In 2024, retail stores lost$45 billion to retail theft (shoplifting) alone. By 2027, it could rise to$53 billion, which is alarming.
Retail security cameras are the need of the hour without question. To ensure the safety and security of assets and employees, every retail store, whether small or large, needs security cameras.
Choosing the right retail security camera could be challenging for retail store owners and managers. So, we have compiled a comprehensive guide to buying retail security cameras. It will help in selecting the right camera type, specs, and features according to the retail store's requirements.
Types of Retail Security Cameras
Understanding different types of security cameras helps select the right camera for locations.
Bullet Camera: These are cylindrical/cuboidal-shaped cameras for long-range video capture. They are a strong deterrent for shoplifting and crimes because of easy visibility.
PTZ Camera: Pan-Tilt-Zoom cameras move vertically and horizontally to cover a wider area up to 360⁰. They are ideal to cover every corner of the store. Also, their Zoom feature helps in capturing close-ups.
Dome Camera: These cameras have a protective covering like a dome. They are suitable for preventing tampering and vandalism. They also have pan and tilt motion to cover a vast area.
Panoramic Camera: They are equipped with multiple lenses and sensors to capture separate images. Then, the images are combined to offer a bigger picture.
What to Consider While Buying Retail Security Cameras
Stable Power and Connectivity
Retail security cameras require stable power and connectivity for uninterrupted performance 24/7. Ideally, you can go with a PoE retail security system. It powers and connects the camera to the internet through an Ethernet cable.
The next option would be plug-in security cameras. They receive consistent power through an adapter. They work on Wi-Fi.
For outdoor locations in stores, you can go with battery-powered cameras. They are completely wireless and easier to install. You don't need to run wires, and they can work on Wi-Fi or 4G.
Type of the Security Camera
For covering key areas and deterring intruders and thieves, a bullet camera would be an excellent option. They are suitable to cover targeted locations at a long range, such as long corridors, storefronts, parking lots, delivery areas, entrances, and checkout areas.
For covering open areas, you can place PTZ security cameras. They can cover a wider area, and you will need fewer security cameras for the purpose. You can install them in aisles, small sales floors, warehouses, etc.
For the big picture, such as 180⁰, you can opt for a panoramic camera. They have a fixed wide-angle view that eliminates blind spots. It gathers more information in one frame.
Dome cameras can be used indoors and outdoors. They can deter unethical activities because their lens is not clearly visible. You can use them to cover aisles, counters, sales floors, entry/exit points, etc.
Video Quality
Retail security cameras should offer high-quality videos to recognize faces and capture license plates. Use high-resolution cameras, such as 3K and 4K, to capture intricate details like facial features. Otherwise, the camera would be of no use.
AI Detection and Alerts
AI detection is highly important because it prevents false alerts. You need accurate alerts to deter criminal activities and prevent unauthorized access without disturbing your customers.
AI detection helps in detecting events that matter, and some algorithms can even distinguish between employees and customers.
Secondly, the camera should send real-time notifications to the concerned personnel for immediate action.
AI Video Management/Analysis
For stores, managing data can be challenging. There are numerous events and a vast amount of recordings, making it cumbersome to find a specific video.
That said, AI video management is quite useful. Users need to enter the keywords, like "man in a yellow shirt" or similar details, and the algorithm will pull the videos in no time.
Night Vision
Night vision is needed to capture clear videos at night, whether the store is open or closed. It helps capture clear videos even in low-light conditions. You can go with infrared or colored night vision, depending on the placement of the camera.
Infrared color night vision records videos without disturbing anyone, as there is no light. On the other hand, colored night vision uses a spotlight to illuminate the area. It is also helpful in deterring crimes.
Pro Tip: Some cameras have dual-night vision; you can also opt for that.
Siren & Spotlights
For store owners, sirens and spotlights are mandatory. In case of any suspicious activity, they deter thieves and criminals. No matter where you are, you can automate the siren and spotlights and use them manually whenever needed.
Remote Access
Remote access provides authorized personnel, such as managers and owners, with camera access. They can see the live preview, check recordings, adjust camera settings, and do other things. That said, they can monitor everything in the store from any location.
Flexible Storage
Store cameras should have flexible storage options so that owners can save recordings without any issues and retain them for the required period of time. It should be compatible with local storage to avoid any subscription fees.
NVR or NAS storage is perfect for this purpose. SD card compatibility is also great for single cameras. Small businesses can store recordings without investing in massive storage.
Top Retail Security Cameras
For Large Retail Stores– eufy PoE NVR Security System S4 Max
Large stores need a complete security system with multiple security cameras and a controller. And that's what eufy's S4 Max offers. It comes with four security cameras and an NVR with 2 TB of built-in storage. The best part is that you can install up to 16 security cameras and increase the storage to 16TB, so it's ideal for large stores and scaling.
Highly Reliable: It's a PoE camera system for 24/7 recording. Offers incredible reliability and robust performance in retail stores.
Exceptional Quality: Records 4K wide-angle and 2K PTZ views for clarity and details of people visiting the store. The 8X auto-zoom offers entirely clear close-up shots.
Optimal Coverage: With pan-and-tilt movement, it covers 360⁰. Plus, the cameras sync to track movement in real time. When one reaches the limit, the other takes over. Ideal for covering every corner in retail stores.
Local AI Agent: Has a local AI agent for instant analysis to detect threats and respond immediately. Suitable for no-go zones and alerts.
Smart Video Search: Retail store owners can search events using keywords, which saves a lot of time.
For Small Retail Stores– eufyCam E330 (Professional) 2-Cam Kit
It's a security camera kit for small stores that require reliable security with secure storage. It comes with two security cameras to cover different angles and a HomeBase to control them and save recordings for months.
24/7 4K Clarity: Captures videos in 4K HD resolution, day and night. Offers crystal clear color night vision.
Facial Recognition: Differentiates between workers and customers in stores with 99.99% accuracy. Perfect for no-go areas.
Stable Power and Wi-Fi: It's a plug-in camera for 24/7 uninterrupted performance. Covers up to 5000 sq ft with Wi-Fi and eliminates Wi-Fi dropouts.
Secure Storage: HomeBase stores recordings with advanced encryption without any fee. Can be expanded up to 16TB to retain recordings longer.
For Retail Store Outdoor Locations– eufy Floodlight Camera E340
This is a floodlight security camera that not only captures videos but also illuminates a wider area with its powerful 2000-lumen floodlight. It works great for outdoor locations and keeps intruders and thieves away from stores.
Dual Camera: Has a 2K telephoto lens and a 3K wide-angle camera. Both capture clear videos with fine details.
360⁰ Coverage: The pan and tilt movements cover a wider area. One camera is suitable for a large outdoor location.
AI Detection and Tracking: Smartly detects objects with AI and tracks their movement. Sends alerts to the connected devices.
Wi-Fi 6 Compatibility: Works on Wi-Fi 6 to ensure fast speed and reliable performance in stores.
Flexible Storage: Supports both microSD card (up to 128GB) and HomeBase for easy storage.
For Off-grid and Remote Retail Stores– eufy 4G LTE Cam S330
For locations where running wires is difficult, the eufy S330 4G LTE camera is suitable. You can place it outdoors or anywhere. It does not require a grid supply as it works on solar power and recharges its 9,400mAh powerful battery.
Uninterrupted Performance: Powers through a built-in battery, so it can work even in power outages. Perfectly reliable retail store outdoor locations.
Dual Connectivity: Works on Wi-Fi and 4G. Automatically switches to 4G when Wi-Fi is not available, saving data and ensuring reliable connectivity.
4K Color Videos: Records videos in 4K resolution. Even at night, it captures colored videos with optimal clarity.
AI Tracking: Detects people and vehicles and tracks their movement with AI. Coves 360⁰ for enhanced security.
Strategic Camera Placement of Retail Security Cameras
Here are some important locations to cover in retail stores.
Entry/Exit: Install security cameras at entries and exits. Place multiple cameras at different angles and mount them at 8ft or higher.
Sales Floor: The sales floor is a vast area; consider installing a wide-angle camera. If it's PTZ, install it in the center and avoid obstructions.
POS: There should be a camera covering the POS. A bullet camera could be excellent for focusing on the area.
Aisles: They need extra security to monitor customers. For these areas, install PTZ and dome cameras at different locations.
Outdoor Locations: Place a bullet and floodlight camera at the storefront, parking lot, delivery areas, etc.
Legal Considerations and Privacy
There is no doubt about the benefits of having surveillance cameras in retail stores. They prevent crime and help in catching thieves. Not only this, they also help to build trust between consumers and employees by protecting both. However, before embarking on this journey, it is important to address the checklist for privacy compliance.
- Regulations require that a sign ‘Cameras are watching’ or a similar one is posted inside your retail store where customers can clearly read it. It also must make it clear who owns this camera system. Customers must be able to easily find further information regarding what will be done to the personal information acquired by these cameras.
- When a customer requests, the retail store is bound to present access to the recorded footage for review. You should be able to explain the policies on holding information adequately.
- It is mandatory to develop safeguards that can protect the stored footage data. As a retail store, you are responsible for preventing any data breach by a third party.
- When installing cameras at these locations, ensure customers' privacy. Display proper signage and place cameras at locations where there is no expectation of privacy. You can't place in changing rooms, restrooms, and fitting rooms.
FAQs
Do all retail stores have security cameras?
Most retail stores have security cameras to monitor employees and prevent shoplifting and unethical behavior of customers.
How long do retail stores keep security camera footage?
It depends on the state laws and regulations. However, the common retention period is 30 to 90 days.
How much do store security cameras cost?
A store security camera could cost anywhere $200 to $2,000. It depends on the type of camera, security features, storage options, etc.
What security cameras do stores use?
Retail stores use different kinds of cameras for different purposes and locations. We have explained where you can use PTZ, bullet, dome, and panoramic cameras to make it easier.
Safeguard Your Store with Retail Security Cameras
Retail security cameras not only safeguard your valuable assets but also give peace of mind. They keep you updated about any suspicious activity, and in the case of any incident, you can check the recordings for investigation and immediate response.
We have explained how retail store owners and managers can select the right retail security camera. We have covered every important aspect and shared some retail security cameras for different locations. It might help you in choosing the right camera without much hassle.
