Every year, GMP continues to crack down on retail crime and shoplifting, securing thousands of arrests and charges.
In the year up until the end of summer, GMP solved more than 6,000 shoplifting offences, with more than 4,000 arrests.
This arrest increase – 4,091 compared with 3,638 in the 12 months prior marks an ever-improving approach to retail crime by Greater Manchester Police.
Five years ago, they were solving hundreds of retail crimes. they’re now solving thousands of retail crimes every single year.
In the year up until May 2021, before Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson took the helm, they solved 993 shoplifting crimes. The figure up until the start of September 2026 stands at 6,828.
This 586% increase is thanks to the dedication and hard-work of our policing teams across the force which is strongly led by neighbourhood officers who put countless hours into supporting businesses and retailers in their areas.
From corner shops and high streets to huge supermarkets and shopping centres, neighbourhood officers regularly engage with workers to provide bespoke crime prevention advice, monitor any issues, and take action wherever it is needed.
In addition, their centralised Initial Investigation Unit manages thousands of retail crime reports, investigating and finalising the cases to free up officers for operational work.
The 13% arrest increase between 2025 and 2026 also saw 3,405 charges secured, with multiple other outcomes including out-of-court disposals issued.
While they continue to take enforcement action, officers are acutely aware of the nuances of this form of criminality which has also seen partnership work to provide support and assistance for those who need it.
This sees officers working with charities, councils, and outreach programmes to signpost those in need to the appropriate agency.
As GMP marks Safer Business Action Week with a range of engagement and action, officers will continue to add to their ever-growing list of positive outcomes.
Chief Inspector Paul Nolan, who is leading GMP’s Safer Business Action Week work, said: “The ever-increasing figures speak for themselves; GMP has zero tolerance for shoplifting and retail crimes.
“The thousands of arrests and charges are testament to the hard work of officers who are dedicated to their areas, working with businesses, and building strong, long-lasting partnerships.
“As teams across Greater Manchester take part in Safer Business Action Week, I want to stress to businesses and retailers that we are on your side – if you have any issues, please speak to your local neighbourhood policing team."
