Click Scolmore expands New Media range

Click Scolmore, a designer and manufacturer of electrical accessories, has expanded its New Media wiring accessories portfolio with the introduction of a new eight aperture front plate for its screwless Definity collection, alongside two additional finishes for its existing New Media eight aperture plates. The unfurnished eight aperture front plate has been added to the Definity range to support installations requiring a single, centralised connection point for multiple media outlets. The design allows installers to combine different media modules within one plate, reducing the need for multiple accessories and supporting a more consistent wall finish. New finishes and wider range availability The company has also extended its New Media eight aperture plate range with two new finishes: Matt Bronze and Matt Black. These finishes are intended to support projects where visual consistency is a consideration, including both residential and commercial environments. The New Media range is available across several Click Scolmore collections, including Deco, Deco Plus, Definity, and Mode, allowing specifiers and installers to select accessories that align with individual project requirements. New Media modules are available in black, white, or grey, and are designed to fit into unfurnished plates across selected ranges. The wider portfolio includes half semi-modular part-furnished plates within the New Media and Mode ranges; semi-modular part-furnished plates across Deco, Deco Plus, Definity, and Mode; and unfurnished eight aperture front plates in the New Media and Mode collections. The addition of the screwless Definity option, alongside the new finishes, expands the available configuration and design choices. For more from Click Scolmore, click here.

Ovia highlights its Inceptor Milli downlight range

The compact yet powerful Inceptor Milli Adjustable is the latest addition to lighting brand Ovia’s growing Milli family of fire-rated domestic downlights. Designed with the same innovation, fire-rated safety, and ease of installation as the standard Milli, the adjustable version offers a seamless 360° rotation and 20° tilt capability to deliver total directional lighting control. Complementing the Inceptor Milli Fixed and Inceptor Milli Baffle versions, Inceptor Milli Adjustable brings unparalleled flexibility, performance, and aesthetic appeal for domestic applications. Offering 360° rotation and 20° tilt capability, the light output can be positioned exactly where it is needed. Ideal for new installations and retrofit projects, it has been designed with a cut-out range of 68mm to 75mm, ensuring compatibility with a variety of ceiling apertures. The broader range allows easier replacement of existing downlight without the need for additional adjustments. Switch it up A key feature of the Inceptor Milli downlight range is the option to seamlessly switch between 6.4W and 4W power outputs using a single switch to offer unprecedented control over lighting environments. There is also the ability to easily switch the colour temperatures between 2700K (Warm White), 4000K (Cool White), and 6500K (Daylight). Setting the Milli apart is the rotatable insulation cover which allows you to install the downlights safely under insulation but also adjust the cover, allowing for 5mm extra clearance. On the adjustable and standard/fixed Milli downlight, the insulation cover can be twisted to the up and down position and still fit in a 60mm void. The baffle version fits in a 60mm void when the insulation cover is down and the plasterboard is a minimum thickness of 12.5cm. All three versions – Standard, Baffle, and now Adjustable – are IP65-rated. With a broad cut-out range of 64mm to 75mm, the Milli can be installed in a wide range of existing ceiling downlight cut-outs. The fittings are supplied pre-wired with a Fast-Fit, 3-Pole & Loop Flow connector. A loose push-fit Flow connector is also supplied in the box which ensures a quick and easy installation process. Five bezel finishes are available, with a choice of White, Black, Chrome, Satin Chrome, and Antique Brass finishes offered. For more from Ovia, click here.

NICEIC announces its 70th anniversary activities

NICEIC, the certification and training body for the building services industry, is marking its 70th anniversary in 2026. To celebrate, the organisation will shine a light on the dedicated businesses that have grown with it over the years in a series of features to be released throughout 2026. Since 1956, NICEIC has stood alongside certified businesses of every size, supporting them to build thriving companies. It has also trained generations of professionals and helped keep homes, workplaces and communities safe. Paul Collins, Technical Director at NICEIC, comments, “Our 70th year is really about shining a light on the incredible contractors who have been certified with us over the years. They are the trusted experts who keep the country running. We’re proud to have been part of their journeys over the decades. “Look back over NICEIC's history and you'll see an industry transformed. New technologies, smart homes, and renewable energy have reshaped how we live, work, and travel. But when it comes to electrical installations, some things never change: strong technical skills and a commitment to safety remain as vital as ever. With certification remaining the anchor that keeps those to technical skills, alongside a commitment to safety at the heart of the trade.”   Looking ahead Throughout 2026, NICEIC will host a programme of activities designed to further support our certified businesses and celebrate their dedication. Two in-person CPD events across the UK: NICEIC TechLive Surrey (11 June)   NICEIC TechLive Sheffield (30 September) Special anniversary content and stories highlighting the businesses and individuals who have shaped the industry. Opportunities for contractors to share their journeys, celebrate milestones, and spotlight the people behind their success. Training, guidance, and industry insights to help businesses continue to grow in a rapidly evolving sector. These activities will celebrate the past while purposefully looking ahead to the future; a future that will continue to be defined by the skilled, certified professionals who remain essential to the UK’s safety, sustainability, and technological progress. Cameron Lister, Director at Edmiston Brown, an electrical contracting business certified by NICEIC since 1957, says, “We’ve seen huge changes in the world and on the job, with new tech, regulations, and ways of working. Through all of that, our core values have stayed the same: doing great work and maintaining high standards. Certification has always been part of that. No matter what the future brings, your name and your reputation is what the business lives or dies by - the fact people associate us with quality work is what’s helped us survive and thrive over so many years.” Celebrating the industry’s future As the industry enters 2026, contractors are navigating a period of accelerating change, from the publication of the Warm Homes Plan and rapid expansion of renewable technologies to the introduction of Amendment 4 (2026) to BS 7671:2018 (the 18th Edition of the IET Wiring Regulations), and the strengthening of electrical safety requirements in homes across the UK. Through every shift, certification has remained an anchor of continuity, giving businesses the confidence and credibility they need to adapt and grow. As we witness further innovation, electrification, and the transition to net zero, NICEIC says that it remains committed to supporting contractors attain the highest standards with training, technical guidance, and continued professional development. This commitment to technical integrity and professionalism amid accelerating change will continue to guide NICEIC’s work. “The next chapter of our industry will be shaped by the same people who have always driven it forward - committed and dedicated NICEIC-certified businesses on the ground,” adds Paul Collins. “Our role is to champion them, support them, and ensure they have the knowledge and confidence they need to succeed.” For more from NICEIC, click here.

TECH-X 2026 releases programme ahead of July conference

The Lighting Industry Association (LIA), a UK trade body for lighting manufacturers and suppliers, has announced the draft programme for TECH-X 2026: Technical Excellence Conference, taking place on Thursday 2 July 2026 at the Edgbaston Park Hotel & Conference Centre in Birmingham. TECH-X 2026 will deliver a day of discussions and knowledge-sharing, designed to support professionals across the lighting supply chain. The conference will feature four dedicated stages, enabling delegates to tailor their day around their technical priorities, be them: • Connected lighting • Lighting design • Technical updates • Sustainability Programme contents The draft programme (subject to change) highlights a strong focus on regulation, safety, sustainability, human-centric lighting, and the evolving role of connected systems. Sessions will explore topics including the Building Safety Act and fire safety accountability, changes to emergency lighting standards, flicker and temporal light artefacts, remanufacturing and compliance responsibilities, and European regulation and its implications for UK lighting companies. Across the design and standards-focused stages, attendees can expect sessions addressing lighting for human health and wellbeing, healthy homes and later-life living, designing lighting for retrofit, and integrating light with wider building performance considerations such as acoustics, air quality, and daylight. The connected lighting and sustainability content will examine whole-life carbon performance, net zero expectations, BREEAM 2026, digital product passports, and data transparency, alongside practical discussions on managing software-driven lighting systems over the life of a building. Neil McLean, Chair of the LIA’s Technical Management group, says, “TECHX was established to provide a specialised forum for advancing technical expertise in the lighting industry. "Releasing the draft programme allows the sector to preview the comprehensive, technical content we are developing, demonstrating our commitment to equipping members and the wider industry with knowledge-driven insights and good practice through technically-led events.” TECH-X 2026 is aimed at contractors, manufacturers, lighting designers, specifiers, consultants, and engineers. Delegate booking is now open. For more from the LIA, click here.

LIA and Recolight forge sustainable lighting partnership

The Lighting Industry Association (LIA), the UK’s largest trade body for lighting manufacturers and suppliers, and Recolight, the UK’s leading WEEE compliance and circular economy champion for lighting, have announced a new strategic partnership designed to accelerate sustainability and compliance across the sector. Key elements of the partnership include: • Reciprocal online resources linking each others’ members to relevant services and support • Newsletter features to members of both organisations providing up to date guidance on WEEE, quality and compliance in the lighting sector • Cross-promotion of relevant training courses and webinars, aimed at encouraging greater action on the circular economy and decarbonisation in lighting, and closing skills gaps Ayça Donaghy, CEO of The LIA, says, “As The LIA, by formalising this strategic partnership with Recolight we can draw on their circular‑economy leadership, cross‑promote high‑quality training, and collectively speed the industry’s progress towards net zero.” Nigel Harvey, CEO of Recolight, adds, “Recolight has had a pivotal role in supporting and encouraging action on the circular economy in the lighting sector. The new strategic partnership with The LIA will help both organisations to better support their members, and the supply chain, to act more sustainably and to continue to decarbonise. A partnership with these objectives is the right approach, for the environment, and for our members.” For more from Recolight, click here.

Aico launches 'Connected Home' training course

Aico, a manufacturer of residential fire and carbon monoxide detection products, has introduced a new City & Guilds Assured training course focused on connected home technology for housing professionals and landlords. The free, full-day course - titled 'Connected Home' - is scheduled to launch in February. It is designed to explore how connected hardware and software can support compliance, property management, and data-led decision-making within the housing sector. The course content has been developed through pilot sessions involving housing professionals, industry stakeholders, and internal teams. According to Aico, feedback from these sessions has been used to shape the training around operational challenges faced by housing providers, while reflecting evolving legislation and technology adoption. Addressing compliance and property monitoring The training covers the role of connected home technology in supporting compliance and proactive property management, particularly as housing regulation continues to evolve across the UK. The course also references Awaab’s Law and its focus on indoor air quality, damp, mould, and maintenance responsibilities. Participants will receive guidance on legislative requirements across different UK regions and how connected monitoring systems can support early issue identification and compliance reporting. The programme includes an overview of Aico’s HomeLINK technology and its use of Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity to monitor property conditions and performance. The course also examines how data can be used to improve operational efficiency and compliance while maintaining responsible data management practices. Attendees will be introduced to the HomeLINK Portal, alongside demonstrations of system navigation and portfolio monitoring. The course also covers case management features intended to support proactive maintenance planning, technical guidance on installation and device compatibility, and an overview of future technology developments. The training provides City & Guilds Assured accreditation, which recognises professional development in connected home technology and housing compliance practices. The course is delivered on an invite-only basis, with registration available through Aico Relationship Managers on the company's website. For more from Aico, click here.

CMP Products raises vital funds for Anxious Minds

Cable management products provider, CMP Products, has raised more than £20,000 for a North East mental health charity dedicated to providing both lifesaving and life-changing support. Based in Northumberland, the company – which specialises in designing and manufacturing cable glands, cleats and accessories – has carried out a series of fundraising activities throughout the course of 18 months to raise money for Anxious Minds, with the team also dedicating their own time to support the local community. Since its formation in 2015 – which stemmed from the CEO’s personal experiences with PTSD, anxiety and depression – Anxious Minds has delivered well over 120,000 counselling and support group sessions supporting children, adults and veterans. Its services include support groups, therapy sessions, helplines, workshops and recovery centres, as well as online resources for anyone with anxiety disorders or other mental health conditions. Fundraising for Anxious Minds was led by CMP’s Culture Champions – a dedicated team committed to championing initiatives that promote positive health and wellbeing in the workplace. The campaign brought together hundreds of colleagues through a diverse programme of fundraising activities, including a non‑stop 36‑hour cycle challenge, popular bake sales featuring homemade cakes and pastries, as well as competitions and a car wash fundraiser. CMP employees also donated their time to support the charity, volunteering on projects such as woodland clearance and canoe maintenance. These initiatives helped create a welcoming outdoor environment for therapy sessions, group walks, and mental health support activities, the company reports. In addition, CMP staff supported Anxious Minds’ festive celebrations, helping to serve Christmas dinners to people supported by the charity at a local community centre. Leanne Branfoot, CMP’s Human Resources Advisor and Culture Champion, says, “We are delighted to have raised an incredible amount for such a worthy cause, while also helping to raise awareness of the vital support services provided by Anxious Minds. The work the charity delivers across the region is greatly needed, and it has been fantastic to see the collective effort and strong sense of community across CMP in supporting Anxious Minds.” The momentum generated from CMP’s fundraising activities did not go unnoticed, the company notes, with the business being shortlisted for a Corporate Charity Partnership award at the North East Charity Awards 2025. Edward Dean, CEO at Anxious Minds, comments, “CMP has been nothing short of amazing. The support, kindness and generosity from their team have been second to none. Their volunteers, advice and encouragement over the year inspired me to keep pushing forward in our mission, to ensure that anyone facing their darkest hours can find the help they need to move toward a brighter, better future.” For more from CMP Products, click here.

Screwfix Trade Apprentice competition returns for 2026

Entries for this year’s Screwfix Trade Apprentice competition are officially open. Returning for its twelfth year, Screwfix, a UK retailer of trade tools, accessories, and hardware products, is searching to uncover the very best in emerging trade talent across the UK and Ireland. The annual competition provides a national platform for trade apprentices to showcase their skills, share their views, and reinforce the important role apprentices play in addressing the trade skills gap. This year’s Screwfix Trade Apprentice champion will receive a career-boosting trade bundle worth £10,000, including £5,000 of tools, a £3,000 training budget, and £2,000 worth of technology. Meanwhile, the champion’s college will also receive £2,000 worth of Screwfix vouchers to spend on new workshop equipment to further develop the next generation of trade professionals. Building on past success Dan O’Shea, an apprentice electrician from Longford in Ireland, was crowned Trade Apprentice 2025. At 20 years old, Dan impressed judges with his passion for renewable technologies and his hope to encourage even more young people to enter the industry. Commenting on his win, Dan says, “Winning Screwfix Trade Apprentice was such an honour, but it was really only the start. “My entry took no more than 15 minutes, and never in a million years did I think it would lead to this. "I look forward to keeping a close eye on the competition to see who will be crowned the next Screwfix Trade Apprentice champion.” Jack Wallace, Marketing Director at Screwfix, explains, “As a retailer to the trade, we are committed to championing tradespeople across the UK and Ireland. "The Screwfix Trade Apprentice competition recognises and celebrates apprentices while also highlighting the crucial contribution they make to the trade industry. “Over recent years, we’ve seen the number of applications grow year-on-year, which makes selecting one overall champion an exciting challenge for our judges. "Today’s trade apprentices are the next generation for the industry, bringing with them fresh ideas and skills which will be vital for the future. "So, whether you’re an apprentice electrician, plumber, painter and decorator, or roofer, what's stopping you? Like Dan O’Shea, you could be the one taking home the national title and a fantastic prize.” How to enter Free to enter, Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2026 is now open to all trade apprentices who are currently enrolled at college, either on a part-time placement with an employer or as a full-time college student. Apprentices can apply themselves or be nominated by their college or employer, and all applicants must be over the age of 16. You can apply on the Screwfix website and entries are open until midnight on Sunday, 15 February. For more from Screwfix, click here.

Martindale safety hub supports electrical apprentices

Developing safe working practices from the outset is a priority for electrical apprentices, particularly when working with or around live electrical systems. A clear understanding of electrical safety procedures can help reduce risk and support safer behaviour on site from day one. Access to practical guidance early in a career can play an important role in building knowledge, reinforcing correct processes, and supporting compliance as apprentices progress through training and into the workplace. Ahead of National Apprenticeship Week 2026, running from 9 to 15 February, Martindale Electric, a manufacturer of electrical test equipment, has highlighted its online knowledge hub, which brings together a range of free safety resources aimed at supporting apprentices and early-career electricians. The hub includes downloadable guides, checklists, and reference material focused on electrical safety and testing practices. All resources are available in one location on the Martindale website and are intended to support those involved in the installation, maintenance, and inspection of electrical plant and equipment, while also helping simplify compliance with health and safety guidance. Online safety resources for apprentices Among the available materials are checklists covering electrical safety compliance, electrical safety audits, and formal visual inspections. These are designed as practical reference tools that can be used during training or on site. The electrical safety compliance checklist focuses on six key areas: equipment compliance, safety procedures, training and education, maintenance and inspection, documentation and reporting, and communication and culture. Martindale states that apprentices can use simple audits as part of their learning to understand how safety processes are applied in real working environments. Formal visual inspection is identified as the first step in PAT and electrical equipment testing. The checklist outlines a structured and recorded inspection of an appliance, its plug, and flexible cable. Steve Dunning, Managing Director at Martindale Electric, says, “Apprentices are the future of our industry and thankfully we see a lot of skilled and diligent individuals coming through, so it’s crucial that safe isolation and safety procedures are ingrained in working practices. "Making this as straightforward and visible as possible is essential. It’s about getting into good habits, sooner rather than later.” The knowledge hub also references Martindale’s ALIVE and STOP safe isolation procedures, which are intended to reinforce correct practice when working on or near electrical systems. Additional guidance, posters, and documentation are available through the safe isolation section of the website. The site also includes a wider resource centre linking to industry information related to electrical measurement and safety. These materials are aimed at supporting ongoing learning and reinforcing safe working practices throughout an electrician’s career. For more from Martindale Electric, click here.

Vent-Axia introduces Lo-Carbon PureAir Cleanse dMEV unit

British ventilation manufacturer Vent-Axia has unveiled the industry’s first dedicated continuous-running Decentralised Mechanical Extract Ventilation (dMEV) unit with an integrated indoor air quality sensor (IAQ). The Lo-Carbon PureAir Cleanse combines intelligent humidity control with advanced air quality sensing, which detects, measures, and helps clear the air of unwanted chemical pollutants, specifically total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs). Delivering industry-leading performance, the dMEV unit is highly efficient, offering near-silent operation, with independently tested sound levels as low as 7.4 dB(A), and an attractive, sleek circular design. Ideal for PAS 2035 energy-efficiency retrofits, the Lo-Carbon PureAir Cleanse provides continuous whole-house extract ventilation to meet increased airflow requirements in line with Approved Document F (2021). Designed for continuous operation in domestic wet rooms such as bathrooms, toilets, and utility areas, the dMEV delivers effective whole-house ventilation while remaining exceptionally quiet. A brand-new control platform provides fully adjustable airflow, allowing whole-house ventilation rates to be achieved easily using fewer fans. Providing simple installation and quick commissioning, an easy-to-use speed adjustment dial ensures operational speeds are met as required by Building Regulations. Intelligent sensing and installation features Intelligent air quality sensing enables the PureAir Cleanse to automatically boost extraction when pollutant levels rise, ensuring a healthier indoor environment. Responding intelligently to changes in air quality, the unit meets IAQ benchmarks, such as UBA air quality standards. When unpleasant odours or elevated VOCs are detected, a proportionate boost function is triggered, increasing extraction rates to help clear pollutants more quickly. An important point for installers is that nuisance tripping is minimised, helping ensure happy customers. Sophisticated fan logic ensures that airflow increases are smooth and proportional. Integral humidity sensors allow for gradual speed increases up to high relative humidity levels before enabling boost, avoiding unnecessary noise or energy use. “As homes become more energy-efficient and airtight, indoor air quality has become a critical consideration with growing concerns around indoor air pollution, condensation, mould, and occupant health," says Ashley Smith, Product Manager at Vent-Axia. "At the same time, Building Regulations are driving higher ventilation rates, placing greater emphasis on noise and occupant comfort. The new Lo-Carbon PureAir Cleanse marks the next generation of dMEV, combining an integrated indoor air quality sensor with ultra-quiet, energy-efficient performance in a solution that is easy to install and commission.” Designed to offer households a relaxing environment, the Lo-Carbon PureAir Cleanse features a patented delayed start comfort control option. This allows homeowners to enjoy a quiet, peaceful bathroom for up to 20 minutes before the boost activates. In addition, if the light switch is turned on and off within three minutes, the boost will not activate. No more disturbing the family if the bathroom light is turned on during the night. Households will also be pleased that the Lo-Carbon PureAir Cleanse features a highly efficient EC/DC motor and boasts a specific fan power (SFP) as low as 0.08 W/ls, which helps keep energy costs down. Offering electricians flexible installation, the PureAir Cleanse is IPX5-rated and can be wall and ceiling-mounted within Zones 1, 2, and 3. The fan also only requires a low ceiling void of 56mm and has a 100mm spigot, making it easier to install in refurbishment projects when replacing an existing extractor fan. Meanwhile, high-pressure development and the silent mixed flow impeller mean the Lo-Carbon PureAir Cleanse can meet the requirements of many domestic applications without the need to use a traditional centrifugal fan, simplifying system design Providing installers and households with reliability and peace of mind, the Lo-Carbon PureAir Cleanse comes with a seven-year warranty. The Lo-Carbon PureAir Cleanse is also recognised on SAP PCDB. For further information on all products and services offered by Vent-Axia, telephone +44 (0)344 856 0590 or visit Vent-Axia's website. For more from Vent-Axia, click here.