With Martyn's Law set to introduce new responsibilities for certain public-facing premises, many independent retailers are asking what the legislation means for their businesses. While the law is not expected to come into force until at least 2027, now is the ideal time to understand the requirements and begin preparing.

 
Emergency Exit

In this article:

‣  What is Martyn's Law
‣  Which retailers are likely to be affected
‣  Who is responsible for compliance staff training 
‣  Practical steps retailers can take 
 

To help, we've picked out the most relevant questions from the official ProtectUK guidance.

Martyn's Law FAQs

Martyn's Law, formally known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, is designed to improve public safety by requiring certain premises and events to be better prepared for the risk of a terrorist attack. The legislation aims to ensure organisations have appropriate plans and procedures in place to help protect staff, customers and visitors.

Whether your business falls within scope will depend on factors including how your premises are used and the number of people who can reasonably be expected to be on site at the same time. Retail premises open to the public may be affected if they meet the qualifying thresholds.
One of the most common questions among independent retailers is whether smaller shops are covered. The legislation generally applies to premises where 200 or more people can reasonably be expected to be present at the same time. Many smaller independent retailers are therefore likely to fall outside the scope of the law, although preparedness remains good practice for all businesses.

Martyn's Law adopts a tiered approach based on capacity.

  • Standard Tier: Premises where between 200 and 799 people may reasonably be expected to be present.
  • Enhanced Tier: Premises and events where 800 or more people may be present.

 

The requirements become more extensive as premises move into the Enhanced Tier

The law requires a designated "responsible person" for qualifying premises and events. For many independent retailers, this could be the owner, store manager or another individual with responsibility for managing the premises. The specific responsibilities are covered in the official guidance.
Staff awareness and preparedness are central to the legislation. The official guidance asks what training is expected of responsible persons and staff, and free resources are already available through ProtectUK, including ACT Awareness and SCaN training programmes.
The legislation recognises that capacity and attendance levels may vary. Businesses that experience seasonal peaks, promotional events or unusually busy trading periods should consider how these fluctuations could affect their obligations under the Act.
Retailers that run demonstrations, launches, workshops or community events may need to consider whether those activities create additional responsibilities. The official FAQ includes guidance on events and the circumstances in which separate arrangements may be necessary.
The legislation includes provisions covering multi-use premises and locations where responsibilities may be shared between different parties. Retailers operating within shopping centres or mixed-use developments should review the guidance carefully to understand where responsibilities sit.

Although there is currently no legal requirement to comply, businesses can begin preparing now by:

  • Reviewing emergency procedures and incident response plans.
  • Identifying who will take responsibility for security planning.
  • Improving staff awareness and training.
  • Monitoring guidance from ProtectUK, the Home Office and the Security Industry Authority (SIA).
  • Considering whether their premises are likely to fall within scope.
 

The Bottom Line

For many independent retailers, Martyn's Law is likely to focus on preparedness, staff awareness and clear procedures rather than costly physical security measures. While smaller retailers may not fall within scope, understanding the legislation now will help businesses make informed decisions and prepare for future compliance requirements.

For the latest official guidance and FAQs, visit the ProtectUK Martyn's Law resource page.

 

Martyn’s Law – what you need to know as an independent retailer

Retailers should assess whether they are in scope and begin proportionate planning ahead of implementation from 2027 at the earliest.

Read the full article

Image credit: magann/stock.adobe.com

 

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