Bendex improves its service offering

Bendex, the British owned and based manufacturer and supplier of competitively priced PVC-U cable management products, has updated its service offering – making it easier for customers to locate the information they need. Bendex is now hosting its products on the Luckins website, improving its service offering by making product and pricing information more accessible. Through Luckins – the product and pricing data services specialist – customers can find Bendex company details, information on its PVC-U trunking, conduit, cable guard protection, channelling, surface boxes, IP rated sockets and fittings, together with product literature and news. Having its products and associated information available on Luckins will make it easier for Bendex customers, including both wholesalers and contractors, to accurately produce estimates for projects – helping to streamline the specification process. In an effort to further improve its service offering and make it simple to specify complete cable management systems, Bendex has also relaunched its website. Customers can now access reference tables, all technical data and cable capacity charts for each of the Bendex product ranges. This allows visitors to effortlessly compare products across each range, with downloadable versions of the latest Bendex literature also available on the website. Ian Manders, Bendex National Sales Manager, says, “Here at Bendex, we understand how important it is for our customers to be able to access all the information they need efficiently. That is why we are hosting our full product range on Luckins and why we have relaunched our website – to provide customers with everything they need at their fingertips.” Bendex is also recognised by the British Standards Institution as a firm of Assessed Capability to BS EN ISO 9001:2015 – meaning that Bendex is committed to both product quality and customer satisfaction. These latest updates are part of the company’s effort to ensure that its service offering is the best that it can be. To find out more about Bendex, visit www.bendex-plastics.co.uk Alternatively, you can see Bendex’s listing on Luckins here: http://www.luckinslive.com/ProductRangeSearch.aspx?filter=&m1=1560&m2=1560

Safeguarding the customer experience

As the government prepares the public on the impact of life outside of the EU, Applelec – a UK trade supplier of bespoke sign, display and LED lighting products – has taken strong steps to protect customers. A UK manufacturer with nearly 21 years of serving customers with excellence, Applelec Managing Director, Ian Drinkwater, states, “Brexit has raised a great deal of uncertainty which Applelec has responded to by safeguarding our UK manufacturing and our ability to respond to customer demand. This ensures that we will be less affected than others and guarantees that we can retain our standards and deliver a reliable supply.” Having recently expanded its West Yorkshire-based manufacturing, Applelec proudly creates its patented LED Light Sheet, along with a comprehensive range of products in its factory. With an exceptional core range of lighting and signage, and a highly skilled team which specialises in bespoke products, Applelec responds to customer specifications promptly, working with customers to deliver solutions from the smaller projects to the more complex. Drinkwater notes, “We creatively look for solutions before they are problems, building a reputation of quality and customer support, often becoming an extended member of our customers’ team.” As a member of Made in Britain, Applelec’s dedication to UK manufacturing is viewed as fundamental to its success. The Applelec team has worked extensively to ensure its skill base utilises the latest technology, but also retains handcrafting techniques which allow it to respond flexibly and create a truly bespoke offering; one that competitors who exclusively source overseas cannot. Whilst the UK’s future post-Brexit raises many concerns, Applelec has demonstrated how a proactive customer focus can mitigate disruption businesses may face. Applelec, applelec.co.uk

Auction house completes deal for LED battens

Megaman’s Nero LED battens have been used to improve the lighting quality and lower the energy usage at Tring Market Auctions, an independent auction house located on the edge of the Chiltern Hills in Hertfordshire. Tring Market Auctions dates back to 1832, and today hosts fine art and antique auctions. Its current buildings consist of a number of former cattle auction buildings that have been repurposed as characterful sales rooms. Previously, lighting was provided by standard T8 fluorescent tubes, but the owners were looking for a more energy-efficient solution that would also improve the customer experience. Megaman’s Nero LED fittings proved a cost-effective alternative to conventional T5 and T8 fluorescents. The 48W Nero battens were chosen based on a recommendation and supplied by a local wholesaler. The 4000K versions were installed in the four sales rooms, as well as the connecting hallway, to deliver a clean, bright, white light. Due to the higher quality of light produced by the new LEDs, the total number of fittings could be reduced without affecting the overall light levels. Jo Burch, Saleroom Administrator at Tring Market Auctions, enthuses, “The new lighting has made a significant difference, and many of our regular customers have commented on the improvement. We didn’t realise how poor the light really was until the fittings were replaced. We have also been able to reduce our energy usage, due to the much lower power requirements of the LEDs.”

Rexel team saddles up for charity cycle ride

A team of 12 cyclists are preparing to take on a 450-mile ride to raise funds for the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) and Macmillan Cancer Support later this year. The mammoth challenge will take place in September, with the riders starting their journey in Paris and finishing up at Rexel UK HQ in Birmingham – a trip that will see them complete around 100 miles per day. In the team are seven cyclists from Rexel UK - two hailing from Rexel France, and three working for Rexel suppliers - with one vehicle supporting the riders throughout the trip. Peter Elliott, Commercial Director at Rexel, has organised the trip since its conception six years ago. He comments, “This is the fourth time we have taken on this challenge in the last six years. In 2017, we raised an incredible £36,000 for our chosen charities – The EIC and Macmillan Cancer Support, through the many generous donations made. That brought the overall total to just over £70,000. This year, we are aiming to raise another £30,000 to achieve our target of £100,000. “There are a few reasons behind our charity choices. I’m privileged to be on the board of the EIC, a fantastic charity which helps people facing real hardship in our industry. It’s a charity close to our hearts, as members of the Rexel team have benefited from the superb support they offer. “Macmillan is particularly important to me as my father had been diagnosed with terminal cancer at the time of planning our first ride. He sadly passed away in August, a month before our ride in September. Cancer affects us all in some way, and Macmillan provide fantastic support for families facing up to this. Raising money for these valuable causes is very important to me – and the whole team.” The biennial bike ride will hopefully have raised £50,000 for Macmillan after this challenge, helping to pay for approximately 1,785 hours, or a year of Macmillan nurses’ time. Sara Johnson, Regional Fundraising Manager for Macmillan – Birmingham, Black Country and Staffordshire, adds, “Macmillan cancer support is there to help anyone affected by cancer find their best way through. Macmillan receives no government funding and therefore without large companies like Rexel doing amazing challenges like this one, we wouldn’t be able to keep providing practical, emotional and financial support to those affected by cancer and their families. Peter and the team are due to hit their £50,000 target for Macmillan this year. This is an amazing achievement, and we can’t say thank you enough to the team and everyone at Rexel for supporting Macmillan” For more information on how to support Peter and the team, please visit https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/RexelUKP2B2019Riders

Harvard LED business acquired by Gallant Lighting Group

Following the purchase of IP and related assets of Harvard Technology Limited, a new company - Harvard Power Systems Limited - has been formed. It seeks to re-establish sales of the popular Harvard LED drivers and LED light-sources. Now part of Gallant Lighting, a global group of companies, the new Harvard business will operate from its sales and engineering base near Leeds, whilst all production has been relocated to its specialist electronics manufacturing facilities in India. Gallant Lighting also recently acquired Venture Lighting India, which will bring significant and comprehensive manufacturing expertise to the group. Harvard Power Systems, based in the UK, retains a group of key personnel from the previous Harvard Technology company and will benefit from their extensive knowledge and skillset in product engineering, material procurement, technical design, and development of the well-respected Harvard LED product portfolio. “Harvard has a long history of first-class products and excellent product development. We are very excited to be re-launching this great range of products and to build upon these with the latest state-of-the-art designs, such as our CLi15 and CLi40 high specification LED drivers”, explains Mark Needham, Managing Director of Harvard Power Systems. “Our lower cost base production and proven history of our Venture Lighting India manufacturing facilities will enable us to confidently produce the highest quality, UK designed and engineered LED lighting components to offer an increasingly competitive marketplace”. Working with both historical and newly introduced OEM and distribution customers in the UK and across mainland Europe, Harvard Power Systems will concentrate on its range of LED Drivers and LED light-sources while partnering with industry leading providers of controls, connected lighting and IOT enabled devices to incorporate into its drivers and product packages.

EV Charging: 'Quality must come first' states Bureau Veritas

In response to the government’s recent pledge to invest more cash into the electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, Bureau Veritas has again voiced its concerns over maintenance challenges; stating that ‘quality must come first’ if the UK is to create a world-class charging network for cleaner vehicles. This week, the Department for Transport (DfT) announced it is pumping nearly £40 million into improving the infrastructure for electric vehicles, with investments in wireless charging and pop-up pavement technology. All new homes built in Britain are also set to be fitted with charging points for electric cars. At present, the UK has more than 24,000 public charging connectors in nearly 9,000 locations. However, with EV car registrations up 62% to 2,461 in June compared with the same month last year, the number of charging points being installed is expected to rise dramatically in the coming years. [caption id="attachment_17098" align="alignleft" width="300"] The speedy creation of EV charging infrastructure should focus on quality and safety says Bureau Veritas[/caption] Welcoming the government’s additional funding, Bureau Veritas has responded saying that the speedy creation of charging infrastructure should focus on quality and safety. Michael Kenyon, Technical Manager at Bureau Veritas, says, “This funding offers a great opportunity to a number of industries, including automotive, engineering and electrical contractors, currently involved in delivering the government’s Road to Zero strategy, which wants ‘almost every car and van’ in the UK to be zero emission by 2050.” “However, in the race to deliver the adequate charging infrastructure required to achieve this, quality in terms of engineering, safety and compliant installations must come first. Especially, if the UK is to create a world-class charging network for cleaner vehicles – one that is not only cost-effective but will also last the test of time.” Bureau Veritas is also encouraging installers of charging points to ensure they hold the latest accreditations and are up to speed with recent rule changes on residual current devices (RCDs) and earthing arrangements. The firm points to new guidance on the installation of EV charging points offered in Section 722 of the 18th Edition of the IET Wiring Regulations. This has recently led to the code of practice for electric vehicle charging equipment installations moving on to its 3rd Edition. Michael Kenyon adds, “As all new installations will need to be compliant, businesses such as service stations, shopping centres and hotels will require installers of EV charging points to be accredited by the Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV). What’s more, installers and inspectors of charging infrastructure will need to have a clear and detailed understanding of the different types and classifications of RCDs and how to test them.” “We understand that for many, this will be a new area, often fraught with complexity. That’s why putting a robust strategy in place for the initial inspection and maintenance of these charging installations by an independent appraiser is the best way to ensure they comply with all the relevant standards.”

NAPIT acquires Stroma installer certification

NAPIT has announced the acquisition of Stroma’s Installer Certification. The acquisition will result in NAPIT taking over and operating the Stroma installer activities in the building services and building fabric sectors. The transaction will strengthen NAPIT’s commitment to continuously raise standards and safety within the construction industry and Stroma’s aim to focus on their core areas of service around environmental management, building performance testing and building control. NAPIT’s Group Chief Executive, Mike Andrews, says, "NAPIT has always been committed to continuously raising standards within the sector. We are confident that the acquisition of the installer activities part of the Stroma Group will result in a stronger and more robust Registration and Certification Body for the industry. This opportunity will bring together the best of what both organisations have to offer, alongside our combined experience, which will enable us to take the business forward in new and exciting ways for both our members and employees." Over 3,500 existing Stroma Certification members will continue to be UKAS accredited under a new certification body named Stroma Installer Certification Limited. Martin Holt, Stroma’s Group Chief Executive, notes, "NAPIT has a strong reputation within the building services industry, and we’re confident that its passion and commitment to safety and certification will ensure our members and consumers receive an excellent service. The Stroma Group will continue to deliver market-leading certification and training for energy assessors, in addition to driving safety and compliance throughout the built environment via Stroma Building Control and Stroma Built Environment." The terms of the transaction have not be released and will remain confidential between both parties.

Brook & Mayo celebrates 50th anniversary

Electrical contracting firm, Brook & Mayo, has recently celebrated 50 years in business. An employee-owned company, Brook & Mayo was started in Lincoln by ex-RAF servicemen, Terry Mayo and Dave Brook, back in 1969. Today, the company has offices in Lincoln, Peterborough and Nottingham, and it directly employs 54 people who all own a stake in the business. The company is reportedly the only electrical contractor in the region to have an employee-owned structure. Starting out, Brook & Mayo carried out household repairs, fixing washing machines and other appliances. As its reputation grew and the company expanded, it carried out larger electrical installation work for homes and small businesses. Now, it is one of the region's leading electrical contractors. To mark its 50th year, the company is aiming to raise £5,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support with a series of fundraising events. The company also held a glittering party at the Lincolnshire Showground with 230 guests, including past and present employees, their partners and clients in attendance. Cutting the cake at the celebration event was co-founder Terry Mayo and his son Nick, who led the company from 2002 to 2018. Darren Sewell, Managing Director of Brook & Mayo, comments, “Reaching 50 years in business is a big achievement, but looking back over the company’s history makes you realise just how far we’ve come. Brook & Mayo has become one of the East Midlands’ leading electrical contractors, and we pride ourselves on the quality of our work. “We’re proud of our past, and we’re also looking forward to our future. Over 50 years, we’ve worked with hundreds of clients on large and small contracts and have built a strong reputation. This 50th year is an exciting time for us, as we’re expanding into new areas and we’re growing from strength to strength.” In 2016, the company began a new era when it became the only employee-owned electrical contractor in the East Midlands. Speaking about this, Darren Misiak, the company's Business Development Manager, explains, “The employee ownership model is a major part of who we are as a business, and it has so many advantages. Employees are more engaged in the company and it’s created a really great sense of teamwork and dedication. Everyone understands their role in the company and how their work helps the team. It's also improved retention: nobody has left the company to a competitor since we introduced the scheme. He continues, “We’re the only electrical contractor in the region to be employee-owned, and we believe our team works more efficiently and more creatively as a result. Because we have pride in our work and treat the company as our own, the team is often suggesting new ways of working. We’re all part of this journey and we all share in its success, so celebrating 50 years is a very big moment for all of us.” Brook & Mayo chose to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support in its anniversary year after an internal vote. So far, the company has hosted a charity quiz night and a charity game of football, with further events planned. Later this month, six team members are to hike 26 miles across the Peak District for the charity. Brook & Mayo’s 50th anniversary comes after it won Electrical Contractor of the Year at the National Electrical Industry Awards. Explaining their decision, the judges praised the company’s commitment to its employees with the employee ownership model.

Landmark figure reached for EDA apprenticeship service

EDA Apprenticeship Plus, the organisation behind the apprenticeship service for members and affiliates of the electrical distributors’ association (EDA), has announced its 2,000th apprentice, 19-year-old Jonathan McArdle. In an initiative led by the EDA – created by wholesalers for wholesalers – Jonathan’s apprenticeship adheres to the trade supplier level two standard; combining on-the-job training at Edmundson Electricals’ Middlesbrough branch. Detailing why he believes the service offered by the EDA Apprenticeship Plus is so impressive, Dan Harper, Profit Centre Manager of Edmundson Electrical, explains, “The quality of candidates who came to interview meant that I decided to take on two apprentices – Chloe Warpole, aged 21, joined us too and both are fantastic additions to the team.” “Apprenticeships are a terrific way to nurture new talent in the sector and I’ve used the service offered through our trade association, the EDA, for a number of years. What Jonathan and Chloe are currently missing in product knowledge is made up through their effort and attitude to work. They are always polite, well-presented, and the customers – as well as the rest of the team – have really taken to them,” Dan continues. “As part of their studies, Jonathan and Chloe are also currently studying one of the modules in the EDA product knowledge program, giving them more confidence when serving customers. I see great futures ahead for them both with the company if they continue to apply themselves in the manner that they are currently showing us,” he adds. Account Manager for EDA Apprenticeships Plus, Louise Sugars, says “We are delighted to have recruited and placed the 2,000th apprentice with Edmundson Electrical Ltd. They are a long-term partner and supporter of the service, and we have been working together since 2011. The career opportunities they offer apprentices who are keen to learn and progress are fantastic.” John Henry, Managing Director at EDA Apprenticeships Plus confirms,  “The fact that this is the 2000th apprentice in such a short space of time is justification that the levy can work when used correctly. “We have demystified the access to apprenticeships at all levels on behalf of members of the EDA,” he said. “This is merely a matter of addressing and understanding the emphasis on the employer taking control without fear of the entirely manageable means to accessing the considerable benefits under the reformed apprenticeship agenda. We are engaging apprentices in all areas of the businesses we work with, not only in core areas, but also accountancy, IT, marketing and management courses. This is another example of how to use the levy to the best effect and make the most of your company’s greatest investment – in its people,” he continues.

New fire safety regulations could undermine existing qualifications warns Select

Select, the trade association for the electrical contracting industry in Scotland, has warned that new fire safety regulations under consideration by the UK government could undermine existing qualifications. In response to the closed consultation, ‘Building a safer future: proposals for reform of the building safety regulatory system’, trade body Select has cautioned against the introduction of a new overarching competence framework to minimise the risk of fire in high-rise buildings. [caption id="attachment_17065" align="alignleft" width="300"] New fire safety regulations under consideration in wake of the Grenfell Tower fire in 2017[/caption] This new framework is one of a series of proposals supported by the Competence Steering Group (CSG) set up in the wake of the Grenfell Tower fire in June 2017. In particular, Select opposes the CSG’s suggestion to use either PAS or British Standards Institution certification to determine core knowledge, skills and behaviours. In its submission the company says, “This action will undermine the existing National Occupational Standards, apprenticeship and qualifications structures already in place.” “In our view, the answer is that for sectors such as the electrical industry, where apprenticeships already exist, PAS/BSI standards should accept these as definitive of the core knowledge and skills for that discipline, subject only to any specific additions re: fire and structural safety, etc.” Select is aware that at least two previous UK government schemes – the Microgeneration Certification Scheme and the Green Deal – which used PAS to accredit those who did not hold existing qualifications, as a way to measure the competence of those individuals. Examples of poor work carried out under these schemes demonstrated that depending solely on an individual attaining a level of ‘competence’ was flawed, as those individuals did not have the baseline of experience to underpin any technology-specific training. Alan Wilson, Managing Director of Select also expressed that he felt existing industry-endorsed apprenticeships and competence-based qualifications should be recognised and reinforced as the minimum entry-level benchmarks. He also voiced that further support should be given to industry-led initiatives that support experienced but unqualified or under-qualified workers to achieve minimum competence-based benchmarks. “No one wants to see a repeat of the tragedy that happened at Grenfell Tower, so of course we at Select fully support the objectives of these new regulations,” he says. “Select robustly advocates the highest of safety standards, and we have been at the forefront of a long-running campaign for better regulation in our industry.” He continues, “But it is imperative that any new competence regime does not have the unintended consequence of undermining existing and highly-regarded apprenticeships and competence-based qualifications that already do much to ensure that work is carried out to a high standard. Instead, these apprenticeships and industry qualifications should be added to and strengthened.”