Organised crime groups are suspected of operating through as many as half of convenience stores and vape retailers in some parts of the UK, according to a new report from Trading Standards. The 'Hidden In Plain Sight' report also suggests that up to a third of American candy stores and a quarter of fast food takeaways in specific areas may be fronts for illicit activities.
A survey found that 97 per cent of Trading Standards officers are aware of suspected criminal operations within retail premises on their local high streets. There is 'almost universal recognition' from 99 per cent of officers that there has been a significant rise in cash-intensive businesses opening since 2020. Nearly three-quarters (72 per cent) of Trading Standards professionals have reported experiencing intimidation or threats of violence while carrying out their duties.
Trading Standards has published a map identifying streets full of so-called dodgy shops across the UK, alongside a list of 10 towns and cities deemed hotspots for organised crime groups, with Birmingham, Liverpool, and London topping the list. It also said that Local Authority Trading Standards services have faced budget cuts of up to 50 per cent over the past decade, leading to staffing levels being stripped to a minimum.
The report warned that these cuts, coupled with resource challenges for other enforcement agencies including police, had coincided with the rapid spread of dodgy shops and complex criminal networks. Dodgy shops had a 'profound impact' on public safety and legitimate businesses, while putting consumer health at risk, including children. They often brought associated criminality including anti-social behaviour, theft, violent crime, drug supply, modern slavery, and child sexual exploitation.
The report outlined a 10-point plan to 'reclaim the UK’s high streets', including investing in Trading Standards, making the sale of illegal goods a trigger for licence review, and an additional £20 million for ports and borders. John Herriman, chief executive of the Chartered Trading Standards Institute, said: 'It is clear from this research that serious and organised crime is endemic across the UK... the Government must urgently bring together and properly invest in enforcement agencies.'
Ed Woodall, chief executive of the Association of Convenience Stores, added: 'Responsible convenience retailers are extremely frustrated with rogue traders operating with impunity... Tens of millions of pounds need to be invested in local enforcement capacity to shut down these rogue traders.'
