The Independent Retailers Confederation (IRC) is working with Channel 4’s Dispatches on a new documentary examining the rise in shoplifting ahead of Christmas
Produced by Firecrest Films, the hour-long programme will explore changing trends in retail crime, including theft tactics, organised retail crime and the impact of crime on retailers and their staff.
As part of the research, the IRC and Channel 4 are inviting retailers to share their experiences through a short survey. The programme will look at issues including:
– The scale of shop theft during the festive trading period
– The rise of organised retail crime
– Violence, abuse and intimidation towards retail staff
– Whether recent legislative changes are having an impact
– Retailers’ confidence in the police response
– The financial impact of crime on independent businesses
– The resale of stolen goods through online and offline channels
The documentary will feature insight from retailers, experts, police forces and current and former shoplifters.
Survey responses are anonymous and confidential, and none of the retailers taking part will be specifically named. Retailers can also choose to leave their contact details if they are willing to discuss their experiences in more detail. These details will not be shared without explicit permission.
The survey takes around five to 10 minutes to complete, and none of the questions are mandatory.
Retailers can take part in the survey here.
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