Christmas is just around the corner and the vast majority of retailers will be gearing up for their busiest time of the year. Even though its stressful, both independent boutiques and high-street department stores know just how important the festive season can be.
While focusing on the needs of the customer and making as many sales as possible will be the priority for many, it is dangerous to overlook other crucial responsibilities, such as keeping your retail business secure.
After all, thieves will know that you’ve got plenty of goods in stock and lots of money in the till. Therefore, keep the following in mind to mitigate the threat of burglaries and breaks-in leading up to Christmas.
Give your current security set-up a once over
First of all, make sure that your current security set-up is fully operational. For example, test your burglar alarms and check for CCTV blind spots. You’ll only have yourself to blame if robberies aren’t being prevented because of poor attention to detail.
Also, review your procedures for safe cash handling and keeping confidential documents secure. If you’ve got a safe, don’t store cash in there overnight and only give the passcode to a handful of trusted employees.
Don’t be complacent with new hires and existing employees
Several retailers bring in extra employees during the Christmas period because of how busy it can get. However, members of staff pose a significant threat to your security, especially if they’ll only work for a few weeks and then leave.
So, don’t be complacent with new hires and always perform background checks. You may want to review your overtime policy too by limiting the availability of additional hours to those you can wholeheartedly trust.
Upgrade your security set-up
If there are any gaping holes in your existing security, address them immediately. You can also use this opportunity to improve and upgrade your set-up, as it will save you a great deal of cash in the long-run.
Options include blocking the windows to your stock room and adding bars or grilles as well as installing bollards and posts to parking areas. A shutter or reinforced glass is also a good idea because the cost of replacing a shop-front doesn’t bear thinking about.
Get help from the professionals
In order to guarantee retail security, you should seek professional assistance. That way, you can rest assured that the Christmas period will be profitable and not problematic.
Security firms will know all about the kind of threats that exist this time of year and can implement a proven plan of action. When you compare the potential cost of crime at Christmas with the minimal expense of hiring external help, it is great value for money too.
Here at Access Facilities Management, we are proud to offer our services to all types of retailers. We can review your CCTV system, install upgraded alarms, and deploy security staff to ensure your business remains protected at all times. Get in touch today to find out more.
