Retail Security: Preparing for Darker Nights and Rising Risks

As the days grow shorter and the nights lengthen, the retail sector faces a heightened security challenge. Darker evenings, coupled with increased foot traffic leading up to the festive season, creates a perfect storm for potential criminal activity. With opportunistic crime, robberies, and burglaries on the rise during this period, retailers are urged to take extra precautions to safeguard their businesses.

The Seasonal Surge in Retail Crime

Statistics consistently show a spike in retail theft, robberies, and other security breaches during the darker months. Reduced visibility, fewer members of the public on the streets and the pressures on policing are just a few reasons why criminals may find it easier to exploit weaknesses. Organised retail crime (ORC), shoplifting, robberies, and after-hours burglaries become more prevalent as opportunists take advantage of the season’s vulnerabilities.

Why Dark Nights Increase Risk

Darker nights mean reduced visibility, both inside and outside of stores. Car parks, entrances, and exits become more susceptible to theft, loitering, or targeted robberies, making them prime areas for criminal behaviour. Burglaries also become a greater threat, as criminals rely on darkness to evade detection.

“Robberies and burglaries see a noticeable uptick as we enter the darker months,” notes Craig Goldie, National Accounts Manager at Advantage 1 Security. “Criminals often feel emboldened by the reduced visibility. Combine that with increased stock, busier stores and greater cash holdings, it’s clear why this time of year is so risky.” Robberies can be especially dangerous, as they often occur during operating hours, targeting cash or high-value products. The impact on the team can be significant as these incident generally come with increased violence and leaves a lasting memory on those involved.

Steps to Boost Retail Security

Retailers are not powerless in this fight. As threats increase, so too should the target hardening security measures. Here are a few strategies stores can employ to stay safe during the season:

1. Reduce cash and high value product holdings: Robberies target areas where there is a greater reward v’s the risk of being caught. Having large cash and high value product holdings reduces the reward significantly and will reduce the risk too. Conduct regular cash lifts and monitor the levels of high value stock.
2. Improved Lighting: Adequate exterior and parking lot lighting can deter crime by increasing visibility and reducing shadows where criminals could hide. Consider upgrading to motion-detection lighting to enhance safety and signal activity around the premises.
3. Enhanced Surveillance: Upgrading CCTV systems to ensure all entry points, exits, high-traffic areas, and cash-handling are covered is essential. Modern systems also offer real-time monitoring, which allows for quicker response times to suspicious activity.
4. Staff Training and Awareness: Employees are the first line of defence, particularly against in-store robberies. Training staff to spot suspicious behaviour, handle robbery situations safely, and report incidents effectively is crucial. Conduct regular security briefings and drills to keep everyone on alert.
5. Security Presence: Visible security personnel, stationed at entrances or patrolling inside and outside the store, can be a powerful deterrent against robberies. For after-hours protection, consider mobile security patrols or hiring night-time security to reduce the risk of burglaries.
6. Stringent close down procedures: Retailers should ensure they have proper closedown procedures in place, particularly for high-value items. Safes, strong locks, and alarm systems can help prevent burglaries when stores are closed.
7. Know what to do: In the event of a robbery or burglary, staff must know what to do and what to say. Safety is of paramount importance in these situations and staff should have to tools to keep themselves safe during these incidents.

Looking Ahead: Adapting to Emerging Threats

The security landscape for retailers is continuously evolving. As technology advances, so too do the methods used by criminals. Cybersecurity risks, including credit card fraud and data breaches, are rising threats that can add further complications to an already busy time for retailers. However, by staying proactive and investing in comprehensive security solutions, retailers can minimize these risks.

“As retail continues to adapt to both physical and digital threats, the importance of a robust, all-encompassing security strategy can’t be overstated,” Goldie adds. “It’s about staying one step ahead and ensuring you’re prepared for the challenges that come with the season.”

As darker nights bring increased risks, including a higher likelihood of robberies and burglaries, now is the time for retailers to review their security strategies and ensure they’re ready to face the season’s challenges. Whether through technological upgrades, staff training, or physical deterrents, a proactive approach to security can make all the difference to your staff and your profits.