Retail crime is rising. Security expert reveals the preventative measures businesses need to know

UK businesses are facing a surge in crime. Between March 2024 and March 2025, 245,284 burglaries were recorded in England and Wales. Of these, 166,577 of those made up domestic offences, while 78,707 were non-domestic, directly impacting businesses.

Recent data from the ONS also reveals that in the UK 18,534 robberies involving business premises took place in the year ending June 2025 – a 55% increase compared to the year prior. In this same time period, shoplifting offences also increased by 13%, reaching 529,994 recorded incidents.

For business owners, these numbers are a stark reminder that crime can happen to anyone. And according to the experts, many retailers are still relying on outdated or incomplete security strategies, leaving them unnecessarily vulnerable.

Below, security expert Jonathan Wall, VP, and Managing Director of SimpliSafe Home Security, shares the top preventative measures businesses and retail premises need to know to help reduce burglary and theft amid rising levels of business-targeted crime.

Foremost: tailoring security to your business

First and foremost, preventative measures will depend largely on your business size, location, and industry. Jewellery stores, which could be considered high-risk, may need to take stricter precautions than a furniture retailer, for example. While no two security strategies will be exactly the same, there are several universal steps that all businesses can take to be as secure and threat-free as possible. 

You can check here to see how your region compares for non-residential burglary rates. 

Implement security technology

Technology is a great security measure. Cameras and alarms can act as the first line of defence when a crime is attempted, while also acting as great deterrents too. 

Alarmed security systems could scare off opportunistic criminals, alerting business owners, neighbours, monitoring centres or emergency services, with the aim of preventing a crime from escalating. Security cameras may not make thieves less likely to act, but they can provide crucial evidence in the case of prosecution. Modern security systems that incorporate AI technology can also identify criminal activity and alert security teams in real time, enabling operators to take immediate action. 

Mapping out crimes before they happen

As a business owner, it can be worthwhile to put yourself in the shoes of a criminal. If anyone were to commit theft in your business, why do you think they would do it, and most importantly, how might they? Do you sell expensive items? Does your store have easy access? Or are there few people in the store at any one time? Criminals may look for easy wins with the least chance of getting caught, so mapping out the “W” questions, who, what, when, where and why, can be an effective way to prevent them from happening.   

Clear signage and visible deterrents

To accompany alarms and security systems, other visible deterrents and warnings such as CCTV signage, alarm notices, outdoor sirens and monitored security stickers can act as powerful deterrents to crime. Criminals and opportunists may be less likely to target premises that clearly communicate surveillance measures and the risk involved if a crime is attempted. More often than not, resulting in criminals trying their luck elsewhere. 

Designing a clear and well-lit space

This step is particularly important as bright lighting and a clear layout may deter criminal behaviour. Well-lit areas can make individuals feel more visible and identifiable, reducing the likelihood of theft or antisocial behaviour. Whereas open layouts and minimal clutter eliminate blind spots where suspicious activity could otherwise go unnoticed. Crime may be more likely to occur where people feel unseen, so by ensuring you have good lighting and a smart layout, you can help to remove that advantage.

Staff awareness and active monitoring

Having a team of well-trained staff to create a strong presence on site could act as a great deterrent, while also enabling quicker action to call the emergency services if anything does go wrong. A visible team can create a safer and more controlled space, and with the right training, staff members are vital when it comes to identifying and responding to any potential issues before they escalate. 

Additionally, having a security guard on premises supported by uniforms and clearly marked roles can signal that criminal behaviour is likely to be challenged, deterring criminals from taking action, and offering greater peace of mind for staff and customers. For an extra layer of security, opt for a monitored system, so that if triggered, an alarm company or designated key holder can check to ensure it isn’t a false alarm, and can contact emergency services.

Security after hours

According to latest ONS data, around one-third (33%) of break-ins take place in the evening, where teams of skilled criminals may go unnoticed. Robust security measures while your business is closed are therefore crucial. 

Consider reinforcing entry and exit points by placing security cameras over all access areas. Doors can also be reinforced with roll-down shutters or other physical barriers that make breaking in harder. Glass-shatter sensors can alert you when someone has tried to gain entry through a glass door or window. Finally, you could also opt for 24/7 security monitoring for continuous, round-the-clock protection by a professional team, to know that even after you have clocked-off for the day, someone is still on duty ready to protect your business after the day’s operations have ended, in the event of an emergency. 

Ensure key holders are in trusted hands

While most people mean well, accidents can happen. Doors left unlocked, and security codes wrongly inputted can make the difference between security and vulnerability. Ensure that keyholders and those with access to codes and security credentials are trained members of staff and trusted personnel only. Regularly review who holds access to these, and update systems whenever staff leave or roles change to reduce the risk of internal security breaches.

Secure stock management and cash handling

High-value stock and cash being kept on site can significantly increase the risk of becoming a target for crime. Reducing access and visibility of these onsite can be crucial for safety. Consider using locked display cases for premium items, and keep excess stock in secure storage areas. Cash should be kept onsite in limited quantities, and handling or moving large amounts of cash should never follow a predictable routine.

Final thoughts 

While no single measure can eliminate crime entirely, a layered approach that combines technology, staff awareness, and strong plans of action can significantly reduce the risk of theft and burglary. Ensure to regularly review your security practices and always make sure to adapt protocols to emerging threats. That way, you can better protect your people, property and peace of mind.