Retail security is a constant concern for store owners across all sectors. Just as protecting the store against theft and robbery is vital for preserving assets, offering a safe environment is essential to maintaining customer trust. In this article, we introduce some key concepts about in-store security, why investing in it is crucial, and what are the main technologies that can be implemented to enhance security in supermarkets, home centers, pharmacies, and other retail segments.

‍

What is retail security?

‍When we talk about retail security, we’re primarily referring to asset protection—specifically theft, robbery, and fraud, which is the focus of this article. However, it’s important to note that the concept of security in retail is broader and can also involve risks such as accidents and food safety, which are equally complex and relevant topics.

Focusing on the scope of asset protection, we can say that ensuring retail security requires implementing measures and technologies to protect products, employees, and customers from criminal actions. This includes everything from preventing merchandise theft to monitoring store environments and operational processes.

‍

Why invest in retail security?

Investing in security is directly linked to reducing losses and has a direct impact on the company’s bottom line. Lack of proper security also poses a significant risk to the brand's image and customer loyalty, not to mention indirect effects on operations—such as inventory inconsistencies or high employee turnover.

Another important point to consider: security technologies can also serve as valuable tools for managing other areas of the business, such as sales, marketing, and operations.

For example, CCTV cameras in stores, once used exclusively for security, are now being leveraged to analyze customer behavior patterns, offering metrics and insights that support sales strategies.

Therefore, it’s not an exaggeration to say that investing in security technology is critical to a business's sustainability and can become a competitive advantage when integrated with other departments.

‍

Key technologies for retail security

There is a wide range of technological solutions available to help retailers secure their operations. Here are some of the main solutions developed by Inwave, built on IoT and intelligent systems—solutions that go beyond security, with connected equipment that delivers actionable data for retail management.

‍

EAS anti-theft systems

  • Purpose: Reduce theft of High-Risk Products (HRP) and deter theft of all merchandise.
  • How it works: Anti-theft antennas or sensors are placed at store entrances. When a protected item (with an active tag) passes between the antennas, an alarm is triggered. Smart EAS systems also allow online management of installed equipment, including operational data and integration with other technologies.

‍

Checkout monitoring

  • Purpose: Reduce losses from errors, fraud, or collusion at checkout, accelerate service with remote supervision, and optimize processes.
  • How it works: Through the Inwave Darwin Platform, purchase receipt data is integrated with audio and video from transactions, enabling real-time monitoring and audits using intelligent filters and alerts. The Intelligence Center can validate operations (like item cancellations, receipt voids, and price checks) using Remote Supervisors in just a few seconds, thanks to quick access to images, audio, and receipt data.

‍

Smart electronics display

  • Purpose: Safely display electronics like smartphones and tablets without limiting customer interaction, while keeping devices charged and accessible.
  • How it works: Electronic or mechanical displays create a secure mobile table setup. In addition, a software layer installed on demo devices provides digital protection, online management, and even turns each device into a media vehicle (see our article on retail media to learn more).

‍

Video surveillance (CCTV)

  • Purpose: Access store footage remotely for event audits and monitoring suspicious activity.
  • How it works: A network of cameras captures and transmits real-time video to surveillance monitors, while storage systems record footage for later review.

‍

Intelligent systems based on video analytics

  • Traditional CCTV systems remain one of the most widely used security tools in retail. Today, advanced technologies use CCTV cameras and DVRs, integrating them with data analytics systems to manage processes like operations control, weight auditing, and secure area monitoring.

‍

Alarm monitoring and other electronic security features

  • Various electronic security solutions are designed to prevent unauthorized access and break-ins, including intrusion alarms, access control systems, perimeter protection, and more.

‍

Strategies for Retail Security

‍When discussing security and loss prevention in retail, it’s important to remember that technology alone cannot achieve full success. We always emphasize the importance of focusing on three pillars: people, processes, and technology.

Therefore, working with specialized professionals to define strategies, select the right technologies for each environment, review procedures, and oversee solution implementation is crucial to achieving retail security goals.