5 Reasons to Hire Security Guards for a Retail Business

Managing or owning a retail store comes with a lot of responsibility. Your primary concern is the security of your merchandise, employees and customers. Retail stores have a constant flow of people coming in and out. With so many people flowing through one area, theft and personal security threats are very real concerns.

One of your first lines of defense in securing your retail business should be a security guard. Private security from Off Duty Officers can provide you with benefits that an alarm system alone cannot provide. A dedicated security guard for your business has the training to identify suspicious people and behaviors before a crime takes place. Let’s explore 5 of the greatest benefits of hiring security guards for your retail business.

5 Reasons to Hire Retail Security Guards

Deter Shoplifting

Shoplifting is the most prevalent crime that occurs in a retail business. Especially during busy hours, it is impossible for business managers to keep track of everyone in the store, not to mention the merchandise. Shoplifting can result in a lot of money lost for a business. And if you are a small business owner, the monetary losses will hit even harder.

Professional security personnel act as a visual deterrent to thieves, ensuring that these criminals are caught before they get away with their crimes. Guards can stand near your entrances and exits reminding people that you take security seriously. If they attempt something, they won’t get away with it.

Store visitors are not the only ones who can commit theft at your business. Employees are responsible for a high percentage of theft at retail stores. However, when your employees know that there is a dedicated security guard who is tracking their activities, they will be far less inclined to steal.

Better Customer Service

Uniformed security officers on site become a trusted part of your business in the eyes of customers. Your patrons will see the guards as a part of your team and rely on them for information like directions, business hours and any other basic assistance they may need. Security guards can also act as an escort to customers or employees who are leaving the premises late at night, giving them confidence knowing that they are safe at any time of day.

Increased Overall Security

Although theft is one of the biggest security issues for retail establishments, there are other crimes and threats that commonly occur in a retail business. Security guards are specifically trained to identify suspicious behavior and people to prevent threats before they turn into crimes or emergencies. Our guards are also skilled at using techniques to de-escalate potentially violent situations, keeping your staff and customers safe and happy.

Immediate Emergency Response   

If an emergency occurs, your private security guard acts as a first responder. They are trained to act swiftly, calmly and effectively in the face of a high stress or dangerous situation. The guards from Off Duty Officers include off-duty or retired law enforcement or military personnel so they know how to handle difficult situations and manage large groups of people safely and efficiently. Many are also trained in medical emergency response like CPR and First Aid so they can manage a situation until medical personnel arrives on the scene.

Your Most Valuable Asset: Peace of Mind

In addition to the benefits listed above, private security guard services provide you with something even more valuable: peace of mind. Professionally trained and highly competent security guards can give you confidence that your business is secure, even when you are far from the premises. Retail security guards know how to mitigate security threats and respond when an emergency happens.

Off Duty Officers Retail Security Services

Since 1993, Off Duty Officers has been providing professional off-duty and retired police officers and military personnel to customers nationwide. Our reputation for offering the best-trained guards in the industry helps us rise above the competition.

When you need quality, affordability and security at your retail business, contact Off Duty Officers. Our team can help you understand the security options that will best meet your needs and budget. Contact us for a quote today.