Independent retailers are calling for tougher policing, more street patrols and tougher penalties to offset rising levels of theft, new data from the Federation of Independent Traders (Fed) has revealed.

The poll, to which 651 retailers responded, found 91% called for more police patrols on the streets, while 90% said thieves should receive tougher sentences.

These views were in response to shoplifting incidents reaching a record high, with seven in 10 respondents saying shops had experienced shoplifting, break-ins and property damage.

The data also showed that 47% of traders said they and their employees had been threatened, abused or experienced violence when asked for proof of age before selling alcohol or cigarettes.

Forty-four percent reported that they and their staff also experienced similar behavior when they refused to make a proxy sale — such as selling an age-restricted product to a customer who was shopping for a minor.

The results of the Fed survey came as new figures from the Office for National Statistics showed that theft cases rose by 29% to 469,788 crimes for the year ending June 2024. This marks the highest figure since current police registration practices for the year ending March began. 2003.

“Inadequate police responses and a slap on the wrist for criminals means shoplifting is on the rise and criminals are becoming more aggressive and impatient,” Fed National President Mo Razzaq said.

“From the responses we have received, it is clear that real action is needed from the police, courts and authorities government to stem the overwhelming tide of crime against retailers and their staff. Everyone deserves to feel safe at work and to have their business protected from criminals.

“Fed members also send a clear message that one of the catalysts for verbal and physical abuse in stores is requiring proof of age before selling an age-restricted product.

“If the government goes ahead with its plans to phase out smoking and vaping through a progressive ban to phase out the sale of tobacco products across the country, independent traders will be subject to even greater levels of violence, abuse and theft.

“Without an effective deterrent, criminals and opportunistic members of the public will continue to commit crimes.”