Keep an Eye on Your Stuff

One consequence of the weak economy and high unemployment numbers is that we can expect an increase in shoplifting, especially during the upcoming holiday season.  Unemployed people, desperate to give their families a decent Christmas may resort to giving themselves a "five-finger discount" rather than show up empty handed on December 25.

While we certainly can empathize with unemployed or underemployed husbands, wives, moms, and dads, (been there!), we can't condone thievery, either by customers, or worse, by trusted employees.  It's always important to be aware of what's happening in your store, but extra vigilance is always necessary during the holidays, especially this year.

Here are links to some excellent articles on the subject of theft prevention.

SHOPLIFTING

http://www.fumo.com/State_Services/crime%20prevention/Shoplifting.htm

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/49514/ways_to_prevent_shoplifting.html

http://www.expertbusinesssource.com/article/CA6422536.html

http://www.ehow.com/how_2190526_prevent-shoplifting.html

EMPLOYEE THEFT

http://www.nfib.com/object/3511306.html

http://www.bankersonline.com/security/internalwatchdog.html

http://www.crimedoctor.com/employee_theft.htm  This one contains some additional links.  

There one more thing and that's customer service.  A customer who's receiving excellent service doesn't have a chance to steal from you.