Responding to the publication of the latest Recorded Crime in
Scotland statistics which show a 25% rise in shop theft over
the past year, David Lonsdale, Director of the Scottish Retail
Consortium, said:
“It's appalling that thefts from shops has soared by a quarter.
Despite record spending by retailers on crime prevention the rate
of thefts continues to rise. In fact, these figures won't even
capture the full picture as many thefts aren't reported by
retailers who are sceptical that action will be taken.
“Shoplifting isn't a victimless crime, indeed it's the main
factor behind abuse and threats towards shop workers and we know
from member feedback that thieves are becoming bolder and more
aggressive. The financial costs too are enormous and are
ultimately borne by shoppers themselves; in some cases through
higher prices on shop shelves.
“With a swathe of new mandated rules in the pipeline or under
consideration, and which may lead to more flashpoints in store,
the SRC wants tackling crime against retailers to be made a
greater priority by the authorities, including in the Scottish
Government's Strategic Police Priorities, as well as greater
funding for the police to combat prolific offenders and organised
criminal gangs targeting stores.”
-ENDS-
Note: Crime statistics: Recorded Crime in Scotland: year
ending September 2024 - gov.scot
