In response to the escalating issue of shoplifting and concerns for retail workers’ safety, the government, in collaboration with retailers and law enforcement, unveiled a comprehensive action plan in October.

Aimed at curbing the rise in shoplifting incidents, catching offenders, and ensuring the safety of retail staff, the plan emphasises urgent police response to instances involving violence against shop workers and cases where security guards have detained offenders.

The plan, commissioned by the minister outlines a commitment by the police to prioritise attending scenes of shoplifting based on risk assessment. Special attention will be given to prolific or juvenile offenders. Police forces will intensify targeted patrols in heavily affected areas and follow up on evidence leading to the identification and apprehension of perpetrators.

Retailers are advised on providing optimal evidence for police investigations. This includes promptly submitting CCTV footage of the entire incident and an image of the shoplifter from the digital evidence management system. Police will utilise facial recognition technology on CCTV and digital images, running them through the Police National Database to enhance identification and prosecution efforts, particularly for repeat or potentially dangerous offenders.

In a ground breaking move, a new police team named Pegasus is being established to gather intelligence on organised crime gangs fuelling shoplifting incidents nationwide. Spearheaded by Katy Bourne, Business Crime lead for the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (APCC), Pegasus aims to facilitate improved intelligence sharing between retailers and law enforcement.

The initiative, supported by the Home Office and major retailers like John Lewis, the Co-op, M&S, Primark, and others, has pledged over £840,000 to kickstart the program.

Bira’s CEO, Mr. Goodacre, highlighted the lack of confidence in police actions regarding retail crime affecting independent retailers during a recent interview. Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live with Nicky Campbell, he discussed the historical trend of shoplifting being treated as a low priority and its impact on businesses. Acknowledging the financial challenges for smaller retailers to afford security measures, he emphasised ongoing government efforts to address the issue with the police. However, he also noted the time constraints businesses face, grappling with the repercussions of retail crime on a daily basis.

The government’s multifaceted approach, combining swift police response, enhanced evidence provision by retailers, and the establishment of the Pegasus initiative, reflects a concerted effort to confront the pervasive issue of shoplifting and support independent retailers in safeguarding their businesses.