Shoplifting crisis is a battle for survival of independent retailers

RETAILERS warn the shoplifting crisis gripping high streets has become a “life and death” moment for independent shops, as business leaders accused police chiefs of failing to get a grip on soaring theft.

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Andrew Goodacre, chief executive of the British Independent Retailers Association, said the cost of crime is now existential for smaller shops, warning: “It’s a massive burden for the big retailers. For smaller high street shops, it’s the difference between life and death.”

His comments come as shopkeepers across the country struggle to absorb the mounting financial toll of theft, rising security costs and increasing violence against staff.

Retailers have been hit by huge losses, with billions of pounds worth of stock disappearing from stores each year, while forced to pour vast sums into CCTV, security guards and anti-theft measures to stay afloat.

Sector bosses say many now fear for the safety of their staff if they intervene to confront thieves. Others told the Daily Express that it is often easier to let them walk out of stores rather than step in to confront them, due to the risks.

Insurers cover a range of costs associated with shoplifting.

These include liability for staff or customer injuries, loss of stock and cash and resulting business interruption following crime.

Unhelpful

However, shop owners are increasingly being urged to review their policies to ensure they are adequately protected.