The Fight Against Tool Theft.
On 3 February 2025, tradespeople from across the UK gathered for the Stop Tool Theft Rally, a movement demanding harsher punishments for those who steal tools, sell stolen goods, and the failier to regulate illicit sales.
Organised by Shoaib Awan (@thegasexpert) and supported by Trades United (@TradesUnited), Stolen Tools UK (@stolen_tool_uk_), On The Tools (@onthetoolstv) and Fix Radio (@fixradiouk), this rally brought national attention to the rising epidemic of tool theft.
“Theft in the UK is out of control.” - Shoaib Awan, Movement Organiser.
Rally Overview.
Watch the Stop Tool Theft Rally Overview:
The rally gained significant media coverage, featuring on BBC News, Sky News, and GB News and saw participation from high-profile industry figures.
Tradespeople Demand Justice.
A key message from the rally was the need for stricter penalties for those caught stealing or selling stolen tools. Currently, many tradespeople are forced to invest in expensive security measures, yet theft remains rampant with little legal deterrence.
“Where do the tools come from that are being sold at Car Boot Sales? There has to be a punishment for breaking into tradespeople’s vans.” - Shoaib Awan
Losing tools means losing a livelihood. The cost of replacing stolen equipment can be devastating, and insurance claims are often slow or insufficient.
Featured Interviews from the Rally.
Danny Madden interviewed by Steve Wells
Interviews with ACE Roofing Contractors, A Smith Roofworks, and Crystal Clear Glazing at Brent Cross Tesco
Derek Barrett interviewed
JJ Roofing Supplies Stands in Support.
JJ Roofing Supplies proudly supported the movement by branding their 16-tonne HGV and Ford Rangers with rally messages. This was made possible by Stickers & That (@stickersandthat), who supplied impactful messages for free.
Left to right | Darren Wall, Dominic Pidgeon, Barry Stanley, Darren Searles, Steven Parker, Steve Wells.
JJ Roofing Supplies Attendees
- Darren Searles - Director
- Steven Parker - Area Manager
- Dominic Pidgeon - London Colney Store Manager
- Barry Stanley - Operations Manager
- Darren Wall - HGV Driver (whose timely horn blasts kept spirits high!)
The Impact: Political and Media Attention.
MPs are starting to take notice of the movement. Amanda Martin raised the issue in Parliament and attended the rally to show her support.
“If we’re going to build 150 million homes in this country, we need tradespeople to do it.” - Amanda Martin MP
Additionally, Matt Vickers MP, Shadow Minister for Crime, spoke out:
“These absolute scumbags that steal the kit need to know that there will be consequences, and they are going to get caught.” - Fix Radio Interview
Investigating Car Boot Sales.
MPs and national media plan to investigate unregulated Car Boot Sales, where stolen tools are frequently resold. What this space for live reporting from the Boot Sales.
Protecting Your Tools.
While we fight for legal change, here are steps tradespeople can take now:
- Use SelectaDNA – Mark your tools for traceability.
- Register with tool_archive_app – Keep digital records of serial numbers.
- Where possible, register your tools with the manufacturer
- Store tools securely – Whenever possible, remove them from your van overnight.
Join the Movement.
Stay updated and get involved:
- Follow @TradesUnited, @stolen_tool_uk_, and @thegasexpert, on Instagram
- DM Shoaib Awan (@thegasexpert) on Instagram to join the movement’s WhatsApp Community
Let’s Make Tool Theft a Crime That No One Can Ignore!
This rally is just the beginning. With continued pressure and support, we can ensure real change happens to protect tradespeople across the UK.
