Organized Retail Crime (ORC) continues to impact not only retailers but entire communities and economies. Discussions at recent industry events, including a prominent retail security symposium, have shed light on the pressing issues and innovative strategies retailers are adopting to address this growing crisis.
Beyond typical shoplifting, ORC involves organized criminal networks employing smash-and-grab thefts, coordinated shelf sweeps, and cross-regional crime sprees. These crimes exploit jurisdictional gaps, creating vulnerabilities that criminals exploit for profit.
Retailers report a notable uptick in violence and aggression linked to ORC, with nearly 70% of organizations experiencing heightened threats. Criminals increasingly target everyday goods like toiletries and basic household items for resale. While locking up these items is a stopgap measure, it negatively impacts the customer experience.
The Role of Advanced Technology in Combatting ORC
Technological advancements are helpful in the fight against ORC. Tools within operations centers such as license plate readers, video wall systems, and real-time incident tracking are becoming critical for retailers. These technologies offer the ability to:
- Proactively Detect Threats: Identifying potential risks in specific locations before incidents occur.
- Enhance Investigative Capabilities: License plate readers assist in tracking criminal activity across jurisdictions, creating actionable intelligence.
- Streamline Incident Responses: Real-time tracking empowers retailers to respond more quickly and effectively, minimizing losses and disruptions.
Centralized Security Operations Centers (SOCs) are useful in bringing these tools together, creating a cohesive strategy that enables monitoring, threat detection, and collaborative responses.
A SOC integrates technology and fosters collaboration, allowing retailers to stay ahead of ORC threats. Here’s how SOCs are making a difference:
- Unified Monitoring: With advanced video walls and real-time data visualization, SOCs enable operators to manage multiple security feeds and operational tools through a single interface, enhancing situational awareness.
- Collaborative Coordination: SOCs serve as the central hub for communication among stakeholders, including law enforcement, enabling faster and more effective incident resolution.
Looking Ahead: Building Resilient Security Strategies
Addressing ORC requires a multi-faceted approach that blends technology, collaboration, and innovation. Retailers are investing in solutions that enhance operational efficiency while safeguarding employees, customers, and assets.
As a leader in SOC solutions, Constant Technologies specializes in designing command centers tailored to your specific needs. With decades of experience, we help retailers implement advanced monitoring tools, streamline operations, and build trust in an increasingly complex retail environment.
If your organization is exploring SOC implementation, schedule a tour of an active command center or take advantage of our no-cost design services to bring your vision to life.
