The technology, piloted since January, allows retailers to submit reports and CCTV footage instantly, giving officers immediate access to high-quality evidence. 4%, compared to the Met Police's average of 14%. Shoplifting incidents rose 20% year-on-year to 2024, reaching the highest level since records began, and soared another 5% in 2025.
7% between 1 April 2025 and 31 March this year compared to the previous year, equating to about 3,200 fewer offences. The Met Police solved nearly double the number of shoplifting offences last year and made almost 50% more arrests, rising by 1,800. 9% of thefts recorded led to a charge as of March 2025.
Challenges persist with CCTV evidence, as currently, just 20% of shoplifting cases are submitted with CCTV evidence. Where clear CCTV is provided, officers are able to identify around 80% of suspects using facial recognition software and crime databases. Retailers are responding with measures like Asda trialing a vending machine for high-theft items, but there are no immediate plans to install new vending machines in stores beyond the ongoing trial in Ashton.
In a recent incident, a Waitrose employee of 17 years was sacked last week after stopping a shoplifter from running out with stolen Easter eggs, despite company policy telling staff not to intervene.