Preventing Grab-and-Run Losses

By Jennifer Heebner, Senior Associate Editor -- JCK Online, 8/1/2004 2:00:00 AM

According to the Jewelers' Security Alliance, there were more than 60 grab-and-run crimes against retail jewelers in the United States in the first quarter of 2004, with losses ranging from $10,000 to $100,000. The JSA's May 27 bulletin offered the following tips to thwart this type of theft:

Never place more than one item at a time in a customer's hands. And, during a sales presentation, make sure the first piece of merchandise is locked away in a showcase before taking out additional goods.
Show second pieces of jewelry—if requested—on your own wrist or finger while the first item is still being viewed.
Do not bring entire trays of diamond merchandise or a diamond wallet to a counter when waiting on a customer.
Ask a second employee to stand at the customer's side during the presentation when showing valuable goods to a new customer.
Consider using a diamond room or alcove for showings, which may make grab-and-run thefts less tempting and more difficult. Not showing high-end goods near the door might also make a potential thief think twice about the distance and route of an escape.
Position surveillance cameras in obvious areas to discourage grab-and-run thieves.
Install a buzzer system on the entrance. This can convince a thief that the jeweler could electronically block the door, preventing a quick exit.
Display signs stating "My insurance company requires that I request identification from customers before displaying this item." While this may not be acceptable in every retail setting, many fine jewelers use this technique when showing high-end goods to unknown customers.
Be wary of customers who move closer to the door, or even request to go outside, to see merchandise "in a better light."
If you do experience a grab-and-run, do not chase the thieves: They may have weapons and you could be hurt.