Pret A Manger implements body-worn cameras to protect staff from rising violence
In response to the alarming increase in shoplifting and violence against retail workers, Pret A Manger has introduced body-worn cameras for its staff as part of a broader initiative to enhance security.
The coffee shop chain has begun a trial in six of its London outlets, where team leaders and managers are equipped with the cameras. Prominent signage has been placed in these locations to inform customers of the new security measure, which is intended to deter criminal behaviour and protect employees.
This move comes at a time when UK retailers are increasingly concerned about the safety of their employees in the face of growing threats. The British Retail Consortium (BRC) reports that incidents of violence and abuse towards retail staff have surged by 50% over the past year, with an alarming 1,300 cases occurring daily. This rise in violence has been linked to various factors, including the economic and social pressures exacerbated by the pandemic, leading to heightened tensions on the high street.
The body-worn cameras introduced by Pret are designed to be activated under specific circumstances, such as when staff feel threatened or when an incident requires documentation. Footage from these cameras will be securely managed by Pret’s security team, ensuring that it is used appropriately and in line with privacy regulations. The cameras serve as both a deterrent to potential aggressors and a tool for gathering evidence in the event of an incident.
Pret’s decision to implement body cameras is part of a growing trend among retailers to enhance security measures in response to rising threats against staff. For example, Lidl recently invested £2 million to provide body cameras for all its UK staff, while English Heritage has equipped employees at its historic sites with cameras due to an increase in anti-social behaviour. These initiatives reflect a broader industry concern about the well-being of retail workers, who are increasingly on the front lines of customer aggression.
The introduction of body-worn cameras at Pret is not an isolated measure but rather part of a wider strategy to address the operational challenges that have emerged in the post-pandemic environment. In addition to tackling violence and abuse, Pret has also announced changes to its popular coffee subscription service, which will be discontinued in September. The subscription, initially launched during the pandemic, allowed members to enjoy five free barista-made drinks daily but became less viable due to inflationary pressures that led to a price increase from £20 to £30. The service will be replaced by a new scheme offering half-price drinks for £10 a month.
Moreover, Pret has responded to customer feedback by reducing the prices of some of its best-selling sandwiches and food options. This decision comes after the company faced criticism for high prices, which many customers found unaffordable during a time of economic hardship.
While Pret’s body camera trial is not directly connected to the recent far-Right riots that have affected British high streets, it highlights the growing concern among retailers about the safety of their employees in an increasingly hostile environment. The issue of violence against retail workers has also gained political attention, with Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer making it a central focus of his manifesto. Starmer has pledged to address the surge in retail crime by creating a new standalone offence for assaulting shop workers, underscoring the seriousness of the problem.
As retailers like Pret A Manger continue to navigate these challenges, the introduction of body-worn cameras represents a proactive step towards ensuring the safety and well-being of their staff in the face of rising violence and abuse. The effectiveness of this trial will likely influence future security strategies across the retail sector as companies seek to balance customer service with the need for increased protection.
