🛡️ Retailers Crime Prevention Toolkit
Developed by the National Business Crime Centre (NBCC) in collaboration with Police Crime Prevention Initiatives (Police CPI) at the request of the Home Office.
Protecting your business starts with prevention.
The Retailers Crime Prevention Toolkit, developed by the National Business Crime Centre (NBCC) and Police Crime Prevention Initiatives (Police CPI) at the request of the Home Office, provides practical advice to help retailers protect staff, premises and stock from crime.
From securing doors and windows to supporting victims and engaging with local partnerships, this guide offers clear, actionable steps for every size of business.
💡 Use this toolkit to assess your risks, strengthen security, and build safer, more resilient retail environments.
Introduction
This Retailers Crime Prevention Toolkit has been created to help businesses protect their staff, premises, and assets from crime.
It has been designed at the request of the Home Office, through a collaboration between the National Business Crime Centre (NBCC) and Police Crime Prevention Initiatives (Police CPI).
Police CPI is a long-standing, not-for-profit organisation set up by the Police Service in 1989. It delivers a wide range of crime prevention and demand reduction initiatives across the UK, helping to create safer communities.
The NBCC, hosted by the City of London Police, works nationally to help businesses prevent and respond to business crime effectively — through advice, guidance, and training.
Our aims:
- Strengthen partnership working with businesses to reduce crime.
- Improve intelligence sharing and crime prevention standards.
- Support police and businesses through training, resources, and practical advice.
💬 “Business crime is any criminal offence where a business, or person in the course of their employment, and because of that employment, is the victim.”
For more information, visit www.nbcc.police.uk.
Securing your business doesn’t have to be costly — many of the measures in this toolkit may already be in place. Use it to review your current arrangements and identify improvements over time.
Physical Security
Securing your property will help make your business safer.
Security Overview
Investing in security may seem daunting, but it is a sound investment — increasing safety, deterring crime, and often adding value to your property.
Some improvements (like walls and fences) may require planning permission, but most basic security enhancements do not.
What is Physical Security?
Criminals are opportunistic and observant. They look for vulnerabilities — poor lighting, weak locks, hidden entrances — and exploit them.
🔒 Tip: Almost all types of crime can be prevented or mitigated by physical security measures.
Retailers should strengthen doors and windows using tested and accredited locks and bolts.
Why Improve Physical Security?
Physical security works on three principles:
DETER – Visible security measures make it less likely for criminals to identify your property as a target.
DELAY – Barriers like locks and shutters increase the time and effort required to commit crime.
DETECT – Measures such as CCTV enable early detection and a faster response.
💡 Start here: Visit www.securedbydesign.com to find hundreds of Police-approved security products and suppliers.
Security Standards Explained
Secured by Design (SBD) is the official UK Police initiative combining “designing out crime” with physical security.
It focuses on Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) and Police-approved products such as doors, windows, CCTV, and fencing.
Key principles:
- Deter crime through better design and layout.
- Ensure visibility and surveillance.
- Promote ownership and control of space.
SBD-accredited products must:
- Be independently tested to a recognised security standard.
- Be certified by an accredited body (e.g. UKAS, Sold Secure, or Thatcham).
- Undergo regular re-testing and annual manufacturing inspections.
For detailed guidance: Secured by Design Standards Explained
Conducting a Premises Security Assessment
To assess your premises, think like a criminal.
This “onion peeling principle” starts from the outer boundary and works inward toward the core of your business.
Focus on how to DETER, DETECT, and DELAY intruders.
Most criminals will avoid premises where the risk of being seen or caught is too high.
1. Lighting
Good lighting makes your business safer.
- Position lights at entrances and exits.
- Use photo-electric cell lighting (“dusk to dawn”) for consistent illumination.
- Prefer LED lighting for efficiency and sustainability.
- Avoid fluorescent lighting — it’s less effective and environmentally unfriendly.
💡 Good lighting deters criminals and provides clear visibility for CCTV and staff safety.
2. Bollards for Physical Security
Where there’s a risk of ram-raiding or vehicle attacks, install anti-ram bollards.
Standards to specify:
- PAS 68:2013 (fixed bollards tested against impact).
- PAS 69:2013 (guidance on selecting and installing bollards).
- For low-risk areas, BS 170-1 compliant bollards may be sufficient.
3. Roller Shutters and Grilles
Roller shutters and grilles add vital protection to doors and windows.
Minimum standards:
- LPS 1175: Issue 7, Security Rating 1
- STS 202: Issue 3, Burglary Rating 1
Higher ratings may be required based on:
- Crime type and level
- Building location
- Door/window quality
🔐 Shutters operated from inside premises can quickly provide “cover from view” during violent incidents or attacks.
4. Doors and Windows
Well-secured doors and windows are fundamental to crime prevention.
If your property has been awarded Secured by Design (SBD) certification, your front door is already a high-security doorset — including the frame, locks, glazing and hinges.
Recommended standards for new or replacement doors and windows:
- BS 6375 – performance for doorsets
- BS 4873 – aluminium
- BS 7412 – PVCu
- BS 644 – timber
- BS 6510 – steel
- BS 8529 – composite materials
- BS 8213 – installation of PVCu doors & windows
If you use non-tested timber doors, ensure they’re at least 44 mm thick solid wood, free from rot, and not hollow-core.
Use laminated glazing (BS EN 356: 2000 P1A) or equivalent security film to protect locks and prevent forced entry. Laminated glass also reduces flying shards in an attack.
💬 For further guidance, see The Police Crime Prevention Initiatives Guide to Physical Security:
https://www.policecpi.com/about-us/login
5. Locks
Use fit-for-purpose, tested locks that meet recognised security standards.
Recommended cylinder standards:
- DHF TS 007
- SS 312 Diamond
These resist snapping, picking, bumping, and burning.
Padlocks:
- BS 12320, LPS 1654, or Sold Secure Bronze / Silver / Gold / Diamond levels.
Extra protections:
- Guard plates – strengthen the mortice area and resist “kick-in” attacks.
- Anti-thrust plates – block tools from tampering with latches on outward-opening doors.
🔑 Tip: Always get advice from a Master Locksmiths Association member.
Manage keys carefully:
– Audit regularly
– Label with internal codes only
– Avoid hidden spares
– Limit duplicates
A thumb-turn lock is recommended for internal refuge areas so staff can secure themselves quickly during an incident.
6. CCTV
CCTV is one of the most effective deterrents and investigative tools.
Good practice:
- Capture clear, identifiable images in all lighting conditions.
- Store recordings for at least 31 days in a secure, locked cabinet.
- Display signage notifying people that CCTV is in operation.
- Register your system with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) to comply with data protection.
Recommended standards:
- BS 7958 – CCTV Management & Operation
- BS 62676 – Performance requirements for security applications
Choose installers accredited by NSI (www.nsi.org.uk) or SSAIB (www.ssaib.org).
💡 Regularly clean lenses and housings — even a spider’s web can obscure a crucial image.
Further guidance:
Secured by Design – CCTV Security Advice
7. Intruder Alarm Systems
Alarms discourage offenders and speed up police response.
For a police-monitored response, ensure your alarm is installed by an NSI or SSAIB certified company.
Recommended standard: BS EN 50131 – four risk grades from low to high.
Good systems provide both intruder and hold-up/panic alarm functionality for lone or at-risk staff.
More information: www.policesecuritysystems.com/choose-an-alarm
8. Internal Measures
Security Fogging Systems
Triggered by alarms, these fill areas with harmless dense fog, preventing thieves from seeing or accessing goods.
They can integrate with alarm systems or operate standalone (BS EN 50131 applies).
Forensic Intruder Sprays
These systems link directly to alarms and mark intruders with unique forensic identifiers.
Always display warning signage to deter offenders.
Gaming and Vending Machines
Empty cash and stock daily. Display signage stating machines contain no money overnight.
Safe Storage
Store valuables in locked cages, rooms, or safes. Secure or remove keys.
General Good Practice
- Check fridge/freezer operation and utilities regularly.
- Change default passwords on all Wi-Fi and smart devices.
- Shred or destroy correspondence before disposal.
🧯 Tip: Regular maintenance prevents decay and discourages opportunistic crime. Keep bins secure and away from buildings to reduce arson risk.
Further Security Considerations
What Is Cyber Crime?
Technology creates new opportunities — and new risks.
Cyber Crime includes:
- Cyber-dependent offences (e.g. hacking, ransomware)
- Cyber-enabled offences (e.g. online fraud, stolen card use)
Preparing for Cyber Incidents
Practical, low-cost actions for small businesses:
1. Back up your data – regularly and test restoration.
2. Use strong passwords & two-factor authentication.
3. Apply software updates automatically.
4. Install anti-virus and firewall protection.
5. Secure mobile devices with PIN/fingerprint access.
6. Beware of phishing emails – check sender details & spelling.
7. Control USB and removable media access.
💬 Full guidance and videos available at www.ncsc.gov.uk/smallbusiness
Safety and Security
Security Awareness
Everyone in the workplace plays a role in reducing risk.
- Stay alert when entering/exiting sites.
- Report suspicious activity immediately.
- Follow access procedures (swipe passes, sign-ins).
- Wear visible ID where appropriate.
- Dispose of sensitive information securely.
💡 Rule Setting + Access Control + Surveillance = Effective Crime Prevention.
Suspicious Behaviour
Look for:
- People loitering or photographing entrances.
- Questions that seem unusual.
- Disguised faces or unattended bags.
- Parked vehicles out of place.
If you see anything concerning, call 999 in an emergency.
It’s OK to Say
Colleagues sometimes show concerning behaviour — stress, anger, withdrawal. Early support prevents escalation or potential insider threats.
Speak up to a manager or report your concerns through work channels.
Insider misuse may be deliberate or accidental — but vigilance protects everyone.
🗣️ Trust your instinct — if something feels wrong, report it.
Are You Protected?
THRIVE Assessment
Every call to the police is assessed using the THRIVE model, which helps determine the appropriate response:
T – Threat: Any expressed or perceived intent to cause harm or loss.
H – Harm: The extent of physical or psychological damage caused or risked.
R – Risk: The likelihood of the threat materialising (e.g., is the offender still nearby?).
I – Investigation: What action or evidence gathering is required?
V – Vulnerability: A person’s ability to protect themselves or others from harm.
E – Engagement: How organisations and individuals can build relationships for safety.
💬 Retailers can use THRIVE principles internally to assess risks and plan effective prevention strategies.
Prevention
Strategy
Having a well-designed crime prevention strategy sets the tone for your organisation.
Benefits include:
- Minimised losses from theft or damage.
- Safer, more secure environments for staff and customers.
- Improved customer satisfaction and retention.
- Legal and regulatory compliance (including data protection).
Strong strategies often combine:
- CCTV and alarms
- Trained security personnel
- Incident reporting
- Technology such as bodycams and digital evidence systems
💡 Prevention isn’t just about locks and cameras — it’s about culture, planning, and awareness.
Reporting
Why Reporting Crime Is Important
Retail crime is massively underreported.
According to the British Retail Consortium Crime Survey (2024), retailers experienced nearly 16.7 million shop thefts, yet only 470,000 were officially reported.
Reporting helps police:
- Understand crime patterns
- Identify prolific offenders
- Allocate resources effectively
📞 Always report crime. Reporting enables prevention.
What to Report
Under the Retail Crime Action Plan, the following incidents should be prioritised:
- Violence or threats of violence
- Hate crimes
- Offences by prolific or juvenile offenders
- Organised crime or high-value thefts
- Incidents with clear evidence or reasonable lines of enquiry
⚠️ Don’t just report theft — also report associated violence or threats.
Police attendance is prioritised when:
- Violence is used or threatened
- Offenders are detained on scene
- Immediate evidence (e.g. forensics) must be secured
How to Report
The NBCC provides a national guide on how to report business crime effectively:
https://nbcc.police.uk/business-support/reporting-a-crime
When reporting:
- Share full details of the incident, including CCTV and witness accounts
- Use consistent terminology and accurate time/date stamps
- Follow up with a written witness statement if requested
🧾 Consider completing an Impact Statement for Business (ISB) to explain how crime affects your organisation — courts can take this into account at sentencing.
Internal Reporting Systems
Internal reporting is as important as police reporting. It helps identify local patterns and hotspots.
Use incident reporting platforms that let you record:
- Where and when crimes occur
- What items are targeted
- Offender profiles and methods
The ASCONE model helps ensure evidence meets police standards:
| Letter | Meaning |
|---|---|
| A | Approach – suspect approaches product |
| S | Selection – item selected |
| C | Concealment – item hidden |
| O | Observation – offence continuously watched |
| N | Non-payment – no effort to pay |
| E | Exit – suspect leaves the store with the item |
Using ASCONE helps ensure reports are complete and actionable.
Offender Management
Do you have a clear policy to deter and manage offenders?
🧍 Tip: Offenders dislike attention. Engaging with them (“Can I help you?”) often deters theft before it happens.
Managing Prolific Offenders
Most retail crime comes from a small number of repeat offenders. Identify them and act consistently:
- Issue banning notices where appropriate.
- Share information through Business Crime Reduction Partnerships (BCRPs).
- Review refund policies and store layouts.
The NBCC is developing national guidance on civil recovery, allowing businesses to reclaim losses and costs from offenders.
Partnership Example
In Portsmouth, a “Business Crime Navigator” works with local partners to help homeless offenders access support — leading to reduced reoffending.
Tackling Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB)
ASB harms communities and increases business costs through vandalism, reduced footfall, and higher insurance premiums.
🧠 The NBCC has produced resources to help businesses prevent and manage ASB.
Visit: https://nbcc.police.uk/crime-prevention/anti-social-behaviour
Training
Effective staff training is one of the most powerful tools in reducing retail crime.
The National Business Crime Centre (NBCC) highlights that de-escalation training and good customer service significantly reduce incidents of theft and violence.
NBCC Training Resources
The NBCC provides a series of short, free videos covering:
- Dealing with disruptive or antisocial behaviour
- Managing aggression and personal safety
- Saying no safely
- Handling suspected thieves
You can access them here:
👉 NBCC Shopworker Training Videos
Violence Against Staff
The NBCC has also developed a Reducing Violence Against Staff booklet, identifying the three main triggers for violence:
- Challenging shoplifting
- Age-restricted sales
- Dealing with offenders under the influence of drugs or alcohol
📘 Download the guide:
Reducing Violence Against Staff (PDF)
💡 Tip: Incorporate violence-reduction and de-escalation training into your onboarding and refresher courses.
Lone Worker Safety
Lone workers — those who work without close supervision — face particular risks.
Employers have a legal duty to protect them under Health & Safety legislation.
The NBCC and the Metropolitan Police Business Crime Hub have produced a short safety video and guide:
NBCC Lone Worker Safety Guide
Common safety principles:
- Stay aware of surroundings — no headphones or distractions.
- Avoid unnecessary risks; trust your instincts.
- Identify escape routes and avoid secluded areas.
- Always report near misses or concerning incidents.
⚠️ Your actions can prevent escalation. If something feels unsafe, act immediately to reduce the risk.
Knife Retail Training
Police and Trading Standards have increased focus on knife sales and storage.
The NBCC offers free bespoke knife retail training for stores selling knives:
NBCC Knife Guidance
Employee Support
Being a victim of crime can have a devastating emotional impact. Employers must provide practical and emotional support.
The NBCC’s Framework for Employers provides guidance for preventing violence, supporting staff, and ensuring wellbeing:
👉 Framework for Employers
Impact Statements for Business (ISBs)
An Impact Statement for Business allows companies to describe how a crime has affected them and their employees.
Courts can use this information to influence sentencing.
Access template:
Impact Statement for Business
💬 ISBs have proven highly effective in achieving fairer sentencing outcomes and raising awareness of retail crime impact.
What Workers Want
A 2023 USDAW “Freedom from Fear” survey found that retail workers most want:
- Management support
- Better reporting and follow-up
- More bodycams, CCTV, and headsets
- Greater police involvement
- More staff and security presence
📊 Survey summary: FFF Survey Results Report 2023 (PDF)
🧠 Management support remains the single biggest factor in reducing staff anxiety and improving morale.
Supporting Victims and Witnesses
Ensure staff who must attend court are supported and given time off.
In 2023/24, over 10% of retail crime reports were dropped because retailers did not support prosecutions.
Encourage participation — successful convictions depend on cooperation.
Safeguarding and Vulnerability Support
Employers can also help employees facing personal challenges such as domestic abuse or modern slavery.
The NBCC provides safeguarding resources here:
Crime Prevention: Safeguarding
Safe Spaces – Op Portum
When people feel vulnerable in public, they often seek refuge in retail or hospitality venues.
The Op Portum Safe Spaces scheme supports over 15,000 locations nationwide, offering training and materials for staff to assist safely.
Learn more: NBCC Safe Spaces
🛟 Tip: Train staff on how to assist vulnerable individuals safely without putting themselves at risk.
Corporate Support
The Right Level of Investment
The British Retail Consortium estimates that crime costs UK retailers nearly £1 billion annually.
Despite this, corporate support structures often lack the resources needed for effective prevention.
Investing in crime prevention is a business necessity, not a luxury.
💼 A well-funded prevention strategy reduces loss, protects staff, and improves public confidence.
Private Security
When procuring security services, always use SIA-licensed professionals.
The NBCC and the Security Industry Authority provide clear guidance:
Buying Private Security Services – SIA Support
Technology
Technology plays a crucial role in modern crime prevention.
Examples include:
- Body-worn video – reduces violence and increases staff safety.
- Headsets and communications tech – improve coordination during incidents.
- Digital Evidence Management Systems (DEMS) – enable secure CCTV sharing with police.
- Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) – alerts for organised crime groups.
- Facial recognition and behavioural analytics – enhance prevention when used lawfully.
Digital Evidence
Police forces now widely use DEMS to collect CCTV evidence electronically.
Retailers can download a standardised CCTV Witness Statement template here:
Video Witness Statement (DOCX)
Facial Recognition
The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) provides updated guidance on privacy and facial recognition:
Balancing Privacy Rights with Crime Prevention (ICO)
⚙️ Always assess privacy impacts and ensure compliance with data protection laws when using surveillance technology.
Engagement
Partnerships are key to safer retail environments.
Local Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) and Business Crime Reduction Partnerships (BCRPs) play an essential role in tackling crime and antisocial behaviour in towns and cities across the UK.
There are over 330 BIDs nationwide, collectively investing around £345 million annually.
Business Improvement Districts (BIDs)
If your business contributes to a BID levy, find out:
- What actions your BID is taking to prevent crime.
- Whether a BCRP operates under your BID.
- If that BCRP is accredited or working toward accreditation.
- Whether there’s a data-sharing platform to track prolific offenders.
👉 Learn more: Business Improvement Districts – NBCC
🧩 Many retailers miss out on valuable intelligence because they don’t attend BCRP or Shopwatch meetings — encourage staff participation to stay informed.
Business Crime Reduction Partnerships (BCRPs)
The National BCRP Standards were created collaboratively by police, businesses, and BCRPs to define “what good looks like”.
These standards:
- Provide reassurance to businesses and stakeholders.
- Encourage consistency and trust in data sharing.
- Support long-term investment and safer business environments.
More info: NBCC – Business Crime Reduction Partnerships
Safer Business Action (SaBA) Days
SaBA Days unite local police and retailers to tackle crime and antisocial behaviour in real time.
They also promote national awareness campaigns such as ShopKind, encouraging respect for retail workers.
💬 Collaboration between police and businesses is the single most effective way to prevent repeat offending.
Engaging Beyond Your Store
- Join local business forums (BRC Ops Groups, ORIS Forums, NBCS).
- Connect with your local Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) — many PCCs now include business crime in their policing plans.
- Encourage staff to share intelligence responsibly with local partners.
Additional reading:
Problem-Solving Policing – College of Policing
Data
Data is the golden thread that connects prevention, reporting, and enforcement.
How data helps prevent crime:
1. Identifying Patterns
Data analysis reveals trends — what’s stolen, where, when, and how. This supports effective resource allocation and crime mapping.
2. Evidence Gathering
CCTV, access logs, and transaction records provide crucial evidence in criminal or civil recovery cases.
3. Resource Allocation
Focuses security efforts on high-risk areas and assets.
4. Compliance
Using data responsibly demonstrates compliance with laws and reduces liability.
5. Continuous Improvement
Analysing incidents and near-misses helps identify vulnerabilities and refine security policies.
6. Predictive Analytics
Forecast where crime might occur next — enabling proactive prevention.
7. Deterrence
Publicly showing that data is used to track and prevent crime discourages potential offenders.
Visit the NBCC’s data sharing hub:
Retail Data Sharing Process – NBCC
Appendix One – Retailers Self-Assessment Checklist
A practical tool to help retailers benchmark their security performance.
Prevention
- Do you have a crime prevention strategy — and who owns it?
- Are your security products accredited (e.g. Secured by Design)?
- How often do you review policies and products for relevance?
- Do you share best practice and learn from others?
Reporting
- Do you report all crimes internally and externally?
- Do staff know how and when to report incidents?
- Are your reporting systems aligned with police procedures?
- Do you track the number and types of reported crimes?
Offender Management
- Do you have a policy for deterring and managing offenders?
- Are prolific offenders tracked and prioritised?
- Do you issue and enforce banning notices?
- Do you collaborate with local diversion or restorative justice schemes?
Training
- Do staff receive crime prevention and de-escalation training?
- Is training reviewed regularly and adhered to?
- Are training materials accredited or quality assured?
Employer Framework
- Do you have processes to identify and support victims of workplace violence?
- Do you provide counselling or employee assistance programmes?
- Is there a lone working policy in place?
- Do staff know about safe spaces and support services?
Corporate Support
- Is crime prevention discussed at board level?
- Is there sufficient staff and budget to deliver your prevention plan?
- Do you liaise with law enforcement regularly?
Technology
- Are you using bodycams, CCTV, or tracking tech effectively?
- Can your CCTV provide police-quality evidence?
- Do you have secure data-sharing capabilities with police DEMS systems?
Engagement
- Are your stores members of BCRPs or BIDs?
- Do you attend local meetings and share information?
- Do you know your local police contacts and PCC?
Data
- Is data used to monitor prevention effectiveness?
- Do you share and analyse data responsibly with partners?
Appendix Two – Legislation
Law & Liability
As a business owner, you must comply with both specific legislation (like health and safety) and your general duty of care to staff and visitors.
Under the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 and Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1992, you must:
- Assess and control risks.
- Protect anyone affected by your operations.
- Record and review your safety and security measures.
Well-documented risk assessments may also lead to lower insurance costs and legal protection.
More info: www.protectuk.police.uk/law-and-liability
The Occupiers’ Liability Act 1957 & 1984
Businesses owe a duty of care even to trespassers if they could foresee harm.
Always make hazards and deterrent devices clearly visible with signage.
Example: rotating fence vanes or barbed deterrents should be signposted to prevent injury liability.
Data Protection Act 2018 & UK GDPR
CCTV and data management must comply with the Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR.
You must:
- Display CCTV signage explaining its use.
- Provide footage within 40 days upon legitimate request.
- Retain images only as long as necessary.
- Use compliant equipment (BS 62676 standard).
Additional guidance:
- Data Protection and CCTV – ICO
- CCTV and Surveillance Guidance – Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner
Risk Management
ProtectUK provides a recommended Risk Management Model for structuring and recording your assessments.
⚖️ Regularly review your risk management plan and update it following any incident or major operational change.
🏁 Attribution
Retailers Crime Prevention Toolkit
Developed by the National Business Crime Centre (NBCC) in collaboration with Police Crime Prevention Initiatives (Police CPI).
Created at the request of the Home Office.
📍 Police Crime Prevention Initiatives (Police CPI)
2nd Floor, 50 Broadway, St James’s Park,
Westminster, London, SW1H 0BL
📞 Tel: 0203 8623 999
📧 Email: enquiries@police-cpi.co.uk
🌐 www.policecpi.com
Original publication © Police CPI / NBCC, 2025.
Used with attribution for educational and public safety purposes.
