UK business leaders have warned that crime is becoming an increasingly serious barrier to economic growth, as shoplifting, fraud, and cyber-attacks against companies continue to rise. The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), representing tens of thousands of businesses nationwide, called for a significant increase in government support after a survey found that two-fifths of firms experienced some form of crime in the past year.
Survey Highlights Rising Crime
The BCC survey of 1,411 companies revealed that one-fifth of businesses faced fraud or scams, while 21% reported cyber-attacks. Ellis Shelton, a BCC policy manager, emphasized that tackling crime would help remove structural barriers to growth. He stated: 'Crime against business is now a serious barrier to growth and investment across the UK. Our research shows many firms are dealing with rising levels of theft, fraud and cyber-attacks. Bosses are being forced to divert crucial time and money to tackling this anchor on growth.'
Call for Government Action
The BCC urged the government to create a cyber-attack reporting system for companies, establish regional business crime hubs to coordinate police and business crime reduction partnerships, and expand cyber and fraud resilience support for small and medium-sized enterprises. It also called for more incentives for businesses to invest in security.
High-Profile Cyber-Attacks in 2024
Last year saw several major cyber-attacks on UK businesses, including Marks & Spencer, the Co-op, Jaguar Land Rover, and Booking.com. The hack of JLR alone was estimated to have cost the UK economy £1.9bn, potentially making it the most costly cyber-attack in British history. M&S reported a £324m profit hit after being forced to close its website for over six weeks following a damaging hack.
Tool Thefts and Retail Crime
At the smaller end of the scale, tradespeople have noted a rise in tool thefts, which can severely impact their ability to operate. Retail businesses have also complained of increasing thefts. Police-recorded shoplifting rose 20% year-on-year to 516,971 offences in the year to December 2024, and by March 2025, the annual total exceeded 530,000.
Vulnerability by Business Size and Sector
A further BCC survey from autumn 2024 found that larger companies are more vulnerable to crime, with rates rising from 32% among microbusinesses to 58% among firms employing over 250 people. The manufacturing sector reported being the hardest hit, with 50% of companies experiencing business crime.
