Facing the scourge of retail crime

Retail crime and crimes against businesses have been an issue for the sector for decades.

While there was undoubtedly huge appreciation and gratitude for the concerted efforts of retailers and their staff during the covid pandemic, this did not stop a small minority taking advantage, with abuse, violence and anti-social behaviour remaining a scourge for the industry.

Increasingly retailers are taking matters into their own hands, installing extensive security features into their stores – at their own expense, in a bid to provide peace of mind and safety for themselves, their staff and their property.

While security measures and technology are improving over time, retailers must remain on their guard about potential criminals entering their stores. Meanwhile, there is concern amongst retailers that police are not taking their concerns seriously enough.

The May issue of Neighbourhood Retailer looks at this in an in-depth retail crime feature, speaking to retailers who have voiced their lived experiences of crime and measures they have taken to address it.

There is also an exclusive interview with the PSNI Business Crime Team, who outline their commitment to supporting retailers and the efforts they are making in building key support networks with the business community.

READ OUR RETAIL CRIME FOCUS IN THE MAY ISSUE OF NEIGHBOURHOOD RETAILER HERE