Survey indicates that UK retail crime achieves historic high
(MENAFN) Retail crime in the UK has hit unprecedented levels, with theft and violence against workers escalating sharply, according to a new report by the British Retail Consortium (BRC). The survey revealed that shoplifting incidents reached a record high, totaling over 20 million cases in the year leading up to August 31, amounting to 55,000 thefts per day. This surge in crime has cost retailers £2.2 billion ($2.7 billion), further compounding financial pressures.
Violence and abuse against retail staff have also risen significantly, with over 2,000 daily incidents reported—up from 1,300 the previous year. Weapon-related incidents have doubled, reaching 70 per day. BRC CEO Helen Dickinson called the situation “spiraling out of control,” noting that retail workers are being subjected to extreme violence, including threats with machetes and racial abuse.
The report also suggested that organized crime is playing a significant role, with gangs targeting multiple stores and stealing large quantities of goods. Despite the alarming rise in crime, many retailers expressed dissatisfaction with the police response, with 61% rating it as poor or very poor.
In response, the UK’s new Labour government has promised to strengthen measures against retail crime. Meanwhile, the UK faces broader economic challenges, with falling retail sales, declining consumer confidence, and rising inflation impacting businesses. Retailers are also bracing for the financial impact of a £7 billion ($9 billion) increase in costs introduced by the recent government budget.
MENAFN02022025000045015687ID1109158092
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.