Recorded Crime in Scotland, 2024-25
On 24th June, the Scottish Government published Recorded Crime in Scotland, 2024-25 document. Some of the key figures include:
The total number of crimes recorded by the police in Scotland in 2024-25 was 299,111.
Shoplifting increased by 16% between 2023–24 and 2024–25, from 38,674 to 44,730 crimes. Shoplifting rates have increased for the last 4 consecutive years and is the highest level since records began in 1971. A 57% increase over 10 years (2015–16 to 2024–25). Shoplifting also had the largest decrease of clear up rates amongst all crimes of dishonesty. The clear up rate fell from 50.3% to 49.0%.
There were 11 Serious assaults of retail workers, under the Protection of Workers (Retail and Age restricted Goods and Services) (Scotland) Act 2021 in 2024-25.
There were 3,169 offences recorded in 2024–25 of threatening and abusive behaviour of retail workers.
Luke McGarty, SGF Head of Policy & Public Affairs, said: “The latest figures will come as no surprise to anyone working in the retail in Scotland. Crime has risen exponentially in stores in the past few years, and in the worst cases retailers and staff are forced to put up with multiple instances of theft and abuse every day.
“What the statistics don’t show is the impact that crime has on the viability of running a local shop and the harm to the wellbeing of staff, families and the wider community.
“SGF is working closely with Police Scotland to get to grips with the situation, and we welcome the extra funding announced in the most recent Scottish Government budget. The reality, however, is that Ministers also need to dedicate targeted resources available annually to the Scottish Justice System to put the brakes on and reverse the trend.
“Our own research for the Scottish convenience sector confirms that shop theft and vandalism carries with it an average yearly cost of £19,600 per store. That’s over £100 million taken out of small local businesses, many of which provide essential lifeline services and local employment at the very heart of their community.”