UK Retail Crime Surges 20% Amid Gang Activity

Shoplifting incidents across the UK have surged significantly, with reports indicating a 20% increase in the South East alone, and similar trends observed in Scotland and Greater Manchester. The British Retail Consortium highlights that over 20 million theft incidents occurred last year, costing retailers £2.2 billion, primarily driven by organized criminal gangs employing increasingly violent tactics. In Greater Manchester, police recorded 21,890 shoplifting cases in 2024, marking a 20.1% rise from the prior year, often linked to gangs stealing high-value items for resale. Retail workers are facing unprecedented levels of violence and abuse, with some surveys indicating that incidents of retail violence have increased by over 50%. Retail trade unions are advocating for stronger legislative measures to tackle this crime wave, expressing concerns over the safety of staff and the viability of retail businesses. Amid growing dissatisfaction with police responses, the Labour government is promising stronger measures to combat retail crime.