Retailer supplies staff with body cameras amid retail crime wave

One of the UK’s largest suppliers of fishing tackle is to give body-worn cameras to members of staff at some of its major stores as retail crime in the region hits an all-time high.

GO Outdoors – owner of the Fishing Republic franchise – is to roll out the initiative at 25 of its stores nationwide following a successful pilot scheme at its Stoke-on-Trent outlet.

The introduction comes after GO Outdoors – owned by the JD Sports conglomerate – struck up a partnership with The Retail Trust, a leading charity that works to care for and protect the lives of people working in the retail industry.

Claire Cowie, Stoke-on-Trent Store Manager, said:“Body cameras have been a gamechanger. They have not only deterred theft, but also increased confidence among staff that they are safe when they come to work.

“The added layer of protection has been well received by our customers and it has brought a new level of trust and transparency to our store. Crucially, the business has been proactive in equipping us with these tools, enabling us to react swiftly and effectively to the concerning increase in retail crime we have faced.”

Carl Harris, Associate Director of Retail, added: “With retail crime in the UK at an all-time high, GO Outdoors has been committed to testing different initiatives that could help foster a safer and more enjoyable shopping experience.

“Our recent trial has proven to be a success, with body cameras increasing confidence among a store team that has previously faced challenges with members of the public. While some colleagues were initially apprehensive about the trial, citing concerns that they thought cameras might escalate situations, our Profit Protection team held a training session to highlight the benefits. As a result, more colleagues have requested to wear them.

“After observing the reassurance the trial provided, we have decided to roll out body cameras to 25 more stores nationwide as part of the GO Outdoors’ ongoing aim to create a safer environment for both staff and customers.”