10 November 2025
Shop workers across Britain are facing an escalating crisis of violence and abuse, with violent attacks doubling since 2022, prompting Bira to back a nationwide campaign launching today.
Respect for Shop Workers Week, which runs from 10-16 November, forms part of Usdaw's long-running Freedom From Fear Campaign and aims to raise awareness of the true scale of attacks on retail staff whilst encouraging the public to show respect for shop workers.
Usdaw's survey data shows that violent attacks against shop workers have doubled since 2022, with many incidents continuing to go unreported.
Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said: "We support this campaign as it is offering support to retail workers as well as asking the general public to think about their behaviours in shops. For too long retail workers have been easy targets for angry customers or thieves stealing from the shops.
"Alongside this campaign we would also like to see the relevant authorities renew their focus on retail crime and deliver meaningful support to shop workers. This support could be in the form of more police on the streets and greater use of community behaviour orders for serial offenders."
Bira's own research echoes these concerns. The association's October survey found that physical abuse incidents against shop workers have nearly doubled to 7.04% in the past six months, whilst a shocking 91% of physical abuse incidents now go unreported due to lack of police response. Some 83% of independent retailers say theft has worsened over the past year, and 68.5% believe they are being targeted by repeat offenders.
The findings reveal a retail crime crisis that is intensifying across all retail sectors, with shop workers bearing the brunt of violence and abuse whilst criminals operate almost unchallenged.
The week encourages retailers and the public to take action by reporting every incident of violence or abuse to store management and police, raising awareness of the true scale of retail crime, and promoting respectful behaviour towards shop workers.
Bira champions the cause of independent traders and shopkeepers across Britain and campaigns on issues affecting the high street, including retail crime, business rates and legislation.
Access an exclusive discount on this innovative stock security solution
Bira members receive 10% off their order by simply requesting a quote from Chirp Protect.
Click the link below to get started.
Listen to our podcast special on retail crime...
Step inside the mind of shop thieves as leading criminologist Professor Emmeline Taylor and Bira CEO Andrew Goodacre reveal the psychology driving retail crime.
Image credit: KOTO/stock.adobe.com
Latest News
Read more-
Independent retailers urge Chancellor - Boost business confidence or risk killing growth before it starts
Britain's independent retailers are calling on Chancellor Rachel Reeves to use the autumn budget to restore business confidence.
-
Bira launches 2025 Love Your High Street Week to celebrate and support independent retailers
Bira has launched its third Love Your High Street Week campaign, urging shoppers across the UK to support their local independent businesses.
-
Indie retailer that 'evolved from sportswear to fashion' celebrating 70 years on the high street
Independent fashion retailer Hurleys, a long-standing Bira member, is marking an impressive 70 years on the high street this month.
-
Bira calls for action on VAT fraud and duty-free loophole
Bira has welcomed Amazon's call for urgent reform to tackle widespread VAT fraud by overseas sellers and is urging the Government to go further.