# Retailers expanding physical security strategic roles

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/retailers-expanding-physical-security-strategic-roles
> Updated: 2026-09-02T06:00:00.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2.

The Genetec ‘2026 State of Physical Security Report’ indicates that global retailers are shifting their use of physical security from a narrow focus on loss prevention to a broader strategic business function. 

Research shows that over 60% of retailers intend to use security data to improve operational efficiency, and an equal percentage prioritize enhancing overall safety. Other key objectives include regulatory compliance for 55% of respondents and improving customer and employee experiences for 48%. 

While there is significant interest in modernization, retailers face obstacles such as aging physical and IT infrastructure. To address these challenges, 54% of retailers plan to leverage existing technology, while 51% intend to implement artificial intelligence to streamline security processes.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-02: Genetec report: Retailers expand physical security role

Genetec’s 2026 report shows retailers are moving beyond loss prevention, using physical security data to drive operational efficiency, employee safety, and customer experience.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/genetec-report-retailers-expand-physical-security-role

### 2026-08-20: Genetec report: Retailers expand physical security use beyond loss prevention

A Genetec report shows retailers are moving beyond loss prevention, using physical security data to boost operational efficiency, employee safety, and customer experience.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/genetec-report-retailers-expand-physical-security-beyond-loss-prevention

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Cite as: Retailers expanding physical security strategic roles. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/retailers-expanding-physical-security-strategic-roles