Used electric van sales double as price drops

Marketcheck, a source of data on the UK used car market, has today published figures on trends within the used E-vans sector. Over a period of two years (between June 2023 and June 2025), Marketcheck found that sales have doubled and the average last listed price has fallen by almost a third. In June 2023, 218 used EV vans were sold across the UK. By June 2025, this rose by 166.51%, more than doubling to 581. Marketcheck also found a significant decrease in the cost of a used E-van. Last month, the average last listed price for a used E-van in the UK was £17,560.42. This is a 28.14% decrease (£6,875.19) when compared with the last listed price in June 2023, when the average used E-van cost £24,435.61. The analysis conducted by Marketcheck shows that the cost of a used E-van appears to have reached its market level. In the first half of the analysis (between June 2023 and June 2024), the average last listed price fell by £5,344.24, a 21.87% decrease. Between June 2024 and June 2025, the price decrease was less steep, falling by 8.02% (£1,530.95). In 2025, the average last listed price fluctuated from a high of £18,103.78 to a low of £17,380.95, indicating that the cost has plateaued. Alastair Campbell, Marketcheck UK, comments, “The used electric van market has undergone a major transformation over the past two years. "With average prices down by nearly a third and sales more than doubling, it’s clear that these vehicles are now a far more accessible option for businesses and sole traders looking to make the switch to electric. "Our analysis suggests the market has now reached a stable pricing point, with values holding relatively steady throughout 2025. "As demand continues to grow and prices level out, used E-vans are increasingly becoming a practical and cost-effective solution for fleets and commercial users alike.”

Registrations now open for Screwfix Live 2025

Screwfix has just announced that registrations are now officially open for Screwfix Live 2025. The event will once again return to the Farnborough International Exhibition centre from Friday 26 until Sunday 28 September. Now in its 12th year, Screwfix Live continues to grow in popularity, offering customers the opportunity to interact with 200 leading trade brands and get hands-on with the latest tools, products, and innovations. The show will include exclusive, event-only offers and giveaways, live product demos, hands-on experiences, expert Q&A sessions, and more. Screwfix Live is free to attend and visitors can register now to secure their place and a free goody bag worth over £40. Building on the reported success of last year, Screwfix Live will have more tills, more free parking, and extra seating space for customers to make the most of their day at the show. Screwfix Live will also host the final of Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2025. Ten finalists will face a panel of industry experts before the worthy winner takes home the ultimate £20,000 trade bundle of tools, tech, and training. Max Britten, Screwfix Managing Director, says, “Screwfix Live is a real highlight of the year and a fantastic opportunity to bring the trade community together under one roof. "Last year we welcomed more than 26,000 visitors to the show, and we’re thrilled to open registrations for what is set to be another incredible event. "Whether you're a seasoned professional or serious DIYer, there’s something for everyone at Screwfix Live. We look forward to seeing you in September!” For more from Screwfix, click here.

Luceco illuminates learning in Liverpool

Luceco, a UK manufacturer and distributor of LED lighting products, recently worked with Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine to help completely refurbish the ground floor space in the Mary Kingsley building to turn it into a place where students can research, revise, and learn. Working with contractors The James Mercer Group, luminaires from the Luceco Lighting and DW Windsor brands were used to transform the lighting both inside and outside the building. Inside the space, a selection of LEDs from the Luceco Lighting brand including the Platinum, Epsilon, F-Type, Contour, and Tempus ranges were used with a combination of surface, suspended, and recessed fittings to suit each space. Throughout the corridors and study spaces, Luceco’s Contour linear luminaires were suspended from the ceiling and paired with the Platinum suspended downlights to create what the company describes as "a modern, chic lighting solution." The lights were then connected to either hard-wired or Luceco Platform controls to create a customisable lighting plan for the building. Platform is Luceco’s wireless lighting control system. Designed as a scalable, retrofit offering, it integrates with smart building systems, seeking to enable full lighting control. These features aim to help reduce energy consumption, lower operating costs, and create a comfortable, well-lit environment. Outside, the DW Windsor Pharola bollards were chosen to light the pathways. The Pharola is an architectural LED bollard which provides a high-performance white light and aids navigation. It is intended to promote a feeling of safety after dark with uniform, 360-degree lighting distribution. Lee Doughty, The James Mercer Group, comments, “Working with Luceco we have been able to transform the ground floor space in the Mary Kingsley building at Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine into a space for students to complete their learning and research. “Installation of the lighting was simple and straightforward thanks to the design of Luceco’s LEDs and they create a bright welcoming space.” Andy Whalley, Luceco Project Manager, adds, “It’s been great to work with Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine on another project to deliver another fantastic lighting solution. "We’ve already heard great feedback from staff and students, and hope they enjoy this new space for years to come.” For more from Luceco, click here.

'More than 2,000 premises a year breaching fire regulations'

Thorlux, a manufacturer of commercial, industrial, and emergency lighting equipment, is warning that more than 2,000 premises a year are breaching fire regulations following an analysis of data from the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC). The figure was released as the company launched its latest generation of Firefly, an emergency lighting range designed to support facilities managers in maintaining compliance with building safety regulations. According to the NFCC data, fire services issued 2,066 enforcement and prohibition notices between June 2024 and May 2025. These included notices served on hospitals (10), schools (6), and care homes (140). While not all were specific to emergency lighting, the findings offer an indication of the scale of non-compliance across public and commercial buildings. Emergency lighting plays a role in supporting safe evacuation during power outages or fire incidents and is a legal requirement under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. Regulations also require that such systems be maintained and tested regularly to ensure proper operation. According to the lighting firm, the new Firefly range includes a ten-year warranty, extended battery life, and improved environmental performance. A choice of new optical designs allows for wider luminaire spacing, meaning fewer units are required to meet compliance standards. The fittings also integrate with Thorlux’s SmartScan system, which allows for self-testing, real-time status monitoring, and automated test logs. The reduced number of units and lower maintenance requirements hope to help cut costs for facilities teams. Thorlux claims that, in some cases, the upgrades could halve the number of units required while doubling battery lifespan. Liam Greene, Product Manager for Emergency Lighting at Thorlux, says, “Emergency lighting is a legal requirement under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. "Despite the critical importance of compliance, many employers, occupiers, or property owners remain unaware of their responsibilities or the fact that they may already be non-compliant. "Breaches of these regulations can result in significant consequences, including personal liability for the designated responsible person, site closures, and restricted access due to safety concerns. “A common challenge is the lack of clarity around who holds responsibility, which can lead to serious safety risks for occupants and legal exposure and fines with no maximum amount for organisations. “In response to these challenges, the Thorlux team set out to create a product that simplifies ongoing compliance - making it more effective, reliable, and cost-efficient. The result is Firefly, the next generation of discreet emergency lighting. "With increased luminaire spacing, reduced battery maintenance, enhanced sustainability, and a fully integrated wireless reporting and control system, Firefly ensures that you're never left in the dark and, more importantly, never non-compliant.”

Sutton charges ahead with EV completion

Sutton Council​ will benefit from new EV charging points following completion of a UK Power Networks Services project. A total of 13 new rapid and ultra-fast charging points are energised and ready to use for the council’s electrified fleet operating out of Gibson Road at the Civic Centre offices in Sutton. The completion marks the end of a six-month project completed for UK Power Networks Services, which involved excavating the carpark to install a new supply and extensive cable ductwork for future expansion. David Mitchell, Director of UK Power Networks Services, says, "We are excited to collaborate with Sutton Council to install advanced electric vehicle chargers. "This initiative is a significant step towards creating a sustainable and eco-friendly transportation network in the area." Ian Watts, Energy Manager, London Borough of Sutton, adds, “UK Power Networks Services has delivered exceptional work on this EV project which will positively impact the Sutton community.” For more from UK Power Networks, click here.

Werner warns trade professionals not to take shortcuts

Werner, a manufacturer of ladders and access equipment, is calling on employers to bolster safety measures at work after new figures revealed 124 people were killed in workplace incidents during 2024/25. Of those, 35 resulted from a fall at height - accounting for more than a quarter of all worker deaths. “Whilst this represented a slight reduction of 14 fatalities compared to the previous 12 months, this number is still far too high,” says Dave Elson, Werner UK’s Compliance Manager. He is calling on employers to "redouble their efforts" in improving training courses and ensuring equipment is "fit-for-purpose." His appeal comes in the wake of figures released by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) on 2 July, which revealed the highest number of deaths occurred in the construction industry (35) and 23 across agriculture, forestry, and fishing. Dave continues, “One death is too many and the impact on families when a loved one is seriously injured or killed is truly devastating for them. "I know that we can never eradicate accidents altogether but, with the right safety measures, we can help to reduce the number of incidents considerably and, of course, fatalities. “Engaging the right safety protocols when working at height is crucial. For a comprehensive guide on working at height, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides an informative resource, [the] HSE Work at Height Guide. "Unfortunately, complacency often contributes to workplace accidents. This can include taking shortcuts - like using the wrong equipment instead of returning to the van for the correct tool - or neglecting to wear essential safety gear such as a harness or helmet, among other poor decisions. "I urge all companies in the construction industry - regardless of size - not to overlook safe working practices. "Invest in training, use high-quality equipment, and ensure the right products are used for each application. Equally important, carry out regular inspections and safety checks on existing equipment. “Robust, regular training is essential for safe work at height. It ensures professionals can properly inspect equipment and stay current with industry standards and regulations. "Employers must provide ongoing opportunities - through refresher courses, online training, or seminars - to prevent accidents and promote best practices.” Training Training should always include fall prevention, covering hazard identification, emergency response, and legal responsibilities for both workers and employers. Werner says it offers a range of training options, including the Ladder Association’s Ladders & Stepladders Users Course and PASMA programs. It adds that through its 'Stepping Up to Ladder Safety' campaign, professionals can also access downloadable guides on ladder selection, inspection, and safe use. While HSE reports highlight ongoing risks, many accidents are preventable with proactive training and a culture that prioritises safety through open dialogue and continuous learning. By prioritising safety at every stage - design, procurement, training, and enforcement – the number of workplace accidents taking place can be significantly reduced and safer conditions for all professionals working at height can be ensured. For more from Werner, click here.

NICEIC launches summer discount on training

Certification and training body NICEIC is offering a 10% discount on all virtual and e-learning training courses until the end of September. The offer is intended to support electrical professionals seeking flexible options to upskill alongside work and personal commitments. The organisation’s training portfolio includes courses in electrical installation, renewables, fire detection and alarms, and emergency lighting. Both live, interactive sessions and on-demand modules are available, allowing learners to choose a format that suits their schedule and preferred style of learning. “We know how important it is for professionals to stay ahead in a fast-evolving industry,” says Alex Robinson, Head of Product Development at NICEIC. “Our summer offer makes high quality training more accessible, whether you're brushing up on the latest regulations or upskilling in new areas like EV charge point installation.” NICEIC-certified businesses can also apply their existing 10% discount code on top of the current offer, effectively doubling the discount on all qualifying virtual and e-learning courses. For more from NICEIC, click here.

New addition to Ansell’s healthcare range unveiled

Ansell Lighting, a designer and manufacturer of luminaires, has expanded its specialist healthcare range with the launch of the LuxMed Bedhead, designed specifically for use in hospital wards and patient bedrooms. Featuring a single-piece body design, the new luminaire aims to provide enhanced infection prevention and stand up to the demands of intensive cleaning with hospital-grade disinfectants. Built to last, the lighting product offers IP44 ingress protection and IK06 impact resistance, and is backed by a 5-year guarantee. Meeting LG2 requirements, the LuxMed Bedhead also features independent control of upward and downward light providing flexibility for both clinical tasks and patient comfort. With DALI dimming included, the fixture allows control over light levels, with OCTO smart functionality also available as an additional option. According to the company, the luminaire is easy to install, with a first fix back plate making it "ideal for new-build and refurbishment projects alike." Mark Abbott, Managing Director at Ansell Lighting, claims, “The LuxMed Bedhead is an ideal solution for healthcare environments where cleanliness and durability are paramount. "Built to withstand rigorous cleaning regimes and deliver long-lasting performance, it also supports patient comfort and professional care delivery with its flexible lighting features.” For more from Ansell Lighting, click here.

JTL Open Day connecting employers with future apprentices

JTL, a training provider for electrical and plumbing apprenticeships across England and Wales, will host an Open Day at its Birmingham Training Centre on Saturday 16 August, from 10am to 2pm. The event is part of the organisation’s new nationwide campaign, Powering Apprenticeships. Fuelling Your Career, aimed at encouraging school leavers to consider skilled trades as a career path. The Open Day will offer prospective apprentices and local employers the chance to tour the centre’s workshops and classrooms, meet JTL’s staff and tutors, and take part in interactive sessions. A dedicated Employer-Apprentice Match Area will allow businesses to connect directly with potential recruits, while a mini trade fair will provide further networking opportunities. Attendees will also hear from JTL Chief Executive Chris Claydon and Birmingham Delivery Team Manager Neil Hammersley, with guidance available on apprenticeship funding, onboarding, and training support. “We’re looking forward to welcoming the community to our Birmingham centre,” comments Neil. “Whether you're new to apprenticeships or already working with us, this is a fantastic opportunity to connect and explore what’s possible.” JTL’s new campaign will run throughout July and August, targeting school leavers, parents, carers, and careers advisers. It aims to raise awareness of apprenticeships as a viable and rewarding alternative to university or college. For more from JTL, click here.

New kit trialled to keep power supplies reliable

Wearing new backpacks and carrying wands, Surrey power engineers are on the hunt to find and fix the source of power cuts – sometimes before they even happen. The new Fault Sniffer 2 device from Megger - which was put to the test by distribution network operator UK Power Networks in Croydon, Guildford, and Kingston - was found to be a success. As a result, there are now more than 60 devices in use across London, the South East, and the East of England. The equipment sucks in and detects even the smallest traces of imperceptible gas which escapes when a cable develops a fault. It can also tell the difference between that and natural or bio gases. Dylin da Silva, Lead Field Engineer, explains, “It’s a backpack with pipes running to the handle which sucks up the gas from hidden cable faults below ground, which cause power cuts. “This is another potential tool in our extensive arsenal to maintain safe and reliable electricity supplies for local homes and businesses. "The trial explored how the ‘sniffer’ could help us find and fix faults fast, [as well as] reduce noise and disruption from roadworks and be cost-efficient.” Traditional techniques to find underground cable faults include using a hammer-drill to make small holes in the pavement at regular intervals, then inserting a sniffer probe to find gas released by a fault. It is claimed the equipment can give accurate fault locations from readings as low as 10 parts per million for the type of gas released by a cable fault. UK Power Networks, which distributes power supplies across the South East, London, and the East of England, operates more than 144,000km of underground cables. The company says it is always exploring new and innovative ways to ensure safe and reliable power supplies for the 20 million people it serves. The equipment is used proactively to try to intercept power cuts before they occur, as well as quickly tracking down faults which have caused power cuts. Kerry Burdett, Megger’s UK Territory Manager for Cable Fault Location, Testing, and Diagnostics, says, “This innovative product has proved to be very successful finding underground cable faults quickly and accurately. "Not having to drill into the ground means some of these faults can even be found during the night without disturbing residents. The product has been a huge success across Europe in helping to get the power back on efficiently.” The trial was funded by Surrey Lane Rental Fund. Matt Furniss, Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport, and Economic Growth at Surrey County Council, comments, “Surrey is one of only four highway authorities in England to operate a Lane Rental Scheme. "Since its inception in April 2021, the Surrey Lane Rental Scheme has proven to be a valuable asset in managing roadworks and minimising disruption across the county’s busiest roads, with £5.481 million generated from the scheme to fund a range of local road improvements. “We were pleased to support UK Power Networks with the development of Fault Sniffer 2 which will minimise disruption to residents in Surrey and elsewhere in the country.” For more from UK Power Networks, click here.