Costa Coffee has reportedly stepped up security at some of its stores amid concerns over theft.
The UK coffee chain, which also sells sandwiches and snacks, has “introduced additional support” at a small number of branches following reviews of its security measures.
According to The Sun, this includes locations in London such as Denmark Hill and Croydon, as well as sites in Manchester.
A spokesperson for Costa said the move is aimed at supporting staff and keeping stores safe.
“Like many retailers, we continually review security measures across our stores and, in a small number of locations, have introduced additional support where appropriate,” a spokesperson said.
“These measures are in place to support our teams and help ensure our stores remain safe and welcoming environments for everyone.”
Images shared online show security guards positioned near counters and store entrances at some Costa branches.
Many major retailers across the UK already employ in-store security for loss prevention, safety and insurance purposes.
The move comes amid wider concerns about shoplifting, with retail crime becoming a growing issue during the cost-of-living crisis.
However, the overall picture in London is mixed.
Met Police figures shared with Sky News this month suggest reported shoplifting offences fell by 3.4% between April 1, 2025 and March 31, 2026.
Other crimes, including homicide, are also at their lowest levels in the capital for a decade.
Acting superintendent Rav Pathania said: “Retail crime is a top priority for the Met and we solved nearly double the number of shoplifting cases last year while arresting almost 50 per cent more suspects.”
Yet separate data points in a different direction. Office for National Statistics figures for 2024 and 2025 show 80,041 shoplifting offences recorded in London, marking a notable increase on the previous year.
“What the LSE report showed – without in any way excusing criminality – is that as the cost of living crisis gets worse, acquisitive crime is going to go up, and has gone up,” said Sadiq Khan.
A spokesperson for the Mayor of London added: “Shoplifting is not a victimless crime and the mayor fully supports the Met Police’s data-driven and targeted approach to tackling prolific offenders.”
Retailers, however, remain concerned.
At the start of April, Marks & Spencer bosses warned that crime was becoming more brazen, urging police to do more to protect shops in the capital.
“Retail theft is a serious issue for retailers across the country. While the causes are manifold, the rise in organised crime is particularly concerning, with gangs systematically targeting one store after another,” said Lucy Whing, Crime Policy Adviser at the BRC.
Source – Standard
