Commissioner convenes business crime roundtable

His Office led the round table at County Hall, Preston, engaging in vital discussions about the impact of crime on businesses across the region.

The Commissioner had invited representatives from each of Lancashire’s Chamber of Commerce, where it was emphasised that tackling business and retail crime is a key priority in his Police and Crime Plan, which is currently in development.

The round table provided an opportunity for attendees to share their experiences and insights, fostering improved relationships between businesses and the police. This collaborative approach is crucial in addressing the challenges businesses face and working together to find effective solutions.

Attendees also discussed Op Vulture, Lancashire Constabulary’s response to retail crime, tackling hotspot areas and strengthening relationships between officers and the community they serve, which is already having some positive impact on shoplifting and other crimes impacting retailers.

Clive Grunshaw, Police and Crime Commissioner for Lancashire, said:

“I am committed to ensuring that the public’s voice is heard in policing matters, and  today’s round table was an invaluable opportunity for stakeholders to share the issues businesses in Lancashire are facing, and how we can work together to address them.

“The top concerns from businesses, their employees, and customers, largely focus on anti-social behaviour and business crime. It’s clear that a proactive response to these issues is needed, and improved relationships between businesses and the police are at the heart of this. Meetings like today really do make a difference.

“I am fully backing Lancashire Constabulary’s efforts to deliver an improved response to business crime, through Op Vulture and Op Centurion amongst others, sending a clear message to criminals that they will be caught and prosecuted, irrespective of the scale of their offences.

“As Commissioner, making Lancashire a safer place to live and work is my primary aim. This can only be achieved through strong leadership, a robust police force, and effective deterrents.”