The British Retail Consortium’s (BRC) latest crime survey reveals 55,000 daily thefts across UK stores, prompting Assist Security Group (ASG) to call for strengthened protective measures.
Daily violent incidents have increased by 50% over the previous year, with more than 70 cases involving weapons. The findings show verbal and physical attacks now exceed 2,000 incidents daily, representing a threefold increase since 2020.
Troy Hewitt, CEO of ASG, says: “These figures represent a fundamental challenge to retail operations. Criminal groups now target stores systematically, requiring retailers to transform their approach to protection.”
The BRC data reveals theft has reached 20 million annual incidents, marking a 25% increase and costing retailers £2.2 billion. In response, retailers have raised their protection spending to £1.8 billion from £1.2 billion last year.
“Store staff face unprecedented challenges,” Hewitt adds. “The retail environment demands a complete rethinking of protective strategies, from staff training to physical measures.”
ASG brings three decades of commercial experience to the retail sector. The company develops protection programmes incorporating risk assessment, staff training, and technological solutions while maintaining welcoming environments for customers.
Current trends show organised groups increasingly targeting stores across police boundaries. The 2014 law change in England and Wales, which typically spares jail time for thefts below £200, has contributed to this surge.
“Our work with retailers shows the importance of prevention,” says Hewitt. “Effective protection requires careful analysis of vulnerabilities, professional staff training, and deployment of appropriate technology. Each store presents unique challenges requiring tailored solutions.”
The BRC report highlights how retailers often face inadequate police response, even when security staff detain suspects. This challenge compounds the impact of reduced store staffing and increased use of self-service checkouts.
ASG’s approach emphasises thorough risk assessment, robust protection strategies, and comprehensive staff training. The company works with retailers to create secure environments that protect staff and assets while maintaining operational efficiency.
“The retail sector must adapt to this new reality,” Hewitt concludes. “Our experience shows that combining professional staff, appropriate technology, and comprehensive training creates resilient retail environments.
About Assist Security Group
With over 30 years of experience, ASG provides comprehensive security solutions across multiple sectors including luxury hotels and retailers, corporate headquarters, entertainment venues, and hospitals. The company specialises in physical guarding, security systems, executive protection, and professional security training.
For more information contact:
Assist Security Group
https://assistsecurity.co.uk – Tel: +44 208 543 6670