"Despite retailers investing £1.8 billion in security measures such as CCTV, additional security personnel, and body-worn cameras, incidents continue to rise. Organised crime is playing an increasing role, with gangs systematically targeting stores, stealing high-value goods, and rotating their activities across multiple locations to evade detection.

Rising violence and lack of police support

The retail sector is also witnessing a sharp increase in violence and abuse. Reports indicate a 50% surge, with more than 2,000 incidents occurring daily. Shop workers face growing threats, including verbal abuse, racial harassment, and physical attacks, sometimes involving weapons.

Retailers’ confidence in law enforcement remains low, with 61% rating police response as poor or very poor, and only 3% describing it as excellent. The lack of timely intervention emboldens criminals, making stores even more vulnerable.

The wider impact on retail and communities

Retail crime does not just affect businesses – it has severe economic and social consequences. Over the past five years, 225,000 retail jobs have been lost, with store closures accelerating due to ongoing theft and violence.

The financial strain limits investment in staff and infrastructure, pushing up prices for consumers and affecting the overall shopping experience. Communities are also impacted, as rising crime leads to the closure of local stores, reducing access to essential goods and services.

Government action and industry response

Recognising the issue, the government has pledged stronger action. Key measures include removing the £200 threshold for low-level theft, ensuring that all cases of shoplifting are taken seriously, and introducing a specific offence for assaulting retail workers."

Collaboration is key

According to both Amthal and Mitie, retailers welcome these steps but they both stress that legislation alone is not enough and that it is just the starting point.  This spiralling situation is of obvious concern to everyone and the two companies clearly agree that collaboration between businesses, law enforcement, and security providers is essential to reversing this trend.