Theft is always something that retail staff and shop owners have to be on the lookout for. It’s also important to make sure your priorities are correctly handled. Staff should never be told to stop shoplifters, for example, because no product is ever worth them being harmed over. Being able to cover and report the event, having applicable protections in place, and insurance will always help more.

However, you may wonder if there are ways to deter shop theft before it even starts. If a shoplifter thinks twice about putting something in their pocket, that’s a win. If a thief thinks your store is more trouble than it’s worth, despite the value within, perhaps the next one will too. In this article, we’ll discuss some ways to try and achieve that outcome:

Make Your Storefront Sturdy & Visible

A well-lit, open storefront sends the message that you take security seriously, as thieves prefer to work in stores where they can blend into crowds or hide behind displays. Large, clear windows let passersby see what’s happening inside your store, which also gives you a natural surveillance that most shoplifters want to avoid. You might want to consider how your storefront appears from the street, because a store that looks easy to see into from multiple angles feels riskier to potential thieves.

Quality commercial storefront glass also helps to assist that secure appearance, because cracked or damaged windows can make your business look like an easy target, as thieves often assume that businesses that don’t maintain their exteriors might be lax about security in general.

Give Staff Solid Training

Your workers are your best defense against theft, but they need to know what to look for and how to respond and not to put themselves at risk. Training staff to provide good customer service actually works as theft prevention, because shoplifters prefer to be ignored while they’re deciding what to take. When workers greet customers, make eye contact, and ask if they need help, it sends the message that people are paying attention.

You’ll also want to teach your staff the common signs of potential shoplifting but not to make them paranoid or suspicious of every customer. People who avoid eye contact, carry large bags, wear bulky clothing on warm days, or spend a lot of time looking around rather than at merchandise can be worth watching, but not so they feel unwelcome.

Put Warnings & Subtle Signs In Place

Sometimes the perception of security is just as effective as the actual security. Signs mentioning security cameras, prosecution policies, or that purchases are monitored can make potential thieves think twice, and you don’t need to plaster warning signs everywhere, but put placed reminders that you’re watching can be effective.

Security cameras that are clearly visible work better as deterrents than hidden ones, because the goal is to make potential thieves aware they’re being watched. Mirrors in corners and at the ends of aisles is also a good way to show that kind of perception.

With this advice, we hope you can more easily deter shop theft before it even begins.