ACS calls for tougher measures to tackle theft and abuse against retailers

In evidence submitted to the Public Bill Committee on the PCSC Bill, ACS called for the introduction of tougher penalties for attacks on shopworkers, recognising their role in enforcing the law and supporting their communities. In addition, it requested that the new system of cautions is effective in dealing with repeat shop theft offences.

ACS chief executive, James Lowman, said: “This bill is an important step toward taking much needed action to stop offenders repeatedly targeting convenience stores. Those who attack retailers and their colleagues must be dealt with properly through tougher sentences, and that shop theft is taken seriously by the justice system. These need to be tackled together, as challenging shop thieves is one of the biggest triggers of abuse and violence in stores.”

ACS has worked with more than 100 retailers and trade bodies the Home Office backed ShopKind campaign, which urges customers to be respectful of colleagues in stores.