TLW Global welcomes Tony Clargo as their National Sales Manager

TLW Global has appointed Tony Clargo as their National Sales Manager for Commercial Lighting in the electrical wholesale sector. TLW Global has recently purchased the Mark Lighting brand of LED lighting products and is pleased to announce that Tony will be transferring his role with Mark Lighting to join the TLW Global family. Tony says, “I am looking forward to the challenge of working with the team at TLW Global and being part of an established company where I can continue with the success of the Mark Lighting products alongside the VEW range of products."

New Baxi guide provides social housing framework

Social housing providers are being advised to start planning a phased approach to heat decarbonisation across their building stock, in a new guide from leading heating and hot water solutions provider Baxi. Decarbonisation and Affordability of Heat – a phased approach is a free downloadable guide that aims to provide social housing providers with a framework for achieving net zero, particularly in harder to decarbonise social homes. With many residents struggling with fuel bills, social housing providers face the dual challenge of solving fuel poverty while achieving their own environmental targets. Baxi’s guide recognises that only a comprehensive mix of technologies, implemented at scale within suitably prepared housing stock, will be able to face up to the net zero challenge, while maintaining maximum comfort and minimum disruption for residents.  The four-phase approach encourages social housing providers to take a fabric-first approach within harder-to-heat homes to ensure that the buildings are as efficient as possible and suitable for the low-temperature heating prescribed by Part L of Building Regulations. As a next step, housing providers are being urged to consider accessories which will improve the energy rating of existing systems, before planning larger scale investments such as air source heat pumps and heat networks or longer-term solutions such as hydrogen boilers. David Cook, Sales and Specification Director, Residential says, “Feedback from our customers indicates that a number of constraints can make certain social homes hard to decarbonise. In buildings like these, full decarbonisation could take some time to achieve. With that in mind, we’ve set out to support housing providers with a guide to the typical steps involved in decarbonising heat to help our customers plot their pathway to improved energy efficiency and net zero. Our goal is to provide social housing providers with the right heating solution at the right time to improve the comfort of residents while making significant carbon savings.  “With Baxi’s expertise and support, social housing providers can prepare better by being well informed. This guide is the starting point of the net zero journey and, by partnering with Baxi, social housing providers can be assured of a smooth transition to energy efficient, low carbon heat that will tick all the sustainability boxes.”

Toolstation delivers new power tool range for DIYers

Toolstation is now stocking 36 new power tools from US manufacturer Black + Decker. The new range is perfect for simplifying the job of any DIY enthusiast with a variety of cordless and corded tools for any task including drills and drivers, multi-tools, saws, batteries, heat guns and more. With prices starting from as low as £19.98, the Black & Decker collection is easily accessible to customers who are able to preview and purchase the range online and via the Toolstation app, with the choice of either next day home delivery or click and collect at their local store. Eight products from the range will also be available over the trade counter in all Toolstation stores. Included in the range is an 18V Combi Drill available for just £49.98, which features a high speed gear for drilling into wood and steel, and a low speed gear for more controlled driving. Customers can also make the most of Black + Decker’s lightweight and compact 55W Mouse Detail Sander which enables DIYers to sand the most intricate and uneven spaces with complete control and comfort. This can be purchased online and via the app for just £29.98. Additional highlights include a 230W Random Orbit Sander 230V (£29.98) 710W 115mm Angle Grinder + 5 Discs (£34.98), and 400W Jigsaw 230V (£29.98) Seb Falkiner, Power Tools Category Manager at Toolstation, comments, “With a rising demand for home renovation over the last few years, we are always looking to strengthen our product offering to ensure DIY enthusiasts have a wide selection and complete range of choice. The arrival of a world leading power tool manufacturer in Black + Decker will provide a fantastic addition to our ever-expanding range of products targeted at our DIY customers.”

The Zumtobel Group announce new charity partner

The Zumtobel Group has announced that it has selected the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) as its UK charity partner for 2023. The EIC's mission is to provide support and assistance to individuals from the electrical, electronics, and energy industries during their times of need. Launching in mid-March 2023, the group's objective is to give back to the EIC, which has assisted so many people within the industry. To achieve this goal, Thorn and Zumtobel have organised a series of fun events for everyone to participate in and have established a team of Charity Champions to manage the details. Employees are also encouraged to create their own events for customers to take part in. The brands are also participating in the EIC Power Lottery. The first event, a virtual walking challenge from Spennymoor to Chalfont, will take place in April, with colleagues pledging £1 for every mile walked and tracking their progress. “We are thrilled to have been chosen as the Zumtobel Group's charity partner in the UK. This partnership will enable us to continue supporting individuals in our industry when they need it the most. We look forward to collaborating with the Zumtobel Group to raise vital funds and awareness for our cause,” says Kate Adamczyk, Director of Marketing and Business Development at Electrical Industries Charity. The Zumtobel Group says that it hopes everyone will participate in the planned events, have fun, and contribute what they can. As a business, the group is dedicated to making a positive impact on the communities in which it operates, and states that it is thrilled to partner with the Electrical Industries Charity to support its essential work. Paul Kilburn, Managing Director UK and Ireland at Zumtobel Group, says, "We are looking forward to seeing what fun activities our teams come up with, and hope that through our fundraising efforts we can make a real difference to the lives of those who need it the most in our industry. The EIC has helped so many people spanning over 100 years - it's fantastic that we now play a part in that achievement.”

Dame Judith Hackitt to deliver speech at safety conference

Dame Judith Hackitt will be amongst the high-profile speakers at Building a Safer Future’s second national conference, which is being held in March in conjunction with UK Construction Week (UKCW). Registration is now live for Culture Change in Construction: Leading Building Safety. The conference will share the learnings of BSF participants that are engendering a positive culture and behavioural change in building safety, and will be held on 23 March 2023 at the Queen Elizabeth II Centre, Westminster, SW1P 3EE. Places are limited and available on a first come, first served basis. The conference will feature keynotes and presentations from a wide range of leading industry voices. Confirmed speakers include: Dame Judith Hackitt Steve Elliott, Independent Chair, Building a Safer Future charter Capt. John Monks, Director of Safety and Security, British Airways Gemma Hancock, Executive Director of Assets and Development, mhs Group Gus Carroll, Chair, COMAH Strategic Forum Tom Weller, Group Building Safety Manager, Persimmon Homes Stewart Kerr, Building Safety Manager, Salix Homes Nathan Garnett, Director of UKCW at Media 10, comments, “This will be our second conference with Building a Safer Future, and we look forward to creating more momentum through shared learning and experience. There can be no better way of learning than by hearing and meeting those that are pioneering the way in this incredibly important mission to improve building safety in the UK. We are reminded daily how big an issue this is for the whole sector and our society as a whole, so we are honoured to be staging conferences like Leading Building Safety which will play their part in carrying on our mission to foster culture change across the built environment and construction sector.”

myenergi co-founder named as one of 2023’s Top Women in EV

Jordan Brompton, co-founder and CMO of myenergi, has been named as one of this year's Top Women in EV (infrastructure). Organised by the EV Summit, the initiative celebrates the industry’s most pioneering female figures and shines a spotlight on their outstanding achievements. Testament to the continued success of myenergi, being named within the ‘infrastructure’ category recognises Jordan’s commitment to pioneering the future of the UK’s eco-smart domestic charging network. The judges were impressed by her inspiring leadership, unwavering work ethic and dedication to driving the company’s rapid internationalisation. Jordan comments, "It’s a real honour to be named as one of 2023’s Top Women in EV, especially considering the incredible calibre of the other inspirational female leaders I’m joining. While it may be my name on the shortlist, this nomination is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of the entire myenergi team - who really are leading the charge in the transition to e-mobility. "To see how far we’ve come since Lee and I founded the business in 2016 is simply breathtaking. Growing from a small team of passionate change-makers - manufacturing products by hand in a countryside workshop - to a multi-national business shipping thousands of units every week, our journey so far has been a whirlwind. “It’s a really exciting time for myenergi, and being recognised by our industry peers is truly humbling. It gives us the reassurance that we’re challenging the status quo and motivates us to take the company to the next level.”

First vehicles delivered through Vanaways and Toolstation partnership

Vanaways has delivered the first customer vehicles to be sold through a partnership with Toolstation. Launched in December last year, the link between the two companies means Toolstation customers can now pick up not just a drill or some screws - but also order new van, via promotions running in stores and online. Specialist contractor SSL Electrical is one such operator - and has now taken delivery of its latest vehicles, ordered from Vanaways through the dedicated website toolstation.vanaways.co.uk. Joint Managing Directors Lawrence Cantelow and Martin Bevan are already enjoying their Ford Ranger Wildtrack pickup trucks, and have a crew-cabbed Transit Custom van on order for delivery in the next couple of weeks. “As commercial and domestic electricians, we use our local Toolstation branch a lot, for tools and other bits and pieces,” says Lawrence. “I never expected to buy a van there but when I saw the promotion display in the store it was perfect timing, as we were ready to replace some vehicles we’d had on contract hire. “I contacted Vanaways’ Robert Clements, who quickly put together a package to supply exactly what we wanted, at an excellent price and to a tight timeframe. The transaction was completed online but I could just as easily have done the whole thing over the phone, it was that simple.” He continues, “The process was very quick and easy, which meant it only took up a minimal amount of our time and allowed Martin and I to remain focused on running our business, which is exactly as it should be. The customer service we’ve received from Vanaways has been exemplary.” The partnership between Toolstation and Vanaways is designed to give trade customers, home improvers and self-builders access to vans of virtually any make or model at highly competitive prices, with the absolute minimum of hassle. Matt Kent, Category Manager at Toolstation, says, “This arrangement is part of our increased effort to support tradespeople. The range of vans available is a welcome expansion to our offer of tools and more for any task, and we look forward to helping tradespeople find their ideal vehicle.” “Bringing our two brands together makes perfect sense,” adds Vanaways’ Managing Director Chris Jakeways. “Toolstation’s customers are exactly the type of people who will benefit most from the quick, simple and trouble-free deals we can offer to get their businesses on the road to success.” The arrangement sees Vanaways’ services marketed directly through Toolstation’s web presence, online to registered customers, and at the retailer’s network of more than 550 stores nationwide. Vanaways, meanwhile, has set up a special team in its new Bristol head office to deal with Toolstation customers from point of enquiry, through to delivery and beyond. As well as the website - toolstation.vanaways.co.uk - there’s a dedicated phone number, 0117 235 6000, through which customers can order a vehicle from home or work, then sit back and wait for it to be delivered direct to their premises.

Carhartt’s new Rain Defender insulated bodywarmers

The weather might be getting brighter, but while it′s still cool enough to need some core warmth, Carhartt′s Rain Defender relaxed-fit, lightweight, insulated vest (102286) has got you covered. Designed to make water bead-up and roll off, this vest, with its triple stitched main seams, keeps you dry in a light rain and is ideal for use in the Spring, when rain showers can still catch you out. The vest’s durable sleeveless Cordura fabric shell is lined with smooth nylon and is great for layering up - its lightweight design means it sits well beneath heavier coats in very cold weather. Wind Fighter technology tames the wind and keeps you warm right to the core of your body. There is plenty of storage space too. The left chest pocket has a zip and is ideal for keeping valuables safe, while two lower front pockets feature a hidden snap closure and are ideal for keeping your tools close to hand. Inside the vest, there are two further pockets, one with a zip, and the other with a hook and loop closure. Expect a perfect fit too: the drop tail and draw cord adjustable hem means you can adjust the jacket so it’s just right for you. Cut slightly loose for a comfortable fit while you work hard, the vest is available in black, Carhartt brown, navy and shadow.

Richard Paine joins EDA Data Services Board

Richard Paine, Product and Marketing Director at Volution Ventilation UK, has joined the EDA Data Services board to lead the strategic development of the EDATA Data Pool. The board comprises volunteer representatives from EDA Wholesalers and Manufacturers involved in the EDATA data pool. EDATA, which was launched by the Electrical Distributors’ Association in 2020, is expanding rapidly, offering EDA wholesalers free access to information on hundreds of thousands of products from over 60 leading brands that have signed up to date. Richard’s election to the board comes as Michael Wright, Product Development Manager at Aico, stepped down after serving his term. Richard will take his place on the board alongside: Edgar Aponte, CEO at Rexel - Chair Richard Baxter, Systems and Procedures Director, Edmundson Electrical Ian Hunter, Head of Sales and Marketing, Electrium Sales Richard Moyes, Marketing, Intelligence and Development Manager, Prysmian Cables and Systems Margaret Fitzsimons, CEO at the EDA Richard Appleton, Head of Digitalisation, EDA Richard says “As a business, Volution Ventilation has put considerable effort into harnessing the value of our product data and the extensive benefits this has, delivering Gold standard data has opened new conversations with our customers and is leading to new commercial opportunities. Like many, we are on a journey and still have plenty of work to do, but I want to share our experience and collectively raise the standard in relation to digital transformation for the good of this sector. “I am convinced of the huge potential that digitised product information offers the UK’s electrotechnical supply chain. As a Vice Chair of BEAMA’s Digital Transformation Strategy Forum, I can also help build knowledge and consensus along the supply chain. Everyone wants to run more efficient businesses, powered by consistent, coherent and dependable information about the products that are traded, but also because wholesalers and their customers and end users benefit from quick and easy access to up-to-the minute information and images which everyone needs during the sales process.”

Aico invites its supply chain to build a safer future

Aico has recently hosted four events to explore how its supply chain can work collaboratively to build safer futures for residents of the UK, welcoming 400 industry professionals to its headquarters in Oswestry. To support its mission statement of promoting best practice and delivering safer homes, Aico invited customers from all areas of its supply chain to these events, including electrical contractors, distributors and registered social landlords. Held throughout February and March, the events combined insights and evidence into how connected homes can create safer and healthier properties for all, from improving fire safety to reducing the risk of poor indoor environmental conditions, such as damp and mould and poor indoor air quality. Aaron Hamilton from Southway Housing Trust, who attended the event, adds, “All of the presentations were really good and informative. The thing that impressed me the most was how the business is run, and is constantly evolving and trying to improve all aspects.” Jason Parker, Electrical Supervisor from Chesterfield Borough Council, comments, “The whole event was slick and well presented, especially with technical topics. I gained a lot from the event, while it was very enjoyable.” Members of Aico’s team delivered a range of engaging and impactful workshops to drive a synergistic approach to building safer futures. Beginning with an insight into Aico’s past, present and future, National Sales Managers, Daniel Little and Tony Boyle, set the scene for the event by examining the organisation’s products, technology and training initiatives. National Account Manager, Alex Parker, examined new research, conducted by Cebr on behalf of the Housing Safety and Wellbeing Taskforce, into the economic impacts of fire safety standards regulations. Product Manager (HomeLINK), Jordan Toulson, examined the plethora of data and insights available through Aico’s HomeLINK Connected Home Solution, focusing on the recently released structural versus environmental insight, which enables landlords to pinpoint the root cause of damp and mould. Product Development Manager, Michael Wright, continued the theme of technology and innovations, exploring how Aico’s range of ever-evolving hardware and software can ensure residents have access to safe and healthy living spaces. The attendees also took a tour of Aico’s modern headquarters and participated in a workshop led by Operations and Learning and Development Manager, Lee Duffy, to learn how to achieve high-performance teamwork. To close each event, the groups merged for a 'ask the panel' Q&A, giving guests the opportunity to share feedback or ask questions. Aico’s National Sales Manager, Daniel Little, was delighted with the events. He concludes, “Over the last two weeks, we have welcomed 400 people to our Centre of Excellence in Oswestry. Promoting best practice, engaging with our communities and delivering safer homes, forming part of our company's mission statement, and these events are a way in which we achieve this. The Build a Safer Future Together events were designed to bring together professionals from all over the country and from every part of our supply chain.”