Retail crime in the UK is surging, presenting severe challenges for businesses and frontline workers alike. Here’s a closer look at the troubling statistics and recent incidents:
- Violence and Abuse: As retail environments become increasingly volatile, incidents of violence and abuse have nearly doubled since the pandemic began, with more than 850 incidents reported daily, according to the British Retail Consortium.
- Financial Toll: Similarly, the financial impact of retail crime has escalated dramatically, with costs rising sharply to £1.76 billion in 2021/22.
Recent Incidents Highlight Urgent Concerns
Two attacks at Asda stores specifically highlight the severe risks retail employees face:
- Screwdriver Attack in Kettering: Last March, a security guard at Asda in Kettering suffered an attack with a screwdriver. Fortunately, his stab vest prevented serious injuries, effectively demonstrating the vest’s capability to handle such assaults and underscoring the importance of spike protection.
- Knife Attack in Newcastle: Moreover, another incident involved a security guard at Asda in Newcastle who was attacked with a knife by a shoplifter. Thanks to quick action by a bystander and the guard’s stab vest, the situation was resolved without fatal injuries.
The Critical Role of Certified Body Armour
In response to the rise in retail crime, PPSS Group offers a robust security solution with our carbon fibre body armour:
- Certified Spike Protection: Our body armour undergoes rigorous testing to protect against diverse threats, including hypodermic needles, knives, and spikes – common risks in retail environments.
- Blunt Force Trauma Protection: Furthermore, we also safeguard against common physical assaults such as punches and kicks.
- Comfort and Wearability: Designed for daily wear, our vests ensure comfort across all seasons, allowing staff to perform their duties effectively and without discomfort. Our lightweight material also reduces sweating compared to alternatives like Kevlar.
Comprehensive Protection Is Essential
As retail crime escalates, merely deterring theft is insufficient. Retail environments must also prioritise the safety of staff and customers:
- Trusted by Major Retailers: Our stab vests are trusted by prominent venues across the UK, including ExCel London, Trafford Centre and more…
- Commitment to Innovation and Safety: Continuously, we update our certifications and test our body armour, each backed by a 10-year guarantee.
Conclusion
The growing challenge of retail crime necessitates a comprehensive approach. By investing in certified, reliable body armour, retailers not only protect their staff but also demonstrate a strong commitment to safety. As challenges in retail continue to evolve, equipping frontline workers with the best defence is crucial for maintaining safe working environments.
If you’ve enjoyed this article, you may be interested in learning more about the work we do at PPSS Group. Robert Kaiser, our company’s Founder & CEO, is a globally respected expert in combating and mitigating violence, as well as risk management. He is also a gender-based violence specialist and the author of NEVER A VICTIM – The Definitive Guide to Women’s Safety, written after three decades of researching violence against women. His recent articles include Women’s Personal Safety: Awareness, Prevention, and Protection — a comprehensive guide filled with practical strategies, expert insights, and trauma-informed advice.