Canadian small business owners report increase in local crime
According to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) half of small business owners say crime increased in their community last year, while only 2% saw a decrease in the past year. Crime is still a daily concern for small businesses:
A recent Angus Reid poll found that 62% of Canadians believe crime has been increasing in their communities over the past five years. The same poll found that only 5% of Canadians believe crime has decreased in their communities—similar to the small business sentiment the Canadian Federation of Independent Business recorded.
The findings align with national crime data. Police–reported shoplifting rose by 14% in 2024 compared to 2023, marking the fourth consecutive annual increase and a 66% surge since 2014. The CFIB's October survey findings are based on 2,899 responses from a random sample of CFIB members.
"Owners should not be spending more time and money managing theft, vandalism and safety risks than running their business."
"The financial strain and emotional toll are exhausting. Governments need to respond with stronger consequences for repeat and organized offenders, streamlined reporting and faster responses from police, and supports aimed at prevention and recovery," said CFIB senior policy analyst Kayode Southwood,. "Some business owners have told us they've spent thousands of dollars on installing security cameras or replacing smashed windows. Some have even said they'd rather take the pandemic over the crime they're dealing with now."
Nearly half of business owners also report concerns about their own safety, and the safety of their staff and their customers. Many have resorted to changing their operations, from locking doors during business hours to implementing buddy systems, and limiting shifts where employees work alone.
"Small businesses care deeply about their communities. They live there, hire locally, and want vibrant streets," added Kalith Nanayakkara, senior policy analyst at CFIB. "But too many owners feel burned out and anxious, left to shoulder the burden alone. Governments may be talking more about crime, but progress only counts when business owners actually feel safer on the ground."
CFIB calls on all government levels to help
The association asks for follow through with meaningful Criminal Code changes to better address repeat and organized crime. They look for improvements in response times from police and a faster, more streamlined reporting process that includes a consistent follow-up. The CFIB also asked for practical support like rebates for security, which would help small businesses prevent and recover from theft or vandalism. As always, the CFIB would like to have small businesses have a seat at the policy discussion table.
"Everybody deserves to feel safe in the community where they're trying to earn an honest living," Southwood concluded. "Too many owners tell us they lie awake at night watching their security cameras, hoping no one breaks in again. With Canada seeing more business closures than openings, crime is one more pressure pushing people away from running a business. Governments must act decisively and prioritize community safety to restore confidence on Main Street."
