Daily incidents; poor Garda response; more violence and aggression: RGDATA Crime Survey 2025

RGDATA’s 2025 Crime Survey paints a stark picture of rising crime; inadequate law enforcement response and a retail sector under siege. Retailers want real enforcement and meaningful sanctions to deal with this daily scourge causing untold stress to owners and their staff.

A representative sample of RGDATA members participated in the 2025 survey assessing the prevalence and impact of crime in the independent convenience/grocery retail sector. The respondents are from rural and urban areas and include convenience stores, forecourt stores and supermarkets.

The data reveals growing concern and direct experience with crime, particularly theft, with strong consensus on the need for consistent enforcement of laws.

Retailers are also concerned about the significant costs they incur dealing with retail crime at a time when increased business costs are threatening the viability of their businesses.

The sample base is 420 retailers.

Key Findings

1. Prevalence of Crime

· 95% of respondents reported being victims of crime in the past 12 months.

· Shoplifting was by far the most common offence, cited by 410 respondents.

· Staff theft was reported by 180 businesses.

· 20 respondents noted that weapons had been used during crimes.

2. Law Enforcement & Responses

· 400 retailers contacted the Gardaí in response to criminal activity.

· However, only a small minority expressed satisfaction with Garda response or follow-up—many noted slow response times and a lack of follow-through.

3. Perceived Trends

· Every respondent agreed that retail crime has increased in the past year.

· 410 out of 420 retailers agreed with the statement that they feel afraid to challenge criminals, citing fear of assault or legal repercussions.

4. Attitudes Toward Crime Policy

· All respondents (100%) supported the idea that real enforcement and meaningful sanctions—not just new laws—are the key to tackling retail crime.

· There is strong support for:

o Creating a new offence for violence against retail workers.

o Mandatory barring orders for convicted offenders.

o Improved data-sharing between Gardaí and businesses.

o Fixed penalty notices for shop lifting.

o A meaningful intervention to address youth crime and anti-social behaviour.

Retailer Commentary – Themes & Highlights

Retailers were also invited to provide open-ended comments. Common themes include:

· Lack of deterrents: Many feel that current penalties are too light to discourage repeat offenders.

· Insufficient Garda presence: There is frustration with the visibility and responsiveness of law enforcement.

· Mental and emotional toll: Several comments noted that retail workers feel vulnerable, demoralized, and unsupported.

· Investments in private security: Numerous businesses have had to implement costly security measures, such as alarms, CCTV, personal cameras, and private security guards.

· Call for coordinated efforts: Retailers expressed interest in a national or regional task force, including better communication between Gardaí and retailers.

Retailer Comments

1. Demand for Harsher Penalties

Many retailers are frustrated with what they perceive as soft consequences for offenders.

“They need more than a slap across the hand. They need to be more afraid of what happens when they get caught.” “Harsher penalties… the laws are way too lenient.”

2. Garda Presence and Policing Gaps

Several respondents feel exposed due to insufficient policing.

“More Garda. We are sitting ducks.” “There’s no deterrent. They know they won’t be arrested.”

3. Emotional and Economic Toll

The human impact of repeated incidents was highlighted, including fear, burnout, and financial strain.

“Theft and abuse have become daily occurrences. It’s exhausting.” “There should be some kind of rebate system for retailers who are victims of crime.”

4. Lack of Follow-through by Authorities

Retailers expressed disillusionment over the Gardaí’s follow-up and justice system outcomes.

“You report it but then hear nothing.” “Zero tolerance needed. Even underage offenders—fine the parents.”

5. Support for Zero Tolerance & Reforms

A repeated call emerged for stricter enforcement, prison terms for serial offenders that are actually served, community accountability, and visibility of sanctions.

Calls for a Retail Crime Taskforce within the Gardai to address this epidemic of criminal activity in shops.

“Retailers should not have to become security guards.”

The 2025 Retail Crime Survey paints a stark picture of rising crime, inadequate law enforcement response, and a retail sector under siege. While there is cautious optimism about new legislative efforts, the retail community is united in its belief that real change hinges on enforcement, accountability, and protection for frontline staff.