Business and Industry Today Issue 390

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Editor’s Comments

This month we continue to delve into the everevolving landscape of business and industry.

From innovative startups disrupting traditional markets to established corporations implementing groundbreaking initiatives, we review the 2023 Farm Business Innovation Show that was also co-located with Holiday Park & Resort Innovation. Whether you’re an industry enthusiast, seasoned professional or aspiring entrepreneur, dig your teeth into our latest review as well as some extra information on some of our chosen Top Exhibitors at the show including Pear Technology, ICE Trikes, Cromartie Hobbycraft, Charterbrae, The Tiny Housing Co, Halo Corporate Finance Limited, Sir Woofchester, Rock Venture Design, Portman Finance Group, Gleeson Land, Get Charging, Castles Carey Ltd, D

Page Contractors, and many more.

We also feature a great article on the new XXL-BOX from SIC Marking that offers record working dimensions of up to 520mm high as well as great modularity thanks to its three standard models that are 800, 1,200 and 1,600mm wide. Page 13.

Other topics covered in this issue: Health & Safety, Warehouse & Logistics, Fleet Management, Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning, Surface Finishing, Print & Packaging, Industrial & Machining.

Don’t forget to send us your latest Business, Industry and Sustainable news and updates and email us at: info@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk

On the Cover

Rebo’s

BAIT Sales Manager, Harriet Parfitt – 0121 550 7510 harrietparfitt@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk

Editorial, Gina Burton – 07483 931474 – gina@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk

Production Manager, Robert Sharp – production@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk

Accounts Department, Paul Whitaker – 0121 824 4742 accounts@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk

For more information or format requirements, see our Media Pack

The entire content of this publication is advertorial based. To place an advertorial or an advert, please call 0121 550 7510.

Farm Business Innovation & Holiday Park & Resort

Innovation Review 5-10

The shows brought visitors an incredible two days full of unmissable insights into the latest revolutionary products transforming the industry.

Industrial & Machining 11-13

The Close Brothers SME Apprentice Programme contributes to the funding of new apprentices in the manufacturing sector.

Health & Safety 14-15

Emergency safety showers play a vital role in preventing further harm and reducing the severity of injuries.

Fleet Management 16-17

You may remember that last August, we were excited to announce our monumental partnership with Network Rail. This marked a major milestone for our team here at CheckedSafe.

Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning 18

We spend more than half of our lives in the house. This is why clean air, the right temperature, and smart room control applications can really change lives for the better.

Surface Finishing 20

Curtiss-Wright Surface Technologies Division recently announced that its Keronite business, has successfully secured Nadcap accreditation for Chemical Processing at its Greenwood, IN facility.

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Contents

Rishi Sunak’s Greenbelt planning reforms should go further

Recently, the Government announced probably the most sweeping array of planning reforms seen in decades.

Currently, Rishi Sunak faces the challenge of simultaneously safeguarding the green belt and accelerating the delivery of new homes to meet the Government’s annual target of 300,000 homes – a daunting task.

Central to Rishi’s plan is turbocharging ‘brownfield’ building. Brownfield refers to land previously occupied by commercial buildings which has fallen into disuse.

green belts is not in fact so green –Kier Starmer recently dubbed this land the ‘Grey belt’ – with estimates outlining permitting construction on this land would double housebuilding for 15 years.

International Franchise Show London

Research indicates there is 67,563 acres of such land in England – an increase of 6% on 2021, capable of holding up to 1.2 million homes.

While bold, I believe the Government can think bigger.

Everyone wants an intact green belt, but we should think carefully about what truly is green space. A significant section of England’s

Making use of this grey belt offers another way for Rishi to build the homes Britain needs while preserving our genuine green spaces.

Ultimately, unlocking the hectares of land in both Brownfield and ‘grey belt’ sites is essential to address Britain’s housing shortage effectively.

Contact

T +44 (0)208 385 7041 info@nacropolis.com https://nacropolis.com/

Shaping a golden future for business

Business Show Media ends the year excited to launch into their next chapter; a golden 50th edition of the expo that started it all, the longest-standing business event; The Business Show London.

On the 13th & 14th November 2024, the UK will see the biggest business event staged to date. Celebrating 50 editions of entrepreneurialism, small businesses, and innovation, the team is going to deliver a spectacular show and will be pulling out all the stops.

In looking back at the history of The Business Show and its incorporation in 2000, the organisation started as a magazine which was then competing with the introduction and increasing popularity of the internet. The team then switched industries and moved into the events sector hoping to support UK businesses and entrepreneurs, allowing them to tap into a resource to help them create a startup and flourish. Since then, the show has been unstoppable, holding events year after year with each edition being bigger and better than the last.

In celebration of the incredible milestone, the golden 50th edition will include past keynote speakers through the years returning to deliver some exceptional insights into their journey to success. The show will have the

biggest brands returning to offer their products and services to skyrocket your business to success, as well as suppliers who have been a part of the event for consecutive years. There will be an incredible awards ceremony hosted on the evening of the 13th November to replace the usual exhibitor’s party. This will be a black-tie event where suppliers and speakers will have an opportunity to win prestigious business awards highlighting excellence in the industry.

Keep an eye on the socials over the coming weeks as the team celebrates The Business Show London 2023 which has just passed and prepares for the golden 50th edition taking place at The ExCeL on the 13th & 14th November 2024.

Contact T 0117 313 4746 enquiries@thebusinessshow.co.uk www.greatbritishbusinessshow.co.uk

Have you always dreamed about being your own boss but have been unsure of how and where to begin? Maybe you have no idea what kind of business you want to be running. Have you ever considered that you might eliminate the risk while also pursuing the business of your dreams? Well, we think you should invest in a franchise, this presents you with a chance to be your own boss but have a preestablished business model which is guaranteed to succeed.

The International Franchise Show plays host to the UK’s biggest selection of the most exciting franchise opportunities from around the world! Returning on the 12th & 13th of April 2024 at ExCeL London,

you’ll have free access to over 250 exhibitors, 60 seminars, 1-2-1 personal advice, interactive features, and expert guidance. Hear keynotes from some of the largest global brands like Specsavers, Natwest, The Federation of Small Businesses, Mathnasium, Tutor Doctor, and more. Discover which international franchises are in attendance and speak to experts to uncover exclusive information about the latest franchise opportunities. You stand a lot to gain by visiting The International Franchise Show this year.

You won’t want to miss this one. Get your FREE ticket now!

www.thefranchiseshow.co.uk

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Editor Recommends

Inspiring rural entrepreneurs

Farm Business Innovation 2023, held at Birmingham’s NEC from 6-7 November, brought visitors an incredible two days full of unmissable insights into the latest revolutionary products transforming the industry.

Farm Business Innovation is Europe’s largest event for farmers, country house estates, and landowners who are forward-thinking and looking to diversify into the leisure, hospitality and tourism industries. Co-located with 3 other shows, especially Holiday Park & Resort Innovation, which is also covered in this review.

66% of all farm businesses in England also run other enterprises – such as farm shops, wedding venues and B&Bs – generating an income of £680 million in 2017-18, to the UK economy. The event was specifically designed to enable visitors to meet the faces of the industry, with 1,000 leading

exhibitors ensuring visitors were able to try, touch and test all of the latest products, solutions, and systems from across the globe that are driving innovation.

Plus an incredible line-up of speakers allowed visitors to choose from over 500 seminars, where key individuals and experts in their field shared their insights and expertise, and divulged their own secrets to success, enabling visitors to return to their own business armed with ambition and brimming with ideas and inspiration.

In an exciting development that mirrors the ever-evolving landscape of the industries, the organisers are thrilled to announce the rebranding of these premier events – Farm Business Innovation, Holiday Park and Resort Innovation, Family Attraction Expo and Leisure Food and Beverage Expo – as the Land, Leisure and Tourism Show (LLTS).

The organisers want to assure exhibitors, attendees and partners that this exciting rebranding journey does not signal the end of Farm Business Innovation, Holiday Park and Resort Innovation, Family Attraction Expo, or Leisure Food and Beverage Expo. Instead, they’re embracing a new and dynamic way of bringing these cherished events together under the Land, Leisure, and Tourism Show.

The commitment to these existing zones remains

unwavering. They will continue to thrive and evolve within LLTS, offering dedicated spaces for farmers and landowners, holiday park owners, family attraction creators and culinary enthusiasts. This consolidation ensures that each sector retains its unique identity and focuses on the specialised knowledge and networking opportunities visitors have come to expect.

The newly rebranded Land, Leisure and Tourism show returns to Birmingham’s NEC from 6-7 November 2024. This is our pick of the best exhibitors from last year’s events, listed here in alphabetical order: Aqualand Industries, Castles Carey, Charterbrae, Cromartie Hobbycraft, D Page Contractors, Get Charging, Gleeson Land, Halo Corporate Finance Ltd, ICE Trikes, Pear Technology, Portman Finance Group, Rock Venture Designs, Sir Woofchester’s, Splash About, Telet & The Tiny Housing Co. Further details can be found on this page and the next five.

www.lltshow.com

Pear Technology

Pear Technology specialises in digital mapping services, GIS software and GNSS data capture in Great Britain.

Est 1995 and resellers of Ordnance Survey map data, we provide geographic solutions for land, property and environmental management to the private and public sectors.

We can create bespoke one-off plans for your needs and/or deliver systems empowering you with an ability to create your own maps in house and manage your assets over time. If no location information exists for your assets; we offer GNSS data capture options for hire and purchase so that these can be surveyed. Linking your geographies to record entries in other systems and online hosting is also possible.

If you are frequently dealing with different areas of land our online Map Shop may be of particular benefit to you for sourcing OS topographical detail when you need it 24/7.

If you are in the public sector, we can assist with your Public Sector Geospatial Agreement registration and membership to access the OS data that you need.

We are also happy to advise on a consultancy basis.

Please contact me if I can assist with your requirements.

Contact Jonathan Smith

M 07593 299752

jsmith@peartechnology.co.uk

www.peartechnology.co.uk/ farm_and_estate_mapping/

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Mapping, GIS and Survey
And
Parcels Use for: Grant Applications, Planning, Development and Land Management. Links with Landmark Key Prime. Share via Google Earth, What3Words, Web Maps and to/from CAD. Use Ordnance Survey, Land Registry, RPA, Aerial Imagery and Other Data. Free Trial and Demo www.peartechnology.co.uk 023 9249 9689 Real World – Site Survey Data And Drone Imagery Land Usage
Farm Business Innovation & Holiday Park & Resort Innovation Review – Top Exhibitors
Software, Services
Hardware

Farm Business Innovation & Holiday Park & Resort Innovation Review – Top Exhibitors

Introducing ICE Trikes

ICE Trikes are one of the most comfortable ways to cycle. They’re fun, stable and perfect for accessible cycling. Enjoy a relaxed countryside ride or the thrill of a sporty cycle through forest trails. ICE Trikes have accessible seating positions, easy to use controls, great looks with rugged ride capabilities. Cruise the open road and discover hidden trails. Trikes are super easy to ride with the rider needing no cycling experience.

From its headquarters in Falmouth, ICE makes 6 different models. The ICE VTX is one of the fastest trikes in the world, ridden by performance cyclists it even holds World Records. The Sprint X is a sports tourer that folds for easy transporting. The Sprint X Tour is built for comfortable touring

Charterbrae

Charterbrae have been manufacturing and selling quality British furniture for over 50 years. We are a highly skilled and specialised UK manufacturers of metal furniture for the contract furniture market. Our aim is to produce high quality furniture that not only looks impressive, but which survives within busy environments. We supply contract quality contract standard products at competitive prices at short lead times.

We supply many market sectors from University and higher education, to Hostels, Hotels, Offices, Build to rent and the Military offering a wide range of products from, dining tables and benches to stools, coffee tables, beds bunk beds, shelving units and many more.

We offer a bespoke service and adapt models and lines of our own to suit our customers needs. Charterbrae have gone through a period of significant growth due to the ever changing market sectors in which we supply along with our ever expanding lines and very popular bespoke service where we love to get stuck into customer drawings and ideas to bring these to life.

To find out more about our services, please get in touch.

T 0121 520 5353 sales@cbbeds.co.uk www.cbbeds.co.uk

and is available with electric motors and fully automatic gearing. The Adventure range is ideal for accessible cycling with a more upright seating position. The ICE Full Fat is the off-road trike originally built to cycle to the South Pole. Trikes are ideal for people with balance issues, disabilities, rehabilitation, mental health, fitness or simply cycling with friends and family.

ICE Trikes is an official partner to the British Cycling Limitless Cycling Programme. ICE has a network of UK dealers where you can try and buy. Visit: www.icetrikes.co for more details.

Cromartie Hobbycraft

At Cromartie Hobbycraft, we’re more than just a name – we’re your trusted partner on your creative journey with over 70 years of experience.

We’re proud to be a family-run business dedicated to offering top-quality arts, crafts materials and ceramics supplies at unbeatable prices.

Whether you’re a holiday park, craft village, paint-your-own pottery studio, or part of the leisure industry, Cromartie Hobbycraft is here to supply you with everything you need to inspire creativity and delight your customers.

Elevate

your

Our commitment doesn’t stop at supplying materials – we’re also here to provide long-term support for our customers. Our dedicated team is always available to answer your queries and offer expert advice, helping to ensure a bright future for you, our industry, and the generations ahead.

Ready to take your creative endeavours to the next level? Get in touch, we’re always happy to help you unleash your imagination and bring your artistic vision to life!

Contact

www.cromartiehobbycraft.co.uk

land’s potential with THC’s sustainable lodges & cabins

Discover the epitome of sustainable luxury with The Tiny Housing Co (THC). As a standout exhibitor at the Farm Business Innovation show, we’re at the forefront of transforming outdoor leisure and glamping sites into sanctuaries of tranquillity and eco-friendly innovation. THC specialises in creating lodges and cabins that are not just accommodations but a lifestyle choice for those who value sustainability, modern design, and operational efficiency.

Our architecturally designed lodges and cabins, built to exceed the highest standards of sustainability, offer a unique opportunity for landowners, rural business owners, and holiday park managers to diversify with ecoluxury accommodations. Equipped with green technology like solar PV systems, air source heat pumps, and superior insulation, our units significantly reduce energy consumption, aligning with the growing demand for environmentally responsible travel options.

Embrace the future of rural hospitality with

THC’s sustainable solutions. Let’s connect and explore how our lodges and cabins can transform your property into a beacon of luxury and sustainability.

Reach out to THC to unlock the potential of your land:

info@thetinyhousing.co

www.thetinyhousing.co

Step into a greener future with THC – where luxury meets sustainability.

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Award-Winning CBILS

Broker of the Year

In 2023, Halo Corporate Finance Limited celebrated a remarkable milestone with nearly £100M funded, reflecting their strong relationships and ongoing success. The year was further highlighted by their participation in the Holiday Park & Resort Innovation Show 2023, where Halo’s stand attracted significant interest from attendees eager to explore growth opportunities, upcoming investments, payment reduction strategies, and various other financial needs.

Halo offers a comprehensive range of finance services tailored to benefit businesses. They work closely with clients to ensure that their terms are aligned with their customers financial goals, circumstances, and future plans.

If your business operates in the Holiday Park sector, Halo can assist you in developing and expanding to new sites, securing stocking facilities, obtaining bridging loans, commercial loans, and more.

In recognition of their exceptional performance, Halo enjoyed a highly successful 2023, receiving nominations for the NACFB broker awards as Asset & Leasing Finance Broker of the Year. Additionally, Dilan Jadav, Business Finance Expert at Halo, won the Rising Star of the Year award.

As 2024 unfolds, Halo begins the year with great anticipation, having once again been named finalists for the prestigious Asset Finance Broker of the Year award at the 2024 Business Moneyfacts Awards. Here's to continued success and accomplishments in the year ahead.

T 0345 450 1966 sales@hcfl.co.uk www.hcfl.co.uk

Are you really Dog-Friendly?

Sir Woofchester’s offers you the UK’s leading product range for hospitality & tourism.

For your BAR or RESTAURANT. Your Dog Menu can include Treats, Dinner Bowls, Drinks & Snacks.

On holiday ARRIVAL Choose between:

● ‘All day breakfast’ snack bar – a delicious innovative treat for dogs on-the-go!

● ‘Sleepy Bones’ treat pot –relaxing bedtime dog treats.

● ‘Dog Welcome Pack’ PERSONALISED – containing poo bags, a toy and dog treats.

Sir Woofchester’s BENEFITS:

● Increased average customer spend

● Increase repeat visits

Why Dog-Friendly?

● The number of UK dog owners has increased by over 25% since 2020.

● Dog owners like to treat their canine like one of the family when they visit you.

● The dog-friendly trend in hotels & tourism etc has been increasing for over a decade!

● Enhances staff engagement & enjoyment

● Link to other marketing initiatives

● Great social media content & word of mouth marketing

● Contributes towards improved reviews

● Compliant with DEFRA & other legislation.

● The pandemic has seen a behaviour change, with more dog owners choosing the UK for their short breaks or annual holidays.

● The cost of boarding kennels & pet-sitting has risen, so your customers now increasingly want to bring their dog with them!

● We see everincreasing requirements within dogfriendly accommodation providers, food & beverage outlets, as well as tourist attractions.

Time to up your game!

T 01229 877277

hospitality@sirwoofchesters.com www.sirwoofchesters.com

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Park & Resort Innovation Review – Top Exhibitors the halo effect Acquire the latest equipment for your business without the upfront capital cost 0345 450 1966 sales@hcfl.co.uk www.hcfl.co.uk Halo provides asset finance & banking facilities to all types of businesses from startups to established corporations, including private and public limited companies, sole traders, partnerships and private individuals. Unlike many other finance providers, we act both as a principal lender and as a broker. This means that we can always secure the most competitive deal for you.
Farm Business Innovation & Holiday

Designing attractions for guests of all ages

Rock Venture Designs is a fun, forward-thinking company specialising in the creative design and build of leisure attractions in the UK.

New to the industry and founded by the team behind Rock Waters, the company is made up of an experienced South African leisure design team that together has over 15 years of experience in creating the perfect leisure attraction.

After recently exhibiting at the Holiday Park & Resort Innovation Show 2023, Rock Venture Designs had a great time connecting with future customers and came away even more inspired to showcase

its services to a wider audience throughout 2024 and beyond.

Offering free quotations on all services, Rock Venture Designs can help to design Adventure Golf Courses, Water Parks, Splash Pads & Water Slides, and Swimming

Pools. First in South Africa, and now in the UK, Rock Venture Designs has over 250 pools and other projects to its name, all within its first two years of trading!

View some of its latest concepts and designs below and feel free to get in touch today:

M 07769 622176

craig@rockventuredesigns.com www.rockventuredesigns.com

Promoting Land. Unlocking Value.

Gleeson Land is a specialist strategic land promotion company that is passionate about promoting land through the complex planning system and maximising the value of our client’s land.

Founded in the 1990s, Gleeson Land forms part of MJ Gleeson plc, which has been creating much-needed new homes for local people for almost 120 years.

Gleeson Land have the strength to invest for the long term and are passionate about finding the right solutions to unlock even the most complex of sites. We have a long

Diversification is becoming increasingly popular, offering abundant opportunities for landowners to strengthen their revenue and add income streams. At the autumn Holiday Park and Farm Business Innovation show, Portman were able to discuss finance options for many different types of projects as well as strike up new partnerships with manufacturers of pods and cabins whose customers may need to spread the cost of their purchase.

As well as renewable energy provision, activity centres and farm shops, the glamping and holiday industry offers a prime opportunity for landowners. Since restricted travel in 2020 and 2021, public interest in staycations, glamping and holiday parks has experienced sharp growth. With the sector

expected to continue expanding in coming years, there is plenty of opportunity for landowners to invest in glamping sites and take advantage of this trend. If your land is suitable, a site can generate a worthwhile passive income, boosting seasonal revenue and the local economy.

Portman Finance Group can help you spread the cost of any project, from landscaping to accommodation or site facilities as well as any equipment or machinery you need.

No-one knows better than you how to run your site, but when it comes to funding your project, it’s worth talking to the experts. Let us do the hard work for you.

T 01604 669352

www.portmanfinancegroup. co.uk

history of working with landowners to secure planning permission on their land, actively marketing their land to a wide range of housebuilders and securing the best value for them.

You might have seen us at the Farm Business Innovation show in November on stand FM1060. If you are interested in finding out how we can help you, feel free to contact us for a for a no-obligation land appraisal or just for a informal chat with the team.

Contact

T 01252 360300

www.gleesonland.co.uk

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Full of opportunity
Farm Business Innovation & Holiday Park & Resort Innovation Review – Top Exhibitors

Our wi-fi reaches here

Telet is the UK’s 5th Mobile Network Operator with a mission to enhance mobile coverage in rural areas and establish 5G networks for both public and private sectors.

Our expertise lies in sectors such as agriculture, construction, events, marinas, and holiday parks. Whether you need a reliable connection for vital services or to enjoy a rainy bank holiday watching an important match, only a 5G network can offer the speed and dependability you need. We ensure quality service for devices like CCTV, Points of Sale, and comprehensive 5G mobile data coverage.

With the advanced design of 5G, every user can enjoy high performance and reliable connection.

Get Charging

Get Charging is passionate about improving and installing green infrastructure that will reduce the UK’s carbon emissions for future generations. They specialise in installing electric vehicle (EV) charge points across the North-East of England and further afield.

Their priority is to ensure client satisfaction, so they take the time to ensure the solution they implement is the best one for you and your situation. They work with multiple charge point brands including Tesla, Evec, BG SyncEV, Wallbox, Easee and Sevadis, so have versatility in the solutions they offer.

Their services include:

Negotiating spectrum licenses is key to establishing a small network, and Telet boasts more local access license coverage than any other applicant. We tailor each solution to the clients’ requirements. The key variables will be geographical scale, number of the device requirements, along with the topography of the site.

We provide high-performance internet and mobile data to all devices and buildings within reach. Recognising the significance of technology in daily life, we understand the demand for fast and reliable internet wherever you are. Reach out to Telet for a personalised quote.

T 0208 002 0000 sales@tel.et www.tel.et

● Domestic charge points – to allow you to charge your EV at home when not in use

From our humble beginnings within the building, groundworks and landscaping industries going back to 2008, D Page Contractors, a major FIRST BASE UK installation partner, have turned the focus to ground screw installation in more recent years.

● Workplace charge points – enable your workforce and visitors to charge their EVs while at work

● Commercial charge points – they can install rapid charge points at commercial enterprises, including shopping parks, leisure centres and more.

They also offer maintenance packages for your charge points, even if not installed by them. If you have a problem with your charger, they can diagnose it and offer you the best and cheapest solution.

Contact Get Charging now to start the conversation: Call them on 01740 617057 or 07931 503385, email them at: info@get-charging.co.uk or visit them online at: www.get-charging.co.uk

Are you considering something different, built in timber in your garden or on your estate, in a rather inaccessible location? You have come to the right place.

What about a shooting lodge for those drinks breaks or a tree-house for the children, or for unforgettable holiday lets? Maybe a rope and plank bridge, creating access to a part of the garden or estate that until now has been difficult to reach?

If open to the public, a rope bridge across water or a ravine is a huge draw; in a couple that we have installed for visitor attractions, people have queued in the summer for over an hour to enjoy the experience.

What about a cabin in the woods as a focus for entertaining or an adventure area to amuse and challenge the children? Castles Carey Ltd would love to help you develop your ideas and plans, whether large or small. If it involves wood and/ or rope, you have come to the right place.

Please ring Jeffrey Carey on 07714 754378 or email: sales@castles-carey.co.uk or visit: www.castles-carey.co.uk

D Page Contractors

D Page Contractors have made investments in the business which continually develop the technology we use for testing and installing. With machinery capable of installing screws up to 140mm in diameter, more and more commercial projects can be supported by the team’s professional ground screw installations.

The team are predominantly Surrey based but cover the whole of the UK and have the capability to install foundations to support anything from garden sheds through to residential housing.

FIRST BASE strives to push the boundaries of engineering to support ever evolving design concepts. New projects continually demand

innovation and ingenuity and having an environmentally friendly, versatile and robust foundation solution to keep up with industries that continually seek the protection of not only the environment they are in but the wider battle against emissions is supported by FIRST BASE’s continual development of new ideas to support this aim. Where once, designers and architects may have been restricted in location due to tricky terrain, we can now say yes to more innovative and captivating ideas which ground screw foundations can support and enhance.

T 01342 892724

M 07974 668306

M 07973 852166

kate@dpagecontractors.co.uk

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Business Innovation & Holiday Park & Resort Innovation Review – Top Exhibitors
Farm
Castles Carey

Maximising the potential of poolside retail in UK holiday parks

Debuting at the NEC’s Holiday Park & Resort exhibition in November was children and family fun product specialist

Splash About. A relative newcomer to the market, yet the brand is the number one supplier of swim related products to the UK leisure industry. It holds contracts with 85% of leisure retail including Haven, Butlins, Park Dean and Center Parcs which is no mean feat after only three years of operation.

Splash About’s rapid success is not just attributed to its affordable, quality products, the clear differentiator is its integrated retail solution and innovative, fresh approach.

The brand focuses on strategic merchandising, online ordering, and stock guarantees; all designed to optimise retail sales, especially during peak trading periods.

Bespoke marketing and merchandising capitalise on space, creating a ‘retail theatre experience’ for its range of swim products. Attractive, clean,

streamlined displays are all designed to withstand the sub-tropical temperatures of retail pool areas and product is strategically displayed to maximise sales.

Its unique retail solution incorporates a dedicated account person, while bespoke branding conveys the individual ethos and customer demographic of each Holiday Park or facility, to deliver a range of products which truly reflect customer requirements.

Splash About’s retail solution provides bespoke web portals, showing stock levels in real time, to not only accelerate the ordering process but to reduce the reliance on manual ordering. Analysis of sales data, automated reorder and pre-agreed product replenish can be enabled with stock level guarantees and next day delivery to optimise sales during critical trading times.

“Poolside retail outlets in leisure parks had previously been overlooked, but there was a real opportunity to increase the profitability of these

Welcome to e-Pitch: Charge. Forward.

e-Pitch is a fast, effective way to monitor, re-bill and control power usage.

The system allows guests to pay for what they use, keep track of the environmental impact resulting from their power use and encourage guests to use less electricity.

Monitor, Educate, Reduce.

The system is a combination of hardware, cloud and application based software. Combined, it allows the monitoring of power usage for re-billing, remote control and isolation of pitches when not in use and can even allow pitch side EV charging options.

Power consumption is translated into CO2e tonnage for Environmental Social

and Governance (ESG) reporting and carbon offsetting purposes.

Formats include retrofit cable mount, EHU integrated and a DIY kit. Payments are handled directly with the site’s payment gateway, such as stripe, cash in person or PayPal for example. and there are no ongoing monthly or transaction costs. 10 years of GSM SIM data and full access to the cloud platform and guest applications is included.

Learn more at: www.e-pitch.co.uk, on social media: instagram @epitchuk, linkedin @e-pitch or email: hello@e-pitch. co.uk to discuss this award winning solution and see how you can Charge. Forward.

spaces,” commented Annie White, Head of Leisure Sales at Splash About.

Annie continued, “Our unique approach means we input into every concept, design and product stocked so we’re confident sales will be maximised.”

“It’s a testament to our strategy that Center Parcs, which previously hadn’t focused on poolside retail, rolled out a three month trial at its Elveden Forest site to see if Splash About’s range of family fun swim products would appeal to its holiday makers. The success of this initial trail was extended to all other parks, including Ireland after just six weeks.”

Annie concluded.

Forward thinking Holiday Parks and leisure facilities are taking an all-encompassing approach to optimising poolside retail, which as a result could really help to keep their company’s head above water in these challenging economic times.

Contact

T 01472 236465

M 07818 573888 info@splashabout.com www.splashabout.com

BAIT is sponsored by – see them on page 14 10
Farm Business Innovation & Holiday Park & Resort Innovation Review – Top
We offer technical support and UK wide breakdown response. We hold parts stock and have our own maintenance team on hand to keep you running smoothly. Award-winning, durable products for the leisure sector Call or email for a demo - 07445 465526 cameronsteele@aqualand-industries.com 6 wheel drive design All terrain adventure Made for 6-14 years Long battery life Made for 4-12 years 1st driving experience 2 seater design Long battery life
Exhibitors
SUSTAINABILITY TOD AY Energy Efficient Solutions Group Specialising in cutting-edge technologies EcoSync Innovation in heating management NMI Embedded payment solutions Issue 453 March 2024 Tel: 0121 550 7510 www.sustainabilitytoday.co.uk energy | water | waste | recycling | sustainability on LinkedIn and Twitter Barnfather Wire Midlands makes £2million investment to produce the best quality baling wire in the industry Page XVIII IX X XV

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Stoelzle Glass Group's third Sustainability Report

Stoelzle Glass Group, a leading packaging glass manufacturer is proud to announce the publication of its third Sustainability Report. The report highlights the company’s commitment to continuous improvement in sustainability practices focussing on energy, resource efficiency and employees.

Stoelzle’s group-wide science-based decarbonisation targets were submitted to Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), and have now been officially accepted. The company commits to ambitious goals, including a 50% reduction in absolute GHG emissions (scope 1 and 2) by 2030 and a 15% reduction in absolute GHG emissions (scope 3) from a 2019 base year.

Georg Feith, CEO of Stoelzle Glass Group, appreciates this great achievement, “We are proud to be one

of 4,000+ companies worldwide and one of a few companies within the European glass industry with an official SBTi climate protection target. Stoelzle Glass Group remains committed to continuous improvement and driving sustainable practices in all aspects of our operations.”

As a key aspect of Stoelzle’s sustainability roadmap, the company is driving decarbonisation efforts, reducing energy demand in glass production and increasing the use of renewable energy sources. The following milestones have been achieved so far:

t Process & Energy Data Management System

t Batch Preheater

t Organic Rankine Cycle

t Electric Furnace & Feeder

Stoelzle Glass Group’s Sustainability Report demonstrates its unwavering dedication to sustainability and the implementation of global best practices.

By prioritising decarbonisation, resource efficiency, and circularity, the company strives to be an industry leader in sustainable glass manufacturing.

Click here to download the report www.stoelzle.com

Green businesses Thrive

Although the UK economy may be limping along with just 0.1% growth, green businesses are gaining momentum producing £74bn in goods and services and 765,000 jobs.

A recent report by the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) and the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) showed that the net zero economy in the UK grew by 9% in 2023. Investment is critical to support future growth in the sector and create good jobs in deprived areas of the country.

Thrive Safety Leadership Centre in Immingham.

Some of those may well be in Norfolk, where the world’s biggest developer of offshore wind, Ørsted, has begun laying pipework for its latest project 120km off the Norfolk coast. Estimated to cost £8bn, Hornsea 3 will have capacity to power more than 3.3 million UK homes when it becomes operational in 2027. The construction phase of the project alone is supporting 5,000 jobs and every member of the workforce will attend the

Active Training Team (ATT) has created a new programme, Thrive 2, with a narrative which reflects the activity of the onshore works. Live action and state-of-the-art multimedia create an immersive active learning environment participants won’t forget.

If you would like to book Thrive for your workforce, visit: www. activetrainingteam.co.uk or email: info@activetrainingteam.co.uk

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Editor’s Comments

Sustainability

Today is always looking to champion the intersection of business and sustainability.

With energy management at the top of organisational priorities, we review EMEX 2023, The Net Zero & Energy Management Expo that was held at London’s ExCel from the 22-23 November. As the global conversation around sustainable practices and the profound impact that businesses, communities and people are having on the planet, corporate responsibility is more important than ever. Read our full show review on page 8 alongside our pick of the best exhibitors from the event on the following two pages: Argent Fuels, BEM Services, EcoSync, Energy Efficient Solutions Group, Enersee & HPC.

the manufacturing industry to reduce its environmental impact. The article also goes into depth on how CP Cases, an innovative pioneer, has collaborated with Matric Polymer & Queen’s University for a Recyclable Bio Polymer Project: Pioneering Sustainability in Rotational Moulding. Page 20.

Other show reviews include: Floating Offshore Wind 2023, London EV Show 2023, Solar & Storage Live 2023.

Other topics covered in this issue: Recycling & Waste Management, Greenbuild, Quarrying & Mining, Water Management.

We also feature an important article from CP Cases that identifies the challenge faced by

Don’t forget to send us your latest Business, Industry and Sustainable news and updates and email us at: info@sustainabilitytoday.co.uk

On the cover Barnfather Wire Midlands makes £2million investment to produce the best quality baling wire in the industry XVIII

Contacts

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Production Manager, Robert Sharp – production@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk

Accounts Department, Paul Whitaker – 0121 824 4742 accounts@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk

For more information or format requirements, see our Media Pack The entire content of this publication is advertorial based. To place an advertorial or an advert, please call 0121 550 7510.

SUSTAINABILITY TOD AY

Offshore Wind North East Review V

North East England was at the forefront of the industrial revolution, but has now positioned itself at the forefront of the offshore wind industry.

Quarrying & Mining VI-VII

Industrial slurry pumps are essential for several industries that require the transfer of liquids that are highly viscous or contain suspended solids.

EMEX Review X-XI

EMEX welcomed an ever-growing range of professionals keen to stay at the forefront of carbon management, energy efficiency and sustainability.

Solar & Storage Live Review

XII-XIII

Solar & Storage Live 2023 was the most attended show in the history of the event and has become the UK’s largest ever renewable energy exhibition.

London EV Show Review

XIV-XV

The London EV Show 2023, held at ExCeL London from 28-30 November 2023, promised a visionary outlook into the future of EVs.

Floating Offshore Wind 2023 Review XVI-XVII

Floating Offshore Wind 2023 was the meeting place for all the current and future players in the global floating wind industry.

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Contents
XVII

Water Management

New partnership between Euroby and Polat Makina

Euroby Ltd is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of waste processing equipment.

On 23rd September, the Midlands based company entered into a new partnership with Turkish equipment provider Polat Makina.

Polat already has a global presence and its new partnership with Euroby grants them access to the UK market for the first time.

For Euroby, the partnership presents an opportunity to expand their already diverse range of services and provide faster turnaround times for both new and existing clients.

Both companies share commitment to delivering excellent customer service and prioritising sustainability. This means that clients, the communities they serve and the environment will all benefit from this collaboration.

With a combined industry experience of more than 50 years, this partnership aims to achieve new levels of quality and innovation. By working together, they are confident that Polat’s cutting-edge equipment and Euroby’s specialised industry knowledge and experience will contribute unique ideas, skills and enthusiasm to develop new service offerings across various industries and drive long-term growth.

T 01903 694400

F 01903 694477 sales@euroby.com www.euroby.com

Trenchless technology paving the way for sustainable development

Afterrecently celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2023, the United Kingdom Society of Trenchless Technology (UKSTT) remains at the forefront of environmental preservation with its trenchless methods that harness innovation.

Going into its fourth decade, UKSTT has achieved many milestones across its history, and today its mission still remains the same: To advance the science of practice of trenchless technology for the public benefit and to promote education, training, study and research in the practice and to publish the results.

focus is to continue supporting and engaging its membership within the utility sector.

UKSTT’s range of trenchless solutions offer key advantages across inspection & detection, cleaning methods, renovation, new installations, and keyhole & other techniques.

Addressing the urgency of climate change is a priority for UKSTT moving forward and by putting itself in the centre of the action enables the company to remain focused on promoting its technology for the benefit of the environment and everyone involved.

Through sustainable impact, effective collaboration, lasting partnerships and knowledge transference, UKSTT’s main

UKSTT is excited to announce its first masterclass of 2024 that will take place on the 20th March at Woodland Grange, Leamington Spa. CIPP for Pressure Pipes Masterclass is a one-day masterclass that comprehensively covers CIPP for pressure pipes and much more. Including presentations from speakers from Wessex Water, Thames Water, IKT –Institute for Underground Infrastructure, WRc Group, Picote Solutions, Applied Felts and RPS, reserve your place today!

M 07745 781500

www.ukstt.org.uk

www.ukstt.org.uk/calendar/cipp-forpressure-pipes-masterclass

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Offshore Wind North East Review – Top Exhibitors

Offshore Wind in North East England

North East England was at the forefront of the industrial revolution, from coal mining and shipbuilding to offshore oil & gas, the region has continued to evolve its engineering-led capabilities to not only remain relevant in an increasingly changing global energy market, but to position itself at the forefront of the offshore wind industry.

Since 2000 the region has been involved in offshore wind, using its experience and expertise in other industries to diversify and create a new and vibrant offshore wind supply chain. It now leads the way in the green energy revolution, playing a key role in energy security and the UK journey to net zero 2050. The industry here has now contributed significantly to the creation of new jobs, economic growth and the regeneration of coastal communities.

The region is proud to now have a diverse,

innovative and forward-thinking energy sector supply chain with offshore wind a key focus.

With first-class infrastructure, including six highlyactive ports, its prime location on the east coast of England with world class offshore wind farms on its doorstep, including Dogger Bank Wind Farms and the Sofia Offshore Wind Farm, the region maintains its enviable track-record with its supply chain cluster contributing a lion’s share to the UK and the Global offshore wind farms.

The offshore wind sector in North East England is very much open for business and continues to be at the vanguard of this dynamic growing industry.

OWNE Conference & Exhibition

Offshore Wind North East (OWNE), held at Sunderland’s Beacon of Light from 8-9 November 2023, is a leading event that explores themes and opportunities in the offshore wind sector. The show brought together an impressive line-up of

speakers to update you on their business activities, opportunities for the supply chain and how to engage going forward.

One of the key things that came out of this year’s event was the importance of developing skills in the offshore wind sector. As we work towards the government’s net zero target of 2050, the need for skills in green jobs – which will be a key driver of employment growth – is becoming ever greater. Because of the North East’s strengths in the offshore wind and energy sector, the infrastructure is already in place to create a pipeline of talent for the workforce of the future.

Offshore Wind North East returns to Sunderland’s Beacon of Light from 6-7 November 2024. This is our pick of the best exhibitors from last year’s event, listed here in alphabetical order: Masfix. Further details can be found on this page.

www.offshorewindne.com

Vending machines for the offshore wind sector

Masfix is a leading distributor of fasteners and workshop consumables, alongside bespoke services around vendor managed inventory and was one of Sustainability Today’s Top Exhibitors at the 2023 OWNE edition, held from 8-9 November at Beacon of Light in Sunderland.

Located in Newcastle Upon Tyne on the Newburn Industrial Estate, Masfix was established in 1982 by founders Ron Slater and George Mordue and after over 40 years in business, the company is now run by sons Mark Slater and Ian Mordue.

The team from Masfix was on hand at OWNE 2023 to give a demonstration of their vending machines to interested parties from across the offshore wind industry as well as to introduce the Kanban solution, which is a sustainable method to help businesses become more efficient due to the zeropackaging element and its ability to help reduce deliveries.

Back in 2022, Masfix partnered with BTS Facades & Fabrication, leading manufacturers and suppliers of rainscreen systems and façade systems, following a strategic site visit and discussing concerns around consumables, traceability and waste, the perfect solution was engineered: the branded vending

machine, designed to keep stock levels flowing, manage consumables and reduce waste simultaneously.

The vending machine has allowed BTS to fully monitor waste, while controlling cost and usage.

The D810 vending machine is precision-designed for storing and dispensing of a wide range of products, such as PPE products like gloves, glasses, ear defenders, through to tape measures and other consumable products.

The UK offshore wind sector is an integral part of the renewable energy industry but it is a major hazards industry, with health & safety regulations paramount. With that in mind, PPE solutions are mandatory to protect workers from working at height, exposure to high-level noises, confined spaces and hazardous substances. Safety gloves for example are required for harsh weather conditions and mechanical hazards throughout the wind turbine sector and safety glasses are ideal for working in confined

spaces. Just some of Masfix’s offerings include quality sustainable PPE from brands such as Globus, Rockfall & Uneek.

Having a fully-functional vending machine allows for every day, streamlined PPE access, without needless trips to a store cupboard, with the chance that required PPE has run out. No more need for queues, taking time way form the tasks at hand and with automated stock control, the PPE supplies take care of themselves.

For automated, sustainable vendor PPE supplies and to find out more, contact Masfix

today:

T 0191 264 5333 enquiries@masfix.co.uk www.masfix.co.uk

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Industrial slurry pumps

Industrial slurry pumps are essential for several industries that require the transfer of liquids that are highly viscous or contain suspended solids. These pumps are designed to handle dense substances, such as mud, sand, coal, minerals, and more. In this article, we will explore what industrial slurry pumps are, the several types available, their applications in various industries, and the benefits of using them.

What is an industrial slurry pump?

An industrial slurry pump is a mechanical device used for pumping liquids containing suspended solid particles. These types of pumps are designed with robust components to resist abrasion and maintain consistent performance even in harsh conditions. Industrial slurry pumps are essential in industries such as mining, chemical, building materials industry, and other industries where dense and corrosive liquids need to be managed.

Industrial slurry pumps are mostly used in the mining industry for transporting abrasive minerals and slurries, in the chemical industry for pumping corrosive and viscous liquids, and in the building materials industry too.

Thanks to their robustness and abrasion resistance, these pumps can operate even in harsh conditions. Whether in the mining industry, the chemical industry or the building materials industry, slurry pumps are an essential component to ensure a constant and reliable flow of liquids.

Slurry pumps are designed with several distinctive features to ensure optimal performance. For example, they are equipped with wear-resistant impellers, which allow them to withstand abrasion caused by solid particles in the liquid. In addition, these pumps feature robust housings and dependable seals to prevent leaks and ensure safe operation. Some models of slurry pumps are also equipped with cooling systems to prevent overheating during continuous operation.

Industrial slurry pump, different types

Whether in the mining industry, the chemical industry or the building materials industry, slurry pumps are an essential component to ensure a

constant and reliable flow of liquids. These fluids can be extremely corrosive or particularly abrasive, so it’s essential to use the right pump to ensure efficient operation and a long lifespan.

There are several types of industrial slurry pumps, each with unique features to meet specific needs. Let’s look at the main types:

Industrial centrifugal pumps

Industrial centrifugal pumps are commonly used for the transfer of sludge and dense liquids with suspended particles. These types of pump might be open or closed impelled centrifugal pumps. The first type has a large suction opening to allow large solid particles to pass through. They are effective at handling corrosive fluids and can be used in both horizontal and vertical applications.

The open impeller industrial centrifugal pump is particularly suitable for the mining industry, where large quantities of mineral-containing sludge need to be transferred. These pumps can easily handle solid particles of considerable size, ensuring a steady and reliable flow.

Closed impeller industrial centrifugal pumps are designed to handle highly corrosive or particularly abrasive fluids. The closed impeller industrial centrifugal pumps prevent solid particles from entering the pumping chamber, thus reducing wear, and extending the life of the pump. This type of pump is widely used in industries such as paper production, chemical industry, and other applications that require the effective elimination of dense liquids.

These pumps are equipped with corrosion-resistant materials, such as stainless steel or titanium, to ensure longer life even in highly aggressive environments. Also, it can handle highly corrosive fluids without sustaining damage, making them ideal for the chemical industry and other similar applications.

Liquid vacuum pump

Liquid vacuum pumps are used to create a vacuum within a chamber or system. They are commonly used in industries such as glass manufacturing, the pharmaceutical industry, and the packaging

industry. These pumps are designed to work with liquids so that they can handle liquid fluid transfer and vacuum pumping simultaneously.

These pumps are essential for many industrial applications that require precise pressure control and the creation of an air-free environment. For example, in the pharmaceutical industry, these pumps are used to create a sterile environment within processing chambers, ensuring the safety and quality of pharmaceutical products.

There are other types of industrial slurry pumps, depending on design and use: for example, industrial acid pumps, industrial submersible pumps, and industrial vertical pumps. It is important to select the right pump based on the specific needs of the industry to ensure efficient and reliable operation.

Primary markets for Pemo industrial pumps

These are the primary markets where Pemo industrial sludge pumps are used, we also can provide to our clients references and case studies.

t Mining, Quarries, and Mineral Extraction

t Aggregate Industry

t Stone Industry (Granite and Marble)

t Ceramic Industry

t Chemical Industry

t Industrial Wastewater Treatment.

t OFMSW (Organic Fraction of Municipal Solid Waste)

Pemo Pumps offers Italian excellence in the custom pumps market. With production 100% made in Italy, 60% of Pemo Pumps’ revenues come from direct sales worldwide. Just one third of our sales are to Italian companies for direct use and for selling worldwide. Pemo Pumps has subsidiaries, representatives, and agents in 20 countries and has more than 4,000 customers worldwide.

Come see us at Hillhead from 25-27 June 2024 on Stand PC20.

Contact today our consultants to learn more about the complete range of Pemo Pumps: www.pemopumps.com/en/contact-us/

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Quarrying & Mining
A Pemo industrial supply pump Spare part of a Pemo industrial supply pump

Mission and businesscritical wireless connectivity applications

LinkwaveTechnologies

Ltd, professionals in wireless connectivity, always relishes the chance to speak with other industry professionals in the mining and construction industries about its wireless connectivity products and services. The team is always available to discuss how Linkwave can connect businesses using its state of the art cellular and wifi solutions alongside explaining how Linkwave also offers host applications within routers, giving more power at the edge of technology in the most demanding environments.

along with its range of antenna solutions. As a long-standing UK Sierra Wireless module distributor, Linkwave recently welcomed the latest generation of 5G mobile broadband embedded modules – the RF-optimiser EM92 Series that are built to enable the most demanding business-critical, industrial and networking use cases into its portfolio. The RF-optimised modules are designed to reduce the complexity of 5G designs and improve global network coverage for easy integration of 5G connectivity into products.

Linkwave likes to highlight some fantastic products from its 5G range including Sierra Wireless modules and routers, Robustel and Celerway

If you’re interested in finding out more about Linkwave and its services, please see below:

T 01522 884750

https://linkwave.co.uk

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Quarrying & Mining

The Net Zero & Energy Management Expo

EMEX, The Net Zero and Energy Management Exhibition, held at London’s ExCeL from 22-23 November 2023, welcomed an ever-growing range of professionals keen to stay at the forefront of carbon management, energy efficiency and sustainability.

With energy management at the top of organisational priorities, visitors gained new insights and specialist advice on cost-saving solutions and industry best-practice while networking with

hundreds of leading suppliers and engaging with industry experts.

The most important event in the calendar brought together those passionate about devising energyefficiency strategies, implementing the latest energyefficient technologies and developing leadership capabilities within their organisation.

Attending EMEX provided the perfect place to enhance skills, get practical, tangible ideas from an array of speakers, debate hot topics with recognised experts and network with the leading brands in the industry.

Meet the UK’s leading Net Zero & Energy Management brands

Over 100 brands in one place and thousands of innovative products and solutions to choose from. Visitors explored the latest equipment available to improve and elevate business with experts on-hand to answer questions.

Tailored conference programme for the entire team

Our conference programme was designed to deliver insights and best practice across 4 theatres. Visitors discovered what’s next for Net Zero and Energy Management, discussed the latest innovations set to hit the market and debated the biggest topics with the professions leading speakers, influencers and thought-leaders.

Grow your professional network in a face-to-face setting

Our exhibition hall was divided into zones, conferences and break out areas to provide visitors time to network, share ideas and develop

BEMServices were excited to have their first exhibition stand booked at EMEX in November 2023. The stand design and associated brochures were all completed by our graphics designer and she had come up with some great eye-catching ideas.

When we arrived at the ExCeL Centre London the day before the event we were quickly and easily issued with exhibitor passes prior to entering the main hall. With the help of the set-up teams we quickly put up our banners, positioned our furniture and stocked up our chocolate bowl ready for the start of the first day.

We found that most people walking by our stand were

responsive to talking about our services and posed some searching questions back to us. Some attendees that didn’t require our services but always asked if they knew of anyone who might need our services. Being new to exhibiting we were learning all of the time and soon had a successful system of gathering the contact details of prospective clients.

Overall the stand was a great success and we’ll be back next year to build on our experiences. We’ll also ensure that we have a deep bowl of chocolates as these were very popular!

T 0115 778 8227 info@bem-services.co.uk www.bem-services.co.uk

relationships with other professionals. A perfect day out for the whole team!

EMEX returns to London’s ExCeL from 20-21 November 2024. This is our pick of the best exhibitors from this year’s event, listed here in alphabetical order: Argent Fuels, BEM Services, EcoSync, Energy Efficient Solutions Group, Enersee & HPC. Further details can be found on this page and the next two.

www.emexlondon.com

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EMEX Review – Top Exhibitors

EESGroup stands at the forefront of innovation in the renewable and sustainable energy sector, specialising in cutting-edge technologies.

As market leaders in LED and Emergency Lighting, Solar PV, EV Charging, and Heating, we deliver solutions that substantially reduce carbon emissions & lower energy costs.

Our expertise extends across various sectors, including the NHS, Local Authorities, Education, and Commercial industries. We take pride in meticulous project planning, providing dedicated support from initial evaluations through execution, procurement, delivery, and maintenance. With a commitment to satisfaction, our dedicated project managers work closely with clients to ensure the success of each sustainable energy initiative.

Participating in the EMEX show at ExCeL was a rewarding experience for EES Group. Engaging with industry professionals and stakeholders in a dedicated setting allowed us to effectively discuss and contribute to businesses’ Net Zero goals. The event facilitated valuable connections and offered a platform for showcasing our commitment to sustainable solutions. It was gratifying to provide tailored assistance to businesses seeking sustainable practices whether that be LED lighting, Solar PV, EV Charging or Heating. We look forward to continued engagement with the industry, leveraging such platforms to further promote our environmental responsibility and drive impactful, positive change.

T 01344 883399 info@eesgroup.co.uk www.eesgroup.co.uk

HPC KAESER: More air, less energy

Whether you’re keen to be greener or you’re a UK manufacturer looking to reduce overheads by thousands of pounds, switching to the most energyefficient air compressors can help.

HPC KAESER compressors have a reputation for quality, reliability & longevity. They’re also designed to achieve the highest levels of energy efficiency.

HPC consistently saves customers on energy costs. How? Our compressors are designed to ensure they have the best ‘Specific Power’.

So, what’s Specific Power? Specific Power is the ratio of total energy used by the compressor and its compressed air output (at a stated pressure). The lower the Specific Power, the greater the efficiency – and the more customers save in energy and money.

Equivalent non-HPC

compressors typically have a higher Specific Power.

That means that investing in a compressor from HPC saves you money in the long-term. In fact, HPC saves customers up to £25,000 in electricity costs per year.

One of HPC KAESER’s energy saving compressors was at display at EMEX. The SK25 features energysaving Sigma Profile airend rotors, premium efficiency IE3 motors and KAESER’s unique cooling system help to enhance efficiency.

To find out more about HPC, please visit our website at: www. hpcplc.co.uk or email us via: info@hpcplc.co.uk

Enersee: Energy Analytics

Imagine being an energy or facility manager of a company that manages several dozen or hundreds of buildings. How do you monitor where unnecessary consumption may be taking place, or where something else is going on?

Enersee is an Energy Analytics company that generates deep insights for energy management using energy data. With the built in workflows, it also makes sure it works across silos making sure the insights are put to work.

The two main modules include:

1. Operations: Operational Energy performance optimisation

with current technologies. Enersee AI detects, assigns and tracks all of this automatically with higher accuracy and insight than ever before whilst saving net time for the customers personnel instead of requiring bigger teams.

2. Management: from guessing to data -and ROI-driven Portfolio Asset Management

The operations are the first step to lower your consumption +- 20%. To go even further in both lowering consumption and transitioning to sustainable sources, you will need structural investments.

A hyper powerful solution for one simple reason:

If you could cut out all operational losses in an easy way you would make tremendous gains in energy (and water) performance on your full portfolio without a single structural investment.

Unfortunately, keeping track and control of this across a large portfolio of buildings is simply impossible

Enersee finally closes the PDCA-cycle and will save you both Capex and Opex by giving the control and transparency back to the customer.

Enersee can also help with normalising CO2/GhG-accounting, Data-quality tracking and overall visibility on your progress towards (real world) sustainability.

Contact

www.enersee.ai

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EMEX Review – Top Exhibitors

EcoSync: Innovation in heating management

EcoSync is at the forefront of innovation in heating management for commercial buildings and multioccupancy residences, thanks to its innovative Smart Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRVs). With a growing portfolio of over 40 customers, EcoSync has saved more than 1.565 MWH of energy and slashed carbon emissions by over 285 tonnes. Born from the ingenuity of Oxford University engineers, EcoSync’s heating solutions are a beacon of sustainable and efficient energy management, specifically designed for the complex needs of commercial and multioccupancy settings.

The solution is based on self-charging, smart TRVs that are quick and simple to retrofit, and in-room temperature controls and software that enables room-by-room heating control based on occupancy. EcoSync’s technology directly addresses the significant issue of heating energy wastage in unoccupied rooms, which can account for up to 40% of energy consumption in such spaces. By enabling precise heating control on a room-by-room basis, EcoSync’s TRVs ensure 25-50% energy savings for clients, showcasing their effectiveness as a heating solution.

EcoSync caters to the specific needs of facilities and energy management professionals looking to save energy, along with those with a more sustainability-focused interest, such as public sector

organisations working towards net zero, where cutting carbon is critical. The addition of AI-powered control automation and modelling, custom reporting and analytics provide real-time insights into building performance and carbon savings, making it a comprehensive energy management and heating solution for commercial and multioccupancy buildings.

Going green with Argent Fuels: Biodiesel and biogenic fuels

Argent Fuels helps businesses and organisations across the UK significantly reduce their carbon footprint and support their sustainability goals. Whether organisations are looking to maximise their CO2 reductions or are seeking a cost-effective solution that can be implemented today, the team can create a fuel strategy to meet your needs.

The company pioneered large-scale commercial production of waste-based biodiesel in the UK and is now one of the UK’s leading biodiesel producers and fuel suppliers. By switching to Argent's sustainable second-generation biodiesel as an alternative to fossil fuel, businesses could reduce their net CO2 greenhouse

gas emissions by around 90%. Argent manufactures biodiesel of superior quality, which has inherent advantages over fossil-fuel-derived ULSD and other mineralbased fuels. Its quality and purity ensure maximum performance, and all biodiesel produced is made from waste fats and oils that have truly reached the end of their life.

Argent’s biodiesel and biogenic fuels can be used across multiple transport sectors, from road and rail to marine and off-road vehicles, catering to energy-intensive industries like glass, ceramics, and cement, and for power generation. Even power generation for establishments like schools, hospitals, and factories can benefit, keeping operations running while shrinking carbon footprints at the same time.

If you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint, get in touch with the Argent Fuels team today. We can give you a free sustainable fuels consultation and create a sustainable and cost-effective fuel strategy to meet your goals.

Contact T 0151 305 4740 fuels@argentenergy.com www.argentfuels.com

The benefits of adopting intelligent TRVs as a heating solution over traditional, battery-dependent systems are clear. Conventional systems require ongoing maintenance and regular battery replacements, which can be particularly burdensome in large commercial or multi-occupancy buildings. EcoSync’s TRVs eliminate these challenges, boasting an installation time of under a minute and zero maintenance requirements.

By incorporating EcoSync’s solutions, commercial buildings and multi-occupancy residences can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and energy costs, aligning with broader decarbonisation goals. With less than 1% of such buildings currently equipped with intelligent heating controls, EcoSync’s TRVs represent a critical advancement in energy management and heating solutions tailored to the unique dynamics of commercial and multioccupancy environments.

EcoSync is more than a provider of intelligent heating solutions; it is a crucial ally in the path to a sustainable future for commercial buildings and multi-occupancy residences. For more information about how EcoSync can transform your energy management and heating practices, contact them at: contact@ecosync.energy

X Sustainability Today is sponsored by – see them on pages II & XVII
Act Now to Hit Your Net Zero Targets Fast! contact@ecosync.energy www.ecosync.energy EMEX Review – Top Exhibitors ● Low-cost, high-impact solution. ● Smart TRVs: Easy to retrofit, selfcharging wireless radiator controls. ● In-Room Temperature Controls: Heat-only occupied rooms. ● Heating Control Platform: Define temperatures, set heating schedules, and remotely control heating room-by-room. ● Data & Analytics: Live reporting on carbon savings and building heating performance/profiling to help identify further savings. Intelligent Heating by EcoSync

Is it time to rethink green building certifications?

Embedding sustainable practises into physical buildings, from a commercial perspective, has obvious appeal. They are better for business, with buildings constructed based on BRREAM certifications having a 20% higher capital value than the average. Encouragingly, in a period where ESG has become crucial to businesses, a global switch to green construction is predicted to reduce carbon emissions by almost 40% by 2050.

In response, green building certifications, which is now a £450bn market, have been on the rise as a method of verifying the sustainability of properties. Certificates such as LEED, which were adhered to by 100,000 properties worldwide in 2019, highlight a growing commitment to environmentally friendly construction – however the value of these certifications has arguably been overstated, with many failing to produce the impact promised.

Despite their ubiquity, there is a lack of universal criteria defining what constitutes a sustainable property. Various certificate providers have different standards, with LEED criticised for leniency on water consumption and both LEED and BRREAM criticised for emphasising operational emissions at the expense of embedded emissions in their assessments. Consequently, popular certification schemes may have different outcomes for the same

building, undermining their wider creditability.

Accessibility is another key point of contention. Green building certifications are expensive and inequitable, turning sustainability improvements into a cash-throwing contest. For instance, the cost of obtaining LEED certification can be upwards of $25,000, which severely limits the types of companies who can access it.

Assuming that only buildings with these certifications are sustainable undermines the efforts of smaller businesses to improve their own outputs, which in many cases are having more of an impact on a local, community level. Unfortunately, many businesses – intentionally or not – have turned green building certifications into marketing tools rather than genuine commitments.

Building green without third-party certifications: In 2024, organisations should embrace true sustainable building – something that can be achieved without a trophy cupboard of arbitrary certifications.

Building green should be part of a wider, codified business strategy, rather than a one-off partnership with third parties. A shift towards smaller, highly integrated certifiers such as PlanetMark, offers

New wild flower products

Twoinnovative new products have been released by leading UK wild flower specialists, Wildflower Turf Ltd; Meadowscape Pro and Wildflower Turf® Finisher. After several years of research and product testing the Hampshire-based business has announced the launch of Meadowscape Pro™, an enhanced growing medium used by landscape professionals for effective wild flower establishment which has also been used and approved by The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

the growing medium for much better seed germination compared to more conventional seeding methods.

Meadowscape Pro allows for the creation of dynamic and biodiverse wild flower spaces in a range of settings with minimal ground preparation, saving time and money. Extensively tested and enriched with Hydropor™, this specially developed formula supports good water percolation and retention, stabilising

Wildflower Turf® Finisher is designed to fill joins, edges and small gaps for Wildflower Turf® projects and will eradicate the need for wastage of the Wildflower Turf® product when laying complex areas. Perfect for use around trees, plants and around areas of defined shapes where cutting the Wildflower Turf® becomes more complicated, Wildflower Turf® Finisher will be supplied in convenient 20kg bags.

T 01256 771222

wildflower@wildflowerturf.co.uk

www.wildflowerturf.co.uk

businesses more affordable and comprehensive green consultation – allowing organisations to craft a sustainability strategy which reflects their wider business ambitions. Such services make achieving sustainability more accessible for smaller businesses, who may be unable to afford traditional certifiers.

By forgoing traditional certifications, businesses can invest directly in improving existing properties, emphasising retrofits and renovations that align with their business models. Given that the built environment is currently responsible for 37% of carbon emissions, businesses are prioritising internal improvements in sustainability profiles rather than relying on new builds and third parties.

Despite their wide use, current green building certification approaches are limited. Businesses should reject the assumption that these are the only ways of achieving sustainability. To create truly ‘green’ properties, organisations need to draft a sustainability strategy for their buildings, which has practical impact on reducing carbon emissions, rather than relying on arbitrary certifications – no matter how popular.

Creating safer, healthier and more sustainable homes with IoT technology

The use of Internet of Things (IoT) technology within the housing sector is rising, with providers across the UK rapidly deploying connected devices to improve efficiency, housing quality and asset management; while promoting resident wellbeing.

Aico’s HomeLINK Connected Home

Solution includes a network of Fire and Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarms, as well as Environmental Sensors, to assess a property’s indoor environmental conditions.

These devices connect to a central Gateway, giving landlords a detailed overview via the HomeLINK Portal, these actionable data insights enable landlords to tackle challenges around energy efficiency, damp and mould, air quality, fuel poverty, compliance and more.

Environmental Sensors can assist with decarbonising properties, highlighting poor performing homes in regard to energy efficiency.

Pre-Retrofit Monitoring – Remote monitoring gives housing providers the ability to target properties that have the highest need for improvement first and understand which retrofit solution is required, from draught and ventilation issues to heating and cooling performance.

Post-Retrofit Monitoring – As the UK’s housing stock varies considerably in age and condition, a one-size-fits-all approach to retrofit could potentially lead to unintended consequences, eg. increased airtightness can increase the damp and mould risk. Tracking retrofit measures therefore enables landlords to assess the impact of installed measures across archetypes to inform future strategies.

The entire solution, from hardware to software, is built from the ground up and enables homes to become safer, healthier and more sustainable.

To find out more, visit: www.aico.co.uk/homelink/

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Greenbuild

Solar energy now

The UK had a serious energy crisis before the Ukraine war. Now the need to rapidly scale up home grown energy has become even more urgent. The cost of household energy means that some people may now have to choose between heating and eating.

The electricity market and networks are also in need of urgent re-design to allow the benefits of cheap renewable energy, such as solar, to be accessed by consumers and businesses. Moving as fast as possible to a green energy system is the single most important thing the UK can do to address these issues.

Solar can already produce as much as 30% of UK electricity at different points in the year, and in 2021 solar provided more than 4% of the UK’s total supply of electricity demand, and this could treble by 2030. The level of support for solar is

consistently high, with the most recent survey results, published in December 2021, showing that an astonishing 90% of the public supported solar. This is the most popular of any renewable energy technology.

The price of solar technology has plummeted around the world in recent years. The UK government states that utility scale solar has fallen in cost by 88% since 2010 and the cost of rooftop solar has declined by as much as 60% since 2010

Solar & Storage Live 2023, held at Birmingham’s NEC from 17-19 October 2023, was the most attended show in the history of the event and has become the UK’s largest ever renewable energy exhibition.

Over 3 unmissable days, 17,000 professionals from within the solar industry gathered in Birmingham to share market knowledge and innovation, and create new business across the entire value-chain.

The comprehensive conference provided a voice for every section of the renewables sector and the sold-out exhibition presented a platform for over 450 sponsors & exhibitors to showcase the latest innovations and products from across the industry.

Along with our packed out awards evening, Solar & Storage Live 2023 proved the perfect opportunity to celebrate quality and success within the industry over the past year.

Solar & Storage Live returns to Birmingham’s NEC from 24-26 September 2024. This is our pick of the best exhibitors from last year’s event, listed here in alphabetical order: GreenEnco, Hamilton Court FX, Immersa, Solar Panel Cleaning & UK Greentech. Details can be found on this page and the next.

www.terrapinn.com/exhibition/solar-storage-live/ index.stm

XII Sustainability Today is sponsored by – see them on pages II & XVII
Are YOU using a professional SOLAR PANEL CLEANING COMPANY? Whether you’re an installer, O&M provider, asset owner or a business involved in solar energy, there will always be a requirement for solar panel cleaning. As the UK’s leading solar panel cleaning company, we can provide you with an expert solar panel cleaning service for any roof mounted PV system, ground mounted solar PV array or entire portfolio Operating nationwide, we offer the widest variety of mechanical cleaning techniques within the panel cleaning industry. Including our innovative robot cleaning systems, as well as our professional lichen removal services. By working closely with our clients, we meet target times, problem solve and successfully manage our Health and Safety. With our first-class, safe, and efficient solar panel cleaning services, we will find the most appropriate solution for you, tailored to your individual needs. Get in touch TODAY to discuss YOUR solar panel cleaning requirements! T 01981 551263 M 07813 474290 / 07946 512758 office@solarpanelcleaningltd.co.uk www.solarpanelcleaningltd.co.uk/ home/ Solar & Storage Live Review – Top Exhibitors The UK’s leading solar panel cleaning company T 01981 551263 M 07813 474290 office@solarpanelcleaningltd.co.uk www.solarpanelcleaningltd.co.uk • Rooftop and ground mount solar PV cleaning • Robot, mechanical and manual cleaning • Lichen removal service available • Nationwide service

Solar & Storage Live Review – Top Exhibitors

Increase your sustainable technology with UK Greentech

UK

Greentech is known as one of the UK’s most vital Green Energy suppliers. Distributing quality branded renewables products throughout the country, UK Greentech stocks thousands of products from the world’s leading manufacturers.

Available from your local UK Greentech are a number of solutions on Solar PV and Energy Storage Systems that can be designed using its own in-house design capabilities and delivered via its fleet of vehicles to anywhere in the UK.

Its years of extensive industry experience ensures customers they are receiving the best possible service from industry experts. Boasting a wealth of knowledge on all products such as Solar PV, Heat Pumps, Car Charging, Solar Lighting, Voltage Optimisers, and Battery Storage, whether you’re a trade or industry customer, you can be sure to receive the best and most accurate renewables products for your solutions.

UK Greentech was a stand out exhibitor at Solar & Storage Live, where the team relished the many opportunities that the show offered to establish new connections with future customers and industry professionals, as well as showcase all its latest stocked products.

Contact T 0333 207 6688

enquiries@ukgreentech.co.uk www.ukgreentech.co.uk

Immersa, a pioneering force in solar energy is committed to developing innovative solutions for a sustainable future. With a focus on efficiency, durability and affordability we aim to make clean energy accessible to all.

Whether you are looking for business, utility or home renewable energy solutions our experts at Immersa are able to guide you towards energy independence. Our experienced team enabling homeowners and business providing assessment, consultancy and advice from planning, installation and aftercare as you invest in your zero-carbon future.

Immersa’s battery storage solutions offer the opportunity to store and discharge electricity meeting demand and reducing reliance on the grid.

We’re passionate and determined to reduce carbon

Hamilton Court FX

We've been working in the renewable energy sector for the last 13 years. In that time, we've seen tremendous growth in the scale, the financing and the innovation and this is analogous of Solar and Storage.

The three days in Birmingham is our go-to event to catch up with clients, colleagues and associates within the industry and get a handle on what changes and developments we can look forward to in the year ahead – from the macro of policy initiatives and public-private collaboration, to the micro of new, nascent, technologies that are set to become the next big thing in the industry.

As well as listening, we get to speak about how the financing and supply chains in the industry are evolving and how we play a key role in managing the risks associated with them, ensuring that an industry that has gone from

emissions, providing turnkey solutions to achieving a clean and adaptable energy community.

Through training and initiatives Immersa are proud of our knowledgeable workforce able to adopt the drive of renewable energy solutions. Diverse sectors have shown a keen interest in achieving energy independence and embracing a sustainable future.

Immersa’s commitment to customer satisfaction and our comprehensive range of renewable solutions is key to our ethos to deliver the best solutions to customers driving the transition to a greener future, providing reliable, cost-effective solar solutions that contribute to a cleaner planet.

T +44 (0)1453 545222 info@immersa.co.uk www.immersa.co.uk

heavily supported to fully independent can continue to thrive in volatile times.

T +44 (0)207 704 5650

contact@hamiltoncourtfx.com

www.hamiltoncourtfx.com

Creating a better world in a changing climate

GreenEnco invites solar and BESS developers, Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and investors to partner with us in safeguarding their investments.

Solar asset owners are grappling with revenue losses due to inadequate data-driven decisionmaking processes. Additionally, reactive O&M response further hinders them from meeting expected revenue targets.

At GreenEnco, we specialise in providing technical advisory and engineering solutions for solar and BESS projects, boasting over 11 GW of services across 16 countries on 4 continents.

Our systematic optimisation solution, pvAPM (PV Asset Performance Management), has consistently delivered on average 8% increase in generation for

operational solar assets across Asia and Europe. pvAPM optimisation has resulted in £20m financial benefit & 33,000 tons additional CO2 offset on a 300 MW portfolio.

Our technical due diligence services have supported over £600m techno-commercial solar and BESS projects, mitigating our partner’s development and construction risks.

Our technical experts are assisting commercial and industrial partners to a seamless net-zero transition.

Our team is a member of IEC, BSI & IET International Standard committee, guaranteed standard for our partner, promoting compliance and best practices. We were the finalist of British Renewable Energy Award 2023.

Contact M 07934 566645 info@greenenco.co.uk www.greenenco.co.uk

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London EV Show continues to redefine EV landscape

The London EV Show 2023, held at ExCeL London from 28-30 November 2023, promised a visionary outlook into the future of EVs. With insightful discussions, impeccable conference sessions and a showcase of cutting-edge technologies and new models, the show deepened our grasp of all the latest and greatest in the EV market while fostering an environment of experiential learning and discovery.

Guided by esteemed speakers and experts, the agenda was designed around topics like Fleet Electrification, Sustainability & Decarbonisation, Electric Vehicles & Disabled People, Gender Equality & Diversity in the EV Sector, EV Payment Infrastructure, Medium- and Heavy-Duty Vehicle Electrification, Empowering EV Startup, EV Trade & Investments: Challenges & Opportunities, The Future of Electric Vans, Scalable Battery & Fast Charging Solutions, Decarbonisation of the Global transport sector. The goal was clear: to cultivate

Charles Endirect

Charles Endirect has worked with a number of key companies to provide solutions for their electric vehicle charging station requirements.

We regularly give CPD presentations to consultants and other industry stakeholders about distribution requirements for electric vehicle charging stations, to raise industry knowledge of the need to plan ahead when considering future infrastructure.

collaborative strategies, share insights, and inspire tangible steps towards a sustainable and inclusive electric mobility landscape.

The exhibition floor continued to remain a vibrant centre of innovation with over 220 leading industry exhibitors, hosting engaging workshops and demonstrations. Attendees encountered firsthand the latest in electric vehicle technology – from interactive displays of next-gen vehicles to live demonstrations of innovative charging solutions, showcasing the transformative potential of these advancements.

and wiring all with one company ensuring full and consistent control over quality.

t A design team which has experience of working with a variety of OEM equipment and utilising Parametric 3D modelling and AutoCAD software to create the right design for your specification.

t Electrical distribution boards and enclosures made from double insulated polycarbonate, powder coated steel, and stainless-steel.

We work with charger manufacturers and consultants to provide complete systems or create supplies for your chosen EV charger design.

Choosing a pre-wired EV distribution cabinet from us offers:

t A product that is ‘installation ready’ when delivered to site, saving time and cost for contractor and client.

t Through project technical support with design, fabrication, assembly,

t Products that are design, tested, and certificated in accordance with BS EN 61439-2, Power Switchgear and control gear Assemblies.

t A document pack containing the product information, technical notes, drawings, certifications, and parts list.

Contact

T +44 (0)1963 828400 info@charlesendirect.com www.charlesendirect.com

This was the essence of the London EV Show's commitment: collaboration, innovation, actionable strategies driving the future of clean energy transportation. But beyond that, it was a call to ‘Move Into The Future’ with a bold emphasis on Zero Emission Transportation. In parallel to enriching discussions and display of groundbreaking innovation, the London EV Show witnessed some important announcements this season, including the awarding of contracts for an additional 51 sites for rapid charge points to the event’s esteemed sponsor, charge point operator – Zest, and GLA’s plans for five new ultra-rapid electric vehicle charging hubs, supposed to facilitate rapid charging in an impressive 10-30 minutes.

Drawing to a triumphant close, the London EV Show 2023 set the stage for future breakthroughs and collaborative ventures aimed at propelling the EV industry forward. Summarising the impact of the show, Shariq AbdulHai, CEO of Valiant Business Media, said, “The event's success lays the foundation for ongoing partnerships, innovative solutions, and transformative policies that will shape the landscape of transportation for years to come.”

London EV Show returns to London’s ExCeL from 26-28 November 2024. This is our pick of the best exhibitors from last year’s event, listed here in alphabetical order: Charles Endirect, EV blocks, EVCAP & NMI. Further details can be found on this page and the next.

https://londonevshow.com/

XIV Sustainability Today is sponsored by – see them on pages II & XVII
London EV Show Review – Top Exhibitors

Building towards sustainable EV infrastructure

As the EV industry continues to evolve and become more prevalent in our day-to-day lives, the need for efficient and sustainable charging solutions is paramount. However, traditional methods of installing EV charge points currently present numerous inefficiencies and disruptions.

The founder and inventor of EV blocks, Trevor Palmer, recognised this in his previous field as an electrical contractor. Trevor discovered that in order to install free-standing charge points it usually involves casting concrete onsite. Depending on external factors such as weather, supply chain, etc, installing chargers can be a very disruptive process, resulting in unscheduled return visits and unnecessary added expense. To add, existing concrete foundations for

current charge points on the market require additional invasive works to break down whilst contributing to unnecessary waste.

Thus, the EV Block was invented – a revolutionary approach to EV charging infrastructure installation. With its precast foundations and universal adaptor plates, EV Blocks streamlines the EV charge point installation process making it quick, simple, and cost-effective. Its universal adaptor plate facilitates easy upgrades and replacements of charging stations without the need for extensive civil work or disruptive concrete removal.

The EV Block provides a more sustainable approach to charge point installations.

www.evblocks.com

Embedded payment solutions

Exhibitor NMI left a lasting impression at the London EV Show 2023, emerging as the leading payments platform for those involved in public electric vehicle charging. As the EV market continues to expand, NMI excelled in engaging with show attendees promoting its services to help drive accessibility, positive change, and shape the future of EV mobility.

NMI is a card payments specialist, processing more than £150 billion in payments annually. Enabling payments for over 3,500 partners and over 277,000 merchants around the world and across the entire commerce ecosystem: online, in-app, mobile, in-store, self-service, and whatever comes next!

charging schemes throughout the UK, and its EV charging solution caters specifically to the needs of charge point operators, eMSPs and charging equipment manufacturers.

Working with NMI is a fantastic opportunity to drive new revenue streams and unprecedented payments opportunities for yourself, your partners and the customers they serve. NMI payments is easy to integrate and you or your customers can begin accepting payments within a matter of days.

NMI Payments is an all-in-one payment solution that allows you to find, qualify, acquire and onboard merchants whilst simultaneously sharing in the net payment revenue.

NMI offers solutions to a global customer network across a broad range of industries, with EV charging being just one. Its payment gateway serves the majority of public EV

For more information on NMI’s solid, scalable, card payment technology, please get in touch below.

T +44 (0)117 930 4455 www.nmi.com

Bespoke EV charging solutions

EVCAP is a major industry player within the hyper-competitive EV market. Known as the UK’s number one manufacturer and supplier of a wide range of high quality, stainless steel, electric vehicle charger posts, EVCAP is a dynamic distributor at the forefront of the EV charging industry. Based in Nottingham, EVCAP supply direct to some of the UK’s biggest EV charger manufacturers, as well as offering a design and build service for bespoke applications.

All EVCAP products are designed and manufactured in house, and as well as stocking the parts, products can be made to order with lead times of only 4-5 working days.

Its wide range of EV charger mounting solutions are: The Flexi-Stand, Flexi-Stand Mounting Plates, Premium Charger Posts, Value Charger Posts, Wall Brackets, Impact Protection Barriers, as well as a host of extras that include Adapter Plates, EVCAP Cable Tidy’s, Ground Boxes, Plug Docks, Cable Hooks, and much more.

EVCAP allow you to run an EV car without the hassle. Its innovative charging solutions cater to almost every location and situation you may be in, and will make you feel more confident and empowered when making the switch. Whether you charge at home or at work, whether you need to mount a single charger or multiple chargers, and whether you choose to surface mount or root the post in the ground, EVCAP has the perfect solution.

Contact

T 01636 957950

info@evchargerpost.com

https://evchargerpost.com

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London EV Show Review – Top Exhibitors

Floating Offshore Wind 2023 Review – Top Exhibitors

Floating Offshore Wind 2023

Aftera sell-out event in 2022, Scottish Renewables and RenewableUK were pleased to welcome Floating Offshore Wind’s return from 4-5 October 2023 at the P&J Live in Aberdeen.

Floating Offshore Wind 2023 was the meeting place for all the current and future players in the global floating wind industry. Providing an unrivalled opportunity to meet and network with all the key players as well as discuss the key technical challenges and solutions surrounding the industrialisation and commercialisation of floating wind.

With over 2,000+ attendees, 140+ exhibitors, 100+ speakers from across 30 countries, #FloatingWind23 was the biggest event of the year for the floating wind industry.

Who will visitors meet?

Fixed and floating offshore wind developers and manufacturers, grid specialists, cables installers, vessel manufacturer and owners. Stakeholders, trade associations, professional associations, planners, planning consultancies, national and regional clusters, training providers, H&S experts, airport, aircraft and drone specialist, national and local government, and the trade press.

As the offshore wind industry steers through choppy water, it's indeed heartening to observe the dedicated efforts of both government and industry to surmount the obstacles posed by Allocation Round 5 (AR5). The industry has ambitious investment plans for the UK, amounting to billions, given the presence of the right policies. There's no doubt regarding the industry's capability to turn these plans into reality, but time is of the essence here.

Allocation Round 5 (AR5) served as a focal point for discussions at FOW 2023. This auction, aimed at advancing offshore wind projects, raised eyebrows when it failed to attract any bids for floating offshore wind projects. What was particularly striking was

As the demand for renewable energy grows and the pressure on the market intensifies in Scotland, the global skills requirement has skyrocketed.

Eden Scott has taken on a leading role in sourcing the right skills to meet the demand and support the global talent shortage.

This level of competition has forced many companies to review their hiring practices to ensure they are an attractive proposition to employees. Top of the list is flexible working. While it's not always possible, and certain jobs demand onsite work, flexible work is less about working from home and more about fitting work around people's lifestyles.

Looking at the salaries and benefits is also crucial. There is a crossover in terms of the

transferrable skills from the oil and gas sector, and while some of the remuneration offers are increasing, companies have to get creative with the packages they offer, including share options or ownership opportunities. Other concepts such as additional holidays and more generous pension contributions are also attractive.

Eden Scott's proactive approach also includes building partnerships with the likes of Full Circle 21 to promote diversity within the workforce. "Our mission is to ensure that the renewable energy sector in Scotland not only thrives but leads the way in innovation and sustainability by having the right people in place," said Stuart Mitchell, Business Manager, Eden Scott.

www.edenscott.com

the absence of awards for fixed-bottom projects as well, which have historically played a significant role in the UK's renewable energy landscape.

The event started with Scottish Energy Minister, Gillian Martin, taking the centre stage to open the conference by addressing pressing concerns about the UK's energy policy and the future of offshore wind projects. Gillian Martin expressed her concerns about this outcome, stating that it has cast doubts on the UK government's energy policy. For Scotland, in particular, this represented a missed opportunity to bolster its offshore wind capacity, especially in the floating sector, which holds immense potential in contributing to the nation's net-zero emissions goals.

Floating Offshore Wind returns to Aberdeen’s P&J Live from 9-10 October 2024. This is our pick of the best exhibitors from last year’s event, listed here in alphabetical order: Eden Scott, Ross Safety & Survival & Scots Bearings. Further details can be found on this page and the next.

Contact

www.scottishrenewables.com/ events/221-floating-offshorewind-204

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Floating Offshore Wind 2023 Review – Top Exhibitors

Scots Bearings

“Technical accuracy, speed of response and the ability to tackle challenges.” That’s what it takes to be certified by Schaeffler as a partner for its wind sector customers, says David Jackson, Managing Director of Scots Bearings.

With six branches, expertise from 37 years in business, certified partner status, and a stock holding exceeding £3m, Scots Bearings is best placed to provide cost-effective wind turbine components to operators in need of fast delivery and unrivalled technical expertise.

Exceeding the quality standards set by Schaeffler for servicing this mission critical sector, Scots Bearings provides the manufacturer’s full portfolio of bearing solutions along with integrated concepts for safety.

t Gearbox

t Generator

t Main shaft

t Bearing Refurbishment

t Blade/Pitch

For more information on how Scots Bearings can support your business with Schaeffler-standard expertise and fast delivery, contact: renewables@scots-bearings.co.uk or call 01236 451451 to speak with a member of the team.

Ross Safety & Survival re-affirms commitment to offshore wind and energy sector

Ross Safety & Survival, a leading specialist in PPE sales, servicing, and hire, is excited to announce its ongoing expansion and investment in the offshore wind and energy sector. Operating from its Aberdeen Headquarters, the organisation provides a comprehensive safety solution, including in-house servicing, repairs & laundry facilities.

"We recognise the critical importance of safety in this dynamic industry and are continuously investing in new product ranges and technologies to meet our customers' evolving needs," says Managing Director, Martin Ross.

The company is proud to work with leading supply partners such as Petzl, Mullion, Ursuit, MRT & others across the Offshore Wind sector.

In addition to its extensive stock in Aberdeen, ensuring swift access to safety products for sale and hire, Ross Safety & Survival offer specialised solutions such as inspection, testing, and calibration of lifejackets, survival suits, personal locator beacons, portable gas detection, communication headsets, and more.

For more information about products and services or to discuss specific requirements, contact: sales@rosssafety.co.uk

Recycling`& Waste Management

20 years of mobile carbon filter rentals!

2023 was a year of anniversaries for CPL/Puragen Activated Carbons. Back in the summer, they celebrated 10 years of spent carbon reactivation at their Immingham facility, the site later being awarded a prestigious Green Apple environmental award as well as its ISO45001 accreditation for health & safety.

2023 also represented a significant milestone for another important area of the business, namely the rental of Clean-Flo® mobile carbon filters, which began 20 years ago. CPL had been selling carbon filters prior to this date, but 2003 was when they designed a genuinely portable unit and began the transition into a true ‘carbon & service’ business.

t All-in-one transportation and adsorption unit;

Mobile carbon filters offer a number of operational and financial benefits over fixed filter installations:

t No CAPEX for the customer, only OPEX –supplied on a rental basis;

t Modular, flexible arrangement – can add or remove filters as the situation demands;

t ‘Lead & lag’ or parallel layout possible for multiple filters, to optimise treatment flow;

t Simple Plug & play operation – no on-site carbon handling;

t Also ideal for trialling alternative activated carbons, or for periods of plant maintenance when a fixed filtration system is unavailable.

The first rental filter was a 2m3 VOCSorber® unit, supplied to a chemicals manufacturing site in West Yorkshire that is still a customer to this day!

CPL’s mobile filter rental business grew organically in the early years but really took off in 2013, when they started recycling spent carbons and were

able to supply their service via the company’s REACT-Sys process, offering a circular solution that was pioneering in the industry.

The next major change was in 2018, when they acquired the manufacturing facility in Chesterfield, now called CPL Icon, which gave the company an in-house manufacturing and engineering capability.

The previous year, 2017, saw the launch of what was (at the time) the largest mobile carbon filter on the market, the VOCSorber 30, designed primarily for demanding landfill gas (LFG) purification applications. The fleet was further augmented a few years later with an even larger unit, the High Flow HF20V VOCSorber®, standing 8m tall, designed for major odour control and VOC abatement projects, for example at waste handling facilities or food production sites.

If you would like to find out more about their range of mobile carbon filters, for both gas phase (VOCSorber®) and liquid phase (AquaSorber®) purification applications, please visit their website: https://activated-carbon.com/mobile-carbonfilters/

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Barnfather Wire Midlands makes £2million investment to produce the best quality baling wire in the industry

Barnfather Wire is the UK's largest independent wire production company and leading producer of industrial wires, commercial wires and recycling black annealed wires in the UK.

Utilising the latest temperature-controlled furnaces, the wire drawing company has the capability to manufacture a uniform and consistent wire, perfectly suited for a wide range of baling applications. Our baling wire product line encompasses, black annealed formers, rewound coil, cut and loop wire, as well as high tensile galvanised wire, ensuring top-notch quality and performance across all our offerings.

Managing Director, Richard Barnfather, said, "This new state of the art machinery will triple our production and ensure that the end product is consistently high quality.”

The wire production company have had two new lines installed. The first machine DB5 can work at a phenomenal speed, producing between 16-22 metres of wire per second which is dead cast helix free. The second machine installed DB2 can produce up to 4 metres per second in sizes 4.75mm to 8mm.

These new machines produce the largest diameter pattern laid coil in the UK and can produce with such precision and quality that it comes completely unrivalled across the UK and Europe.

The current markets demand new technologies that are flexible and imminent. This new innovative technology allows Barnfather Wire's production to operate at 3 x the speed, meeting customer demands and producing large volumes of stock for fast and efficient deliveries.

Richard Barnfather said, "The key to our success is our constant dedication to the needs of our customers. That is what enables us to respond flexibly to changing markets. We are investing in forward-looking and technically sophisticated applications that will help us achieve production goals, remain competitive and continue to move forward in the wire market."

T 0121 526 2880 sales@barnfatherwire.co.uk https://barnfatherwire.co.uk/

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Recycling & Waste Management
BF-16: Black Annealed Formers BARNFATHER-58: Cut and Loop Baling Wire BARNFATHER-40: Black Annealed Rewound Coil
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Pioneering sustainability in rotational moulding

CP Cases collaborates with Matrix Polymer & Queen’s University for a Recyclable Bio Polymer Project: Pioneering Sustainability in Rotational Moulding

In a world striving for sustainability, the manufacturing industry faces a transformative challenge to reduce its environmental impact. Among the innovative pioneers leading the charge is CP Cases, renowned for producing protective cases and containers. In a groundbreaking partnership with Matrix Polymer, experts in rotomoulding materials and Queen’s University, a renowned research institution, all playing a pivotal role in a feasibility study project funded by Innovate UK for introducing a field-tested recyclable Bio Polymer. This project focuses on revolutionising rotational moulding by integrating Matrix Polymer’s cutting-edge materials, with sustainability at the forefront.

A shared vision

The collaboration between CP Cases, Matrix Polymer, and Queen’s University is a testament to their shared commitment to sustainable innovation. These industry leaders have come together under the umbrella of Innovate UK’s initiative, aiming to introduce the power of recyclable bio-polymers into the rotational moulding process, thus paving the way for a more eco-friendly manufacturing approach.

Matrix Polymer’s pioneering materials

Matrix Polymer brings to the table its expertise in raw

materials, as a leading supplier to the rotational moulding industry. With a focus on reducing carbon emissions and plastic waste, these materials align seamlessly with the project’s core objective of sustainability. Matrix Polymer’s key objective is to bring fresh ideas and exciting new materials to the market and strong technical roots are a cornerstone of this collaboration.

Queen’s University’s research excellence

The research ability of Queen's University plays an integral role in this collaborative endeavour. With a deep understanding of material science and manufacturing processes, the university is providing critical insights and technical expertise to validate the feasibility of creating recyclable bio-polymers to introduce into rotational moulding. Their involvement ensures that the project’s outcomes are grounded in scientific rigour.

CP Cases’ legacy of innovation

CP Cases specialises in crafting high-quality protective solutions for a wide array of industries. Leveraging decades of experience, they design and manufacture custom cases, containers, and enclosures that safeguard valuable equipment and delicate instruments from even the harshest conditions. Their commitment to innovation and precision ensures that their solutions not only meet but exceed the stringent demands of various sectors, including defence, aerospace, technology, and more.

With an unwavering focus on quality and functionality,

CP Cases is your trusted partner in safeguarding your assets wherever your journey takes you. Their dedication to sustainability and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of rotational moulding make them an invaluable contributors to the project.

CP Cases’ reputation for

precision and forward thinking makes them an ideal collaborator in this ambitious endeavour.

The innovate UK recyclable bio-polymer testing project in action

The project’s success hinges on rigorous testing and validation, a process guided by the combined expertise of CP Cases, Matrix Polymer, and Queen's University. Through meticulous examination of the materials’ performance within rotational moulding processes, the collaboration aims to ensure a seamless integration that meets industry standards and requirements.

Eco-conscious impact on industries

The impact of this collaborative effort could be profound across industries reliant on rotational moulding. Sectors such as aerospace, automotive, and packaging stand to gain from these eco-friendly alternatives. By reducing reliance on traditional plastics, these industries can significantly decrease their carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.

A beacon of sustainability

CP Cases, Matrix Polymer, and Queen’s University are not only pioneers in their fields but also examples of collaborative action for the greater good. Their involvement in this Innovate UK-funded project sets a precedent for innovation that is driven by a commitment to sustainability. As these companies push the boundaries of possibility, they illuminate the path to a greener, more resilient manufacturing landscape.

The collaboration between CP Cases, Matrix Polymer, and Queen's University is a harmonious symphony of innovation, research, and sustainability. As they navigate the complexities of creating recyclable bio-polymers for rotational moulding, they are not just changing the game; they’re rewriting the rules for manufacturing as a whole. This partnership is a testament to the transformative power of collective action and a beacon of hope for a more sustainable future.

Contact T +44 (0)20 8568 1881 info@cpcases.com https://cpcases.com

XX Sustainability Today is sponsored by – see them on pages II & XVII Recycling & Waste Management

The power of apprenticeship support

The Close Brothers SME Apprentice Programme contributes to the funding of new apprentices in the manufacturing sector, helping SMEs to secure the skills they need for the future.

Now in its ninth year, it demonstrates our long established and continued commitment to help SMEs and their local communities grow, succeed and thrive.

We caught up with Steve Gee, CEO, Close Brothers Asset Finance, Industrial Equipment Division, for further insight into the Close Brothers SME Apprentice Programme and our long-term partnership with The University of Sheffield AMRC Training Centre.

(2008 onwards), which had impacted them a few years earlier.

The Close Brothers SME Apprentice Programme has partnered with The University of Sheffield AMRC Training Centre since 2015. How did this come about?

At MACH 2014 there were two main issues being discussed – access to finance and new blood coming into the engineering industry.

We came up with the idea of sponsoring young people to enter the engineering sector – SMEs were still struggling after the financial crisis

We spoke to the Manufacturing Technologies Association and they made the initial introduction to The University of Sheffield AMRC Training Centre – the rest is history!

Why have we been doing this, and what is in it for us?

It’s about giving something back – the Engineering and Technologies sectors are very important to us. We support them in many different guises, not only providing funding of

new technology but also as part of our responsibility to help address the social and economic challenges facing businesses today, and the apprentice sponsorship is a great example of this.

You’ve taken a very close personal interest in the scheme – why is that?

I believe in giving young people an opportunity, while at the same time helping SMEs who may not yet have benefitted from having new ideas in their business.

It’s great to support both the individuals and their employers.

There’s been a noticeable positive shift in the attitude towards apprenticeships over the past years – why do you think that is the case?

I think at last it is getting the profile it deserves. It’s not cheap to invest in apprentices – and it’s important firms see it as an investment and not a cost.

Handled correctly, apprenticeships can help an SME flourish and at the same time develop the individual apprentice.

www.closeassetfinance.co.uk/manufacturing

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Industrial & Machining

Industrial & Machining

PressCare is a West Midlands based engineering company predominantly operating in the fields of power presses, coil handling equipment & automation systems. We offer a comprehensive range of services to the sheet metal industry including servicing, safety inspections, electrical & mechanical repairs/modifications, preventative maintenance programs, machine moving, installation & commissioning, guarding solutions & UKCA marking.

One of our specialities is the design & integration of machine control & safety systems, from minor safety upgrades to complete rewires. We can design, manufacture & integrate a new state-of-the-art control & safety system to bring your press shop equipment into line with the latest safety standards.

PressCare is the UK/ROI Agent for the SEYI Group, one of the world’s leading manufacturers

of power presses. We provide a comprehensive service from initial advice on the correct machine for your application to installation, guarding, commissioning, warranties, technical support, preventative maintenance and spare parts.

We will be exhibiting at the forthcoming MACH2024 exhibition, so if you have any enquiries or would like further information, please come and visit us on Stand 6-33, Hall 6 at the NEC, between 15th and 19th April.

T 0845 226 7617

T +44 (0)1922 685240 www.presscare.co.uk

Vision Engineering adds new anodising facility

Vision Engineering Ltd, a multinational designer and manufacturer of innovative, patented ergonomic stereo optical and digital instruments has relocated its anodising arm, Milturn Finishing, to a brand new facility in Measham, Leicestershire following its acquisition in 2022.

The Leicestershire location is beneficial as the Midlands serves as a major hub for UK manufacturing, innovation, and skilled workforce.

The new ISO9001 certified site delivers modern new facilities which include large 3m x 1.5m anodising tanks, which accommodate larger work pieces, enabling efficient processing of entire components without needing to break them down. This reduces processing time and cost. Larger tanks enable deeper immersion for uniform anodising. The increased depth allows for complete submersion of parts, ensuring consistent coating thickness and quality across the entire surface and reduced handling needs for smaller parts, meaning that batch processing of smaller parts

becomes more efficient, minimising handling time and potential damage.

Milturn Finishing’s high load crane delivers safe and efficient handling of heavy work pieces, improved productivity and throughput including faster handling of parts, and handling multiple parts at once, boosting productivity.

Services include accurate masking and demasking of complex parts pre and post anodising which delivers high accuracy selective anodising, maintaining dimensional integrity, improving process efficiency, and ultimately contributing to consistently high-quality results.

Extensive experience and professional advice in anodising and finishing plus competitive pricing, fast track service, free delivery & collection, together with free quotation and sampling services complete the picture for the new Milturn Finishing offer.

www.milturnfinishing.co.uk

The British Stainless Steel Association is a member funded trade association, representing businesses in UK and Ireland involved in the stainless steel industry from raw material extraction, manufacture, distribution, fabrication, surface treatment, installation to recycling.

Stainless steels are a small but crucial part of the wider steel family. They are iron alloys with 10.5% minimum chromium and 1.2% maximum carbon.

Chromium makes stainless steels special as this alloying element gives stainless steels their corrosion resistance. Corrosion resistance is the main reason for using stainless steels but other benefits can influence why stainless is selected. These include its aesthetic appearance, the ability to withstand cryogenic temperatures to service temperatures over 1,000ºC, hygienic properties and the longevity

of correctly selected materials in many environments. Over 200 different stainless steels are obtainable in many different product forms that can assist engineers, designers and asset managers overcome problems in a sustainable and effective way.

Stainless steels are 100% recyclable. Indeed their high value encourages recycling. This lessens the environmental impact of stainless steels by reducing the need for raw materials and the energy that their production uses.

For more information about stainless steels or training, please contact: https://bssa.org.uk

Contact: Rob Cooper, Managing Director

T +44 (0)114 551 8170

M +44 (0)7593 561160 rob.cooper@bssa.org.uk

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New XXL-Box laser marking enclosure

“After the huge success of the L-BOX and XL-BOX, our compact marking stations, we have been asked on numerous occasions to offer a larger workspace in order to be able to mark large parts.” These are the words of Eric B. Marketing and Sales Director at SIC MARKING, world leader in industrial traceability, to justify the launch of the new XXL-BOX Laser Marking Station.

Available in 3 basic sizes at a very competitive price, the XXL-BOX perfectly complements SIC MARKING’s laser workstation wide range of products, which makes it possible to meet all customer requirements in terms of cabinet size.

As its name indicates, the new XXL-BOX station offers record working dimensions (up to 520mm high) as well as great modularity thanks to its 3 standard models (800, 1,200 and 1,600mm wide) and its numerous

accessories. The strength of this new product also lies in its ability to adapt perfectly to different customer requirements, illustrating SIC MARKING’s extensive know-how in the realisation of tailor-made solutions:

The XXL-BOX is ideally suited for the classic use of its large working volume, but also enables the project manager at SIC MARKING to offer tailor-made solutions for more complex large-volume marking applications. As Project Manager, Nicolas E. highlights the flexibility of this new product through a large number of accessories. “Automatic three-dimensional axis, automatic loading system, loading drawer or turntable are just a few examples of the applications proposed by our technical teams to meet our customers’ needs.”

T +44 (0)1926 830372 salesuk@sic-marking.com www.sic-marking.co.uk

Funnel Integrated Technology hits stage

Over the last 30 years there has been a boom in the traceability and identification of manufactured components. Many industries want to directly laser mark these, however there are some parts that are just getting larger and larger.

Casting and pressing companies sometimes have such large parts that they simply cannot fit these into a standard sized Class 1 laser enclosure leaving many companies wondering how they can mark them.

larger parts in a simple, safe and economic way within the customers production line and budget.

The FIT tunnel eliminates the need to enclose the entire part for the laser marking process by enclosing just the marking area. The compact design allows for the FIT system to be retrofitted easily into an existing robotic cell.

Even though they launched a new range of large XXL-Box class 1 enclosures in 2022, SIC Marking saw this problem as a new challenge for 2023. They have now launched their Funnel Integrated Technology (FIT for short) as a complete all in one solution that combines all of the necessary components and settings to mark

This ready to integrate and secured laser marking system comes as a ‘Tunnel Style’ Class 1 compliant enclosure. It is a compact and easy to integrate solution with a single connection to a PLC. The FIT can be mounted to a robot head for presenting to a stationary part – or fixed in position allowing the robot to present the part for marking.

T +44 (0)1926 830372 salesuk@sic-marking.com www.sic-marking.co.uk

BAIT is sponsored by – see them on page 14 13
Come see us on Stand No 18-555 Industrial & Machining

Schmersal now also sells a safe laser scanner on the European market

The Schmersal Group continues to expand its range of products for safe area monitoring: the company is now selling the UAM05LP safety laser scanner from Japanese manufacturer Hokuyo in Europe, beginning with markets in Germany, France, Austria and Switzerland.

The safety scanner is characterised by its extremely compact design and low weight, as well as its flexible integration options and high safety standards. This helps it to ensure maximum personal protection in logistics, manufacturing and the process industry.

Contactless protective devices, such as laser scanners, offer many benefits in the implementation of safety requirements. In contrast to guard fences and guard doors, there is no manual opening and closing requirement, and they do not impede materials transport. In addition, they also enable a clearer view of machinery and processes.

infrared beams to scan the environment and detect the entry of people and objects into the safety zone. This also allows the Hokuyo UAM to achieve a wide range: with a detection range of up to 270°, a safety clearance of up

a wide range of uses and also has the ability to monitor two hazardous areas at the same time, eg. two adjacent robots. Each of the two safety zones switches its own OSSD output.

The UAM safety laser scanner handles presence control on stationary machinery and robot systems, with the UAM’s sensor utilising

Warehouse & Logistics

to 5m and a warning detection area of 20m, the laser scanner can be used in various machinery safety applications.

The laser scanner can be easily configured for

Furthermore, the safety laser scanner is also able to undertake access control as well as arm and hand protection for safety-critical areas in work zones, eg. as part of insertion and assembly workflows.

Another advantage of the Hokuyo laser scanner is its encoder input: with the help of encoders, the speed and direction of travel of automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are transferred to the laser scanner, so that the safety zones can be dynamically adjusted to stop the AGV in case of danger. The Hokuyo UAM-05LP is suitable for use in machinery safety applications up to PL d, Cat. 3 in accordance with EN ISO 13849 and SIL 2 in accordance with IEC 61508.

Contact: Steve Watkins, Marketing & Business Development

T 01684 571980 swatkins@schmersal.com www.schmersal.co.uk

Cleaning up the streets with the Goupil G4 and Liverpool Streetscene

Liverpool Streetscene Services Ltd (LSSL), a wholly owned subsidiary of Liverpool City Council, has recently taken delivery of a new Goupil G4 for the public services team in charge of Refuse and Recycling, Street Cleansing and Grounds Maintenance and Arboriculture across Liverpool.

LSSL required an alternative machine to supplement its current Street Washing operation, one that was manoeuvrable & could be used to wash street furniture, litter bins, seating areas, steps and hard to reach areas, and to assist with the removal of fly posting.

“It’s exciting to see the Goupil being used exactly as

intended, its small size and fantastic manoeuvrability make it an obvious choice for tight city streets,” says Ramsy Labassi, Marketing Manager at Bradshaw EV.

“As one of our flagship models, the Goupil G4 highlights Bradshaw’s dedication to driving industries forward towards their Net Zero goals as well as assisting them to eliminate their CO2 emissions as much as possible.”

The Goupil G4 has exceeded expectations as an electric vehicle, which can be safely used amongst pedestrians and can work at different times to the larger diesel street washing vehicles to wash street furniture.

The G4 has complimented LSSL’s existing resources and relieved pressure from the core street washing teams. It has also generated many positive observations because it is 100% electric.

“The G4 has been a fantastic addition to our fleet, we were very pleased with the service we received from Bradshaw, who were quick to answer any questions and alleviate any concerns we had, such as fitting a larger 500-litre water tank to the vehicle,” said James McCoy, Street Cleaning Supervisor at LSSL.

“LSSL strives to be a greener company and reduce our emissions; where feasible, suitable and available, alternatively fuelled vehicles will take priority when replacing our fleet in the coming years.”

LSSL has been diligently working on developing its vehicle fleet, implementing a fleet replacement strategy that incorporates the inclusion of alternatives to diesel, provided that suitable infrastructure is available. In addition to electric vehicles, LSSL also operates compressed natural gas vehicles, reflecting its commitment to sustainable transportation.

The Goupil G4 is suitable for a number of road and site applications for both the public and private sectors. With an operational range of up to 101 miles (depending on battery size) and a maximum speed of 31mph, the G4 is equipped with a variety of body types to cater to the customer’s specific requirements and features a safe and secure cabin with both left and right-hand drive options.

“When looking for a fully electric vehicle that could safely manoeuvre around pedestrians and other road furniture, we were immediately drawn to the Goupil G4 as its small size and fantastic usability make it perfect for accessing smaller side streets which other larger vehicles can’t reach.”

“The G4 is used for reactive works throughout the day, acting as an additional resource to the core street washing programme which operates at early hours of the morning,” concluded McCoy.

T +44 (0)1780 782621

www.bradshawev.com

BAIT is sponsored by – see them on page 14 14
Health
& Safety

Health & Safety

Why are emergency safety showers important?

In workplaces where employees are exposed to hazardous substances, ensuring their safety becomes paramount. Accidental spills and chemical splashes can occur, putting workers at risk of serious injuries or even life-threatening situations. To mitigate these risks, emergency safety showers play a vital role in preventing further harm and reducing the severity of injuries.

In this article, we will explore the importance of emergency safety showers, their functionality, and their significance in ensuring workplace safety in hazardous environments.

Key features & functionality

1. Quick Activation – Safety showers are designed for immediate activation to minimise the exposure time to hazardous substances. In an emergency, every second counts, and a prompt response can significantly reduce the impact on the affected individual.

2. Full-Body Coverage – These showers are designed to deliver a wide, coneshaped spray pattern, covering the entire body. This ensures thorough rinsing and decontamination, regardless of the extent of the exposure.

3. Easy Accessibility – Safety showers should be strategically located in areas where the risk of exposure is high. They should be easily accessible, clearly marked, and free from any obstructions to ensure employees can reach them swiftly in case of an emergency.

4. Adequate Water Supply – Safety showers require a continuous supply of clean water to operate effectively. The water should be maintained at a tepid

water temperature to prevent any further discomfort or injury to the affected person.

5. Eye/Face Wash Stations – In addition to safety showers, many safety showers are equipped with eye and face wash stations. These features provide immediate irrigation to the eyes and face, helping to flush out hazardous substances and alleviate potential eye injuries.

Importance for workplace safety

1. Minimising Injuries – Emergency safety showers are crucial in minimising injuries resulting from chemical exposure. The immediate rinsing from hazardous substances can prevent burns, skin damage, or the absorption of toxic materials into the body, reducing the severity of injuries and potential long-term effects.

2. Compliance with Regulations –Many regulatory bodies and industry standards require the presence of safety showers in workplaces dealing with hazardous materials. Compliance with these regulations is not only crucial for the well-being of employees but also ensures that organisations avoid legal consequences and penalties.

3. Emergency Preparedness – Safety showers are a vital component of a comprehensive emergency response plan. By providing employees with the means to decontaminate quickly and effectively, companies can enhance their emergency preparedness, safeguarding both their workers and the environment.

4. Promoting a Safety Culture – The presence of safety showers sends a clear message to employees about the

importance placed on their well-being. It fosters a safety culture within the organisation, encouraging individuals to be more vigilant, follow safety protocols, and report incidents promptly. When employees feel their well-being is prioritised, they are more likely to be proactive in maintaining a safe work environment.

Having an emergency safety shower in the workplace is not just a legal requirement but is vital in protecting employees working in hazardous environments. By providing immediate decontamination and minimising the impact of chemical exposure, these showers are a fundamental safety measure. Employers must ensure that safety showers are strategically placed, easily accessible, well-maintained and all staff have full training on the usage of the safety shower.

For more help or information, please contact us on 01942 318096 or visit: www.aqua-safety.com

BAIT is sponsored by – see them on page 14 15

Fleet Management

CheckedSafe and MICHELIN Connected Fleet join forces to support Network Rail

We’re proud to announce that CheckedSafe and MICHELIN Connected Fleet are working together to improve our service offerings to Network Rail...

You may remember that last August, we were excited to announce our monumental partnership with Network Rail. This marked a major milestone for our team here at CheckedSafe, as along with our partner Novuna Vehicle Solutions we are now responsible for managing one of the largest fleets in the UK.

This partnership with Network Rail was far from standard. Given the immense scale of their operations – encompassing over 10,000 vehicles and 44,000 users – we devoted months to developing bespoke software solutions tailored to their unique needs. We invested significant resources into a robust API so that Network Rail’s vehicle suppliers, Novuna Vehicle Solutions and Leaseplan could manage defects on their own systems as usual and in turn update CheckedSafe.

However, our journey in revolutionising their fleet management was just beginning.

This month, we’re excited to unveil our latest collaboration with MICHELIN Connected Fleet, a leader in fleet telematics systems. Together, we’ve created a superior fleet compliance solution specifically for Network Rail.

A superior fleet management solution for users

MICHELIN Connected Fleet’s sophisticated tracking technology has been seamlessly integrated into our software, increasing the standard of fleet management for Network Rail. This integration provides real-time tracking and reporting on vehicle usage and ensures compliance with the highest safety standards.

How does the new software work?

Every day, MICHELIN Connected Fleet’s system generates comprehensive reports on vehicle movements. These reports are sent to us via a newly configured API and then cross-

referenced with our data. The data identifies vehicles moved without a check vehicles moved with a check and vehicles already marked Vehicle-Off-Road (VOR). Through this, Network Rail can not only ensure compliance is maintained but police ongoing compliance. It is a huge breakthrough as it provides targeted data to the people that need it.

How does this benefit Network Rail?

1. Streamlined compliance solutions

Prior to our partnership, Network Rail faced the immense challenge of ensuring that each vehicle was properly checked before use. The system relied heavily on driver trust, making it virtually impossible to effectively monitor and guarantee the implementation of pre-use checks for such a vast fleet.

Now, with the combination of our own and MICHELIN Connected Fleet’s API link, Network Rail can confidently ensure fleet compliance with ease. Our integrated systems efficiently identify any discrepancies between vehicle movement and completed checks.

This automated process not only flags potential issues but also promptly reports

them to the appropriate managers, streamlining the compliance process and reinforcing accountability in fleet management.

2. Increased safety and reputation

Another great consequence of our work is that Network Rail has strengthened their commitment to road safety and accountability. Our collaboration with MICHELIN Connected Fleet supports Network Rail’s vision of having one of the safest vehicle fleets in the UK. With over 10,000 vehicles, this is no mean feat, and we’re exceptionally privileged to play a significant role in helping them achieve this! Collectively we are setting the standard, not following it.

CheckedSafe – providing you with streamlined compliance solutions

Yet again, we couldn’t be prouder of our team here at CheckedSafe, and we’re looking forward to providing you with even more project updates as this partnership progresses.

For now – please contact us on 01282 937228 or drop us a message here if you have any questions!

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Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning

Panasonic unveils AC Select: The ultimate selection tool

Panasonic Heating & Cooling Solutions has launched AC Select, a new online selection tool designed to streamline the process of choosing and configuring systems from the company’s wide range of aircooled and water-cooled chillers and heat pumps, fan coil units, water source heat pumps, and rooftop units.

Designed for HVAC professionals, AC Select offers an efficient and user-friendly tool to help specify the ideal heating and cooling

solutions for every need. The online tool allows users to choose their solution directly from the catalogue or enter the required conditions for AC Select to offer the ideal product suggestion, with the ability to create larger scale projects by adding multiple units. It provides a comprehensive list of accessories and options that can be added to the selected units, allowing users to fine-tune their HVAC solutions according to their exact requirements.

Boasting an intuitive interface, AC Select allows users to make fast and informed selections, ultimately saving time. Users can find technical information, adjust parameters, and configure the HVAC units effortlessly.

To find out more about the new AC Select, please visit: https://acselect.panasonic.eu/

Ideal living comfort with Smart Living ecosystem

We spend more than half of our lives in the house. This is why clean air, the right temperature, and smart room control applications can really change lives for the better.

The term living comfort is now part of our vocabulary and describes a state of well-being that people can achieve within a given environment. A state that depends on a number of factors, such as temperature and humidity levels, air quality and noise output, and which becomes even more important because we spend most of our lives in the house. As much as 55% according to a recent survey.

and domestic hot water production

● Air renewal and purification system with active thermodynamic recovery and electronic filtration

● Clivet Sinergy: the energy storage unit that can be connected to photovoltaic panels to power a system focused on comfort and supply energy to the various domestic users

The Clivet Smart Living system - for smart and conscious living comfort Smart Living is an integrated comfort and energy building management system designed by Clivet for residential applications.

It includes the following components:

● Heat pump for heating, cooling

● HID-TSmart thermostats

● Room terminals that are quiet with a stylish design

● Control4 NRG: the assistant for smart comfort and energy management

info.uk@clivet.com

www.clivetgroup.co.uk

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NEXT level systems: NEXT’s transformative investment in Veloblade Nexus and Zip Core Packaging Suite

Why were NEXT in the market for a new system?

NEXT, a British multinational retailer specialising in clothing, footwear, and home products, is headquartered in Enderby, England. With approximately 700 stores in its portfolio, approximately 500 are located in the United Kingdom, while the remaining 200 are spread across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

NEXT in-house print department sought a new system, purely for their own signage needs. Their previous cutting system, resulted in extended waiting times for support.

However, since partnering with Vivid, they have been thrilled with the support they’ve received, giving it a resounding 5-star rating.

“Vivid’s support is truly deserving of a 5-star rating; they consistently go above and beyond to ensure we have the best support when operating

NEXT improves production time and accuracy with the Veloblade Nexus and Zip Core Packaging Suite

substantial cost savings, a pivotal achievement that has left a significant impact on the organisation.

The Veloblade Nexus and Zip Core Packaging Suite. This level of support is truly invaluable to us. Since partnering with Vivid, our experience has been nothing short of fantastic. The Zip Core Packaging Suite opens up endless possibilities, and the ability to send a 3D Virtual CAD of a project, rather than creating a physical sample, has saved us an incredible amount of time. The Veloblade Nexus has demonstrated its precision, speed, and clean-cut performance, surpassing all our previous experiences with other brands. This has given us the confidence to take full control of in-house production.” – Stephen Clarke

Now equipped with the Veloblade Nexus and Zip Core Packaging Suite, NEXT has unlocked a world of possibilities. This cuttingedge technology has empowered them to take full control of in-house production with unwavering confidence, assured of the systems’ dependability, precision, and the unwavering support they provide.

This transformative shift has proven to be more than just a time-saver; it has also delivered

Vivid extends its gratitude to Ricoh, one of our valued resellers, for their instrumental role in making this sale possible.

Ricoh has been a long-standing technology partner to NEXT, supporting them on innovative workflow and process improvement in their warehousing and storeroom functions. In addition to this Ricoh has provided NEXT with a complete graphic wide format and cut sheet print and finishing technology, to further enhance their operations. To complement the solution and provide a true production workflow system, Ricoh chose Vivid, its trusted Partner, and their Veloblade Nexus and Zip Core Packaging Suite to work alongside Ricoh Latex and UV Flatbed technologies. The system had to be operable over three shifts, be easy to use, cut various materials involving routing and most of all be reliable. The Veloblade Nexus meets all these criteria and with the technical support of Vivid, applications can easily be prototyped and bought to production in a matter of hours.

www.vivid-online.com

https://youtu.be/otEz_zhL3uc

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Print & Packaging

Surface Finishing

Curtiss-Wright’s Keronite business secures Nadcap Approval Certification

Curtiss-Wright Surface Technologies Division recently announced that its Keronite business, a world leader in plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) applications including a pioneering surface treatment that uniquely enhances the performance of light alloys, has successfully secured Nadcap accreditation for Chemical Processing at its Greenwood, IN facility.

Nadcap (National Aerospace and Defense Contractors Accreditation Program) is the aerospace industry’s global accreditation program designed to recognise special processors that integrate and maintain stringent Quality System and process control standards. Pursuit of Nadcap accreditation demonstrates an organisation’s desire to mitigate customer risk and promote product safety. Keronite joins more than 45 other Curtiss-Wright Surface Technologies Business Units that are Nadcap accredited.

Commenting on the approval, David Rivellini, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Curtiss-Wright Surface Technologies Division, noted, “We’re incredibly proud to earn Nadcap accreditation for Chemical Processing. This approval is a testament to our unwavering commitment to quality, our continuous improvement of manufacturing standards, our

innovative processes, and the development of new technology.”

Keronite’s PEO technology enhances the performance of light alloys and is utilised across various aerospace applications, ranging from large-cast structural components to geometrically-complex components. PEOcoated components are frequently used as a lightweight alternative to heavier metals, a strategy employed across the industry to improve aircraft fuel economy. Notably, aerospace manufacturers have extensively adopted this technology to combat corrosion, dry-sliding wear and as an eco-friendly alternative to toxic chromate conversion coatings.

Rivellini concluded, “Curtiss-Wright is committed to delivering the best possible technologies and breakthrough applications, while providing our customers an opportunity to utilise unique surface treatment applications offering corrosion protection, wear resistance, and other properties, such as thermal and electrical insulation. This recognition underscores the quality of our processes within the industry, while also creating more opportunities to expand our footprint in the aerospace sector.”

In November 2022, Keronite was acquired by Curtiss-Wright Corporation. The business is now a part of Curtiss-Wright Surface Technologies, within its Engineered Coatings Business Unit, empowering aerospace manufacturers worldwide to benefit from a comprehensive range of solutions for an extensive array of applications.

To learn more about PEO, or understand how it could bolster the performance of light alloys in your designs, reach out to our team of experts or read our flagship white paper, ‘What is Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation?’ to discover more about this revolutionary technology: https://blog.keronite.com/ what-is-plasma-electrolytic-oxidation

To learn more about Keronite, please visit: www.keronite.com

To learn more about Curtiss-Wright Surface Technologies, please visit: www.cwst.com

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