Retail crime is on the rise, and UK discount retailer Poundland is taking action to protect its frontline employees. The retailer has implemented body-worn cameras across its stores, leading to an 11% reduction in aggressive encounters and a noticeable drop in shoplifting and theft.
The move comes as the retail sector faces a surge in violence and abuse against workers. According to the British Retail Consortium, incidents of retail violence rose to over 2,000 per day in 2023/24—up from 1,300 daily occurrences the previous year.
The Growing Need for Retail Safety Solutions
Retail employees are increasingly at risk, with one in four UK retail workers considering leaving their jobs due to safety concerns. The most common threats include:
🔹 Petty theft (56% of workers report witnessing it)
🔹 Organised retail crime (31% have encountered crime rings)
🔹 Hostile customer interactions (50% have experienced aggression)
To combat these challenges, Poundland has introduced body-worn cameras to support in-store staff and deter criminal behaviour. More than 70% of shop workers believe that body cameras help de-escalate dangerous situations, making them an essential tool in retail security.
Technology as a Crime Deterrent
Poundland’s security initiative aligns with a broader industry shift towards advanced safety solutions. In January 2024, the UK government announced new measures to combat retail crime, including investments in technology-driven deterrents and potential legislation to classify assaults on retail workers as a distinct criminal offence.
For businesses facing increasing threats, the message is clear: proactive security measures, such as body-worn cameras and real-time monitoring, are essential to protecting staff and reducing crime.
Creating Safer Workplaces with Smart Technology
Retailers have a responsibility to safeguard their teams, and technology plays a crucial role in making that happen. The success of Poundland’s body-worn camera program highlights how visible safety solutions can deter crime, support employees, and provide valuable incident evidence.
With workplace safety now a top priority across industries, the right security technology—whether body cameras, emergency duress systems, or connected monitoring solutions—can help organisations create safer environments for their people.
