Finalists at Fraud Awards 2024

We are thrilled to announce that Central Co-op has been named a finalist at the prestigious 2024 Fraud Awards for The Retail Risk Retailer and Policing Collaboration Award!

This recognition highlights the incredible efforts of our Loss Prevention Team, who have been working tirelessly to ensure the safety of our colleagues, Members, customers and the communities we serve. We are immensely proud of their accomplishments, particularly in their outstanding work on policing collaboration, which has made a real difference within our stores and beyond.

The Fraud Awards showcase and celebrate the very best individual and team performances, innovative new products and winning industry strategies, and will take place on the 3rd of October 2024.

Over the past 12-18 months, the Loss Prevention Team has spearheaded a comprehensive effort to engage with local MPs, councillors, and Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs). This initiative has led to over 100 visits, where discussions have focused on ensuring the safety of retail workers, including our own colleagues, who face violence and aggression daily. These visits are not only a platform for us to raise awareness about the alarming 60% increase in reported incidents in our stores, but also to discuss ways in which our MPs and PCCs can support the wider high street in tackling these issues.

Another standout achievement has been the close collaboration with West Midlands Police. Over the years, the Loss Prevention Team has nurtured a strong relationship with the local police force, ensuring we work hand-in-hand to reduce retail crime. One notable moment in this partnership was when we were invited to the strategic board meeting of the Police and Crime Commissioner, led by former Assistant Commissioner, Thomas McNeil. This gave us the opportunity to directly address the Chief Constable and advocate for action on retail crime, reinforcing our commitment to safer shopping environments.

Perhaps the most heartening achievement is our contribution to the Offender to Recovery Programme. This initiative has provided crucial support to individuals who were once prolific offenders, giving them the chance to turn their lives around. Not only have many of these individuals now left behind their criminal activity, but they are also actively working with us to find ways to mitigate future losses in our stores. Their gratitude and involvement are a testament to the power of rehabilitation and collaboration.

A massive thank you to the entire Loss Prevention Team - you truly are difference makers. Your dedication to safety, community engagement and innovative crime prevention strategies have placed Central Co-op at the forefront of retail security.

We are excited about the upcoming awards ceremony and proud to represent a society that values collaboration and positive change. Here's to continued success and making our communities safer for everyone!