What to do every evening: Checklist for closing a retail store

A smiling man standing in front of a store door.

The importance of a checklist for closing a retail store can’t be overstated. Just as the morning opening sets the stage for the day, the evening closing ensures a secure and organized store, ready for the next business day. This article outlines 32 crucial tasks divided into 10 categories that will make closing a breeze and set you up for success. By attending to each of these tasks, you’re laying the groundwork for an efficient opening the following day.

What is a store closing checklist and why do you need one?

Just like an opening checklist, a store closing checklist is an indispensable tool for successful retail operations. This list of tasks helps you cover all bases, ensuring that you leave no room for errors or security lapses. A comprehensive checklist makes the store closing efficient and hassle-free.

Closing your store isn’t just about locking up. It’s about taking stock of the day’s operations, from inventory and sales to staff performance. A structured checklist allows for a systematic approach to these crucial tasks. Moreover, integrating Solink into your closing routine provides additional security and valuable business insights.

A smiling man standing in front of a store door.

32 essential tasks for your closing a retail store checklist

Closing a retail store each night might seem like a straightforward task, but the process entails a lot more than simply locking up and turning off the lights. A comprehensive closing checklist for a retail store is a vital tool for streamlining operations, enhancing security, and preparing the store for the next business day.

This guide outlines 32 essential tasks across various categories that should be a part of your routine. Following this checklist can help you close your store efficiently while mitigating risks and setting the stage for another successful day of business.

Security checks

When it comes to closing your retail store, security should be a top priority. As the store empties and the lights dim, it’s critical to ensure that all entry points are properly secured to prevent unauthorized access. A comprehensive cloud-based surveillance system , like the one offered by Solink, adds an additional layer of protection. Solink’s cloud video surveillance system is robust and can be easily integrated into your daily security procedures, ensuring a safe and secure retail environment.

  1. Arm security system: Activate the alarm system to safeguard the premises. You can set up a schedule for your Solink Video Alarms to automatically arm every night.
  2. Lock all entry points: Make sure all doors, windows, and other entryways are securely locked.
  3. Confirm security cameras are operational: Verify all surveillance cameras are functioning and recording. Solink performs automatic health checks to make sure your cameras are always unobstructed and recording.

Lights and temperature

As you close down for the day, controlling the lighting and temperature becomes a crucial part of your energy-saving strategy. Proper management not only saves on operational costs but is also a responsible environmental practice. Ensuring that you are using energy-efficient settings can make a significant difference over time.

  1. Turn off unnecessary lights: Save energy by turning off lights that aren’t needed overnight. Use Solink to audit thousands of stores for compliance in minutes.
  2. Adjust thermostat to energy-saving mode: Lower the thermostat to a setting that conserves energy.
  3. Test emergency lights: Ensure that emergency lighting systems are operational for safety reasons.

Inventory management

Accurate inventory control is a cornerstone for any successful retail operation. The end of the day is an excellent time to take stock, literally and figuratively. Ensuring you have an accurate count of goods can inform reordering strategies and also acts as a loss-prevention mechanism.

  1. Perform inventory checks: Count the remaining stock for the day.
  2. Update POS system: Update any changes in the inventory in the Point of Sale system.
  3. Prepare list of items to reorder: Make a list of products that need to be reordered.