Retailers Express Concern as England Records Rise in Shoplifting Cases

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Shoplifting offences across England and Wales have reached a record high, with 530,643 incidents reported in 2024 and 2025, a 20% increase from the previous year, according to new police data. This marks the highest level since current crime recording practices were introduced in 2003.

In total, police forces recorded 6.6 million crimes over the past year, up from 6.1 million in 2019-2020, and significantly higher than the 4.2 million recorded a decade ago. The rise is being closely watched by authorities and business leaders alike, particularly as theft continues to strain high-street retailers.

Theft from the person also rose by 15%, reaching 151,220 offences. In contrast, homicide cases dropped by 6%, falling to 535, the lowest figure in more than a decade. 

The Metropolitan Police reported the highest number of crimes overall, including in key categories such as homicides, sexual offences, and shoplifting. The force continues to face pressure to address retail-related crime in busy urban areas.

Retailers have expressed concern that the official figures may underrepresent the true scale of losses due to underreporting and repeat offenders. The Home Secretary has pledged to increase the presence of neighbourhood officers and improve local law enforcement support to address shoplifting and anti-social behaviour.

The latest crime statistics reflect broader concerns about the impact of petty crime on communities and the effectiveness of current policing strategies. Further crime trend updates are expected later this year.