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Safer Business Action (SaBA) Week 2025 — coordinated by the National Business Crime Centre (NBCC), operated by the City of London Police — has resulted in more than 1,100 arrests for retail crime offences across the UK, with the figure expected to rise as additional forces submit their results.
Updates from 32 police forces in England and Wales, alongside British Transport Police (BTP), show the scale of the week-long operation: more than 160 days of collective activity, 1,400 events, over 4,200 officers and staff deployed, and engagement with close to 7,000 businesses and partner organisations. The activity generated more than 1,100 arrests and 650 charges.
Thames Valley Police recorded 193 arrests — a significant share of the national total — supported by 433 retail engagements and 281 SaBA events, bringing its overall partnership activity to 714 interactions with the retail sector. Greater Manchester Police visited 1,141 stores, offering reassurance and crime-prevention guidance, and made 99 arrests. Kent Police, meanwhile, recorded 94 arrests and engaged with more than 400 retail outlets.
NBCC lead Superintendent Lisa Maslen said the results highlighted not only strong operational performance but a “clear commitment to supporting retailers, protecting staff, and reassuring the public.” She added that the week represented a collaborative effort across policing, Business Improvement Districts, Business Crime Reduction Partnerships and the private security sector. “This year’s coordinated effort has delivered meaningful results, strengthened partnerships, and set a new standard for tackling business crime across the UK,” she said.
The 2025 operation showcased a multi-agency model that blended enforcement, intelligence sharing and high-visibility policing. Officers focused on high-footfall retail centres, transport hubs and known crime hotspots to deter offending, while intelligence shared between police and retailers allowed teams to target prolific offenders, emerging trends and organised retail crime groups. Particular emphasis was placed on tackling violence against shopworkers and repeat shoplifters.
Alongside arrests and enforcement activity, forces offered practical crime-prevention advice, reassurance visits and welfare checks, underscoring the crucial role of frontline retail workers and the importance of protecting them from harm. Police engagement with both staff and the public helped reinforce safer shopping environments and strengthen community relationships.
Organisers said SaBA Week represents more than a five-day operational push — it reflects a long-term national commitment to supporting businesses, reducing harm and ensuring retail spaces remain safe and welcoming. The scale and impact of the 2025 campaign, they said, demonstrate policing’s continued determination to combat business crime in all its forms.
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