‘If you see something, say something’: Campaign launch highlights importance of reporting retail crimes
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The rise in retail theft across Australia has reached alarming levels, with small-business owners and their staff bearing the brunt of this surge in criminal activity.
As the figures paint a grim picture of the current state of retail security, it's become more crucial than ever to take a stand against this wave of crime.
That's why the latest news about the surge in retail theft and staff abuse in small businesses is particularly troubling.
The recent campaign launched by Crime Stoppers New South Wales and the Australian Retailers Association is a clarion call to action for everyone—customers and business owners alike—to report retail crime to curb the rising tide of shoplifting and the mistreatment of retail workers.
The statistics are alarming: since October 2021, retail theft in NSW has skyrocketed by 47.5 per cent year-on-year up to June 2023.
Alcohol thefts are particularly prevalent, accounting for 37 per cent of stolen items, while clothing accounts for 22 per cent of losses.
The average value of stolen items is around $400, a significant hit to any business, especially smaller ones.
What's more concerning is that a small number of individuals, referred to as the '10 per cent club', are responsible for a majority of these thefts.
These individuals are not only repeat offenders but are also four times more likely to become aggressive when confronted.
The campaign's message is clear: 'If you see something, say something'.
It's a simple yet powerful reminder that we all play a role in keeping our communities safe.
Reporting suspicious behaviour or theft isn't just about protecting property; it's about safeguarding the well-being of our frontline workers and fellow shoppers.
Crime Stoppers NSW CEO Peter Price emphasised the broader impact of these crimes, stating,
'These crimes don’t only affect Australian retailers but the frontline workers and ultimately the community, that means families. We all have them or are part of one, so be respectful.'
‘Australian retailers lose billions of dollars each year in stock loss, absenteeism, and workers’ compensation claims as a result of these crimes.’
‘Retail workers face threats and abuse, both verbal and physical, when confronting shoplifters, putting their own safety and that of nearby shoppers at risk.
Australian Retailers Association CEO Paul Zahra sheds light on the various forms of retail crime, from shoplifting to organised crime gangs, and the unacceptable abuse faced by workers.
‘This issue is not just about major retail chain stores,’ Zahra said.
‘Small family businesses are also on the receiving end of abuse. These small businesses rely on every sale to keep their lights on and to continue employing staff, especially in regional areas.’
‘Whether it’s shoplifting, crime gang theft, threats or abuse, our frontline workers and the community are all affected and all at risk. All retail workers have a right to feel safe at work.’
‘It’s not the norm to be yelled at—or spat at—for doing your job. It’s certainly not the norm to be punched or groped or assaulted or intimidated with a weapon while at work.’
Supermarkets have taken steps to combat safety measures for their employees.
Last month, Woolworths began outfitting its staff with body cameras as they cited an uptick in aggressive incidents, including physical assaults and threats involving weapons.
If you have witnessed or experienced a retail crime in your area, contact Crime Stoppers, or if you or someone else is in danger, call triple-0.
What do you think of this campaign, members? Have you witnessed retail crime in your area? Let us know in the comments below.
As the figures paint a grim picture of the current state of retail security, it's become more crucial than ever to take a stand against this wave of crime.
That's why the latest news about the surge in retail theft and staff abuse in small businesses is particularly troubling.
The recent campaign launched by Crime Stoppers New South Wales and the Australian Retailers Association is a clarion call to action for everyone—customers and business owners alike—to report retail crime to curb the rising tide of shoplifting and the mistreatment of retail workers.
The statistics are alarming: since October 2021, retail theft in NSW has skyrocketed by 47.5 per cent year-on-year up to June 2023.
Crime Stoppers NSW and the Australian Retailers Association launched a campaign to combat retail crimes. Credit: Say Something Australia
Alcohol thefts are particularly prevalent, accounting for 37 per cent of stolen items, while clothing accounts for 22 per cent of losses.
The average value of stolen items is around $400, a significant hit to any business, especially smaller ones.
What's more concerning is that a small number of individuals, referred to as the '10 per cent club', are responsible for a majority of these thefts.
These individuals are not only repeat offenders but are also four times more likely to become aggressive when confronted.
The campaign's message is clear: 'If you see something, say something'.
It's a simple yet powerful reminder that we all play a role in keeping our communities safe.
Reporting suspicious behaviour or theft isn't just about protecting property; it's about safeguarding the well-being of our frontline workers and fellow shoppers.
Crime Stoppers NSW CEO Peter Price emphasised the broader impact of these crimes, stating,
'These crimes don’t only affect Australian retailers but the frontline workers and ultimately the community, that means families. We all have them or are part of one, so be respectful.'
‘Australian retailers lose billions of dollars each year in stock loss, absenteeism, and workers’ compensation claims as a result of these crimes.’
‘Retail workers face threats and abuse, both verbal and physical, when confronting shoplifters, putting their own safety and that of nearby shoppers at risk.
Australian Retailers Association CEO Paul Zahra sheds light on the various forms of retail crime, from shoplifting to organised crime gangs, and the unacceptable abuse faced by workers.
‘This issue is not just about major retail chain stores,’ Zahra said.
‘Small family businesses are also on the receiving end of abuse. These small businesses rely on every sale to keep their lights on and to continue employing staff, especially in regional areas.’
‘Whether it’s shoplifting, crime gang theft, threats or abuse, our frontline workers and the community are all affected and all at risk. All retail workers have a right to feel safe at work.’
‘It’s not the norm to be yelled at—or spat at—for doing your job. It’s certainly not the norm to be punched or groped or assaulted or intimidated with a weapon while at work.’
Supermarkets have taken steps to combat safety measures for their employees.
Last month, Woolworths began outfitting its staff with body cameras as they cited an uptick in aggressive incidents, including physical assaults and threats involving weapons.
If you have witnessed or experienced a retail crime in your area, contact Crime Stoppers, or if you or someone else is in danger, call triple-0.
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