Running a small business is difficult enough without having to worry about break-ins, shoplifters, or smash-and-grab attacks. But here’s the truth… Storefront crime is increasing. Small business owners are often victimized the most. Broken windows, stolen inventory – one security violation could cost you thousands of dollars and lost trust from your customers.
And here’s what most owners get wrong… They think security is something expensive corporations worry about. But the truth is, criminals actively look for small stores because they expect weaker defenses, slower response times, and softer entry points. That makes your small business an easier target than the chains downtown.
The good news?
There are simple, inexpensive ways to secure your storefront – and most involve what’s between the street and your inventory: windows. In this article, we offer you a practical security guide that has small business owners specifically in mind.
What You’ll Discover:
Why Storefront Crime Is Rising Fast
Security Windows: The First Line Of Defense
Layered Security Tactics That Actually Work
Common Mistakes That Make Stores Easy Targets
Building A Security Plan That Lasts
Why Storefront Crime Is Rising Fast
Small business owners are under attack like never before. New data shows that 56% of small retailers in the US were robbed last year. Retail crime stats continue to rise.
Why does this matter for your store?
Because crime doesn’t just cost you the stolen merchandise. It costs you:
Window and door repairs (sometimes thousands per incident)
Insurance premium hikes the following year
Lost business while you clean up the damage
Customers who don’t feel safe coming back
And the kicker?
Stores that get hit one time are much more likely to be hit again. Criminals communicate, and when someone finds an easy target it quickly spreads through the criminal community. Which means the second strike often happens much quicker (and with more force) than the first.
Security Windows: The First Line Of Defense
Of all the ways you can secure your store, burglar proof security windows are number one.
Here’s why…
The window is the vulnerable point of nearly every storefront. Glass breaks in seconds when struck by a brick, hammer, or even a car bumper. That is how most smash-and-grab robberies are committed — break-in quickly, grab what you can, and leave before anyone can react.
Bullet proof security windows are game changers. Made of multiple layers of reinforced material, polycarbonate sheets or laminated glass, they’re designed to withstand impact after impact without penetration. High-risk businesses such as jewelry stores, pharmacies or businesses that deal with large amounts of cash can feel safest in their storefront with custom bullet-proof window solutions. They’ll stop thugs wielding hammers as well as bullets.
The benefits of upgrading to security windows include:
Massive deterrence: Most thieves give up after the first few hits.
Reaction time: Windows will crack instead of explode, which gives alarms time to respond.
Lower insurance costs: Many insurers offer discounts for reinforced storefronts.
Feel safe: You and your employees won’t be worried about someone breaking in unexpectedly.
This is the kind of improvement that is worth it after the first attempted breach.
Layered Security Tactics That Actually Work
Security windows are strong – but no one window is impenetrable. Think of storefront security like layers of a fence: they all deter the attacker further.
Here are the layers every small business should have in place.
Cameras And Lighting
Thieves want as little hassle as possible. See the bright lights and cameras in your store front and they will move on. Motion sensor lighting near entrances and parking lots is a great deterrent. Pair lights with cameras capable of capturing video in low light environments. Store this video to the cloud for protected storage they can’t edit after breaking in.
Alarms And Access Control
Every business needs a monitored alarm system. Look for one that connects to:
Window break sensors
Door contacts
Motion detectors
A 24/7 monitoring service
Consider electronic access control for employee entrances/back doors. Keys can be duplicated or lost. Codes/key cards can be tracked and instantly changed when employees depart.
Greet every customer (this alone deters most shoplifters)
Avoid confronting thieves directly
Use panic buttons during emergencies
The U.S. Chamber just announced a 13% rise in theft incidents during 2Q 2025. Safety training is essential.
Common Mistakes That Make Stores Easy Targets
Many small business owners unknowingly program their store to attract thieves.
Watch out for these common mistakes:
Cluttered window displays: Blocking the view inside helps criminals work unseen.
Money remaining in register at close of business: Leave registers open at close. Empty at end of each shift.
Outdated locks: Old locks can be picked or bumped in seconds.
No window film or reinforcement: Even basic security film can buy critical seconds.
Skipping the closing security check: A simple checklist can prevent costly disasters.
(Take a walkthrough of your store at night and pretend to break in on a notepad. Weak spots will become obvious quickly.)
Building A Security Plan That Lasts
Security is not something you buy, once and for all. It is a process that must be maintained and updated constantly.
Here’s a simple plan that works for most small businesses:
Start with the perimeter: Upgrade windows and doors first.
Add detection: Cameras, alarms, and lighting come next.
Train your people: Staff awareness multiplies every other layer.
Review every quarter: Test alarms, update codes, and check camera footage.
Stay insured properly: Make sure your policy covers smash-and-grab damage.
The goal isn’t to deter every single burglar. You can’t turn your store into an impenetrable fortress.
You want your store to be less enticing than the one across the street. If criminals see toughened glass, bright lights, cameras and an obvious alarm system…they’ll keep looking for an easier mark.
Locking It Down
Storefront security can be simple and affordable. Always start with foundation security – strong security windows. Layer on cameras, alarms, lighting and vigilant staff.
To quickly recap:
Invest in reinforced or bullet-resistant security windows
Add layered detection with alarms, cameras, and good lighting
Train your staff to spot and respond to threats safely
Avoid the common mistakes that make stores easy targets
Review and update your security plan every few months
Crime is increasing however the technology to combat it is growing every day. Take preventative measures now – before it happens to you. Your storefront will thank you for it. So will your employees and customers.
Major hotel companies have seen the value in investing in all-inclusive resorts in recent years, refreshing a formula that once felt tired. Thanks to their efforts, these properties routinely feature fresh, modern design, fantastic restaurants and curated experiences from snorkeling excursions to guided tours of historical sites, all for one reasonable price.
While Hilton’s all-inclusive portfolio is smaller than those of its competitors, its resorts pack a powerful, value-added punch. So, whether you’re a die-hard Hilton Honors member or a free agent just looking for a good deal, chances are there’s a Hilton all-inclusive for you.
Here are TPG’s favorite Hilton all-inclusive resorts to consider for your next warm-weather getaway.
Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe All-Inclusive Resort
CLINT HENDERSON/THE POINTS GUY
One of Hilton’s properties in Cancun, Mexico, this all-inclusive resort is a winner with its views and amazing restaurant lineup — as TPG found out when we checked in to the property. The Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe All-Inclusive Resort is just the place for you if you’re looking for a sunny getaway that earns top marks for service, has spacious rooms and suites, and keeps guests well fed.
All of the resort’s 540 guest rooms and suites come with balconies, and some suites even have private plunge pools. Modern furnishings with tropical flair, a complimentary minibar restocked daily, and either ocean or pool views are offered across all rooms and suites. If you’re in the mood to splurge, book an Enclave room or suite for a private lounge and pools, as well as special welcome amenities — some Enclave suites even feature direct beach access.
From the international breakfast buffet to poolside bites at Seasalt, the Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe keeps you well fed and hydrated all day long. We’re especially fond of Maxal, the resort’s Mexican fine dining restaurant. Of course, don’t forget to have fun in the sun: The resort features 13 swimming pools, kids and teens clubs, and a spa for those looking for a little more tranquility and rejuvenation in their getaway.
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When we sent a reviewer out a few months after opening back in 2021, one thing was immediately clear at the Hilton Cancun, an All-Inclusive Resort: This place is wonderful for families.
About 20 minutes from Cancun’s Hotel Zone, this all-inclusive resort is in a shared complex with Hilton’s Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya. Both resorts occupy more than 100 acres, giving visitors plenty of room to stretch out while vacationing in Mexico.
At the 715-room Hilton Cancun, guests are treated to modern accommodations with at least 430 square feet of space and amenities like wardrobes and spacious bathrooms. Plus, most rooms and suites have balconies or patios. Book a swim-up room for an even more memorable experience so you don’t have to go far to cool off.
With 12 different restaurants, bars and specialty snack shops, nobody will go hungry. The Hilton Cancun’s restaurants have a much more upscale vibe than what you’d expect to find at an older-generation all-inclusive resort, with options ranging from an international buffet to a taqueria with a walk-up window to an open-flame grill serving sizzling steaks and seafood. Should you crave a sweet treat, there’s even an ice cream and churro shop.
During the day, visitors can swim in two infinity pools or post up at the beach, where activities like soccer and volleyball are scheduled at regular intervals. Families will particularly love that teens and kids clubs have various activities to entertain younger guests throughout the day. Hilton Cancun also specializes in immersive experiences like a Full Moon Dining Series, snorkeling excursions to Isla Mujeres and guided tours of Chichen Itza.
Mangrove Beach Corendon Curacao All-Inclusive Resort, Curio by Hilton
MANGROVE BEACH CORENDON CURUCAO ALL INCLUSIVE RESORT/FACEBOOK
The Dutch Caribbean island of Curacao begs travelers to grab a beach chair and enjoy the crystalline waters of the Caribbean. This resort, part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, is another excellent family-friendly affair. It has a water park with a cobra-themed waterslide, four pristine swimming pools, a scuba diving center and sports like volleyball on the private stretch of sand. Kids can enjoy a playground and various daily activities specifically tailored to younger guests.
When we say this 399-room resort was built for families, we mean it, especially when you factor in that one of the room setups features a king-size bed plus two twins. But no matter what size of room you need, from a standard king to the two-bedroom presidential suite, expect modern decor with bold colors, private outdoor spaces and air conditioning.
There’s a restaurant to satisfy every palate, including Dushi Sushi Club, Ristorante Siciliano and Cor & Don’s BBQ Restaurant. Grab a drink at Pera Lobby Bar & Patisserie until midnight, while the Flamingo Beach Bar stays open 24-hours. Don’t miss The Don Cigar Lounge, where cigars and cognac are offered.
Guests can book a beachside massage in one of several thatched-roof cabanas to unwind. Bike rentals are also available for those who’d rather venture off-site to check out their surroundings.
Hilton’s first all-inclusive resort in Tulum, the Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort has a wow factor, and our reviewer was impressed with the laid-back vibe, top-notch amenities and eco-sensitive design.
Across the resort’s 735 rooms and suites, all of which have balconies or patios, guests will find natural touches reflecting the property’s environment and modern amenities like high-definition TVs and ample storage space. For a more premium experience, reserve an Enclave-level room with access to a private lounge with food, drinks and a concierge; exclusive reservations and dining options; two private pool areas; and special fitness and wellness activities.
There are a whopping 13 bars and restaurants to enjoy, ranging from the chic La Luce Italian restaurant and must-have sushi at Noriku to an elegant steakhouse and a poolside seafood restaurant. If you prefer lots of options, be sure to visit Vela Norte, where a variety of international and Mexican dishes are available buffet-style.
Activities are seemingly endless at this Mexican resort. You can relax by the pools (one of which has a special splash zone for kids), hit up the neighboring Conrad’s spa for a treatment, take advantage of the kids and teens clubs, partake in a yoga class, learn about local art and so much more.
The Rif at Mangrove Beach Corendon Curacao All-Inclusive, Curio by Hilton
The Rif at Mangrove Beach Corendon Curacao. FACEBOOK
If you feel like you’ve already read about Mangrove Beach Corendon Curacao All-Inclusive, Curio by Hilton above, you have. The Rif is that resort’s sister property, but with a more adult-leaning attitude (though technically it’s family-friendly).
The 384-room beachfront resort feels more intimate than some all-inclusives, with four restaurants and one centerpiece pool framed with palm trees and rows of sun beds. When The Rif guests want more dining options and family-friendly amenities such as a water park and playground, they only have to walk next door to the sister resort, Mangrove Beach Corendon Curacao. Meanwhile, The Rif remains a haven of calm. The private beach, where guests sometimes swim with sea turtles, is a tropical paradise surrounded by the Caribbean Sea and lush mangrove forests. Thatched-roof cabanas and wood loungers with cushions are tastefully tropical. On-property restaurant options at The Rif include the Turkish restaurant Sofra and the colorful Mexican restaurant Maya, specializing in shareable small plates.
Many of The Rif’s bright, modern guest rooms have balconies or swim-up pool terraces. The resort is just over a mile from UNESCO-protected Willemstad, Curacao’s capital, known for pastel-colored colonial buildings and a 19th-century fort.
All 444 rooms and suites have balconies with ocean views. Each accommodation has a spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower, a minibar, a Nespresso machine and a smart TV to help you catch some z’s in comfort. Should you wish to upgrade your experience, book an Enclave room to receive a welcome amenity, nightly turndown service, a minibar with premium goodies, and access to the Enclave Lounge. Breakfast, coffee, snacks and happy hour beverages are served there daily.
Activities and amenities abound, but nothing tops sidling up to one of the two oceanfront infinity pools and grabbing an ice-cold margarita from the swim-up bar. The Eforea Spa deserves praise for its impressive treatment menu, plus rejuvenating hydrotherapy pools. For more action, participate in beach sports competitions or attend the resort’s nightly pool parties.
Make sure to bring a healthy appetite. Maxal is the place to go for authentic Mexican dishes, while La Luce will satisfy your craving for trattoria-style Italian fare. If you’d rather savor a mix of Southeast Asian flavors, check out Sunan. Not to be missed are the Mojito Lounge, where you can sip a cocktail from an indoor swing, and the chic Sky Bar.
Whether you’re traveling as a family or a couple without kids, know that there’s space for everyone. The resort has an adults-only wing and kids and teen clubs with age-appropriate activities.
DoubleTree by Hilton Bodrum Isil Club All-Inclusive Resort
DOUBLETREE BY HILTON BODRUM ISIL CLUB RESORT/FACEBOOK
Not all of Hilton’s all-inclusive resorts are in Mexico and the Caribbean; a handful can be found in Turkey, including in stylish, A-lister-approved Bodrum. One of the region’s best resorts is an all-inclusive take on the popular DoubleTree brand.
At the DoubleTree by Hilton Bodrum Isil Club All-Inclusive Resort, you can practice your backhand swing on a tennis court, play table tennis and lounge on the beach facing the Aegean Sea. Other highlights include a pool that looks out over turquoise waters and a kiddie pool with waterslides. There’s even an elevated spa with a full menu of treatments and a Turkish hammam.
When your stomach starts to grumble, you’ll have four dining outlets to choose from: an indoor-outdoor buffet open throughout the day, an Italian restaurant with beautiful outdoor seating, a seafood restaurant by the water, and a casual poolside spot for breakfast and snacks. The Sunset Lounge Bar is the most memorable of the three bars due to its location on a massive outdoor terrace.
Inside the 277 guest rooms and suites, you’ll find all you need for a restful night’s sleep. The predominantly white spaces come outfitted with minifridges, high-definition TVs, walk-in showers, and attached balconies or terraces, among other modern-day amenities.
Another great Turkish Hilton all-inclusive resort is on the Aegean in Mugla, east of Bodrum. The Hilton Dalaman Sarigerme Resort & Spa also sits at the mouth of the Dalaman River, so the views are stunning.
At this 538-room resort, accommodations come in all shapes and sizes, from entry-level king guest rooms with balconies to luxurious Lake House villas with swim-up pool access, living rooms and soaking tubs. If you need to accommodate a large group, the three-bedroom presidential suite sleeps 10 and comes with butler service and round-trip ground transportation from the airport, plus a kitchen and four bathrooms.
Getting bored at the Hilton Dalaman Sarigerme is practically impossible. There are 10 pools to explore, waterslides to whiz down, a private beach, a kids club and a sprawling 24-hour fitness center. Adrenaline junkies can try water sports like kiteboarding and windsurfing. If relaxation is what’s calling, skip the adventure and plan a day of pampering at the Elysion Spa.
Food and beverage options range from an Instagram-cool teppanyaki restaurant and a glitzy Italian eatery to a piano bar and an international buffet. If you feel sluggish, head to Citrus Coffee & Bar for an authentic Turkish coffee pick-me-up.
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