ANAHEIM, Calif. - eTradeWire -- Retailers are gearing up for the holiday shopping season with a wary eye on criminal activity that could put a sizeable dent in their profits, says Access Control Security (ACS), a nationwide security company.

Retailers lost nearly $50 billion because of theft last year, according to a National Retail Federation (NRF) report. Stores typically see theft rise during November and December. Crowded stores, rushed and distracted shoppers, and more activity by organized criminal rings are just some of the reasons.

"Retailers often count on holiday sales to turn a profit for the year," says Reza Jalala, ACS director of security and operations. "Holiday theft can easily wipe that out."

NRF surveys show retailers are dealing with more repeat offenders, organized crime shoplifting events (flash mobs), and walkouts (pile a cartload of goods and leave without paying). Retailers also report growing concern about homelessness and customer-related violence.

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To help curb retail theft and violence during the holidays, ACS recommends five measures:

--Add security guards. Assign extra guards to watch over high-end items and in-demand goods that can be easily resold online. Place guards at store entrances to monitor who comes and goes.

--Offer parking lot escorts. Give shoppers the option of having a security guard escort them to their cars if they are uncomfortable walking in a parking lot or garage alone.

--Install visible cameras. Mount security cameras around the store with signs noting that shoppers are being monitored in real time. If the budget allows, retain a service to monitor camera feeds around the clock so law enforcement can be called immediately if unlawful activity occurs after hours.

--Background check seasonal staff. Make sure all temporary holiday employees have passed background checks. Limit access to secure areas only to trusted employees.

--Train employees. Teach staff to look for suspicious behavior and report instances to security.

"Some statistics indicate that these and other loss prevention techniques are starting to make an impact," says Jalala. "Shoplifting and merchandise theft decreased overall for the first time in several years in 2025. Thieves, however, are always looking for new ways to steal."

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ACS provides security services in cities throughout the country. To request a quote for holiday security guards or camera surveillance, call ACS at 877-482-7324 or go to http://accesscontrolsecurity.com.

About Access Control Security (ACS)

Based in Anaheim, California, Access Control Security (ACS) has been providing security guard services to individuals, businesses and events for over 30 years. It uses the latest technology and surveillance monitoring systems. Clients include shopping centers, retailers, medical and commercial buildings, warehouses, hotels, government complexes, events, schools, houses of worship and construction sites. Security services are also provided to apartment complexes, HOAs, gated and retirement communities and assisted living facilities.