UK Shops Accused of Buying Stolen Goods from Professional Thieves

Retailers and police report a rise in organized shoplifting with stolen items resold through local businesses and online platforms.

Retail groups highlight a surge in shoplifting incidents, with repeat offenders stealing high-demand items like meat, cheese, and alcohol.
Criminal gangs are increasingly organizing thefts, targeting a wide array of products including pet food, kitchen utensils, and cosmetics.
Stolen goods are often resold locally or via social media, with some smaller shops purchasing these items knowingly or unknowingly.
Police and retail associations call for stronger deterrents and more rigorous investigations to curb the trend.
The rise in shoplifting is linked to addiction issues among thieves, who steal to fund drug habits.