LEISURE & RETAIL
A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO CRIME PREVENTION
The role of FMs and risk managers is evolving into a much more complex and diverse position. They are increasingly pulled in to assist other senior management teams, including security, against a persistent increase in crime, explains Jamie Allam, CEO of Amthal Group.
Retail crime statistics Current statistics paint a grim picture of what has been described as a retail crime epidemic, with forecasts suggesting the value of retail theft will be £7.9bn in 2023.
Shoppers account for the majority of the value of theft at 60% (£4.7bn), while employees working in distribution centres (DCs) and stores are estimated to total 40% (£3.2bn). Around a fifth of large UK retailers have seen an increase in employee theft over the last year.
There is a general assumption that the surge in shoplifting is the direct result of the cost-of-living crisis, but evidence suggests otherwise. About two-thirds of those stealing from local shops are repeat offenders, some with connections to organised crime.
Against this alarming backdrop and the scale of financial losses suffered by UK retailers there is a need for proactive measures. This is not only to curb the impact of theft but also to cultivate a safer environment, in-store and throughout the supply chain.
Partnerships between retailers, the police and the Government are welcome but, given the scale of the challenge, companies must take steps of their own to
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ensure the safety of staff, and customers and to minimise inventory loss.
Integrated security solutions Whilst responsibility for security will mostly fall with dedicated teams and loss prevention officers, Facility Managers can play a significant supporting role in combating retail crime.
The opportunity can ensure security measures are considered and appropriately implemented to safeguard a retail organisation, physically and virtually.
An effective security strategy must go beyond conventional measures, requiring teams to have a much greater awareness of security issues and to be more involved in the delivery of security in all of its forms across an organisation.
It requires a comprehensive, holistic approach that considers the unique characteristics of each retail establishment.
A risk assessment will identify the vulnerable areas of any site and offer opportunities for security integration. It will highlight how systems such as video surveillance, access control and intruder alarms can be added to seamlessly
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