Defensive architecture: Radio Shack boosts storefront security

Most of Radio Shack's outlets are fitted with laminated glass storefronts.

In these days of unprecedented urban crime worldwide, understanding building code requirements, aesthetics, UV and sound control options and the energy efficiency of glass is no longer enough for architects designing downtown stores for major retailing groups.

Today's glass storefronts must bring maximal visual communication and day lighting without compromising security and cost constraints. And store owners need to display their wares in a way that will distinguish them from competitors while deterring smash and grab attempts.

Value for money

Charles Vachon is President of National Glass and Gate Service, based in Rhode Island, USA which services more than 200 nationwide US chain stores. He told LGN: "Based on our advice, many of our clients such as RadioShack, Sears and Gap now routinely replace broken storefronts with laminated glass up to12.7mm thick because they realize that the extra cost compared to regular pane glass is a very small part of the potential cost of stolen goods."

Mr. Vachon continued: "Laminated glass has gained such a reputation for security that, once the word is out in the criminal community that a store has installed laminated glass, the repeat occurrence of smash and grab attempts at that particular store drops dramatically!"

Protection of store assets

National Director of Security for electrical consumer goods retailer, RadioShack, Phil Blair, told LGN: "My priority is the protection of RadioShack's assets and we ensure this through laminated glass storefronts and secure locks. Some of our stores, located in large cities, were broken into as often as once per week before we started implementing our laminated glass replacement program, back in 1993. Today, most of RadioShack's 4,936 outlets are fitted with laminated glass storefronts".

"In the past, we used either plate glass, which shatters easily on the first blow of a crowbar, or a plastic plate reinforcement which had the disadvantage of popping out of its frame rather too easily. The advantages of laminated glass over these two methods are clear. Laminated glass does not shatter when struck by a thief, it simply 'spiderwebs'. Plate glass is cheaper but any cost savings are far outweighed by the value of being able to protect your merchandise effectively".

"Criminals will never dedicate more than two, or maximum three, minutes to a smash and grab attack since they know precisely the amount of time needed for the police to arrive from the first alarm bell".

"Another important advantage for us is that, following a smash and grab attempt, which usually occurs at night, business can continue uninterrupted. We receive reliable next day replacement service from our glazier because laminated glass is easily cut to size. We use 0.76mm PVB and two lites of annealed glass which gives added security and safety while creating no distortion at all."

In summary, Mr. Blair does not hesitate in recommending laminated glass to his colleagues and adds that, to his knowledge, a growing number of retailers are converting to the product throughout the USA because of its security advantages.