- Reported instances of modern slavery in the UK retail sector nearly doubled between 2024 and 2025, according to anti-slavery charity Unseen.
- Unseen identified 201 prospective victims in 2025, with the majority of cases taking place in supermarkets and convenience stores.
- Exploited workers, predominantly from Sri Lanka, India and Pakistan, were frequently brought to the UK on skilled worker visas for entry-level roles.
- Victims reported having wages withheld, living in employer-tied accommodation and facing threats of visa revocation or police report.
- The Home Office has stripped over 6,600 rogue sponsor licences and introduced rule changes from 8 October allowing victims to leave abusive employers.
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