A police and crime commissioner has pledged support for retailers facing rising levels of crime and anti-social behaviour.
Andy Dunbobbin, the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for North Wales, visited shops in Blaenau Ffestiniog and Penrhyndeudraeth in Gwynedd during Safer Business Action Week, which runs from November 9 to 15.
The week is an initiative led by the National Business Crime Centre and supported by police forces, councils, businesses, and security partners.
Mr Dunbobbin said: "I was pleased to visit Blaenau Ffestiniog and Penrhyndeudraeth to support the local businesses that are at the heart of our communities.
"Businesses deserve to be able to operate in a safe environment where staff and customers feel protected."
During his visit, Mr Dunbobbin stopped at Morrisons Daily on Church Street and the Co-op on the High Street in Blaenau Ffestiniog, before meeting staff at Premier Stores and the Spar on Church Street in Penrhyndeudraeth.
In his role as the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners' joint lead for business and retail crime, he listened to concerns from shop workers about anti-social behaviour, theft, and other criminal activity.
He emphasised the importance of reporting incidents to North Wales Police, noting that accurate reporting helps officers identify patterns and target resources more effectively.
Retailers also discussed the personal impact of crime on staff and customers.
Mr Dunbobbin said: "As joint lead on business and retail crime for the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners, I know that retail crime, anti-social behaviour and violence against shop workers can have a significant impact on individuals, businesses and local economies."
Inspector Iwan Jones, who accompanied Mr Dunbobbin on the visit, said: "It was great to meet with the commissioner and engage with local business owners to discuss how we can work together during Safer Business Action Week and beyond.
"Our aim is to ensure shopkeepers across the area feel safe at work, reduce criminality and protect the businesses that provide vital services to our communities."
The visit formed part of the PCC’s ongoing efforts to support retailers and ensure town centres remain safe for visitors, shoppers, and workers alike.
Businesses are being encouraged to engage with their local policing teams, report incidents, and take advantage of the advice and support available throughout the week.
More information and resources are available on the North Wales Police website.
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