Food-to-go specialist Pret a Manger is giving staff body cameras to counter an increase in shoplifting, as well as abuse and attacks on retail workers.
The coffee chain has launched a trial of body-worn cameras for staff in six shops across London and put up signs informing customers.
It comes as retailers across categories grapple with surging rates of shoplifting and aggressive behaviour towards staff, which is costing the industry millions on extra security measures.
A Pret spokesman said the cameras would only be worn by team leaders and managers and would only be used in specific circumstances.
He also said Pret’s security team will be the only ones to have access to any captured footage.
The Office for National Statistics said there were more than 430,000 recorded cases of shoplifting across England and Wales in 2023, the highest number since records began.
The British Retail Consortium has estimated theft has already cost the sector £2bn in 2024, more than double the whole of 2023.
Verbal and physical attacks on retail workers have surged too, with 1,300 cases every day, according to the BRC.
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