Stock & cash protection

Having considered the security of the premises it is appropriate to look at what more can be done to protect stock and cash which will always be vulnerable to some degree.

Such vulnerability arises from various sources including:

  • Burglary
  • Shoplifting
  • Robbery
  • Theft by staff

Burglary is the act or crime of breaking into a building for an unlawful purpose such as theft. Usually this will be when the premises are unoccupied and having overcome the security measures on the building the thieves should not be left with easy access to valuable stock or large quantities of cash.

Some stock such as alcohol, cigarettes, videos, DVDs and lottery tickets should be given special attention and retained in secure store rooms or containers when not on display.

Secure storage of alcohol is, of course, particularly important and may become even more significant under the new licensing regime with its four licensing objectives. (See the ACS Guide to Responsible Retailing of Alcohol.)

It is sensible to keep as little cash as possible on the premises at any time but particularly overnight. It is worth displaying prominent notices saying that “time delays are in operation” or “No money left on premises”. If any cash is left overnight put it in a strong safe. Don’t leave it in tills, which should be left open.

Shoplifting is a constant threat and probably cannot be eliminated completely in any store. It’s effect can be reduced however, if potential shoplifters are reminded that the retailer and staff are alert to the risks.

For example, notices could be displayed as follows:

  • that the retailer supports the imposition of fixed penalty notices or prosecution of store thieves.
  • that motor-cyclists are required to remove helmets before entering the store.
  • that CCTV cameras and other security measures are in operation.

The risk of being robbed of cash can be reduced in a number of ways including:

  • the installation of till guards to prevent till snatches.
  • counting and preparing cash out of sight in a locked room and perhaps using professional cash collection services .
  • if visiting the bank to pay in or collect cash , vary the route and time.
  • limit the amount of cash transported on each occasion.

Armed robbery may never arise in your store but nevertheless you should have emergency procedures in place to ensure that your staff know what to do in such circumstances with particular emphasis on their personal safety. A guide for retailers and staff in connection with armed robberies has been prepared by:

DC Alan Townsend
Crime Prevention Co-ordinator
The Flying Squad
New Scotland Yard
London SW1H 0BG

Copies of the guide can be ordered by Telephone: 020 7230 3729 or by fax: 020 7230 0811.

Theft by staff is dealt with in a separate Information Sheet.

An efficient and effective system of stock control will assist internal security by ensuring that stock losses are properly monitored. In most cases the procedures will be automated and consequently stock checks could reasonably be undertaken at regular intervals.

Staff actively involved in stock control should be properly trained and aware of the security implications of the procedures.

 

 

All PBS information sheets are designed to provide the detail you need to implement best business and employment practices. They are not a detailed commentary on the current law and where advice is needed in a specific case you should contact PBS for expert consultation.

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