The Northampton Retail Crime Initiative (NRCI) is celebrating its seventh anniversary.
The NRCI began as a response to the increasing problems with shoplifting in Northampton town centre but has evolved over the past seven years into a renowned information-sharing scheme linking the Police, businesses, CCTV and other partners together to promote a united stance against retail criminals.
The scheme covers all shopping areas in the Borough of Northampton and aims to reduce shoplifting, fraud and anti-social behaviour towards retail staff. There are 150 member stores participating in an Exclusion Order scheme that bans persistent offenders from all stores.
Police Liaison Officer Nick Stevens said: "The decision to ban an offender is not taken lightly and is made by the NRCI having consulted widely with its members, the Police and other relevant agencies. The offender is served with an Exclusion Order by NRCI staff and warned about the consequences should they continue with their offending."
The NRCI provides an exclusive photo manual, which shows images of convicted retail crime and fraud offenders, helping staff to recognise excluded offenders and enforce the ban. It also produces regular newsletters giving details of the latest crime trends and target criminals.
PC Nick Stephens said: "Seven years is a long time for any retail crime initiative to be operating successfully.
"What is so good about the NRCI is that it is always looking ahead. In February this year we started some early intervention work with young people who were caught shoplifting. We offer a wide range of support to retailers from reassurance visits and help with the civil recovery process and crime prevention advice."
And coordinator Joe Joyce said: "It is fantastic to be celebrating the NRCIโs seventh birthday and it is pleasing to note that we continue to add to our membership base – surely proving that we are value for money and an effective partnership scheme."
For details visit the NRCIโs website www.retailcrime.org
