In the business world, it’s crucial to stay informed about the latest trends and statistics. To shed light on shoplifting crimes, the table below highlights the top 10 categories of recorded offenses from August 2020 to July 2023.
| Rank | Category | # of crimes | % of crimes |
| 1 | supermarket | 233,906 | 54.42% |
| 2 | department_store | 26,586 | 6.19% |
| 3 | convenience | 25,914 | 6.03% |
| 4 | clothes | 24,841 | 5.78% |
| 5 | variety_store | 23,792 | 5.54% |
| 6 | fuel | 18,698 | 4.35% |
| 7 | pharmacy | 11,426 | 2.66% |
| 8 | charity | 6,409 | 1.49% |
| 9 | furniture | 5,816 | 1.35% |
| 10 | shoes | 5,472 | 1.27% |
In a noteworthy revelation, it is observed that supermarkets account for the highest number of shoplifting crimes, followed closely by department and convenience stores. These findings are based on data analyzed by the BBC, indicating a return to pre-pandemic levels of shoplifting offenses amidst rising living costs.
Expressing their concerns, a spokesperson for Waitrose mentioned that they have observed a rise in shoplifting offenses, often attributed to organized gangs and anti-social behavior. Similarly, convenience stores, which encompass off-licenses and newsagents selling food and drink items, have also secured a place among the top three categories.
Looking at specific retailers, Co-op has encountered the most incidents of shoplifting, with 15.3% of reported thefts. In response to this challenge, Co-op has recently implemented the use of undercover security guards to patrol their aisles.
Cameron Jaques, a shop insurance expert at Money.co.uk, emphasizes the inevitability of theft or shoplifting in the retail industry. Encountering such unfortunate events can place significant financial strain on businesses and cause disruptions. Jaques advises retailers to consider the following precautions:
1. Train staff to identify suspicious behavior and encourage them to approach customers with a friendly greeting, which can act as a deterrent to potential shoplifters.
2. Maintain a visible staff presence throughout the store, making both customers and potential thieves aware they are being watched.
3. Strategically install mirrors and security cameras to eliminate blind spots, displaying signs to highlight the presence of surveillance, further discouraging theft.
4. Keep the store well-organized and clutter-free, enhancing staff visibility and making it harder for shoplifters to conceal stolen items.
5. Restrict access to high-value or easily pocketable items by placing them in locked display cases or near the checkout counter, allowing customers to request assistance to view these products.
6. Engage customers in conversation when appropriate, as a friendly and attentive staff can create discomfort for potential shoplifters and deter theft.
7. Foster a relationship with local law enforcement and report thefts promptly, which acts as a deterrent for habitual shoplifters and aids in their apprehension.
8. Utilize signage and announcements to educate customers about the store’s shoplifting policy and its consequences, raising awareness of potential legal and financial ramifications.
By implementing these measures and obtaining the right insurance coverage, retailers can better safeguard against the financial and operational impacts of theft and shoplifting.
