This research was conducted in 2001 as part of the process involved in producing the 2001 Crime Audits for the county of Cornwall. These audits comprised the second phase of audits produced following the 1998 Crime and Disorder Act. The act led to the establishment of Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnerships (CDRP's), comprising local authorities, the police, health authorities, police authorities, and probation committees, which were required to work together to address crime and disorder problems in their area. Over 620 people responded to a postal questionnaire sent to a sample of businesses in the area. This survey allowed a comparison of the business community with local residents and provided an alternative perspective to official statistics. The results demonstrated that crime against businesses is a common occurrence, and confirmed earlier research showing that businesses are more likely to experience crime than are individuals. Levels of victimization varied markedly according to the location and nature of the business. Businesses located in safer environments or structured in ways that reduced the likelihood of their experiencing different types of crime had lower levels of risk. Businesses that were run from home or were located in villages were at low risk, while businesses based in town centers were at higher risk. Manufacturing industries were at low risk across a range of offenses. Retail companies experienced more crime, and this applied to both property crime and aggressive incidents. Aggression was also higher in businesses specializing in catering/leisure and visitor accommodation, where contact with the public was extensive. Differences appear to be more fundamental and deep-rooted than being merely dependent upon the extent of policing or other crime reduction strategies. Crime prevention might be more usefully targeted at businesses that appear at high risk. The survey provides an evidential base for CDRP's to initiate discussion between the police and other agencies within the criminal justice system and the business sector, in developing appropriate and effective policies that address particular local issues. 9 tables, 60 notes