News / Crime
Calls for action to tackle Bristol’s shoplifting ‘epidemic’
Just one Co-op in a Bristol neighbourhood has recorded more than 1000 thefts and other incidents including abuse of staff and anti-social behaviour since January.
Figures from the shop on St Michael’s Hill in High Kingsdown represent a 52 per cent increase compared to 2022.
West of England metro mayor Dan Norris recently visited the store, where Co-op’s Bristol operations manager, Greg Yuill, told him how “brazen” thieves are becoming – bulk-stealing items that are easy to sell on, such as meat and detergents.
is needed now More than ever
The Co-op is warning that the rising levels of shoplifting are unsustainable and could even see some communities become a no-go area for shops, with the retailer extending their trial of anti-theft, empty, ‘dummy display packaging’ for certain products on its shelves to deter would-be criminals.
Shopworkers have claimed that the thefts are often committed by criminal gangs in Bristol, with many repeat offenders returning to steal more as they believe they can get away with it.
Dan Norris holding some meat – photo: WECA
Norris said: “Supermarkets and shopkeepers are the fabric of our city, and our West of England region. But times are tough right now because of this shoplifting epidemic that’s blighting our high streets.
“That puts them as workers especially in the firing line, with violence against shopworkers having risen to a disturbing 850 incidents – every single day.
“The PM might call these thefts unacceptable, but the truth is this wave of shoplifting sweeping the country has been made in today’s broken Britain, and it’s time we addressed it once and for all.
“That means many things, not least coming down hard on those who assault hard-working shopworkers just doing their jobs.”
Yuill added: “Crime in many communities is increasing, and it is known that repeat and prolific offenders and, local organised criminal gangs are driving serious incidents of brazen and violent theft in stores.
“It is an ongoing challenge for all retailers, and often a flashpoint for the unacceptable attacks and abuse towards my colleagues.”
Main photo: Martin Booth
Read next:
- Footage shows shoplifter’s ‘cowardly’ attack on Big Issue seller
- ‘High Kingsdown looks good because we pay quality attention to it’
- ‘The YouTube guide to shoplifting’
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