Save the date: ECN Awards 2025

The ECN Awards 2025 will take place on 27 November 2025 at the Heart of England Conference and Events Centre in Coventry, following glowing feedback from previous attendees.   Widely regarded as the electrical industry’s event of the year, the awards provide a unique opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, forge new connections, and celebrate the sector’s top achievements in a spectacular setting. The electrical contracting industry continues to lead in innovation, striving for improvements in safety, efficiency, and sustainability across all sectors. The ECN Awards 2025 honour these remarkable efforts and accomplishments, showcasing the very best the industry has to offer. Located in the heart of the country, the Heart of England venue is easily accessible via the M1, M40, and M6 motorways, as well as by rail. On-site accommodation is available, with additional options nearby - early booking is recommended. Attendees can look forward to an unforgettable evening filled with excellent food, drinks, entertainment, and a lively after-party. "The ECN Awards are a fantastic celebration of the innovation, excellence, and hard work within our industry. Events like this bring the community together to recognise achievements that inspire us all to raise the bar. Congratulations to the organisers for hosting such a memorable and well-executed evening - it’s a highlight of the calendar." Elliott Rothon, Marketing Manager, WISKA UK Details on how to enter will be shared soon. For any inquiries, please contact Carly or Kelly. Mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate the brightest stars of the electrical industry! Check out the photos from last year's event here.

UK installs first smart substation for next-gen power technology

The UK’s first smart electricity substation has been installed in Kent, enabling communication with other sites to direct power where it’s needed most during peak times. UK Power Networks’ Maidstone substation is the first in a series to be equipped to communicate, in an advanced way, to other sites which could allow more distributed generators to connect to the network across the South East of England. UK Power Networks’ innovative Constellation trial is installing powerful computers in existing substations to better analyse power flows, and redirect energy to optimise infrastructure and cater for future needs.  The next-generation digital substations will use AI and machine learning to allow more energy to be safely released onto the network, and help accelerate the UK’s transition to net zero carbon emissions. If the trial is successful, in future, strategically positioned smart substations could allow network operators to dynamically shift the settings, freeing up to 50% of additional capacity when it is safe to do so. Allington Energy from Waste has become the first distributed generator to connect to the new system, with a dedicated smart substation installed at its Maidstone site. A further five smart substations are set to be installed throughout the South East of England as part of the ongoing trial. While these digital solutions are already live on the Constellation platform, UK Power Networks will continue to develop and trial new solutions, unlocking a range of solutions that could easily be introduced onto the platform in future. Luca Grella, Head of Innovation at UK Power Networks says, “This is a groundbreaking innovation for our network, and the first of a series of smart substations which could make a real difference for our customers and the environment. “Enhancing the service provided to our energy-generating customers, and making our network more resilient in the process, will go a long way to preparing our network for a decarbonised future, and will allow more renewable energy resources to connect.” Juergen Schaper, Operations Director (Energy Division) at FCC Environment which owns and operates Allington Energy From Waste says, “As one of the UK’s leading waste and resource businesses, we focus our efforts on generating heat and power from waste that cannot be recycled. Supplying that power to an ever more resilient network via this new smart substation is a positive step forward as we too prepare to support the decarbonisation efforts of the UK.”

Unlocking the potential of Human Centric Lighting

Paul Jones, Sales Director UK & Ireland at B.E.G. UK, looks at the benefits of implementing Human Centric Lighting and what can we expect from this technology over the coming year. The benefits of implementing Human Centric Lighting (HCL) are wide and varied, depending on how and why they are used in buildings. HCL has been proven to help synchronise the body’s internal clock with natural daylight, leading to better sleep quality and overall well-being. Adjusting light intensity and colour temperature throughout the day in offices or classrooms, for example, supports healthier sleep patterns. Light has a significant impact on mood, so HCL is also good for mood regulation. Exposure to bright, blue-enriched light during the day has been shown to reduce feelings of fatigue, increase focus and enhance productivity. Conversely, dimming lights with a warm hue at night can promote a sense of relaxation and help people wind down before sleep. By providing light that mimics daylight, especially in workplaces, schools and healthcare settings, HCL has been shown to boost concentration, reduce errors and improve performance, particularly in environments where people need to stay alert or work long hours. In educational settings, HCL can help students focus better and improve memory retention by aligning light with their natural biological rhythms. Similar benefits are seen in office environments, where proper lighting enhances focus and decision-making. There are also health benefits associated with HCL. Traditional artificial lighting can lead to eye strain, headaches and discomfort, particularly in high-stress environments. HCL’s dynamic light can reduce the negative effects of glare and constant exposure to harsh lighting. In workplaces or even home environments, the right lighting can promote relaxation, reduce stress, and alleviate symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which is linked to reduced exposure to natural light in winter months. Many HCL systems are integrated with smart controls that adjust the lighting automatically based on time of day or occupancy. This can lead to energy savings by reducing unnecessary lighting and adjusting brightness and temperature based on need. Energy-efficient lighting solutions like LEDs, which are often used in HCL systems, consume less power, which in turn also reduces the environmental footprint. The technology behind HCL has been evolving rapidly, and there will be continued advancements in the coming years. The next iteration of HCL systems will likely feature more advanced integration with smart home ecosystems, enabling users to customise lighting settings through voice assistants, smartphones or automated schedules. These systems will not only adapt to the time of day but could also factor in user preferences, activities or health data. As AI and machine learning evolve, HCL systems will become more adaptive and personalised. These systems may learn user behaviour, adapting light colour and intensity not just according to time, but also based on factors like productivity levels, room occupancy and even health metrics like sleep patterns and stress levels. HCL could integrate with wearable devices (like fitness trackers) to assess how users are feeling and adjust lighting accordingly for optimal performance or relaxation. Healthcare is another key area where HCL will make significant strides. For example, in hospitals HCL could improve patient recovery rates by providing optimal lighting for rest and healing. In care homes, it can help elderly individuals with cognitive disorders, such as Alzheimer’s, by supporting better sleep and orientation. More businesses will adopt HCL in offices, especially with the growing recognition of the impact of the workplace environment on employee well-being. Expect to see more corporate spaces incorporating dynamic lighting that adapts throughout the day to improve mood, reduce stress and enhance cognitive function. HCL may begin to incorporate more biometric feedback, potentially using sensors to monitor individual responses to lighting, such as changes in heart rate, skin temperature or even facial expressions. Over time, this data will be used to refine lighting systems, making them even more responsive to an individual’s needs. As environmental consciousness grows, expect more HCL systems to use sustainable materials and more energy-efficient technologies. We might see solar-powered lighting options, biodegradable components and lighting systems that adapt to both energy needs and the environment. This article was published in the January 2025 issue of Electrical Contracting News.

ENAPI secures funding for EV charging project

ENAPI, a connectivity platform striving to redefine the electric vehicle (EV) charging industry, has raised €7.5 million (£6.3m) in a seed funding round. This latest investment builds on a €2.5 million (£2.1m) pre-seed round in early 2024, bringing total funding to €10 million (£8.5m) and fuelling ENAPI’s mission to unify and commoditise connectivity in the EV charging ecosystem. The round was led by VC firm Voyager Ventures, with participation from existing investors Project A, Seedcamp, and Helloworld VC. With more than 350,000 charge points onboarded and partnerships with eight of Europe’s 10 largest eMobility Service Providers (eMSPs) in less than six months, ENAPI’s platform is growing rapidly. ENAPI allows charge point operators (CPOs) / Charge Point Management Systems (CPMS) and eMSPs to clear transaction and exchange data about sessions. The company states that, currently, this infrastructure is incredibly complicated and inefficient and can’t be scaled. ENAPI’s platform is thus designed to make it easy for CPOs and eMSPs to seamlessly and affordably communicate transaction data with each other. This in turn leads to an enhanced experience for drivers, who will no longer have to deal with poor information surrounding charger reliability. The lack of information has created a complicated and frustrating experience, and has been one of the big barriers to the electrification of mobility so far (according to McKinsey, 70% of EV drivers are dissatisfied with public EV charging infrastructure). Benefits to CPOs include allowing them to retain full control and flexibility, as well as zero transaction costs and improved data quality. With most of its pre-seed funding still in the bank, this fundraiser shows the market’s confidence in ENAPI’s ability to meet increasing demand, capitalise on its strong early momentum and become a trusted partner for the EV charging industry. Jakob Kleihues, CEO and Co-Founder of ENAPI, says, “Our mission is to make EV charging transactions seamless, efficient, and accessible. We want to make EV charging easier for everyone. Our platform makes payments and data transfer more efficient for every EV charging business so they can focus on advancing the EV revolution." The funds will be used to scale ENAPI’s secure and reliable transaction infrastructure, expand its presence in Europe and the US, and add to its top-tier technical team. Sierra Peterson, Founding Partner at Voyager Ventures, adds, “ENAPI’s infrastructure is revolutionising how the EV charging industry collaborates, addressing fragmentation head-on. Its technology is foundational to unlocking a seamless, scalable, and cost-effective charging network, and we are thrilled to partner with ENAPI as they expand globally.” To bolster its rapid growth, ENAPI has appointed Sierra Peterson to its Board, alongside Philipp Werner, Partner at Project A. ENAPI is also expanding its founding team, with Leopold Lerach, from Project A, joining as Chief Operating Officer (COO). An early supporter and investor, Leo brings extensive experience in scaling data infrastructure solutions. ENAPI continues to recruit top technical talent to build on its competitive edge. Philipp Werner, Partner at Project A, notes, “Over the last 12 months, ENAPI has driven a fundamental shift in EV charging software infrastructure. We’re impressed by the team’s ability to turn disruptive innovation into widespread adoption of their transaction broker. ENAPI is building the clearing house for EV charging, and we’re proud to support them since day one.”

Interview: Navigating the male-dominated renewables industry

Carly Weller speaks to Liz Cammack, VP Sales and Advisor to the Global Board at Segen, about life at Segen, working the male-dominated renewables industry and winning the Women in Energy Award. CW: Hi Liz, please tell us about yourself and how you got into the sector. LC: I was one of the first girls at an all-boys grammar school, as it turned mixed. I’ve always worked in traditionally male-dominated industries including journalism, 15 years in pharmaceutical sales, and then renewables since 2010. I was co-founder of wholesale distributor Zenex Solar, headquartered in Brighouse, and am now Global Board Advisor and VP Sales for Segen. CW: For those who may not know, can you give us an overview of the work that Segen does? LC: Segen is the largest wholesale distributor of solar PV, energy storage and EV charging in the UK. We also recently introduced heat pumps into our portfolio. We supply installers and renewable energy professionals. We are well known for our online portal which gives live pricing and availability, and for our product technical knowledge and relationships with the biggest and most important manufacturer brands in the market. We also operate across Europe, South Africa and have a sister company, Soligent, in the US. CW: Tell us about your current role – what are you responsible for and what does the normal working day consist of? LC: I am responsible for driving the UK sales strategy, which I have made very bespoke according to the different segments of the market so that we provide the best possible customer experience. Our sales team are well known in the industry, and we have built customer relationships over the years. I am also involved at Global Board level, sharing market insights, which let’s face it, are quite unique to the solar industry and often require a very different and agile way of working. CW: What are the best parts of your role? LC: There are so many aspects of my role that I love! The team have got to be my first. We now employ in the region of 180 people in the UK. Many have been in Segen for most of its 20 years of trading, and some joined with me from Zenex. I’ve loved seeing them grow through the ranks and into some very senior positions. I also find time with customers and our manufacturer partners really rewarding. And when you combine all of that, I guess the absolute best part of my job is making a difference to our energy landscape and creating a legacy that will make my family proud of me long into the future. CW: You are also a Non-Executive Director of Solar Energy UK and a member of the Solar TaskForce, Chairing the Supply Chain and Innovation Sub-Group – what does that involve? LC: I’m now in my second term as NED for our industry association SEUK. Being from a wholesale distributor puts me in a pretty unique position to be able to represent the views and best interests of installers and the rooftop segment at one end, as well as the manufacturers at the other side of the supply chain. The Solar TaskForce was established in 2023 as a combined government and industry initiative, with the aim of devising a roadmap to our UK solar ambitions. It has been a monumental task to bring this to a conclusion, with the help of some highly experienced UK innovators, to whom I am very grateful. I’m looking forward to the launch which will be in the first part of 2025. CW: Congratulations on winning the Women in Energy Award this year! You must be very proud? LC: I was totally humbled by the experience and really privileged to be recognised not only for my contribution to the industry but also for my help in supporting diversity. I think my background as one of only a few girls in a school of 400 boys has meant that I’ve never thought it unusual to be in a male-dominated industry, nor ever felt like a minority. I was one of the pioneer girls back then, as I have been in the solar industry. At times the team around me have been over 60% female, for no other reason than they were the right people for the job. CW: Do you have any career advice for people starting out in the industry? LC: Gain as much experience as you can in all areas of the industry. The more time spent shadowing various roles, in multiple departments or with different ends of the supply chain, in every sector, will make you a more rounded professional. You’ll gain knowledge of the challenges and needs and intricacies of each area. It will help you and your organisation to be agile, which is essential in this fast-paced, exhilarating industry. CW: What do you think should be made a priority for the electrical sector? LC: We need to remove barriers in all corners of the industry. Network and planning anomalies must be removed and those authorities causing delays need to be held accountable. The skills gap needs to be taken seriously. And Government simply needs to fully recognise the industry for the enormous opportunity it presents, not only in terms of economic growth but also in terms of being instrumental in providing an affordable, secure and reliable energy horizon. CW: Where do you see the industry in five years? LC: It is inevitable that given the changing way we use energy, and with subsidies for solar a dim-and-distant memory, we will be in a much more stable environment where there is investor confidence and a thriving industry based on home-grown innovation and opportunity. CW: What are your interests away from work? LC: I live in rural Yorkshire with my husband Jon, our black Lab Teddy, and any number of my three sons and Jon’s two sons. I feel like I’ve spent three-quarters of my life on the touchline as all my boys play rugby. I love cooking, a bit of running, yoga and the occasional juice fast. I’d love to write a book and might base it on some of my experiences in the industry. I think people would probably recognise themselves, but of course all names would be changed to protect the innocent! This interview was published in the January 2025 issue of Electrical Contracting News.

BEAMA launches decarbonisation policy roadmap

BEAMA, the UK trade association for manufacturers and providers of energy infrastructure technologies, has released a new report titled Securing the Future: A Policy Roadmap to Accelerate Industrial Decarbonisation and Strengthen Supply Chains. The comprehensive roadmap outlines critical steps to support the UK’s transition to a decarbonised supply chain while enhancing the competitiveness of its manufacturing sector. With increasing urgency to meet legally binding 2030 emissions targets, BEAMA highlights the need for a robust industrial strategy featuring clear regulatory frameworks, international alignment, and government-industry collaboration. Yselkla Farmer, CEO of BEAMA, comments, “Our markets are at a pivotal moment. Government leadership and effective collaboration with industry are essential to secure a sustainable, competitive future for UK manufacturing. We are pinned as one of the largest growth sectors for the UK as we decarbonise our energy system – but we need to do this sustainably. This roadmap offers the framework needed to navigate the challenges of decarbonisation and seize the opportunities it presents.” Key recommendations include: • Establishing government guardianship to standardise sustainability metrics and ensure market fairness. • Developing a comprehensive Industrial Decarbonisation Roadmap to guide sectors through their transition. • Balancing immediate emissions reductions with long-term industrial growth strategies. • Supporting SMEs through phased regulation and tailored guidance. • Encouraging international alignment to reduce trade barriers and inefficiencies. The roadmap underscores BEAMA’s readiness to partner with the Government to ensure an effective and equitable transition to net zero. The report also highlights BEAMA’s commitment to fostering supply chain innovation and resource efficiency through its BEAMA 2050 Connected not-for-profit subscription, designed to support the energy and built environment sectors in achieving sustainable growth in an aligned and consistent way. “Much of the technology needed for decarbonisation is already available,” notes Carl Ennis, CEO of Siemens UK and Ireland. “What we need now is coordinated supply chains and government clarity to drive rapid deployment.” For more from BEAMA, click here.

Schneider Electric named World’s Most Sustainable Corporation

Schneider Electric, an expert in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, has been named the World’s Most Sustainable Corporation 2025 by Corporate Knights and is the only company to rank first in the Global 100 twice. Schneider Electric previously topped this annual list of the most sustainable publicly listed companies in 2021. This unique achievement underlines Schneider’s long-standing commitment and holistic approach to delivering the best environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance possible, the company states. “For many years now, sustainability has been at the heart of what Schneider Electric does,” comments Olivier Blum, Schneider Electric's CEO. “For an IMPACT company it's more than just a corporate goal, it's the driving force that shapes our business decisions and inspires our employees. “This second title as the World's Most Sustainable Corporation from Corporate Knights, alongside other key ESG recognitions, is testimony to the valuable, long-term positive impact we have.” This year, Schneider Electric’s number one position reflects the company’s leadership in sustainable development practices, such as the gender diversity of its executives and board directors, and its innovative solutions to facilitate energy efficiency, electrification and decarbonisation. Schneider also obtained strong scores for efforts to decouple its energy consumption and carbon emissions from its business growth, and its strong investment in sustainable research and development. Corporate Knights also called out the link between executive pay incentives and Schneider Electric’s sustainability performance and ESG ratings. “Schneider Electric's position at the top of the Global 100 index is remarkable. No other company has accomplished this twice,” says Toby Heaps, Corporate Knights’ CEO. “This success stems from Schneider's broad impact that goes beyond its own sustainability efforts. Schneider provides the technology to enhance energy efficiency, support decarbonisation and help other companies in their sustainable transitions.” Compiled by the Canadian media and research company, Corporate Knights, the annual Global 100 index is based on publicly disclosed, quantitative data related to resources, employees, suppliers, sustainable revenues, and investment. The Global 100 methodology uses fixed and variable key performance indicators to rank companies among their peers. Schneider Electric has been part of the Global 100 every year for the past 14 years and in the top 10 seven times - a record for its electrical equipment manufacturing peer group. Being awarded this title in both 2021 and 2025 coincides with the beginning and end of the five-year period of the latest Schneider Sustainability Impact programme. This programme measures the company’s progress across a range of transformative ESG targets set for the end of 2025 and helps it to maintain a focus on achieving both its global and local ambitions. For more from Schneider Electric, click here.

On The Tools to support tool theft van rally

On The Tools, the UK’s largest community for tradespeople, is supporting Trades United’s upcoming van rally in Westminster on 3 February 2025 to demand decisive government action against the growing tool theft crisis. The event highlights a renewed push for stronger legislation to protect tradespeople’s livelihoods and well-being. The rally, which starts at Brent Cross at 11am and culminates at Parliament Square by noon, will bring tradespeople together to protest inadequate enforcement of theft laws. Participants will stage a ‘go-slow’ convoy to symbolically disrupt traffic and call attention to the urgent need for change. An LED digital display van will also join the convoy. The mobile banner, sponsored by On The Tools, will highlight statistics uncovered in their 2022 Tradespeople Against Tool Theft white paper showcasing the true scale and impact of the crime. Letter to MPs On The Tools is driving public engagement by providing a pre-drafted letter that anyone can send to their MP. The letter details the devastating financial and emotional impact of tool theft on tradespeople and calls for amendments to sentencing guidelines, stricter regulation of resale markets, and more robust enforcement measures. Tool theft in construction In 2022, On The Tools published the Tradespeople Against Tool Theft white paper, exposing that 78% of tradespeople had experienced tool theft, with 94% of stolen tools never recovered. Recent insights from the community show that the situation has not improved three years on, with 85% worrying daily or weekly about tool theft. Despite widespread concern and political attention, critical tools remain excluded from key legislation, like the Equipment Theft Prevention Act 2023. The 2024 rally Last year’s Trades United rally garnered significant attention from across the political spectrum, with representatives from major parties acknowledging the severity of the construction skills shortage and pledging support for change. While these responses came in the lead-up to the general election, tangible action to address the crisis has yet to materialise, leaving tradespeople and industry leaders continuing to call for meaningful reforms. Lee Wilcox, CEO of On The Tools, says, “Tool theft is a crisis that affects not only tradespeople’s livelihoods but also their mental health and family stability. It’s an epidemic we can no longer ignore. On The Tools is proud to support this rally and provide practical ways for people to amplify their voices. Change is long overdue, and it’s time for the government to act decisively.” Shoaib Awan, Founder of Trades United, adds, “We need the government to come forward and support and protect hard-working tradespeople and their livelihoods by implementing the law which this country has in place when it comes to theft.” Tradespeople and supporters can participate in the rally on 3 February to make their voices heard. They can find their MP’s contact details by clicking here and attaching this letter. To support the rally by donating to the cause via the JustGiving page, click here. For more from On The Tools, click here.

Forum Lighting Solutions expands outdoor product range

Forum Lighting Solutions, one of the UK’s largest suppliers of lighting and smart controls, has added several new products to its well-established outdoor lighting range. Forum has been supplying lighting products for both domestic and commercial use for over a decade. The team has a wealth of experience and knowledge, and ensures the company's products meet the aesthetic needs and desires of homeowners whilst being easy to fit for electricians, competitively priced, and low energy. Outdoor/indoor living is becoming more and more popular in the UK, with consumers' appetite for cooking, eating and entertaining outside on the rise. According to a survey by Which?, around 20% of people in the UK have an outside kitchen, and lighting is a key part of being able to enjoy these spaces with friends and family. The new Forum products are designed with style and durability in mind, and come in a range of different finishes. The new products • The DAVEY oval bulkhead provides a contemporary, industrial touch to any outdoor space, while the silver or gold finish complements a variety of exterior styles. The E27 bulb allows users to customise the level of brightness to suit their needs. With an IP44 rating, this light is suitable for outdoor use and is resistant to dust and water splashes. • The GALI round bulkhead also comes in a gold or silver finish. This light is also IP44 rated, and provides reliable illumination in all weather conditions. The bulkhead holds one E27 bulb, allowing users to choose the brightness and colour temperature that suits them. It is ideal for illuminating gardens, patios or entrance areas. • The ANMO CCT Globe Wall Light (pictured above) can add a touch of modern style to any outdoor space. This contemporary light features a unique design with a combination of a 2 x 1W + 3W CCT bulb, offering adjustable colour temperatures of 3K, 4.5K, and 6K. Constructed with a durable IP54 rating, this wall light can withstand the elements, Forum states. The anthracite finish adds a sophisticated touch to any outdoor setting. • The ANAK CCT Globe Wall Light can also withstand the elements, being IP54 rated. It is designed to be stylish and modern, and features a sleek anthracite finish. It is also equipped with 2 x 1W + 3W CCT bulbs, allowing users to adjust the colour temperature to suit their needs. • The GAKI Globe Wall Light features a black finish combined with a smoke-coloured globe which creates a sleek and contemporary look. The IP44 rating ensures this light is suitable for outdoor use and the E27 globe fitting allows for easy installation of a compatible bulb. • The AKUMA Ribbed Wall Light boasts a ribbed glass shade which adds texture and interest, while the black aluminium frame provides durability and style. With an E27 bulb fitting, this wall light is designed to be easy to install and provides a warm and inviting glow to a garden or patio area. Steve Kaye, Marketing and Sales Manager at Forum, comments, “Forum has made a name for itself as a leading lighting and smart controls supplier, which prides itself on excellent customer service, cutting-edge technology and a wealth of knowledge and experience in the sector. “We are constantly innovating and responding to the latest trends of the market. Keeping our product range fresh and exciting is what we are all about and we have had some fantastic feedback so far from electricians and electrical wholesalers on our outdoor lighting range. We believe there is something for every taste amongst these six wall lights – whether it’s oval, globe-shaped or industrial-inspired, look no further than our range at Forum Lighting Solutions.”

Aico celebrates 35 years of home life safety

This year, Aico, the home life safety expert, is celebrating 35 years of innovative technology, quality alarms and sensors. Founded in 1990, Aico has experienced remarkable growth and development, consistently adapting to the ever-evolving market landscape. Since the beginning, the company has cultivated a reputation for innovation, quality and excellent customer service, resulting in a portfolio of products that have set industry standards. Aico's technology offers a variety of alarms and sensor types to guarantee full-circle protection for every home. In addition to products, education is a key part of home life safety, and it's therefore at the core of everything Aico does. This is reflected in its CPD-accredited training courses which ensure quality at every stage of the supply chain. Aico designs products to simplify the creation of safer homes. This is demonstrated by the HomeLINK Connected Home Solution, which has grown to connect over 451,000 devices across the UK and 74,496 live gateway systems. These systems aim to support landlords and protect residents It is also important that landlords keep informed about changing legislation to ensure they continue to stay compliant. Aico has supported and empowered landlords to network, develop and learn through the development of the Social Housing Professionals Network (SHPN), as well as the SHPN roadshow. In addition to educating the supply chain, Aico has seen the value of developing the knowledge of the future. With the introduction of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme in 2018, Aico has accumulated 249 educational visits, including visits to schools and colleges, along with students coming to Aico’s headquarters for the day. These visits are designed to inspire students and to get them thinking about their future careers. This initiative has supported over 16,400 students, including over 3,200 in 2024 alone. Additionally, the CSR team organise the volunteering programme which has accumulated 7,547 employee volunteering hours for 247 causes. This support is set to continue and grow along with everything Aico does. Neal Hooper, Managing Director, comments, “It has been an incredible 35 years of growth. We have doubled our turnover approximately every five years whilst providing life safety solutions to millions of homes. Our market-leading technology is being developed into new areas, further establishing our position as the dominant European manufacturer. “The fact that we have colleagues who have been with Aico for the whole of its history, as well as a senior team wholly promoted from within, demonstrates the quality and loyalty that we are blessed with. “We would like to thank all our clients for the support since 1990, without which we would not be celebrating such a milestone following another record year. It is massively appreciated. “And finally, to the millions upon millions of households protected by Aico, thank you for choosing the very best solutions - it makes us very proud. We will continue to strive to provide world-class quality, innovation, service, and education for the next 35 years and beyond.” Aico says that its success is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the entire team, in addition to the unwavering support of its valued customers and partners. Commercial & Finance Director, Matt Small - who has been with Aico for almost 26 years - adds, “I joined Aico as a warehouse apprentice back in 1999. Over the past 25 years, my role has evolved significantly, and my warehouse days are well behind me - thankfully, as I don’t think I could keep up these days! “I’ve had the privilege of watching the company grow and transform over the last two and a half decades. Looking back, it’s incredible to see how far we’ve come. The technology behind our products has advanced dramatically, with innovations like RF connectivity, launched in the mid-2000s, now commonplace. “Today, one in three installations use RF interconnection, revolutionising how our systems operate. Similarly, multi-sensor technology has seen remarkable growth, with one in three alarms sold now being multi-sensors. Both innovations have paved the way for the development and expansion of more connected sensors in the home. While Aico has long been the market leader in fire and gas detection, our vision has expanded to position Aico as the leader in home life safety. “Beyond the products, it’s our people who have driven Aico’s growth. I feel incredibly fortunate to have found such a supportive employer 25 years ago and to have seen my career evolve within the company. I’m proud to be part of Aico’s management team, where I can continue to contribute to Aico's success. It’s truly rewarding to watch the next generation of colleagues begin their Aico careers, be given opportunities to develop themselves, and witness the phenomenal progress we’ve achieved in recent years. “I’m excited to see what the next 25 years will bring as Aico continues to innovate and grow.” As Aico enters its next chapter, the company remains committed to innovation, customer satisfaction, and sustainability growth. For more from Aico, click here.