Fighting back against crime

Figures published last week by a leading insurer revealed that 'recessionary' crime against independent businesses was on the rise.

Thieves targeting optical practices at this time of the year when high-value designer sunglass brands are in stock and on prominent display is not unusual. As reported in Optician (17.07.09), several practices have been targeted with raiders making off with high-value designer frames worth hundreds of pounds in recent weeks.

According to insurer AXA, which specialises in providing cover for small and medium sized enterprises, a growing number of small businesses have reported an increase in crime in the past 12 months, with 64 per cent saying that they have been a victim of crime - up 7 per cent from 2006. AXA has categorised this increase as 'recessionary' crime, or crime that occurs more frequently during an economic downturn such as break-ins, arson and assault.