Time and time again we find ways to bridge the gap between loss prevention and customer service. When both are executed correctly, the two sides of store operations should flow together seamlessly. Loss prevention should never interfere with sales, or with customer service. Conversely, customer service should never have a reason to inhibit loss prevention. There is always a solution to keep both sides happy.
Since a major player in most retailer’s clothing security is Checkpoint tags or other clothing security tags, understanding the balance between their use and good customer service is essential to carry out the process quickly and efficiently.
The first step is to have the correct placement of security tags on clothes. The tags should not be somewhere that prohibits a customer from comfortably trying on an item for size and fit. Most EAS manufacturers understand the need for variances in size and style when it comes to these security tags. There is no longer a need to try and use a one-size fit all mentality when it comes to EAS tags.
There is no need to use a UFO style tag, like one would use for a winter coat, on the chain of a necklace. It is bulky and an eyesore for a customer wanting to make an accessory purchase. It is better to use smaller, less obvious tags designed for jewelry and accessories. The accessory tag would also not be effective as a deterrent on a winter coat. Due to the size and bulk of the outerwear, the larger tag will fit better, clasp together better, and be more obvious that the product is being protected.
Along the same lines, there is a right and wrong application of EAS tags– even on large and bulky items. Yes you want to use a larger tag, but the larger disk component needs to be on the outside of the garment. The smaller, flat and smooth pin side needs to go on the inside of the coat. This way when a customer puts it on, they can slide their arm through the sleeve without getting it caught up on the tag. The same concept applies also for shoes with tags pinned though and eye for the shoelaces.
Another aspect to consider is where in the merchandise the tags should go. If a tag is placed in a seam of a shirt close to the hem, a shoplifter might try to cut or tear the tag out- understanding that repairing a small rip in the seam is easily fixed. Positioning the tag up several inches in this same seam, does not pose the same problem. Too high up, however can be uncomfortable for a customer trying the shirt on.
The last part is to be consistent with where the clothing security tags are placed on your merchandise (tags on the bottom left pant leg, right coat sleeve, etc). This way your cashiers will be more accurate in removing them at the point of sale. If a cashier has to search all over a garment to find a tag, they are more likely to miss the tag and cause a great inconvenience to the customer.
Visit the Loss Prevention Store to purchase Checkpoint Tags, a Clothing Alarm, Clothing Security or Clothing Security Tags to put Security Tags on Clothes and an Electronic Article Surveillance or EAS system.
For more information on Checkpoint tags, clothing security, clothing alarm, or clothing security tags how they can work with your Electronic Article Surveillance or EAS system contact us at security tags on clothes or call 1.770.426.0547