Levels of shoplifting in the UK are rocketing as the cost of living crisis pushes people to desperation. The Office of National Statistics reported a 24% rise in shoplifting offences in England and Wales over the past year and an 11% increase here on Merseyside.
The cost of living crisis is hurting Jeere in a number of way. Firstly, it has led to concerns he might have to leave the only job he's ever had while the rising cost of living has led to a drop in footfall and a rise in rent making it hard to stay open. Khalid Mahood, manager of the footwear store EGO, hasn't seen people steal from his store but is aware of it happening in other shops. The 62-year-old said: "I’ve seen people steal from food shops in here like Wilko when it was around. It’s quite surprising to see people stealing food. People have no money they are poor, that is why they are stealing. It’s people who you never expected to steal like everyday people.
As a part of the drive he encourages retailers to report shoplifters however small the theft. He said: "Somebody may steal £30 of goods, but they may then go on and steal £600 worth of stock in another store. Even if they did low value thefts across a variety of stores, it will add up."