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The amendment, brought in by the government after huge pressure from retail groups, is now on its way to becoming law.
James Lowman, chief executive of the Association of Convenience Stores (ACS), said: “After many years of campaigning we are pleased the government has introduced tougher penalties for attacks on shopworkers.
“This sends a much-needed signal to our colleagues that violence and abuse will not be tolerated.”
Lowman added that what was needed now was more resources for police forces “to focus on neighbourhood policing and delivery of the drug rehabilitation strategy to reduce acquisitive crime that often leads to violence in local shops.”
Others welcoming the latest stage of the new legislation included the Institute of Customer Service.
Its chief executive, Jo Causon, said: “At a time when many customer-facing sectors – hospitality, transport, and high street businesses are already facing severe shortages of skilled staff, it is right that the Government tightens the law to act as a deterrent to protect the safety of those underpinning the economic strength of our service nation.”
Individual retail groups were also pleased. Mark Smith, chief executive of the Southern Co-op, said: “We have been campaigning and lobbying for this for some time – an amendment to the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill to help protect our colleagues in our retail stores.
Our colleagues continue to play an essential role in supporting communities across the country during the pandemic. No one should have to face abuse, threats and attacks at work.”
