Checkpoint Security System; The High Cost Of Spending Nothing

February 14, 2017 by Leave a Comment

It never ceases to amaze me when I walk through my local mall and I see a store with absolutely nothing for Retail theft prevention. There isn’t a locking peg hook, apparel soft tag, no Checkpoint security system or anything that could even remotely Stop Shoplifting. Now I’m not talking about the anchor stores and big boxes selling $6 t shirts I’m seeing this in the mid and smaller retailers, the boutique style stores with $135 pairs of jeans and $300 purses that are laying naked on the shelf.

 

I’ve had occasion to ask store managers and owners if they had no protection because they didn’t see much theft. You probably won’t be surprised to hear that I have never had one say this. What I do hear is that investing in Retail theft prevention like the Checkpoint security system is too expensive to be worth it. Too expensive? Really? I wasn’t a math major in college but I’m pretty sure at $135 per pair of jeans it doesn’t take more than a few booster hits to really wreck your profits and drive shrink through the roof.

 

I point this out and I’m usually countered by people saying that those systems don’t stop shoplifting 100% anyway so why bother? This answer always amazes me. I’ve been doing security work for over a decade and I can tell you that barbed wire and machine guns aren’t enough to Stop shoplifting 100% and neither is locks, chains and glass cases but you don’t see jewelry stores laying merchandise on nice neat shelves instead of inside locked cabinets.

 

Devices like the Checkpoint security system provide a strong visual signal that you want to protect your merchandise. Both professional thieves and the fence sitting general public will have to choose to challenge that system if they want to steal from you and in many cases they will avoid that risk. Successful Retail theft prevention is all about maximizing the value of the dollars spent on security by increase profits and reducing shrink. 

 

The investment you make to Stop shoplifting may not always look like it is making you money, especially when you look at the line item expense on your P&L but come year end the systems more than pay for themselves. I’ve seen $3000 booster hits prevented by something as simple as a door alarm and an attentive associate. That was one attempt, by one booster. Doesn’t take many of those types of preventions for that investment in retail theft prevention to pay for itself.

 

There is more value that your investment into a Checkpoint security system that you can’t see. The people who never try to steal because they know your protected are an invisible, but gigantic part of the puzzle. We can’t say for sure how large this number is but if the industry average for loss to theft is 11%, and that is with a Retail theft prevention system in place to Stop shoplifting, it isn’t a large stretch to imagine what that loss looks like to an unprotected store.

 

Last, but certainly not least is that equipping your store with a Checkpoint security system may be an expense but it is paid one time. Theft can occur every day, of every week, of every month, of every year. The system you install can last you for years and once it has paid for itself in shrink reductions that investment starts making you money, week after week, season after season. If you’re not protecting your inventory you are losing money on your inventory and it’s only a matter of time before your results show the High cost of doing nothing. 

 

Need information on Checkpoint Systems Electronic Article Surveillance?  Give us a call at 1.770.426.0547 now

 

Filed Under: antishoplifting Tagged With: , , ,

Checkpoint Systems Has All Of Your Retail Theft Prevention Needs Covered

January 10, 2017 by Leave a Comment

 

Retail Theft Prevention:  4
Stop Shoplifting:  4
Checkpoint Systems:  4
Checkpoint Systems Has All Of Your Retail Theft Prevention Needs Covered
As we all know, you can’t completely prevent shoplifting, but we can hopefully reduce it.  Shoplifting has been occurring since the 16th Century and only continues to grow more prevalent throughout time.  There are plenty of reasons why people shoplift; some enjoy the thrill of the act, others are professionals that steal for profit, and some steal out of convenience or a sense of entitlement.  Many shoplifters don’t see it as a serious crime, or fear the consequences if they get caught, which only adds to the problem.  Some even justify their actions based on the high cost/profit margin associated with the types of items they steal.  Some people blame the economy because they work for a living, but still can’t afford the things they want or need.  The higher rates of shoplifting are not limited to a small type or class of people.  On the contrary we see people of various ages, sex, race, and even socioeconomic status committing these crimes.  So if we can’t stop shoplifting, all we can do is reduce our risk and mitigate our loss, through the use of retail theft prevention devices and systems.  Checkpoint Systems can supply your company with all the products you need to reduce theft and increase profits.     
If you are in Law Enforcement or Loss Prevention, you have probably seen some crazy and funny things throughout your career.  In my 15 years in Law Enforcement, I have seen every variation of shoplifter, at some point, and have had some very interesting encounters.  We know we can’t stop shoplifting because there are too many means and methods used to steal merchandise.  That is why retail theft prevention is so important.  We have loss prevention employees so we can try and prevent the blatant attempts to steal items on the retail floor.  This helps to identify the old lady who intentionally removes and ingests one multi-vitamin a day because she refuses to pay full price for something her doctor says is important to her health and wellbeing.  But we all know that loss prevention associates can’t be everywhere at once and can’t stop shoplifting singlehandedly.  That is why we add security tags or labels to our merchandise so that we can be notified when Mr. Shoplifter decides to add a sweater to his wardrobe before trying to leave the store.  Don’t be surprised to learn that he actually added the sweater over his existing clothing, so the hard tag was visible to anyone who paid him any attention.  One of my favorite calls involved a teenage girl suspected of taking an inexpensive necklace.  A plain clothes employee detained the girl after he believed she had concealed the item somewhere on her person.  When I arrived, the employee informed me that the female refused to talk to him, and had not turned over the merchandise.  It was soon discovered that she had concealed the necklace in her mouth; therefore talking was not an ideal option for her.  Not sure how she saw that one playing out?  Retail theft prevention is an inevitable way of life for any retailer who wants to protect their property and their pocket book, which is why Checkpoint Systems are essential to support your loss prevention program.  
Although we can’t stop shoplifting entirely, there are plenty of ways you can reduce your risk.  As a member of the loss prevention and law enforcement community I have seen it all, but retail theft prevention is not impossible.  Checkpoint Systems can provide you and your employer with all the loss prevention products you need to fight off shoplifters.  While we joke about some of our personal shoplifting experiences, we also know that shoplifting is a growing problem in our industry, that can’t be ignored.    
Need information on Checkpoint Systems?  Give us a call at 1.770.426.0547 now.  

As we all know, you can’t completely prevent shoplifting, but we can hopefully reduce it. Shoplifting has been occurring since the 16th Century and only continues to grow more prevalent throughout time.  here are plenty of reasons why people shoplift; some enjoy the thrill of the act, others are professionals that steal for profit, and some steal out of convenience or a sense of entitlement. Many shoplifters don’t see it as a serious crime, or fear the consequences if they get caught, which only adds to the problem. Some even justify their actions based on the high cost/profit margin associated with the types of items they steal. Some people blame the economy because they work for a living, but still can’t afford the things they want or need. The higher rates of shoplifting are not limited to a small type or class of people. On the contrary we see people of various ages, sex, race, and even socioeconomic status committing these crimes. So if we can’t stop shoplifting, all we can do is reduce our risk and mitigate our loss, through the use of retail theft prevention devices and systems. Checkpoint Systems can supply your company with all the products you need to reduce theft and increase profits.     

 

If you are in Law Enforcement or Loss Prevention, you have probably seen some crazy and funny things throughout your career. In my 15 years in Law Enforcement, I have seen every variation of shoplifter, at some point, and have had some very interesting encounters. We know we can’t stop shoplifting because there are too many means and methods used to steal merchandise. That is why retail theft prevention is so important. We have loss prevention employees so we can try and prevent the blatant attempts to steal items on the retail floor. This helps to identify the old lady who intentionally removes and ingests one multi-vitamin a day because she refuses to pay full price for something her doctor says is important to her health and wellbeing. But we all know that loss prevention associates can’t be everywhere at once and can’t stop shoplifting singlehandedly. That is why we add security tags or labels to our merchandise so that we can be notified when Mr. Shoplifter decides to add a sweater to his wardrobe before trying to leave the store. Don’t be surprised to learn that he actually added the sweater over his existing clothing, so the hard tag was visible to anyone who paid him any attention. One of my favorite calls involved a teenage girl suspected of taking an inexpensive necklace. A plain clothes employee detained the girl after he believed she had concealed the item somewhere on her person. When I arrived, the employee informed me that the female refused to talk to him, and had not turned over the merchandise. It was soon discovered that she had concealed the necklace in her mouth; therefore talking was not an ideal option for her. Not sure how she saw that one playing out? Retail theft prevention is an inevitable way of life for any retailer who wants to protect their property and their pocket book, which is why Checkpoint Systems are essential to support your loss prevention program.  

 

Although we can’t stop shoplifting entirely, there are plenty of ways you can reduce your risk. As a member of the loss prevention and law enforcement community I have seen it all, but retail theft prevention is not impossible. Checkpoint Systems can provide you and your employer with all the loss prevention products you need to fight off shoplifters. While we joke about some of our personal shoplifting experiences, we also know that shoplifting is a growing problem in our industry, that can’t be ignored.    

 

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

 

 

Filed Under: antishoplifting Tagged With: , ,

Unexpected Advantages Of A Checkpoint Security System – Detect Missed Bottom Of Basket Merchandise Before It Leaves The Store

December 7, 2016 by Leave a Comment

 

Checkpoint systems-3                                                                                                             WC blog 236
Checkpoint security system-4
Checkpoint tags-3
Checkpoint labels-3
Stop shoplifting-3
Unexpected Advantages Of A Checkpoint Security System – Detect Missed Bottom Of Basket Merchandise Before It Leaves The Store
       When you think of Checkpoint systems, what comes to mind first?  Anti-shoplifting equipment? Retail theft prevention?  You would be correct in your choices, but there are other benefits of having a Checkpoint security system that might not come immediately to mind.  A large portion of merchandise shortage does result from criminal activity and it is important to stop shoplifting and employee theft.  However, it is important to know that shortage can be caused by operational issues. Think of a time when you had a shopping cart full of merchandise, you checked out and pushed your cart to the parking lot.  After you put your bags in the trunk you realize there was an item on the bottom of the buggy, perhaps a bag of dog food, or even a small item such as a pen or cosmetic item that was not scanned.  Most of us would be honest and take the merchandise back to the store and pay for it, or leave it with the customer service counter and decide it isn’t worth the time to go back through the checkout.  This isn’t always the case.  There are people that overlook items and once outside decide to take it and blame the cashier for not catching it.  Other people see it left in a shopping cart in the parking lot and just walk off with the merchandise.  Regardless of how the merchandise was missed it was still not paid for and amounts to shrinkage.  A Checkpoint security system can prevent operational losses and stop shoplifting at the same time.
     Checkpoint systems use radio frequency waves transmitted from Checkpoint tags and received by Checkpoint electronic article surveillance antennas to create a protective screen for stores.  As merchandise is paid for at a point of sale, hard tags are removed from merchandise using a Checkpoint detachment tool and the tags are ready for reuse.  Deactivation units at the point of sale deactivate Checkpoint labels so they are unable to cause antenna alarms.  Protected merchandise that does not pass through a point of sale causes an antenna alarm to activate.  Staff members respond to those alarms and conduct receipt checks to locate the merchandise that has not been paid for and can offer to ring it up or return it to the store if the customer chooses not to purchase it.  Either way, merchandise is recovered or sold thereby accounting for it and preventing a loss.
      Just how big a deal are non-crime associated losses to stores?  According to the 2014-2015 Global Retail Theft Barometer Report, administrative and non-crime related losses accounted for 13% of shrinkage in North America, translating to approximately 4.78 BILLION dollars (pg. 53)!  The report does not break down these losses any further, and we know that some of this loss is paperwork and accounting related.  On the other hand we also know that some of this loss is due to unpaid merchandise unintentionally being removed from the store.  If all merchandise in a store was protected with Checkpoint tags or Checkpoint labels, that merchandise would be detected by a Checkpoint security system antenna before it could get out of the door.
     The primary reason to invest in Checkpoint systems should be to stop shoplifting.  Checkpoint tags and Checkpoint labels deter thieves when they see merchandise is protected.  They cause EAS antenna alarms when people attempt to steal merchandise and result in recovered merchandise from items abandoned by thieves or through receipt checks. Whether it is intentional or not, it is important to remember that any merchandise recovered adds to the profit line.  THAT is the benefit of investing in a Checkpoint security system!
Get more information on a Checkpoint security system.  Contact us or call 1.770.426.0547 today.  
 

When you think of Checkpoint systems, what comes to mind first? Anti-shoplifting equipment? Retail theft prevention? You would be correct in your choices, but there are other benefits of having a Checkpoint security system that might not come immediately to mind. A large portion of merchandise shortage does result from criminal activity and it is important to stop shoplifting and employee theft. However, it is important to know that shortage can be caused by operational issues. Think of a time when you had a shopping cart full of merchandise, you checked out and pushed your cart to the parking lot. After you put your bags in the trunk you realize there was an item on the bottom of the buggy, perhaps a bag of dog food, or even a small item such as a pen or cosmetic item that was not scanned. Most of us would be honest and take the merchandise back to the store and pay for it, or leave it with the customer service counter and decide it isn’t worth the time to go back through the checkout. This isn’t always the case. There are people that overlook items and once outside decide to take it and blame the cashier for not catching it. Other people see it left in a shopping cart in the parking lot and just walk off with the merchandise. Regardless of how the merchandise was missed it was still not paid for and amounts to shrinkage. A Checkpoint security system can prevent operational losses and stop shoplifting at the same time.

Checkpoint systems use radio frequency waves transmitted from Checkpoint tags and received by Checkpoint electronic article surveillance antennas to create a protective screen for stores. As merchandise is paid for at a point of sale, hard tags are removed from merchandise using a Checkpoint detachment tool and the tags are ready for reuse. Deactivation units at the point of sale deactivate Checkpoint labels so they are unable to cause antenna alarms. Protected merchandise that does not pass through a point of sale causes an antenna alarm to activate. Staff members respond to those alarms and conduct receipt checks to locate the merchandise that has not been paid for and can offer to ring it up or return it to the store if the customer chooses not to purchase it. Either way, merchandise is recovered or sold thereby accounting for it and preventing a loss.

Just how big a deal are non-crime associated losses to stores? According to the 2014-2015 Global Retail Theft Barometer Report, administrative and non-crime related losses accounted for 13% of shrinkage in North America, translating to approximately 4.78 BILLION dollars (pg. 53)! The report does not break down these losses any further, and we know that some of this loss is paperwork and accounting related. On the other hand we also know that some of this loss is due to unpaid merchandise unintentionally being removed from the store. If all merchandise in a store was protected with Checkpoint tags or Checkpoint labels, that merchandise would be detected by a Checkpoint security system antenna before it could get out of the door.

The primary reason to invest in Checkpoint systems should be to stop shoplifting. Checkpoint tags and Checkpoint labels deter thieves when they see merchandise is protected. They cause EAS antenna alarms when people attempt to steal merchandise and result in recovered merchandise from items abandoned by thieves or through receipt checks. Whether it is intentional or not, it is important to remember that any merchandise recovered adds to the profit line. THAT is the benefit of investing in a Checkpoint security system!

 

Get more information on a Checkpoint security system.  Contact us or call 1.770.426.0547 today.  

 

 

 

Filed Under: antishoplifting Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Trying To Bypass Checkpoint Systems And Other Stories Of Dishonest Employees: Part 2

September 7, 2016 by Leave a Comment
Checkpoint Tags-4                                                                                                                            WC blog 171
Checkpoint Security Systems-3
Trying To Bypass Checkpoint Systems And Other Stories Of Dishonest Employees: Part 2
     Employee theft investigations were probably my most challenging and enjoyable job functions as a Loss Prevention Manager.  Difficult cases could take weeks of surveillances, report monitoring, video reviews and putting in long work days.  Sometimes Checkpoint Security Systems were helpful in conducting the investigations as I could watch for employees deactivating Checkpoint Tags on merchandise when no customer was nearby.  I could also see if a Checkpoint antenna light flashed (our antennas had an audible alert and a visual alert built in) when an employee exited the building, confirming if they may have had stolen merchandise on their person.  While the investigations could take time and be intense, the dishonest employee interviews could be short and/or occasionally humorous.  In this second part of my series I will share an additional internal case that closed on a funny note.  
     To clarify a little first I want the readers to know what makes up Checkpoint Security Systems.  Systems include electronic article surveillance (EAS) antennas, Checkpoint tags and labels, deactivation units that “turn-off” the ability of a tag to set off an antenna and detachment keys to remove hard tags from merchandise.  When used together these tools provide superior merchandise protection to stop shoplifting and deter theft. 
     One memorable case I had involved a return desk associate who had only been employed for a few weeks.  Frequently I made a point to watch new employees after giving them some time to get acclimated to the new job.  I also watched areas where the potential for theft and fraud was greatest.  The return desk could be one of those areas.  There are fewer employees or supervisors walking behind the desk so a cashier is not as concerned with intrusions as they are at the front checklanes.  This service desk employee was taking back returns but I happened to notice that after she did some returns and the customer had left, she examined some items very closely, especially jewelry.  Some of the items returned still had Checkpoint tags on them from when they were purchased, but the tags were no longer useful because they had been de-tuned at the time of purchase.  I continued to watch this employee for the next several days she worked and began to see her remove pieces of small jewelry from a return bin and place them in her pocket.  She would then go on a break or leave for the day with the pilfered merchandise.
       I eventually had plenty of evidence and the approval to do a dishonest employee interview.  The day I decided to interview, I watched the employee hide several pieces of jewelry, including a pair of earrings and a chain bracelet in her socks.  I went to the service desk, and asked the employee to come with me to an office I had set up for the interview.  I usually would have had another manager escort the employee, but in this case I did not want to give an opportunity for the merchandise to be dumped.  We arrived at the office and we sat down.  I introduced myself and began my interview.  I normally followed a specific routine, but in this situation I stopped myself and told the employee that before we went any further I needed her to give me the earrings she had in her left sock.  The woman’s mouth almost hit the floor.  She stammered  for a moment and when I felt she might need a little more coaxing I told her she could give me the bracelet from her other sock as well.  At that point, the suspect turned over the items and I few more things I did not know she had in her pockets.  The rest of the interview went smoothly with a full admission and a promissory note for the merchandise she had already taken home. She also got to wear a set of bracelets, but not the ones she wanted.
      Let me close with this thought, Checkpoint Security Systems are invaluable in keeping shortage low and profits high.  They do work to stop shoplifting and deter all kinds of theft.  Remember, it is important to ensure all equipment works and there are procedures in place to get returned merchandise protected as soon as possible with Checkpoint tags and labels.  Also, don’t neglect to monitor your return desk as well as your checklanes.  Regular walks and random audits can help ensure employees aren’t tempted to engage in dishonest activity.
Checkpoint Security Systems are important and we can help you with it.  Call 1.770.426.0547.

Employee theft investigations were probably my most challenging and enjoyable job functions as a Loss Prevention Manager. Difficult cases could take weeks of surveillances, report monitoring, video reviews and putting in long work days. Sometimes Checkpoint Security Systems were helpful in conducting the investigations as I could watch for employees deactivating Checkpoint Tags on merchandise when no customer was nearby. I could also see if a Checkpoint antenna light flashed (our antennas had an audible alert and a visual alert built in) when an employee exited the building, confirming if they may have had stolen merchandise on their person. While the investigations could take time and be intense, the dishonest employee interviews could be short and/or occasionally humorous. In this second part of my series I will share an additional internal case that closed on a funny note.  
     

To clarify a little first I want the readers to know what makes up Checkpoint Security Systems. Systems include electronic article surveillance (EAS) antennas, Checkpoint tags and labels, deactivation units that “turn-off” the ability of a tag to set off an antenna and detachment keys to remove hard tags from merchandise. When used together these tools provide superior merchandise protection to stop shoplifting and deter theft. 
     

One memorable case I had involved a return desk associate who had only been employed for a few weeks. Frequently I made a point to watch new employees after giving them some time to get acclimated to the new job. I also watched areas where the potential for theft and fraud was greatest. The return desk could be one of those areas. There are fewer employees or supervisors walking behind the desk so a cashier is not as concerned with intrusions as they are at the front checklanes. This service desk employee was taking back returns but I happened to notice that after she did some returns and the customer had left, she examined some items very closely, especially jewelry. Some of the items returned still had Checkpoint tags on them from when they were purchased, but the tags were no longer useful because they had been de-tuned at the time of purchase. I continued to watch this employee for the next several days she worked and began to see her remove pieces of small jewelry from a return bin and place them in her pocket. She would then go on a break or leave for the day with the pilfered merchandise.
       

I eventually had plenty of evidence and the approval to do a dishonest employee interview. The day I decided to interview, I watched the employee hide several pieces of jewelry, including a pair of earrings and a chain bracelet in her socks. I went to the service desk, and asked the employee to come with me to an office I had set up for the interview. I usually would have had another manager escort the employee, but in this case I did not want to give an opportunity for the merchandise to be dumped. We arrived at the office and we sat down.  I introduced myself and began my interview. I normally followed a specific routine, but in this situation I stopped myself and told the employee that before we went any further I needed her to give me the earrings she had in her left sock. The woman’s mouth almost hit the floor. She stammered  for a moment and when I felt she might need a little more coaxing I told her she could give me the bracelet from her other sock as well. At that point, the suspect turned over the items and a few more things I did not know she had in her pockets.  The rest of the interview went smoothly with a full admission and a promissory note for the merchandise she had already taken home. She also got to wear a set of bracelets, but not the ones she wanted.
     

Let me close with this thought, Checkpoint Security Systems are invaluable in keeping shortage low and profits high. They do work to stop shoplifting and deter all kinds of theft. Remember, it is important to ensure all equipment works and there are procedures in place to get returned merchandise protected as soon as possible with Checkpoint tags and labels. Also, don’t neglect to monitor your return desk as well as your checklanes. Regular walks and random audits can help ensure employees aren’t tempted to engage in dishonest activity.

 

Checkpoint Security Systems are important and we can help you with it. Call 1.770.426.0547.

 

Filed Under: antishoplifting Tagged With: , , ,

How Checkpoint Systems Stopped A Booster

August 8, 2016 by Leave a Comment

 

Stop Shoplifting-3 , CP Systems-3 , CP Labels-4
How Checkpoint Systems Stopped  A Booster
The true purpose of loss prevention is deterring theft.  Stores can deter theft through several different means.  Shoplifters prefer to get in a store unnoticed, so one tried and true method to stop shoplifting is speaking to and making eye contact with every person that walks through your front door.  Offer them help and ask if they need help finding anything.  Many times this can be a dead giveaway because they are not prepared for the interaction, so they say something ridiculous, like they were looking for motor oil and you only sell clothing.  It’s like when someone comes up to my pharmacy counter and asks for syringes for their grandma’s diabetic dog.  
Another great way to stop shoplifting is by using anti-theft tools like Checkpoint Systems.  I was sitting in my office last week, looking out over the sales floor, and saw a guy come in the front door.  The first thing I noticed was that he was wearing a tee-shirt with a button up shirt over it, but it was open.  Boosters used to grab a shopping basket or a large gift bag from the greeting card section, but another trend is to just wear extra layers to conceal the merchandise.  It was almost a hundred degrees that day, so that’s why his attire really caught my eye.  He got a shopping cart and went to the small grocery section where he picked up a big bag of chips.  Then he went down the pain relief and cold remedies aisle.  He was bent down looking at some different items; picking up random things and putting them back down.  Interestingly enough, the items he was picking up are those Breathe Right strips that are very commonly stolen and resold at the area flea market.  They all happen to have Checkpoint Labels on them, so it’s either not what he was looking for or they didn’t seem to be appealing to him.  Then he went over to the pain and sleep medications.  Again, these are stolen very frequently, and again, they all have Checkpoint Labels adhered to the fronts of the packages and he kept putting the boxes back on the shelf.   Next he went around and down the stomach remedies section.  This section holds a lot of high retail items so I came down the stairs and got a little closer.  I wasn’t too worried, because I know most of the targeted items in this aisle are encased in Alpha Keepers, as well as tagged with Checkpoint Labels.  It’s a little overkill, but it works, and that’s all that matters.  The guy didn’t pick up anything over there.   He could tell he wasn’t going to be successful at my location, so he left the cart and the chips in the aisle and walked out the door.
That’s the beauty of Checkpoint Systems.  With the increased danger of apprehensions these days, I use every tool at my disposal to deter theft instead of having to go toe to toe with a criminal.  The entire inventory I lose comes straight off my profit line, so I have to work hard to stop shoplifting.  But I’m not going to put myself or my staff in peril.  My Checkpoint Systems gates sit there like a silent sentry, doing its job without a lot of fanfare.  It’s the first thing a thief notices when they come in the door.  And they know they can’t beat it, so they start looking around to see what actually has Checkpoint Labels attached.  Without the labels, the system can’t detect theft, so that part is paramount.  
Get more information on how Checkpoint Systems can help you.  Contact us or call today. 1.770.426.0547

The true purpose of loss prevention is deterring theft. Stores can deter theft through several different means. Shoplifters prefer to get in a store unnoticed, so one tried and true method to stop shoplifting is speaking to and making eye contact with every person that walks through your front door. Offer them help and ask if they need help finding anything. Many times this can be a dead giveaway because they are not prepared for the interaction, so they say something ridiculous, like they were looking for motor oil and you only sell clothing. It’s like when someone comes up to my pharmacy counter and asks for syringes for their grandma’s diabetic dog.  

 

Another great way to stop shoplifting is by using anti-theft tools like Checkpoint Systems. I was sitting in my office last week, looking out over the sales floor, and saw a guy come in the front door. The first thing I noticed was that he was wearing a tee-shirt with a button up shirt over it, but it was open. Boosters used to grab a shopping basket or a large gift bag from the greeting card section, but another trend is to just wear extra layers to conceal the merchandise. It was almost a hundred degrees that day, so that’s why his attire really caught my eye. He got a shopping cart and went to the small grocery section where he picked up a big bag of chips. Then he went down the pain relief and cold remedies aisle.  He was bent down looking at some different items; picking up random things and putting them back down. Interestingly enough, the items he was picking up are those Breathe Right strips that are very commonly stolen and resold at the area flea market. They all happen to have Checkpoint Labels on them, so it’s either not what he was looking for or they didn’t seem to be appealing to him. Then he went over to the pain and sleep medications. Again, these are stolen very frequently, and again, they all have Checkpoint Labels adhered to the fronts of the packages and he kept putting the boxes back on the shelf. Next he went around and down the stomach remedies section. This section holds a lot of high retail items so I came down the stairs and got a little closer. I wasn’t too worried, because I know most of the targeted items in this aisle are encased in Alpha Keepers, as well as tagged with Checkpoint Labels. It’s a little overkill, but it works, and that’s all that matters. The guy didn’t pick up anything over there. He could tell he wasn’t going to be successful at my location, so he left the cart and the chips in the aisle and walked out the door.

 

That’s the beauty of Checkpoint Systems.  With the increased danger of apprehensions these days, I use every tool at my disposal to deter theft instead of having to go toe to toe with a criminal. The entire inventory I lose comes straight off my profit line, so I have to work hard to stop shoplifting.  But I’m not going to put myself or my staff in peril. My Checkpoint Systems gates sit there like a silent sentry, doing its job without a lot of fanfare. It’s the first thing a thief notices when they come in the door. And they know they can’t beat it, so they start looking around to see what actually has Checkpoint Labels attached. Without the labels, the system can’t detect theft, so that part is paramount.  

 

Get more information on how Checkpoint Systems can help you. Contact us or call today. 1.770.426.0547

 

 

Filed Under: antishoplifting Tagged With: , ,

Does Your Business REALLY Need A Checkpoint System?

July 6, 2016 by Leave a Comment

 

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

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

 

What types of businesses can use Checkpoint Systems?  

1. Clothing Stores

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

 

2.  Hardware Stores 

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

 

3. Cell Phone Sales or Computer Repair Businesses

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

Filed Under: antishoplifting Tagged With: , , ,

CHECKPOINT SYSTEMS, AN INVESTMENT WORTH MAKING

June 7, 2016 by Leave a Comment

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

 

Filed Under: antishoplifting Tagged With: , ,

Theft From Where You Least Expect It

May 9, 2016 by Leave a Comment

 

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

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

 

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

 

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

For more information on how Checkpoint Systems, contact us 1.770.426.0547

 

 

Filed Under: antishoplifting Tagged With: , ,

A Better Way To Stop Shoplifting

April 5, 2016 by Leave a Comment

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

 

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

 

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

 

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

Filed Under: antishoplifting Tagged With: , ,

Red Tape In Retail Theft Prevention

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

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

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

2. The manager must see the person conceal merchandise.

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

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

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

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

 

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


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

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


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


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

 

Filed Under: antishoplifting Tagged With: , , , ,
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