By the time a stolen tool turns up for sale, usually on an online marketplace or in a damp field on an autumn Sunday morning, the likelihood is that its owner’s already counting the cost. As many of us know from personal experience, there’s a replacement to find, probably damage to sort out, and a working week that suddenly needs rearranging.
The buyer sees a cheap deal – and who doesn’t like one of those? But for the tradesperson who paid for that tool in the first place, there’s very little to feel cheerful about.
That was part of the conversation at Screwfix Live 2026, where Luke Powell, our TVL Group colleague, joined Frankie Williams from Stolen Tools UK and Stephen Baker from S.B. Multitrade. Held at Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre at the end of September, the event provided an opportunity to look at what happens to stolen equipment once the thief’s made their getaway.
Taking the fight to market
Which leads us to the discussion at the VIP opening of Screwfix Live. It tackled the idea that the fight against tool theft means looking at the demand that makes it worthwhile for thieves.
And it tackled it head-on.
Stephen spoke about his own experience of tool theft, and how it had affected him and his business. Hearing from someone who’s been through it brings home the impact in a way that facts and figures alone just can’t.
Of course, at ProtectAVan, helping people protect their working vehicles is what we do. We know first-hand how much depends on opening the doors on a Monday morning and finding everything ready for the day ahead. But preventing the break-in is only one part of a much wider problem.
Put simply, stolen equipment needs somewhere to go. Car-boot sales and online marketplaces give thieves direct access to buyers, and as for the demand...
We all know it’s easy to concentrate on the price when a great deal comes along. But for every cheap tool offered, there’s likely a person whose damaged livelihood helped make that price possible. Whether it’s paying for the same equipment twice, losing time they can’t spare, or explaining to irate customers why work has been delayed – or all of the above – the cost is far more than the cash changing hands.
Another voice in the tool theft story
From support for tool-marking campaigns to backing the call for tougher legislation under the #StopToolTheft banner, all of us at the TVL Group are dedicated to promoting good vehicle security practice. We regularly work with manufacturers, retailers and campaigners, and buyers have a part in this conversation too – understanding where equipment comes from means looking beyond what it costs to take it home.
Thanks to our very own Luke, plus Frankie, Stephen and everyone who contributed their experiences and ideas. It all helps to keep that discussion going, and Screwfix Live was the ideal place to do it.
And if the event has left you thinking about your own van’s protection, have a chat with the team here at ProtectAVan. We’re always happy to help in any way we can.
