Retail Trust | The only charity that looks after the needs of three million people working in retail.

New research reveals true cost of 'yob culture'

Yob culture is a growing issue for British business, causing losses of £9.8 billion last year alone, according to new research, supporting Retail Trust's own findings on the experiences of retail staff.

The losses translate to an average cost of £4,000 for every business in the country. Troublesome behaviour included petty theft, broken windows and doors, graffiti, littering and intimidation or harassment.

Indeed, the problem was so great in London and Scotland that a third of companies there have considered relocating because of it.

These statistics serve to compound the results of a survey conducted by Retail Trust, which found that 60% of retail staff have been treated aggressively, leading to 39% of those surveyed considering whether or not to stay in the retail sector.

Our survey also found that retail staff believe only a small minority of those aggressive customers had any action taken against them, with staff estimating 77% escaped without any action being taken.

Amongst the responses to our survey, one retail worker explained: "Working in a store is one of the hardest jobs. Some customers show you absolutely no respect and abuse is a real issue.

"I personally have been called every name under the sun, been pulled across the counter by my tie, I have been scratched as well as spat at in the face."

Another stated: "Customers think I'm stupid because I work in retail. They think it's just stacking shelves and little else. I'm actually proud to work in retail and I take pride in my work.

"This is a career for me not just a job. I’ve had four promotions in two years and I do al ot more than stack shelves. I work in retail because I want to, not because I can't get another job. I think the public need to open their eyes."

Retail Trust is here to help retail staff cope with incidents of aggression and violence. In the last year, the amount of counselling provided by Retail Trust increased by 128%.

If you or anyone you know has been affected in any way by aggressive behaviour at work, please call our Helpline on 0808 801 0808, text HELPLINE to 88010 or email helpline@retailtrust.org.uk