New sentencing and fines around sales of knives: what retailers need to be aware of!

The sale of knives is a serious issue that requires utmost attention from retailers. In the wrong hands, knives can become a deadly weapon, causing harm and devastation. It is essential that retailers adhere to strict guidelines and regulations when selling knives to customers.

It is important to note that the regulations around the sale of knives are constantly evolving. As of 1st April 2023, new sentencing and fines have been introduced for the sale of knives to people under the age of 18. Retailers found guilty of selling knives to underage customers could face fines of up to £5,000 and a possible prison sentence of up to six months. The sale of retail knives also includes kitchen utensils and butter knives.

These new regulations highlight the severity of the issue and the importance of responsible knife sales. Retailers must ensure that they are aware of the legal requirements and take all necessary steps to prevent the sale of knives to underage customers.

To assist retailers in this regard, the National Business Crime Centre (NBCC) has developed a Knife Retailers Toolkit. This toolkit provides retailers with a comprehensive guide on how to sell knives responsibly, how to handle and store knives, and how to train staff on knife sales.

The toolkit emphasizes the importance of proper training for staff. Retailers are encouraged to provide their employees with training on knife sales and handling, ensuring that they are aware of the legal requirements for selling knives and can identify customers who may pose a risk.

In addition to training, retailers must also take steps to ensure that knives are stored and displayed correctly. Knives should be stored securely and out of reach of customers, and retailers should ensure that knives are only displayed in areas that are easily visible to staff.

The toolkit also provides guidance on how to deal with potentially suspicious customers. Retailers are encouraged to be vigilant and to ask customers for identification to ensure that they are over 18 years old. They should also be aware of customers who may be purchasing knives for reasons other than legitimate use, such as self-defense or as a weapon.

Furthermore, the toolkit highlights the importance of responsible marketing and promotion of knives. Retailers must not glamorize the use of knives, and any promotional material must be appropriate and in line with legal requirements.

The Knife Retailers Toolkit provided by the NBCC is an essential resource for retailers who want to ensure that they are selling knives safely and responsibly. By following the guidelines set out in the toolkit, retailers can protect themselves from legal action and, more importantly, help to reduce the risk of knife-related incidents.

The sale of knives is a serious issue that requires retailers to act responsibly. The Knife Retailers Toolkit provided by the NBCC is an essential resource for retailers who want to ensure that they are selling knives safely and in line with legal requirements. With the introduction of new sentencing and fines for the sale of knives to people under 18, it is more important than ever for retailers to take this issue seriously and to act responsibly when selling knives. By doing so, retailers can help to reduce the risk of knife-related incidents and promote the responsible sale of knives.

For the Knife Retailers Toolkit, please click here.

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