How Retailers Can Protect Their Stock from Young Opportunistic Thieves During the School Holidays

With the school holidays in full swing, many retailers see a noticeable uptick in footfall, especially from teenagers and schoolchildren with time on their hands. 

While most young visitors are simply browsing or enjoying a bit of freedom, the holidays can unfortunately also bring a rise in opportunistic thefts from under-18s.

Retail theft is frustrating at any time, but it’s particularly sensitive when minors are involved. So how can shopkeepers and retail staff protect stock, maintain a welcoming environment, and still act responsibly when tackling the issue?

Here are some practical and ethical strategies to help safeguard your business during the holiday period:

1. Make Your Presence Known

A visible staff presence is one of the strongest deterrents to theft. Ensure team members are actively engaging with all customers, especially in quieter corners of the shop or near high-value goods. A friendly “Can I help you?” does more than offer service, it reminds would-be shoplifters they’re being noticed.

2. Review and Refresh CCTV Coverage

Make sure your CCTV system is:

Fully operational

Covers all key areas (including blind spots and exits)

Clearly signed and visible to visitors

Regular checks and signage reminding customers of surveillance can go a long way in discouraging theft. If your system is outdated, now’s the time to consider upgrading before problems arise.

3. Reposition High-Risk Stock

Items that are small, popular, or easy to conceal, such as cosmetics, accessories, tech items, or confectionery should be:

Kept closer to the tills

Placed behind counters

Displayed in locked or secured cabinets

This also applies to seasonal merchandise or trending products among teens.

4. Train Staff in Friendly Vigilance

Your team doesn’t need to turn into security guards, but they should know the signs of suspicious behaviour, such as:

Groups loitering without engaging with products

People entering with large bags or bulky clothing in warm weather

Repeated glancing around or avoiding eye contact

Encourage calm, non-accusatory interactions. A welcoming approach often disarms bad intentions and avoids escalation.

5. Work With Local Schools and Community Police

In some areas, community policing teams offer additional patrols during the holidays and may be happy to work with retailers. Establish a dialogue and share concerns early.

Likewise, developing a relationship with local schools can be helpful. If there’s a recurring problem involving specific pupils, schools often prefer to be informed discreetly to resolve the issue themselves.

6. Offer Alternatives – Don’t Just Assume the Worst

Sometimes, theft by minors stems from boredom, peer pressure, or financial hardship rather than malice. Consider:

Offering free or low-cost samples

Engaging younger visitors with friendly conversation

Providing a small, affordable ‘pocket money’ range to reduce temptation

It won’t prevent every incident, but a proactive, understanding approach can make a difference.

7. Stay Calm and Follow Procedure

If a theft occurs:

Do not physically confront the suspect unless absolutely necessary

Record CCTV footage

Report serious or repeated incidents to the police

Ensure your team knows what to do, including how to involve parents or guardians appropriately if a minor is involved.

Some Chambers of Commerce or local councils run a radio link system with shopkeepers all linked by radio to a central command point or the local police. If there's no such system in your town or district perhaps you should suggest that one is launched?

8. Don’t Let a Few Spoil It for Everyone

It’s easy to become defensive or suspicious when thefts increase, but remember, most young customers are respectful and often enthusiastic shoppers. Keeping your store friendly and inclusive is key to long-term trust and loyalty.

The school holidays are a brilliant time for shops to attract younger customers and families, but they also call for smart stock management and a bit more vigilance. 

With the right balance of security, staff training, and community cooperation, retailers can protect their stock while still creating a welcoming environment for all.

After all, today’s teens could become tomorrow’s most loyal customers — if they’re treated with fairness and respect.