ACS (the Association of Convenience Store) is highlighting the scale and impact of crimes committed against local shops as part of the National Business Crime Centre (NBCC) week of action.

Earlier this week, NBCC attended ACS’ Heart of the Community conference where they were involved in the new Partner Hub which was set up to provide retailers with the chance to get practice advice and inform them about the #ShopKind campaign.

ACS has co-ordinated with over 100 retailers and trade bodies the Home Office backed #ShopKind campaign, urging customers to be respectful of colleagues in stores. Polling conducted for the #ShopKind campaign shows that more than a third of consumers have witnessed violence and abuse against shopworkers. Campaign materials for retailers are available to download on the NBCC website here.

ACS chief executive James Lowman said: “We are proud to support the National Business Crime Centre’s week of action and as part of this we are reminding retailers about the #ShopKind campaign and its message about treating our colleagues with the kindness and respect that they deserve.

“Crime is one of the biggest challenges faced by local shops and these incidents have a significant impact on the individuals and the businesses affected. These incidents should not be seen as part of the job and must be reported.”

#ShopKind Champions have been nominated to spread the message of the #ShopKind campaign; encourage positive behaviours in shops, acknowledge the important role of shopworkers and raise the profile of the problem of violence and abuse against shopworkers.

More information about the campaign is available here. If you would like to become a #ShopKind Champion, please contact [email protected].