Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS or Tagging) has been the most popular method of protecting stock from theft over recent years. Its effectiveness has been endorsed by the British Retail Consortium as the most effective way for their members to protect their profits.

The concept is quite simple. Detection devices are installed at the exits to a store and detection antenna and hard tags provide an excellent deterrant effect whilst the paper labels can be virtually invisible, confusing the potential thief, as he/she does not know what is or is not tagged.

It is widely recognised that a large proportion of customer theft is 'opportunist' or 'impulse' theft. EAS is extremely efficient in preventing impulse theft. The antenna and the possibility of tagged product help reduce the initial impulse to steal as the risk of being detected is greatly increased. Even the most accomplished thief would rather go to an unprotected store than risk detection or have the hassle of trying to defeat the system or remove tags, thus increasing the risk of damaging the product or packaging they wish to steal. A damaged product has no real resale value.

EAS works! And will provide an excellent return on investment for many years. It is essential that the benefits of the system be applied correctly, as EAS is only a tool to be used. It is not foolproof, but is very simple to operate effectively if simple guidelines are followed.

The system can deter potential trouble from the store, creating a better shopping environment for honest customers and staff. The new open merchandising potential can increase sales and profits. It is essential however that staff remain alert and don't rely on the system to take care of all problems.