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Learn about common restroom challenges, how to mitigate risk and shrink, and ways to ensure safety with effective loss prevention strategies and technologies.
Restrooms are an essential resource for the in-store shopping experience. However, restrooms are an extremely vulnerable area that presents serious safety and security challenges for staff and customers. In this guide, we will explore the most common challenges associated with customer-facing restrooms and offer new and effective technology solutions for overcoming them.
Understanding the Problem
Restroom Security
Restrooms are security blind spots. Cameras can't be used inside due to privacy, so businesses have to manage access with inadequate or expensive alternatives. Locking restrooms with keys and punch codes is the status quo, but they are riddled with issues. For example, they lack accountability because keys can be stolen and duplicated, and PINs can be easily shared an unlimited amount of times.
Alternatively, hiring security guards is a costly option, and utilizing any state-of-the-art surveillance technology that collects biometric data in-store is unpopular with customers and prone to privacy and legal issues. That’s why when it comes to these restroom security challenges, businesses need a smart, safe, and cost effective solution.
Restroom Abuse
Vandalism, theft, substance abuse, and other risky behaviors that occur inside customer-facing restrooms is a pervasive issue for retailers and restaurants. Graffiti-covered walls, broken fixtures, and stolen inventory not only tarnish the appearance of the restroom but also result in costly shrink, repairs and maintenance. Additionally, the health and safety of frontline staff and customers are jeopardized when restrooms become targets for illicit activities that lead to dangerous escalations and medical emergencies.
Locations that have high incidents of restroom abuse overwhelm staff, scare off customers, and damage brand reputation. As a result, restrooms often have to close to ensure the health and safety of everyone.
Staff and Customers
Frontline staff and customers experience frustration and friction when it comes to restroom abuse and inadequate security measures. Staff get inundated with requests for the restroom key or code while already managing a busy workday, and customers get frustrated having to find an employee to give them access. If restrooms are consistently in bad shape or often closed for repair or safety reasons, customers take note and negatively associate that with the brand.
Even more concerning is the shared trauma that staff and customers experience when dangerous conditions and security escalations or medical emergencies happen. It’s a serious issue that can have lasting implications not just on a businesses bottom line, but the overall well-being of its staff and community.
Overcoming Challenges with Technology
Challenges with customer facing restrooms is inevitable. Nearly every business at one time has had shoplifting, vandalism, or a drug related incident. But the real game-changer is to get ahead of it, move away from the status quo, and utilize game-changing technology to develop an integrated approach that will mitigate risk, ensure safety, and offer convenience for staff and customers.
Utilize QR Code Access With Other In-Store Tech
Solutions that work hand-in-hand with other existing technology is efficient use of resources. CCTV cameras clearly placed outside the restroom area is a clear signal to bad actors that they will be seen entering the restroom at a particular date and time. When coupled with QR code access control technology—like Good2Go—users create a digital footprint without the need for biometric data. This is very effective at deterring bad actors while providing loyal customers with a self-service experience that is convenient, secure and frictionless.
Problem Solved
Only Good2Go’s automated access solutions offer a single platform for an infinite number of entry points. Our simple QR code process is highly scalable across industries and use cases. From simple restrooms, dressing rooms and locked merchandise solutions to a single point of access for every conceivable customer touch-point — transportation, entertainment, order fulfillment, EV interface, travel, transport, and more — it’s limitless.
To get started with Good2Go, please contact us for an installation pilot. Securing high-risk areas has never been easier!