Nisa is urging the government not to forget “the plight of independent retailers” as it attempts to clampdown on the surge in shoplifting.
In an open letter, Managing Director Peter Batt and Head of Retail Victoria Lockie warn that increasing incidence of organised crime is endangering workers in Nisa-partnered stores and affecting their finances.
The letter says: “The impact of retail crime is particularly tough for independent retailers, many of whom are open longer hours and can’t afford to hire professional security. These horrific incidents have a long-lasting impact on businesses and a negative impact for the community overall.”
It adds: “While the national action plan is a welcome step-not least the commitments to prioritise urgent attendance at the scene of shoplifting involving violence against a shop worker – we hope the plight of independent retailers is given as much consideration as the larger organisations.
“If we are going to tackle this issue seriously, we need to all retailers, including independent retailers running their own stores, can feel safe simply doing their job. So, as we support Usdaw’s efforts this week to continue the conversation around respect for shopworkers, big and small, I’d urge independent retailers to ensure they are reporting crime, to give themselves the best chance of police action –and I’d urge the police to ensure independent retailers are not left behind in the race to tackle retail crime.”
