The term refers to individuals employed by the retail corporation who primarily patrol the sales floor. Their responsibilities encompass a range of activities, including loss prevention through observation, customer assistance by providing directions or product information, and maintaining a visible presence to deter potential theft. For example, an employee actively circulating throughout the apparel section, engaging with customers and monitoring for suspicious behavior, could be considered to be performing this function.
The significance of these personnel lies in their ability to improve the shopping experience and safeguard company assets. A proactive and well-trained individual can deter shoplifting, resolve customer inquiries efficiently, and contribute to a safer and more orderly environment. Historically, retail establishments have utilized similar positions, albeit sometimes under different names, to manage inventory and maintain a secure environment within the store premises.