The impact of shoplifting on businesses in Tow Law is a consequence of the area's overall crime rate. According to available data, Tow Law, classified as a Built-Up Area (BUA) in County Durham, has a crime rate of 98.4 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is slightly higher than the United Kingdom average of 91.6 per 1,000. While the safety score for Tow Law stands at 76 out of 100, this is also a touch below the UK average of 79.
It's crucial to understand that a higher crime rate doesn’t solely represent shoplifting; it encompasses a range of offences. However, shoplifting is a significant contributor to the overall crime picture, particularly impacting retailers and other businesses that sell goods directly to consumers. The financial impact of shoplifting can be substantial, including the direct value of stolen goods, increased security costs, and potential insurance premium hikes.
Unfortunately, specific data detailing the frequency and value of shoplifting incidents solely within Tow Law is not publicly available. The provided data offers a broader picture of the area's safety and crime levels. The population of Tow Law is recorded as 2307, suggesting that the 98.4 crime rate per 1,000 represents a relatively small population, potentially meaning that individual businesses are disproportionately affected. While the safety score of 76 indicates a reasonable level of safety, the higher-than-average crime rate suggests that vigilance and preventative measures are particularly important for businesses operating in the area. Businesses may consider measures such as CCTV installation, improved stock management, and staff training to deter shoplifting and minimise losses.