Retail NZ says that the Government has taken a positive step today to address retail crime but there is a lot more that
needs to happen.
“While it is good news that the Government is focusing on retail crime, we fundamentally need to see a change across
society in attitudes towards crime and violence,” Retail NZ Chief Executive Greg Harford said today. “Everyone in the
community needs to have a shared understanding that it’s not ok to steal, threaten, assault or kill. This needs an
extensive social change programme to get the message through.
“Additionally, It’s critical that retail workers are trained in how to manage armed robberies. Many businesses are
investing heavily in providing this sort of support for their team members, but this can be challenging for SMEs. Retail
NZ has a suite of resources available to support the sector, and anyone wanting to access them should visit www.retail.kiwi/crime.
“Retail NZ has made it clear to the Government and officials there are a number of initiative required to support the
sector, including:Training for retail workers to deescalate instances of violence, aggression and robberySpecific penalties in the Crimes Act calling out abuse and violence against retail workersMental health and wellbeing support for retail workers impacted by retail crimeIncrease the number of police on the beat through retail communities across the countrySocial change programme to change attitudes towards retail crime and understand property rights.