Retailers face growing challenges in safeguarding their stores as break-ins become more frequent and sophisticated. The rise of organized retail crime (ORC) and other emerging threats requires businesses to adopt stronger, more proactive security measures. Our 2024 Storefront Security and Emergency Response Report sheds light on these evolving risks, offering actionable insights that businesses can leverage to strengthen their defenses.
This post will delve into the report’s key findings, summarizing the most significant security trends and providing practical recommendations to help businesses navigate the growing challenges in retail security.
Survey Overview and Approach
The 2024 Storefront Security and Emergency Response Report builds on data from the 2022 survey, analyzing how retail decision makers are adapting to rising security threats. Survey participants included a broad spectrum of retail leaders, from field managers to corporate executives, providing a well-rounded view of industry concerns.
Respondent demographics:
- Thirty-six percent of respondents held decision-making roles.
- Most respondents were from the United States, representing small businesses to large chains across various industries.
The data shows that many retailers are exploring advanced storefront security measures, including window security films, to protect their businesses more effectively. Below are some key takeaways from the report.
Key Findings from the 2024 Report
The 2024 report sheds light on key trends affecting storefront security. Here are the main findings:
1. Increase in Break-Ins
This year saw a rise in reported break-ins or attempted break-ins, with 86% of respondents affected, compared to 83% in 2022. This growing threat highlights the critical need for robust security measures, including improved storefront barriers and comprehensive alarm systems.
2. Decreased Concern Over Break-Ins
Interestingly, despite the rise in break-ins, only 63% of businesses now view them as a significant threat, down from 87% in 2022. This shift could indicate that businesses are either overestimating their current security capabilities or becoming desensitized to the risks. Businesses need to remain proactive—and not underestimate the potential impact of security vulnerabilities.
3. Reduced Focus on Storefront Security
The report reveals a notable drop in the number of businesses conducting regular security assessments, falling to 47% from 77% last year. This decline may be attributed to budgetary constraints, with 27% of businesses reporting limited support for enhanced security. By failing to address these vulnerabilities, businesses remain exposed to significant financial and property losses.
4. Declining Trust in Security Responses
Confidence in both law enforcement and internal emergency response measures has decreased. Only 21% of respondents believe that law enforcement responds promptly, a decline from 42% in 2022.
Just 56% have high confidence in their company’s emergency procedures, down from 79%. This suggests that businesses may need to seek additional or alternative security solutions to ensure timely and effective protection.
5. Growing Concern Around ORC
Although election-related unrest has been a concern in some areas, ORC remains the predominant cause of break-ins. A significant 81% of respondents attributed their incidents to ORC rather than election disturbances. This emphasizes that, despite occasional local issues, organized crime is the primary and ongoing threat to retail security.
Addressing Storefront Security Challenges
Securing the storefront while balancing visibility and managing costs is a significant concern for many retailers. Here’s how 3M™ S2400 security window film provides effective protection without compromising on appearance or adding unnecessary expenses.
Balance Between Security and Visibility
Maintaining both security and visual appeal is essential for storefronts. For example, some businesses have turned to concrete barriers to protect display windows after break-ins—which can obstruct visibility.
- 3M S2400 offers a solution by providing advanced security with high transparency, safeguarding storefronts while preserving their aesthetic.
High Costs of Break-Ins
Break-ins can lead to significant costs, including inventory loss and emergency repairs. These immediate financial strains and long-term repair costs can heavily impact a business’ bottom line.
- 3M S2400 helps mitigate these expenses with its durable, rapid-curing material, reducing the need for frequent repairs and replacements while preventing break-ins.
Importance of After-Hours Security
Did you know that 78% of break-ins occur between midnight and 6:00 a.m.? This makes securing storefronts during these late hours essential.
- 3M S2400 offers exceptional impact resistance and durability, ensuring storefronts stay protected even when no one is around. It’s a reliable partner for safeguarding businesses around the clock.
Strengthening Storefront Security for the Future
The 2024 Storefront Security and Emergency Response Report highlights the urgent need for businesses to adapt to the changing landscape of retail security. With break-ins increasing, confidence in emergency responses waning, and organized retail crime remaining a persistent threat, it’s crucial for businesses to take proactive steps to protect their storefronts.
Ready to enhance your storefront security? Download the report, where you’ll get insights into the latest security trends and discover how solutions like 3M S2400 can safeguard your business.
