How to use Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) systems and anti-theft tags during Easter shopping

During Easter shopping, retailers can use EAS systems and anti-theft tags to protect high-value items like Easter baskets, toys, and gift sets.

EAS systems and anti-theft tags can help prevent merchandise theft and save retailers significant losses. By following these best practices, you can use EAS systems and anti-theft tags to offer a secure shopping environment for your customers during the Easter shopping season.

When Easter comes, merchandise theft follows.

Large malls typically see an increase in foot traffic during the weeks leading up to Easter as shoppers look for gifts, decorations, and seasonal items. The NRF reports that in 2021, over 50% of consumers planned to shop for Easter items at department stores and over 20% planned to shop at specialty stores. However, with an increase in foot traffic also comes a rise in theft rates.

Data shows that most crimes happen between noon and 5 p.m., and out of all of the crimes against shoppers and stores, theft was by far the most common.

So how to use EAS systems to prevent products theft effectively?

Train your staff: Make sure your employees are trained on how to properly use the EAS system and anti-theft tags. This includes how to apply and remove the tags, how to deactivate them at the point of sale, and how to respond to alarms. Regularly review and reinforce these procedures with your team to ensure consistency and effectiveness.

Place the tags strategically: Ensure that tags are placed on items in a way that is not easily visible or removable. Consider using different tag types for different merchandise categories, such as AM hard tags for electronics, clothing and plush toys. While AM soft labels are suitable for theft prevention in cosmetics. Use the smallest tag possible to avoid affecting the item's presentation.

Display signs and maintain a visible security presence: Post signage in prominent areas to inform shoppers that your store uses EAS systems and anti-theft tags. Additionally, having security personnel or visible surveillance cameras can deter thieves and signal that your store is not an easy target for theft.

Conduct regular inventory checks: Regularly check your inventory to ensure that all tagged items have been properly deactivated or removed at the point of sale. This will prevent false alarms and ensure that the system is working properly.