How to choose the right retail security cameras for your store
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Retail is unique among industries in that inventory is directly exposed to the public. Once the primary perimeter defenses of shutters, doors and locks are opened, the possibility of inventory loss is very real. Security cameras for retail stores are therefore a vital layer of protection that all business owners in the retail industry should consider.
This guide highlights the many benefits of retail store security cameras, and summarizes the features of modern retail camera systems.
Bullet security cameras
Our bullet cameras provide long-range coverage with high-definition detail and AI-driven analytics, enhancing security in retail environments.
Dome security cameras
Provide discreet, 360-degree coverage with high-resolution imaging and advanced analytics to help retailers observe high-traffic areas and prevent theft.
Panoramic cameras
Wide-angle, high-definition coverage of entire retail spaces offers comprehensive observation of customer behavior.
PTZ security cameras
With high-definition clarity, PTZ cameras allow retailers to observe specific areas and dynamic environments, enabling them to respond quickly to incidents.
360-degree fisheye cameras
Achieve complete, high-resolution coverage of an entire retail space with a single camera, allowing retailers to view every angle and reduce blind spots.
Specialty cameras & sensors
Detect and analyze specific events, such as motion or temperature changes, with specialty cameras and sensors to help retailers improve security and operations.
The importance of a retail store security cameras
Security cameras for stores are essentially security guards that never sleep, working 24÷7÷365 to ensure employee safety and security, prevent theft and security breaches and assist with liability and claims if necessary. Here’s why they are essential for retail businesses:
Employee safety and security: Cameras in retail stores increase employee safety and peace of mind, especially if positioned by a qualified security camera installer to ensure there are no blindspots.
In addition, store operators can consider adding body-worn cameras to their retail security systems as an additional safety measure. If there is an incident where a customer starts abusing a member of staff, video security will pick this up instantly, so that the altercation or incident can be dealt with quickly and efficiently.
Liability/claims: Retail video security footage can be an invaluable asset in the event of litigation and claims resulting from a wide range of incident types. Some of the most common such scenarios are:
- Third party damage or bodily injury through falling merchandise, slip and falls or general negligence
- Failure to provide adequate security to prevent criminal attacks in-store
- Security or loss prevention claims
Crime and theft prevention: The presence of retail security cameras is a deterrent against shoplifting and retail theft, such as under-ringing either by checkout staff or by customers at self-checkout. Video footage is used by law enforcement to successfully prosecute individuals.
Key features to look for in retail store security cameras
Whether planning for just one camera or an entire security network, it pays to know what features are available and what their benefits are. This enables you to understand the jargon, put together an initial wish list, and select the most important features you’ll need for your retail security camera system.
Mobile device alerts
By investing in a retail security camera video management system that offers mobile capabilities,you can secure constant real-time connectivity to camera feeds or online analytics, right on your smartphone or tablet. This feature means security personnel can receive mobile alerts on their phone for irregularities or incidents in the store such as theft, break-ins, or emergencies.
Some providers also offer the ability to update camera controls via mobile apps. This may be useful for large retail sites that deploy PTZ CCTV cameras, so that the user can make adjustments without being tied to a specific workstation. This feature gives valuable instant control and instant response capability to staff who have access to it. In addition, the best systems allow you to manage access from anywhere, at any time.
HD video resolution
High-resolution footage delivers clarity and greater certainty, especially when fine detail is required for visibility of small objects and observing covert activity, such as pilferage or suspicious transactions.
Not all locations may warrant extremely high-resolution video security cameras but choosing the appropriate video resolution enables you to design custom deployments to meet the specific requirements of each zone or area.
Nighttime operation
Security cameras in retail stores need to be able to record after-hours when stores are empty, too. Infrared (IR) or low-light technology in cameras removes the need to keep in-store lighting on 24/7. It is instrumental in outdoor and perimeter cameras and allows for gradual change from day to night without additional lighting.
Motion detection
Using advanced AI analytics, a motion detection feature can significantly improve the efficiency and efficacy of store camera systems. By constantly learning what typical activity looks like in your space, motion detection prevents operators from having to fast-forward through long hours of inactivity or large video data files to find an incident. This type of feature is especially useful for locating footage of after-hours activity when the store is generally empty.
Lights and alarms can also be connected to the retail camera system to act as a deterrent if intruders are detected, which is highly effective in causing them to withdraw once they know they are on camera.
Unusual Activity Detection (UAD)
UAD is a development using advanced AI technology to help detect atypical activities. For example, vehicles or individuals moving fast or appearing in unexpected locations. Systems raise immediate alerts if they capture unusual footage, which can then be used for investigation by security staff or to trigger a lockdown system in place.
Cloud-connected management
IP camera systems readily lend themselves to video management systems with cloud capabilities. A fully cloud-based option removes the need for on-premise servers and provides access and control to authorized individuals from anywhere with internet access. However, many on-site management systems also offer cloud-connected solutions to view live and recorded video, and check camera health status remotely.
Video compression
Video compression means that the size of video files is not the significant factor it once was. Retail security system installers can suggest the best video storage devices for your space, including on-site servers and NVR systems with powerful AI analytics capabilities to improve monitoring.
Advanced video analytics
Retail store security cameras with advanced video analytics help operators make intelligent and efficient use of large amounts of security data. AI surveillance cameras can flag and organize footage in relation to its content, allowing teams to search by factors like date, time or keyword to quickly find relevant video files for further analysis and investigation.
Video analytics tools allow for quick identification of people, assets and vehicles of interest, helping teams address risks like lost children and shoplifting promptly, even during peak periods like the holiday season when resources are stretched.
Integration capabilities
The best security cameras for retail stores seamlessly integrate with existing retail security systems, enhancing the effectiveness of current tools. Prioritize ONVIF-compliant security devices and retail CCTV cameras to allow for efficient, open communication between systems.
ONVIF is an open API that allows devices from different manufacturers to share data effortlessly. By using ONVIF-compliant retail security cameras and other security devices, operators can seamlessly integrate, upgrade and adjust hardware without the need for a complete system overhaul.
Secure your retail store with smart cameras
- Deter theft and fraud with AI-powered security
- View store activity for real-time security insights
- Track inventory movement to minimize shrinkage
- Improve operations with advanced video analytics
Types of retail security cameras
Effective retail CCTV installations utilize a mix of camera types to ensure comprehensive and high-quality coverage. Since some cameras offer features tailored to specific needs, careful planning helps optimize costs and allocate resources effectively.
Bullet cameras
Bullet security cameras capture high-quality footage at short and long ranges and have a narrow field of view. They’re best used to cover outdoor areas like perimeters, entrances, parking lots and loading bays, with their recognizable design helping to deter criminal activity.
Dome cameras
Dome security cameras capture clear, wide-angle footage at a short range. They’re most commonly used to cover open, indoor areas like shop floors, stock rooms and offices, as they can be attached directly to ceilings and walls to cover large target areas with a single camera.
Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) cameras
PTZ cameras can be controlled remotely, enabling operators to follow events across target areas in real-time. This type of CCTV for retail stores is often used to cover large, complex areas like warehouses and ship-from-store facilities where live CCTV viewing is required.
Turret cameras
Turret cameras have flexible mounts that can be moved manually to change viewing angles. These types of retail store camera systems are used in areas like shop floors, warehouses and loading bays to help ensure good coverage, even when workflows and layouts change.
Fisheye cameras
Fisheye cameras capture ultrawide-angle footage from a fixed position. They’re best used to cover indoor areas like parking garages and warehouses with minimal hardware, but can be complicated to use, as footage needs to be de-warped using special software before it can be viewed.
Multi-sensor cameras
Multi-sensor cameras use two or more sensors to produce highly detailed, wide-angle images. Depending on the configuration, multi-sensor retail security cameras can have a field of view of up to 180 degrees, making them effective for securing spaces such as building entrances and loading bays.
Body-worn cameras
Body-worn security cameras are small, wearable devices that shop floor staff can use to capture security footage. Body-worn cameras give staff the ability to secure evidence of suspicious activity and can act as a visible deterrent to thieves and aggressive customers.
Security needs for different retail environments
Retail CCTV security systems are essential for all types of retail operations, but the best devices and systems depend on each retailer’s unique needs.
Standalone retail stores
Retail CCTV systems for standalone stores should be easy to manage for small teams, with all indoor and outdoor cameras accessible both on-site and remotely. An effective system ensures clear coverage of storefronts, rear entrances, stockrooms, shop floors and private parking areas. Cloud management can further enhance remote accessibility and system efficiency.
Grocery stores and supermarkets
Retail security cameras for grocery stores and supermarkets should cover high-risk areas, such as aisles and self-checkouts, to reduce shrinkage. Smart analytics and facial recognition can help staff quickly identify unusual activity and repeat offenders.
Shopping centers and malls
Shopping center security camera solutions will include vandal- and weather-resistant outdoor cameras, adjustable cameras in public spaces and cameras used to cover back-of-house areas like stock rooms and loading bays. AI video analytics can help improve safety and reduce shrinkage by automatically identifying risks, such as shoplifting and aggressive behavior.
Luxury and high-end retailers
Luxury and high-end retailers face higher risks of theft and organized crime. Visible outdoor and indoor security cameras can deter criminals, with AI-powered, adjustable cameras covering building perimeters, high-risk assets and cash registers. These cameras can autonomously detect suspicious activity and track events across multiple areas.
Big box and warehouse stores
Big box and warehouse stores often prioritize coverage for large, open areas with changeable layouts like shop floors, stock rooms and loading bays. Choosing between dome vs. turret cameras is important for optimal coverage, while PTZ cameras help track activity across sites. Night vision and infrared cameras ensure 24/7 visibility, even in low light.
Convenience stores and gas stations
Convenience stores and gas stations, often open late with small teams, benefit from remote-accessible retail CCTV systems. Weather- and vandal-resistant outdoor gas station cameras can cover pumps and forecourts, while visible bullet cameras help deter crime. Dome cameras inside the store can help prevent shoplifting.
The best security cameras for retail store use
The best security cameras for retail provide reliable observation, advanced features and seamless integration with existing security systems. With high-definition resolution, wide coverage and AI-powered analytics, they offer tailored solutions to observe customer behavior, secure entrances, prevent theft and ensure 24/7 protection. Below are some of the best security cameras for retail environments:
Avigilon H6A Fisheye Camera
The Avigilon H6A Fisheye Camera provides comprehensive coverage with a 360-degree panoramic view. Its high-definition resolution ensures clear, detailed footage, while its AI-powered analytics enhance security by detecting and tracking suspicious activities. This camera eliminates blind spots and allows retailers to effectively observe high-traffic areas.
- 360-degree panoramic view for full coverage
- High-definition resolution for clear, detailed footage
- AI-powered analytics for enhanced security
- Ideal for large, open retail spaces
- Robust design for reliable operation in various environments
Avigilon H5A Multisensor Camera
The Avigilon H5A Multisensor Camera offers versatile coverage with multiple lenses for high-resolution, wide-angle imaging. Equipped with advanced AI analytics, it provides proactive security and real-time alerts, ensuring a higher level of security. This camera excels in capturing both wide and detailed views, and is suitable for retail environments with complex layouts or large areas that require constant observation.
- High-resolution multisensor imaging for comprehensive coverage
- Advanced AI analytics for proactive security and alerts
- Flexible lens options for wide and detailed views
- Ideal for large or complex retail spaces
- Robust, reliable operation in various environments
Avigilon H6A PTZ Camera
The Avigilon H6A PTZ Camera offers powerful pan-tilt-zoom capabilities for observing large, dynamic spaces. With high-definition imaging, advanced low-light performance and AI-driven analytics, it allows retailers to track specific incidents in real-time and provide detailed coverage across wide areas. Ideal for areas with frequent movement or potential security risks, this camera ensures both broad visibility and the ability to zoom in on critical areas when needed.
- High-definition imaging for detailed, clear footage
- Powerful pan-tilt-zoom functionality for dynamic coverage
- Excellent low-light performance for round-the-clock security
- AI-driven analytics for real-time alerts and proactive security
- Reliable operation in various retail environments
Avigilon H6A Dome Camera
The Avigilon H6A Dome Camera provides discreet viewing with high-resolution imaging and superior low-light performance. Its compact, durable design ensures reliable coverage for both indoor and outdoor retail spaces, while advanced analytics provide real-time viewing to detect suspicious activity. With a range of flexible mounting options, this camera is ideal for observing high-traffic areas and securing entrances.
- High-resolution imaging for clear, detailed footage
- Excellent low-light performance for 24/7 security
- Discreet, durable design for both indoor and outdoor use
- Advanced analytics for real-time viewing and alerts
- Reliable operation in diverse retail environments
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Investing in shopping center video camera security
To maximize ROI and avoid installing inadequate camera equipment, store owners and small business owners will benefit from speaking with retail store security camera installation experts. Experts can use your business’s requirements to recommend the best match in cameras and technology, and deliver optimum security and cost-saving results.
Every store, mall, or shopping center is different, with at least some unique requirements. Addressing specific requirements correctly avoids creating weak spots regarding retail store security camera coverage.
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