Stock loss is a silent profit killer for service stations. Whether it’s due to theft, administrative errors, or damage, even small amounts of shrinkage can add up over time. Fortunately, there are practical steps you can take to keep it under control.

Start with clear procedures. Ensure staff follow consistent processes when receiving, stocking, and selling products. Use checklists to track incoming deliveries and compare them against purchase orders. This helps catch errors before they become costly.

Regular stocktakes matter. Don’t wait for the end of the financial year. Frequent spot checks on high-value or fast-moving items help you identify issues early. Fuel, tobacco, and convenience items are all prime candidates for closer scrutiny.

Limit access. Only trusted staff should have keys to storage areas or access to systems where stock levels are recorded. The more people who can handle stock without oversight, the greater the risk of losses.

Invest in technology. A reliable point-of-sale system helps monitor inventory in real-time, highlighting discrepancies before they spiral. It also helps track trends, so you can adjust orders to avoid overstocking or understocking.

Training is key. Staff should understand that stock control isn’t about mistrust – it’s about running a professional business. Build a culture of accountability, where everyone is invested in reducing waste and losses.

By tightening your stock control, you’ll protect margins, boost profitability, and gain better visibility into how your service station operates daily.

ServoPro Call to Action: For the latest retailer news and information, check out the ServoPro website or to speak to us about how we can help your business contact us.