Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS): What Is It, and Why Should Retail Businesses Introduce It?

Retailers face constant pressures to protect stock, reduce theft, and ensure the safety of staff. Inventory shrinkage is a constant battle for stores of all sizes, causing significant financial damage, eroding profits, and disrupting business operations.

At Intrepid Security, we understand the critical role that effective security measures play in protecting your valuable stock. Which is why we offer a comprehensive range of Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) tagging solutions, designed to deter theft and optimise your overall security strategy. Here, we break down the basics of EAS, explore its benefits, and explain why it’s an essential tool for all modern retailers.  

What is Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS)? 

EAS is security system used to deter shoplifting and prevent inventory loss. It involves a combination of physical tags, detection systems, and alarms that help to track and protect merchandise.  

Typically, the systems are either:

·       Acousto-Magnetic (AM): Renowned for its robust detection capabilities and minimal false alarms, this is ideal for stores with high-density product displays.

·       Radio Frequency (RF): A widely used and cost-effective option that works well for smaller retail spaces and lower-value items.  

How Does EAS Work?

Small, discreet devises are attached to products, such as sunglasses, fragrances, and clothing. These can be active, meaning they’re equipped with their own battery, or most commonly, they’re passive and activated by an EAS system.

Detection Antennas are positioned at store entrances or exits to detect the signal emitted from passive tags when someone tries to leave the store without the tag being removed or deactivated at the checkout.  

Increasingly, however, retailers are requesting not to see these traditional standing antennas at their store doorways. As specialists in ‘invisible systems’, we can integrate AM EAS into the door frame or floor, meaning businesses can benefit from the reassurance of being alerted at a theft attempt, with minimal change to the aesthetic of the store front.  

Regardless of the system used, when an individual attempts to leave with an item still tagged, the system triggers an alarm, alerting store personnel of a potential theft.

Why Should Retail Businesses Implement EAS?

·       Deterrent

Serving as a proven deterrent, the visible presence of tags can sometimes discourage theft. However, for those who do chance it, the alarm system will quickly notify staff of an attempt so you can intervene and prevent, where possible.

·       Improve Overall Security

When combined with other loss prevention methods, like CCTV and in-store personnel, EAS systems can dramatically improve overall security.

·       Minimise Operational Disruptions

Tagging stock and then deactivating or removing the tags at checkout doesn’t incur labour-intensive, time-consuming or costly resource – allowing staff to prioritise customer service, maintain the flow of operations, and create a positive shopping experience for all.

·       Cost-Effective Solution

EAS requires an upfront installation investment, but it is often able to be integrated into existing infrastructure keeping initial costs low. And, resulting in reduced shrinkage, fewer theft incidents, and more effective use of personnel, it’s a cost-effective option for the majority of retailers.

 Next Steps

Once you’ve chosen the right EAS system for your business, prioritise tagging high-theft items, like electronics and fashion accessories. Train employees on how to deactivate tags, respond to alarms, and spot suspicious behaviour. Also, use signage to inform customers about the system, boosting its deterrent effect. And finally, ensure regular system inspections are carried out to keep everything running smoothly and operating as it should. 

EAS is more than just a theft prevention tool – it’s a critical component within a comprehensive loss prevention strategy. Retail businesses that invest in EAS systems stand to benefit from reduced theft, enhanced security, and a more seamless shopping experience for customers.

Ready to take the next step? At Intrepid Security, we can tailor an EAS solution that works for your business – now and for the future. Contact us today to learn more about the best EAS solutions for your company and how we can help you to create a safer, more secure retail environment.