Article Summary
Visible security cameras are reshaping holiday shopping by enhancing safety and influencing consumer decisions. Two-thirds of shoppers feel safer with visible cameras, and 64% believe they deter crime, making them a critical factor in where people choose to shop. For retailers, investing in advanced security measures like portable surveillance units not only deters crime but also builds trust and loyalty, giving businesses a competitive edge during the busy holiday season.
You better watch out—and not just for holiday deals. A new survey by LiveView Technologies (LVT) shows it's not just discounts influencing shoppers—it’s safety. Findings reveal that visible security cameras in public spaces influence how consumers view their retail experiences, transforming holiday shopping habits. Whether it’s deterring crime or creating a sense of comfort, these cameras play a surprising role in where people go to check off their lists.
Shoppers Want Surveillance
Two-thirds (66%) of shoppers believe security cameras make public spaces safer. Even more telling, 65% of respondents say they’re so accustomed to seeing cameras in public spaces that they’re not bothered by them. This normalization has paved the way for security cameras to serve as both a psychological comfort and a practical deterrent to crime, especially during the busy holiday season.
Know Who’s Being Naughty or Nice
Beyond providing a sense of comfort, security cameras have a tangible impact on crime prevention. According to the LVT survey, 64% of respondents believe cameras actively deter criminal activity. Whether monitoring parking lots, store entrances, or high-traffic areas, visible surveillance acts as a signal to would-be troublemakers that, just like Santa, businesses are watching and know when they’re being naughty or nice.
This preventive role becomes even more crucial during the holiday season, when retail crime sees a 30% uptick. Security cameras, combined with other measures like enhanced lighting and staff presence, help retailers create environments where shoppers feel secure. When customers feel safe, they relax and are more willing to stay in the store. And the more time consumers stay in the store, the more likely they are to spend money—a win-win for retailers!
Is Your Parking Lot Spooking Shoppers?
Parking lot safety might not top everyone’s holiday wish list, but it’s becoming a key factor in shopping decisions. Convenience (67%) and product availability (66%) still reign supreme when it comes to factors that influence consumers' decisions to shop at a retail store, but parking lot safety isn’t far behind at 42%.
Nearly a third (32%) of women say concerns about parking lot safety keep them from shopping in person. And they’re not alone—more than half (54%) of all respondents feel least safe in parking lots and garages compared to inside stores. The biggest culprit? Poor lighting, which 69% of women and 56% of men flagged as their number one worry. Turns out, a dimly lit parking lot isn’t just a mood killer; it’s a real safety hazard.
And shoppers aren’t taking any chances. Two-thirds (64%) of people factor in parking lot lighting when deciding where to shop during the holidays. With only 12% of shoppers saying they’ll stick exclusively to online shopping, brick-and-mortar stores can’t afford to ignore this issue.
A Smarter Way to Shop and Stay Safe
Safety isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s good business. Over half (55%) of respondents said they’d recommend retail centers with top-notch security systems to their friends. That kind of word-of-mouth can’t be bought. Visible security measures like cameras don’t just protect shoppers; they become a competitive advantage for the business, fostering customer loyalty, building trust, and encouraging repeat visits.
Traditional mounted security systems have their place, but they’re not always adaptable enough to meet shifting demands. LVT’s solar-powered, portable surveillance units not only tackle common issues like poor lighting and visibility, but also offer the flexibility retailers need. These units can be deployed quickly and moved as needed, making them a perfect fit for the unpredictable nature of holiday crowds and parking lot layouts.
Plus, they’re highly visible—a proven deterrent to those on Santa’s naughty list.
Make Safety a Wrap this Season
As shoppers navigate bustling stores and crowded parking lots, visible security measures play a critical role in shaping their experiences. Cameras are no longer just tools for recording incidents—they’re active participants in creating a safer, more welcoming environment.
For retailers, the takeaway is clear: investing in visible, reliable security measures is a strategic move to enhance shopper confidence and loyalty. By combining advanced technologies like mobile surveillance units with thoughtful planning, retail centers can make safety a hallmark of their holiday season.
For more insights from LVT’s 2024 Holiday Shopping survey and to learn how advanced security solutions can enhance your retail space, read the infographic below or visit www.lvt.com/survey.
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