As Christmas draws ever closer, retailers are warned they should ramp up security efforts to counter a surge in shoplifting and violence gripping the sector. As the Association of Convenience Stores revealed earlier this year, the top three threats identified by retailers are violence (highlighted by 87%, including reports of retail staff being targeted outside retail premises or on their way home), customer theft (74%) and fraud (46%).
To assist with this, legal firm Weightmans recommend retailers adopt comprehensive legal strategies to safeguard both their businesses and their staff.
The suggested steps retailers should be taking to get the foundations right for reacting to crime in their stores are…
Strengthen incident reporting protocols
Lawyers advise retailers to implement clear, efficient protocols for reporting theft, abuse or violence. By documenting incidents comprehensively, retailers can support legal actions if necessary, strengthen internal awareness, and improve communication with law enforcement.
Employee training on de-escalation and rights
Training employees to de-escalate situations safely is crucial. You should ensure that staff understand their legal rights when confronted with theft or abusive behaviour, equipping them to respond effectively and confidently.
Focus on deterrence strategies
To mitigate risks, Weightmans suggests implementing deterrents, such as positioning high-value items in high visibility areas and utilising signage to remind shoppers of security protocols. Retailers should also consider visibly documenting security policies, helping deter potential offenders while ensuring customers and staff are aware of protocols.
Collaboration with local law enforcement
Establishing strong relationships with local police can lead to faster response times and better support during high-risk periods. Lawyers advise retailers to engage with police ahead of peak seasons, ensuring they understand crime patterns in their area and fostering a collaborative approach to prevention.
Review and update security policies
With crime trends shifting, retailers should revisit security policies regularly. Consider an annual or bi-annual review of security measures to ensure you remain effective and compliant with evolving regulations. This includes assessing the placement and usage of CCTV, body-worn cameras and any other technologies that support safety.
Offer legal support for staff
Employees are often on the front lines and can face verbal or physical abuse. Retailers should consider providing access to legal resources for any employees affected by abuse or violence, giving them support in navigating any repercussions and reinforcing their rights in cases of assault.
Ben Mackenzie, partner at Weightmans, concluded: “Retail crime has become a serious and escalating challenge, particularly during the high-traffic holiday season. To protect both staff and assets, retailers need clear protocols and strong support from law enforcement.
“Beyond investing in physical security measures, it’s crucial that retailers foster relationships with local authorities, document incidents thoroughly, and provide employees with the training and resources to handle confrontations safely.”
No comments yet