Adding Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) security tags is an excellent way to deter theft and increase security in your stores. In order to get maximum profit, you must systematically implement EAS tags. EAS implementation is a process from choosing an EAS system to training the staff and maintaining the system.
Each step is important, a poorly designed or poorly maintained system can limit effectiveness and slow store operations. In this guide, we will help you identify considerations and steps to follow for a successful deployment of EAS tags, and ultimately help retailers reduce shrink, secure their assets, and provide the best possible shopping experience for customers.
Choose the Right System
Choosing the right EAS system is critical. There are several EAS options available today, including RF (radio frequency), AM (acousto-magnetic), and EM (electromagnetic) systems. So it is important to understand where the EAS security tags will be deployed, the type of environment, and what types of merchandise you carry.
- Store format and size
- Type of merchandise (clothing, electronics, etc.)
- Accessibility of installation, layout, and compatibility with existing infrastructure
- Price and ongoing maintenance costs
Choosing a trusted provider can ensure you have a high-quality and viable system that will suit your store’s specific EAS needs. You should also test and measure system performance parameters, including ease of deactivation and false alarm rates, before making your decision.
Strategic Tag Placement
Proper placement of tags is necessary for both effectiveness and customer experience. Tags should be placed in locations that reduce tag removal while not interfering with the customer’s shopping experience or using the product.
- Place tags in locations that are difficult to remove without damage
- Don’t put tags in places that compromise the presentation of the product
- Be consistent with tag placement for each product type
Being inconsistent with placement can confuse employees and reduce the effectiveness of theft deterrence. A tagging policy should be established and documented to help maximize the deterrent effect of tags while reducing tag interference.
Staff Training
It is a pivotal step to train your staff to use, troubleshoot, and monitor the EAS system efficiently. Making sure the system is working properly is an essential part of their job, and it is crucial to deterrence effectiveness without interfering with shopping.
- Training should consist of proper tagging
- Recognizing EAS alarms and how to respond
- Appropriate customer interaction when an alarm goes off
- Basic troubleshooting and maintenance
Having a properly trained staff can help to minimize false alarms and maintain a level of professionalism when dealing with customers in theft situations. Regular refresher training will help keep existing staff and new employees trained.
Monitor and Maintain
Periodic monitoring and upkeep are essential to maintain EAS performance over time. Neglecting its proper maintenance can lead to ineffective functioning and costly repairs.
- Make sure your system is inspected regularly.
- Monitor and analyze your alarm logs for false positives or unusual patterns
- Replace damaged tags and batteries
- Keep software updated.
Taking care of your system helps ensure it fulfills its role as a deterrent and continues functioning with few interruptions.
