Scotmid’s Leven Street store in Edinburgh had faced a significant challenge with the theft of spirits, leading them to be deem a high-risk product at this site.
In order to address this concerning issue, the team made the strategic decision to relocate the entire spirits range behind the kiosk and although this could have potentially impacted sales, Scotmid created pictorial sleeves of every product on the existing free-flow fixture in order to inform the customer of the range available. This solution not only eliminated the theft risk but also preserved previous sales volumes. Over the past 12 months, Scotmid’s Leven Street store achieved a 40% reduction in the theft value of spirits, a success that continues to be sustained. This approach proved to be so effective, that it has since been replicated in other stores facing similar challenges.
As well as not impacting sales in the category, the feedback from store staff since making the change has highlighted increased feelings of safety due to a reduced risk of confrontations.
As well as moving high-risk categories, Scotmid also invested in crime prevention technology and procedures to keep their staff and customers safe.
Some of the initiatives include:
- Online incident reporting – the store can quickly log all incidents of shoplifting, attempted shoplifting, and any instances of antisocial or abusive behaviour using their store devices or back office PCs. These incidents are sent directly to the Scotmid Security Support Team, allowing them to prioritise and provide rapid, appropriate support for any prolonged or serious incidents.
- Online incident desk - Scotmid uses an online intelligence coordinator to log incidents such as shoplifting, attempted theft, and antisocial behaviour. This system generates comprehensive intelligence reports that help prioritise its Security Support Team’s resources based on risk. These reports offer detailed insights, identifying high-risk days, times, and locations.
- Security Support Team - Its Security Support Team operates as a proactive, intelligence-driven unit dedicated to protecting store staff and assets. They utilise a variety of methods, including incident reports from stores, intelligence from local law enforcement, and data from stock adjustments. Available around the clock, the team ensures continuous, effective security across all trading hours.
- Body worn Cameras - In the past year, Scotmid introduced body-worn cameras in its higher-risk stores, resulting in a notable 10% reduction in violent incidents. The cameras have not only enhanced staff safety but also act as a visible deterrent to habitual shoplifters.
Looking ahead, Scotmid says it is committed to enhancing its crime detection and prevention capabilities through the use of advanced CCTV analytics. This technology will enable the retailer to identify suspicious activities in real-time and integrate seamlessly with its central monitoring systems. Additionally, by linking these analytics with existing Vocovo headsets, Scotmid hopes to ensure that its staff are promptly alerted and equipped with accurate information, allowing them to respond effectively and efficiently to potential threats.
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