Police and Retailers Unite to Tackle Escalating Threat 27 October 2025

Retail crime in the United Kingdom has escalated to unprecedented levels, prompting urgent action from police forces and retailers. In the year ending March 2025, over 530,000 shoplifting offences were recorded – a 20% increase and the highest figure in two decades. What was once considered low level theft has now evolved into a serious and increasingly violent threat to public safety and business operations.

In response, police forces have launched dedicated taskforces to tackle retail crime head-on. Their objectives are clear: arrest offenders, recover stolen goods, and gather evidence to support prosecutions. Contrary to public perception, the Police maintain that they do respond to theft reports, and that many individuals committing this crime are known to them.

The most concerning development is the rise in violence, 13% of retailers have reported incidents involving weapons, and nearly one in five have experienced physical assaults on staff. The impact is profound, with staff mental health, loss of earnings, and the rising cost of security measures cited as the most pressing.

From frontline staff who face abuse and violence, to consumers who experience discomfort and rising prices, the impact of shoplifting is widespread and deeply felt. Our management and operations team stand firmly against all forms of shoplifting. It is our clear and unwavering position that such behaviour is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

Find out how ESG Security can help you strengthen your retail security strategy and respond effectively to today’s challenges.