By IvyLee Rosario
Store security is at the forefront of operating a successful business. In order to guarantee your store be safe from intrusion or theft, it is important to get the most up to date information on what products and services are available to retailers in the security industry. When first shopping around for devices, retailers should take into account what type of security model they need depending on past experiences at their store. “If you are a small business owner, no one knows what is going on better than you,” said Luis Orbegoso, President of Business at ADT. “Have they had issues with merchandise disappearing? Have there been break-ins through the back door? There are things in their environment that they must be aware of and by focusing on that, the retailer can find the best system that fits them and their store needs.” Most security companies such as ADT offer free consultations, in which a professional security expert will do a walk through of your store and discuss with you what will work best for your layout and customer needs.
The basic level of security is called Intrusion Detection, in which the store is covered by an arm/disarm system, and the retailer is notified of a break in or fire by the security company themselves after the police are called. Another option, called Pulse Automation, offers the owner the option to arm or disarm the system remotely whenever they wish. Pulse Automation is a bit more high tech, with the use of live video surveillance, which can connect to your mobile devices. “You can program logic into the system so the retailer can get alerts like a live feed or photos sent to their phones,” said Orbegoso. “Say for instance the store’s front door opens at 7pm and isn’t supposed to, the system will take a picture at that moment and immediately send it to the owner to see what is happening.”
In searching for the perfect security system, retailers also need to figure out whether to go with a wireless or traditional security setup. The wireless is easy to install, is more flexible to place around the store, and there is no need for drilling or messy wires. The disadvantage of this system is the potential of interference within the signal. “It is very important that if a retailer is considering the wireless option that they are working with a reputable company that will come in and test the system and make sure there will be no interference before committing to that set up,” said Orbegoso. “They need to make sure that who ever they decide to work with is an accredited company by the Better Business Bureau, that way they do not run into any issues.”
With the advancement of technology and the way security is quickly evolving, there is a lot more flexibility to leverage data to not only safely secure a store but also offer efficiency. Many operations now offer lock tracking, which enables storeowners to be alerted when their store does not open or close at the specified time. In addition to locking, many of these products also offer heat, air and light regulation, so storeowners can keep their energy costs low as well as keeping their store safe.
Security should be a number one priority when setting up your in order to avoid easily preventable damages, loss, and theft. Here are some tips from ADT on how to keep your store safe from intrusion:
• Do your homework: do not just pick the security company with the lowest rates. Take your time to speak to a few different experts and see which one really knows the best about your area and the type of set up you will need in your retail store.
• Start security with your employees: make sure you have the support of your staff to ensure your merchandise is safe by greeting each customer, knowing where product is supposed to be located and keeping the store neat to observe for any irregularities.
• Video is important: having video surveillance is crucial and serves as an insight to your store when you cannot physically be there.
• Take a walkthrough of your store: look for areas that are not easily seen and determine if they need extra coverage. Lock up areas with valuables and consider putting cameras up for extra protection.