UK Retailers Buy Stolen Goods from Shoplifters

Retail groups in the UK, particularly the Association of Convenience Stores (ACS), have reported a surge in shoplifting incidents, with thieves stealing to order for criminal gangs. These thefts, often targeting items like meat, cheese, and alcohol, are being facilitated by smaller shops purchasing the stolen goods, sometimes unknowingly. ACS chief executive James Lowman noted that many of the offenders are repeat thieves who resell the stolen products to fund addiction issues, creating a strong market for these goods. The British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) corroborated this trend, highlighting an increase in organized shoplifting and the complicity of some local businesses. Notably, a store owner in Cornwall witnessed stolen goods being sold directly to another trader. With over 5.6 million shoplifting incidents reported in the past year, the crime's escalation is attributed to inadequate police responses, allowing gangs to operate with impunity.