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Survey responses

The Police and Crime Commissioner and the Chief Constable launched their retail crime survey in the spring of 2025.

The survey aimed to take responses directly from those immediately impacted by retail crime, most likely through their work.

It allowed space for both ticked answers and longer-form replies.

Of those to respond, 64 per cent worked in retail, and 20 per cent worked in ‘other’ (including security, retired, receptionist and estate agents). Others worked in licensed premises, in food service, and in administrative capacities.

Key data:

  • When it comes to experiencing crime: 73.22 per cent reported experiencing crime relating to their workplace in the past 12 months. 26.78 per cent had not experienced a crime relating to their workplace
  • Did those who experienced crime report it?: 68.52 per cent reported that offence to Surrey Police. 31.48 per cent did not report the offence
  • How many crimes were experienced?: 43 per cent say they have experienced 10 or more crimes relating to their workplace
  • How would those who have experienced crime report it?: 38.10 per cent would report a crime to 999. 33.33 per cent would report a crime to 101. 38.10 per cent would report a crime via digital 101. 7.14 per cent would report a crime via the Suspicious Activity Portal. 18.45 per cent said ‘other’
  • What was the value of items stolen?: 45.80 per cent said the value of the items stolen over the past 12 months was £1,000 or more
  • Did respondents experience any other criminality connected to retail crime?: 54.7 per cent were victims of threatening or abusive behaviour. 19.88 per cent were victims of assault. 19.30 per cent were victims of a hate crime
  • Do respondents take any measures currently to deter crime?: 73.22 per cent are currently taking measures to prevent retail crime, with these measures including hiring security staff, moving higher-value items out of easy reach, using CCTV cameras, enhanced cyber-security, and using security alarms
The image shows Police and Crime Commissioner Lisa Townsend, a blonde woman who wears a long, tan coat and glasses, speaking to a police officer. She is smiling. The back of the police officer is visible - he wears full uniform and his arms are crossed.

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