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UK DIY News

Howdens Extends Free Tool Marking Kit Pilot

Howdens depot (Sent by PR)

Howdens, the UK’s number one trade kitchen supplier, will give away free tool marking kits to tradespeople at its Benton depot on Wednesday, 3rd September to help prevent tool theft in the area.

The free tool marking kits will be distributed on a first come, first served basis to local tradespeople visiting the depot as part of the Big Howdens Trade Day – when Howdens will offer trade customers exclusive deals on selected products, including joinery, doors and hardware products, at depots nationwide, for one day only. 

Howdens’ own research of its trade customers highlights the ongoing problem of tool theft, as a third (32%) of tradespeople asked said they have been affected, and of those affected, 58% had missed out on work as a result. Luckily, 62% of those experiencing delays had understanding and sympathetic clients, while 20% had frustrated clients and 3% had customers that complained.

Over 45% of tradespeople asked said they consider that having their work tools or equipment stolen is worse than having their phone (20%), work van (17%) or wallet (5%) stolen, showing the huge disruption involved.

Tool theft is an increasing issue for self-employed tradespeople, so Howdens’ extension of its June pilot – this time in the North East region - aims to give tradespeople extra reassurance. Each free tool marking kit can be used to mark up to 50 pieces of equipment.

Claire Bailey, regional director at Howdens said; “Our research shows the disruption and delays that tool theft can cause – and also what a widespread problem it is, with more than a third of trades affected. 

“With this latest activity, giving away free tool marking kits at our Benton depot, we want to save our trade customers time and money, by helping to protect their kit.”

The free tool marking kits will be distributed on a first come, first served basis to local tradespeople visiting the Benton depot at Units 2C, 2D North Tyne Industrial Estate, Whitley Rd, Benton, Newcastle upon Tyne NE12 9SZ, as part of the Big Howdens Trade Day – when Howdens will offer trade customers discounts on selected products, including joinery and doors.

Howdens offers a wide range of kitchen and bedroom collections, from best on budget to premium Classic Timber Kitchens with 24 paint-to-order options, along with joinery, doors, and flooring.  Kitchens feature rigid cabinets and are manufactured in their factories and are backed by a 25-year cabinet guarantee. All products are available from stock at over 850 depots across the UK and Republic of Ireland, ensuring availability when needed. Howdens is also the exclusive supplier of Lamona appliances, Oake & Gray flooring, and Fuller & Forge ironmongery, providing a complete solution for any project.

Homeowners can get started by booking a free design appointment online, and local depots can help in finding a tradesperson if needed.

Find out more at howdens.com

Source : Howdens

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28 August 2025

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