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As crime rates and social issues like homelessness and drug addiction increase in Saskatoon, many local businesses are investing more heavily in private security services. Margot Orr, director of issues and government relations with the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce, notes that private security demand surges in Saskatoon: businesses are hiring security for preventative measures while also managing the aftermath of vandalism and other criminal activity.
Increasing Demand for Private Security Services
Les Speers, director of operations for Commissionaires in North Saskatchewan, reports a 50% increase in demand for security services year-over-year. The variety of clients seeking services spans industries, with some opting for cost-effective security camera installations while others prefer a more visible security presence through patrols or staff manning entry points.
“We’ve seen growth across industrial and downtown businesses,” Speers said, highlighting the increasing calls they receive daily from both new and returning clients.
Businesses Adapt to the Growing Threat.
Private security demand surges in Saskatoon and businesses are adapting to rising crime in different ways. A recent survey by the North Saskatoon Business Association (NSBA) found that 63% of respondents are spending more on security, 33% are increasing staff safety training, and 29% are modifying operations, such as limiting hours or locking front doors. The Starbucks near Confederation Mall, for example, removed all seating earlier this year to prevent loitering.
Keith Moen of the NSBA, who raised concerns about property crime with the board of police commissioners in May, found that over 80% of businesses reported being directly or indirectly impacted by the increase in crime, leading to higher operational costs.
Read: Overcoming Seven Key Challenges Faced by Small Businesses
Crime Decline and Ongoing Concerns
Despite these rising concerns, Saskatoon police data for the first half of 2024 indicates an 11% reduction in property crime compared to the same period in 2023, including fewer break-ins, vehicle thefts, and graffiti incidents. However, business leaders like Orr emphasize that more needs to be done to address the broader social issues driving these challenges.
“It’s a complex issue, but our businesses need support,” Orr said, underscoring the ongoing need for solutions.
