Almost half of smaller businesses with fleet insurance have admitted they don’t have specific security or anti-theft vehicle measures in place.

Just 55% of smaller fleet businesses have taken action on security to prevent vehicle theft

New research from commercial insurer NFU Mutual shows that just 55% of smaller fleet businesses implement security measures, compared to medium-sized fleets (91%) and large fleets (85%) who are more likely to put protection in place.

And across all businesses surveyed, nearly a quarter (23%) said they haven’t taken steps to put in security or try and prevent theft of their vehicles.

The research also highlighted the key priorities in the fleet industry from those operating a fleet of vehicles, with employee safety coming out on top – as 88% of people surveyed said that was ‘very important’. Company reputation, compliance and employee wellbeing were the others to make up the top four priorities for those in the sector.

NFU Mutual branded fleets’ lack of security measures as concerning and urged those in the sector to remain vigilant and, where possible, keep security high to avoid any unwanted costs. Latest Office for National Statistics figures show vehicle theft in the UK remains “stubbornly high”.

Mark Bromhall, fleet risk manager at NFU Mutual, said: “Risks come to all areas of businesses and it’s important for those managing their fleets to know they are secure and protected.

“It’s good to see more than three-quarters (77%) have security in place for their fleets – but we would urge everyone, where possible, to take steps of getting anti-theft measures in place to protect themselves and their businesses. Even where insurance covers the cost of theft, there is no quantifying the disruption and the worry caused to staff after a vehicle is stolen or damaged, so prevention really is the best cure.”

Small businesses play a crucial part in our country, and NFU Mutual has warned that theft is likely to be all the more disruptive for these companies.

“If you are not sure what measures to take, we’d recommend seeking advice on helping manage your fleet risk,” Bromhall added.

“These small steps can help make fleet owners feel far more secure and protected, while also having plans in place should anything bad happen.”