Makita launches its most powerful impact driver

Expanding its offering of tools for fixing and fastening, Makita has launched a new impact driver, which is the most powerful in its XGT line-up. The TD004G 40VMax XGT Brushless Impact Driver has been designed for superior performance for a range of applications, including heavy duty tasks. Powered by Makita’s 40VMax XGT Li-Ion battery, the TD004G offers a maximum fastening torque of 230 Newton metres (Nm), a no-load speed of up to 3,900 rpm and delivers up to 3,900 impacts per minute (ipm) for exceptional driving efficiency. Despite its power it is still compact and lightweight, making it easy and comfortable to use. The high torque of the TD004G means it can provide enhanced speed and efficiency on fasteners that are not prone to cam-out, such as hex head and hexalobular (star shaped hole head screws). In addition, the TD004G is ideal when working with hard materials such as Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL). The TD004G also offers excellent control. It features a variable speed trigger and four power modes that alter the speed, impacts per minute, and torque for easy adjustment to the type of fastener and material. It also has a T mode to reduce the risk of screw stripping when driving self-drilling screws (Tek screws) into metal sheets. The brushless motor of the TD004G reduces wasted energy and improves power delivery compared with a conventional brushed motor. This means longer runtimes on a single charge and fewer interruptions to swap and charge the battery. For ease of use, the TD004G features one-touch tool-less bit change with reduced resistance for easier fitting, and twin led job lights with pre-glow and after-glow functions for better visibility of the workpiece. Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita, comments, “This latest addition to our range of 40VMax XGT impact drivers has been designed to help achieve greater speed and efficiency on the most demanding fixing and fastening tasks. This, alongside its simple power adjustment based on the job at hand, makes the TD004G a valuable addition to many professionals’ kit.” For more from Makita, click here.

Zumtobel supplies lighting upgrade to Telford school

Hadley Learning Community Secondary School in Telford has completed a classroom lighting refurbishment, replacing ageing fluorescent luminaires with a bespoke LED system from Zumtobel Lighting, an Austrian company specialising in professional indoor and outdoor lighting. The project was designed to improve classroom lighting quality, reduce energy consumption, and extend the lifespan of the school's existing ceiling infrastructure, whilst also avoiding the need for major alterations to teaching spaces. The upgrades form part of a £70 million campus development by Hadley Learning Community, which provides education for pupils aged three to 16. Facilities management at the site is delivered by Mitie Engineering. As the existing fluorescent lighting technology neared the end of its lifecycle, the school sought an upgrade that would modernise the classroom environments while retaining the suspended raft ceilings already installed throughout the building. A bespoke LED design Mitie worked with Zumtobel to develop a replacement system capable of meeting glare control requirements, reducing connected load, and integrating with the existing raft luminaires. The brief also called for tunable white lighting and variable output functionality to support different teaching activities and learning environments. To create a suitable replacement, an existing fluorescent cassette was removed and sent to Zumtobel's Custom Product team in Spennymoor. Working alongside project stakeholders, the team then developed a bespoke LED cassette designed to match the dimensions of the original fitting while improving lighting performance. A sample unit was installed and assessed on site before the wider rollout, allowing the project team to evaluate glare control, light distribution, and installation requirements. The final design uses a custom LED cassette with an opal diffuser, delivering 4,024 lumens at 35W and an efficacy of 115lm/W. Tunable white controls allow teachers to adjust colour temperature and light levels to suit different classroom activities. Emergency lighting variants were also incorporated to maintain a consistent appearance throughout the learning spaces. By retaining the existing raft ceiling infrastructure, the project reportedly reduced installation complexity and minimised disruption to teaching areas. A focus on energy efficiency and student wellbeing According to the project partners, the refurbishment has reduced connected load and lowered the site's carbon impact, whilst also improving visual comfort for pupils and staff. The tunable white functionality is intended to support wellbeing by allowing lighting conditions to be adjusted throughout the day to suit different learning environments. Kevin Evans of Mitie Engineering says, "This project required a solution that balanced performance, wellbeing, and practicality. "Zumtobel Lighting’s custom approach allowed us to retain the existing ceiling design while delivering a modern, efficient lighting upgrade that meets both operational and educational needs. "The collaborative development process made installation straightforward and ensured the client’s expectations were fully met." The project, the companies state, demonstrates how existing educational facilities can be upgraded with LED lighting while retaining key building features and reducing disruption during installation. For more from Zumtobel, click here.

Wylex and Crabtree announced as 2026 ECN Awards sponsors

ECN is delighted to announce that Wylex and Crabtree, brands of Electrium, are to sponsor two significant awards at the upcoming 2026 ECN Awards taking place this December. Firstly, Wylex is proud to support the Contractor of the Year (turnover under £5M) Award, recognising the hard work and high standards set by smaller electrical contractors. These businesses are vital to the industry, often building strong reputations through consistent, high-quality work. Wylex says that supporting this award is about recognising those doing the job well and backing the people who keep the industry moving. Meanwhile, Crabtree is proud to support the Training Provider/Initiative of the Year Award at the ECN Awards, recognising those investing in skills, knowledge, and the future of the industry. Quality training is essential to maintaining standards, improving safety, and supporting long-term growth. Supporting this award reflects Crabtree’s commitment to developing talent and backing the people and programmes that keep the industry moving. More about Wylex and Crabtree Wylex is a trusted name in the electrical industry, delivering reliable, high-quality circuit protection. With a strong focus on safety and practical innovation, its products are widely specified across residential and commercial installations. The brand stands for consistent performance, compliance, and giving contractors confidence on every job. Crabtree delivers high-quality, dependable circuit protection, designed to meet the practical demands of everyday electrical installations. Its products are built to offer consistent performance, reliability, and ease of use, giving contractors confidence across a wide range of applications. With innovation and reliability at its core, its solutions are widely used across residential, commercial, and industrial projects. The Crabtree Starbreaker range provides a reliable, easy-to-install plug-in residential platform, alongside a comprehensive three-phase offer designed for commercial applications. Entries for the 2026 ECN Awards are now open. To enter, and for more information about the Awards taking place on 3 December in Coventry, click here. For more from Wylex, click here, and for more from Crabtree, click here.

New website marks step forward for Doepke

Doepke UK has unveiled its newly redesigned website, creating a central hub for electrical professionals seeking product information, technical guidance, and support. The new site has been designed to make it easier to navigate Doepke's range of residual current protection devices, download documentation, and find the latest industry and company news. A key addition is the new Distributor Map, giving users a simple way to locate Doepke stockists throughout the UK. The interactive feature helps installers, contractors, and wholesalers identify their nearest supply partner, making it quicker and easier to source Doepke products wherever they are working. The website also features an updated product catalogue, improved search functionality, and a dedicated resource centre for technical information and support. The launch reflects Doepke UK's ongoing commitment to supporting the electrical industry through practical solutions, technical expertise, and accessible information. As technologies and installation requirements continue to evolve, the new website provides a platform that will continue to grow alongside the needs of the market. Find products, access support, and locate stockists by visiting the new website today. The new website can be found at doepke.co.uk. For more from Doepke, click here.

KNIPEX launches PreciForce SAC PV tool

Hand tools manufacturer KNIPEX has introduced the PreciForce SAC, a hand tool designed to combine cutting, stripping, and crimping functions for photovoltaic (PV) installations. Developed for use with MC4 and MC4 Evo 2 connectors, the tool is intended for installers carrying out solar installation, maintenance, and repair work. By integrating multiple functions into a single tool, the PreciForce SAC is designed to reduce the need to switch between tools during installation and maintenance tasks. The tool incorporates a lever transmission system to reduce the force required during crimping while maintaining consistent results. An integrated release lock compliant with IEC 60352 requirements prevents crimp completion until the required pressure has been reached. Designed for MC4 solar connector systems The crimping pressure is factory set and locked, while a fixed die is intended to provide consistent performance when working with MC4 connector systems. KNIPEX says the tool has been designed to be compact and lightweight, helping improve handling during extended periods of use and when working in confined spaces. The PreciForce SAC is also compatible with the KNIPEX Set of Mounting Tools, allowing installers to use it as part of a wider PV installation toolkit. The company says the combination of cutting, stripping, and crimping functions is intended to simplify workflows for solar installers and reduce the number of tools required on site. For more from KNIPEX, click here.

Toolstation launches Greggs breakfast promotion

Toolstation, a UK supplier of tools, accessories, and building supplies, has launched a customer promotion offering Greggs food rewards, product vouchers, and holiday prizes during the FIFA World Cup. The promotion runs from 8 June until 19 July and is available to members of the Toolstation Club loyalty programme. Customers who spend £50 or more in a single transaction during the promotional period will receive one digital stamp via the Toolstation app. Stamps are collected on a virtual stamp card and can be redeemed for rewards at various milestones. Members who collect three stamps will be entered into a prize draw to win a Greggs sausage roll. Customers who collect six stamps will receive a free Greggs breakfast roll, while those reaching nine stamps will receive a £20 Toolstation product voucher. Loyalty scheme offers additional prize draw entries In addition to the food and voucher rewards, each stamp earned will also count as an entry into a holiday prize draw. Toolstation says customers can receive up to nine entries during the promotion, with a top prize of a £10,000 holiday voucher and a runner-up prize of a £5,000 holiday voucher. The promotion is available to Toolstation Club members who register through the retailer's website or mobile app. Toolstation is also offering a 10% discount to new app users on their first purchase, subject to terms and conditions. For more from Toolstation, click here.

SELECT elects its new President

SELECT, Scotland’s largest construction trade body, has elected Darren Crockett, Managing Director of Dundee-based electrical contractor RAS Crockett and Partners, as the association's 68th President. The appointment was confirmed at the organisation's AGM, held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Queensferry on 4 June. Darren succeeds Mike Stark, who has completed a two-year term as President and will now serve as Immediate Past President. Also elected at the AGM were David Harris, Managing Director of DMH Electrical Services, as Vice President, and Mike Campbell, Apprenticeship Programme Manager at RSE, as Deputy Vice President. Darren leads RAS Crockett and Partners, a family-owned electrical engineering business that has operated in Dundee since 1964. Founded by his grandfather, Bert Crockett, the company was later run by Darren's father, Sinclair, before Darren joined the business in 1986. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Yjqwt-LnBw[/embed] Speaking following his election, Darren comments, "I’m extremely honoured and excited to be taking over as the new President of SELECT, and it’s a privilege to be representing the Members of this historic and well-respected association. "It’s a great honour to take up this role at a time when SELECT is campaigning on a number of vitally important issues for the electrotechnical industry and wider construction sector." Supporting skills and industry standards During his presidency, Darren says he intends to focus on issues including industry regulation and apprenticeship funding. He explains, "I’m now looking forward to raising awareness of regulation and promoting the importance of protection of title for the electrical industry, while at the same time helping to lobby the Scottish Government to secure more funding for apprenticeships." Darren has previously served as Chair of SELECT's Tayside branch, before becoming Deputy Vice President in 2020 and Vice President in 2024. RAS Crockett and Partners employs nine people and has been a member of SELECT throughout its 62-year history. The company received the Best Small Contractor award at the SELECT Awards in 2014. Reflecting on his time working alongside his predecessor, Darren says, "It’s been a great privilege to work alongside outgoing President Mike Stark during my time as Vice President. "I’d like to thank him for the invaluable insights and knowledge that he’s passed on to me and which I hope to use to equally good effect throughout my Presidency. "Being a Member of SELECT means we have business credibility, guaranteed customer confidence, and vital access to industry experts whenever we need it." For more from SELECT, click here.

Milwaukee partners with JTL to address skills shortage

Milwaukee Tools, a US manufacturer of heavy-duty power tools and accessories, has partnered with electrical training provider JTL to support apprentices entering the construction and building services engineering sectors. The partnership will initially be rolled out through a pilot programme at JTL's Birmingham and Thames Valley training centres, providing apprentices with access to professional-grade equipment, practical training, and industry-focused learning opportunities. JTL supports around 8,000 electrical and plumbing apprentices through its network of 17 training centres, as well as partnerships with colleges and other training providers across England. According to the organisations, the initiative is intended to help apprentices develop skills that reflect the requirements of modern construction sites while addressing wider skills shortages across the industry. As part of the programme, Milwaukee's Job Site Solution Specialists will deliver practical sessions at selected training centres and colleges. The sessions will complement training already provided by JTL's tutors and training officers. The programme will give apprentices experience using the types of tools and equipment commonly found on construction sites, while also covering safety and practical working methods. Apprentices will also have the opportunity to visit Milwaukee's UK Experience Centre in Aylesbury, where they can take part in training sessions and learn more about developments in construction technology. The partnership will expose learners to technologies including Milwaukee's MX FUEL battery platform, alongside its M18 and M12 cordless tool ranges. Industry training and hands-on experience Dan Abley, College Programme Manager at Milwaukee Tools, says, "The skills gap in construction isn't just a recruitment problem; it's a perception problem. "Young people need to see that the trades offer genuine career progression, with powerful technology and career paths that rival any office-based role. "This partnership puts professional-grade equipment in learners' hands from day one, proving that construction is as innovative and technology-driven as any other sector. "When you learn on the tools you'll actually use in the field, you build the right habits and standards from the beginning, and that shapes your entire career." JTL says the collaboration will also help training providers broaden access to equipment despite ongoing funding pressures. Chris Claydon, Chief Executive Officer of JTL, notes, "The construction sector is constantly evolving, with new technologies and tools reshaping how we work. "This partnership with Milwaukee ensures our apprentices continue to learn using first-class, industry-leading equipment. "JTL’s training expertise, combined with the innovative solutions Milwaukee brings, will support our apprentices to develop the skills electrical employers need now and in the future." Following a visit to Milwaukee's UK Experience Centre, Kirstine Ginger, Delivery Team Manager for JTL's Western region, comments, "It was fantastic for our delivery team to visit Milwaukee’s Experience Centre in Aylesbury and see first hand the breadth of innovation shaping the electrical industry. "Experiences like this really bring learning to life, giving staff greater knowledge and confidence with new tools and technologies to pass on to the next generation of apprentices, while reinforcing the practical skills they are learning in training with JTL." The organisations say there are plans to expand the programme to additional colleges and training partners in the future. For more from Milwaukee, click here.

Surge Protection Devices to sponsor awards at 2026 ECN Awards

Surge Protection Devices has been announced as a sponsor for two of this year's ECN Awards - namely, the Chain Wholesaler/Distributor of the Year and Contractor of the Year (turnover over £5m) Awards. Surge Protection Devices continually strives for excellence in its field - which is why the company is thrilled to support the ECN Awards, an event dedicated to highlighting the innovation, safety, and brilliance of the electrical contracting community. The lightning and surge protection specialist is proud to stand alongside the industry's best and celebrate the hard work and dedication of the professionals who keep our industry powered and protected. Surge Protection Devices and its partner companies have been solving problems in lightning and surge protection for over 50 years. ISO 9001 European designed and manufactured, the company’s renowned, state of the art products exceed the requirements of the latest standards and its competitors’ specifications. Entries for the 2026 ECN Awards are now open. To enter, and for more information about the Awards taking place on 3 December in Coventry, click here. For more from Surge Protection Devices, click here.

Supplies4Heat launches Cornel Electric radiator

Supplies4Heat, a designer of radiators and heated towel rails, has introduced the Cornel Electric radiator, a new steel multi-column electric radiator designed for residential heating applications. Manufactured in Italy, the radiator is available in two-column and three-column configurations, with two height options and eight fixed widths. It is offered in either a White RAL 9016 powder-coated finish or a clear lacquer finish, which exposes the texture of the raw steel and its manufacturing marks. The Cornel Electric incorporates a range of smart heating controls designed to help users manage energy consumption while maintaining consistent indoor temperatures. Each unit is supplied with an infra-red remote control, allowing users to adjust settings and access a variety of operating modes. These include a weekly scheduling programme, comfort mode, eco mode, antifreeze protection, holiday mode, standby mode, and open window detection. Smart controls and flexible heating options Additional control features include adaptive start-up functionality, which pre-heats a room ahead of scheduled heating periods, alongside a child lock and pilot wire compatibility. The radiator is designed to provide precise temperature control across a range of living spaces whilst offering a choice of sizes and finishes to suit different interior styles. Supplies4Heat states that the Cornel Electric includes a two-year guarantee on the heating element and a 10-year guarantee on the radiator body. Richard Lister, National Sales Manager at IRSAP, says, "The new Cornel Electric radiator combines high-quality design with reliable performance to meet the needs of modern homes. "In addition, next-day delivery options are available on orders placed by 11:00am, and orders made after this time will be delivered in just two working days. This means customers can get their hands on a contemporary and efficient radiator fast."