Shop theft in Scotland increased 20% in the year to June 2026, according to the latest figures published by the Scottish Government.
Recorded shoplifting crimes rose from 47,381 to 56,920 over the period. The total is also 129% higher than the 24,877 offences recorded in the year ending June 2022.
Earlier official statistics showed shoplifting has increased for five consecutive years in Scotland and is now at its highest level since 1971.
The latest data also shows assaults reported under the Protection of Workers (Retail) Act 2021 have reached 11,794 as of June 2026.
The Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF) welcomed the Scottish Government’s commitment to continue funding the Scottish Retail Crime Taskforce for at least the next three years but said further action is needed to tackle retail crime.
SGF boss Pete Cheema said: “While the Taskforce has made progress in improving reporting and communication, retailers across Scotland continue to face record levels of escalating crime, including organised theft, violent attacks, and a growing surge in illicit trade.
Cheema said it was “simply unacceptable” that retailers and staff face regular threats to their safety and wellbeing at work.
He added: “That is why the Taskforce must only be the first step. Ministers must also act to tackle the court backlog and ensure offenders are brought to justice swiftly and effectively.”
