At ITech Digital, we've noticed a concerning trend in retail crime. In fact, we posted about organized retail crime back in 2018. Since then, things have only escalated. Today, organized retail crime is at an all-time high and many store owners wonder what to do to prevent loss and protect their staff and customers. In this article, we offer some suggestions.
Certain cities find themselves in a position of vulnerability when it comes to organized retail crime and theft. For instance, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Chicago are each reeling from increased organized theft. As if the incurred "shrink" isn't enough, store owners and managers must also worry about staff and customer safety. Numerous chains around the country have changed store hours or closed for good as a result of being targeted.
While Indianapolis isn't the same as Los Angeles or Chicago, its business owners experience their fair share of retail theft and vandalism. Additionally, violent crime is at a record high. What are business owners to do?
2021 Retail Security Survey
The National Retail Federation (NRF) identifies organized retail crime as a growing threat in its 2021 Retail Security Survey. Anecdotally, we at ITech see increased volume in Google searches for retail security solutions, and we believe there's sufficient data that supports this escalating issue. In order to address the issue, we propose a collaborative approach between retail loss prevention groups, law enforcement, the legal system, and technology-driven security solutions that pull it all together. Below is an example of each stakeholder and what their role encompasses in a collaborative approach.
Retail Loss Prevention needs live security surveillance that sends immediate notification during an active event.
Law enforcement needs real-time communication with details provided to enable them to respond quickly with full insight.
The legal system needs to re-evaluate its public declarations of abandoning shoplifting crimes and its low-bail approach to violent crime.
Technology-driven security solutions need to be the focus for retail stores. Today's video surveillance cameras can capture detailed license plate information, send communication to key stakeholders, and allow for an actionable case management system. Moreover, retail store owners and managers can share surveillance footage with each other. In addition to security, today's CCTV cameras capture business analytics and can integrate with your point-of-sale systems, moving you toward digital transformation and helping to cut operational expenses.
Custom Solutions That Meet Specific Business Needs
If you need Indianapolis video monitoring and business video surveillance, we encourage you to contact us to schedule a free site survey. We'll listen to your needs, identify your pain points, and identify a customized technologically-driven solution that protects your business, staff, and customers. Contact ITech Digital at (866) 733-6673 to speak to a security professional or
to schedule a free site survey. We offer multiple products and services, including video surveillance in Indianapolis, Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville, Zionsville, and throughout all of Indiana and the surrounding states.
Retailers: We want to hear from you! What are your current challenges and concerns?