Independent convenience retailers are particularly vulnerable to the impact of shop theft, with repeated incidents taking a disproportionate toll on smaller businesses that lack the resources and security measures of larger chains, leading Glasgow retailer Nathalie Fullerton has warned after yet another incident of theft in her store on Tuesday (Nov 3).
Fullerton, who runs One Stop Partick Convenience Store in Glasgow and is National Deputy Vice President of the Federation of Independent Retailers, shared her concerns in a LinkedIn post after another theft at her store involving cans of AU Vodka.
She also shared CCTV footage of the incident, showing shoplifters walking away with the cans without any apparent fear or hesitation.
Writing ahead of the Asian Trader Awards 2026, where she is a contender for the Businesswoman of the Year title, Fullerton highlighted how independent retailers are more vulnerable due to limited resources and lack of protection.
“We aren't faceless multinational corporations with endless pockets," she wrote. "We are independent retailers. We are families. We are people who work incredibly hard, often sacrificing time with our own children and loved ones just to keep our businesses going.
"And yet, day after day, we are expected to absorb these losses, shrug our shoulders and carry on.
"It's not just about the monetary value of a few cans of AU vodka. It's the sheer audacity, the disrespect and the feeling that there are simply no consequences.
"When did stealing from a shop become so normalised? As retailers, we're constantly being encouraged to invest, innovate, grow our businesses and support our local communities. But who is protecting US?
"Who is standing up for the independent retailer who has simply had enough? And before anyone says it's just a few cans… multiply those few cans by the number of incidents we experience week after week. The financial impact soon adds up, but the emotional toll is something that rarely gets spoken about.
"Retail crime isn't victimless. Behind every independent shop is a real person trying to make a living, pay their staff, pay their bills and provide for their family."
Fullerton also questioned the level of protection available to independent retailers, who are regularly encouraged to invest, grow and support their communities while dealing with the consequences of shop theft.
As National Deputy Vice President of the Federation of Independent Retailers, she said the problem was shared by shopkeepers across the country and called for stronger deterrents, meaningful consequences for offenders and better protection for retailers.
“Retailers across the country are facing the same challenges, and we desperately need stronger deterrents, meaningful consequences and greater protection.
"We should not have to accept theft as simply 'part of the job'. I'm proud of my business, my team and the community we serve. But even the most resilient retailers have their breaking point.
"Enough is enough. I'd genuinely love to hear from fellow retailers. Are you experiencing the same? And more importantly, what needs to change before we lose even more good independent businesses?"