UK Counterfeit Banknote Losses Reach £4 Million in 2025

Bank of England counterfeit banknote statistics for 2025 confirm that around 200,000 fraudulent banknotes were removed from circulation, with an estimated total value of approximately £4 million.

Even at a small proportion of total circulation, counterfeit notes still have an annual impact across UK cash-handling businesses, particularly within cash-intensive foodservice environments such as catering, cafés, quick-service restaurants, and food-to-go operators.

These businesses remain exposed during high volume trading periods, where rapid transactions leave limited time for detailed banknote verification at the point of sale.

As a result, cash handling relies heavily on speed and efficiency, increasing the need for reliable, easy-to-use verification tools to support frontline staff.

LED Banknote Checker added to Chef Set 2026 catalogue

As part of its latest 2026 catalogue expansion, Chef Set has introduced the LED Bank Note Checker (trade price £20.56), now available to wholesalers and distributors.

The LED Banknote Checker (8219) uses UV and LED detection technology to quickly identify key banknote security features including watermarks, security threads, and fluorescent markings. Its compact countertop design and one-touch operation makes it suitable for front-of-house applications; particularly where space may be confined.

The Replacement Light for LED Bank Note Checker (8220) is also available to support ongoing service life and product continuity.

*Source: Bank of England – Counterfeit Banknotes Statistics 2025