Business and Industry Today Issue 369

Hydrogen compatible pressure measurement

Hydrogen offers a cleaner, secure and more affordable source of energy with the potential to drastically reduce and tackle CO2 emission levels.

With that in mind ESI are committed to offering a product range that is not only versatile and environmentally friendly, but also offers the same outstanding performance and stability that they are known for.

What is Hydrogen Compatibility?

Samples of the materials used in the manufacture of the range were tested based on ISO 111142:2017 in accordance to the European Regulations EC 79/2009 and EU 406/2010 to determine an ‘embrittlement index’ of the material when placed in a saturated environment over extended periods of time. Results have provided a pass rating to the compatibility of the material against Hydrogen.

The Material

The pressure diaphragm and threaded pressure port are machined from a specialist Titanium alloy specifically designed to withstand harsh and demanding environments. This, along with the non-oil-filled sensor and high integrity stainless steel housing results in a robust and versatile unit that offers excellent media compatibility across a range of environments.

The Hydrogen range also benefits from the same Silicon on Sapphire (SOS)

Better vehicle lightweighting solutions

Far-UK Ltd was set up to make a difference by solving our customers’ material problems. Isaac Newton taught us that if it moves and you make it lighter then you make it more efficient. It is in the area of lightweighting that we help our customers.

sensor technology used throughout the ESI brand, providing outstanding performance, stability and highly accurate pressure measurement.

Applications

Hydrogen is already used in a growing variety of industries, and although the Oil & Gas sector still remains the predominant source of energy supply and usage, there are significant efforts being made to find an alternative.

Applications for ESI’s newest range include:

● Hydrogen storage

● Hydrogen production

● Hydrogen re-fuelling

● Hydrogen engines

● Marine propulsion

● Hydrogen fuel cells

● Laboratory environments

● Industrial applications

For more information on Hydrogen, contact ESI on 01978 262255 or email: sales@esi-tec.com

Sometimes it is a customer who comes to us with a metallic part and asks us to find a way to make the part lighter using composite materials. Sometimes we are invited to help shape a design from the very start to squeeze out weight and cost by optimising the design.

Either way we help our customers using what we have learnt about material selection, composites and multi-material joining, as well as our AI design techniques. We like to think that results in a much better and costeffective answer to our customers’ lightweighting challenges.

Over the years we have worked on a wide range of challenges, and we think

we can deliver some great solutions especially in the following areas:

● Crash structures for cars and passenger vehicles

● Battery boxes

● Complete chassis and suspensions for electric cars and L category vehicles

● Body structures for trains, trams, buses, and driverless pods – using our Brainstorm and Resiglaze technologies we can offer lighter carriages for these kinds of vehicles

Please email Lyndon Sanders with your lightweighting challenges at: office@far-uk.com

Visit our website: www.far-uk.com

Follow us on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/ far-uk-ltd

Precision Micro offers record number of apprentice placements

Birmingham-based photochemical etching specialist Precision Micro has announced that it will hire the largest-ever number of school leavers to its Apprenticeship Scheme this autumn.

Located at Fort Dunlop with a 44,000ft2 manufacturing plant, Precision Micro will take on 10 new apprentices this year, more than trebling the number of available apprenticeship placements from its typical annual intake of two or three spaces.

The four year placements are open to students between 16 and 21, and will provide successful applicants with a holistic experience across all of its business departments from technical and maintenance to sales and marketing, as well as providing apprentices with the unique skills required to create the precision parts it manufactures.

Precision Micro supplies components to a wide range of industries, providing products for everything from life-saving surgery to Formula 1 racing, space exploration, luxury cars and more.

The business has a long history of recruiting local talent from a young age, with many success stories within the business, including Director and

Co-owner, Mick Taylor, who began as an apprentice with the business over 30 years ago.

Following the recent investment of over £5m into its production plant, Precision Micro has expanded its manufacturing capacity by 10%, creating job opportunities for local people.

Nikki Squire, HR Manager at Precision Micro, said, “As a specialist manufacturer, the contribution apprentices make to our business is invaluable. We’re delighted to be able to offer so many local young people the chance to kickstart a rewarding career at the cutting-edge of precision manufacturing, in what is an incredibly exciting time for the company.”

To find out more about the Precision Micro apprenticeship scheme, please visit: http://resources.precisionmicro. com/apprenticeships

SPN cements its relationship with LOCKEN

Scottish Power Energy Networks (SPN), a subsidiary of global energy leader Iberdrola Group, is continuing to build on its partnership with LOCKEN – ISEO Group – to secure its vast energy network, and its new, impressive St. Vincent Street headquarters is the largest single-use office to be built in Glasgow for 25 years.

In 2018, the company joined forces with LOCKEN to complete the energy industry’s most ambitious access control project. Gaining momentum since then, there are now 14,000 electronic locks deployed, including the areas within the new Scottish Power HQ.

In order to fulfil SPN’s access configuration needs, the contactless smart key combines the advantages of a traditional mechanical lock with a state-of-the-art electronic solution, with the information exchanged between the key and the cylinder by magnetic induction, rather than by an electrical contact. This allows almost instantaneous opening of the lock and ensures reliability of the hardware, preventing any risk of contact failure caused by oxidation or dust lodged in the cylinder.

The solution includes a Bluetooth module, which links to the user’s smartphone, using the MyLocken app. It is capable of offering centralised control and case-by-case, real-time access control, reaching standards of security that are usually only available from online access control systems and significantly boosts compliance with the industry’s applicable security standards.

T +44 (0)203 691 1610 info.locken.eu@iseo.com www.locken.eu

Keystone appoints Jemma Ison

Keystone Group has appointed Jemma Ison as Group Sustainability Manager to help build decarbonisation into all business operations. Jemma, who has been with the Group for five years, has played an integral part in developing Keystone’s sustainability strategy, which is based on three key sustainability pillars:

‘Our Nature’, ‘Our Resources’ and ‘Our People’.

In her new role, Jemma has been invited to join the NHBC Foundation Expert Panel & also to work with BSI to support the development of sustainability criteria for construction materials. This will provide clarity to the industry of high quality but low environmental impact products.

Under the Science Based Targets Initiative, a global organisation responsible for setting the world's targets to ensure a more sustainable future, Keystone has embarked on a journey of monitoring and improving its carbon emissions and has committed to the ambitious target of becoming Net Zero by 2050.

As part of this journey, Keystone’s Sustainability Taskforce, comprised of a ‘Sustainability Champion’ from each business, is working through the identification of Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions to provide clarity on the environmental impact of Keystone Group operations & raise opportunities for carbon reductions throughout the organisation.

As the first step towards the creation of this strategy, Keystone’s Sustainability Taskforce is currently working with Carbon Footprint to help measure the scope of carbon consumption across the Group. Once this is determined, Keystone will affectively measure improvements against this benchmark going forward.

For more information on the Keystone Group, please visit: www.keystonegroup.co.uk or call 028 8676 2184 or email: Info@TheKeystoneGroup.co.uk

Veolia Water Technologies UK

With over 100 years of experience, Veolia Water Technologies UK is a world leader in providing bespoke solutions to an array of markets relating to process water and wastewater. Environmentally minded, we aim to find the cleanest solutions for our clients, looking to streamline their operations, benefitting their processes and the climate.

From manufacturing to aerospace, food and beverage to pharmaceuticals, we use a wide spread of technologies to meet compliance regulations and prevent costly downtime.

We also support research, science and clinical teams with the design and provision of laboratory water systems. Whether you need point-of-use laboratory

products or complex central water systems, we can help achieve all pure and ultrapure water requirements. From concept and design to installation and validation, we proactively work with instrument companies and water standards organisations to customise and deliver the right equipment.

● PURELAB® Quest – Ideal for low volume lab users.

● PURELAB Flex – Designed for ease of use and rapid set up for ultrapure water.

● PURELAB® Chorus – A modular laboratory water system that offers bespoke solutions for scientific applications.

We have just launched a customiser tool for our Chorus range, to tweak, tinker and envisage the perfect model

for your laboratory from afar. Book a free, no-obligation water test for your lab today with our scientific experts.

T 01628 897260

www.veoliawatertechnologies.co.uk/contact www.veoliawatertechnologies.co.uk/markets/ laboratory

Considered, customised, & cost-effective logistics

sustainability the green light, Howard Tenens highly considers the impact on the planet in everything that it does. Therefore, this change has been implemented across all of their Andover fleet and forms part of the company’s overall strategy to work with its customers to reduce carbon emissions and help speed up the journey towards net zero.

In this issue of Business and Industry Today, we are pleased to announce Howard Tenens Logistics as our Logistics Company of the Month.

Howard Tenens Logistics aim to be the logistics service partner of choice for businesses who are looking for mutual value, environmental credibility, and exceptional service.

Through its three core pillars: using exceptional people, to build exceptional customer relationships, using exceptional business resources, Howard Tenens Logistics is a quality focused, independent family business that delivers mutual value through great people, collaboration and technology.

“Some of our key services include warehousing, transportation, distribution, palletised, bulk, and container storage and handling, as well as picking, packing, international capabilities, rework, E-commerce, returns and reverse logistics. We have a UK warehouse portfolio of over 4,000,000 ft², and we freehold own the vast majority of this commercial space, which is also available for lease, in conjunction with a distribution fleet of 200+ vehicles and 500+ trailers providing national coverage,” said Amelia Batley, Marketing Lead.

Howard Tenens was established in 1953 by Chairman, Peter Morris. Headquartered in Stroud, Gloucestershire, Howard Tenens has further offices based across the country in Andover, Ashby de la Zouch, Boston, East and West London, Manchester, Newport, Sharpness, Swindon, and many more. However, regardless of geographical location, Howard Tenens Logistics offers a bespoke solution that fits every customer need. Working with multiple sectors, the company understands all requirements and works to find a solution to them. “We work across a

broad range of industries, developing partnerships with our customers from retail & FMCG to automotive and packaging. Our ultimate focus is to build partnerships with our clients to ensure mutual value is delivered to all parties,” stated Amelia.

In recent news, Howard Tenens Logistics has announced that its key Andover depot in Hampshire has switched its fuel from diesel to the low carbon alternative, Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO). Giving

By switching to HVO, the Andover HGVs will emit 92% less carbon dioxide, cutting Howard Tenens Logistics’ scope 1 carbon footprint emissions by 17% and will be the single biggest carbon reduction initiative introduced to date. Howard Tenens Logistics is now planning to look at other depots where a similar partnership approach can be adopted to roll out HVO.

In the future, Howard Tenens Logistics will continue on its journey of sustainable solutions to reach its target of Net Zero Carbon, alongside continuing to grow and develop partnerships with its customers by delivering mutual value across the board.

Contact T 03300 416200

www.tenens.com

Manufacturing Software Company of the Month

Streamline your processes and simplify your manufacturing

In this issue of Business and Industry Today, we have selected Global Shop Solutions UK as our Manufacturing Software Company of the Month.

Global Shop Solutions UK is a family owned business, established in 1976. The company maintains its HQ in Texas, USA and has offices in the UK, Indonesia, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand and Mexico. Its UK branch is based in Brighton.

Global Shop Solutions UK is an industry leading software developer of ERP software for the manufacturing industry. ERP software is a system of integrated applications, that streamline processes, to oversee all aspects of a company’s day to day manufacturing. The software provides accessibility to all data, including costings, estimates, a solid view of profit or loss and inventory control, all in one system.

“We developed an ERP software system for manufacturing companies 46 years ago.” said Michelle Brown, Project Manager. “As well as software we consult on implementations, streamlining processes and change management. We encourage companies to look at their processes, to develop and improve them.”

In addition, they developed a language called GAB (Global Application Builder), which allows customers to customise screens or process flows on the software.

Not only do customers benefit from Global Shop Solutions UK’s intuitive, and efficient ERP software, customers also benefit from its suite of expert after sales, training and continuous improvement services.

“Once they go live with the system, our customers are then handed over to our continuous improvement team who help them grow and gain further understanding of the system,” continues Brown. “As it’s a big system, we often start implementation with just the basics and once the customer becomes acquainted with the system, we gradually encourage them to learn about and use other features. The continuous improvement service is really important to us, as it ensures our customers feel supported and not abandoned as soon as they go live. Our main goal is to make sure they get the full benefit of the system. Our software is constantly being improved on and new features created. We also have a high rate of implementation success.”

One of the most important focuses for Global Shop Solutions UK is its emphasis on creating and maintaining a good company working culture. “We have very low employee turnover with some employees working with us for 20+ years,” explains Brown. “We do look after our people and we have a good organisational structure that allows everyone to contribute, feel valuable and provide the best service for our customers.”

The company has seen impressive expansion over the last ten years and one of its latest developments has been its move to implement green initiatives. “The roof of Head Quarters has recently been fitted with solar panels and electric car charging stations will be installed in

the car park,” adds Brown. “The plan is that the solar panels will power the entire HQ building. In the UK, we are currently considering investing in an initiative that sponsors solar panel installation at local schools.”

During the pandemic, Global Shop Solutions UK improved its online learning format which provides courses and tests for companies to assign to its team members and monitor their progress. The company also improved on its onsite training offering. ‘Bootcamp’, an onsite course that took place for one week in Texas, is now available online in the form of two 3-day courses; one for new users and a second for existing customers wanting to improve their software skillset.

As the company prides itself on its forward-thinking ethos, one of its aims is to become carbon neutral and continuing to support green initiatives. It also plans to reopen its onsite training in Texas, taking on the new format, after travel restrictions ease.

Contact T +44 (0)1273 004422

www.globalshopsolutions.com/united-kingdom

Michelle Brown, Project Manager

Test, Measurement & Instrumentation Interface Force Measurements: Force, torque and pressure measurement

New Additel 673 Advanced Digital Pressure Calibrators

Chamois Metrology Introduce the New Additel 673 Advanced Digital Pressure Calibrators to Provide a Smartphone Like Experience coupled With the Ability to Simultaneously Measure Pressure and a Transmitter or Switch for Pressures up up to 60,000 psi (4,200 bar)

Chamois Metrology introduce the new ADT673 Advanced Digital Pressure Calibrators which include a smartphone like touchscreen and graphical interface for a completely new way of interfacing the calibrator. The ADT673 Advanced Digital Pressure calibrators come with a built-in barometer and are available in pressure ranges from ± 2.5 mbar to 4,200 bar and come standard with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless communications, as well as a type-C USB port and cable (RS-232 and 4-20mA output communications are optional).

Additel 673 calibrators provide an accurate pressure calibration solution for gauges, transmitters, and switches. Each calibrator contains a built-in barometer sensor which allows for the pressure reading to display in gauge pressure or absolute pressure with a simple menu selection. The ADT673 series contains HART communication capabilities and can measure in mA, or V, and supply 24V loop power. It has a dual readout display showing the pressure on one display and mA, V or a pressure switch on the other display. Each calibrator comes with an ISO-17025 accredited certificate of calibration. It is compatible with Additel’s Link mobile app and 9502 Additel/Log II software, which enables the ability to monitor & display the real-time pressure measurements in a table or graphically.

The Additel 673 Advanced Digital Pressure Calibrators are available now. For more information, visit: www.chamois.net or contact us for a virtual or in-person demo on 01926 812066 or email: info@chamois.net

Silicone rubber heaters

Silicone rubber heaters derive their adaptability from their thin profile, low weight and capacity to fit in small spaces. While these flexible workhorses are durable, stable and capable of outlasting many of the component parts that surround them, they also require delicate care during installation to prevent damage and avoid premature failure. Here, Bernardo Molina, silicone rubber heater product manager at industrial electric heater manufacturer Watlow, runs through the key considerations that must be made when applying silicone rubber heaters.

Silicone rubber heaters boast a rapid warmup and efficient heat transfer, capable of operating at temperatures up to 260ºC, which provide consistent temperature uniformity while decreasing wattage requirements. They boast a wide range of industrial applications, used to protect liquid and viscous materials from cold temperatures, prevent condensation and prevent corrosion.

Thanks to their pliant nature, silicone rubber heaters are conducive to fitting in tiny notches or isolated nooks. While this is a major advantage, this size and placement necessitates caution.

When installing silicone rubber heaters, it is imperative to follow the instructions carefully to preserve the heaters’ structure and longevity. Though silicone heaters are pliant, they are prone to harm from over flexing, pulling and cutting, which are the biggest causes of damage-related, preinstallation returns.

In this instance, it’s important to understand safety concerns to make handling as efficient as possible. After verifying the circuit integrity, installers should ensure the corresponding metal part for the heater is clean and smooth – metallic ‘burrs’ could penetrate the heater surface and cause a malfunction.

www.watlow.com

Interface Force Measurements has been supporting UK industry with the highest quality force, torque and pressure sensors for more than 25 years.

You can benefit from our experience whenever you contact us about your next measurement application, experience gained helping designers and engineers across multiple industrial sectors.

We’ll use our experience and product knowledge to help you select the best sensors for your application from our wide range of sensors from some of the world’s best sensor manufactures, including:

● Interface Inc – single, dual, 3 and 6 axis load cells and torque transducers

● AMTI – six-axis load cells and force plates

● GP50 – pressure and temperature sensors for oil/gas, aerospace, automotive food/ beverage and general industry

● DDM – miniature pressure sensors for automotive R&D

● XSensor – pressure mapping systems for bed/ mattress, seating, automotive R&D, tire testing applications and impact testing for seats, airbags, helmet and protective equipment

We can also help with your data collection needs with our

range of amplifiers, displays and software what will work with our and other manufacturers’ sensors.

So, if you have a force, torque or pressure measurement challenge that you’d like our help with, please contact us.

Contact

T 01344 776666 info@interface.uk.com www.interfaceforce.co.uk

Farm Business Innovation 2021 Review Part 4 – Top Exhibitors

Inspiring rural entrepreneurs

Farm Business Innovation 2021, held at Birmingham’s NEC from 10-11 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 forwardthinking and looking to diversify into the leisure, hospitality and tourism industries. Co-located with 5 other shows, the show had everything visitors needed to generate more income from their land.

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,

Combining smart investments with luxurious breaks

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.

Farm Business Innovation 2022 returns to Birmingham’s NEC from 2-3 November this year. This is our fourth pick of the best exhibitors from last year’s event. Details can be found on this page and the next two.

Contact www.farmbusinessshow.co.uk

Actually Group provide staycation experiences that are located in many of the UK’s most desirable locations. Creating the perfect spaces to bring friends, family and loved ones together, Actually Group is committed to designing and creating innovative and sustainable holiday accommodation and leisure facilities that deliver a five-star luxury experience for guests, as well as a holiday home ownership opportunity for holiday homeowners.

As pioneers in the leisure, parks and hospitality sector, Actually Group offers unrivalled lodges and retreats that have redefined the UK staycation experience. Though lodge styles vary, and each interior is unique, they are all beautifully crafted to deliver maximum

comfort for guests. Combining meticulous attention to detail with contemporary design and a heart for sustainable solutions, Actually Group is proud to be environmentally proactive creating sustainable lodges that are built to last.

Actually Group connects the best in-class expertise in the leisure and hospitality sector to deliver a unique, end-to-end process for the UK holiday market, perfect for investors and travellers alike. The UK holiday market has experienced rapid growth in

Lovibond water testing

Lovibond® has been a supplier and manufacturer of water testing kits and reagents for over 60 years. We offer testing kits that are reliable, simple to use, and give unsurpassed accuracy based on tried and tested test procedures.

In today’s world the need to make sure your water testing is suitable and fit for purpose is now more important than ever. Whether you have a full size pool with water features, a single hot tub or a water borehole, it is essential that your water testing is accurate and that you comply with the relevant guidelines.

We offer a full range of test kits and reagents covering a wide range of applications:

● Pool Water Testing

● Spa Water Testing to HSG282

● L8 Compliance Kits

● Legionella Early Warning Indicative Testing

● Balanced Water

All equipment is backed by our own technical support team. We can also offer training on water testing which would be bespoke and based around the systems you use, the parameters that you measure

recent years and has fast become the unquestionable rising star of the investment sector. Actually Group offers flexible options giving you access to their impressive holiday home ownership.

Why not visit their luxury retreat at Keld Spring in North Yorkshire at: www.Keldspring.co.uk and their brand-new park Lillyhall Lodge Retreat at: www.lillyhalllodges.co.uk

T 0333 772 1133

info@actuallygroup.co.uk www.actuallygroup.co.uk

and your staff requirements. support@lovibond.uk www.lovibond.com

Could your business property contain unclaimed tax savings? Find out with Zeal!

Zeal are Chartered Tax Advisors that specialise in Capital Allowances claims. We help business property owners take advantage of a significantly underclaimed Government tax relief available on the ‘embedded fixtures’ found in and under their properties.

Essentially, these are items in the fabric of the building that would not fall out if it was turned upside down, such as; electric, heating and water systems, pipework, alarms and more. By making a claim on these fixtures, significant cash and tax savings can be obtained. On average we

find this amounts to £35,000 per property.

Most business owners have never heard of this relief and are completely unaware of the tax benefits locked in their property.

This is because the legislation is extremely complex and uncovering the full value of qualifying expenditure requires specific tax

knowledge coupled with surveying skills. As a result, this is not a tax relief typically claimed by accountants unless they use a specialist like Zeal.

Our team help businesses and investors that own properties like Holiday Parks and Campsites, Leisure Attractions, Restaurants, Hotels and B&Bs, Holiday Lets, Retailers and Offices, to name a few.

Contact T 01633 287898

hello@gozeal.co.uk

www.gozeal.co.uk

Attract new customers with Waterlodge floating apartments

Centregreat: Infrastructure services

Centregreat is a well-established, high-quality infrastructure services provider, supporting public and private sector clients for over 38 years. The company is a South Wales based family run business that has evolved into the multi-disciplinary group of companies we are today.

Drawing upon expansive internal capability and external specialist partners, we deliver complex engineering solutions to varied infrastructure challenges, concept to completion. Our diverse business offering includes engineering, procurement and construction of bespoke steelframed structures to meet clients’ objectives, including:

● Integration of renewable energy and original equipment

manufacturing solutions:

● Solar PV

● Solar Storage Equipment

● Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment

● Design, manufacture, supply, and erection of steel

structures:

● Cladding, roofing products, fixing and support systems

● PV ground mount systems, barns, canopies, and covered walkways

● Civil engineering and electrical works, connecting new systems to main power distribution

Our project lifecycle service, Design – Manufacture – Install – Maintain, ensures reliability through a retained focus on

Vimto Out of Home

Vimto Out of Home is a leading supplier of soft drinks, offering a unique range of slush, post mix and packaged brands to operators across the UK. Our teams of experts are passionate about providing outstanding service and delivering great results, tailored to meet the demands of each and every business.

quality, service, innovation and safety, to maximise performance for clients and minimise interruption of business operations.

With a considerable depot network across the UK and an extensive business fleet, Centregreat delivers comprehensive schemes on time and at scale.

Please email: anthony.lynch@ centregreat.net to discuss your project requirements.

Renewable Energy Network

Renewable Energy Network is a company formed by a group of industry experts, skilled in all types and sizes of Renewable Energy Systems. We as a company are able to specify, install and maintain renewable energy systems across a broad range of clients and settings.

By working with us you have the assurance that you will be dealing with a company with the experience and expertise required to design and install systems that meet your specific requirements. Operating throughout the UK, the team at REN have the capability to design and install air and ground source heat pumps.

We also install all types of solar photovoltaic systems including battery storage, and for the electric vehicle owners an EV charge point. Our skilled engineers are also able to install all types of underfloor heating and to create the ideal home environment an MVHR system.

Park Realty Group

Park Realty Group is a UK company. Our team provides Complete Solutions for the Leisure and Private sector. We manufacture and supply an extensive selection of holiday homes and premium lodges across the UK. We also supply hot tubs and decking solutions.

We manufacture lodges to order up to a maximum size of 65’ x 22’ with a 6 week lead time. We can work with any floor plan and design, plus we offer a complete bespoke design solutions. We also offer transportation services.

We provide a full range of in-house solutions including • 3D Virtual Tours • Drone services • CGI • High Resolution Photography and Videography.

In addition, Park Realty Group specialises in finding leisure parks for sale and can help park owners and operators sell their businesses OFF MARKET under ‘Strictly Confidential’ terms. We have an extensive retained client list waiting to purchase all types of parks.

If you have a lodge, caravan or camping park that you would like to sell, we can guarantee confidentiality by perfectly matching one of our retained buyers with your business.

We look forward to hearing from you.

T 01202 862436

M 07393 999690 info@parkrealtygroup.co.uk www.parkrealtygroup.co.uk

If you are renovating or building your own home, specifying a large commercial project or building a housing estate, we are able to help. Please do not hesitate to give us a call. The team at REN are always happy to talk renewables.

Contact: Chris Blakelock, Director

M 07368 157294 www.renewableenergynetwork.co.uk

As the UK’s leading supplier of frozen slush drinks, we offer a number of iconic brands and a variety of refreshing and exciting flavours that appeal to a wide range of consumers, delivering great profits for operators. Our unrivalled portfolio of brands

includes UK favourite Starslush, and SLUSH PUPPiE, the original and iconic brand, which recently joined the Vimto Out of Home family.

In post mix, we are also the only supplier in the industry able to provide customers with both Coca-Cola and Pepsi on draught. We are proud to offer these as part of the widest range of brands of any supplier including Vimto, IRN-BRU, Sunkist and Ocean Spray as well as our own variety of carbonates, mixers and juices.

Get in touch with the team today to find out more about our bespoke soft drinks packages.

T 0800 066 2133 enquiries@vimto.uk www.vimto.uk

Prestige Telecom Group

When it comes to telecommunication and getting online, location can have a huge impact, especially in rural areas, as broadband packages are often limited.

Not only will you face less choice as a resident or worker in these areas but you will likely have to deal with lower quality broadband simply due to being in a remote location. This can hinder your business’ operation and, as a result, limit the growth of your company.

At Prestige Telecom Group, we aim to help our customers who live in these areas and have struggled to find reliable broadband solutions.

That’s where Prestige Connected Everywhere comes in, which is our rural broadband offering. We provide this as a complete solution to businesses in rural areas, delivering sufficient broadband which allows them to operate effectively and encourages growth. As we operate across a wide range of sectors, we’re

able to help many different companies that don’t have access to traditional infrastructures, get the reliable connection they need.

If you’re looking to improve your business’ communication, you need to look no further.

As a fast-growing business within the telecommunication sector, we have over 35 years’ worth of experience servicing both small and large companies. Reach out.

T 03303 200222 info@prestigetelecomgroup.co.uk

Farm Business Innovation 2021 Review Part 4 – Top Exhibitors

Off-road motorcycle trials in Lancashire

Inch Perfect Trials was started by Matthew Alpe, a young keen trials rider who had achieved top 10 finishes in the British Youth Trials Championship and was several times North West Centre Expert Champion. After showcasing his first successful trials display at a local agricultural show, Inch Perfect Trials soon came into being and since 2010 the team have performed at more than 150 shows including: British Super Bikes, Otley Show, Wilton House Classic and Supercar Show, Southport Flower Show and International Dirtbike Show.

Furthermore, Inch Perfect Trials also run a full range of experience and training days suitable for ages six and upwards for all ability levels. Thrilling and challenging training and experience days are delivered by the professional trial’s riders in the stunning, rugged countryside of the Ribble Valley near Clitheroe. Groups of up to 18 people are welcome, making it a perfect experience for family days out or even stag and hen parties, birthday parties, or just one-off unique experiences.

Onsite you will find a state-of-the-art showroom full

Voltalia: Energy storage projects

Voltalia is a company dedicated to the development, deployment and operation of large-scale solar and battery energy storage projects within the UK under an Independent Power Producer business model.

of everything you could possibly think of connected to the world of motorcycle trials. Inside discover a wide selection of new and used trials bikes all fully serviced and ready to go, a huge range of clothing, boots, helmets, parts and accessories. It truly is a one stop shop for everything trials!

For more information, see below.

T 01200 448130

sales@inchperfecttrials.co.uk

https://experience.inchperfecttrials.co.uk/

Engenera: Renewable energy projects

Since 2017, Engenera has successfully executed over 170 renewable energy projects, ranging in size from 10kW to 2MW. As a complete solutions provider, we design, fund, install and maintain all our renewable products.

We enable our clients to generate their own cleaner, greener and cheaper, energy.

Our strategic approach is based around bringing together all the leading technologies holistically, as opposed to keeping them independent. It is our belief that by utilising technologies together, we can offer maximum impact in the quest for carbon neutrality.

Our objective is to assist our clients in taking the necessary steps towards implementing renewable technology into their energy management and carbon processes in a cost-effective way.

Climate change is something that affects the whole planet and we cannot ignore it. Addressing our impact on the planet is an issue for every individual and government.

Engenera’s vision was to create an organisation that

could support the UK in tackling climate change and reducing fuel poverty. We achieve this by providing affordable and smart energy solutions through technology and innovation to create a sustainable future for the planet.

While our commercial offering was designed to assist businesses, regardless of sector, in their carbon quest, we are delighted to say that our efforts to date have also seen significant financial benefits for domestic properties.

T 0330 133 0857

General enquiries: info@engenera.com Sales enquiries: enquiries@engenera.com www.engenera.com

Voltalia is a mission led company with a proven track record of project consenting and proven positive engagement with local communities, local resourcing and supply chains enabling the construction of their first unsubsidised 50MW solar PV project, South Farm which is located in Dorset and due to be operational in 2022.

Voltalia signed the UK’s first public power purchase

agreement with the City of London (COL) in 2019 for power offtake at South Farm, a pioneering scheme supporting COL’s ambitious Climate Action Strategy but also leading the way for local authorities across the UK, supporting and inspiring the energy transition.

This has facilitated the launch of the solar farms construction during a pandemic but also a time of extreme market volatility where modules, equipment and

commodity prices are at an alltime high, which has generally prevented the deployment of unsubsidised solar on the scale forecasted for 2021 and 2022.

Voltalia is repeating this success for projects throughout the UK with the next project to launch into construction in 2022.

Contact: Jono Wells, Land Manager

M +44 (0)7470 047408 www.voltalia.com

Aaztec Washrooms: Washrooms with the ‘wow factor’

Aaztec are thrilled to have been selected as one of the top exhibitors at the Holiday Park & Resort Innovation Show 2021. We had a fantastic show where we were able to demonstrate our industry leading and awardwinning washroom products and discuss lots of exciting leisure projects for 2022/23.

For over 30 years Aaztec have provided stylish, contemporary and unique washrooms to both the Family Attractions and Holiday Park sectors. We have great expertise in these environments and work with park operators to design layouts, minimise costs and create exceptional washrooms with high-quality facilities that tailor to individual sites. Some of our valued clients include The National Trust, Chessington World of Adventure, Flamingoland, Bourne Leisure,

Partington’s Holiday Parks and the Camping & Caravanning Club.

High quality washrooms are a key feature of a great theme park or holiday park.

Outstanding washrooms should be well designed, durable and easily cleaned to maintain a safe and hygienic environment, and one that will ensure your visitors return. Aaztec can help you achieve memorable washrooms with the ‘wow factor’ that leave positive lasting impressions with your guests.

Products include:

● Toilet cubicles

● Shower cubicles

● Changing cubicles

● Vanity units

● IPS Panels

● Wall Panels

● Sanitaryware

● Lockers

● Benching

● Washroom Accessories

For advice on design or help with product selection, please contact the Aaztec team today.

T 01423 326400 sales@aaztec.com www.aaztec.com

Say goodbye to SINGLE USE plastic gloves!

Whether you use disposable plastic gloves for food prep, cleaning or handling fuel we have developed CompoGloves… a UK first to cater to all of your needs.

Made from plants and 100% compostable they look like plastic and feel like plastic but don’t take 500 YEARS to break down!

If you don’t believe us here are the facts:

● Certified compostable, sustainable, plant based. Becomes an organic soil fertiliser.

● Superior quality – CompoGloves have exceptional strength, durability, and won’t rip with use.

● Food Grade Compliant, suitable for household, restaurants, hotels, office, and public places for hygiene use including food preparation and handling.

● Latex Free, Powder Free & BPA Free: Non-plastic, nonnitrile, non-toxic.

● ATEX EN 16350:2014 certified – 100% anti static and safe to use at fuel stations.

Approximately 300 BILLION disposable plastic gloves are used each year ending up in landfill, rivers and oceans. Carefully researched and designed, our gloves are made to be a good fit for you, your customers and THE PLANET.

Why buy/use plastics when you don’t have to? Reduce your company’s Carbon Footprint and meet corporate sustainability initiatives with compostable CompoGloves!

M 07984 477272 • T 01223 928100 nikki@compogloves.com • www.compogloves.com

The Business Show 2021 Review – Top Exhibitors

Getting Britain back to business

Europe’s largest business show returned to London’s ExCeL from 24-25 November 2021 for its 43rd edition. Running for over 20 years, the show has helped thousands of SMEs and small businesses grow and develop.

This year the show was getting Britain back to business after a turbulent year. With the world now returning to normal, there was never a better time for visitors to find out how to get their businesses back on track.

With keynote talks from some of the biggest names in British business, interactive masterclasses and hundreds of exhibitors offering everything visitors needed to make their businesses successful. New for 2021, there were the co-located shows Working From Home Live and the Retrain Expo, offering everything visitors needed to adapt successfully to the ever changing industry advances.

The Business Show returns to London’s ExCeL from 16-17 November this year. With over 500

Digital Samurai

Digital Samurai is a Data and Cyber Security focused company. We have partnered with the best data, analytics, and security companies in the industry.

We hold Microsoft competencies in Data Platform, Data Analytics and Application Integration. Our focus is Data. Storing, analysing, protecting, and integrating systems so your data can flow through your business.

Data needs to be available to those

exhibitors, 200 seminars from business experts and unmissable masterclasses, the show is set to be the biggest edition yet. This is our pick of the best exhibitors from last year’s event, listed here in alphabetical order: Digital Samurai, Ei4Change, Geoff Miles Consulting, Get Go Invest, Rebox HR, Runo Group & Write for Results. Further details can be found on this page and the next.

Contact www.greatbritishbusinessshow.co.uk

authorised to use it, when they need it. We work with companies to protect, defend, analyse, and present their data to reveal insight and enable greater data driven decisions to be made.

With great data comes great responsibility. When bad actors attempt to break into your systems, it’s your data they are after. We help to defend your data from security threats and in the worst-case scenario ensure you can recover your data from a multitude of disaster scenarios.

Geoff Miles Consulting

Calling business owners: do you struggle with product quality or delivering to time, leading to poor reputation and low profitability? Then I can help by supporting your business improvement through your own Pathway to Profitable Performance.

Performance management is a broad subject which is definitely not a onesize-fits-all topic. Facets such as risk and opportunities management, quality and assurance processes, planning, scheduling, and control are essential parts of successful businesses. Developing your own Pathway through the complexity of today’s challenges provides a beneficial way forward to improving profitability.

Geoff Miles is a seasoned professional and a Chartered Engineer with proven

Do you need HR but not sure where to begin?

When it comes to outsourced HR, we are experts in delivering commercially viable, yet practical jargon free HR advice.

We don’t believe in HR for HR’s sake, so it’s no surprise that our no-nonsense approach is popular with our clients and made us a multi-award winning HR service. Our services include retained, pay as you go and HR project support, here are some of the things you can expect to work with us on: ● HR advice line so you can get

Knowing where you are in your data and cyber security journeys is the first step to improving and securing your business. Threats change daily and the bad guys only need one user to make one mistake on a single device on a bad day to gain access to your systems. Prepare today with Digital Samurai.

www.digitalsamurai.it

legal advice when you need it; from sickness absence through to more complex cases, we can advise on pretty much any people issue!

● HR software to help you manage your people data with ease

● HR documentation including contracts of employment, contractor agreements, employee handbooks and HR policies

● Redundancy, restructure and TUPE

● Settlement agreements

● Appraisals, performance management and probations

We help you get HR right first time, protecting your business from unnecessary and costly claims. So don’t leave your HR to do list to one side, it’s time to get your people stuff sorted!

Call us on 01327 640070, book your free HR Health Check at: www.reboxhr.co.uk or email us at: hello@reboxhr.co.uk

experience in provided consultancy services to effectively lead and direct a diverse portfolio of projects varying in scope, complexity, budget, and time frame. He would like to know more about how he can help you develop and grow your business in areas such as:

● Training

Ei4Change: Online learning

Online learning is a developing global industry growing at 5% year on year and is expected to reach $300 billion by 2023. Online learning is useful when facts, information and data need to be delivered in a quick, easy, uniform manner to many people.

Courses are made up of inspiring, engaging content presented through high-definition video using animation and interactions with crisp audio. They contain wellmade training activities, exercises, and quizzes to test acquired knowledge and understanding.

Good courses are continually updated as techniques improve, and further methods of presentation become available. Quality courses incorporate closed captions for the hard of hearing and accessible PDFs for people with visually-impaired disabilities.

Gamification of online learning means that progress is automatically tracked and rewarded. This encourages the learner and can be seen by those organising the training.

Being online, courses are available around the clock from anywhere in the world meaning that learners can get their training wherever they happen to be. They can

● Coaching

● Project management

● Strategic guidance

● Strategic reviews

● Risk and opportunity management

● Maintenance manual production

● Operation manual production

● Asset management and inventory system guidance and implementation

● Rescuing projects in distress

● Establishing Vee project lifecycles

Geoff can be contacted at: geoff@geoffmilesconsulting.com

I look forward to working with you & helping you to achieve your ambitions in business.

learn at their own pace, at whatever time suits them and they can review & revisit the material many times.

Ei4Change has a range of online emotional intelligence courses taken by 250,000+ students in over 190 countries at: www.emotional-intelligence. courses

The 43rd Business Show, ExCeL London November 2021 video – Creativity: The brain, emotional intelligence, and intuition in business https://youtu.be/OwwhUpQcCQA

Presona introduces fire protection system

A fire protection system developed by Presona UK uses a series of fire sensitive tubes and nozzles to promptly extinguish fires, in seconds.

The new SupPressa system aims to mitigate fire risk at recycling facilities, particularly where foreign objects such as distorted lithium-ion batteries are present. The system works by allowing the flame to burn through the hose, causing a pressure drop across the system that in turn sees the respective suppressant ‘flood’ the area.

Additionally, the system has a manual activation mode to complement the automated suppression system where early signs of fire may be identified sooner by an operative.

The SupPressa offers 4 primary areas of protection; conveyor pits, conveyor apex, needle pits and electrical cabinet, and depending on the type of operation; baler and conveyor.

Crowcon launches FGard IR3 flame detector

Presona said that the system can be tailored to suit individual customers requirements, and that training can be provided to operators to ensure that the systems are primed and ready for any likelihood of fire.

The system has now been installed at eleven retail recycling centres for one of its clients.

www.presona.co.uk

Professional matchmakers

We are happy to report that Get Go Invest is going from strength to strength.

We are a professional matchmaking medium, with a human touch. We have over 4 decades of financial services experience. Think matchmaking but make it professional. An interactive medium of investments right at your fingertips. A medium that allows you more involvement in your portfolio.

Our mission is to offer the Professional Investor a choice of sectors, identify an investment project with a standout USP, Edge and ROI. We assess the risk reward features and parameters. We source, we filter, we present, you make the decision, you choose, you invest. You save on the most precious commodity of them all: your time.

Sectors include Green Energy, Sustainable and Impact, ESG, AI, Fintech, Music, Sports, Life Sciences, CBD, Blockchain, Crypto, NFT, Derivatives, Fixed Income, Financial Services, Residential and Commercial property, International Real Estate, Commercial Lending, Trade Finance and Supply

Chain Finance.

Share the journey. Build the Brand.

Get Go Assist. We are here: to assist you through the tough times; find solutions to your company’s problems; routes to funding; to smooth out the speed bumps in a timely and efficient manner.

Join The Club: www.getgoinvest.com

Crowcon Detection Instruments Ltd has launched a new multispectrum IR flame detector that identifies hydrocarbon liquid fuel and gas fires from long distances and uses the latest IR flame detection algorithms to maximise its immunity to false alarms. In independent testing, the FGard IR3 detected a hydrocarbon fuel pan fire of 0.1m2 in less than 5 seconds, from a distance of 60 metres (around 200 feet). This, along with its explosion-proof build, intelligent heated optics (which ensure operation in harsh conditions) and advanced optical verification, makes the FGard IR3 flame detector ideal for high-risk industries that need fast, efficient and reliable flame detection. Most suitable for and

The

offshore energy processing, green energy production, aviation and aerospace, petrochemical, civil engineering and power generation applications.

As an IR3 flame detector, the FGard IR3 uses multiple infrared (IR) wavelength bands to isolate and identify hydrocarbon flame from the inevitable background radiation ‘noise’. This makes it very accurate and unlikely to trigger a false alarm. However, while conventional IR3 detectors are often susceptible to ‘blinding’ by surface water (especially on the detector window) and can be compromised by other environmental conditions, the FGard IR3 has been engineered to overcome these problems.

For more on Crowcon, call +44 (0)1235 557700 or visit: www.crowcon.com and connect on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Business Show 2021 Review – Top Exhibitors

Transforming professionals’ writing

Write for Results exhibiting at The Business Show, November 2022

Writing is a life skill and Scott Keyser, The Writing Guy and co-founder of Write for Results, has solved the riddle of how to do it well.

Scott works with technical professionals – engineers, consultants, lawyers, accountants – native- and non-native English speakers alike. They’re clever technicians, but their writing lets them down. Scott helps them find their voice, write Human and get the results they want from the words they write, whether that’s a bid, a blog or a book.

In other words, he shows them how to write with impact — sometimes in as little as 90 minutes.

His (not so) secret sauce is a toolkit of 15 ludicrously simple, universal writing techniques – five planning, five drafting, five editing – called rhetorica®, also the title of his second book (available on Amazon at https://amzn.to/33pWraY). The techniques are so simple and effective they should be part of the National Curriculum.

Welcome to Runo

FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITIES

We provide a bespoke end to end franchise recruitment service matching ethical and reputable franchise concepts with qualified and competent business people, managing the process throughout. We also deliver high quality business training to both franchisors and franchisees.

Since 2004 Scott has trained over five thousand professionals in the rhetorica® persuasive writing techniques, including for a decade staff of The Economist, three magic circle law firms and two barristers chambers. He also helped Ernst & Young (now EY) double its tender win-rate.

T 020 7183 8086 scott@writeforresults.com www.writeforresults.com

Franchise recruitment service

FRANCHISEES FRANCHISORS

We will work with you to evaluate your preferred franchise partner or introduce you to great brands and opportunities. We will provide you with all the information you need, and give you an honest appraisal of the business potential.

We are not another lead generator! We spend time understanding your franchise offering, your business culture and the market for your product/services so that we can market your franchise to serious and appropriate buyers.

Runo Group provide a bespoke end to end franchise recruitment service matching ethical and reputable franchise concepts with qualified and competent business people. We manage the process throughout, and we are able to deliver high quality business training to both franchisors and franchisees if and when required. Formed by a team of experienced and highly respected franchise professionals, each member is known for creating, launching, developing and expanding on a number of franchise networks, across diverse industry sectors, throughout their careers.

Runo Group will work with potential franchisees, providing them with all the information they need as well as an honest appraisal of the business potential. We will assist with sourcing funding if applicable. The potential franchisee will never be left alone, as each step of the way Runo Group, along with the franchisor of the chosen brand, will guide them through the business planning process.

When working with franchisors, Runo Group spends time understanding the franchise offering, the business culture and the market in which the brand operates. We spend time understanding the ideal franchisee profile and we use our expertise across a diverse range of business sectors to find appropriate buyers who are serious about doing business in that sector. Each prospective franchisee is provided the time to ensure every enquiry and question about the brand is fully understood and answered. We are able to offer services to the franchisee in terms of business planning, raising of finance, as well as the legal requirements and obligations, should this be necessary.

T 01522 246812

01522 246812 info@runo.group https://runo.group/

info@runo.group https://runo.group/

Quinyx acquires Concrete

Quinyx, a world leader in Workforce Management technology, has announced that it has completed the acquisition of Concrete, a leading employee engagement, store operations, and task management platform. Tesco, Victoria’s Secret and Superdry are among many global retailers Concrete already serves.

Quinyx’s AI-powered workforce management software lets organisations automate, optimise and streamline their staffing processes. The platform helps customers worldwide – including McDonald’s, Domino’s and DHL – to dramatically improve productivity, drive business outcomes and enhance workers’ experience. The acquisition will solve two of today's most pressing retail issues: staff retention and customer expectation.

“We are bringing an unmatched AI-powered workforce and task management solution to the market, giving organisations hiring frontline workers dramatic improvements across their operations,” commented Erik Fjellborg (pictured), founder and CEO of Quinyx.

Quinyx and Concrete will give companies an unparalleled ability to digitally connect field managers, frontline workers, and HQs to deliver meaningful benefits across store performance, hourly workers’ flexibility, and engagement.

Tristan Rogers, CEO of Concrete, said, “The coming together of our technologies is a natural step, and the synergies between workforce management, task management, store operations, and field communications are significant, helping to improve the operations of our customers & improve the lives of their frontline workers.”

Concrete will remain its own entity within Quinyx, and Tristan Rogers will continue as Concrete CEO. www.quinyx.com

Re-name and Re-brand

Not all

fun & games: Building secure & reliable networks

Today, almost all systems depend on an Internet connection. While this helps the world to be more interconnected, it also makes users more vulnerable to cyberattacks. In the past couple of years, during the COVID-19 crisis, cybercrime has increased by 600%, according to Cloud technology publication Cloudwards.

Cloudwards also shows that phishing — creating fraudulent emails or websites that lure recipients into clicking on a malicious link meant to steal their data — is the most widespread method of cyberattack, with more than 65% of American companies falling victims to it every year.

One way to prevent phishing and ensure the networks we use are secure is by adding encryption layers. Encryption has become almost vital nowadays with the rise of remote/hybrid

work and employees accessing company data from their homes.

Encryption is a way of translating data from plain text into cypher text using different algorithms.

An email between colleagues or a video sent in a conference call are good examples of plain text. If this text is intercepted by a malicious third party, it can bring damages to the company. To ensure the text is secure, user can use encryption keys to send information and a decryption key to read the text.

On top of adding encryption layers, users also need to

ensure their networks are reliable and provide continuous transmission. There are many ways to achieve reliable networks, including adding independent optical paths, automating protection switches and using advanced optical coherent techniques.

At GBC Photonics, we make sure our products are equipped with suitable levels of encryption and smart mechanisms that guarantee safe and reliable networks for our customers.

www.gbcphotonics.com

From 25 April 2022, Metropolitan Services changes its name to Group Metropolitan and introduces a completely new brand identity to communicate its full service offering.

Historically known for its expertise in electrical services, the new identity and name Group Metropolitan brings the full spectrum of expertise delivered by the business to prominence, which includes full design, mechanical, electrical and FitOut services, CDM duties, project management, as well as testing, commission and compliance in order to offer a full turnkey solution.

As a company, Group Metropolitan embraces change; the rebrand is the result of an extensive engagement programme with clients and employees, as well as an investigation of the wider market in which it operates.

The new brand capitalises on over 20 years of industry experience and knowledge, while focusing the lens firmly on excellence and future growth.

Group Metropolitan has an incredible loyal client base with 96% retention, which is a reflection of the teams’ knowledge, energy and enthusiasm, always ensuring that they achieve a great outcome for every project. They are problem solvers and confident in their ability to meet any challenge presented to them. Group Metropolitan’s customers are always in safe hands, assured of the expertise of the team to come up with the best solutions for them.

Please view our new website here: www.groupmetropolitan.com and follow us here:

Twitter: GroupMetropolitan

Linked In: GroupMetropolitan

Issue 434 May 2022

Tel: 0121 550 7510

www.businessandindustrytoday.co.uk

SUSTAINABILITY TOD AY

Place Informatics

PlaceInformatics,

the leading provider of footfall and location visitor behaviour data

monitoring in the UK, believes that understanding how green spaces such as country and urban parks, public gardens, nature reserves, forests and footpaths are used by visitors can really assist local councils and help retailers and businesses to manage those areas. These important attractions are often at the heart of communities and if managed well can generate visitor growth and boost local economies. Location data insights show how visitors use green spaces and helps councils manage facilities, measure event performance, quantify park usage, target tree maintenance and determine parking requirements and pricing. Businesses located within country and urban parks can identify peak times of day or the best location within the green space to operate. This data can also show where visitors have travelled from – the catchment area of local visitors and tourists from further afield and shows how the different types of visitors interact with the amenities within the green space, for example giving an indication of how many park visitors who are attracted to the green space, also tend to visit the town centre businesses in close proximity. Place Informatics helps organisations understand where their visitors come from, where they visit while in the area and how they interact and behave in any location. By using mobile GPS data, Place Informatics is able to provide actionable insights which help support and enable decision making – to assist in health and safety, conservation, events, marketing and return on investment for economic regeneration projects.

For more information on location visitor data and insights, visit: https://placeinformatics.com/

30th Anniversary

GreConLimited

is celebrating a significant milestone, with 30 years of commitment to the UK & Ireland market.

Established in April 1992, GreCon is located outside of Newcastle upon Tyne and is a member of the Fagus-GreCon Group. With a wealth of experience as a global market leader, GreCon demonstrates a strong understanding of customer needs and provides turnkey solutions for multiple industries.

GreCon’s fire prevention technology protects industrial premises, processes and people, detecting and extinguishing ignition sources, making workplaces safer and enabling uninterrupted production. In addition, GreCon’s measuring technology solutions help customers improve product quality in their production processes, using proven German engineering to reduce material and energy costs, ultimately maximising operational efficiency.

During these 30 years, the company has developed sustainable relationships with its customers & adopted the role of a strategic partner. Founding GreCon Limited in 1992 enabled a more local connection and enhanced response times. As a result, customers across the UK & Ireland depend on GreCon for consultative and problem-solving sales engagement and firstclass customer service. In addition, fast deliveries of parts and systems are possible due to comprehensive local stock-holding and local manufacturing of Water Pressurisation Systems, which provide a dedicated water supply for our fire prevention systems.

T 0191 414 7200

sales@grecon.co.uk

www.grecon.co.uk

www.linkedin.com/company/grecon-limited

Low Carbon Agriculture Review – Top Exhibitors

Supercharging low carbon practices to deliver food & energy security

Low Carbon Agriculture Show took place in person at the NAEC, Stoneleigh, over two days on 8 and 9 March 2022, welcoming thousands of farmers and landowners, and included four key areas of focus: Energy Now Expo, Environmental Business Expo, Low Emission Vehicles Expo and Farm Technology Expo.

The importance of renewable energy and robust food security has increased since the Ukraine war has triggered even sharper rises in energy prices and food supply fears, said speakers at Low Carbon Agriculture Show in Stoneleigh, Warwickshire.

Farming policy should address these concerns, according to Jonathan Scurlock from the National

Farmers’ Union (NFU), speaking in the keynote session. “There are three big policy drivers: energy security, climate change and food security.”

Speaking in the same session, Minister for farming, fisheries and food at Defra, Victoria Prentis, said that the world has changed over the last few weeks and agriculture has gone even higher up the agenda, stating that schemes at all levels will encourage low carbon practices on farms.

Nina Skorupska, chief executive at the Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology (REA), said that renewable energy is key to energy security and farmers sit in this green picture. “If we accelerate UK renewable energy, we could create

The best off-road electric utility vehicles

Off-Road-Electric supplies a full range of all-electric off-road and utility vehicles including UBCO 2WD work bikes, Eco Charger quad bikes, HiSun UTVs, Farmtrac tractors, electric converted Land Rover Defenders, and SUVs built electric from the ground up.

Off-Road-Electric has recently announced its partnership with Munro Vehicles. The Munro Mark 1 is the main product from Munro Vehicles and is the first British-made full-size electric SUV. Off-Road-Electric is proud to be the sole distributor for Munro Vehicles for the South of the UK. The Munro Mark 1 will be available from early 2023, and customers can place their order now for a chance to own the first Britishmade all-electric SUV, designed and built

Caplor Energy

Based on Caplor Farm in the beautiful Wye Valley, Caplor Energy has been delivering renewable energy solutions to businesses, farmers, households and communities since 2007. First installing a range of renewable energy systems on our own farm, we were one of the first renewable energy firms to be established and accredited with the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS).

Since then, we’ve grown to become one of the UK’s top providers, and design, install and maintain systems across the UK.

These include solar PV, solar thermal, battery storage, electric vehicle charging and heat pumps, all with leading manufacturer approvals and accreditations.

electric in Glasgow from the ground up. Another remarkable product range is the 2x2 UBCO Utility bikes which are 100% electric, zero emission, virtually silent and vibration free. The range includes the

Our aim is to support all our customers through knowledgeable, unbiased advice, quality products and reliable service in our quest for a greener, more sustainable economy that will deliver solid investment returns and provide a better environment for our future generations. These aims reflect guiding core values of being inspiring, sustainable, and always looking to improve, helping us build meaningful relationships with our customers as we support and guide them throughout their renewable energy journey.

With a well-established track record and a five-star Trustpilot-certified customer satisfaction score, you can rely on Caplor Energy to understand and meet your

UBCO 2WD Adventure Bike and the UBCO 2WD Work Bike, designed in New Zealand for tough off-road conditions and ideal for nimbly getting around town and country completely noise free.

To complement its vast range of electric vehicles, Off-Road-Electric also has a large range of vehicle attachments and accessories. Designed to turn your offroad electric utility into a versatile and dependable workhorse, from pasture management to equestrian and forest management, the range includes the perfect accessory for any application.

M 07734 530452 marc.monsarrat@off-road-electric.com www.off-road-electric.com

over 238,000 jobs in renewable and clean tech by 2030. Flexibility is the key to security.”

The next Low Carbon Agriculture show will take place from 7-8 February 2023 at the National Agriculture and Exhibition Centre (NAEC), Stoneleigh, Warwickshire. This is our pick of the best exhibitors from this year’s show, listed here in alphabetical order: Agri-King, Caplor Energy, CIEL, The CLA, Environment Bank, Northern Industrial Battery Services Ltd, Off-Road-Electric & Societe Generale Equipment Finance. Further details can be found on this page and the next. Contact www.lowcarbonagricultureshow.co.uk

renewable energy needs, whether for your farm, business, or home. Contact our friendly, knowledgeable team today to discuss your options.

Contact

T 01432 860644 www.caplor.co.uk

Agri-King

Animal nutrition for worldwide livestock producers

Agri-King was founded in 1968 in the states and its European division was set up in 1997 in the UK. Its services spread to farmers across Ireland, England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, and several European countries with an aim to help farmers achieve their production goals and maintain excellent health and fertility.

The company has its own nutritional team that reviews the latest research and feed technologies to produce the most advanced fortification products on the market. Each diet is balanced using sophisticated lab results to enhance rumen performance, forage utilisation and therefore, health and performance with their key Enzyme program. These are the ‘Key to Profit’ on livestock units. This service is complimented by its high-quality, unrivalled customer care service that carries out regular farm visits, as this is seen as an essential part of working with the farmer to avoid management issues that can later affect herd performance.

Agri-King feed and forage programmes are individual to each specific farmer and their needs. Agri-King Ltd’s team of area managers collect information about your operation during each visit so that diets can be fine-tuned to the feeds, conditions and performance targets of the farm. The company offers nutrition programmes for dairy, beef, poultry, and swine, and all Agri-King rations start from accurate analysis, carried out in its state-of-the-art laboratory in the United States.

T 01243 558884 sales@agriking.co.uk www.agriking.com

Current planning permission policy means

Noah’s Ark would never

have been built

With flooding once again striking many parts of Britain, with thousands of homes and businesses at risk following the latest storms, Justin Meredith, MD of Floodline Consulting, believes the current planning permission policy is fundamentally flawed, and is preventing the construction of flood-resistant homes. He comments, “If Noah were trying to build his Ark today, would he get planning approval? The answer is no, and he would also be refused should he wish to appeal.”

It can be argued that Noah (Genesis 5:32) was the first to build a flood resilient house due to climate change. Constructed as a land based structure, capable of habitable accommodation and yet able to rise with the predicted flood waters keeping the occupants and building safe at all times.

The Sequential Test flaw: The design or adaptability of a house needs to be taken into account as part of the Sequential Test analysis from the beginning of the planning permission process. It examines

SmokeFire wood-fired pellet grill Stealth Edition wins Red Dot Product Design Award

whether there are alternative sites at less risk of flooding, and it currently excludes the design features of what is proposed. It is only after passing the sequential test that the design is taken into consideration. There is no science to underpin this analysis, which makes the test subjective and almost impossible to pass if contested.

Meredith suggests, “Noah would have been refused permission to build his Ark as the planners would have ignored its unique floodresistant design and would have sought alternative locations on which to build housing,”

Contact

T 01483 770007 office@floodlineconsulting.co.uk www.floodlineconsulting.co.uk

Assent’s journey toward an ESG programme

Weber, the global leader in outdoor cooking innovation, technology, and products, announced recently the SmokeFire wood-fired pellet grill Stealth Edition has been awarded a Red Dot in the Red Dot Awards: Product Design 2022. The Red Dot Design Awards, established in 1955, is one of the world’s largest design competitions to recognise excellence in Product Design, Communication Design, and Design Concept; receiving over 20,000 annual award submissions from approximately 60 countries worldwide.

&

The SmokeFire Stealth Edition, which features a sleek all-black exterior, won a Red Dot in the coveted Product Design category, for its innovative and high-quality design.

The SmokeFire Stealth Edition (available in two models: EPX4 and EPX6) is the best wood pellet

grill for high heat searing and low and slow smoking, delivering exceptionally delicious wood fired flavour.

The SmokeFire Stealth Edition will formally receive this Award during the 2022 Red Dot Design week, which starts June 20th in Essen, Germany. As the recipient of the award, the SmokeFire Stealth Edition will become part of the exclusive collection of awardwinning products on display in the Red Dot museum in Zollverein (Essen).

www.weber.com

Assent Inc, a leader in supply chain sustainability management, released its 2021 sustainability report, which summarises the latest achievements of its economic, environmental, and social performance.

The report, titled ‘Driving Supply Chain Sustainability’, also outlines the steps the company unveiled in 2021 as part of its transition to a formal environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategy and programme.

In 2021, Assent, one of only a handful of North American software as a service (SaaS)/Cloud native sustainability platform companies that hold ‘advanced status’ with the United Nations Global Compact, expanded its focus on stakeholder engagement and began a materiality assessment that will form the basis of its corporate sustainability strategy. The company sought the perspectives of an extensive range of stakeholders, including team members, shareholders, customers,

and supply chain partners, and started a materiality assessment to inform its future sustainability commitments and approach.

“In today’s market, you can’t be a CEO without thinking about ESG as investors now require the same due diligence in sustainability transparency as they do for financial transparency, and customers expect the same,” said Andrew Waitman, CEO of Assent.

“This is why we doubled down on our ESG efforts in 2021, both in our internal practices and our product offering. We have refined our focus from supply chain data management to deeper supply chain sustainability, delivering credible sustainable data to help the more than 600 manufacturers we work with see deep into their supply chains so they can build more sustainable businesses.”

Learn more and read the Assent 2021 sustainability report at: www. assent.com/company/sustainability

Low Carbon Agriculture Review – Top Exhibitors

Northern Industrial Battery Services Ltd

Northern Industrial Battery Services Ltd (NiBS) have many years’ experience in the standby power industry. NiBS offer a variety of products and services to meet the needs of users requiring energy storage solutions. This includes applications for renewables, hybrid deployment for grid stabilisation, grid and power quality for peak shaving or back up power for own consumption.

Farmers, land managers and climate change

The CLA (Country Land and Business Association) represents farmers, landowners and rural businesses across England and Wales and our members have a crucial role to play in meeting our national net zero emissions targets. The CLA recently attended the Low Carbon Agriculture Show held at the National Agriculture Centre at Stoneleigh. It was a compact but impressive show covering all the main aspects of net zero thinking – farm technology, renewable energy, low carbon farming, and low emission vehicles – so there was something for everyone. CLA Vice President Gavin Lane presented his views on low carbon farming and chaired two sessions on carbon farming and reducing on-farm emissions.

Many rural businesses are considering their response to the challenges of net zero. The drivers for change are varied – it might be to reduce cost and risks in a volatile market, it might be in response to supply chain requirements, it might be to investigate new market opportunities for carbon sequestration, or it might simply be about being a responsible citizen.

The solutions are equally varied and will depend on the individual circumstances. The CLA Rural Business Conference in December 2021, and its accompanying report, focused on net zero in the rural economy. For rural businesses it is not just about farming in the most carbon efficient way, there are opportunities for renewable energy, using resources more efficiently and carbon sequestration, but also challenges when it comes to electric grid network capacity, and planning and decarbonising heating in rural housing.

To find out how CLA membership can help you, please contact the Membership Team on 020 7460 7969 or email clamembership@cla.org.uk

These energy storage systems provided by NiBS are fully equipped systems including lead acid or lithium batteries, which are developed specifically for applications where high energy through put and cycling is required. Battery Monitoring Systems are used for optimised charging and control to maximise the cycle life of the batteries and ensure optimal performance of the system. The climate

control and ventilation system ensure optimal and controlled operating temperatures of the cells even in harsh environmental conditions. NiBS pride themselves on being able to offer the complete life cycle service when providing energy storage solutions, including planning and project management, installation and commissioning, inspection, maintenance, repair,

Societe Generale Equipment Finance

Building a sustainable future together with our agricultural clients and partners, through innovative and effective finance solutions, is a key focus for Societe Generale Equipment Finance (SGEF).

Our aim is to provide a pathway to sustainable farming by assisting agricultural businesses with the funding for clean and renewable energy technologies.

SGEF is a specialist agricultural funder who understands customers’ needs through years of experience and support the agricultural industry in delivering flexible financial solutions, including refinance, to meet clean and

renewable energy needs.

Our financial solutions offer the repayment structures and terms that best suit agricultural business needs and the finance can be tailored to match the payment structure to a customer’s income and if required apportion stage payments to manufacturers and suppliers throughout the installation and commissioning stage. Products offered include Hire Purchase, Finance Lease, Operating Lease and Business Loan. We finance any make or brand, new or used. Renewables assets we finance include: wind turbines, solar panels, battery storage, bio mass boilers,

and decommissioning.

To find out how NiBS can support your energy storage needs, contact us on 01691 830089 or email: sales@nibsltd.com

BNG: How Environment Bank is creating a new plan for our planet

heat pumps, LED lighting, micro anaerobic, digester (AD) SGEF can support farmers to obtain cash flow funding for all their agricultural purchases and will work with you to make the process as simple as possible

Contact: Steven Davies, Head of Agriculture

M +44 (0)7557 056356 steven.davies@sgef.co.uk www.equipmentfinance. societegenerale.co.uk

Rapid change needed to meet net zero targets for livestock

The latest industry report published by CIEL, the UK’s Agri-Tech Centre tasked with driving innovation in the livestock sector, has identified that greenhouse gas emissions could be reduced from the main livestock types by 23% and ammonia emissions by 15% if widescale and highly effective mitigations are adopted across UK farms. The report however also reaffirms that substantial change is required if the UK’s livestock industry is to achieve its net zero target for 2050.

The report, ‘Net Zero & Livestock:

How farmers can reduce emissions’ is believed to be the first of its kind to model and collate data at this

scale. It covers a range of mitigating scenarios in real life case studies across dairy, beef, sheep, pig and poultry farms. It looks at a wide range of mitigation options that can help reduce emissions at farm level. The report aims to provide farmers, advisers, supply chain partners and policymakers with the information needed to support evidence-based decision making when it comes to farming in a net zero world.

Download a free copy of the report at: www.cielivestock.co.uk or contact: enquiries@cielivestock.co.uk

Environment

Bank is actively establishing Habitat Banks across England in response to biodiversity net gain (BNG for short) being mandated in law via The Environment Act 2021. This means we are leasing land throughout England, creating biodiverse habitats that help restore nature. We then sell the ‘biodiverse credits’ created, back to developers. The plan we’ve created is for everyone. A pioneering system that allows the commercial world and the natural world to work as one. We designed it to be mutually beneficial, supporting and sustaining all of its connected parts.

We’re establishing Habitat Banks to ensure organisations have access to BNG Credits whenever and wherever they need them – and because we are forward funded, our product delivers financial security to all stakeholders. For landowners, it means a guaranteed income for establishing and maintaining Habitat Banks. For developers and planning authorities, it provides a cost-effective and risk-free way to meet BNG requirements and unlock sustainable development.

As our Chairman, Professor David Hill, CBE, said, “I pioneered the idea of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) back in 2007 – the concept of leaving the natural environment in a better state than before a development or infrastructure project was built – and myself and my colleagues have dedicated our careers to reversing this decline in nature.”

Together, we’re safeguarding the future of our planet for people and nature.

www.environmentbank.com

Pump Manufacturer & Supplier Company of the Month

March May Ltd launches two new products capitalising on its recent growth

In this issue of Sustainability Today, we are pleased to announce March May Ltd as our Pump Manufacturer & Supplier Company of the Month.

March May Ltd is a UK based pump manufacturer and supplier of high-performance pumps that are globally recognised for their quality and reliability. March May Ltd manufacture under an ISO 9001 quality management system and are specialists in the design of seal-less magnetic drive pumps.

Currently based in St Neots, Cambridgeshire, March May Ltd was officially established in 1971 to be an original distributor for March Manufacturing Inc. of the USA, to supply magnetic drive pumps into photo processing machines. Today, its main role is the supply of pumps into the UK, European and world markets for use across a variety of industries that include, but are not limited, to chemical processing, CIP system, laboratories, medical, marine, solar and OEM. “We specialise in magnetic drive pumps for

hazardous liquids or where seal-less technology is required. Some major benefits to our service are that we possess the capabilities to manufacture a vast range of our portfolio here in the UK allowing for a quick turnaround from initial enquiry to delivery. Our portfolio covers a large range of pump technologies allowing us to act as a ‘onestop-shop’ for our customers. Furthermore, where we act as a distributor for some of the leading global pump manufacturers, we hold high levels of stock allowing us to service the market quickly mitigating long lead times,” stated Dominic Nott, R&D Director. The company is a proud member of the Made in Britain association, having several pump ranges designed and manufactured locally.

A recent addition to its portfolio is the Air Operated Diaphragm Pumps. Dominic commented, “These cover standard polymer and metallic ranges, but we can also provide specialised units such as powder, high pressure, and sanitary pumps.”

Recently launched at CHEM UK 2021 was its newly designed and manufactured in Britain, Portable Pumping Unit (PPU). The unit combines their standard mag drive pump with a carrier and control panel to allow ease of

use by the customer. The unit can be customised to any specific customer requirement with added extras, and because of its sturdy frame made from Polypropylene plastic, the portability of the pump set offers flexibility to the user and their pumping needs. The standard specification is based on their premium pump range – the TE Series using pump models TE-7 and TE-10 and will be primarily intended for the safe and easy loading or unloading of dangerous chemicals from IBC containers. Other features include a Polypropylene drip tray, manual start/stop functions, a mobile App using Wi-Fi allowing remote control of the pump, quick release camlock male couplings fitted in the pump ports, and a 5m electrical power supply cable fitted with a heavy duty 3 pin single phase plug or 3 phase industrial power connector plug.

March May Ltd’s years of experience in the industry has made them leaders in their field of expertise. Heavily investing in the research and development of its pumps, each product is constructed from an innovative modular design with extensive 3D Solidworks and CAD/CAM technology from its fully equipped workshop. Dominic explained some recent

Plastic Packaging Solutions Company of the Month

Rethinking plastic

multiple Loop (recycled material) and Lean (less material usage) and the company have set themselves clear goals for the development of recycled products. At the same time, it offers an unrivalled service to its customers, whether on the field of the farmer or via its in-house Packaging & Safety Centre. It is vital for them to understand their customers’ business and profitability and help them in their day-to-day work.

changes within the company. “We have a seen a significant growth across all our industries. The addition of new products to our portfolio has seen our coverage of pump technology increase. Due to increased demand, we have recently invested heavily in new injection moulding machines helping to increase our production capacity.”

In the future March May Ltd will continue increasing its market share across the UK and Europe, while looking for ways to better serve its customers with the possible option to create an active distribution network across Europe and beyond in the pipeline. The future looks bright as currently the business is in a better position now than it was pre COVID-19 due to significant growth and the dynamic business strategies that were put in place.

For more information, see below.

T 01480 214444 sales@marchmay.co.uk www.marchmay.co.uk

In this issue of Sustainability Today, we are pleased to announce Trioworld as our Plastic Packaging Solutions Company of the Month.

Established in 1965 by Vilhelm Larsson, the company was formally known as Trioplast AB and changed its name to Trioworld in 2021. For more than 50 years Trioworld has been a leader in plastic packaging solutions and is comprised of 16 companies with over 1,500 employees with operating production facilities in Sweden, Denmark, the Netherlands, the UK and France. Based in Smålandsstenar, Sweden, its products are sold around the world with the aim to deliver solutions to make transport and food safer, agriculture smarter, packaging more efficient,

and provide optimal protection in healthcare.

Trioworld believe plastic can make the world safer and healthier for everybody. As a company it is committed to making plastic part of a sustainable society and pushing the boundaries of what is possible with the development of circular plastics, which perform a full loop from collection to conversion. Trioworld produce plastic products for its five main divisions which are stretch film, industrial film, health care film, carrier bags, and consumer packaging and are the leaders in the use of recycled plastics.

Taking full responsibility to ensure the business aligns closely with sustainable business practices, Trioworld is leaps ahead of any competition, marking itself a true leader within the industry to promote a circular economy. Its portfolio already consists of

In exciting news, Trioworld is soon to launch a new Premium Performance stretch film with 30% PCR content. This product is truly unique as it has the same properties as a virgin-based stretch film. The customer can contribute to their sustainable goals and at the same time maintain their level of load security. Committed to finding new ways to increase efficiency in the field of agriculture, Trioworld has a very close cooperation with entrepreneurs and farmers. Trioworld also offers a large range of products for the agriculture industry with recycled content (PCR) for both silage stretch and silage film.

Trioworld’s multifaceted capabilities allows the company to serve a diverse range of industries from its agri stretch film products which are sold to farmers via cooperatives and distribution partners, to its stretch film products which are sold to end customers in various segments, as well as distribution partners, its refuse bags that are sold to various retailers, and its consumer packaging solutions that are sold to many different companies in food production.

In recent news, Trioworld Group has signed an agreement to acquire the British company Eurofilms Extrusion LTD (Eurofilms), a leading player in solutions for high performance stretch film for load security. This transition will allow both companies to join forces in developing the best circular offering in the market for recycled plastics. The Eurofilms superior commitment to service and support in the UK and West European markets will give Trioworld a fantastic platform for enhanced growth.

Trioworld have recently started taking webinars which they invite you to attend. You can read more about the webinars on the company’s LinkedIn profile.

www.trioworld.com

LinkedIn @Trioworld

Bale wrap based on post consumer recycled material (PCR)

Trioloop machine stretch film

Trioworld Packaging and Safety Centre

Waste Wrap based on PCR

Contract Plant Rental Company of the Month

You choose the OEM, Contract Plant Rental will do the rest

In this issue of Sustainability Today, we are pleased to announce Contract Plant Rental as our Contract Plant Rental Company of the Month.

Contract Plant Rental is one of the most specialised businesses operating within the UK’s fully integrated plant solutions and self-drive rental industries. Offering specialist hire for the waste management and scrap metal recycling sectors, we spoke to Mark Kennedy, Managing Director, who explained a little more about what the company does. “We provide fully tailored and bespoke plant rental solutions specifically designed to meet the needs and requirements of our clients nationwide. Specialising in mid to long term rental solutions but also offering short term hire, as well as contract hire and rent to buy solutions. The machines we supply are specified to the customers’ needs and not just standard. Contract Plant Rental provide full 24/7 support and back up for all clients nationwide to keep their businesses operating as efficiently as possible. We operate predominantly within the heavy side of the plant machinery industry including scrap recycling and waste management, construction, quarrying, and mining.”

Established in 2016, Contract Plant Rental is officially part of the Ballyvesey Holdings Group whose main activities revolve around transport and logistics, truck sales and aftersales support, trailer manufacturing and spare parts sales, transport industry services, construction equipment sales and hire, and property rental and development. Headquartered in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire alongside its holding depot, Contract Plant Rental’s services are spread nationwide. Using its global network to deliver the best of the firm to all clients, the company brings an innovation in management practice that ensures all clients resources are cost-effective whilst positively improving on their performance.

Contract Plant Rental can provide contract plant hire for virtually any machines, including equipment and attachments, from excavators to material handlers. Equipment Contract Hire allows you to have all the benefits of having new equipment over an agreed period of time and mileage. This gives you cost-effective access to new equipment and none of those large drops in value normally associated with owning a new vehicle outright. Each machine is fully specified and built to client’s requirements rather than coming as standard ‘off the shelf’ and this includes any extras to ensure maximum productivity for the client’s business.

“Contract Plant Rental provide total peace of mind for customers. Companies enjoy the benefits of contract hire without the headaches of ownership. The benefits of hiring from Contract Plant Rental are that we can offer new machinery from the industry’s leading brands with no upfront costs, no deposit, and no VAT. We have a 24/7 parts, service and repairs back up, as well as payment plans with fixed monthly costs for easy budgeting, flexible terms, and the option to buy or return the machine at the end of the term. Furthermore, we also offer short to midterm hire to cater for the wider industry,” stated Mark. Another benefit of contract hire is that the company handles all administration of the equipment throughout the contract, including servicing and maintenance, which eliminates the need for businesses to spend valuable resources on doing this in-house.

Contract Plant Rental has deep access across a range of industries, working with various businesses of all sectors. “Traditionally people used to want to buy machinery but nowadays we’re seeing a huge increase in popularity of long term and contract hiring. Clients are

wanting to run top of the range machinery with a reliable back up and service without the headaches of ownership and no big depreciation costs. A big part of our business is working with companies or large contracts such as quarry and motorway contracts who need reliable machinery for a longer term,” explained Mark. There are many advantages of working with electric plant machinery rather than some diesel alternatives, and alongside electric vehicles, electric machinery is now also becoming the norm. So far in 2022, the company has injected increased investment into its portfolio adding further value to its electric machinery range.

“We’ve invested heavily into our material handler fleet to even better serve the scrap and waste industries. We’ve also increased our fleet of access machines, forklifts, wheel loaders and electric machines,” said Mark. Providing a range of electric machine solutions from forklifts, telehandlers, and material handlers, Contract Plant Rental is the UK’s biggest hirer of material handling machines and currently offers the largest electric range.

Waste Material Handlers are purpose-built for the waste, recycling and scrap metal industries to perform effective, high-volume material handling duties. Built with the operator in mind, some features include a comfortable cab with panoramic windows for increased visibility

and an option to be hydraulically raised for heightened elevation. Contract Plant Rental own a vast range of material handlers that can be specifically modified to meet each client’s requirements.

On a mission to become the best service company in the world, we asked Mark what the company had planned for the future, he answered. “We plan to continue our investment into electric machines as the industry requirements change. We’re well placed to be able to offer the best and most efficient machines to various sides of the industry. We plan to continue growing our dedicated access and attachments divisions as customer feedback and industry demand requires. As of late, we’ve seen an increased number of local authorities and water specialist/governing bodies discover our concept and people have really come round to how it could benefit them and their business. The concept we’ve worked hard to perfect is really catching on, particularly as there’s a shift in people wanting to own machines. The concept works for them – benefits of ownership, but with no large outlays, all built into one contract. Our concept is very simple but hugely costeffective for the end user. Quite frankly, we replace machines if they go down, and we do it to perfection.”

T 01933 232663

www.contractplantrental.com

Water Engineering Solutions Company of the Month

Sustainable water treatment solutions

In this issue of Sustainability Today, we have selected Eliquo Hydrok Ltd as our Water Engineering Solutions Company of the Month.

Hydrok was originally founded in 1996 but became Eliquo Hydrok Ltd and a member of the Eliquo Water Group in 2016, through the acquisition of Hydrok UK Ltd by Eliquo Water Group GmbH.

Eliquo Water Group is part of Skion Water, a technology and solution provider, in both municipal and industrial water and wastewater technology. Eliquo Hydrok’s head office and main manufacturing base is located in Indian Queens in Cornwall, with additional satellite service and installation depots around the UK.

Eliquo Hydrok is the exclusive UK distributor for a number of leading European technologies designed to generate energy efficiencies, reduce capital and operating costs and offer environmentally responsible solutions within the Water Industry.

The company is committed to delivering environmentally considerate and practical solutions, allowing water companies to treat surface water, wastewater and drinking water for

the public. Its key products and services include: screening, flow control, flushing systems, water and wastewater treatment, sludge treatment and hire, parts and service.

In March 2021 the UK Government stated that measures to reduce sewage discharges from storm overflows will be put into law, Eliquo Hydrok remains committed to assisting its customers, by providing innovative products and solutions, to enable them to meet this requirement. Eliquo Hydrok is renowned as experts in Stormwater treatment, having developed the technology and service offering to help eliminate environmental harm from CSO spills.

Lewis O’Brien, Managing Director and CEO, explains, “Eliquo Hydrok has brought together its group capabilities to create an efficient suite of stormwater technologies. Effectively assembling a toolbox to tackle CSOs, and marrying experience in sewer screening, with expertise in wastewater treatment. This is all while leveraging bestin-world technologies from across the sister companies in the Skion Water Group.”

Eliquo Hydrok maintains extensive experience and an industry leading reputation, with a proven

track record of working with all the major Water Utility companies throughout the UK, Ireland and Northern Ireland.

“We provide Water Engineering Solutions to all manner of complex and simple problems. Our experienced in-house design teams are able to help identify and discuss the requirement, recommending standard products or producing bespoke designs,” Lewis adds.

Eliquo Hydrok has experienced rapid growth over the past couple of years. From new team members

to expanding into a new unit and a new van fleet (plus EV cars).

Lewis also told us that, “Work continued during the pandemic, as the water industry remained a key industry. However, we were able to pivot, like most companies, with our office staff working from home. This new way of working has allowed us to create a hybrid approach going forward, with office staff still working from home two days a week. This in turn, has helped to reduce our carbon footprint (with less commuting miles).”

Looking to the future, Eliquo Hydrok has a detailed strategy and plan, stretching out through AMP8 and beyond.

Its plans consist of many high priority topics, including Net Zero Carbon targets, microplastics, priority substances and eliminating environmental harm from CSO spills. Eliquo Hydrok plans to continue to provide products and solutions to meet these important needs. As well as delivering change in how it plans order intake and manufacturing capacity.

“We’re looking at Product Slot Reservation and Advance Batch Procurement mechanisms, in order to better plan and deliver, and avoid the traditional ‘famine and feast’ cycle seen by many supply chains in this sector. This is allowing us to deliver better value, better resilience and better risk profile to our customers.”

For more information, please see below.

T +44 (0)1726 862000 www.eliquohydrok.co.uk

Atmospheric Gas Detection Company of the Month

Gasmet showcases new portable atmospheric FTIR gas analyser

Andrew Dixon, Sales Manager.

In this issue of Sustainability Today, we are pleased to announce Gasmet as our Atmospheric Gas Detection Company of the Month.

Gasmet was established in 1990 and as demands for emissions monitoring equipment grew, Gasmet developed the first Gasmet FTIR analyser in 1993, the world’s first in-situ FTIR gas analyser in 2004, and the world’s first portable ambient FTIR analyser in 2008. In 2016, Gasmet acquired its then UK distributor Quantitech Limited, that has now rebranded as Gasmet UK and based in Naseby, Northants.

“Overall we design and manufacture world-class gas analysis systems and emission monitoring solutions to measure gaseous emissions from industrial processes, gases released from natural sources into the atmosphere, and gases present in working environments. In the UK we mainly deal with sales, service, customer support and undertaking of local marketing. Our underlying core values are to support our customers and ensure we are their ‘first choice’,” stated Dr

As leaders in atmospheric gas detection, Gasmet UK work across three core business areas. Andrew explained further, “Firstly, we are heavily involved with Continuous Emissions Monitoring which is monitoring of gases emitted from industrial chimney stacks for example in incineration plants. Secondly, Environmental, where we predominantly monitor greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane from farmland, animal stocks, and general environments much of this work is with educational institutions and universities. Thirdly, Health and Safety, which includes all aspects of occupational hygiene across many markets in particular we are measuring and monitoring the exposure to toxic gases. We also work with the MOD to measure air quality for safety personnel and have the capabilities to measure toxic gases and chemical warfare agents.”

The company’s multi-faceted business model allows its services to reach a wide range of

industries. Gasmet UK prides itself in the quality of its customer support, “When a customer buys a product from us, they are typically buying into a partnership that is likely to last 10 years: the minimum lifetime of our products. Gasmet UK can guide prospective clients through the technical aspects of a solution to an application problem, advise on legislative matters, and support them throughout the lifetime of the product/project,” said Andrew.

Gasmet has successfully released a new portable atmospheric FTIR gas analyser: the GT5000. Marked as the most powerful portable solution for measuring the concentration of both hazardous and non-hazardous gases inside enclosed spaces such as shipping containers, its ability to measure a large number of gases in just a few seconds provides unparalleled costefficiency. Offering quick and reliable results, it is battery powered and can be carried around on the back while analysing. The user can select the gaseous components that are required to be monitored, and the software automatically analyses the concentrations of these gases. The software comes in two versions, Calcmet Easy for accessible onsite work and Calcmet Expert for further analysis with advanced tools.

The GT5000 Terra can also be used to analyse greenhouse gas flux measurements, including the measurement of gases N2O, CH4, CO2, H2O, CO and NH3 in a matter of seconds. Gasmet's solution to GHG flux measurements is based on FTIR technology. FTIR works by scanning and analysing the entire infrared spectrum in order to measure all the infrared absorbing gases in the sample simultaneously. Most molecules have a characteristic absorption spectrum that can be

used to identify gases and accurately measure their concentration. The Greenhouse gas analyser is also operated with the versatile Calcmet software that offers online viewing of results and powerful tools for subsequent analysis of past measurements. This analyser is ideal for use in forest soils, wetlands, agricultural fields, hydropower reservoirs, GHG emissions from ruminants, geothermal sources and energy plants, and just some of the GT5000 Terra features include wireless connectivity, water-resistant to IP54 rating, intuitive and easy to use software, & comes with an internal battery and sample pump. For more information, see below.

T 01908 227722

contact.uk@gasmet.com

www.gasmet.com

Panasonic’s new Aquarea Hybrid Eco+ Heat Pump

Acoem UK

Panasonic Heating & Cooling Solutions has launched the Aquarea Hybrid Eco+ Heat Pump, an innovative hybrid system that can be connected seamlessly to any traditional fossil fuelled boiler system, to help existing UK housing stock reduce carbon emissions by up to 80%.

The Aquarea Hybrid Eco+ heat pump from Panasonic is an excellent & reliable solution for reducing carbon emissions, it can assist to gain an increase to your EPC rating, a resourceful and eco-friendly solution.

The heat pump unit extracts its latent heat from the outside air as per the reliable & longstanding Aquarea range of energy efficient heat pumps from Panasonic. To maintain the desired internal temperature, the original boiler system is only activated when it is more economical than the heat pump in colder weather or producing domestic hot water.

Furthermore, all the main components of the Aquarea Hybrid Eco+ units are within the outside unit itself. The system has been thoroughly tested and has been proven to provide one of the lowest sound ratings on the market but with one of the highest energy efficiency heat pump systems and running cost savings can be achieved and thus increase the allimportant properties EPC rating.

The Aquarea Hybrid Eco+ unit uses plug and play technology and is equipped with an expansion vessel, an ‘A’ rated circulating pump, extensive controls, a dirt filter and more, making it simple to install and connect to any existing property.

In the future, when the gas boiler may no longer be required or at the end of its life, making the switch to a full low carbon Aquarea air source heat pump system will be an easy decision and simple upgrade. www.aircon.panasonic.eu/GB_en

TRIGO applies machine learning

TRIGO Group, the world’s leading firm in quality and inspection services within the transportation and industrial sectors, has taken a major step forward in making production more efficient by acquiring SCORTEX, a Paris-based deep tech startup applying machine learning to the field of automated quality control.

Across industry and manufacturing, up to 25% of products coming out of a production line are discarded. Such inspection is usually carried out on the production line by a human operator, introducing the element of human error and even subjectivity where valid units may be rejected. SCORTEX introduces an AI-based platform, integrating proprietary hardware & software, for quality control stations on production lines. Thanks to the data acquired for quality control, SCORTEX’s algorithms can also learn and detect trends in defects within a production flow. This leads to less shutdowns, less waste generated and more efficient production.

By acquiring SCORTEX, TRIGO consolidates its position as a new leader in AI-based inspection and supply chain activities and intends to double the dedicated team by the end of 2022. The company also aims to accelerate diversification into the aerospace and defense sectors and continues to innovate technologically.

Find out more about TRIGO Group at: www.trigogroup.com and about SCORTEX at: www.scortex.io

UK’s core purpose is to help our customers find the right balance between progress and preservation – protecting businesses and assets, and maximising opportunities while respecting the planet’s resources. Human activity does not have to get in the way of protecting the environment, nor do sustainable practices have to get in the way of human activity. We offer products and services that prevent and control air, noise and vibration pollution, increase the productivity and reliability of industrial machinery & contribute to

Acoem

the development of effective, robust & noiseless products.

According to the UN, net zero means we are not adding new emissions to the atmosphere. Emissions will continue but will be balanced by absorbing an equivalent amount from the atmosphere.

We signed the Pledge to Net Zero which means that we will set and commit to a science based carbon reduction target, publicly reporting our emissions

and progress against this target. The challenge is real and our hope is that by documenting our journey, we can help other businesses to begin.

Print & Packaging

Carbon & Energy Reporting Legislation: A chance to make real business efficiency improvements

Author: Susanna Jackson, Sustainability Consultant – Comply Direct Ltd

The Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) and Streamlined Energy & Carbon Reporting (SECR) regulations are mandatory requirements of large UK businesses but are far more valuable than a tick box exercise. ESOS & SECR present a real opportunity for businesses to improve energy and fuel efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and subsequently, reap financial benefits.

ESOS runs in phases of 4 years, and we are currently in phase 3; obligated companies must undertake energy audits and report back to the Environment Agency by the compliance deadline of each phase. On the other hand, SECR obligates affected companies to annually report on their energy consumption and associated greenhouse gas emissions within their financial reporting for Companies House.

Check if your business is obligated for ESOS and/or SECR

The thresholds are different for ESOS and SECR, but many companies are obligated under both… ESOS ESOS is a mandatory energy assessment scheme for large organisations in the UK that meet ONE of the below qualification criteria on the qualification date*:

t employs 250 or more people, OR

t has an annual turnover in excess of £44,000,000, and an annual balance sheet total in excess of £38,000,000, OR

t an overseas company with a UK registered establishment which has 250 or more UK employees (paying income tax in the UK)

*The qualification date for phase 3 is 31 December 2022; the deadline for compliance is 5 December 2023.

SECR

SECR applies to all quoted companies, large limited liability partnerships and large UK incorporated unquoted companies*. Limited liability partnerships and UK incorporated unquoted companies are considered to be large and must comply with the legislation if they meet two or more of the qualification criteria below:

t 250 or more employees

t Turnover in excess of £36 million

t Balance sheet in excess of £18 million

*Organisations using less than 40,000 kWh per annum will not be required to report

Benefits of ESOS and SECR for businesses

Both processes to achieve compliance can help businesses achieve energy and cost savings.

The energy audit route to ESOS compliance involves calculating a business’ total energy consumption for a 12 month period identifying the most significant areas, and at least 90% of the total energy consumption will be subject to ESOS compliant energy audits. The audits feed into a report of tailored recommendations setting out costed energy, fuel saving opportunities and good practice which would assist the company to make financial savings.

For example, savings demonstrated for some of Comply Direct’s ESOS customers (against total energy and fuel costs) include; Beiersdorf (14.2%), Regatta (20%), Vivid Imaginations (20.6%), and Sysmex (62.7%).

Similarly, the SECR compliance process quantifies a company’s energy use and emissions in line with the Greenhouse Gas Protocol standard and requires energy efficiency actions to be identified for making savings, as well as disclosing a comparison to the previous years’ figures. Therefore, as with ESOS, SECR is also a golden opportunity to make energy

reductions, save the business money, improve overall environmental impact, and also acts as an environmental KPI tracking system year on year.

Want to make energy reductions and save costs for your business?

If you need support ensuring ESOS and/or SECR compliance for your business, or just want to identify opportunities for reducing carbon emissions and improving environmental impact,

Comply Direct provide a fully managed service delivered by a team of environmental and carbon experts. They have a proven track record of producing consistent compliant reports for their customers since both the ESOS and SECR legislations came into force.

Contact Comply Direct’s team for more information, who will be able to fulfil these requirements to the utmost quality.

T 01756 794951 carbon@complydirect.com www.complydirect.com

For more insights about ESOS, join Comply Direct’s free ESOS Phase 3 webinar; choose from 22 June at 2pm or 6 September at 10am. Visit www.complydirect.com to register your place.

PINK ELEPHANT GROUP Sustainability

We're working alongside UK clothing, home textiles, sportswear and work wear retailers, to transform the entire supply chain of textiles, as well re-use and recycling sector.

Across Clothing Retail. Supply. Re-use. Recycling.

Textile re-use

Textile re-use helps save the environment by reducing waste at landfills and offers people across the world with affordable apparel. Textiles make up about 3% of household waste, and more than 1 million tonnes of textiles are sent to landfill each year, according to estimates.

Textile Collection

We provide a professional and efficient service through collaborating with local authorities, government agencies, and private businesses. Collected textiles are meticulously sorted, then graded for further re-use and supplied, depending on quality, to end users. We strive for the highest quality reusable products and apparel that can be re-used rather than disposed of in landfills since we focus on reuse.

Home Collection Refuse, reduce, re-use, recycle!!!

We may arrange one-time or recurring collections, and our service is swift, attentive, and polite. This service is offered to individual members of the public, who have no time to go to the recycling centre or simply want to find a better use for things they have. We can help!

RSG helps Hanson Asphalt achieve better sustainability

RSG Structures was recently commissioned by Hanson Aggregates to design, supply and construct walls for new RAP (Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement) de-watering bays at its Tytherington depot.

The RAP material needs heating to allow it to be re-used and if the moisture content is high this will take a lot of heat (and therefore energy) to do.

By dewatering, Hanson is able to take more moisture out which means less heat is required and so less energy is used for the process to take place.

RSG took the initial concept and designed

foundations and walls suitable to take RAP material stored to a height of 2.4m, while allowing a dewatering ‘pit’ to be formed within the bays below ground.

Recycling & Waste Management Keenan Recycling acquires wheelie bin service

A number of designs were looked at but the best in terms of cost, ease and speed of construction was an in-situ plinth/foundation with Elite Precast Legato blocks sitting over with a soldier course on the external walls and a spreader block on the division wall.

Retractable roofs then sit on top which can be moved back to allow dump trucks and loading shovels to operate in the bays without the need for high roof structures.

For advice and quotes on all types of walling and roofing systems, please contact: info@rsgstructures.co.uk or call 08452 997597.

Recycle Your Food Waste Now

The UK’s leading food waste collection firm, Keenan Recycling, has announced an acquisition as it gears up for further growth in 2022.

The firm, which earlier this year achieved full coverage of the UK, has purchased the food waste wheelie bin collection arm of JNL Waste Services Limited for an undisclosed value. The acquisition, including new trucks, will strengthen the company’s service in the Midlands, Northamptonshire and East Anglia, introducing new customers to Keenan and enhancing its fleet of vehicles.

Jon Lee, JNL Waste Services, said, “I am pleased to confirm that Keenan Recycling has successfully concluded the acquisition of our wheelie bin service. Keenan Recycling has a fantastic reputation in the industry, so we know our customers will be in good hands. The sale will allow us to focus on bulk food waste haulage and the funds from the deal will be used to expand our articulated fleet.”

Managing director of Keenan Recycling, Grant Keenan, explained, “Jon and Natalie have built a fantastic company over the years and the wheelie bin arm of their business was a naturally strong fit for Keenan."

Against the backdrop of a global pandemic, on-going Brexit negotiations and HGV driver shortages, Keenan Recycling has invested over £4m in new trucks in the last 12 months, adding six new depots including London, Exeter and Manchester, and more than doubled its headcount.

T 0800 644 6618 info@keenanrecycling.co.uk www.keenanrecycling.co.uk

0800 644 6618 info@keenanrecycling.co.uk www.keenanrecycling.co.uk

World premiere of Next Generation pre-shredder

M&J Recycling uses this year’s IFAT in Munich to unveil a pre-shredder that points directly into the future. It is stronger than ever, it uses less energy, and then it is modular, which has great advantages.

The M&J Next Generation pre-shredder draws on the proud traditions of the M&J PreShred 4000S, M&J Recycling’s undisputed flagship in pre-shredding. Since its introduction, the M&J PreShred 4000S has enjoyed impressive global sales and thus long since established itself in the absolute top tier of versatile and indestructible quality shredders for the global recycling industry. Of course, the obvious qualities of the 4000S pre-shredder are carried over to the Next Generation M&J pre-shredder.

The M&J Recycling R&D department has now created an updated version that will surely be the talk of town when it shows up at IFAT in Munich on May 30th to June 3rd. Especially the modular design should get a lot of attention because it makes service and maintenance much faster and cheaper. And it will be an electrifying experience. We promise you.

M&J Recycling is waiting to reveal more details about the new pre-shredder for the fair itself, where the name will also be launched.

www.mjrecycling.com/nextgeneration

We look forward to meeting you in Hall B4, Booth 451/550 – see you there!

We collect food waste on behalf of waste management companies, brokers and councils. We also service restaurants, hotels, care homes, hospitals, prisons and cafés. The food waste collected is then transformed into electricity, heat, and fuel.

Recycling & Waste Management

High speed, high performance with Terex Ecotec’s new TBG 530T high speed shredder

Ecogreen Plant Hire: Waterless wheel cleaning system

Good old British weather – we get plenty of rain and mud is a tricky problem. You’re required by law to take measures to prevent mud from leaving site and making a mess on the roads.

Road sweepers? They can be expensive, can create emissions, can cause traffic chaos and sometimes just smear the mess around.

Wheel washes can make more mud, waste water, contaminate water courses, freeze in winter, dry out in summer, and break down. They can also create extra cost for extra hires such as bowsers, lances, pumps, generators. Then there’s the cost of diesel...

‘Rumble strips’ typically present such a surface area

that much of the mud they displace sits on the bars and re-contaminates following wheels – until they bury themselves.

Ecogreen Plant Hire’s DriveOn V-Tech is a dry, raised ramp system with 60% less surface area than a normal rumble strip, so there’s more vibration, more tyre flex and much more mud is removed, falling into the void below. It can’t freeze up or break down, doesn’t present water or fuel bills, needs no supervision, creates no emissions, can reduce road sweeper requirements, thus saving you money.

It will also help you reach your environmental targets and keep the law your neighbours and customers happy.

Contact T 0800 130 3437 info@ecogreenplanthire.co.uk www.ecogreenplanthire.co.uk

With an eye on innovation, leading environmental equipment specialist, Terex Ecotec, continue to expand their world class range of mobile equipment with the launch of the eagerly awaited TBG 530T. A robust track mounted high speed shredder, the TBG 530T is ideal for medium scale producers requiring an accurate and consistent end product.

Powered by a 493HP Scania DC13 engine, the TBG 530T has been expertly designed to give operators unrivalled performance, ease of maintenance and superb fuel efficiency. Extremely versatile, it excels in many applications and is particularly suited to waste wood processing and green waste shredding.

With a rapid set up time the TBG 530T is ready to work in a matter of minutes with no tooling required. The open fronted feeder enables the TBG 530T to be fed quickly and easily from the rear. The intelligently controlled feed system, comprising of heavy duty drag chains and aggressive feed wheel with unique lift/downward assist, ensure optimum material flow resulting in class leading performance.

At the heart of the machine is the 1,100mm diameter x 1,490mm wide swinging hammer rotor. This robust, direct drive rotor rotates at 1,000rpm and incorporates 30 up-swinging hammers. A wide selection of hammer designs and interchangeable screens are available allowing the machine to be configured to suit the ever-changing product requirements. The TBG 530T also benefits from the added protection of a screen kickback system. Should an unshreddable object enter the shredding chamber the screen will release allowing the material to quickly pass through, reducing the risk of accidental damage.

Processed material is removed from the machine via a modular product conveyor with an impressive discharge height of 4.6m. This conveyor also lowers to ground level for inspection and maintenance. An optional overband magnet with hydraulic height adjustment can be fitted to remove ferrous metal from the product.

Whether performing daily checks or carrying out maintenance, the TBG 530T offers unrivalled service access to all key areas of the machine. The electric/hydraulic raise/lower of the screen and interlocked chamber access door allow the rotor and anvil to be inspected with ease. Designed with the operator in mind, the TBG 530T offers the perfect blend of performance, efficiency and serviceability.

To learn more about the New TBG 530T and to locate your nearest dealer, visit: www.terex.com/ecotec

The Flood Expo 2021

The organisers couldn’t be prouder with the result of the long-awaited 2021 edition of the Flood Expo, held at Birmingham’s NEC from 22-23 September, and would like to thank those of you who attended and supported the event.

After what has been a challenging 18+ months, the flood management industry also finds itself in an ever-changing environment, from government legislation to new projects and the increasing threat of climate change. The Flood Expo is more vital than ever to transform the way flooding is predicted, prevented, and managed, as well as to connect with industry peers and prospective business connections. The exhibitors,

sponsors, speakers, partners, & of course the attendees at the Flood Expo are vital for the industry's continued development through collaboration, innovation and knowledge sharing – making it the most important 2 days in the calendar for flood management professionals.

New organisers ROAR B2B worked hard to build an event the industry can truly

Communications

be proud of. Working in partnership with renowned industry associations such as the Environment Agency, ADA & BDMA, the Flood Expo re-evaluated the needs of the sector, this coupled with feedback from a newly formed advisory board, the Flood Expo provided a platform where the industry can reconnect & celebrate new innovations in flood management.

Flood Expo returns to the NEC Birmingham this year from 14-15 September 2022. This is our pick of the best exhibitors from last year’s show, listed here in alphabetical order: Spotcom. Further details can be found here.

www.thefloodexpo.co.uk

Spotcom Ltd specialises in the supply and support of Industrial Radio Data systems. Telemetry, Ethernet and Serial Data is catered for, in a range of devices, spanning an impressive range of operating frequencies – from Band 1 VHF (no requirement for a ‘Line of Sight’ between antennae) VHF, UHF, to 5.6GHz (Very high data throughput). Licensed or License-free, these secure radio links are independent of any service providers or services, and can provide Gateway functionality, interfacing directly to SCADA if required – or simply conveying a couple of digital status, along with an analogue parameter or two.

If the remote site power is a problem, ultra-low average power consumption modules are available, requiring no more than a 10-Watt solar panel, or using a two year replaceable Lithium battery.

Site surveys, system supply, configuration, commissioning assistance, and troubleshooting are all part of Spotcom’s remit to provide infrastructure, utility, industrial and security users with first class

systems and no-fuss support, if needed!

You may find our devices anywhere that data transfer is needed, from a few metres to tens of kilometres, from a single point or multiple points, direct or meshing. Where cabling is not a viable, cost-effective, or a reliable option, and where redundancy of communications are needed – back up for 3G/4G/5G and Internet are prime areas of application for our high reliability, independent communications.

T 01329 448161 www.spotcomltd.co.uk

Sustainable Waste Handling Company of the Month

Reliable and robust machines for the recycling industry

In this issue of Sustainability Today, we are pleased to announce IQR Systems as our Sustainable Waste Handling Company of the Month.

From its 35 years’ extensive experience in recycling, IQR Systems know what is required for sustainable waste production. The IQR Group consists of four businesses that complement each other in the areas of sales, design, manufacturing and repair, and service, to ultimately create advanced systems for energy recovery. Out of its two workshops based in Vänersborg and Älmhult, the company mainly focuses on the manufacture of machines for metal separation, with further capabilities that stretch to the design and build processes for the recycling of waste wood, household waste and other types of industrial waste materials across the UK and Europe.

Originally named Svenska Slipers AB, the company was established in 1979 in Trollhättan, Sweden, by Thomas Karlström. Thomas, a school teacher, had an idea to take care of all worn railways sleepers along the railway and sell these to garden traders and golf courses around Sweden. Finding most of the sleepers were over 30 years old and left destroyed and rotten, he began to see if it was possible to burn the bad sleepers. After extensive research and studies, it turned out that when the sleepers were burnt, no harmful fuels were released into the atmosphere. This was a landmark in the company’s history enabling them to supply this material shredded as a biomass fuel.

The company operated this line for many years and Sweden’s well-developed district heating network gave them advantages over this time. The hammer mill concept was then created and to this day still remains the company’s key product. Today IQR Systems focus on selling equipment to companies in the same situation as them through the experience it has built up over the years.

“IQR are a manufacturer of processed based machinery through its model range, the Flexhammer, which is our hammermill. We can design bespoke systems, or mobile machines with the same hammermills but for processing PVC, wood waste or RDF. Our machines are very successful at processing the material in one pass and are able to cope with the contamination that’s in general waste. We work closely with every customer to ensure we really understand their needs,” stated Paul Caldwell, Business Development at IQR Systems.

IQR Systems’ business is made up of a number of specialist areas but with an aim to develop

sustainable solutions that help recover energy from waste materials. IQR Systems develops its solutions by offering a full turnkey system, whether it be for crushing, shredding or the build of a CHP-plant with everything interlinked. Its entire business model is proof that environmental work can be profitable.

To complement its vast range of machinery, IQR Systems also offers a service called Scada. This means that IQR Systems and its customers have the capabilities to dial into their machines to retrieve data about such things as the motor performance, if there are weigh scales fitted, the volume of tons per hour being processed, and many more. This service delivers accurate running data on the machines and how they are performing.

At the heart of the IQR System lies the

Flexhammer that comes in four models: FH1500 Mobile, FH1800 Mobile, FH1800 Crawler, and FlexHammer Stationary. The FlexHammer™ hammer mill is designed to shred the toughest materials. Ideal for shredding waste materials such as household and industrial waste, wood waste, PVC plastic in windows, doors, and frames of various kinds, railway sleepers with steel plates on in large quantities, demolition timber. The FlexHammer™ hammer mill is used in both IQR’s crushing plants and mobile crushing plants and features a horizontal and vertical feed to allow for complete flexibility and versatility.

“Our machines last for such a long time as they are extremely well built. For example, we have two machines that are with Dundee Energy Recycling Ltd (DERL) and have been processing there for over 23 years. From a new delivered machine in March 2022 we have many machines throughout the UK which have processed in some cases over 1 million tonnes of material, the same can be seen in Scandinavia and Europe,” mentioned Paul.

The fact that the machines are over engineered for their application, shows the intelligent design, engineering and expertise that go into manufacturing, servicing and delivering them to its customers year on year. “Because we run plants in Sweden, we are able to give customers exact information on the machinery such as costs and specifications because we actually use the machines ourselves. Our original wood processing line that made the biomass feedstock is still running and that plant processes 80,000 tonne of railway sleepers every year, of which 6,000 tonne is the steel that comes off the sleepers. This just shows the integrity of the design of our machines, they are simply designed to be robust and reliable,” said Paul.

To support the UK business, Paul is also the Managing Director of Recycling Plant & Machinery Ltd which specialises in the sales and marketing of capital equipment. “We have 25 engineers including electrical engineers, that we can use to back up the IQR plants to which we provide the engineering reports and data to give support to the UK business,” stated Paul.

Electrical machinery is fast becoming more popular, and with more people looking to electrical plants, the future looks bright for IQR Systems. Its recent growth and succession within the industry has enabled the company to talk from a position of authority on the processes they have put in place and prove that the technical data of their performance for financial approval can make a big difference to a company’s ROI.

T +46 520-48 5880

Paul Caldwell +44 (0)7834 585247 info@iqr.se paul.caldwell@iqr.se www.iqr.se

Introducing Zip Core Packaging software

Zip Core Packaging Suite is a CAD/ CAM packaging software from Vivid Laminating Technologies that has been created to optimise every aspect of packaging design from start to finish.

Sales and Product Manager, Lewis Evans, said that Vivid is very excited to be launching the new product. “Our software will provide businesses with a wide range of tools that speed up and automate the everyday jobs of packaging designers, graphic designers and salespeople involved in the

creation and production of packaging,” he said. “This will result in jobs being produced at a much faster rate. There are endless packaging templates to choose from within our library of designs, giving the customer the opportunity to create an infinite choice of projects with absolute simplicity.”

“There are two bundles to choose from: Zip Core Design and Zip Core Design Pro. Compatible with both desktop and Cloud solutions and integrated with Adobe® Illustrator®,” he continued. “Meaning you can apply

graphics to your packaging designs while being able to view a 3D model of the structure before production. Saving you both time and money.”

Zip Core Packaging Software has been developed by Vivid to enhance the use of its VeloBlade Volta and VeloBlade Nexus range of digital die-cutting systems. Vivid will be exhibiting at Packaging Innovations on Stand C75, where it will be demonstrating the new Zip Core Packaging Software alongside its other products and services.

For further information about Zip Core Packaging Suite, visit: www.vivid-online.com

New high speed spray line

In March 2022, a new high speed spraying line was started up in the decoration site at Stoelzle Częstochowa, Poland.

The new decoration line, the 4th spray line at the Polish Stoelzle site, is state of the art in all technical aspects, such as performance, efficiency and automation, but also with regard to sustainability. Based on its CSR strategy, since a couple of years, Stoelzle has committed themselves to use only eco-friendly, water-based inks and to withdraw from solvent-based colours in all of their three decoration sites.

The new spraying line is equipped with an automatic loading and unloading system and takes also advantage of fast curing by Infrared lamps, which further enhances the production capacity.

The high-speed line, which was set up with a 1 million € invest, is planned to reach a daily output of more than 100,000 sprayed bottles. The line is technically adapted to process containers up to a size of 200mm and will therefore focus on Perfumery & Cosmetics as well as pharmaceutical bottles.

As the demand for decorated glass containers has been constantly growing over the past few years, Stoelzle will now be able to offer enhanced capacities to a broad range of segments in the international markets. The decoration department at the Stoelzle Częstochowa offers trendy and innovative decoration for all kinds of glass containers, ranging from large sized Spirits bottles to very small Pharma glass containers.

The investment in sustainable technology and processes is an integrated part of the Glass Group’s CSR strategy, aimed to reduce CO2 emissions by 50% by 2030, being CO2 neutral by 2050.

www.stoelzle.com

www.linkedin.com/company/the-stoelzle-group

Rail Products & Services

GOS Tool & Engineering Services Ltd

GOS Tool & Engineering Services Ltd is a privately owned and managed market leading company which specialises in converting excavators & other equipment for use on rail (road/rail conversions).

The company also has an experienced design team who specialise in the design, manufacture and commissioning of wagon mounted bespoke cable hauling, infrastructure installation, and maintenance equipment. We also

manufacture a wide range of ancillary equipment including Rail Trailers and Trolleys, Steel and Concrete Sleeper Layers, Lifting Beams, Cable De-coilers and Grabs. GOS export worldwide and can adapt many of its designs for use on most standard Rail Gauges.

Contact: Neil W Gregory, Director, T +44 (0)1495 790230 neil.gregory@gosengineering.co.uk www.gosengineering.co.uk

STEL rail, always keeping you on track

Specialised Tools and Equipment Ltd (STEL) supply an extensive range of industrial tools, rail tools, consumables and plant spares. Serving the trade and public from its main office based in Attercliffe, Sheffield, STEL is an integral product supplier to the rail, construction, utility and janitorial sectors and is a key supplier for Network Rail and the London Underground Maintenance teams.

The independent business boasts a large portfolio, working with clients such as Honda Industrial, Bosch, Milwaukee, Kawasaki, Atlas Copco, and many more. STEL promote tools and equipment primarily to the rail industry, both underground and overground. In January 2021, STEL was called upon to quickly attend the scene of a damaged derailed

freight train that caused significant damage, and to supply Network Rail with the tools and equipment needed. Due to STEL having all the equipment in stock, the train was promptly moved from the tracks and the damage to the signalling system and trackers were fixed.

STEL offer a range of small plant and equipment including rail movers and trolleys for use in the rail industry. Its

equipment catalogue includes items such as safety gloves, twin head flood lights, extension leads, LED possession limit stop boards, indicator boards and more. STEL is a well trusted, quality business to work and trade with, receiving a constant flow of sterling customer feedback.

If you would like more information, see below:

T 0114 383 0110 sales@specialisedtools.co.uk www.steltools.co.uk

Food & Drink Products & Services

BRITISH CANNABIS™ confirmed as UK’s preeminent legal CBD product maker

BRITISH CANNABIS , registered as CBD Health Foods Ltd, celebrated the monumental breakthrough of 310 of its products successfully passing onto the crucial next stage of the UK Novel Foods process for CBD food supplements.

From Friday 31st March, this UK cannabis product specialist now manufactures 9% of all CBD food supplements legal to sell in the UK, following successful inclusion on the Food Standard Agency’s Novel Foods public list. On Thursday 31st March

2022, the UK’s Food Standards

Agency updated the public list of CBD food products linked to novel food applications, with 3,536 individual

products either carrying a ‘Validated’ or ‘Awaiting Evidence’ status. Possessing 310 unique products, across 15 thorough applications (20% of all applications through to the next stage), gives BRITISH CANNABIS™ the highest number of products permitted for general sale of any brand or manufacturer. This resulting 9% share of the UK market by choice of products includes 75 of

Warehouse & Logistics

Defence against Allergens

subsequent batches or items.

on passing.

the company’s own-brand portfolio, from the CBD by BRITISH CANNABIS™ (FKA Canabidol ), Access CBD and CBD Health ranges. Also progressing on towards the ‘validation stage’ are 235 individual products across several leading brands ‘Powered by BRITISH CANNABIS ’ under the company’s white label manufacturing services. The products prominent in the FSA public list made by BRITISH CANNABIS™ include sublingual CBD oils, CBD capsules and edible food products such as CBD gummies and Gel-Tabs™

BRITISH CANNABIS can be reached on +44 (0)203 965 2420 or via email at: info@britishcannabis.org

Maintenance saves costly downtime

Taking a proactive stance on van maintenance measures can save fleets valuable downtime, according to ATS Euromaster. The tyre service and maintenance provider says fleets are placing vehicles under critical stress as assets are virtually in constant use.

Known as ‘double-shifting’, fleets are using one van for two driver shifts in order to meet the increasing demand for home delivery that has been accentuated by the COVID pandemic and the increase in consumer convenience demands. Such a practice extends the operating hours of the fleet and business, while meeting the Working Time Directive for drivers.

Mark Holland, operations director at ATS Euromaster, said, “In practice it means that vehicle downtime is more of an issue for last mile delivery fleets than the actual cost of maintenance. So, identifying potential maintenance items in advance is becoming an increasingly critical area for efficient and cost-effective fleet management.”

All vehicles serviced at an ATS centre – whether for a tyre change or scheduled SMR work – are provided with a Digital

Vehicle Health Check (DVHC).

Any defects, recommendations and advisories are recorded on a tablet by an ATS technician, ensuring all work identified and completed is clearly displayed for the customer.

ATS says that proactive vehicle maintenance can assist fleets to first time MOT passes and reduce costly vehicle off road time. According to Government data, up to 29% of light commercial vehicles fail their MOT on brake defects.

ats.marketing@ats.euromaster.com

www.atseuromaster.co.uk

Allergen management through cleaning in the food, dairy, beverage and brewing industries is an essential control to reduce the risks to vulnerable consumers through the unintended cross-contact of allergenic proteins into other products.

Common allergens include egg, peanut, milk, nuts, soy, wheat, animal meat and fish. Operatives undertaking cleaning activities play a vital role in preventing the crosscontact of allergenic proteins into

There are three main steps in tackling allergens; Christeyns Food Hygiene refers to this as the Allergen Defence Service:

● Design of procedures –processes to follow that fit your business

● Control – implementing adequate cleaning procedures to prevent risk

● Verification – validating the results of the cleaning and its effectiveness

The key message is that this type of contamination is unlikely to be homologous as the early part of the run would contain potentially higher levels of extraneous protein simply because it would ‘harvest’ the debris

The type and material of the surface being cleaned will determine the type of clean required and the chemicals that can be used to successfully eliminate risk.

Validation of the hygiene regime, the cleaning carried out, is a critical step in determining that practices, equipment and chemicals employed are fit for purpose to deliver a safe food production environment. As an additional point, the application of disinfectants will have no material effect on allergens as proteins are not alive and so cannot be killed via this method.

www.christeynsfoodhygiene.co.uk

Are you getting the best deal?

Since 1989 International Forwarding Limited (IFL) has offered reliable door-to-door shipping – and become one of the UK’s leading freight forwarders for shipping freight to/from Switzerland. We are well known in the industry for running our own dedicated shuttle service with regular groupage departures to/from all parts of Switzerland.

Our transport partner is Magsped, a fantastic Swissowned transport company which offers excellent network coverage to import-export customers – including Basel, Zürich, Lucerne, Bern, Lausanne and Geneva.

Our Swiss freight rates are highly competitive so it’s always worth getting in touch for a free quote. For extra value, the service is driver-accompanied to ensure the fastest possible transit time and secure, reliable delivery.

IFL has large warehousing facilities in the Birmingham and West Midlands area for secure storage 24/7 – if you need it.

Finally, as Switzerland is not a member of the EU, we offer

24-7 customs clearance services through our Dover office for faster, smoother freight forwarding.

If you’d like a competitive quote or to discuss your shipping or warehousing needs for UK-Switzerland road freight, we’d love to hear from you. We work hard to get you the best deal we can.

Get in touch today: Call our experienced team on +44 (0)1675 434690 or email: enquiries@internationalforwarding.co.uk

Bradshaw releases third-generation T800

As the leading four-wheel 8-tonne tow tractor on the market, the T800 has been a popular model for over 25 years. Used in airports for baggage towing, line feed in manufacturing, waste movement for bin towing, and many more applications. The T800 is a versatile and robust workhorse.

The new T800 retains its robust build, durability and reliability that has made it a firm favourite. The third generation 8-tonne tow tractor from Bradshaw now features electronic steering, enhanced suspension, a new front axle, larger wheels, new brakes, a redesigned cab, and sharp modern looks that provide operators with a market-leading level of ride, comfort, and handling.

Electronic power steering replaces hydraulic steering, offering enhanced steering performance, making it easier for the vehicle to turn and manoeuvre at lower speeds. The use of electric motors over hydraulic systems eliminates the need for a pump, hoses, and hydraulic oil, helping simplify maintenance. The removal of the hydraulic pump has made the vehicle considerably quieter, reducing vehicle noise by 20dB. Furthermore, the T800’s steering advancements paves the way for an automated tow tractor!

Electronic braking and speed control

Five individual braking systems protect tow tractor and operator. The T800 features new responsive hydraulic drum brakes to all four wheels and offers increased durability, maximising productivity and reduced servicing costs. The T800 also includes electronic regenerative braking under deceleration, automatic hill hold, and automatically applied transmission parks brakes for greater safety assurance. The T800 incorporates an AC control system enabling a high level of controller setup, while dynamic speed sensing prevents over-speeding in all directions.

Robust build

The T800, with its solid frame construction and reliable components, ensures long-term reliability and durability. The low maintenance AC traction motor offers more power and performance while simultaneously reducing operating costs, and the builtin thermal protection minimises service downtime.

Contact

T +44 (0)1780 782621 enquiries@bradshawev.com www.bradshawev.com

The leaf spring suspension has been reconfigured providing the firmness required for towing applications while providing a smooth and comfortable ride. The new larger pneumatic profiled soft solid puncture-proof tyres provide greater stability, traction and handling.

From the outside, the differences between the second and third generation T800s are obvious. The mark II’s curvaceous panels have been replaced with a strong and angular design, matching the design ethos of modern-day automotive design.

A redesigned sturdy wrap-around bumper plate protects the vehicle against impacts and damage.

Inside the vehicle, the changes are instantly notable. The soft touch control panels and instruments enhance the working environment, which now includes USB connectors for keeping phones and electrical equipment charged and integrated cup holders.

T800s are available with a range of cab options; uncabbed, cabbed with no doors, cabbed with PVC doors, and cabbed with twin slam doors, allowing the T800 to be configured for a wide range of indoor and outdoor operations.

Efficient towing performance

As standard, the T800 is equipped with a 20mm pin multi jaw tow hitch with various size options, making the 8-tonne tow tractor compatible with multiple trailers. The T800 includes inching buttons as standard to assist coupling, offering ease and precision when aligning tow tractor and trailer.

Batteries

The T800 utilises a powerful 48-volt system, with the choice of four standard batteries; 240Ah, 315Ah or 375Ah lead-acid batteries or a 255Ah gel maintenance-free.

For standard run-time operations, a lift-out battery suits many applications. For extended run-time applications where battery change is an operational requirement, the T800 has the option of a side exit by either forklift or roller bed.

EasyLog WiFi data loggers save 900 COVID vaccines from going to waste

Safe vaccine storage is essential if you want to maintain sample quality from the time of manufacture to the point of administration. To achieve this, vaccines must be transported, handled and stored within an appropriate temperature range of 2-8°C. Once temperatures exceed these limits, the vaccines lose their potency and must be destroyed. Due to the potential wastage caused by faulty vaccines, it is recommended that temperatures around vaccines are therefore monitored 24/7.

Thankfully, the Portchester Practice was prepared for the potential changing temperatures and had installed an EL-WiFi-TPX+ in their vaccine fridge to protect their vaccines from damaging temperatures.

“Most people are aware that the COVID vaccines must be stored at practice level, between 2-8°C. We have set the alarm on our WiFi device to operate should the temperature fall below 3 and go above 6.5°C. This gives the duty manager time to get to the fridge location even out of hours and take appropriate action.” – Doug

Kershaw – Practice Manager, the

Portchester Practice

Thanks to their proactivity, our EasyLog WiFi data loggers were ready and saved 900 COVID vaccinations from going to waste after an alert was activated when temperatures dropped below the practice’s pre-set limits.

A key had got stuck in the vaccine fridge door, stopping the fridge from shutting, allowing temperatures inside to quickly rise to 6.5°C at which point an alarm was triggered, sending a text and email alert to the Duty Manager. Upon receiving the text alert from the EL-WiFi-TPX+ device, the Duty Manager was able to rectify the problem before it was too late.

“As well as alerting us to the problem, the data logger gave us confidence that the contents of the fridge had not, at any time, gone over the maximum storage temperature. Without this system, just over 900 COVID vaccines would have had to be destroyed.”

Users of the EL-WiFi-TPX+, our other vaccine products and data loggers can configure their devices to suit the application. Using the EasyLog Cloud, users can quickly and easily set their device up, setting high and low alarms, a sounder, and even setting up email and text alerts.

The EasyLog Cloud comes with plenty of benefits, including the ability to monitor and manage multiple data logging devices in different locations remotely. Review and analyse your data with powerful graphing functionality, keep track of events and activity within the Cloud’s detailed system and device audit trail, and you can even integrate Cloud sensor data with your applications with EasyLog’s powerful API.

It really couldn’t be simpler.

T 01794 884567

www.lascarelectronics.com

100 years of business for Kingston Engineering

materials and specifications designed to suit their clients’ requirements.

Kingston Engineering is one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of bespoke power screws. Based in Hull, the company offers a vast selection of

With a history dating back to 1919, Kingston Engineering has specialised in manufacturing right Hand/left Hand, single/multi-start, cut thread Power Transmission Screws and Nuts for over 60 years. Adaptable for mechanical power transmission, their products conform to the standards of British, European and American requirements. All of Kingston’s products meet ISO 9001-2015 accreditation and are examined thoroughly during the manufacturing process.

Kingston Engineering’s screws can be used in a

Digital Edge Subsea

Digital Edge Subsea supplies the oil and gas industry with its digital video recording system.

The company, established more than 10 years ago, has nurtured strong customer relationships that has allowed for honest customer feedback, and this has been incorporated into the development of the Version 5 Edge DVR.

Conversations continue and now Digital Edge are pleased to be able to offer further software that will help their customers to serve their clients better.

Data Archive App

Digital Edge will soon release a data storage and back-up solution that uses an integral app within Edge architecture, to avoid needing a 3rd party app. Edge Archive handles the transfer of data from the internal DVR drives to Client storage, either on a NAS, a Raid, or a phased delivery to multiple external hard drives.

Being a Native app, the data transfer ensures that the quality of Live recordings are not impacted by a 3rd party program trying to access the same file that the DVR app is currently using. Ensuring recorded data

integrity and quality is of the highest importance.

Archive can act as a Simple data mirror of the correct internal drive data folders, or can be used to create multiple simultaneous backups of Client Deliverables. This can be done in continuous backup or a phased approach, ie. after each dive.

For more information or a demonstration of the system, contact: info@digitaledgesubsea.com or visit: www.digitaledgesubsea.com

range of applications across multiple industries, including aerospace, oil and gas, nuclear energy, the chemical and medical fields. The company works closely with both suppliers and end users to provide the best purpose-built screws possible, with customers across the UK and the US.

The current directors have more than 100 years of experience between them and are continuously engaging in plans to help the company become global leaders in screw manufacturing.

T +44 (0)1482 325676

www.kingston-engineering.co.uk

British Rema solution for Genesys International

Leading innovator in reverse osmosis (RO) membrane chemicals for the water treatment industry, Genesys International, turned to British Rema to help bring an outsourced powder manufacturing process in-house. With a view to generating new business, increasing operational efficiency and sustainability and to create new jobs at the company’s facility in Middlewich, Cheshire, the company opted for bespoke Ribbon Blenders to optimise production in-house.

British Rema is a global leader in powder processing equipment and provides specialist technical and engineering knowhow to a variety of industries. The brief from Genesys International was to provide a solution for blending batches of the company’s existing range of anti-scalants, cleaners, flocculants and biocides to the required powder specification

at optimum output.

To analyse the feasibility of the project and to optimise the process and agree the final scale of the equipment, the two companies worked in partnership to conduct mixing trials on a scaled version of the proposed Ribbon Blender design at the British Rema test facility in Chesterfield.

Following the success of the trials, the British Rema technical team designed a system comprising two 1,250 litre capacity ribbon blenders and proposed a further access platform option to offer additional blending capacity. This would offer Genesys the ability to run the blenders

autonomously and enable each unit to produce a different (discrete) formulation if required.

There are multiple benefits of the new ribbon blenders including the possibility of developing new, specialty products in-house; no longer having to rely on external manufacturing providers. By bringing production and distribution to the United Kingdom it allows the business to target larger markets with a more comprehensive range of concentrated powder products. www.britishrema.com www.genesysro.com

Industrial Humidifier and dehumidifier for perfect control in museum

What do you do with a museum and gallery where the humidity swings over a wide range –even when the temperature control is spot on?

The solution for St Albans Museum and Gallery was to add a humidifier and dehumidifier with a dedicated controller, so that – with a dead band – the system worked as a single unit to provide a stable humidity without affecting the temperature.

St Albans Museum and Gallery opened in June 2018, and aims to be a leading centre for arts and culture at the heart of one of Britain’s most historic cities. Set over three floors, the newly created state-of-the-art gallery spaces showcase over 2,000 years of priceless heritage and display contemporary artworks – sharing local, national and world treasures with all.

The existing system within the museum claimed to control the humidity by assuming that the moisture content of the outside air was always lower than the required humidity in the space. Therefore, when the humidity in the space increased fresh air was brought in.

However, with a set point of 18ºC and 50%rh, the outside air commonly has a moisture content higher than this and hence control was not possible; in fact in the summer months it just exacerbated the issue. In the winter, the desired humidity was simply not achieved. Control can only be achieved with a dehumidifier for the summer months and a humidifier primarily for the low moisture content cold winter period. Introduced into the temperature ducted system, the Vapac LE09D steam humidifier provided the addition of moisture, while the Cotes C30 dehumidifier provided the moisture removal from the fresh air coming into the system. The Neptronic HR020 controller provided the dedicated controls.

The result is a fully controllable, stable environment year round, protecting the precious artwork and treasures while also maintaining a comfortable and healthy environment for staff and visitors alike.

On a personal note this was an emotional project as we employed Mark Hanson to provide consultancy on the existing air conditioning system. Mark was a highly experienced and knowledgeable stalwart of the air conditioning industry, a lovely person and a huge character. Sadly Mark passed away just two weeks after our site visit and is missed by family, friends and colleagues.

Humidity Solutions designs, installs and maintains a comprehensive range of humidification and dehumidification systems of all capacities to suit a wide variety of industrial, commercial and domestic applications.

T 01372 571200

www.humiditysolutions.co.uk

From Weikersheim out into the wide world

spoken at Surplex. The approximately 200 experts throughout Europe relieve and support sellers and buyers in all phases of the buying and selling process.

Act locally and think globally: A steadily growing base of registered buyers is accessed via the worldwide Surplex network. This gives sellers direct access to the world's most interesting markets and thus optimal revenues. More than 200 Surplex employees at locations in 15 countries offer full service in over 20 languages.

The 15 Surplex locations are:

● Düsseldorf, Germany

● London, Great Britain

● Barcelona, Spain

● Torino, Italy

● Paris, France

● Myszków, Poland

● St. Pölten, Austria

● Biel (Bienne), Switzerland

● Budapest, Hungary

● Breukelen, the Netherlands

● Hofstade, Belgium

● Belgrade, Serbia

● Galati, Romania

● Porto, Portugal

● Brno, Czech Republic (and Slovakia) www.surplex.com

and metalworking sectors was auctioned off for the company’s own account. This also included large-scale marketing that appealed to potential buyers around the globe. The organ builder’s good international reputation also contributed to the sales success. Currently, the machines sold are being handed over to the customers. Once everything is settled, the empty premises will be handed over to the owner.

The bridge between online business and traditional machine trade

Only insiders knew that world-famous organs were built in the idyllic small town of Weikersheim (Germany). Now the industrial auction house Surplex has auctioned off all the machines and operating equipment of the tradition-rich organ builder all over the world. It is a success story, representative of many international auctions of used machines that find a new owner via Surplex.com.

Surplex record: bidders from 73 countries at one auction

In February, a two-day auction by industrial auction house Surplex.com of more than 1,100 lots from a renowned organ builder ended. A large selection of quality machines attracted a record-breaking nearly 1,600 potential buyers. In the end, over 27,000 bids were placed by 1,543 active bidders from 73 countries. From the small town of Weikersheim distributed all over the world. The basis for this success was the combination of the extensive range of high-quality equipment, a good price and the internationally active Surplex network.

Surplex had initially taken over the entire inventory at a fixed price, which provided the company with immediate liquidity. In Weikersheim, twelve Surplex employees were involved on site. “We first looked at everything very carefully for seven days,” says project manager Thomas Reichelt. The entire inventory was catalogued, machines measured and the weight estimated. The portfolio included various woodworking and metalworking machines (eg. CNC lathes, machining centres and punching machines) as well as other machine accessories and workshop equipment.

The high-quality equipment from the woodworking

From location X into the wide world Surplex is a local contact for an international market. The machinery dealer currently has locations in 15 European countries – more than any other industrial auction house in Europe. Each branch is headed by experienced country managers. They are specialists in the market potential of used machinery and know the special features of the national machinery markets inside out, including the rules for logistics, customs and taxes. Personal contact is the basis of co-operation: currently more than 20 languages are

Medical shops achieve surgical precision with deep hole drilling automation

Medically speaking, cutting people open is dangerous. Today, physicians get around this problem by using modern surgical instruments to perform minimally invasive procedures, which make major operations into simple outpatient appointments. But to accomplish these feats of surgical science, manufacturers in the medical industry have to drill small-diameter holes through the entire length of slightly larger instruments. Thin part

walls, intricate features, high surface quality and concentricity requirements, and extreme depth-todiameter (D:d) ratios make these parts a challenge in production.

A typical laparoscopic surgical instrument is designed to direct tools, cameras and other devices into the body through the instrument using a guide wire. And to ensure smooth, reliable and accurate performance during procedures, highly precise hole concentricity is required at D:d depth ratios well above 100:1, a challenge even for dedicated deep hole drilling equipment. With these challenges, it’s no surprise that many manufacturers try to skip the deep hole drilling process altogether by farming out the work, but going to outside suppliers brings its own problems. Pre-drilled blanks might solve the deep hole drilling problem, but they have to be fed into the machine one by one, defeating the whole purpose of using automation-ready Swissstyle machines. Meanwhile, cannulated bar stock allows shops to continue using their bar feeders, but it’s very expensive – and the hole quality and OD/ID concentricity rarely meet the needs of medical manufacturers anyway.

To overcome these challenges, medical manufacturers are turning to dedicated deep hole drilling equipment to finish instruments started on the Swiss-style machines. With an experienced gundrill operator, careful setup and a bit of finesse, the hole quality can be excellent, and it allows the Swiss-style machines to remain fully automated. The only remaining problem is part handling and transfer which introduces significant risks when the accuracy requirements are so high, and if the part has to be flipped to drill a stepped bore, that introduces more setup operations and more risk of human error.

What medical manufacturers need is a truly end-to-end automated process that allows for an efficient single-piece workflow for surgical instruments – and some deep hole drilling OEMs, such as UNISIG, have engineered all the technology required to meet this goal. The result is a complete system that offers easily automatable, on-demand deep hole drilling processes for the most demanding surgical instrument applications: the UNE6-2i.

As a twin-spindle machine with two independent drilling axes, the UNE6-2i inherently has the capabilities manufacturers expect from a high-performance deep hole drilling machine. Counter-rotation, specialised workholding and superior alignment and precision allow shops to confidently hold concentricity tolerances and minimise mismatches, even at the extreme D:d ratios common in the medical industry. In addition, the UNISIG Smart Control Interface simplifies operation, while an innovative flowbased coolant system automatically reacts to pressure changes for effective chip evacuation and high process security.

What allows the UNE6-2i to truly shine as a part of the surgical instrument production process, however, is the in-machine automation. After the front spindle drills the first hole, a robot takes it out of the spindle, puts the hole onto the second spindle, and loads another fresh blank into the first spindle. The robot’s perfect repeatability ensures the highest hole quality – and the only human labour required for the process is loading bar stock into the Swiss-style machines, preparing the blanks for the UNE62i’s robot and sending the finished parts on for post-processing.

The UNE6-2i’s capabilities also give manufacturers significant production flexibility. Two holes with two different diameters could be simultaneously drilled in a single part, or two parts could be in-process simultaneously to allow operators or robots to load and unload the machine without stopping. Alternately, this twin-spindle configuration can be used to drill halfway through a part from one end with the first spindle and allow the second spindle to finish the hole from the opposite end.

Contact www.unisig.com

Mimaki’s newest product series to transform the sign graphics and textile markets with improved efficiency and quality

Mimaki Europe recently announced a brand-new large format inkjet printer series, the 330 Series, including the JV330-160, CJV330-160 and TS3301600, as well as a new range of CG-AR cutting plotters. Launched during the company’s Global Innovation Days event, the 330 Series leverages Mimaki’s cross-platform strategy, to offer a high-end yet cost effective printing solution across several sectors. Similarly, the CG-AR Series offers users new workflow enhancing, entry-level cutting plotter technologies available in three sizes. Both launches align with Mimaki’s objective to grow both its high-end and entry-level product range, to further encourage and support customers expanding and improving upon their printing services and product offering.

Introducing Mimaki’s latest printers – the 330 Series

Following on from the success of the 100 and 300 Plus Series, the 330 Series was developed to offer mid- to high-end printing models, focusing on high image quality and productivity. As a company renowned for its high-colour range, Mimaki’s newest printers can achieve high resolution, durable prints for both the Sign Graphics and Textile industries.

The eco-solvent inkjet printers, the JV330-160 and CJV330-160, deliver the high-standard of colour required for indoor and outdoor sign graphics through the new ‘Deep Color Natural’ input profile, offering eye-catching and vivid solid colours, natural

skin tones, as well as deep reds and neutral greys. With printing speeds of 21.0m2/h during standard mode while using 4 colours, this printer is ideal for print jobs that require quick delivery. The in-built cleaning mechanisms and monitoring features ensure an efficient workflow and allow for longer running times.

Both models feature a newly designed unwinding system that allows three rolls of media to be loaded simultaneously, greatly reducing the time and manpower required to change print media. One operator can bring the desired media into position simply by turning the media changer. Another standard feature is an ‘XY slitter’ – a highly precise cutting technology, which provides in-line X-axis and Y-axis sheet-fed cutting. This eliminates the unwinding and rough cutting from the workflow, helping printers to significantly speed up and streamline the post-process, with less interference needed.

The print-only model JV330-160 as well as the integrated printer and cutter CJV330-160 will be available globally in April 2022.

In addition to the Sign Graphics solutions, Mimaki has also released the TS330-1600, a sublimation transfer inkjet printer, for the textile industry. Enabling both high production and high image quality, and equipped with new functions to improve

stable operation, the TS330-1600 can achieve a printing speed of 69m2/h in Draft mode with a 4-colour ink set, and the fastest mode reaching up to 135m2/h. The newest cleaning mechanism applies a cloth wiper that removes unwanted ink from the nozzle surface, reducing ink splatter and improving the overall upkeep of the machine.

The TS330-1600, also has optional add-ons to further increase efficiency, including the ‘10kg ink tank supply unit’, which reduces cost per cc compared to the standard 2L ink pack and allows for longer continuous printing. A mini jumbo roll unit can also be added to load long transfer paper and further reduce running costs.

An improved take-up system featuring dual motors equipped on both sides of the printer distributes the load and strengthens the winding power, allowing stable winding of printed paper even for long runs.

TxLink4, Mimaki’s RIP software dedicated to the textile market is included with every TS330-1600.

All products in the series are fitted with ‘Mimaki

Weaving Dot Technology’ (MWDT), a technology

that changes the order of ink droplet placement depending on the printing conditions – avoiding streaks or uneven printing due to print head or adjustment issues. ‘Mimaki Remote Access’ (MRA) is also available across the series, improving ease of use, by allowing users to remotely access the machine and check the operation status.

Increasing efficiency with entry-level CG-AR plotting cutter series

Alongside the 330 Series, Mimaki has also launched the CG-AR Series plotting cutters. Available in three different sizes (CG-60AR, CG-100AR and CG-130AR), these plotters go above and beyond current entrylevel options available today. Recognising customer demand of shorter delivery times, these cutters provide increased speed and accuracy, all with userfriendly operability. In addition, the cutters have the ability to handle a diverse range of materials, such as PVC, fluorescent and reflective sheets.

Similarly, the CG-AR Series is equipped with MRA, allowing for remote operation. It also features Mimaki’s ID Cut function, which allows integrated print-and-cut operations when used in combination with a Mimaki printer, by automatically retrieving cutting data via a barcode. The product range will be released worldwide in April 2022.

T +31 (0) 20 462 7640

www.mimakieurope.com

Advanced force measurement

manufactured by leading brands such as Interface, AMTI, XSENSOR and GP:50.

For over 25 years Interface Force has been supplying businesses with single axis, multi axis, force, torque and pressure measurement sensors. Commemorated as load cell, torque transducer and pressure sensor specialists, Interface Force has an extensive range of products to meet all customer requirements.

Established in 1996 by Neil J Johnstone, Managing Director, Interface Force is based in Crowthorne, Berkshire and works throughout the UK. There is a wide range of industry sectors and businesses that benefit from the vast amount of expertise and experience Interface Force has at its disposal. Some of these sectors include automotive, aerospace, oil and gas, defence, education, renewable energy research, pharmaceutical, food and drink and many more.

Its extensive product and service solutions helps to guide clients through what can be a difficult decisionmaking process, ensuring all requirements are met. All sensors and instrumentation products supplied by Interface Force are benchmark industry standard,

As an internationally recognised brand, Interface Force has a range of products from multi axis load cells, load buttons, load pins and supporting products that enable them to offer the client a complete solution. These can include single and multi-channel signal amplifiers, a wide range of displays, data loggers and data logging software, Bluetooth and wireless telemetry systems for remote data collection and evaluation, repair and calibration services.

“We supply very high-quality products and have vast expertise in giving advice for load cell proving devices. Our load cells have very high accuracy and come in many different configurations such as our latest series, the 2200 calibration column. It is available in 100K-lb and 200K-lb capacities and each load cell is supplied with an ASTM E74 calibration with ISO-376 available if required,” stated Tony Rokins, Business and Development Manager.

Interface Force offers bespoke, flexible services individual to each client’s requirements. The company work with the client offering advice on pre-sales, on and off-site and develop bespoke custom solutions or devices to meet necessary needs.

In recent developments, Interface Force

now distribute XSENSOR’s high speed pressure mapping system. It is the first system to design and allow product designers and safety testing engineers to see, record and evaluate the distribution of force from high-speed impacts on safety equipment such as helmets and body armour. Perfect for the automation sector, the mapping system can be used for collecting crash testing data I away not seen before. It can also record the force or pressure that is distributed during the impact from whiplash, seat belt and airbag testing.

Furthermore, Tony explained, “We are moving into a new direction, working with customers and businesses who need remote monitoring systems. A good example of this would be remote monitoring of airport luggage systems and conveyor belts. Our R&D team have been busy developing a wireless multi axis vibration sensor that has been specifically developed for a single customer, however, this product has multiple applications that can serve any business requiring help monitoring its conveyor systems. Alongside this, we also offer custom designed wireless load cells so the customer can monitor and be alerted

of any unexpected loads or changes on the conveyor system. They can then schedule maintenance for the system when it’s not in use, rather than respond to a breakdown.”

Interface Force has recently purchased several force calibration machines and is waiting for them to be tested and approved. Interface Force’s established expertise in load cell calibrations, means it is an area the company is keen to explore.

Tony described how he felt receiving our award, “We are very excited. We work very hard for our customers, so it’s always nice to receive some recognition.”

T 01344 776666 info@interface.uk.com www.interfaceforce.co.uk

TS330-1600 Dye Sublimation Inkjet Printer

JV330-160 Solvent Printer

CG-AR Series cutting plotters

CJV330-160 Solvent Print & Cut

WDS Components celebrates its 70th year anniversary

In this issue of Business and Industry Today, we are proud to announce that we have selected WDS Components as our Components & Accessories Company of the Year.

WDS Components is a leading European manufacturer and a global supplier of standard parts, machine accessories and components. The company was established in 1952 under the name Woodside Die Sinking Co Ltd, and this year the company sees its impressive 70th anniversary.

WDS Components maintains a modern European manufacturing facility which is integrated with its Global Distribution Centre, providing controlled and effective stock management. Utilising this control, the company is able to offer unrivalled lead times for customers, as the end to end process is managed in house resulting in orders being delivered to specification and importantly, on time. The company ships every working day using best in class couriers UPS and TNT. This provides typical transit times of next working day, for standard orders to Europe, and three working days, for standard orders outside of Europe.

Furthermore, WDS Components also maintains a range of flexible and cost effective delivery options, which can be tailored to meet customers specific needs. This means that customers can choose the delivery method based on the urgency of their needs. These delivery times include same day, next day, before a certain time or on a nominated day, sometime in the future. WDS Components also houses an experienced in house logistics team, enabling the company to ship on a global scale, at a competitive price.

WDS Components holds a diverse range of products, with a big emphasis being placed on providing continuous stock, high quality, superior performance, unrivalled choice and excellent value for money. Through this ethos, WDS Components ensures that its products are manufactured to internationally recognised and accredited quality standards, which are regularly and independently audited.

WDS Components offers a choice of order options, which include a specially developed website that enables customers to enjoy a full online experience including product selection, free 3D CAD model download and 24/7 ordering.

The company strives to stay ahead of the crowd, and regularly reviews the market to evaluate its product offering, with a view to ensure that its customers’ needs are met, now and into the future. As such, WDS Components adds new products to its range on a weekly basis.

Excelling in its expertise and design capabilities, WDS Components is equipped with the tools and skills to be able to offer a bespoke design if needed, offering an in-house design and manufacturing solution. WDS Components maintains a team of highly experienced, knowledgeable employees who offer support through every stage, from product selection or design to dispatch & after sales service.

In recent developments, WDS Components launched their Stock Guarantee last year. Stock Guarantee is exactly what it says on the tin; a product which is guaranteed to be in stock. Stock Guarantee is currently being offered on a growing number of WDS Components’ products and the company is that confident that if a Stock Guarantee product is not in stock, then the company will give its customers a 10% discount off that Stock Guaranteed item. If

you would like to find out which products are Stock

Guaranteed, look out for the ‘Stock Guaranteed’ logo across its website to see what’s included. In addition to the Stock Guarantee, WDS Components has also invested in new machines and launched more than 50 new products this year.

“We have invested in new machines this year and bought three new machines to increase capacity, reduce lead times and improve quality. We have also released a new catalogue at the start of the year –available free of charge to all customers,” said Mark Moody, Sales and Marketing Director.

WDS Components has also recently undergone many internal changes including changes to senior management, a new FD, new Sales & Marketing Director and has seen an increase in both its digital

and sales teams.

In regards to the COVID-19 pandemic, WDS Components did face new challenges, especially with the supply to OEMs being affected and as the economy slowed, some areas of manufacturing slowed down as well. Showcasing its resilience, WDS Components was able to maintain its operations efficiently through the pandemic and did not make any cuts as a result of COVID-19.

“We have had an interesting year dealing with the unprecedented challenges, from COVID, to global supply issues and of course the recent events in Western Europe. However, we have seen business returning from lock downs and COVID restrictions like everyone else. Some sectors are still waiting to get back to normal. We have seen our customers changing their own buying. In light of the above and to support this we introduced the stock guarantee which has grown to approaching 5,000 SKUs today. We have now recovered to better than pre-COVID levels,” added Mark.

As the company looks towards its future, WDS Components is committed to constantly developing and expanding its product offering for its customers, while also providing competitive pricing and guaranteeing high levels of stock. WDS Components looks forward to its 70th year in operation and plans to continue growing, through ‘good old fashioned organic growth.’

In closing, Mark added, “We plan to continue through organic growth, introducing new digital solutions, products, ranges and range extensions. Watch this space! We are delighted to be recognised as the best company during these challenging times. It is a great accolade and the whole team are really pleased to receive this. WDS is quite a private business and to be publicly recognised to be company of the year is brilliant. Thank you!”

T 0333 043 5443

www.wdscomponents.com