Home improvement retailer Wickes is organizing a national tool marking initiative to tackle the growing risk of tool theft, notably in the autumn and winter months, as shorter daylight and extended nighttime hours heighten the danger.
The initiative is part of Wickes’ pledge to mark 260,000 tools for free across the UK by 2026. The event will take place across its 229 stores, with tool marking kits available for tradespeople to protect their equipment, forming a critical pre-winter prevention measure.
Tool theft on the rise
Research conducted by Wickes reveals that 55% of all stolen tools are taken directly from vans parked at home or on job sites overnight. The study also highlights the national scale of the problem, with 9.4% of tradespeople experiencing tool theft in the last 12 months and 62% knowing someone locally who has been targeted. Vans account for more than half (55%) of all tool thefts, with vehicles targeted whether parked outside homes overnight (29%), on site (21%), or outside a store (16%).
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Despite the risks, 39% of tradespeople have not marked their tools, even though many express a desire to do so. David Wood, CEO of Wickes, emphasizes the impact of tool theft on tradespeople’s livelihoods, stating that it can lead to lost work, income, and disruption for businesses. Unsurprisingly, the emotional concern is widespread, with 64% of UK tradespeople worried about becoming victims over the next one to two years.
Forensic technology to deter thieves
Wickes has partnered with DeterTech to use SmartWater, a forensic marking liquid that is invisible to the naked eye but glows under UV light. The liquid is extremely hard to remove and acts as a strong deterrent to thieves, making marked tools less attractive to criminals.
The tool marking kits, available for free at Wickes stores, can mark up to 10 tools and include high-visibility tamper-resistant deterrent labels. This dual approach ensures that tools are not only marked with forensic technology but also carry a bold, visible warning to potential thieves, further reducing the likelihood of theft.
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Taking action against tool theft
Wickes has already marked over 58,000 tools for free this year, demonstrating its commitment to supporting the trade community. The nationwide tool marking event is a significant step in the company’s efforts to raise awareness and combat tool theft, particularly ahead of the seasonal spike in incidents.
Tradespeople are encouraged to visit their local Wickes store to take advantage of the free tool marking kits. There are a limited number of kits available per store, so attendees are urged to act quickly to avoid missing out. Over half (57%) of victims who report the crime to police were told no further action could be taken, making proactive measures like tool marking even more key. For more information on the tool marking events, tradespeople can check the TradePro app or visit the Wickes website.
