Theft, fraud, and losses cost the retail industry $61.7 billion in 2019, according to the annual National Retail Security Survey conducted by the National Retail Federation, security executives reported a steep increase in incidences of shoplifting, organized retail crime, and employee theft over the year prior.

The Loss Prevention Foundation and ASIS International have joined forces in developing the new Essentials of Retail Asset Protection Certificate.

The entirely virtual certificate course was designed so that retail security professionals can work through the learning modules at their own pace, demonstrating their knowledge on the proficiency test at the end. Individuals who successfully complete the course will be issued a digital credential through Credly for display in emails, resumes, and websites as verifiable proof of their achievement.

?The LPF and ASIS joined forces to develop this new course with the intent being to better equip security professionals with the skills they need to curb losses in the retail environment,? stated Terry Sullivan, LPC, president, Loss Prevention Foundation.

?Providing leading-edge content that is both accessible and affordable was a key driver in the development of this certificate course.?

?This CPE-eligible course equips those working in security roles in today?s retail environment with the skills and knowledge they need to address this ongoing challenge,? added Peter J. O’Neil, FASAE, CAE, chief executive officer, ASIS International.

?From early-career professionals to more seasoned mid-level managers wanting to update their skill set, the certificate was designed to meet the needs of a broad range of professionals tasked with preventing loss in their organizations.?

The Loss Prevention Foundation (LPF)is founded in 2006 by industry-leading professionals to serve the loss prevention/asset protection industry.

ASIS is recognized as the premier source for learning, networking, standards, and research.