Author: Retail Security Services

Interview with a Director: Jen Sparling on Leadership and Growth

Posted on | by Retail Security Services

At Retail Security Services, strong leadership and clear communication are at the heart of our success.

Today, we’re excited to feature Jen Sparling, Director of Client Services, who’s been with RSS since its inception a decade ago. Jen shares the importance of trusting your team, tailoring communication to resolve issues, and what she expects to see as the industry continues to change.

Can you share a little about your journey with Retail Security Services? How did you get started and what led to your current role?

I started with PRS and was with them for about three years when Kathleen [Larmour, COO] came to me about starting RSS. I was told that Allison and Danielle would be running it and Allison asked for me. I was in a place that I was looking for a change, so it was perfect timing. They said to take some time to think about it and let them know, but by the time I sat back down at my desk I decided I’d do it. I’ve been with RSS since its inception 10 yrs ago. I started as coordinator, then was a client manager, moved to client services manager, then director of client services.

What are some of the biggest changes you’ve seen in the industry as you’ve been in it over the years?

The level of threat has changed. People have gotten more brazen– what people are willing to do in a public place and how they act or treat others has changed. People get loud, we deal with thrown food, more smash and grab events, etc. I really saw a huge change in security when COVID hit and then in the aftermath. What our security guards had to deal with really was uncharted territory, dealing with people not complying with mask mandates, limiting occupancy, things like that.
After that, things changed, and the security guards had to change how they do things. There are more disgruntled guests. A lot of clients aren’t coming to us to protect their merchandise as much as to help their staff feel safe. The merch is insurable, not that anyone wants to lose it, but more so they want their employees to feel safe when they come to work every day, and the guard is the person that makes them feel comfortable and lets them know they’re ok to be there.

How has RSS changed from day 1 to now?

We started with five people and now have well over 30. The type of guard posting we do has changed. We started with a few clients for overnight construction security, and there was a time where daytime posts were unheard of, now it’s about 50% of our business. We perform a lot more customer-facing posts, so daytime loss prevention, bars, restaurants, medical offices, etc.
What does a typical day look like for you as Director of Client Services?
I call myself a firefighter– I put out a lot of fires. I’m the point of escalation for anything needing extra attention. I make things right and try to prevent the fires as well. I do a lot on the back end, constantly updating post orders, client info, pricing, and keeping an eye on clients. I monitor, stay informed, and track for trends to make any changes our clients may need. Client managers come to me throughout the day with whatever they need, whether it’s questions or guidance, we navigate that. I work with the on-call staff, so scheduling, answering questions nights and weekends. Security is 24/7!

How would you describe your leadership style?

I do not believe in micromanaging. My people made it to where they are for a reason: they work hard, they know their job, they know what to do, and when to do it. I of course nudge when needed but I try to let them do their jobs without hovering.
I have an open door policy, any questions or issues, I’m here. You can treat everyone fairly and not treat them all the same. I may use a different approach for a teammate that’s a better fit for their personality. I can expect the same things from everyone, but say things in a way that each person responds to better. I try to be fair but mindful of what approach works best with who I’m working with.

What do you think are the keys to leading a successful team?

A tailored approach, trust in your team, and understand that they’re human and make mistakes. It’s about making sure they learn and move forward, and how we recover and move forward that sets us apart.

How do you foster collaboration between departments to ensure smooth operations?

Communication is what it all boils down to. Making sure things are communicated in the right way. Before I change a procedure or anything really, I get input from those affected to see how it’s working and see if this change would be positive or negative. I don’t know everything, that’s why I have a team, I try to make changes based on valuing their opinions and insight.

What advice would you give someone wanting to work in client services or security?

Expect the unexpected! Whenever you think you’ve heard it all, you haven’t, even after 10 years. Also for client services in general, you’re only as good as your last job. Your client could have the best services for 1 year, then that last work order went unexpectedly, & that’s what they’re going to remember. The flip side is that if you strive for each one to matter the most, that’s what they’ll remember.

What has been the most rewarding part of your career at RSS?

I feel like I’ve watched my kids grow up! All my client managers have been promoted from within, so to have seen them start from the basics to where they are now is so rewarding. It’s awesome to see your staff and people you build relationships with grow and change and know you were part of their journey in some way.

What motivates you to continue growing and leading in this field?

Just seeing how much has changed in the last decade, I didn’t know we would evolve to where we are now, I can only imagine what the next 10 years will look like and I want to grow with it! I never want to be stagnant, so I want to grow in the same way with our company.

What are your big goals for RSS?

Continuing to grow our client base, continuing to have good relationships with existing clients, and adding another client manager to the team! I will travel and do more face-to-face with clients this year, as well, which is exciting.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

That I’m very lucky! I have a lot of support, the Director of Ops Allison is absolutely amazing, so I’m very lucky to work with her every day. We work together really well and both push to help grow the company. I feel very supported, it’s a woman-owned and woman-driven company, so it’s nice working with all the incredible people I work with.

What is Organized Retail Crime? What Every Retailer Needs to Know

Posted on | by Retail Security Services

What is organized retail crime? What retailers need to know, and the top 3 steps to combat crime

 

Organized retail crime (ORC) is a growing challenge affecting retailers of all sizes. Unlike typical shoplifting, ORC is planned, coordinated, and often involves groups of individuals working together to target stores, resell stolen goods, and exploit weaknesses in security. The impact of ORC can be significant, affecting everything from inventory loss and employee morale to the customer experience and a store’s bottom line.

Below, we’ll break down what organized retail crime entails, why it’s on the rise, and what steps retailers can take to protect their businesses.

What is Organized Retail Crime?

What Is ORC?

Organized retail crime is the systematic theft of retail goods with the intent to resell them. Unlike impulsive or individual shoplifting incidents, ORC operations are coordinated, involving multiple people and sometimes sophisticated methods. These groups often target high-value items like electronics, clothing, and cosmetics, which can be easily sold on secondary markets. The stolen merchandise is often resold through online marketplaces, pawnshops, or within other retail channels.

ORC differs from petty theft in its organization and impact. It’s often connected to other illegal activities, such as identity theft, drug trafficking, and even gang-related crime. These criminals aren’t just stealing for personal use; they’re operating with the intent to profit on a larger scale.

Organized retail Crime growing

Why Is ORC Growing?

Organized retail crime has been on the rise for several reasons:

1. E-Commerce Growth: Online marketplaces have made it easier for stolen goods to be sold anonymously, making detection and prevention more challenging for retailers.

2. Low Prosecution Rates: In some regions, theft below a certain monetary threshold is considered a misdemeanor, which may discourage prosecution or penalties. This leniency sometimes emboldens ORC groups.

3. Economic Factors: Financial pressures can contribute to the increase in ORC, as criminals take advantage of economic downturns to resell products for cash.

With these growing concerns, understanding ORC and how to defend against it is crucial for today’s retailers.

combat organized retail crime

Steps Retailers Can Take to Combat ORC

While the threat of ORC is complex, there are effective steps retailers can take to mitigate its impact. Here are some recommended strategies:

Strengthen In-Store Security

Investing in comprehensive security solutions is key. This can include visible deterrents like security guards, surveillance cameras, and regular security audits. Trained security staff

can not only help deter theft but also identify suspicious behavior and intervene appropriately.

Enhance Inventory Management

Implementing real-time inventory tracking systems can help stores identify theft trends and quickly spot discrepancies. Many modern POS systems can provide data to help with loss prevention, allowing retailers to monitor high-risk items more closely.

Build Partnerships with Law Enforcement

Retailers don’t have to fight ORC alone. Establishing relationships with local law enforcement and participating in industry networks or information-sharing groups can make a significant difference. Collaborative efforts help retailers stay informed on ORC trends and build a united front against organized crime.

 

As ORC continues to evolve, so must the strategies to combat it. Working with an experienced security partner like Retail Security Services gives retailers access to dedicated professionals who understand the complexities of ORC. RSS helps retailers maintain safe, secure environments that deter ORC groups from targeting your store.

Organized retail crime is a serious threat, but it’s one that can be mitigated with knowledge, proactive planning, and strong partnerships. As experts in security solutions, Retail Security Services is here to support retailers with the tools and expertise needed to reduce risks and create a safer shopping environment.

Reach out if you’d like to learn more about how RSS can help protect your business. Together, we can combat organized retail crime and create a safer retail experience for everyone.

Meet the Night Security Coordinator Team: Our Experts Answer Your Burning Questions!

Posted on | by Retail Security Services

We’re shining a spotlight on our dedicated night security operations team at Retail Security Services. In this Q&A we delve into their experiences and the essential role they play
in ensuring the safety and security of our clients’ facilities.

Keep reading to get to know the people behind the night shift and gain valuable insights into the nighttime world of security coordination!

The Panel:
Dawn Marsh, Night Supervisor
Emily Bugiada, Senior Night Coordinator
Meghan Diggett, Nights Client Manager

 

 

1. What does a typical night shift look like?

Dawn:
There is nothing “typical” for the night shift! We handle close to 300 follow ups a night, plus
anything that could happen at any time! We deal with those as well as all issues that may
arise. Procedure aside, we adapt and multi task. We also work on dispatching emergencies
and next day calls that come in all night.

Emily:
We switch roles each day, some may be in charge of checking guards in and out. We are in
contact with partners all night- whether it’s to do the above-mentioned or to cancel a work
order. We may call them if management has brought something specific to our attention. We
also work on all emergency dispatches that come in throughout the night for the night or next
day. We get hit with it all and deal with things as they come in- at night we program our mind to
be able to switch duties as needed all night.

2. How much do you work with other teammates?

Meghan:
I work with the night crew through the entire night and ensure clients are thoroughly updated
on anything happening at their sites.

Dawn:
Being the Supervisor I work with everyone on the team all night long! I get to be their teammate,
teacher, coach, motivator, and so much more. Since it’s just us after 5pm it makes us all closer
because we’re all we have here at night!

Emily:
I say it all the time- my team is awesome. The night crew is really like a little family (not to be
cliche!). The boys are the annoying brothers, and the girls are the sassy sisters, but I love them
all. Our team is a perfect match of people- we really all help each other, keep each other all
balanced, and pick up where needed because we know that the easiest way to get through
the night is if we are all helping each other.

3. What do you think it takes to be successful in this role?

Emily:
Attention to detail. If you understand how everything flows and get familiar with what to do in
each situation, you will realize the process never really changes no matter the situation. If you
know and implement the RSS protocol things will flow smoothly. What sets people apart is
understanding the details and why they’re important.

Meghan:
Attention to detail and ability to multitask.

4. What do you think sets RSS apart from other security providers?

Dawn:
The company is built on the most important key factors to retail facility service; commitment,
consistency, creativity, and communication. From top to bottom, everyone here shares the same
views and has the same goals about quality service and its’ importance in the industry, that
alone sets us apart, and then everything else is a bonus!

Emily:
Retail Security Services really top other providers because our team as a whole (day or night
crew) don’t just schedule them and are done. We follow up with clients, we follow up with
management to make sure everything is up to par onsite. From start to finish we make sure
everything is going smoothly with no bumps, and when the bumps happen we fix them. We
always do our best when it comes to making sure our representation of RSS isn’t just doing
what’s asked, but exceeding our clients’ expectations.

5. What’s your favorite part of the job?

Meghan:
Being a part of the growth and success that RSS continues to have each year!

Emily:
I’m a people person, so I love the interaction with people. I get to do that every day- whether
its calling stores, clients, or guards- I get to talk to people all day long. I am never sitting at my
desk with nothing to do. My nights are always busy and I get to deal with all kinds of people all
night, it really keeps me on my toes.

6. What’s a memorable experience or success story from your time working the night shift?

Emily:
One night our supervisor and client manager were out, so the night crew and I took on a TEXAS
STORM. There were orders swarming in for ASAP guards, plus the other non-Texas storm
related emergencies. Safe to say, we got everything scheduled and covered and our clients
were very happy. But we did want to hide under our desks that night!

Dawn:
We have so many! I love the guards with their amazing tall tales. We’ve had to deal with some
crazy natural disasters! This year the most memorable was the hurricane in Texas. We had
over 60 locations that needed guards and the team got every one of them covered while still
handling all our regular work!

7. What’s your favorite late-night snack?

Meghan:
Reese Puffs Cereal

Dawn:
Gummy Bears! The sugar keeps me going when I get sick of late night coffee 😊

Emily:
Night crew literally eats all night long! My favorite though is peanut butter cups or popcorn.

 

Why Hire a Security Guard for Your Business?

Posted on | by Retail Security Services

Retail businesses, both large and small, face various security concerns on a daily basis. From
organized retail crime to shoplifting and shrink, having deterrants help fill the gap that even
advances in technology often can’t. This is where hiring security guards becomes invaluable.

1. Increased Deterrence
One of the primary benefits of having security guards in a retail store is the deterrence
factor. Just the presence of a security guard can discourage potential thieves and
troublemakers from committing crimes. It sends a clear message that the store takes
security seriously, which can prevent many incidents before they even occur.

2. Customer Safety and Confidence
Security guards provide a sense of safety and reassurance for customers. This is
particularly important in areas with high crime rates or during peak shopping seasons
when crowds can become unruly. Customers are more likely to shop and spend time in a
store where they feel safe and protected.

3. Asset Protection
Retailers must safeguard not only their merchandise but also their employees, property,
and assets. Security guards can actively monitor the store, patrol the premises, and
prevent theft or vandalism, thereby protecting the store’s assets and helping staff feel
supported and safe as well.

4. Positive Customer Relations
Security guards can also play an important role in customer service should this be a desired task. They can assist customers with directions, answer questions, and provide a friendly and welcoming presence. Many people don’t know that security guard posts, including their uniforms, are completely customizable. Retail Security Services offers tailored post orders that can detail guard uniforms to match a retailer’s branding and/or culture. This amenable appearance can help customers feel welcomed and enhance their overall shopping experience.


Hiring security guards is beneficial for retailers for multiple reasons. From deterrence and
customer safety to asset protection and positive customer relations, security guards are a
crucial service to any retail business. By investing in professional security services, retailers can
create a safer and more secure environment for both customers and employees while protecting
their business from potential security threats.

The Rise Of Self-Checkout

The Rise of Self-Checkout in Retail: Analyzing Pros and Cons Amid Escalating Challenges

Posted on | by Retail Security Services

As prices soar and retailers increasingly turn to self-checkout systems to enhance operational efficiency, an array of issues arises, prompting the need to evaluate the pros and cons carefully. At the forefront of these challenges lies the pressing concern of theft and loss, which has seen a surge with the widespread adoption of self-checkout machines.

According to criminologist Adrian Beck, whose extensive decade of research delves into self-checkout theft, the perceived low risk of detection has emboldened shoplifters to exploit these systems, leading to substantial store losses. A 2022 industry-funded study conducted by Beck, encompassing 93 retailers across 25 countries with self-checkout technology, revealed that as much as 23% of store losses were attributed to theft and customer errors at self-checkouts, causing two-thirds of retailers to express growing apprehension.

The motivation behind shoplifters turning to self-checkout as a tool for theft or price manipulation hinges on the potential cover provided by honest customer errors. By inputting the code for lower-priced items while scanning more expensive ones or engaging in “skip scanning” practices, wherein only selected items are scanned, these individuals manage to pay less than the true value of their purchases.

In response to these challenges, retailers have implemented diverse strategies to counter self-checkout losses. Some approaches include training attendants to closely monitor customers, deploying security guards and surveillance cameras, and conducting random receipt checks. However, the effectiveness of receipt checks has been met with mixed reactions from customers, with some finding it intrusive and perceiving it as profiling, as seen in the Walmart suit filed in the Ohio Federal court on June 1st, 2023.  Furthermore, retailers must navigate the legal implications of enforcing receipt checks, requiring proper authorization or customer consent through store memberships. Cotsco can implement receipt checks because people agree to them when they sign up for the required store membership.

Despite the ongoing challenges, the allure of self-checkout options will likely stay strong, given the significant cost savings resulting from reduced labor. However, retailers face the complex task of balancing these savings against the losses incurred from theft and scanning errors. As we delve into the varied experiences of retailers adopting self-checkout systems, it becomes evident that a nuanced evaluation of the potential benefits and drawbacks is essential. Each retailer’s unique circumstances and customer base will dictate whether self-checkout convenience and cost advantages outweigh the challenges posed by theft prevention and product loss. Ultimately, deciding on the suitability of self-checkout in a retail store hinges on a thoughtful analysis of its impact on overall profitability and customer satisfaction.

For more information on our security guard services, please get in touch with us at [email protected] or call +1 631-719-7261

Hurricane Checklist

Hurricane Checklist for Security Guard Companies: Ensuring Safety and Protection during Severe Weather

Posted on | by Retail Security Services

As a security guard company, your responsibility extends beyond safeguarding commercial spaces to ensuring the safety and well-being of occupants during hurricane events. To assist you in fulfilling this vital role, we present the Essential Hurricane Checklist for Security Guard Companies. This comprehensive and downloadable resource serves as an indispensable guide, offering essential guidelines to effectively prepare for, respond to, and recover from hurricanes. With a focus on mitigating risks, maintaining situational awareness, and coordinating emergency response efforts, this checklist equips security guard companies with the necessary steps to safeguard both property and lives. By following this checklist, you can enhance your hurricane preparedness strategies, train your personnel effectively, and provide a higher level of protection to your clients and their assets. Download this invaluable resource to strengthen your capabilities as a security partner during severe weather events, and ensure the safety and security of the facilities you serve.

For more information on our security guard services please contact us at [email protected] or call +1 631-719-7261 

>> Download Check List Here

Shoplifting

Keys to Preventing Shoplifting – Part 1 | Time is Money…Lost!

Posted on | by Retail Security Services

Shoplifting is a persistent concern for retailers, with theft incidents capable of transpiring in any aisle or department. However, studies have revealed that specific areas within stores may be more susceptible to such illicit activities. Moreover, understanding the time of day when theft is most likely to occur is crucial for retailers across various sectors. Let’s delve into the peak theft times to shed light on these vulnerable periods.
 

  1. Retailers: 
  • Clothing and accessory stores: These stores are particularly at high-risk, with a significant number of shoplifting incidents reported in dressing rooms or areas where customers can try on items. Incidents are more likely to occur during the day, when stores are busiest. 
  • Electronics stores: High-end electronics are popular targets for shoplifters, and these incidents are more likely to occur in the evening, when stores are less busy and minimally staffed. 
  • Bookstores: Bookstores are often targeted for smaller items, such as magazines or books, which can easily be concealed. Shoplifting incidents are more likely to occur during the day, particularly during weekdays.

     2. Specialty shops:

  • Liquor stores: High-end liquor is a common target for shoplifters, and incidents are more likely to occur during the evening or late at night, when stores are quieter.
  • Jewelry stores: Jewelry stores are at high risk of shoplifting, particularly during the day when they are busiest. The risk is even higher during holidays or special events.
  • Beauty stores: High-end cosmetics and beauty products are popular targets for shoplifters, and incidents are more likely to occur during the day or early evening.

     3. Home goods stores: 
  • Home improvement stores: These stores are particularly high-risk due to the large number of small, expensive items available for purchase. Shoplifting incidents are more likely to occur during the day, particularly on weekends. 
  • Furniture stores: High-end furniture is a common target for shoplifters, and incidents are more likely to occur during the day, particularly on weekdays. 
  • Home decor stores: Small, decorative items are popular targets for shoplifters in home decor stores, and incidents are more likely to occur during the day or early evening.

    4. Grocers: 
  • Supermarkets: Supermarkets are at high risk of shoplifting, particularly during the day when they are busiest. Common targets include high-end meat and seafood, alcohol, and small items such as candy or snacks. 
  • Health food stores: Health food stores are at higher risk of shoplifting due to the high price of many health food items. Shoplifting incidents are more likely to occur during the day, particularly on weekdays. 
  • Convenience stores: Convenience stores are at high risk of shoplifting, particularly during the evening or late at night when stores are quieter. Common targets include cigarettes, alcohol, and small items such as candy or snacks. 

 

In conclusion, understanding the peak theft times in different retail sectors can empower businesses to strengthen their loss prevention strategies. Various factors contribute to the increased occurrence of shoplifting during these periods. For instance, lower staff levels can lead to reduced surveillance and slower response times. Additionally, staff members may become preoccupied with managing a larger customer load, inadvertently creating opportunities for shoplifters. Lastly, employee fatigue towards the end of a shift can impact alertness and attentiveness to suspicious behavior. Recognizing these potential reasons can help retailers allocate resources effectively, address staffing concerns, and implement measures to combat theft during these vulnerable times and places of shopping. 

By taking a proactive approach, such as increasing staff presence, optimizing customer service, and leveraging technology for surveillance and theft prevention, retailers can significantly reduce shoplifting incidents and mitigate losses. It is crucial to foster a culture of awareness and security among employees and continuously refine and adapt loss prevention strategies to align with evolving trends and challenges. 

Ultimately, by prioritizing effective loss prevention during peak theft times, retailers can create a safer shopping experience for customers, protect their merchandise, and ensure a healthier bottom line. 

 

Stay tuned for our upcoming multi-part series on shoplifting prevention! Our first article will cover “Dress for Success – How to Spot a Potential Shoplifter.” Learn what to look for, including clothing choices, body language, and unusual behavior. In the following articles, we’ll explore topics such as the impact of legislation on shoplifting rates and how store atmosphere can affect the likelihood of theft. Don’t miss out on this informative series! 

For more information on our security guard services please contact us at [email protected] or call +1 631-719-7261 

Loss Prevention

Thinking Outside the Box: Creative Solutions for Retail’s Loss Prevention and Shrink Challenges

Posted on | by Retail Security Services

In the world of retail, loss prevention and reducing retail shrink have always been critical issues. While many retailers rely on traditional methods, such as security cameras and anti-theft tags, to prevent loss, there is a growing need for creative solutions that think outside the box. 

One such solution is to use artificial intelligence (AI) to identify potential theft. AI can analyze patterns of behavior and identify anomalies that may indicate theft. For example, if a customer is spending an unusually long time in a particular aisle or is repeatedly returning to the same product, AI can flag this behavior and alert security personnel to investigate further. 

Another creative solution is to implement “smart shelves” that use weight sensors to detect when a product has been removed from the shelf. This technology can help retailers keep track of inventory in real-time and alert security personnel if a product is removed without being paid for. 

In addition to technology-based solutions, retailers can also use creative tactics to deter theft. For example, some retailers have started playing classical music in their stores to create a calming atmosphere that may discourage theft. Others have experimented with using scents, such as vanilla, to create a pleasant environment that may make customers less likely to steal. 

Another unconventional approach is to use “mystery shoppers” or “undercover security guards” to identify potential theft. These are trained professionals who visit stores and pose as customers to observe and report suspicious behavior. This method can be especially effective in identifying internal theft, which is often difficult to detect. 

However, thinking outside the box is not just about preventing loss. Retailers can also use creative solutions to reduce shrink by improving the customer experience. For example, some retailers have started offering personal shopping services to help customers find the products they need and reduce the likelihood of purchasing the wrong item, which can lead to returns and lost inventory. 

Overall, the retail industry is facing numerous challenges when it comes to loss prevention and reducing retail shrink. While traditional methods are still necessary, thinking outside the box and implementing creative solutions can help retailers stay ahead of the curve. By embracing new technologies, tactics, and strategies, retailers can create a safer, more secure shopping environment for their customers while also reducing loss and improving their bottom line. 

For more information on our security guard services please contact us at [email protected] or call +1 631-719-7261   

Retail Organized Crime

Securing the Retail Environment: How Security Guards Can Combat Organized Crime

Posted on | by Retail Security Services

Organized crime has long been a thorn in the side of law enforcement agencies and retail businesses alike. From theft to extortion and everything in between, the impact of organized crime can be devastating.

However, security guards can play a crucial role in deterring and combating organized crime in retail environments, both conventionally and unconventionally. 

Conventional ways in which security guards can help prevent and combat organized crime include the following: 

  1. Surveillance: Security guards can monitor areas of the environment where retail organized crime is likely to occur, such as stockrooms, loading docks, and high-value merchandise displays. By using CCTV cameras and other monitoring tools, they can observe suspicious behavior and report it to law enforcement officials. 
  1. Physical Security: Security guards can help prevent theft and other forms of organized crime by implementing physical security measures such as access control, locks, and alarms. They can also conduct regular patrols of the retail environment to ensure that these measures are in place and functioning correctly. 
  1. Training: Security guards can receive specialized training in detecting and preventing organized crime. They can learn how to recognize the signs of theft and other illegal activities and how to respond appropriately. 

According to a report by the National Retail Federation, the presence of security guards can deter crime and reduce the risk of violence in retail environments. In a survey of retailers, 63% reported that they had seen a reduction in theft since hiring security guards. 

However, security guards can also help prevent and combat organized crime in unconventional ways. These include: 

  1. Building Relationships: Security guards can build relationships with customers and employees, creating a sense of community within the retail environment. This can discourage organized crime by creating a culture of trust and mutual respect. 
  1. Intelligence Gathering: Security guards can gather intelligence on organized crime activities in the retail environment. By talking to employees and customers, they can learn about potential threats and suspicious behavior. 
  1. Communication: Security guards can communicate with law enforcement officials and other security personnel to share information about potential threats and suspicious activity. This can help prevent and disrupt organized crime activities in the retail environment. 

In a report by the Security Industry Association, security guards were identified as an important source of information and intelligence in the fight against organized crime. 

Organized crime can be a serious threat to retail businesses, but security guards can play a crucial role in preventing and combating it. By using conventional and unconventional methods, they can help create a safe and secure retail environment for customers and employees alike. 

 

For more information on our security guard services please contact us at [email protected] or call +1 631-719-7261 

 

 

Security Guard Companies

Creating an Effective Plan for Guards and Incident Management in Retail

Posted on | by Retail Security Services

Essential Steps for Security Guard Companies

Here are some steps security guard companies can take to create a plan for guards and incident management when working for a large retailer:  

    • Conduct a thorough assessment of the retailer’s security needs: Before creating a plan for guards and incident management, security guard companies should comprehensively assess the retailer’s security needs. This includes evaluating the store layout, foot traffic, potential security risks, and specific requirements of the retailer’s loss prevention department.

 

    • Develop clear policies and procedures: Guard companies should develop clear policies and procedures for guards and incident management based on the assessment. These policies and procedures should cover everything from guard deployment and their specific roles and responsibilities during an incident and the reporting requirements.

 

    • Provide thorough training: Security guard companies should ensure that all guards receive comprehensive training on the policies and procedures, as well as on the specific requirements of the retailer. This can include training on handling difficult customers, responding to different types of incidents, and using any specialized equipment or technology that may be required.

 

    • Establish communication protocols: Security guard companies need to establish clear communication protocols for guards and incident management. This can include setting up regular check-ins between guards and their supervisors, providing guards with radios or other communication devices, and ensuring a transparent chain of command for incident response.

 

    • Continuously review and update the plan: Guard companies should constantly review and update the plan for guards and incident management to ensure that it remains effective and relevant over time. This can involve conducting regular audits, soliciting feedback from guards and the retailer, and making changes to address new security threats or other challenges.  

 

  

For more information on our security guard services, please get in touch with us at [email protected] or call +1 631-719-7261.