The impact of shoplifting on local businesses in Awsworth, a Built-Up Area (BUA) within Broxtowe, is a concern rooted in the area’s crime statistics. While Awsworth demonstrates a comparatively high safety score of 89 out of 100 – significantly above the UK average of 79 – the overall crime rate of 46.1 incidents per 1,000 residents is still notable. This is considerably lower than the UK average of 91.6 crimes per 1,000 people, suggesting a generally safer environment, but shoplifting remains a specific threat.
Shoplifting directly impacts a business’s profitability. Even seemingly small thefts accumulate, leading to increased costs for retailers. These costs include not only the value of the stolen goods but also the resources spent on loss prevention measures, staff time dealing with incidents, and potential increases in insurance premiums. While specific data on the prevalence of shoplifting within Awsworth isn’t available, the general crime rate indicates that it's likely a contributing factor.
The population of Awsworth is 2170, meaning that the 46.1 crimes per 1,000 residents represent a substantial number of incidents. While the safety score provides a positive indication of overall security, it doesn't negate the potential financial burden shoplifting places on local shops and retailers. Businesses in Awsworth, like those elsewhere, often operate on tight margins, and even relatively minor losses can significantly affect their viability.
It’s important to remember that the crime rate figure is an aggregate and doesn’t differentiate between types of crime. However, given the nature of Awsworth as a primarily residential and small business area, shoplifting is a likely contributor to this figure. Businesses should proactively address this by reviewing security measures, including CCTV coverage and staff training, to deter potential offenders and minimise losses. Engaging with local community initiatives can also help foster a safer environment for all.