How can I prevent items from getting stolen at shows?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

This thread discusses experiences and strategies related to preventing theft of items during Pampered Chef shows. Participants share personal anecdotes about items that have gone missing and suggest various methods to safeguard their belongings.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, shared an experience of having a small mix n scraper stolen during a show for a church group.
  • Another participant mentioned that they have not experienced theft but noted that others have reported stolen items, including a Santoku knife.
  • Several users expressed that items often go missing but may not be outright stolen, with some items being left behind instead.
  • One participant shared that they lost their Weekday Dinners Done recipe cards and suggested using stickers to label consultant copies of cookbooks to deter theft.
  • Another participant mentioned that they have had guests attempt to take their spices, especially when a free spice was offered as a guest special.
  • One consultant described their practice of mentioning the importance of keeping track of items during their presentation to deter theft.
  • Another participant noted that they use a crate to keep dirty dishes organized, which helps prevent mix-ups with the host's items.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the prevalence of theft, with some participants reporting experiences of items going missing while others have not encountered theft directly. No clear consensus emerges regarding the effectiveness of specific prevention strategies.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences from various shows, highlighting the challenges of managing items in environments where both consultant and host products are present.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights on managing their items during shows may find the shared experiences and strategies relevant.

J
jj16
Gold Member
Messages
168
Okay so last week I did a show for a "church group". I used to be in a quilting group with them and I don't go to the same church. Someone took my small mix n scraper. I know it's a small item but it's just the principal of it. Do any of you have suggestions on preventing this from happening? My boyfriend suggested I take a checklist and even if it takes more time and don't leave until I get everything back.

I talked to my director and she said she had her Weekday Dinners Done recipe cards stolen.

Also since it is stolen and I'm kind of new which scraper do you like the best or is the most versatile?

TIA!

jj16
 
That's such a bummer. I haven't (knock on wood) had anything stolen, but I have read on here of others who have. Someone even posted once that her Santoku was stolen.You can write the stolen item off your taxes, and the new one you'll buy to replace it. I personally like the Small Mix 'N Scraper best.As for preventing it from happening... The best I can advise is to put your dirty dishes in one container as you use them, and either wash them up or pack them up before you leave that particular space. A check list of items you've brought would be a good idea too, but I don't know if it would do any good if the guest had already left with the item. Stealing in any form is a pretty low thing to do, but for your own peace of mind all you can do is bless and release. Either they really needed it badly, or they can't help themselves.
 
I've had things go missing, but I don't think anything was ever blatantly STOLEN. Things get left behind--it happens.
 
I just lost (or had stolen) my Weekday Dinners Done recipe cards, too!! Grrr...
 
Chefgirl2 said:
I just lost (or had stolen) my Weekday Dinners Done recipe cards, too!! Grrr...
Click to expand...

After having a couple cookbooks walk off, I now put big stickers on the front of them that say CONSULTANT COPY. haven't lost one since.
 
DebbieJ said:
After having a couple cookbooks walk off, I now put big stickers on the front of them that say CONSULTANT COPY. haven't lost one since.
Click to expand...

I had to do this with my cookbooks also. Especially during the guest cookbook special! They get a free cookbook so they automatically thought they'd get mine! LOL!

I don't think I've ever had anything out right stolen. That is too bad. Maybe the host will call soon and say she found it... maybe :-)
 
I've never had anything stolen. I've left a couple of things behind and had to go back for them. I've also had people try to leave with my spices twice. Both times it was when the Guest Special was a free spice or rub. They chose, then tried to leave with mine. Both times I told them that the HO would send them a new, sealed, full bottle. They didn't have to be satisfied with my open, partial bottle.
 
I had read on here once that someone's skillet was stolen. I had a pair of bamboo tongs come up missing. Most of the other things that turn up missing, the host usually tells me that it was left at her house before I even miss it or soon after I miss it. I do tend to leave a trail when I go to shows! It's very common for me to forget something. LOLBut as a deterrent to crime, I mention it at my shows as part of my presentation. I tell them that I have the cookbooks to browse through, all the spices are open to smell, and that all the tools are there so that they can touch them and see how strong/sturdy they are ... but please be aware that these are NOT freebies, they are the supplies that I use for my business. I say it with a smile of course. Someone always jokes about stuff being taken which gives me the opportunity to say that unfortunately it happens. Then I tell them that I'm lucky and have only had a pair of bamboo tongs missing but other consultants have been unfortunate and had other more expensive items turn up missing. I also ask them to put the used tools in the large stainless steel bowl, that when tools go to the kitchen, it's more likely that I won't get home with everything. I have the rolling case and can put everything in dirty, then zip out the liner & toss it into the washing machine. The guests have been really great a about working with me at keeping all of my stuff together. It's more important as shows where the host has lots of products already. It's super easy to get their stuff & my stuff confused!!!
 
Sheila said:
I had read on here once that someone's skillet was stolen. I had a pair of bamboo tongs come up missing. Most of the other things that turn up missing, the host usually tells me that it was left at her house before I even miss it or soon after I miss it. I do tend to leave a trail when I go to shows! It's very common for me to forget something. LOL

But as a deterrent to crime, I mention it at my shows as part of my presentation. I tell them that I have the cookbooks to browse through, all the spices are open to smell, and that all the tools are there so that they can touch them and see how strong/sturdy they are ... but please be aware that these are NOT freebies, they are the supplies that I use for my business. I say it with a smile of course. Someone always jokes about stuff being taken which gives me the opportunity to say that unfortunately it happens. Then I tell them that I'm lucky and have only had a pair of bamboo tongs missing but other consultants have been unfortunate and had other more expensive items turn up missing. I also ask them to put the used tools in the large stainless steel bowl, that when tools go to the kitchen, it's more likely that I won't get home with everything. I have the rolling case and can put everything in dirty, then zip out the liner & toss it into the washing machine. The guests have been really great a about working with me at keeping all of my stuff together. It's more important as shows where the host has lots of products already. It's super easy to get their stuff & my stuff confused!!!
Click to expand...


I always make sure and let my hosts know that their PC tools can stay in the drawer while I do the demo, because if they don't, at the end of the evening when I do my "swoop and grab" to pack up my kit, more than likely, something of theirs will go home with me! :D
 
I "lost" a cookbook once...and it was new! I didn't notice because I had taken all of them with me (cookbook month I think?). I had asked the host if I left it when I spoke with her later that week- she said no. But strangely enough, I overheard her telling a friend at another party last month about how fabulous the 29-min cookbook was. (That's the one that was lost). now, she may have gotten it from another show- but since I've been doing shows with her for most of the year, and this was the Volume 2 -29 minute book....I just wondered....Hmmmmmmm.Now I don't take as many small items, including cookbooks...but I may try putting labels on them now. That's a great idea. I also put my dirty dishes in a crate when I've used them...partly so I can wash at home, but also so things don't walk, or get mixed up with the host's items.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some effective ways to secure my display items during a show?

To secure your display items, consider using a combination of display cases with locks, securing items with zip ties, and keeping high-value items closer to you. Additionally, using table covers can help obscure items from view and deter theft.

Should I have someone assist me during the show to help prevent theft?

Yes, having an assistant can significantly reduce the risk of theft. They can help monitor the area, engage with customers, and keep an eye on the display while you demonstrate products or make sales.

What type of signage can I use to deter potential thieves?

Using clear signage that indicates monitoring or security measures can deter theft. Signs that say "Shoplifting will be prosecuted" or "Please do not touch without permission" can make potential thieves think twice before attempting to steal items.

How can I keep track of my inventory during a show?

To keep track of your inventory, create a checklist of items before the show and regularly update it as items are sold or displayed. Consider using a mobile app or a simple spreadsheet to log sales and monitor what is still on display.

What should I do if I notice someone acting suspiciously at my booth?

If you notice someone acting suspiciously, trust your instincts. Politely engage them in conversation to distract them, and keep a close eye on your items. If you feel it’s necessary, alert event security or staff for assistance.

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