Carhartt launches a new range of colourful sweatshirts

Carhartt’s new range of sweatshirts has arrived in lighter and brighter colours. The Midweight Logo Sleeve Graphic Sweatshirt (K288) offers a solution for those moving between active workdays and relaxed downtime. According to the retailer, it provides a comfortable, roomy fit that does not restrict movement, further claiming that the sweatshirt is perfect for on-the-job demands or leisure activities. With an attached three-piece hood, stretchable, elastane-reinforced rib knit cuffs and waistband, this sweatshirt is finished with the Carhartt signature logo printed on the left sleeve. It is available in two new colours: Fog Blue and Apple Butter. The Logo Graphic Sweatshirt (100074) is designed with the Carhartt signature logo printed on the chest. This midweight sweatshirt marries classic comfort with enduring durability, says Carhartt. Designed for the man in motion, it offers a cut for a comfortable fit and comes with an attached three-piece hood, and two lower front hand warmer pockets and is now available in Loden Frost Green. For those who want a hoodie tailored specifically for women, the Logo Sleeve Graphic Sweatshirt (102791) is perfect for active days on site. Available in two colours - Lilac Haze and Dried Clay - and with the Carhartt ′C′ printed on the chest, this hoodie, according to the retailer, is made of a soft, warm, stretchy fabric and is jersey lined to keep you cosy all day long. The slightly loose fit allows for comfortable layering and ease of movement whilst the front hand warmer pockets and a hidden phone pocket keep all your essentials close.  To read more on Carhartt, click here. 

BGEN awarded small molecule production facility contract

Almac Sciences has appointed BGEN as the principal contractor for its new molecule production facility in Craigavon, Northern Ireland.    BGEN is responsible for the development of the new building and the mechanical, structural, electrical, and instrumentation components of the facility. This includes the installation of four reactors, two isolation trains and ancillary equipment.   BGEN is working in collaboration with principal designers, the DPS Group, and BES - part of the BGEN group of companies - responsible for the facility’s HVAC, civil and architectural aspects.    Ian Humphries, Director at BGEN, says, “BGEN is delighted to have secured the award of this important contract with Almac. It reinforces our experience in Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) facilities and uses our group capabilities to enable in-house seamless delivery of the overall construction scope. The award was secured in part by BGEN’s experience and expertise in delivering successful projects using integrated project delivery (IPD) techniques.”   Almac Sciences’ GMP Manufacturing Plant was constructed in 1997. This current expansion project will bolster the company’s API production capabilities.    To read more about BGEN, click here.

Anglia announces its supplier of the year

Anglia Components has announced Bulgin as the recipient of its prestigious Supplier of the Year award. Bulgin specialises in the design and manufacture of environmentally sealed waterproof connectors and electronic components. Commenting on the award, John Bowman, Marketing Director at Anglia, says, “Bulgin is Anglia’s number one connector franchise. This is not just down to their innovative products, but the exceptional support provided by the Bulgin team at all levels from management, commercial, engineering, marketing and logistics. Bulgin’s customer orientated focus matches our own at Anglia, and this award recognises the unwavering commitment and support Bulgin provides on a daily basis.” German Casillas, Chief Commercial Officer, and Eric Smith, Distribution Sales Director, at Bulgin, adds, “We’re delighted to receive this award from Anglia. They represent a key part of our distribution network and we value the team’s strong relationships with their customer base. We’ve seen significant sales growth and great customer acceptance of Bulgin through Anglia, and we hope that this partnership may long continue.”

QUEST sees 47% turnover boost in end of year results

QUEST has announced a 47% jump in turnover in end of year results to hit a total of £5 million. With key appointments in commercial and technical roles, the launch of a new wholesale website and a staff survey showing record levels of satisfied employees, 2023 proved to be a momentous year for the Burnley-based specialists. An NICEIC-approved electrical contractor and facilities management provider with more than 30 years of experience, Quest also offers a wholesale service to trade customers. QUEST has now added a wholesale website to offer a clearer distinction between the two divisions of the business and provide a smoother customer journey. Management at QUEST (Quality Electrical Supplies and Technology) have focused on outstanding service for their customers while ensuring that all of their team members are technically proficient and share the company’s vision. An internal survey showed that an overwhelming majority of team members were happy in their roles and 100% had fun at work. Andrew Wood, QUEST’s Managing Director, says, “We are very pleased to have achieved such a significant increase in turnover in what has been a challenging year across the industry. “We are also delighted with the results of our internal survey which really demonstrate every part of our business is moving in the right direction. We won’t be resting on our laurels though, as we have even more plans for growth and further improving our excellent service for our customers in 2024.”

InstallerSHOW partners with the Code for Construction Product Information

InstallerSHOW has welcomed the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) as a partner for the 2024 event.  The CCPI was created to promote an urgent and positive culture and behaviour change in the way the construction product manufacturing industry manages and provides information on its products. It was initiated by the Construction Product Association (CPA) as a direct response to Dame Judith Hackitt’s review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety set up in the wake of the Grenfell Tower tragedy. An independently run, not-for-profit organisation, CPI has been set-up to guard and provide independent assessment and verification of conformance with the CCPI. The code is now live for the industry to engage with to raise standards in product information and clean-up misleading marketing claims relating to all aspects of the product information, from safety to sustainability. The code brings benefits to construction product manufacturers and is a valuable benchmark for users of construction products, such as major contractors, specifiers, housebuilders, developers and more.   CCPI independent assessment and verification helps companies to have greater confidence in the product information on which they base important decisions in the construction process. The code is built around five acid tests – product information must be clear, accurate, up-to-date, accessible, and unambiguous. Amanda Long, CEO, CCPI, says, “Installers will play a critical role as we drive to improve on building safety and deliver on decarbonisation. InstallerSHOW will play an increasingly important role in engaging the industry, which is why we are delighted to become a partner in 2024, and create a conversation around positive change as we drive to raise standards, pursue clear and concise information and achieve greater assurance in the information provided by construction product manufacturer proving conformance with the CCPI." Nathan Garnett, Business Development Director, InstallerSHOW, adds, “The CCPI will play an increasingly important role for installers and the wider construction sector. The Building Safety Act is still in its infancy, and those working in the sector are looking for information and guidance when it comes to construction products. The CCPI is therefore a critical cog in helping industry meet new, tougher regulations. Improving the quality of our homes and buildings is a priority for everyone in this industry, and we look forward to bringing the expertise the CCPI can share from it’s housebuilder and supply chain signatories to this year’s InstallerSHOW.”

ECS works with industry to update digital occupation frameworks

The digital occupational framework within the Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) has been updated, following a review by the ECS Digital Industry Working Group. Changes have been introduced to ensure the scheme remains relevant and to enable certifications from external providers - such as Microsoft and Cisco - to be recognised following review and mapping against the current standards. This structure was introduced to give wider industry insight into the competence of individuals working in this sector through the ECS platforms, and drills down into the essential core competencies for skills, knowledge, experience and behaviours of people working across the digital sector. Uniquely, ECS brings together the hardware, software, and security occupations across all types of roles to give a simple to understand framework and identifies opportunities for good career development. This means employers, clients and others can quickly identify who is qualified and competent to be working across these vital services for some of the largest employers and critical infrastructure to support the UK economy.   The new structure is made up of occupations in three categories: Digital Support & Development; Network Support, and Digital and Cyber Security. Digital Support & Development includes disciplines such as technical systems support, software development, and data and analytics. Network Support includes disciplines such as server and systems administration and support, data centre operations and management. Digital and Cyber Security includes digital forensics, penetration testing, cloud and ICS/SCADA security. In each category, there is progression from apprenticeships to entry level routes, professional certifications, skilled status and managerial status. The ECS Digital Industry Working Group, who developed the framework, includes representatives from a large number of associations, training providers, employers and awarding organisations such as CompTIA, BCS – Chartered Institute for IT, Institute of Engineering Technology, City & Guilds, NG Bailey IT, Uniper, Pearson, Tech Skills, Datapath, Voicepath and more. Graham Hunter, Vice-President for Skills Certification at CompTIA, EMEA, Asia Pacific and Canada, says, “Technology innovation is progressing at an extraordinary rate and as the systems we use continue to become even more interconnected, it’s vital that those responsible for supporting and installing these systems have the skills required of them to keep pace with new practices and ways of working. New entrants and seasoned professionals alike will benefit from industry-created certifications based on recognisable job roles which help guide businesses in the latest developments.” He adds, “Additional awareness of topics such as security by design and system hardening are widening the skills required of professionals and by having agreed standards created by industry peers this can help create a foundation for employee development programmes. The JIB and ECS understands the importance of lifelong learning and we are excited to work with them to create and support upskilling programmes that are engaging and relevant for their digital support operatives and technicians.” The Digital Industry Working Group will continue to provide an industry forum across related disciplines to ensure that the ECS card scheme remains a central part of raising competence across the digital industry as we work towards a more integrated and digital built environment. To find out more about the occupational framework, and the requirements for the different card types in ECS for digital occupations, please see the ECS website here.

Transformer delivery marks Canada Water Masterplan milestone

The delivery of new transformers to a Canada Water development has marked a key milestone as part of a multi-year project to power homes and businesses in the area. UK Power Networks, in partnership with Clancy and British Land, is building a new underground substation to deliver energy for the Canada Water Masterplan. The development transforms a 53 acre central London site, creating workspace for 20,000 workers and 3,000 new net zero homes, along with one million square feet of retail and leisure space. In November, the project team took delivery of two new water-cooled transformers to the substation that will span 40m wide and 10m deep. The third and final transformer was successfully delivered to the site in January 2024. Works on the development continue and the substation project is scheduled to be completed by 2026. Symon Bacon, Development Director at British Land, says, “The design and delivery of the 86MVA substation will service not only our 53 acre development, but the wider southeast London area. “It’s a great example of partnership working, including British Land, UK Power Networks, Clancy, Galldris and Southwark Council, providing a major enabler of change for the area. It supports our delivery of 3,000 new homes, one million square feet of leisure and retail and two million square feet of workspace, which wouldn’t be possible at such a level without this new substation.” Niall Byrne, Contract Manager, Clancy, says, “Clancy is delighted to support another huge transformer installation for UK Power Networks. Working in partnership with multiple suppliers at the site in Quebec Way, we delivered transformers into the substation and the support equipment for the site including a crane and ballast vehicles in a residential area without disruption. “This is an extraordinary project with a large underground substation which meant that installation required meticulous management and was delivered with precision.”

Toolstation raises £743,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support in 2023

Toolstation has raised £743,000 for its designated charity partner, Macmillan Cancer Support, in 2023. Since launching the charity partnership in 2020, Toolstation has raised over £2,000,000 for Macmillan, to help fund vital physical, financial, and emotional support to the millions of people living with cancer across the UK. This is part of Toolstation’s commitment to supporting the community and committing to making positive changes. Fundraising took place across the business, with colleagues and customers at its distribution centres, head office and stores, all getting involved over the last year to help reach the figure. Toolstation colleagues competed in the London marathon last April for the third consecutive year, raising over £90,000 in the process, whilst a team of 20 colleagues took on the Tough Mudder challenge in August, raising over £8,000. The business also sponsored several colleagues to shave their heads for Macmillan Cancer Support as part of its Brave the Shave campaign, including Contact Centre colleague, Fiona Staples, who raised over £1,000. Other fundraising initiatives included a 563-mile walk in March hosted by Toolstation’s finance team to support its £2,500 goal for 2023, and a 992-mile dog walk challenge undertaken by 16 colleagues in May. Throughout the year, Toolstation colleagues across the UK showed their support for Macmillan by hosting regular store raffles, bake sales, fancy dress days and Macmillan coffee mornings, all of which were backed by customer and colleague donations. Fundraising efforts for Macmillan also came through Toolstation’s collaboration with micro-donation charity, Pennies, which enables customers to add an optional donation to the charity onto their purchases when paying by card and contactless. Kate Goldman-Toomey, Director of Corporate Partnerships and Philanthropy at Macmillan Cancer Support, says, “We are extremely grateful for Toolstation, and its unwavering commitment to raising vital funds for Macmillan. Through sheer determination and dedication, Toolstation colleagues and customers have once again raised an absolutely staggering amount.  During 2023, Toolstation also supported several additional charitable initiatives. It continued its partnership with the Volunteer It Yourself (VIY) social enterprise, supporting volunteers aged between 14-24, who may be disengaged or excluded from mainstream education and training to learn DIY and trade skills. Last year, Toolstation supported several VIY projects including the transformation of a sports centre in Leeds, the refurbishment of a Strong Roots allotment in Norwich, and the renovation of sheltered housing accommodation provided by youth homelessness charity, Centrepoint. To donate to Toolstation’s fundraising efforts for Macmillan, see here.   Read more from Toolstation here. 

JTL champions the foundation for career success

JTL has been at the forefront of shaping the next generation of future-proofed, skilled professionals. Now just ahead of National Apprenticeship Week, from 5-12 February, JTL has highlighted the foundational role that apprenticeship qualifications play in the building of successful careers in the electrical industry. Apprenticeships have long been recognised as an effective entryway for individuals to gain practical skills, theoretical knowledge and real-world industry insights. JTL is committed to delivering high-quality training to its learners and continues to champion the importance of apprenticeship qualifications in establishing a strong foundation for career success. Apprentices can benefit from gaining industry-specific skills, the ability to earn, while they learn and the opportunity to work with a wide network of industry professionals. It also provides foundation for apprentices to hone skills further by upskilling with additional and more specific qualifications to allow them to move into more specialised roles later in their career. One key success story that evidences this is previous JTL apprentice, Joe Smithson, who undertook a four-year Modern Advanced Electrical Installation Apprenticeship at the age of 16. After completing his apprenticeship, Joe decided to upskill his existing knowledge and experience further through obtaining an ‘Approved Electrician’ status with The Joint Industry Board (JIB), a Higher National Certificate (HNC), a Higher National Diploma (HND) and a First Class Honours degree in Electrical Engineering. Joe, now 31, works as an Electrical and Instrumentation Maintenance Engineer at Lenzing Fibers, Grimsby, where he is responsible managing planned and reactive maintenance to mitigate any safety hazards to the team working on the plant production site. Joe Smithson says, “My apprenticeship with JTL was a crucial stepping stone towards my career as an engineer. The qualification is something that I would highly recommend to others who are looking to start their profession in a similar area, as it has led me to adopt the skills that have enabled me to work in a rewarding role that I am still able to progress in.” Cathie Foster, Head of Marketing and Communications at JTL, adds, "We believe in providing individuals with an all-encompassing learning experience that combines both practical and theoretical learning, ensuring our apprentices develop the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in their chosen field. “The success stories of our JTL apprentices, such as Joe Smithson, highlight the effectiveness of the apprenticeship qualification in laying a strong foundation for individuals to embark on successful careers in their chosen sector.” Individuals who are looking to start their career or upskill in their current role can access industry-relevant, free courses, advice and guidance through JTL’s online resource, Tool Box. The platform provides a wide-range of learning materials and bite-size digital courses to help enhance individuals’ continued professional development (CPD). Read more from JTL here.

AMETEK SurgeX to showcase Vertical Series+ smart PDU at ISE

AMETEK SurgeX will showcase its Vertical Series+ smart PDU at ISE 2024, stand 2Q500. This smart power distribution unit (PDU) pairs SurgeX’s power protection and conditioning technology with the cloud-connected power quality analytics, fleet management, and risk prevention capabilities found within the SurgeX CONNECT platform.  “Our Vertical Series+ PDU provides an intelligent, flexible power distribution solution, allowing integrators to save rack space with its vertical form factor and an array of configurations,” says Justin Peyton, Director of Sales EMEA and APAC, AMETEK SurgeX.   “Its compatibility with our SurgeX CONNECT platform delivers advanced remote power management and monitoring functionality, which allows partners to improve their service offering as well as save time and money by reducing expensive service callouts.”  Vertical Series+ smart PDU comes in eight, 16, and 24 receptacle configurations, offering integrators a versatile PDU solution that can be easily installed with or alongside rack-mounted equipment in residential and commercial applications. The Vertical Series+ smart PDU offers analytical software, sequencing and monitoring capabilities, including remote power down and reboot, sequencing, power cycling, advanced scheduling, and AutoPing. The Vertical Series+ smart PDU is compatible with popular control systems for integration in residential and commercial applications.  In addition, the Vertical Series+ smart PDU is compatible with SurgeX CONNECT; a cloud-based solution that allows for monitoring and managing an entire fleet of compatible AMETEK SurgeX devices in a single, centralised dashboard. According to the company, this integration brings transparency and flexibility to remote power management, saving time and money for both end users and integrators.  “SurgeX CONNECT is a fantastic, easy-to-use tool for integrators to ensure their installations are running optimally and minimise the need for expensive callouts and service visits,” says Martin Lemke, Sales Manager DACH & Eastern Europe, AMETEK SurgeX.   “Often a simple reboot can resolve system issues immediately. This can now be handled remotely, ensuring more uptime for customers, whilst saving costs. SurgeX CONNECT is a key component of our Protect + Connect approach, complementing our leading power management and power quality solutions – which safeguard expensive AV installations – with enhanced functionality. With the amount of processing in today’s AV systems, a remote power management solution is becoming more and more essential, so we can’t wait to demonstrate the benefits of SurgeX CONNECT to ISE attendees.”  To read more on AMETEK SurgeX, click here.