If you are planning on starting up your own business – particularly in retail- then it is absolutely crucial that you have adequate security measures in place. According to the British Retail Crime Survey of 2009, crimes that could have been prevented by enhancing security amounted to around 17% with burglaries, theft and criminal damage costing the retailer substantially. As a result, the survey reveals, over half of retailers invested more in security and crime prevention, in part as a response to the recession, and there has been renewed interest in defending businesses following the UK riots of 2011.
Don't be a victim - protect yourself from burglars
Unsurprisingly, supermarkets and mixed retailers are seen to be at most risk from crime; however, for businesses just starting out, even a small theft can prove absolutely devastating. There are a number of measures that you can implement to help ensure that your business isn’t hit by any unexpected loss through crime.
Security Shutters
Available in a number of styles and materials, security shutters are a great way of preventing break ins and criminal damage such as smashed windows. Shutters can also be implemented within your premises if you have valuable stock you need to protect such as high end jewellery, or keep a large amount of cash.
Guards
Although this may not be totally viable for small businesses, guards not only act as a means of catching anyone who may intend to steal within your shop, they also act as a good preventative method – providing a disincentive for any would-be shoplifter.
The BRC Survey of 2009 also shows that there has been a worrying increase in the number of attacks on staff, so it could be hugely beneficial to have someone placed to protect them.
CCTV
Again, CCTV acts as both a preventative measure and means of catching criminals. CCTV is also effective when dealing with the police as it provides essential evidence.
Alarm Systems
Make sure that you have a good alarm system in place and try and have this linked to the local police and to your home to ensure that anything that happens out of hours can be reacted to straight away, minimising the risk of loss
Insurance
Perhaps the most important thing you need to sort out is comprehensive insurance that will cover your stock, the building itself and your staff should anything go wrong.
