Insidethis issue 5 JUNE 2026 VOLUME 64 ISSUE 5 Editor’s
Viewpoint by Chris Jones
Crime and punishment
This month’s cover story highlights the ongoing issue of tool theft, a problem which frequently generates some jaw-dropping statistics but precious little evidence of progress when it comes to crime prevention. The numbers might vary slightly from survey to survey, but there’s no doubting that instances of theft are widespread amongst most professional trades, costing victims dearly by having to replace stolen items and also being obliged to take time off until those replacements are purchased. There is also the hidden cost to mental health and well-being, dramatically illustrated by the ‘Anguish’ power tool sculpture commissioned by Wickes and now touring the country. It is hoped that the artwork, constructed entirely from
recycled power tools, will generate more awareness as to the scale of the problem. Research undertaken by the home improvement retailer suggests that one in fi ve tradespeople suff er from stress and anxiety as a result of having their livelihoods threatened, while some 7% say that they are considering leaving the industry altogether. All the more disappointing to learn, then, that legislation
aimed at increasing the sentencing for criminals convicted of tool theft has failed to make any progress in the House of Commons. Already delayed several times, the Theft of Tools of Trade (sentencing) Bill was set for a second reading at the end of May, but was once again postponed without a new date having been scheduled. The Private Members Bill, sponsored by Labour MP Amanda Martin, aims to increase the sentencing category for criminals convicted of this type of theft from ‘harm category 3’ to ‘harm category 2’ – which would enable magistrates to impose harsher penalties on thieves. Some might argue that such a move is unlikely to deter these opportunistic thieves, but disappointingly it looks like it’s going to be some time yet before anyone is going to get the chance to fi nd out.
Special Features 17
Exhibition Preview
A round-up of some of the exhibitors and star attractions lined up for this year’s InstallerSHOW
Regulars
06 News Review 10 Industry Viewpoint 11 Merchant News 12 Talent Show 12 People on the Move 13 Gadgets & Tools 14 Business Matters 15 Energy Matters 17 Exhibition Preview
Products in Action
23 Product Spotlight 24 Products in Action 35 Product News 39 Directory
See page 24 for the latest case studies
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25
Training & Education
In a fast moving industry it has never been more important to keep up to speed with developments
31 Light
Commercial Heating
Key things to consider when providing heating for bigger spaces and your questions answered about HIUs
Contributors
Harry Budd Training & Education
25
Following the publication of the Warm Homes Plan, what are the skills installers need to plan for the future?
Richard Soper Training & Education
26
Opportunities for installers to learn about the workings of small duct high velocity technology
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33
The role the industry can play in helping GP surgeries to deliver a net zero national health service
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