228. Protecting Your Retail Store: Simple & Effective Loss Prevention Tips
With host retail coach Wendy Batten
https://wendybatten.com/podcast-intro/
In This Episode:
As independent retailers, protecting our stores, staff, and ourselves is always a top priority, right? How do you ensure safety among your staff and yourself - especially when it comes to loss prevention? In this episode of the Creative Shop Talk Podcast, I am sharing practical tips to prevent both external (shoplifting by customers) and internal (staff) theft to ensure your shop stays safe, profitable, and secure for everyone.
Here are some of the key takeaways from the episode:- Inventory is Money: Every piece of stock represents your revenue and you need to be vigilant about protecting it. Do you have a handle on your inventory? Is your POS up to date? Do you have cameras in place and separation of duties among your employees?
- Safety First for You and Your Staff:
- Ensure your team feels safe by having clear protocols for dealing with shoplifters. Never confront them directly—safety is more important than merchandise.
- Empower staff to trust their instincts and call the police if something feels off. Prioritize their well-being in every situation - do not confront shoplifters, call the police and allow them to handle the situation.
- Best Practices for Loss Prevention:
- Engage customers as soon as they enter the shop and ensure visibility in all store areas.
- Use simple tools like mirrors, security cameras, and clear layouts to reduce theft.
- Foster a culture of awareness with your team, making sure they know you are paying attention.
- POS Systems and Inventory Management: Track inventory regularly, audit stock, and ensure employees are aware that it's being monitored.
- Separation of Duties: Rotate responsibilities for handling cash and inventory to avoid unchecked control.
Loss prevention isn’t just about protecting your inventory—it’s about keeping yourself, your team, and your business safe. By implementing these strategies, you’ll reduce risk and ensure a secure environment for everyone.
Catch the next episode for tips on end-of-month preparation!
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Related podcasts we think you’ll like:
Episode 104: Tight on Cash Flow? Let’s Turn Your Old Inventory into Cash!
Episode 193: Retailers: First Impressions Count!
Episode 208: Stacking Your Team with Guest Expert Shelli Warren
About your host, Wendy Batten
In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy, a small business coach and founder of the Retailer’s Inner Circle, where I help other independent shop owners learn how to gain the right business skillsets to see more profits, paychecks, and joy as they navigate running their retail business.
Through online classes, business coaching programs, speaking, and a top-ranked podcast, I’ve helped hundreds of retailers around the globe reclaim their dreams and see the success they want from their beautiful shops. My signature private coaching community, The Retailer’s Inner Circle, has helped retailers around the world build their retail business skill sets and confidence.
I am proud to have been featured in several major publications, including my own business column in What Women Create magazine. I have been privileged to be a guest on top-ranked podcasts and sought-after as a guest speaker and teacher for several brands, associations, and communities that are passionate about the success of independent retailers.
When I’m not coaching, you will find me either DIYing and renovating my very imperfect old crooked cottage by the sea in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, NS, or blogging about our travel and RVing adventures and the weird fun things we get up to in our coastal village. I’d love to invite you to check out one of my free resources for real retailers at https://wendybatten.com/free-resources/
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All of Wendy’s programs and services for shop owners can be found HERE.
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