Shoplifting has become a significant issue in the seaside town of Tenby in southwest Wales, leading to traders facing substantial financial losses. While Tenby is well-known for its picturesque seaside setting that attracts numerous visitors annually, the local businesses have been struggling due to rampant shoplifting. Fiona Malone, co-owner of Tenby Stores and Post Office, has highlighted the growing problem of brazen theft in the town, with a staggering average annual loss of £26,000 just from shoplifting since the onset of the Covid pandemic.
The situation has escalated to a point where individuals of various age groups, including children as young as 12 and elderly women, have been caught stealing from stores without any regard for the impact on local businesses. Fiona recalls a time when small-scale thefts were limited to incidents like bicycles being taken and promptly found in the vicinity. However, the rising trend of shoplifting has now become a major concern for Tenby’s retailers, affecting their livelihoods significantly. The prevalence of theft in Tenby echoes the broader UK trend, as reported by the Office for National Statistics, which recorded a 23% increase in reported shoplifting offences in Wales and England.
The surge in retail crime has posed a severe challenge for independent stores like those in Tenby, where sophisticated security measures are often lacking. To address the escalating issue of shoplifting, Tenby traders have collaborated to establish a community initiative called Shop Watch. This platform allows traders to share information about perpetrators, offer advice, and implement preventive measures collectively. Implementing strategies such as placing high-value items behind counters and leveraging technology like AI-operated cameras has helped some businesses deter theft and reduce losses.
The impact of shoplifting extends beyond financial losses, as highlighted by Fiona, who emphasises the emotional toll on staff members who have faced assaults and threats from perpetrators. The Welsh Retail Consortium has expressed grave concerns over the escalating retail crime, leading to significant financial burdens on retailers and compromising the safety of employees. The consortium’s head, Sara Jones, emphasised the urgent need for a comprehensive response to tackle retail crime effectively and protect workers and customers from such incidents.
In response to the rising challenges posed by shoplifting, Tenby traders are exploring innovative solutions and leveraging technology to enhance security measures. By sharing information, implementing preventive strategies, and investing in advanced surveillance technology, the local businesses aim to create a safer environment for both customers and staff. However, the persistent nature of retail crime calls for sustained efforts from authorities, policymakers, and the community to address the root causes and ensure the safety and prosperity of businesses in Tenby and beyond.
The detrimental impact of shoplifting goes beyond financial losses, affecting the mental well-being of staff and the overall security of businesses in Tenby. The collaborative efforts of traders to combat shoplifting through community initiatives and technological advancements underscore the resilience and determination of local businesses to safeguard their livelihoods. As the battle against retail crime continues, it is imperative for stakeholders at all levels to work together towards creating a supportive and secure environment for businesses to thrive in Tenby and other communities facing similar challenges.