SOLUTIONS SHOWCASE

What’s New in Merchandise Protection?

Three new merchandise protection products from Checkpoint’s Alpha High Theft line of products are empowering retailers to better protect their valuable retail merchandise. “We are excited to bring to market these three new and innovative solutions,” said Stuart Rosenthal, VP of sales and marketing for Checkpoint and Alpha High Theft Solutions. “These solutions are a result of listening to customers’ needs and our deep understanding of the competition and retail market. I am very proud of the work put forth by the entire team to deliver best-in-class products.”

Density Tag

Critical Protection of Boxed Store Merchandise

Density Tag is so innovative that it was selected as a finalist for the Retail Industry Leaders Association’s 2017 Tech Asset Protection Innovation Awards. It protects valuable items inside packaged merchandise by “sensing” presence through the box. If the item is removed from the package, the change in measured density results in an alarm. Density Tag offers the ultimate protection of the actual merchandise inside the box, helping to prevent malicious customer fraud, without the need for puncturing a hole in the packaging. Key features include: ■ AM or RF technology 2- or 3-Alarm® (activates EAS alarm if a breach occurs, arms when merchandise is tampered with in store, and self alarms if merchandise is removed from store) ■ 95-decibel alarm and flashing

LED light ■ Isolated sound chamber ■ Easy to apply and remove by retailers ■ Available in the fourth quarter of 2017

StrapLok

Protecting Boxed Merchandise with Nylon Straps

Bug Tag 2 and Snare

Many retailers use nylon straps around boxes to prevent consumers from opening merchandise in the store and to confirm to potential buyers that all boxed parts are inside.

StrapLok quickly attaches onto existing box nylon straps. Thanks to the dynamic tension adjustment, it is compatible with low-quality, loose straps found on boxes already pre-strapped from manufacturing. StrapLok is unique in actively monitoring the strap’s tension and will only alarm if the strap is being cut. The key advantage is that pulling on the StrapLok will not generate false alarms, and the StrapLok readjusts to any strap tension variation related to the pull. Key features include: ■ AM or RF technology ■ 2- or 3-Alarm® (activates EAS alarm if a breach occurs, arms when merchandise is tampered with in store, and self alarms if merchandise is removed from store) ■ 95-decibel alarm and flashing LED light ■ Isolated sound chamber ■ Easy to apply and remove ■ Tough, secure, and reusable ■ Available in the second quarter of 2017

Bug Tag 2 and Snare

Protecting Six-Sided Boxed Merchandise, Electronics, and Display Merchandise

StrapLok

Bug Tag 2, one of Checkpoint’s newest hard tags, is specifically designed to protect a variety of six-sided boxed merchandise and electronics, such as tablets, sell-through packaged merchandise, and display merchandise. Using it as a “line-alarm” system combined with the specially designed Snare accessory can increase its versatility. Applications include protecting display tools, sporting goods, kitchen appliances, and handbags. Used with Snare, it can adapt to curved or straight surfaces and attach to other articles. Any attempts to cut the coiled lanyard or the CableLok results in the Bug Tag 2 module alarm. Key features include: ■ AM or RF technology ■ 2- or 3-Alarm® (activates EAS alarm if a breach occurs, arms when merchandise is tampered with in store, and self alarms if merchandise is removed from store) ■ 95-decibel alarm and flashing LED light ■ Improved sound chamber ■ Compact design ■ Quick and easy to apply and remove ■ Reusable module ■ Disposable adhesive sled ■ Snare accessory for securing display merchandise ■ Available immediately

Visit checkpointsystems.com for more information.

7PSOLUTIONS

Checking All the Boxes on Your GPS Solution

With today’s retail business environment and the ever-increasing prevalence of organized retail crime, LP professionals must ask themselves two important questions about their GPS loss prevention programs—are we getting the most return on investment, and what is behind the GPS technologies we are using?

With the influx of new companies and trackers being introduced into the market, it is more important than ever that these questions are answered and that LP professionals understand what should be expected when using GPS and the associated data.

Two key components together enhance the capabilities of GPS technologies, and both must be considered to ensure an effective GPS loss prevention program.

What Is Behind My GPS?

Return on Investment

Software Platform. GPS software platforms should not be designed as one-size-fits-all, especially today when companies must take advantage of the data available. A user’s daily task should be based on user permissions, allowing one device to be used in different ways based upon permissions.  Does the platform go beyond the event-based communications that allow monitoring centers to monitor shipments and prevent against cargo theft?  Does the platform provide complete supply-chain visibility and have the flexibility to be used in other departments outside of loss prevention and asset protection?

Examples are the ability for transportation and logistics personnel to manage carrier performance, and purchasing’s ability to manage supplier and vendor on-time performance, which can translate to inventory dollars that are in the supply chain at any given time.  Does the platform allow for clients to capture electronic data interchange (EDI) transactions for non-GPS shipments and use these transactions for risk and inventory management?

GPS Tracking Device. Through side-by-side testing, real-time GPS has proven time and time again to be the most effective and accurate technology in the market. By taking an extra couple of minutes for device placement within the shipment, you reduce the time (labor) required to manage shipments.  Reduce or eliminate false alarms.  Enhance event-based communications by using tighter geo-fences around facilities and turn-by-turn linear geo-fencing.  Take less time for theft recovery. Real-time GPS is within a matter of feet from the device location, whereas other technologies can be shown within a 20-mile radius of the actual location.

Since beginning 7PSolutions in 2010, this is a question that we have not seen addressed within the industry, but is fundamentally one of the first questions that should be asked. It should be not only asked but also verified.

Software Platform. When managing a customer’s brand, a GPS provider must ensure that the software platform is available and on-line to users at all times, has robust IT security protocols, and has a responsive user interface.  Is the data being managed using a combination of servers and virtual servers?  Is the traffic volume and health of the servers being managed?  How is the data backed up, and is there automatic failover?  Are battery back-ups being used and dual generators supporting the facility?  Are dual Internet providers supporting the facility?  How are we ensured the platform is available at all times? Is technical support available 24/7/365?  What type of load testing is done?  Is the platform fully licensed with Google Maps?  Is data available for a minimum of five years? GPS Tracking Device. The GPS device must be available at all times. In many instances the battery specifications will meet the required transit times, but an additional battery should be maintained in the event of a cargo theft.  If the recovery process takes several days, will the battery survive?  What is the process for placing the device into sleep mode?

If there is an event while the device is in sleep mode, will it automatically wake up and respond?  Can I communicate with the device remotely?  Is the device SIM carrier specific or agnostic?  Are disposable or single-use devices truly disposable, or do you incur a charge back for late or non-return?

Today’s LP professionals are required to know loss prevention and asset protection best practices and also global supply-chain and transportation best practices. All of this combines with GPS technologies to ensure a proactive and robust GPS program.

Call us at 812-988-4430 or visit 7pgps.com to find out how 7PSolutions checks all the boxes.

An RFID Solution for DSW

Footwear retailer DSW is looking at the future—one that doesn’t include dual electronic article surveillance (EAS) technologies. EAS systems utilize one of two signal technologies: radio frequency (RF) or acousto-magnetic (AM). Having both RF and AM EAS systems in most stores, DSW was faced with the challenge of moving forward with only one solution. Its existing EAS systems proved to be one-dimensional, with their only function acting as traditional EAS. The company needed a security solution with not only traditional EAS functionality, but also the ability to provide stock-keeping data for sales optimization and analytics to assist with investigations, all while blending seamlessly into their stores’ polished warehouse design.

Focusing on the future, the DSW team initially started looking at RFID solely as a theft prevention solution—one that provided store personnel with real-time data. They began testing RFID on handbag tables that would alert store personnel of any grab-and-runs. Additionally, they used RFID to keep track of their in-store mobile devices, particularly their iPads. After several tests and research, however, they realized the true ROI would be in the absolute unit accuracy of their inventory. They were ready to upgrade to RFID technology for EAS.

The Nedap Solution

Following a successful proposal process, which included a pilot phase, Nedap was selected to supply DSW with the sleek, aesthetically pleasing !D Top RFID overhead reader. Unlike traditional EAS systems that require pedestals to be mounted on the sales floor near each entrance and exit, the !D Top is mounted overhead, helping to maintain a vibrant, clean, and clutter-free sales floor. In addition to the aesthetics, the !D Top adds to each store’s appearance.

The !D Top was chosen for its intuitive and simple technology. The DSW team needed a solution on which store associates with varying technical knowledge could be easily trained. They wanted a solution that was easy to install and not too complex. They were particularly impressed with the fact that Nedap’s !D Top has PoE (Power over Ethernet) capability, meaning a power outlet does not have to be located anywhere near the installation point as is required by other EAS systems. PoE saves a tremendous amount of costs typically associated with installing power outlets within six to ten feet of traditional EAS equipment and needs no involvement from IT departments.

After the successful pilot, the DSW team decided on a complete chain-wide rollout of the !D Top with many installations already completed, and additional deployments in fifty to seventy stores per year.

“RFID was a new technology for us, so this was a high-profile project. We had dabbled in RFID with a few proofs of concept with other providers, but we had never rolled chain-wide like this before. We partnered with store construction, store operations, training and development, and other departments within DSW to make sure this project was a success,” said Matt Brooks, DSW’s senior manager of investigations.

About Nedap

Nedap has both the product and the people to help retailers be successful protecting their merchandise. With Nedap, it’s what’s now and what’s next. Visit nedap-retail.com to learn more.

Detecting Theft at the Point of Concealment

Southern Imperial’s LM Tag loss prevention solution has proven to reduce shrink and labor costs. Additionally, the LM Tag has helped increase sales opportunities while providing early notification when offenders conceal merchandise. Using proprietary light and motion sensor technology, the LM Tag is the first loss prevention product to detect theft at the point of concealment rather than the point of store exit—allowing retailers to monitor and defeat theft risk before the product leaves the store.

How LM Tags Work

LM Tags are small, versatile, and reusable theft-deterrent devices. They attach to merchandise using a replaceable adhesive backing that does not damage packaging and adheres to most flat surfaces. Deactivators are available in either a countertop station or handheld unit. Once applied, any motion and concealment of the product will immediately notify store employees.

LM Tags start working immediately. Their slim profile design (1.5 by 1.5 by 0.5 inches) allows the product to display on merchandise while supporting branding objectives. How does it work? The LM Tag is designed to be a multi-faceted theft deterrent. When concealed (in a bag, pocket, or another method) and in motion, the LM tag sounds a warning beep and alarms if the product remains covered. Store associates get the benefit of having an early notification to a potential theft threat. Tampering with the product also triggers the LM Tag to alarm if the tag is not removed using the unique deactivator. The strobe deactivator generates a customizable light sequence to disarm the tag. Unlike magnetic deactivators, this process cannot be defeated or duplicated; no other deactivator can replicate the light code. Finally, as an added value of security, the LM Tags feature an EAS gate alarm function that can be configured to AM or RF signals to alarm at the point of exit.

Southern Imperial has also designed additional mounting accessories—the LM Tag Wrap and the LM Tag Clip—allowing LM Tags to secure bags, packages, shoes, oddly shaped merchandise, and soft-line products. The LM Tag Wrap uses a monofilament preventing unauthorized access to boxed items. Cutting the wrap triggers the LM Tag to alarm. The LM Tag Clip is a lightweight plastic housing for the LM Tag. Once installed, the clip can be attached to boots, shoes, and purses without piercing or damaging the product. Any attempt to remove the clip will trigger the LM Tag alarm. Both products also feature the same light-and-motion sensor technology as the LM Tag.

Research Backs Them Up

The LM Tags are a proven system. In the Loss Prevention Research Council’s 2015 study Specialty Beauty Retailer Offender, Shopper, Employee Feedback Study – LM Tag, Kyle Grottini and Read Hayes, PhD, observed and interviewed actual employees, shoppers, and potential shoplifters. All respondents felt the LM tag would deter theft but would not negatively affect brand identity or the overall store experience. Potential shoplifters noted they immediately recognized the LM Tag as a loss prevention product but did not identify all the different methods that activate an alarm. All stated they would reconsider attempting to steal items with the LM Tag attached. And all employees interviewed believed the LM Tag to be very effective at reducing loss.

Southern Imperial, Inc., of Rockford, Illinois, with factories in Centerville, Georgia, and Xiamen, China, is one of the industry’s leading designers and manufacturers of store fixture hardware and retail display solutions—delivering proven results and influencing point-of-purchase for the nation’s top retailers and their suppliers.

For more information on the LM Tag or other Southern Imperial loss prevention products, please visit intelligentlossprevention.com or call toll-free 800-747-4665.

THE ZELLMAN GROUP

Combating Organized Retail Crime at Its Source

Over the last twenty years the retail industry has been in a constant uphill battle to remain profitable. From online resellers to social media, it is now easier than ever to make purchases without leaving your own Facebook app. Online resellers that used to be limited to eBay and Craigslist have expanded into new and more mobile-friendly platforms. Besides changing the way consumers shop for goods, these online marketplaces have changed the way thieves steal and resell merchandise. The days of selling stolen watches from the inside of a trench coat are gone. Thieves are now an organized team skilled in exploiting the Internet for their own profit.

For the first time ever, 100 percent of companies participating in the National Retail Federation’s (NRF) 2016 Loss Prevention Survey reported being a victim of organized retail crime (ORC). According to the same survey, ORC costs the retail industry over $30 billion a year. The popularity of e-commerce, social media, and marketplace seller sites has had a considerable impact on the way goods are bought and sold, as well as the significant rise in ORC theft. One organization that is combating this problem at its source is The Zellman Group.

Open-Source Intelligence and ORC Investigations

The Zellman Group recently launched an Open-Source ORC Investigation service. Combined with their ORC Recovery division, The Zellman Group now provides an end-to-end solution to retailers for their ORC needs. The Zellman Group recognizes how difficult it is for current loss prevention senior leadership to balance combatting ORC theft and the ROI on a full-fledged ORC team. By providing an end-to-end solution, The Zellman Group can help shift this balance. The Zellman Group has the capacity to identify, investigate, and resolve ORC thefts of all sizes. The Open-Source program consists of online research to gather information from e-commerce communities, classifieds, social networks, Dark Web, and criminal data to identify the core of ORC rings. Once the criminal enterprise is identified, The Zellman Group ORC investigations specialists combine cutting-edge forensic with proven investigative techniques, high-level law enforcement contacts, and financial recovery solutions. The Zellman Group’s service is designed to assist retailers at every step of their investigative process.

The Zellman Group ORC team is led by Ben Dugan as the Director of ORC Field Investigations, and Bill Ramos as the Director of ORC Recovery. Dugan has more than ten years of ORC field investigations experience and is a well-known expert and speaker in the industry. Ramos has more than thirty years of investigation and recovery experience with extensive background leading major investigations and recovery efforts for high-end retailers throughout the US. CEO Stuart Levine; VP of Operations Lauren Bridgeo; and Chief Counsel Michael Ira Asen, who is a criminal attorney, provide additional support and expertise. Each member of this team has more than thirty years of retail, e-commerce, and investigative experience.

Twenty Years of Innovation

The Zellman Group is celebrating its twentieth birthday this December. Since its founding in 1997, The Zellman Group has embodied the phrase “the only constant is change.” From its start as an employee-screening company to the multiservice loss prevention organization it is today, The Zellman Group is always evolving with the needs of the loss prevention community. This being said, it is no surprise that The Zellman Group would tackle ORC head on.

“The ORC problem in this country is continuing to grow every year, but the resources dedicated to the fight are shrinking,” said Levine. “Unlike standard retail loss prevention efforts that can be easily justified with lower shrink, an ORC team ROI is more difficult to prove. While many ORC teams document tens of millions of dollars in admissions, very few can offset program expenses with recovery like we can.”

The Zellman Group, LLC, based in Greenvale, New York, is a loss prevention services and consulting company working in the retail, food service, and hospitality industries.

Visit The Zellman Group’s Open-Source Intelligence and ORC Investigations team at NRF PROTECT (booth 601) in Washington, DC, in June. For more information, please visit zellmangroup.com.