SOLVED and charged rates for shoplifting in the county are above the national average, according to Gloucestershire police.

Gloucestershire Constabulary say this is due to a new approach to investigating shoplifting. Between May and July of this year, the force saw an increase in the number of shoplifting offences which have been solved, and an increase in offenders charged compared to the same timeframe in 2025.

The average charge rate in Gloucestershire across the three months was 19.38 per cent, compared to the national average rate which was 16.4 per cent.

In July 2026, 94 shoplifting charges were sought compared to 36 shoplifting charges in July 2025. The average solved rate in Gloucestershire during the timeframe was 24.72 per cent which is also above the national average.

Ash Shingler, Deputy Retail Crime lead Chief Inspector, said: "Shoplifting is not a victimless crime and a lot of positive action has taken place across Gloucestershire over recent months.

"Shoplifting is a complex issue, and there are a number of reasons why people commit these offences.

"Some offenders are driven by financial hardship or economic pressure, where they struggle to afford essential items such as food, clothing, or other necessities.

"Others commit thefts to fund addictions, often stealing goods which can then be sold to generate cash for drugs or other substances.

"While understanding the causes is important, shoplifting has a significant impact on businesses, staff, customers and local communities, and we remain committed to bringing offenders to justice."

The police said the positive action has been a result of launching Operation Express in December 2025.

The approach streamlined how officers process shoplifting offenders by not interviewing them when a specific and simple criteria is met.

A suspect can only be charged or summonsed without an interview if they meet conditions including not being linked to any modern slavery intelligence, being ineligible for an out-of-court disposal, and being aged 18 or over.

There must also be clear CCTV evidence of the offence, and the suspect must have been clearly and unambiguously identified.

The Full Code Test must be met, with all available evidence obtained other than a suspect interview.

Police said this enables officers to swiftly deal with shoplifting offences to help safeguard the retail sector for staff and members of the public.

It believes the process is well embedded within police forces nationally and has been tried and tested with key partner agencies also involved in the process.

The aim is to take prompt and robust action, particularly against prolific offenders, while increasing trust and confidence within the retail and business community.

The news comes amid concerns of shoplifting across the country.

According to the Home Office data, police forces across England and Wales, excluding the British Transport Police, recorded 502,011 shoplifting offences in 2025-26. More than half of the investigations were closed with no identified suspect.

You can find tips to protect your business against shoplifting via the Gloucestershire Constabulary website.