How Identity-Based Access Control Delivers High ROI for Retail Shrink Reduction

How Identity-Based Access Control Delivers High ROI for Retail Shrink Reduction

High ROI Retail Theft Prevention That Works

Retailers across the country are facing rising shrink rates—particularly in high-theft sectors like alcohol sales and electronics retail. Losses from shoplifting, employee theft, and organized retail crime can quietly erode profits unless businesses take proactive steps.

One of the most effective and low-friction solutions now gaining traction is identity-based access control—a system that requires customers to scan a valid ID before gaining access to high-risk merchandise.

Reduce Shrink by 60% with Identity-Based Access

Unlike traditional loss prevention tools (like locked cabinets or CCTV), ID-based access control directly removes anonymity and boosts the perceived risk of being caught. This results in fewer theft attempts and more responsible behavior—even without direct staff oversight.

Retailers deploying these systems have documented up to 60% shrink reduction, especially in categories where merchandise is small, high-value, or age-restricted.

Common high-shrink product categories include:
- Liquor, beer, and wine
- Smartphones and smartwatches
- Tablets, laptops, and gaming consoles
- Razor blades, baby formula, and over-the-counter meds

Fast Payback and Long-Term ROI

With proven theft reduction and automation, these systems provide a rapid return on investment. Many retailers report:
- Full payback in just a few months
- ROI ranging from 2.5x to 6.0x within the first year
- Ongoing savings and reduced labor demands

This kind of high ROI in retail security is rare—and the results are measurable.

More Than Just Security—Compliance and Control

ID-based access isn’t just about preventing theft. It also:
- Enforces age verification for alcohol and tobacco
- Creates digital logs for auditing and compliance
- Deters insider theft by logging employee access
- Improves the shopper experience by reducing locked-up inventory frustration

See the ROI for Yourself

If your retail business is struggling with shrink—or you're simply looking for smarter, data-driven ways to secure high-risk inventory—identity-based access control is a proven solution.

Contact Minor Decliner today for a custom ROI estimate or private demo and learn how to transform shrink into savings.