DIPS-Distribution Industry Partnership Scotland

27th July 2010

DIPS is based at the Scottish Business Crime Centre and is an unique partnership of Scottish based producers of high value goods and associated hauliers and freight forwarders.

DIPS is managed by an executive committee with responsibility to represent members’ interests, develop crime prevention mechanisms and disseminate intelligence and information.

This is achieved by exchanging information on security and regulatory matters affecting member companies throughout the supply chain. In order to further enhance any action proposed members have the opportunity to work in partnership with The Scottish Government

and the Police in both identifying and targeting all forms of criminal activity impacting on business. 

The open sharing of best practice, use of the DIPS Database together with general discussion on the suitability and cost effectiveness of new crime reduction methods appearing on the market have proven to be a great asset to members.

Advice, guidance and practical assistance on all aspects of business crime prevention are available with details of all new initiatives in this area being circulated. Regular alerts on crimes affecting business are also circulated, where appropriate.

Conferences and seminars are arranged throughout the year by DIPS and the SBCC on topical business related crime issues and are circulated to members.

DIPS was formerly called the Drinks Industry Project Scotland, and concentrated solely on whisky in transit. However, DIPS recently merged with the TLSG, Technology &Logistics Security Group, also based at the SBCC. This group was so similar in aims and objectives that the 2 groups decided to work more closely together and share information and resources.

The new group now has 26 members is a member of Truckpol and HaulNet and works closely with RHA, FTA, TAPA and Eurowatch.

Last year, in response to large scale thefts where police forces across the UK could not decide which force would investigate the crime, DIPS entered into discussions with ACPOS which led to the signing of a memorandum of understanding between DIPS and the Police Forces in Scotland which should help to identify which police force will investigate such a crime. It is now hoped to speak to ACPO to establish a similar MOU in England.  

Anyone wishing to join DIPS should contact - George Mitchell, project manager on 01786 447441

 Or by email at george.mitchell@sbcc.org.uk for further information.