​The British Retail Consortium's retail crime survey for 2012 has been released. It shows that the cost of retail crime has increased notably again, rising by 15.6% to cost British businesses an estimated £1.6 billion. This figure accounts for all types of crime and includes the value of goods stolen and damage done, as well as the money spent on prevention measures.

Internal employee theft accounted for 4% of all retail crime.
Employee theft is taking anything of value from your employer. This could include merchandise, cash, retaining receipts, voiding sales after a customer has paid then taking cash, short changing or overcharging customers, false markdowns or passing products through the till without charging. It could also include serious financial fraud involving senior or managerial staff.

Offences have doubled to 10.2 incidents per 1000 employees, from 5.2 incidents in 2011. The average value of goods stolen rose more than threefold to £1577, from £342 in previous year. Retailers predict around 40% of cases go undetected or unreported.

Our current tough economic climate means tackling employee thefts remain a challenge for retailers. Retail crime does not just impact the direct victim, but can have a significant effect on staff morale and the local community. It can damage an areas reputation, as those who are stealing go on to commit other crimes in the area.

The British Retail Consortium say that investment in preventative measures is essential.

Ultimate Security can provide a full internal security review, giving you professional advice as well as discussing the legalities of any surveillance equipment you may have installed.

If you would like further information or a free security review call us on 01225 513345.