Spartanburg Victoria’s Secret store”

• Abc7chicago.com, March 13, 2018, “Women arrested for trying to steal 11Kworth of Victoria’s Secret bras”

I want to say that I am not being critical of Victoria’s Secret as they are the victim of these criminals. I am saying there is something that is going on that is creating these kinds of headlines. It is also making them a target of extremely significant shoplifting activity.

The final layer in a strong anti-theft culture involves the training of store managers and personnel. In Part 3 of this series I will discuss the importance of manager training to prevent shoplifting and employee theft and how it relates to clothing security. 

 

Need information on clothing security? Give us a call at 1.770.426.0547 now.

 

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: ,

Clothing Security For The Real World

February 3, 2019 by Leave a Comment
Clothing Security For The Real World

How do we provide clothing security in an effective, cost conscious manner? It is not enough to train your employees and put Sensormatic tags on your merchandise, if it is more expensive in labor and hardware than the losses themselves. Here are the things you should consider before you do anything.
First, what is the real cost to your losses. If you lose a $100 item you have only lost $100, right? No you have actually lost much more. Here is the way you calculate that. Take the item at retail cost, in this case $100 and divide it by your profit margin. To keep it simple I will use the average, overall profit margin which is 2%. So, $100 divided by 0.02 = $5000. Yes that is FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS for a $100 item stolen. Because you will have to sell an ADDITIONAL $5k to break even on that $100 loss. AND that is not to make money it is only to break even. If you lose $100 every other day, well, you do the math. This is not just someone else’s problem it is your world also!
Next, how do we make clothing security cost effective? A clothing alarm such as a Sensormatic system can be expensive, however, if that is what your impression is then it is time to take a real look into the world of Sensormatic. There are very cost friendly systems available. But, more importantly you must have a reliable system that will cause you few problems. Sensormatic systems are a commercial grade and are meant to stand up to the rigors of challenging retail environments. Sensormatic systems’ Acousto Magnetic (AM) technology is over 50 years old. It is in most of the top retailers in the world. AM systems operate 24/7 with very few of the false alarms that other systems have. That is key because if you and your staff experience false alarms on a regular basis, then you will eventually have less trust in the system.
With clothing security we also have to consider what merchandise we need to protect. Many of our customers tell us they “want to protect everything”. Although, in some cases that is necessary, however, in most cases it is not realistic or needed. We need to take the emotion out of this equation. The Sensormatic tags are pretty inexpensive but the labor to put clothing security tags on every piece of merchandise could be costly in labor. 
What you should consider is putting clothing security tags on approximately 20% of your merchandise that is causing approximately 80% of your losses. Clothing security tags on this amount of goods will tend to send the shoplifters down the street. Some determined shoplifters will look at stealing other items in your store. You will then identify those items and place Sensormatic tags on them also. At this point, if you maintain your tagging program most of your losses will go away.
You and your staff will need to be trained in how to respond to clothing alarms however, we take care of that for you. Our approach to clothing alarms is customer service based. This solves a number of problems including customer errors such as Sensormatic tags or labels from another retailer on merchandise they bring into your store causing an alarm. And errors on the part of your store’ staff. This could include failing to remove Sensormatic tags at checkout and Sensormatic tags on merchandise placed too close to the system at your doors.
Loss Prevention Systems will not just train you how to respond to a clothing alarm but how to identify and discourage a potential shoplifter while providing great customer service to your good customers.
For more information on Sensormatic systems, Sensormatic tags, clothing alarms and clothing security contact us today or call toll free 1-770-426-0547. Together we can solve your shoplifting problems once and for all.

How do we provide clothing security in an effective, cost conscious manner? It is not enough to train your employees and put Sensormatic tags on your merchandise, if it is more expensive in labor and hardware than the losses themselves. Here are the things you should consider before you do anything.

 

First, what is the real cost to your losses. If you lose a $100 item you have only lost $100, right? No you have actually lost much more. Here is the way you calculate that. Take the item at retail cost, in this case $100 and divide it by your profit margin. To keep it simple I will use the average, overall profit margin which is 2%. So, $100 divided by 0.02 = $5000. Yes that is FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS for a $100 item stolen. Because you will have to sell an ADDITIONAL $5k to break even on that $100 loss. AND that is not to make money it is only to break even. If you lose $100 every other day, well, you do the math. This is not just someone else’s problem it is your world also!

 

Next, how do we make clothing security cost effective? A clothing alarm such as a Sensormatic system can be expensive, however, if that is what your impression is then it is time to take a real look into the world of Sensormatic. There are very cost friendly systems available. But, more importantly you must have a reliable system that will cause you few problems. Sensormatic systems are a commercial grade and are meant to stand up to the rigors of challenging retail environments. Sensormatic systems’ Acousto Magnetic (AM) technology is over 50 years old. It is in most of the top retailers in the world. AM systems operate 24/7 with very few of the false alarms that other systems have. That is key because if you and your staff experience false alarms on a regular basis, then you will eventually have less trust in the system.

 

With clothing security we also have to consider what merchandise we need to protect. Many of our customers tell us they “want to protect everything”. Although, in some cases that is necessary, however, in most cases it is not realistic or needed. We need to take the emotion out of this equation. The Sensormatic tags are pretty inexpensive but the labor to put clothing security tags on every piece of merchandise could be costly in labor. 

 

What you should consider is putting clothing security tags on approximately 20% of your merchandise that is causing approximately 80% of your losses. Clothing security tags on this amount of goods will tend to send the shoplifters down the street. Some determined shoplifters will look at stealing other items in your store. You will then identify those items and place Sensormatic tags on them also. At this point, if you maintain your tagging program most of your losses will go away.

 

You and your staff will need to be trained in how to respond to clothing alarms however, we take care of that for you. Our approach to clothing alarms is customer service based. This solves a number of problems including customer errors such as Sensormatic tags or labels from another retailer on merchandise they bring into your store causing an alarm. And errors on the part of your store’ staff. This could include failing to remove Sensormatic tags at checkout and Sensormatic tags on merchandise placed too close to the system at your doors.

 

Loss Prevention Systems will not just train you how to respond to a clothing alarm but how to identify and discourage a potential shoplifter while providing great customer service to your good customers.

 

For more information on Sensormatic systems, Sensormatic tags, clothing alarms and clothing security contact us today or call toll free 1-770-426-0547. Together we can solve your shoplifting problems once and for all.

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: , ,

Clothing Security Puts A Stop To Shrinking Clothes

January 4, 2019 by Leave a Comment

 

Clothing Security – 4                                                                                                                    WC Blog 727
Sensormatic Tags -4
Clothing Security Puts A Stop To Shrinking Clothes
     Let’s assume that everyone reading this article owns or manages a clothing and fashion store and no one is using any type of clothing security tags on merchandise. Rather than ask you why you are not doing it, I would like to know what it would take to get you to change your mind. Would you have to be losing 1% in shortage to convince you that merchandise protection is important? Would an average of 1.5% shrink make you reconsider a decision not to put Sensormatic tags on merchandise? If you still don’t see it as extremely important then maybe this fact from the Sensormatic Global Shrink Index will jolt you a bit. On page 43 of their report the shrinkage rate in the U.S. for 2017-2018 in Fashion and Accessory stores was a whopping 2.43% ranking #1 (worst) among the 12 vertical store categories listed. I don’t know how much clearer the facts can be that clothing has to be protected and for most small or even medium sized stores a Loss Prevention Associate is out of the question. What isn’t out of your price range is a Sensormatic security system and the use of Sensormatic tags.
     In their global analysis of retailers, the Global Shrink Index says that 62% of respondents indicate EAS (Electronic Article Surveillance) investment is increasing (pg. 23). The report also says that external theft/shoplifting in the U.S. accounted for over 1/3 of retail shortage or 35.55%. Why are retailers investing more in EAS technology? Because the major retailers recognize that Sensormatic tags and labels can have a significant impact on theft reduction and especially shoplifting. Loss Prevention Systems, Inc. (LPSI) believes EAS can reduce store inventory shrinkage by about half. If you go to their Loss Prevention Calculator (tabbed as ROI Calc. on their home page), you can see that the figure they give if you purchase a Sensormatic system from them is a reduction in shrink of approximately .55%. They project retailer’s average shortage is 1.2% and with the installation of a Loss Prevention system it would reduce shortage  to a .65%. The evidence is clear that clothing security will be improved if a store begins to use EAS tags and labels.
     LPSI founder Bill Bregar also knows that while purchasing a security system is going to help reduce theft there has to be proper training on how to test equipment, respond to alarm activations and how customer service all make a system more effective. This company won’t abandon you after a sale. Purchase a Sensormatic system from LPSI and you receive “free, live shoplifting prevention training for the life of your Sensormatic…system.” That is correct, clothing security isn’t just about installing a system and forgetting about it. There are best practices to get the most out of a system and Bill wants you to get every dollar’s worth out of a new one and also learn how to prevent shoplifting.
     Clothing security also requires a store to put in measures to control employee theft as well as shoplifting. While employees can steal in ways that are not necessarily stopped by Sensormatic tags, for example the passing of merchandise at the checkout lane, tags DO prevent employees from outright theft. I have witnessed employees hiding merchandise in purses and under their clothing and then walking out of a store. As long as they do not have access to detachment tools or deactivation pads and they have to exit through EAS pedestals, employees with concealed, tagged items are going to set off the alarms. Store procedural controls such as mandatory bag checks before leaving and requiring employees to keep coats and purses in lockers can help further reduce opportunities for dishonest workers to steal.
     With the addition of a Sensormatic system and tags, training from LPSI and sensible store policies regarding employee expectations, store owners can dramatically reduce shrinkage. Fashion retailers don’t have to feel the pain of 2.43% shrink. Contact Bill and his team and get the resources that can cut that number in half and then some.
For more information about clothing security, contact us or call 1.770.426.0547

Let’s assume that everyone reading this article owns or manages a clothing and fashion store and no one is using any type of clothing security tags on merchandise. Rather than ask you why you are not doing it, I would like to know what it would take to get you to change your mind. Would you have to be losing 1% in shortage to convince you that merchandise protection is important? Would an average of 1.5% shrink make you reconsider a decision not to put Sensormatic tags on merchandise? If you still don’t see it as extremely important then maybe this fact from the Sensormatic Global Shrink Index will jolt you a bit. On page 43 of their report the shrinkage rate in the U.S. for 2017-2018 in Fashion and Accessory stores was a whopping 2.43% ranking #1 (worst) among the 12 vertical store categories listed. I don’t know how much clearer the facts can be that clothing has to be protected and for most small or even medium sized stores a Loss Prevention Associate is out of the question. What isn’t out of your price range is a Sensormatic security system and the use of Sensormatic tags.

In their global analysis of retailers, the Global Shrink Index says that 62% of respondents indicate EAS (Electronic Article Surveillance) investment is increasing (pg. 23). The report also says that external theft/shoplifting in the U.S. accounted for over 1/3 of retail shortage or 35.55%. Why are retailers investing more in EAS technology? Because the major retailers recognize that Sensormatic tags and labels can have a significant impact on theft reduction and especially shoplifting. Loss Prevention Systems, Inc. (LPSI) believes EAS can reduce store inventory shrinkage by about half. If you go to their Loss Prevention Calculator (tabbed as ROI Calc. on their home page), you can see that the figure they give if you purchase a Sensormatic system from them is a reduction in shrink of approximately .55%. They project retailer’s average shortage is 1.2% and with the installation of a Loss Prevention system it would reduce shortage  to a .65%. The evidence is clear that clothing security will be improved if a store begins to use EAS tags and labels.

LPSI founder Bill Bregar also knows that while purchasing a security system is going to help reduce theft there has to be proper training on how to test equipment, respond to alarm activations and how customer service all make a system more effective. This company won’t abandon you after a sale. Purchase a Sensormatic system from LPSI and you receive “free, live shoplifting prevention training for the life of your Sensormatic…system.” That is correct, clothing security isn’t just about installing a system and forgetting about it. There are best practices to get the most out of a system and Bill wants you to get every dollar’s worth out of a new one and also learn how to prevent shoplifting.

Clothing security also requires a store to put in measures to control employee theft as well as shoplifting. While employees can steal in ways that are not necessarily stopped by Sensormatic tags, for example the passing of merchandise at the checkout lane, tags DO prevent employees from outright theft. I have witnessed employees hiding merchandise in purses and under their clothing and then walking out of a store. As long as they do not have access to detachment tools or deactivation pads and they have to exit through EAS pedestals, employees with concealed, tagged items are going to set off the alarms. Store procedural controls such as mandatory bag checks before leaving and requiring employees to keep coats and purses in lockers can help further reduce opportunities for dishonest workers to steal.

With the addition of a Sensormatic system and tags, training from LPSI and sensible store policies regarding employee expectations, store owners can dramatically reduce shrinkage. Fashion retailers don’t have to feel the pain of 2.43% shrink. Contact Bill and his team and get the resources that can cut that number in half and then some.

 

For more information about clothing security, contact us or call 1.770.426.0547

 

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: ,

Super Advice On Why Clothing Security Is Important

July 5, 2018 by Leave a Comment
Clothing Security – 4                                                                                                                         WC Blog 541
Checkpoint Tags-5

Super Advice On Why Clothing Security Is Important

     Clothing security is a shortage focus point for the retail chain my daughter works for. As a department manager over a softlines area she is expected to be monitoring her department to ensure all of the merchandise is properly tagged with Checkpoint tags. During a recent visit from the store’s District Loss Prevention Manager they were given recognition for having merchandise protected. One thing they were doing incorrectly was placing the tags in the wrong location on slacks. The tags were being placed too high on the waistband rather than lower in the leg seam. When my daughter was discussing this issue with me and she seemed a bit confused about why this slight variance would make a difference. I was able to put on my Loss Prevention Manager Super-Dad cape and clear it up for her. Before I go into the details of my conversation though it would be best to make sure all of the readers know what I am talking about when I discuss Checkpoint Tags and clothing security.

     Clothing is a top theft item for shoplifters. Some steal for personal use and others will steal for resale for drugs, at a flea market to an organized theft ring or other outlets. Loss Prevention Systems Inc. understands the threat to a retailer posed by criminals and recommends business owners stop thieves by using clothing security tags. These tags are anti-theft devices that are pinned on a piece of clothing and prevent theft from shoplifters and deter employees from stealing too. Forced removal of clothing tags is not an issue as Checkpoint tags can take a lot of abuse from thieves trying to force them off and the tags still hang on. If a store uses the Checkpoint brand of security tags they also receive the benefit of superior electronic article surveillance (EAS) alarm protection.  EAS towers are placed where merchandise should not be taken such as restrooms and at store entry and exit points. If a tagged garment nears the towers the shrill, screeching alarm from the tower activates and store employees respond and recover the merchandise. And yes, even if the merchandise is hidden in a purse or under a coat the tag can be “read” by the tower and will still alert.

     Getting back to the story about my conversation with my daughter, I explained why the District Manager was concerned with the placement of the tags. If Checkpoint tags are placed too high on a pair of pants or let’s say too close to the cuff of a shirt sleeve it is possible for a shoplifter to remove a tag. There would be a small amount of damage to the garment as a small cut in the material might have to be made to slide the tag off but if the merchandise is valuable enough that may not be a concern. On the other hand, if the security tag is placed further down the pant leg or higher up the sleeve of the blouse cutting the garment is not an option. The merchandise would have to be damaged to the point that the item is rendered unserviceable. Additionally, criminals don’t want to have to put that much effort into stealing something. It is easier for them to locate another item that is not tagged and steal it. Hint to store owners and managers: Tag EVERYTHING, your store becomes a waste of time for the bad guys and they just leave you alone altogether. My daughter said that my explanation made sense to her and she was going to be sure to have those issues fixed for her next visit. I was happy and put my Loss Prevention Manager Super-Dad cape away until it is needed again in the future.

       You may not have a Loss Prevention Manager Super-Dad to help you stop shoplifting or explain how clothing security is enhanced with Checkpoint tags but you do have a resource that is just as invaluable. Bill Bregar and the staff of Loss Prevention Systems Inc. are your resources for all you need to know about protecting your store against thieves. Reach out to them, they specialize in how to improve profitability through reduced shortage and can help your store thrive. There may not be a super cape involved but there is a super team and they love helping stores with the best solutions to theft prevention.
Get more information of clothing security, contact us or call 1.770.426.0547 today.

Clothing security is a shortage focus point for the retail chain my daughter works for. As a department manager over a softlines area she is expected to be monitoring her department to ensure all of the merchandise is properly tagged with Checkpoint tags. During a recent visit from the store’s District Loss Prevention Manager they were given recognition for having merchandise protected. One thing they were doing incorrectly was placing the tags in the wrong location on slacks. The tags were being placed too high on the waistband rather than lower in the leg seam. When my daughter was discussing this issue with me and she seemed a bit confused about why this slight variance would make a difference. I was able to put on my Loss Prevention Manager Super-Dad cape and clear it up for her. Before I go into the details of my conversation though it would be best to make sure all of the readers know what I am talking about when I discuss Checkpoint Tags and clothing security.
     

Clothing is a top theft item for shoplifters. Some steal for personal use and others will steal for resale for drugs, at a flea market to an organized theft ring or other outlets. Loss Prevention Systems Inc. understands the threat to a retailer posed by criminals and recommends business owners stop thieves by using clothing security tags. These tags are anti-theft devices that are pinned on a piece of clothing and prevent theft from shoplifters and deter employees from stealing too. Forced removal of clothing tags is not an issue as Checkpoint tags can take a lot of abuse from thieves trying to force them off and the tags still hang on. If a store uses the Checkpoint brand of security tags they also receive the benefit of superior electronic article surveillance (EAS) alarm protection. EAS towers are placed where merchandise should not be taken such as restrooms and at store entry and exit points. If a tagged garment nears the towers the shrill, screeching alarm from the tower activates and store employees respond and recover the merchandise. And yes, even if the merchandise is hidden in a purse or under a coat the tag can be “read” by the tower and will still alert.
     

Getting back to the story about my conversation with my daughter, I explained why the District Manager was concerned with the placement of the tags. If Checkpoint tags are placed too high on a pair of pants or let’s say too close to the cuff of a shirt sleeve it is possible for a shoplifter to remove a tag. There would be a small amount of damage to the garment as a small cut in the material might have to be made to slide the tag off but if the merchandise is valuable enough that may not be a concern. On the other hand, if the security tag is placed further down the pant leg or higher up the sleeve of the blouse cutting the garment is not an option. The merchandise would have to be damaged to the point that the item is rendered unserviceable. Additionally, criminals don’t want to have to put that much effort into stealing something. It is easier for them to locate another item that is not tagged and steal it. Hint to store owners and managers: Tag EVERYTHING, your store becomes a waste of time for the bad guys and they just leave you alone altogether. My daughter said that my explanation made sense to her and she was going to be sure to have those issues fixed for her next visit. I was happy and put my Loss Prevention Manager Super-Dad cape away until it is needed again in the future.
       

You may not have a Loss Prevention Manager Super-Dad to help you stop shoplifting or explain how clothing security is enhanced with Checkpoint tags but you do have a resource that is just as invaluable. Bill Bregar and the staff of Loss Prevention Systems Inc. are your resources for all you need to know about protecting your store against thieves. Reach out to them, they specialize in how to improve profitability through reduced shortage and can help your store thrive. There may not be a super cape involved but there is a super team and they love helping stores with the best solutions to theft prevention.

 

Get more information of clothing security, contact us or call 1.770.426.0547 today.

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: , ,

Using Imposter Tags For Clothing Security Can Prove Costly

June 5, 2018 by Leave a Comment
Clothing Security-5                                                                                                                 WC Blog 529
Checkpoint Tags-5

Using Imposter Tags For Clothing Security Can Prove Costly

     Protecting clothing against theft is too important for stores to resort to the use of imposter clothing security tags. They say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. In some instances I would agree. I would use parody music as one example where this is the case. I like to listen to music by Weird Al Yankovic and a parody band called Apologetix. Both musical groups take original music by major music talents and change the words to create parodies. They sound a LOT like the originals and in the case of Weird Al, he has even created music videos that spoofed the song and the video that went with it, for example the song and video “Eat It”. Sometimes the parody even has a message that the group wants their audience to hear but uses humor to do so. Merchandise protection can be similar in that there are companies that make security tags that look like or seem to act like Checkpoint tags but the devices are inferior to those of Checkpoint. Going cheaper can cost more in the long- run and that is why the CEO of Loss Prevention Systems Inc. Bill Bregar wants retail owners to use proven electronic article surveillance technology. Checkpoint tags provide consistency in the prevention of shoplifting and employee theft.

     Checkpoint tags for clothing security come in a hard tag design that is built to prevent a criminal from pulling it off an item. The tags have two components, a piece with a pin and the pin cap. When attached to a garment they are clipped so closely together that there is almost no space created. This seamless connection makes prying the pieces apart impossible without tearing or ripping material. Since torn merchandise is not what a shoplifter wants they tend to stay away from products with clothing security tags attached to them. Checkpoint tags also stop shoplifters through the electronic article surveillance (EAS) protection built into the devices. The tags have a radio frequency signal transmitting from them. When merchandise with tags on them get into the range of EAS pedestals or an overhead Checkpoint system an alarm is activated. This alarm elicits an immediate response from nearby employees who are able to resolve issues and get unpaid goods and products back.

     If what I call imitation tags can deter theft why not purchase them instead of the Checkpoint brand? Let me ask you this question, if an imposter is always as good as an original why would you ever buy a name brand product? I can go into my favorite grocery store and I can get a great deal on a store brand of soft drink. I may only pay 78 cents for a 2-liter bottle of store brand cola. I have the option of paying $1.99 for a 2-liter bottle of a nationally known brand. Why would I ever pay $1.21 more for that national brand? I would do so because the national brand is a much better quality. I KNOW the national brand will have a consistent quality and taste. Sometimes the store brand varies a bit in flavor and is not always the same in taste each time. I can’t trust the quality. The same can be said for your merchandise protection. Some other tags can be tampered with much more easily that the Checkpoint brand. The Checkpoint brand can also be depended on to alarm properly when it is near a tower or pedestal. Use another company’s clothing security tags and you may soon see your shrinkage increase as shoplifters find the vulnerability in your strategy.

     I have used Checkpoint tags as a Loss prevention Manager and I know that they work. I trusted them and made sure they were a key component of my merchandise protection plans. The results spoke for themselves and only twice during my career did I see shortage climb slightly over 1%. I have also walked into stores and observed other devices being used and found myself scratching my head. What in the world was the store management thinking? Their tags looked like poor imitations of the tags I used. Spoofs are light-hearted imitations that bring fun and enjoyment as they parody a serious craft. In entertainment that is fine but it is another thing when it is your profits that are on the line. Don’t take clothing security lightly use products that are proven to be effective and stop shoplifting and theft in your stores.
 Need information on Checkpoint tags? Contact us or call 1.770.426.0547 today.

     

Protecting clothing against theft is too important for stores to resort to the use of imposter clothing security tags. They say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. In some instances I would agree. I would use parody music as one example where this is the case. I like to listen to music by Weird Al Yankovic and a parody band called Apologetix. Both musical groups take original music by major music talents and change the words to create parodies. They sound a LOT like the originals and in the case of Weird Al, he has even created music videos that spoofed the song and the video that went with it, for example the song and video “Eat It”. Sometimes the parody even has a message that the group wants their audience to hear but uses humor to do so. Merchandise protection can be similar in that there are companies that make security tags that look like or seem to act like Checkpoint tags but the devices are inferior to those of Checkpoint. Going cheaper can cost more in the long- run and that is why the CEO of Loss Prevention Systems Inc. Bill Bregar wants retail owners to use proven electronic article surveillance technology. Checkpoint tags provide consistency in the prevention of shoplifting and employee theft.
     

Checkpoint tags for clothing security come in a hard tag design that is built to prevent a criminal from pulling it off an item. The tags have two components, a piece with a pin and the pin cap. When attached to a garment they are clipped so closely together that there is almost no space created. This seamless connection makes prying the pieces apart impossible without tearing or ripping material. Since torn merchandise is not what a shoplifter wants they tend to stay away from products with clothing security tags attached to them. Checkpoint tags also stop shoplifters through the electronic article surveillance (EAS) protection built into the devices. The tags have a radio frequency signal transmitting from them. When merchandise with tags on them get into the range of EAS pedestals or an overhead Checkpoint system an alarm is activated. This alarm elicits an immediate response from nearby employees who are able to resolve issues and get unpaid goods and products back.
     

If what I call imitation tags can deter theft why not purchase them instead of the Checkpoint brand? Let me ask you this question, if an imposter is always as good as an original why would you ever buy a name brand product? I can go into my favorite grocery store and I can get a great deal on a store brand of soft drink. I may only pay 78 cents for a 2-liter bottle of store brand cola. I have the option of paying $1.99 for a 2-liter bottle of a nationally known brand. Why would I ever pay $1.21 more for that national brand? I would do so because the national brand is a much better quality. I KNOW the national brand will have a consistent quality and taste. Sometimes the store brand varies a bit in flavor and is not always the same in taste each time. I can’t trust the quality. The same can be said for your merchandise protection. Some other tags can be tampered with much more easily that the Checkpoint brand. The Checkpoint brand can also be depended on to alarm properly when it is near a tower or pedestal. Use another company’s clothing security tags and you may soon see your shrinkage increase as shoplifters find the vulnerability in your strategy.
     

I have used Checkpoint tags as a Loss prevention Manager and I know that they work. I trusted them and made sure they were a key component of my merchandise protection plans. The results spoke for themselves and only twice during my career did I see shortage climb slightly over 1%. I have also walked into stores and observed other devices being used and found myself scratching my head. What in the world was the store management thinking? Their tags looked like poor imitations of the tags I used. Spoofs are light-hearted imitations that bring fun and enjoyment as they parody a serious craft. In entertainment that is fine but it is another thing when it is your profits that are on the line. Don’t take clothing security lightly use products that are proven to be effective and stop shoplifting and theft in your stores. 

 

Need information on Checkpoint tags? Contact us or call 1.770.426.0547 today.
     

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: , ,

Proper Clothing Security Can Defeat ORC Groups Part 2

April 4, 2018 by Leave a Comment
Clothing Security-3                                                                                                                           WC Blog 487
Checkpoint Tags-3


Proper Clothing Security Can Defeat ORC Groups Part 2

      In Part 1 of this article on clothing security I was dealing with issues I read in an online story about a $20 million theft ring that was broken up by authorities. The story by Chris Morran, posted on 9/7/17, “Feds Break Up $20M Shoplifting Ring That Stole Clothing From Coast To Coast” https://consumerist.com/2017/09/07/feds-break-up-20m-shoplifting-ring-that-stole-clothing-from-coast-to-coast/  discussed the methods used by the group to get away with such an extensive crime spree. In part 1 I started to discuss the methods the group employed and as a former Loss Prevention Manager, my tips on how retailers can combat these predators. While my suggestions can be used by any retailer, they are really geared to the small and medium sized stores which in all likelihood do not have the ability to hire as many associates as national chains stores. One thing that is a must in combating these criminals and ALL stores can afford is to use Checkpoint tags and electronic article surveillance towers.

     I am sure I got the attention of some who are reading this and have no idea what Checkpoint tags are or what an electronic article surveillance (EAS) tower is. The tags are clothing security devices that deter and prevent shoplifting. The devices are two-piece designs of tested, hard plastic materiel that pin and clip together onto a piece of clothing. The tags require a special removal tool in order to get them off of a garment and most stores keep these tools secured at their cash registers. Without the use of the tool products are torn and damaged when a shoplifter attempts to forcibly remove them. Of course, once damaged the merchandise is useless. The tag itself is not the only protection provided when applied to garments. Checkpoint tags also operate using EAS technology and they emit a signal on a specific radio frequency. When tagged goods are carried in the detection field of EAS towers the towers activate a blaring alarm and flashing lights. Employees immediately respond to the alarm and conduct receipt checks and the offender can either relinquish the item or purchase it. In many situations a tower alarm scares a shoplifter and they will simply drop the merchandise they were trying to steal and run.

     In Part 1 I talked about the use of “blockers” as a tactic this group employed and how they could be thwarted with a small staff. Other points the author made mentioned that the group would send someone into a store in advance to move merchandise to a location that would make theft easier. This person would set up the products and another person(s) would go in a commit the crime. Store managers; train your employees to look for merchandise that seems “out of place” and perhaps in an area of the store that is off the main track. It is possible it is being set up for a theft. All employees should be made aware of what was found and then the merchandise should be put back in the proper location. Later, you may have an employee walk up on a person who is clearly looking around that area trying to find the items you put back. Customer service them to death, get a good description and pass that information to the entire store team. If you have a camera system, retrieve a picture from it and keep it in an off-stage area or breakroom so employees can see it and be aware.

     Another tactic that this Organized Theft Ring employed was the use of “booster bags”. These are foil- lined bags intended to defeat EAS systems by disrupting the radio signal sent out by the clothing security tags. They aren’t fool-proof and should not scare you. Booster bags are often a brown bag with a handle or some type of large gift bag.  Criminals like these because they can fold them up and pull them out once in a store. Teach employees to watch for shoppers carrying gift bags through the store or bags from stores other than yours. Someone who brings an item in to try to match it to your merchandise will be happy to show you what they have. The other thing you can do is purchase a Checkpoint tower that has software designed to detect foils when a bag is brought into the store. A quick aside, Organized Theft Rings (ORC’s) are professional shoplifters with an established hierarchy. These groups send workers out with specific “shopping” lists to steal, paying a small percentage of the value of the goods to the worker. The leaders turn around and resell the merchandise, undercutting legitimate businesses.

     ORC groups don’t have to be a threat to your store. Using Checkpoint tags and towers and training employees on how to identify and prevent theft can keep your business profitable. You have the ability to defeat these criminals.
Need information on Checkpoint tags? Give us a call at 1.770.426.0547 now.

      



     

In Part 1 of this article on clothing security I was dealing with issues I read in an online story about a $20 million theft ring that was broken up by authorities. The story by Chris Morran, posted on 9/7/17, “Feds Break Up $20M Shoplifting Ring That Stole Clothing From Coast To Coast” https://consumerist.com/2017/09/07/feds-break-up-20m-shoplifting-ring-that-stole-clothing-from-coast-to-coast/  discussed the methods used by the group to get away with such an extensive crime spree. In part 1 I started to discuss the methods the group employed and as a former Loss Prevention Manager, my tips on how retailers can combat these predators. While my suggestions can be used by any retailer, they are really geared to the small and medium sized stores which in all likelihood do not have the ability to hire as many associates as national chains stores. One thing that is a must in combating these criminals and ALL stores can afford is to use Checkpoint tags and electronic article surveillance towers.
     

I am sure I got the attention of some who are reading this and have no idea what Checkpoint tags are or what an electronic article surveillance (EAS) tower is. The tags are clothing security devices that deter and prevent shoplifting. The devices are two-piece designs of tested, hard plastic materiel that pin and clip together onto a piece of clothing. The tags require a special removal tool in order to get them off of a garment and most stores keep these tools secured at their cash registers. Without the use of the tool products are torn and damaged when a shoplifter attempts to forcibly remove them. Of course, once damaged the merchandise is useless. The tag itself is not the only protection provided when applied to garments. Checkpoint tags also operate using EAS technology and they emit a signal on a specific radio frequency. When tagged goods are carried in the detection field of EAS towers the towers activate a blaring alarm and flashing lights. Employees immediately respond to the alarm and conduct receipt checks and the offender can either relinquish the item or purchase it. In many situations a tower alarm scares a shoplifter and they will simply drop the merchandise they were trying to steal and run.
     

In Part 1 I talked about the use of “blockers” as a tactic this group employed and how they could be thwarted with a small staff. Other points the author made mentioned that the group would send someone into a store in advance to move merchandise to a location that would make theft easier. This person would set up the products and another person(s) would go in a commit the crime. Store managers; train your employees to look for merchandise that seems “out of place” and perhaps in an area of the store that is off the main track. It is possible it is being set up for a theft. All employees should be made aware of what was found and then the merchandise should be put back in the proper location. Later, you may have an employee walk up on a person who is clearly looking around that area trying to find the items you put back. Customer service them to death, get a good description and pass that information to the entire store team. If you have a camera system, retrieve a picture from it and keep it in an off-stage area or breakroom so employees can see it and be aware.
     

Another tactic that this Organized Theft Ring employed was the use of “booster bags”. These are foil- lined bags intended to defeat EAS systems by disrupting the radio signal sent out by the clothing security tags. They aren’t fool-proof and should not scare you. Booster bags are often a brown bag with a handle or some type of large gift bag. Criminals like these because they can fold them up and pull them out once in a store. Teach employees to watch for shoppers carrying gift bags through the store or bags from stores other than yours. Someone who brings an item in to try to match it to your merchandise will be happy to show you what they have. The other thing you can do is purchase a Checkpoint tower that has software designed to detect foils when a bag is brought into the store. A quick aside, Organized Theft Rings (ORC’s) are professional shoplifters with an established hierarchy. These groups send workers out with specific “shopping” lists to steal, paying a small percentage of the value of the goods to the worker. The leaders turn around and resell the merchandise, undercutting legitimate businesses.
     

ORC groups don’t have to be a threat to your store. Using Checkpoint tags and towers and training employees on how to identify and prevent theft can keep your business profitable. You have the ability to defeat these criminals.

 

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

     

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: , ,

Proper Clothing Security Can Defeat ORC Groups Part 1

March 2, 2018 by Leave a Comment
Clothing Security-4                                                                                                                        WC Blog 486
Clothing security tags-3

Proper Clothing Security Can Defeat ORC Groups Part 1

     I read a story recently about a shoplifting ring that bypassed store clothing security efforts and in the process got away with over 20 million dollars of clothing.  The article discussed how the group’s reached extended across the entire nation hitting a variety of retail establishments. The members of this group are accused of having stolen more than $3,000 of merchandise in one store in a single day and more than $4,000 from a Victoria’s Secret on another occasion. Consumerist.com “Feds Break Up $20M Shoplifting Ring that Stole Clothing From Coast To Coast”, 9/7/17 by Chris Morran.   https://consumerist.com/2017/09/07/feds-break-up-20m-shoplifting-ring-that-stole-clothing-from-coast-to-coast/. The writer goes into detail on how the group operated but I was especially interested in the methods the group used to defeat clothing security tags and other efforts to stop shoplifting by the stores that were victimized. 

     Clothing security tags, for readers who may not be familiar with them, are tags that can be pinned to clothing and have electronic article surveillance technology embedded in them.  The electronic article surveillance or EAS is a radio wave that the tags send out and if picked up by a receiver known as an EAS tower an alarm is set off. The tower alarm serves as a warning to store employees that merchandise with a security tag on it is about to leave the store. Staff members trained on how to respond to an alarm go to the doors and conduct receipt checks and either get a person to buy merchandise or turn it over to them. In many instances a would-be shoplifter is scared off and will drop the items they intended to steal. So a reader is not confused, the tags used for clothing security are not the same or even similar to manufacturer hang tags. The devices I am referring to are made of an extremely hard plastic material. They are durable enough to withstand years of use. One side of the tag has a pin that is inserted through the material and the other piece is a clip that covers the exposed pin on the other side of the garment. The seal is tight and prevents someone from trying to remove the device without tearing into the clothing. In order to remove a tag without damaging to product a store associate must use a removal tool designed to do this.

     Getting back to the story I was telling you about, as a Loss Prevention Manager with nearly 17 years of Retail Loss Prevention experience, I was interested in the tactics used by the group. I know first-hand that clothing security when done properly can defeat even Organized Retail Crime Organizations such as the one in the article. One of the methods described was that the group would scout a store in advance to see if Loss Prevention Officers or police were present. It did not say of these stores were avoided only that they wanted to know If they were utilized. Not all stores can afford Loss Prevention or police but that does not mean a store cannot protect merchandise. Training employees on providing great customer service and how to recognize signs of potential shoplifters can be almost as effective. Then I noted that the story went on to say that the group would use “blockers”. I have encountered this trick and it can be countered but store teams have to understand how they work. Blockers are usually not the actual shoplifters. The job of a blocker is to distract employees, prevent them from seeing the actual thief or in extreme cases block an employee from following a shoplifter. 

     To identify if this ploy is being used store employees must be in contact with one another preferably by radio. If it seems there are multiple shopliftings or suspicious people in the store at the same time they may be “blockers” and trying to spread out the employees. This can be effective if a store has a small staff since they can’t be at the registers and covering all areas of the floor. If a small or medium sized store has an EAS system and is using clothing security tags the best method to combat these groups is to pull two or three staff members to the doors where the EAS towers are located. Before the shoplifter can exit, tagged merchandise will set off the tower alarm and receipt checks can be conducted.

     In Part 2, I will review other means used by the group in the article and discuss how your store can avoid being a victim. It is important to remember that your first priority in clothing security is to get an EAS system. The best protection programs revolve around that.
Clothing security is important and we can help you with it. Call1.770.426.0547 and let’s talk.

I read a story recently about a shoplifting ring that bypassed store clothing security efforts and in the process got away with over 20 million dollars of clothing.  The article discussed how the group’s reached extended across the entire nation hitting a variety of retail establishments. The members of this group are accused of having stolen more than $3,000 of merchandise in one store in a single day and more than $4,000 from a Victoria’s Secret on another occasion. Consumerist.com “Feds Break Up $20M Shoplifting Ring that Stole Clothing From Coast To Coast”, 9/7/17 by Chris Morran.   https://consumerist.com/2017/09/07/feds-break-up-20m-shoplifting-ring-that-stole-clothing-from-coast-to-coast/. The writer goes into detail on how the group operated but I was especially interested in the methods the group used to defeat clothing security tags and other efforts to stop shoplifting by the stores that were victimized. 
     

Clothing security tags, for readers who may not be familiar with them, are tags that can be pinned to clothing and have electronic article surveillance technology embedded in them. The electronic article surveillance or EAS is a radio wave that the tags send out and if picked up by a receiver known as an EAS tower an alarm is set off. The tower alarm serves as a warning to store employees that merchandise with a security tag on it is about to leave the store. Staff members trained on how to respond to an alarm go to the doors and conduct receipt checks and either get a person to buy merchandise or turn it over to them. In many instances a would-be shoplifter is scared off and will drop the items they intended to steal. So a reader is not confused, the tags used for clothing security are not the same or even similar to manufacturer hang tags. The devices I am referring to are made of an extremely hard plastic material. They are durable enough to withstand years of use. One side of the tag has a pin that is inserted through the material and the other piece is a clip that covers the exposed pin on the other side of the garment. The seal is tight and prevents someone from trying to remove the device without tearing into the clothing. In order to remove a tag without damaging to product a store associate must use a removal tool designed to do this.
     

Getting back to the story I was telling you about, as a Loss Prevention Manager with nearly 17 years of Retail Loss Prevention experience, I was interested in the tactics used by the group. I know first-hand that clothing security when done properly can defeat even Organized Retail Crime Organizations such as the one in the article. One of the methods described was that the group would scout a store in advance to see if Loss Prevention Officers or police were present. It did not say of these stores were avoided only that they wanted to know If they were utilized. Not all stores can afford Loss Prevention or police but that does not mean a store cannot protect merchandise. Training employees on providing great customer service and how to recognize signs of potential shoplifters can be almost as effective. Then I noted that the story went on to say that the group would use “blockers”. I have encountered this trick and it can be countered but store teams have to understand how they work. Blockers are usually not the actual shoplifters. The job of a blocker is to distract employees, prevent them from seeing the actual thief or in extreme cases block an employee from following a shoplifter. 
     

To identify if this ploy is being used store employees must be in contact with one another preferably by radio. If it seems there are multiple shopliftings or suspicious people in the store at the same time they may be “blockers” and trying to spread out the employees. This can be effective if a store has a small staff since they can’t be at the registers and covering all areas of the floor. If a small or medium sized store has an EAS system and is using clothing security tags the best method to combat these groups is to pull two or three staff members to the doors where the EAS towers are located. Before the shoplifter can exit, tagged merchandise will set off the tower alarm and receipt checks can be conducted.
     

In Part 2, I will review other means used by the group in the article and discuss how your store can avoid being a victim. It is important to remember that your first priority in clothing security is to get an EAS system. The best protection programs revolve around that.

 

Clothing security is important and we can help you with it. Call1.770.426.0547 and let’s talk.

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: ,

A Clothing Alarm Causes The Other Shoe To Drop?

February 2, 2018 by Leave a Comment

 

Clothing Alarm-5                                                                                                                          WC Blog 466
Clothing Security Tags-4
A Clothing Alarm Causes The Other Shoe To Drop?
      My daughter is in training to become a department manager for a clothing store chain. She stays in regular contact with friends and co-workers even when she isn’t at work, often learning about events that take place shortly after they happen. Not long ago she was at home and a friend who had just gotten off of work called  and told her about a group of shoplifters who had been in the store and ran out with two large tote-sized bags and a backpack that appeared to be filled with merchandise.  One of the suspects was seen running to a car and jumping into it. The other two suspected thieves were spotted walking quickly to a nearby store in the same shopping plaza and entering it. According to my daughter’s friend a bit later a customer came to their store carrying a pair of name brand shoes that came from their store with a clothing alarm tag still attached to the shoe. The tag had a built in alarm that was still blaring when the patron brought the shoes into the store.
     There are a few of you reading this article unfamiliar with a clothing alarm or clothing security tags. Both of these are terms for devices used to prevent the pilfering of clothing from retailers. The tags can be pinned on clothes (usually in a seam to prevent damage to material) in a location that will be visible to a thief. The idea is to deter theft from ever taking place. Often just the sight of a tag is enough to make a criminal reconsider attempting to steal something from a store. The tags are designed to withstand efforts to pry them off of merchandise and they can withstand quite a bit of physical pounding if someone were to try to break them apart. That type of abuse is going to result in damaged goods anyways rendering them useless for wear or resale. Tags also carry electronic article surveillance technology that will cause a Checkpoint tower alarm to sound when tagged products come too close to the towers. Obviously the idea behind the alarms is that trained associates quickly react to alarm activations and merchandise is recovered for the store.
     As I mentioned earlier my daughter’s store was using a clothing alarm tag that was sounding a built in alarm when the honest customer brought it back into the store. This store uses clothing security tags that have these built in alarms and others that only sound an alarm if tampered with or set off a tower when a shoplifter tries to sneak tagged merchandise out of a store. The benefit of the added alarm is that it does make it very clear when a person is carrying stolen merchandise around. It is difficult to be discreet while trying to duck into a store and carrying merchandise that is sending out an alarm noise. 
     I asked my daughter if the police had been called when the perpetrators fled. She told me that their policy is not to call the police on suspected shoplifters who run out the door. Even if merchandise with a clothing alarm tag that sets off the towers at the front doors there is no follow up other than to notify the district Loss Prevention Manager. Having been a Loss Prevention Manager for quite a few years this bothered me and intrigued me at the same time. I know the store has at least some security cameras in it. Why not review some video and then contact the police about the suspected theft? In my opinion this also defeats a part of the purpose of having an electronic article surveillance system in place. Yes, the clothing security tags do deter theft but there has to be follow-up. If there is no follow up with police when there is a strong probability that a theft has taken place then I believe a part of the value of a theft prevention system is lost. 
      Shoplifters will learn through the grapevine what a store’s policies are regarding shoplifters. When there is no concern that police will be contacted for theft issues thieves begin to take advantage of those businesses. A clothing alarm tag will have the most impact when employees respond to alarms and authorities are contacted for incidents with strong evidence that a theft has occurred. 
     Don’t take half measures to protect your store and merchandise. Use clothing security tags on all of your products and train employees on alarm response. For the rare occasion someone gets away be sure to partner with police and prosecute when possible. Send a strong message to criminals to take their antics elsewhere.
Clothing Security Tags are important and we can help you with it. Call 1.86.426.0547 and let’s talk.
     

My daughter is in training to become a department manager for a clothing store chain. She stays in regular contact with friends and co-workers even when she isn’t at work, often learning about events that take place shortly after they happen. Not long ago she was at home and a friend who had just gotten off of work called  and told her about a group of shoplifters who had been in the store and ran out with two large tote-sized bags and a backpack that appeared to be filled with merchandise. One of the suspects was seen running to a car and jumping into it. The other two suspected thieves were spotted walking quickly to a nearby store in the same shopping plaza and entering it. According to my daughter’s friend a bit later a customer came to their store carrying a pair of name brand shoes that came from their store with a clothing alarm tag still attached to the shoe. The tag had a built in alarm that was still blaring when the patron brought the shoes into the store.

There are a few of you reading this article unfamiliar with a clothing alarm or clothing security tags. Both of these are terms for devices used to prevent the pilfering of clothing from retailers. The tags can be pinned on clothes (usually in a seam to prevent damage to material) in a location that will be visible to a thief. The idea is to deter theft from ever taking place. Often just the sight of a tag is enough to make a criminal reconsider attempting to steal something from a store. The tags are designed to withstand efforts to pry them off of merchandise and they can withstand quite a bit of physical pounding if someone were to try to break them apart. That type of abuse is going to result in damaged goods anyways rendering them useless for wear or resale. Tags also carry electronic article surveillance technology that will cause a Checkpoint tower alarm to sound when tagged products come too close to the towers. Obviously the idea behind the alarms is that trained associates quickly react to alarm activations and merchandise is recovered for the store.

As I mentioned earlier my daughter’s store was using a clothing alarm tag that was sounding a built in alarm when the honest customer brought it back into the store. This store uses clothing security tags that have these built in alarms and others that only sound an alarm if tampered with or set off a tower when a shoplifter tries to sneak tagged merchandise out of a store. The benefit of the added alarm is that it does make it very clear when a person is carrying stolen merchandise around. It is difficult to be discreet while trying to duck into a store and carrying merchandise that is sending out an alarm noise. 

I asked my daughter if the police had been called when the perpetrators fled. She told me that their policy is not to call the police on suspected shoplifters who run out the door. Even if merchandise with a clothing alarm tag that sets off the towers at the front doors there is no follow up other than to notify the district Loss Prevention Manager. Having been a Loss Prevention Manager for quite a few years this bothered me and intrigued me at the same time. I know the store has at least some security cameras in it. Why not review some video and then contact the police about the suspected theft? In my opinion this also defeats a part of the purpose of having an electronic article surveillance system in place. Yes, the clothing security tags do deter theft but there has to be follow-up. If there is no follow up with police when there is a strong probability that a theft has taken place then I believe a part of the value of a theft prevention system is lost. 

Shoplifters will learn through the grapevine what a store’s policies are regarding shoplifters. When there is no concern that police will be contacted for theft issues thieves begin to take advantage of those businesses. A clothing alarm tag will have the most impact when employees respond to alarms and authorities are contacted for incidents with strong evidence that a theft has occurred. 

Don’t take half measures to protect your store and merchandise. Use clothing security tags on all of your products and train employees on alarm response. For the rare occasion someone gets away be sure to partner with police and prosecute when possible. Send a strong message to criminals to take their antics elsewhere.

 

Clothing Security Tags are important and we can help you with it. Call 1.86.426.0547 and let’s talk.     

 

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: , ,
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