SHOPWORKERS have called for "action" over fears of a retail crime "epidemic".

Shopworkers' union Usdaw said both official figures and and reports from frontline staff warned of a rise in violence against staff.

Jackie Baillie MSP backed the union's calls for the problem to be tackled after they surveyed more than 5,500 retail staff.

A full 18 per cent of those asked were subjected to a violent attack in the past year.

Paddy Lillis, Usdaw General Secretary commented: “No one should feel afraid to go to work, but our evidence shows that too many retail workers are.

“It is shocking that nearly a fifth of our members working in retail are being assaulted for simply doing their job and serving the community. They provide an essential service and deserve our respect and the protection of the law.

“Our members have reported that they are often faced with hardened career criminals and we know that retail workers are much more likely to be abused by those who are stealing to sell goods on.

“Our latest survey results show that 7 in 10 retail workers suffered abuse from customers, with far too many experiencing threats and violence. Theft from shops and armed robbery were triggers for 61 per cent of these incidents.

“Violence and abuse is not an acceptable part of the job and much more needs to be done to protect shopworkers.”

The union boss also called for more neighbourhood police officers and patrols in town centres.

He added: “Most of all, we ask the public to support our campaign by respecting shopworkers.”

The Advertiser recently reported new crime statistics showing there were 199 reports of shoplifting last year, the highest in a decade and up on 177 the year before.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “We work closely with partners in the retail and business sectors to deter, prevent and investigate retail crime.

“Where we identify business which are being targeted by shoplifters, we have trained officers who can attend and carry out security surveys and offer advice around prevention.

“We work closely with retailers and we would encourage those employed within the retail sector to come forward and report any criminal activity directed towards them.

“We will investigate all reported crimes, with every case fully assessed and given a proportionate response based on threat, harm and risk.”

Dumbarton constituency MSP Jackie Baillie said: “The impact of crime and abuse on retail workers forced to cope in the face of increasing violence and threats has risen greatly in public consciousness, yet they are still forced to face these difficulties just to earn a wage.

“It is absolutely essential that shop workers in our communities are free to go about their daily work without fear of abuse, violence or intimidation.

“That is why I support Usdaw’s campaign and why I call on the public to back retail staff.

“The Covid pandemic highlighted the essential services shop workers provide in our communities. They are the unsung heroes of our high streets and it is vital that they can face their working day without fear.”