There has been a huge escalation in shoplifting, fuelled in part by a lack of action from the police.

This trend needs to be reversed immediately.

To do so, we need a new approach that fosters close cooperation between the police and retail businesses.

By working together, they can identify repeat offenders, share intelligence, and implement effective strategies to tackle shoplifting, restoring a sense of security for businesses and shoppers alike.

The attacks and threats to shop assistants, also needs taking more seriously by the police.