Knightsbridge LED mirrors reflect modern tastes
Designed to upgrade any bathroom, the ML range – the latest LED mirrors from Knightsbridge – is bursting with features the discerning householder will find appealing. The top-of-the-range models comprise a demister pad, an on/off motion sensor, and include a dual voltage 115V/ 230V shaver socket outlet with independent switch control. The mirrors themselves, constructed from a pressed-steel base and high-quality glass, can be rectangular or circular, with a mini circular LED border design or illumination from a surrounding LED border. For reference, the product codes are: MLR6045SD (rectangular, back-lit design); MLC6045SD (rectangular design); and ML500 (circular design). Practical and yet just as stylish, the VML1 vanity mirror light is equipped with a mirror that magnifies the user’s face by three while it is lit by a frosted edge diffuser. The whole, wall-mounted unit is finished in polished chrome, and is easily positioned to achieve the best angle for shaving or applying cosmetics. For those customers after a colourful experience, the RCTRGB is an edge-lit mirror with an RGB remote control to change the colour of the edge light to red, green, blue or warm white as required. The remote has a memory function to ensure that it switches on at the last setting. Whatever style, functionality, shape or size, Knightsbridge has a collection of LED mirrors that will always reflect well on the homeowner, mixing good design with utility, practicality with a bit of pizazz.
Lutron launches PRO programme for the next generation of smart home advisors
The new programme will assist smart home professionals looking to boost their business with smart lighting and motorised blind solutions Lutron Electronics, the global leader in lighting and shading control technology, has launched the Lutron PRO programme, designed to assist smart home professionals looking to boost their business with smart lighting and motorised blind solutions. The UK smart home market is experiencing exponential growth, with revenue projected to reach £4.1 billion by the end of the year. Connected home products – lighting controls, thermostats, blinds, audio controls and more – are providing homeowners with significant lifestyle benefits, and the demand for these continues to skyrocket. Now, more than ever, homeowners are turning to electrical professionals as trusted advisors that are able to deliver the complete connected-home experience. Lutron is renowned for its innovative and intuitive solutions in lighting, blinds and temperature control and the Lutron PRO programme has been designed to help residential contractors grow their business with Lutron through direct engagement with their local distributors and sales representatives. By participating in the programme, these residential contractors will be uniquely positioned to exceed their customers’ expectations. And as a Lutron PRO, will be eligible for a company listing on Lutron’s Where to Buy website for the products they are qualified to install. The next generation of Electrical Contractors In an industry that is constantly evolving, it is essential that electrical contractors have a high-level knowledge of the UK smart home market and an understanding of the key factors in residential lighting control specification and installation. Today’s smart homeowners demand a wireless solution, allowing personalised lighting and blind control for any and all rooms. As part of the Lutron PRO programme members will have access to exclusive training resources and marketing materials through a personalised myLutron account. Another huge benefit of the programme is that members can use this as a stepping stone to upskill and continue their training and development beyond the RA2 Select residential products, with the option to take training courses on other products within the Lutron portfolio including HomeWorks, for luxury residential projects and Vive, for commercial opportunities. Through this training they can advance their understanding, and as a result, their customer portfolio with courses in the benefits of wireless lighting control within a luxury residential space or corporate function. Delivering quality service to the end customer Not only is this programme beneficial for contractors, but also to the end customer. Customers who choose Lutron PRO contractors will qualify for an additional year of full extended warranty on all eligible, registered projects. Lutron PRO members will also have early access and insight into the latest Lutron news, product developments and integration capabilities, meaning their customers can be assured that they will receive exceptional service and advice. “We live in a connected world, and homeowners expect to control all aspects of their lives, including their smart home technology, from their devices. Today, a contractor’s success will largely depend on being seen as a trusted advisor that is able to meet these expectations,” said Steven Detmer, Residential Product Manager at Lutron. “The Lutron PRO programme offers us the opportunity to provide contractors with the training and support necessary to capitalise on this growing market opportunity.” Sam Brown, Director at SRB Electrical & Security LTD enjoys using Lutron products in both his own home and educating his clients, “As a small company we were looking for new products to help us bring modern smart lighting controls into the home and the commercial sector. We decided to invest in learning about Lutron’s RA2 Select & Vive solutions, by buying products and installing in our own home and workplace. Having this first-hand experience helps us educate our customers on the benefits of these products, including how reliable, flexible and simple they are to understand and use.” Andrea Giammaria, Director at RTEQ London Ltd added, “These systems are a Win-Win for installers and clients alike. Both easy to install and easy to operate. Using the Lutron Clear Connect Wireless technology, it is possible to install a system for a 3-bedroom apartment in just one day, with minimal disturbance. Thanks to Lutron, we can offer a smart lighting system for anyone. We also install Lutron for older clients and others with limited mobility, so that they can have full control of lights and blinds without getting up, either through the use of the wireless Pico remote, their phone or even their voice.” Sign up to the Lutron PRO programme here.
Lutron launches new shading solutions with smart wood blinds
Lutron Electronics, the global leader in lighting and shading control solutions, has announced the addition of smart wood blinds to its window coverings family. The solution marries the style and function of bespoke wood blinds, with the convenience and control of smart home technology. The smart wood blinds ensure homeowners automatically have the perfect light through their Natural Light Optimisation feature. By harnessing your smart device’s inbuilt compass and GPS technology, the Lutron app identifies the direction of any window and automatically tilts the blind to the optimal position. Homeowners can then customise each blind to taste, prioritising privacy or more light depending on the room’s use. Desire for comfort and autonomous features at home has never been higher. The comfort and lighting worldwide market, comprising of devices aimed at improving the atmosphere at home, is expected to more than double by 2025. The smart wood blinds offer an elegant and accessible entry point to smart home automation, effectively meaning blinds never need be touched and can be controlled through a single application. As well as complete control, the blinds require no wiring or expertise for installation. They are powered by standard, off-the-shelf alkaline D or AA batteries, taking less than 20 minutes per blind to install and takes no prior expertise or training to setup. “We are always striving to provide customers with the perfect experience, whether that be through lighting or shading solutions. The smart wood blinds are yet another step in the direction of creating a completely autonomous, controllable, and self-optimising environment for homeowners. They simply provide the right amount of natural light throughout the day with effortless elegance,” said Steve Detmer, Residential Products Manager at Lutron. The blinds start at £600 and are available in the UK now through Lutron shading dealers. For more information, please visit https://blinds.lutron.com/
FIREX and FIA celebrate long-standing relationship to provide platform for collaboration and promote success in the fire safety sector
The Fire Industry Association (FIA) will once again be the exclusive show partner to FIREX International 2022, the UK’s leading fire safety event, as the sector looks to reconnect in London on 17-19 May. The long-standing relationship helps to play a vital role in promoting expertise, collaboration and competence in fire safety. The FIA (and previously the BFPSA), have been long-standing partners of FIREX International since 1996 – when FIREX first became an independent event – providing the UK fire industry a chance to flourish with a dedicated platform. The strategically significant relationship supports the FIA, the leading trade organisation for the fire safety industry, in playing a vital role in promoting the expertise and values of the sector. FIREX, as its exclusive tradeshow partner, provides a unique platform for all stakeholders to come together in one setting to collaborate, engage and set the agenda. The international nature of the FIREX audience also provides an important export platform for UK business, with the event working directly with the FIA Export Council on initiatives and representation at the show. FIA members make up 25-30% of the FIREX exhibitors, enjoying discounted rates and exclusive recognition as FIA members on all FIREX marketing and promotion. They also have access to the FIA bar which is constructed on the show floor as a headline feature area. Gerry Dunphy, Event Director of FIREX, adds: “The FIA has been and continues to be a guidance to the overall FIREX proposition, particularly in areas such as education and learning, not only through the seminars on the exhibition floor but through its many contributions via our webinars and features on IFSECGlobal.com. In turn the unique availability of IFSEC Global has provided the FIA with an online platform to continually broadcast its messages to hundreds of thousands of global fire safety sector professionals.” “We’re excited to be back in 2022, with the show also now fully committing to supporting third-party approvals on all related fire safety products and construction materials. Such processes are crucial to improving standards in the built environment.” Ian Moore, CEO of the FIA, states: “The FIA highly values its relationship with FIREX. The long-standing contractual agreement between both parties has allowed FIREX to reinvest in the FIA each year. This allows the FIA to continue funding its research into all aspects of fire safety and helps to continually raise the standards in fire protection measures and approaches. “With the relationship continuing into 2022, FIREX will continue its investment back into the fire sector via the FIA, which over the years now totals in the region of £750,000. “Ultimately, we both have common goals, we both have the success of the UK fire industry at our cores, and we look forward to maintaining this relationship for many years to come.”
Schneider Electric relaunches mySchneider for electricians with new updates
Schneider Electric, the leader in digital transformation and energy management, has announced the relaunch of mySchneider for electricians in the UK and Ireland. mySchneider provides the electrical community with one-stop-shop access to products, tools and business advice to help set up, finance, promote and grow an electrical business. Increasingly, the electrical industry is transitioning to digital, meaning that catalogues, product orders, quotes, and installation guides are moving online. The industry recognises this and more electricians are embracing digital than ever before. With everything in one place, mySchneider embraces digital to help save time and make life easier. mySchneider can assist electricians with: Continually improving knowledge and skills – through online training courses on key topics for electricians Keeping up to speed with the latest industry trends – via news and updates Gaining access to one of the widest product portfolios in the market – including product literature, technical information, and opportunities to attend focus groups to influence new product ranges Accessing exclusive rewards – earn points for purchases of qualifying Schneider Electric products and spend them in the gift catalogue Benefitting from special discounts – through Schneider Electric’s network of trusted partners Growing a business with dedicated global and local support – with benefit from Schneider Electric’s ecosystem of certified partners throughout a project’s lifecycle Nico van der Merwe, VP Home & Distribution at Schneider Electric said, “The mySchneider electricians are the beating heart of the electrical industry. We are committed to providing the platform to build the professional skillset and business acumen needed to remain competitive in the market. mySchneider for electricians does just that by enabling users to remain on the pulse of latest industry trends and regulatory compliance through exclusive access to industry insights.” mySchneider for electricians aims to provide a hub for the electrical community to engage and communicate with one another Electricians can benefit from access to exclusive training courses, products, rewards, and advice to grow their business To access mySchneider, please register your interest here.
EnviroVent to reveal roadmap to net zero at Homes UK 2021
Harrogate-based ventilation manufacturer EnviroVent will be revealing its Roadmap to Net Zero at the Homes UK 2021 exhibition (ExCel London 23-24 November). The leading ventilation manufacturer, will be demonstrating all the measures it has put in place to achieve net zero carbon by 2030 at this social housing show. The company’s Roadmap will mean an emissions saving of more than 1,000 tonnes of carbon over 10 years. Rachael Tranter, SHEQ Manager (Safety, Health, Environmental and Quality), explains: “Environmental sustainability is very important to us and to our social housing customers. We’re really excited to be demonstrating our very clear roadmap to net zero by 2030 at Homes UK. We are 100 per cent committed to achieving this as we see it as the future for our company and it means those buying our ventilation systems can be safe in the knowledge they are giving back to the planet.” To meet this ambitious target, a number of sustainability practices have been put in place by EnviroVent to reduce the company’s carbon footprint. Recently this has included committing to planting 5,000 trees per year as part of a new partnership with MoreTrees, an organisation that will plant trees responsibly on its behalf over a long-term period and then manage them for life. Through MoreTrees, EnviroVent has already planted 1,000 trees. Straightaway, these trees have offset 300 tonnes of CO2 from the atmosphere and these are contributing oxygen. Planting 5,000 trees every year will remove a total of approximately 1,500 tonnes of CO2 from the atmosphere. EnviroVent’s Roadmap also includes relocating to a zero carbon purpose-built headquarters in 2022, which will be heated sustainably via air source heat pumps and its electricity will be generated via solar panels. Through a combination of upgrading company vehicles and replacing diesel-fuelled cars with hybrid vehicles in its fleet, EnviroVent will dramatically reduce its carbon emissions. The company is also involved in a number of projects with social and private housing customers to reduce the carbon footprint and energy usage in their housing stock. Project 80 by the housing association Midland Heart, is a new build scheme in Birmingham that will meet the Government’s Future Homes Standard, thereby reducing carbon emission by up to 80%. EnviroVent’s energiSava 250 MVHR (Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery) systems have been selected for use within a number of the 12 homes being built here. Homes will be monitored constantly as this research and development programme will be used to inform the Government’s next consultation about the Future Homes Standard that will be compulsory for all new homes built by 2025. In addition, EnviroVent was recently commended for its commitment to the environment by winning The ASCP Safety & Compliance Awards for Best Product for Improvement to Wellbeing with its new ATMOS ventilation unit. ATMOS is a ventilation system which reduces condensation and eliminates mould growth in the home, whilst minimising energy usage and running costs. EnviroVent has a manufacturing plant for ventilation systems and a distribution site, located in Harrogate. The company supplies some of the top UK housebuilders, as well as local authorities, housing associations and homeowners. For more details of EnviroVent’s ventilation products, visit the website www.envirovent.com.
FIREX International puts third-party certification centre stage
As a direct result of the findings of the Hackitt Report and subsequent government focus on the recommendations for the wider fire safety environment, FIREX International, the UK’s leading fire industry tradeshow, has taken the decision to fully commit to supporting and promoting third-party approvals, independent accreditation and competency for construction products and services. ‘’It will strengthen the construction products regulatory regime, with new requirements to make sure more products are safe, while paving the way for a National Regulator for Construction Products to oversee and enforce the rules.’’ – Building Safety Bill, July 2021 This will mean all exhibiting companies with relevant fire protection or prevention systems and materials will need to hold – or be in the process of acquiring – recognised third-party approval on their products in order to participate at FIREX, which returns to London’s ExCeL on 17-19 May 2022. This development will enable FIREX International to align and correspond with the current need for improvements in product selection and specification as outlined in the Building Safety Bill, which in conjunction with additional recommendations, will ultimately help to create a safer built environment. This commitment, supported by the industry, will provide exhibiting partners with a unique opportunity to showcase their expertise and commitment to safety, in addition to explaining why their products have achieved third-party approved status. The move will create a backdrop of high-quality product solutions, as well as a focus on competency in areas such as training and development. Education and expertise will be delivered by industry experts – all of whom recognise the vital importance of products and practises that have been rigorously tested to the most demanding requirements. FIREX will also actively promote the wide range of exhibitors’ approvals on listings, directory entries and onsite signage and displays, helping manufacturers to confidently display the accreditations their products have achieved. Ian Moore, Chief Executive Officer of the Fire Industry Association (FIA), says: ‘’This is a progressive and welcome initiative from FIREX International and complements the FIA’s longstanding tradition of promoting and advocating third party approvals. All FIA members are required to have third party approved status, so continuing to align ourselves with an industry event which exclusively encourages compliance is a key opportunity for our members to reinforce the importance of third-party accreditation.’’ Steve Davies, Chief Executive Officer, Association for Specialist Fire Protection adds: ‘’ASFP welcomes this decision by FIREX International to encourage a wider discussion and implementation of third-party approvals. As an industry association we require all our members to have recognised accreditations as a minimum requirement of membership, so it is a welcome development. Competency is a core value of the ASFP’s strategy to educate and promote best practice in fire safety, so we welcome an environment which focuses on the main issues regarding product and installation standards.’’ The Building Safety Bill 2021 has indicated that construction products will be subject to more stringent conditions in future which will include meeting existing UK and European standards. Should this become law, it will be important for all construction products and life safety systems to show acceptable levels of compliance which will result in a direct raising of standards. FIREX International will become an industry focused platform whereby all participants can confidently promote new and existing product solutions which carry valid test certificates. Gerry Dunphy, Event Director, FIREX International states: ‘’We’ve been keen to establish FIREX as a third party only event for several years. The discussion around a more rigorous approach to life safety from the government following the Grenfell Tower fire has provided a context for us to explore promoting the highest possible standards in association with all our partners. We feel this decision can only enhance the experience FIREX offers and will provide all customers with the confidence that they’re in a seriously focused environment. Life safety isn’t an area for compromise, particularly with regards to construction products, so we’re pleased FIREX can fully play its part, in partnership with the industry, in helping to raise standards.’’ The move has been widely welcomed by the industry and FIREX International has a long history working with a wide range of third-party accreditation partners. These include the Fire Industry Association (FIA), Association of Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP), the Loss Prevention Certification Board (BRE/LPCB), British Standards Institution (BSI) Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Warringtonfire, Intertek, Factory Mutual (FM) Fire Protection Association (FPA), and the Fire Sector Federation. Cris Francis, Director Construction Products at the Building Research Establishment (BRE) says: ‘’The forward thinking from FIREX International to make the decision to only allow exhibitors with a relevant fire industry third party approval will go a long way in promoting the want and desire of such companies to prove their products performance and/or their relevant competence as a service provider. Fire safety is pivotal in the built environment and BRE/LPCB as a third-party test house and certification body can only applaud this decision.’’ Jonathan O’Neill, Managing Director at the Fire Protection Association (FPA), adds: “At the FPA we believe that to be truly competent, an individual or product must be assessed by an accredited third party. A key aim of our ‘Know your Building’ campaign is for third-party certification to be a mandatory requirement for all fire safety services and products. By using third-party accredited, competent contractors and products, construction companies can ensure they are working within industry best practice and minimise the risks from fire.” This important decision to put competency at the core of the show’s proposition will provide these partners with an arena where they can promote their expertise, communicate with fire safety professionals, and become leading advocates for the highest standards in life safety.
The Role of eCommerce within the Electrical Distribution Industry – The importance of building processes around eCommerce
By George Brickwood, UK&I eCommerce Director at Schneider Electric In the previous two articles of this eCommerce series, we discussed the rise of the B2B eCommerce sector and why the electrical distribution business should to use this developing channel. Our first article focused on the important technology considerations for making the shift to serving customers online, while our second article explained why an organisation’s employees must collaborate and drive digital transformation to enable eCommerce success. The third and final instalment in this series will uncover yet another critical component to the effective implementation of eCommerce – Process. Whether through adaption or freshly created ways of working, processes should be built with eCommerce at the centre. eCommerce will not function if it is merely grafted onto current processes. This article will consider specifically what is needed for the process element in the successful adoption of eCommerce in the electrical distribution industry. Product data: the gold standard Vast strides made in the availability of rich, informative and engaging content that encourages purchase on an eCommerce site has meant that the expected standard amongst consumers and businesses is higher than ever. New technologies allow organisations the ability to convey a greater amount of quality information to customers at an optimal time for the message to be processed. The industry is at an opportune position to capitalise on this technology and greater serve the customer needs and wants, all-the-while improving logistical efficiency. If you consider the buyer’s journey online to be like a Formula1 race, with multiple competitors all competing for that place on the podium, product data is the engine driving your product to the top. Data is the fundamental means to the desired end for businesses seeking to attract online attention, helping to build awareness, peak interest and encourage purchase action. For example, utilising Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) can boost visibility of your product on the web, while prompt signposting and rich product information can give the customer the reassurance they need when on the site that they are making the right call. The quality of the product data on offer is crucial for the positioning of a product online, acting as an intermediary between the distributor and the customer. Adopting an “eCommerce first” approach to business in the digital age is now a prerequisite for any organisation looking to better serve their customers online and drive higher conversion. Companies need to have eCommerce at the heart of it all, ensuring that its not just an afterthought. Helping buyers take back control Gone are the days of tradespeople taking time out of their day to travel to an electrical wholesaler, only to discover their desired product is no longer in stock. Online distributors take all the stress out of the ordering process by making information such as live stock levels, price, and order status clear and accessible on the site. This allows buyers more control over things such as forward planning for upcoming jobs, and removes all the hassle from purchasing, improving brand advocacy and encouraging repeat purchase. From A to B, and back Customers want peace of mind, to know that their order is in safe hands. As such, it is important that a distributor is well aware of the processes to get a customers order from warehouse to doorstep, without friction or delay. Firstly, giving reassurance that an order has been received and the relevant teams are working to initiate the distribution prevents a lot of angsty customers emailing to check on their order. Regular updates thereafter are highly recommended to provide further reassurance. Furthermore, if a customer has second thoughts or receives a product and wishes to return it, this should be mapped out clearly, making the process as streamlined as possible. Giving the customer options at the point of purchase is a sure fire way to generate greater conversion on your leads. A key example of this is when choosing delivery options at checkout. A business owner must ask him or herself what kind of service would they expect if they were going through the same process. Would they want home delivery or click-and-collect? Can they track their order online? If they are going to be out, where should the parcel be left? These are all key questions that distributors need to ask and be aware of if they are to successfully integrate an eCommerce strategy into their business model. Take care The one element of the “old fashioned way” of doing things that can get lost in an online strategy is the personal care and attention that you can get in store as opposed to ordering online. That is why it is extra important to double down on the levels of customer care when adopting eCommerce strategy before, during and after purchase. Again, the simplest solution to this is providing clear and accessible information that customers can reference and self-serve any problems they face. This can be in the form of a dedicated ‘Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)’ page on the website, or an automated chatbot that can guide customers through any issues. More often than not, people just want a human at the other end of the line to communicate with, so it is advised to have a helpline or customer service email set up to handle any incoming queries. Maintaining eCommerce biodiversity To summarise, the client should be the entire focus of your eCommerce integration. The consumer should be at the centre of everything you do, including the technology you utilise, the people you hire, and the processes you adopt. Electrical wholesalers pursuing long-term business success in the digital age should consider operating online; that is a prerequisite in today’s society. However, your eCommerce strategy should reflect your brand and be as human as possible. Putting yourself in the shoes of the customer and walking through the experience with them can help you better understand them, which will help to increase sales, brand loyalty, and set you on the route to eCommerce success.
The Role of eCommerce within the Electrical Distribution Industry – Building a winning team
By George Brickwood, UK&I eCommerce Director at Schneider Electric In the previous piece in this eCommerce series, we discussed the rise of the B2B eCommerce sector and why the electrical distribution industry needs to properly leverage this developing channel in order to remain relevant in a competitive market. We also talked about the important considerations for effective eCommerce adoption, with a focus on technology. In the second instalment of this series, we’ll look at the next critical component of the eCommerce Ecosystem: people. With the digital economy thriving, so is eCommerce employment, with a 143% growth in individuals hired in eCommerce-related occupations expected in 2021. A strong team is required for a successful business, especially when operational change is being introduced throughout the organisation. This article will concentrate on three specific areas: diversified expertise, digital culture, and leadership, in order to provide insight into what is required to achieve buy-in and enable effective eCommerce adoption. It begins with recruitment The people in your company are your greatest asset. Your goals and objectives are delivered by the people you hire, and they are also a reflection of your skillset and company values. While eCommerce success is not attainable through simply employing ‘all-rounders’, useful as they are, it is important to understand the critical skills required to build a successful team of eCommerce professionals. This holds true if you are trying to evolve an existing team so to provide the correct training and skills development to meet new skill requirements. If building an eCommerce team is new to you, then bringing in an expert at this stage will be essential. Teams are the foundation of any thriving and successful company. Teams need to be ‘on the same page’ to ensure streamlined operations and a common sense of purpose. Analysts need to understand the marketers, finance teams need to be aware of sales team activity and so on. A poorly managed workforce can create independent silos, leading to a lack of coordination and ultimately a negative impact on results. Managed well, recruiting the right people into a company sets you on the perfect path to business success. Digital is the eCommerce silver bullet Traditionally, the continued success of face-to-face interactions within the electrical distribution industry has meant that it has been slow to change and adapt to the demands of the digital generation. E-commerce was often viewed as non-essential, and as such fell by the wayside when it came to dictating strategy. Digital is unanimously the way forward, though half the challenge of implementing an eCommerce strategy is convincing your workforce that digital transformation presents a growth opportunity as opposed to a challenging threat. The Sixteenth Edition of the AMA UK Electrical Wholesalers Market Report (2019) stated that adoption of a multi-channel sales approach provides multiple benefits to electrical wholesalers, not only increasing visibility of products and services on offer but widening your customer base and the availability at which your products can be bought. One of the core benefits of eCommerce is that it allows you to use data intelligently. Unlike an offline distribution strategy – eCommerce lets you use multiple platforms and data source simultaneously to enable strategic and tactical decision making. However, this culture of effectively utilising and seeing the benefit of the access to this type of data doesn’t necessarily come naturally, particularly when you’re upskilling and transforming long-serving employees. The value needs to be emphasised through education on return on investment, not just through revenue but with advantages such as increased productivity due to the fact customers will have the latest pricing and stock availability visible to them at the click of a button, reducing simple case management. The importance of strong leadership Understand the vision, communicate it effectively. The best leaders in eCommerce are those who fully understand the capabilities of an online strategy. While technology is critical to this, understanding the marketing side is essential for converting web visitors into new buyers and new buyers into loyal customers. It is crucial that a holistic approach is taken, leaders must take into account the short and long-term opportunities and be willing to make decisions for the team. The transition from tradition in the electrical distribution industry has been moderate. As such, it is all-the-more important that leaders have strong relationships with employees and customers alike. Trust is the foundation of any relationship – displaying assured guidance and, perhaps most importantly, passion in a leadership role is critical to engaging with your team, synchronising efforts and securing buy-in for transformational projects. Your employees are the cogs that keep the company wheels spinning; they are undoubtedly your most valuable asset when it comes to establishing a successful eCommerce strategy, but they must operate in tandem with the corporate culture and leadership team. Adoption of a digital culture across a multiskilled workforce is a sure-fire way for your organisation to run smoothly. A strong leader is the glue that keeps everything together.
