In recent times, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of stories circulating about retailers and their employees standing up against potential robbers. One such example is the case of Niall Stranix, a shopworker at the One Stop store in Leeds, who bravely wrestled with an armed robber (see Big Story, page 4). Another instance involved Khalid Mehmood, the owner of an Edinburgh store, who successfully defended himself against an assailant armed with both a gun and a knife.
It is important to note that the official advice is to avoid engaging in physical confrontations. However, the innate desire to protect one’s business and livelihood is a deeply human response that is often acted upon without much thought.
This instinct is particularly strong when business owners consider the financial consequences of robberies, even with proper insurance coverage that may still require hefty excess charges. Even employees working for multiple company-owned stores can feel a strong sense of ownership and passion for “their” shop, leading them to instinctively fight back against criminals.
While understanding the frustrations within the industry, it is crucial for retailers to resist the urge to get physically involved. Crossing the line into physical altercation can have severe legal repercussions or, worse yet, result in serious injuries. No amount of money is worth risking one’s life for.
The figures revealed in the ACS report shed light on the gravity of the situation. Shop theft incidents over the past year have reached a staggering 1.1 million, accompanied by more than 41,000 instances of violence. However, dissatisfaction with police response times and investigations is pervasive among retailers, with over 80% expressing unhappiness with response times and more than 90% dissatisfied with other aspects of policing.
In summary, while it is understandable to feel frustrated, retailers must exercise caution and refrain from physically intervening. Adhering to legal and personal safety boundaries is of utmost importance. Business owners and employees alike should prioritize their well-being over anything else.
David Shrimpton | Editor
Read the July issue of Independent Retail News here.