The Association of Convenience Stores is highlighting the negative impact that anti-social behaviour has on the convenience sector and local communities to mark Anti-Social Behaviour Awareness Week.
The week, which takes place on 3-9 July, aims to raise awareness about the impact that anti-social behaviour has on people and encourages communities to take a stand against this type of behaviour.
Findings from ACS’ 2023 Crime Report show that 87% of store staff have experienced verbal abuse and one-third of shoppers feel more anxious when they shop.
ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “Sadly, convenience retailers are already well aware of anti-social behaviour and the impact it has on them, their colleagues and their communities. We have seen a rise in the number of incidents of anti-social behaviour in the communities that we serve and this can range from groups loitering outside of shops to vandalism and abuse of our colleagues.
“Anti-social behaviour must be taken seriously as these incidents have a negative impact on communities and this behaviour can escalate, making shopworkers and customers feel unsafe and threatened. We have called on police forces and the government to take these incidents more seriously and to tackle them with appropriate action to help make our communities safer.”
ACS is calling on police forces and the government to do more to take retail crime seriously and support local businesses.
