Shops / News
Shoplifting epidemic ‘makes us feel invalidated, exposed and vulnerable’
A small business owner says that shoplifting in Bristol is “rife” and having a “detrimental” effect on her livelihood, and the wellbeing of herself and her staff.
Joh Rindom, the owner of That Thing on Stokes Croft, said that shoplifting “makes us feel invalidated, exposed and vulnerable”.
“It’s a dire sign of the times we live in,” Rindom added, saying her shop “cannot survive as a small business if this keeps happening”.
In a post on Instagram, Rindom wrote: “When you ask someone how their small retail business is doing, know that shoplifting is RIFE at the moment. And I for one can not mask it for much longer.
“Christmas shopping is on the cards for many, but so is the back-handers to those who go get stuff for others, for those who can’t afford it, and those who straight up pinch to make a living or fuel a habit.
“It’s a dire sign of the times we live in. Some are addicted to it, some to drugs, and for some it’s a way of living.
“For us it’s SO detrimental. It’s taking a liberty in our premises that causes upset, takes away confidence from myself and staff. Makes us feel invalidated, exposed and vulnerable.
“It’s ‘petty’ crime that the police don’t care about, and not worth insurance claims as premiums just sky rocket.
“It’s endless police reports, downloading of CCTV, in-house WhatsApp messages, stress and worries.
“And then the follow-up emails and another case closed. For what?
“We cannot survive as a small business if this keeps happening. We need support and pressure easing.
“Please share and support my business far and wide – and pop in if you pass. We need reassurance and solidarity – and footfall (especially after dark!) besides the scumbags.”
That Thing showcases more than 50 independent designer brands – photo: Martin Booth
In a previous statement in October after a prolific shoplifter pleaded guilty in Bristol Magistrates’ Court to 29 counts of shop theft and 31 counts of breaching a Criminal Behaviour Order, sergeant Joe Iles of Avon & Somerset Police said: “Shoplifting is not a victimless crime. The harm it causes to businesses and the wider community is significant.
“It results in financial loss of stock, which ultimately places an additional burden on genuine customers. It also causes distress, alarm and disruption to shop owners, staff and shoppers.
“We are working tirelessly to tackle repeat offenders and reduce the harm caused by persistent retail crime. This outcome reflects our commitment to supporting businesses, protecting livelihoods and holding offenders to account.
“We have recently introduced a new system to make it easier for retailers to share CCTV and other evidence with police. This helps us respond more efficiently to reports of shoplifting.
“We are also streamlining internal processes to ensure offenders are brought to justice more swiftly.
“Neighbourhood teams will continue to carry out high-visibility patrols, work closely with local retailers, and pursue prosecutions wherever possible to ensure those who cause harm to our communities are brought before the courts.”
Main photo: Martin Booth
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