In our security-conscious world, safeguarding possessions is crucial. Two effective systems, Acoustic Magnetic (AM) and Radio Frequency (RF) security systems, play a significant role in preventing theft. Let’s explore how these systems work and their key benefits. 

AM Security Systems:

AM systems are commonly used in retail environments to protect merchandise. They consist of electronic article surveillance (EAS) tags and detectors. EAS tags are discreet devices attached to products, emitting a unique acoustic signal when exposed to a specific magnetic field. Detectors placed at store exits create the field. If a tagged item passes through it, an alarm is triggered, alerting staff to potential theft. 

RF Security System:

RF systems operate differently but with the same objective. They also use EAS tags and detectors. The EAS tags contain an electronic circuit that responds to radio frequency signals emitted by the detectors. When a tagged item passes through the RF field, the circuit activates, triggering an alarm and raising awareness of potential theft. 

Should I Use the AM or RF Frequency?

The structural difference between these two systems is the frequency at which the tag and antenna operate, but there are some additional advantages and disadvantages to each system.

Radio Frequency (RF) systems work by creating a narrow, low-frequency electro-magnetic radio field. If the field is disrupted by a tag or label, it causes that system to alarm. The most popular frequency for RF systems is 8.2MHz, but other frequencies can be 1.81MHz, 1.95MHz, 2.0MHz, 3.25MHz, and 4.7MHz. Whatever frequency your store chooses is up to preference as well as what frequency other in-store devices operate at to avoid interference. As RF Systems are cheaper than AM, they are the most popular choice for retailers. A popular RF operating system is Checkpoint.

They are most commonly used in apparel, shoe, sporting goods, and houseware stores. RF labels are thinner and more like a classic “sticker” material.

Acousto-Magnetic (AM) Systems work similarly to RF Systems, but work at the 58KHz frequency. AM Systems have a better detection range and are the best choice in environments with a lot of radio noise from other sources. These tags are more reliable and less prone to false alarms, but are more expensive. A popular AM operating system is Sensormatic.

The stores that most frequently use AM Systems are consumer electronic, home improvement, grocery, and pharmaceuticals. AM labels are larger and a bit bulkier. They have a “puffy” and raised appearance.

The decision between using an AM or RF system for your store’s EAS depends on various factors and considerations.

AM System:

Detection Range: AM systems generally offer a longer detection range, making them suitable for larger store layouts.
Interference: AM systems are less prone to interference from metal or liquids, resulting in fewer false alarms.
Cost: AM systems are usually more expensive than RF systems.

RF System:

Cost: RF systems are generally more affordable than AM systems, making them a budget-friendly option.
Tag Compatibility: RF systems often have a wider range of compatible tags, providing flexibility in tag selection.
Installation: RF systems are generally easier to install compared to AM systems.

Ultimately, the choice between AM and RF systems depends on factors such as the size and layout of your store, budget constraints, and specific requirements. It is advisable to consult with EAS system providers or security experts who can assess your store’s needs and provide personalized recommendations based on your circumstances.

Be sure to check with management before selecting which frequency you choose. Some franchise or chain stores prefer to stick with one specific frequency across all stores!

Benefits of AM and RF Security Systems:

• Integration Ease: Integrating AM and RF systems into existing security measures is straightforward. They can be interconnected with video surveillance and access control systems, providing comprehensive security coverage.
• Versatility: AM and RF security systems can be adapted to various environments and industries. They accomodate different tag formats, making them suitable for a wide range of merchandise.
• Quick Detection: AM and RF systems rapidly and reliably detect tagged items. When an item enters or exits the detection field, the system triggers an alarm, enabling swift action to prevent losses.
• Deterrence: Visible AM and RF security systems act as deterrents, discouraging potential thieves from attempting theft.

Conclusion: 

AM and RF security systems are effective tools in preventing theft. With their visible presence, quick detection capabilities, versatility, and integration options, they offer valuable protection for businesses and individuals. By implementing these systems, one can enhance asset security and gain peace of mind in an increasingly complex world. 

The post Preventing Theft: The Role of AM and RF Security Systems    first appeared on Security Tags.

Effective loss prevention in retail includes the use of security tags, which play a vital role in deterring shoplifting and preventing theft. These tags function by setting off an alarm when they encounter a magnetic field from an Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) System, alerting store staff to the presence of an unpaid item.

Although it would be ideal for retailers to tag all of their merchandise, this approach is typically too time-consuming and expensive. Therefore, retailers need to prioritize the items that are most frequently stolen and targeted for tagging with security tags and labels.

For a comprehensive list of the most crucial items that retailers should tag in their stores, continue reading below.

Luxury or Higher-Cost Items:

It’s important to tag any expensive or high-value merchandise to deter thieves. Designer handbags, jewelry, electronics, and high-end clothing are all items that should be tagged because they are more likely to be targeted due to their high resale value. Self-alarming tags like Screamer or Spider tags are ideal for these types of items because they not only alarm when passing through the security gate but also when tampered with by a shoplifter.

Screamer tags work best for items with secure loops like handbags, shoes, and coats, while Spider tags are perfect for boxed items like electronics, toolkits, and cosmetics. Shell Tags are also effective for high-end clothing items since they cannot be easily removed without the right tools. These tags may cost more, but their increased detectability and effectiveness make them worth the investment.

Delicate Items:

Fragile items like electronics and glassware are prone to damage during theft attempts. To prevent such damage, retailers can tag these items, making it difficult or unattractive for thieves to steal them. Some shop owners prefer to keep fragile items in locked cabinets, while others opt for security labels or tags to ensure their safety.

Spider Tags are particularly suitable for securing boxes containing delicate and expensive items, such as plates, bowls, fine china, candles, or other fragile items made of glass or porcelain. Retailers can also use security labels, which can be discretely inserted into the packaging and applied to any smooth and flat surface.

Small Products:

Small and valuable items like makeup, accessories, and small electronics, are frequently targeted by shoplifters due to their high demand and ease of concealment. To prevent theft of these items, retailers can use smaller security labels that can be easily attached to the packaging or product.

Plain white labels can provide a neat and clean look, and can also be personalized by adding pricing information or store branding. Barcode labels can also be used to increase legitimacy and prevent shoplifters from removing them.

In addition, it is important to display these items in a high-visibility area to discourage theft and make it easier for store personnel to monitor them.

Display Items:

Displayed items in a store, whether on mannequins or on shelves, are prone to shoplifting due to their easy accessibility and high desirability. The absence of these items may go unnoticed, making them a prime target for theft. To maintain the aesthetic appeal of the display, it is recommended to use subtle security tags like Mini Rectangular Tags, Shell Tags, and Mini Pencil Tags. In case it’s not possible to tag an item, discreetly attaching security labels on the display can be a useful alternative.

New Items:

Shoplifters are often drawn to new merchandise due to its popularity and perceived value. To prevent losses, it’s important to choose the appropriate security tag for each item based on its value, shape, and other individual features. It’s recommended to invest more in securing high-value items, as the potential losses from theft can be significant.

Seasonal Products:

Seasonal merchandise, such as clothing or decorations for holidays, are often popular targets for shoplifters due to their high demand and limited usage. Properly tagging these items with security tags or labels is important, especially during peak shopping seasons.

The type of security tag or label to use for seasonal merchandise varies depending on the specific item and holiday. For example, Spider Tags are ideal for securing boxes of Christmas trees and ornaments, Pencil Tags can be used for fabric items like stockings, Screamer Tags can protect woven Easter baskets, and clothing security tags such as Pencil Tags, Mini Rectangular Tags, and Ink Tags can be added to Halloween costumes.

Special Edition and Limited Edition Items:

Collectibles and exclusive merchandise that are available in limited quantities are in high demand among collectors and can be easy targets for shoplifters to resell. As these items are restocked less frequently, it is crucial to secure them with the most effective security measures possible.

Self-alarming tags are highly recommended for these types of items as they are difficult for shoplifters to remove without triggering the alarm. Additionally, if your store has a history of high theft, it may be necessary to keep limited edition items in a locked display case for added security.

Conclusion:

In order to effectively deter theft and protect profits, retailers must carefully consider what items to tag and what type of security tags or labels to use. While security tags can be highly effective in preventing theft, retailers must also implement other security measures such as surveillance cameras, security guards, and employee training programs to create a comprehensive loss prevention strategy. By analyzing sales data and security footage, retailers can identify which items are frequently stolen in their particular store or geographic area and take appropriate measures to protect them. Additionally, larger and more expensive tags are ideal for larger and more expensive items, while self-alarming tags like screamer tags or spider tags offer the best protection.

Overall, implementing a comprehensive loss prevention strategy that includes security tags and other measures is essential for retailers to reduce the risk of theft and protect their bottom line.

Sources:

https://dealaid.org/data/retail-crime/ 

The post Safeguarding Your Merchandise: The 7 Items That Require Security Tags for Maximum Protection first appeared on Security Tags.

• Alcohol:

Alcohol is one of the most commonly shoplifted items due to its high cost and easy concealment. Many shoplifters steal alcohol to either consume it themselves or sell it to others for a profit. In addition, alcohol is sometimes kept in a separate area of the store, making it easier to access and steal without being noticed.

• Makeup and cosmetics:

Makeup and cosmetics are another common target for shoplifters. These items are often small and easy to conceal in a purse or pocket. They are also high in demand and can be resold for profit. Additionally, many cosmetic items are often kept in accessible areas of the store, making it easy for shoplifters to quickly grab them and walk out unnoticed. 

• Clothing and fashion accessories:

Clothing and accessories are also frequently stolen by shoplifters. These items can be expensive and desirable, and many shoplifters steal them for personal use or to sell them to others. Additionally, clothing and accessories are often easy to conceal or layer and can be quickly resold for profit.

• Electronics:

Electronics are another popular target for shoplifters. These items are often expensive and in high demand, making them attractive to thieves. In addition, many electronic items are small and easy to conceal, and some can be resold for a high profit. Furthermore, electronics are often located in areas of the store where there is less staff supervision, making it easier for shoplifters to steal them unnoticed.

• Food and groceries:

While it may seem surprising, food and groceries are also commonly stolen by shoplifters. This is often due to financial hardship, as many individuals may not be able to afford groceries or may be struggling to make ends meet. In addition, food and groceries are often easy to conceal and can be quickly consumed or resold.

Conclusion:

While the reasons for stealing these items may vary, the impact of shoplifting on businesses and individuals is significant. The cost of shoplifting is passed on to consumers in the form of higher prices. Additionally, shoplifting can result in legal consequences, including fines, community service, and even jail time.

To prevent shoplifting, retailers can take several measures, including increasing staff supervision, installing security cameras, or investing in high-quality loss prevention products such as security tags and labels.

In conclusion, while any item can be targeted by shoplifters, certain items are more commonly stolen due to their high value, demand, and ease of concealment. Retailers can take steps to prevent shoplifting and protect their businesses, but it is important for individuals to understand the impact of their actions and the consequences of shoplifting. By working together, we can help prevent this crime and ensure that businesses and consumers are protected.

The post The Top 5 Most Shoplifted Items and Why first appeared on Security Tags.

It is far from easy to identify the shoplifters who caused the USA’s $100 billion retail shrink problem. There’s no single method for identifying shoplifters from paying customers. It’s critical to approach this subject neutrally and without prejudice because the fact is simple:

You cannot tell if someone is a shoplifter just by the way they look! (Unless of course their outfit is packed with your merchandise and they are running out the door)

No one ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, or socioeconomic status is more likely to be a shoplifter. Shoplifters come in all shapes, sizes and walks of life.

You cannot tell a shoplifter apart by how they look, you have to focus on their motivations, targets, and how they act. Shoplifters are usually one (or more) of the following kinds of people:

• The Freebie-Finder

These people are paying customers who take what they can when they can because they can. A Freebie-Finder will take items that are not being carefully watched or security-tagged (and labeled). This might be at a self-checkout or slipping a product into a different one that they are purchasing. This thief may even be one of your loyal and frequent customers who think they deserve a discount for their continued patronage.

• The Money-Maker

These people are stealing items and then boosting them to make money for themselves. These “Money Makers” are most commonly those who are desperate and struggling to feed their habits. People who want to make a few dollars on shoplifted merchandise usually target big, crowded stores with low supervision. They target your merchandise with higher resale value such as electronics, jewelry, beauty products, and apparel.

• The Making-Ends-Meet-er

With prices skyrocketing, some people steal just to feed, clothe, and take care of themselves and their families. These people target food, clothing, health products, baby products, and sometimes toys to make ends meet. Usually, these people do not want to steal but have turned to it out of necessity. 

• The Sticky-Fingers

“Kleptomania” is when someone has the compulsion to steal products. This is a mental health condition that affects a person’s impulse control and creates a shoplifting addiction. These people have “sticky fingers” and cannot help but take whatever they can because they cannot help it. These thieves take anything they can and for no particular reason other than to steal it. Usually, these products would be anything small and concealable.

• The Triple-Doggie-Darer

These people are shoplifting on a whim. This might be because their friends dared them to, or they are inebriated and want to impress, or they’re being peer pressured. Thrill-seeking shoplifters are young adults or teenagers. This spur-of-the-moment thief usually targets small, inexpensive items or anything that may hold social value to the group they desperately want to fit into. A group of young people also may want to steal alcoholic beverages since purchasing is not an option for them!

• The Oopsie-Daisy-er

This unintentional shoplifter accidentally leaves without paying for something because they are forgetful, elderly, or distracted by young children (oops!). Whether a child has placed an item into their bag, they forgot an item on the bottom of the shopping cart, or an elderly man walks out wearing the sunglasses he had just tried on, these people have mistakenly shoplifted your items.

Across all shoplifters (except for the one who genuinely has no idea they are stealing), there are a few tell-tale signs of someone removing unpaid products from your store. The following is a list of suspicious behaviors that you should be aware of.

Some suspicious behavior you should look out for: 

• Constantly glancing around and watching the cashier or salesman more than actually shopping.
• Wearing overly-heavy, bulky apparel in the summer or unneeded layers. 
• Carrying a large bag or backpack or holding an umbrella when there’s no rain. Maybe they are even stuffing their reusable shopping bag full!
• Short or strangely spaced steps when walking might be a sign that someone is hiding stolen property on their body. (Be careful if this is your only “clue” that someone might be stealing from you. Some people may have a mobility problem or disability causing them to walk differently and it would be embarrassing (and potentially very problematic) to call them out on that.)
• Bringing many things into a dressing room and leaving with only one or none of them.
• The customer’s eyes are scanning the store and are not on what they are doing with their hands.
• Showing nervousness and picking up random objects without any thought.
• Coming into the store all the time and seemingly never buying anything.
• Coming into the store in pairs or larger groups. One chats up a salesperson while the other “browses” or stands in big clumps around the merchandise with one person in the middle.

Some of these loss prevention tactics are:

• Training employees on what behavior to look out for and how to (or not to) approach a shoplifter. You should also cover best practices for security tags and labels.
• Labels for less expensive items and security tags for higher-ticket goods are used in Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) systems to keep track of stock and alert staff when unpaid merchandise leaves the store. These are great investments that pay for themselves!
• Thoroughly inventorying merchandise and using that data to determine the at-risk items and adjust how many are kept on the floor. Instant RFID inventory tracking is a great way to do this right at checkout!
• A strong store layout that eliminates hidden spaces and blindspots and places high-value merchandise and frequently stolen products in plain sight. Make sure your store’s entrances and exits are well-monitored. Some stores have had success with putting their checkout counter right next to the doors.
• Making sure you always provide above-and-beyond customer service.
• Investing in security cameras and CCTV surveillance.
• For larger sections with many higher-cost items, it may be wise to invest in lockable screens, tethered cables, and cabinet locks.

No matter who is shoplifting from your store or why – prevention is the key to protecting your merchandise and avoiding raising prices or losing profit.

The post Why people shoplift and how you can stop them! first appeared on Security Tags.

For the 31% of consumers who dislike in-store shopping, how can your store improve their experience? This post will contain 3 helpful tips which can increase customer satisfaction during the holiday season and beyond!

1. Make an aesthetically pleasing shopping experience!

Clear out any clutter or mess to give your store a neat and put-together look. Allow room for the kinds of customers who want to slowly meander and browse the products and for the ones who enter with only one mission in mind. A messy, overcrowded store can feel overwhelming to a shopper who is looking for a particular product and to one who is appreciating the holiday experience. To improve this, logically distribute your merchandise in the store and provide clear signage. Make sure it is obvious what is down each aisle (if your store is structured this way) and where. These extra considerations can decrease how stressful holiday shopping may feel to some.

Another aspect of your store which can be worked upon is the decor. A festive atmosphere can uplift and inspire shoppers with the wonders of the holiday season. Avoid worn, dusty, or broken decorations as well as any ornaments belonging to one religion in particular. Allow your store to be as welcoming as possible! String lights have been and always will be a crowd-pleaser. Not only does the soft, warm lighting make your store feel like home, but they are also a relatively inexpensive, multipurpose, and durable decoration. Bring light back into holiday shopping!

2. Staff Smart!

Nothing is worse than a long, and boring, checkout line. Avoid these by making sure you have the right amount of employees on the floor at a time. Have more staff members working around busy shopping times. Sometimes long lines are unavoidable. Make the line-up an entertaining shopping space as well. You can set up a display or even create a small impulse-buy shopping area for customers to browse while they wait. This gives them something to do while they wait while also giving them the opportunity to fill their baskets with more of your merchandise.

Set your employees up for success! Train your staff members with the best and most effective ways to engage shoppers, drive sales, and spot suspicious shoplifting behaviours. Not only will empowering your staff benefit your business, but it will also motivate your employees to do their best. 

3. Gift Guides!

Too many choices often overwhelm customers. The Paradox of Choice tells us a large number of options can lead to customers feeling dissatisfied with the choice they’ve made or even overwhelmed to the point they can’t even make a choice! Solve your customers’ problems and help them find the perfect gift for their loved ones. One study found emails containing a gift guide led to a 48% increase in purchases. This will bring customers into your store that may have otherwise gone elsewhere, boost brand awareness, and add value to your business model. 

Conclusion:

If you tidy and decorate your space, properly prepare your staff members, and guide customers towards items that fit their needs, you can greatly improve customer experience in your store. Remember 40% of holiday shopping happens during the last 10 days before December 25th. You still have time to create a valuable experience for your new and returning customers which will keep them coming back.

As always, ensure your store has the appropriate security to prevent avoidable loss due to shoplifting during this busy time. To consult with our Retail Security Advisors on how you can protect your merchandise please call +1-949-409-7200 or email apannu@ineolutionsinc.com. 

Sources:

https://www.insiderintelligence.com/content/holiday-shopping-stores 

https://www.retaildoc.com/blog/should-you-decorate-your-retail-store-for-the-holidays-if-so-how-pics

https://www.retaildoc.com/blog/things-you-should-do-to-get-your-store-ready-for-the-holidays

https://thedecisionlab.com/reference-guide/economics/the-paradox-of-choice

https://www.publitas.com/blog/4-reasons-to-publish-an-online-gift-guide-during-the-holiday-season/ 

The post 3 Ways You Can Improve Customer Experience This Holiday Season first appeared on Security Tags.

The antenna and pedestals, which are a key component of EAS, may now be hidden in plain sight, providing a welcoming entrance while securing precious products in the store. 

 Here’s everything you need to know about covert Electronic Article Surveillance and why it’s become so popular. 

What is hidden EAS? 

Antennas are an important part of the EAS loss prevention system. These antennae, which guard the entrance to the retail location, are in continual connection to security labels and tags placed on merchandise. 

Whenever a tagged or labelled item reaches these antennas, an audible alarm alerts workers that an item may be on its way out of the store. 

Antennas were quite evident until recently, but now sellers have an option. Because of advancements in EAS technology, antennas may now be hidden behind the store’s doorframe, beneath the floor of the foyer, or perhaps even overhead, allowing the customer’s first impression to be dominated by the store’s design rather than security. 

So, who makes the concealed EAS suit, and what are the possibilities? 

Hidden EAS Options 

EAS solutions can be easily hidden in the floor of your store, at the entryway overhead, or embedded into the frame of the doorways. INEO Clarity system is another option for a “hidden” EAS system, with a clear, high-tensile strength acrylic material.  

Under floor 

Under floor EAS includes placing the EAS transmitter in a concealed recess at the entryway, taking up no store space and providing complete discretion. 

Overhead 

If near the floor isn’t for you, advanced technology helps in tracking and tracking anything from above. 

A tiny, square overhead antenna is used in this arrangement, which is placed near the entryway. It’s an RFID system that works with encoded RFID frequency tags that can not only notify employees of theft, but also monitor things and help with inventory management. 

Within the Doorframe 

Another alternative is to hide your EAS inside a store’s entryway, which is available for various door frame sizes and has minimal effect on the floor. 

Two small receivers are hidden inside the sides of the entryway, and little wires run around the doorjamb to power the equipment. 

What to Consider? 

Although each solution improves aesthetics, the overall structure of your business may influence which choice is best for you. 

Whether you employ RF or AM, the frequency of the EAS tags. 

The width of your doorway – some systems are only suitable for narrower entrances, whereas others need the installation of additional modules to achieve a wider width. 

The measurement of your ceiling height – An overhead antenna must be placed low enough in the sky for items to be within range. 

The depth under your floor — If you want to install an underfloor system, you’ll need to build a 20mm hole to house the antennae. This level of complexity is not seen in every store. 

The appearance of your entryway – Some methods involve the construction of panel to house the hidden antenna, which are not pedestals. 

Gaining Popularity 

In an era when the customer experience is everything, hidden EAS is gaining traction. However, it is not an option that all shops will want to use. 

For some, the conspicuous presence of an antenna acts as a theft deterrent. Others may not be able to accommodate concealed EAS because of the actual arrangement of their doorway.  

Hidden EAS, on the other hand, may provide a multitude of benefits for merchants who place a premium on the appearance and feel of their doorway. 

More information about hidden EAS may be found here, as well as a list of security tags and labels that are compatible with a wide range of concealed EAS systems. 

Additional resources:  

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronic_article_surveillance 

https://www.securitytags.com/hidden-eas-could-benefit-your-store/#:~:text=What%20is%20hidden%20EAS%3F,and%20labels%20affixed%20to%20products. 

https://www.securitytags.com/hidden-benefits-eas/ 

https://www.ineoproducts.com/blogs/news/how-to-use-security-tags 

https://www.ineoproducts.com/blogs/news/loss-prevention-in-five-levels  

The post Could Hidden EAS Benefit Your Store? first appeared on Security Tags.

Grocery stores

Department stores

Hardware

Fashion retailers

Drug stores

Electronics

The post How different retail verticals use security tags and labels first appeared on Security Tags.

A surge in touchless self-checkout, contactless payments and of course online retail are among the trends emerging in retail as the US sector grapples with swift change in the wake of COVID-19.

These are just one of the ways the sector is radically transforming, with experts predicting there will be further changes ahead as the retail industry evolves, pivots and adapts to become more resilient.

Here’s a snapshot of just some of the trends being accelerated in retail by COVID-19.

Touchless checkout

According to a recent survey by Shenkel, US consumers are rapidly embracing touchless self-checkouts as two-thirds of customers look to change their shopping habits in the midst of COVID-19.

Their findings indicate 87 per cent of shoppers say they would prefer to shop in stores with touchless or robust self-checkout options while more than two-thirds of consumers are now using self-checkout, touchless self-checkout or frictionless micro-markets to pay for groceries.

The findings further note:

• Exactly half of consumers are aware of touchless self-checkout options, where items are automatically scanned and recognized without needing to touch a pad or screen to enter their names.

• Self-checkout options remain popular with nearly 75 per cent of shoppers using self-checkout to pay for groceries frequently.

Contactless payments

US consumers have traditionally been distrustful of contactless payments but that’s quickly changing during COVID-19 and the increased hygiene concerns associated with cash payments and pin pads.

According to the Futurist Group contactless payment features are now considered a necessity by 38 per cent of American consumers, a jump of 8 per cent since the COVID-19 outbreak started.

Importantly this data was sourced early in the COVID-19 outbreak on March 3 but could be an indicator contactless card usage is set to spike in the US as a result of the Coronavirus outbreak.

“What it found was that, before Covid-19 began its spread, three in 10 US adults (30 per cent) reported that contactless card payments were something they needed, while a larger share of 41 per cent said they didn’t need the feature,” creditcards.com reports.

“But data from March 3 indicates a jump to 38 per cent indicating that contactless payment is a necessity to them, eclipsing those who say they don’t need it, at 33 per cent. This represents a 26 per cent increase in the number of U.S. consumers who said they require a contactless feature.”

Online retail

Online retail was already primed to boom between 2020 and 2023, with Visual Capitalist noting it was set to become worth $6.3 trillion in the next three years.

There’s no doubt COVID-19 has accelerated that trend, with Essential Retail noting in March, e-commerce transaction volumes increased by 74 per cent.

“The rise in e-commerce sales has been particularly profound in products related to staying indoors,” they reflected.

“Compared to March 2019, transaction volumes increased by 97 per cent for home products and furnishings, 136 per cent for DIY products, 163 per cent for garden essentials, 26.6 per cent for electronics, 29.7 per cent for jewellery, and 18.6 per cent for Telco.

“Additionally, there was a 97 per cent increase in online gaming. Categories which saw a decline in transaction volume in this period included ticketing by 60 per cent, travel by 44 per cent, and online dating by 8.9 per cent.”

Meanwhile, it’s tipped the e-commerce trend will continue long beyond the quarantine of COVID-19.

“Long term, we and others in the industry predict that the shift in consumer behaviour – opting for online purchases – is likely to outlast the crisis,” Essential Retail stated.

The post Retail trends accelerated by COVID-19 first appeared on Security Tags.

With the country now declared in a national emergency, the US retail sector has been swamped by a wave of coronavirus panic purchasing.

Like countries all over the globe, American consumers have been stockpiling everyday items including toilet paper, hand sanitizer, rice and pasta, prompting many retailers to implement buying quotas while dealing with irate clientele.

Late last week that prompted the National Retail Federation and Retail Industry Leaders Association to implore customers to purchase responsibly, while some non-essential retailers have closed their doors and grocery retailers are working around the clock to restock essential supplies.

So, what should retailers consider when it comes to panic buying.

Why the panic?

According to psychologists speaking to CNBC last week, panic buying is a form of retail therapy, where consumers purchase items in a bid to manage their emotional state.

“It’s about ‘taking back control’ in a world where you feel out of control,” one psychologist noted.

Meanwhile, another reflected stress also played a further role.

“When people are stressed their reason is hampered, so they look at what other people are doing. If others are stockpiling it leads you to engage in the same behavior,” he said.

“People see photos of empty shelves and regardless of whether it’s rational it sends a signal to them that it’s the thing to do.”

In the interim, the situation is stretching the retail sector in terms of product availability, customer service, and logistics.

A plea to be reasonable

Late last week the rush on panic buying prompted the NRF and RILA to release a statement pleading with shoppers to resist the urge to hoard ad stockpile.

“Retailers – particularly grocery providers – are working with manufacturers, suppliers and government agencies to make certain essential products and services remain readily available to customers. Retail supply chains remain strong and retail employees are working around the clock to meet consumer demand,” National Retail Federation President and CEO Matthew Shay and Retail Industry Leaders Association President Brian Dodge said.

“If you don’t need an item in the next two weeks, leave it for someone who does. Hoarding and stockpiling creates unnecessary gaps between the time that someone who truly needs a product can find it back on retailers’ shelves. This is particularly important for our most vulnerable neighbors – the elderly and those who are struggling with other health issues.

“We know this is a challenging time for everyone. But by partnering against fear and doubt, shopping responsibly and following important instructions on how we can help stop the spread of this virus, we will successfully face this challenge. Together.”

Industry responds

As the NRF recently noted, the retail sector is at the coalface of coronavirus response, and as a result they are calling on the government for guidance and support.

“Retail is serving on the front lines of an effective response to this crisis – providing drive-up COVID-19 testing, e-commerce home delivery, curbside pick-up and providing other essential services. These are just a few of the examples how retailers serve American communities in this time of extraordinary need,” the NRF stated.

“NRF believes that retail business owners are in the best position to determine whether their individual stores should remain open or close.

“Retailers also intend to fully comply with government instructions. However, clarity and certainty is needed so that businesses may plan appropriately and consumers remain confident in their availability to access groceries, home and auto supplies, pet services, farm and agriculture equipment and livestock feed, and basic home health needs for children, adults and pets.”

In the event that stores are asked to close, the NRF is also calling on governments to give as much advance warning as possible, while clearly defining the difference between essential and non-essential services.

“Sudden or total closures of retail businesses can lead to increased panic by the public. This will lead to consumers overwhelming stores, eliminating on-site supplies and exhausting staff,” the NRF said.

“If closures are warranted, the government must provide as much notice and detail as possible directly to retailers so that supply chains can be adjusted to meet sudden increase in demand both before and after closure.”

A comprehensive list of resources for retailers regarding COVID-19 is available at the NRF website, while information about protecting your store from theft is available here.

The post Retail sector responds to coronavirus panic purchasing first appeared on Security Tags.

With just weeks to go until the retail industry enters peak season, now is the perfect time to assess whether your shop security and loss prevention strategies are up to par.

Year in, year our statistics indicate peak season, which extends from Black Friday right through the Christmas, is a prime time for retail theft.

So where should your attention lie?

Security tags

If Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) is one of your loss prevention strategies (and we would argue it should be) now is the time to consider whether it could benefit from an upgrade in terms of tag strength, tag types, large pinheads, and even benefit denial additions like ink-dye pins.

EAS is renowned as one of the most effective ways of protecting items against theft, but like all areas of loss prevention, it benefits from an assessment now and then.

Super-strength tags are the minimum recommended strength as they require a higher-powered magnet to open them.

Meanwhile, larger pin-heads can help thwart tampering attempts, ink-dye pins add an extra layer of security, and even tag shapes like alligator tags or clamshell tags make it harder for shoplifters to illicitly remove tags from items.

Security labels

When it comes to low-value, high-volume items, these should be protected using security labels. Now is the time to make sure the right label is being used for the right product and that they are applied in a position that is easy to deactivate quickly at the Point of Sale.

Store layout

Store layout plays a critical role in theft prevention, with research indicating stores which are well-lit, and have a clear line of sight for staff to see all areas of the floor are less prone to theft.

Undertake an audit of your retail outlet, seeking out dark areas or hidden places which make it more likely for shoplifters to attempt a theft.

Meanwhile, options like lockable displays and cabinets can help boost security of frequently targeted high-value items, and the fitting room should also be factored in as an area at risk.

These days there are new tools available to help guard the change room, with options like the ApparelGuard available, which monitor the area and alert staff to potential thefts or tag tampering.

Surveillance

In addition to product-based security like EAS, and good store layout, many retailers also protect their retail outlet at a store-based level using either CCTV and/or loss prevention (LP) personnel.

Now is the time to ensure CCTV is up to scratch in terms of image quality, recording, and vantage points.

It’s also time to consult with your LP personnel on any trends they’ve witnessed or any weak spots they believe the store may have.

Staff training

You staff are one of your biggest assets or weaknesses when it comes to theft prevention, and the difference is in staff selection and training.

If you are bringing in additional staff for peak season, ensure they are thoroughly screened, and references are checked.

All staff should also be comprehensively trained in order to offer good customer service and also to ensure they recognize the signs of shoplifting and suspicious behaviour.

Again, research indicates well-trained staff who consistently meet and greet the customer go a long way to reducing incidents of theft.

A bumper season

This year’s peak season is expected to be a positive one for retailers, with the industry anticipating a revenue increase of 28.7 per cent on 2018.

If that’s the case, it will also be extremely busy, with more traffic through retail outlets than in years gone by.

For retailers this presents a challenge of balancing high traffic and increased customer expectation with loss prevention at a time many are hoping to enjoy a serious revenue reward.

Ultimately, protecting any revenue boost comes down to the loss prevention strategies retailers implement now to ensure peak season isn’t marred by product theft.

You can learn more about our range of security tags including the latest theft prevention features here.

The post Is your loss prevention up to par for peak retail season? first appeared on Security Tags.