Federation of Small Businesses (FSB)

Craig Beaumont Verified account @craigie_b · 6d

Appreciated the chance to speak with @metpoliceuk Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley, today, at New Scotland Yard

While big stores & chains weapon up in the face of crime with brilliant tech solutions and security forces, this model doesn’t work for small retailers - and they quickly become the target of prolific shoplifters

FSB research shows that 59% of small firms who reported a crime say police didn’t attend; 48% say that there was no investigation - and only 3% say there was an arrest. (There is a financial cost to almost all of these offences - 56% say that is £1,000 or more.)

Frustrating to both business and the police, the courts normally then even let those 3% off - unless it’s a major repeat offender with an abundance of highest-quality evidence. Sir Mark very clear the ‘police won’t investigate crimes below £200’ claims are untrue.

While crime stats in London are improving, the above pattern is dangerous - as already 31% of small biz have not reported their most impactful crime in previous year (as they feel there’s little point). Crime must not become just another ‘cost of doing business’, nor a disincentive to setting up as a small business.

Activity to help will follow on easier reporting, better neighbourhood policing, co-ordination with BIDs, and facial recognition. @fsb_policy @FSBGtrLondon

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