As Robberies Rise, ACS Urges Retailers to Step Up Security Measures

In response to a growing number of robberies targeting retail premises, the Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) has released new guidance for 2025, urging shop owners to tighten their security protocols and better prepare for potential criminal incidents.

The updated “ACS Crime Guidance 2025: Robbery” outlines a practical, step-by-step approach to assessing and reducing robbery risk, while also offering crucial advice on how to respond if a crime does occur.

Retailers are encouraged to proactively evaluate their exposure to robbery by identifying hazards, determining who might be affected and how, assessing risks, implementing precautionary measures, and reviewing policies regularly. The guide emphasizes that preparation and awareness are key to prevention.

Among the top recommendations are:

• Monitoring for suspicious behavior such as individuals loitering outside, taking photos inside the store, or probing staff about security measures.
  
• Maintaining the integrity of CCTV systems with daily checks to ensure functionality and unobstructed views.
  
• Keeping till floats to a minimum and securing all cash to reduce temptation and potential losses.
  
• Ensuring security discussions are strictly internal and not shared with outsiders.
  

In the unfortunate event of a robbery, ACS offers a clear sequence of steps to follow:

1. Remain calm and comply with the robbers’ instructions.
   
2. If safe, raise the alarm and retreat to a secure location.
   
3. Do not pursue the perpetrators.
   
4. Call emergency services immediately once it’s safe.
   
5. Close the store and document detailed descriptions of the suspects, including height, build, clothing, tattoos, accents, and any escape vehicle information.
   

The guide also includes a visual height chart and prompts retailers to note distinguishing features that can aid police investigations:

This release is part of ACS’s broader effort to support local shops through informed crime prevention strategies, emphasizing that vigilance and preparation are the most effective tools in combating the rising threat of robbery.

For more resources and updates, retailers can visit www.acs.org.uk or follow ACS on various social media platforms, including Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn.

As crime patterns evolve, the ACS’s message is clear: preparedness isn’t optional, it’s essential.