The UK’s official security and registration system for construction and agricultural machinery, the CESAR Scheme, is on the verge of a major milestone – supplying its 700,000th system to industry users.
Launched in 2007, CESAR has grown into the most widely adopted scheme of its kind anywhere in the world, earning the trust of leading machinery manufacturers and becoming a staple for contractors, farmers, and plant hire companies.
Powered by Datatag ID Ltd’s multi-layered forensic marking technology, CESAR provides each machine with a permanent and unique identity, stored on a secure database accessible to police and law enforcement 24/7.
The system integrates visible ID plates, RFID transponders, Datadots® and forensic DNA, acting as both a powerful theft deterrent and an effective recovery tool.
With machinery theft continuing to cost the UK millions annually, CESAR’s impact has been tangible. Police and insurance figures show that CESAR-marked equipment is four times less likely to be stolen and six times more likely to be recovered than unmarked machinery.
This proven success has encouraged widespread adoption from major brands including JCB, Kubota, Manitou, John Deere and New Holland, many of which fit CESAR as standard before their machines leave the factory.
Viki Bell, CEO of the Construction Equipment Association (CEA), which owns the scheme, said: “Reaching this milestone shows how far the CESAR Scheme has come in protecting our industry from the impact of machinery theft.
"The CEA is proud to see so many leading manufacturers fitting CESAR as standard, and we remain committed to working with Datatag, the police, and our members to keep vital construction and agricultural machinery safe from criminals.”
Kevin Howells, Managing Director of Datatag ID Ltd, added: “Approaching 700,000 CESAR systems is a testament to the trust and commitment of our manufacturing partners and the industry.
"Every system fitted sends a clear message that theft will not be tolerated. CESAR is proven, effective, and helping protect the machinery that builds our infrastructure and powers our agriculture.”
The CESAR Scheme is backed by the Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA) and the Association of Manufacturers and suppliers of Power generating Systems (AMPS), and fully supported by police forces nationwide.
Specialist officers are trained to spot CESAR-marked machinery both roadside and at ports, disrupting the illegal export of stolen equipment.