Organised retail crime (ORC) has recently been a concern for retailers. It leads to numerous issues, including financial losses, safety risks, and disruption of operations. Criminals operate in coordinated networks, usually in groups. They target high-value goods, exploiting the security weaknesses of retail premises.
Without appropriate security measures, retailers face serious threats. Adequate commercial security in Reading is essential for preventing theft and safeguarding retail businesses. A proactive approach can help prevent such crimes, from advanced surveillance to staff training.
Read on to understand the strategies to combat ORC. It will help you stay protected while maintaining a safe environment for customers and employees.
What Should You Know About Organised Retail Crime?
Organised retail crime is not just petty theft, which makes it a serious threat to retail businesses. It involves well-planned criminal activities, like large-scale shoplifting, fraudulent returns, and cargo theft. Unlike opportunistic theft, ORC is executed by criminal groups who resell stolen goods, often through online marketplaces.
Businesses lose billions annually to ORC, with retail giants and small stores being affected. Identifying these threats is the primary step in combatting them.
Commercial Security Strategies To Prevent Organised Retail Crime
Retailers must implement a multi-faceted commercial security strategy to prevent ORC. Here are a few things to do:
Strengthening Physical Security Measures
Strong physical security measures are crucial in preventing ORC. Key measures include:
- High-quality CCTV with remote access to monitor any suspicious activity in real time.
- Limiting entry to stockrooms and high-risk areas.
- Optimising the store layout with open spaces and strategic mirror placements to improve visibility and remove any hiding spots.
- Trained security guards add an extra layer of protection.
Leveraging Technology to Combat ORC
Modern security technology offers innovative ways to detect and prevent organised retail crimes. Some of the measures to consider are:
- AI-powered cameras can identify suspicious behaviour and alert security teams in real time.
- RFID tracking can help monitor inventory and detect unusual stock movements.
- Facial recognition to identify repeat offenders and flagged individuals.
- Real-time monitoring to get instant alerts on security breaches, enabling quick response.
Preventing organised retail crimes involves the right commercial security strategies, employee vigilance and collaboration with law enforcement agencies. Prioritise proactive security solutions to prevent such crimes. For expert commercial security in Reading, trust C&D Security. Our tailored security solutions help businesses stay protected against ORC threats. Contact us now and secure your business.