More than half of branded van owners in the UK say their vehicle signage has made them a target for thieves, according to new research from temporary business van insurance firm Tempcover.
The survey of 500 van drivers found that 54% of those with branded vehicles have experienced theft, attempted theft or vandalism they believe was linked to their signage. A further 39% said they had not faced any related incidents, while 8% were unsure, highlighting a clear divide in how secure owners feel once their business is on display.
Vans continue to play a vital role in trades and small businesses across the UK, and for many, the vehicle doubles as a moving advertisement, with almost half (47%) of van owners fully branding their vehicles and another 25% opting for partial designs featuring logos or contact details.
Half of van owners said they use van branding to create a professional image, and 48% said it helps them attract new customers or raise local awareness. Others said it helps their business stand out or makes their van look more appealing.
However, not all van owners are comfortable advertising their business. Almost a third (31%) avoid branding to stay discreet, while 29% worry about public complaints if their driving is criticised. Security and cost also play a role: 18% said they were concerned about theft, and 22% cited higher repair costs if the van is damaged or vandalised. Nearly one in five (19%) prefer to keep their vans unbranded altogether.
Perceptions of risk are influenced by the size of the branding. More than two-thirds (70%) of respondents believe larger or more prominent designs increase the likelihood of theft or vandalism, with 26% saying it does so significantly and 44% believing it has a slight impact. By contrast, 18% think branding makes no difference, 7% say the risk depends on location or circumstances, and 5% are unsure.
Those concerns have prompted some owners to take action. More than two in five (42%) said they had removed branding from their vans due to theft fears, and a further 14% are considering doing so.
Claire Wills-McKissick, a van insurance specialist at Tempcover, says: “A van is often the backbone of a business, so it’s vital to keep it secure. While eye-catching designs can help attract customers, they can also draw unwanted attention. Parking in well-lit areas, using extra locks, and avoiding leaving tools inside overnight can all help reduce the risk.”
Tempcover said short-term van insurance can provide extra flexibility and reassurance for those balancing visibility with vehicle security.
