An event aimed at tackling retail crime is set to take place in High Wycombe.
The 'Fight Back Against Retail Crime' initiative is organised by High Wycombe BID, with support from Thames Valley Police, on October 15 at Muffin Break in the Eden Centre.
The event will provide a platform for retailers to engage with security experts, develop preventive measures, and create safer working environments.
It is part of a broader effort in High Wycombe to combat retail crime and improve the town centre for shops, staff, and customers.
This is the second such event in the Thames Valley area this year, following a successful event in Reading in May, which saw participation from more than 100 retailers and stakeholders.
Chief Inspector Stewart Codling of Thames Valley Police said: "The event in October is about all of us coming together in collaboration to create safer environments for retailers and their customers, whilst ensuring that we, the police, have the best opportunity to disrupt and pursue those who choose to steal or use violence.
"This unified approach demonstrates the collective will to stand together and Policing has a significant part to play in this fight against retail crime.
"We will continue to develop our understanding of the key issues faced by those within our business communities, improving our operational response and helping to make our spaces safer for all."
Melanie Williams, CEO at HWBIDCo, said: "Addressing retail crime in our area is absolutely key to improving our place, businesses are understandably frustrated with the rise in crime and it’s the right time to join forces to fight back.
"As part of HWBIDCo’s commitment to tackling retail crime and as a BCRP accredited organisation, we are pulling together some of the very best tech and retail preventative solutions available into one place to help businesses protect themselves and also sending a message to shoplifters that enough is enough."
The event will be divided into two sessions, from 10am to 12pm and from 1pm to 3pm.
It will feature interactive demonstrations of preventive measures like fogging machines, the latest CCTV technology, DNA sprays, and more.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here