With incidents of crime at an all-time high, crime in the retail sector is a widely discussed topic and Retail’s Best will be playing its part to highlight these important issues on 16 May when some 250 forecourt operators and independent convenience store owners, representing over 3,500 sites between them, come together at Retail’s Best Forecourt & Convenience Partners.

Moiz Vas, founder of Retail’s Best, explains: “With day-to-day challenges continuing to mount, the increase in crime is taking its toll on independent retailers.  Beyond the financial losses, the mental strain endured is often significant.  These increasing risks are now potentially overshadowing the rewards of running an independent retail business.

“The panel will discuss what we, as independent retailers and forecourt operators, can do to manage the challenges and risks and promote ‘harm reduction’ while serving our customers and local communities.  Is there a solution to be found to effectively manage crime?”

The panellists for this year’s debate are:

• Commander Kyle Gordon, Metropolitan Police – the strategic lead for business and retail crime in the Met, committed to retail harm reduction and to changing the narrative around business crime
• James Lowman, Chief Executive, ACS – a voice for over 49,000 local shops in the UK
• Farrah McNutt, Founder, Catch a Thief – ex serial shoplifter and now an advocate to create safer environments for businesses
• Mike Fitton, Head of Franchise Operations, Southern Co-op – retailer veteran with hands-on experience of retailing on the front line

Michael O’Loughlin, a respected figure in the industry with extensive retail experience, returns to host the panel discussion, which will undoubtedly lead to a lively debate.

Are you an innovative supplier, progressive retailer or petrol dealer interested in taking part in Retail’s Best? Register your interest by going to: http://www.retailsbest.co.uk/register-nm

For more information, go to www.retailsbest.co.uk