Supermarkets and retail store owners often face challenges when it comes to security. Retail shrinkage and shoplifting are a common occurrence that costs businesses millions of Rands every year.
To mitigate these challenges, store owners invest in antishoplifting solutions. A very popular security tactic used is the installation of security cameras in stores.
However, the question remains: is a security camera enough protection?
We don’t think so.
Let’s discuss why a security camera alone may not be enough to protect your store.
Security Cameras: An Overview
Security cameras have been a staple in the security industry for decades. They monitor and record activities in a particular area.
It provides valuable evidence in case of theft or vandalism.
Modern security cameras have advanced features such as high-definition footage, night vision, and remote access through smartphones or computers, which have made them even more popular among retailers.
But despite their technological advancements, security cameras still have limitations that make them an insufficient form of protection.
Why Aren’t Security Cameras Enough?
Security cameras, with their advanced features, may seem like the perfect solution for store security. However, as we mentioned earlier, they have their limitations.
1. They Only Record, Not Prevent
This is the most significant drawback of security cameras. They can only record store activities; they cannot prevent them.
For instance, if a shoplifter enters your store and starts stealing items, the camera will capture the act on video. However, it cannot physically stop the person from taking the items or alert you while it’s happening.
After the act, you can use the footage as evidence to take legal action, but it won’t change what has already happened.
2. Blind Spots
A single security camera cannot cover the whole store. If you have a large store, you’ll need multiple cameras to cover all the areas.
Even with multiple cameras, there will always be blind spots where activities can occur without being captured on camera.
This leaves room for criminals to carry out their acts undetected.
3. Vulnerable to Tampering
Criminals are aware of security cameras and may try to tamper with them or cover them up before committing any crime.
The footage may become unusable if the criminal succeeds in tampering with the camera, leaving you with no evidence.
4. Limited in Low Light or Bad Weather
Security cameras are only effective in well-lit areas.
In low-lit areas or bad weather conditions, the camera’s footage may be grainy or blurry, making it difficult to identify individuals or incidents. (This only applies to low-quality cameras and may not be a limitation for all cameras.)
Is There A Better Solution?
Yes, there are better antishoplifting solutions.
Security cameras are great investments, but they should not be the only security measure in your store. Security cameras do not deter shoplifting attempts alone.
Here are other options you should consider:
Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS Systems)
EAS systems are designed to detect when an unpaid item with a security tag attached passes through the exit of a store.
If the item has not been paid for, an alarm will sound, alerting store employees. You can choose between AM (acoustic-magnetic), RF (radio frequency) systems, and EM (electromagnetic) systems.
Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to do research before deciding which is best for your store.
RFID Technology
RFID has many retail benefits, including inventory management and loss prevention. It consists of tags, readers, and software that work together to provide real-time information about inventory movement.
RFID can be used to track items in a store, making it easier to locate misplaced items or identify potential shoplifters attempting to leave the store without paying. The RFID labels are intelligent and equipped with a microchip, which adds benefits when compared to traditional EAS systems.
In addition, RFID tags can be hidden in products, making them difficult for shoplifters to remove.
Open Display Security Systems
Open display security systems are perfect for electronic stores, where items are displayed openly for customers to interact with.
These systems use sensors and alarms to detect if an item is removed from its designated area without being properly deactivated.
For instance, if your store sells mobile devices, a mobile security display stand can allow customers to handle the devices while still preventing theft.
Get The Best Protection For Your Store Today!
Do not rely solely on security cameras to prevent shoplifting in your store.
Consider investing in additional antishoplifting solutions such as EAS systems, Open Display Systems, or RFID technology. These options will provide better protection for your store, help with inventory management, and improve customer experience.
At Milestone, we’ve seen it all regarding retail security, and we are dedicated to helping businesses find the best solutions for their specific needs.
Contact us today to learn more about our antishoplifting options and take the necessary steps to protect your store from potential theft.
