SGF Crime & Security Seminar

Protecting Retail – Crime Prevention and Security Best Practices

Thursday 12th February 2026
Doubletree by Hilton, Edinburgh Airport
8.30am – 3.00pm

“The SGF annual Crime Seminar exposes the grim realities of theft, abuse and violence faced by Scotland’s convenience retailers on a daily basis. It’s an excellent platform for store owners and staff to unite in sharing their common experiences and fears, while also hearing from insightful speakers such as politicians, senior police officers and security companies. There are also very relevant trade stands where retailers can find out about the measures they can take to protect their stores from the criminals. For me, as a trade journalist, the day provides a great source of stories and the chance to network with both the retailers and the experts.”

— Giles Blair, Editor, Scottish Grocer

“I was absolutely thrilled to be invited to speak at the Scottish Grocers Federation Retail Crime Seminar, 13th March 2025.  The event far exceeded my expectations, featuring an outstanding lineup of speakers and panellists, as well as a highly engaged audience that clearly cared deeply about the issue of retail crime. It was a valuable use of my time and well worth the trip to Edinburgh and I will actively look out for future SGF events. “

— Vince Malone, Tenby Stores

This event will explore the latest trends in retail crime, the economic and operational consequences it has on businesses, and best practices for preventing and responding to these threats. Attendees will hear from experts on the cutting-edge security technologies, strategies for loss prevention and real-life stories from our retailer panel session. Recent figures published by the Scottish Government (Recorded Crime 2025), show that shoplifting has risen by 17% in the past year and has more than doubled (124%) since 2021. Cases of abuse and violence toward shop workers have reached a staggering 21,000 reported incidents in just four years. Nonetheless, SGF’s Crime report is clear that 48% of retail crime goes unrecorded due to the lack of confidence in the police attendance and the Scottish legal system. The SGF Crime Seminar highlights the reality at first hand from retailers. Looking at systems that help you to deter and detect crime and networking with likeminded businesses about the retail crime epidemic many retailers are facing.

Key highlights of the event include:

• Understand emerging trends in retail crime and how criminals are adapting

• Hear first-hand stories and case studies from retailers on the frontline

• Learn practical tools, strategies, and technologies that deter, detect, and respond

• Engage with law enforcement, security providers, policymakers, and peers

• Explore the security solutions zone / trade exhibition to see offerings you can put to work right away

This event emphasises that retail crime is a growing threat that cannot be ignored. With the increasing sophistication of criminal operations, it's more important than ever for businesses to take proactive measures to protect their stores, employees, and customers. Join us as we discuss how to tackle this issue head-on and ensure a safer retail environment for all.

To secure your FREE place click here