Police Professional | Police and government ‘turn a blind eye to shoplifting’, independent traders say

Police and government ‘turn a blind eye to shoplifting’, independent traders say

Independent retailers are calling for tougher policing, more bobbys on the beat and tougher penalties as shoplifting levels hit an all-time high, a new survey shows.

Image: BRC

Ninety-one percent of respondents to a survey by the Federation of Independent Traders (Fed) called for more police patrols on the streets, while a similar number – 90% – said thieves should receive tougher punishments.

Seven in ten respondents (72%) said their stores had experienced theft, break-ins and property damage, while they and their staff had been physically or verbally threatened.

Almost half (47 per cent) said they and their employees had been threatened or experienced abuse and violence when they asked for proof of age before selling an age-restricted product.

Forty-four percent reported that they and their staff faced abuse or violence because they refused to make a proxy sale – selling an age-restricted product to a customer who was buying for a minor.

The results of the Fed survey came as new figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealed that shoplifting was at a record high, with almost half a million offenses recorded last year.

According to the ONS, 469,788 crimes were recorded by police forces in the year to June 2024 – a 29% increase on the previous 12 months.

The ONS added that this figure was the highest since records began in March 2003.

Commenting on the survey, the Federation’s national president, Mo Razzaq, said: “Inadequate police responses and a slap on the wrist to criminals means shoplifting is on the rise and criminals are becoming more aggressive and deterred.”

“From the responses we have received, it is clear that real action is needed from the police, courts and government to stem the overwhelming tide of crime against retailers and their staff. Everyone deserves to feel safe at work and to have their business protected from criminals.

“Fed members also send a clear message that one of the catalysts for verbal and physical abuse in stores is requiring proof of age before selling an age-restricted product.

“If the government goes ahead with its plans to phase out smoking and vaping through a progressive ban to phase out the sale of tobacco products across the country, independent traders will be subject to even greater levels of violence, abuse and theft .”

Calling for action from the government and not just words, Mr Razzaq added: “Without an effective deterrent, criminals and opportunistic members of the public will continue to commit crimes.”

According to Ministry of Justice statistics, in the year to March 2024, 431 fines were issued for retail theft under £100, while Home Office statistics for the same period show that 2,252 cautions for theft were accepted .