tool theft

Wickes is hosting a nationwide tool marking event, giving away kits across its 229 stores on the 7th and 8th September. Wickes has already marked more than 58,000 tools for free this year, with the event forming part of its wider pledge to mark 260,000 tools across the UK in 2026. The initiative comes as […]

For electrical contractors, tool theft isn’t just a crime, it’s an attack on their livelihoods. With van break-ins continuing across the UK, Rob Shepherd examines whether enough is being done to stop the criminals and protect tradespeople. For most electrical contractors, the working day begins and ends with their van. But for many, the routine […]

A sculpture has been unveiled by Wickes to highlight the distress caused by tool theft. The 2.4m tall sculpture – named Anguish  – was revealed in Leeds, West Yorkshire, which is one of the UK’s hardest-hit regions for tool theft. Created by recycling artist Ptolemy Elrington in over 400 hours, it was built from reclaimed […]

More than seven in 10 UK tradespeople are unaware of new legislation designed to tackle tool theft, despite growing support for tougher action against offenders, according to new research commissioned by Tradesman Saver. Nearly three-quarters (71%) of tradespeople haven’t heard of the Theft of Tools of Trade (Sentencing) Bill, which is due to return to […]

Another van rally highlighting the ongoing issue of tool theft is being organised for 4th June 2026. This time the rally will take place in Romford, outside the Magistrates’ Court. In a post on Instagram, Shoaib Awan, gas engineer and tool theft campaigner, said: “We’re getting ready for the Van Rally in Romford, and we […]