Retailers around the world are experiencing increased theft and violence that threaten employee and shopper safety—and the viability of some store locations altogether.
The National Retail Federation’s (NRF) Impact of Retail Theft and Violence 2024 report revealed a range of concerns for retail loss prevention and security executives in the US, specifically:
- More than half of executives report that organized retail crime (ORC) shoplifting (76 percent), general shoplifting (71 percent), and repeat offenders (66 percent) have become a greater concern in the last year. Many also cite smash-and-grab incidents (40 percent), mob theft (36 percent), and robbery (20 percent) as growing concerns.
- As shoplifting becomes more common, so too does the threat of violence during these incidents. Seventy-three percent of executives say shoplifters exhibit more aggression and violence than a year ago, and 91 percent say these behaviors have increased since 2019.
- In an effort to address these threats, 76 percent of executives report having implemented measures that negatively impact the customer experience.
Preserving safety and security while providing a great customer experience can feel like an increasingly daunting task.
As more stores close due to theft, and as shoppers seek new options or choose to shop online because products are locked up, security teams and retail leaders must find more effective ways to channel their investments and stop crime at its source.
For many retailers, the solution lies not in implementing new technologies but in optimizing existing ones to ensure a cohesive, effective security strategy.
Based on my conversations with security leaders at events like LPRC Impact and ISC West, let’s examine the current retail security solution landscape—and how teams can build more integrated ecosystems for greater impact.
Retail Security Requires Connected Tech Ecosystems
Retailers have invested in disparate technologies and safety solutions over the past decades to increase control and minimize the risk of theft in specific areas. Disconnected technologies, however, create blind spots and inefficiencies that bad actors can exploit.
Consider the unique trade-offs of common security solutions like the following:
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Human security guards or law enforcement can carry a high cost for limited coverage, especially for stores with 24/7 security needs.
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Lockable merchandise cases and displays create friction in the shopper experience and detract team members from addressing other store needs.
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Merchandise security devices, including spider wraps, electronic article surveillance (EAS), and theft deterrence tags, are cost-effective but can be removed or ignored altogether.
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Shopping cart locks are typically reserved for high-theft areas and may require costly maintenance.
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Self-checkout theft detection is becoming increasingly effective at catching fraudulent behaviors—but only in specific locations.
As retailers assess how to strengthen their security this year and beyond, the key is to stitch together their investments in a way that drives informed action. Organizations can’t rip and replace the solutions they’ve invested heavily in; they need to revitalize those investments to deliver more value.
Retail Security Intelligence: High and Low Tech
No single human or technological intervention can solve the security problems retailers face. The best strategies weave together multiple solutions to close coverage gaps and generate intelligence that drives a timely, informed response.
In some cases, this includes integrating with law enforcement to enable a real-time response through solutions like Axon Fusus.
As retail security leaders look to maximize their investments, they should consider how solutions from every store location can soon be connected to drive action.
Store Exteriors
Security investments in store exteriors—such as the store perimeter, parking lots, and loading areas—offer a dual benefit: they create an impression of control (which may deter crime) and help gather critical evidence before and after incidents to support successful prosecutions.
Retailers can bolster exterior security with cohesive solutions like the following:
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Traffic flow solutions such as physical barriers, guard stations, and guided traffic routes introduce friction for would-be criminals without significantly impacting the shopper experience. These are especially helpful in delivery areas and loading docks, where merchandise may be left unattended.
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License plate readers, integrated with camera systems, are effective in gathering intelligence on potential bad actors. These systems should be positioned strategically within traffic flows for maximum coverage and plate readability. If a license plate matches that of a known offender, it can trigger alerts to in-store security.
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Mobile security solutions create a visible security presence while offering real-time video intelligence. These often integrate with video management systems and platforms like Axon to deliver alerts to store teams and law enforcement.
These measures can complement basic enhancements—such as optimal lighting and a clean, well-maintained exterior. Perceptions of parking lot safety directly affect a customer’s decision to shop at a location.
Store Interiors
In-store security investments are critical for orchestrating a timely and coordinated response. The perception of control can begin at entry points, with guards or walk-through gates deterring would-be shoplifters.
The following technologies can be optimized for greater effectiveness:
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Self-checkout AI can alert security teams if a shopper attempts to leave without scanning all items. If the individual flees, exterior cameras can be activated to follow and record their movements for law enforcement.
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Smart tags, including spider wraps and EAS devices, are common tools to deter theft. These should ideally be integrated with cameras and alert systems to notify staff when tampering occurs.
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Locked cabinets have become a common investment, but can frustrate shoppers. Many use standard keypads that are easy to bypass. These can be enhanced with app-based unlock systems that let customers self-serve while also tracking suspicious activity.
Unlocking Sales with Better Security
Customers deserve a seamless shopping experience and a safe environment. Retailers have made major investments in security tools designed to address vulnerabilities—now is the time to connect those tools into a unified, data-driven ecosystem.
Retailers will continue to explore solutions suited to the realities of each store and region. Through collaboration with law enforcement and neighboring businesses—and with continuous testing—we will begin to see real reductions in crime without compromising the customer experience.
Michael Lamb has over 43 years of experience in asset protection and loss prevention, currently serving as an advisor to LVT. He previously led asset protection and safety strategy for the Kroger family of companies until his retirement in 2024, overseeing operations across 2,800 store locations. Prior to Kroger, he held senior roles at Walmart US and The Home Depot, consistently driving improvements in shrink and safety. He remains active in the industry through leadership roles with the Loss Prevention Research Council, RILA, Loss Prevention Magazine, The Loss Prevention Foundation, APEX, and NASP.