Retailers body applauds Labour's commitment to tackling shoplifting

Retailers Association British Independent Retailers Association (BIRA) has applauded the new Labour government's commitment to tackling shoplifting and antisocial behaviour.

The British Independent Retailers Association, which works with over 6,000 independent businesses of all sizes across the UK welcomed the government's outline for helping store owners in the recent King's Speech. The speech, delivered by King Charles III at the State Opening of Parliament, introduced several measures aimed at protecting retailers and their staff.

These include a clampdown on shoplifting, reversing the previous £200 theft threshold; the creation of a new offence for assaulting shop workers; and the introduction of 'Respect Orders' to address antisocial behaviour.

Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, expressed his support for these initiatives and said, "We are pleased to see the government taking decisive action on issues that have become a blight on our high streets. For too long, our members have faced increased incidents of theft, greater volumes of stolen products, and rising abuse towards business owners and staff."

Goodacre highlighted two key priorities that Bira has long advocated for.

He said, "Firstly, we've consistently called for increased police presence on high streets and in neighbourhoods, recognising that physical presence is the greatest deterrent to theft, violence, and antisocial behaviours.

"Secondly, we've pushed for greater legal protection for business owners and their employees. We are particularly encouraged by the government's plan to make abuse of retail staff a standalone offence."

Goodacre added, "This is a crucial step in safeguarding our hardworking retailers and their teams."

Bira looks forward to working closely with the new government to ensure these measures are effectively implemented and enforced, providing much-needed support to independent retailers across the UK.