6
min read -
November 26, 2025

Safeguarding Toronto Stores Through Retail Security and Loss Prevention

By
Ranko Vukovic

Did you know Canadian retailers lose over $8 billion a year to shoplifters? Shoplifting is a significant problem for retail store owners, even for internationally recognized brands. In a busy and bustling city like Toronto, it pays dividends to keep loss prevention top of mind. As Canada’s fastest-growing security service provider, Blackbird is proud to serve a diverse array of clients that span across Canada. Trusted as Ontario’s best retail security company, we provide loss prevention services to top brands, including H&M, Holt Renfrew, UNIQLO, Best Buy, Sephora, and many more. 

Read success stories from these brands and more below.

Tactical Security Guards at H&M in Toronto

As the second largest clothing retailer in the world, H&M is a staple destination for Canadians looking to capitalize on the latest trends at an affordable price point. Spanning three floors, the Queen West H&M is a downtown Toronto hub for consumers looking for fresh fashions. Our Toronto retail security team couldn’t be more thrilled to be helping this bustling business stay safe from retail security threats. 

As part of our 100% customizable security services, Blackbird deploys tactical security guards at the Queen West H&M seven days a week. Their primary focus is on loss prevention, retail security, and reducing retail theft. Our diligent retail security guards are exceptional at retail loss prevention and shrinkage reduction.

A Blackbird Security guard stands in front of a statue of the H&M logo.

Toronto Loss Prevention Security at UNIQLO

UNIQLO is a clothing company founded in Japan in 2015 that provides casual apparel for women, men, and children. The unique clothing chain seeks to develop radical new materials and create basic designs, while providing its shoppers with more affordable prices. The global brand has amassed over 1,000 stores worldwide, with several locations across Canada.

The popular retail company has hired Blackbird Security’s highly-trained loss prevention team to provide on-site services in their retail locations across Canada, including at UNIQLO’s stores in Toronto. The Blackbird team greets and welcomes customers and oversees the safety and security of shoppers, staff and the in-store merchandise that’s on display throughout their stores. 

Blackbird Security guard assisting with line control at retail store

Retail Security in Toronto at MEC

MEC is a well-known retailer of recreational and outdoor gear with a vast selection of high-quality goods, apparel, and services. Canadians love MEC for its broad selection of goods for virtually all outdoor activities. Customers in Toronto seeking quality outdoor equipment will be thrilled to learn they can access three new stores around the city, protected by us at Blackbird Security. 

The Blackbird Tactical Security team is pleased to offer security for this Canadian-founded company, assisting them in defending their apparel and products against threats to retail security. Our loss prevention guards at each location are highly trained to spot theft before it happens and intercept potential thieves before they can escape with stolen goods, as well as provide a reassuring presence and make any arrests as needed. 

A Blackbird Security guard patrolling the interior of MEC

Loss Prevention Security at Sephora in Toronto

Sephora Union Station is the first retail store located within a major transit hub in Canada. This bustling location spans over 4,100 square feet inside the new Bay Street Promenade, providing convenient shopping for commuters, sightseers and those popping into the city. This unique setting presents a challenging environment for security staff, with the massive footfall at Union Station offering plenty of cover for retail theft.

Blackbird Security guards act as a strong frontline visual deterrent to criminal activity. When a potential shoplifter suspects they may be being watched, their activity becomes too risky to carry out. Following this logic onwards, a shoplifter is much more likely to target a store without visible security. With many stores already dealing with staffing shortages, it’s just not viable to expect your in-house staff to carry out their duties while also keeping an eye on suspicious behaviour.

suit and tie security guard standing outside of a glass door of a Sephora store

Tactical Security at Value Village in Ottawa

Value Village stores have an extensive amount of merchandise on display throughout their stores, including clothing, accessories, home goods, books, footwear, and more. Due to the high volume of goods and the fact that the popular thrift stores use standard price tags and stickers instead of electronic security tags, the stores are often a target for shoplifting.

As such, the Value Village location in Ottawa, Ontario, has partnered with Blackbird Security to help deter potential theft and protect its in-store merchandise.

Blackbird’s tactical security guards greet shoppers entering the stores and act as a highly visible security presence. This helps deter would-be criminals from pocketing merchandise or swapping price stickers on higher ticket items while they shop, in turn reducing potential losses for the company. 

Additionally, guards greet shoppers and oversee activities in the store, keeping a watchful eye on suspicious activity and reporting and responding as needed.

Blackbird Academy: The Best in Retail Security Training   

At Blackbird Academy, our security guards receive the most comprehensive security training in the industry. Delivered via a combination of our own in-house team as well as through exterior experts in the field, our comprehensive training program encompasses areas like Customer Service, OFA (Occupational First Aid) Training, St. John’s Mental Health Training, Conflict Resolution, Non-Violent Crisis Intervention, and more. It’s why we’re trusted to be front-line security for so many businesses across Canada, and execute on all matters related to loss prevention. 

Partner With Blackbird Security for Retail Security in Toronto

Ready to upgrade your retail security solutions? Work with Toronto’s best retail security company. Our services are fully customizable, depending on your specific challenges and needs, and our team of experts will work with you to get the most out of your package. 

If you’re interested in upgrading your security services, contact us.

Diagram showing harmful X-rays blocked by a lead apron and harmless light passing through.

More Articles

Read our latest articles on protecting your organization
Common Retail Loss Prevention Blind Spots
Are you aware of your store’s loss prevention blind spots? This article will help you identify the retail theft risks that might be flying under your radar.
December 19, 2025
10
 min read
Loss Prevention: What Actually Works?
Learn how Blackbird Security drastically improved loss prevention for a national electronics retailer partner, recovering 68.2% more merchandise.
December 19, 2025
5
 min read
Retail Security & Loss Prevention Checklist for Store Owners
A clear plan is essential for every store, regardless of size, scale, or years in operation. Use this guide to plan and assess your retail security strategy.
December 15, 2025
5
 min read
How Retail Security Guards & LPOs Stop Shoplifters
In this article, we cover how LPOs and retail security guards stop shoplifters. Watch a live video demonstration from Blackbird's expert retail team.
December 15, 2025
6
 min read
Diagram showing harmful X-rays blocked by a lead apron and harmless light passing through.Diagram showing harmful X-rays blocked by a lead apron and harmless light passing through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What services do security companies offer?
At Blackbird Security, we offer a range of security services, such as:
- On-site uniform security
- Luxury suit & tie security
- Mobile patrols
- Alarm response
- Access control
- CCTV monitoring
- Event security
- Loss prevention (undercover security)
- Tactical Security
- Concierge/Front Desk Security
- Executive Protection
- Office & Facilities Security
- Government Security
- Parking Enforcement
- Residential Security
These services work in unison to safeguard businesses, people, and assets, offering peace of mind and comprehensive protection.At Blackbird Security, we are industry leaders in providing all of these services. Our expertise ensures tailored security solutions that meet your specific requirements. Browse further to learn more: Blackbird Security Services - Blackbird Security
Can security services be customized?
Many providers offer standard security programs, but Blackbird Security emphasizes a collaborative approach to customization. By considering factors such as your industry, location, size, and specific risks, we work closely with you to design security strategies that fit your needs. This might include adjusting patrol schedules, reporting frequency, or tailoring patrol routes to align with your operations.This is possible through our dedicated Client Services team as well as our in-house Control Centre and Reporting teams. Customization is a fundamental part of how we provide effective and seamless security solutions
Are security providers in Canada regulated?
Yes, most countries and regions (including Canada) have licensing bodies and regulations that govern security providers. Check local laws to ensure your provider complies with these standards.
How do I measure the effectiveness of security measures?
Measuring the effectiveness of security measures involves tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate how well systems and personnel are meeting safety and asset protection goals. Start by analyzing incident response times, reductions in theft, vandalism, or shrinkage, and overall resolution rates for reported issues. Comparing pre- and post-implementation data helps demonstrate tangible improvements in safety and loss prevention. Regular audits, surveys, and risk assessment reports can also gauge the reliability and perception of security measures.

Key KPIs to track include:
- Incident response times: Faster responses to alarms or emergencies.
- Reduction in theft/vandalism: Compare loss data before and after implementation.
- Patrol compliance: Track patrol frequency and adherence via GPS or logs.
- False alarm rates: Lower rates ensure focus on real threats.
- Client/Employee satisfaction: Gather feedback to measure confidence in security.
- Client services: Dedicated account representative who supports ongoing needs & can adjust strategy as needed
What level of support can I expect from Blackbird Security
We ensure all of our clients have the utmost support for their businesses, and there's a few ways we do this:

- Allowing access to our 24/7 Control centre for all clients, which is based out of our head office in Vancouver, BC. Clients can call this centre and have a mobile guard swiftly deployed to their business for any spontaneous incidents that occur. We believe in operating it inhouse to ensure all services are streamlined and optimized for the best communication. Our control canter can be reached at this number for current clients: 1-888-991-2622.
- We have a dedicated client services team which directly communicates with clients on a day-to-day basis. Our client services often perform site check ups and can assist with any issues that arise at your business.

Your peace of mind is our priority. We’re more than a service provider—we’re a partner in protecting your business. With our team working tirelessly to anticipate and resolve challenges, you can focus on running your business with confidence, knowing we’re always here to support you. Together, we build safer environments and stronger partnerships, every step of the way.

Secure Your Operation Today

Talk to our security experts about protecting your facility. We’ll assess your needs and build a plan that works.
Contact
Seven diverse security personnel standing in a row outdoors with city buildings in the background, wearing security uniforms.