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We are a group of fun loving retail students using the little technology to journal what we will be discovering about the wonders of retailing. Based on the retailer we had chosen, we will provide readers with our findings and how this retailer operates its business. Ding Li
Regina
Mei Mei
Shree
Jun Jie
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Monday, June 29, 2009, 7:48 AM
TUTORIAL 8 : Store management
Go to a store, observe the security measures in the store, and talk with a manager about the store’s loss prevention program.
STORE CHOSEN: POPULAR BOOKSTORE
We made a trip to Popular bookstore at Yishun and we are pleased to have one of the senior staff , Miss Lim for this short interview.
Regina:Are there surveillance cameras? Where are they located at?
No they do not have surveillance camera.
Regina:What are the store's policy against shoplifters?
All shoplifters would be handed over to the police.
Regina: What are the procedures for approaching a suspected shoplifter?
When approaching a suspicious person, try to remain calm and professional. It is possible that a misunderstanding had taken place and the person is not actually a shoplifter.Treating the suspect in a polite,discrete yet firm and professional manner will help you and your store avoid a slander, false arrest, or discrimination lawsuit.
You must approach the shoplifter outside the store. Although not technically necessary, following the step eliminates all possibility that the shoplifter still intends to pay for the stolen product.Detaining someone for shoplifting inside the retail store does not establish the criminal intent of theft. However, in several states shoplifters can be detained once they have concealed the merchandise.When approaching a shoplifter outside of the store always have at least one trained employees as witness. When you approach a shoplifter outside it is important to identify yourself clearly and your authority for stopping them. Plain clothes loss prevention agents carry badges or official looking ID cards so the shoplifter has no doubts who they are.
Regina:How are shoplifters handled?
Shoplifters are approached outside the store and after as it is obvious that the person was not planning to pay for the merchandise.Avoid using excessive force or violating any rights like illegal searches.
If you call the police to make an arrest and are pressing charges, the shoplifting will be handled as a criminal matter and will be trialed in a criminal court.
DingLi:How are sales associates and executives involved in security programs?
Sales associates and executives are properly trained about security measures. they are stationed to patrol and update the stocks at the same time. They must be alert and quick if there are any suspicious person. They need to response to the censor promptly and not allow the thieves to have the chance to escape.
Dingli:Is employee theft a problem? Elaborate
Employee theft undermines profits and even destroys the enterprise. internal theft is the most prevalent problem and it is taking an all time toll financially and emotionally. Employee theft would also destroy the trust of the team in the bookstore.
Studies have shown that employees can do alot more damage than shoplifters because they are
DingLi:How is employee theft prevented in the store?
Employee theft can be prevented in the store by taking the simple step of educating emoloyees about how and why they should remain honest. Considering the fact that theft is a very important issue that might destroy the theft 's future. Bag checks should be done at the end of the day for prevention.
DingLi:How is Shrinkage prevented in the store?
Shrinkage is significantly less in stores with reduced employees turnover and fewer part-time workers.
DingLi:How is customer service related to loss prevention in the store?
With customer service , customer would have lesser chance to steal from the store as all the attention are shone on them while serving them. The sales assistant would be more than willing to help if he/she is trying to look for something in the store.
We would like to thank Miss Lim for her time to join us for this interview.
Reported by DingLi and Regina