In the last three months of 2018, the number of store robberies in the Netherlands increased dramatically compared to 2017. "By the end of 2018, the number of robberies had increased by 50%. This is compared to the same time the previous year", says Bert van Steeg, Deputy Director of Detailhandel Nederland (the Dutch Retail Trade).
He emphasizes that the structural approach to these robberies cannot be relaxed. At the end of 2018, 96 retailers were targeted. In the last three months of 2017, this number was only 64.
Ton Kanters' store was robbed at the end of 2017
At the beginning of this year, people in the Netherlands were shocked by the armed robbery that took place at a COOP in Ridderkerk. Here, the branch manager was stabbed by the robber. Good reason for Ton Kanters, a greengrocer from Schijndel to go over security protocols with his staff. "It is for your own safety", he keeps repeating to them. His store was robbed at the end of 2017.
"It was an awful experience. Fortunately, we were able to put it behind us", says Ton. He was able to defend himself and keeps his business running. However, the girl that was directly threatened by the robber, no longer works at the store. "It is, however, going much better with her. She comes into the store on occasion but could no longer work here."
No-one expects a greengrocer to be the target of a robbery. Criminals used to target gas stations, jewellery stores, and supermarkets. "It never really happens, but once is enough", says Markt Heemskerk. He is the ADN branch organization's Director. Business owners should invest in cameras for their stores. "This works both ways. You can also tackle internal crime such as staff theft."
"Cameras have a preventative effect", adds Van Steeg. "When these are of good quality, they can help with tracking the culprits. They are, however, a major investment for business owners." A less expensive measure is to ensure that customers pay by card as much as possible. In this way, as little cash as possible will be held on the premises.
Having little cash in the store is also part of Ton Kanters' security protocol. "Our store is open until 20:00. In the evenings, we ensure that our cash registers are empty. Customers can only pay by card. We also put bells on the door to warn us when a customer enters the store."
For more information
Ton Kanters Gezond Genieten
Hoofdstraat
Schijndel
T: +31 (0) 733 030 401
info@tonkanters.nl
www.tonkanters.nl