New management team installed at lighting business
Blackmoon Lighting Ltd, Midlothian headquarters, having over 20 years of experience in the lighting industry, has appointed three directors to expand its business, after the retirement of its founder, Kenny Morrison. Blackmoon, formed in 2004 specialises in concept designs, lighting modelling and the supply of energy efficient sustainable lighting solutions for clients within the commercial, residential, health care, educational, leisure and industrial industries. Highly experienced construction industry executive Matthew Wright takes on the Managing Director role, being joined by Ewan Arthur, Sales Director and Marc Faughnan, Operations Director. Mr Wright said: “I’m excited about the journey ahead and confident that, together with lighting market experts Ewan and Marc, we will create the next chapter of success for Blackmoon and look forward to this exciting adventure as we illuminate the path to a brighter future.” Ewan Arthur’s journey within the lighting industry, which has included working for the global brand, Zumbtobel, has equipped him with a wealth of knowledge and insight has of the lighting market. He said: “We have big ambitions for the business and have already rebranded with a new website to follow shortly. We are planning also to expand our product offering while upgrading our showroom to better display our extensive product range. “The lighting industry has changed dramatically over the last 20 years and we believe our new dynamic approach will ensure us a position at the forefront of innovation in technology and design.” Blackmoon Lighting employs 12 people and carries out installations across the UK. It also has the facility to design and manufacture bespoke luminaires and systems for both decorative or commercial applications. For more information, call 0131 448 0305 or visit: www.blackmoonlighting.com, www.linkedin.com/company/blackmoon-lighting Other stories
SELECT distributes free learning resource to training centres providing help for apprentices and adult trainees
SELECT the campaigning trade association continues its mission to educate and inform electricians with another of its free learning resource for apprentices and adult trainees. Scotland’s largest construction trade body is providing important information about protective devices, outlining various technologies learners will be faced with as they proceed with their training and progress to work. Giving clear, concise information and advice on more than 10 devices, which include residual current devices (RCDs), circuit breakers, and arc fault detection devices (ADDs), the three posters outline where and how they should be used. Membership Representatives of SELECT are distributing the posters to 22 approved training centres which run courses by the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT), managing training on behalf of the Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB). Bob Cairney, Director of Technical Services at SELECT, said: “The team at SELECT is delighted to have been involved in the production of this latest addition to our suite of learning resources, and we know it will be extremely useful to the target audience. “SELECT has always put training and continuing education at the forefront of its efforts and this new resource demonstrates our ongoing commitment to the safety and welfare of the talent of tomorrow. The protection device posters were produced in partnership with SELECT Associate Member Electrium, who supplied the imagery. “All colleges will soon have a suite of dedicated SELECT resources to help with learning and competency, helping them to draw on all the extensive knowledge and experience that the organisation has to offer.” Barrie MacKay, Training and Development Manager at SECTT, said: “Protective devices are an increasing part of every electrician’s working life and those who are learning the trade need to be familiar with them. “We would like to thank SELECT for providing another valuable learning tool for apprentices. The industry as a whole is committed to the next generation of talent coming through, and creating a pool of highly-trained, highly-qualified personnel to take the sector forward.” Distribution of the posters also coincides with an update to SELECT’s safe isolation collateral, which was successfully rolled out in 2022 and includes posters, a video and a handy, toolbox-sized flowchart to remind apprentices about safe working practices. It also follows the recent release of the association’s resources on neutral current diversion, which were also shared with training centres and will be the main theme of its 2024 Toolbox Talks tour, which will visit 12 venues in Scotland in May and June.
“Quality Classroom Delivery Is Our Number One Priority” – PPL Training
Bob Skilton takes over as new Electrical Installations Training Manager at PPL Training. Whilst still relatively new to the role of Electrical Installations Training Manager, Bob Skilton is no stranger to the classroom. Nor is he a stranger to the delegates who visit PPL Training’s Slough Campus. An ever-popular figure, Bob took over the management of PPL’s Electrical Installations courses in late 2023. His experience includes: You can read more about Bob’s experience, and that of the wider PPL Training team by visiting: https://go.ppltraining.co.uk/etm/staff Hear From The New Leadership Speaking on the opportunity to head up the Electrical Installations team at PPL Training, Bob said: “It was really important to me that this team we have built over the last decade stayed as strong as possible during this period of change. To do that we must play to our strengths both individually and collectively…” “To me, that means an emphasis on the overall experience of our paying customers. Quality classroom delivery is our number one priority at PPL Training, across the board. I am pleased to not only manage a team of highly knowledgeable and skilled tutors, but also be able to contribute to this mission myself… I love being in the classroom helping electricians from all industries develop” Available Training Courses With role changes, and the potential for further course changes on the horizon, it is important to understand PPL Training’s current offering of City & Guilds qualifications, which can be delivered at their City & Guilds Approved Centres in York, Slough and Livingston, as well as On-site at client premises. These courses include: Also offered are: Full course overviews of all City & Guilds Electrical Qualifications can be found on PPL Training’s website: https://go.ppltraining.co.uk/etm/electrical Bob’s Right Hand Man Bob is now flanked by David Parr, acting as Team Leader at our York Campus. David brings another 45+ years experience to the leadership team for Electrical Installations at PPL Training. Having held a number of positions within the electrical industry before accruing close to a decade of teaching, at the front of the classroom. David added: “It is an honour to be able to assist Bob in the day-to-day design, planning and delivery of the suite of City & Guilds qualifications that our team is responsible for.” “Not only that, the togetherness and comradery within our team now under Bob’s leadership is truly refreshing. When a manager leaves any business it can sometimes be difficult to maintain any forward momentum that you may have had, but in this case it has spurred us on to what I believe could be bigger and better things.” “We have a number of new training courses in the works that will build upon our existing offering. We are also working with other accreditation bodies to gain 3rd party recognition of a number of our courses that will only provide more value to our delegates in the long run.” What Have You Had to Say? With the team now settling in under new management, the feedback provided by attending Electricians, currently working in Events, Data Centres, FM, Transport and Defence sectors has been of paramount importance to Bob, David and their staff. “Great place to train and learn… Excellent Training facilities. Both tutors, Dave and Steve were exceptionally knowledgeable and paced the course in a way that really maximised the time to absorb all the information. I would highly recommend anyone to choose PPL for any electrical training courses.” Andrew – ASM Global (City & Guilds 2382-22) “Excellent area for training all facilities in good conditions…Excellent site, excellent and friendly staff,very good food and facility services,very professional tutors.” Jose – Microsoft (City & Guilds 2921-31) “The three day course was excellent in both content and delivery. A great learning environment helped by a knowledgeable tutor and comfortable course pace. Onsite facilities and catering were also great. Would highly recommend the team at PPL for any training requirements.” Jamie – Emcor UK (City & Guilds 2382-22) “David Parr’s teaching was very clear and informative, but also kept it interesting. Facilities were very good… Would use PPL for more courses.” Gethin – SCS Railways (City & Guilds 2391-52) “Excellent teaching… Highly informative of the subject and took time to ensure trainees understood what was being taught. Trainer also took into consideration making documentation and presentations accessible for those with reading difficulties. David – Vivo Defence (City & Guilds Assured Escape Lighting) Full course overviews of all Fire Safety installations courses can be found on PPL Training’s website: https://go.ppltraining.co.uk/etm/fire What Is Coming Next? Having established itself as one of the go-to training providers for City & Guilds Electrical Qualifications, a touch more variety and some detailed explorations of niche topics not fully explored by their existing courses is what Bob and his team are currently developing. Said courses in development include: Electrical Safe Isolation (1 Day) This would cover the basic requirements of safe isolation as outlined by the Electricity at Work regulations and by the Health & Safety at work act. Areas Covered: Electrical Inspection and Testing Refresher / Awareness (2 Day) This course is designed to give existing inspectors a refresher on the latest requirements and changes to procedures, also to bring them up to speed if they have been away from testing for a while. It can be used as a pre-course introduction prior to attending a 2391 if your current employment does not include testing of electrical installations or you have limited experience of testing. Also as a refresher/consolidation for delegates who has been unsuccessful in a recent 2391 practical/theoretical assessment and are looking to try again. Areas covered: Installation, Testing and Maintenance of EV Chargers (1 Day) The would cover the basic generic requirements of EV charger installation and maintenance. Areas covered. This course is designed to give the delegates a generic overview of EV charger installation requirements, the initial verification paperwork and the ensuing maintenance requirements. This is to supplement and assist not replace any specific manufacturers requirements for the
Top 6 Tips for Maximising Your EV’s Range
The concept of range always comes up whenever one touches upon the topic of electric vehicles (EVs). Prospective buyers want to know if electric cars have the range to back it up and make it worth switching over to. Meanwhile, EV owners are often on the lookout for ways on how to maximise their car’s range to keep range anxiety at bay. Whichever one you may be, there’s no doubt that range is a key factor in ensuring you get a pleasant driving experience with your vehicle. Fortunately, there are various ways to help you get the most range out of your battery charge. Here are some practical tips on maximising your EV’s range. 1. Plan Your Route Ahead of Time While range anxiety is steadily becoming a thing of the past thanks to more charging stations now being installed all over the UK, it doesn’t mean that there’s no longer any merit to planning your route ahead of time. Rather, this can still help you by taking more efficient routes where your car can comfortably cruise at lower speeds so that your battery can take it easy. Planning ahead also means being wary of areas that invite heavy traffic, as frequent stops can take a serious toll on your EV’s energy. Be particular about the terrain of your drive as well. If possible, try to avoid traversing areas with steep slopes as they require your EV to expend more energy. See if there are alternatives or likewise check if your EV’s navigation system can suggest energy-efficient routes to take. Simply put, the more energy you save, the more range you get. 2. Be Efficient with Charging Your charging habits greatly affect your battery’s health, which in turn also influences the range of your vehicle. After all, optimum battery output means having more energy to go for a few extra miles. Keeping your electric car’s charge between 20 and 80 percent is generally recommended. To better monitor your EV’s energy, you may also consider getting a reliable EV charger installed by an EV charging point installer so that you can charge up your car at your own time and pace. 3. Mind Your Driving Speeds Careless acceleration and driving at top speeds can quickly eat away at your battery, thus limiting your range for the rest of the trip. Moreover, hard acceleration often leads to harsh braking whenever a stop comes up and that only further strains your battery. To help stretch your range, opt for a gentler acceleration wherein you’re able to maintain a comfortable speed during the drive. Keeping your speed around 60 mph should be enough for energy efficiency without sacrificing getting to your destination on time. As such, smooth driving can net you more range from your EV, so try to stick to it whenever possible. 4. Check Your Tires Regularly If your tires are underinflated, your car ends up working extra hard to make up for the increased roll resistance. Thus, make sure you regularly check your tires to see if they’re properly inflated and free from damage to prevent additional strain on your EV. As a guide, you may check your EV’s handbook to see what the recommended tire pressure is for optimum performance. Of course emergencies can always happen, so try to carry a portable tire inflator with you just in case. Some EVs also have a built-in tire pressure monitoring system, so make sure to always give it a quick check before you take your car out for a drive. 5. Keep Your Cargo Light More cargo means that your vehicle would need to expend more energy when you accelerate. So as much as possible, try to keep your trunk light to lessen the demands on your vehicle. Take note that this also applies to external accessories such as roof racks, bike racks, or cargo boxes. If they aren’t frequently in use, consider uninstalling them in the meantime. This is because such accessories can end up adding to your car’s aerodynamic profile which then increases drag as you drive. 6. Minimise Use of Temperature Control Other functions inside your car such as air conditioning or heating also rely on your car’s battery. Using them sparingly then affords you with more power and thus more range. Of course that doesn’t mean enduring a drive where you’re sweating or shivering. For hot days, you may try opening your windows for a while to let heat out before you get in, using a window sunshade, or just opening windows during the drive itself if possible. For cold days, you may opt to preheat your car while it’s plugged in so it stays warm enough as you drive. Being able to maximise your EV’s range means getting to enjoy your drives without worrying about having to charge up right away. This can be possible through being conscious of your driving habits and aiming for energy efficiency whenever possible. Let these tips help you squeeze out those extra miles from your battery for longer drives and more adventures.
BG Electrical Evolve decorative light switches and sockets
The range of Evolve decorative wiring accessories from BG Electrical is flying off the shelves thanks to end user demand for value for money style and décor-matching elegance with easy, quick fitting and ‘no-return’ reliability for the installer. Evolve – Practical and aesthetic The award-winning Evolve range of decorative switches and sockets are designed for both domestic and commercial applications and are the perfect way to ensure all essential power points enhance décor rather than detract from it. Aesthetically attractive, the slimline switches and sockets are designed with screwless face plates which easily clip on and off making decorating easier. Launched by leading lighting and electrical brand Luceco under its specialist wiring and accessories brand BG Electrical, the Evolve range boasts eight different colours including brushed steel, black chrome, and matt blue as well as satin brass, polished copper, matt black, matt grey, and pearlescent white. The range includes switches, sockets and innovative fast charge USB sockets, Wi-Fi range extenders, touch dimmer switches as well as Grid range extension and Euro module range extension combining power, data, TV, telephone, and audio. There are 25-year warranties, and the range design ensures a ‘right first time’ approach to any wiring installation. Commenting on the new range, BG’s Hazel Whittingham, Product Manager said, “The Evolve range has been designed around installer feedback and market demand, so we are very confident of the opportunity it provides for sales growth and stock turn in both the domestic and commercial markets.” BG Electrical is part of the Luceco Group, which also includes the Luceco Lighting and Masterplug brands. With over seventy years of industry experience, the Luceco Group is internationally recognised as one of the market leaders across the key electrical categories. Take a look at other featured articles or look at the online digital magazines.
Accelerate 2 Zero: Revolutionising Decarbonisation with Augmented Reality
In a world confronted by the urgent challenges of climate change, businesses are increasingly under pressure to adopt sustainable practices and reduce their carbon footprint. The quest for decarbonisation has never been more crucial, and innovative solutions are imperative to accelerate this journey towards a greener future. At Energy Efficient Solutions Group (EESG), we understand this urgency, which is why we have introduced a ground-breaking augmented reality (AR) app called Accelerate 2 Zero. This app aims to empower our clients to decarbonise their organisations and work towards achieving net-zero emissions. Accelerate 2 Zero signifies a fundamental shift in the strategy towards achieving carbon neutrality. At EESG, our primary focus is on delivering cutting-edge solutions tailored to the specific needs of our clients. Our goal is not just to offer products and services but to facilitate informed decision-making, enabling businesses to make smarter and more energy-efficient choices. With Accelerate 2 Zero, we are revolutionising the way organisations visualise and implement renewable technologies. The key feature of Accelerate 2 Zero is its augmented reality technology, which allows users to envision the potential impact of various renewable technologies on their premises. From LED lighting to solar panels, battery storage to inverters, the app provides a comprehensive overview of available options. With a simple click, users can explore the key features and benefits of each technology, gaining valuable insights into how they can reduce their carbon footprint and enhance sustainability. What sets Accelerate 2 Zero apart is its customisation capabilities. We understand that every organization has unique requirements and constraints. Therefore, the solutions offered by the app are tailored to the specific needs of each client. Whether it’s optimising energy consumption, maximising cost savings, or minimising environmental impact, Accelerate 2 Zero provides personalised recommendations to ensure the best possible fit for every organisation. In addition to visualising renewable technologies, the app features a powerful carbon calculator. This tool enables users to quantify their carbon emissions and calculate potential savings accurately. By inputting data such as average electricity prices and energy consumption patterns, organisations can obtain real-time insights into their ecological efforts. This invaluable feature not only helps track progress towards decarbonisation but also demonstrates the tangible benefits in terms of cost savings and environmental stewardship. One of the most compelling aspects of Accelerate 2 Zero is its accessibility. We firmly believe that sustainability should be attainable for all organisations, regardless of their size or budget. Therefore, we have made the app available for free download, ensuring that it is accessible to everyone. By removing financial barriers, we aim to transform access to sustainable solutions and empower businesses of all sizes to embark on their decarbonisation journey. To ensure that your organisation doesn’t miss out on this transformative tool, we encourage you to head to the app store now and download Accelerate 2 Zero. Join us in revolutionising the way we approach decarbonization, and together, let’s pave the way towards a cleaner, greener future. GooglePlay: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.EES.Accelerate2Zero&pcampaignid=web_share AppStore: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/accelerate-2-zero/id6468273722 Other energy efficient stories
Enhancing Safety and Efficiency on the Job: The Role of High-Quality Workwear in the Electrical Trade
The electrical trade industry is a realm where safety and efficiency are non-negotiable. Regularly, professionals in this trade confront unpredictable hazards — from high-voltage shocks to thermal burns, punctures, lacerations, and even arc flashes — necessitating a constant evolution in personal protective equipment (PPE), particularly in workwear. High-quality workwear shields electrical workers from injuries, boosts their effectiveness, and ensures compliance with stringent safety standards. In this comprehensive guide, we will illuminate the criticality of meticulous workwear selection and utilization in the electrical trade, examine the types of garments that are essential for safety and job performance, discuss the best practices for integrating workwear into the job’s fabric, address challenges, and explore cutting-edge innovations. Understanding the Importance of High-Quality Workwear in the Electrical Trade The phrase ‘high-quality workwear’ isn’t just about comfort or the latest fashion. It encompasses a set of attributes that directly impact the well-being and productivity of electrical professionals. Workwear in the electrical trade takes on the responsibility of the first line of defence against a variety of workplace hazards. It’s a thin but crucial barrier between an electrician and the potentially fatal components of their work environment. Electrical-specific high-quality workwear should be flame resistant, engineered from materials that can resist arc flashes, and designed to prevent the conduction of electricity. It also needs to be tough enough to withstand the rigours of the job. Investing in high-quality workwear is investing in the workforce’s longevity and a brand’s safety reputation. Types of Essential Workwear for Electrical Professionals Several types of workwear are deemed necessary for electrical professionals due to their specialised roles and the unique hazards they face. These include: Arc-Rated Clothing This specialised clothing is designed to self-extinguish and prevent break-open, which can significantly reduce the wearer’s burn injury. It avoids melting onto the skin in the event of an arc flash and typically includes coveralls, shirts, and pants. Insulating Gloves Insulating gloves are the final barrier against electrical currents when working with live circuits. They are rigorously tested and must meet particular safety standards for use in the field. ESD Clothing Electrostatic discharge (ESD) clothing is essential for electricians who work in sensitive environments like electronic manufacturing facilities. It prevents the buildup of static electricity and minimizes the risk of damaging sensitive equipment. High-Visibility Garments Low-light conditions and the presence of heavy equipment mean that visibility is key to safety. High-visibility workwear ensures that electrical professionals are seen even in darker work environments. Non-Conductive Footwear Electrical workers need to wear footwear that will not conduct electricity. Non-conductive footwear is typically made from rubber compounds and protects against both step and touch potential. These garments protect against immediate life-threatening injuries and play a significant role in preventing long-term and debilitating conditions, thus ensuring workers’ quality of life post-employment. Best Practices for Selecting and Using Workwear in the Electrical Trade The selection of workwear should be a thoughtful, evidence-based process. It’s not just about ticking boxes on a safety checklist; it’s about understanding the work conditions, the specific tasks at hand, and the likelihood of each hazard. Here are some best practices: Conducting a Hazard Assessment Before selecting any piece of workwear, conduct a thorough job site hazard assessment. Are you working with high-voltage systems frequently or just intermittently? What are the potential arc flash boundaries? These questions will help in selecting the appropriate level of protection. Choosing the Right Material High-quality workwear for electrical professionals should be constructed from non-flammable materials with arc-flash-resistant properties. In the event of a flash, these materials can help minimize the severity of injuries. Ensuring Proper Fit Workwear that fits poorly can be dangerous. It can become caught in machinery or interfere with the worker’s movement in hazardous situations. Garments should be tailored to fit properly, considering layering in colder climates. Establishing a Maintenance Schedule Workwear isn’t a one-and-done purchase. It needs to be maintained to provide ongoing protection. Develop a schedule for regular cleaning and inspections to identify wear and tear that could compromise the garment’s performance. Regular Training on Safe Workwear Use Simply providing the workwear isn’t enough. Workers need to understand why it’s important and how to use it properly. Regular training on safe work practices is a must. Adhering to these practices ensures that the workwear will serve its purpose effectively, comfortably, and lastingly. Challenges in Choosing and Implementing High-Quality Workwear in the Electrical Trade Despite the clear benefits of high-quality workwear, there are obstacles to its widespread adoption in the electrical trade. These include: Cost and Budget Constraints Top-tier workwear often comes with a higher initial cost. In environments where shortsighted budgets are the norm, convincing decision-makers of the long-term value can be challenging. Resistance to Change Workers might resist updates to their PPE, especially if they are accustomed to specific items or find them uncomfortable. Making the switch needs to be accompanied by clear communication about the new gear’s benefits. Balancing Comfort and Safety There’s often a perception that high safety standards translate to uncomfortable workwear. Balancing these elements is crucial, and technological advancements are beginning to offer more safe and comfortable options. Ensuring Universal Compliance For workwear to be practical, all members of the team need to wear it consistently. Achieving universal compliance across large-scale projects or diverse teams is a logistical challenge. Addressing these challenges is about finding the right products and creating a workplace culture that values safety and efficiency. Innovations and Future Trends in Electrical Workwear for Enhanced Safety and Efficiency The future of workwear for the electrical trade is exciting, with continual innovations aiming to provide even better safety and efficiency. Smart Fabrics Developments in intelligent fabrics are leading to workwear that can monitor the wearer’s vital signs, detect hazards, and even alert the worker or a command centre to potential dangers. Enhanced Durability New materials and manufacturing processes are making workwear more resistant to wear and tear, ensuring that they last longer and provide better protection over time. Customizable Fits 3D printing and other custom manufacturing methods allow for
JLR recruitment increase with 250 electrification engineers jobs
With an announcement of 250 electrification engineers jobs to work at the Gaydon and Whitley Facilities, JLR has ramped up their recruitment. These roles are set to propel JLR’s development for the next generation of electric vehicles due to be launched by 2030 with its Reimagine strategy. Included in the new roles, the luxury car manufacturer are specifically recruiting over 40 battery engineering roles, who will work across disciplines such as advanced energy storage systems, battery cell design and cell stack assemblies, in addition to hardware and software essential to electrical and battery systems. With the roles being dedicated to JLR’s next generation vehicle architectures. These additional roles will strengthen JLR’s core competencies in battery cell chemistry, design and systems, reinforcing a modern BEV value chain covering Agratas’ Somerset gigafactory which will supply cells to JLR as the main anchor customer. The remaining roles span specialisms in propulsion, including propulsion software, calibration and controls, HV system integration, electrical system component design and more. Aspects of the roles will also focus on improving fast charging experiences for JLR clients. All 250 roles are now live and accepting applications online for global candidates with the relevant skills. The roles will be based at JLR’s Gaydon Engineering Centre and the company’s £250m Future Energy Lab in Whitley, Coventry, where JLR develops and tests batteries and Electric Drive Units (EDUs). This facility enables JLR to rapidly test electric vehicles in extreme-weather climate chambers, reducing emissions associated with sending fleets of prototypes around the world. Thomas Mueller, JLR Executive Director of Product Engineering, said: ‘’The realisation of our Reimagine strategy is dependent on our investment in people and technology. As we continue to invest in our facilities, we are now seeking very talented people to help us develop advancements in propulsion technology that will underpin our next generation modern luxury vehicles.’’ Freddy Gunnarsson, JLR Cell Design Manager said: ‘We are ramping up our work, converting cutting-edge science into battery propulsion systems that offer our clients unique driving and charging experiences, expected of modern luxury vehicles. This is an exciting opportunity for battery chemistry experts to help define the next generation of electrical powertrains.’’ The next electric vehicle to launch will be the new Range Rover Electric manufactured in Solihull, UK, for which clients can join the waiting list. Other Electric Vehicle stories
50 Years of British Manufacturing
Centaur Manufacturing is proud to be celebrating five decades of British manufacturing. Established in 1974, and has since become an industry name in the field of PVCu cable management. With a journey marked by continuous innovation and dedication, meeting and exceeding customer expectations. Founded initially to manufacture channel and oval alongside other electrical components, such as trade injection moulding, switchgear and extrusion parts, the first manufacturing facility was opened in Redditch Worcestershire. Shortly after, the incorporation of conduit and fittings was developed. Following on from the success, was the progression to manufacturing mini and maxi trunking which is still available. Growing demands of the market, have lead to a requirement to prepare for future growth, and more efficient logistics, leading to a move in 1987 to the current operational facility, double in size to the previous facility along with substantial investment in additional extrusions lines, and an in-house PVCu mixing plant. 1992, saw the launch of the popular President trunking range, one of the market’s first three-compartment trunking ranges. On the back of the success of this range, further investments were made to tool up and manufacture the Campus range in 1996 and the Kensington range in 1999. In 2003, the bench trunking for alternative cable management support in the educational and healthcare sectors was launched. 2011 and 2012 saw significant investment again in extrusion lines, and injection moulding machines to enable an increased stock holding. The Meridian three-compartment Dado trunking range was designed and introduced to the market in 2015 to offer a modern, mid-range option. A more recent milestone saw the renovations of the state-of-the-art Fabrication Department in 2018 to accommodate customer-specified bespoke solutions and PVCu mixing plant in 2019 Over the past 50 years, a diverse product range has been meticulously moulded, through the origins of customer-focused product development. This broad spectrum of products caters to the evolving needs of the industry, ensuring remaining at the forefront. In addition, for half a century, by fine-tuning the ability to create bespoke solutions that go beyond off-the-shelf offerings which highlight the dedication to British Manufacturing. This special fabrication service emphasises a commitment to providing customers with precisely what they require. Beyond this an awareness of environmental responsibility, and proactively working to minimise any impact. Large investments in plants to aid the process of recycled materials and switching packaging supplies, such as using cardboard along with polythene lay flat tubing and bags containing recycled content have helped to reduce carbon footprint, achieving Planet Mark and Ecovadis accreditation and further enhanced commitment to a more sustainable future. This momentous achievement couldn’t be commemorated without extending a heartfelt appreciation to the workforce, who have been the backbone of the success. With some staff reaching lengths of service upwards of 45 years, their loyalty and hard work have shaped the legacy celebrated this year. An extension of gratitude to all who have played a part in the first 50 years, and an eager anticipation for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. With the same passion and resilience that has defined the company for the last five decades, and a pledge to forge ahead while staying true to values. Other articles in our Features Section
