What is an EAS System?

I received a call from a Client the other day who asked a great question. She started with "I have a stupid question." As a Dear Abby column said: "There is no such thing as a stupid question.” Better to ask than to continue on your ignorant way and make a mistake. She asked me "What is an EAS system and what parts make up an EAS system?" I felt terrible assuming that everyone knew what an EAS system was and what items were needed.

There are three parts to an EAS system:

Antenna: The antenna is the part that is at the exit doors or any other areas that needs protection like bathrooms, employee exits and the like. There are many choices when it comes to antennas some of the factors that come into play when deciding what antennas are best for you are the width of your the area you want to cover, type of products, aesthetics and budget. As your EAS experts, American Retail Supply Loss Prevention is here to help you discover the best antenna for you and your store.

EAS Targets: These are the devices that go on your products that need protection. Very few stores choose to protect all items in their store. The percent or items that require protection vary depending on crime in the area, product mix, and other factors vary but usually, it is between 20% and 40% of your products and we always suggest your high end items. As mentioned in the last newsletter choosing a system that has a large selection of targets, both labels, and non-label reusable targets, will ensure you have the right EAS target for your product.

Deactivation/Removal: Simply put the items that you want to "kill" on the deactivation pad such as single-use EAS labels or remove reusable tags, spider wraps, and other EAS targets. Unlike antennas, there are only a few choices to make when it comes to deactivation of single-use labels. For reusable targets make sure you have the right removal tool for the items you purchased! This may sound obvious but I have had those desperate calls when someone purchased an EAS target online only to find they do not have the proper tool to take it off. While installing an EAS system will not eliminate all shrinkage.

Getting the right EAS system for your store and product mix will allow you to sell more, lose less and protect your investment. This will pay off in increased profit, higher job satisfaction for you and your employees and make your store a better place to shop.

Call American Retail Supply at 800-426-5708 for a quote or more information.

Bonus tip:

Frank Abagnale wrote: “The police can't protect consumers. People need to be more aware and educated about theft. You need to be a little bit wiser, a little bit smarter and there's nothing wrong with being skeptical. We live in a time when if you make it easy for some to steal, someone will." -Mark Turner