Issued earlier this week, the BRC’s survey results show that the total value of goods stolen by customers increased to GB pound 137 million in 2010.
That’s in spite of an 11% reduction in the overall number of offences that have taken place at the expense of retailers in the past year, and a reported increase in investments made by retailers to secure their premises.
In short, this means more needs to be done by law enforcement authorities to reduce the impact of retail crime, and that full use of the potential of in-store security measures (such as CCTV, guarding and access control) must be made.
Security breaches realise a great cost to retailers who, in addition to suffering financial losses, have to deal with business interruptions and unplanned downtime as well as members of staff left shaken and distressed by the experience.
Robust security “a powerful deterrent”
James Kelly, chief executive of the BSIA, commented: “In the retail environment, robust security measures are powerful in deterring criminals from attacking premises, ensuring immediate police response and facilitating the conviction of offenders thanks to the provision of hard evidence.”
Kelly added: “The fact that the BRC survey shows a reduction in the number of offences from 2009 means that the increased investments made by retailers to secure their businesses in the last year are starting to make a difference in lessening the impact of this type of crime.”
However, Kelly said that it’s “alarming” to discover there has been a considerable increase in the total value of the goods stolen.
The BSIA CEO went on to state: “As the first step towards improving these figures, we urge all retailers to protect their premises, goods, staff and customers by seeking expert advice and improving their in-store security by turning to reliable suppliers.”
CCTV equipment, security guarding and access control systems such as item tags have time and again proven invaluable in deterring criminals and allow the police to respond more effectively to offences.
Proper system installation is vital
“To get the most out of these systems,” warned Kelly, “they must be properly installed and monitored.”
In this regard, the BSIA’s members meet strict quality criteria and have long been successfully supplying security products to retailers.
“Their expertise in the industry means that they’re also able to provide valuable advice on which security measure will be suited to each premise,” concluded Kelly.
“That’s a great asset for retailers at a time when crime is having such a negative impact on their businesses.”
For further information about BSIA members who supply security solutions to the retail sector visit the Trade Association’s website (a dedicated link is provided on the right hand panel of this page)
