The SRC and Usdaw urged the public to be kind and considerate to all retail workers and fellow customers. Credit: Gorodenkoff / Shutterstock. 

The Scottish Retail Consortium (SRC) and trade union Usdaw have made a joint appeal for considerate Christmas shopping, urging the public to treat retail workers and fellow customers with kindness during the festive season.

This call to action is in response to rising incidents of abuse and violence towards customer service staff.

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A recent survey by Usdaw has revealed that 69% of retail employees suffered verbal abuse, and 45% were threatened by a customer in the past year.

An annual survey report released last month revealed that 18% of shop workers suffered a violent attack in 2023, compared to 8% in 2022.

With retail being Scotland’s largest private sector employer, supporting around 230,000 jobs, the industry plays a vital role in the local economy, especially during the crucial trading period of Christmas.

SRC and Usdaw emphasise the importance of a friendly shopping environment and are calling for patience and kindness from shoppers.

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In support of their message, SRC and Usdaw are launching a social media campaign to promote considerate behaviour.

This initiative coincides with Usdaw’s Respect for Shopworkers Week.

SRC director David Lonsdale said: “As the clock counts down to Christmas Day, retail stores and websites will become increasingly busy. People in retail are doing a brilliant job working hard to look after customers, helping them find what they need, keeping shelves stocked and delivering goods.

“While this time of year can be a little stressful, any mistreatment of store colleagues and delivery drivers will not be tolerated. Confrontations, be it verbal abuse or physical assault, can take a huge toll on victims, their families and their colleagues. When everyone shows a little Christmas kindness and courtesy – everyone will be better off. That way we can all enjoy shopping over the festive period and support local jobs and the vibrancy of our high streets and retail destinations.”