28/09/2009 - Designers challenged to stop shop crime
Government ministers want designers to stop shoplifters by drawing up plans to tackle retail crimes in a national competition.
Part of the Retail Crime Action Plan, home office minister Alan Campbell said design students across the country can offer their ideas on thwarting thieves who target small businesses.
The Home Secretary's Design and Technology Alliance has launched the competition to "design out" crimes such as "dipping" or shoplifting through cost-effective methods such as new shop layouts, more secure baskets and trolleys or improved packaging.
Mr Campbell said: "I am determined to ensure that small businesses are not taken advantage of during these hard economic times. This competition is just one part of our Retail Crime Action Plan which is providing real support where it is most needed.
"Innovative design has been used to tackle a range of crimes including theft of cars and mobile phones, fraud and burglary and I am confident that this competition will lead to some similarly effective solutions. I would encourage all designers to take part in that process."
Copyright © Press Association 2009
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