Currys trials pavement markings to kerb phone theft
Currys is launching a new campaign to highlight the issue of phone theft as it looks to shift public habits and help eradicate the crime on high streets.
Backed by Westminster Council, with support from the Metropolitan Police Service and Crimestoppers, the ‘Mind the Grab’ pilot study has included a striking purple line and signage being added to the pavement on London’s Oxford Street
Subscribe to TRBIn a partnership with the Institute for Crime & Justice Policy Research, based at Birkbeck, University of London, Currys is seeking to raise awareness, and in turn, change the public’s behaviour.
The purple line, inspired by the iconic London Underground ‘Mind the Gap’ catchphrase, is intended to act as a reminder to pedestrians to step back from the kerb, keep their phone hidden and reduce their risk of snatch and grab theft.
Currys is also piloting a new training scheme for store colleagues to support to victims of phone theft. Trained senior management at the retailer’s Oxford Street store will be on hand to provide immediate assistance on helping victims contact loved ones, report incidents to the police, and alert service providers and banks.
Customers will also be given safety advice when buying phones, including tips on keeping a safe distance while using their phones and staying alert to their surroundings.
Ed Connolly, chief commercial officer at Currys, said: “Phone theft isn’t just about losing a device – it’s frightening, invasive, and cuts people off from their loved ones, their money, and their daily lives.
“Enough is enough. It’s time to draw the line on phone theft – that’s why we’ve launched the Mind the Grab campaign: a bold pavement marking we believe can make a real difference by encouraging people to step back from the kerb.
“This trial aims to raise awareness and encourage behaviour changes to help people feel safer. And if the worst happens, we’re here to help. Our Oxford Street store colleagues will support victims – from calling loved ones and the police, to cancelling cards and helping them get home safely. Because practical, human support in those moments really matters.”
The retailer is hoping to work with government and local authorities to expand the rollout and make it harder for criminals to operate.
