Gas stations and convenience stores are tempting places for would-be robbers and shoplifters. According to the National Association for Shoplifting Prevention, 54% of shoplifters regularly steal from convenience stores. These stores are easy targets—simple floor plans, open late-night hours and few staff members working, especially overnight.

Gas station and convenience store owners looking to deter theft can add additional layers of protection using Cash Register Express—Fuel Edition™. This solution includes the option to integrate a security camera and DVR system to record in-store activity so owners and managers can review incidents at any time.

The software also introduces a new level of accountability for employees. Refunds, voids, age verification and price changes require an employee’s unique login ID or job code, giving managers the ability to track employee activity and pinpoint questionable transactions. Cash control features can be used to identify discrepancies down to the cashier or shift, making it easy to identify and root out unscrupulous workers.

Two of the hottest selling products at gas stations and convenience stores are age restricted items. One-third of all beer—or 2 billion gallons a year—purchased in the U.S. is sold at convenience stores. Cigarettes and tobacco products are also major income drivers, making up nearly 37% of sales in 2008.

Fines and penalties for selling these items to underage teens can cost a business big bucks, so owners should protect themselves with Fuel Edition™’s age verification feature. This functionality will help reduce liability and insurance costs by preventing the sale of alcohol and tobacco items to minors. Cashiers will be prompted to swipe the shopper’s driver’s license through the credit card reader, validating their age before proceeding with the transaction.

For more information about Cash Register Express—Fuel Edition™, please contact your pcAmerica sales representative at 1-800-722-6374.