Retailers can learn to prevent the five-finger discount

Shoplifting has been an ongoing problem for Sisters retailers. Next week, shop owners and staff can learn ways to prevent this crime, which violates trust and cuts into the bottom line.

The Sisters Area Chamber of Commerce will host Deschutes County Sheriff's Office representatives on Tuesday, February 5, from 8 to 9 a.m. to discuss Loss Prevention in Small Businesses. This free workshop is part of the Retail Discussion Group Series and is open to all business owners and their staff. Coffee and pastries will be provided.

Loss prevention is an important topic for owners to consider. According to http://www.safteycop.com, one to two percent of all customers enter a store with the intent of shoplifting or stealing something. For every dollar stolen in a bank robbery $300 is stolen through shoplifting.

The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office representatives will discuss types of loss in business including: shoplifting, employee theft, and vendor fraud. They will also give simple steps to business owners in order to prevent shoplifting, clues to watch for while customers are in the store, and what to do if they have been a victim of theft.

"As a business owner I think it's important to educate yourself as much as possible on tips and tricks that can help you run your business more effectively and efficiently," says Chamber Board Member Bobbi Meritt, owner of The Dime Store/Desert Charm. "This whole series of workshops have been designed with retail businesses in mind - but really any business owner could attend and learn some valuable lessons."

For more information regarding the Retail Discussion Group or the Loss Prevention Workshop contact Erin Borla, executive director, at 541-549-0251 or [email protected]