Independent retailers face being put out of business by an epidemic of shoplifting, violence and rogue traders selling illegal cigarettes and vapes.
Shocking figures show 96 per cent of small shop owners said rising retail crime combined with Labour’s tax hikes and high energy costs have made it harder for their businesses to survive.
A third of those surveyed by the Federation of Independent Retailers have noticed an increase in crime in their stores since the start of the year.
Epidemic: A third of those surveyed by the Federation of Independent Retailers have noticed an increase in crime in their stores since the start of the year
Nearly all – 95 per cent – said more shoppers will turn to rogue traders to buy tobacco and e-cigarettes amid a government crackdown on smoking and vaping.
The Federation’s national president, Mo Razzaq, said: ‘We have repeatedly warned the Government in no uncertain terms that independent retail is on the brink of disaster unless our industry receives support.’
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