The Cityprom proposal would see a person who is banned from one store also banned from all stores signed up to the agreement.

The measure, which is supported by Tasmania Police, is a response to a spike in shoplifting and anti-social behaviour in Launceston's CBD.

The Launceston Retail Watch Ban Program is expected to be up and running in a matter of weeks.

Stores that are part of the program will display stickers identifying themselves as participants.

If as person is caught and charged with shoplifting they will receive a letter outlining what stores they are banned from.

Cityprom executive Vanessa Cahoon said it was hoped the scheme would work as a deterrent to would-be thieves.

"One of the positive things is how businesses have come together and worked as a team," she said.

Over the next few weeks a working group set up to combat crime in the city will draft the terms and conditions for the scheme.

Tasmania Police Inspector Michael Johnston said stores were entitled to ban people and, in this case, they were banding together.

Launceston businesses spoken to by The Examiner say shoplifting rates are the worst they've seen in years.

The Australian Institute of Criminology estimates shoplifting costs about $810 million a year or $110 for each incident.

The most common method of shoplifting is for the offender to leave the store either carrying or wearing the stolen merchandise.

Shoplifters can remove items from the store by:

● Hiding the items in bags, umbrellas or prams.

● Hiding the items underneath a big coat.

● Trying on clothes and then wearing them out of the shop underneath their own clothes.

● Using an accomplice to distract the shop assistant's attention away from them while they remove the items.

● Switching the price tags of items so that they pay less.