TEP ELECTRICAL NAMED ELECTRICAL WHOLESALER OF THE YEAR
TEP Electrical Distributors has been named Electrical Wholesaler of the Year at the Electrical Industry Awards 2025. The category, sponsored by WISKA, recognises wholesalers that combine strong business performance with outstanding customer support and a clear commitment to developing their people.
Now in its fourth generation and celebrating 105 years in business, TEP impressed the judging panel with exceptional service standards, tailored energy-efficient lighting solutions and a practical approach to sustainability. The judges commented: “TEP have done exceptionally well to stay an independent wholesaler and stay competitive with much wider national wholesalers.”
Sarah Marshall at TEP Electrical Distributors, said: “That’s our second national award this year – and we’re incredibly proud to have been named Wholesaler of the Year at the Electrical Industry Awards 2025.
For a single-branch business rooted in the North East, standing alongside some of the biggest names in the industry and being recognised nationally again is something we’ll never take for granted.
A heartfelt thank you to our customers for your continued trust, and to our incredible team for the care, consistency and commitment that make it possible.”
TLC Electrical received a Highly Commended in the category.
The Electrical Industry Awards are organised by Electrical Times and W&ED. This year’s ceremony highlighted the innovation, resilience and professionalism of the UK electrical sector. The event was supported by main sponsor Luckins Live, section sponsor Aico, and category sponsors WISKA, and NAPIT.
UPDATE
The projects, people and trade issues making
the news
Industry leaders recognised at the Electrical Industry Awards 2025
The Electrical Industry Awards 2025, presented by Electrical Times and W&ED, once again shone a spotlight on excellence, innovation and achievement across the UK’s electrical sector. At 12 noon today (Thursday, October 23), the finalists and winners of this year’s Electrical Industry Awards were announced at a virtual ceremony, presented by meteorologist and BBC weather presenter Sarah Keith-Lucas. This year’s ceremony celebrated the professionals, companies and products driving the industry forward – from groundbreaking technologies and sustainable projects to exceptional training initiatives and community impact. The judging panel, comprising representatives from leading industry bodies including the ECA, JIB, LIA, NAPIT and NICEIC, praised the exceptional quality and innovation demonstrated across all categories.
Speaking at the event, Sarah Keith-Lucas. said: “Over the past year, electrical contracting
has faced new regulations, evolving standards and shifting market demands, yet the sector has continued to rise to the challenge. From accelerating low-carbon technologies to keeping communities powered and safe, our industry has once again proved its resilience and innovation.”
A total of 12 awards were presented, recognising standout achievements across products, projects, contracting, and wholesaling. The event was supported by main sponsor Luckins Live, section sponsor Aico, and category sponsors WISKA, and NAPIT.
A huge congratulations to the finalists and winners of this year’s Awards, and a big thank you to the sponsors and judging panel for helping us to put this event together.
To watch the awards ceremony, visit: www. electricaltimes.co.uk
For a full list of winners and highly commended, visit: https://www.electricaltimes. co.uk/electrical-industry-awards/2025winners/
Waste Experts becomes a Certified B Corporation
After 20 months of hard work, dedication, and collaboration across every part of the business, Waste Experts is proud to announce it is now a Certified B Corporationjoining a global movement of companies using business as a force for good.
This certification, granted by the non-profit B Lab, verifies that the company meets high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability.
“This recognition proudly positions us among the UK’s leading purpose-driven businesses and champions of responsible growth,” said Shaun Donaghey, Managing Director at Waste Experts.
“It’s a shining testament to the values that inspire and drive everything we do - proving that when we work together, we can make a measurable, positive difference.”
To achieve certification, Waste Experts underwent a rigorous evaluation through the B Impact Assessment, a detailed review of policies, practices, and performance across five key areas: Governance, Workers, Community, Environment, and Customers.
Waste Experts has earned a B Impact Score of 105.3, far exceeding the 80 points required for certification and more than double the global median of 50.9. This reflects its ongoing work to create a culture of integrity, inclusion, environmental responsibility, highlighting its commitment to continuous improvement.
This success belongs to everyone across Waste Experts. From operations to leadership, every team member played a vital part in bringing its purpose to life.
“We had to prove that our actions matched our words,” added Shaun.
“That makes this achievement even more meaningful - it’s built on transparency, accountability, and collective belief.”
Waste Experts is now part of a worldwide community of businesses working together to build an inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economy. Over the coming months, the company will share more about what this means for its people, its partners, and its ongoing sustainability journey.
Niglon expands into Test Equipment through agreement with KPS
Niglon has always prided itself on offering electrical wholesalers a comprehensive selection of products designed to meet the diverse needs of professionals working in domestic, commercial, and industrial environments. With over 4,500 items available for sameday dispatch anywhere in the UK, the company strives to be a onestop shop for electrical essentials.
In 2024 the family-run distributor partnered with KPS, a leading Spanish manufacturer of high-quality test instruments. Through the agreement, Niglon exclusively supports the sale and distribution of KPS test equipment across the UK and Irish electrical wholesale markets. This significant milestone enables Niglon to offer its valued customers a wider range of reliable, precise, and affordable test instruments, backed by the high standards of customer service that they’ve proudly maintained for over 70 years.
One area in which Niglon has seen particular success is the point-of-sale counter displays, which have been widely taken up in the first few months of trading. These displays, stocked with the fastest moving KPS items (voltage pens and socket testers) allow wholesalers to trial the company’s offering with very little risk associated. It is also an eye catching and innovative way of displaying a brand new to most UK electrical contractors. With an exceptionally low carriage paid, Niglon is the perfect distribution partner for a wholesaler wishing to trial a new range of test equipment, as most product can be ordered back-to-back and in store stock can be kept to a minimum.
SOUTH WEST ENTREPRENEURS
RELAUNCH SWINDON
ELECTRICAL SUPPLIERS
Oliver Hinley, Director at Niglon, commented “This partnership is an exciting step forward in our range offering. We are committed to working with KPS to deliver high-quality products whilst also offering the technical guidance and support necessary for our customers to make better buying decisions.”
Niglon’s focus has always been on providing high-quality products backed by exceptional customer service, and this partnership will be no different. We are working closely with KPS to ensure that both companies offer the necessary technical guidance and support for the full range of test equipment. In addition, KPS backs its products with a three-year warranty and lifetime technical support, giving customers the peace of mind they need.
For more information or to get in touch with our team, visit niglon.co.uk or call 0121 711 1990.
Product data expert, Phil Thompson, joins ETIM UK and Ireland
To boost support for businesses that are keen to adopt the ETIM data standard in the UK and Ireland, Phil Thompson, former Procurement Data Manager at NG Bailey, the UK’s largest independent engineering and infrastructure services provider, has joined the team as ManagerETIM UK and Ireland Limited.
This is a new role reflecting the increased demand by businesses for technical and practical ETIM support. Phil will divide his time between the Electrical Distributors’ Association (EDA) and their ETIM work in the electrotechnical sector, and the Builders Merchants Federation (BMF), covering businesses in the building materials, HVAC and plumbing sectors. The EDA and BMF are partners in ETIM UK and Ireland.
Phil will focus on continued development and improvement of the ETIM standard in response to feedback from EDA and BMF members and, specifically, to meet the needs of the UK and Irish markets.
Margaret Fitzsimons, CEO at the EDA and Board Member at ETIM International, said of the appointment: “We are delighted that the EDA and BMF now have additional resources to support the businesses we represent, and Phil is tailor-made for this role. He brings a
thorough understanding of the product data landscape in the UK’s construction sector and the part that the ETIM standard plays in improving the accuracy and consistency of product information as it is shared through the supply chain, particularly its contribution to building safety. On this last point, Phil will continue in his role as chair of the GS1 UK Construction Sector User Group and as a Verifier for the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI), alongside his new ETIM responsibilities.”
Of his appointment, Phil added “After many years of working alongside trade associations, I’m excited to be joining ETIM UK and Ireland and look forward to supporting both the BMF and the EDA to increase adoption and raise awareness of the need for high quality product data across the construction sector.”
ETIM UK and Ireland has been promoting and managing the standard in the UK since 2017, and is a partnership between the Electrical Distributors’ Association (EDA) and the Builders Merchants Federation (BMF). Both companies recognise the growing importance of high quality reliable, digitalised data for their supply chains and are championing digitalisation amongst their membership.
Three Wiltshire-based entrepreneurs –Rob Appleby, Cameron Carash and Andy Young have each taken a third share of Swindon electrical wholesale store, New Edition Electrical Supplies. The company was previously called A&E Electrical Wholesalers and had been operating for over ten years. Now under new management, it has undergone a complete rebrand to bring a fresh approach to electrical wholesale in West Swindon. Cameron, whose other business, Hus & Home made the news last year for supplying Netflix with furniture for its production sets, joins co-directors Rob and Andy in running the business. Andy was previously the sole owner of the firm.
New Edition Electrical Supplies will be completely independent, which means it is not tied to any national suppliers – allowing the partners to focus on what’s best for local electricians, contractors, and even members of the public tackling their own home projects.
The shop is stocked with some of the best-known brands in the industry – including Fusebox, Wago, CK Tools, Knightsbridge, CTC, and more. Additionally, a new online store will be launching soon to make ordering even easier and allow both collection and delivery of thousands of products which the firm has in stock.
Cameron said: “We’re looking forward to what this is going to be. We aim to compete with the big chains and other regional firms around the area. Strategically, we’re located to hopefully attract a lot of West Swindon business and are the only electrical wholesaler this side of town. Whether it’s a few essentials or a full project’s worth of equipment, we’re ready to help.”
Once the website goes live, customers will be able to visit: neweditionelectricalsupplies.co.uk.
SPDs: A simple guide to BS7671:2018 SURGE PROTECTION &
There are still so many questions surrounding the use and application of surge protection devices, below details an introduction to what type of device is needed and when surge protection is required under BS7671
Surge protective devices (SPDs) play a vital role in safeguarding electrical installations against transient overvoltages caused by lightning strikes or switching events. Understanding when and where to install the correct type of SPD is essential to ensure compliance with BS 7671 and to protect both wiring and connected equipment from potential damage. The following guidance outlines the different SPD types and the key regulations governing their installation.
WHAT TO INSTALL
There are three types of SPDs depending on what you want to protect. If you are looking to protect a distribution board or consumer unit, it will be a type 1 or type 2 SPD. If you wanted to protect a specific piece of equipment, such as a fuse spur or single socket, it would be a type 3.
A Type 1 device would only be required where there is an external lightning protection system or the installation has an overhead supply. For all other circumstances, a type 2 device will be sufficient to provide adequate protection for distribution boards. Where protection against overvoltages is required for specific equipment, a type 3 device may be used to provide protection.
WHEN ARE SPDS REQUIRED:
Regulation 443.4.1: Protection against transient overvoltages shall be provided where the consequence caused by overvoltage could:
i. Result in serious injury to, or loss of human life, or
ii. Deleted by Corrigendum May 2023
iii. Result in significant financial loss or data loss
For all other cases SPDs shall be fitted to protect against transient overvoltages, unless
the owner of the installation declines such protection and wishes to accept the risk of damage to both wiring and equipment.
The requirement to install SPDs where the consequences could result in serious injury to, or loss of human life is the most onerous requirement. This will mean that any distribution board supplying electrical equipment that is installed to protect life or prevent injury will require an SPD.
Indent three is similar to the previous requirement where an SPD should be installed where commercial or industrial activity could be interrupted, the requirement now is that an SPD shall be provided where the consequence caused by overvoltage could result in significant financial or data loss.
The basic position of section 443 is now that SPDs shall be installed. In practical terms, most installations will have distribution boards that require surge protection due to the indents above, so it would only be distribution boards that did not require surge protection, as no circuits outlined in regulation 443.4.1 were present. Then a discussion is encouraged between the electrical designer and the client to ensure that no unacceptable losses occur from overvoltage, while also considering the requirements to protect against switching overvoltages from regulation 443.4.2.
Something important to remember is that if the building has an external lightning protection system, then the requirements of BS EN 62305 applies, which means that a Type 1 SPD is a requirement in these cases and BS 7671 do not apply.
I hope this article has provided some guidance on the requirements from BS 7671:2018, if you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch at info@ surgedevices.co.uk www.surgedevices.co.uk
MARSHALL-TUFFLEX COVER STORY
Strength and compliance with metal cable management
Terry Adams , Technical Services Manager at Marshall-Tufflex outlines what wholesalers
should know about metal cable management systems to best support their customers
There is no one size fits all solution when it comes to choosing cable management systems. The correct product for any job will depend on a range of factors including the type of building, the number and type of cables that needs to be contained, occupant requirements, budgetary constraints, and risks present in the environment. There are many situations where metal systems are ideal to meet the technical and project requirements.
PHYSICAL PROTECTION
While PVC-U systems can provide sufficient protection for many applications, there are environments where enhanced physical protection of cables is necessary. Regulation 522.6 of the IET Wiring Regulations 18th Edition (BS 7671) provides guidance on protecting cables from the risk of ‘external influences’ such as impact, abrasion, penetration, tension and compression. It specifies that in environments where medium or high severity impacts can occur – categorised as AG2 and AG3 –cables should be protected using one or a combination of: the mechanical characteristics of the system, the installation location, and additional protection, such as a barrier to prevent impacts.
In environments such as warehouses and factories where equipment and materials are moved frequently, increasing the risk of impacts, metal cable trunking systems can
provide a solution. The physical strength of the metal trunking makes it resistant to impact, which not only prevents damage to the cables but also minimises damage to the trunking itself compared with PVC-U to reduce maintenance costs.
In terms of installing the cables in a location that minimises the risk of damage, often the most practical approach is to utilise ceiling mounted cable trays and baskets. Metal cable tray systems in particular can provide a strong, high-capacity option, ideal where a large number of cables or heavier armoured cable must be supported.
COUNTERING EMI
Electromagnetic interference (EMI) on data cables can be a serious issue and is caused by routing a large number of power and data cables together as well as nearby electrical equipment. To prevent EMI, the power and data cables need to be separated by a material that
provides shielding – such as steel or aluminium. Although this can be achieved by fitting metal dividers into PVC-U trunking, this does not protect against external sources of EMI. As such, metal trunking systems with metal dividers can provide more complete EMI protection.
FIRE SAFETY
The performance of cable management in the event of a fire is another essential consideration. Regulation 521.10.202 of the Wiring Regulations requires that all cables be adequately supported using non-combustible fixings to prevent premature collapse in the event of a fire. This is because, where cable management systems fail due to the heat of a fire, falling cables present a serious hazard to both those evacuating and firefighters moving into and through the building. Sadly, there have been a number of cases of firefighters losing their lives after becoming entangled in fallen cables and being unable to escape.
In practice, the regulation means that cables need to be fixed to a fire-resistant element of the building using a material that can resist temperatures of 1000°C for up to 120 minutes. There are two acceptable approaches to achieving this as outlined in the regulations.
The first is to use steel cable management systems. Depending on the composition, steel has a melting point of between 1200ºC and 1,500ºC, meaning steel products can effectively protect the cables from falling during a fire.
It is important to note that while highly resistant to heat, aluminium has a melting point of 655ºC and as such does not meet the standard set by the regulations. Therefore, if aluminium cable management systems are used, the cables must be secured using steel fixings.
Understanding the benefits of metal cable management systems and how they help achieve the requirements of the regulations will help wholesaler teams to make informed and valuable recommendations to customers. The Marshall-Tufflex range includes a wide range of metal trunking, cable tray and wire basket products in addition to PVC-U and GRP options. For more information visit marshall-tufflex.com.
EDA UPDATE
From pressure to progress: Navigating supply chain pressures, digitalisation and embracing innovation
The Electrical Distributors’ Association (EDA) shares some of the big themes affecting the wholesalers’ world
Electrical wholesalers are the critical link in the supply chain between manufacturers and installers so they are constantly trying to anticipate and absorb any up-stream friction, cost pressure, or delay for the benefit of their contractor customers, as well as looking ahead for insights that drive business growth.
GENERAL CHALLENGES AND COSTS OF RUNNING A BUSINESS
The EDA regularly monitors market conditions and keeps track of challenges and market shifts through meetings with members, dialogue with industry associations and economic forecasters and its quarterly State of the Sector Survey. This is sent separately to wholesalers and their upstream manufacturer suppliers so that the views of two steps of the supply chain can be collected and compared. In addition to the usual questions about market growth and sector forecasts, the latest survey revealed issues that are concerning our members, many of which also have an impact on contractor customers:
• Delays to large projects and the impact of an under-resourced Building Safety Regulator
• Understanding Artificial Intelligence: its use, impact, and threats
• The difficulties of embracing the green tech renewables business opportunity, including heat pumps
• Pricing fluctuations, and
• Late payments and the cash-flow impact on a business
Electrical wholesalers and manufacturers are facing the same cost increases across the board, as is every other UK business: wage bills and NI, freight and transport costs, energy bills, insurance premiums, council tax, rental costs
for business premises and so on. As a result, some businesses are facing difficult decisions as these EDA businesses leaders share:
“Overall reduction in profitability, additional costs not able to pass on due to competitive market pricing.”
“We have had to make redundancies both in Q4 2024 and Q1 2025”
“We are analysing and reducing all costs to the business where possible.”
“Compliance, tax and NI changes are killing businesses and with unemployment sure to rise, I find it hard they [UK government] are ignoring the very thing they should be helping.”
NEW PACKAGING WASTE LAWS
As if all the above concerns are not enough, manufacturer and wholesaler businesses have to contend with recent new government requirements around all packaging that passes through their businesses. The so-called Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policy changes the way UK organisations carry out their recycling responsibilities and applies new financial penalties.
These new regulations apply to businesses in every sector of the UK economy – from construction to supermarkets. In the electrotechnical sector this is impacting on both manufacturers and wholesalers. PackUK is the scheme administrator and according to the government’s website “will shift the cost of managing household packaging waste from taxpayers and local authorities to those businesses who use and supply the packaging, applying the ‘polluter pays’ principle.”
The more packaging waste ending up in consumer/household curb-side collections the
more a business will be financially liable and receiving invoices from PackUK – unless the business can prove otherwise.
As you can imagine, there has been much discussion along the supply chain, and the EDA along with our fellow supply chain trade associations, is tracking the EPR impact closely.
DIGITALISATION: TRUST IN PRODUCT DATA IS
A BIG PART OF CUSTOMERS’ BUYING DECISIONS
Wholesalers are seeing increased demand from their contractor customers for reliable product data to support quotations, bids, O&M manuals and increasingly for Golden Thread requirements and BIM. The onus will always be on the manufacturer to be the original source of accurate and up-to-date product information but the role of the wholesaler in passing this information along the supply chain to the contractor is becoming increasingly important.
In 2020 the EDA launched the EDATA data pool, where manufacturers share their enriched product information and images with multiple EDA wholesalers and branches. By 2025, the data pool has swelled to over 311,000 products (and counting) from 100+ leading brands and picked up a national award for “Innovation of the Year.”
Behind the scenes, EDATA is connected with a growing number of other software systems that power wholesaler businesses. Chances are electrical wholesalers are already consuming EDATA’s contents - possibly without realising where all that rich product information is coming from. Every EDA wholesaler has free access to EDATA, and use its contents to support their sales:
• Technical look-up to resolve trade counter queries quickly
• Bulk data feeds to drive e-commerce
• On demand Product Data Sheets in a consistent format, perfect for quotes, tenders, submittals, O&M Manuals. It’s the consistent format of these Data Sheets which contractors like, making product comparisons much easier.
IDEAS THAT POWER GROWTH: LIGHT + BUILDING 2026, FRANKFURT
In March 2026, the EDA will lead a UK delegation of 30 - 40 wholesalers to the international showcase for this sector – Light + Building in Frankfurt. Following the success of the EDA’s previous visits in 2018 and 2024, this will mark the Association’s third delegation to this awe-inspiring exhibition which is on a scale not available here in the UK.
As the world stage for electrotechnical innovation, Light + Building is a unique opportunity for UK wholesalers to experience first-hand the trends and developments shaping the industry. The EDA’s itinerary, designed to support EDA Affiliate Manufacturers that are exhibiting at the show or attending to explore it, gives delegates a stress-free experience, allowing them to fully absorb the latest trends and ideas. By bringing
these insights back to their businesses and sharing them with customers, wholesalers can shape demand and drive growth.
ADAPTING TO AN EVOLVING MARKET
Amid rising costs, new regulations, and a rapidly digitalising world, electrical wholesalers are proving that challenge fuels opportunity. By leveraging tools like EDATA, staying ahead
of legislative changes, and exploring global innovations at events such as Light + Building, they are not just keeping the supply chain moving - they are shaping the future of the industry. Those who embrace technology, anticipate market shifts, and bring fresh ideas to their customers are the ones driving growth, setting new standards, and turning pressure into progress.
Introducing Deligo’s new fixing pack for rubber mounting feet
Deligo is pleased to announce it’s new Fixing Pack, designed to provide a secure and reliable installation for rubber mounting feet, strut feet, and air source heat pump feet. Whether you’re working on HVAC systems, pipework, cable trays, or solar installations, this pack includes all the essential components for a stable, professional fit.
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE FIXING PACK?
To ensure a quick and efficient installation, each pack contains:
• 2 x M10 x 40mm T-Bolts
• 2 x M10 Washers
• 2 x M10 Hex Nuts
The Fixing pack is ideal for installers looking for a secure and durable fixing solution, helping to keep installations in place even in demanding environments.
RUBBER MOUNTING FEET – A VERSATILE SUPPORT SOLUTION
Looking for rubber mounting feet? Our heavyduty Rubber Mounting Feet provide exceptional support for cable trays, HVAC units, pipework, and solar thermal/PV systems. Designed for both indoor and outdoor use, they are
manufactured from heavy recycled rubber with an aluminium channel for enhanced durability.
KEY BENEFITS OF RUBBER MOUNTING FEET
• Anti-vibration support – reduces noise and prevents movement
• Flexible installation – can be drilled for permanent fixing or left as a freestanding base to protect roofing systems
• Integrated spirit levels – for precise positioning and easy setup
Deligo’s Rubber Mounting Feet are available for purchase alongside the new Fixing Pack, ensuring you have everything needed for a secure and professional installation. Explore at: deligo.co.uk/ProductGrp/RubberMounting-Feet and deligo.co.uk/Products/ frames-and-mounting-supports/SFFIX
25 per cent of tradespeople plan to retire in the next five years
The UK is facing a growing trade skills shortage, with one in four tradespeople planning to retire within the next fi ve years, according to Screwfi x ’s 2025 Voice of the Trade report
With the UK already facing a shortfall of 250,000 tradespeople by 2030, the 2025 Voice of the Trade report from Screwfix highlights the increasingly urgent need for government action to address the growing skills gap, which will be key to delivering national priorities, including the pledge to build 1.5 million new homes and retrofit over 15 million properties to meet energy efficiency standards.
The report, based on insights from 700 trade professionals, reveals a sector under pressure. With just 24 per cent of tradespeople under the age of 44, the pipeline of talent is declining, and small businesses are struggling to recruit and train the next generation. Alongside recruitment challenges, the report highlights the pressure many tradespeople face as rising costs and administrative burdens continue to bite. More than a third say customers are negotiating harder on price, while nearly a quarter admit they can’t afford to take time off work.
FIVE KEY ACTIONS FOR GOVERNMENT
To address these challenges, Screwfix’s Voice of the Trade report outlines five key actions tradespeople want to see from policymakers:
1. Incentivise Apprenticeships: Provide direct grants to help SMEs and sole traders train apprentices to full qualification, creating a robust talent pipeline.
2. Flexible Apprenticeship Models: Encourage flexi-apprenticeship schemes that allow trades to share apprentices and ensure colleges support apprentices to complete their courses.
3. Encourage Trade Careers: The education system should champion the trades as fulfilling careers, including financial support for apprentices that matches university pathways.
4. Upskilling on Trades’ Terms: Push training providers to offer courses at times that suit tradespeople’s schedules.
5. Support Small Businesses: Simplify VAT and accounting processes and streamline professional accreditation to reduce administrative burdens.
Despite the barriers, 64 per cent of tradespeople who had employed an apprentice last year would like to do so again, while 46 per cent of young people surveyed expressed interest in pursuing a career in the trades.
John Mewett, CEO of Screwfix, commented: “Our 2025 Voice of the Trade report underscores the urgent need for action to support the UK’s tradespeople. The anticipated skills gap, driven by retirements and a shortage of people entering the trades, poses a significant threat to achieving national housing and Net Zero targets.
“To secure the future of the trade sector, it’s essential to incentivise apprenticeships by offering direct grants that enable SMEs and sole traders to fully train apprentices, building a strong talent pipeline. Equally important is an education system that champions the trades as a respected and rewarding career, integrating hands-on learning in schools, comprehensive career guidance, and financial support for apprenticeships on par with university pathways.”
From shining a light on skilled tradespeople through its annual awards Screwfix Top Tradesperson and Screwfix Trade Apprentice, to funding the training aspect of Construction apprenticeships through a partnership with BESAS, a national collaboration of flexi-job apprenticeship agencies; Screwfix is committed to playing its part in championing trade skills.
The Voice of Trade survey received 681 responses from Screwfix trade customers, followed by 20 in-store interviews with store customers. The Career Aspirations survey received 116 responses from the children of our Screwfix panellists. The results of this have been included in this report where relevant, and full results are available separately.
For further information or to get a copy of the Voice of the Trade report, visit: https://www.screwfix.com/landingpage/trade-link
“ Our 2025 Voice of the Trade report underscores the urgent need for action to support the UK’s tradespeople. The anticipated skills gap, driven by retirements and a shortage of people entering the trades, poses a significant threat to achieving national housing and Net Zero targets.”
Five trends shaping the future of construction in Scotland
Astrak, a Fife-based global supplier of heavy machinery parts, has identified the fi ve key trends that will shape Scotland’s construction landscape over the next fi ve years
Scotland is on the brink of a construction boom, experts predict, with billions being channelled into renewable energy, affordable housing and environmental restoration.
While the wider UK construction industry is entering a pivotal period, facing rising costs and skill shortages, Scotland’s combination of offshore wind development, affordable housing targets and environmental restoration initiatives is driving growth.
RENEWABLE PROJECTS WILL DEFINE THE COMING YEARS
Scotland already has one of the largest offshore wind pipelines in Europe, with more than 10 GW of capacity in development, including floating wind proposals such as the 560 MW Green Volt scheme off the northeast coast. Developers are also investing in supporting infrastructure, with Sumitomo building a £350 million high-voltage cable plant at Nigg that will employ around 150 people. This scale of investment points to a longer-term boom in foundations, subsea cabling, heavy plant operations and maintenance work across the north and islands, strengthening Scotland’s position as a construction hotspot.
HOUSING PRESSURES WILL DRIVE INVESTMENT SURGE
In 2024–25, just 19,288 new homes were completed in Scotland – a 4 per cent drop on the previous year and the lowest level since 2017–18 (excluding the Covid-impacted year). New starts fell by 11 per cent to 15,053, their lowest point since 2012–13. However, the Scottish Government has committed to delivering 110,000 affordable homes by 2032, with £768 million allocated to the Affordable Housing Supply Programme in 2025–26 alone. This pipeline includes thousands of new sites, stalled development upgrades and expanded rural housing provision. The challenge now shifts from funding to delivery, requiring major infrastructure investment.
RISING COSTS WILL PUSH FIRMS TOWARDS EFFICIENCY
With workloads dipping in 2025 and costs for labour and materials remaining high, the industry is under pressure to work smarter. Offsite and modular methods are playing a growing role in Scotland, particularly in housing, where factory-built elements can help reduce waste and speed up delivery. Reports on offsite construction have shown recycling rates of up to 86 per cent of materials, compared with around 75 per cent for traditional builds. Alongside this, contractors are placing greater emphasis on procurement discipline, leaner supply chains and just-in-time delivery to keep projects viable.
SKILLS SHORTAGES WILL SPARK AN INNOVATION DRIVE
Shortages of skilled roles remain a key issue. Around half of Scottish survey respondents in 2025 flagged gaps in key areas such as quantity surveyors, bricklayers and other construction professionals. In response, firms are expanding apprenticeship and graduate schemes to develop digital and technical talent. Some organisations are beginning to
embed digital tools such as 3D modelling, site-tracking and predictive analytics to improve efficiency. In the equipment sector, predictive maintenance systems that use sensors and data analysis are helping contractors anticipate failures before they occur. Contractors may also increasingly rotate personnel between different project types and explore remote monitoring to reduce relying on constant on-site labour.
SUSTAINABILITY WILL BECOME STANDARD
Environmental responsibility is no longer a side consideration. Scotland’s commitment to restore 250,000 hectares of peatland by 2030 is already creating demand for specialist low ground pressure (LGP) machinery such as tracked dumpers, 8–14 tonne excavators and tiltrotators. Operators need both excavation expertise and ecological knowledge to avoid damaging fragile sites, meaning contractors with environmental skills will be in growing demand. Alongside this, the Scottish Government’s Infrastructure Investment Plan places net zero as a core theme for all major projects, making sustainability a baseline requirement across the sector.
Find out more at astrak.com
The ALVA Series: A profitable choice for electrical wholesalers
In a market that demands reliability, value and EV readiness, Di-LOG’s ALVA Series of Multifunction Testers stands out. Combining professional-grade performance, strong marketing support and an optional fi ve-year aftercare plan, it is fast becoming the tester range electricians ask for by name, says David Sweetman , Managing Director, Commercial, Di-LOG Group
In a competitive wholesale landscape, success hinges on offering products that electricians trust, tools that deliver solid margins, consistent sell-through, and minimal returns. The Di-LOG ALVA Series of Multifunction Testers (MFTs) is already gaining traction across the UK, thanks to a nationwide marketing push and rising demand for costeffective, professional-grade testing equipment. Whether your customers are domestic installers, commercial contractors, or EV specialists, the ALVA Series provides tailored solutions that make your branch their go-to destination.
The range includes the ALVA MFT, ALVA MFT Pro, ALVA MFT EV, and ALVA MFT Pro EV, alongside essential EVSE adaptors: the DLEVLite and DLEV1. The ALVA MFT is a budget-friendly, fully featured tester for everyday use, while the ALVA MFT Pro adds enhanced diagnostics and onboard data storage, ideal for commercial and industrial applications. The ALVA MFT EV comes with the DLEVLite adaptor for compliant testing of Type 2 EV chargers. The ALVA MFT
Pro EV includes the DLEV1 adaptor, supporting both Type 1 and Type 2 chargers, and enables full Auto EV safety verification by combining earth loop, 6mA RDC-PD/MD, and RCD tests into one streamlined process. This modular lineup allows you to stock a variety of price points and capabilities, appealing to everyone from sole traders to large-scale contractors. Electricians today are navigating tighter budgets, evolving regulations, and growing demand for EV infrastructure. The ALVA Series is built to meet these challenges. Each tester features a full-colour TFT display and an intuitive interface for quick, accurate readings. Auto Start Loop and Continuity Testing save
time on site, while comprehensive RCD testing, including AC, A, F, EV, B & B+ and Selective types, ensures compatibility with both legacy and modern systems. Rechargeable models help reduce operating costs and downtime, making them ideal for professionals working across multiple locations. For your customers, this means faster testing, fewer errors, and greater confidence, all at a price that fits today’s market.
EV testing is one of the fastest-growing segments in the industry, and the ALVA Series delivers a complete solution when paired with the right EVSE adaptor. The ALVA MFT performs the critical 6mA RDC-PD/MD test required for EV charge point verification. The ALVA MFT EV, with the DLEVLite adaptor, offers a portable, cost-effective solution for Type 2 charger testing. For contractors handling both domestic and commercial EV installations, the ALVA MFT Pro EV is the ultimate package. Bundled with the DLEV1 adaptor, it enables testing of both Type 1 and Type 2 chargers and provides automated EV safety verification, reducing the risk of oversight and boosting efficiency. These kits are already being adopted by contractors working with leading EV charge point brands, and they’re actively seeking local suppliers who can deliver quickly.
To support your sales team, Di-LOG’s regional agents will be equipped with demo units of the ALVA Series. This hands-on experience helps your staff understand the product and confidently promote it to customers. In-branch training and walkthroughs are available to ensure your team is well-versed in the key features and benefits, helping them close sales more effectively.
A standout feature of the ALVA Series is its industry-first optional five-year support package, a major selling point for electricians looking to protect their investment. This plan
includes annual calibration, firmware updates with a guaranteed 72-hour turnaround, a five-year warranty covering parts and labour, replacement leads in years two and four, and fixed-cost accidental damage repair. This level of aftercare reduces returns, builds customer loyalty, and gives you a valuable upsell opportunity at the point of sale.
Di-LOG is backing the ALVA Series with a comprehensive national marketing campaign to drive awareness and demand. This includes targeted digital ads, trade press coverage, product reviews, and social media content showcasing real-world applications. In-branch point-of-sale materials are available, along with custom digital PDFs and sales videos for your team. The goal is simple: make the ALVA Series a must-have for electricians, and make your branch the place to get it.
The market is evolving. Electricians are actively seeking reliable, affordable alternatives to highpriced testers, especially in today’s economic climate. The ALVA Series delivers professionalgrade performance at a sensible price. With EV work on the rise and compliance more critical
than ever, demand for multifunction testers is growing, and the ALVA Series is ready to meet it. By stocking the ALVA Series, you’re not just adding another tester to your shelves, you’re offering a complete solution that meets the changing needs of your customers. With strong demand, attractive margins, low return rates, and a flexible product range, the ALVA Series is a
smart commercial investment. Add in the exclusive support package and in-branch demo support, and you’ve got a product line that’s built to sell.
Be part of the ALVA success story. Visit www. dilog.co.uk/ALVA or contact your Di-LOG account manager to place your order and request your in-branch marketing pack.
EV FOCUS ON
Broken trust: are broken chargers driving your business backwards?
Paul Winchester ,
Director
of Fleet at Mer UK , explores how EV charging reliability
underpins fleet productivity, protects margins, and keeps businesses on track to meet their commercial and environmental goals. As fleets electrify, charger uptime is becoming a critical factor in keeping vehicles moving and customers satisfied
EV charger uptime isn’t just a maintenance concern; it’s a critical business issue. For fleet operators, the ability to keep vehicles on the road directly impacts service delivery, revenue generation, and customer satisfaction. Downtime from unreliable or broken chargers can grind operations to a halt, disrupt tight schedules, and risk damage to your brand.
DOWNTIME DOESN’T JUST DELAY YOUR FLEET – IT COSTS YOUR BUSINESS
Running a fleet today means facing a constant balancing act: maintaining high vehicle utilisation while keeping operational costs under control. Whether your business depends on moving goods, supporting a mobile workforce, or delivering last-mile logistics, your vehicles are a key driver of value and revenue. While many organisations focus on fuel, maintenance, and staffing, the reliability of EV charging infrastructure is often underestimated. And yet, for businesses transitioning to electric fleets, broken or unreliable chargers don’t just cause inconvenience, they create operational risk. A charger fault can delay deliveries, breach SLAs, increase costs from backup vehicles or compensation, and negatively impact customer experience.
Reputational damage is also a growing risk. In an age where customer expectations are higher than ever, and where feedback spreads fast, businesses that fail to deliver can quickly lose trust. With the increasing importance of sustainability credentials, an EV fleet that underperforms due to downtime could undermine carefully built brand values.
COST OF FAILURE: FROM SUSTAINABILITY TARGETS TO MISSED REVENUE
While regulatory pressure is a primary driver for fleet electrification, many businesses are also responding to the market. Research shows that 78 per cent of consumers consider sustainability when making purchasing
decisions, and over half are willing to pay more for eco-conscious brands.
The total cost of operation (TCO) for EVs is now on par with ICE vehicles, as shown in data from the Arval Mobility Observatory. But these benefits can only be realised if the charging infrastructure supports consistent fleet availability. Whether you’re at the start of your EV journey or scaling an existing fleet, the ability to charge efficiently, reliably, and cost-effectively is essential. Downtime isn’t just inconvenient, it’s a direct threat to revenue, reputation, and operational performance.
ELECTRIFICATION BRINGS VALUE, BUT ONLY IF RELIABILITY COMES WITH IT
Moving to an EV fleet creates real business value, from lower emissions to stronger customer appeal, but it also introduces new
challenges. Without a dependable charging ecosystem, businesses risk increased costs, missed KPIs, and dissatisfied customers.
The bottom line? Charger uptime is no longer a ‘nice to have’. It’s mission-critical.
PROACTIVE APPROACHES FOR SUCCESSFUL EV CHARGING
In companies that are successfully navigating the move to EV fleets, or further electrification of their existing EV fleet, we’re seeing a number of commonalities.
1. Planning before investment
Successful EV fleets plan their charging infrastructure from the start, looking at the biggest risks to fleet uptime and how a charging installation can mitigate them. For example, there’s a huge variation in the
quality and reliability of different charging units, so you need to make the right charging partner decision up front. The right partner will investigate how and where you use your fleet, e.g. short local hops or longer single journeys, urban vs rural routes, to help you decide where your chargers should be, or whether you should even set up multiple charging depots in different locations. They can also advise on technical aspects, such as splitting chargers onto separate supplies so that they don’t all go offline in the event of a localised supply failure.
2. Agreeing the right SLA for your business Charging problems have to be solved quickly. Depending on how you use your fleet, you might need your chargers fixed within four hours, or 24 hours, or two days. But no matter what you decide, you need an engineer to be with you within that timeframe. All charging suppliers provide a service level agreement (SLA), but when you look beyond the cover, these are often very generic. The reality is that no two
businesses are the same: each one is a unique combination of types of EVs, infrastructure and locations, operations and processes – and customer expectations. Successful EV fleet managers work closely with charging partners to understand the impact of EV downtime, and to create a tailored SLA that ensures business continuity.
3. Looking beyond the marketing
A charging supplier might say they’ll do 24/7 callouts and a four-hour response time, but how many engineers have they got in your location? Can they realistically deliver? In the early days of EV charging, the main focus for businesses was getting the lowest price. Today, many organisations recognise that access to upfront consultancy and reliable ongoing support are just as critical.
4. Prevention over cure
The overlooked hero of EV infrastructure, tasks such as proactive servicing can keep your
charging networks healthy and working. But not all charging providers can deliver chargers with the technology needed or include proactive maintenance in their SLAs. Performance metrics are also important. The right software makes it quick and easy to see the performance and efficiency across your whole fleet of vehicles and chargers, helping you to spot anomalies and address them before they become operational issues.
Running an EV fleet can significantly enhance the environmental status of your business, supporting whole segments of environmentally conscious customers. But if you’re unable to keep them charged and on the road, then your alternative options won’t meet your customers’ expectations. Early planning, the right SLAs, proactive maintenance and predictive analytics can all help ensure your vehicles are available when needed. Find out more about Mer Fleet Charging Solutions and why 99 per cent of our customers renew their SLAs with us: uk.mer.eco/ ev-fleet-charging/ev-depot-charging
The new standard for demanding outdoor applications: The FLOODLIGHT GEN 4 range is extremely efficient and very durable. Thanks to MULTI LUMEN, the brightness can be adapted to requirements. Sensor and Photocell versions add a further layer of versatility. Reliable even in the harshest conditions thanks to the waterproof cable gland, breather membrane, C4 corrosion resistance and up to IP66 and IK08. FLOODLIGHT GEN 4 are easy to install and come with a comprehensive 5-year guarantee.
Strip lighting deserves a place in every wholesaler’s range
Chris Anderson , Technical Manager at Ansell Lighting provides insight into the technology behind strip lighting, the latest solutions available and maximising sales effectively
Currently one of lighting’s most popular solutions, demand for strip lighting products is thriving. Offering an important revenue stream for electrical wholesalers and distributors, this burgeoning category is highly versatile, with products suitable for specification across projects of all kinds.
Practical, versatile and offering specifiers real design-feature capabilities, strip lighting has become an essential part of most lighting installations. Used for both accent and task lighting, it is popular in residential, commercial and hospitality projects. From illuminating structural features such as arches or alcoves to enhancing ceiling cornices and shelving units, strip lighting can be used almost anywhere and to create a variety of effects.
WHAT TO STOCK
With its popularity soaring, strip lighting is a must have in any wholesale offering. Manufacturer investment in innovation and NPD means there is now an extensive choice of products available with different features and options, so curating a range that appeals to different applications and demands is key.
Begin by considering the light appearance. Specifiers will want both dot and dot-free COB strips. While standard versions work well for concealed applications COB strips offer a continuous line of light that is ideal for visible features. Dim to warm strips are also in demand, offering users a choice of colour temperatures in one solution.
Colour options are another essential. White, tunable white, RGB, RGBW and RGBTW strips ensure design flexibility whilst pixel versions are also hugely popular – offering users the advantage of individually controllable LEDs so that dynamic lighting effects can be created.
APPLICATION
The different uses and potential applications of strip lighting should also be considered when curating a versatile range. Strips that are waterproof and suitable for outdoor use are essential, particularly for landscaping
and external architecture projects, as are flexible strip lights which allow the tape to bend around curves and corners – ideal for illuminating curved features such as arches and columns.
As with all lighting ranges energy efficiency is non-negotiable so stocking a range of high efficiency strips which offer great energy saving benefits is important. Similarly eco strips, which prioritise cost-effectiveness without compromising reliability, should be included. Manufacturers produce strip lighting in a variety of lengths - from 5m up to 50m runsand wholesalers should ensure that a variety are available to appeal to installers working on different sized projects.
SMART AND CONNECTED
Another factor wholesalers should consider is offering strip lighting with smart functionality. Smart lighting is hugely popular and offers
users complete control over their lighting use. In demand from homeowners and commercial clients alike, lights can be programmed to operate at specific times of day and at specified colour and brightness levels for a customised approach.
EXTRAS
Stocking the strips themselves is only part of the picture. Wholesalers should also consider the range of accessories needed to complete and optimise installations. A variety of LED drivers – suitable for dimming, indoor/outdoor use and different voltage requirements should be included as should controllers, pre-wired connectors, flexible connectors and straight connectors. Compatible motion sensors are also essential, used alongside strip lighting inside cupboards and wardrobes to ensure lights come on when doors are opened.
TRAINING
Knowledge is one of the most valuable sales tools and once the product range is curated, wholesalers should also ensure staff are knowledgeable on the individual LED strip lighting products they sell, their differences and suitability for specific applications.
That means being confident with strip-specific terminology such as SDCM, LED pitch and Copper PCB weight so that staff can give customers the necessary advice. SDCM or standard deviation colour matching measures the closeness of colour between LEDs on a printed circuit board. The lower the value, the closer the colour consistency will be. LED pitch refers to the distance between the LED chips on the printed circuit board. The closer the distance the smoother and more seamless the light distribution will appear, whilst Copper PCB weight refers to the thickness of the copper used in the printed circuit board. The higher the weight, the better the performance of the strip. By offering a curated product mix, the right accessories and strong technical support, wholesalers can ensure they are well positioned to capitalise on one of the fastestgrowing categories in lighting.
Why now is the time to rethink outdoor illumination
Steve Kaye from Forum Lighting Solutions discusses why now is the time to focus on outdoor lighting to create a welcoming atmosphere for the colder months
As the darker months close in, outdoor lighting suddenly moves from a “nice to have” to an operational necessity. Whether it’s a pathway to the front door, driveway, garden patio or public walkway, outdoor lighting plays a crucial role in safety, security, and energy efficiency. Yet every year, too many properties limp through winter with outdated fittings, inconsistent illumination, and rising energy bills.
Now is the perfect time to review, upgrade, and future-proof your outdoor lighting. And with smart, controllable solutions now more accessible than ever, there’s never been a better opportunity to get it right.
THE SHIFT TOWARD SMARTER, CONNECTED LIGHTING
In recent years, outdoor lighting has undergone a quiet revolution. Advances in LED efficiency, coupled with the rise of intelligent control systems, mean lighting can now do far more than simply switch on and off at dusk. At Forum, we’ve been at the coal face for 30 years and we’ve seen a growing demand for connected systems like our Kinetic control platform, which allows multiple outdoor luminaires to be managed remotely. With a Wi-Fi enabled Kinetic receiver, users can group fittings, schedule operation times, adjust brightness levels, and monitor performance via the Tuya app or controlled through Alexa or Google home.
This kind of control isn’t just convenient; it delivers tangible value. For example, a homeowner can set outdoor lights to come on at set times, or at dusk. Turn on garden lights when their pets go outside or as a security device when danger approaches.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY THAT PAYS FOR ITSELF
Switching to high-efficiency LED lighting remains one of the fastest ways to improve energy performance. Outdoor lighting is often left running for long hours, sometimes all night,
so every watt saved has a measurable impact on operating costs.
Forum’s latest outdoor luminaires, such as the Tetbury and Ren ranges use advanced LEDs and efficient drivers to maximise light output while minimising energy draw. Combined with Kinetic control, these products allow for adaptive dimming, which reduces brightness during low-activity periods or off-peak hours. With energy prices remaining unpredictable, these savings matter more than ever.
COMPLIANCE AND SAFETY - LIGHTING YOU CAN TRUST
Outdoor lighting plays a vital role in ensuring safe environments. Poorly lit drive ways, walkways, and entrances are not only inconvenient, but can be unsafe for pedestrians and vehicles.
Forum’s luminaires are engineered to deliver consistent illumination and meet the relevant regulations, ensuring that businesses and local authorities can demonstrate due diligence in safety and accessibility.
TIMING IS EVERYTHING
Outdoor lighting plays a vital role in ensuring safe environments. Poorly lit drive ways, walkways, and entrances are not only inconvenient, but can be unsafe for pedestrians and vehicles.
Forum’s luminaires are engineered to deliver consistent illumination and meet the relevant regulations, ensuring that businesses and local authorities can demonstrate due diligence in safety and accessibility.
TIMING IS EVERYTHING
Autumn and early winter are ideal times to assess and upgrade lighting systems. The nights draw in, the need becomes visible, and installation work can be planned ahead of the peak demand period. Contractors can help clients see the long-term benefits: lower running costs, reduced maintenance, and a safer, more welcoming environment.
Forum has these tips for autumn and winter outdoor lighting: -
Prioritise safety: Illuminate pathways, steps, and potential hazards with task lighting to prevent accidents in the dark.
Embrace the warm glow: Use warm-toned light, such as oranges and warm yellows, to create a cozy and relaxing ambiance as the weather cools.
Highlight features with accent lighting: Use spotlights to draw attention to specific features like trees, sculptures, or walls, creating a visually interesting scene from inside a property.
Play with light and shadow: A successful lighting scheme uses contrast. For example, avoid flooding an entire garden with light, and instead, strategically highlight key areas to create drama and dimension.
Consider “moonlighting”: This trend mimics the effect of moonlight by using a light source positioned high up to create a soft, dappled effect on the ground below.
Minimize environmental impact: If lighting for wildlife is a concern, concentrate lights on paths and steps, keep the light low and directed, and use warm, dim light colours.
Think about year-round enjoyment: Choose fixtures that can be enjoyed throughout the year. Evergreen trees are great focal points for accent lighting.
At Forum, we believe the future of outdoor lighting is intelligent, efficient, and adaptable. Our new generation of outdoor luminaires gives users all the tools they need to manage their lighting smartly and sustainably.
So, before winter’s darkness really sets in, take the opportunity to reiew your lighting. A modern, well-designed outdoor lighting system doesn’t just illuminate spaces - it adds safety, efficiency, and value for years to come.
& LIGHTING FOCUS ON
Thinking beyond LEDs
TWhile switching to LED lighting is an important fi rst step in any sustainability journey, David Goddard at LEDVANCE explains how wholesalers can help customers go further by introducing light management systems that deliver even greater effi ciency, simplicity and long-term value in commercial projects
he need for efficient, intelligent and environmentally friendly lighting has been well-documented. As outdated lighting technologies such as fluorescent and incandescent bulbs are phased out, demand continues to rise for modern, sustainable solutions. For wholesalers, this shift offers valuable opportunities to support customers with high-quality LED and lighting control options that meet today’s efficiency standards.
While this is an important element of any drive for sustainability, maximum energy savings can only be achieved by using lighting control. Of course, not all lighting control systems are created equally. Therefore, it is important to look at the different elements that make lighting control more appealing, both from an installation and usability perspective.
The quality of the components used is an important place to start. After all, top systems need top components. LEDVANCE’s VIVARES system as an example, DALI components have been utilised. The DALI-2 certified control units, sensors and pushbutton couplers come in a new design and with extra functions, and are a perfect match for the LEDVANCE DALI luminaires. Furthermore, they perfectly integrate with other DALI systems in the market.
When considering installation, choosing a plug and play solution offers significant benefits. With a plug and play solution, such as that offered by LEDVANCE’s VIVARES system, the technology is ready to use – simply wire the control in, and it’s ready to go. The control units work for single rooms, with an area of up to 300 m2 and up to 25 luminaires.
Adding to this simplicity, VIVARES offers pre-programmed functions for manual room lighting – on/off, dim, TW and memory. No app, software or registration is required, making the system easy to get started with.
To deliver even greater benefits when choosing a lighting management system, it is preferential to specify solutions from a
manufacturer that has secured environmental credentials. For example, EcoVadis is an independent sustainability assessment platform, helping companies to identify and evaluate the effectiveness of their green practices across business operations and their supply chain.
LEDVANCE has secured the EcoVadis Silver Medal award level, which only 15 per cent of businesses reach. This evidences that LEDVANCE follows ethical and social practices, comply with labour laws, meet environmental responsibilities and respect human rights. Adding to sustainability advantages, this technology has the potential to aid wellbeing when offering human centric lighting (HCL) capabilities. With the right light at the right time, HCL creates a working environment that simulates the changes in natural daylight with its visual, biological and emotional effects.
To achieve this, the luminaires are controlled by an intelligent control system
with appropriate light profiles. For example, VIVARES uses HCL to adapt the lighting in open-plan offices or on entire floors to the natural changes in daylight using a certified algorithm: automatically, intelligently and easily controllable. That means that everyone in the building will benefit from the positive effects of HCL light.
Through colour temperatures and illuminance levels, human centric lighting can simulate the course of natural daylight in such a way that it provides positive support for the human circadian rhythm (our “inner clock”). A neutral or cold white light colour, for example, can energise in the morning, whilst warm white light is relaxing and ideal for the evening. HCL supports health, well-being and performance in a workplace.
By specifying lighting management systems that deliver a plethora of benefits, a sustainable future that also creates comfortable environments is an easy reality to achieve.
Spotlight on added value
Mike Collins , Managing Director, Ovia Ltd , shines a light on some of the issues facing electrical wholesalers and how Ovia is helping to mitigate those challenges
The lighting industry continues to evolve rapidly, driven by shifting technologies, regulatory updates, and market pressures. At Ovia, we recognise that our wholesaler partners face daily challenges in maintaining competitiveness and delivering value to contractors, specifiers, and end-users.
PRODUCT PROLIFERATION AND COMPLEXITY
The transition to LED, connected lighting, and increasingly sophisticated control systems has expanded product offerings dramatically. Wholesalers now manage more SKUs, often with highly technical specifications, while customers expect instant product knowledge.
Prices for panels, battens, downlights, and basic floodlights have dropped significantly over the past five to seven years and the commoditisation of LED lighting has led to increased competition from brands on price with near-identical specifications.
PRICE COMPETITION
There is intense competition from online sellers and direct imports, leading to market saturation. Contractors and facilities managers now price-check online, putting pressure on wholesalers, requiring them to differentiate beyond pricing alone.
SUPPLY CHAIN PRESSURES
Global supply chain volatility, fluctuating demand, and long lead times can leave wholesalers struggling to maintain the right stock levels while controlling costs.
DIGITAL EXPECTATIONS
Contractors increasingly expect online ordering, instant stock visibility, and digital tools for quoting and submittals, pushing wholesalers to enhance their digital capabilities.
THE VALUE OF A BRAND
In today’s competitive lighting industry, where technology rapidly evolves and prices fluctuate, a strong brand is one of the most valuable assets a lighting manufacturer can possess. Beyond logos and marketing slogans, a brand encapsulates trust, quality, and a promise that customers rely on when choosing
lighting solutions for their homes, businesses, or cities. A respected brand demonstrates consistent product quality, longer warranties, and a proven track record.
TRUST AND RELIABILITY
When customers select a lighting brand, they are not just purchasing a product; they are investing in reliability. A well-established brand assures architects, contractors, and end users that the luminaires will perform as promised, meet compliance standards, and be supported with service throughout their lifecycle.
Ovia, a well-established brand following more than six successful years’ operating within the lighting industry, has the backing of Scolmore Group, one of the leading suppliers to the professional electrical contract market via the electrical wholesale channel. As a family-run business for more than 36 years, the company is agile, able to make decisions quickly and react to market changes to continually deliver improved products and services. A sustained programme of reinvestment in the business infrastructure as well as its people, is what drives the business and helps it to retain its market-leading position.
DIFFERENTIATION IN A CROWDED MARKET
The lighting sector is saturated with manufacturers offering similar specifications and technology. A strong brand differentiates a manufacturer beyond technical data sheets, signalling design leadership, sustainability commitments, and innovation.
A partnership with Ovia guarantees a range of high-quality, value-for-money products backed up by excellent local stocks, next day delivery and outstanding customer service. We are committed to helping our customers sell our products and this is demonstrated through our proactive marketing effort, attendance and support for trade events and helping them make the most of the training opportunities we offer to ensure the end user gets the best possible products and solutions for the job.
DRIVING CUSTOMER LOYALTY
In a field where product life cycles can span years, a brand is what keeps customers returning. Positive experiences with product quality, responsive support, and consistent performance build emotional loyalty, turning customers into long-term partners rather than one-time buyers.
FOCUS ON
Cutting through the noise: Quality counts in electric heating
TAs Caroline Shaw from Dimplex UK , explains, electric heating is under greater scrutiny than ever. As energy costs climb and carbon reduction targets tighten, wholesalers are increasingly asked to guide customers through a complex market. But too often, those conversations are clouded by myths, half-truths and marketing spin
he conversation around electric heating has changed dramatically in recent years. With the shift towards decarbonisation and the phase-out of fossil fuels, wholesalers and installers alike are under pressure to understand new technologies, energy tariffs and regulatory expectations. Yet amid all this change, misinformation often fills the gaps -- making it harder to separate fact from fiction.
THE EFFICIENCY QUESTION
One of the most persistent misunderstandings is around efficiency. Many products are promoted as “more efficient” than others, yet at the point of use every electric radiator is 100 per cent efficient: one kilowatt hour in equals one kilowatt hour of heat out.
The real differentiators are not found in the conversion of energy, but in how it is stored, controlled and delivered. Thermostat accuracy, adaptive scheduling and zoning have a direct impact on comfort and running costs. This is where advanced high heat retention systems
such as the Dimplex Quantum set themselves apart. As the world’s most advanced high heat retention storage heater, it stores off-peak energy when it is cheapest and releases it when required throughout the day. Blending stored low-cost electricity with intelligent controls, adaptive learning and everyday practicality, today’s storage systems turn efficiency into tangible savings and comfort.
THE SMART TRAP
Connectivity is another area where claims often get over-inflated - smart controls are sometimes presented as if they alter the efficiency of the radiator itself. They don’t; what they do is reduce energy waste and the real benefit lies in giving users better visibility and control, helping
them heat spaces only when they need to and avoid unnecessary energy use.
Dimplex Control is designed with this in mind - by connecting products through the Dimplex Hub via Wi-Fi or Ethernet, users can monitor and adjust heating remotely, set schedules from their phone and manage multiple rooms or properties. It makes the day-to-day management of heating simpler and more transparent, ensuring households only use the energy they really need.
Quantum, when purchased together with the Dimplex Hub, works seamlessly with Dimplex Control – its adaptive settings learn household routines and climate conditions, while features like Boost and Away modes can be activated in seconds through the app. This gives end
users the flexibility to make changes on the go, installers an easy way to hand over systems with confidence and wholesalers a clear example of smart technology enhancing comfort without resorting to exaggerated efficiency claims.
POWER AND OUTPUT: CLEARING THE FOG
Another factor that often gets overlooked is insulation - a well-insulated room will naturally retain heat for longer than a poorly insulated space or one with large external openings. This means the performance of any electric heater is influenced as much by the building fabric as by the product itself.
Linked to this is the misconception that some heaters deliver “more heat” for the same input. In reality, output is tied directly to wattage: a 2kW unit will always provide the same total heat as another 2kW unit. Where genuine differences do exist is in how that heat is distributed.
Design, surface area and airflow can affect how quickly a room feels warm and how evenly the temperature is maintained.
This distinction matters and talking up “reduced average power draw” or “higher
output” without context risks misleading customers. For wholesalers, a more credible approach is to focus on products that maximise comfort and maintain steady temperatures while balancing heat release intelligently, alongside an understanding of how the building itself affects performance.
WHY THIS MATTERS FOR WHOLESALERS
Mis-selling and myth-spinning are not just irritations; they can create long-term damage. Installers faced with disappointed customers may lose confidence in their supply chain, while wholesalers who become associated with exaggerated claims can risk reputational harm. By providing grounded, practical advice wholesalers will enhance credibility and position themselves as a trusted partner who helps installers make informed choices. In a competitive marketplace, that extra layer of expertise can be vital.
Manufacturer support will also make a big difference. Dimplex offers dedicated installer training, technical guides and sales resources, including exclusive benefits, through the Dimplex
PRO Installer Club. Members gain access to a range of online tools that support sizing, specification and full home integration, making it easier to design systems that deliver long-term benefits for end users. For wholesalers, pointing customers towards these assets adds value to the relationship and reinforces the importance of working with trusted, quality-led brands.
LOOKING AHEAD
As electrification accelerates, the role of wholesalers as gatekeepers of information will only grow. Myths will persist – whether around efficiency, smart features, or compliance – but those who cut through the noise will be best placed to thrive.
By majoring on quality and resisting the lure of exaggerated claims, wholesalers can help create a healthier, more transparent market. And with advanced solutions like Quantum available, they already have the perfect reference point to show that when it comes to electric heating, the real story is about performance you can trust. For more information on Dimplex, visit www. dimplex.co.uk
Control the heat, cut the costs
In recent years, the conversation around energy use has shifted dramatically. Rising energy costs, tightening legislation, and the UK’s net zero commitments are driving change across every sector. For electrical contractors, that means customers – both domestic and commercial – are looking for solutions that deliver efficiency without compromising comfort. Modern heating controls are at the heart of that shift offering a range of benefits that extend well beyond basic temperature regulation.
Heating accounts for the largest part of the average household’s energy consumption. In commercial buildings, HVAC systems can make up an even larger proportion of operating costs. Yet many systems are either poorly controlled or rely on outdated technologies. The result is wasted energy, higher bills, and unnecessary carbon emissions.
Modern heating controls can solve this problem by matching energy output more closely to actual demand. Whether through zoning, load compensation, or smart scheduling, well-specified controls can reduce consumption significantly.
ENHANCED ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Traditional heating systems often operate on fixed schedules or manual adjustments, which can result in unnecessary energy consumption. Modern heating controls, including smart thermostats and zoning systems, allow precise control over schedules and temperatures. By adjusting output to actual occupancy patterns and environmental conditions, these systems can reduce energy usage by up to 20–30 per cent, directly translating to lower bills and reduced carbon footprints.
Matt Parton , Product Manager with ESP and Sangamo –part of the Scolmore Group – examines the role of heating controls in the drive for energy effi ciency
IMPROVED COMFORT AND PERSONALISATION
Advanced heating controls enable zoned heating, giving occupants the ability to set different temperatures in different areas of a building. This ensures consistent comfort while avoiding overheating or underheating spaces that are rarely used. Some systems also learn user behaviours, automatically optimising heating schedules for maximum comfort without constant manual input.
A programmable thermostat gives the user an option to schedule at what time and day a call for heat can be made, thus reducing the possibility of wasting energy when the property is empty. This is advantageous when the occupants are at work and therefore do not have to remember to switch the heating ON/ OFF manually. A programmable thermostat ensures that the heating is not activated longer than required.
Sangamo’s three channel programmable thermostat with RF and Wi-Fi, provides the means to operate and control separate heating zones within a residential property. It is suitable for properties with two-zoned heating systems and is designed to help installers comply with the requirements of Part L Building Regulations where two zone heating is stipulated. The kit comprises
two RF programmable room thermostats to control heating over two zones and hot water programming, and one receiver complete with three independent channels – two for heating and one for hot water. The system can be programmed and controlled directly or remotely via the ClickSmart+ app.
SMART CONTROLS
The evolution of smart technology continues to play a key role in energy efficiency. It provides homeowners with a real opportunity to make conscious decisions about how they heat their homes and what effect this can have on their energy bills. A smart thermostat is something that installers can easily add to their customers’ home heating, allowing householders to control and monitor the room temperature and thermostat activity from anywhere in the world, via an app on a smart phone or tablet.
The Sangamo Wi-Fi controlled thermostat is controlled through the subscription-free ClickSmart+ app from Scolmore. It offers energy efficient programming and with remote access via the app, it allows for constant monitoring and control at your fingertips. Key features of the thermostat that will help with the control of energy usage include the optimal start function and the open window/door detection feature.
INTEGRATION WITH BMS
For commercial buildings, modern heating controls integrate seamlessly with Building Management Systems (BMS) and IoT-enabled devices. This allows centralised monitoring and management, predictive maintenance alerts, and detailed energy reporting. For contractors, this integration opens opportunities to offer clients smarter, more comprehensive solutions.
REMOTE ACCESS AND CONTROL
Connectivity is a key advantage of upgraded heating controls. Through mobile apps or web interfaces, users can adjust settings remotely, monitor energy usage, and receive notifications. This is particularly valuable for property managers, landlords, or homeowners with irregular schedules.
COMPLIANCE AND SUSTAINABILITY
The latest Building Regulations (Part L) require the use of time and temperature controls in both new and replacement heating systems. For contractors, this means specifying appropriate control solutions is no longer optional – it’s
essential for compliance. By fitting compliant timers and thermostats, contractors not only meet regulatory requirements but also add real value to their installations.
CONCLUSION
For electrical contractors, advising clients on upgrading heating controls is a chance to
enhance energy efficiency, comfort, and longterm savings. For end-users, it’s an opportunity to embrace smarter, greener, and more convenient solutions. In a market increasingly driven by sustainability and digital innovation, modern heating controls are no longer an optional upgrade—they’re a smart investment. www.sangamo.co.uk
• Available in 1kW, 1.5kW and 2kW.
• User friendly soft touch buttons
• Only 4 buttons for easy & quick programming
• LED back-lit display for low light use
• Minimalist vent free design, while maintaining even heat distribution
• Matt white and matt black nish
FOCUS ON
Rising regulations drive demand for effective ventilation solutions
With upcoming regulatory changes – including Awaab’s Law, which compels landlords to act quickly on damp and mould – the need for effective ventilation systems has become even more critical. David Millward , Product Manager at Elta Group , discusses how the right ventilation can help ensure compliance, improve energy effi ciency, and protect health
With UK building standards becoming more stringent than ever, and the drive for air tightness and energy efficiency increasing, the UK is entering a critical phase for building compliance and indoor air quality. Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) is emerging as a key partner in balancing airtight homes with healthy living environments. With demand for these systems rising fast, it represents a major growth opportunity for electrical wholesalers looking to expand their ventilation offering and meet the needs of forward-thinking contractors and landlords.
David Millward, Product Manager at Elta Group, says: “With modern homes being built more and more airtight, the importance of controlled ventilation is becoming a more significant matter than before. Without adequate systems in place, stale air, mould, and condensation can accumulate, jeopardising the health of the building and its occupants. While still technically compliant in some cases, traditional ventilation methods such as extract fans and trickle vents often fall short when it comes to delivering the level of indoor air quality and energy efficiency now expected, particularly in modern airtight homes.” MVHR systems are already widely adopted in some European countries including Sweden
and the Netherlands, where the system is seen as standard in new homes. Their ability to supply new, filtered air while recovering up to 92 per cent of heat from outgoing air positions them as an ideal fit for modern building demands.
To add urgency to the adoption of highperforming ventilation systems, Awaab’s Law is set to enforce stricter timeframes for landlords and housing providers in dealing with damp and mould. This places additional responsibility on ventilation to perform reliably and help to prevent these issues.
Elta has launched its HAVA MVHR range to address ventilation compliance, heat efficiency, and occupant health in one solution. Elta’s MVHR range has been engineered specifically for UK residential use. Available in six different models, the units accommodate vertical, horizontal, and dual orientation mounting, offering installers flexibility in challenging layouts where space may be limited. Each HAVA unit includes a multi functioning, user
friendly, pre wired control panel, and features heat recovery of up to 92 per cent, supporting compliance with current Part F, Part L, and Part O of the UK building regulations.
By combining energy efficiency with better indoor air quality, MVHR aligns with the government’s ambitions – making it a futureproof investment for the building industry as well as homeowners.
For wholesalers, the launch of HAVA represents a valuable opportunity to meet growing customer demand for compliant, highperformance ventilation solutions. Through Elta Trade, wholesalers benefit from full technical support, marketing resources, and competitive pricing – making it easier than ever to supply products that align with modern regulations and customer expectations.
The HAVA MVHR range is now available through Elta Trade, with detailed product data and technical support available online.
Visit: www.eltatrade.co.uk/become-a-stockist
Unicrimp’s new squarelock 6-inch woodscrew bit for precision and power
Unicrimp, part of the Scolmore Group, unveils the latest addition to its Q-Crimp fixings range - the Squarelock 6-inch Woodscrew Drill Bit – an essential tool for electrical contractors and installers working with SQ2 square-drive fasteners. Engineered for maximum performance, the Squarelock Woodscrew Bit ensures a snug, secure fit, offering unparalleled torque, reach, and reliability for even the toughest installations.
Key features include:
• 6-inch length perfect for tight or recessed spaces where conventional bits can’t reach.
• Precision-cut SQ2 square tip engineered for a snug, accurate fit to reduce camout and minimise screw stripping.
• Locking design that provides a secure grip within the drill or driver, reducing wobble and enhancing stability.
• Made from durable carbon steel (1018A) featuring a shockresistant SQ2 tip, built to withstand repeated heavy-duty use.
• Power tool compatible, standard 1/4-inch hex shank ensures easy compatibility with most power drills and drivers.
Whether you’re installing cabinetry, framing, or securing decking, the Squarelock 6-inch Woodscrew Drill Bit ensures smooth, confident fastening. Additionally, the Squarelock Woodscrew Bit is packaged individually in ecofriendly green paper packaging, reflecting Unicrimp’s commitment to sustainability while delivering exceptional value.
www.unicrimp.com
Ovia adds anti-glare inceptor hi-bloc to its industrial highbay range
An innovative addition to its industrial Highbay range, the Inceptor Hi-Bloc is designed with both performance and versatility in mind. The Hi-Bloc is a CCT and power switchable linear Highbay, aimed to deliver high-performance illumination across environments that demand both precision and intensity—such as warehouses, factories, gymnasiums, and other large-scale, high-ceilinged industrial or commercial spaces.
The launch of the Hi-Bloc marks a strategic expansion of Ovia’s Highbay offering, with a deliberate shift toward an aesthetically unique yet highly practical product. The distinctive diffuser design not only elevates the visual profile of the fitting, but also supports superior glare control, with a UGR rating of ≤22.
What also sets the Hi-Bloc apart is its distinct linear design, engineered specifically to improve lighting efficiency in tight aisles and long rectangular spaces. The Hi-Bloc’s rectangular form and narrow 72° beam angle focus light directly where it is needed most, ensuring optimal visibility in every corner.
Elucian power and lighting distribution boards
Three Phase Power and Lighting Distribution Boards are critical components in commercial, industrial, and large residential electrical systems.They provide a centralised point for power distribution, control, and protection of electrical circuits, including both lighting and power loads.
Engineered for versatility and ease of use, each unit includes two mounting hooks as standard, allowing for chain mounting, and features an integrated spirit level to ensure perfect alignment during installation. For added flexibility, a mounting bracket accessory is available, catering to a wide range of installation requirements. The CCT and power switch is intuitively positioned behind an IP65 threaded cap for easy access.
For further enhanced lighting control, the programmable remote allows full customisation of lighting, with the ability to adjust PIR detection range and sensitivity, daylight thresholds, standby periods, and hold times, allowing for easy fine-tune performance for maximum efficiency, comfort, and flexibility across different environments.
In addition, the Hi-Bloc integrates seamlessly with Ovia’s 5W 3 Hour Maintained IP65 Emergency Pack, just like all other Ovia LED Highbays, ensuring consistent emergency lighting performance across the range. www.oviauk.com
Click Scolmore adds dimmer modules to its growing GridPro range
Designed with the installer in mind, the Elucian power and lighting boards from Click Scolmore are engineered to deliver reliability, efficiency, and ease of installation for electrical contractors working across a range of projects. Whether upgrading an existing system or building from scratch, Elucian provides a dependable solution for modern electrical demands.
The boards are split into three sections - power, lighting, and accessories. Most distribution boards on the market don’t allow isolation of the different compartments. If a board needs amending it simply shuts off both power and lighting sections. However, the Elucian board allows a section of the board to be switched off while the other section is working, allowing for ease of maintenance without compromise.
They feature a built-in Energy Meter for accurate tracking – allowing both power and lighting to be monitored separately on one energy meter rather than on two separate meters. This saves on cabling and space within the board. The boards are also supplied pre-installed as standard with type 1 and type 2 SPDs.This is for easy installation and to save time.
There are 24 different combinations available – from an 8 Way (4 Power / 4 Lighting) 125A Vertical Consumer Unit, through to a 32 Way (20 Power / 12 Lighting) 125A Vertical Consumer Unit.
They each feature quick release doors – they are fitted with spring clips, making them quick and easy to remove. They also offer device alignment, with the boards maintaining device alignment when fully installed, to ensure a neat and organised appearance. www.elucianuk.com
Click Scolmore’s GridPro Dimmer Modules offer an enhanced design which eliminates the need for a mounting kit and delivers a 100W maximum load.
In response to customer demand for a more streamlined, efficient dimmer solution, the Click GridPro Dimmer Modules have been engineered with a compact, spacesaving design that fits directly into GridPro plates.The new modules can deliver a 100W maximum load, despite the reduction in housing size.This ensures a reliable and consistent dimming experience for standard home downlights and lighting, with a versatile wattage range of 5W to 100W.
One of the standout features of the Click GridPro Dimmer Modules is the elimination of the previously required mounting kit. Users can easily integrate the dimmer module directly into the GridPro plates, ensuring a clean, seamless look with minimal hassle.
The Click Grid Pro Dimmer Modules are suitable for a variety of domestic applications, giving the user the ability to adjust the dimming level throughout areas of the home. Combining style, efficiency, and ease of installation, these dimmers offer a versatile solution for modern lighting control.
In addition, Click’s GridPro Dimmers support both Leading and Trailing edge functions, with specific usage scenarios to complement a broad range of applications.
The Grid Pro Dimmer Modules come in eleven distinct finishes including antique brass, polished brass, polished chrome, satin chrome, satin brass, black nickel, pearl nickel, stainless steel, brushed stainless, metal black, and matt bronze. www.scolmore.com
TOOLS & WORKWEAR FOCUS ON
Sell out the outsole
Brand Manager at Overland Shoes, explores how bold design and rising expectations are reshaping safety footwear in electrical wholesaling and he introduces Bobcat Safety Footwear as a performance-led alternative to badge-priced boots
It’s easy to overlook safety footwear as a product line in electrical wholesaling. But safety boots and shoes remain one of the most active and commercially promising segments, with UK sales estimated at over £350 million annually. That figure isn’t just a statistic; it represents real customer demand and a clear opportunity for wholesalers ready to rethink their range.
Too often however, the safety footwear market is viewed as a binary split: budget boots for those watching their spend and top-tier brands for those loyal to a label. But talk to tradespeople, from M&E contractors to domestic electricians and the picture is more nuanced. Increasingly, professional buyers are turning toward the middle, a space where comfort, technology and price all matter. This is what we call the ‘underserved middle’ market, and it’s where there is a big growth potential. With the launch of Bobcat Safety Footwear, Overland Shoes has introduced a completely new offering into that space. The collection is designed to meet the needs of professionals who care about comfort, appreciate great design and understand the value of quality but don’t want to pay premium prices just for
a name. Starting from £85 RRP and topping out at £125, the footwear range is engineered for performance without the premium.
For electricians, safety footwear has to strike the right balance: tough enough for the job but light and flexible for crouching, kneeling and climbing ladders. The Delta series ticks all those boxes. All shoes in the range are completely metal-free, so there’s no risk around live circuits, while the anti-static protection helps reduce hazards in sensitive environments. The punctureresistant midsole and composite safety toe add protection without the weight of steel, and the non-marking, slip- and oil-resistant outsole keeps you steady whether you’re indoors on smooth flooring or out on site.
While the Delta range gives electricians the lightweight flexibility, they need for crouching under cupboards or moving quickly around indoor sites, the Summit range adds ankle support, padded collars and a rugged tripledensity outsole, ideal for electricians whose work takes them both indoors and out.
Then there’s the Forge range, which combines all the essential safety features with ladder grip
zones built into the sole, giving extra security when climbing up and down all day.
Comfort, however, is where these shoes really excel. Every style features Redbacks Cushioning System, a proprietary leaf-spring system that disperses pressure evenly with each step. Unlike foam or gel inserts, which simply soften the impact, Redbacks Cushioning reduces fatigue and strain. It’s the same approach that’s transformed other areas of PPE, like kneepads, but applied directly to your feet.
This technology is particularly effective in reducing the risk of plantar fasciitis, a condition all too common among tradespeople who spend hours on unforgiving surfaces. The technology doesn’t just disperse and absorb shock, it helps prevent the very conditions that keep electricians off work and out of the game.
The brand story also sets this collection apart. Bobcat is already a trusted name among tradespeople thanks to its long-standing reputation in compact construction machinery. That recognition transfers directly to safety footwear, giving customers a sense of familiarity and trust before they even try a pair on. And
because the boots are designed to echo Bobcat’s equipment, with angular toe caps, machine-inspired tread patterns and rugged styling, they immediately stand out on the shelf and in marketing materials.
For stock planners and category buyers, this range covers a wide span of price points without diluting quality, offers high visibility at the trade counter and is supported by a full marketing strategy including social media, installer-facing campaigns and point-of-sale assets. The 45-SKU collection includes options for men and women, from athletic trainers to heavy-duty outdoor boots, meaning you can serve the wide electrical trade under a single, well-supported brand.
As electrical wholesalers look for ways to differentiate and modernise their PPE offering, safety footwear is a great place to start. The traditional view, that customers only want the cheapest boot or the biggest name, no longer holds up. Electricians today are informed, connected and willing to invest in kit that looks great and works hard.
To enquire about stocking Bobcat Safety Footwear contact Peter Lawson at Overland Shoes: peter.lawson@overlandshoes.co.uk
Airmaster’s new range of slimline electric panel heaters
Panel Heaters have always been a best seller in the comprehensive Airmaster Space Heating range and now, to retain that top spot, comes an all new selection of slimline Matt White and Matt Black Panel Heaters. Designed for efficiency and reliability, their slim compact profile ensures a seamless fit into any space without lowering heat performance.
Matt White options include 1kW, 1.5kW and 2kW units with 1.5kW and 2kW available in black. User friendly features include just four soft touch buttons for quick and easy programming plus back-lit display for low light use. A minimalist vent free design also ensures even heat
Standing the test of time
Sangamo has been manufacturing its Round Pattern Time Switches for over 65 years, and in that time has sold more than 11 million units.
The Round Pattern Time Switch is trusted by installers for a wide variety of applications, not just because of its reliability but its ease of use. The simple dial and levers make setting the switch up for daily fixed timings a breeze with no complicated menu options to navigate through. All Round Pattern Time Switches are also 20 Amp rated, providing a more robust switch than most other products on the market.
The switches are split into four categories:
a) Basic ‘black dial’ 24-hour time clock for simple on and off switching up to 20A
b) Standard 24-hour ‘red dial’ switch with added 100 hour battery reserve
c) Solar Range - specially designed for lighting applications
distribution,whilst Installation is equally quick and hassle free with the help of pre-mounted wall brackets.
Quality and durability are assured with corrosion resistant powder coated bodies, whilst overheat protection and IP24 rated resistance ensures this new range is suitable for use in bathrooms beyond Zone 2 and rooms between 10 and 20 square metres.
For further information, please call 0208 503 8500 or visit the website.
www.cedelectrical.co.uk
d) Digital Range - the newest addition combines the high capacity and reliability of the electro-mechanical models but provides full 7 day programming.
Sangamo regularly hears from people with Round Pattern Time Switches still going strong after 40 and 50 years. When they eventually need a new switch, they reasonably assume, because of its age, that it might not be possible to get a direct like for like replacement. However, because the original design has never needed to be updated, an RPTS you buy today is completely interchangeable with one bought decades ago.
The Sangamo range of specialist time switches and heating controls is distributed through Scolmore Group company, ESP.
www.espuk.com
& TOOLS & WORKWEAR FOCUS ON
Meeting expectations
KNIPEX UK’s Product & Technical Support, Jason Cunningham , examines how hand tools are evolving to meet the changing work habits of electrical contractors
Atypical day for an electrical contractor can look very different depending on where they work, whether it’s a new housing estate or a commercial installation in a busy city. But wherever they’re working, there’s a pressure to complete jobs faster, safer and to a higher standard, often with tighter access to workspaces and stricter timelines.
These demands are driving some noticeable shifts in the way contractors approach their hand tool choice, from performance expectations when cutting, cable stripping or gripping, to how tools are stored and transported. Understanding these changing behaviours is increasingly important for wholesalers, especially counter staff, who are often the first port of call for product advice. Versatility and compact design are top priorities for the busy electrician on the move. The aim is to carry fewer tools without sacrificing capability. Multi-functional tools like the KNIPEX 13 76 200 ME Installation Pliers have become indispensable for this reason. With this single tool, users can grip, bend, deburr, strip and cut - all while working within a compact footprint. This is especially beneficial for consumer unit work or anywhere space is tight, allowing electricians to move quickly between tasks without repeatedly reaching into a toolbag.
Similarly, the KNIPEX 08 26 145 Needle-Nose Combination Pliers offer a reliable, compact option with impressive gripping and cutting strength in a shorter length tool (just 145mm). This gives users the freedom to work in confined spaces or overhead, where long-handled tools can become a hindrance. These types of tools increase efficiency on the job and simplify tool selection at the wholesaler’s counter, where contractors are looking for multi-tasking tools that won’t weigh them down.
SMARTER STRIPPING SOLUTIONS
Speed and precision are critical in modern installations and nowhere is that clearer than in cable preparation. The KNIPEX ErgoStrip (16 95 01 SB) has been well received by installers for exactly this reason. Designed for one-handed use, it simplifies the stripping of coax, data and standard cables with minimal effort. Its ergonomic design suits right and left-handed users and eliminates the need for multiple
tools or risky knife use, making it both safer and faster. Tools like the ErgoStrip also reflect a wider trend, as users want tools that are intuitive and efficient. This is a point worth highlighting to trade counter staff, as many customers may not realise how much time and risk they could eliminate with the right stripping tool.
THE URBAN ELECTRICIAN
For electricians working in cities, tool transport is a growing challenge. Parking near a site is rarely an option and lugging heavy toolboxes on foot or public transport is impractical. This has created a growing market for mobile storage options that offer both protection and portability. KNIPEX has addressed this shift with a new generation of mobility solutions tailored for the working electrician.
The KNIPEX Modular X18 Backpack (00 21 50 LE) is one example. Rugged and comfortable to carry, it offers structured internal organisation so tools are always easy to find and Module adapters (00 21 50 V01) compatible with the Modular X18’s Molle straps can be added to attach individual tools or items like water bottles. It’s designed to stand upright and open like a tool case, so users can work directly from the backpack rather than unloading onto a
site floor and importantly it looks smart and professional too.
For users who need a bit more flexibility, the KNIPEX 00 19 50 LE Tool Pouch offers a modular solution that attaches to the backpack or can be worn as a belt pouch. It’s ideal for callouts where only a small selection of tools is required.
For wholesalers, understanding the reasons behind these options is key. The mobility range isn’t just about storage, it’s about enabling contractors to work more flexibly, reduce fatigue and protect their tools from the elements or theft. This is especially relevant for younger tradespeople entering the industry, many of whom are prioritising lighter, smarter solutions from day one.
From a wholesaler perspective, these tool trends reflect broader shifts in how electricians are approaching their work, with more attention on time, space and ergonomics. Contractors are willing to invest in high-quality tools that save them time and reduce hassle. That’s why performance tools and mobility solutions are increasingly seen not as “nice-tohaves” but as daily essentials.
As installations get more complex and job sites more varied, electricians are becoming more selective about what they carry and expect more from every item in their toolkit. Compact, versatile and ergonomic tools are leading the way, supported by smarter transport solutions that keep everything safe, dry and within reach.
To find out more about KNIPEX, visit: https:// www.knipex.com/en-uk/our-history-knipex
No matter how you show 3,
The NEW COMBI 310 shows it best!
The new COMBI 310 gives you three M20 side entries on one box — making looping connections and outdoor installs faster, neater, and more reliable. With 10 total M20 threaded membrane entries, IP66/67 protection, and a 10% bigger belly space, it’s built to take on any job.
Quick to fit, built to last, and ready for anything — from outdoor lighting to renewable energy installs.
