Executive Summary:
- Over the past five years, there has been a surge in opportunistic retail crime, such as shoplifting.
- One of the most promising tools in crime prevention, is the implementation of body-worn cameras for employees.
- Retail organizations and small business owners should consider contacting RMS International’s Intelligence Services for a customized, enhanced threat assessment.
Situation Report (SITREP):
Over the past five years, everyone has noticed the increase in locked items at local and chain pharmacies. The enhanced security measures coincide with a surge in retail crime, such as shoplifting. Retailers reported a 93% increase in the average number of shoplifting incidents per year in 2023 versus 2019 and a 90% increase in dollar loss due to shoplifting over the same time period. Businesses continue to face rising threats from theft, violence, and vandalism. Retailers, large and small, are grappling with these security challenges, as incidents of unruly customers and theft become more frequent. To combat these rising issues, many businesses are turning to innovative security solutions, such as keeping merchandise behind locked glass and even issuing body cameras to employees. The retail industry has seen a disturbing uptick in crime, with incidents ranging from shoplifting to more serious confrontations between customers and staff. According to the National Association for Shoplifting Prevention, nearly $50 billion worth of goods are stolen from retailers annually, which includes both organized retail crime and opportunistic shoplifting. Alongside theft, violent incidents, including assaults on employees, have also spiked. While previously isolated to larger cities, the increase in retail crime has extended and is now impacting retail stores in suburban areas as well. Retail workers, often facing these situations alone or with limited support, are increasingly vulnerable to violent altercations. The combination of rising theft and aggressive confrontations with customers has pushed retailers to rethink their approach to security.
One of the most promising tools being adopted by retailers to address these challenges is the implementation of body-worn cameras for employees. These small, wearable devices allow staff to record interactions with customers, especially in high-risk situations, providing a crucial layer of protection. The cameras serve several purposes. Primarily, they serve as a powerful deterrent. When customers see that an employee is wearing a camera, it sends a clear message that any aggressive or unlawful behavior will be documented. This alone can often discourage potential wrongdoers from acting out. Secondly, if a confrontation does occur, the footage captured by the camera can serve as critical evidence, helping to resolve disputes, protect employees from false accusations, and assist law enforcement in pursuing criminal charges. Target employs a multi-faceted loss prevention strategy including surveillance cameras, loss prevention agents, Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) tags, and collaboration with law enforcement, with some stores also implementing locked cases for high-theft items and limiting self-checkout items. Walmart has recently taken steps to address retail crime by introducing body-worn cameras in some of its stores. In a pilot program launched in several Dallas-area locations, Walmart began equipping employees with body cameras to deter and document potential confrontations. This move comes as a response to the increase in retail crime, as well as the growing concern for the safety of employees.
Impact Analysis and Recommended Course of Action:
The use of body cameras is just the latest innovative step as part of a larger strategy to curb retail crime. Many businesses are also investing in advanced surveillance systems, altering store layouts to prevent theft, and developing customized intelligence collection apparatuses to prevent, detect, and prosecute crime. As retail crime continues to rise, businesses are increasingly turning to technology to protect their employees, customers, and merchandise. Body-worn cameras have emerged as a powerful tool to deter crime and document confrontations, giving retail workers the security they need to do their jobs safely. Retail organizations and small business owners should consider contacting RMS International’s Intelligence Services for a custom, enhanced threat assessment.
About RMS International:
Founded in 2012, RMS International provides ad hoc and contracted close protection, estate security, international travel management, corporate executive protection, personnel and asset security, and discreet investigative services. Operating a state-of-the-art Risk Operations Center in West Palm Beach, they provide 24/7 overwatch of global operations in Asia, Europe, Africa and throughout the Americas. RMS International delivers peace of mind in a chaotic world. Connect with us at RMSIUSA.com
