Introduction
A relatively small percentage of incidents of theft, fraud or criminal damage at
clients’ premises result in any criminal prosecution. Even in cases where there
is a criminal conviction, invariably, no compensation is ordered. Where compensation
is ordered, the maximum is the value of the primary loss - items stolen. It is not
the remit of the Criminal Courts to order compensation for other business losses,
which arise from the internal costs of investigation and apprehension, and disruption
to the business.
Whilst the Criminal Justice System constantly strives to tackle retail and business
crime, such as the introduction of Fixed Penalties for low value shop theft and
anti-social disorder, there are simply not the resources for the Criminal Justice
System in the UK to process the majority of incidents of theft and fraud, particularly
those of a low value. The Police, the CPS and the Courts have to prioritise higher
levels of crime and disorder.
More and more businesses are therefore turning to civil law remedies as a means
to reduce criminal activity and as a means to recoup some of their vast losses.
Asset protection and loss prevention is therefore a growing area in businesses’
strategy on risk management and civil recovery is a key factor in this strategy.
Whilst businesses benefit from civil recovery, there is also a benefit to the wider
public, as businesses can remain competitive and keep the costs of goods and services
down for the consumer.
As RLP acts for a wide range of small, medium and large businesses, from retail
and other business sectors, we offer a flexible range of reporting and contact procedures,
to cater for each type of business.
Many clients prefer the personal touch of speaking to a specialist on the telephone
or in person, whilst others with advanced high tech IT systems prefer to provide
reporting information using technology. Most use a combination of both, as they
can benefit from the specialist expertise of our staff, together with benefiting
from the efficiency of our IT systems. Our intelligent reporting provides our clients
with up to date information in relation to those stealing from them and from which
store locations.
Brand protection is another key issue RLP considers with its clients, given that
they are largely household brands. Our Claims advisers, client services team and
legal advisers liaise with clients whenever any issue arises which may affect a
client’s brand.