When considering which merchandise items to protect with a Sensormatic anti-shoplifting system, retailers typically take into account several factors. Here are some key considerations to help you break down the decision-making process:
- Value of the item: Determine the value of the merchandise you sell. High-value items are more likely to be targeted by shoplifters, so it’s important to protect them. Electronics, luxury goods, designer clothing, and high-end accessories are examples of items that often require protection.
- Popularity and demand: Assess the popularity and demand for specific items in your store. If certain products are frequently targeted by shoplifters or in high demand, it’s wise to protect them. This can include items that are trendy, highly sought after, or have a high resale value.
- Size and portability: Consider the size and portability of the items. Shoplifters often target smaller, easy-to-conceal products that can be quickly taken and hidden. Fragrances, cosmetics, jewelry, mobile accessories, and small electronics fall into this category. Protecting these items can be beneficial in deterring theft.
- Location within the store: Identify areas of your store that are more vulnerable to theft. High-traffic areas, blind spots, and areas with limited supervision are particularly attractive to shoplifters. Focus on protecting merchandise located in these areas to minimize losses.
- Sales history and analytics: Analyze your sales data to identify patterns or trends related to theft. Look for items with a high rate of shrinkage (the difference between recorded and actual inventory), indicating a higher risk of theft. Data analytics and point-of-sale systems can provide valuable insights into which products are frequently targeted.
- Seasonal and promotional items: Consider protecting seasonal or limited-edition items that have a short shelf life. These products often attract increased attention from shoplifters due to their exclusivity or popularity. Examples include holiday-themed merchandise, collectibles, or limited-time collaborations.
- Perishable goods: If you sell perishable goods such as gourmet food, alcohol, or high-end beverages, protecting them can be crucial. Not only are these items valuable, but they can also be easily concealed or consumed in-store without paying.
- Brand reputation: Protecting high-profile or prestigious brands is essential for maintaining brand reputation and customer trust. Customers expect these items to be secured, and failure to protect them can negatively impact your business image.
- Operational costs: Consider the expense, labor, and upkeep associated with implementing an anti-shoplifting system. Balancing the cost of the system with the potential losses due to theft is important. Prioritize the protection of items with a higher risk of theft and substantial financial impact. Use our ROI Calculator to help you make decisions.
- Legal and safety requirements: Some industries or jurisdictions may have specific regulations or safety requirements for protecting certain items. Familiarize yourself with any legal obligations related to anti-shoplifting measures and ensure compliance.
After you review these factors as they apply to your retail environment consider the 20/80 rule. Tagging every piece of merchandise in the store can be cost prohibitive. So, instead tag the 20% of the merchandise that is causing 80% of your losses.
After a period of time look again at your inventory losses. Now tag the new 20% of your loss items. Keep reevaluating your top 20% shrink losses and adjust your tagging. What you will find is that the shoplifters will become frustrated with your Sensormatic System and simply go elsewhere.
This puts YOU in control of what losses you incur. You can make informed decisions about which merchandise items to protect using a Sensormatic anti-shoplifting system. Remember that it’s crucial to strike a balance between protecting high-risk items and managing the costs associated with implementing and maintaining the system.
If you would like more information go to our web site at Loss Prevention Systems or Contact Us.
