A new national campaign has been launched to help protect Scotland’s retail staff as reports of organised shoplifting, violence and abuse continue to rise.
Crimestoppers Scotland, working with Police Scotland’s Retail Crime Taskforce, is urging the public to share information anonymously in an effort to tackle what is now recognised as a growing threat to workers and businesses across the country.
The charity says the scale and nature of retail crime has changed, with a significant proportion now linked to organised crime groups.
Police Scotland figures show that between April 2024 and October 2025 goods worth an estimated £3.6 million to £5 million were stolen through shoplifting which accounts for almost 40% of all recorded acquisitive crime nationwide.
It is believed that organised crime groups are responsible for around one third of these thefts while retail industry bodies warn that the true cost across Scotland now exceeds £170 million each year.
In response to the rise in offences, Police Scotland received £3 million for 2025 to 2026 to establish the Retail Crime Taskforce.
The dedicated unit works with retailers and partners to prevent crime, divert offenders where possible and improve reporting and enforcement when offences take place.
Since April, more than 2,000 retail offences have been detected through Taskforce led operations.
The human cost sits at the centre of the new Crimestoppers campaign.
Retail staff told the charity that theft and abuse leave them feeling afraid, anxious and in some cases unable to return to work.
Small independent shops reported that daily thefts are pushing them to consider closing.
Two recent incidents shared by Retailers Against Crime show the impact on workers.
In one case, a man threatened staff with a large kitchen knife after being stopped before fleeing and being arrested by police.
In another, a security guard was assaulted after challenging a man who had left without paying and who later returned to attack him.
Angela Parker, National Manager of Crimestoppers Scotland, said:
“Our charity wants to empower communities and retail staff to pass on information anonymously about WHO is behind, organised shop theft.
“Your information could help prevent serious abuse and violent incidents and help Scotland’s shop workers feel safer at work.
“You will never be asked for your name or any personal details, and your information could make a real difference.”
Minister for Victims and Community Safety Siobhian Brown said:
“The Scottish Government recognises the harm caused by retail crime to businesses and those that work there.
“Our budget for 2025/26 has made an additional £3 million available to Police Scotland to help tackle the issue, which has led to the establishment of their Retail Crime Taskforce.
“Alongside our partners we want to prevent such incidents and pursue those responsible.
“I commend Crimestoppers, Police Scotland and all involved for raising awareness of this important issue as we approach the festive season, and their continuing efforts in this area.”
Assistant Chief Constable Tim Mairs said the Taskforce was created because retail offences now account for the overwhelming majority of acquisitive crimes in Scotland and are having a serious impact on businesses and staff.
Detective Chief Inspector Jackie Knight added:
“Our mission statement could not be simpler.
“We must reduce retail crime in all its forms and ensure that we work closely with the retail sector and retail workers to mitigate against the devastating impact of retail crime on those affected.”
