Retailers across Australia are facing a surge in retail crime, aggressive behaviour, and customer disputes — creating both financial losses and safety risks. To combat rising retail crime and protect staff and customers, more Australian businesses are investing in smarter technology like body cameras in retail security from Smokeshield.
According to the National Retail Association retail crime report, retail crime costs businesses up to $9 billion annually. Meanwhile, a Griffith University study on retail theft found that nearly 2% of turnover is lost to theft, fraud and damage, equating to $7.79 billion in the 2024 financial year. Even more concerning, violent incidents in retail stores are climbing, with weapon-related retail crime up 66 % year on year and serious or threatening events up 30 %.
In such an environment, body cameras are a sensible and essential retail security measure. These devices protect staff, discourage misconduct and provide objective video evidence when incidents end up being investigated by the authorities.
Why body cameras are essential for security in the workplace
Not every workplace needs people to wear bodycams, but this is how they can be of value:
Deterring theft and aggression
Visible body cameras act as a deterrent. Offenders are less likely to steal or behave aggressively when they know their actions are being recorded. For retailers who face both opportunistic theft and organised retail crime, this extra layer of prevention can help reduce incidents before they escalate.
Protecting staff safety
The first to experience aggression are usually those on the front lines, which makes body cams a handy tool for safety. Body cams lessen the possibility of verbal and physical abuse and workers who wear them would feel safer since they have a record of events and a deterrent in case things go hostile.
Accurate evidence in disputes
Conflicts between employees and clients can intensify rapidly. When CCTV footage is unavailable or can’t be used to identify a perpetrator or prove their actions, a body camera is used to provide a factual record of events. Management can evaluate footage, submit it to law enforcement, or use it in insurance claims to ensure the facts are accurate and comprehensible.
Improving accountability
It is important for employees to conduct themselves in a professional manner. When body cameras are present, employees are motivated to follow protocols, and customers are more aware of their behaviour being monitored.
Supporting training and compliance
Body camera videos provide teams with real-life examples they can learn from. Staff can watch footage to improve customer service and identify areas where policies need adjustment. By using real situations as teaching moments, businesses strengthen workplace standards, build confidence, and create a safer, more supportive environment for everyone.
Must-have body camera features
When selecting body cameras for retail use, ensure they are professional-grade and meet the necessary specifications. Features to prioritise include:
- High-definition recording for clear evidence in disputes
- Wide-angle lenses to capture the whole scene
- Long battery life to support extended shifts
- Secure data storage and encryption for compliance with privacy regulations
- Lightweight, durable build suitable for active retail environments
- Docking and charging stations for efficient shift turnover