F.E.S. (EX) celebrates 20 years in business

Specialist industrial services provider F.E.S. (EX) is celebrating 20 years in business as it continues to build its team. The hazardous area consultancy and electrical contractor was launched by Geoff Fulcher in 2005, with the founder now sitting as chair of a 50-strong firm turning over more than £5 million. Managing Director James Ward, Commercial Director Elle Fulcher-Fenty, and Finance Director Martin Jackson make up the senior leadership team. The company is now eyeing future industrial markets as it builds on its widening offering across installation, engineering, inspection, and process safety disciplines. “I never envisaged it would become this,” says Geoff. “I could perhaps see six or seven of us being the team, but when Martin (Jackson) came on board there was a realisation of what could be achieved, and we grew from there. “We pride ourselves on the personal service, and when it comes to business, we thrive when that approach is taken by both sides. “One of the biggest highlights for me has been watching how people have come into the company, and really grown. I’ve seen it with ‘newbies,’ experienced hires, and with family members [Elle is his daughter] - and for all of them to come in and care for the company in the same way as I do, has been tremendous. I say a big thank you to them for that.” F.E.S. (EX) was launched after a period working in contracting management and consultancy, having initially served as an apprentice marine electrician. Launched from a tiny, windowless office in Cleethorpes Business Centre, it grew in the managed workspace before branching out to its own substantial unit on the Wilton Road Industrial Estate. Roxby Training Services was acquired a decade ago, including Humber and Teesside bases, with F.E.S. (EX) then launching another office in Saltend, near Hull, to serve the North Humber Bank, then adding a North East hub too. Third party audit support has emerged as a key revenue stream for the company, supporting leaner client teams to deliver at vital of times to meet regulations or address issues. Elle said there was "immense pride" in the client base with heavy industrial/manufacturing, energy, water, and defence all key sectors. A recent win for the company has been with the world’s largest wind turbine monopile factory on the Tees, with the business completing a hazardous area installation for spray booths. Fuel storage distribution, anaerobic digestion, and fibre production are all ongoing. Additionally, while the business specialises in process industry settings, it has also worked in Formula One and the cruise ship industry. “Looking to the future, the likes of carbon capture and hydrogen are going to be increasingly important, and we have the technical capability to deliver on that too,” comments Elle. James adds, “We’ve seen industry come back stronger from Covid, and we’re seeking to make continuous improvements, ensuring we have the right procedures in place so we can confidently keep growing and looking forward.”

Marshall-Tufflex awarded for ongoing commitment to sustainability

Marshall-Tufflex, a UK manufacturer of cable management products, has had its ongoing commitment to sustainable practices recognised by two industry awards: the ‘Sustainable Stand’ award at CEF Live and the 1066 Business Awards' ‘Sustainability Champion’ Award 2025. Marshall-Tufflex says it has taken many steps to minimise its environmental impact. This includes using recycled PVC-U from post-industrial windows in its production and ensuring its cardboard packaging is made from 100% recycled and recyclable materials. The company is also working towards becoming net zero and has taken steps to reduce carbon emissions, so far achieving an 11% carbon footprint reduction in year two followed by a 6.6% reduction in year three. The sustainability award presented to Marshall-Tufflex at CEF Live for its stand (built by Focal Exhibitions) saw the company achieve full points in ten out of the thirteen categories. The company demonstrated eco practices including using a reusable stand, sustainable flooring, FSC-certified timber, low-energy lighting, and avoiding single-use plastics. They also earned top marks for being paper-free and having a rated EcoVadis sustainability certification. The 1066 Business Awards’ ‘Sustainability Champion’ award recognises organisations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to sustainability efforts. The award aims to honour businesses that implement notable sustainable practices, drive environmental initiatives, and inspire others. "Marshall-Tufflex is honoured to be recognised for its continued commitment to sustainability,” comments Jon Chamberlain, Managing Director from Marshall-Tufflex. “Winning both accolades highlights our role as a leader in sustainable manufacturing. By integrating recycled material in our core product lines, engaging employees and suppliers in our net zero mission, and transparently sharing environmental data with customers, the company is setting a benchmark for the electrical and construction industries.” These awards follow several sustainability milestones for the company, including supplier engagement workshops, investment in low-emission technologies, and the roll-out of a circular economy trial with an electrical training college. For more from Marshall-Tufflex, click here.

Schneider Electric showcases EV products at Leeds event

Schneider Electric, a player in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, hosted an event at its Leeds Innovation Hub on 18 June, showcasing its latest products and technology in the electric vehicle (EV) charging space. The event also provided a platform for industry experts to discuss key advancements in the sector. One of the highlights of the day was a panel discussion around ultra-rapid charging. Gill Nowell, Director of eMobility at Green TV, led a conversation which covered megawatt charging. Panel participants included Joe Ellwood, Electric Truck Charging Manager at Volvo; Josh Spencer, EV Sales Manager at Ford & Slater; and Sam Clarke, Commercial Lead at Gridserve. David Hall, VP Power Systems for Schneider Electric UK & Ireland, comments, "At Schneider Electric, we know that electrification of the UK’s public transport is critical as we head towards our net zero targets. It was great to see so many of our products in action at Leeds Innovation Hub this month. These solutions are already making an impact by delivering open, cost-effective, and efficient EV charging solutions that enable businesses to electrify their fleets with ease. "It was heartening to see so many industry experts come together to turn ambition into action. Close collaboration and shared knowledge will continue to be integral to deliver on the UK’s ambitious 2035 target, where 100% of new cars sold in the UK will be zero emission." Attendees had the chance to see a variety of Schneider Electric products in action, including: · FeederSeT CB — a circuit breaker panel for power distribution. · Schneider StarCharge Fast 60 and Fast 320kW — designed for rapid and ultra-rapid charging in commercial and public settings. · StarCharge 720kW — supporting high-demand and heavy-duty vehicle charging. · The Canalis for EV system — for distributing power to multiple charging points in large installations. Existing cutting-edge products were also on display, such as Schneider Electric’s Metalclad Distribution System (MDS), EVlink Pro AC 22kW chargers, EVlink Pro DC 60kW charger, and EVlink Pro DC 180kW charger. For more from Schneider Electric, click here.

Sureserve becomes first Aico Platinum Partner

Aico, a manufacturer of residential fire and carbon monoxide detection products, has named Sureserve as its first ever Platinum Partner, recognising its "commitment to raising standards in home life safety." This achievement, announced live at Housing 2025 in Manchester, recognises Sureserve’s "commitment to compliance, innovation, and excellence in electrical solutions across the UK’s housing sector." The recently launched Platinum Partner initiative represents Aico's expressed approach to establishing industry standards and developing collaborative partnerships. Platinum status is awarded to organisations that meet specific criteria including technical excellence, quality management, sustainability, and training commitment. Sureserve provides heating, renewables, energy efficiency, and compliance solutions to local authorities, housing associations, and public sector clients across the UK. The company's services include fire and gas compliance, smart metering, insulation, and air and water hygiene. Aico claims that Sureserve has become an example of what the Platinum Partner initiative was created to celebrate. The company meets the required standards, including: • Aico Gold Standard installer criteria. • Leadership-level participation in Aico’s City & Guilds training. • Participation in joint site visits with Aico and clients. • Executive factory engagement at Aico’s manufacturing facility. • Verified ISO 9001 accreditation. • Active CSR and sustainability participation. • Ongoing compliance with BS 5839-6. Steve Trafford, Sales Director at Aico, comments, “Sureserve’s achievement as our first Platinum Partner represents the very best of what the initiative stands for: dedication to high standards, continual professional development, and true partnership. Sureserve has a longstanding relationship with the UK social housing sector and an enviable reputation and are helping set a new benchmark in the sector, not just through technical ability but through leadership and vision. We are delighted to announce them as our first Platinum Partner.” Graeme Heanan, Managing Director of Sureserve Compliance Fire, reflects, “We are privileged to be awarded the inaugural Aico Platinum Partner accreditation. It’s a direct result of the close and hugely collaborative relationship between my team and Aico - built on mutual respect, trust, and a shared drive for excellence. Aico’s product quality, innovation, and support are enablers of our continued growth and exceptional client and resident satisfaction. "This accreditation wasn’t easy to achieve - nor should it be. It required a high-level of commitment, it meant myself and my senior leadership team returning to the classroom to achieve Aico’s City & Guilds qualification. The team’s resilience and ambition made it possible, and I couldn’t be prouder. My thanks go to Steve Trafford and the Aico team - together we’re making homes and communities safer.” For more from Aico, click here.

UK Power Networks launches greener, cleaner, hybrid generators

UK Power Networks, a distribution network operator for electricity covering the South East, East of England, and London, is investing in a new fleet of nine hybrid battery-engine generators supplying cleaner and quieter power supplies to homes during electricity maintenance. The company’s design, developed in partnership with Aquafuel Research, is programmed to charge in the daytime, when background noise is higher, and run silently at night, lowering carbon emissions, noise pollution, particulates, and the need to refuel. The hybrid battery-engine generators emit 71% less carbon dioxide compared to diesel generators and reduce fuel consumption by 71%. The company projects this initial investment will save up to 68 tonnes of CO2 every year. This development covers three models, enabling generators to be used across a number of scenarios. The 12kVA 30kWh battery generators can power two homes for up to three days without burning any diesel, the 60kva / 30kWh generators can serve five houses for a day, and there is a 6kVA / 12kWh battery version for individual properties and traffic lights. Gary Marjoram, UK Power Networks’ Hybrid Battery-Engines Project Lead, says, “The biggest impact will be on customer service because in the occasional event of a power cut, we can restore power to homes using a cleaner and quieter temporary power source. “Our new hybrid generators demonstrate our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and customer service. Combining engine and battery units on a single, compact trailer has created a greener, efficient, and versatile power supply during essential network maintenance.” [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PS-sxb0PqLM[/embed] Paul Day, CEO of Aquafuel Research, comments, “We’re proud to work with UK Power Networks on these bespoke new hybrid generator designs, which optimise fuel consumption and reduce pollution and engine noise. UK Power Networks is leading the industry in partnering with us to develop these unique integrated hybrids, incorporating our British-made batteries, software, and controls. Crucially, these were developed with the UK Power Networks operations teams who are at the sharp end of responding to faults and keeping the power on for customers. The single-trailer design simplifies transportation and refuelling and means they’re easy to use whenever they’re needed.” The project was built on findings from UK Power Networks’ Cleaner Engines innovation project, which tested alternative-fuels in hybrid electricity generators. Working across the supply chain, 'UK Power Networks Environmental Action Plan' has a core aim to minimise the environmental impact of temporary generators used to restore electricity supplies after storms, power cuts, and during essential maintenance. UK Power Networks was the first Distribution Network Operator in Great Britain to have its wider carbon targets validated by the Science-Based Target Initiative (SBTi). These were recently upgraded to a 1.5°C target for all direct scope 1 and 2 emissions, plus a Well Below 2°C target for its supply chain scope 3 emissions. This also included a long-term net zero target of 2040. The firm has also made a separate commitment in the RIIO-ED2 business plan to achieve net zero for its directly-controlled business carbon footprint emissions by 2028 and aims to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from its fleet and generators by 33% by December 2030. For more from UK Power Networks, click here.

Signify, Pineapple, Schn​e​ider launch ​Pineapple ​CoRE

Signify, a Dutch multinational lighting corporation; Pineapple Partnerships, a consultancy and venture builder; and Schneider Electric, a multinational corporation specialising in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, have announced Pineapple CoRE, a collaboration designed to accelerate decarbonisation across the the commercial and industrial property sector. Initially focusing on the UK, the collaboration is intended to be scalable for global deployment. The initiative unites consultancy by Schneider Electric that helps organisations map their critical infrastructure and seeks to unlock the opportunities available to them around efficiency, sustainability, and modernisation, Signify’s connected lighting solutions, and Pineapple Partnerships’ systems-change consultancy. Jointly, they hope to offer a pathway for property owners and operators to overcome common barriers to decarbonisation—such as access to finance, fragmented supply chains, and skills shortages. Edwards Vacuum, part of the Atlas Copco Group, is the first organisation to adopt the CoRE model. At its Clevedon manufacturing site (Somerset), a suite of energy interventions is being implemented, including: • Deployment of a digital twin by Schneider Electric for real-time energy performance modelling. • A new solar PV installation. • LED lighting upgrades and IoT-based controls by Signify. • Financing by Pineapple Partnerships. These measures target a 35% reduction in energy consumption and over 80% reduction in emissions at the site. The initiative supports Edwards Vacuum's broader sustainability goals, including 46% cuts in Scope 1 and 2 emissions, and 28% in Scope 3 by 2030. The current site served as a pilot, with CoRE now rolling out to other locations in the UK and the rest of the world. Chris Adams, Site Manager at Edwards in Clevedon, comments, “Working with Pineapple Partnerships has been a game-changer in accelerating our factory’s carbon reduction efforts. Their expert assessment of our energy performance has enabled data-driven decisions, including the transition from gas heating to air source heat pumps and the installation of solar panels across our factory roof. The collaboration they’ve facilitated with experts such as Signify and Schneider Electric has significantly shortened our learning curve, allowing us to explore and implement best-in-class solutions with confidence. This integrated approach has increased the pace of implementation and reduced risk, helping us move towards a truly sustainable and future-ready energy system. The interventions currently being installed aim to reduce energy usage by up to 35% and emissions by over 80%.” Nico van der Merwe, Cluster Leader, Europe West, says, “Signify thrives on partnerships, and CoRE is a powerful example of how collaborations can unlock decarbonisation at scale. As a global leader in lighting and sustainability, we know that upgrading to LED and connected lighting is one of the fastest, most cost-effective, and impactful actions building owners can take to reduce energy use and carbon emissions. Through occupancy-based controls and remote monitoring, connected lighting drives efficiency and enhances operational visibility. CoRE combines these proven technologies with financial and delivery innovation – enabling our clients to act now, at pace and scale. We’re proud to be working alongside Pineapple Partnerships and Schneider Electric to help organisations like Atlas Copco accelerate towards net zero and build a more resilient, sustainable built environment in the UK and beyond.” Rupert Snuggs, Managing Director, CoRE, adds, “We are delighted to work with our world-leading collaborators Signify, Schneider Electric, and Atlas Copco as we take the first step on our journey to accelerating the decarbonisation of the built environment by rapidly decarbonising more than 1 million buildings in the coming years.” Andrew McKenzie, Commercial Leader, Consultancy UK&I, Schneider Electric, concludes, “This collaboration offers a valuable opportunity to support commercial and industrial clients in boosting operational resilience and achieving net zero goals. We will provide a clear roadmap for those facing ageing infrastructure, rising energy costs, and the need to modernise, helping them build a more efficient, optimised, and safer estate.” For more from Signify, click here.

Aico in top 1% with EcoVadis Platinum rating

Home life safety expert, Aico, has achieved the prestigious Platinum rating from EcoVadis, the trusted provider of business sustainability ratings. Aico is now ranked in the top 1% of more than 150,000 companies assessed globally, an exceptional milestone that highlights the company’s unwavering commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility and sustainability. EcoVadis assesses companies on 21 sustainability criteria across four core themes: environment, labour and human rights, ethics, and sustainable procurement. Aico’s rating is a testament to its comprehensive and values-driven approach to sustainable practices. The platinum rating marks a significant progression from Aico’s previous silver medal standing, which had already placed the company in the top 13% of global businesses. This achievement reflects the company's continued commitment to sustainability, demonstrated through a range of impactful initiatives aimed at reducing its environmental footprint and promoting greener practices. These include the installation of 10 electric vehicle charging points to encourage low-emission transportation, the addition of 406 solar panels to generate renewable energy on-site, and the planting of over 4,000 plants and shrubs to enhance biodiversity and improve local air quality. Further initiatives include the elimination of single-use plastics in dispatch operations since 2019 as well as Aico's eco-fit range, plastic packaging and cutting paper and cardboard use by 58%. Aico has also signed the Zero Carbon Shropshire pledge, reinforcing its goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030 through a focused Measure Reduce Balance strategy. Together, these actions showcase the company's ongoing dedication to building a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future. Daniel Rivers, Facilities & Compliance Lead, comments, "Contributing to Aico’s achievement of a Platinum EcoVadis rating has been a rewarding experience. In my role, I’ve helped ensure the right processes and support are in place, while collaborating with colleagues to maintain our ongoing commitment to sustainability and the wellbeing of our people and communities." As the company celebrates this accomplishment, it also views the recognition as a stepping stone towards even greater progress in its sustainability journey. Ryan Evans, CRM Support and Sustainability Lead, notes, “It’s a special achievement - not only for myself, but the whole team at Aico. “It’s a real testament to the hard work and commitment every day that makes Aico a great place to work. Sustainability is so important to us, and this is great recognition for our efforts. However, the work hasn’t finished, we are always looking at how we can improve even further and continue to be the best we can be”. To learn more about Aico's commitment to sustainability, click here. For more from Aico, click here.

ESP adds new Sounder Strobe to Espire accessories range

Following the successful launch of its Espire collection of domestic fire and CO alarms earlier this year, ESP, a UK fire and security product specialist, has bolstered the Espire accessories range with the addition of a new Sounder Strobe with Clear Lens. This high-visibility warning device features a transparent diffuser and white LED and it will sit alongside the existing red lens option, providing installers with more choice when it comes to providing dependable fire alarm components that are compliant with industry standards. Designed for reliability and performance, the IP65-rated Sounder Strobe is powered by a mains supply and offers four selectable tones. Its white LED strobe provides a clear visual alert when a property’s alarm system is activated, with an optional audible sounder for enhanced notification. Its IP65 ingress protection rating makes it ideal for both indoor and outdoor applications, including industrial, commercial, and harsh environmental settings. The unit is engineered for flexible installation, featuring 2x20mm side-entry and 2x10mm rear-entry knockouts for easy wiring. With an output of up to 83dB, the Sounder Strobe delivers both power and adaptability for comprehensive fire safety solutions. The Espire accessories range now includes RF modules, relay bases, clear lens/red IP65 strobe with selectable sounder, remote control switches, multi-tool (RF pairing and lock-in base release tool), and flame-retardant alarm masking plate. For the full Espire Fire Alarm range, visit the website or download the brochure. For more from Espire, click here.

Ovia launches Inceptor Slate Backlit LED panels with PIR sensor

Ovia, a lighting brand part of the Scolmore Group, has expanded its Inceptor Slate Backlit LED panels range with the addition of a new version that offers an energy-saving PIR motion detector function. Designed to offer improved specification on the existing Inceptor Slate Backlit range, the new panel with integrated PIR sensor delivers an impressive 140Lm/w efficacy and is power selectable between 22W and 30W, as well as CCT selectable between 4000k, 5000k, and 6500k. Ideal for commercial environments, these panels offer a UGR rating of <19 for reduced glare, making them suitable for offices, schools, and healthcare facilities. The built-in PIR sensor (optimal up to 4m install height) ensures that lights are only activated when motion is detected - reducing energy use and operating costs, as well as boosting sustainability. Available to order separately is an advanced remote control - with a 15m range - which allows users to tailor every aspect of the lighting configuration, adjusting lumen output, motion detection range, hold time, and stand-by settings. To ensure a simple installation process and easy retrofitting with existing Ovia panels, the new range of Inceptor Slate Backlit Panels come supplied with an LED driver and pre-wired with a CT101M Male Connector & a CT105-F Fast Fit Female Connector. The Inceptor Slate PIR Backlit Panel offers up to 50,000 hours of use and is backed by a five-year warranty. More information can be found on the Ovia website and on the Scolmore Group app. For more from Ovia, click here.

Ansell launches new outdoor lighting range

Design and manufacturer of luminaires Ansell Lighting’s brand-new outdoor lighting range designed for high-end residential lighting projects, Foliar Connect, has been released. Consisting of three contemporary, spike-mounted luminaires and a centralised control hub, the 24V, low-voltage lighting system is available in either black or natural green finishes. Foliar’s Planter Spike is designed for flower beds and other planting areas, providing low-level lighting, whilst the Mini Flood Spike delivers a wider spread of light in larger areas. The Spot Light Spike has been manufactured to provide more targeted illumination, drawing attention to specific features or architectural details. One attraction of the Foliar Connect range is its plug-and-play setup and centralised control. The hub includes a mounting bracket with a built-in spirit level, whilst the spike fittings can be pushed into the ground and connected to the hub using quick-fit connectors. Two- and four-way splitters are also available, enabling the system to be configured to suit different outdoor layouts. The central hub enables control across all connected luminaires and allows for CCT selection between 3000K and 4000K. An OCTO-enabled version is also available, offering remote access to dimming, scheduling, and other adjustments via smartphone or tablet. All luminaires in the Foliar Connect range are IP66-rated. Mark Abbott, Managing Director at Ansell Lighting, says, “As its name suggests, the new Foliar Connect range has been specifically designed to complement landscaped environments, and is perfect for subtly lighting up features such as foliage, pathways, and architectural details without disrupting the natural aesthetic. It is also incredibly easy to install and operate, offering users the freedom to change installation layouts and operative settings as required for enhanced functionality.” For more from Ansell Lighting, click here.