Building and Facilities News Issue 1011

Tel: 0121 550 4593 ● www.buildingandfacilitiesnews.co.uk ● October ● Issue 1011
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Fire & Evacuation Services Ltd:
Waking Watch | Evacuation
Management | Training Page 34
Screwfix
City Training
10 Group
24 Eazymix
36

Editor’s Comments
Welcome to our October issue, where we dive
into the latest advancements, practical insights,
and groundbreaking innovations shaping the
building and facilities industries.
Don’t let the cold catch you out this winter!
Burst pipes are the most common cause of
home insurance claims in the UK and cost an
average of £3,500 in damage to property and
contents. On pages 14-15,
we feature an extremely
useful case study from
Groundbreaker, offering
product solutions for water
supply replacement such as
Groundbreaker’s INSUduct,
which allows the new water
service to be routed up the
external face of the building
and connected to the internal
plumbing above ground level.
On page 22, we have a full review
of InstallerSHOW 2025, that turned
Birmingham’s NEC into the UK’s
largest ever live forum for installation
and specification, drawing 31,000
industry professionals from 24-26
June. From page 23
onwards, we feature some
of our Top Exhibitors
including City Training
Group, Design Odysssey,
Gaia Climate Solutions,
Heights & RA Tech.
CheckedSafe know that
compliance and fleet
Contents
Nicola Yoxall
Editor & Office Manager
management can sometimes feel
like a never-ending juggling act.
On page 27, we have an inciteful
feature that takes a deep dive
into the company’s platform
that gives clients complete
confidence, whether they’re using
CheckedSafe’s vehicle compliance
tools, licence checking service, or
GB Domestic Hours App, that they can access
everything through the same platform.
Other topics covered: Fire Safety, Lighting &
Electrical, Doors, Windows & Fittings, Energy
& Emergency Power, Facilities Management,
Health & Safety.
Share all news:
nicolayoxall@buildingandfacilitiesnews.co.uk
Building and
Facilities News
Company of the Month 10-11
Screwfix takes
its responsibility
to contribute to
a sustainable
future seriously.
Water Management 14-15
Groundbreaker products
are designed to provide
long lasting and effective
thermal protection to
water pipes and fittings
outside the thermal
envelope of a building.
Energy & Emergency
Power 18-19
Cura Energy has
announced the
launch of LiveEye,
a next-generation
energy management platform.
Lighting & Electrical 20
Luceco, the LED
lighting specialist,
has launched Cirrus,
making highperformance
suspended lighting both
stylish and easy for modern projects.
Contacts
On
the
Cover
Editor & Office Manager, Nicola Yoxall – 0121 550 4593
nicolayoxall@buildingandfacilitiesnews.co.uk
Editorial, Gina Burton – 07483 931474 – gina@buildingandfacilitiesnews.co.uk
Production Manager, Robert Sharp
production@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk
Accounts Department, Paul Whitaker – 0121 824 4742
accounts@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk
For more information or format requirements, see our Media Pack
Unless stated as news, the entire content of this publication is advertorial based.
To place an advertorial or an advert, please call 0121 550 4593.
Fire & Evacuation Services 34
Fire & Evacuation Services Ltd are UK-wide Emergency Response
Specialists, proudly led by operational Firefighters with decades of
real-world experience. We are pioneers in professionalising Waking
Watch and Evacuation Management.
InstallerSHOW Review 22
InstallerSHOW
2025 turned
Birmingham’s
NEC into the UK’s
largest ever live
forum for installation and specification,
drawing 31,000 industry professionals
from 24-26 June.
Homes UK Preview 28
The Residential
Building Safety
Summit, (25-26
November
2025, ExCeL
London), is your
can’t miss opportunity to cut through
complexity and benchmark with peers.
BFN is sponsored
by Groundbreaker
– see them on
pages 14-15

Agricultural Spare Parts Supply Company of the Month
Over 500,000 products
available online
In this issue of Building & Facilities
News, we are pleased to feature Kramp
Ltd as our Agricultural Spare Parts
Supply Company of the Month
For more than 70
years, Kramp has
stood at the heart of
Europe’s agricultural
industry, growing
from a small family
business in the
Netherlands to the
continent’s largest
supplier of agricultural
parts.
Founded in Varsseveld
in the east of the
Netherlands by
Johan Kramp, the
company’s story is
one of innovation,
partnership, and
enduring family
values. Around the
same time, Johan’s
future business
partner, Mr Perdok,
established a similar
venture in the north
of the country. Their shared vision led to
a powerful collaboration that expanded
Kramp’s reach across Europe.
Today, the company remains family-led,
with Johan’s grandson,
Eddie Perdok, serving as
CEO and continuing the
legacy of entrepreneurship
and integrity. The next
generation of the Perdok
family is already active
within the business,
ensuring that Kramp’s
founding spirit continues to
shape its future.
In the UK, Kramp’s story
began through collaboration
with industry pioneer Jack
Ashurst, evolving into
the modern-day Kramp
UK Ltd. Operating from a
purpose-built distribution
centre in Biggleswade,
Bedfordshire, Kramp UK
has embraced growth and
modernisation while staying
Leo Copping, Manager Field
Sales
true to its core values.
This facility – one of
11 across Europe –
combines advanced
automation with the
company’s trademark
hands-on expertise,
supporting customers
with precision and
reliability.
From its global
headquarters in
Varsseveld to its
expanding presence
across Europe,
Kramp remains a
trusted partner to the
agricultural, forest
and grasscare, and
construction sectors.
However, its focus
goes beyond just
product supply,
delivering complete
solutions that
help customers operate more efficiently,
sustainably, and profitably.
We spoke to Leo Copping, Manager Field
Sales, who explained the company’s core
focus, and what makes
them unique, “Our focus
is the supply of spare
parts and accessories for
machinery and equipment,
but our ambition is
much broader – we aim
to be a true one-stop
shop for customers in
the Agriculture, Forest &
Grasscare, and Construction
sectors. Customers use
our webshop for its ease
of use, advanced search
and findability-functionality,
account management
features, and fast delivery
promise – including nextday
service and, for some,
pre-8am delivery via innight
carriers. With a large
UK warehouse, we can
support the whole country
with thousands of products on hand.
“What sets Kramp apart is our people and
the expertise they bring. Our UK team
includes product specialists, customerfocused
colleagues, and our operations
team, all dedicated to solving problems and
adding value. Combined with our locally
held stock, immediate dispatch capabilities,
intuitive webshop, and solutions-driven
approach, we become more than a supplier –
we’re a supply chain partner.”
More recently,
Kramp UK has
become more
focused on
supporting its
customers,
helping them to
reduce their own
inventory to free
up working capital.
Leo expanded on
this, “Recognising
this, we have
invested heavily in
our carrier strategy
to guarantee
speed, reliability,
and trust. Today, Des Boyd, Sales Director
we can confidently
say to customers, “Let our warehouse be
your warehouse,” supported by in-night
delivery services and rapid order fulfilment.”
Kramp’s products are ideal for anyone
who operates, maintains, or repairs
machinery within the industries that
Kramp serve. Boasting everything
engineers and mechanics need including
a full range of workshop consumables and
accessories from multinational companies
to independent sole traders, everyone is
catered for.
“Our guiding philosophy is summed up
in our slogan: It’s that easy. We live this
through our values of Collaboration,
4
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Agricultural Spare Parts Supply Company of the Month
Ownership, and
Care, which guide
how we work with
both customers
and each other. Our
mission is simple but
ambitious: to be the
essential partner in the
industries we serve. To
achieve this, we must
make every interaction
as straightforward as
possible – and our
culture and reputation
reflect that,” added
Leo.
A further recent
development has seen Kramp acquire the
assets of Vapormatic, a 75 year old UK brand
with a strong reputation in farming, formerly
part of John Deere which recently closed.
This acquirement ensures the continuation
of the brand which is truly important to
British agriculture, and also secures product
availability for the future, to keep farmers
farming. This follows a similar acquirement
2 years ago, when Kramp acquired Irish
business, Genfitt, of which since, has helped
Kramp expand its assortment, strengthen its
portfolio, and broaden
its market reach.
Looking ahead, we
asked Leo what are
the company’s future
plans and goals,
“We’re focused on
growing our market
share organically in
the UK laying the
foundations for future
expansion through
scaling our operations
and team. Our new
warehouse is built
with capacity and
automation in mind –
currently handling up to around 8,500 order
lines a day, but with the ability to grow far
beyond this. With the space, technology,
and systems already in place, we’re well
positioned to support customers as demand
increases over the coming years while
expanding further across all three markets
we serve.”
In closing, Leo also shared, “Having worked
at Kramp UK for more than eight years in a
variety of roles, I can say with confidence
that it’s our people and culture that make
the difference and that keep me highly
motivated. The team is committed to
customer success and ‘getting it right’ every
time. The openness, trust, and values we
share shine through in the service we deliver
and for me, explains our rapid growth. Every
day we focus on sustainable solutions and
aim to better ourselves and make it easier for
our customers to work with us – these values
are embodied by the UK team and supported
by colleagues across Europe. It’s great to
know the energy and passion we have for
future growth is backed by Kramp Groep
with a global turnover exceeding €1.3bn, and
ambitious plans to build well beyond this.”
Kramp’s journey from a small Dutch
workshop to a European industry leader
is a testament to what’s possible when
innovation and integrity go hand in hand.
With its next generation already shaping
the future and a steadfast commitment
to customer success, Kramp is wellpositioned
to meet the evolving needs of
modern agriculture and construction. As the
company looks ahead, one thing remains
clear – Kramp’s enduring purpose is to
simplify the complex, empower its partners,
and help businesses thrive for generations
to come.
T 0333 0510111
www.kramp.com
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15 5

Building & External Works
Shou Sugi Ban ® : Adding
timeless style to every exterior
Perfectly blending with other building materials,
charred timber cladding is the exterior finish of
choice for contemporary builds and heritage
renovations.
Timber is recognised as a sustainable, thermally
insulating and beautiful building material. Yet, as
a natural product, it needs protection from the
elements.
Exterior Solutions Ltd looked to the Japanese
timber preservation technique, yakisugi. This
controlled charring process increases biological
resistance which includes:
s Minimising the effect of UV light, which causes
SterlingOSB
Zero PrimedPlus
Vs plywood
Headline price is an important consideration for
customers with regards to any building material;
yet, when something is new and radically different
to the apparent alternatives, it is important to weigh
up all the factors.
Launched last year SterlingOSB Zero PrimedPlus
requires no painting, so is ready for immediate use
on site in a variety of roles, including hoardings,
with the obvious benefit that no preparation time is
required, making it an economical choice on many
projects. The surface coat comprises a high-quality,
cross-linked epoxy acylate, UV-cured coating,
which is what gives it a very even finish and, unlike
plywood, offers protection against the weather. The
edges, meanwhile, are sealed with a unique wax
impregnated treatment to reduce water ingress.
Standard sheets of SterlingOSB Zero typically cost
15-30% less than plywood panels of equivalent size
and thickness, with one of the reasons being that
orientated strand boards are produced from smaller
trees, forest thinnings and waste timber that might
otherwise become landfill. Plywood, by contrast,
consumes lumber from far bigger trees which
of course take longer to grow, making ply less
sustainable. And, instead of being multi-directional,
the circumferential layers which make up plywood
are laid perpendicular to each other to give them
strength but remain susceptible to delamination.
The inevitable knots and other irregularities
represent potential weaknesses, normally exposed
when trying to fix or machine boards.
For further information, call 01786 812921 or visit:
https://uk.westfraser.com
weathering & fading in untreated timbers
s Limiting water ingress to reduce expansion,
contraction & warping
s Preventing deterioration caused by insects,
mould & fungi
The result is a low-maintenance exterior timber
cladding. Having mastered this art, Exterior
Solutions Ltd developed the Shou Sugi Ban ® range.
For over a decade, the specialist team has
handcrafted responsibly-sourced timbers in their
Buckinghamshire workshop. From light, smooth
brushed, to the traditional black crackled texture,
this cladding offers the ideal finish to any build.
Ceremony marks new Coventry
school SENCO enhancement works
Grace Academy School in Coventry
celebrated the opening of its
upgraded facilities in a community
launch ceremony last week with
former English professional
footballer, Andrew Townsend,
in attendance.
Regional contractors joined
forces to carry out ‘The BIG
Build’ charitable programme of
works over the summer at Grace
Academy and the event brought
together members of the school
and all suppliers to unveil brand-new
classroom facilities and sensory spaces
which will enrich the lives of students.
Attendees enjoyed a tour of the enhancement
works, live music, canapes and a speech from
Andrew Townsend.
McLaren Construction Midlands and North division
and Opus Land led the community project which
has been supported by Architect – Webb Gray,
Star Platforms strengthens NW
presence with depot expansion
Star Platforms, a leading
provider of powered access
platforms, is excited to
announce the expansion of its
North West operational depot.
Now doubled in size, the
strategically located, enhanced
facility, is better equipped to
support businesses across the
region. This growth highlights
the company’s dedication
to delivering reliable service and high-quality
powered access equipment hire solutions.
The expansion of the North West depot forms
a key part of Star Platforms’ ongoing growth
strategy, enhancing its ability to offer a broader
range of powered access platforms while
responding more efficiently to customer needs.
The larger, state-of-the-art facility now supports
increased stock levels and streamlined logistics,
with expanded capacity for eight HGVs ensuring
faster delivery times and a smoother customer
experience.
To ensure compliance with UK & EU building
regulations, Exterior Solutions Ltd applies a
treatment. Independently tested, Shou Sugi Ban ®
is certified as a fire-rated timber. Specified by
architects for urban & rural developments, this
premium cladding is a market-leading product.
T 01494 711800
https://exterior.supplies/charred-timber-cladding
Structural Engineer – SBK, Mechanical
& Electrical Engineers – CPW and
Landscaper – Whiting’s, who
provided the landscape and
raised beds works.
The works have included
a complete refurbishment
and remodelling of existing
classrooms to form larger
teaching and sensory spaces,
alongside access to the
outside. New walls, ceilings and
floorings have also been installed,
complemented by new LED lighting,
heating, security and fire alarm systems.
The newly reconfigured environments will offer
room for small group intervention and 1-2-1
support, with internal staff and external agencies
ensuring students with special educational and
emotional needs can be as fully equipped as
possible for success.
www.mclarengroup.com
Richard Miller, Joint
Managing Director of Star
Platforms, commented,
“Expanding our North West
depot is an exciting step
for Star Platforms. This
investment will allow us to
better support our customers
and strengthen our reputation
as a trusted partner for
reliable, safe, and efficient
working at height in the region.”
The enhanced depot will house a diverse fleet
of powered access equipment, including scissor
lifts, boom lifts, and low-level access platforms. It
will also feature improved maintenance facilities
to ensure all equipment meets the highest safety,
performance, and reliability standards, and a
dedicated IPAF training centre with an extended
internal training space for operator training.
For more information about Star Platforms & its
services, please visit: www.starplatforms.co.uk
6
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Building Products & Services
New factsheet heralds West Fraser
carbon negative landmark
West Fraser has published a new factsheet,
proudly announcing the achievement that
its UK operations are now officially counted
as carbon negative, showing the industry
that this is the way forward as a responsible
producer of timber panel products.
The four page publication begins by
declaring, “Since our founding 70 years ago,
West Fraser has recognised its responsibility
to the environment & society, while delivering
solid financial performance. Guided by our
values & leveraging strategic partnerships,
we aim to integrate sustainability across all
aspects of our business.”
In fact, the document goes on to stress that
all of its UK products have been certified
as being net carbon negative – meaning
that they lock up more CO 2 e than is emitted
in making them. For the environmentally
conscious specifier or builder using West
Fraser’s boards, they can be assured that
the company’s approach to sustainability
is “rooted in science, guided by global
standards and inspired by a vision of a future
where forests, products and innovation work
together to address climate change.”
This assertion is backed up by the fact that
West Fraser sequesters 1.1 million tonnes of
Major growth rebrand
Continuing its growth as one of
the construction industry’s leading
consultancies, EDGE has revealed
its latest annual results, showcasing
an increase in business turnover,
organic growth and national service
offering.
Turnover was up by 20% in the year
from 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024,
driven by continued high levels of
repeat business, securing a number
of strategic framework positions,
and growing its service offer within
both existing and new regions.
Major project wins for the firm
over the past 12 months include
Cambridge Children’s Hospital
and a series of higher education
commissions at Keele University,
University of Leeds and University
of Bradford. Across the private
sector, EDGE is progressing
Leeds Bradford Airport’s terminal
expansion and working nationally
with SIEMENS on developments in
Yorkshire and Wiltshire.
Meanwhile, the strategic
appointment of senior professionals
has further strengthened EDGE’s
service offering and broadened
their sector expertise. This
continued expansion has seen
EDGE open a sixth regional office
in Newcastle, providing their
established North East clients
greater access to expertise,
resource and local support.
This expansion strengthens
its capacity to deliver UK-wide
consultancy, alongside five existing
regional offices in Nottingham,
Sheffield, Birmingham, London,
and Leeds – with the latter also
relocating to a larger office in early
2024 to support a growing client
base across Yorkshire.
This continued organic growth
has necessitated a major rebrand
for the firm, which sees EDGE’s
visual and written identity
overhauled to reflect its growth,
confidence, maturity and ability to
deliver project management, cost
management, building surveying
and advisory services to its growing
portfolio of clients.
www.edgeps.co.uk
CO 2 e in its European operations each year,
while its OSB products have earned an A+
rating in the BRE Green Guide – the highest
possible rating.
Other aspects of its progress include
how three-quarters of the group’s use of
renewable energy globally is based on
biomass while 4.5% comes from other
renewables such as solar. And across
Europe, 100% of the grid-purchased
electricity utilised is from guaranteed
renewable generation: including wind,
LMG’s ‘ExchangeIQ’
LMG, the smart building specialist,
announces the launch of its digital
enablement & commissioning
platform, ExchangeIQ.
As the core platform within LMG’s
suite of software solutions in smart
building management, Exchange
IQ serves as a central platform
repository for:
s Device Discovery – Automatically
identifying all smart assets on the
building services network
s Data Harmonisation –
Transforming unstructured
data into a standardised format
for readability, particularly in
situations where multiple naming
conventions may exist
s Device Commissioning –
Validating device configuration
and communication
s Data Validation – Ensuring data
accuracy and compliance
This integrates into the smart
building ecosystem to streamline
the digital project delivery process –
providing tools for network scanning,
hydro-power and solar.
In terms of actual forestry management, 72.4
million seedlings are planted in Canada, plus
over 2 million in the US. Impressively, the
timber expert has achieved a 22% reduction
in SCOPE 1 and 2 emissions – along with
a 13% reduction in SCOPE 3. Interestingly,
less than 1% of its managed forest areas
are harvested annually, which allows for
longer-term and therefore more sustainable
harvesting cycles. Other important facts
can be found in the link provided in the
factsheet: 2024 Sustainability Report.
The document ends with the statement,
“Build with purpose – All our UK-made
engineered wood panels are proudly net
carbon negative and can offset building
emissions” – with a link for the reader to find
out more on its website.
The factsheet is strikingly presented with
full colour photography, while offering a
powerful argument to convince the most
ardent of environmentalists that West Fraser
goes above and beyond in achieving a
carbon negative, yet positive future.
For further information, call 01786 812921
or visit: https://uk.westfraser.com
data conformance, automated
reviews, manual commissioning
support, and progress tracking.
The platform supports seamless
integration with other smart building
software platforms & subsystem
and helps ensure compliance with
industry standards and project
specifications.
Today’s smart building projects
face the complexity of integrating
a diverse range of smart assets,
each with unique data handling
capabilities, often requiring manual
configuration and translation through
IoT gateways. This traditional
approach is prone to errors and
costly revisits, hindering efficient
project delivery.
ExchangeIQ simplifies the smart
building commissioning process by
automating key tasks and providing
centralised data management. This
powerful platform streamlines asset
tracking, ensures data accuracy, and
simplifies validation, reducing errors
and accelerating project timelines.
ExchangeIQ provides a dynamic
digital operations and maintenance
manual that continuously updates in
real-time, offering a living resource
that can evolve with the building for
ongoing maintenance and system
optimisation.
Contact
www.lmgiq.com/exchangeiq-is-agame-changer
8
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Company of the Month
Screwfix & Sustainability
By Matt Compton,
Screwfix Commercial
Director & Sustainability
Lead at Screwfix
How is Screwfix helping
procurement teams
reduce the environmental
impact of their purchasing
decisions – particularly
when it comes to product
selection and end-of-life
options?
Screwfix takes its
responsibility to contribute
to a sustainable future
seriously, striving to
ensure that our customers’
purchasing decisions
are both informed and
impactful.
For example, our green
star badge makes it
easier for purchasers to
identify products from our
range which offer a lower
environmental impact.
All green star products have
all been rigorously tested
and found to have a lower
impact on the environment
in a specific category.
The products are clearly
marked to indicate the
improvements they deliver
(eg. water-saving showers
or LED bulbs) or whether
they are made from reduced
impact materials such as
recycled plastic. There are
currently over 4,000 products
offering procurement teams
the green star mark of
assurance, across a broad
range of product categories.
And with building and
facilities management
procurement teams
continually looking at tool
replacement strategies, our
Refurb service provides
easy access to affordable
refurbished products
which can also underpin
sustainability goals. Put
simply, Refurb ensures that
quality, returned products
are processed through
a Screwfix refurb facility
where they are thoroughly
inspected and tested by
technicians before being
prepared for re-sale or
recycling.
The service includes wellknown
and respected brands
such as DeWalt, Milwaukee,
Makita, and Festool, with
prices at least 20% lower
than their new equivalents
and the added benefit of a
one year warranty.
Products that can be re-used safely and
help to address the issue of product waste.
Since its launch, Refurb has successfully
refurbished 250,000 products, significantly
reducing waste and contributing to a more
sustainable future
What steps is Screwfix taking to support
engineers on-site when it comes to
managing waste and reducing unnecessary
packaging?
Procurement managers looking to better
support on-site engineering teams in
sustainability and waste reduction can
achieve this through Screwfix's solutions.
We work in close partnership with our
suppliers, encouraging them to find
innovative solutions that are better for the
planet. For instance, our No-Nonsense
sealants and adhesives, are now packaged
in partially recycled tubes saving significant
amounts of virgin plastic. Reducing the
amount of plastic across our operations
remains a key priority for us as a business.
For example, the potential for packaging-
10
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Company of the Month
related waste has been addressed through
the use of innovative packaging solutions
that can precisely measure the size of our
refurbished products before they are then
repackaged using recycled cardboard.
This minimises the use of excess and
unnecessary packaging volumes and saves
engineers’ time on site. Providing reusable
products which are then appropriately
packaged using recycled cardboard, can cut
overall waste support wider sustainability
goals.
In what ways is Screwfix working with
its supply chain to promote responsible
sourcing and sustainability across the
board?
We are committed to responsible sourcing
and work closely with suppliers to best
identify which categories contribute the
largest amounts of direct and indirect carbon
emissions. As an example, power tools is
one area where we can make improvements
by working with our suppliers to develop
new technologies, improved battery
technology, as well as the use of recycled
materials during manufacture.
We also actively encourage supplier use
of recyclable packaging to support our
sustainability goals.
Furthermore, we embrace circular economy
principles, focusing on the longevity of
our products. The success of Refurb
demonstrates the growing demand for
solutions that extend product lifespans,
reduce waste, and offer cost-effective
alternatives for customers.
Can you share how Screwfix is reducing
its own carbon footprint, and how these
efforts align with the sustainability goals of
procurement teams?
As a responsible business, Screwfix is on
a journey of continuous improvement to
deliver a proactive response to today’s
environmental challenges. And we have
undertaken several key initiatives across our
estate and daily operations to do so.
Where possible we work with our landlords
to install renewable technologies that will
positively impact our energy sourcing
and use. Our ambition is to have all stores
running on renewable energy and we
already purchase 100% green electricity.
This includes the specification of solar PV
panels on roofs, the installation of air source
heat pumps at more than 700 stores, and the
inclusion of electric vehicle charging points
at many of our locations.
As we move towards net zero for Scope
1 and Scope 2 emissions by 2040, we
have also transitioned our logistics fleet
to an alternative, more sustainable HVO
(hydrotreated vegetable oil) fuel and
earlier this year we added our first electric
HGVs. Building and facilities management
procurement teams needing to justify the
sustainability credentials of purchasing
decisions can be assured that Screwfix fully
understands the importance of this issue
and has the solutions needed to support an
effective facilities management programme.
www.screwfix.com
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15 11

Doors, Windows & Fittings
Elevating workspaces with
sliding door designs
The use of functional and
aesthetic sliding door features
can transform modern office
environments while leaving a
lasting impact on the teams
within them, explains Brio
expert, David Knollman of
Allegion UK.
Where traditional office spaces
were once restricted to the use of conventional
manual doors, today’s commercial environments
no longer need to settle for mediocrity in door
design. As the needs of modern workplaces and
their workforces continue to evolve, so too does
the market for contemporary door applications,
meaning decision makers are now presented with
a host of options to elevate their spaces.
Sliding door profiles have emerged as a popular
choice for many, with their natural style and
practicality helping transform dull office interiors
into multi-functional workspaces packed with
character. Between bottom-rolling, top-hung and
pocket door configurations, there are a range of
reliable solutions suitable for
even the most demanding of
workplace settings, with each
offering a variety of benefits
when installed.
By integrating sliding doors
and embracing flexible open
spaces, business owners and
office managers alike can
prioritise functionality, flexibility and aesthetics to
enhance the working conditions in their buildings,
motivating staff as a result. With that said, how
exactly can sliding door features have such an
influence in modern commercial properties?
Sliding doors are characteristically aesthetic and
are frequently used to shape and extend spaces in
ways that traditional doors are not able to achieve.
Conventional swing doors for example, can take
up valuable floor space when open and in creating
self-contained rooms when closed, can form
barriers to natural light.
www.allegion.com
D11x series wins prestigious
iF DESIGN AWARD 2025
Bird Home Automation GmbH,
manufacturer of the renowned
door communication brand
DoorBird, is delighted to have
received another award for its
D11x series. The compact door
stations for detached and semidetached
houses won this year’s
iF DESIGN AWARD in the home
technology category. The D11x
products impressed the expert
panel of 131 independent design
professionals not only with
their slim, elegant appearance,
but also with their variety of applications and
sustainability aspects such as resource-saving
production. The latter were given a special
weighting in this year’s jury verdict – they
accounted for 20% of the assessment criteria.
“We are very proud that our products regularly
receive awards from international experts,” says
Sascha Keller, CEO of Bird Home Automation
GmbH. “Because they meet the needs of our
customers: keeping an overview
in an increasingly fast-paced
world – keeping an eye on your
home no matter where you are,
controlling access according to
your own wishes and not having
to compromise between state-ofthe-art
technology and attractive
design.”
The iF DESIGN AWARD is one of
the most important design prizes
in the world and honours design
achievements in the disciplines
of product, packaging, communication and service
design, architecture and interior design as well
as professional concept, user experience and
user interface. Every year, around 11,000 designs
compete for the coveted award. It has been
awarded by iF International Forum Design GmbH,
one of the longest established independent design
institutions in the world, for over 70 years.
www.doorbird.com
DHF looks forward to stability in 2025
Tamworth-based trade
association, the Door and
Hardware Federation (DHF),
is reflecting on what has been
one of the most unpredictable
years to date. From the ongoing
war in the Ukraine, the issues
in Gaza earlier in the year and
now the instability in Syria,
DHF members have negotiated
their way through a myriad of
challenges that affected all construction industries
this year. In addition, a change in UK Government
and its Autumn budget gave members further
challenges.
However, there are many positives from the year,
not least that DHF welcomed 45 new members,
reflecting the value of its
technical support, training
programmes, and focus on
standards. DHF will continue
refining its five year business
plan to ensure it meets the
needs of its members and
drives tangible benefits.
2024 brought some stability
in the economy, with inflation
now under control, currently running between 2
and 3%. But compared to two years ago when it
was double digit figures, which impacted consumer
confidence and market investment, the current
stability in inflation is a positive economic backdrop
for DHF members and the entire construction
industry.
DoorBird at
ISE 2025 in
Barcelona
integrated systems europe (ISE) is the annual
meeting place for the audiovisual and systems
integration industry. It took place for the 21st time
in 2025. DoorBird, manufacturer of smart door
communication products, was also at ISE from
February 4 to 7 to present its innovations. At Stand
2H300, visitors were able to know the wide range
of door communication products and see the
features of the latest product developments for
themselves.
With the IP video door stations of the new D31
series, available as horizontal (D31TDH) and vertical
(D31TDV) versions, DoorBird has once again
expanded its portfolio in multi-apartment buildings
and commercial properties. The two models set
new technical standards: up to 1,000 remotely
manageable units, a responsive 7-inch touch
display and various access control options using a
virtual keypad, RFID and QR code reader as well as
Bluetooth offer an enormous degree of flexibility
and convenience. As with all DoorBird door
communication products, the D31x series can be
easily integrated into common access and building
automation systems via the well-documented API.
In addition, customers can choose from over 50
different high-quality materials and finishes to suit
the entrance situation.
Another new product is the A1131 IP video mini
dome camera. The compact additional camera,
which can be mounted on the ceiling or wall, offers
a high-resolution view of the entrance area thanks
to the Full HD Sony image sensor, thus providing
additional security and an extra viewing angle.
www.doorbird.com
With the new government in place for a four year
term, this should bring consistency; historically
consistency has, in turn, driven consumer and
commercial confidence, which drives investment
across the economy, and so with that in mind, DHF
is hopeful of interest rates falling.
Economists are predicting that 2025 should see
residential markets recovering, which could point to
residential markets leading the commercial market.
So next year, a recovery of new house builds
and residential RM&I is expected; optimistically
in 2026, the industrial public sector infrastructure
and commercial markets should begin to recover
following on from residential.
Contact
www.dhfonline.org.uk
12
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Water Management
Wrap it or regret it – now!
householders or occupiers.
The improvement in work
efficiency and reduction on
the impact to occupants is
a win for both contractor
and customer. There is also
little impact to the exterior
appearance of the property,
as the INSUduct system
provides a neat, clean finish to
the job – perfect for planned
replacements of old lead
water supply pipes.
Burst pipes are the most common cause of
home insurance claims in the UK [1] and cost
an average of £3,500 in damage to property and
contents. The expense is not the worst of it;
months of disruption follows as the property is
dried out and repaired.
Throughout the winter, frost is the greatest
threat to water services. UK Water Regulations
require any fitting or apparatus to be correctly
insulated to prevent frost, unless in a location
that is heated for more than 12 hours a day [2].
It seems obvious when you are scraping the ice
from the car on a frosty morning. However, the
insurance claims show that many homeowners,
landlords and tenants seem to be unaware of this
requirement.
In the worst-case scenario, the replacement
of water supply pipes is required. Traditionally
this has required major excavations outside a
property and usually a great deal of disruption
and trauma within, over several days and possibly
weeks – inevitably at high cost.
Water supply replacement – an easy alternative!
Whether or not the cause is bad weather, the
replacement of a leaking, or an old and unreliable
water supply can extend timelines and inflate
costs, sometimes to the detriment of other
aspects of a project. However,
there is now a cost-effective
solution to this previously
expensive operation. The use
of Groundbreaker’s INSUduct
allows the new water service
to be routed up the external
face of the building and
connected to the internal
plumbing above ground level.
INSUduct is also perfect
for redevelopment and
refurbishment projects. It
is the ideal product for the
replacement of original
lead water pipes, turning a
disruptive and intrusive job
into a quick and easy task.
INSUduct is also ideal for developments of multioccupancy
properties.
Designed to optimise space within the insulating
casing, up to three 32mm OD water pipes can be
installed to the exterior of the building, allowing
supplies to be installed at multiple levels of a
property with a single insulated duct running up
the property exterior.
Groundbreaker products are designed to provide
long lasting and effective thermal protection
to water pipes and fittings outside the thermal
envelope of a building. They offer frost protection
for 3 days or more with temperatures as low as
-15°C – temperatures we rarely reach in the UK,
even with today’s erratic climate!
Carefully fabricated to provide long lasting and
effective thermal protection to water pipes and
fittings in external situations, the products exceed
British Standard 5422 and all relevant Water
Regulations for frost protection.
Steve Leigh, developer of the range and
Managing Director of Groundbreaker, has over 40
years’ experience in the water industry.
“We’ve been putting pipes in holes in the ground
INSUduct only requires
one simple core drilled
hole through the wall, at an
appropriate point to connect
with the internal plumbing.
This enables most water
supply replacements to be
completed within a couple of
hours, without the traditional
mess and disruption to the
14
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Don’t let the
cold catch you
out this winter
Water Management
to protect them from
frost for decades,” he
explained. “Although
it works, today’s new
materials allow for a
much better solution.
“Keeping pipes on the
surface reduces the risk
of leaks developing and
allows for easy repair
and maintenance. It’s
just a much better
method of working.”
This isn’t just Steve’s
opinion. INSUDUCT is
the preferred method
of water supply
replacement by a
number of UK water
companies, and back
in 2018, Groundbreaker
was recognised by the HBF (Home Builders
Federation) as the Utility Company of the Year
for its innovative range that meets the highest
standards in both product specification and leak
free installation design.
The company is also a contributor to the
BPEC (British Plumbing Employers Council)
Groundworker, Service Pipe and Meter Housing
Installation Training course [3]. The course
highlights the elements of the Water Supply
(Water Fittings) Regulations 1999, relevant to
groundwork and ensures contractors have met
the minimum competency requirements for entry
into WIAPS Approved
Contractors Scheme
(Groundworker Section).
offers a practical solution to awkward situations.
For further product information, case studies and
suppliers, go to our new look website
T 01379 741993
sales@groundbreaker.co.uk
www.groundbreaker.co.uk
1. www.lovemoney.com/news/19726/themostcommon-home-insurance-claims
2. www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1999/1148/made
3. https://bpec.org.uk/qualification/
groundworkservice-pipe-and-meter-housinginstallation
In addition to INSUduct,
the Groundbreaker range
includes SHalloduct.
Another innovative
product enabling easy
installation of water
supply in situations
where water pipes
cannot be laid at the
recommended depth of
750mm – eg. over rock,
concrete, tree roots, etc.
SHalloduct offers a viable
alternative to expensive
excavations or damage
to the local environment.
Fabricated to the same
high thermal resistivity
as INSUduct, SHalloduct
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15 15

Cleaning & Hygiene
Top 7 items to NEVER use on a patio
Experts warn that many trending DIY patio cleaning
hacks, often shared as budget-friendly alternatives
on social media, could be doing more harm than
good.
From vinegar and baking soda mixtures to bleachbased
sprays and pressure washer tricks, these
well-intended home remedies are causing longterm
damage to paving, harming nearby plants,
and even posing risks to pets and children.
With thousands across the UK preparing their
gardens for late-summer BBQs and bank holiday
get-togethers, now is the time to ditch the
damaging habits and learn what to avoid when
sprucing up your outdoor space.
Patio care specialist, Alex Essex from Patio Black
Spot Removal, has shared the most common
ingredients homeowners use that can damage
Chelsea FC
welcomes
ABM as official
cleaning supplier
garden patios, “Many people assume that if
something is natural or commonly used indoors,
it’s safe to use outside, but patios are made from
very specific materials that don’t always respond
well to harsh or reactive substances. What looks
like a quick fix could lead to staining, surface
erosion or even structural damage over time.”
Top 7 items to NEVER use on a patio:
s Milk
s Vinegar
s Butter or Cooking Oil
s Salt
s Acidic Ingredients
s Caustic Soda
s Non-bio Laundry Detergent
“It might seem smart to save a few pounds using
cupboard staples, but it can end up causing more
Mrs Buckét awarded 3 year
cleaning contract at Fillcare
Mrs Buckét, the award-winning
commercial cleaning company,
has been awarded a three year
contract to clean Fillcare Ltd’s
manufacturing site at Talbot
Green in Rhondda Cynon Taf.
harm than good,” says Alex Essex, patio expert.
“When it comes to patios, what you don’t use is
just as important as what you do. Stay clear of
acidic products that can dissolve limestone and opt
for biodegradable cleaners. Or better yet, opt for a
safe patio cleaner and leave it to a professional, it’s
a small investment that protects your garden in the
long run.”
https://patioblackspotremoval.com
(Protection of Employment))
process, which ensures that
staff transfers are handled
seamlessly into the Mrs Buckét
workforce. The contract will
run for three years.
This Swansea-based
commercial cleaning firm has
extensive experience working
with manufacturing companies
around south Wales and the south West, working
in partnership with businesses to ensure the sites
and factory floors maintain high standards of
cleanliness and hygiene.
Rachael Flanagan, Mrs
Buckét’s CEO and founder,
said, “It’s great to add another
manufacturing site to our
growing roster. This sector is really important to
our business and we are proud to be working with
Fillcare, at a site which has such a history and
heritage in south Wales.
Chelsea FC has announced a new long-term
relationship with ABM, a leading provider of facility,
engineering & infrastructure solutions. The deal
sees ABM delivering best-in-class cleaning services
at Stamford Bridge & Kingsmeadow stadiums along
with the club’s Cobham training ground.
Mobilising more than 200 ABM team members, the
partnership will elevate Chelsea FC’s experience for
Blues supporters, players and staff alike – ensuring
immaculate concourses, hospitality areas, offices,
training areas and facilities.
Chelsea FC is committed to delivering a worldclass
match day environment for fans, and this
partnership ensures venues are pristine, assets
protected, and operational efficiency maximised.
Dan McEwan, Director of Partnerships, at Chelsea
FC, said, “As we kick off the new season, ensuring
all areas of the club are at their very best for
supporters, players and staff is a top priority. Clean,
well-maintained facilities are essential to a great
match day and beyond, and ABM’s proven ability
to deliver high standards across a large range of
environments makes them the ideal partner for us.”
The multi-year relationship marks a strategic
expansion into the UK and Ireland sports and
entertainment market for ABM, building on its track
record of delivering exceptional facilities solutions
across large-scale venues internationally. With more
than 50 years serving entertainment venues & over
4,000 sports & entertainment events served annually,
ABM delivers not just cleaning, but an unforgettable
visitor experience from arrival to departure.
www.abm.co.uk
Fillcare manufactures and packages hair care and
styling products for leading brands. It is the only
UK facility of its French owner Fareva and employs
350 people.
Mrs Buckét has retained Fillcare’s current cleaning
staff via the TUPE (Transfer of Undertakings
“Fillcare is a busy factory, many areas of which will
be working 247 and have parts with high footfall
and so our team is looking forward to getting stuck
in, maintaining our high standards of cleanliness,
and becoming an integral part of the Fillcare team.”
www.mrs-bucket.co.uk
Only 1 in 5 washrooms meet
hygiene cleanliness expectations
Tork, an Essity brand
and the global leader in
professional hygiene,
announces findings
of a global Insight
Survey of end users
and cleaning staff that
explored attitudes toward
hygiene in washrooms.
Tork continues to push
for inclusive hygiene
by identifying barriers
that prevent people
from comfortably meeting their needs in
public washrooms and the resulting impact on
businesses.
Significant societal shifts have taken place with
regards to awareness and accommodation of
individual physical circumstances and conditions
in washrooms in public spaces and the workplace.
Changing places are more commonly seen in
shopping centres and disabled toilet cubicles are
incorporated into the design of public washrooms,
signposted by the wheelchair sign. However,
globally 95% of people
who report physical or
cognitive conditions are
not in a wheelchair.
The global Tork Insight
Survey reveals that
many needs remain
unrecognised in
washroom design and
maintenance. In fact,
globally, 1 in 2 people
are likely to face barriers
to hygiene in washrooms meaning there is a
disconnect between their capabilities or needs
and the washroom environment. 33% of those
who report a physical or cognitive condition have
skin sensitivity, 29% have anxiety and 22% have
rheumatism. Such sensory sensitivities, cognitive
conditions or paruresis (shy bladder) can result in
people refraining from using washrooms or being
able to fully meet their needs in the washroom.
www.torkglobal.com/gb/en/about/inclusivehygiene
16
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Energy & Emergency Power
Emergency power systems – installed
Emergency power systems provide reliable
backup power when the main GRID power supply
fails. Emergency Power Fully installed or Rental
systems delivered to site to support life safety
during catastrophic power outages. INSTALLED,
temporarily or LONG TERM providing critical
power source that guarantees YOUR POWER
continues uninterrupted.
Why have emergency power systems rentals
temporally installed?
s Severe Winter Weather – Catastrophic
weather can damage any business.
s An emergency standby generator delivered to
site will power all servers and DATA storage
systems when the GRID supply has been lost
in a storm.
s Life Safety – Life safety lighting only lasts for
up to 4 hours. Emergency lighting stair ways
and fire suppression systems safeguarding
evacuation of the building in an emergency
must by LAW have emergency power
solutions. Available 24 hours a day, CALL
POWER CONTINUITY to support your site in
an emergency.
s Regulatory Compliance – Care Homes,
Hospitals, Events, Hotels, Arenas have strict
regulations regarding power backup. Power
Continuity supplies UPS power systems
backed up by standby diesel generator to
provide automatic emergency standby power
on a temporary basis or even long term hire.
Emergency power systems – bespoke, designed
for your site
From the design concept, bespoke build, through
to complete temporary installation, together with
maintenance for the duration of the hire period.
– Power Continuity is your trusted emergency
power partner. https://powercontinuity.co.uk/
emergency-power-systems
We understand the importance of emergency
power systems for enterprises of all sizes,
tailored solution, specific to your requirement.
When you need power, and require it NOW – Call
POWER CONTINUITY, we have NO Sales people
here just engineers.
Emergency Power Systems Rentals Fleet:
s Containerised UPS systems – Temporary or
Long Term Hire UPS systems to complement
an emergency power generator to provide
NO BREAK power requirements.
https://powercontinuity.co.uk/ups-hire
s Generator Size Choice – We offer a wide
range of diesel generators from leading
manufacturers, ensuring you get the right
specified equipment for your application.
s Temporary Installation – Our team of qualified
electrical engineers can handle the entire
installation process, including wiring, testing,
& commissioning. Short term hire or Long
Term Rental: Fully Installed.
s Long Term Rental Installation – Fully installed
automatic emergency standby power system,
remotely monitored, LIVE REAL TIME, 24
hours a day, every day.
s https://powercontinuity.co.uk/no-breakpower-protection
s Tech Support 24 hours a day –
Comprehensive engineering services to keep
your UPS and generators running smoothly
and efficiently, during the Rentals period.
s Fuel management – Fuel delivered and topped
up.
Emergency Power Systems Rentals – Why
Choose Power Continuity?
s 30 years in the business – Our team has 30
years experience in the industry.
s Exceptional Reliability – Our generators are
designed to start first time, in even the most
challenging conditions. Remote Locations. Top
of Mountains. Hospital Theatres.
s Non Stop Customer Service – Telephone
support 24 hours a day, everyday. Exceptional
customer service and support. Speak with
Engineers NOT sales people
s Life Safety UPS container – Walk inside UPS
systems with up to 3 hours autonomy.
s Emergency Power Systems Rental for NO
BREAK seamless power protection.
Call Power Continuity on 0845 055 8455
Website – www.powercontinuity.co.uk
EMERGENCY POWER SYSTEMS
TEMPORARY – SHORT TERM RENTAL –
LONG TERM RENTAL
Cura Energy unveils LiveEye: Actionable
intelligence for smarter energy management
Cura Energy, a leading specialist in smart energy
and building solutions, has announced the launch
of LiveEye, a next-generation energy management
platform. LiveEye is designed to turn complex
energy data into actionable intelligence for
businesses of all sizes, and across all sectors.
Empowered by independently collected, realtime
energy data, LiveEye gives organisations
clear visibility of their energy use, including
consumption rates,
source, function,
and the effects
of weather. This
transparency makes
it easier than ever
to pinpoint savings
opportunities,
reduce waste,
and optimise
performance across
entire estates.
Actionable insights
Powered by
Honeywell
SaaS, LiveEye is intelligent and self-learning,
recognising typical energy usage patterns and
flagging anomalies that could be wasting money.
Actionable alarms highlight exactly where to
focus, eliminating the need for constant screenchecking
or manual report analysis. Organisations
can also verify the ROI and impact of energy
initiatives through a dedicated measurement
and verification module, aligned with IPMVP
standards, to ensure consistent and reliable
results.
Data security is at the core of LiveEye’s design. As
an ISO 27001 certified solution, it gives customers
the confidence that their energy data is protected
to the highest international standards.
‘Final piece in the jigsaw’
Commenting on the launch of LiveEye, Carly
Higglesden,
Managing Director
of Cura Energy,
said, “2025 has
been a significant
year for Cura
Energy. We have
made significant
investments in both
the operational
and commercial
infrastructure of our
Energy Monitoring
Solutions (EMS)
service. LiveEye
is the final piece
in this jigsaw. It completes Cura’s portfolio of
energy services, giving our customers the fully
integrated energy data solution they’ve been
asking for. We believe it is the perfect partner for
a more active approach to energy management. It
brings together real-time analytics, customisable
dashboards, and intelligent automation to make
energy management simpler, smarter, and more
effective than ever before.”
With nearly 15 years of experience in Energy
Monitoring Solutions (EMS), Cura Energy
combines LiveEye’s advanced technology with
expert validation, interpretation, and optimisation
support. The result is a powerful, scalable platform
suitable for everything from single-site operations
to complex multi-site estates, helping businesses
cut operational costs, reduce emissions, and stay
ahead of energy compliance demands.
LiveEye is now available through Cura Energy’s
turnkey EMS packages, with both online and inperson
demonstration sessions open for booking.
Contact
www.curaenergy.co.uk
https://pages.curaenergy.co.uk/live-eyeactionable-energy-intelligence
18
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Lighting & Electrical
Shield selects
Sync Energy as it
switches to electric
When specialist technical contractor,
Shield committed to transforming its
fleet of company cars to electrical –
and knowing that the van fleet was
also planned – it decided to install a
comprehensive EV charging facility
at its new head office in Bristol.
Working with Sync Energy, part of
the Luceco Group, the company
opted for Sync Energy
Pro Charger Twin
Wall Mounted EV
Chargers as being the
best commercial EV
charging solution for
the increasing volume
of use.
As Edward Vill,
Electrical Operations
Manager, Shield
Mechanical Electrical
& Facilities Services
explained, “We
already had single chargers but the
ongoing move to electric, combined
with increasing demand from visitors
to the site meant that when we
moved to new premises, a better and
bigger solution was not only needed
but with Sync Energy it was possible
and practical.”
Twin Charger, WC2s and load
balancer
With twin Type 2 socket outlets, a
backlit intuitive colour touchscreen,
and built in 4G connectivity, MCB and
MID metres as standard, the Sync
Energy Pro Charger supports Monta
QR code, RFID, Plug and Charge,
and Payment Terminal Charging, if
required.
The Pro Charger range
features Twin Bollard
EV Chargers, available
with or without
amenity lighting
option, and Twin Wallmounted
Chargers.
Both the wallmounted
and bollard
options come with
PEN fault detection,
touchscreen, RFID,
4G connectivity, and
an MID meter as standard. This
comprehensive suite of features
ensures that our chargers are not
only user-friendly but also future
proof, catering to a wide array of
commercial applications.
https://sync.energy
Belisha & Refuge Beacons
AmberGLO8
8W LED Beacon, reflective
white banding
OlympiadIPB
30W LED Beacon with illuminated
and reflective white banding
Luceco launches
stylish LED Cirrus
Luceco, the LED lighting specialist,
has launched Cirrus, making highperformance
suspended lighting both
stylish and easy for modern projects.
Luceco has launched Cirrus, a nextgeneration
architectural suspended
luminaire designed to simplify
lighting control and elevate modern
interiors. Whether you’re delivering
a sleek retail space, a commercial
hub, or an upscale residential
development, Cirrus is engineered to
perform and integrate effortlessly.
Available in 2ft and 4ft diameters, it
delivers up to 7,600 lumens of crisp,
neutral white light (4,000K), ensuring
consistent illumination across larger
spaces. The fixture comes with an
adjustable 5m suspension kit, with
power neatly concealed within
the suspension wire for a refined,
professional finish.
With DALI dimmable capability builtin
as standard, Cirrus is plug-and-play
ready for lighting control systems,
with no additional components to
worry about. This streamlined setup
translates to faster installs, fewer callbacks,
and smoother handovers.
Need flexibility? Cirrus is fully
compatible with the Luceco Platform
Wireless system, giving contractors
and project managers the power
to plan smart lighting schemes
that scale easily. Whether wired or
wireless, integration is seamless.
Cirrus is a powerhouse solution
tailored for high-demand
environments – commercial, retail,
and large-scale residential alike.
Choose between 36W (4,500lm) or
76.8W (7,600lm) variants to suit the
scale and intensity of your project.
Like all Luceco products, Cirrus is
backed by a 5 year warranty and
the brand’s dedicated technical
support, ensuring reliability long after
installation day.
With Cirrus, Luceco makes highperformance
suspended lighting
straightforward – for you, your team,
and your clients.
For technical specs, installation
guides, or to request a product
sample, visit: www.luceco.com or
contact your Luceco representative.
Feeder Pillars
We manufacture and supply a huge range of Feeder Pillars to suit every
purpose in galvanised or stainless steel and GRP, shell only or pre-wired
Lodestar
LED Refuge Beacon
12W with Pearl Globe
and Traffic Grey
Gallery
Sentinel26
Refuge upgrade total
26W High Visability
LED Beacon with 2No.
Illuminated reflective
white bands, suitable
for both retro-fit or
new install
For every type of power distribution, EV Charging, MRI for Hospitals, Sports &
Leisure, Parks & Gardens, Events & Markets, Multi-Service & Multi-User
Full range of accessories – Courtesy Shields, LED Crossing Spotlights,
Bracket Arms and retrofit spare such as Reflective White Bands etc.
Quality Feeder Pillars from stock or made to order, fast turnarounds with
unrivalled service
EST 1982
Contact our Sales Team now on 0333 666 2122
or email info@fisherandcompany.co.uk
Visit www.fisherandcompany.co.uk to view our range of products
1-4 Cary Court, Somerton Business Park, Somerton, Somerset TA11 6SB
20
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

InstallerSHOW Review – Top Exhibitors
Industry and trades unite at record-breaking
InstallerSHOW 2025
InstallerSHOW 2025 turned Birmingham’s NEC into
the UK’s largest ever live forum for installation and
specification, drawing 31,000 industry professionals
from 24-26 June.
Across 800+ exhibitor stands, more than 100 CPDaccredited
sessions, and The HAUS – a full-scale,
two-storey house build – visitors gained handson
access to next-generation products, practical
training, and procurement partners, underscoring
the show’s status as the sector’s premier event.
Stand-out features on the show floor reinforced
InstallerSHOW’s reputation for hands-on
innovation. Centre stage was The HAUS, a full-scale
property erected at the heart of Hall 4 and officially
opened by television presenter Laura Hamilton.
Packed with the technological innovations in the
built environment, the walk-through build drew
continuous crowds eager to see whole home
solutions in action.
Across the venue, 11 live content theatres delivered
more than 100 CPD-accredited seminars, panels
and demonstrations led by industry leaders,
technical specialists and well-known trade
personalities. The ever-popular InstallerTRADES
zone returned with tool demonstrations and
debates on the challenges facing frontline across
the construction industry, while theatres dedicated
to HVACR, electrical, kitchens, bathrooms, building
safety, surfaces and more highlighted the sectorspecific
topics that are dominating the conversation
around sustainability.
InstallerSHOW 2025 brought together the biggest
brands in manufacture and supply from the full
spectrum of the built environment – including
international market leaders such as Vaillant,
Viessmann, Bosch, Navien, Hansgrohe, Häfele,
Grohe, Geberit, Egger, and Wienerberger –
alongside key distributors like Wolseley Group,
MKM, City Plumbing, Travis Perkins Group, The
IPG, and Wickes. In addition, the speaker roster
counted current and former ministers and highranking
politicians among its number – notably
Miatta Fahnbulleh, Sir Grant Shapps, Robert Jenrick
and Bill Esterson – alongside former Olympic and
Commonwealth champions, comedy legends, TV
personalities, and ex-professional footballers.
Planning for 2026 is well underway, with
InstallerSHOW set to return to the NEC Birmingham
from 23-25 June. Next year’s event will also host
the World Plumbing Conference; a gathering
of international delegates focused on exploring
global solutions in the sector. Under the theme
‘Worldwide Problems – Global Solutions’, the
international assembly arrives on UK shores for the
very first time.
InstallerSHOW is also heading stateside in 2026
with the launch of InstallerSHOW New York (18-19
March, Javits Center) – bringing everything that’s
made InstallerSHOW the UK’s premier event to a
US audience.
This is our pick of the best exhibitors from this
year’s show, listed here in alphabetical order: City
Training Group, Design Odysssey, Gaia Climate
Solutions, Heights & RA Tech. Further details can be
found on this page and the next three.
www.installershow.com
22
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Radiwarm: Comfort, safety & style in every room
Radiwarm is proudly
manufactured
in Halifax, West
Yorkshire, at the longestablished
Heights
manufacturing facility.
Heights has been a
leader in precision
engineering for over
50 years, working
with major global
brands across a
range of industries.
Building on that
expertise, the Radiwarm brand was launched
over 20 years ago – originally known as Heat
Electric – with a mission to create efficient,
reliable, and stylish electric radiators. Today,
Radiwarm combines decades of engineering
know-how with a clear focus on modern heating
solutions, making us a trusted name in homes
and commercial spaces across the UK.
At the heart of
our range are two
standout products –
the Radiwarm Safe
Touch (LST) and the
Radiwarm Signature.
Each reflects our
commitment to safety,
performance and
design, while meeting
the diverse needs of
our customers.
The Radiwarm
Safe Touch (LST) is
Cli-Mate excited to return to InstallerSHOW
After a hugely successful
InstallerSHOW in 2025, we’re
delighted to confirm that Cli-Mate
will be back at the 2026 event. The
show is always a highlight in our
calendar, giving us the chance to
meet installers, demonstrate our
systems, and showcase the many
ways we support projects across
the UK.
InstallerSHOW Review – Top Exhibitors
designed for absolute
peace of mind. Ideal for
schools, care homes,
hospitals and other
sensitive environments, it
delivers consistent warmth
while keeping external
surface temperatures safe
to touch – dramatically
reducing the risk of burns
or accidental injury. With
its robust build, energy
efficiency and compliance
with strict safety standards,
the Safe Touch has become the go-to solution
for organisations that cannot afford to
compromise on safety.
Meanwhile, the Radiwarm Signature is the
choice for modern living. Combining the feel
of a traditional radiator with the advantages
of advanced electric heating, no other
electric radiator matches the Signature’s
combination of quality,
performance, and
design. Its water-filled
technology ensures
natural, even heat,
while smart controls
allow precise, roomby-room
temperature
management. Perfect
for homeowners, selfbuilders,
and developers
seeking a high-quality,
low-maintenance
heating solution.
Both ranges are powered by Radiwarm’s unique
technology, ensuring rapid response and longterm
reliability. Unlike outdated storage heaters
Radiwarm products adapt to today’s lifestyles
– providing safe, stylish, and sustainable heat
where it’s needed most.
As we look to the future, our focus remains the
same as it was over 20 years ago: to design
heating solutions that deliver comfort, safety
and sustainability. Whether it’s safeguarding
residents in a care setting or adding a touch
of warmth and elegance to a family home,
RadiWarm is proud to be the trusted name in
British electric heating.
Use our easy-to-follow Room Size Guide to
find the perfect fit for your space. If you need
further assistance, our team is here to help.
T 01422 231943
info@radiwarm.com
https://radiwarm.com/room-size-guide
https://radiwarm.com
relationships, answer technical
questions, and demonstrate how
Cli-Mate Underfloor Heating goes
beyond supplying systems to
provide full project support. The
response we received confirmed
that our approach is valued, and
it reinforced our commitment to
continuing to work closely with
the installer community.
This year, our stand drew strong
interest as we presented both our
wet and electric underfloor heating
systems. Installers were able to
see the quality and flexibility of
our products first-hand, from small
retrofits to large-scale new builds,
we offer solutions that suit every
type of project.
One of the biggest successes was
our live quoting service. Installers brought
plans directly to the stand, and we provided
accurate project quotes on the day. This
reflected what we already deliver yearround:
a fast quote turnaround and a free
design service that helps installers move
from enquiry to installation quickly and with
confidence.
Visitors were also keen to hear about
our exclusive trade discounts, which
give installers more competitive pricing.
Combined with our on-site support visits, we
ensure partners feel fully backed from design
through to installation.
Our partnership with Mitsubishi Ecodan
was another major talking point. When
paired with their air source heat pumps, our
underfloor heating creates a highly efficient,
low-carbon package. This is an increasingly
important option for installers seeking to
deliver future-ready heating solutions to their
customers.
InstallerSHOW 2025 was more than just
a showcase – it was a chance to build
We’re already preparing for
InstallerSHOW 2026 and looking
forward to building on this
year’s success. Whether you’re
interested in rapid quotes, expert
designs, exclusive trade offers,
or renewable-ready systems, Cli-
Mate is here to help.
Come and see us at InstallerSHOW
2026 – and discover how we can
work together to deliver efficient, reliable,
and sustainable heating solutions.
T 01284 339669
sales@cli-mate.co.uk
www.cli-mate.co.uk
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15 23

InstallerSHOW Review – Top Exhibitors
City Training Group: Powering the
future of skills in heat, water, air,
energy, and the built environment
Courses that match industry needs
Our training portfolio is broad, practical,
and designed to meet the needs of today’s
professionals across heat, water, air, energy, and
the built environment.
City Training Group is one of the UK’s leading
providers of professional trade training. Based in
a purpose-built, state-of-the-art training centre
just off Junction 32 of the M4 in Llanishen,
Cardiff, we help professionals across the country
gain the qualifications and practical skills they
need to succeed.
Who we are and what we do
We specialise in delivering accredited training
courses from major awarding bodies, alongside
in-house certifications and UK-wide NVQs.
Our training is designed for a wide range of
learners, from sole traders and independent
tradespeople to large national corporations.
Every learner comes to us with the same goal:
to gain or renew the certificates required to work
in their chosen field and to maintain the highest
professional standards.
Our training covers a broad range of sectors,
including electrical, plumbing, heating, gas,
and the fast-growing renewables industry.
By working closely with industry bodies and
employers, we ensure our courses remain
relevant, practical, and aligned with the latest
regulations.
A training centre designed for success
Our Cardiff facility has been purpose-built to
provide the best possible learning environment.
The centre features modern classrooms,
practical training bays, and specialist equipment
designed to replicate real-life working
conditions. This allows learners to develop both
their technical knowledge and their hands-on
skills, ensuring they leave fully prepared for the
workplace.
We invest heavily in the
latest technology and
training tools. From
renewable energy systems
such as EV chargers, air
source heat pumps and
solar PV, to gas-fired
appliances, domestic
ventilation units, and so
much more – learners gain
direct experience with the
tools and systems they will
encounter every day on
the job.
Examples include:
s Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems – equipping
electricians to design, install, and maintain
renewable energy technologies.
s Unvented Hot Water Systems – essential
certification for plumbers and heating
engineers.
s 18th Edition Wiring Regulations – keeping
electricians compliant with the latest
standards.
s Level 3 NVQ Diplomas – providing formal
recognition of skills and experience across
the trades.
These courses reflect the current and future
needs of the industry, ensuring learners are
fully qualified and confident to meet client
expectations.
Supporting all learners
City Training Group works with a wide variety
of learners, and we provide flexible
options to suit busy schedules,
ensuring every student
receives the support they
need to succeed.
Experienced trainers
with real-world
knowledge
Our trainers are highly
skilled and bring a
wealth of real-world
experience. Each has
spent years working
in their trade before
moving into training,
meaning they understand
the pressures, challenges,
and expectations learners will
face once qualified.
This combination of teaching expertise and
industry knowledge ensures learners gain not
only technical competence but also practical
insights into how to apply those skills effectively
in the workplace.
Leading the way in
renewables
One of the most exciting areas
of growth is in renewable
technologies. With the UK
working towards a net-zero
carbon future, the demand
for skilled professionals
in renewables is rapidly
increasing. City Training
Group is at the forefront of
this transition, providing
high-quality training for
tradespeople looking to enter
or expand within the renewables sector.
Our renewables training includes solar PV,
battery storage, and air source heat pumps,
giving electricians, plumbers, and heating
engineers the chance to build a career in one of
the fastest-growing and most important areas of
the industry.
By training with us, learners are not only keeping
up with demand but also helping to drive the
shift towards a cleaner, greener energy
future.
Building the future together
The pace of change across
the built environment
is accelerating. New
technologies and higher
standards are shaping
how we heat, power,
and manage our
homes and workplaces.
The businesses and
individuals that succeed
will be those who invest
in their skills and adapt to
meet these demands.
City Training Group provides
the knowledge, the qualifications,
and the confidence to make that possible.
Whether you are an individual tradesperson
looking to gain certification or a large
organisation seeking to upskill your workforce,
we are here to help you succeed.
T 02920 755880
info@citytraining.com
Visit our website for more information on the
courses we offer and to book online:
https://citytraining.com
24
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Design Odyssey
Design Odyssey Ltd was formed
to develop and manufacture
the Vertebrae, the world’s first,
all-in-one, vertical bathroom,
Vertebrae ® .
Installers are
always seeking
products that are
easy to install and
maintain, which
gives them added
confidence when
working to the
clock or in a tight
space. Installers
will appreciate
the clever design
and discrete
engineering,
which makes this
a true plug-nplay
product.
They will easily
understand
how easy it
is to install,
commission,
maintain and
replace any parts.
Vertebrae ® is designed to go in
a wet-room environment, with
all the above floor plumbing
Breaking down the e-van barriers with rental
Many businesses are beginning
to add electric vans to their
fleets, but for others there are
significant barriers holding them
back, despite their desire to
cut carbon emissions. Recent
research from Europcar found
that 39% of fleet operators do
not yet have e-vans on fleet.
38% of these operators said
they do not believe e-vans to be
fit for purpose, and 15% were
held back by the cost.
The full results of the study are
published in a white paper, ‘Van
electrification: understanding barriers,
identifying solutions’ which looks into why
electrification for vans is progressing slower
than it is for cars, and shares how rental
could hold the key to accelerating adoption.
One reason vans are lagging behind cars
is the demand their size and weight put on
battery range. However, while we wait for
the technology to catch up with business
need, many fleets are finding that they
can make use of the e-vans currently
available. The challenge is, until a business
can experience an electric van in the real
world, for a real day’s work, they will not be
confident enough to invest in making the
switch. This is where rental comes in.
provided with the product. It
fits securely to the floor and
ceiling in a stacking formation,
with a shroud to hide the ceiling
fixing. The 4
units all rotate for
ease of use and
are strong and
robust. The units
have easy access
panels to aid with
installation and
maintenance.
Vertebrae ® only
takes 3 hours to
install and test
the plumbing
connections.
No other trades
need to finish
the room off as
the Vertebrae
is installed last.
The product is
universal as it
will fit in a left- or
right-hand corner.
Available in any
colour.
M 07765 048990
paul@designodyssey.co.uk
www.designodyssey.co.uk
InstallerSHOW Review – Top Exhibitors
When van users rent electric for the first
time, most of their previous concerns
and anxieties are resolved. Increasing the
breadth of choice and growing the fleet to
increase vehicle availability at a wider range
of locations across the Europcar network
is helping more businesses find out how
electric vans can fit into their business.
To help businesses try before they buy, we
are continually expanding the Europcar
fleet with electric vans in a range of sizes to
meet all business needs. The latest models
to join the fleet include the Vauxhall Combo
and Renault Kangoo, Mercedes-Benz e-Vito,
Vauxhall Vivaro, Peugeot Expert and Ford
Custom. The growing fleet of electric vans,
Revolutionise HVAC
Projects with hotun
dry trap tundishes and
hotun detect alarms
Installations need to
be efficient, compliant
and sustainable and the
hotun range is designed
accordingly for the
specifier, installer and end
user. Solutions for every
project, backed with a 10
year warranty. The hotun
dry trap tundish can be
connected to an internal
drain saving over £30 and
hours of labour within a
single product and fitting from just
73mm between pipes.
The hotun products are
independently flow tested to be
matched to an installation with
various fitting, colour and connection
options. The hotun detect alarm
variants provide an instant alert to
unwanted passing water, enabling
early intervention, saving wasted
energy and water and restoring
visibility at point of discharge even
behind doors or panelling.
With the hotun tundish
residual water is easily
noticeable even after
water has stopped
dripping, essential for
diagnosis. The hotun
range is suitable for
new build and retrofit
projects, keeping
installation time and
budgets to a minimum.
The hotun range is
award winning and certified (KIWA,
WRAS) to give you confidence.
Choose hotun to enhance system
specification, reduce environmental
impact, and deliver value for clients.
hotun : Smarter control. Greater
efficiency. Guaranteed results.
hotun It’s not just a tundish.
T 01332 702678
info@ratechuk.co.uk
www.hotun.co.uk
Transport
complemented by expert
support at every stage of the
rental, is helping commercial
vehicle drivers confidently
switch to greener mobility.
Customers renting an electric
van also gain access to the full
suite of Octopus Electroverse
features, including a real-time
charger map with availability,
speed and cost details as well
as route planning functionality
based on range and chargers
along the route.
To find out more about Europcar electric
van solutions, visit: www.europcar.co.uk
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15 25

Health & Safety
Invoice finance fuels supplier confidence
and improved business performance
for Lincoln CDM Services
Lincoln CDM Services, a leading health
and safety consultant specialising in
construction safety, is using tailored
invoice finance support from eCapital
to strengthen its partner relationships
and enable smooth business
operations.
Based in Lincoln, the business
specialises in construction safety
and offers a bespoke advisory
service in health and safety matters
to businesses across a broad range
of sectors, serving clients across
diverse industries including energy,
manufacturing and beverages.
As a small business that relies on a
network of subcontractors to deliver
client projects, delayed client payments previously
made it difficult for Lincoln CDM Services to pay
invoices within their 30 day term, which in turn
impacted their operational viability.
To overcome the challenges that it faced waiting for
client invoices to be fulfilled while also maintaining
strong supplier relationships, the business turned
to eCapital for invoice finance solutions. Invoice
finance enables the company to ensure it meets
its payment deadlines while retaining the strong
supplier relationships that it relies on to ensure
consistent delivery of client work.
Emma White, Finance and Operations Manager
at Lincoln CDM Services, explained, “By using
eCapital we can ensure we have the cashflow we
need to keep on top of our bills in a timely manner
without the anticipation of possible overdue
invoices. With a small in-house team, we rely on
subcontractors to take on bigger client projects,
which means without the cashflow for timely
payments, these projects can't be completed.”
With dedicated teams based across the UK,
eCapital delivers a personalised service built on
local insight and a deep understanding of each
client’s specific business needs.
“The customer service that the
relationship managers at eCapital
provide is unmatched, with their
immediate responses to emails and
calls and their willingness to help and
guide us. We’ve used other invoice
finance services before that don’t
compare,” Emma added.
“The eCapital team are all incredibly
supportive and friendly and ensure
that they check in regularly to maintain
a really strong relationship. I have
been really impressed with their
consistency and support to help our
business thrive.”
James Cresswell, Regional Managing Director at
eCapital, added, “Lincoln CDM Services provides a
vital service across its diverse client range.
“We’re immensely proud that we’ve been able
to support the company to maintain cashflow
and reduce the stress of waiting for customer
payments. We look forward to continuing this
relationship and helping the business as it
continues to serve the needs of its clients.”
To find out more about eCapital and invoice
finance, visit: https://ecapital.com/en-gb
26
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Health & Safety
The power of simplicity
sits within the CheckedSafe platform, your
licence checks and vehicle compliance data
can work seamlessly together, giving you a
complete picture of your fleet’s risk profile.
Digitising GB Domestic hours
For operators working under GB Domestic
rules, compliance can be especially tricky.
Paper logbooks are still widely used, but
they’re prone to errors, not being completed,
or being misplaced. Recognising this,
CheckedSafe became the first company
in the UK to digitise GB Domestic hours
recording, creating a faster, smarter, and fully
compliant alternative to paper.
Our GB Domestic Hours App allows drivers
to record their hours retrospectively,
ensuring every journey is captured
accurately. The app automatically highlights
potential infringements and alerts users
before issues arise, helping both drivers and
managers stay compliant with the rules.
At CheckedSafe, we know that compliance
and fleet management can sometimes feel
like a never-ending juggling act. Having
to manage daily walkaround checks,
maintenance schedules, licence checking,
and drivers’ hours can be stressful.
Many fleets find compliance both time
consuming and stressful, and that’s exactly
why CheckedSafe was founded, to simplify
compliance for everyone, whether you
manage five vehicles or five thousand. Our
mission is clear, to save you time, reduce
costs, and give you the solutions you need
to stay compliant without the complications.
Our award-winning Vehicle Compliance
solution has become a trusted tool for
thousands of transport operators. It’s built
on one simple mission, to make compliance
easier, faster, and far more visible, for just £1
per vehicle, per week.
Your drivers can carry out daily vehicle
checks directly through our easy-touse
mobile app, using bespoke digital
checklists tailored to your fleet. Defects are
logged instantly and sent straight to the
management portal, where you can monitor
and resolve issues in real time. Maintenance
schedules are all in the same place to replace
your old-fashioned wall planners, removing
the need for spreadsheets, endless email
trails and several different management and
maintenance systems.
No more mountains of paperwork, no
chasing missing check sheets, and no
surprises during audits. Everything is digital,
accurate, and accessible at the click of a
button, a paperless system that not only
saves time but also helps reduce errors.
Our customers tell us time and again
that CheckedSafe has transformed their
operations. What once took hours of manual
work now takes minutes. Managers can
see instantly which vehicles are safe, which
have defects, which need attention, and
which drivers have completed their checks
properly. The result? Safer fleets, stronger
compliance, and more time to focus on what
really matters, running the business.
Driving licence checking made effortless
We also understand that fleet compliance
is about more than just vehicles, it’s about
people. Every employer has a legal duty to
ensure their drivers are properly licensed
and entitled to be on the road and have
the correct endorsements for their vehicle.
Yet, manual licence checking can be one of
the most frustrating and overlooked tasks.
That’s why CheckedSafe developed our fully
automated Driving Licence Checking service,
after requests from several customers to
simplify the process. In January 2023, we
launched one of the simplest, most costeffective
systems on the market.
Unlike other providers, we don’t charge
setup fees, any hidden costs, or use a
confusing credit system. Our pricing is
transparent (£1.60 per check!), and our
technology does the hard work for you. Once
drivers provide their consent by e-signing
the mandate that mirrors the D906 and
simply taking a photo of the front and back
of their licence, our system automatically
checks their licence data against the DVLA
at your chosen frequency, using a risk-based
model to check higher risk drivers more
frequently.
It’s fast, reliable, and designed to give
transport managers total peace of mind and
visibility. You’ll always know that every driver
is legally compliant and safe to operate,
without the need for manual reminders
or spreadsheets. And because everything
All data is stored securely and can be
accessed instantly by managers through the
back-office portal. Drivers can also download
timesheets as PDFs if they’re ever required
to display them during roadside checks. The
result is a smooth, transparent system that
eliminates human error, improves efficiency,
and reduces stress.
For operators used to the old paper process,
the difference is night and day. What was
once a manual, error-prone task has become
a quick, digital workflow that keeps everyone
on the same page for just £1 per week, per
user.
One platform, complete confidence
At CheckedSafe, we don’t believe
compliance should be complicated or costly.
Whether you’re using our vehicle compliance
tools, licence checking service, or GB
Domestic Hours App, everything connects
through the same platform. That means one
login, one portal, and one place to manage
your entire compliance process.
Why CheckedSafe?
Because we’ve built our technology around
the real challenges businesses face every
day. We don’t believe in overcomplicating
things or charging for unnecessary extras.
Our focus is on value, simplicity, and
reliability, delivering practical tools that make
compliance effortless.
From small local operators to large fleets,
thousands of businesses trust CheckedSafe
to keep them safe, compliant, and auditready
every single day. Why not give us a try
with a free 30 day trial?
T 01282 908429
info@checkedsafe.com
www.checkedsafe.com
www.linkedin.com/company/checkedsafe
www.facebook.com/checkedsafe
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15 27

Homes UK Preview
TAKING PLACE AT
The Residential Building Safety Summit is
your must attend event this November
This November, building safety faces
increasing pressure for action. New electrical
safety regulations will have come into force,
PEEPs requirements loom in April 2026, and
remediation deadlines are fast approaching.
The Residential Building Safety Summit, (25-26
November 2025, ExCeL London), is your can’t
miss opportunity to cut through complexity,
benchmark with peers, and leave with practical
strategies to lead with confidence.
Taking place at Housing Week London, this
unique event will bring together the full
spectrum of building safety leaders – from
housing associations, councils and developers
to fire safety professionals and compliance
officers. Aimed to help professionals in design,
construction, and building control to comply with
building safety regulations and manage fire risks.
The 2025 programme is stacked with unmissable
days of sector-specific insights where you’ll learn
directly from leading voices and legal experts,
with the chance to gain practical tools and
regulatory expertise including:
s Navigate Gateway 1-3 and Approved
Document B updates
s Manage fire risk and structural integrity
s Tackle cladding remediation head-on
s Implement the golden thread and strengthen
data management
s Engage residents on safety concerns
s Prepare for upcoming Building Safety Levy
changes
s With updates direct from policymakers,
hands-on sessions, and expert panels,
you’ll leave with actionable strategies to
strengthen your compliance systems – and
the confidence to protect both residents and
reputations.
We’re delighted to announce that award-winning
journalist, author, and leading building safety
commentator, Pete Apps, will chair these vital
conversations at the Residential Building Safety
Summit.
Pete will be joined by an array of featured
speakers including Dan Hollas (Director of
building safety, Clarion Housing Group), Dr
Barbara Lane CEng FREng FRSE FIAE (Fellow,
Arup) and Wale Ogundeko B.Eng, MBA, MIFSM,
AIFireE, DipFD (Lead building safety manager,
L&Q Housing Group), among others.
By registering for this exciting event, you'll also
gain full access to HOMES UK and Unlock Net
Zero Live, ensuring you stay at the forefront of
sector leading innovation and expert insight.
In partnership with Buildings and Facilities News,
we’re pleased to offer you free tickets to attend
the Residential Building Safety Summit.
<< Book using this link to secure your free
tickets >>
Find out more:
https://residentialbuildingsafetysummit.co.uk
Check out the agenda:
https://residentialbuildingsafetysummit.co.uk/
agenda
Explore what else is on during Housing Week
London:
https://housingweeklondon.co.uk
For enquiries, please contact:
Marketing.Housing@oceanmedia.co.uk
28
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Homes UK Preview
Award-winning construction company
Bailey Partnership will
be exhibiting at HOMES
UK 2025 on the 25-26
November at ExCeL,
London on Stand:
Pod P.
Since 1971, Bailey
Partnership has
established itself as a
leading multidisciplinary
construction and
design consultancy. For over five decades, the
firm has delivered outstanding services across
architecture, surveying, engineering, building
safety, project management, interior design, and
more, consistently earning a reputation for quality
and reliability.
With multiple offices across the UK and Europe,
Bailey Partnership is recognised by clients,
government agencies, professional bodies, local
communities, and industry peers as a trusted
partner. Known for delivering value for money,
high-quality outcomes, and projects completed to
exacting standards, the consultancy continues to
exceed expectations at every stage.
The company’s leadership is made up of
Executive Directors spanning diverse disciplines –
from architecture and civil/structural engineering
to quantity surveying, building surveying, and
specialist expertise in fire and façades. Bailey
Partnership is a Chartered Member Practice of
the RIBA, RICS, CIBSE, and CIAT, underscoring
its credentials as a design-led, award-winning
consultancy of the highest professional standard.
the firm provides
integrated, coordinated,
and
multidisciplinary
professional services.
UK Construction
Companies, such as
Building Magazine,
recognised Bailey
Partnership in the
Building Good Employer
Guide 2025 for its
commitment to employee wellbeing and diversity
initiatives like the 10,000 Black Interns programme
and a supportive sabbatical policy. They were
also named in the Building’s Top 150 Consultants
2025, where Bailey Partnership rose to 64th place,
recognising its success across architecture,
project management, surveying, and engineering
disciplines.
Operating across a wide range of sectors –
including leisure, education, healthcare, heritage,
fire engineering and building safety, commercial
and retail, industrial, and protective environments
– Bailey Partnership applies the same rigorous
balance of cost awareness, professional
management, and innovative design across all its
work.
As HOMES UK is co-located with Unlock Net Zero
Live, Bailey Partnership highlights its commitment
to addressing climate change and reducing
carbon emissions within the built environment.
Recognising the responsibility that comes with
being designers and consultants, the firm has set
a bold target of achieving Net Zero by 2030 – both
as a business and within the buildings it delivers.
This commitment is supported by a robust
PPN-0621 Carbon Reduction Plan and Net Zero
Strategy, alongside active participation in the RIBA
2030 Climate Challenge.
As Bailey Partnership (Group) Ltd continues to
evolve, its focus remains firmly on sustainable
growth, innovation, and delivering excellence
across every project undertaken. With a clear
strategy to expand its expertise and presence
across new sectors and regions, it is investing
in its people, embracing new technologies, and
strengthening partnerships to shape a resilient,
forward-looking practice. Its intent is simple – to
build a legacy of design and consultancy that
continues to make a meaningful impact for its
clients, communities, and the built environment.
https://baileypartnership.co.uk
Ranked among the Building Top 150 consultants,
Wiggett Group
We at Wiggett Group are
passionate about repairing
our planet and we know that
climate change can be solved
by accelerating our sectors
transition to net-zero emissions.
Sustainability is critical in
social housing for several
reasons. Social housing
is often occupied by lowincome
families who are most
vulnerable to the negative
impacts of climate change.
Ensuring that these homes
are energy-efficient and have
minimal environmental impact
can help to reduce energy bills
and improve the overall living
conditions of the residents.
Secondly, social housing
providers have a responsibility
to reduce their carbon footprint
and contribute towards a more
sustainable future. By adopting
sustainable practices, such
as using renewable energy
sources, reducing waste and
emissions, and implementing
green infrastructure, social
housing providers can lead
the way in building a more
sustainable society.
Finally, sustainable social
housing can also help to
reduce the overall impact
of urbanisation on the
environment. As cities
continue to grow, there is an
increasing need for affordable
housing that is sustainable
and environmentally friendly.
By incorporating sustainable
design principles into social
housing projects, we can create
more liveable and resilient
communities that are better
equipped to face the challenges
of the future.
Contact
T 01277 231906
info@wiggettgroup.com
www.wiggettgroup.com
The importance of
proper ventilation in
homes
Maintaining good indoor air
quality is essential for our
well-being, regardless of the
outdoor temperature. ​Poor
ventilation can lead to several
issues, including mould
growth, unpleasant odours,
condensation on windows
and walls, and the gradual
deterioration of a building’s
structure. ​We know that
mould growth, in particular,
poses significant health risks,
while inadequate ventilation
can also increase house dust
mites, leading to allergies and
respiratory problems. ​
Vectaire has several ranges of
products which ensure optimal
air quality and low noise levels
at economical running costs. ​
They are designed to meet the
needs of modern homes while
prioritising energy efficiency and
environmental sustainability. ​
With features like holiday mode,
filter replacement indicators,
and advanced commissioning
options, these systems provide
convenience and reliability for
homeowners. ​
Investing in proper ventilation
is not just about comfort – it’s
about safeguarding health,
preserving the integrity of your
home, and contributing to a
sustainable future.
Vectaire will show its latest
models at HOMES UK on Stand
H632.
T 01494 522333
F 01494 522337
www.vectaire.co.uk
30
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

EFAM Air: Trusted ventilation expertise
delivering indoor air excellence
Homes UK Preview
For more than a quarter of a century, EFAM Air
has set the standard for practical, high-quality
ventilation and indoor air quality (IAQ) solutions
across the UK. Founded by Karl Edwards,
the company was born from a clear belief:
ventilation cannot be treated as an afterthought
or a box-ticking exercise. Instead, EFAM Air
champions a strategic, whole-building approach
that prioritises the health and comfort of the
people who live and work
inside it.
That philosophy is visible
in every project the team
undertakes. EFAM Air
provides full-service
solutions across domestic
and commercial sectors
– from new builds and
retrofits to ongoing planned
maintenance. Its engineers
are qualified to install, inspect
and maintain every major
ventilation format, including MVHR (mechanical
ventilation with heat recovery), MEV and
PIV systems, alongside extract ventilation
and specialist services such as fire damper
inspection, testing and maintenance. Whether
it’s a single flat, a multi-unit residential block, an
office complex or a community facility, EFAM
Air tailors cost-effective strategies that balance
performance, compliance and lifecycle value.
Quality underpins everything. EFAM Air works
closely with leading IAQ product manufacturers
to specify and deliver proven technology, and
the company is active in shaping the guidance
and standards that govern the industry.
This technical collaboration ensures clients
receive solutions founded on the latest best
practice – not guesswork – and helps EFAM Air
maintain the consistent, dependable service
that thousands of customers
nationwide rely on.
Beyond technical excellence,
EFAM Air is committed to
tangible community impact.
As the official Ventilation
Partner of Crystal Palace
Football Club, the company
brings its expertise to local
initiatives and works in
partnership with the Palace
Foundation for Life to support
opportunities in disability
sport. This local engagement reflects EFAM Air’s
broader mission: healthier indoor environments
should be accessible to everyone, not just a
privileged few.
In an era where people spend the majority
of their lives indoors, the difference between
average ventilation and exceptional air quality
matters. EFAM Air’s combination of deep
industry experience, manufacturer partnerships
and a people-first philosophy positions the
company as a market leader in practical
IAQ solutions. For building owners, facilities
managers and specifiers seeking reliable
performance, regulatory know-how and a
partner who understands the importance of the
air we breathe, EFAM Air delivers proven results
– every time.
Contact
T 0800 084 3520
help@Efamair.com
www.efamair.com
phs Compliance appoints new
Managing Director
phs Compliance, one of the UK’s leading
providers of FM and compliance services,
has appointed Jonathan Mackie as Managing
Director.
Based in Warrington, phs
Compliance works with over
35,000 business sites across
the country providing
everything to stay
safe and compliant,
including electrical
testing and remedial
services and fire
systems service and
maintenance.
Jonathan
Mackie joins phs
Compliance, which
is part of the phs
Group, with over 25
years’ experience as a
commercial director and an
extensive background in global
service links.
Prior to joining phs Compliance, Jonathan
was global commercial director for a major
multinational company and has spent the
majority of his career working in commercial
facilities management services.
Jonathan said, “phs Compliance has an
excellent reputation with its customers and
I want to build on that. I want a
relentless focus on customer
service to ensure we are
delivering the highest
quality and standards.
“Innovation will also
be a focal point to
ensure we keep
ahead of the market
and deliver the most
robust, solutionsled
customer
experience in the
country. We have
nation-wide reach,
so we are in a strong
position to be a single
service provider for all
businesses with UK wide estates.
“We know that our incredible team stand at
the heart of the business. They will be crucial
to our future success and we want to look
after them. We want people to enjoy working
Facilities Management
at phs Compliance in a professional, yet fun,
environment where they can develop and
thrive.
“We will be driving growth and performance
in line with our customers’ needs, and the
shifting market, with the ambition to become
the largest, best performing provider of FM
and compliance services in the UK.”
With over 50 years’ experience, phs
Compliance is fully accredited by all leading
industry regulatory bodies and has the
largest team of specialist statutory testing
operators in the industry with over 400
engineers. Each year it carries out around 14
million compliance inspections.
It provides statutory electrical services
including testing (including portable
appliance tests and fixed electrical tests),
fire safety testing, inspection services,
maintenance and remedial work.
It also provides specialist electrical and
mechanical project services, including
design, supply and installation for everything
from power to lighting.
www.phscompliance.co.uk
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15 31

Facilities Management
Proof that stands up on site
Facilities leaders are asked to do more with
the same team while keeping clients, auditors
and insurers confident. The hard part is not
setting policy. It is proving the right people
followed the right steps on today’s job with
today’s risks. In many estates the evidence
lives in spreadsheets, shared drives and
inboxes. It exists, but it is slow to assemble
and harder to trust at pace.
A better approach is to move from static
records to live assurance. That means
competence checks at the point of work,
technical information in the hand, and
automatic capture of proof as tasks are
completed. When training currency, RAMS
use, PPE checks and equipment calibration are
verified in the flow of work, compliance stops
being a scramble and starts to feel routine.
This is where agentic AI is finding its place in
FM. Think of a small digital team that supports
your mobile workforce and control room.
Ollie focuses on learning and proof. Micro
refreshers are sent before high risk jobs.
Completion and understanding are logged
so audits take hours not weeks. Harris looks
after health and safety reporting. RAMS are
assembled from current templates. PPE and
instrument checks are recorded. Incidents
are captured with the right fields every time.
Tia brings the right manual, service history or
schematic to the device so engineers do not
rely on memory or outdated files.
Together they do not replace people. They
remove the legwork and tighten the loop
between policy and practice.
For FM operations measured on uptime and
SLAs, this shift delivers practical wins. Diaries
stay full because scheduling is repaired in real
time when a job slips. First time fix improves
because the right information and parts are
present. Compliance posture strengthens
because proof is created by the act of
working, not by admin later. Clients notice
the difference in fewer repeat visits and faster
answers at review time.
Change does not need a rip and replace.
Start where the admin load is heaviest. Verify
competence on high risk tasks. Surface live
documents for your most common assets.
Automate evidence capture on permits,
toolbox talks and closeout. As the system
learns, extend it across more sites and trades.
The goal is simple. Make it easy for good
teams to show good work, every day, without
extra paperwork.
www.vh3.ai
32
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Fire Safety
Fire & Evacuation Services Ltd: Waking
Watch | Evacuation Management | Training
Trusted experts in fire safety
Fire & Evacuation Services
Ltd are UK-wide Emergency
Response Specialists,
proudly led by operational
Firefighters with decades
of real-world experience.
We are pioneers in
professionalising Waking
Watch and Evacuation
Management – services we
have delivered to the highest
standard since being among
the first commissioned
for the Grenfell response
in 2017. That pivotal moment fuels our
commitment to ensuring people feel protected,
informed, and secure.
What is a Waking Watch?
Waking Watch is a critical fire safety strategy
for buildings identified as high risk, often due to
cladding or other serious fire safety concerns.
It involves trained personnel conducting
continuous patrols of all
internal floors and external
perimeters to detect fire
hazards, raise alarms, and
lead safe evacuations. At
F&ES, we provide a trusted,
reassuring presence where
it’s needed most – offering
fast response and expert
evacuation coordination
until permanent fire safety
measures are in place.
What our Wardens do
Our professional Wardens
deliver 24/7 Waking Watch and Evacuation
Management. They monitor escape routes,
assist vulnerable residents, log patrols via
NFC tags, and produce daily safety reports.
In an emergency, they call 999, coordinate
evacuation, and support Fire & Rescue
Services on arrival. They also conduct fire
drills, maintain compliance with the Fire Safety
(England) Regulations 2022, manage the
Premises Information Box, and deliver sitespecific
evacuation plans, including Personal
Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs). Their
presence brings immediate reassurance and
long-term risk reduction.
Accredited training services
We are an approved training provider
delivering hands-on, practical courses
that build lifesaving
skills and
confidence. Led by
industry experts –
former Firefighters,
Paramedics, and
Health & Safety
professionals – our
courses include:
s Fire Safety
Awareness
s Fire Warden
s Manual Handling
s Emergency First Aid at Work
s First Aid at Work
s Evacuation Management
Training is available nationwide, at your
location or one of our dedicated UK training
centres.
Why choose F&ES?
Because we’re not just responders – we’re
protectors, educators, and trusted partners
in fire safety. Whether you're safeguarding a
building, planning for emergencies, or training
your team, we deliver the expertise you need.
Contact Fire & Evacuation Services today –
your safety is our mission.
T 020 8087 0343
info@fireandevacuationservices.co.uk
www.fireandevacuationservices.co.uk
34
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15

Vehicle Compliance System
Fire-Rated Glass
Classifieds
Underfloor Heating
01743 298001
www.easyflow.org.uk
Commercial Ventilation
THE UK’S MOST
SPECIFIED
FIRE-RATED
GLASS COMPANY
FOR A REASON
GLASS WHEN YOU NEED IT
FIRE-RATED | ACOUSTIC
LAMINATED | TOUGHENED
IGUS | INTEGRAL BLINDS
SUPPLY & FIT
#TRUSTTHEEXPERTS
0121 667 9089
WWW.FIREGLASSUK.COM
Underfloor Heating &
Liquid Floor Screed
Specialists across the UK
Ventilation Specialist
Beacons & Feeder Pillars
Beacons & Feeder Pillars
Joinery
01799 599995
dee@bluerunltd.co.uk www.bluerunltd.co.uk
Advanced Hygienic Protocol
EST 1982
Call Sales Team on 0333 666 2122
or info@fisherandcompany.co.uk
or www.fisherandcompany.co.uk
to view our range of products
hygiene@velairgroup.com
01425 616103 | https://velair.co.uk
Projects
WE ADVISE, DESIGN, MANUFACTURE,
INSTALL AND SUPPORT
FREE ADVICE & WISDOM: 40+YRS
EXPERIENCE ALL TYPES: ‘INDOOR SOFT
PLAYCENTRES’ -TO- ‘OUTDOOR TIMBER
ADVENTURE COURSES’
Contact +44 (0)1792 422818
www.playcraftgroup.wales
Security Solutions
Screws & Fixings
From Fixings & Fastening
to Hardware & Tools
0121 559 8866 | sales@screwshop.co.uk
Hand Dryer Installation
Lifting
Electric Vehicles
The perfect gate for your castle
The world’s first
multi-dryer
Plug & Play®
platform
Contact 01442 253341
info@castlegatesandautomation.co.uk
www.castlegatesandautomation.co.uk
hygiene@velairgroup.com
01425 616103 https://velair.co.uk
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 14-15 35