Revealed: Van theft is on the rise and is set to increase 62% by 2030

Comparethemarket has predicted future levels of van theft could double to over 20,000 in the next decade after research found an 81% increase from 2015 to 2019. The research also highlights the makes and models of vehicles that are most at risk and the most frequently stolen contents from a break-in. During 2015, 12 vans were being stolen each day across the country, rising to 35 vans during 2021. Comparethemarket predicts that the level of theft could reach as high as 56 thefts per day by 2030, equating to over 20,000 stolen vans annually. The lowest levels of theft have been reported in the North of England, followed by West Midlands, South West of England and Wales. Unsurprisingly, Greater London has the highest rate, and could see over three thousand van thefts during 2030 alone. Daily levels of van thefts  Rank Region Daily Van Thefts in 2019 Predicted Number of Van Thefts in 2021 Predicted Number of Van Thefts in 2030 1 Greater London 1,504 2,033 3,827 2 East Midlands 188 255 479 3 Yorkshire and Humberside 145 195 368 4 North West England 112 151 284 5 South East England 110 149 280 6 East England 104 140 263 7 Wales 79 107 201 8 South West England 65 87 164 9 West Midlands 61 82 154 10 North England 59 79 149   The van models most at risk across the UK During 2019, the vans most at risk were Mercedes Sprinter models, this remains the same in 2021, as predictions show the Mercedes Sprinter 313 CDI will be the most stolen van model, increasing by 44 annual thefts in just two years. Rank Company  Model  2019 Thefts 2021 Predictions  1 Mercedes SPRINTER 313 CDI 1,460 1,504 2 Mercedes SPRINTER 314 CDI 1,135 1,313 3 Ford TRANSIT 350 712 1,104 4 Ford TRANSIT 125 T350 RWD 772 932 5 Ford TRANSIT 100 T350 RWD 434 482 Tools, equipment and personal items are the most stolen from break-ins Nearly 67% of break-ins include having tools stolen, and research shows that only 1% are ever recovered due to their high resale value, leaving a devastating impact on tradespeople and their ability to do their job. Rank Item % chance of being stolen 1 Tools 66.7% 2 Equipment 55.6% 3 Personal items 41.7% 4 Electronic devices 25% 5 Sale goods 16.7% 6 Customer supplies 13.9% 6 Van equipment and parts 13.9% 7 Cash 5.6%  

Worcester Bosch Launches Air to Water Heat Pump and Hybrid 7000iAW

Worcester Bosch is proud to announce the launch of the 7001iAW air to water heat pump and the Hybrid 7000iAW, a low-carbon air to water heat pump and hybrid heat pump and boiler respectively – two new models to make UK homes greener. The manufacturer is further diversifying its product range to ensure it can offer a full range of technologies for evolving user needs, as greener technologies continue to pave the way for the future of home heating. [gallery ids="27969,27970"] The 7001iAW and Hybrid 7000iAW are two such examples, the former a sophisticated air to water heat pump that can provide both cooling and heating for homeowners, and the latter a hybrid system compatible with a range of heat pumps and combi boilers which uses the best of both worlds to efficiently heat the home. Suitable for renovation (building development) and new build projects, these products have been developed to utilise high efficiency, low carbon technology to deliver all the benefits of using ambient air as the primary energy source for space heating and hot water. The 7001iAW air to water heat pump has a monobloc design to house all refrigeration circuit components to keep maintenance low, a pre-configured AWE indoor unit for easy installation, an optional standalone Green Storage WB Range Heat Pump cylinders from 150 to 300 litres to provide solutions for even the most demanding lifestyles, and more. The Hybrid 7000iAW allows the integration of a high efficiency low-carbon heat pump with the benefits of a gas combi boiler, suitable for small to medium properties. Key features include simple installation through easy access, monitoring of temperatures to operate either the heat pump or the boiler for best overall efficiency, and no requirement for additional DHW storage due to hot water being generated by the boiler alone. Therefore, the product meets the requirements of customers who have traditionally used a gas boiler. The 7001iAW and 7000iAW will allow homeowners to lead a greener lifestyle at home and contribute to a more sustainable future, central to Worcester Bosch’s purpose. Martyn Bridges, Director of Technical Communication & Product Management, says, “Although many know us as the UK’s leading boiler manufacturer, we do in fact offer a full suite of heating and cooling technologies, including heat pumps and hybrid solutions. “As the country continues to look towards a greener future, we are pleased to introduce further sustainable products to give users more choice than ever on how they can heat their homes. “The 7001iAW air to water heat pump and the Hybrid 7000iAW will also be a welcome product for installers, who are able to increase their product offering to customers requiring more sophisticated, high-tech options at home.”

Aico colleagues selected for key positions at the Fire Industry Association

Esteemed colleagues of Aico have been selected for key positions at the Fire Industry Association (FIA) following the 2021 FIA Annual General Meeting. Voted for by FIA Members, the appointments will provide a fantastic opportunity to further support the fire industry. The FIA is a not-for-profit membership organisation overseen by a Board and seven Councils and is the largest fire protection trade association in the UK. As a major provider of fire safety training, the FIA aims to promote, improve and perfect fire protection methods, devices, services and apparatus. As Aico strives to promote best practice and improve fire safety legislation across the UK, these positions will be pivotal in achieving their vision. National Account Manager for Aico, Paul Cartwright, has been elected onto the FIA FIRESA Council, which provides vital communication between the Fire and Rescue Services and their suppliers, as well as liaising directly with the government and other external bodies. Paul Cartwright says of his appointment “I’m delighted and honoured to be joining the FIA FIRESA’s Council. I’m looking forward to working with Council members and representing a diverse group of companies supplying the fire service.” National Technical Manager for Aico, Andy Speake, who previously held a position on the FIA Fire Detection and Alarm Council, has been re-elected for the role and has also been elected to the FIA Board. He comments “I’m really pleased and excited with the recent results announced at the FIA AGM. The new appointments on the Councils will provide an opportunity to better serve FIA members as well as the industry as a whole.”

Caterpillar Extends Range of Cat GC Diesel Generator Sets up to 1250 kW 

Caterpillar has announced the launch of nine new Cat GC diesel generator sets that extend the upper range of its value-engineered power solutions with models suitable for medium- to large-sized stationary standby applications. The nine new models now available include three models from 1250 to 1500 kVA for 50 Hz applications globally, three models from 800 to 1250 kW for 60 Hz applications in North America, and three models from 800 to 1250 kW for 60 Hz applications outside North America. Primarily targeted at the global electrical contractor market, Cat GC generator sets are engineered to simplify the specification process and substantially reduce quotation and delivery times while helping to meet tight budget requirements. Select models with commonly specified power outputs and configurations are stocked at larger Cat dealer locations for immediate delivery. “The positive market response of electrical contractors and other customers to our Cat GC models validates the performance, value and convenience that these generator sets deliver,” says Jaime Mineart, general manager for Caterpillar Electric Power. “By extending the Cat GC lineup with nine new power nodes, we are further expanding the suitability of these dependable, competitive power solutions to additional medium- to large-sized standby applications.” Designed and manufactured to Caterpillar’s exacting standards for efficiency, reliability and productivity, Cat GC generator sets are configured with an optimized mix of common features that deliver Caterpillar’s renowned performance and excellent customer value with a minimal footprint. Powered by field-proven Cat engines and offering best-in-class support from the Cat dealer network, Cat GC generator sets are ideal for an extensive range of standby applications, such as health clinics, manufacturing, agriculture facilities, municipal infrastructure, wastewater treatment plants and other utilities, commercial enterprises, and office buildings. With the new offerings, the comprehensive range of Cat GC diesel generator sets now includes: 21 models with power ratings from 33 to 1500 kVA for 50 Hz applications globally; 22 models from 40 to 1250 kW for 60 Hz applications in North America, and; 18 models with power ratings from 30 to 1250 kW for 60 Hz applications outside North America. Every Cat GC diesel generator set includes Caterpillar’s standard two-year warranty for standby power solutions and can be equipped with Cat Connect Remote Asset Monitoring, which provides data visualization, reporting and alerts that are globally accessible through an easy-to-use web interface or mobile app. Caterpillar delivers innovative power systems engineered for durability, reliability and value. The company offers worldwide product support, with parts and services available through the Cat authorized service and dealer network. In addition, dealer technicians are trained to provide a comprehensive range of maintenance and services that help customers optimize the total cost of ownership of Cat equipment.

What product where: Red Arrow's site lighting simulation

When the clocks turn back every autumn, sales of site lighting skyrocket – as contractors are suddenly faced with darker evenings, shorter days and less natural light on site. Both contractors and wholesalers alike are often caught unawares by the change (thanks to busy work schedules and the end-of-summer trade counter rush) and as a result find themselves making a frantic dash to source the right products to illuminate worksites over the darker days of winter. As a result, many fall back to using the same products they have used before – but thanks to advances in 110V lighting, there are more efficient, flexible and easy to use options available that they may be missing out on. Red Arrow have created a solution to help commercial contractors and wholesalers choose the right lighting options for the job at the hand. At their brand-new facility in Barnsley, they’ve built a site lighting simulator to demonstrate 110V site lighting products in situ: from festoons and floodlights, to and bulkheads. A mezzanine has been converted into a typical worksite, with part assembled stud walls and unmade floors fitted with a full range of 110V site lighting. Contractors and wholesalers are given the opportunity to see new and long-running products in action, to get a better idea of the benefits, USPs and best use cases of the products available. Here are the product ranges that are on display: Festoon Festoon kits provide flexible and adaptable lighting that can be hung around a site’s framework. Three versions are available – 12m, 22m, 50m – but it’s the 12m that offers the most flexibility: it can be connected with up to 20 more of the same fitting. Simply unplug festoon in areas that are not currently being used, and plug it into where it is needed, to make your festoon more adaptable to the space. Best for: a flexible approach that can be easily adapted to any area. Uplights and globe lights To fully illuminate a site area, uplights and globe lights are available with a 360-degree light distribution. Both products feature a switchable emergency backup to conserve battery power and can be moved to different areas of the site as needed without losing illumination. Best for: 360-degree illumination from a single point. Non-corrosive lighting The backbone of any site installation, the non-corrosive lights on show have a robust IP65 body and stainless-steel clips as standard. A self-supporting tripod or frame version is also displayed, to show how non-corrosive products can be used in specialist applications – such as plaster work – or to provide greater flexibility when moving lights from one area to another. Best for: lighting that can withstand heavy use on active building sites. Floodlights A range of floodlights are available to provide perimeter and security lighting on site. These floodlights are perfect for mounting at height, and to increase security by lighting a wider area around the site. With surge protection fitted as standard, they are a robust choice for use on construction sites. Best for: security and perimeter lighting. Bulkheads With maintained and non-maintained options, site bulkheads can be used for general security illumination or as a backup light source in case of a power interruption, which can be common on site, particularly when construction is underway. Best for: keeping sites’ secure or providing a backup in case of power disruption on site. Battery floodlights A self-supporting light source that contractors can keep in their vehicle, battery floodlights are a good option to have as an efficient backup light source in case of power failure. Best for: keeping on board a vehicle as an emergency backup light source Finding the right product for the job Red Arrow’s site lighting simulation is a great way to see products in use to help contractors and wholesalers discover new products and identify what’s best for specific site requirements, but Red Arrow have also extended that concept to their packaging and product information. A separate Trade Counter demonstration area at the facility illustrates how Red Arrow products can be displayed in branch, to give contractors easy access to all the information they need prior to purchase – and wholesalers the information they need to support at point of sale. Products are broken down into specific areas, with colour coded packaging designed to give clear pointers to where they are most commonly used: site, industrial, outdoor, commercial, downlights and emergency. These product categories also form the backbone of Red Arrow’s new website and forthcoming catalogue and are a core part of their commitment to making commercial lighting products accessible and easy to use for contractors.

Turn up the music with Makita's new radios

Makita UK has expanded its accessories range with two new radios. The DMR301 and MR007G are the perfect job site companions – as well as outstanding output, they have also been designed to withstand tough site conditions. Even better still, the DMR301 can be used to charge Makita’s LXT and CXT batteries for added on site efficiency. DMR301 Bluetooth DAB/DAB+ Job Site Radio The new DMR301 DAB/DAB+ Job Site Radio is compatible with both LXT and CXT batteries and is the first job site radio in Makita’s line-up to offer battery charging (when powered by the mains using an AC adaptor). Thanks to its dual power functionality, professionals can use the same LXT or CXT batteries to power their tools and accessories on site, as well as keeping batteries charged across the working day to maximise efficiency. Furthermore, the DMR301 can also wirelessly connect to mobile devices (within a range of 10m) via Bluetooth and features two USB output ports for charging mobile phones. To ensure that it can withstand tough jobsite conditions, the DMR301 is dust and shower proof (IP64 rated) and includes elastomer bumpers and metal pipes for added durability. The swivel mount, soft bend antenna also minimises breakage and/or loss. When powered using a 6.0Ah 18V LXT battery, the DMR301 will run for over 24hours for entertainment all day long and for those looking to unwind at the end of the working day, the DMR301 is even equipped with a built-in bottle opener. MR007GZ02 DAB/DAB+ Job Site Radio Just in time for Christmas, the MR007G DAB/DAB+ radio is now available in a special edition red finish. The MR007G is compatible with Makita’s LXT, XGT and CXT batteries and can also be mains powered using an AC adaptor jack. This radio is ideal for use on construction sites as it is dust and shower proof (IP65 rated) and includes elastomer bumpers. The MR007G can be wirelessly linked to mobile devices (within a radius of 10m) via Bluetooth and includes a USB port for charging mobile devices on site. Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita says: “At Makita, we are dedicated to offering tradespeople a wide range of products that make working on site easier, safer and with these new products - more enjoyable. Customer feedback is at the heart of our product development and the new radios are testament to this – the option to charge batteries using our radios is in high demand and we are delighted to now offer this functionality with the DMR301. “Spanning power tools, garden machinery products and a huge selection of accessories, the Makita range has something for everyone. What’s more, with our cordless products professionals can change between tools and tasks, and tools and accessories, effortlessly.”

Ovia releases its third, bumper lighting catalogue

It is just two years since Ovia was launched as an independent lighting organisation and, despite some difficult trading conditions, the company has kept on track with its ambitious plans and continues to exceed expectations with investment in new products, the addition of new team members, and the launch of issue 3 of the Ovia catalogue. New products and a bumper new catalogue   Phase 3 of Ovia’s product development programme aims to build on the success of the first two years.  When the company started out, it had the domestic market covered with the products it offered.  Expansion into other sectors was always the aim and Ovia has had some great success, particularly with its commercial and floodlighting products. At over 400 pages, the new Ovia catalogue boasts an additional 100 pages on the previous edition and will bring to designers, contractors and specifiers a comprehensive product guide covering the entire range on offer.  It includes a raft of brand new additions as well as some improved products, and they are being brought to market on the back of continual engagement with contractors to ensure that the products and solutions they seek are developed and available through the wholesaler. With the aim of filling any gaps in its portfolio and in response to direct feedback Ovia has had from contractors, the company has added new and improved products to existing categories and introduced some new categories. There are new additions to the domestic, amenity, commercial and utility ranges and Ovia has expanded its floodlighting range to include two new product categories – LED Wall Packs and LED Street Lighting. Free Lighting Design Service As part of Ovia’s commitment to deliver a first class service, a dedicated OVIA lighting design service is available, giving contractors access to free lighting design schemes for their commercial projects.  The aim of the free service is to provide expertise in choosing the right products and solutions to create a scheme that meets all the requirements and objectives of the project in question, and that is compliant with all the relevant regulations and standards. With all the information gathered, including drawings and specifications, a Lighting Design Proposal will be prepared.  A schedule of lighting and lighting controls will be shared with the Ovia internal and external sales team who will prepare a quotation. The Lighting Design Proposal and prepared quotation will be sent back to the Ovia sales team member, and the quote will then either go through the wholesaler of choice, or the enquiry will be directed through one of Ovia’s supporting Elite stockists. If drawings are not available, we do offer site surveys through our external sales team. A dedicated lighting design page is now available on the Ovia website. This includes an easy to access lighting design files section, where lighting designers can download individual product files.  All the lighting design files have been grouped into categories – commercial, domestic, floodlights, industrial, utility and emergency – with the relevant products listed under the category heading.

Foundry Lighting Expand Into Dubai  

Lighting design consultants Foundry are thrilled to confirm the expansion of its business to Dubai, building on the success of its London-based operations.   Due to a significant increase in demand for projects in the Middle East, Foundry now has a permanent Dubai presence to service the local community. This international success is just part of Foundry’s rapid growth, which has been phenomenal over the past few years.  Lighting industry expert, Jason Perks, has been appointed by Foundry as the new director of the Dubai studio. He will be responsible for leading projects in the Middle East and other international regions, as well as being part of the strategic team to further develop and grow Foundry.  Jason says, “Having previously lived in Dubai, leading major international brands throughout the gulf region and beyond. I am delighted to be returning to Dubai and growing Foundry’s presence in the Middle East.”  Foundry’s director Neale Smith adds: “We are delighted to have expanded our business with the opening of the Dubai studio and the appointment of Jason. Jason and I have worked together in different guises for over 15 years, so it is amazing that he is now a part of the Foundry team.  “It is an exciting time for Foundry as we are experiencing outstanding levels of growth. We are looking forward to what the future holds, and our new Dubai studio puts us in a strong position to provide an even better service to projects in the middle east.  Our mission is to deliver projects with passion, precision and purpose – not to mention enjoying the collaborative journey and having some fun along the way.  We are thrilled to be starting our journey in Dubai and forming a truly international team.” 

Speedy, Safe Installation for Contractors from New Range of Busbars

Amid the increased construction demand and tight deadlines facing electrical contractors, Legrand UK & Ireland has upgraded its range of busbars and tap-off boxes to offer a wider choice of power distribution solutions that save time on installation. For those working on projects with varying power requirements, the new Zucchini XCP range from Legrand is designed to fit all budgets and power requirements across multi-occupancy residential, commercial and industrial applications. As UK construction grows at the fastest pace in 24 years, there is more pressure than ever on contractors to complete projects on time and on budget. With sectors such as warehouse construction experiencing investment 54% higher in 2021 compared to 2018 according to Knight Frank, Paul Martin, Lead Marketing Manager for Legrand’s Power Distribution business unit, explains how M&E solutions must support contractors with these challenges. Paul says: “The pressure facing contractors to deliver projects means there is little room for error when installing electrical systems. A particular example of this has been seen in the warehouse construction sector, which has seen a boom in conjunction with the rise in e-commerce over the past year. “Along with requirements for time saving, there is an expectation that safety will be prioritised across all installations in any application. To help contractors with these pressures, we have designed the new XCP range to ensure correct installation can be quickly carried out first time, while remaining cost effective and avoiding the need to replace or reinstall.” To support contractors in promoting safety while speeding up installation, the range is quick to install and can be visually inspected for correct connections due to the shear off bolt connections. This can reduce the risk of bad connections which cause over heating problems. The XCP range is also available with a two-times rated neutral phase conductor option, helping to mitigate the addition of electronic devices into a building. This option helps contractors ensure the system keeps up with any changes in electrical demand and does not overheat due to electrical imbalances. As contractors working on a range of applications require different levels of specification, the XCP range includes an XCP-S (Standard) busbar in addition to an XCP-HP (High Performance) counterpart. Along with this, there is a comprehensive, market-leading selection of plastic and metal tap-off boxes available, rated 25-250A and 63-630A respectively. Paul adds: “With power requirements differing greatly, this range has been created to keep projects within budget. Along with the safety measures, we hope the cost-effective choice of quick-to-install solutions will support contractors with deadlines, budgets and safety concerns for any project size.”

Abloy wins £2.5m contract with UK Power Networks

Abloy UK has been awarded a 5-year contract with UK Power Networks valued at £2.5m to upgrade the current mechanical locking systems to a combined electromechanical and mechanical locking solution, for its high and low voltage distribution networks. UK Power Networks own and maintain the electricity distribution network across South East England, the East of England and London. Products specified include a mix of Abloy PROTEC2 CLIQ electromechanical and PROTEC2 mechanical padlocks and cylinders, which will be controlled and administered using the new CIPE Manager operating systems. It is estimated that Abloy will supply around 9,500 padlocks per annum, together with programmable PROTEC2 CLIQ Bluetooth Low Energy keys, enabling UK Power Network’s system to be expanded conveniently in the future. CLIQ offers high security and flexibility that supports the complex workflow of organisations in the energy sector by enabling audit trails to be generated for individual cylinders, padlocks, keys and system users. If a key is lost or stolen this no longer creates a major security risk, because each individual key can be deactivated if required and have access rights changed or removed using the CLIQ web manager software, providing a truly dynamic secure system. The battery powered CLIQ keys are programmable, so a temporary contractor can be issued with a key that permits entry to specific sites for a limited time period. After the authorisation period ends, the key cannot open the lock.