Crime increasingly a ‘serious barrier’ to UK growth, say business leaders
UK business leaders are increasingly concerned that crime is hindering economic growth. A survey by the British Chambers of Commerce revealed that many companies are facing rising levels of theft, fraud, and cyber-attacks. They are calling for government support to address these issues and improve business security.
- ▪Two-fifths of companies in the UK have experienced some form of crime in the past year.
- ▪21% of firms reported having faced cyber-attacks, while a fifth encountered fraud or scams.
- ▪The British Chambers of Commerce is urging the government to create a cyber-attack reporting system and establish regional business crime hubs.
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Shoplifting (posed by a model). There has been an increase in shoplifting, fraud and cyber-attacks against businesses in the UK. Photograph: Murdo Macleod/The GuardianView image in fullscreenShoplifting (posed by a model). There has been an increase in shoplifting, fraud and cyber-attacks against businesses in the UK. Photograph: Murdo Macleod/The GuardianCrimeCrime increasingly a ‘serious barrier’ to UK growth, say business leadersBritish Chambers of Commerce survey shows firms ‘are dealing with rising levels of theft, fraud and cyber-attacks’Sarah ButlerSun 17 May 2026 17.30 EDTLast modified on Sun 17 May 2026 17.32 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleUK business leaders have warned that crime is becoming an increasingly “serious barrier” to growing Britain’s economy amid a rise in…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Guardian — World.