Discreet Defense: The Benefits of Concealed EAS Systems for Retail Security

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Shoplifting is constantly on the minds of New Zealand retailers, both big and small, and an Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) system is an essential line of defense for shop staff in our retail stores.

While traditional EAS pedestal systems offer a high degree of accuracy and visible protection to the retail sector, for brands that prioritize their design aesthetic and premium interiors, pedestals can detract from a store’s overall look.

Similarly, for those stores with particularly wide entrances or a corner site, the multiple security pedestals needed to protect the full width of the doorway may not be appealing or practical.

Thankfully, there’s a solution that provides effective security for retail outlets without sacrificing interior design aesthetics: concealed EAS systems.

 

What is Concealed EAS

Antennas play a vital role in EAS loss prevention technology. Positioned at the entrance of retail stores, these antennas interact with security tags and labels attached to products. If a tagged or labeled item passes by the antenna, an alarm is triggered, indicating a potential issue with the product leaving the store. Traditionally these antennas have been housed within an EAS pedestal.

Retailers now have the option to conceal their antennas – creating an invisible anti-theft system. Using an AM frequency, these systems still give you most of the benefits of EAS pedestals – like remote monitoring and jammer detection, without creating a visible footprint.

Hidden systems can be placed within the doorframe or under the floor at the store’s entry point. Unlike traditional systems, concealed EAS is more discreet and blends into the store’s design. The antenna talks to a sleekly designed controller box, around the size of a sheet of A4 paper, which is mounted near the entrance or concealed within a panel.

Retailers have various options to choose from when considering concealed EAS for their stores, the two we recommend at Vitag are systems hidden under the floor, or within the doorframe.

 

Under Floor EAS

Under-floor EAS involves concealing the EAS antenna in a cavity within the floor near the doorway, providing discretion and no impact on retail space. For a wider entryway, several units can be connected to provide protection across the full span of the door. RFID can also be integrated into your under-floor EAS, integrating with your inventory management system.

We always recommend that underfloor systems are installed when you are fitting a store interior for the first time or carrying out a store renovation. The reason for this is that under-floor systems sit within the floor itself – a channel would be cut in the concrete foundation, and the EAS transmitter sits inside that channel. This channel would then be hidden under the floor covering, be it carpet, tiles, or laminate. Installing the system while a shop-fit takes place helps to avoid taking up existing flooring and disrupting the store.

 

Within the Doorframe

Another option for concealing EAS systems is to place them within a store’s entrance, with antennas housed inside or around the door. These systems are available in various sizes for different door frames. This method removes the need to cut into the floor to install it – so provided the store has a suitable door frame to use, it’s a great retrofit solution that is almost entirely concealed.

A door frame system includes a wall-mounted control unit, a transmitter coil, and two sets of satellite receivers. The transmitter coil is built into the wall or door frame, while the satellite receivers are attached to the sides of the entrance. In total, the system can secure up to 9m².

 

What to Consider

Concealed EAS systems provide a powerful security solution for retail stores of all sizes, particularly those focused on aesthetics or high-value merchandise, but the physical design of your store may determine which option is the best fit.
Unlike traditional EAS pedestals, there are additional factors to consider when you’re planning a concealed system:

Higher Installation Costs: The more complex installation process can be more expensive than setting up traditional EAS pillars due to the concrete cutting, inground wiring, and specialist installers required. When considering a concealed system, it’s important to weigh the visual benefits against a higher cost of installation.
Compatibility Considerations: Ensure your chosen system is compatible with the type of security tags you use (RF or AM) and the width of your doorways.
Retrofit Potential: Concealed systems often work best in new builds or renovations where adjustments can easily be made to the flooring. It’s recommended that you install a concealed system while building works are already taking place – this avoids noisy, dusty concrete cutting while the store is operating.

 

Concealed or Visible – How Do You Choose?

When it comes to protecting your store from shoplifters, which is more effective – concealed systems or the traditional protection provided by security pedestals?

Evidence from retail stores sporting concealed systems suggests that they create a psychological advantage for shop staff – with opportunistic shoplifters less likely to target a store if they’re unsure about the presence of EAS. They believe that the element of surprise is an effective deterrent.

Other EAS experts believe traditional EAS pedestals act as visual deterrents, which prevent shoplifters from considering targeting a store at all.

In truth – the jury is still out. With both options providing a powerful theft alert, your decision really comes down to the look you’re trying to create in your store. Whichever direction you choose, we’re here to help.

 

Getting Started with Concealed EAS

If you’re looking to enhance your loss prevention strategy while maintaining a welcoming shopping environment, a concealed EAS system might be the perfect fit for your business. For a more detailed look at specific systems, consider exploring options from security solution

providers like Crosspoint.

To make the best decision for your business, we always recommend consulting with our retail security specialists. We’ll ensure you select a system that aligns perfectly with your budget and your store’s specific needs – and we’ll support you with project management to ensure your installation is efficient and seamless.

Curious to explore more? Give our Vitag NZ team a call today.

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