Technology firm Jisp flags potential role of loyalty and rewards platforms in tackling retail crime

As retail crime continues to rise across the UK, independent retailers are increasingly seeking new, creative ways to protect their stores, staff, and customers. Now, retail technology company Jisp is highlighting how digital loyalty and rewards platforms can play an unexpected, but vital, role in supporting safer, more resilient local retail.

From theft and antisocial behaviour to staff abuse, retail crime has become a pressing challenge for convenience stores. But while traditional deterrents like CCTV and security tags remain crucial, Jisp believes community powered engagement is an often overlooked piece of the solution.

“We know loyalty builds value, but it also builds trust and accountability,” says Alex Rimmer, Marketing & Communications Director at Jisp. “When shoppers feel connected to their local store, they’re more likely to respect it, support it, and help protect it.”

For chocolate brands, targeted promotions via platforms like Jisp Scan & Save are a game-changer! Mondelez reinforced Cadbury Dairy Milk as a go-to indulgence, driving trial & brand loyalty in a competitive market. Ready to boost your sales? Get in touch with Jisp today! (9/9) pic.twitter.com/ObyskNy5Zx

— Jisp (@jispapp) February 14, 2025

Jisp’s Scan & Save platform - used by convenience stores across the UK - delivers instant, brand funded rewards when shoppers scan shelf-edge barcodes in-store. It encourages repeat visits, drives basket spend, and aims to build positive relationships between retailers and their local customer base.

By fostering that sense of recognition and belonging, Jisp says that retailers can:

·       Reduce instances of crime through shopper accountability

·       Build a core group of regular, respectful customers

·       Spot unusual patterns of activity with real-time data insights

·       Support staff morale through more positive shopper interactions

The Scan & Save platform also enables FMCG brands to fund promotions that drive loyalty and trial, all while capturing shopper insights. In a market increasingly shaped by price pressure, safety concerns, and shopper loyalty fragmentation, Jisp believes that partnership driven technology offers a smarter way forward.

“Loyalty shouldn’t just be about points or discounts,” adds Rimmer. “It should be about building the kind of relationships that make stores stronger, safer, and more supported.”

Jisp is calling for retailers and industry partners to view digital loyalty not just as a sales tool, but as a strategic asset in retail crime prevention and community engagement. As the sector navigates a period of intense pressure, the company believes it’s time to expand the definition of loyalty - to include trust, connection, and resilience.

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Loyalty and rewards platforms will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards, which are now open for entries, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.