Recent engagement by the National Retail Association has found that many sales assistants were uncertain about their rights and store policies on approaching shoplifters and conducting bag checks. 

Retailers should refresh staff on their rights and store policies so they have the confidence to take decisive and appropriate action. Training should also be provided to ensure their safety and wellbeing. 

Word travels fast. 

Shoplifters are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Many are turning to Facebook and other social media platforms to share intel on easy-to-target stores. One retailer reported losing $2,000 worth of high value items in just one afternoon after their store was posted on one of these pages. 

Another retail manager reported a substantial drop in crime after she rearranged her store, installed target hardening devices (ie. locks on sunglasses) and trained staff to always:

• greet and engage every customer
• conduct bags checks if theft is suspected
• report any occurrences of theft

Conducting bag checks are a useful strategy to deter theft and prevent stolen items from leaving the premises. 

Bag checks may include looking into bags and parcels, containers, prams or trolleys. 

3 key conditions:

• Set out bag checks as a condition of entry - write the conditions on a sign and display this sign at every entrance. 
• Bag checks are voluntary - customers have the right to refuse but can be asked to leave the store and not return until they agree to follow your conditions of entry. 
• Do not touch their bag or their possessions - you may ask the customer to assist by removing obstructions to visual inspection