The Scottish Retail Consortium (SRC) has called for urgent action after the latest Recorded Crime in Scotland statistics revealed a 17% increase in shop thefts over the past year, totalling more than 47,000 incidents.
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David Lonsdale, Director of the SRC, described the rise as "appalling," noting that "despite record spending by retailers on crime prevention the rate of thefts continues to rise."
Lonsdale emphasised that theft in stores is far from a victimless crime. "Thieving from stores isn't a victimless crime, indeed it's a key factor behind rising levels of abuse and threats towards shop workers and we know from member feedback that thieves are becoming bolder and more aggressive," he said. He highlighted the financial implications, warning that "the financial cost pushes up prices for shoppers and undermines the health and vitality of our high streets."
In response to the surge, the SRC acknowledged measures taken by Scottish Ministers and Police Scotland, including the establishment of the Retail Crime Taskforce, supported by a dedicated one-year funding package of £3 million. Lonsdale said: "This greater prioritisation, funding, and focus on persistent offenders and organised criminal gangs which target retailers has been received well by the industry and early results are encouraging. This should make for a more difficult environment for shop thieves."
However, the SRC urged that the taskforce and funding be maintained and strengthened to sustain long-term impact. Lonsdale added: "The funding and taskforce should be sustained and enhanced if we are to truly turn the tide on thieving and crime against retailers."
The rise in retail crime comes amid broader concerns over high street resilience and consumer costs. Retailers across Scotland have been investing heavily in prevention measures, including security systems and staff training, but the SRC warns that tackling organised and repeat offenders will be essential to protecting both employees and shoppers.
With shop thefts increasing sharply, the SRC has called for continued collaboration between law enforcement and retailers, alongside policy support to safeguard Scotland's retail sector and preserve vibrant high streets.
More information:
British Retail Consortium (BRC)
[email protected]
www.brc.org.uk
