Safer Business Action Week 2025 leads to over 1,100 arrests for retail crime

A nationwide crackdown on business crime has led to more than 1,100 arrests during Safer Business Action (SaBA) Week 2025, according to new figures released by the National Business Crime Centre (NBCC).

The week-long initiative – coordinated by the NBCC and delivered by police forces across the UK – saw officers carry out more than 160 days of activity, run 1,400 events, and engage with almost 7,000 retailers and partners. Over 4,200 police officers and staff took part, with the number of arrests expected to rise as more forces submit their results. So far, 650 charges have been recorded.

Thames Valley Police delivered the highest number of arrests, reporting 193 in total, underscoring the force’s “proactive stance” on retail crime. Officers there also recorded 714 retail engagements, including 281 SaBA events.

Greater Manchester Police visited 1,141 stores and made 99 arrests, while Kent Police carried out more than 400 retail visits and made 94 arrests.

NBCC lead Superintendent Lisa Maslen said the results highlighted both the operational impact and the growing strength of police-retailer partnerships.

“This year’s results show not only strong operational outcomes, but also a clear commitment to supporting retailers, protecting staff, and reassuring the public,” she said. “As more forces report their activity, the picture of SaBA Week 2025 continues to grow, but one thing is already clear – this year’s coordinated effort has delivered meaningful results, strengthened partnerships, and set a new standard for tackling business crime across the UK.”

Maslen stressed that SaBA Week is not solely a policing exercise but a collaborative one, involving Business Improvement Districts (BIDs), Business Crime Reduction Partnerships (BCRPs), and private security providers.

High-visibility patrols, targeted enforcement against organised retail crime groups and repeat shoplifters, and shared intelligence on prolific offenders all formed key parts of the operation. Police also prioritised violence against shopworkers, offering welfare checks and reassurance visits to frontline staff.

The NBCC reported that the coordinated approach helped reinforce safer shopping environments and build stronger community relationships, with officers focusing on high-footfall retail areas, transport hubs, and known crime hotspots.

The organisation said SaBA Week represents “more than a five-day operation”, describing it as a national commitment to reducing harm and keeping retail spaces safe.