The number of Trading Standards officers in Scotland has reached a historic low.
A recent annual workforce survey by the Society of Chief Officers for Trading Standards in Scotland (SCOTSS) found staff levels have dropped below 250 for the first time, raising serious concerns about consumer protection and business support across the country.
The survey revealed a worsening age demographic, with 60% of officers now over 50 years old.
Fewer younger recruits are entering the service, while investment in apprenticeships, training and development of other staff remains limited.
SCOTSS warned that without immediate government support and increased resources, local Trading Standards teams would “fail to protect consumers” and would offer “little or no support” to businesses in Scotland against a “complex landscape of regulation”.
“A well-resourced Trading Standards Service is crucial for ensuring fair and consistent trading conditions for Scottish retailers and helps to ensure customers have confidence that what’s on the shelves is genuine and safe,” said Luke McGarty, head of policy & public affairs at the Scottish Grocers Federation.
“However, it is now clear that Trading Standards are facing a debilitating resource crisis. Urgent action by government is essential to ensure they have the workforce and resources they need to clamp down on the growing market in illicit trade and shut down rogue sellers pushing unregulated and dangerous products.
”Without action, the situation will only get worse, putting the public at risk and adding to the pressure already felt by many lifeline local businesses that are now having to compete against cheap illegal traders.”
Commenting on the survey, SCOTSS chair Alexandra Connell said: “This survey confirms what every SCOTSS member knows, that trading standards services in Scotland are at their lowest ebb and our ability to do our job is significantly hampered by a lack of human resource.
“Given the serious age demographic of staff, the service cannot continue to protect Scottish consumers for much longer without a serious look at how we operate and what funding is available.”
John Herriman, chief executive of the Chartered Trading Standards Institute, said: “This isn’t just a Scottish issue – it is a UK-wide challenge. And while Trading Standards teams go above and beyond to protect the public and support businesses, with the right investment these services can deliver even greater protection, fairness, and confidence for consumers and businesses alike.
“Consumer protection is a cornerstone of a fair economy and a vital public service, and we call on both Governments to strengthen it through long-term planning and sustainable resourcing.”
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