In the bustling retail landscape of North Carolina, from Charlotte’s vibrant malls to Raleigh’s neighborhood shops, store owners face a persistent challenge: shoplifting and retail theft. With the shoplifting crisis escalating nationwide, many wonder if hiring security guards particularly through security guard patrol services can truly make a difference. This post dives into the effectiveness of store security measures, including armed security guards, and offers practical insights for retail theft prevention. We’ll draw on recent data and strategies tailored to NC businesses, helping you decide if guards are the right fit for your store.

The Shoplifting Crisis in North Carolina: A Growing Concern

North Carolina’s retail sector is no stranger to theft. According to the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (NCSBI), property crimes, including larceny and theft, remain a top issue. In 2022, property crimes accounted for over 158,000 incidents statewide, making up more than half of all reported crimes. Fast-forward to 2024-2025, and the trend persists. Nationally, stores lost an estimated $45 billion to retail theft in 2024, with projections climbing to $53 billion by 2027. In NC, cities like Charlotte reported 17,524 property crimes in the first half of 2025, a slight dip from 18,356 the previous year, but still alarming for small businesses.

The shoplifting crisis isn’t just about petty theft; organized retail crime rings are increasingly bold, targeting high-value items and reselling them online. In response, North Carolina lawmakers passed legislation in 2021 to stiffen penalties for organized retail theft based on stolen merchandise value. Groups like the Carolinas Organized Retail Crime Alliance (CORCA) collaborate with law enforcement and retailers to combat this. But for everyday store owners, the question remains: Can on-site security turn the tide?

How Security Guard Patrol Services Deter Shoplifting

Security guard patrol services are a frontline defense in retail theft prevention. Their visible presence alone acts as a powerful deterrent. Studies and industry reports show that stores with uniformed guards experience lower theft rates because potential shoplifters perceive higher risks of getting caught.

Here’s how they help:

• Monitoring and Surveillance: Guards patrol aisles, entrances, and exits, watching for suspicious behavior like lingering near high-theft items or concealing merchandise. In NC stores, this proactive approach aligns with local prevention tips from cities like Winston-Salem, where greeting customers is emphasized to signal vigilance.
• Rapid Response: If theft occurs, trained guards can intervene safely, detain suspects until police arrive, and provide evidence from observations or CCTV footage. This reduces “shrinkage” the industry term for lost inventory which can eat into profits by up to 2% annually.
• Customer Service Integration: Beyond deterrence, guards assist shoppers, creating a welcoming yet secure environment. This dual role boosts customer loyalty while subtly enhancing store security.

Data backs this up: Retailers investing in security guards report up to a 30% reduction in shrinkage, according to loss prevention case studies. For NC businesses, partnering with local services ensures compliance with state regulations and familiarity with regional threats.

Armed Security Guard vs. Unarmed: Choosing the Right Fit for Store Security

Not all security needs are the same. The debate between armed security guards and unarmed ones hinges on your store’s risk level.

• Unarmed Guards: Ideal for most retail settings, these professionals rely on observation, communication, and non-lethal tools like radios or pepper spray. They’re cost-effective, often 20-30% cheaper than armed options and focus on deterrence without escalating situations. For low-to-medium risk stores in NC suburbs, unarmed guards provide sufficient store security.
• Armed Security Guards: Equipped with firearms, these guards are trained for high-threat scenarios, such as stores in urban areas prone to violent thefts or organized crimes. Their presence sends a strong message, potentially reducing bold shoplifting attempts. However, they require more extensive training and licensing, increasing costs. In NC, where aggravated assaults dropped 10% in early 2025, armed security guards might be overkill for many but essential for high-value retailers.

Ultimately, assess your location: High-crime spots in Charlotte may benefit from armed patrols, while Raleigh boutiques might thrive with unarmed services. Consult experts to match your needs.

Additional Retail Theft Prevention Strategies for NC Stores

While security guards are effective, they’re part of a broader strategy. Combine them with:

• Technology Integration: Install CCTV at key points and use AI-driven analytics for real-time alerts. NC grants for combating organized retail theft can fund these upgrades.
• Employee Training: Teach staff to spot red flags and report issues promptly. Simple habits like maintaining clear sightlines in stores prevent hidden thefts.
• Physical Deterrents: Use locked cases for valuables, bright lighting, and alarm systems. The NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services recommends these for business theft prevention.
• Community Partnerships: Join CORCA for resources and networking with law enforcement.

These layered approaches amplify the impact of security guard patrol services, creating a robust defense against the shoplifting crisis.

Real-World Success Stories in Retail Theft Prevention

Consider a Charlotte retailer who hired armed security guards amid rising thefts. Within months, incidents dropped 25%, thanks to visible patrols and quick interventions. Similarly, a Raleigh store using unarmed guards and CCTV saw shrinkage fall by 20%, proving that tailored store security works.

For more on our patrol options, check our security guard patrol services page. Interested in armed protection? Visit armed security guard solutions.

Externally, the National Retail Federation offers great insights on theft trends: NRF Retail Theft Report.

Conclusion: Investing in Security for a Safer Future

Security guards can indeed stop shoplifting and store thefts when deployed strategically. In North Carolina’s evolving retail scene, security guard patrol services, whether armed or unarmed, provide essential deterrence and response amid the shoplifting crisis. By combining guards with tech and training, you protect profits and create safer spaces.

Ready to safeguard your store? Contact us today for a free consultation on retail theft prevention tailored to NC. Learn more about our services or subscribe to our newsletter for ongoing tips.