The impact of retail crime on businesses in New Milton is a growing concern, though quantifying its exact effect requires further investigation beyond available data. Currently, New Milton, classified as a Built-Up Area (BUA) within the New Forest, has a crime rate of 94.3 incidents per 1,000 residents. This figure is marginally higher than the United Kingdom’s average of 91.6 per 1,000. The area’s safety score is 78 out of 100, which is slightly below the UK average of 79.
While a difference of 2.7 incidents per 1,000 residents may seem small, it can translate to a tangible impact on local businesses. Increased retail crime often leads to financial losses due to theft, damage to property, and increased security costs. Beyond the direct financial impact, businesses may experience disruptions to operations, decreased employee morale, and a negative impact on customer perception.
It's important to note that this data doesn't specify the types of crimes occurring. Retail crime can encompass a wide range of offences, from shoplifting and vandalism to more serious incidents like fraud and robbery. Without a breakdown of these specific crimes, it's difficult to determine the precise proportion attributable to retail businesses. However, the slightly elevated crime rate compared to the UK average suggests that New Milton businesses should be vigilant and implement preventative measures.
Given the population of New Milton is 10,375, the crime rate translates to approximately 98 incidents across the entire BUA. While not all of these incidents will affect retail establishments, the elevated rate warrants attention. Businesses should consider measures such as improved CCTV coverage, staff training on crime prevention, and robust inventory management. Reporting all incidents to the police is also vital for accurate crime mapping and resource allocation.