Lancashire's Police and Crime Commissioner has called on the government action to tackle the retail crime 'epidemic.'

Clive Grunshaw wrote to Policing Minister Dame Diana Johnson urging the introduction of a new law to protect shopworkers from harassment and assault.

He also wants all offences in retail settings to be recorded as such.

Labour PCC Mr Grunshaw suggested a review of measures to boost business security, potentially through licensing, increased responsibility to 'design out crime,' or new funding streams.

He highlighted the work already happening in Lancashire to address retail crime through Operation Vulture, which has resulted in 'thousands of positive outcomes' for shoplifting offences, including charges, cautions, and fixed penalty notices, as well as civil orders.

Operation Vulture has achieved 2,100 'positive outcomes' since its inception in March 2024, including 637 arrests for shoplifting offences.

The operation was highlighted during USDAW's 'Respect for Shopworkers Week.'

Mr Grunshaw said: "For too long we have seen the damage that retail crime and shopworker abuse has on the people it affects.

"Most of us will spend time in a retail setting and it's absolutely vital staff and customers feel safe when going about their daily lives.

"We're working hard here across Lancashire through Op Vulture to tackle retail crime and all the various forms it takes, from shoplifting to harassment and anti-social behaviour.

"Government can help us here in Lancashire and across the country to tackle this national epidemic, with additional powers to protect shopworkers, make sure retail spaces are safer, alongside ways to stamp out the issues that plague our town centres such as anti-social behaviour, all vital steps to tackling it.

"As the public’s voice in policing, I will continue to work with the Government and all local stakeholders to ensure we have the tools, funding and support to deliver the best possible policing service for the people of Lancashire."