blip and SelectaDNA Collaborate to Combat Tool Theft for Tradespeople

In a significant move to address the rampant issue of tool theft impacting tradespeople across the United Kingdom, blip, a digital insurtech provider specializing in small business insurance, has announced a partnership with SelectaDNA, the leading company in forensic DNA marking technology. This collaboration aims to enhance the protection of tools and equipment vital to the livelihoods of countless professionals in the construction and trades sectors.

The partnership was formally introduced during a tool-marking event held on June 2, 2025, in Watford, where tradespeople were provided with SelectaDNA kits. These kits enable users to mark their tools with unique DNA codes, facilitating easier identification and recovery if stolen. According to blip's Managing Director, Gary Ross, this initiative not only raises awareness about tool theft but also equips tradespeople with practical solutions to safeguard their equipment. “Working with SelectaDNA shows the power of modern technology in tackling an age-old problem,” Ross stated.

Tool theft has reached alarming levels in the UK, with statistics revealing that a tool is stolen every 12 minutes, translating to an estimated £98 million in stolen equipment and £82 million in lost work in 2023 alone. This crisis poses a severe threat to the self-employed workforce, where the loss of essential tools directly impacts their ability to earn a living.

James Brown, Managing Director of Selectamark, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership, emphasizing the importance of tailored solutions to help tradespeople recover stolen tools and resume work swiftly. “We are delighted to partner with blip to better protect tradespeople from the tool theft epidemic,” Brown said, highlighting the collaborative efforts to combat this growing problem.

The partnership also emphasizes the significance of prompt insurance claims processing. blip offers coverage that aims to pay out theft claims within 24 hours, thereby facilitating a quicker return to work for affected tradespeople. This quick response is vital for those whose livelihoods depend on their tools.

Police forces across the UK are increasingly recognizing the value of SelectaDNA's forensic marking technology. By aiding in the recovery of stolen tools, these innovations not only support tradespeople but also alleviate the burden on law enforcement agencies, reducing the need for extensive storage of recovered items.

As blip continues to engage with tradespeople, the aim is to share insights on practical measures to protect their tools effectively. With this partnership, tradespeople can now access SelectaDNA’s advanced marking technology alongside comprehensive insurance coverage, offering them enhanced protection and peace of mind.

The implications of this partnership extend beyond mere theft prevention; they highlight a growing awareness within the insurance and trades sectors regarding the urgent need for innovative solutions to longstanding problems. As the number of tool theft incidents continues to rise, initiatives like this one could pave the way for a safer working environment for tradespeople across the UK.

In conclusion, the collaboration between blip and SelectaDNA represents a proactive step towards safeguarding the interests of tradespeople, showcasing how modern technology can address age-old challenges in the workforce. Looking forward, the success of this initiative can serve as a model for similar partnerships aimed at enhancing security and resilience in various professional sectors.