A new scheme has been launched to help protect tradespeople from having their tools stolen.
Members of the Independent Builders Merchant Group will be given a new smart alarm which can protect tools when inside vans.
The alarm, fitted to the vans, also comes with a tracker and insurance packages to protect tradespeople from thefts, which cost an average of nearly £4,500.
Martin Stable, of the IBMG, said: “We fully understand how detrimental it can be when members of the trades are victims of tool theft. Over the years many of our builder and plumber customers have been left devastated by this crime.
"This partnership with ARMD is launched to help. It allows us to offer an affordable product, supported by exclusive discounts for our customers, to help mitigate the risk.”
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Recent data suggests that nearly 80 per cent of tradespeople have had their tools stolen at least once in their careers.
The alarm works by triggering a phone call notification in the event of a break-in and can help to catch thieves in the act with GPS tracking.
IBMG owns more than 170 merchants across the South of England including Independent Roofing Supplies in Hove and Sussex Plumbing Supplies.
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