UK firms receive King’s Awards for Enterprise

Ideal Heating, a UK manufacturer of boilers and heat pumps, and Kentec Electronics, a UK manufacturer of fire alarm control panels and ancillary equipment, have both been recognised with King’s Awards for Enterprise, highlighting achievements in innovation and international trade. The awards, regarded as the UK’s most prestigious business honours, recognise organisations for performance across areas including innovation, export growth, and sustainable development. Ideal Heating has been awarded in the Innovation category, while Kentec Electronics has been recognised for International Trade. Ideal Heating, part of Groupe Atlantic UK and Republic of Ireland, employs around 1,500 people across the UK, including 800 at its Hull headquarters. This marks the company’s fourth King’s (or Queen’s) Award, following previous recognitions in 2013 and 2019. Kentec Electronics, based in Dartford, Kent, employs around 290 people and specialises in fire detection and control systems. It is one of 185 organisations nationally to receive a King’s Award in 2026. Recognition for innovation and export growth Ideal Heating’s award reflects its development of a heat pump delivery model aimed at supporting the UK’s transition to low-carbon heating. This includes investment in training infrastructure, customer support, and manufacturing facilities. The company has established a national training network, including a dedicated training and technology centre, alongside programmes designed to support installer skills development. Adam Foy, CEO at Ideal Heating, comments, "Receiving the King’s Award for Enterprise is a great honour and an incredibly proud moment for us." Kentec Electronics’ award recognises export growth over the past three years, with overseas sales increasing by 69% and now accounting for 67% of total turnover. The company exports to more than 90 countries worldwide. Kevin Swann, Managing Director at Kentec Electronics, says, "As the most prestigious business award in the UK, it's a great honour to win the King's Award for Enterprise, and it's wonderful for everyone at Kentec to have their efforts recognised." The King’s Awards for Enterprise programme, established in 1965, recognises UK businesses for excellence across multiple categories. Winners are permitted to use the award for five years following a formal assessment process. For more from Ideal Heating, click here.

The benefits of upgrading to LED lighting in the office

In this exclusive article for ECN, Phil Wiltshire, Contracts Manager at Pensdown, outlines how modern LED lighting can cut energy costs, improve workplace wellbeing, and deliver long-term value when specified and installed correctly: Modern workplaces are constantly evolving, with companies seeking ways to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and create healthier, more productive environments for their teams. One of the most effective upgrades an organisation can make is transitioning to LED lighting. While traditional fluorescent and incandescent lighting have been standard for decades, advances in LED technology offer a range of advantages that go far beyond simple illumination. Ironically, most organisations are already aware of these benefits, but seem reluctant or unwilling to make the change until they have to. So, here is a reminder. Perhaps the most immediate benefit of switching to LED lighting is the reduction in energy consumption. LED lights use significantly less electricity than traditional fluorescent or incandescent bulbs while providing the same - or an often superior - level of brightness. This efficiency translates directly into lower energy bills, which can be particularly impactful in large office spaces with multiple floors or open-plan areas. Over time, the savings accrued from reduced energy usage can offset the initial investment in upgrading fixtures, making LED a financially sound choice for organisations of all sizes. LED lighting is also more responsive to dimming and automation technologies. By integrating LED systems with motion sensors, timers, or smart building controls, offices can ensure that lights are only in use when necessary, further driving down energy consumption. These systems provide flexibility that older lighting types simply cannot match, allowing organisations to adapt lighting levels to varying tasks, times of day, or occupancy patterns. LED lights are also designed to last far longer than traditional bulbs. While incandescent bulbs may last just a year or two - and fluorescent tubes typically around 10,000 hours - LEDs can operate effectively for 25,000 to 50,000 hours or more. This extended lifespan means fewer replacements and less maintenance overall, reducing disruption to daily operations and lowering ongoing costs associated with maintenance schedules, waste disposal, and labour. In offices where lighting is extensive, the reduced maintenance frequency can have a substantial impact. Fewer bulb changes mean less reliance on in-house maintenance teams or external contractors and fewer chances for errors or accidents during installations. This reliability contributes to a more seamless, productive work environment. Improved lighting quality and employee wellbeing We also know that the quality of office lighting has a direct influence on the wellbeing and performance of employees. LEDs offer consistent, flicker-free light that can reduce eye strain, headaches, and fatigue - all of which are common complaints in poorly lit offices. They also provide options for adjustable colour temperature, allowing offices to simulate natural daylight or create warmer tones depending on the activity or time of day. Properly designed LED lighting can improve concentration, mood, and overall satisfaction among staff. Studies have shown that exposure to high-quality lighting in the workplace can increase productivity, reduce errors, and even improve sleep patterns outside of work by supporting natural circadian rhythms. The ability to adjust light levels also allows teams to create comfortable environments that are appropriate for different types of work, from focused individual tasks to collaborative meetings. In addition, transitioning to LED lighting offers clear environmental benefits. LEDs consume less energy and generate less heat than traditional lighting, which not only reduces electricity demand but also lessens the load on air conditioning systems. This reduction in energy consumption translates to lower carbon emissions, helping organisations meet sustainability targets and improve their environmental footprint. Furthermore, LEDs do not contain mercury (unlike fluorescent tubes), making them safer to dispose of and less harmful to the environment. Reduced waste, combined with their long lifespan, means fewer resources are required for production, transport, and replacement. For companies seeking to adopt greener practices, switching to LED lighting is a straightforward yet impactful step. As an added bonus, LED technology allows for greater flexibility in lighting design than traditional options. Fixtures can be integrated into ceilings, walls, furniture, or architectural features, creating a visually appealing and functional workspace. Linear lighting, recessed downlights, panels, and pendant designs are all possible with LEDs, enabling customised solutions tailored to the specific needs of an office. Modern LED systems can also be integrated with smart building controls and internet of things (IoT) devices. Offices can create automated schedules, occupancy-based lighting adjustments, or even dynamic lighting scenarios that change throughout the day. This integration provides both operational efficiency and an enhanced employee experience, demonstrating that lighting is not simply a utility but a tool that can positively influence the workplace environment. Why choosing the right electrical contractor matters Upgrading to LED lighting is more than simply replacing old bulbs. The design, installation, and integration of a modern lighting system require technical expertise to ensure safety, efficiency, and long-term performance. Choosing the right electrical contractor is therefore critical. A knowledgeable contractor, such as Pensdown, can assess the existing infrastructure, recommend suitable LED solutions, manage wiring and load considerations, and integrate new systems with existing building controls. Furthermore, experienced contractors understand compliance requirements and best practices, including energy efficiency standards, health and safety regulations, and proper disposal of old lighting. By working with a professional electrical team, organisations can avoid common pitfalls such as overloading circuits, incorrect fixture placement, or compatibility issues with automated systems. Ultimately, selecting a competent contractor ensures that the lighting upgrade achieves its intended benefits in terms of cost savings, energy efficiency, and workplace comfort. The good news is that LED lighting can be implemented both in new builds and retrofitted into existing spaces. Retrofitting involves replacing existing fixtures or integrating LEDs into current infrastructure while minimising disruption to ongoing operations. This process requires careful planning to ensure compatibility with existing wiring, switches, and control systems. In new constructions, LEDs can be designed into the building from the outset, allowing for a more cohesive lighting strategy. Incorporating LEDs early enables architects and designers to take full advantage of the technology’s flexibility, creating spaces that are both energy efficient and visually appealing. We can see, therefore, that investing in LED lighting is not just about current performance; it is also a step towards future-proofing the workplace. Advances in LED and lighting controls continue to improve efficiency, integration, and functionality. By adopting modern LED solutions now, offices can easily incorporate future innovations such as networked lighting controls, daylight harvesting, and adaptive lighting schemes. This flexibility ensures that the workplace remains modern, sustainable, and adaptable to changing needs.

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.