Modern Surveillance Helps Quick Service Restaurants Detect Theft Before It Happens

Businesses across many industry sectors are vulnerable to revenue losses due to theft. Quick service restaurants (QSRs) are an especially high target for theft – the National Restaurant Association has estimated that 75% of restaurant inventory shortages are due to internal theft, and QSRs will lose a whopping 7% of sales due to employee theft alone. That’s a lot of dollars, since the quick service restaurant industry in the United States was valued at approximately $447.2 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach $731.6 billion by 2030, as reported recently on Restroworks.com. 

QSRs are especially vulnerable to theft because of a mix of operational, environmental, and human factors. They handle hundreds, sometimes even thousands of small transactions each day, many involving cash. And because they operate in a fast-paced environment, it can be tough to monitor every sale which opens up opportunities for theft to go unnoticed. In addition, many QSRs operate late into the night – some even 24/7 – which increases their exposure to crime during off-peak hours. 

To help combat these huge losses, many QSRs are turning to video surveillance.  Modern surveillance technologies are transforming how QSRs can detect and prevent theft in several significant ways. 

For starters, the mere presence of cameras does a lot to deter potential thieves, as they’re far less likely to target locations where they know there will be “eyes” on them. Cameras that are positioned at entrances, exits, and high-risk zones maximize deterrence. 

Reinforced by real-time monitoring and response capabilities, surveillance cameras can trigger immediate alerts that notify security teams of suspicious activity so they can respond immediately. 

In addition, cameras equipped with AI can detect and analyze questionable behavior like loitering or unauthorized access to restricted areas. Thanks to facial and object recognition technologies, these systems can identify people attempting a burglary. AI can also flag unusual employee activity, such as accessing cash registers without transactions or applying unauthorized discounts to people they know. And license plate and facial recognition technologies serve to help track employee and customer movements across multiple locations. AI is also helping QSRs save on labor costs, as less manual monitoring of the premises is needed. 

Surveillance cameras are also really helpful in terms of evidence collection – high-resolution footage supports legal action and speeds up internal investigations. Faster investigations and asset recovery reduce financial losses.  

Video surveillance is proving to be one of the most effective tools for QSRs to deter theft. Contact UAS to learn more about how we can help your QSR prevent theft and protect your bottom line.  

About UAS 

Universal Atlantic Systems (UAS) is a national leader in integrated security solutions for commercial businesses. With over 50 years of industry experience and an in-house UL-listed Central Station, UAS specializes in video surveillance, intrusion detection, fire alarms, camera systems, access control, and 24/7 monitoring across a wide range of industries. UAS partners with organizations to protect their People, Property and Profits with customized, code-compliant solutions specialized to their industry needs. UAS is proud to be a part of Zeus Fire and Security.