"Smash-and-grab" is a term used to describe a robbery that involves a suspect (or group of suspects) smashing through some type of physical barrier-like a window, door, or showcase-then grabbing the merchandise or other valuables behind it and fleeing the scene.

The items taken are usually sold to others, who sometimes receive these goods unknowingly, in order to make a profit. Unfortunately, these robberies are on the rise, highlighting the importance of hiring security personnel.

Upward Trend in Smash-and-Grabs

The National Retail Federation reports that three in four organized retail crime victims have seen an increase in these incidents over the past year. Additionally, for every $1 billion these retailers have in sales, more than $700k is lost on this type of crime.

Before the 2021 Thanksgiving holiday, these robberies made major headlines as several stores nationwide were hit by suspects using a smash-and-grab approach. Sometimes in groups of 30 people or more, these mobs smashed into businesses in numerous states, leaving traumatized store employees and customers in their wake.

Crimes like these have sent larceny and thefts on a major uprise, increasing almost 88% in the past 12 months in areas like San Francisco's Central district according to CNN. And it isn't just retailers' brick-and-mortar buildings that are at risk. So too are people's parked cars.

ABC 7 reported that in Los Angeles's Hollywood Division, one gang of thieves hit 40 cars in a one-month time span. Imagine these thieves hitting your business's parking lot. How much damage would it do to your company if people quit frequenting your location simply because they thought they'd be targeted by robbers.

Hiring Security: The First Step in Protecting Your Business From Organized Retail Crime

Smash-and-grab criminals are becoming more brazen. They don't seem to care about the consequences of their actions, which can leave your employees and customers in fear that they'll become victims next. The first step to regaining control is hiring security guards. 

MPS Security provides both uniformed and plain-clothed security services to better protect your retail business. We also offer highly trained armed and unarmed security personnel. When you work with us, we will do a thorough assessment of your business, identifying any security vulnerabilities. Then, we devise a plan to close these gaps, providing your staff and your customers a more secure environment. Contact MPS today at 1-866-678-4408 or via our online form to learn how we can help you. Don't wait until you're a victim of smash-and-grabs before you take action. By then, it may just be too late.

About the Author

Michael D. Julian is President of MPS Security & Protection and a 30-plus-year veteran of the security and investigations industry. He served as President of the California Association of Licensed Investigators (CALI) from 2005 to 2015 and has led executive protection, residential security, and corporate investigations engagements for Fortune 500 principals, high-net-worth families, and public figures across the United States. Connect with Michael on LinkedIn.