“My van was turned over. 22 seconds it took them to get into my van. Four and a half minutes to empty it. 12 to 15 grand’s worth of gear gone.” Stephen Baker, Tradesman speaking at a Parliamentary breakfast reception, March 2025.
Tool theft isn’t just an inconvenience – it’s a massive financial hit and a huge source of frustration for hard-working tradespeople right across the UK.
That’s exactly why we’ve been taking the #StopToolTheft campaign out to the people – to rally support, share advice from experts at the top of their game and, most importantly, mark as many tools as we can “safe from theft”!
And, as you can see from the quote that started this post, we’ve even taken the fight all the way to Parliament! More of that later – first let’s rewind and recap on the journey so far.
Hitting the road: Tool marking events
We’ve been out and about across the country, partnering with theMetropolitan Police, SelectaDNA, The Gas Expert, and Stolen Tools UK to help tradespeople everywhere with tool marking – the big idea to protect their gear.
Those recent stops included aToolstation Event at Acorn Industrial Estate where we had a great day. Not least because the sun was out – as were loads of people who took the opportunity to come and see us to talk tools.
Among those we need to give special thanks to are On The Tools, TradeKart, the Metropolitan Police, Milwaukee ToolCT1,The Snag List Eliminatorand, of course, not forgetting our good friends at Toolstation.
Making some noise at the #StopToolTheft rally
We couldn’t believe our eyes when we saw the strength in numbers at the #StopToolTheft rally! It was an incredible turnout, as tradespeople from all over showed up at Parliament Square, Westminster, to demand action from our elected officials in Westminster.
The energy was electric, the passion was undeniable, and the message was crystal clear: We need action – now! That means stricter penalties for thieves and those selling stolen tools, better funding for law enforcement to tackle tool theft, and protection for our livelihoods by updating outdated laws.
Huge respect and thanks must go to Trades United, The Gas Expert, andStolen_Tools_UK_for organising an event that made waves right across the industry and beyond – including some excellent media coverage, which helped to spread the word even further.
But this is just the beginning. We’re all going to keep the momentum going! Which leads us rather nicely on to…
Taking the fight to Parliament
The biggest milestone has undoubtedly been the chance to have the voices behind the #StopToolTheft campaign (that’s all of you) to Parliament! Hosted by On The Tools, the Parliamentary breakfast reception, brought together industry leaders, MPs, and campaigners to push for tougher laws on tool theft.
MP for Portsmouth North Amanda Martin is leading the charge with a bill calling for stricter sentences for tool thieves – because let’s face it, the current penalties just aren’t cutting it.
It was incredible to hear so many people talk so eloquently about the problems they’ve faced. Remember: 1 in 10 tradespeople will have their tools stolen this year. If you haven’t already added your name to the petition there’s still time to make a real difference: Sign the petition here.
The fight goes on!
So, we’re making waves, but there’s still work to do. Keep spreading the word, stay vigilant with your van security, and look out for future events, where we’ll be sharing expert security tips, joining forces with the Met Police to give out advice and free tool marking kits!
We hope to see you there.
