The seasonal increase in theft is a growing problem for retail establishments in Greater Manchester. Both small business owners and big chains are losing money in busy areas, such as Salford High Street shopfronts, shopping malls, or retail parks. Repeat offenders and organised thievery mainly cause these losses. Effective preventive measures are becoming increasingly necessary as shoplifting incidents rise. 

This article examines the reasons behind the rise in shoplifting in Greater Manchester. It also describes how manned guarding services in Greater Manchester can provide the proactive security your firm needs to stay safe throughout the year.

Crime Overview of Greater Manchester (2024/25)

• In 2024, shoplifting in Greater Manchester reached an all-time high, with 21,890 occurrences, a 20.1% increase from the previous year. Organised criminal gangs were primarily responsible for these events, “stealing to order.”
• According to official GMP data, there were 22035 shoplifting cases in the year ending March 2025, the highest number since comparable figures have been recorded.
• Between April 2024 and March 2025, Greater Manchester Police arrested over 3600 people for theft, which is more than 50% higher than the preceding year. 

Why Shoplifting Is Surging in Greater Manchester?

• Shoplifting increased by 5% in Greater Manchester between 2024 and 2025, while total neighbourhood crime decreased by 17% during the same period.
• Organised criminal gangs are taking advantage of weaknesses in protection to target retail establishments on Salford’s high street and in Manchester’s enterprises.
• This increase emphasises the need for Greater Manchester’s manned guarding services to provide competent safety.

The Limitations of Traditional Security Tools

Alarms and CCTV are more investigative instruments than preventive ones. The immediate loss is not prevented by recording the offence after it has occurred. Experienced criminals may exploit gaps in coverage or awareness, as police and retail employees are often overworked, particularly during busy periods and holiday seasons. Because there is little real-time response or human involvement when the crime happens, these techniques do not provide proactive deterrence.

Types of Manned Guarding Services in Greater Manchester

Static Guarding

A prominent security presence on the premises for regular staff/property protection, delivery inspections, visitor tracking, and access control.

Mobile Patrols and Patrol Guards

Perfect for expansive establishments or dispersed shopping centres, it offers a powerful deterrent with quick reaction times and adaptable coverage.

Keyholding and Alarm Response

By responding to emergency call-outs and alarm triggers, guards lower owner or employee risk and guarantee expert treatment.

Reception & Concierge Security

It provides a professional security presence while controlling the flow of visitors and is commonly utilised in hotels, business buildings, and upscale residential areas.

Construction Site Guarding

Guards are essential in regions with significant growth, such as Trafford Park, as they prevent site damage, equipment theft, and trespassing.

Specialist & Sector-Based Guarding

Best practices for each industry are reflected in customised security tailored to the specific requirements of public institutions, logistics centres, retail (loss prevention), or energy installations.

How Manned Guarding Services Provide Real Protection

Greater Manchester’s SIA-licensed security guards provide expert, recognised protection. It has some benefits, including:

• The mere fact that visible deterrence is in uniform lowers the risk of coordinated crime and shoplifting.
• Trained Guards can quickly defuse tense situations, identify suspicious activity, and intervene early.
• Unlike cameras, guards can take prompt action, such as apprehending offenders or calling the police at the first hint of a problem.
• A human security presence makes both customers and workers feel safer.
• When proactive guarding is implemented, businesses may be eligible for decreased theft losses and cheaper premiums.

How Manufacturing Services Prevented £40k Losses With Manned Guarding?

Background

Trespassing and theft frequently occur in manufacturing services in Trafford Park, specifically at night, due to the absence of security. The solution was suffering severe financial pressure and operational interruption as a result of frequent losses of valuable tools and raw supplies.

Identified Weak Points

The equipment was at risk during off-peak hours because there was no after-hours protection. As a result, the property was vulnerable during crucial times, and break-ins frequently occurred after the employees were gone. Following the alarm being raised, the criminals took advantage of the brief window of opportunity before the reaction team arrived at the scene.

Implemented Security Measures

SIA-licensed security manned guarding services in Greater Manchester were implemented, providing a visible and competent guard presence during nightly shifts.

The guards were responsible for conducting regular patrols of the entire property, covering both internal storage spaces and the perimeter, as well as providing continuous surveillance and monitoring. They regulated entry points for employees and late-night deliveries, and maintained an accurate record of all security incidents and activities.

Results

Since the deployment, no incidents have been reported, averting thefts and damages and saving an estimated £40,000. Along with better insurance terms, the business also gained more trust from management and employees.

Implementing Manned Guarding: Steps for Greater Manchester Businesses

• It is essential to pick an SIA-licensed provider with regional expertise when partnering with the manned guarding services in Greater Manchester. They will be aware of the knowledge about the determined hazards in your region and will rectify those risks by coordinating with Greater Manchester Police. 
• Identify susceptible areas, such as valuable stock or periods of calmness, by conducting a thorough risk assessment first. Then, develop a personalised guarding plan to meet those demands.
• Utilising designated points of contact and neighbourhood policing programs, ensure that security officers coordinate closely with your employees and the local police.
• Last but not least, establish specific objectives to gauge achievement by monitoring declines in occurrences, arrests, employee opinions, and any enhancements to insurance conditions.

Take Action to Secure Your Store

It’s time to safe your manned guarding services in Greater Manchester. These services combine professional response, local expertise, and a reliable presence—appeal for a call or WhatsApp for customised guarding services. 

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