Co-op Faces £40M Shoplifting Surge, Returns to Profit

Despite rising crime and wage costs, the Co-operative Group reports a half-year profit and plans expansion.

Co-op experienced a 19% increase in shoplifting and fraud costs, reaching £39.5 million in the first half of 2024.
The company has invested £18 million in security measures, including body-worn cameras and fortified kiosks.
Violence and abuse against Co-op staff have escalated, with daily attacks up 34% and serious abuse incidents up 37% compared to previous years.
Co-op reported a pre-tax profit of £58 million for the first six months of 2024, a significant recovery from a £33 million loss a year ago.
The group plans to open 120 new retail stores by the end of 2025 and aims to increase its membership base to eight million by 2030.