Retail NZ Chief Executive Carolyn Young has welcomed the recent announcements by Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith on planned changes to the criminal justice system aimed at addressing retail crime. However, she expressed concerns that the measures may not be sufficient to fully address the issue.
Government Response to Retail Crime
Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith has announced tougher sentencing for serious retail crime, including a new aggravating factor for offences against sole charge workers and those whose home and business are interconnected. This change is intended to provide better protection for vulnerable retail workers.
Retail Industry Concerns
Carolyn Young highlighted that while the new measures are a step in the right direction, they do not address the broader scope of retail crime. “This doesn’t go far enough. Almost every retail worker has been affected by crime and aggression, whether they are sole charge or not. On a daily basis, retailers of all sizes are dealing with threatening, violent or simply unpleasant customers, who are trying to steal or damage their property,” Ms Young stated.
Young emphasized the widespread nature of retail crime, noting its impact on workers across the retail spectrum. “Our members are telling us that crime is traumatic for them and their staff, whether they are working in a small store alongside one or two others, or in large supermarkets,” she said.
Impact on Jewellers
Jewellery retailers are particularly vulnerable to retail crime due to the high value and desirability of their products. The jewellery sector has faced significant challenges, with incidents of theft and aggression affecting both small boutique stores and larger establishments. The added security measures and insurance costs necessary to protect valuable inventory contribute to the financial strain on jewellers.
The Scale of the Problem
Retail crime remains a significant challenge in New Zealand, affecting more than 92% of retailers. According to Retail NZ’s Crime Report 2023, the financial burden of retail crime on its members exceeds $2.6 billion. This extensive impact underscores the need for comprehensive measures to mitigate the issue.
Implications for the Jewellery Industry
The persistent issue of retail crime has broad implications for the jewellery industry, leading to increased costs and heightened security measures. “Ultimately, retail crime results in higher costs and more security barriers for all customers and consumers,” Young noted. For jewellers, this translates to higher expenses related to enhanced security systems, insurance premiums, and potential losses due to theft or damage.
While the government’s new measures are a positive development, the jewellery sector continues to call for more robust solutions to address the widespread issue of retail crime. The significant financial impact and the daily challenges faced by jewellery retailers highlight the need for ongoing attention and action from policymakers.
This latest development in the criminal justice system signals a recognition of the problem, but the jewellery industry remains vigilant and calls for further measures to ensure the safety and security of its workers and businesses.
