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Hello everyone,
We’re sharing practical advice for local businesses to help prevent shoplifting, manage anti‑social behaviour (ASB), and protect your premises, staff, and assets from a range of business‑related crimes. The information below draws on Metropolitan Police crime‑prevention guidance.
🛒 Shoplifting Prevention – Our Main FocusShoplifting can have a significant financial impact on businesses, but small preventative measures can make your premises far less attractive to offenders. Improve Store Layout & VisibilityMaintain clear sightlines across your shop. Offenders prefer locations where they can conceal items without being noticed.Keep high‑value goods away from entrances and ensure shelves are not overcrowded.
Use Effective Lighting & CCTVEnsure your CCTV system is fully operational, covers key areas (entrances, exits, high‑value stock), and stores footage securely.Review footage regularly and provide it promptly to police when requested — timely evidence increases the chance of identifying suspects.
Staff Awareness & Customer EngagementEncourage staff to greet customers; offenders often leave when they feel noticed.Train teams to spot suspicious behaviour, such as attempts to distract staff or conceal items.Secure Stock & Reduce OpportunityUse locked display cabinets for high‑value goods where appropriate.Keep stockrooms locked, and restrict staff‑only areas.
👥 Anti‑Social Behaviour Affecting BusinessesBusinesses may experience ASB from local youths, neighbouring industrial or residential premises, or groups gathering nearby. Managing ASBMaintain good external lighting and clear access routes to deter congregating.Design your premises to reduce hiding spots or sheltered areas that may attract loitering.
Reporting ASBCivil ASB (noise from residential neighbours, nuisance from adjacent industrial activity): report to the local council.Crime‑related ASB (threats, intimidation, drug‑related behaviour, harassment, vandalism): report to police at the time or as soon as possible.
🏢 Internal Business Risks (Employee Theft, Former‑Employee Harassment & Stalking)Employee TheftControl and audit access to stockrooms, cash areas, and sensitive data.Keep accurate inventory records and regularly review discrepancies.Ensure staff understand that theft will be reported and investigated.Harassment or Stalking by Former EmployeesDocument incidents and patterns of unwanted contact.Report threatening or persistent behaviour immediately.Secure staff‑only areas and update access codes, passes, and keys after employment ends.
🚗 Vehicle‑Related Crime (Business Vehicles & Theft From Motor Vehicles)Businesses with delivery vehicles, fleet cars, or staff parking areas should: Ensure vehicles are locked at all times and keys are never left inside.Remove valuables or tools from vehicles, especially overnight.Park in well‑lit, visible areas, ideally covered by CCTV.
🧱 Criminal Damage & VandalismKeep exterior areas well lit to deter offenders.Report damage promptly so patterns can be monitored and investigated.Remove tools, bricks, or loose items that could be used to cause damage.
📞 Reporting Channels999 – Emergency (crime in progress or immediate danger)101 – Non‑emergency crime, suspicious behaviour, or crime‑related ASBCrimestoppers – Report information anonymously: 0800 555 111Online reporting – Available via the Metropolitan Police websiteContact your local Safer Neighbourhood Team through MetEngage for tailored advice and support
Your local policing team is here to support your business. If you’d like tailored security advice or want to discuss crime trends affecting local traders, please reach out to us. Stay safe,
Your Local Policing Team
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