The UK has the highest value of shrinkage in Europe, with retailers losing £3.83bn a year through stock loss from crime and wastage, new figures revealed this week.

Theft is the main cause of shrinkage, costing the UK about £3bn a year, according to Checkpoint Systems' Global Retail Theft Barometer. Consumer theft remains the biggest concern, costing retailers £1.6bn a year, while employee theft totals £1.4bn.

Supermarkets are a major target for thieves, with alcohol the most stolen item across Europe. Razor blades, DVDs, CDs and high-cost speciality food, including confectionery, are also in the top 10 of the items stolen most, according to the report.