Middle-class shoplifting on the rise

10/11/2009

Shoplifting rates have increased as a direct result of the economic downturn, a new report suggests.

Checkpoint Systems, a security specialist, believes that there has been a particular rise in middle-class shoplifters who have suffered a loss of personal income in the recession and turn to crime to be able to afford their former lifestyles.

Overall shop theft has risen by 20 per cent over the past year, with total losses borne by retailers hitting £4.88 billion.

Included in this general increase is an 8.8 per cent rise in clothing and accessories thefts and an 8.4 per cent rise for food and convenience store losses.

Kevin Still, EuroDebt director, commented: "As with insurance fraud, there is a direct link between theft and personal indebtedness, which shouldn't be a surprise. The challenge is getting normally honest people to face up to their financial difficulties and make serious lifestyle cutbacks before it is too late. EuroDebt would also recommend taking professional advice before considering extreme measures."

He added: "For those that steal essential items just to meet basic needs then there is a very urgent need to seek help and there are a number of locally based money advice centres that may be able to assist.

"For the 'middle class' families that are in debt then we would recommend that they look at non-borrowing debt solutions. Debt Management Plans or IVAs are handled very confidentially and there is no reason for the Jones' next door to find out."

Tags; Income Worries and Debt, Young Family Finances,

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