Aiexpress – A late-night incident at a shoe store in Fresno, California, left robbers mostly empty-handed, thanks to the shop owner’s cunning closing procedure.
Security footage released by KSEE24 shows two vehicles approaching the store at 3 a.m. on December 30. One automobile collides with the front of the store, and numerous people are seen fleeing inside. But they leave shortly later, obviously perplexed.
“If they would have looked through the window, they would have saved themselves some time and energy from even trying to break in,” shopkeeper Roman Gonzales told the local radio.
He planned to restart his store, DripOnDrip, the next day, thanks to a simple step he added to the shutting process.
Gonzales is experienced in preventing smash-and-grab thefts. He claims the majority of his store’s apparel was stolen during a break-in at its prior site in 2023.
“Seeing the building from where you work practically every day be devastated. “It’s shocking,” he stated.
As part of the shop’s closing procedure, all product is taken from the sales floor, and the cash register, which is close to a window, is left wide open so that potential thieves can see it is empty. The only thing missing is a display of right-foot shoes, which Gonzales claims are of no use to thieves.
“I mean, you can’t just buy a left-foot shoe online,” he told me. “So you won’t be able to use or resell that item.” It’s simply pointless.
Gonzales confesses that the burglars stole a few backpacks and shoes that he wanted to donate to underprivileged children, but he is grateful that his plan worked. He also informed KSEE24 that the shopping center where the clothes store is located is exploring extra security measures.
How to Protect Your Business
His savvy closing strategy may have saved him thousands of dollars in lost merchandise, but small company owners like Gonzales can do more to protect themselves. Installing security cameras, an alarm system, and roll-down security shutters can help protect glass-front establishments from burglary or damage. Poles or traffic bollards in front of businesses can also deter would-be criminals from breaking in and gaining entrance.
Obtaining the appropriate company insurance coverage might help to mitigate the financial effect of retail theft. Commercial property insurance may cover the costs of restoring storefronts or replacing stolen items, provided the coverage contained in your policy meets your needs. Some insurance companies also provide business interruption insurance, which can compensate for lost income if you are forced to temporarily close your firm for a specified reason, such as theft.
When comparing insurance policies, seek for ones that cover theft and vandalism. Check the deductibles and coverage limits to make sure the policy is appropriate for your business.
Finally, implementing a security protocol for employees to follow can assist reduce risk. Creating a checklist for opening and closing a store might help to minimize any damage caused by theft or vandalism.
