Everon Whitepaper

A Layered Approach to Securing Retail Entrances Against Theft

Retailers across the nation are feeling the strain and profit loss attributed to a rise in external theft hitting their stores. Taking an active role in layering technology and updating policies and procedures can help retailers stem the flow of activity and risk.

Shoplifting has been around as long as shopping itself. What changes over the years is the methods deployed by the thieves and the magnitude of the issue for retailers’ bottom lines. As reported by a number of industry associations, security suppliers and retailers, the COVID-19 pandemic has played a significant role in increasing the frequency of more violent types of crimes.

While no one solution or even combination of solutions will completely eradicate shoplifting from our society, taking an active role in layering technology and updating policies and procedures can help retailers stem the flow of activity and risk. Active prevention methods such as signage, visible camera technologies and public view monitors, along with solutions designed to modify consumer behavior, can have an impact on deterring crime across the retail industry.

Shoplifting, organized retail crime and social media-driven theft impacts everyone—from the consumer to the retailer and the communities where they operate—so a coordinated effort between retailers, their security partners and law enforcement is an essential first step.

To learn how Everon's retail security professionals can help create a safe shopping environment and minimize shrink in your stores, discover our comprehensive security, fire, and life safety solutions below.

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Retail Violence Prevention is Key Ahead of Holidays
Strengthening Mall Security as Active Shooter Threats Rise

By the D&D Daily staff

As mass-violence incidents continue to strike public spaces, shopping malls—once seen as safe community hubs—are confronting a renewed need to harden defenses against active shooter events. Security experts warn that malls present unique vulnerabilities due to their open layouts, large crowds, and multiple points of entry.

In recent months, several high-profile incidents in major metro areas have prompted mall operators and law enforcement agencies to reevaluate protocols. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the FBI have both renewed calls for joint preparedness drills between mall management and local police, emphasizing rapid communication and lockdown procedures.

“The challenge with retail centers is that they’re designed for openness and customer flow, not fortification,” said one security consultant who advises several national property groups. “You can’t turn a mall into a fortress, but you can dramatically reduce risk through layered deterrence and active-shooter-specific planning.”

Experts recommend a combination of visible and behind-the-scenes strategies. These include increased camera coverage and AI-driven analytics to identify unusual movement patterns, regular lockdown drills for tenants, and centralized alert systems that connect stores to a single security command center. Some mall operators are also working with local law enforcement to embed off-duty officers or armed security inside common areas during peak hours.

Emerging technology is also playing a key role. Gunshot detection systems and panic-button smartphone apps now allow immediate notification of both on-site security and police dispatchers. Many centers are re-training personnel on early warning signs of violent behavior, crowd evacuation routes, and communication protocols under stress.

Industry leaders stress that prevention extends beyond physical barriers. Building relationships with store managers, cleaning crews, and tenants—often the first to notice suspicious activity—remains central to early intervention.

With holiday shopping season approaching, experts say the focus should be on readiness, not fear. “Preparedness saves lives,” said another security analyst. “The goal isn’t to make malls feel like checkpoints—it’s to make sure everyone knows what to do if seconds count.”


Retailers Worldwide Fight 'Shoplifting Epidemic'
Epidemic of shoplifting ‘will mean price rises for customers’ as offences climb to five-year high
Scotland is in the grip of a shoplifting epidemic, with the number of offences reported to prosecutors at a five-year high, according to new figures. Crown Office data shows there were almost 20,000 crimes in the year to April 2025 – nearly double that for 2021-22.

Retailers said this confirmed what they have been warning for months – and called for a stronger response from the Scottish Government.

Aidan Smith, Policy and Public Affairs Officer at the Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF), said: “Retail crime remains the most significant challenge facing the convenience sector in Scotland today.

“The implications of retail crime are far-reaching, affecting the store owner, their staff and the communities they serve.

“Specifically, shoplifting is the most costly and high-volume form of crime that retailers in Scotland face. The Scottish Government’s own figures published in August indicated that, over the last four years, shoplifting has increased by 124%, threatening the viability of many local convenience stores.

“The SGF is working closely with partners and calling for improved police response times, swifter action taken against offenders, and a reduction in the backlog of cases awaiting trial in order to reverse this concerning trend.”

The Crown Office data showed there were 19,602 offences in 2024-25. The previous year there were 17,603 shoplifting charges and a 71% rise since 2021-22, when 11,436 cases were recorded. sundaypost.com


Violent Crime is Falling, But Too Many Repeat Offenders Still Walking Free
Charlotte teen arrested 111 times in 2 years still walking free in soft-on-crime city

Sergeant warns that repeat offenders face no 'meaningful consequences' as violent criminals return to streets

During a Wednesday news conference, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) discussed the city’s latest crime stats. The city, according to the CMPD, experienced a 20% reduction in violent crime, which includes homicides, rapes, robberies and aggravated assaults, which encompass shootings.

But amid the positivity, there is reason for alarm, with more than half of those arrested for violent crimes having prior arrests — including teens. One example is an unnamed 15-year-old with an astounding 111 arrests since August 2023.

The 15-year-old’s record spans dozens of property crimes across the Queen City, including vehicle thefts, larcenies from cars and possession of stolen property. CMPD said the teen has been linked to about 50 separate cases involving at least 55 stolen vehicles and 45 break-ins.

"We continue to see a troubling pattern: a disproportionate number of violent incidents and property crimes are being committed by individuals with extensive criminal histories – many of whom continue to cycle through the justice system without facing meaningful consequences," said Sgt. Todd Martin of the Southeast Service Area Crime Reduction Unit. foxnews.com


Saskatchewan police chiefs welcome reforms to address repeat and violent offenders

Canada to launch new agency to fight financial crime