Shoplifting in the West Midlands surged by 32% in a year, alarming retailers and prompting calls for better protection for workers
West Midlands: Police reported a big jump in shoplifting cases. The rise happened over the last year, ending in September 2024. This has raised serious concerns among local retailers.
New statistics show a 32% increase in shoplifting in West Midlands areas. Warwickshire followed closely with a 31% rise, while Staffordshire saw a 24% increase. West Mercia’s shoplifting rates stayed the same.
The retail union Usdaw expressed deep concern over these crime rates. They noted that shoplifting incidents have doubled since the pandemic across England and Wales.
In a survey of 4,000 retail workers, Usdaw found that 17% faced violent attacks last year. This was a significant jump from 8% in 2022. Most of these incidents were linked to theft or armed robbery.
Retail violence has surged, with over 2,000 incidents reported daily in 2024. Usdaw’s general secretary, Paddy Lillis, highlighted the serious impact of retail crime on store safety and community well-being.
Lillis welcomed the upcoming Crime and Policing Bill. He hopes it will protect retail workers and address the £200 threshold for prosecuting shoplifters, which has encouraged crime.
He also called for more police patrols in shopping areas and Respect Orders for offenders. These measures aim to ensure retail workers receive the respect and safety they deserve.
