With shoplifting and other retail crimes rising, and continually in the headlines, the British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) is supporting the upcoming Safer Business Action Week, co-ordinated by the National Business Crime Centre. Many Bira members, which include gift shops, have reported declining foot traffic and lost sales due to safety fears.
The week, which takes place from 16-22 October, will encourages police forces, businesses, and the public to work together on solutions. Activities will include high visibility patrols, crime prevention training, information sharing and arrests of prolific offenders. The ShopKind campaign against retail violence will also be a focus.
“We strongly back this collaborative effort to tackle business crime through prevention, intelligence sharing, targeted enforcement and community engagement,” states Bira’s ceo Andrew Goodacre. “Independent retailers have been hit hard by theft, fraud and violence, and urgent action is needed to protect employees and sustain vibrant high streets.”
During the week, Bira is urging independent retailers to connect with local police to share intelligence, request crime prevention guidance, and help bring habitual offenders to justice. The public are also being encouraged to show support through the ShopKind initiative.
“Collaboration between police, businesses and the public is essential to turn the tide,” comments Andrew. “By working together, we can ensure shopping locally is safe and welcoming for all. Rising crime threatens the viability of independent shops and damages perceptions of local high streets. We hope this national week of action can raise awareness while delivering tangible improvements in safety and security.”
A recent British Retail Consortium (BRC) survey found a 27% increase in retail crime incidents over the past 12 months. Total losses from customer theft alone now exceed £2.8bn annually.
Visit www.nbcc.police.uk/SaferBusinessActionWeek.
Top: Next month’s Safer Business Action Week will be aiming to reduce retail crime.
