In today’s world, security is a top priority for business owners. With increasing incidents of theft and burglary, having a robust business security system is no longer a luxury — it’s a necessity. In this article, we will highlight some crucial crime statistics that underscore the importance of business security systems.
1. Shoplifting Is on the Rise
With alarming rises in shoplifting, business owners are suffering from these losses. According to recent statistics, shoplifting jumped 29% in 2022 and surged another 39% in 2023. Increased product losses can put a significant strain on any business. The 10% increase in shoplifting in recent years underscores the importance of implementing robust security measures to safeguard your business from theft.
2. Employee Theft Impacts Business Sales
Did you know that 75% of employees have stolen from their employer at least once? This shocking statistic highlights the prevalence of internal theft, which can have devastating consequences for any business. Employee theft is also responsible for 33% of all corporate bankruptcies in the United States. This means that nearly one-third of businesses that close their doors do so because of theft from within.
The financial losses from employee theft are staggering. These can come in various forms, including cash, merchandise, and even intellectual property. For small businesses, these financial hits can be particularly damaging, often leading to severe cash flow issues and operational disruptions.
3. Theft Significantly Strains Small Businesses
One startling statistic reveals that 90% of small business retailers nationwide have experienced theft at their stores. This figure is alarming and highlights the vulnerability of small businesses to criminal activities. Theft can take various forms, including shoplifting, employee theft, and organized retail crime. Regardless of the type, theft can have destructive effects on a business’s bottom line.
According to recent data, 83% of small business retailers believe that theft is a serious problem, and this perception is not unfounded. Theft can lead to substantial financial losses, affecting profitability and even jeopardizing the survival of the business. Beyond the immediate loss of goods, theft can also result in increased insurance premiums, higher security costs, and loss of customer trust.
4. Stolen Goods Account for Billions in Losses Nationally
Across the nation, the cost of stolen goods begins to add up to a staggering amount annually. According to a report from the National Retail Federation, retailers in the U.S. lose $13 billion worth of goods to theft each year. These figures show that businesses across the country collectively suffer from loss of profits on a significant scale. Implementing a business security system is a great way to arm yourself against becoming a part of this statistic.
5. Retailers Pay the Price for Theft and Fraud
The cost of theft is not just a national crisis; on an individual level, these losses can significantly strain businesses. Retailers in the U.S. have faced significant losses, with an average of 1.6% of their individual total sales vanishing due to theft and fraud in recent years. Choosing not to safeguard your business can be a serious issue when it comes to profits.
6. Business Burglaries Are Common
Break-ins and burglaries are unfortunately not a distant threat to American businesses. On average in the U.S., 42,104 commercial properties are burglarized annually. Across the country, 21,732 restaurants see burglaries every year as well as 11,679 convenience stores, 6,695 churches, and 6,344 gas stations. While many business locations across the U.S. utilize security systems to help arm themselves against these threats, there are several that are targeted that do not have this added layer of protection.
Try Business Security to Protect Against Crime Statistics
Investing in a comprehensive business security system is crucial in protecting your business from burglaries. By implementing deterrent measures, continuous professional monitoring, access control, and alarm systems, you can significantly reduce the risk of criminal activities. Consider partnering with reputable providers like Guardian Protection to ensure your business remains safe and secure. Remember, a well-protected business is the best way to ensure your business does not become another one of these crime statistics.
