Fighting Retail Crime: Shoplifting Statistics UK

Shoplifting is a growing concern for retailers across the UK. In fact, more than 430,000 instances were recorded in 2023. This is the highest figure since records began back in 2003 according to the BBC. This surge in shoplifting statistics UK not only impacts the bottom line for businesses but also contributes to a broader sense of insecurity within communities.

In this article, we’ll dive into the world of UK retail theft. We’ll explore the current levels of shoplifting, what’s being done to help tackle this crime, and what responses there have been to this increase.

Key Statistics 

61% of people asked rated the police response as poor or very poor to retail crime according to the British Retail Consortium’s Crime Survey for 2024.

The report also found that violence and abuse towards shopworkers have increased in both inner cities/ town centres and retail parks.

There has been AI technology rolled out in some shops to help workers tackle shoplifting. This technology is called Facewatch.

Shoplifting In UK: Stats By Region

A table of shoplifting statistics for England and Wales in the year ending March 2024.

Shoplifting Scotland

Shoplifting has increased by 41% over ten years from 2014-15 to 2023-24.

In 2023-24, crimes of dishonesty (including shoplifting) was the largest crime group. It made up 37% of all crime recorded in Scotland during this period.

Within this, shoplifting accounted for 35% of the crimes of honesty, making it the most popular crime within this category.

Preventing and Tackling Shoplifting In UK

A crime prevention initiative was introduced by Lancashire Constabulary in April 2023. Guidance to stores included:

Placing items of the highest value or highly targeted items in areas with high numbers of staff.

Staff using headsets and radios to improve communication, as well as the use of bodycams.

The Southern Co-op is using Facewatch live recognition cameras in 34 of its stores according to The Guardian. The software works by comparing camera feeds with faces from a pre-determined watchlist and identifying people of interest.

A privacy rights group claimed that this facial recognition software is disproportionately targeting people in poorer areas.

Shoplifting Statistics UK: Levels Of Theft

Factors believed to be contributing to these rising shoplifting stats uk include low numbers of police officers and the perception of shoplifting as a minor crime. This is according to Retail Merchandiser magazine.

It has even be reported women and children are being trafficked to the UK by crime groups from Eastern Europe to shoplift for them. Members have been arrested in locations including London and Birmingham.

As of January 2024, there were 55,860 shoplifting offences recorded across London. This is according to The Standard, who also note how this is a 48.3% rise on the previous 12 months.

Results of Retail Theft

Only 14% of shoplifting cases in England and Wales led to a charge or summons in the year leading up to September 2023.

It’s been reported that shoplifting costs London a huge £9.2 million every month. This shows how much theft is hitting retailers. It also means stores are likely to suffer other consequences such as higher insurance costs, more spending on security, and extra pressure on local police.

One of the most significant shoplifting statistics UK is the overall cost this crime is having on the economy. It currently stands at a reported £3.3 billion, according to the British Retail Consortium’s 2024 crime survey.

What’s Being Done About the Rise In Shoplifting UK?

In the first month of Lancashire Constabulary’s initiative, there was a 26% reduction in reports of retail theft.

In July 2024, Labour’s new crime bill for targeting thieves who steal goods worth less than £200 was introduced in the King’s Speech. As the Big Issue reported, the intention of this legislation was to reverse a 2014 policy. This previous act meant those kinds of offences would recveive less serious punishment.

So, What Do The Shoplifting Statistics UK Tell Us?

The statistics on shoplifting in the UK paint a clear picture of a significant and ongoing challenge for retailers. With incidents on the rise and huge financial losses, it’s evident that shoplifting remains a key issue that demands attention.

The data highlights that shoplifting is not just a minor issue but a major concern that impacts businesses, communities, and the economy at large.

Want to dive into some more facts and stats? Check out our other statistic article on car theft in the UK.

How To Stop Shoplifting

If you want to keep your store secure and avoid becoming part of the rising shoplifting statistics UK, Region Security Guarding is here to help. With our retail security services, we can protect your store with highly experienced and skilled security guards.

By choosing Region Security Guarding, you’re investing in a safer shopping environment for your customers and a secure working space for your staff.

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