For the past few years, workers have borne the brunt of not only a rude comment, or angry tirade, but also a sharp uptick in retail-based crime - in particular, heightened violent and hostile behaviour.
Our media has focused heavily on ram raids and retail violence, and for good reason. According to the New Zealand police, six months into 2023, there have been an average of two ram raids a day, across the country. No shop has been spared. Malls, department stores, petrol stations, and local neighbourhood dairies have all been targets. Moreover, NZ Retail reported that 92% of retailers responding to their retail crime survey had experienced some form of retail violence in the past twelve months.
While ram raids are not as much of a pervasive issue across the ditch in Australia, violent and aggressive behaviour in retail stores still is. South Australia has already implemented legislation that protects frontline workers from enduring abuse, and New South Wales is planning on following suit. This legislation change is a welcome relief for retailers, sending the message that violent behaviour is not welcome in-store.
This escalation in violence is scary and frustrating to watch. Retail employers are having a particularly tough time managing their workplaces when they turn into crime scenes. Despite initiatives from the police and government, employers still have to understand what’s going on, and the best practice ways they can help prevent it.