Marks & Spencer has declared its support for the Retail Trust’s Let’s Respect Retail campaign, which aims to tackle abuse of shopworkers.
The retailer has claimed to be “the first major UK grocer to publicly support” the initiative, though Southern Co-op is already listed as a backer on the campaign’s website, as is the BRC, of which all major supermarkets are members. Other supporters of the campaign include Holland & Barrett and a host of non-food retailers.
Let’s Respect Retail launched in November last year to tackle abuse, aggression and intimidation towards shopworkers while encouraging the public to show simple acts of courtesy such as making eye contact, smiling, and saying hello and thank you.
The campaign also provides retailers and workers with practical resources, guidance and specialist support to help prevent, manage and recover from incidents of abuse and intimidation. M&S said its partnership with the campaign would give 65,000 employees access to such support.
“Our colleagues are at the heart of M&S and every one of them deserves to feel safe, respected and valued when they come to work,” said M&S retail director Thinus Keeve.
“While the vast majority of customer interactions are positive, abuse should never be accepted as part of the job. That’s why we’re proud to become the first major UK grocer to support the Retail Trust’s Let’s Respect Retail campaign.
“Creating safer environments for retail workers requires action from all of us. Retailers, policymakers, law enforcement and the public all have a role to play. We hope others will join us in supporting the campaign and helping create a culture where everyone working in retail is treated with dignity and respect.”
Retail Trust CEO Chris Brook-Carter said: “We’re proud to be working with M&S to bring an end to unacceptable behaviour on British high streets and to provide thousands of retail workers with the support they need to protect their wellbeing.
“M&S’s commitment to Let’s Respect Retail sends out a powerful message that no one should face intimidation, abuse or violence at work and shows how retailers can create safer and more respectful shopping environments by taking meaningful action to support their staff.”
M&S said its backing of the campaign built on a long-standing partnership with the Retail Trust, the charity which works with more than 200 retailers to support those employed in or retired from the sector.
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