The Retail Council of Canada held a summit last week in Winnipeg, bringing together attendees from across the province, including retailers, law enforcement, government officials, and municipal representatives. Portage la Prairie Mayor Sharilyn Knox and Councillor Colin Doyle attended the event, with Knox sharing their experience.
"Retail crime is a concern in our province. There are efforts underway to reduce those numbers. It was a time to hear new ideas, see what’s up and coming, and really understand that we’re all facing this problem but collaborating to find solutions," says Knox.
She noted a highlight of the summit was a judge’s presentation offering insight into the judicial system’s role in tackling retail crime.
"Retail crime has many layers—addictions, mental health issues, poverty. We can’t police these things away; we need to address all the layers and focus on prevention. Retailers also have a responsibility to find prevention methods for their businesses," Knox adds.
Knox mentioned discussions about training staff in de-escalation and the use of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) methods.
"There are many prevention strategies out there. Sharing information and collaborating are key. Councillor Doyle and I, along with representatives from the Portage Chamber, are excited to bring these ideas back to Portage la Prairie," she notes.
Stefanie Dunn, executive director of the Portage Chamber of Commerce, says d attending the summit was a valuable opportunity, as it was the first time it was held in Winnipeg.
"I won’t say it’s reassuring, but there are many others dealing with the same issues we see in Portage. We heard some positive discussions about mental health support and solutions for vulnerable populations. Unfortunately, the rise in addictions and street drug use is pushing people toward drastic decisions to get money and meet their needs," Dunn explains.
She highlighted Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) as a top strategy for addressing theft.
"CPTED is always the best option for businesses experiencing theft. It includes simple, cost-effective changes, such as better lighting, landscaping adjustments, and improving visibility with mirrors and camera placement," Dunn says.
She notes that local RCMP are familiar with CPTED, and several Portage businesses are already applying these concepts.
"Things like removing posters that block windows, trimming large bushes that could provide hiding spots, and improving lighting outside stores are easy, affordable steps that have proven effective," Dunn adds.
She emphasizes that these prevention strategies are something the Chamber hopes to offer its members, either through audits or educational resources, to support the local economy.
Dunn also mentioned that retail crime is not unique to Portage.
"This is happening across the board. There’s a slight increase in theft and crime, and inflation and the pandemic have impacted everyone’s mental health. The more we talk about this and raise our voices for better solutions and support, the more likely we are to be heard," Dunn says.
She encourages business owners to report thefts, no matter how small, to the RCMP.
"They’re working tirelessly to serve our community, and they need to hear those reports so they can respond appropriately and ensure we get the support we need," Dunn concludes.