Retailers have pleaded for help as shoplifting from Scots stores rocketed by 18 per cent last year.
The annual Recorded Crime in Scotland report published today found there were over 43,000 recorded incidents of retail thefts in 2023/24 – a spike of 18 per cent, or more than 100 thefts a day.
But shop owners warned this figure was the “tip of the iceberg” with the real number of thefts likely to be far higher as many simply don’t bother to record low-level incidents
Retailers have repeatedly complained of feeling helpless as thieves are unlikely to be prosecuted even if apprehended.
Ewan MacDonald-Russell, deputy head of the Scottish Retail Consortium (SRC), said: “Despite record investment by retailers in crime prevention the seemingly endless rise in shop thefts continues.
“It’s worth noting even this appalling picture is merely the tip of the iceberg. As outlined in our recent Crime Survey retailers often don’t report low-level shoplifting as they don’t believe there is any likelihood of the criminals facing justice.
“Shoplifting isn’t a victimless crime. Thefts are often the main factor behind abuse and threats towards shop workers.
“Our members are clear the lack of deterrence means thieves are becoming bolder and more aggressive. The financial cost is significant and is ultimately paid by customers through higher prices and less convenient shopping.
“The Scottish Government has taken positive steps in recent times to respond to this crime wave through supporting the Protection of Workers Act, and recently committing £3 million this year specifically to combat retail crime.
“Retailers will hope to see this investment start to turn the tide in the coming months, and hopefully be sustained over the years ahead.”
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