The proposed reward for members of the public who report shoplifters has split opinion among Bristol Live readers, with some arguing it is a “joke” and others saying it is “better than nothing”
Plainclothes police officers were waiting outside as the thief tried to get away (stock image)(Image: Getty)
Bristol Live readers have been debating the suggested £1 incentive for members of the public who report shoplifters, highlighting broader anxieties about escalating retail crime, the function of security personnel and the extent of police intervention on our high streets.
Retail theft has reached unprecedented levels and people are demanding stricter policing and extended sentences, but a senior officer with Avon and Somerset Police has highlighted the underlying causes of this widespread issue.
The problem has become so significant for retailers that one supermarket is introducing a programme where customers identifying thieves will receive rewards on their loyalty cards.
Shoplifting reached a record peak in 2024, with the number of incidents exceeding 500,000 for the first time, rising 20% from 2023.
Numerous readers contended the reward is far too modest to create any impact. One reader, Chopsee comments: “£1 reward, christ might as well give out a lollipop.”
Muttsnuts says: “Better than nothing it will act as a deterrent to shop lifters as they know they may be grassed up if they are seen doing this stuff.”
Chiefchupachup believes: “Security guards stop plenty of thieves but the rules of engagement are extremely restrictive. As she well knows, shop staff and security guards are not allowed to physically intervene with shoplifters.”
Jw99 writes: “£1?! What can you do with that? What a joke. It won’t stop them anyway. They don’t care because they have nothing to lose.”
Mikeydubzzz asks: “Why should the public get involved, what a joke with the police not even turning up and security guards not allowed to apprehend shoplifters. so instead get the public to grass up lifters for a pound reward. I would not grass anyone because I am there to buy food, not do the job of the store. Most big stores can afford to lose money for example – Sainsbury : Market cap: £6.72 Billion. Tesco: 26.88 billion.”
Ujest121 says: “Security guards are told not to stop them especially known as Tesco are cutting security guards hours what do you expect from them when they don’t get any support from the company, how can they do their job properly.”
6470 comments: “There are no police, how long would it take the police to get to the shop even if it was reported. They don’t report shop lifting because they know nothing will happen. May I suggest a picture of the shop lifter be put in the window with a sign saying not wanted in this shop. Change the law so police take these people to court or it will never change.”
Amunra61 says: “Despite pointing out 3 teenagers to security of my local supermarket, the youngsters still left the store without paying for the sugary drinks and sweets that were stuffed in their pockets.”
While Occultdetectiveuk feels: “It’s hilarious that someone genuinely thought £1 is was a good incentive to go out of your way for, shows how out of touch they are. They’ve been robbing us blind since 2020 so it’s a taste of their own medicine.”
Do you think that a £1 reward for shopping shoplifters is adequate? Comment below or HERE to join in the conversation.