Our tips on reducing shrinkage following structural separation of alcohol
Our tips on reducing shrinkage following structural separation of alcohol
With the Public Health (Alcohol) Act coming into effect today here are some security measures that can help retailers keep high value alcohol products secure, when they can no longer be stocked behind the till.
The new Public Health (Alcohol) Act 2018 comes into effect today 12 November 2020, with implications for all retailers in displaying alcohol products and maintaining the volume of sales, while adhering to the law.
Most of retailers have been preparing for this law for some time, Covid notwithstanding, with many store owners having to rethink store layout and accessibility to meet the requirements of the act, which aims to separate alcohol from other grocery items.
What does this mean for retailers in terms of security?
Given the options set out by the act, the retailer may decide to have a greater selection of high value product which previously would have been behind the till, available on open sale.
Additionally, the off-licence section will no longer be as visible within the store. These factors pose significant additional shrinkage risks in many retail settings.
How can retailers deter thieves without losing revenue?
A huge struggle for every store owner is how to prevent theft without putting customers off buying products, or even revisiting the store. Alcohol is one of the most targeted retail products for shrinkage, causing millions of euro of lost revenue annually throughout the sector.
A reputable security solution is key to reducing this loss.
Retailers may be drawn to display alcohol openly in the limited space available, or even be tempted to display spirits and high value wines on open sale.
Depending on store size, there may not be a choice. There is a greater theft to bear in mind. Without some form of deterrent, store owners might be setting up for more loss than gain.
What can be done to deter shrinkage?
- For alcohol, Mercury Systems supplies BottleLox – this is designed not to spoil the appearance of products, as well as being quick and easy to apply (and remove).
- BottleLox is feasible for all retail sizes, working with or without an EAS system.
- BottleLox is affordable and has a proven rapid return on investment, even for independent retailers.
The BottleLox security tag has been designed not to spoil the appearance of products, as well as being quick and easy to apply.
For more information on how Mercury Systems can help with this new directive in place, or with any other solutions, please call or email Tom Dunlea: