MAJORITY OF TRADESPEOPLE ARE VICTIMS OF TOOL THEFT OR VAN CRIME

• 66% of tradespeople have had tools stolen or van broken into
• Two thirds (66%) of tool theft victims have lost at least one working day as a result, in addition to the loss of tools
• Tool theft is biggest business worry for one fifth of tradespeople

The majority (66%) of tradespeople have had their tools stolen or van broken into, a Screwfix survey has found.

Nearly two thirds (65%) of tool theft victims have had their tools stolen more than once. And nearly a quarter (24%) said tool theft has had an impact on their business. For one fifth, tool theft is the biggest business worry.

As a result of tool theft, two thirds (66%) of tradespeople have lost at least one working day, in addition to the loss of the value of the tools, which for three quarters (75%) was more than £500. One fifth of trade tool theft victims had more than £5000 worth of tools stolen.

To protect themselves from tool theft, just over half (51%) remove them from their van overnight, 40% have CCTV at home, and one quarter (25%) have additional security products on their van.

To help tradespeople protect their tools and vans, Screwfix has a range of security products including the Master Lock van padlock and hasp set 230mm.  This nickel-plated, die-cast zinc padlock with hardened steel shackle and a nickel and chrome-plated hardened steel hasp is supplied with two keys and fixings and provides enhanced protection for a van.  While smart CCTV kits from Swann ensure vans and properties can be monitored wherever a tradesperson is, and Van Vault products such as site security boxes and the Outback ensure tools can be kept securely whether on site or on vans.

Ben Lainton, Director of Trading at Screwfix, said: “These latest findings show the concerning level of tool theft and van crime and the damaging impact they have on tradespeople and their businesses. Many of them are seeking ways to protect their tools and vans, so as a key supplier to the trade, we’re continuing to add security-focused innovations to our range to play our part and help them. The latest products from Master Lock, Swann, and Van Vault are prime examples and demonstrate how we are continuing to develop our offer to ensure we provide what the trade needs.”

For more information on security and protection products from Screwfix, visit www.screwfix.com