Today, the Crime Survey for England and Wales (CSEW) released its latest figures, revealing a troubling 25% increase in incidents of shop theft. These offenses reached a total of 365,164 in the year ending June 2023.
According to the ACS Crime Report, theft has become a pervasive issue, with over 1.1 million incidents recorded in the past year alone. Shockingly, repeat offenders account for two-thirds of these thefts. Retailers have reported that commonly stolen items include high-value goods such as meat, alcohol, and confectionery. The stolen goods often find their way into the hands of individuals battling drug or alcohol addiction, or they are sold by organized crime groups.
James Lowman, the chief executive of ACS, expressed concern over the escalating theft levels faced by convenience retailers. These repeated incidents not only harm the businesses but also take a toll on the well-being of the retailers and their colleagues. Consequently, it is crucial that every reported theft is thoroughly investigated by the police.
However, Lowman highlights that the figures reported to the police still represent only a fraction of the actual occurrences. The majority of theft incidents go unreported, as retailers feel frustrated by the lack of response and follow-up from local police forces.
