Retailers in Croydon have voiced strong support for a proposed GPS-tagging pilot aimed at persistent shoplifters, a move they believe could finally deter repeat offenders in the town centre. The plan, announced by Croydon Council, comes amid frustration over a system that many traders say fails to protect them.
Retailers Endorse GPS Tagging as a 'Positive Step'
Benedict Selvaratnam, managing director of Freshfields Market and co-founder of the Croydon Business Association (CBA), described the initiative as a “positive step” that would “empower shopkeepers to take action.” Speaking on the shop floor, he recounted a violent incident where staff were bottled after attempting to retrieve stolen wine. “It’s not what we sign up to do,” he said, adding that his butcher sometimes doubles as a security guard to deter thieves.
The CBA, representing 450 businesses, frequently discusses shoplifting in WhatsApp groups. Selvaratnam noted that current bans are ineffective: “We ban shoplifters and say they are not welcome here, but they still keep coming back. By the time the police come they are long gone. A lot of retailers are not bothering because they have no faith in the system.”
Rising Thefts and Enforcement Gaps
Official figures show 4,796 reported shop thefts in Croydon town centre over the past 12 months, a 4.9% decrease from 5,043 the previous year. However, Selvaratnam believes many incidents go unreported due to poor confidence in police follow-up. He also pointed to Croydon’s transport links, including the tram stop outside Freshfields, which allow offenders to evade capture.
The GPS-tagging model, successfully trialled in East Sussex, would require offenders to wear ankle tags under a legal order, enabling monitoring and alerts if they enter banned areas. Croydon Council is in discussions with the Met Police and technology provider BUDDI to adapt the scheme, but a start date is pending funding confirmation.
Zero-Tolerance Approach from Council
Mayor Jason Perry announced the plans, stating: “Shoplifting is not a victimless crime. It threatens people’s livelihoods, drives up prices for honest customers and leaves shop workers facing intimidation and abuse simply for doing their jobs.” He added, “Our businesses have had enough of prolific offenders repeatedly targeting their shops, and so have I. My message is clear – that if you come to Croydon to steal, you should expect consequences.”
The council has already secured a borough-wide ban against David Tench, described as causing “misery for local businesses and residents, particularly in the West Croydon area.” Parkguard Patrol officers have been deployed in hotspots this summer, and the Town Centre Taskforce is addressing antisocial behaviour and environmental crime.
Mixed Reactions and Next Steps
Selvaratnam acknowledged the risks of intervening, noting it’s “50/50” how suspects react, with some becoming aggressive. Public response also varies, though he said witnesses often side with staff. He believes GPS tagging could provide evidence of breaches, aiding police enforcement and convictions.
The pilot’s future depends on securing funding, but Mayor Perry is determined: “I am determined that Croydon will lead the way in taking tough, practical action against shoplifting. We will continue working with the police, businesses and technology providers to develop this pilot and make Croydon a safer place in which to work, shop and live.”
