Collingwood introduces its new downlight

Collingwood Lighting, a UK manufacturer of LED lighting products, claims that its new H2 Lite CSP downlight gives the contractor more lighting options from the same fitting than any currently available. Each luminaire has four switchable colour temperatures and offers two illumination levels. The company says it is the first luminaire in the UK with a colour temperature option of 2200K, which is a warm, relaxing light that is similar to a sunset or warm fireplace glow. The other three colour temperatures are a warm 2700K, 3000K, and a cooler white light of 4000K. You can also switch between a 4W and 6W output for a 460 or 780 lumens light level. The switches for changing both the colour temperature and the wattages are on the front of the fitting, behind the removable twist and lock bezel, allowing the contractor to select and easily demonstrate different lighting options after installation. An era of modern LED downlights Anthony Martindale, Product Manager at Collingwood Lighting, says, “Modern LED downlights are a popular choice for customers. Lighting will affect how a room feels, and H2 Lite CSP allows you alter its output to suit how people use the space and to match the decoration. “The lighting requirements of a kitchen are different to those of a living room or a bedroom and, in the commercial market, you want different solutions for corridors or toilets [compared to] a space where you want people to relax, such as in a break-out room or a restaurant or pub. "By offering switchable colour temperatures and illumination levels, you can offer different solutions without carrying multiple luminaires in your van or returning to the wholesaler.” For installation, the new downlight’s two-part connector allows first fix wiring without the luminaire, followed by a simple plug-in connection for second fix after other trades have finished. The connector has lever terminal blocks complete with testing ports, designed for faster and easier cabling. After installation, the contractor can select the preferred colour temperature and illumination level before fixing its twist and lock bezel. H2 Lite CSP has an IP65 rating from below (making it suitable for bathroom zone 1), is dimmable, and has a lifetime of 70,000 hours, which is equivalent to 63 years if used for 3 hours a day. For more from Collingwood Lighting, click here.

Aico’s Community Awards to return in 2026

Aico, a manufacturer of residential fire and carbon monoxide detection products, is bringing back its biennial Community Awards, set to take place at The International Convention Centre in Birmingham on 16 April 2026. The event celebrates excellence and inspirational achievements from across the UK housing industry, honouring those making a real difference in their communities. Open to all, Aico’s Community Awards provides entrants the opportunity to showcase inspirational colleagues, projects, and innovations from the housing sector. The last awards, held in 2024, raised over £9,000 for the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC), with Aico matching the donation to result in a total contribution of £18,000. Since 1905, the charity has offered vital support to those who work within the electrical and energy industries. Next year’s ceremony will welcome over 450 guests, including the inspirational finalists from all award categories. Continuing its support for the EIC, the evening will feature a formal dinner, guest speakers, and live entertainment, all hosted by Carl Jones from SBLTV. “We’re proud to bring the Community Awards back for 2026,” says Neal Hooper, Managing Director at Aico. “These awards are about recognising the real difference individuals and organisations make every day in improving lives and communities across the UK.” New for 2026, the People’s Choice Award introduces an exciting interactive element to the evening. This special category will be voted for exclusively by attendees on the night, giving guests the chance to play a direct role in recognising excellence. Award categories The 13 other award categories outlined below are now open to enter by either groups or individuals from across the UK. All entries must be submitted by 20 February 2026. • Corporate Social Responsibility Initiative • Neighbourhood Transformation • Resident Engagement • Lifetime Achievement Award • Woman in Fire Safety Award • College Initiative of the Year • Rising Star Award • Electrical Contractor of the Year • Inspirational Colleague of the Year • Sustainability Project of the Year • Best Distributor Community Initiative • Collaborative Partnership • Apprentice of the Year Previous Woman in Fire Safety Award winner Georgina Homer, from Wolverhampton Homes, was commended for her passion and dedication to resident engagement. Georgina commented, “I am thrilled to win this award and incredibly humbled to be in this position, a moment I’m going to remember for a very long time.” Marc Redfern, Managing Director of Service Electrical Distributors and winner of Best Distributor Community Initiative, added, “We don’t do social value to win awards; we do social value to give back to people who are less fortunate. "To get recognised for what we do is probably one of my proudest moments in business.” Don’t miss the chance to be a part of this celebration of excellence, community spirit, and innovation. Submit your entries by 20 February 2026 and join Aico alongside professionals from across the housing industry. For more from Aico, click here.

Hull contractor completes college electrical upgrades

GW Power, a Hull-based building services engineering company, has completed the first year of a three-year electrical maintenance contract with Hull College, delivering a programme of infrastructure upgrades and energy efficiency improvements across the campus. GW Power has worked with Hull College on a range of projects during the first year of the contract, supporting the college’s plans to improve sustainability and modernise its estate. A key element of the work has been the installation of seven 22kW electric vehicle chargers, supporting the college’s move towards lower-emission transport. In addition to the EV charging infrastructure, GW Power has carried out routine electrical maintenance, produced electrical condition reports, completed compliance testing, and delivered LED lighting upgrades across nine buildings. These include an eight-floor tower block within the college estate. On-site engineers and estate upgrades Two full-time GW Power engineers are based on site, providing a combined minimum of 40 hours per week dedicated to the college’s electrical infrastructure. Both engineers began their careers as apprentices at Hull College, reflecting a long-standing relationship between the organisations. One of the engineers has recently completed Level 3 electrical qualifications. Daniel Haley, Managing Director of GW Power, comments, “Reaching the one-year mark on this contract is something we’re incredibly proud of. "Our on-site team has worked tirelessly to keep the college’s facilities safe, efficient, and compliant, whilst also delivering tangible improvements such as the EV chargers and LED upgrades. "What makes this contract even more special is that both of our engineers started their careers at Hull College – as did I!” Matthew Blowman, Director of Facilities and Infrastructure at Hull College, adds, “GW Power has become an integral part of our operations over the past year. "The company’s reliability, professionalism, and technical expertise has helped us maintain high standards across a complex estate. "The improvements made so far have already had a positive impact on our energy efficiency, sustainability goals, and enhancing the learner experience.” GW Power was founded in 2014 and provides electrical, mechanical, and renewable energy services to clients across the UK. The company employs 43 staff and continues to recruit apprentices and qualified engineers to support ongoing projects.

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Carhartt introduces Storm Defender wet weather workwear

American workwear company Carhartt has introduced its Storm Defender workwear range, designed for tradespeople working outdoors in wet and changeable conditions. The range combines a water-resistant outer layer with a breathable membrane intended to reduce moisture build-up during physical work. Outer layers for colder site conditions As winter conditions become more challenging, the Carhartt Monterey Jacket - available in both men’s and women’s fits - is positioned as a lightweight outer layer for site work. The jacket uses a fully seam-sealed construction to limit wind and rain ingress, with water-resistant zips to protect tools and personal items. An adjustable hood and drop-tail hem provide additional coverage, and the jacket can be packed into its own pocket when not in use. The Monterey Pants are designed for prolonged outdoor use in wet and windy environments. Carhartt states that the trousers remain lightweight to support movement during long shifts and can be folded into a hand pocket for compact storage. For colder weather, the Storm Defender Heavyweight Jacket is designed to provide a higher level of weather protection while allowing moisture to escape. Features include a removable roll-away hood, an adjustable drop-tail hem, a fit intended to accommodate additional insulating layers, and multiple pockets for carrying everyday work items. The women’s Storm Defender Relaxed Fit Heavyweight Jacket offers similar weather protection, with added design features such as thumbhole cuffs that can be tucked away when not required. A combination of zip, flap, and internal pockets provides storage options, while the lighter construction is intended to suit variable winter conditions. Across the range, Carhartt says it focuses on durability, weather resistance, and practical detailing, aiming to support electricians and other tradespeople who need reliable outerwear during wet and cold working conditions. For more from Carhartt, click here.

Ariston offers heating promotion for installers

This season, heating systems manufacturer Ariston is hitting the road, visiting merchants and partners across the country with exclusive promotions available on its range of heat pumps and boilers. As part of its Near You campaign, installers who come along to these nationwide events will receive Ariston’s exclusive promotion, which offers discounts of up to £1,000 on heat pumps and up to £400 on its range of wall-hung boilers at participating merchants, including Plumbase, Bell Plumbing, Plumblink, MP Moran. To claim the offer, installers just need to complete the form with their local ASM at the event. Event details At the trade mornings and technical days, installers can also learn more about Ariston’s full product range as well as hear how they can enhance their skills at Ariston’s training courses, held across the country throughout the year. Jamie Shaw, National Sales Manager at Ariston, comments, “We are excited to be rounding out the year with our nationwide Near You events, which aim to connect installers with the latest innovations, training, and support available from Ariston. “These trade mornings and technical days are taking place across the UK and Ireland, bringing people together for hands-on product demos, expert advice from local ASMs, and the latest product updates. "With our exclusive promotion, there’s also never been a better time for heating engineers to choose Ariston for their renewable installations. “This is just the start of our Near You campaign, which will continue into 2026 with even more ways for installers to stay connected with Ariston.” For more from Ariston, click here.

'Many tradespeople still leaving tools in vehicles overnight'

For tradespeople across the UK, tool theft is more than just an inconvenience; it can bring work to a halt and rack up thousands in replacement costs. Tempcover, a temporary business van insurance company, carried out a survey of 500 UK tradespeople to explore how concerned they are about tool theft, what impact it can have, and whether they are taking the necessary precautions to protect themselves. Here's what it found: Tradespeople remain exposed to overnight tool theft Over seven in 10 respondents (72%) reported having had their tools stolen, either directly or because their van was stolen with tools inside. More than a quarter (27%) admitted that they have experienced tool theft multiple times. When asked about the cost of replacing stolen tools, the average financial loss was £3,092. Of those who had experienced tool theft, nearly all (96%) said they changed their security habits, including taking tools inside overnight, using lockable toolboxes, and upgrading van security. A vast majority of tradespeople (88%) reported being concerned about tool theft, yet many continue to leave their valuable equipment vulnerable. When asked where they usually store their tools overnight, 28% said in a locked vehicle. Experts recommend avoiding leaving tools in vehicles overnight to reduce the risk of opportunist crime. Over half of respondents (53%) keep their tools in a locked garage or workshop, 41% store them at home, and 22% keep them on site. Among those who have never had their tools stolen, nearly half (48%) have not changed their security habits despite the ongoing risks. Tool insurance coverage among tradespeople Tradespeople take different approaches to insuring their tools. Over a quarter (27%) have a dedicated tools insurance policy, while 22% are covered as part of their van or vehicle contents insurance, and 13% rely on home contents insurance. Smaller numbers are insured through their employer (8%) or another type of policy (2%), and 6% have only partial coverage. Around one in five respondents (18%) do not currently have insurance for their tools, indicating that while many tradespeople have some level of protection, gaps in coverage still exist. Claire Wills-Mckissick, Temporary Business Van Insurance Expert at Tempcover, comments, "Our research highlights that while most tradespeople are concerned about tool theft, many are still leaving themselves exposed. "Whether it’s your own van, a company vehicle, or a borrowed van with temporary insurance, leaving tools unattended or overnight can put them at risk and potentially invalidate an insurance claim. "Simple measures like taking tools inside, using lockable toolboxes, keeping a detailed inventory, and marking equipment, can make a real difference. Planning ahead and taking these precautions doesn’t just protect your tools; it can also help prevent costly delays and financial loss."

Scolmore Group voted AIEW Supplier of the Year

Scolmore Group has announced that it has been awarded the prestigious AIEW Supplier of the Year Award 2025, recognising the company’s commitment to product quality, customer support, and consistent service across the electrical wholesale sector. Presented by the Association of Independent Electrical Wholesalers (AIEW) at its annual conference, the award celebrates suppliers who demonstrate exceptional performance, innovation, and dedication to supporting independent wholesalers. This marks another milestone achievement for Scolmore Group, which the company says reinforces its position as a trusted industry leader. “We are honoured to receive the AIEW Supplier of the Year Award for 2025,” says Kevin Beech, Managing Director, Scolmore Group. “This award reflects the hard work and commitment of our entire team, and we are grateful to the AIEW members for their ongoing support. We remain dedicated to delivering reliable, innovative solutions and strengthening our relationships across the wholesale network.” AIEW commended Scolmore Group for its robust product offering, strong communication, and consistently high service levels which were key factors in securing the top accolade. The award follows a year of continued investment in product development and enhanced customer support services across the Scolmore Group portfolio which includes Click wiring accessories, Elucian consumer units and protective devices, ESP security and fire protection products, Ovia lighting solutions, and Unicrimp cable accessories. For more from Scolmore, click here.

Levelise launches in-app energy tariff recommendation tool

Levelise, a UK company delivering flexibility services to households, has introduced a tariff recommendation feature in its app to help customers choose energy tariffs based on usage patterns and home device optimisation. In partnership with My Utility Genius, the tool analyses each home's energy usage, solar generation, heating, electric vehicle charging, and battery behaviour, then recommends tariffs that maximise time-of-use pricing and flexibility market earnings. This is particularly relevant for homes with batteries, where the right tariff enables charging when electricity is cheap, discharging when expensive, and earning money by supporting the grid. The feature integrates with Levelise's optimisation engine, allowing customers to benefit from smart charging, export timing, and flexibility without manual management. Real-time monitoring and switching Iván Castro, Operations Director at Levelise, says, "Homeowners shouldn't have to worry about whether they're on the right tariff or if their battery is working hard enough for them. "With Levelise, we're making energy effortless. The app recommends the best plan, the Hub manages devices in the background, and customers simply enjoy lower bills and higher earnings." The app monitors tariffs in real time and alerts customers when better options become available, with a switching journey built into the platform. Guy Thompson, Chief Product Officer at My Utility Genius, adds, "We're delighted to partner with Levelise, combining their expertise in monitoring home energy usage with our tariff recommendation service. "Together, we're helping homeowners save money by making it easier to switch to the tariffs that work best for their household energy patterns." Levelise launched its Hub 2 at this year's Solar and Storage Live. The device manages energy use in homes with solar and battery systems, optimising when and how stored energy is used to reduce bills.

DEVI introduces new smart thermostat for underfloor heating

DEVI, an underfloor heating manufacturer, has launched its latest programmable thermostat, DEVIreg Display Connect, designed to support electric underfloor heating with improved connectivity, easier installation, and a more sustainable long-term design. The new model offers both Bluetooth and Zigbee integration, allowing it to connect with existing smart home systems or operate as part of a new setup. The thermostat uses a modular construction that enables the upper section to be replaced or upgraded while retaining the installed power unit. This approach is intended to reduce waste, shorten installation time, and support more sustainable maintenance practices. It is compatible with standard 55 × 55 mm frames, fits common wall boxes, and is supplied with adaptors for varied installation environments. App control and energy-efficient operation Installers can configure the device using a Bluetooth setup wizard, enabling quick commissioning. Energy-saving features include an optimum-start mode designed to reach the target temperature at the required time, supporting reduced energy use without affecting comfort levels. Remote access is available through the DEVI Connect app, which acts as a control hub for managing heating from any location. Certified to the Zigbee 3.0 standard, the thermostat integrates with popular smart home systems such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. A single DEVI Connect gateway can support up to 200 thermostats, allowing users to create heating schedules, track energy consumption, or prepare properties ahead of arrival. The model meets Ecodesign Lot 20 requirements and supports both room and floor temperature control.