A recent survey, collecting responses from 2,000 United States consumers, highlights the need for retailers to focus on security. The survey found that parking lot security is a major factor influencing shopping habits this year, with 54% of respondents saying they feel the least safe in parking spaces when compared to other retail spaces. This includes 59% of women and 47% of men. Additionally, 32% of women say concerns over parking lot safety impact their decision to shop in person. 

According to the survey, poor lighting is a top safety concern among shoppers, with 69% of women and 56% of men in agreement. The survey also shared role of security technology in perceptions of safety by assessing consumer attitudes toward visible security measures. Visible security cameras in public locations made 66% of respondents feel safer, with 77% of women stating the presence of security cameras boosted their sense of safety.