Co-op Sounds Alarm as Retail Crime Soars 43%
Retail Crime Spirals Out of Control
Co-op, a top UK convenience chain, has slammed the rise in retail crime, reporting nearly 300,000 incidents this year—a massive 43% jump from last year. Shoplifting, abuse, violence, and anti-social behaviour are hitting staff and shoppers hard.
Police Missing in Action at Crime Scenes
Security teams at Co-op detained 3,000 offenders in 2023, but outrageously, police failed to show up in 76% of these cases. This police no-show leaves staff at risk and communities vulnerable to ongoing crime.
New Government Plan: Good But Not Enough
The Government’s Retail Crime Action Plan, unveiled in October, promises better police attendance and tougher follow-up on evidence. Matt Hood, Co-op’s MD, welcomed the move but stressed that urgent action is needed to back up frontline workers and send a clear message that crime won’t be tolerated.
Co-op’s Multi-Million Pound Fightback
- £200 million invested in store safety
- Advanced CCTV and body-worn cameras deployed
- Dummy packaging used to deter thieves
- Partnership with 25% of UK police forces
Despite these efforts, Co-op warns that more police forces and retailers must join the fight to tackle retail crime effectively.
MPs and Police Chiefs Step Inside Co-op Stores
This week, over 50 MPs and Police and Crime Commissioners are touring Co-op stores nationwide to witness the toll of retail crime on workers first-hand. Their visit coincides with USDAW’s Respect for Shop Workers week—a campaign to shine a spotlight on the abuse and dangers faced by retail staff every day.
Calling for Tougher Laws to Protect Shop Workers
Co-op and USDAW are demanding a standalone offence for assaulting or abusing retail staff. They warn that weak government policies and police underfunding are making theft seem almost legal, leaving shop workers exposed to escalating risks.
