Harrogate is to host national event on tackling alarming levels of violence, abuse and theft in shops
Harrogate is to host a national event about tackling retail crime in England as violence, abuse and theft hit alarming levels.
Harrogate BID will bring together retailers, police and business crime experts from across the country at The Crown Hotel on Wednesday, September 30 in a special event called Fight Back Against Retail Crime.
Last year saw retail crime and shoplifting in England reach historic highs following significant post-pandemic increases.
Although early 2026 figures show that overall offenses may now be plateauing from record peaks, trade bodies like the British Retail Consortium and the Association of Convenience Stores continue to push for a tougher response to the problem.
The event organised by Harrogate Business Improvement District (BID) will look at the challenges businesses are facing and the practical steps they can take to prevent and respond to retail crime, while also highlighting the importance of collaboration between businesses, the police and other organisations.
Speakers will include representatives from the National Business Crime Centre (NBCC), North Yorkshire Police, ShopSafe, Sainsbury's, Eboracum, Smoke Screen and Apex Radio Systems, alongside Harrogate BID.
Paul Evans, Business Crime Officer at Harrogate BID, said: “Retail crime is an issue that affects businesses of all sizes, and we know how frustrating and damaging it can be for staff and businesses
"One of the most effective ways of tackling it is by working together, sharing information and making sure businesses know what support is available to them.
“We are really pleased to be hosting the event in Harrogate and would encourage local businesses to come along, ask questions and share their own experiences.
"We want attendees to come away with a better understanding of the current challenges, what they can do to protect their businesses.”
The event is free to attend, with refreshments provided, but spaces are limited.
Businesses can register to attend at: https://forms.monday.com/forms/e464c07dacf416e0384d2787b249fc9f?r=use1
The event can also be followed and shared on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/events/7503398065618378754
Harrogate BID was established in 2019 after a successful ballot of local businesses and saw its second term begin in January 2024 for a further five years.
More information at: https://harrogatebid.co.uk/