A recent study published by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) highlights a growing concern among small business owners in Alberta regarding the surge in crime within their communities. The report, titled *How Crime and Disorder Are Reshaping Daily Life for Canada’s Small Businesses*, indicates that half of the province’s small business owners believe crime has escalated over the past year, with a mere five per cent reporting a decrease. This alarming trend is echoed across the nation, with similar sentiments expressed by business owners in other provinces.
Crime Concerns on the Rise
The CFIB’s survey reveals that 57 per cent of small business owners in Alberta are worried about their personal safety, as well as the safety of their employees and customers. Kayode Southwood, a senior policy analyst at the CFIB, remarked, “It’s definitely alarming to see that kind of data coming from small businesses.” The statistics are striking, with 17 per cent stating that crime has “significantly increased” and 32 per cent noting a “somewhat increased” rate of crime. This collective 49 per cent places Alberta as the seventh highest in Canada for reported crime concerns among small business owners.
In contrast, Newfoundland and Labrador reported the highest concern levels, with 69 per cent of respondents indicating that crime has either “significantly” or “somewhat” increased over the last year. Quebec, on the other hand, had the lowest reported concern at just 28 per cent.
First-Hand Experiences of Crime
Greg Jarmula, manager of Walls Alive, shares a troubling personal account that underscores the survey’s findings. He expressed, “We’ve been seeing a steady increase in somewhat criminal activity, vagrants, and that park themselves in front of our store, start fires, graffiti is kind of an ongoing sort of problem in this area.” Jarmula detailed how his business has faced vandalism, prompting him to invest in a steel security gate to protect the premises. “We want to come to work and work at ease, yet we have to look over our shoulders,” he explained, reflecting the heightened anxiety many business owners are experiencing.
Rising Crime Statistics Align with Business Concerns
The CFIB’s findings align with police-reported crime statistics, which show a staggering 66 per cent increase in shoplifting incidents from 2014 to 2024. In the year 2024 alone, theft under $5,000 rose by 14 per cent compared to the previous year. Sergeant Nick Wilsher from the Calgary Police Crime Unit confirmed a rise in retail crime across various establishments, stating, “All different stores, ranging from your large corporation stores to small convenience shops, are seeing a steady increase.” He noted that theft patterns vary widely, with larger chain stores often targeted for goods that can be resold online, while smaller shops might experience theft of lower-value items, sometimes used for bartering.
Calls for Action from the CFIB
In light of the growing concerns detailed in the report, the CFIB is urging government action at all levels to address crime. Their recommendations include revising the Criminal Code to better tackle repeat and organised crime, establishing standards for law enforcement response times, and offering security incentives to assist small businesses in safeguarding against crime. Southwood emphasised the need for municipalities to play a proactive role, noting that many business owners find it frustrating to navigate lengthy reporting processes when crimes occur.
Wilsher highlighted the importance of reporting incidents, no matter how minor they may seem. “The more people report, it helps us get a clearer picture of what is being targeted and what areas are facing a lot of the problems,” he explained, urging business owners to utilise online reporting options for efficiency.
Why it Matters
The increasing crime rates in Alberta pose significant challenges not only to the livelihood of small businesses but also to the broader community. As business owners grapple with safety concerns and financial strains, the ripple effects can be felt in local economies and community cohesion. Addressing these issues through collaborative efforts between businesses and government can pave the way for safer environments, fostering both economic stability and peace of mind for those who contribute to Alberta’s vibrant business landscape.
