Skip to main content
Work with the NEU
Shop workers face 'crime epidemic' as violent incidents hit record levels
Co-op study shows that crime is up by 140 per cent this year
A police cordon outside shops after a violent incident

SHOP workers face a “store crime epidemic” unless the government urgently introduces new legislation to protect staff, ministers were warned yesterday.

The Co-op revealed that crime has increased by more than 140 per cent in its stores so far this year, despite praise for the critical role played by retail workers during the coronavirus crisis.

The retail giant said that the number of violent incidents has hit record levels, with 1,350 attacks reported.

The 95th Anniversary Appeal
Support the Morning Star
You have reached the free limit.
Subscribe to continue reading.
Similar stories
Rail staff at Waverley station, Edinburgh
STUC Women’s Conference 2025 / 30 October 2025
30 October 2025

EDDIE DEMPSEY explains why the RMT is calling for urgent action against assaults on staff and passengers on our public transport system

RIGHTS NEEDED: Prison officers face a uniquely tough working environment and must be able to flex their industrial muscle
TUC Congress 2025 / 8 September 2025
8 September 2025

Our members face serious violence, crumbling workplaces and exposure to dangerous drugs — it is outrageous we still cannot legally use our industrial muscle to fight back and defend ourselves, writes STEVE GILLAN