8 Benefits of Personal Safety Devices in a Retail Loss Prevention Strategy

How Personal Safety Devices Help Prevent Theft and Protect Retail Workers

Retailers face rising crime, but the right security strategy can turn the tide. Learn how personal safety devices, including panic buttons and GPS-tracked alarms, support staff, deter criminals, and reduce shrinkage in your retail store.

How Personal Safety Devices Strengthen Retail Loss Prevention

According to the 2023 British Retail Consortium crime survey, UK retailers lost an estimated £1.76 billion to crime in just 12 months. Incidents of violence and abuse towards retail staff are rising — with 867 cases reported daily in 2021–22. In response, many retailers are strengthening their loss prevention strategy by integrating personal safety devices to protect staff, deter shoplifters, and reduce retail shrinkage. In this article, we explore 8 compelling reasons why safety technology for retail workers should be a core part of your security plan.

1. Protect Retail Staff with Panic Buttons and Lone Worker Devices

Personal safety devices like covert panic buttons and wearable alarms can be issued to employees, especially those working late shifts, in isolated areas of the store, or when opening or locking up. These devices offer a lifeline in case of threats or emergencies, enabling employees to quickly call for help.

When the Red Alert button is pressed on a SoloProtect device, our specially trained operators discreetly listen in to the incident and escalate quickly to security personnel, managers and/or the emergency services. This rapid response capability ensures swift action in the event of security incidents, theft, or threats reducing the risk of stock losses and harm.

Wearable lone worker safety devices, such as the SoloProtect ID Touch or Shield, give staff discreet access to emergency support — essential for isolated or night-shift workers.   These devices act as a direct emergency alert system, allowing staff to quickly raise the alarm when under threat.

2. Use Personal Safety Devices to Record Incidents and Collect Evidence

Some personal safety devices, like the lone worker solutions provided by SoloProtect, have features like GPS tracking and audio recording. This documentation, often combined with CCTV, can be invaluable for identifying and prosecuting individuals involved in theft, vandalism, or other criminal activities within the store. With features like GPS tracking and audio monitoring, these tools can provide critical incident documentation in theft, assault, or vandalism cases.

3. Boost Retail Employee Confidence and Retention with Safety Tools

Providing personal safety devices can boost employees' confidence, knowing they have a means of protection readily available. This, in turn, can lead to increased job satisfaction and reduced employee turnover. Also, with the right training, staff are well-prepared to respond to threats and minimise losses. These devices can act as both a deterrent and an evidentiary tool — supporting HR teams, insurers, and legal processes after incidents of theft or abuse in-store.

Empowering staff with safety technology can reduce stress, lower turnover, and support a safer, more engaged team. Knowing they’re protected improves staff morale, contributes to job satisfaction, and can help reduce absenteeism in high-pressure retail environments.

4. Improve Customer Experience Through Better Staff Safety

When employees feel safe and secure, they can provide better customer service. This positive atmosphere can contribute to a better shopping experience, potentially increasing customer loyalty and reducing incidents of shoplifting.

When employees feel supported by store security solutions, they’re better able to focus on customers and de-escalate tension before theft occurs. Customers sense a safe, confident atmosphere — which can lead to increased loyalty and repeat business.

5. Use GPS and Incident Data to Enhance Retail Security Planning

Using personal safety devices from SoloProtect would allow managers to view data about the number of genuine incidents involving certain stores or members of staff. This data can be analysed to identify patterns and areas where additional security measures may be needed.

SoloProtect devices log incidents, alerts, and locations — offering valuable data to improve retail loss prevention strategy and allocate resources effectively.

6. Support Compliance and Reduce Liability with Safety Technology

Employers who provide personal safety devices to their staff demonstrate a commitment to employee safety and reduce potential liability in case of workplace incidents. Equipping retail staff with personal alarms shows your commitment to duty of care and strengthens compliance with health and safety regulations. Demonstrating a commitment to retail health and safety compliance also builds trust with insurers and regulators.

7. Deter Shoplifters and Aggressors with Visible and Covert Devices

Making personal safety devices visible and known to potential wrongdoers can sometimes act as a deterrent (e.g. bodyworn video). But it’s equally as important to have a discreet means of calling for help too. In certain situations, e.g. shoplifting or attack, letting the offender know you have called for help can cause a situation to escalate. Visible bodyworn safety devices act as a strong deterrent to shoplifters, especially when clearly displayed or explained through signage.

8. A Budget-Friendly Security Investment That Reduces Long-Term Losses

Personal safety devices are a cost-effective investment for retailers. While they provide a wide range of security benefits, they often come at a relatively low cost compared to potential losses from theft and shrinkage. Investing in these devices not only protects your store but also offers peace of mind without breaking the bank. It's a prudent financial decision that can lead to long-term savings and improved profitability for your retail business.

Integrating personal safety devices into your retail security and loss prevention strategy is a proactive step towards protecting your store, employees, and assets. By enhancing employee safety, deterring criminals, enabling rapid responses, and collecting valuable data, you can fortify your retail operations and create a safer shopping environment.

Compared to the average loss per theft, personal safety tech delivers ROI by reducing incidents and increasing staff retention. Compared to traditional CCTV-only setups, personal safety tech offers direct protection with measurable return through incident reduction and increased retention.

Looking to protect your team and reduce store losses?

Want to strengthen your retail loss prevention strategy? Contact SoloProtect to explore our full range of personal safety devices, panic alarms, and GPS tracking solutions for retail teams.