The latest recorded crime figures reveal that 40,554 alleged shoplifting crimes were reported to police in the year ending June 2024, up from 30,202 the previous year and 27,045 in the year ending June 2020.

The Scottish Retail Consortium (SRC) has said the real figure could be even higher due to under-reporting.

David Lonsdale, SRC director, said: “It’s appalling that shoplifting has soared by a third. Despite record spending by retailers on crime prevention the rate of thefts continues to rise. In fact, these figures won’t even capture the full picture as many thefts aren’t reported by retailers who are sceptical that action will be taken.

“Shoplifting isn’t a victimless crime. Shoplifting is the main factor behind abuse and threats towards shop workers and we know from member feedback that thieves are becoming bolder and more aggressive.

“The financial costs too are enormous and are ultimately borne by shoppers themselves; in some cases through higher prices on shop shelves.

“With a swathe of new mandated rules in the pipeline or under consideration, and which may lead to more flashpoints in store, the SRC wants tackling crime against retailers to be made a greater priority by the authorities, including in the Scottish government’s Strategic Police Priorities, to ensure our shops are made safer.”