Digital insurtech provider blip has announced a groundbreaking partnership with SelectaDNA, the UK’s leading forensic DNA marking company, to combat the growing epidemic of tool theft among tradespeople. This collaboration aims to protect small business owners whose livelihoods depend on their tools and equipment.
The Tool Theft Epidemic
Tool theft is a devastating issue for UK tradespeople, with a tool being stolen every 12 minutes. In 2023 alone, this resulted in £98 million worth of stolen equipment and £82 million in lost work. For self-employed builders, electricians, and plumbers, losing their tools means losing their ability to earn a living.
Partnership Details
To mark the launch of this partnership, blip and SelectaDNA hosted a free tool-marking event on June 2nd in Watford. The event featured prominent campaigners against tool theft, including Shoaib Awan (The Gas Expert) and Steve Baker (Owner of SB Multitrade), alongside representatives from Stolen Tools UK. During the event, blip donated SelectaDNA kits to attending tradespeople, enabling them to mark their tools and learn practical steps to safeguard their equipment.
Protecting Tradespeople
SelectaDNA’s advanced forensic marking technology makes tools and equipment far less attractive to thieves and much easier to recover if stolen. blip, as a specialist small business insurance provider, offers business equipment and tools cover that protects against damage or theft, whether at business premises, customers’ premises, or while working remotely. The insurance aims to pay out claims within 24 hours to help get tradespeople back to work quickly.
Exclusive Offer for blip Customers
As part of the partnership, blip customers can now receive a 15% discount on SelectaDNA Tool & Equipment Kits. This exclusive offer further enhances blip’s commitment to protecting tradespeople from tool theft.
Industry Recognition
James Brown, MD of Selectamark, expressed delight in partnering with blip to better protect tradespeople from the tool theft epidemic. Gary Ross, Founder & CEO of blip, highlighted that this partnership demonstrates the power of modern technology in tackling an age-old problem. He emphasized blip’s mission to offer the best possible prices, allowing tradespeople to invest in their businesses.
Impact on Law Enforcement
Police forces across the UK are recognizing the importance of SelectaDNA and blip’s innovative solutions. These solutions help return stolen items to their owners, get tradespeople back to work quickly, and reduce the burden on storage units.
Through this partnership, blip and SelectaDNA are working together to provide tradespeople with the tools and protection they need to safeguard their livelihoods against tool theft.
