Marks and Spencer Executive Condemns London Mayor's Crime Response
Marks and Spencer has publicly criticized London Mayor Sadiq Khan for what it describes as a lenient approach to crime, following a series of violent incidents targeting retail stores across the capital. Thinus Keeve, the supermarket's retail director, has called for immediate action to address the escalating disorder, which has seen hundreds of young people storm Clapham High Street multiple times in the past week.
Violent Incidents and Police Response
In a recent incident, an M&S store in Clapham was targeted by crowds, leading to staff being assaulted and hospitalized. Keeve reported that one employee was headbutted while attempting to defuse a situation, and another was hospitalized after an ammonia attack. The Metropolitan Police have urged parents to take responsibility for these events, which are believed to be driven by social media trends. Six teenage girls have been arrested for anti-social behavior in two separate incidents related to the disorder.
Systemic Issue in Retail Crime
Writing in the Telegraph, Keeve emphasized that retail crime is a systemic and growing problem that requires a coordinated response from government, policing, and industry. He detailed multiple incidents from the past week, including gangs forcing open locked cabinets, brazen thefts of high-value items like steak, and large groups ransacking stores while assaulting security personnel. Keeve has written to Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood and Mayor Sadiq Khan, with a meeting expected in the coming days.
Contrasting Views on Crime Statistics
Despite claims from Mayor Sadiq Khan and Met Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley that London is safe, with crime rates falling, Keeve disputes this narrative. He argues that retailers feel powerless without stronger government action and effective policing priorities from the mayor. Keeve stated, "I keep hearing crime is falling, especially in London – something none of us believes, and very few people working in retail would see."
Impact on Retail Workers and National Trends
Adam Hawksbee, M&S's external affairs director, revealed that staff are fearful of coming to work due to targeting by criminal gangs. Although the supermarket has invested tens of millions in security measures, Hawksbee noted there is "only so much you can do" as retail crime worsens. According to the British Retail Consortium, over 14 million people in the UK witnessed violence or abuse against retail workers in the past year, with an average of 1,600 incidents daily in 2025, making it the second-worst year on record. London recorded the highest proportion, with 32 percent of people witnessing such incidents in shops.
Official Response and Future Actions
A spokesperson for the Mayor of London responded, stating that shoplifting is not a victimless crime and that the mayor supports the Met Police's data-driven approach to tackling prolific offenders. However, M&S continues to push for more decisive action to protect retail environments and ensure safety for workers and customers alike.
