TECH-X 2026 releases programme ahead of July conference

The Lighting Industry Association (LIA), a UK trade body for lighting manufacturers and suppliers, has announced the draft programme for TECH-X 2026: Technical Excellence Conference, taking place on Thursday 2 July 2026 at the Edgbaston Park Hotel & Conference Centre in Birmingham. TECH-X 2026 will deliver a day of discussions and knowledge-sharing, designed to support professionals across the lighting supply chain. The conference will feature four dedicated stages, enabling delegates to tailor their day around their technical priorities, be them: • Connected lighting • Lighting design • Technical updates • Sustainability Programme contents The draft programme (subject to change) highlights a strong focus on regulation, safety, sustainability, human-centric lighting, and the evolving role of connected systems. Sessions will explore topics including the Building Safety Act and fire safety accountability, changes to emergency lighting standards, flicker and temporal light artefacts, remanufacturing and compliance responsibilities, and European regulation and its implications for UK lighting companies. Across the design and standards-focused stages, attendees can expect sessions addressing lighting for human health and wellbeing, healthy homes and later-life living, designing lighting for retrofit, and integrating light with wider building performance considerations such as acoustics, air quality, and daylight. The connected lighting and sustainability content will examine whole-life carbon performance, net zero expectations, BREEAM 2026, digital product passports, and data transparency, alongside practical discussions on managing software-driven lighting systems over the life of a building. Neil McLean, Chair of the LIA’s Technical Management group, says, “TECHX was established to provide a specialised forum for advancing technical expertise in the lighting industry. "Releasing the draft programme allows the sector to preview the comprehensive, technical content we are developing, demonstrating our commitment to equipping members and the wider industry with knowledge-driven insights and good practice through technically-led events.” TECH-X 2026 is aimed at contractors, manufacturers, lighting designers, specifiers, consultants, and engineers. Delegate booking is now open. For more from the LIA, click here.

LIA and Recolight forge sustainable lighting partnership

The Lighting Industry Association (LIA), the UK’s largest trade body for lighting manufacturers and suppliers, and Recolight, the UK’s leading WEEE compliance and circular economy champion for lighting, have announced a new strategic partnership designed to accelerate sustainability and compliance across the sector. Key elements of the partnership include: • Reciprocal online resources linking each others’ members to relevant services and support • Newsletter features to members of both organisations providing up to date guidance on WEEE, quality and compliance in the lighting sector • Cross-promotion of relevant training courses and webinars, aimed at encouraging greater action on the circular economy and decarbonisation in lighting, and closing skills gaps Ayça Donaghy, CEO of The LIA, says, “As The LIA, by formalising this strategic partnership with Recolight we can draw on their circular‑economy leadership, cross‑promote high‑quality training, and collectively speed the industry’s progress towards net zero.” Nigel Harvey, CEO of Recolight, adds, “Recolight has had a pivotal role in supporting and encouraging action on the circular economy in the lighting sector. The new strategic partnership with The LIA will help both organisations to better support their members, and the supply chain, to act more sustainably and to continue to decarbonise. A partnership with these objectives is the right approach, for the environment, and for our members.” For more from Recolight, click here.

Aico launches 'Connected Home' training course

Aico, a manufacturer of residential fire and carbon monoxide detection products, has introduced a new City & Guilds Assured training course focused on connected home technology for housing professionals and landlords. The free, full-day course - titled 'Connected Home' - is scheduled to launch in February. It is designed to explore how connected hardware and software can support compliance, property management, and data-led decision-making within the housing sector. The course content has been developed through pilot sessions involving housing professionals, industry stakeholders, and internal teams. According to Aico, feedback from these sessions has been used to shape the training around operational challenges faced by housing providers, while reflecting evolving legislation and technology adoption. Addressing compliance and property monitoring The training covers the role of connected home technology in supporting compliance and proactive property management, particularly as housing regulation continues to evolve across the UK. The course also references Awaab’s Law and its focus on indoor air quality, damp, mould, and maintenance responsibilities. Participants will receive guidance on legislative requirements across different UK regions and how connected monitoring systems can support early issue identification and compliance reporting. The programme includes an overview of Aico’s HomeLINK technology and its use of Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity to monitor property conditions and performance. The course also examines how data can be used to improve operational efficiency and compliance while maintaining responsible data management practices. Attendees will be introduced to the HomeLINK Portal, alongside demonstrations of system navigation and portfolio monitoring. The course also covers case management features intended to support proactive maintenance planning, technical guidance on installation and device compatibility, and an overview of future technology developments. The training provides City & Guilds Assured accreditation, which recognises professional development in connected home technology and housing compliance practices. The course is delivered on an invite-only basis, with registration available through Aico Relationship Managers on the company's website. For more from Aico, click here.

CMP Products raises vital funds for Anxious Minds

Cable management products provider, CMP Products, has raised more than £20,000 for a North East mental health charity dedicated to providing both lifesaving and life-changing support. Based in Northumberland, the company – which specialises in designing and manufacturing cable glands, cleats and accessories – has carried out a series of fundraising activities throughout the course of 18 months to raise money for Anxious Minds, with the team also dedicating their own time to support the local community. Since its formation in 2015 – which stemmed from the CEO’s personal experiences with PTSD, anxiety and depression – Anxious Minds has delivered well over 120,000 counselling and support group sessions supporting children, adults and veterans. Its services include support groups, therapy sessions, helplines, workshops and recovery centres, as well as online resources for anyone with anxiety disorders or other mental health conditions. Fundraising for Anxious Minds was led by CMP’s Culture Champions – a dedicated team committed to championing initiatives that promote positive health and wellbeing in the workplace. The campaign brought together hundreds of colleagues through a diverse programme of fundraising activities, including a non‑stop 36‑hour cycle challenge, popular bake sales featuring homemade cakes and pastries, as well as competitions and a car wash fundraiser. CMP employees also donated their time to support the charity, volunteering on projects such as woodland clearance and canoe maintenance. These initiatives helped create a welcoming outdoor environment for therapy sessions, group walks, and mental health support activities, the company reports. In addition, CMP staff supported Anxious Minds’ festive celebrations, helping to serve Christmas dinners to people supported by the charity at a local community centre. Leanne Branfoot, CMP’s Human Resources Advisor and Culture Champion, says, “We are delighted to have raised an incredible amount for such a worthy cause, while also helping to raise awareness of the vital support services provided by Anxious Minds. The work the charity delivers across the region is greatly needed, and it has been fantastic to see the collective effort and strong sense of community across CMP in supporting Anxious Minds.” The momentum generated from CMP’s fundraising activities did not go unnoticed, the company notes, with the business being shortlisted for a Corporate Charity Partnership award at the North East Charity Awards 2025. Edward Dean, CEO at Anxious Minds, comments, “CMP has been nothing short of amazing. The support, kindness and generosity from their team have been second to none. Their volunteers, advice and encouragement over the year inspired me to keep pushing forward in our mission, to ensure that anyone facing their darkest hours can find the help they need to move toward a brighter, better future.” For more from CMP Products, click here.

Screwfix Trade Apprentice competition returns for 2026

Entries for this year’s Screwfix Trade Apprentice competition are officially open. Returning for its twelfth year, Screwfix, a UK retailer of trade tools, accessories, and hardware products, is searching to uncover the very best in emerging trade talent across the UK and Ireland. The annual competition provides a national platform for trade apprentices to showcase their skills, share their views, and reinforce the important role apprentices play in addressing the trade skills gap. This year’s Screwfix Trade Apprentice champion will receive a career-boosting trade bundle worth £10,000, including £5,000 of tools, a £3,000 training budget, and £2,000 worth of technology. Meanwhile, the champion’s college will also receive £2,000 worth of Screwfix vouchers to spend on new workshop equipment to further develop the next generation of trade professionals. Building on past success Dan O’Shea, an apprentice electrician from Longford in Ireland, was crowned Trade Apprentice 2025. At 20 years old, Dan impressed judges with his passion for renewable technologies and his hope to encourage even more young people to enter the industry. Commenting on his win, Dan says, “Winning Screwfix Trade Apprentice was such an honour, but it was really only the start. “My entry took no more than 15 minutes, and never in a million years did I think it would lead to this. "I look forward to keeping a close eye on the competition to see who will be crowned the next Screwfix Trade Apprentice champion.” Jack Wallace, Marketing Director at Screwfix, explains, “As a retailer to the trade, we are committed to championing tradespeople across the UK and Ireland. "The Screwfix Trade Apprentice competition recognises and celebrates apprentices while also highlighting the crucial contribution they make to the trade industry. “Over recent years, we’ve seen the number of applications grow year-on-year, which makes selecting one overall champion an exciting challenge for our judges. "Today’s trade apprentices are the next generation for the industry, bringing with them fresh ideas and skills which will be vital for the future. "So, whether you’re an apprentice electrician, plumber, painter and decorator, or roofer, what's stopping you? Like Dan O’Shea, you could be the one taking home the national title and a fantastic prize.” How to enter Free to enter, Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2026 is now open to all trade apprentices who are currently enrolled at college, either on a part-time placement with an employer or as a full-time college student. Apprentices can apply themselves or be nominated by their college or employer, and all applicants must be over the age of 16. You can apply on the Screwfix website and entries are open until midnight on Sunday, 15 February. For more from Screwfix, click here.

Martindale safety hub supports electrical apprentices

Developing safe working practices from the outset is a priority for electrical apprentices, particularly when working with or around live electrical systems. A clear understanding of electrical safety procedures can help reduce risk and support safer behaviour on site from day one. Access to practical guidance early in a career can play an important role in building knowledge, reinforcing correct processes, and supporting compliance as apprentices progress through training and into the workplace. Ahead of National Apprenticeship Week 2026, running from 9 to 15 February, Martindale Electric, a manufacturer of electrical test equipment, has highlighted its online knowledge hub, which brings together a range of free safety resources aimed at supporting apprentices and early-career electricians. The hub includes downloadable guides, checklists, and reference material focused on electrical safety and testing practices. All resources are available in one location on the Martindale website and are intended to support those involved in the installation, maintenance, and inspection of electrical plant and equipment, while also helping simplify compliance with health and safety guidance. Online safety resources for apprentices Among the available materials are checklists covering electrical safety compliance, electrical safety audits, and formal visual inspections. These are designed as practical reference tools that can be used during training or on site. The electrical safety compliance checklist focuses on six key areas: equipment compliance, safety procedures, training and education, maintenance and inspection, documentation and reporting, and communication and culture. Martindale states that apprentices can use simple audits as part of their learning to understand how safety processes are applied in real working environments. Formal visual inspection is identified as the first step in PAT and electrical equipment testing. The checklist outlines a structured and recorded inspection of an appliance, its plug, and flexible cable. Steve Dunning, Managing Director at Martindale Electric, says, “Apprentices are the future of our industry and thankfully we see a lot of skilled and diligent individuals coming through, so it’s crucial that safe isolation and safety procedures are ingrained in working practices. "Making this as straightforward and visible as possible is essential. It’s about getting into good habits, sooner rather than later.” The knowledge hub also references Martindale’s ALIVE and STOP safe isolation procedures, which are intended to reinforce correct practice when working on or near electrical systems. Additional guidance, posters, and documentation are available through the safe isolation section of the website. The site also includes a wider resource centre linking to industry information related to electrical measurement and safety. These materials are aimed at supporting ongoing learning and reinforcing safe working practices throughout an electrician’s career. For more from Martindale Electric, click here.

Vent-Axia introduces Lo-Carbon PureAir Cleanse dMEV unit

British ventilation manufacturer Vent-Axia has unveiled the industry’s first dedicated continuous-running Decentralised Mechanical Extract Ventilation (dMEV) unit with an integrated indoor air quality sensor (IAQ). The Lo-Carbon PureAir Cleanse combines intelligent humidity control with advanced air quality sensing, which detects, measures, and helps clear the air of unwanted chemical pollutants, specifically total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs). Delivering industry-leading performance, the dMEV unit is highly efficient, offering near-silent operation, with independently tested sound levels as low as 7.4 dB(A), and an attractive, sleek circular design. Ideal for PAS 2035 energy-efficiency retrofits, the Lo-Carbon PureAir Cleanse provides continuous whole-house extract ventilation to meet increased airflow requirements in line with Approved Document F (2021). Designed for continuous operation in domestic wet rooms such as bathrooms, toilets, and utility areas, the dMEV delivers effective whole-house ventilation while remaining exceptionally quiet. A brand-new control platform provides fully adjustable airflow, allowing whole-house ventilation rates to be achieved easily using fewer fans. Providing simple installation and quick commissioning, an easy-to-use speed adjustment dial ensures operational speeds are met as required by Building Regulations. Intelligent sensing and installation features Intelligent air quality sensing enables the PureAir Cleanse to automatically boost extraction when pollutant levels rise, ensuring a healthier indoor environment. Responding intelligently to changes in air quality, the unit meets IAQ benchmarks, such as UBA air quality standards. When unpleasant odours or elevated VOCs are detected, a proportionate boost function is triggered, increasing extraction rates to help clear pollutants more quickly. An important point for installers is that nuisance tripping is minimised, helping ensure happy customers. Sophisticated fan logic ensures that airflow increases are smooth and proportional. Integral humidity sensors allow for gradual speed increases up to high relative humidity levels before enabling boost, avoiding unnecessary noise or energy use. “As homes become more energy-efficient and airtight, indoor air quality has become a critical consideration with growing concerns around indoor air pollution, condensation, mould, and occupant health," says Ashley Smith, Product Manager at Vent-Axia. "At the same time, Building Regulations are driving higher ventilation rates, placing greater emphasis on noise and occupant comfort. The new Lo-Carbon PureAir Cleanse marks the next generation of dMEV, combining an integrated indoor air quality sensor with ultra-quiet, energy-efficient performance in a solution that is easy to install and commission.” Designed to offer households a relaxing environment, the Lo-Carbon PureAir Cleanse features a patented delayed start comfort control option. This allows homeowners to enjoy a quiet, peaceful bathroom for up to 20 minutes before the boost activates. In addition, if the light switch is turned on and off within three minutes, the boost will not activate. No more disturbing the family if the bathroom light is turned on during the night. Households will also be pleased that the Lo-Carbon PureAir Cleanse features a highly efficient EC/DC motor and boasts a specific fan power (SFP) as low as 0.08 W/ls, which helps keep energy costs down. Offering electricians flexible installation, the PureAir Cleanse is IPX5-rated and can be wall and ceiling-mounted within Zones 1, 2, and 3. The fan also only requires a low ceiling void of 56mm and has a 100mm spigot, making it easier to install in refurbishment projects when replacing an existing extractor fan. Meanwhile, high-pressure development and the silent mixed flow impeller mean the Lo-Carbon PureAir Cleanse can meet the requirements of many domestic applications without the need to use a traditional centrifugal fan, simplifying system design Providing installers and households with reliability and peace of mind, the Lo-Carbon PureAir Cleanse comes with a seven-year warranty. The Lo-Carbon PureAir Cleanse is also recognised on SAP PCDB. For further information on all products and services offered by Vent-Axia, telephone +44 (0)344 856 0590 or visit Vent-Axia's website. For more from Vent-Axia, click here.

Ansell unveils 'market-first' modular LED downlight

Ansell Lighting, a designer and manufacturer of luminaires, has introduced a new modular LED downlight, Prism Pro XM, marking the replacement of the existing Prism Pro range. The new downlight is designed around a modular format, with a replaceable driver and light engine. These components can be changed individually in the event of failure or upgrade, extending product life and reducing the need for full luminaire replacement. Prism Pro XM is available in standard, gimbal, and anti-glare formats. It is fully fire rated for 30, 60, and 90 minutes, supporting compliance with Part B of the Building Regulations across all ceiling types. The downlight has also been tested to meet the requirements of Part C for moisture, Part E for acoustics, and Part L for energy efficiency. Power and correlated colour temperature are selectable, with options of 2700K, 3000K, 4000K, and 6000K. Two output levels are available within a single luminaire. The product features a sloped bezel and a low-profile design - allowing installation in shallow ceiling voids - alongside a 60° beam angle for wider light distribution. The LED lifespan is rated at L80 60,000 hours. Modular design and regulatory compliance Installation has been revised with the introduction of a lever-style connector, designed to support quicker placement and removal. According to the company, this is intended to reduce strain during installation and help minimise the risk of damage to ceiling plasterboard. Fast-fit connectors also enable tool-free wiring. Prism Pro XM delivers up to 100 lm/W and is supplied with a seven year warranty. Mark Abbott, Managing Director at Ansell Lighting, says, “We are always striving to improve the performance and benefits of our products and Prism Pro XM is set to revolutionise the downlight category. "Putting sustainability and longevity at the forefront of its design, it has been developed to give installers and specifiers a smarter, more cost-effective and future-proof solution - one that reduces waste, simplifies maintenance, and delivers long-term performance without compromise.” For more from Ansell Lighting, click here.

On The Tools warns 2026 will be a 'pressure cooker'

Construction might look busy, but UK tradespeople say the pressure is piling up. New data from TradeBrain, powered by construction community On The Tools, reveals a growing gap between how the industry is talked about and how it actually feels to work in it. Jobs are coming in, day rates haven’t collapsed, yet financial uncertainty and mental strain are rising fast. Report findings The TradeBrain Q4 report for 2025, based on responses from 2,080 UK tradespeople, shows an industry running flat out while confidence in security, margins, and wellbeing slips. Almost four in 10 tradespeople say stress or difficulty switching off is likely to affect them in the next year. Nearly a third are worried about low mood or mental health issues. Both figures are higher than last quarter. That pressure isn’t coming from a lack of work; it’s coming from uncertainty over money. Almost 30% of tradespeople don’t know what their next job will actually be worth, making it harder to plan, invest, or say no to risky work. Day rates are holding steady (most charge between £150 and £249 a day), but rising costs of materials and irregular workloads mean annual incomes remain flat. Material and tool costs are now squeezing nearly two thirds of the trade, while late payments, tool theft, and being undercut are eating away at already thin margins. Shifts in behaviour and attitudes Lee Wilcox, co-founder and CEO of On The Tools, says, “On paper, construction looks busy; on site, it feels very different. There’s still work coming through, but fewer jobs are paying what they used to - and that’s hitting people hard, when everything from fuel to food has gone up again. "The wider economy’s still putting pressure on household budgets and trades are caught in the middle: facing higher material costs, tighter margins, and record levels of stress. They’re grafting hard just to stay steady, but the gap between the headlines and what’s actually happening on site is where the real pressure sits.” The data also shows behaviour shifting. Tradespeople are being extra careful with spending, spreading purchases across multiple merchants and placing more weight on quality, guarantees, and service, not just price. In short, the sector isn’t collapsing, but it is under strain. TradeBrain’s latest Pulse report suggests that growth on paper doesn’t automatically translate into confidence within the trade. Without better margins, clearer visibility of job values, and stronger support for mental health, “busy” risks becoming the new normal, without the security tradespeople need to sustain it. For more from On The Tools, click here.

YESSS Electrical expands rapid delivery with TradeKart

UK electrical wholesaler YESSS Electrical has expanded its rapid and same-day delivery offering through a national partnership with TradeKart, giving electricians wider access to fast delivery from local branches. Electricians across the UK can now order products through YESSS Rapid in branch, as well as via the TradeKart marketplace app, with delivery available directly to site. TradeKart connects tradespeople with local merchants, enabling rapid ordering and delivery from participating suppliers. Through the partnership, TradeKart supports the YESSS Rapid service and also provides access to the YESSS Electrical product range via the TradeKart app. Orders placed through the TradeKart app can be tracked in real time, with a flat delivery charge of £5. Supporting urgent site requirements The partnership is aimed at electricians who need fast access to materials while working on site, reducing the need to leave jobs to collect supplies and helping to limit project delays. The service is available from more than 75 YESSS Electrical branches across the UK. Electricians can place orders either directly with YESSS Electrical for YESSS Rapid, or through the TradeKart app. Sam Hall, Head of Marketing at YESSS Electrical, says, “This rapid delivery service will enable us to go even further to meet the needs of our customers. "We know how busy they are and the challenges they face when working on site, and no one wants to down tools and spend time battling traffic to pick up a specific product. "Partnering with TradeKart means that we can provide customers with the ultimate convenience that will keep them on the job.” Alistair McAuley, founder and CEO of TradeKart, comments, “We’re delighted to partner with the team at YESSS to power their rapid delivery service and also to offer electricians across the UK access to the extensive range of YESSS products on the TradeKart app from leading brands. "Over 300 million hours are lost every year by tradespeople collecting materials, and this partnership will help give some of this valuable time back.” For more from YESSS Electrical, click here.