Our Bulletproof Storefront and Point of Sale Projects

A retail storefront outfitted with bulletproof glass to protect employees from violent crimes and give them back valuable time to take cover and respond

Functional, Elegant, Bulletproof Retail Storefronts and Point of Sale Transaction Lines

Retail storefronts have long been a target for criminal behavior. Because of that, business owners are increasingly leaning on bulletproof glass to help keep employees, customers, and merchandise safe.

The earliest iterations of bullet-resistant barriers for retail locations like gas stations, pawn shops, and corner stores were cumbersome to work with and did not make the retail spaces feel inviting.

At TSS, we believe safety and aesthetics can—and should—coexist. Our bulletproof retail storefront projects blend the safety features you need with the aesthetic details you deserve to create an effective barrier system.

Project Highlight: Bulletproof Gas Station Barrier Protects Workers, Budget, and Aesthetics

A photo showing gas station bullet proof glass barriers to help keep employees safe on the job, from the early morning to late-night hours

A chain of gas stations needed to protect their behind-the-counter workers but were concerned about a bulky barrier taking up counter space. The gas station retail spaces have very high ceilings, and the company was concerned about the cost of counter-to-ceiling bulletproof glass. Our solution? Create a system of ballistically-rated glazing at the counter level, and non-rated, louvered glazing near the ceiling. The final result is an elegant barrier that looks great in the retail space.

Many business owners, facilities directors, and operations managers come to TSS concerned about losing functionality. Will workers and customers be able to hear through bullet-resistant windows? Will voice ports disrupt the line of sight? Will they be able to easily pass purchases from one side of the barrier to the other? What if the items are large?

Bullet-resistant materials installed in a retail setting to create more secure transaction windows

When you choose TSS as your bulletproof barrier partner, we work with you to ensure your barrier doesn’t get in the way of staff doing their jobs. If staff can’t use the barrier as intended, it’s not just a point of frustration; it’s a security risk. For instance, without the right package passer, staff may prop open a door to hand items back and forth. We see this all too often—workers left unprotected because of an avoidable error.

Our team of experienced ballistics experts will work with you to understand the types of transactions your team will facilitate, how loud the environment is, the airflow in the space, and other details that impact the functionality of your barrier. Then, we help you choose the right package passer, deal tray, talk-thru, transaction window, and other features while giving you the bullet resistance you need.

Best Practices for Bulletproofing Retail Spaces

When you need to secure your retail space, best practices guide your way. TSS has led the ballistic barrier industry for decades and is ready to put our experience and expertise to work for you. To get started, download our free infographic; this resource outlines the best practices for retail spaces and will be an invaluable tool as you get started hardening your security.

Download Guide

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TSS has helped businesses nationwide integrate bulletproof storefronts for their retail spaces. This includes securing the front windows to protect from stray bullets and targeted attacks. Our bulletproof glass windows for businesses blend in with your existing architecture and are often nearly identical to the original, non-rated windows. Your staff will have peace of mind, and customers won’t notice a thing.

Case Study: Collaborating with an Engineering Firm to Create Bulletproof Retail Barriers

A retail business equipped with bullet-resistant glazing that provides an added layer of protection for staff

When civil engineering firm Fishbeck, Thompson, Carr and Huber, Inc.’s (FTCH) client asked them to design bulletproof features for their building, FTCH knew just who to call. With the help of TSS’ experienced team, they designed a bulletproof counter area, which included ballistic doors, to keep the client’s public-facing team protected in high-risk areas.

What components are included in a typical gas station bulletproof barrier system?

Most gas station security barriers include bullet-resistant glass with a transaction window, along with package passers or cash trays to safely exchange items. Many systems also feature ballistic doors with access control and, in some cases, exterior transaction windows for secure after-hours operations.

What level of bullet-resistant protection is usually used in retail environments?

Most retail environments use UL 752 Levels 1–3, with Level 1 being the most common for everyday protection against handgun threats. The right level depends on your specific risk: urban jewelry stores may require higher protection than rural convenience stores. Higher UL levels also increase the material's overall thickness and weight, which can impact design and installation.

Do bullet-resistant barriers actually deter crime in convenience stores?

Yes, deterrence is a powerful benefit of a ballistic barrier. Convenience store robberies are typically driven by risk vs. reward, and visible barriers increase the effort and uncertainty for would-be attackers. Robbers may actively avoid locations with bullet-resistant barriers, choosing easier targets instead.

What types of retail stores benefit most from bulletproof windows and doors?

Any retail environment handling cash, high-value goods, or late-night transactions can benefit from ballistic protection. This includes gas stations and convenience stores, as well as jewelry stores, pharmacies, and mobile phone stores—where valuable inventory and increasing organized retail crime make them attractive targets.

Outside of bullet-resistant glazing, are there other, more cost-effective security options for retail storefronts?

Retailers often consider security window film as a lower-cost option, but while it can delay forced entry break-ins, it does not provide ballistic protection. For retail environments facing potential firearm threats, UL 752 Level 1 systems offer a cost-effective starting point, with Level 3 providing stronger protection against common handgun risks.

What other types of facilities does TSS secure beyond retail stores?

TSS provides custom bullet-resistant solutions for a wide range of industries, including government buildings, financial institutions like banks and credit unions, schools, healthcare facilities, and corporate workplaces. Each system is designed to meet the unique security needs, risks, and operational requirements of the environment while maintaining a clean, professional appearance.

A photo showcasing security glazing in a reception area designed to stop bullets and work alongside other measures like security cameras

Our team has decades of experience creating bulletproof barriers for retailers nationwide. We’ve refined our process into a four-step system that we use for every project that comes across our desk. Our Proven Process gets your project done the right way, on budget, and on time—every time.

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Our team of ballistic experts is ready to speak with you about securing your retail space. To get started, request a free consultation today.

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