Leading UK fashion retailers, including Boots UK, Burberry, Clarks, Dr Martens, and M&S, have come together to demand government action on the rising crime rate in the retail industry. In a letter addressed to Home Secretary Suella Braverman, 88 retailers are urging the government to take decisive action against this growing problem. This comes as the 2023 British Retail Consortium (BRC) Crime Survey reveals concerning statistics.
The survey shows that incidents of violence and abuse towards retail employees have almost doubled from pre-pandemic levels, averaging 867 incidents per day in 2021/22. It also estimates that the total scale of retail theft amounts to a staggering £953 million, despite retailers spending over £700 million on crime prevention. This means that the overall cost of retail crime in the UK for the 12-month period ending in April was an astounding £1.76 billion.
Another BRC survey conducted this year highlights a 27% increase in shoplifting rates in 10 major cities across the country. This alarming trend has raised concerns about the role of financially strained consumers and organized criminal gangs in driving this surge in criminal activity.
In response to these worrying figures, the retail sector is calling for the government to introduce a distinct offense of assaulting or abusing a retail worker, as well as stricter penalties for offenders. This proposed legislation would function similarly to hate crime laws, acting as a deterrent and sending a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated. Additionally, the sector is urging police forces to prioritize retail crime and is calling for comprehensive recording and reporting of all incidents, enabling better resource allocation to tackle this issue effectively.
The BRC also raises concerns about the police response to retail crimes, highlighting their own data indicating a lack of action. The survey shows that the police failed to respond to 73% of serious retail crimes reported by one major retailer. Moreover, 44% of surveyed retailers rated the police response to retail crime as “poor” or “very poor.”
Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the BRC, stressed the urgency of immediate action, stating that it is vital to address retail crime before it becomes even worse. She highlighted incidents of organized gangs threatening staff with weapons and emptying stores, as well as violence against colleagues who are simply doing their job. Dickinson emphasized that it is unacceptable for anyone to have to fear for their safety at work.
The joint demand from UK fashion retailers for government intervention on rising crime highlights the severity of the issue and its negative impact on the industry. It reflects the collective concern and determination of retailers to create a safer shopping environment for both employees and customers. Addressing these challenges through legislative measures, improved police response, and resource allocation is crucial to safeguarding the future of the retail sector in the UK.
Useful links:
1. British Retail Consortium
2. Home Secretary’s plans to tackle organized retail crime
