More than 14million UK consumers have witnessed violence or abuse against retail workers in the past year, according to new BRC-Opinium survey data.

Over a fifth of the population (21%) have seen incidents while shopping – rising to 32% in London, and dropping just -2 percentage points year-on-year (from 23% in 2025).

Nearly a quarter of people (23%) have witnessed shoplifting, highlighting the scale of the issue facing UK retail stores, down just -1 percentage point compared to 2025. The BRC also said many retailers face a growing threat from criminal gangs who are targeting high-value goods that can easily be resold.

“For too many people, violence and abuse are now part of the shopping experience. An incident might last seconds, but for workers and bystanders, the impact can last a lifetime,” said Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium.

Retailers have spent an estimated £5billion fighting retail crime over the past five years, including CCTV, more security personnel, anti-theft devices and body worn cameras. These costs add to existing financial pressures, limiting investment and contributing to higher prices for customers everywhere.

The government is seeking to address retail crime through the new Crime and Policing Bill, which includes a standalone offence. It is hoped that this will improve the visibility of violence so that police can allocate appropriate resources to the challenge. It will also remove the £200 threshold of ‘low level’ theft, sending a clear signal that all shoplifting will be treated seriously.