Why it matters today
Our research from 2019 and 2021 showed that nearly two-thirds of shopworkers had experienced offensive behaviour at work. But the latest 2025 data reveals encouraging signs of progress and clear direction on where action must now sharpen. Grievance rates are at their lowest ever: just 9% of retail workers in 2025 report raising a grievance (vs ~20 % in 2021)
- Fewer employees feel unsupported: the proportion who believe their employer lacks adequate HR protocols or doesn’t care about protecting them has dropped sharply.
- Yet harassment remains widespread: over 25% of retail workers still report experiencing physically aggressive or violent behaviour at work – with disproportionate impact on LGBTQ+ staff.
These figures underscore that while momentum is building, risk remains substantial and real.
The Retailers Against Harassment Certification combines the experience, advisory skills, and industry know-how of Foot Anstey and the Retail Trust. The complementary approach of these two leading sector organisations will help retailers protect their employees from harassment and support them when they encounter it.
On the certification, Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium, said:
“Violence towards shopworkers remains a major problem facing the industry. We welcome any initiatives aimed at supporting colleagues, and helping retailers to protect their workers. Similarly we welcome new ways to evaluate the effectiveness of measures currently in place to protect colleagues.”