Security of your shopfront has become more important than ever; especially in the busy high streets and shopping centres. Not only does it help in securing your valuable stock and equipment, but it also ensures your business property remains safe. One must be on the lookout for thieves who might be on the prowl and therefore proper measures must be put in place to enhance security.
In this article, we will look at some of the best methods that can be used to protect your shopfront with an emphasis on flexible options such as retractable security gates, grilles and bars.
Understanding the Risks
But first, let’s look at the challenges that affect the UK’s retailers. The smash and grab, after-hours break ins, and even the rather common daytime shoplifting are all fast becoming a threat to your premises. Every crime is unique, and this is why one must come up with different measures to combat them, which is why a layered security system is usually the most effective.
Retractable Security Gates
In terms of accommodating both security and style; few products can match retractable security gates. These versatile barriers offer several advantages:
- Visibility Meets Security - While the solid shutters mean that customers cannot window shop when your store is closed, retractable gates let them do so. This visibility can be used as a marketing strategy that will always display your products while at the same time having a very strong security mechanism.
- Easy Operation - Contemporary fold away gates are developed in such a way that they can be easily operated. They can be easily opened and closed by a single person without much effort and strain and therefore suitable for use in day-to-day life. Some models can even include motorised choices which will make controlling them a breeze.
- Space-Saving Design - It goes without saying that in crowded shops where every square meter is valuable, retractable gates will stand out. When not in use they can be folded to occupy a very small space and do not obstruct the view of the shop front.
- Customisable Appearance -The days of ‘fortress-like’ security features are over and done with. The modern retractable gates are available in a few different finishes and designs which means that it is possible for you to get one that will match with the look of your shop.
Security Grilles: Harsh and Customised
For those seeking a robust yet customisable solution, security grilles offer an excellent option:
- Bespoke Fitting - Security grilles are versatile and can be designed to fit any shop front be it rectangular or of any other shape. This makes the design highly secure but doesn’t in any way infringe on style or utility.
- Deterrent Effect - This is in the sense that the physical appearance of security grilles is a big put off for any would be intruder. Their durable construction gives an impression of the fact that your premises are well guarded.
- Ventilation and Light - Unlike the solid barriers; grilles facilitate the flow of air and light into your shop. This can be especially useful for stores that sell products which are sensitive to changes in climate or for businesses that would like to give their customers the perception of an open shop even when it is closed.
- Long-lasting Protection - High quality security grilles are made from steel or aluminium and are very efficient in providing protection against all forms of attempts to breach through them.
- Security Bars: Taking that Extra Precaution - It is a fact that an ordinary approach may work wonders sometimes. Security bars provide a straightforward yet robust defence for your shop front gates
- Cost-Effective Security - Security bars prove to be a good investment for companies that wish to save on costs without compromising on security. They are most useful in protecting weaker spots in the home such as windows and small doors.
- Low Maintenance - Security bars have few moving parts that mean that they require little or no maintenance. All that is required is to inspect and dust them occasionally and they will last for a long time.
- Versatile Application - Security bars are also available to be fixed in a horizontal manner, in a vertical manner or even in a crisscross manner depending on the user’s preference. They can also be used in conjunction with other measures of security for the purpose of providing an additional layer of protection.
- Quick Installation - For instance, security bars can be fitted as a fast solution with little or no interference on your business activities.
Beyond Physical Barriers: Other types of Measures for Security
While physical barriers like gates, grilles, and bars form the backbone of shopfront security, they work best as part of a comprehensive strategy:
- Alarm Systems -The latest technology in alarm systems can make you and the police know that someone is trying to intrude into your home. Also, it will be wise to look for systems that have remote monitoring and those that can connect to your smart phone.
- CCTV - This makes the visible cameras to deter potential criminals and in the event of a crime, one can easily produce evidence. Systems with high definition and capability of working at night provide protection on a twenty-four-hour basis.
- Lighting - Proper lighting of the outside areas prevent criminal activities from happening. For instance, you can use motion activated lights to conserve energy and to make anyone who may be moving around during after business hours to be noticed.
- Security Film for Windows - Adding security film to your windows makes them harder to break, which give you some time to call the authorities in case of an intruder.
- Staff Training - Make sure that your team knows the rules that must be followed regarding security. This encompasses aspects such as the correct handling of security gadgets, handling of cash and how to cope with any eventuality.
Selecting the Correct Solution for Your Shop
No two businesses are the same and therefore there is no standard way of securing the shopfront. Consider the following when selecting your security measures:
- Location: It may be necessary to implement sterner measures in the high-crime zones.
- Budget: Consider the costs of security measures against the possible losses due to theft or damage.
- Aesthetics: Choose options that will enhance the looks of your shop, and which are in line with the image you want to portray.
- Insurance Requirements: Some of the insurers may of course set some specific guidelines on the security measures.
- Operational Needs: To avoid disruption of day-to-day business activities, make sure that the solutions you have selected do not in any way affect them.
Why You Should Invest in Your Serenity?
This is not only about protecting the items you have in your shop as it is about the protection of your business. Through installation of physical features such as retractable gates, grilles and bars, use of modern security technology and good practices; one can come up with a strong barrier against possible threats. Note, it is the application and, more specifically, the regular and proper use and maintenance of security controls that determines their effectiveness. It is therefore important to review and update your security strategy on a regular basis to minimise on risks that may be prevailing.
It is imperative that one is well informed on the various solutions and strategies that are currently being used in the field of retail security. It therefore makes good business sense to ensure that your shopfront is as secure as possible because when you are securing your shop, you are securing not only your assets but the future of your business.
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