With just over 2 weeks to go, PGMA has confirmed its attendance at the upcoming SGF Crime & Security Seminar. The event, scheduled for Thursday, 12th February 2026, comes at a critical time for the independent convenience sector as retail crime figures reach record highs.
Held at the Doubletree by Hilton, Edinburgh Airport, the seminar will serve as a high-profile platform for PGMA and other industry leaders to engage directly with law enforcement and policymakers. The goal is simple: to explore and implement better practices for protecting stores, employees, and the communities they serve.
A Sector Under Pressure
The urgency of the seminar is underscored by the latest SGF Crime Report, which reveals a staggering economic toll on the industry. Shoplifting and vandalism are now costing the independent convenience sector £102.7 million annually – roughly £20,000 per store.
Beyond the financial impact, the human cost is even more severe. Retailers and staff face daily verbal and physical abuse, with official statistics showing that shoplifting has more than doubled since 2021.
What to Expect at the Seminar
The event features a heavy-hitting lineup of speakers and interactive sessions designed to provide practical solutions to an "epidemic" of retail crime. Key highlights include:
Event Details & Registration
Retailers, staff, and industry stakeholders are encouraged to join PGMA at the seminar to help turn the tide against retail crime. Attendance is FREE, but spots are limited.
Secure your FREE spot here.
