Union calls for stronger protection as shoplifting and violence surge

RETAIL workers across Wales are continuing to face alarming levels of abuse, threats and violence, according to new figures released today (Wednesday, Mar 18) by trade union Usdaw.

The union’s annual survey of 478 Welsh retail staff paints a stark picture of life on the shop floor, with incidents of abuse and intimidation remaining significantly higher than before the Covid pandemic.

The findings show that in 2025:

• 71% of workers experienced verbal abuse
• 40% were threatened
• 4% were physically assaulted

The report comes amid a sharp rise in shoplifting, which Usdaw says has more than doubled since the pandemic, contributing to an increasingly hostile environment for retail staff.

Workers responding to the survey described a catalogue of disturbing incidents, including threats of violence, sexual harassment, and physical attacks.

One worker reported being threatened after refusing a refund on a used item, while another described being subjected to explicit sexual remarks. Others recounted being pushed, having items thrown at them, or even being threatened with weapons.

In one case, a worker said they had been “punched, spat at, had a basket thrown at them and threatened with a knife,” while another described being followed and threatened by a group of youths after refusing a sale due to lack of identification.

Usdaw general secretary Joanne Thomas said the testimonies highlight a growing crisis facing shop workers.

She said: “It is difficult to read these accounts, but regrettably they are all too common. Nearly four in five retail workers are now experiencing violence, threats or abuse.

“No-one should feel afraid to go to work. Retail workers provide an essential service and deserve both respect and proper protection under the law.”

The union has welcomed proposals within the UK Government’s Crime and Policing Bill, which include stronger protections for shop workers, the removal of the £200 threshold for prosecuting shoplifting offences, and new powers such as Respect Orders for offenders.

Thomas added that progress is being made after years of campaigning, but criticised opposition parties for resisting the proposed measures.

She said: “It is encouraging that governments in both Cardiff Bay and Westminster are beginning to listen. However, it is difficult to understand why some opposition parties continue to oppose laws designed to protect retail staff.”

Across the UK, Usdaw’s wider survey of nearly 9,000 retail workers found the problem is even more widespread, with 78% reporting verbal abuse, 54% threats, and 11% assaults in 2025—figures all higher than pre-pandemic levels.

Usdaw’s Freedom from Fear campaign continues to push for greater protections, urging the public, employers and government to take action to tackle what it describes as an escalating crisis on Britain’s shop floors.

Community-backed contest highlights vital role of Pembrokeshire pubs

THE BEST Local Pub Competition is closing in on a major milestone, with nearly 1,000 nominations submitted by residents across Pembrokeshire celebrating their favourite local venues.

The competition, launched last year by Member of the Senedd Samuel Kurtz, aims to recognise the importance of local pubs and support them during the quieter winter months.

Now in its second year, the initiative continues to shine a spotlight on the vital role pubs play in bringing communities together.

The competition is sponsored by Templeton Beer, Wine & Spirit Co., a well-known local supplier supporting hospitality businesses across the region.

Last year, The Ivybush in Narberth was crowned the inaugural winner after receiving strong backing from the local community. The award recognised the pub’s welcoming atmosphere and its role as a hub for both residents and visitors.

Samuel Kurtz MS said: “Local pubs are at the heart of our communities, providing places for people to meet, celebrate and support one another. I launched this competition to give something back to these fantastic businesses, particularly during the quieter months when trade can be more challenging.

“Changes to Business Rates have had a real impact on the sector, alongside rising costs such as staffing and electricity, which are threatening the survival of many pubs. That is why this competition is such an important reminder of how much we value them.

“It’s brilliant to see nearly 1,000 nominations, with a few days still to go before the competition closes on Friday (Mar 20).”

Residents are invited to nominate pubs that stand out for their community spirit, service, and contribution to local life. The winning venue will receive a free barrel of standard beer and be crowned Best Local Pub 2026.

Samuel added: “If you haven’t nominated your local yet, there is still time.”

To take part, visit www.samuelkurtz.wales and search ‘campaigns’ to nominate your Best Local Pub.

Nearly 50,000 pounds in littering fines were issued across Wales in a single year, new figures reveal.

A REPORT analysing local authority data found that 564 Fixed Penalty Notices were handed out between April 2023 and March 2024, generating £47,190 in fines.

However, almost a quarter of those fines – 126 in total – remain unpaid, with some cases now progressing through the courts.

The data, compiled by waste management company Panda, suggests the true scale of littering enforcement could be even higher, as not all councils submitted figures.

The Vale of Glamorgan recorded the highest number of fines, issuing 111 penalties, closely followed by Cardiff with 107. Carmarthenshire and Rhondda Cynon Taf councils each issued 88 fines.

A spokesperson for Panda warned that littering carries wider consequences beyond appearance.

Recycling expert Colin Hayes said: “Littering isn’t just a harmless act; it’s a visible sign of disregard for the places we all share.

“Every dropped wrapper or bottle doesn’t just spoil how an area looks, it sends a message that our environment is disposable, when it is actually fragile and worth protecting.”

He added that litter can pose serious risks to both wildlife and people.

“The dangers go far beyond aesthetics. Litter can injure wildlife, contaminate soil and waterways, and create hazards such as broken glass or blocked drains that increase flood risk.

“What is thrown away in seconds can cause damage that lasts for years.”

Hayes said tackling litter requires both enforcement and public responsibility.

“Protecting our environment must be a joint effort. When individuals take responsibility for their waste, communities become safer, cleaner and more resilient.”