Knightsbridge launches new 2026 catalogue

Knightsbridge, one of the UK’s leading brands of wiring devices, accessories, and lighting, has launched its new 2026 catalogue, showcasing the latest innovations across its extensive portfolio. Available to the trade now, the A5-sized, full-colour publication features over 3,000 products, with a host of new additions in both the lighting and wiring accessory ranges. The 2026 edition introduces a range of new developments, including Helix non-corrosive battens, the K-Line three-circuit track system, black metal clad textured black sockets, and a significantly updated commercial lighting collection. Highlights include BT EVO bulkheads, BATM modular LED battens, SpektroLED EVO downlights, and a power-led range of USB sockets including 45W and 65W solutions. Knightsbridge’s commercial lighting offer spans retail, industrial, and commercial environments, with solutions for both indoor and outdoor applications. The portfolio includes floodlights, suspended panels, tracklights, downlights, battens, bulkheads, bollards and accessories, delivering performance, durability and modern styling. One of the latest launches is the SUR5 LED panel range – a family of surface-mounted, slimline, and suspended luminaires designed as an energy-efficient replacement for traditional fluorescent panels. Offering 4000K output, robust construction, and direct/indirect lighting options, SUR5 is well suited to refurbishment and new-build projects alike. The VIIVA range of CCT and wattage-adjustable linear luminaires provides further flexibility for commercial interiors. Available in 1200mm and 1500mm lengths, with selectable wattages and tri-CCT switching, VIIVA delivers tailored light output, glare control, modular emergency options and contemporary design. In addition to product innovation, Knightsbridge continues to support customers with a dedicated lighting design service, helping wholesalers and installers create bespoke schemes for projects of all sizes. Some other recent introductions reflect the ever-changing tastes of consumers, such as screwless wiring accessories in antique brass and black metal clad. The textured matt black finish on the new metal clad accessories combines durability with a high aesthetic and contemporary styling. Fully compatible with the existing portfolio, the SPCC steel accessories offer robust performance, installer-friendly features, and a 25-year warranty. Antique brass continues to grow in popularity among installers and homeowners, aligning with interior trends that favour mixed metal finishes. By coordinating switches and sockets with kitchen and bathroom hardware, these finishes transform everyday wiring accessories into considered design elements. Addressing demand for faster, more efficient device charging, Knightsbridge has further developed its range of USB-integrated sockets. Leading the line is the 13A double pole switched socket with dual USB-C (65W Dual Fastcharge) – one of the most powerful dual USB charging sockets available on the UK market. Users can charge two devices simultaneously at 45W and 18W, or power a single laptop at the full 65W, without the need for bulky adaptors. For wholesalers and installers alike, the new 2026 catalogue provides a comprehensive, up-to-date resource to support product selection, specification and sales. The catalogue is available in both print and digital formats. To request a copy, or to access the digital version, click here. Alternatively, you can give Knightsbridge a call on 01582 887760 or contact your local wholesaler. For more from Knightsbridge, click here.

Q&A: Strategy and growth in the electrical sector

In this interview, ECN is in conversation with Barry Taylor, Scolmore Group UK Sales Director, about the company’s recent successes, growth opportunities in the electric sector, his own role at the company, and more: ECN: Hi Barry! Can you tell us about your journey through the electrical sector and what led you to joining Scolmore Group? Barry: My journey began at 16 when I realised higher education wasn’t for me, so I joined a national wholesaler on a YTS-type scheme. I started in the warehouse and worked through roles including trade counter, internal sales, and eventually Branch Manager. From there, I moved into manufacturing as an Area Sales Manager for a circuit protection company, later taking on a specification role that gave me experience with consultants, contractors, and larger projects. I then joined Scolmore and I still remember my first meeting with Gary Mordue (Scolmore’s CEO). His vision, commitment to growth, and the family feel of the business impressed me. I’ve now been with Scolmore for almost 15 years, holding roles from Regional Sales Manager to National Sales Manager, and now Sales Director. ECN: What does your current role involve, and what does a typical day look like? Barry: As Sales Director, I ensure the sales operation moves in the right direction. I work with Regional and National Sales Managers and the Senior Management Team to support customers, grow the business, and stay ahead of the market. There’s no “typical day.” Some days I’m visiting customers or supporting the team on projects; other days I’m in the office reviewing numbers, planning strategy, or collaborating on new products. Meetings and calls are constant, and, yes, there’s a lot of Red Bull. I enjoy staying close to the team and customers – it keeps me connected to what really matters. I like to be visible; as I always say, “people deal with people.” ECN: What are the most satisfying and challenging parts of your role? Barry: The most satisfying part is hitting sales targets – it validates the strategy. I also enjoy helping people develop, whether they’re moving into new roles, securing a big order, or gaining confidence day to day. Shaping the future of the business through strategy and new initiatives is rewarding too. The challenge is juggling priorities. Multiple projects, decisions, and conversations happen at once. Balancing the needs of the business, team, and customers can be demanding, especially when timelines are tight or unexpected issues arise. It’s never dull, which is why I love it. ECN: What are Elucian’s biggest success stories over the past 12 months, and what is the focus for 2026? Barry: Over the past year, we hired a full new sales force to represent Elucian, laying the foundation for sustained growth. Another success was launching our three-phase distribution boards, which have been well received by contractors and wholesalers. Looking ahead to 2026, our focus remains on continued growth – we’re only scratching the surface of a huge market. ECN: How does Elucian gather feedback from installers and contractors to influence product design? Barry: We gather feedback from contractors on a regular basis to make sure that when we bring a product to market, it genuinely meets their needs. All of our consumer units and distribution boards have gone through extensive contractor feedback, whether through direct site visits, hands on reviews or detailed surveys. This input plays a huge part in shaping the final product and helps ensure it is well received once it reaches the market. ECN: What regulatory or technological changes will impact electrical contractors in the near future? Barry: Regulations are always evolving, with the latest Wiring Regulations amendment being a prime example. A major shift is how the industry handles DC power in traditional AC installations. We’re already seeing new RCD types designed for different electrical characteristics. This trend will continue as DC becomes more integrated into everyday systems. ECN: What are the biggest growth opportunities in the circuit protection market? Barry: Growth will come from the electrification of everyday life, particularly heating. As projects move away from gas, more buildings rely on electrical systems, increasing the need for reliable circuit protection. Demand for electric heating and low-carbon technologies will continue to rise. ECN: How will electrification, EV charging, and renewable technologies influence circuit protection requirements? Barry: As these trends grow, circuit protection will need to be smarter, more specialised, and adaptable. At Elucian, we’re developing products with this future in mind, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of modern installations. ECN: What advice would you give to electricians or contractors to stay ahead? Barry: CPD, CPD, CPD. Staying up to date is essential to ensure products are fit for purpose and installations are safe, compliant, and future-ready. That’s why Scolmore Group has invested in a dedicated Technical Engagement Team to deliver CPDs, giving contractors the knowledge and confidence to work effectively with modern electrical systems. That’s why we at the Scolmore Group have invested in a dedicated Technical Engagement Team to deliver CPDs across a wide range of topics. It gives contractors the knowledge, confidence, and support they need to work effectively with modern electrical systems. ECN: Lastly, what do you most enjoy doing away from work? Barry: Anyone who knows me will know I’m a simple man who likes simple things, so away from work I love nothing more than a pint of lager and a doner kebab. For more from Elucian, click here.

Click Scolmore adds 4-gang single-plate switch to Definity

Wiring accessories manufacturer Click Scolmore continues to invest in the development of its product portfolio with the launch of a new 4-gang, single-plate switch - a practical and stylish addition to the company’s Definity range of screwless wiring accessories. Where can this be used? Designed to meet the growing demand for flexibility without compromising on aesthetics, the premium 10AX 4-gang complete switch can be used in areas with limited wall space or in hallways and living areas without chasing the wall. The switch also allows four separate circuits to be controlled from a single-size Definity plate. This offers a clear advantage for installers and specifiers, as it removes the need for a twin-size plate and back box, helping to save space while maintaining a clean and streamline finish. Limited wall space between doors or architrave In many properties, switches are positioned between two door openings or close to an architrave, where wall space is extremely limited. Traditionally, this restricts installations to a maximum of 3-gangs on a single Definity plate, as 4-gang switches normally require a larger double Definity plate. With the 4-gang, single-plate switch, installers can now fit up to four circuits in tight spaces, avoid increasing the plate size, and maintain a clean, balanced appearance. Adding circuits without chasing the wall In hallways or living areas, it’s common to already have a 2- or 3-gang single plate controlling multiple lights. When an additional circuit is required, the usual solution is to chase the wall and install a double plate. The 4-gang, single-plate switch eliminates this need by allowing an additional circuit to be added within the existing single plate footprint, reducing installation time, mess, and redecoration costs for the end user. Where power meets style, the new Definity 4-gang, single-plate switch delivers high performance alongside a refined appearance that complements a wide variety of interior schemes, reflecting Click Scolmore’s commitment to combining functionality with design-led solutions. The new 4-gang, single-plate switches are available across the Definity range of finishes - antique brass, polished chrome, stainless steel, metal white, matt bronze, brushed stainless steel, polar white, matt black, and metal black. Inserts are available in black, polar white, and grey, with grey inserts available only in the stainless steel and brushed stainless finishes. For more information, visit Click Scolmore’s website or download the Scolmore Group app. For more from Click Scolmore, click here.

Johnson Controls brings Innovation Studio tour to the UK

Johnson Controls, a provider of building technology, software, and services, has launched a new, travelling 'Innovation Studio', a Pan-European tour that will include multiple UK stops, bringing mission-critical building technologies directly to customers and contractors. The mobile showcase debuted at MCE (Mostra Convegno Expocomfort) 2026 in Milan, Italy, and will visit 44 cities across Europe. For the UK market, the initiative is positioned as a hands-on way for electrical contractors, consultants, and facilities professionals to engage with new technologies amid rising pressure around energy costs, efficiency, and decarbonisation. UK focus on efficiency and retrofit performance Johnson Controls highlighted several UK-based projects that underline the relevance of its technologies for local contractors. These include a manufacturing site that reduced energy use by 52% and a UK data centre that improved efficiency by 8%. The company says its data centre cooling systems are also capable of cutting energy consumption by up to 40% while operating with zero on-site water use, aligning with increasing regulatory and sustainability pressures across the UK built environment. Richard Lek, President EMEA at Johnson Controls, explains that, “Across Europe, customers are navigating some of the most complex energy security and affordability challenges in decades. “By bringing our technologies directly to customers, we’re showing how building systems can become more resilient, efficient, and adaptable for the long term.” Technology showcase for contractors and specifiers The Innovation Studio will present a range of systems relevant to UK projects, particularly in retrofit and high-performance environments. These include the YORK YK-HT centrifugal chiller and the YORK YVAM air-cooled magnetic bearing chiller, both designed for data centres and large-scale facilities. Also featured is the OpenBlue digital platform, which provides monitoring and analytics to improve building performance, alongside the Metasys building automation system, designed to integrate HVAC, lighting, fire, and security systems across complex sites. Visitors to the UK tour stops will be able to explore interactive demonstrations, real-world applications, and 3D visualisations, with access to technical specialists and live workshops. Supporting UK infrastructure and service delivery Johnson Controls maintains an established service presence in the UK, supported by trained engineers and local operations. The company says the Innovation Studio will strengthen engagement with customers across the country, particularly as demand grows for energy-efficient upgrades and smarter building controls. The wider European tour, it suggests, reflects increasing demand for integrated building technologies that can reduce costs, cut emissions, and improve operational resilience across sectors including commercial buildings, data centres, and manufacturing. For more from Johnson Controls, click here.

Recolight expands WEEE collection service

Recolight, a UK not-for-profit compliance scheme for lighting waste recycling and sustainability, has introduced a project collection service for large-scale luminaire installations, supporting compliant recycling of lighting waste across the UK. The service covers the collection and processing of lamps, luminaires, emergency batteries, and other electrical equipment covered by WEEE regulations. It is designed to provide a single point of contact for projects, with a focus on regulatory compliance and consistent waste handling. Recolight states that the service operates in line with WEEE requirements and ISO standards, with collection and recycling available to scheme members at no cost, subject to standard terms. The company has also extended availability to non-members in response to increased demand. Lyndsey Tweddle, Customer Service Manager at Recolight, explains, “Collection and recycling of luminaires and lamps is free for Recolight Scheme Members, subject to our standard terms and conditions. “We’ve been providing project collections for many years and, due to increasing demand, we are now offering the service to non-members as well. "We’re seeing strong uptake from organisations who value a compliant, carbon-efficient solution delivered by a specialist team.” Supporting compliance on large lighting projects The service includes scheduled collections, provision of appropriate containers, and support with meeting WEEE obligations throughout a project. It is intended for use across building upgrades, large-scale relighting works, and contractor-led installations. Recolight also provides audit trails, documentation of supplier licences, and reporting on waste volumes and associated carbon emissions, supporting organisations with Scope 3 reporting requirements. Nigel Harvey, CEO of Recolight, says, “Our streamlined service makes us the go-to supplier for all lighting waste needs on large projects. “We take the hassle out of compliance and recycling so our customers can focus on delivering energy-efficient lighting upgrades with confidence.” For more from Recolight, click here.

NAPIT welcomes Future Homes Standards announcement

Certification body and training provider NAPIT has welcomed the Government’s Future Homes Standard, which could create significant opportunities for its members involved in installing solar panels, heat pumps, batteries, and electric vehicle chargers. The Government says that, from March 2028, new homes will be built with solar panels and heat pumps. The Future Homes Standard will mean that new homes, with some exceptions (including high-rise buildings), are built with on-site renewable electricity generation, which will mainly be solar panels. Homes will also be built with low-carbon heating such as heat pumps and heat networks. Additionally, the Government notes that plug-in solar panels, which can be run into the home network and which are common in places such as Germany (where people already hang them on balconies, in gardens, or on terraces), will be available in shops “within months” for existing homeowners. Building on the Warm Homes Plan Earlier this year, the Government published its Warm Homes Plan, which gave details of how existing homes could be retrofitted with low-carbon energy sources. Stephen Melton, NAPIT Director of Commercial and Compliance, comments, “The new standards have been a long time coming, but it makes total sense for all new homes to be built with solar panels and alternatives to gas heating installed as standard. "Coming on the back of the Warm Homes Plan, it should offer further clarity and opportunity to our members involved in the low-carbon energy sector and provide significant growth strands for their businesses. “The ease of installation and adoption of these technologies at [the] new-build stage compared to retrofitting an existing home are much more cost effective, efficient, and attractive to homeowners. “This will also act as a shop window for existing homeowners considering switching to low-carbon technologies, providing they are installed correctly by certified, competent installers.” “Whilst we welcome any initiative that promotes the wider use of solar PV systems, the announcement around plug-in solar panels without the need for a qualified electrician does raise concerns over safety. "We look forward to working with the relevant industry organisations to ensure the safe roll out of these products.” Wider industry comments In addition to NAPIT, other industry figures have also commented on the announcement, including Neal Herbert, Managing Director for GTC, who says, “GTC welcomes the publication of the UK Government’s Future Homes Standard, which sets a clear direction of travel towards low-carbon heating and signals the end of fossil fuel heating in new homes. “We have been planning for this moment for many years. The decarbonisation of heat has long been on the political agenda, which is why we proactively designed and delivered not one but two scalable renewable heat network solutions for our house-builder partners. “While the Future Homes Standard represents a major step forward, we recognise it will also present real challenges for house-builders as they adapt to new requirements, supply chains, and delivery models. The key now is moving from policy to delivery - quickly, confidently, and without disruption." For more from NAPIT, click here.

Vent-Axia backs BEAMA’s Climate Commitment

Market-leading British ventilation manufacturer Vent-Axia is strengthening its net zero commitments by supporting the BEAMA 2050 Connected Climate Commitment. Vent-Axia has joined organisations across the UK’s energy, transport, and built environment supply chains that have signed up to a new Climate Commitment aimed at strengthening alignment, accountability, and measurable progress towards net zero. Developed by BEAMA, under its BEAMA 2050 Connected platform, the Climate Commitment provides a shared framework for science-based targets, governance integration, circular economy principles, and value chain collaboration. For Vent-Axia, signing the Climate Commitment builds on long-standing work to reduce its environmental impact and support more sustainable manufacturing. The company aims to achieve net zero by 2040, a decade ahead of the UK Government’s target, with sustainability embedded across its business strategy and governance. A sustainable strategy Vent-Axia’s strategy is built around three pillars: Product – Engineer Sustainable Solutions; Planet – Improve Environmental Performance; and People – Connect People Together, aligning with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Vent-Axia’s Group’s sustainability targets include a goal of reaching 75% of sales revenue from low-carbon products, and 90% of the plastic it uses in its own manufacturing to be from recycled sources. In 2025, the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) assessed and approved its Group's near-term and net zero targets. As Scope 3 emissions become increasingly central to corporate climate strategies, supply chain organisations face growing regulatory scrutiny, customer expectations, and reporting complexity. The BEAMA 2050 Connected Climate Commitment has therefore been developed to help businesses move from ambition to coordinated delivery through a structured, industry-led mechanism. Signatories commit to: reducing Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions; setting science-based targets aligned to 1.5°C; embedding sustainability into governance; integrating circular economy principles; engaging responsibly in policy development; and collaborating to strengthen value chain alignment. Joseph Brawn (pictured above), Product and Marketing Director at Vent-Axia, and a member of BEAMA’s ventilation committee, says, “At Vent-Axia, we are proud to be signatories to BEAMA’s Climate Commitment, which closely aligns with the sustainability direction our business has been progressing towards for many years. "We fully support BEAMA, its members, and the initiative, and we are pleased to play our part in driving meaningful progress towards net zero.” Yselkla Farmer, CEO at BEAMA, notes, “Achieving net zero and a circular economy is a shared responsibility - either we succeed together, or we don’t succeed at all. "Through the BEAMA 2050 Connected Climate Commitment, companies across the electrical supply chain for energy, transport, and the built environment are coming together to move beyond ambition and deliver coordinated, real-world climate action. "By working across the value chain, we can turn commitments into practical, scalable solutions that support decarbonisation, circularity, and long-term industry resilience.” Cross-sector collaboration Endorsed by both CEF and Scottish & Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN), the initiative reflects growing cross-sector momentum towards collaborative climate leadership. Vent-Axia has already demonstrated this approach in practice through its groundbreaking shift, transitioning from virgin to recycled plastic in its manufacturing. Overcoming industry challenges, the company invested heavily in R&D, developed strong supplier partnerships, and created an industry-first materials database for recycled plastics, facilitating third-party product certification. This work has already received industry recognition. Vent-Axia won the BEAMA Net Zero Collaboration Award for its partnership with AO, transforming recycled fridge plastic into ventilation products, and also received the Low Carbon Impact Award at the 2024 H&V News Awards. Circular economy principles are already embedded in the company’s manufacturing approach. Manufacturing with recycled plastic has reduced the carbon footprint of Vent-Axia’s products by up to 40%, while AO has successfully kept its recycled materials within the circular economy in the UK, further contributing to a reduction in both resources used and carbon emissions. To read the full BEAMA 2050 Connected Climate Commitment, click here to visit the website. To enquire about joining BEAMA 2050 Connected, contact: 2050Connected@beama.org.uk For further information on all products and services offered by Vent-Axia, telephone +44 (0)344 856 0590 or visit the company's website. For more from Vent-Axia, click here.

Urban Fox wins Suffolk EV charging contract

Urban Fox, a partnership between Balfour Beatty Investments and Urban Electric Networks, has secured a contract with Suffolk County Council to deliver an on-street electric vehicle charging network across the county. The programme will see more than 1,000 charging sockets installed, using retractable charge points designed to sit flush with the pavement when not in use. The rollout forms part of the council’s 'Plug In Suffolk' initiative, which aims to expand access to EV charging, particularly for residents without off-street parking. The retractable charge points are intended to reduce street clutter and maintain pavement accessibility, including for wheelchair users and those with prams, while supporting installations in residential and heritage areas. Expanding access to on-street EV charging Urban Fox says it will work with the council and local stakeholders to identify suitable locations for installations, with the aim of minimising disruption during deployment and aligning with local requirements. Oli Freeling-Wilkinson, CEO of Urban Fox, comments, “This is another important step forward for Urban Fox as we continue to support local authorities in delivering accessible, future-ready EV infrastructure. “By deploying our retractable UEone charge points, we’re able to provide a solution that not only meets the growing demand for EV charging but does so in a way that respects the local environment and improves the experience for residents. "We’re excited to be working with Suffolk County Council to help accelerate the transition to cleaner transport.” Richard Rout, Cabinet Member for Devolution, Local Government Reorganisation and NSIPs at Suffolk County Council, adds, “We’re excited to be working with Urban Fox, to ensure that those living in conservation areas can access EV charging, alongside those living in more urban settings. “For many years, the county council’s Plug In Suffolk programme has recognised the importance of offering a variety of EV charging solutions, particularly to those who are unable to charge easily at home. “This is not only to support the ever-growing number of Suffolk drivers who are switching to EVs, but also to benefit the county’s visitors and the tourism economy.” The contract adds to Urban Fox’s portfolio of local authority projects, as demand for accessible on-street EV charging continues to increase across the UK. For more from Urban Fox, click here.

Ansell adds XPRESS compatibility to Tornado Evo

Ansell Lighting, a designer and manufacturer of luminaires, has introduced XPRESS compatibility to its Tornado Evo linear lighting range, aimed at simplifying installation and retrofit upgrades. The XPRESS system is a clip-in design that allows emergency and microwave sensor functionality to be added to standard luminaires without the need for tools. The updated fittings include labelled gear trays with dedicated connection points for XPRESS Emergency Packs and XPRESS Microwave Sensors. The approach enables components to be installed quickly by pushing them into place and connecting wiring, reducing installation time and supporting on-site flexibility. Simplifying installation and stock management The XPRESS system is also intended to support wholesalers by reducing the number of product variations they need to hold in stock. Standard Tornado Evo XPRESS fittings can be supplied alongside separate clip-in modules, allowing additional functionality to be added when required. Mark Abbott, Managing Director at Ansell Lighting, notes, “XPRESS has been designed to make life easier for everyone in the supply chain. Installers benefit from faster installation and simpler upgrades, whilst wholesalers can reduce stock commitments without limiting customer choice. “Tornado Evo is one of our most popular and widely specified products, which made it the ideal choice for introducing this new system. We are sure that customers will love the many benefits and added flexibility the new XPRESS versions offer.” The company states that XPRESS capability will be introduced to additional product ranges in the coming months. For more from Ansell Lighting, click here.

Penn Elcom illuminates historic Yarnton Manor library

Penn Elcom, a UK manufacturer of LED lighting solutions, has completed a custom LED lighting installation at the Lanier Theological Library, located within the historic Yarnton Manor in Oxford. The library is housed in a converted 17th-century tithe barn, requiring a lighting approach that supports day-to-day use while respecting the building’s architectural character. Working with the project’s lead electrician and the appointed joinery contractor, Penn Elcom developed a tailored LED lighting system designed for the library’s shelving. The company produced more than 1,000 custom lengths of LED tape and aluminium extrusion to meet the requirements of the installation. All components were pre-cut, pre-wired, and labelled before delivery, allowing them to be installed without additional modification on site. This approach was intended to support installation efficiency and reduce disruption to the build programme. Lighting designed for heritage environments Rob Platt, Marketing Director at Penn Elcom, comments, “We are incredibly proud to have played a role in bringing the Lanier Theological Library to life. “This project at Yarnton Manor perfectly highlights our capability to deliver large-scale, tailored lighting solutions that integrate flawlessly into complex, custom architectural and joinery designs.” The project required careful coordination between lighting design and the building’s existing structure, ensuring that illumination levels met the needs of a working library without impacting the visual character of the space. Penn Elcom says its involvement reflects ongoing demand for lighting systems that can be adapted to heritage and architectural settings, particularly where custom joinery and specialist installation methods are required. For more from Penn Elcom, click here.