Four in 10 retail workers are worried about their safety during the festive season

The survey showed 41% are worried about their safety during the festive rush amid rising retail crime.

Petty theft was the most common crime as 56% of retail workers said they or their store has experienced this in the last 12 months.

The report also found that 51% witnessed or experienced a hostile customer interaction, 31% have encountered organised retail crime gangs, and 15% of workers have been victims of or witnessed a physical attack on a colleague.

Retail crime appears to be worsening as 51% claim petty theft has increased in the past year, while 27% said that organised criminal gangs are more prevalent than ever before.

In the survey, the role of technology emerged as integral to improving safety as 67% said video cameras have been installed in stores, 30% use two-way radios, and 25% said body cameras have been used to improve safety.

However, 62% think additional safety measures should be introduced.

When asked which technologies would make workers feel safer, a wearable or mounted panic alarm topped the list. Body cameras and video security cameras completed the top three.

Motorola Solutions vice president of channel sales in Europe, Middle East and Africa Vivienne Francis, said: “No one should feel unsafe at work, but our survey reveals retail workers’ concerns for their own safety and the safety of shoppers. 

“The concerns are amplified as we head into the holiday season, when shops are busier, stay open later, and may be understaffed. The need for enhanced security is more pressing than ever to help deter theft, de-escalate hostile customer interactions, keep known offenders off store property and notify everyone, including 9-9-9, in emergencies.”