Who’s Who – Aico: Bridging innovation and home life safety

Aico outlines how its connected alarms, hands-on training, and data-led HomeLINK platform are helping contractors deliver safer homes, stay compliant, and navigate a fast-changing fire safety landscape: Aico is the European market leader in home life safety, pioneering new technologies and delivering high-quality alarms developed and manufactured in Ireland. For over 35 years, Aico has been at the forefront of home life safety in the UK, earning a reputation as a trusted partner to both electrical contractors and housing providers. As the UK’s leading specialist in domestic fire and carbon monoxide detection, Aico has built its reputation on delivering proven technology that protects lives while supporting installers, developers, and homeowners at every stage of a project. In a sector shaped by evolving legislation, rising expectations, and increasing social responsibility, Aico has positioned itself not just as a product manufacturer, but as an industry innovator and educator. A complete approach to home life safety Aico’s strength lies in its integrated approach to fire and carbon monoxide protection. The company offers a comprehensive range of alarms, sensors, and accessories designed to meet the needs of both existing homes and new developments. From smoke and heat alarms to carbon monoxide detection and environmental sensors, Aico solutions are designed to work seamlessly together as part of a Connected Home Solution. Central to this offering is the 3000 Series, which combines advanced detection technology with the company’s ‘easi-fit’ base for simple installation and reliable performance over the product’s lifespan. When integrated with Aico’s HomeLINK technology, these devices provide valuable data insights that support better maintenance, compliance reporting, and resident wellbeing, including alarm activation and removal alerts, alarm replacement needs, and the date the device was last tested. This system-based approach ensures that safety is not treated as an afterthought, but as a fundamental part of building and property management strategies. Education that raises industry standards Aico’s commitment to safety extends well beyond its products. Through the Aico Expert training scheme, the company delivers a wide range of CPD-certified courses, webinars, and face-to-face training sessions tailored to electrical contractors, housing professionals, and fire safety specialists. These sessions cover everything from product installation, legislation, best practice, and emerging changes in home life safety. By empowering professionals with knowledge, Aico strengthens standards across the industry and reinforces the importance of correctly specified and installed safety systems. This educational focus has become a cornerstone of the brand, reinforcing Aico’s position as a trusted industry partner. Supporting compliance in a changing regulatory landscape With increased focus on fire safety standards across the UK – including updates to Building Regulations and the continued emphasis on damp and mould detection with the recent introduction of Awaab’s Law – compliance has become more complex and more critical than ever. Aico works closely with industry bodies, housing organisations, and installers to help navigate these changes with confidence. By designing products that meet and exceed regulatory requirements, as well as providing clear guidance on specification and installation, Aico helps reduce risk for both contractors and landlords. This commitment to compliance is matched by a proactive approach to education, ensuring that those responsible for installing and maintaining life safety systems have the knowledge they need to do so correctly. Innovation shaped by real-world insight Innovation at Aico is driven by collaboration and real-world feedback. By working closely with installers, housing providers, and residents, the company gains valuable insight into the challenges faced on site and in occupied homes. This ensures that new developments are practical, user-friendly, and aligned with real needs. HomeLINK is a prime example of this user-led innovation, delivering practical benefits without adding complexity. By providing actionable data, Aico ensures its Connected Home technology remains accessible and relevant to a wide range of residents and landlords. A commitment to social responsibility Beyond products and technology, Aico is deeply committed to making a positive social impact. The company’s long-standing involvement in community initiatives, including partnerships with charities and support for educational programmes, reflects a broader commitment to improving lives. Aico’s focus on social housing is particularly significant, helping to raise standards in environments where residents may be most at risk. By combining reliable technology with education and engagement, the company plays an active role in improving housing quality and safety. To put this approach into practice, Aico hosted several resident engagement days featuring fire safety and damp and mould prevention workshops, energy efficiency coaching, product and app demonstrations, and the opportunity for residents to provide feedback and ask questions. Looking to the future As the industry moves towards smarter buildings, increased accountability, and greater transparency, Aico is well positioned to lead the way. Continued investment in connected technology, education, and collaboration ensures Aico is not only responding to today’s requirements but actively helping to shape the future of the industry. Aico’s combination of expertise, innovation, and purpose ensures it remains a name the industry can rely on. For more from Aico, click here.

Integral LED launches Evofire campaign

Integral LED, a UK manufacturer of LED lighting products for residential, commercial, and industrial applications, has launched a new marketing campaign for its Evofire downlight range, centred on its UK-patented fire-rated glass technology. The campaign includes a trade-focused video featuring Daniel Mahdavi, Head of Product Development, outlining the design approach behind Evofire. Daniel notes, “At its core, Evofire was designed to eliminate the need for bulky metal fire cans above the ceiling. “By integrating fire protection into the front of the fitting through our patented glass technology, we’ve created a safer, more refined and more installer-friendly solution.” Product features and campaign materials Integral LED states that, unlike conventional fire-rated fittings, Evofire maintains the fire barrier at ceiling level. The company says this supports a cleaner installation and improved heat dissipation. Key features include patented fire-rated glass technology, a 1mm steel bezel, an open-back design, modular compatibility, and a seven-year warranty. The campaign also includes a consumer-focused video and a new brochure aimed at trade, specification, and retail audiences. Ricky Johal, Marketing Manager at Integral LED, says, “This campaign is about clearly defining Evofire’s point of difference. "The patented fire-rated glass technology isn’t a cosmetic change; it fundamentally rethinks how fire protection is delivered within a downlight.” All campaign assets are available to Integral LED’s retail and wholesale partners for use across digital and in-store channels. For more from Integral LED, click here.

Marshall-Tufflex opens Manchester experience centre

Marshall-Tufflex, a UK manufacturer of cable management products, has opened a new Customer Experience Centre in Manchester, creating a dedicated space for meetings, training, and product demonstrations. The facility is designed to host customer visits, CPD sessions, and industry events, while providing access to the company’s cable management portfolio. Product displays and training facilities Visitors can view a range of systems including Basor metal cable management, PVC-U trunking and conduit, underfloor-to-desk power and data distribution, and GRP cable management for demanding environments. The centre includes a conference room seating 18 in boardroom layout or 35 in theatre style, alongside two breakout rooms accommodating four and eight people. The space can be used for product training, regional meetings, toolbox talks, and industry engagement sessions. A separate social area has also been incorporated for informal networking. Marshall-Tufflex states the new Manchester site is intended to provide a practical environment where contractors, wholesalers, and industry organisations can learn more about installation methods and applications. Enquiries about visits or room bookings can be made through local area sales managers or by contacting the company directly. For more from Marshall-Tufflex, click here.

Makita launches XGT battery promotion

Makita, a manufacturer of power tools and outdoor equipment, has announced a limited-time redemption offer across its XGT cordless range. From 1 March to 30 September 2026, customers who spend at least £390 excluding VAT on qualifying XGT products can claim a free BL4040F battery. The promotion applies to selected machines, batteries, chargers, torches, and power source kits purchased through authorised dealers. The XGT range operates on a 40VMax battery platform, with some tools able to use two batteries to deliver up to 80VMax output. Offer details and eligibility The BL4040F battery included in the promotion is rated at 4.0Ah and features tabless cell technology, an integrated charge indicator, and an average charging time of 45 minutes. Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita UK, says, “The new XGT redemption promotion allows customers to claim a new battery when purchasing selected XGT tools, helping them to get even more value from every purchase. "Receiving a free BL4040F battery offers customers longer runtime and real cost savings, as well as fundamentally improving productivity.” To qualify, purchases must total £390 excluding VAT on a single invoice and be registered online within 28 days. Claims are validated before the battery is dispatched, and multi-platform models are excluded from the offer. For more from Makita, click here.

FireAngel launches fully insured fire alarm design service

FireAngel, a UK manufacturer of smoke, heat, and carbon monoxide alarms, is transforming fire safety for the trade, saying it is offering the UK’s first fully insured, fully compliant Design and Specification Service to help electrical contractors, installers, and project planners deliver projects efficiently, safely, and with complete confidence. Compliance you can trust Launched in September 2025 and provided in partnership with Rely on Fire Check (RoFC), the Design Service is certified under the BAFE DS301 third-party scheme and fully aligned with BS 5839-6 and current Building Regulations. Every Grade D design request received is fully insured and fully compliant, giving contractors peace of mind that systems are professionally specified and certified. Fast, simple, fully documented Contractors submit requests for free via FireAngel’s online portal and select their preferred Approved Stockist. RoFC then delivers a complete Grade D design pack, including: • System overview and operational details • Wiring schematics and layout drawings • Schedule of variations (where applicable) • BS 5839-6 Grade D Design Certificate • BAFE DS301 Modular Design Certificate This reduces design admin, saves time, and ensures every project is compliant. Wholesalers also benefit from itemised equipment lists, simplifying quotes and approvals. Supporting contractors even further: Pro Installer Network FireAngel has taken support a step further with its Pro Installer Network, giving contractors access to exclusive perks, CPD training, technical support, customer referrals, and project opportunities. Members enjoy full access to the free, fully insured Design Service providing bespoke designs and certification for every project. The network also offers clear progression, from ‘Registered Pro Installer’ to elite ‘Pro Installer Approved’, giving installers recognition, credibility, and tools to grow their business. Priority training, compliance updates, and previews of new products ensure members stay ahead in the sector. Nick Atkinson, National Account Manager at FireAngel, says, "Our Pro Installer Network and fully insured Design Service give electrical contractors the confidence, resources, and recognition they deserve. "It’s all about helping professionals deliver compliant, safe fire alarm systems efficiently while supporting growth across the sector." Whether working on new builds, retrofits, or residential projects, FireAngel’s Design Service and Pro Installer Network save time, reduce risk, and ensure every system is compliant. Find out more or submit your design requests by clicking here to visit the website. For more from FireAngel, click here.

Who's Who - Rolec: EV charging infrastructure installers can rely on

ROLEC has become one of the UK’s most established manufacturers of EV charging solutions, supporting installers while meeting the demands of today’s rapidly evolving market. ECN explores the company’s extensive capabilities and how installers and end users can benefit. EV charging for today’s installations Rising EV adoption, increasing power demands, and the need for scalable infrastructure create new challenges for both domestic and commercial installations. ROLEC offers a comprehensive portfolio of AC fast and DC rapid charging solutions designed for a wide range of applications. Whether for residential driveways, workplace car parks, fleet depots, or destinations, ROLEC’s range is designed to outperform competitors in ease of installation, reliability, and flexibility for any project. With products suited to single installations and multi-site rollouts, ROLEC supports you from start to finish, working across new builds, retrofits, and large-scale deployments. Expertise that educates Central to ROLEC’S approach is knowledge transfer. By investing in the training of both current and future electrical contractors, ROLEC helps ensure best practice across the entire project lifecycle. Purpose-built training academies, along with comprehensive free CPD-accredited courses, enable installation partners to deploy EV infrastructure efficiently and at scale. This commitment to collaboration and capability-building reflects ROLEC’s long-term view of industry growth – one built on competence, consistency, and confidence. Design, compliance, and safety Every ROLEC charger is designed and manufactured to meet relevant UK Government legislation and building regulations, giving installers complete confidence. Compliance and reliability are built into the hardware, with rigorous testing ensuring long-term performance in demanding environments. Engineered using high-quality materials and robust enclosures suitable for outdoor, high-usage locations, ROLEC chargers deliver long-service operation for both installers and end users. Installer-friendly features By listening to installers on the ground, ROLEC shapes product development around real-world needs, ensuring chargers are practical for you to fit and maintain on site. With technical support, step-by-step documentation, and aftersales care, the company goes beyond being a supplier to become a long-term partner. Features such as flexible cable entry points, clear internal layouts, robust mounting systems, and intuitive commissioning reduce installation time and complexity. Modular designs support efficient multi-charger setups, making ROLEC a trusted choice for larger projects where speed and precision matter. These practical details may seem small, but together they help you work smarter, reduce call-backs, and deliver a premium finish each time. True OCPP compliance ROLEC recognises the growing need for scalability, connectivity, and adaptability. Its chargers come with true native OCPP as standard, designed to integrate with any software across more than 45 CPMS platforms, facilitating smooth onboarding to your customer's chosen provider. Unlike many hardware solutions that rely on cloud-to-cloud connections, ROLEC chargers communicate directly with the platform, eliminating extra layers that can cause outages. This ensures faster, more reliable communication and reduces the risk of downtime for charging networks. Loyalty rewards At ROLEC, great work deserves recognition. The EVO Loyalty Incentive rewards installers for every 15 EVO chargers installed with a free EVO worth £449, making ROLEC not only the easiest to install but also the most rewarding for contractors in the UK market. The scheme has been created to celebrate the rapid success of the EVO while rewarding the contractors behind it. Projects will be automatically tracked via the RolecConnect app during configuration, ensuring a seamless process, and ROLEC sends your free EVO straight to you. With EVO, the benefits don’t stop at rewards. Work faster, powering through jobs with ease, you can install and configure units in under 10 minutes. This is a fantastic opportunity for ROLEC’s installer network to not only deliver the latest in EV charging technology but also be recognised for their ongoing work. Powering the future together ROLEC continues to place education and installer confidence at the centre of its growth strategy. With UK manufacturing expertise, a versatile product range, and a focus on practical installation needs, ROLEC is driving the next phase of EV infrastructure rollout, offering installers best in class. From single home chargers to large-scale commercial and fleet installations, ROLEC delivers solutions that you can trust, operators rely on, and future networks require. For more from ROLEC, click here.

Rointe EONIQ: The next step in smart electric heating

Delivering adaptive efficiency, flexible aesthetics, and installer-friendly control As electrical professionals continue to seek heating solutions that balance compliance, efficiency, and user comfort, smart electric radiators have become a core part of modern refurbishment and new-build specifications. Rointe’s new EONIQ WiFi radiator has been designed with this market reality in mind: a next-generation heating device built for superior energy management, flexible installation, and seamless digital control. Smart Adaptive Inverter Technology: Efficiency that learns A defining feature of EONIQ is its Inverter Smart Adaptive Technology, an advanced control system engineered to help reduce energy consumption without compromising comfort. Unlike static on/off thermostatic control, this technology: • Analyses heat demand based on room behaviour and usage patterns • Modulates power intelligently, increasing or decreasing energy input to maintain temperature more efficiently • Minimises temperature swings and unnecessary on/off cycles, ensuring more consistent and stable heat output • Optimises consumption automatically, even when user interaction is minimal With energy regulations pushing for smarter, more efficient electric heating, adaptive control is rapidly becoming the market standard. EONIQ meets this demand with a system that installers can trust to deliver predictable performance and lower running costs for end users. Five premium finishes and three power ratings Alongside its internal technology, EONIQ recognises the growing design expectations in residential and commercial spaces. Installers can specify the radiator in five contemporary finishes - White RAL 9016, Black RAL 9005, Oyster White, Pearl Beige, and Dark Grey - allowing the product to blend into modern interiors or make a visual statement. The range is available in three power ratings (600 W, 1,200 W, and 1,800 W), giving installers flexibility when matching heat output to room size, building insulation level, or project design constraints. A slimline form factor ensures easy wall mounting and placement in compact environments. Seamless control with the Rointe Nexa app The EONIQ radiator is fully compatible with the Rointe Nexa app, offering WiFi Direct connectivity without the need for separate gateways or hubs. For installers, this means: • Faster commissioning • Fewer additional components to configure • Reduced installation complexity on multi-room projects For end users, the app provides: • Remote temperature control and scheduling • Real-time consumption information • Geolocation-based automation • Energy-saving modes (including Eco, Anti-Frost, Open Window detection, Limited mode, Night mode, Vacation mode, smart programming, early start, panel lock, and consumption indicator) In multi-property management - such as landlords, facility managers, or short-term lets - Nexa becomes a powerful tool for centralised monitoring, ensuring comfort while preventing unnecessary energy use. Built for durability and consistency Behind the modern aesthetic is a robust manufacturing process centred on quality and longevity. EONIQ uses: • 100% recycled aluminium heating elements for rapid, even heat distribution • High-density thermal fluid that maintains stable temperature for longer periods • Advanced surface coatings resistant to daily wear, cleaning, and UV exposure Each unit is tested individually during production to ensure thermal accuracy, structural integrity, and electronic reliability before reaching the installer. Installer-focused design The product has been engineered with the installer experience in mind: • Silent operation and no moving parts reduce maintenance requirements • Simple wall-mount system with clear templates for fast fitting • Integrated WiFi means no additional wiring or network gateways • Lot 20-compliant for regulatory peace of mind The radiator’s smart temperature control reduces user manual adjustments, lowering the number of callbacks typically associated with poorly set schedules or incorrect thermostat use. Mythbusting: Common misconceptions about electric radiators “More watts mean faster heating.” Not necessarily. EONIQ demonstrates that heat distribution and adaptive control play a larger role in perceived comfort than raw wattage alone. “Smart radiators require complex networking.” EONIQ uses WiFi Direct, making setup as simple as pairing a smartphone - no bridges, extenders, or additional kits needed. “Electric radiators are difficult to control in multi-room properties.” With Nexa’s multi-zone structure, installers can create a centralised system that is intuitive for owners and managers to oversee. Supporting emerging trends in the electrical heating landscape The shift towards electrification, tighter energy standards, and smarter home control is reshaping the heating market. EONIQ aligns with key industry trends: • Electrification of heat to support decarbonisation targets • Increased regulatory scrutiny under Lot 20 and Ecodesign • User demand for connected, app-driven heating control • Premium interior design requirements in modern refurbishments By combining adaptive efficiency, modern aesthetics, and streamlined installation, EONIQ positions itself as a forward-looking solution for electricians specifying next-generation heating systems. For more from Rointe, click here.

Knightsbridge adds black to its metal clad range

Knightsbridge, one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of wiring accessories and lighting, has expanded its core metal clad range with a powder coat textured black finish. Designed to meet the practical demands of installers while satisfying the aesthetic expectations of lighting designers and architects, the new finish combines durability with a contemporary design aesthetic. The black finish seamlessly integrates into the existing metal clad core range, ensuring compatibility and continuity, and allowing designers and specifiers to maintain design cues across existing and new installations. The textured matte black surface has a sophisticated, tactile quality that enhances traditional metal clad accessories, making them suitable for design-conscious residential, commercial, and hospitality environments. Matte black metal rockers and co-ordinated black inserts ensure a consistent, understated appearance while allowing accessories to be incorporated into modern interiors without compromising robustness. Benefits for installers For installers, the expanded range builds on the proven performance of the existing metal clad core portfolio. All products are manufactured from SPCC steel, supplied complete with back boxes where applicable. Features such as twin earth terminals, double pole switching options, neon indicators, and pre-fitted fuses support straightforward fitting across a wide variety of applications. A comprehensive 25-year warranty further reinforces long-term confidence in the products. For more information on the black metal clad rockers range, click here to visit Knightsbridge's website or contact 01582 887760. For more from Knightsbridge, click here.

New electrician training routes introduced in Southeast

Training provider Logic4training has introduced new training pathways aimed at people entering the electrical trade without prior experience. The courses are intended to help address a national shortage of electricians. Analysis from the Electrical Contractors Association indicates apprenticeship starts have fallen by 5.5% across the UK, rising to 8% in Greater London and surrounding areas. Training is delivered at centres in Northolt, Luton, Basildon, and Sittingbourne. Candidates complete practical workshop training and industry qualifications, with the option to progress to an NVQ and apply for an ECS Gold Card once workplace evidence is achieved. Qualification stages and progression The training programmes include: • Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installations, covering core electrical science, safe working, and installation basics • Level 3 Diploma in Electrical Installations, covering inspection, testing, and fault finding • Level 3 NVQ in Electrical Installation and Maintenance, enabling qualification as an electrician After qualification, learners can add courses in solar PV, battery storage, and electric vehicle charge point installation. The provider states training can be structured around work commitments and may support career changers or existing tradespeople seeking additional skills. For more from Logic4training, click here.

Shocking Energy launches AI RAMS platform

Shocking Energy, a UK provider of field service software and compliance automation for renewable energy installers, has launched an AI-based RAMS (Risk Assessments and Method Statements) platform designed to automate risk assessments and method statements for electrical contractors. The system is intended to help contractors keep safety documentation aligned with changing site conditions and regulations, while reducing the time required to produce compliant records. Site data is captured once and reused across projects, allowing teams to standardise documentation without recreating it for repeat work. The platform generates structured drafts for review and produces controlled PDF packs for handover and compliance purposes. Automation and compliance tracking The software includes templates, reusable hazard libraries, version control, and approval tracking to record what has changed and which documents are active onsite. It supports multiple sectors including power, water, drainage, telecoms, highways, and civil engineering. Mobile data capture enables updates from site so documentation reflects current working conditions. Kevin Bird, CEO of Shocking Energy, says, “As regulations continue to change, keeping safety documentation accurate and compliant has become more demanding than ever. "Our platform uses AI to remove that pressure. By capturing site data once and automatically generating structured, controlled documents, teams can stay aligned with current standards, speed up approvals, and remain audit-ready without being buried in paperwork. "Because updates happen in real time from the field, the documentation always reflects what’s actually happening on site - not an outdated version saved in a folder.”