Quote from site, from the office, from anywhere

Electrical estimating has always been an office job. Drawings on the desk, price lists in a folder, spreadsheet on the screen. But contractors don't work like that anymore - and neither should their estimating software. Electrika's latest platform upgrade means contractors can now build, review, and amend quotes on any device. Desktop, tablet, or phone. On site, in the van, or at the kitchen table. Everything runs in the browser - no app to download, no software to install. The upgrade is the most significant in Electrika's 30-year history, bringing a fully mobile-responsive interface, improved security, and a redesigned user experience. But critically, all existing quotes, kits, contacts, and data remain exactly where users left them. Nothing has been lost or moved - the platform just works better, on more devices, in more places. Why does this matter? Because contractors increasingly need to price work away from the office. A main contractor asks for a variation while you're on site. A client wants a quick price for additional sockets during a walkround. A subcontractor needs to check a rate before committing. With Electrika, the answer is already in your pocket. Pull up the quote, check the price, adjust the quantity, and send it - all from your phone. Still free, still shareable The platform upgrade hasn't changed what makes Electrika unique: it remains completely free. No subscription, no per-seat licence, and no limits on sharing. Manufacturer trade prices from Schneider Electric, Hager, Ansell Lighting, MK Electric, and more than 25 other leading brands are built in and updated automatically. Contractors can share quotes with colleagues, clients, and subcontractors without anyone needing to purchase software. A growing firm can give every team member access at no cost. A freelance estimator can serve multiple clients from one account. What's coming next Later in 2026, Electrika will introduce AI-powered product assistants, allowing contractors to find and specify products using plain language instead of scrolling through catalogue pages. A Pro subscription tier is also in development, offering advanced features such as variation pricing and a business dashboard at a modest monthly cost. Get started Registering takes less than a minute. Visit Electrika’s website to start quoting from any device - and share it with your whole team. Electrika – free electrical estimating software, trusted since 1996. For more from Electrika, click here.

B&Q, RAW roll out ultra-rapid EV charging

Home improvement and garden living retailer B&Q has partnered with RAW Charging, an electric vehicle (EV) chargepoint operator, to install ultra-rapid EV charging hubs across its UK shop network. The rollout follows an £11 million investment by RAW Charging and will see high-power charging points installed at up to 26 locations across England and Wales over the next 12 months. The charging hubs are intended to support customers, including tradespeople, by enabling vehicle charging during shop visits. The bays include high-power DC charging, with layouts designed to accommodate vans and allow longer dwell times. Initial installations are already in place at sites including Cheltenham, Sidcup, Boston, Stanmore, and Galashiels. National rollout across retail locations The project includes both rapid and ultra-rapid charging infrastructure, with RAW Charging responsible for grid upgrades and high-voltage connections where required. Once operational, the network will be accessible via contactless payment and major EV charging apps. The rollout reflects increasing demand for accessible charging infrastructure at retail destinations, particularly for commercial vehicles and tradespeople. Kingsley Mack, Director of Property at B&Q, says, "B&Q is committed to reducing our impact on the environment and to helping our customers to live more sustainably." Neil Broadbank, Chief Commercial Officer at RAW Charging, comments, "We’re delighted to be working with B&Q to deliver EV charging infrastructure that genuinely supports how people work today." The partnership is expected to expand EV charging availability across retail locations, supporting wider adoption of electric vehicles in the UK. For more from RAW Charging, click here.

London Marathon runners raise £25,000 for electrical charity

Five runners have raised more than £25,000 for the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) after completing the 2026 London Marathon. The team took on the 26.2-mile (42km) course following months of preparation, supporting the charity’s work across the electrical and energy sectors. A combined total of £25,200 has been raised so far, with funds set to support individuals and families within the industry. Darren House of Grant & Stone and Mark Lambert of AWEBB ran together as part of AWEBB’s 50th anniversary fundraising activity. Both recorded solid finishing times, with Darren completing the race in 5:20:30 and Mark in 4:35:29. Mark comments, "The atmosphere in London was absolutely incredible. We raised far more than expected thanks to the generosity from AWEBB’s members and suppliers. "I’d like to thank the EIC for allowing me to run for them. The electrical industry has been my life since I was 16, so to be able to give back to the industry and run for the EIC even without a charity place has been an absolute privilege." Supporting industry charity work David Grimes of Edmundson Electrical finished in 4:31:02, completing the race despite experiencing muscle cramps during the latter stages. Dean Wilsher of LEW recorded a time of 3:41:05, while Neil Crook of AWEBB completed the course in 4:58:51. Neil says, "The London Marathon was one of the best things that has ever happened to me, although most definitely the hardest. "I know the benefit the EIC brings to the industry, and the hard work they do, so it was an honour to run and raise money for such a worthwhile cause." The EIC provides support services to people working within the electrical and energy industries, including financial assistance and wellbeing support. Donations continue following the event. For more from the EIC, click here.

BG launches 'Buy, Spin, Win' promotion

British General (BG), a UK manufacturer of electrical wiring accessories, has launched a new installer promotion, “Buy, Spin, Win”, giving electricians the chance to win instant prizes as well as trips to Munich, New York, and Las Vegas. Running from 1 May to 31 October 2026, the promotion is open to installers who purchase selected BG consumer unit promotional boxes. Each box includes a unique code, which can be entered online to access a digital 'spin-to-win' game. Every entry gives installers the chance to win an instant prize, as well as automatic entry into one of three major prize draws. Instant prizes include BG and Knipex products, along with hundreds of vouchers. What installers can win BG is offering three headline trips: • July Draw (Munich, Germany) — A four-night trip to Oktoberfest 2026, including flights, accommodation, Oktoberfest access, a guided tour, and £1,000 spending money • September Draw (New York, USA) — A New Year’s trip to New York City, including a four-night stay, New Year’s Eve cruise, helicopter tour, attraction passes, and £1,000 spending money • November Draw (Las Vegas, USA) — A five-night stay in Las Vegas, including a Grand Canyon helicopter tour, excursions, and £1,000 spending money All prizes include flights, accommodation, and transfers, and are ABTA or ATOL protected. How it works Installers can take part by doing the following: BUY: Purchase a BG Consumer Unit promotional box SPIN: Find the code inside, enter it online, and spin the wheel WIN: Instant prizes and a chance to win a VIP getaway Each valid entry not only offers the chance to win an instant reward, but also automatically qualifies for entry into the grand prize draws. A BG spokesperson says, “‘Buy, Spin, Win’ is all about making every purchase count - giving installers instant rewards on the products they already buy, plus the chance to win an unforgettable trip.” Terms and conditions Valid in UK and NI, residency required. 18+. Validity dates: 00:01 GMT 01.05.26 – 23:59 GMT 31.10.26. Unless otherwise stated, purchase necessary and participation and registration required at https://bgwin.co.uk. Internet access required. There are more than 100 prizes available during the promotional period, including 1x Las Vegas trip, 1x New York trip, and 1x Munich trip. Maximum one entry per person per entry code, unless eligible for a bonus entry. Entry codes are provided inside promotional packs of consumer units. At the promoter's discretion, a limited number of entry codes may be distributed through other promotional activities with no purchase necessary. Exclusions apply, including a minimum age restriction of 21 years for the headline travel prizes. Full T&Cs and prizes available at https://bgwin.co.uk/t&c. Promoter: Luceco PLC, Caparo House, 103 Baker Street, London, W1U 6LN, UK. For more from BG, click here.

Makita launches head-to-toe workwear range

Makita has built a global reputation for tools that perform day in, day out, on demanding work sites - and the company says that this same practical, performance-first approach now defines its new Makita Workwear range, which is described as "tough, considered, and built for real working environments." Developed by Castle Clothing - the team behind TuffStuff Workwear - and drawing on over 50 years of industry experience, the head-to-toe collection covers everything from base layers to outerwear, trousers, shorts, and safety footwear, including dedicated womenswear sizes. Every piece is designed around the realities of site life, such as kneeling, climbing, lifting, stretching, and working through all conditions. Makita states that the difference is in the detail, with its workwear range offering durable fabrics, high-quality components, and smart detailing that improve comfort, flexibility, and long-term wearability. Performance features include: • CORDURA reinforcements in high-wear areas • YKK zips specified for durability • Ripstop fabrics for strength without unnecessary bulk • Durable PFC free water-repellent finishes for reliable weather protection • Dedicated use of recycled fibres and responsibly sourced 100% BCI cotton • Work-focused fits designed for movement and all-day comfort Makita tells us that the workwear is engineered to the same standards tradespeople expect from Makita tools, and that the range delivers durability, comfort, and technical performance without compromise. Rob Ansell, Managing Director at Castle Clothing, says, “Every element of Makita’s new workwear range has been developed with trades in mind. They expect their clothing to perform properly on site, and that’s exactly what this range is designed to do. The Makita name stands for quality and reliability, and this collection reflects that - tough, practical and built for demanding environments.” Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita UK, adds, “When researching the UK workwear market, we spoke to several well-known workwear brands and conducted further research with our dealers before deciding on a partner who could provide a range of products and service levels that matched the standards that our customers expect from the Makita brand. “As a result of intensive market research, the decision to establish a partnership between Makita UK and Castle Clothing soon followed, and we are certain that our dealer and end user customers will appreciate the quality, durability and styling of the new Makita workwear range.” Makita Workwear is scheduled to launch in May 2026 through a network of dedicated trade stockists across the UK. Further details will be available on the dedicated, upcoming Makita Workwear website which you can find by clicking here. For more from Makita, click here.

ESP ignites the fire and CO alarm market

Leading fire and security solutions supplier ESP has invested significantly to introduce a new name to the fire and safety alarm sector with the launch of Espire. Espire is a comprehensive range of high-performance fire and CO alarm products that has quality, reliability, and innovation at its core. Sitting as a separate brand under ESP’s growing product portfolio, Espire is supported by Scolmore Group and is distributed by ESP. A comprehensive offer The Espire fire and safety alarms are suitable for Grade D1, Grade D2, and Grade F1 installations. The comprehensive range comprises the following five alarm types: • Optical smoke alarms • Heat alarms • Smoke and heat alarms • Carbon monoxide (CO) alarms • CO and heat alarms Innovative features The range offers a number of pioneering features, some unique in the market, which include: • Auto-Dimming Power LED (patent pending) • Stainless Steel Insect Mesh Barrier (patent pending) • RF Link • Lock-in base • Responsive thermistor • 24-hour memory function (patent pending) The optical smoke alarms and heat alarms are available in three options: powered by mains with a sealed tamper-proof 10-year lithium battery, powered by mains with 9V replaceable battery, and powered by a sealed tamper-proof 10-year lithium battery. The smoke and heat alarms, CO Alarms, and CO and heat alarms are available in two options: powered by mains with a sealed tamper-proof 10-year lithium battery, and powered by a sealed tamper-proof 10-year lithium battery. All Espire products have undergone a meticulous design, development, and manufacturing process at the dedicated factory. All alarms have been tested by third-party test houses and certified by LPCB (Loss Prevention Certification Board) and TUV to meet the relevant product standards (BS EN 14604 for smoke alarms, BS 5446-2 for heat alarms, and BS EN 50291-1 for CO alarms). All products come with a five-year warranty. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a4CSgDAIIVw[/embed] For more from ESP, click here.

TRT Lighting launches heritage lantern range

TRT Lighting, a UK manufacturer of LED lighting products, has introduced a new heritage lantern range, expanding its outdoor lighting portfolio to support projects requiring traditional aesthetics alongside modern road lighting. The move reflects increasing demand from UK local authorities and specifiers for lighting that maintains the character of historic streets, town centres, and conservation areas, while meeting current performance requirements. The initial range includes two commonly specified designs: Heming, a top-entry, cradle-mounted teardrop lantern, and Merse, a four-sided frog-mounted lantern. These designs are intended to support a variety of applications, from residential streets to heritage-focused public realm schemes. Previously, projects combining modern and heritage-style lighting often required multiple suppliers. TRT Lighting states that the new range allows these requirements to be addressed within a single product portfolio. Balancing heritage design with modern performance The lanterns are designed to align with TRT Lighting’s existing road lighting products, including Aspect Gen2, and incorporate LED technology with a choice of colour temperatures, including 2200K and 2700K. This enables specifiers to meet requirements related to ecological impact and reduced blue light while maintaining appropriate lighting levels and uniformity. Optical performance has been developed to meet current road lighting standards, supporting controlled light distribution across different environments. Ross Evans, Managing Director at TRT Lighting, says, "This is something our customers have been asking for. "More and more projects now require a mix of modern road lighting and heritage-style luminaires and, until now, that’s been work we’ve had to turn away." The company states that the range is also designed with durability, maintenance, and compatibility with control systems in mind, supporting long-term use across public lighting installations. For more from TRT Lighting, click here.

MP visits JTL Eastbourne to meet apprentices and employers

Josh Babarinde MP visited JTL’s training centre in Eastbourne to meet apprentices, employers, and industry partners, as well as to discuss how apprenticeship opportunities can be strengthened across the region. Established over 30 years ago by the Electrical Contractors’ Association and Unite the Union, JTL is a not-for-profit Independent Training Provider delivering Level 3 electrical and plumbing apprenticeships across England and Wales. Working with thousands of employers and training thousands of learners at any one time, JTL says it trains more apprentices in the building services engineering sector than any other provider. The visit coincided with a trade morning event hosted at the centre in partnership with City Electrical Factors (CEF), bringing together local employers and suppliers to showcase tools, equipment, and to share industry knowledge. The event highlighted the collaboration between training providers and industry in supporting the next generation of skilled workers. Alongside CEF, other exhibitors included Milwaukee, Megger, MTi Instruments, Cefco, Luceco, other industry suppliers and the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC). During his visit, Josh Babarinde MP toured the centre’s facilities and met with electrical apprentices, including first year apprentices employed with UK Power Networks and Southern Housing. He spoke directly with learners about their experiences and career pathways and engaged with employers on the opportunities and challenges facing the sector. Discussions focused on the growing demand for skilled electricians both locally and nationally, as well as the importance of promoting apprenticeships as a high-quality alternative to traditional academic routes. The MP emphasised the need for a broader shift in mindset to ensure technical careers are recognised and valued alongside university pathways. In discussion with the next generation Following his visit, Josh Babarinde MP said, “It was a pleasure to visit JTL Eastbourne and meet apprentices, employers, and industry partners. "Apprenticeships provide a vital route into skilled employment and are key to meeting the growing demand for electricians and other trades, both locally and across the UK. “I was particularly impressed by the quality of the facilities and the enthusiasm of the apprentices. It’s clear that centres like this play an important role in equipping people with the skills needed for rewarding careers and in supporting local economic growth.” Chris Claydon, Chief Executive of JTL, comments, “We were delighted to welcome Josh Babarinde MP to our Eastbourne training centre to demonstrate the high-quality training we deliver in partnership with local employers. "JTL Eastbourne has a significant economic impact across the region, supporting employers and developing skilled talent to help address critical skills shortages that underpin growth across the area. "High-quality apprenticeships are essential to meeting the UK’s infrastructure, housing, and net zero ambitions. "To boost starts and improve completion rates, we must continue to remove barriers for employers, particularly small and micro businesses who dominate engineering and building services, and to ensure apprenticeships are promoted as a first-choice route for young people. "We appreciate Josh taking the time to engage so positively with apprentices and employers, and we look forward to continuing to work together to strengthen the skills pipeline.” For more from JTL, click here.

MESH7, the new wireless lighting control system from flex7

The latest addition to the flex7 range of plug-together lighting connection and control products, MESH7, is incredibly quick to install, easy to retrofit, secure, and offers a huge range of energy-saving control possibilities. The wireless lighting control system is made in Britain and uses mesh technology to configure and control luminaires. Whether you want to control a single room or a whole building, it’s effortlessly scalable. flex7 chose to develop its wireless system around an OpenThread-based topology so MESH7 would offer more and perform better than comparable systems. Utilising IPv6 over the older IPv4 protocol means there are around 340 trillion, trillion, trillion unique addresses at MESH7’s disposal. This means enhanced system security as well as more efficient routing of network messages. When it comes to installing MESH7, the process really couldn’t be simpler. Starting with a standard flex7 Lighting Distribution Box, you simply need to connect the Permanent Live, Neutral, and Earth. Once that’s done, the rest of the system just plugs together. You can find out more about MESH7 by clicking here. For more from flex7, click here.

Actemium delivers Scotland EV charging hubs

Actemium UK, a provider of engineered electrical, automation, and mechanical services, has completed two ultra-rapid EV charging hubs for IONITY in Glasgow and Fort William, expanding high-power charging infrastructure across Scotland. The installations include IONITY’s 700th ultra-rapid charging point in the UK and one of the few public charging hubs in the Scottish Highlands capable of delivering 350kW or more. The projects form part of an ongoing partnership between Actemium UK and IONITY, which has delivered more than 160 high-power charging points across the UK since 2023. IONITY now operates around one third of the UK’s public ultra-rapid charging network. The Glasgow site, located at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Strathclyde, is Actemium UK’s first IONITY project in the city. The hub includes six Alpitronic HYC chargers, supporting up to 12 vehicles charging at the same time. The Fort William hub is situated just off the A82 and includes three Alpitronic HYC chargers, providing six charging bays for simultaneous use. The site is positioned along a key transport and tourism route through the Highlands. Infrastructure delivery across complex sites Actemium UK acted as principal contractor for both developments, carrying out civil engineering works, low-voltage electrical installation, testing, commissioning, and final handover. The Fort William project also included design work. Both sites were completed with layouts designed to support ease of use while minimising disruption to the surrounding area. At Fort William, the installation involved complex groundworks, including drilling through rock and installing 20-metre-deep earth electrodes. Grant Murray, Rollout Manager at IONITY, comments, "These two new Scottish hubs are important additions to IONITY’s expanding network in the UK, which has doubled the number of ultra-rapid chargers in less than a year. "We value our partnership with Actemium UK, which continues to deliver the high-quality, turnkey e-mobility infrastructure we need to expand access to ultra-rapid charging across the UK." Ross Jones, Business Unit General Manager at Actemium E-Mobility, adds, "We’re proud of the strong partnership we’ve built with the IONITY team, which continues to go from strength to strength as demand for high-power charging expands."