Lidl announces new rule for every UK store in shoplifting crackdown

Lidl has announced its plans for a new staff safety measure following a surge in shoplifting and abuse towards workers.

By spring next year, employees will be provided body-worn cameras at all stores across the UK, with Lidl claiming it will be the first UK supermarket to ensure bodycams are worn in every outlet. However, it is understood that not every staff member will be required to wear the cams

It comes after other retailers such as Tesco have trialled body cameras with its employees. Lidl GB, which owns over 960 shops in the UK, said it would invest £2 million to ensure every shop has access to the new security measure. Lidl was among 10 retailers last month to commit £60,000 of funding and launch Project Pegasus which aims to crack down on shoplifting.

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Ryan McDonnell, chief executive at Lidl GB, said: “As a business with over 960 stores across the length and breadth of the country, safety and security has always been an absolute priority for us. While our stores are typically safe environments, retail crime is something that is impacting the whole industry.

“Our investment into ensuring all our stores have body-worn cameras is just one of the ways we’re taking action to protect and provide reassurance to our colleagues and customers.”

Bosses at the retailer also confirmed that staff "will receive training to ensure the cameras are used safely and in a way that protects an individual’s privacy”. The British Retail Consortium said its 2023 crime survey showed violence and abuse towards industry workers had almost doubled