Michael Hill forced to implement raft of security measures as smash and grabs, ram raids continue

Michael Hill has been forced to implement a raft of security protection measures following a string of targeted robberies and ram raids. 

The security measures have been rolled out across the motu, and after working with police, CEO Daniel Bracken said security and protection tools have "significantly increased" to better protect staff and customers. 

Michael Hill shops across Aotearoa will see security guards positioned at each store, fog cannons and alarm screamers, additional security cameras installed, personal staff alarms and further security measures at night. 

Bracken said DNA tacking spray mechanisms will soon be rolled out too to assist in identifying and apprehending the criminals involved.

Bracken said he's "appalled" by the recent attacks on Michael Hill stores, especially the daytime smash and grabs in Hamilton and Albany.

"It is also disturbing that many of these crimes are being committed by young people."

Michael Hill chairman Rob Fyfe said the thieves are not only robbing the stores of their products but staff and customers of their right to feel safe.

"It's unacceptable that our staff and customers now live with this constant threat of attack and are now being regularly confronted with the level of destruction."

Fyfe said he saw the destruction first hand on Wednesday when he visited the Michael Hill Takapuna branch.

Michael Hill forced to implement raft of security measures as smash and grabs, ram raids continue
Photo credit: Michael Hill

"The frequency of these increasingly brazen attacks is reaching a level where we will see some businesses forced to permanently close stores."

Further to Michael Hill's increased security measures, Fyfe said staff and customers are offered counselling support when they find themselves on the receiving end of a smash and grab or ram raid.