Building and Facilities News Issue 1013

Tel: 0121 550 4593 ● www.buildingandfacilitiesnews.co.uk ● January ● Issue 1013

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Vandecasteele Houtimport

Pioneering certified timber

for a sustainable future

Page 18

Golmar

Systems UK

Geo Green

5 Eco Clipper 8 Power

15

Editor’s Comments

Welcome to our January issue, where we dive

into the latest advancements, practical insights,

and groundbreaking innovations shaping the

building and facilities industries.

In response to growing market demand for

upgraded systems and

wider, more efficient

models, Eco Clipper

was established in

2018 with a clear

mission: to provide

clean, precise

cutting in all weather

conditions while

maximising efficiency

and minimising total

cost of ownership. On

page 8, we showcase

the Eco Clipper mowing system,

highlighting its distinct advantages

over traditional cylinder and rotary

mowers.

For over 140 years, sustainability and

reliability

have been

at the core

of Vandecasteele.

From its modest

beginnings in wagon

making and timber

trading, the company

has grown into a

leading global supplier

of certified hardwoods

and softwoods. On

page 18, we delve

Contents

Nicola Yoxall

Editor & Office Manager

into their extensive product

range – covering more than 130

timber species – and examine how

sustainability is woven into every

aspect of their operations.

Show preview: Manchester

Cleaning Show 2026.

Show review: The Flooring Show 2025.

Other topics covered: Health & Safety, Security,

Flooring, External Works, Fire Safety, Facilities

& Estate Management, Timber, Building

Products & Interiors, Heating, Ventilation & Air

Conditioning, Water Management, Automotive.

Share all news:

nicolayoxall@buildingandfacilitiesnews.co.uk

Building and

Facilities News

Security 5-6

Imperium Security is

a leading provider of

comprehensive security

solutions, offering a unique blend of

manned guarding services and cuttingedge

technology.

Company of the Month 14

Hird Ltd has earned its place

as one of the UK’s most

trusted names in lifting,

access, and specialist

material handling.

Facilities & Estate

Management 15-17

GSM Activate is a

manufacturer of

electronics and access

control devices, which

specialises in GSM based technology.

Building Products &

Services 19-23

Swish Building Products

has added two new

profiles to its NatureClad

range, Shadow Gap and

Shadow Gap Plus.

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.

Vandecasteele Houtimport 18

Located in Belgium, the company has grown from humble beginnings

in wagon making and timber trading to become a leading global

supplier of certified hardwoods and softwoods, serving sectors from

construction and joinery to cladding and marine industries.

Water Management 25-27

Groundbreaker

is an insulated,

surface mounted

enclosure for

a secure water

management

system and smart

water meter.

The Manchester Cleaning

Show 2026 Preview 28

The Manchester

Cleaning Show, the UK’s

second-largest cleaning

and hygiene trade event

after London, will return to Manchester

Central on 18-19 February 2026.

BFN is sponsored

by Yeoman Shield

– see them on

pages 10-11

Health & Safety

Driving environmental assurance

across the built environment

In today’s rapidly

evolving built

environment,

health, safety and

environmental

performance sit

at the heart of

every successful

development.

As sustainability

targets tighten

and regulatory

scrutiny increases,

identifying, assessing and mitigating

environmental risk has become fundamental

to safe, responsible construction and

operation of premises. Operating at the

forefront of this work is ACCON UK, one

of the UK’s leading niche environmental

consultancies, recognised for its technical

strength, practical insight and commitment to

protecting both people and the environment.

Founded in 2007 by Managing Director,

Graham Parry, in partnership with German

sister company ACCON GmbH, ACCON

UK has grown into a comprehensive

environmental advisory practice supporting

clients throughout the planning, design and

delivery process. From its offices in Reading,

Brighton and Scotland, the team works

closely with developers, local authorities,

infrastructure providers, businesses

and contractors, helping them navigate

complex regulatory frameworks, manage

environmental risk and respond to evolving

policy requirements with confidence.

A key differentiator for ACCON UK is

its holistic approach to environmental

assessment, delivering advice that directly

underpins health and safety outcomes on

site and beyond. The consultancy provides

specialist expertise across the disciplines

most critical to risk management in the built

environment, including air quality, noise

and vibration, flood risk, contaminated land,

daylight and lighting.

Air quality, in particular, remains a major

public health concern across both urban

and rural settings. ACCON UK’s air quality

specialists deliver detailed assessments,

monitoring

programmes and

advanced dispersion

modelling to help

developers and

planners understand

potential impacts

and design

effective mitigation

strategies. By

supporting planning

applications,

statutory nuisance

enquiries and permit

submissions, the

team ensures new

developments

protect the

health of future

occupants as well

as neighbouring

communities.

Additionally,

ACCON is able

to carry out

health impact

assessments for

companies in

respect of health risks to employees.

Noise and vibration present equally

significant challenges, especially on busy

construction sites or developments located

near transport infrastructure and existing

industrial uses. ACCON’s consultants

undertake robust modelling and monitoring

to demonstrate planning compliance and

safeguard against statutory nuisance. This

expertise is complemented by the firm’s

building acoustics services, including

sound insulation design and testing to

meet Approved Document E requirements,

contributing directly to healthier internal

environments across residential, healthcare,

commercial premises and

educational buildings.

ACCON has a dedicated

team of professionals who

specialise in the control and

exposure of employees with

companies to noise and

vibration health risks.

Environmental performance

and quality of life also

intersect through daylight

and lighting design. ACCON

UK’s daylight, sunlight

and overshadowing

assessments inform

planning decisions and

guide design development,

ensuring development schemes make

best use of natural light while respecting

neighbouring properties. Alongside this,

advice on artificial lighting and light pollution

helps balance safety, functionality and visual

comfort with wider community and ecological

considerations.

ACCON personnel

have also provided

expert witness

evidence in respect

of statutory nuisance

arising from lighting.

As climate

change continues

to increase

the frequency

and severity of

extreme weather

events, flood risk

assessment has become a critical component

of responsible development. ACCON UK

provides Flood Risk Assessments ranging

from high-level scoping reports to detailed

technical analysis, supporting safe site layouts

and resilient long-term design solutions.

ACCON UK’s extensive experience in

delivering technically robust Environmental

Impact Assessments further supports

clients in meeting regulatory thresholds

and addressing statutory health and

environmental concerns. With in-house

coordinators managing screening, scoping

and reporting, the EIA process is streamlined,

reducing the risk of challenge and delay

whilst maintaining technical integrity.

Today, ACCON UK works across residential

and commercial development, major

infrastructure, transport, renewable energy,

industrial facilities, sports and leisure projects,

and local authority planning. This breadth

of experience allows the team to transfer

knowledge between sectors

and apply proven solutions

to new and emerging

challenges.

Whether supporting a

residential masterplan,

enabling complex

infrastructure delivery or

managing environmental

and health compliance for

industrial sites, ACCON

UK brings a calm, practical

approach grounded in

deep technical expertise.

In a sector where health,

safety and sustainability

must progress in step with

growth, ACCON continues to stand out as a

trusted environmental partner, helping clients

deliver places that are safe, compliant and

built to last.

T 0118 971 0000

enquiry@accon-uk.com

www.accon-uk.com

4

BFN is sponsored by Yeoman Shield – see them on pages 10-11

Golmar Systems UK: Pioneering

excellence in door intercom systems

Established 70 years ago, Golmar has been

a stalwart in the global market, leaving an

indelible mark on the landscape of door

intercom systems. With a dedicated hub in

the UK for the past two decades, Golmar

Systems UK continues to uphold the brand’s

legacy of excellence.

A legacy of service and innovation

As an integral part of the Golmar family,

Golmar Systems UK takes pride in

maintaining uncompromising standards of

service. Their commitment extends beyond

mere transactions; it’s about fostering

lasting relationships with clients. From door

intercom systems to access control and

CCTV, Golmar Systems UK ensures seamless

integration and reliable performance.

Security

Empowering installers: Building a network

of distributors

Golmar Systems UK recognises that time

is of the essence for installers. To expedite

system installations, they are actively

building a robust network of distributors.

Whether it’s a standard configuration or a

customised solution, Golmar Systems UK

ensures swift access to quality products.

Their expert team assists in specifying the

right components, tailored to meet specific

project requirements.

Collaboration for continuous improvement

In the spirit of innovation,

Golmar Systems UK

collaborates closely with

Golmar in Spain. This

dynamic partnership ensures

a constant evolution of their

product range. Feedback

from installers and endusers

is invaluable, driving

enhancements with each new

product release. Golmar’s

commitment to improvement

is unwavering.

The Golmar advantage

s Style Meets Functionality –

Golmar offers a compelling

blend of aesthetics and

practicality. Their Sixty5

range of panels exemplifies

this ethos. Whether it’s the

modern classic digital keypad or the sleek

touch screen panel, Golmar bridges style

and functionality seamlessly.

s Key Features:

s Audio/Video Communication – Crystalclear

communication for enhanced

security.

s Call Progress Confirmation – Audible

and visual cues keep users informed.

s Door Open Confirmation – Instant

feedback for peace of mind.

s Coded Access – Secure entry with

personalised codes.

s Built-in Proximity Reader – Streamlined

access control.

s Aluminium or Steel Finish – Versatility

to match any aesthetic.

s Visitor Display – Deters unwanted

intruders.

s 2-Wire Technology or IP – Flexibility for

diverse installations.

Conclusion

Golmar Systems UK remains at the forefront

of innovation, offering competitive solutions

that cater to both form and function.

From cozy homes to sprawling apartment

complexes, Golmar’s integrated systems

redefine safety and convenience.

For more information, visit Golmar Systems

UK and experience the future of door

intercom technology.

T 020 8368 1935

sales@golmarsystems.com

www.golmarsystems.com

BFN is sponsored by Yeoman Shield – see them on pages 10-11 5

Security Solutions

Protect your world

with Imperium Security

Imperium Security is a leading provider of

comprehensive security solutions, offering a

unique blend of manned guarding services and

cutting-edge technology. Imperium has rapidly

established itself as a trusted partner for both

residential and commercial clients.

Our approach

Imperium’s ethos centres on preventative

security with effective contingency support.

We analyse each customer’s unique needs and

provide a tailored combination of technology

and manpower for optimal preventative

security measures. Our services are divided

into two key spheres:

1. Manned Guarding Services – Including

patrolling, emergency response, and static

guarding. Our unique selling point is our

environmental focus with a major emphasis

on counter-surveillance.

2. Technology Solutions – We pride ourselves

on being technology agnostic and

solutions-oriented, incorporating relevant

technologies to create bespoke, turnkey

solutions for our clients. Our add-on

technology approach negates the need to

remove legacy equipment (such as CCTV or

alarms), allowing for organic expansion.

Services offered:

s Emergency Rapid Response

s CCTV Off-site Monitoring

s AI Analytics for Video Feeds

s 24/7 Emergency Control Centre

s Mobile Patrolling (vehicle and foot)

s Static Guarding

s Mobile Panic Button App (Imperium SOS)

s Keyholding

s Retail Security

s Close Protection

Leading response service

For those that are not protected with patrol

or static guarding, our monitoring response

services can be integrated with triggers from

alarm or CCTV systems, or panic apps. This is

especially important for unattended sites.

As well as our site-based and mobile security

officers, we have a fleet of 12 vehicles and 26

strategically located Emergency Response

Officers based around Greater London,

ensuring a market-leading rapid response time.

Our impact

Imperium Security has seen remarkable

growth, with revenue tripling in just two years.

We currently provide services for 500 homes

and multiple commercial and retail sites,

with 400 SOS app subscribers one year from

launch.

In 2025 our average response time was 12.5

minutes in Southwest London. We successfully

stopped 29 vehicle thefts and responded to

103 home alarms, in total responding to 345

incidents, a 112% increase on 2024.

Company history and evolution

Imperium Security Ltd began its journey

offering retail and residential security patrolling

services in 2021. Recognising the growing

demand for rapid support in London’s

residential market, the company expanded its

services strategically:

s September 2023 – Added CCTV Monitoring

capabilities

s February 2024 – Launched the SOS Mobile

App

s May 2025 – Leveraged AI-enabled security

solutions to support the complex demands

of mixed-use developments.

These additions, supported by a 24/7

Emergency SOC (Security Operations Centre)

and Rapid Response Unit, enabled Imperium

to offer a comprehensive security solution

encompassing both crime prevention through

patrolling and efficient contingency measures

via monitoring and response.

In the commercial and facilities space,

Imperium has been crafting client bespoke

rules for AI to identify threats, with our officers

shifting to more dynamic, responsive roles –

triaging, de-escalating, and collaborating with

AI and command centres.

Imperium aims to be an intelligence-led

operation, using data from both operatives

and CCTV to refine security and operations on

all client sites, for facilities, developments or

public access areas.

Client testimonials

Clients consistently praise Imperium for

significantly reducing crime rates and

enhancing neighbourhood safety. Many

report feeling safer walking at night in their

communities. The company’s success in crime

prevention and reduction has led to substantial

word-of-mouth growth, reflecting the trust and

satisfaction of its client base.

Leadership

Alfonso di Muro, the founder of Imperium

Security, brings over 15 years of experience

in the security sector, including expertise from

West, Central, and Southern Africa in mining,

commercial, and urban environments.

At Imperium Security, we’re not just providing

security services; we’re creating safer

communities and empowering businesses to

thrive without fear.

T +44 (0)20 8079 3189

info@imperiumsecurity.co.uk

alfonso@imperiumsecurity.co.uk

www.imperiumsecurity.co.uk

6


Flooring

400+ brands, live demos & industry insights

brands showcased the very best in carpet,

LVT, laminate, wood, vinyl, cork, adhesives,

tools, accessories, and installation

solutions. It’s a once-a-year opportunity to

meet suppliers face-to-face, see products

up close, and place orders that could define

your portfolio for the year ahead.

Harrogate rolled out the red carpet – quite

literally – as The Flooring Show 2025

returned from Sunday 21 to Tuesday 23

September at the Harrogate Convention

Centre. This year was the biggest and most

dynamic edition yet, bringing together the

UK’s entire flooring industry under one roof

for three days of innovation, inspiration,

and serious business.

For over half a century, The Flooring Show

has been the place where brands, buyers,

designers, and fitters converge to do

business, discover trends, and shape the

future of flooring. And in 2025, the line-up

was on another level.

More than 400 leading UK and international

From big-name players like Karndean,

Tarkett, Abingdon Flooring, Victoria

Carpets, Egger, and Mapei to exciting new

innovators making their Harrogate debut,

the exhibitor list reflected the full breadth

and creativity of the industry.

Back by popular demand, the Demo

Zone in Hall B, hosted by the Flooring

Industry Training Association (FITA), was

the beating heart of hands-on learning at

the show. Across all three days, leading

professionals were demonstrating cuttingedge

techniques, product applications, &

installation tips – from subfloor preparation

to luxury vinyl fitting and beyond. The

Demo Zone was your front-row seat to realworld

flooring expertise.

The prestigious NICF Fitter of the Year

competition returned with a focus on

Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT). Over Sunday and

Monday, five exceptional finalists – Hayden

Barr, Wesley Brocklesby, Daniel Jones,

Neil Mackay, and Dean White – battled it

out across a series of timed challenges

designed to push their skills to the limit.

The Flooring Show returns next year to

Harrogate Convention Centre from 20-22

September 2026. Before then, The Flooring

Show South is held at Surrey’s Sandown

Park from 15-16 April 2026.

www.theflooringshow.com


External Works

Innovative electric

mowing solutions

Eco Clipper’s story began in the 1990s on

the Leijenaar family's turfgrass farm in the

Netherlands, where the first electrically driven

rotary mower was developed out of necessity.

Years of experimentation culminated in the

launch of the Green Clipper 5 in 2002, the

first commercial product based on this farmdeveloped

mowing system.

When market demand emerged for upgraded

systems and wider, more efficient models,

Eco Clipper was founded in 2018 with a clear

mission – deliver clean cutting results in all

weather conditions while maximising efficiency

and minimising total cost of ownership.

Today, Eco Clipper has grown its product

range to serve turfgrass farms, sports fields

and specialised turf areas across Europe. From

compact systems for sports facilities, to Eco

Clipper’s flagship RM14 butterfly mower and

TM14 tri-deck; each of the company’s systems

embodies its commitment to innovation,

quality and customer success.

The Eco Clipper mowing system offers a

solution with clear advantages over traditional

cylinder and rotary mowers. It consists of

independently suspended 102cm-wide deck

sections, linked into larger, flexible, contourfollowing

decks. Each section combines

three high-speed blades with a low-friction

underside and large tires.

Its electric blade drive offers lower

maintenance, higher efficiency, and less noise;

while the optimised deck design maintains

superior cut quality and even clipping

distribution with three blades per meter and a

low-friction inner deck.

The kinematic deck suspension delivers stable

operation up to 15.5mph with precise contour

following to reduce scalping and wide-area

engineering allows for cuts up to 46.3ft wide in

a single pass for high productivity. Additionally

Eco Clipper systems are modular and can be

configured from a common set of options.

With its unique capabilities, the Eco Clipper

mowing system can be scheduled to follow

the growth of the grass virtually regardless of

weather conditions. This means control over

the amount of clippings produced in each

mowing cycle, avoiding the need to remove

excess clippings and helping to grow a strong

root base in a shorter time.

To support Eco Clipper’s Unique high blade

density, the company uses an all-electric

spindle drive in its mowers. Compared

with mechanical or

hydraulic systems,

this efficient design

avoids drive shafts,

gearboxes and

V-belts. Without those

components, Eco

Clipper can mount

the decks for optimal

ground following

and still fold them to

compact, road-legal transport dimensions.

As well as this Eco Clipper’s electric system

is easy to maintain. Its in-house designed

electric spindle is based on a 400V AC threephase

motor, built from proven, industrialstandard

components and most issues can be

diagnosed with standard tools and resolved

quickly. The result of these innovations is a

mowing system with quiet operation, low

maintenance and proven reliability, as well as

up to 50% better fuel efficiency compared to

conventional alternatives.

With decades of experience Eco Clipper

still remains dedicated to providing the

most cutting-edge solutions across the

turf management. The company’s latest

innovations are centred around high-capacity

autonomous systems and fully batterypowered

solutions for sports fields and

grounds maintenance, both designed to

further reduce total cost of ownership while

maximising operational flexibility.

The Eco Clipper AM is the company’s

dedicated autonomous mower. Engineered

around Eco Clipper’s electric spindle drive

and wide-format decks, it delivers a capacity

of up to 6ha/h (under typical conditions)

and is designed for long operating windows

and straightforward service. The company’s

autonomous systems are also integrated with

top of the range trackers from the likes of

AgXeed, offering efficient robotic solutions

where a dedicated platform is not preferred.

The company has collaborated with AgriRobot

and Ri.se to develop a certifiable safety system

for the Eco Clipper AM, combining fused

sensors for obstacle detection and geofencing.

These sensors are designed with individual

safety levels and together form a complete

safety solution in compliance with ISO 18497

(safety of highly automated agricultural

machines) and ISO 13849/ISO 25119

(functional safety requirements for agricultural

machinery).

Utilising its tried and tested mowing system,

Eco Clipper’s autonomous solutions remove

the need for an onboard operator and enable

long, uninterrupted

runs. This brings down

the cost of labour

without sacrificing

quality. Eco Clipper

mowers already

significantly reduce

cost per hectare

versus traditional

systems, so the latest

addition to the brand

means further flexibility for grounds managers

in all environments.

Eco Clipper stands at the forefront of electric

mowing technology, delivering innovative

solutions to turfgrass professionals across

Europe and beyond. Its comprehensive

range of electric mowing systems represents

years of continuous innovation and realworld

refinement, and the company remains

dedicated to delivering the best mowing

systems for large-area turfgrass maintenance.

For more on Eco Clipper, see below:

info@ecoclipper.com

www.ecoclipper.com

8


West Fraser range

delivering key benefits

An experienced carpenter and

building site manager who has

recently set up his own company

is using high performance panel

products from the West Fraser

range to undertake a variety of

construction projects, stretching

from garden rooms and extensions

to restructuring an old barn, for

clients across

Surrey and Sussex.

Sam Perry

established Luxe

Signature Homes in

2024 in partnership

with his brother-inlaw,

Tobi, a Dubaibased

property

investor/developer

and has set about

establishing a

reputation for

high standards of

workmanship as

well as trying to

offer homeowners

innovative and inspirational

solutions, which will add maximum

uplift in value for the property

concerned.

Importantly, the time-served

carpenter who has worked on

schemes varying from high volume

timber frame developments to multimillion-pound

mansions, has been

using West Fraser boards since the

day he started work in the building

industry.

Sam explains, “While I run the

technical, site operations, Tobi takes

care of all the financial management

and liaises with

customers on

matters such as

how to maximise

the value of their

properties, drawing

on his experience

and contacts

across the property

market. Since we

set up, I’ve done

a large extension,

reconfigured

a town house

where the living

accommodation

was brought down

to the ground floor

and replaced by an extra bedroom,

and also built a large garden room

which serves as both a home office

and playroom with composite deck

to transform the garden itself.”

T 01786 812921

https://uk.westfraser.com

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 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.

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/charredtimber-cladding

The Zero Maintenance Alternative to Wood

Recycled Plastic

• 100% recycled and recyclable

• Impervious to fungi, algae, insects

• Never rots, splinters or cracks

• Graffiti resistant

• UV Protected

• Eco-friendly and low carbon

• 100% maintenance free

• Lasts a lifetime

Please contact us on 01282 861325

sales@kedel.co.uk | www.kedel.co.uk


Fire Doors

Yeoman Shield Fire Door

Services: A complete, certified

approach to fire door safety

Fire doors are a critical

component of a building’s fire

strategy, playing a vital role in

protecting lives and limiting

the spread of fire and smoke.

However, a fire door can only

perform as intended if it is

correctly specified, installed,

inspected and maintained

by competent professionals.

This is where Yeoman Shield

Fire Door Services provides

reassurance, expertise and a

fully certified solution.

Offering a comprehensive

range of fire door inspections,

maintenance, remedial works,

installations and fire-rated

door protection, Yeoman

Shield Fire Door Services supports clients

across education, healthcare, commercial

and public sector environments – where

compliance, durability and long-term value are

essential.

Competence you can rely on

Fire safety legislation places a clear

responsibility on duty holders to ensure that

fire doors are maintained in an effective and

compliant condition. Inspections, maintenance

and installation must be undertaken by a

competent person – someone with the training,

qualifications, experience and technical

knowledge required to correctly implement fire

safety measures.

Yeoman Shield Fire Door Services meets this

requirement through accredited personnel,

robust procedures and third-party certification.

This provides independent verification that

works are carried out to recognised industry

standards.

Fire door inspections: Clear insight, practical

outcomes

Fire door inspections form the foundation

of effective fire door management. Yeoman

Shield’s inspections are carried out by qualified

fire door inspectors, all of whom have

successfully passed industryrecognised

qualifications.

Two types of survey are

available:

s Intrusive fire door surveys,

including inspection of a

minimum of 10% of the

backs of frames to assess

suitable fire stopping. This

may involve the careful

removal of architraves.

s Non-intrusive fire door

surveys, where the backs

of frames are not inspected

and no assumptions

are made regarding fire

stopping.

Following completion of the

survey, Yeoman Shield issues a comprehensive

report detailing non-conformities and clearly

outlining the remedial work required to restore

compliance.

Surveys can be accurately priced once the

number of fire-rated doors and survey type are

confirmed. Where required, Yeoman Shield can

identify door numbers and fire ratings using fire

compartmentation drawings or floor plans.

Fire door maintenance and remedial works

Fire doors are frequently damaged in busy

environments, and even minor defects can

compromise performance. Yeoman Shield

carries out fire door maintenance and remedial

works under the FIRAS third-party certification

scheme.

All onsite supervisors undertaking this work

have been assessed by Warringtonfire and are

registered on the FIRAS system. Works are

completed in accordance with BS 8214, ASDMA

guidance, manufacturer test evidence where

available, and accepted repair techniques.

Typical remedial works include

adjustments to door leaves,

repairs to frames, replacement

of damaged components,

correction of excessive gaps

and restoration of correct

closing and latching. On

completion, a job-specific

FIRAS certificate is issued.

Certified fire door installation

Where fire doors are beyond

repair, Yeoman Shield

provides certified fire door

installation services under

the FIRAS scheme. All

installations are overseen by

FIRAS-registered supervisors.

Yeoman Shield can source

doorsets from third-party

certified manufacturers or install doorsets

supplied by the client. Installations are carried

out strictly in accordance with manufacturer

instructions and BS 8214, with a job-specific

FIRAS certificate issued on completion.

Protecting fire doors for the long term

In addition to inspection and certification,

Yeoman Shield offers a proactive solution to

one of the most common causes of fire door

failure: impact damage.

Cladding doors with Yeoman Shield PVCu door

protection products reduces damage to the

door core, extending the lifespan of the doorset

while maintaining appearance and compliance.

Protection options include door face protection

panels, door edge protectors, PVCu-clad

glazing beads and frame protection. Where fire

certification is known for fire doors under BS

476 Part 22: 1987 or BS EN 1634-1, the fitting

of PVCu door edge protection and glazing

beads can be installed under the FIRAS scheme.

Where doors are nominally fire rated, works are

completed in line with best practice.

Door protection can be installed as part of

maintenance works, as a standalone service, or

supplied on a supply-only basis.

A complete fire door service

By combining accredited inspections, certified

maintenance, compliant

installations and durable

door protection products,

Yeoman Shield Fire Door

Services provides a complete

lifecycle solution for fire doors

– helping clients maintain

compliance, reduce longterm

costs and ensure doors

perform as intended when it

matters most.

To find out more about

Yeoman Shield Fire

Door Services, including

inspections, maintenance,

installations and fire door

protection products, visit:

www.yeomanshield.com or

call 0113 279 5854.

10


Fire Safety News

CHEP Spennymoor enhances fire safety with

advanced Honeywell Gent Self-Testing system

CHEP Spennymoor, a key facility specialising in

the construction and handling of product loads,

has been a long-term customer of FISCO, a

facilities management provider with over 8 years

of partnership with Kings Secure Technologies.

Since 2019, Kings Secure Technologies has

been responsible for the fire and security needs

of the CHEP Spennymoor site. In 2024, CHEP

Spennymoor embarked on a major refit, requiring

an upgrade to their life safety system. Due to the

site’s 24/7 manufacturing operations, the project

demanded a solution that would ensure fire safety

compliance without disrupting production.

The Challenge – During a routine inspection, a

service engineer identified that the existing fire

alarm system at CHEP Spennymoor was outdated

and insufficient for the facility’s needs. The system

lacked adequate coverage, particularly in critical

areas such as the main warehouse, pump house,

and welfare facilities warehouse. The deficiencies

highlighted a pressing need for a comprehensive

upgrade to meet current safety standards. The

challenge was to implement this upgrade swiftly

and without interrupting the site’s continuous

operations, especially given the concurrent £4

million upgrade to plant equipment in Unit 1.

The Solution – KST group company, E-Fire

(Honeywell Gent Partner) carried out the system

refit. E-Fire proposed a state-of-the-art addressable

fire alarm system that included Gent’s innovative

Self-Testing technology. This system allows for

fully compliant fire maintenance without halting

production, thus maintaining productivity and

efficiency.

Fire blankets for

lithium-ion battery fires

Leading fire safety supplier

CheckFire Ltd introduces Bridgehill

fire blankets into the LFX range

of lithium-ion battery fire safety

solutions. Designed to contain and

extinguish lithium-ion battery fires –

one of the fastest-growing fire risks

in modern industries – Bridgehill

fire blankets offer a cutting-edge

solution for fire safety in electric

vehicles (EVs), fossil fuel vehicles,

and industrial equipment such as

forklifts.

As lithium-ion batteries increasingly

power vehicles, tools, and

consumer electronics, the demand

for effective fire safety measures

has grown significantly. These

batteries store vast amounts of

energy, and when damaged or

if they overheat, they can enter

thermal runaway – a chain reaction

that generates intense heat and

flames, spreading to nearby battery

cells.

Lithium-ion battery fires present

unique challenges: they burn at

extreme temperatures, release

toxic gases, and can be difficult to

extinguish with traditional methods.

In some cases, they can reignite

even after being suppressed.

Bridgehill fire blankets are

specifically designed to tackle

these threats – smothering flames,

isolating harmful smoke and

fumes, and reducing the risk of fire

spread. Unlike traditional solutions,

such as water, these blankets act

quickly – deploying in seconds to

protect people, property, and the

surrounding area while minimising

environmental impact.

Ideal for a wide range of locations –

including car showrooms, garages,

car parks, warehouses, service

stations, tunnels, and ferries –

Bridgehill fire blankets are available

in various sizes to suit different

needs, from standard vehicles to

larger SUVs and industrial forklifts.

www.checkfire.co.uk

The Honeywell Gent Self-Test system offers several

key benefits:

s Minimised Disruptions – Self-Test allows weekly

fire alarm tests to be conducted remotely from

the Panel location. This eliminates the need

for manual testing of individual devices across

the site, significantly reducing downtime and

avoiding disruptions to the 24/7 manufacturing

process.

s Enhanced Safety Compliance – The system

automatically performs routine checks

on detectors, sounders, and other critical

components, ensuring they are functioning

correctly. This automated approach guarantees

that the site remains fully compliant with fire

safety regulations without requiring constant

manual oversight.

s Cost and Time Efficiency – By automating

regular maintenance tasks, Self-Test reduces the

time and labour traditionally required for manual

Hochiki Europe and

Jendee Trading

join forces

Hochiki Europe, a leading

manufacturer of innovative life safety

solutions, is partnering with Jendee

Trading, a global provider with nearly

50 years of experience exporting

British electrical and fire safety

products to the Caribbean, to deliver

a series of educational seminars

and customer meetings across the

region. A key element of this initiative

will be the active participation of the

local Electrical Inspectorates on each

island, underscoring the commitment

to ensuring compliance with local

laws and regulations.

From May 4th to May 22nd, a joint

team from Hochiki and Jendee

will travel to St Vincent, St Lucia,

Trinidad, and Grenada. Critically,

they will be presenting alongside

the local Electrical Inspectorate

to a wide array of professionals,

including fire safety installers,

electrical engineers, building

owners, and insurance companies.

This collaborative approach will

ensure that the information shared

not only reflects international best

practices but also aligns directly with

the specific fire safety regulations

and legal frameworks in each

fire alarm testing. This not only cuts operational

costs but also frees up staff to focus on other

critical tasks within the facility.

s Real-Time Diagnostics – Powered by

Honeywell’s Connected Life Safety Services

all-in-one cloud-based solution (CLSS), Self-

Test provides real-time diagnostics and alerts,

enabling the maintenance team to quickly

identify and address any issues before they

escalate. This proactive monitoring enhances

the overall reliability of the fire alarm system.

The upgrade also involved installing new Beam

Detectors, Manual Call Points, Sounder/Strobe

devices, and a Repeat Panel. The addition of the

Repeat Panel in Unit 1 provided the client with

immediate visibility and control over the entire

system, significantly enhancing operational

efficiency.

The Result – The installation was completed on

schedule, ensuring that the broader site upgrade

remained on track. CHEP Spennymoor now

benefits from a modern, addressable fire alarm

system that offers precise detection and easier

management. The integration of Gent’s Self-

Testing technology has reduced maintenance

time and costs, while the enhanced coverage and

control have significantly improved the safety and

operational efficiency of the site. The partnership

between E-Fire, KST, FISCO, and Honeywell Gent

has once again demonstrated its effectiveness in

delivering cutting-edge solutions tailored to the

specific needs of their clients.

www.honeywell.com/gb/en

island. The seminars will cater to

diverse industries such as tourism,

commercial, retail, entertainment,

healthcare, agriculture, food

production, renewable energy, and

technology.

The primary objective of this initiative

is to elevate fire safety knowledge

and promote best practices within

the Caribbean, with a strong focus on

adherence to local laws, as well as

American and British Standards. By

involving the Electrical Inspectorates

directly in the presentations, the

seminars will provide invaluable

insights into regional compliance

requirements. The teams will

deliver two accredited Continuing

Professional Development (CPD)

courses: BS5839 Part 1 Code of

Practice for Fire Detection System

Design, and False Alarm Reduction,

both of which will be contextualised

within the local regulatory landscape.

www.hochikieurope.com

12


Lifting & Moving Equipment Company of the Month

Driving innovation in powered

access and material handling

In this issue of Building & Facilities

News, we are pleased to feature

Hird Ltd as our Lifting & Moving

Equipment Company of the Month

With more than four

decades of experience,

Hird Ltd has earned its

place as one of the UK’s

most trusted names

in lifting, access, and

specialist material handling.

Established in 1982, the

company initially focused

on machine moving

before steadily expanding

its services to meet the

evolving needs of industry.

Today, Hird provides cranes

and platform hire, specialist lifting equipment,

operator training, and equipment sales,

delivering solutions that support complex

projects nationwide.

Headquartered in Hull, East Yorkshire, with

additional depots in Doncaster and Redhill,

Surrey, Hird’s strategic presence allows it to

serve customers across the UK efficiently and

reliably. This national reach, combined with

deep technical expertise, has positioned the

company as a long-established leader in the

powered access and specialist lifting sector.

Its services span multiple industries, including

construction, facilities maintenance, and

manufacturing, where precision, safety, and

reliability are paramount.

What sets Hird apart is its consultative,

solutions-led approach. Rather than operating

purely as a hire provider, Hird places strong

emphasis on specialist

advice and technical

understanding.

Dedicated teams

work closely with

clients to assess

site requirements,

conduct surveys,

and determine the

safest and most

effective solution

for each project.

This ensures that

equipment selection is

not only appropriate

but optimised for

efficiency and

performance,

reflecting Hird’s

commitment to

service excellence.

“Providing powered

access equipment,

mini cranes, and vacuum

lifting and handling

equipment is at the core

of what Hird offers,”

says Rhiannon Young,

Social Media & Marketing

Coordinator. “Alongside

this, we provide machinery

moving, operator training,

and equipment repair and

servicing carried out by

LEEA-trained engineers,

including LOLER inspections.

What truly sets Hird apart

is the breadth of our equipment and the

depth of our expertise, supported by strong

relationships with leading manufacturers,

which allows us early access to new products

entering the market. This enables us to offer

a diverse, modern, and high-quality fleet from

industry-leading brands such as Genie, Winlet,

Valla, and Maeda. Just as importantly, we have

strong relationships with our customers and

place service at the heart of everything we do.”

Hird’s commitment to innovation and

sustainability goes beyond providing highquality

equipment. The company operates

one of the largest and most modern fleets

in the UK, offering hybrid and 100% electric

access and lifting solutions, from scissor lifts

to spider cranes. This focus on efficient and

environmentally conscious machinery allows

Hird to provide solutions even for sites that

demand low noise or require operation in

clean environments.

The company has

also worked closely

with manufacturers to

help design and refine

specialist equipment,

including the MFC750K

floor crane, developed

in collaboration with

Weinold, and a series

of attachments and

systems for Tadano

Valla Cranes, including

promoting fully batterypowered

equipment

suitable for sensitive

sites. Hird’s dedication

to performance

innovation is further

highlighted by the

‘Hird Test’, a battery

performance evaluation

they developed, which

has since been adopted

by Genie for their battery-powered machinery.

Alongside its equipment expertise, Hird

Training has developed specialist courses in

partnership with accredited bodies, including

the LEEA-accredited Vacuum Robot operator

course. This ensures that customers not

only have access to cutting-edge machinery

but also the knowledge and skills to operate

it safely and efficiently, reinforcing Hird’s

commitment to raising industry standards.

Looking ahead, Hird remains committed to

evolving its fleet to meet the changing needs

of the industry. By introducing more ecofriendly

options, including hybrid and fully

electric machinery, the company continues to

modernise and expand its offerings, keeping

pace with industry trends and requirements.

Hird’s goal is to provide a complete 360°

solution for all types of powered access and

material handling, ensuring customers have

not only the right equipment but also the

expertise, support, and training to use it safely

and efficiently. With a focus on innovation,

sustainability, and service excellence, Hird is

well-positioned to continue leading the way in

lifting and access solutions, delivering value

and confidence to clients across the UK.

T 01482 227333

northern@hird.co.uk

www.hird.co.uk

www.hirdsales.co.uk

14


Facilities & Estate Management

Geo Green Power: Making the

business case for solar PV

Energy management has always sat squarely

within the facilities manager’s remit, but in

recent years it has taken on a new urgency.

The UK has some of the highest industrial

electricity prices in Europe, with prices 46%

above the median of International Energy

Agency member countries. Furthermore,

costs are projected to remain high due to

global market shifts and the electrification of

heat and transportation, which will further

increase electricity demand.

For businesses working on tight margins,

these rising and unpredictable costs pose a

serious risk – both financially and otherwise.

Carbon emission targets are increasingly

written into contracts and procurement

frameworks, making environmental

performance a commercial as well as

regulatory concern. Meanwhile, power

resilience is also creeping up the priority list.

In this context, renewable technologies like

solar PV are rapidly becoming core tools for

controlling costs, ensuring resilience and

achieving a commercial advantage.

The financial benefit

Solar PV has the potential to save businesses

thousands, if not millions. An installation

of a 480kWp solar PV system at Fluke, a

manufacturer and distributor of electronic

tools and software, for example, will save the

business more than £3 million as well as an

annual saving of 380,000kWh of energy.

Ultimately, installing solar PV allows

businesses to take greater control. By

generating electricity onsite, facilities

managers can reduce their business’s

exposure to volatile market rates and policydriven

levies, with well-designed and funded

systems delivering stable, low-cost electricity

for 20 to 25 years.

In sectors such as manufacturing and

warehousing, where usage aligns well with

daytime generation and roof space is readily

available, solar PV can meet a substantial

share of total demand, resulting in a payback

period of between three and five years.

Resilience and reputation

While compelling, the financial case is not the

only driver of solar PV investment.

The National Grid has repeatedly

warned of localised grid constraints,

which will only heighten with

electrification. In these cases, solar

PV, particularly when paired with

battery storage, can help protect

operations by providing continuity

of supply.

At the same time, environmental

performance now plays a role

in everything from securing

procurement contracts to accessing

finance. Scope 2 emissions

reporting is becoming standard

and companies are being asked to provide

auditable progress on their carbon reduction

strategies.

Owner vs tenant

For owner-occupiers, these drivers are often

enough to make the business case stack up.

However, in tenanted sites, the real challenge

is making it commercially viable for the

landlord too.

Fortunately, solar PV can appeal to the three

key factors that most landlords consider:

value, risk and compliance. A building with

solar PV often benefits from improved EPC

ratings and lower running costs, which

strengthen its marketability. Likewise, it

can help landlords stay ahead of tightening

environmental performance standards, such

as Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards

(MEES) and net-zero reporting expectations.

Commercially, solar PV can also generate

new revenue streams for the landlord,

depending on how the deal is structured.

Structuring the deal

For tenants eager to make the case for solar

PV to their landlords, several approaches are

possible.

One route is to introduce a third-party funder

via a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).

With a PPA, a third party installs and owns

the solar PV system and the tenant agrees

to purchase the electricity it generates at

a fixed rate. This rate is typically below

market cost and is agreed upon for a period

of between 10 and 15 years, but can be up

to 25 years, providing long-term stability in

energy costs. With no upfront investment or

maintenance responsibilities for either party,

PPAs can offer immediate energy savings

and long-term price certainty for tenants.

For landlords, the key benefit lies in having a

more attractive and energy-efficient property,

often with improved EPC ratings and lower

running costs, without capital outlay.

Alternatively, landlords can take a

more active role by funding the system

themselves, either directly as the PPA funder

or through asset finance. In doing so, they

become the energy provider to their tenants,

charging a reduced but steady rate for the

electricity and creating a new income stream.

This model is especially appealing for

landlords with long-term holdings or multiple

tenants, as it enhances asset value while

delivering a return on investment.

Some tenants have also negotiated hybrid

agreements where both parties contribute

to the cost of installation, with repayment

mechanisms structured into adjusted rent or

service charges. While these require more

negotiation up front, they can create stronger

landlord-tenant relationships and align both

parties’ interests around long-term building

performance.

Shared priorities, shared benefits

As these examples demonstrate, multiple

routes are available, all of which can be

mutually beneficial for both tenants and

operators. The key is to ensure discussions

start with commercially sound proposals that

include funding routes, performance data

and clearly modelled outcomes for all parties.

To help this process, it’s crucial to select a

partner that understands the priorities of

both tenants and landlords and works with

all parties to structure proposals that don’t

just make environmental sense, but business

sense too.

To help facilities managers develop a

business case for their sector, Geo Green

Power has created a series of sector-specific

guides. These are available online at:

www.geogreenpower.com



Smart solutions,

secure connection

GSM Activate is a manufacturer

of electronics and access control

devices, which specialises in GSM

based technology. Based in West

Sussex, England, GSM Activate

has over 15 years of expertise in

the market and works with dozens

of global partners to provide

innovation and security you can

count on.

Most commonly found in SIM

cards, GSM is the global system

for mobile communication. With a

near constant signal and no limit

to range, GSM Activate leverages

this technology making user’s

mobile phones a key component

in security, access control and

automation applications.

GSM Activate provides a wide range of

solutions, including keypads, RFID card

readers, biometric scanners, and smart locks.

The company recently upgraded most of

its catalogue to 3G and 4G capable devices,

enhancing its already stellar offering. Equally

at home in private residences, offices and

industrial facilities; the GSM Activate product

line offers seamless

integration with

existing tech and has a

breadth of application

options.

For example, the

GSM Auto Dialer is

designed to enhance

security by sending

SMS alerts or making

calls to pre-programmed numbers when

triggered by an event, such as a security

breach or equipment failure. It allows for

instant notifications without the need for

landlines, and is easy to install. It can integrate

with various systems, making it a versatile tool

for enhancing safety and operational efficiency.

The company also manufactures the GSM

Multi Switch. This versatile

device allows remote control of

electronic equipment via mobile

phone or landline. It features dual

relays to independently control

two devices, working with 2G

and 4G networks globally. It’s

easy to install, provides status

updates via text, and has a

durable, weatherproof design.

This switch is suitable for various

applications, including security

and automation.

Ideal for residential, commercial,

or industrial settings, the 4G GSM

Intercom allows for remote gate

or door entry control via a mobile

phone. It supports 4G networks,

enabling two-way communication

with visitors and the ability to

unlock gates or doors from

anywhere, allowing users to

manage access without being

physically present.

One of GSM Activate’s most

impressive products

is the FIRE SMS

Hearing Fire

Alert System. A

specialised fire safety

product designed to

alert deaf or hard of

hearing individuals

when a fire alarm sounds in

public places such as supermarkets, shopping

centres, hotels and libraries.

The FIRE SMS unit enhances safety measures

by sending a text message (SMS) to the

mobile phones of connected users whenever

the fire alarm is triggered. This ensures

individuals are

promptly informed,

regardless of their

location within the

building. Users

connect to FIRE SMS

by texting their mobile

number to the system

number displayed at

the building entrance.

Once registered, they

receive confirmation and can then receive

SMS alerts whenever the fire alarm sounds.

Offering a straightforward, hassle-free

installation process, the system is essential

for the safety of deaf or hard of hearing

individuals. It can also be integrated into

existing fire alarm systems quickly and

efficiently, providing seamless operation

immediately after installation.

Because the system uses mobile

phones instead of separate

pagers, it improves both

accessibility and safety.

As part of the national Made

in Britain scheme, GSM

Activate pride themselves on

manufacturing its products right

here in the UK. By keeping its

design, production and assembly

in West Sussex, the company

ensures reliability, precision and a commitment

to British craftsmanship. For customers this

means they can be assured quality as well as

cut down on supply chain issues by dealing

directly with installers, with all products

usually available via next day delivery.

As important as GSM Activate’s

high quality manufacturing,

is the company’s outstanding

dedication to customer support

and service. Its expert in-house

team assesses your security

needs and recommends the ideal

solution based on your location,

number of users, and desired

features; using its decades of experience to

design the perfect solution.

Its experienced team can also provide simple

software adjustments, full custom PCB designs

and competitive trade pricing for installers,

distributors, and wholesalers worldwide.

Whether you’re looking to tweak an existing

product, create a completely bespoke design,

or explore trade opportunities, GSM Activate

has the expertise and flexibility to meet your

needs.

GSM Activate is a company at the forefront of

GSM technology. By utilising the ubiquitous

tech found in mobile phones, the company is

giving customers the opportunity to enhance

its security measures easily, quickly and,

above all, safely. Add to this, GSM Activate’s

commitment to customer service and its

robust, high quality manufacturing guarantees,

and it's easy to see why GSM Activate has

cemented its leading position in this exciting

and under-represented field.

For more on GSM Activate, see below:

T 0800 772 0783

sales@gsm-activate.co.uk

www.gsm-activate.co.uk

16



Bradshaw EV announces exclusive

partnership with Glutton

Bradshaw Electric Vehicles, one of the

country’s leading providers of waste

management vehicles, has announced that

it has been named as the sole distributor

in the UK for street cleaning equipment

specialist, Glutton.

Glutton, headquartered in Belgium, has over

25 years of experience developing innovative,

eco-friendly street-cleaning solutions, with

machines operating in more than 8,000 towns

and cities across 85 countries.

The partnership comes at a time where the

company is looking to establish its presence

further in the UK, with Glutton looking to

leverage Bradshaw’s established reputation

as a trusted distributor of specialist electric

vehicles across the country.

Bradshaw, which manufactures electric tow

tractors and industrial equipment, are also

distributors of Taylor Dunn, Goupil, and Club

Car products.

Glutton specialises in creating efficient, ecofriendly

street cleaning solutions designed to

maintain cleanliness in public spaces. Their

product range includes the Glutton Collect

street vacuum cleaner, which is engineered

for efficient litter collection in urban

environments, and the Glutton H 2 O Perfect,

which utilises a 60-litre pressure washer as

an effective cleaning & disinfectant working

alongside the powerful vacuum.

The Glutton vacuums are expertly designed

for local authorities and industries focused

on cleanliness in public spaces. Their

eco-friendly design enables efficient litter

collection in urban areas, including streets,

parks, and transport hubs, keeping locations

safe and inviting.

With a focus on effectiveness and ease of

use, they can navigate tight spaces and

operate quietly, making them ideal for

busy environments. By swiftly managing

litter, they enhance the visual appeal of

public areas and promote public health by

reducing debris-related hazards.

Known for their powerful suction, long

battery life and ability to clean various

types of surfaces and collect a wide range

of debris, the Glutton models are set to

complement Bradshaw’s increasingly

popular waste-collection vehicle range.

With growing demand from councils and

contractors for sustainable, zero-emission

solutions, the partnership is expected to

provide a significant boost to ensuring

cleaner and greener urban environments

across the UK.

Speaking on the newly formed partnership,

Ramsy Labassi, Marketing Manager

at Bradshaw Electric Vehicles, said,

“Bradshaw’s ethos has always been to offer

cost-effective and efficient solutions that

make everyday tasks simpler and easier,

and the Glutton fits the bill perfectly. Waste

management operations are evolving as

councils and organisations from the private

sector face increasing pressure to deliver

cleaner environments while reducing

emissions and operational costs.

“Glutton complements our waste and street

cleansing range of vehicles. It caters to a

direct need for customers, both existing and

new, who are seeking a practical solution to

keep either towns, cities or industrial sites

clean.

“Adding Glutton to our line-up enables us to

deliver a complete end-to-end solution for

waste management and urban maintenance,

and as such, we’re proud to have been

appointed as their exclusive UK distribution

partner.”

T 01780 782621

enquiries@bradshawev.com

www.bradshawev.com


Timber

Vandecasteele Houtimport: Pioneering

certified timber for a sustainable future

Founded in 1883, Vandecasteele Houtimport

stands today as one of Europe’s foremost

timber importers – a fifth-generation, familyrun

business rooted in tradition yet continually

evolving to meet the demands of a sustainable

world. Located in Aalbeke near Kortrijk,

Belgium, the company has grown from humble

beginnings in wagon making and timber trading

to become a leading global supplier of certified

hardwoods and softwoods, serving sectors

from construction and joinery to cladding and

marine industries.

With an immense stock of approximately

130,000 cubic metres of timber – representing

some 140 million kilograms of stored CO 2

– Vandecasteele combines market reach,

unparalleled inventory depth and a steadfast

commitment to environmental stewardship.

For more than 140 years, sustainability

and reliability have been at the heart of

Vandecasteele. The company’s ambitions

go well beyond buying and selling timber;

it is driven by a belief in wood as one of the

most natural and ecological building materials

available, and by a desire to help move

the European timber sector towards more

responsible sourcing and long-term forest

management.

This commitment was reflected in a clear,

measurable goal: to trade only certified timber

by 2025. While softwoods in stock have already

achieved full certification, the challenge with

hardwood – especially tropical hardwood – has

been greater due to complex supply chains.

Nonetheless, in 2025, Vandecasteele has

achieved this target and continues to advance

through strategic planning, rigorous quality

control and collaborative partnerships with

suppliers.

The company’s product range spans more than

130 timber species from Africa, Southeast Asia,

North and South America and Europe – catering

to a wide variety of applications, from structural

timber to bespoke joinery.

To further strengthen its sustainability

credentials, Vandecasteele Houtimport holds a

range of internationally recognised certifications

that provide customers with full confidence

in the origin and legality of its timber. The

company has been FSC ® (Forest Stewardship

Council) certified since 1999, demonstrating

that its timber is sourced from responsibly

managed forests that deliver environmental,

social and economic benefits.

In addition, PEFC (Programme for the

Endorsement of Forest Certification)

certification ensures that all certified products

originate from forests that are independently

audited and managed according to rigorous

sustainability standards. Vandecasteele also

holds OLB (Origin and Legality of Timber)

certification, which guarantees the legality and

full traceability of timber throughout the supply

chain.

Most recently, the company became the first

timber business in Belgium to obtain the

Preferred by Nature certification for its Chain of

Custody and Due Diligence System, aligning its

operational processes with the requirements

of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR)

and reinforcing its commitment to transparent,

deforestation-free and fully traceable timber

sourcing.

These certifications reinforce the company’s

position as a leader in sustainable sourcing,

enabling customers and specifiers to

confidently select timber that meets the highest

ecological and ethical standards.

Vandecasteele’s approach to sustainability is

strategic, structured and deeply integrated

into its business operations. Since 2000, the

company has participated in the Voka Charter

for Sustainable Entrepreneurship (VCDO) – a

framework rooted in the United Nations 17

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This long-term commitment emphasises

balanced progress across economic, social and

environmental dimensions.

The results speak for themselves.

Vandecasteele was the first timber company

in the world to receive the UN’s SDG Pioneer

certificate, recognising efforts to embed the

SDGs into corporate strategy. Vandecasteele

was also subsequently awarded SDG Champion

status, reaffirming strategic leadership in

sustainable business practices – a distinction it

continues to uphold.

Beyond certification, the company invests in

advancing sustainability internally through

rigorous traceability systems, third-party audits,

and ongoing staff training – including the

employment of forestry engineers to ensure

compliance with evolving regulations like the

EU Timber Regulation (EUTR) and EUDR.

Vandecasteele’s sustainability vision also

extends beyond conventional forestry

certifications. On its own 60 hectare site,

the company promotes biodiversity through

initiatives such as wildflower fields and

beehives crafted from Western Red Cedar,

creating ecological value while engaging the

local community.

Collaborations with organic farmers and

environmental partners enhance the landscape

and demonstrate a holistic approach to land

stewardship – where ecological, economic and

social goals intersect.

As global demand for certified and traceable

timber continues to rise, Vandecasteele’s

longstanding commitment positions it as a

European ambassador for sustainable wood

procurement. Its leadership in certification,

transparency and responsible sourcing sets a

benchmark for the timber sector and reflects an

understanding that true sustainability requires

continuous improvement, collaboration and

innovation.

For architects, builders and facility managers

looking to align projects with environmental

standards and client expectations,

Vandecasteele offers both the assurance of

high-quality timber and the confidence of

verified sustainability.

T +32 56 43 33 33

info@vandecasteele.be

https://vandecasteele.be/en

18


Building Products & Interiors

Swish adds Shadow Gap to its NatureClad

range with two new profiles

Swish Building Products

is excited to announce an

extension to its NatureClad

range with the addition of

two new profiles, Shadow

Gap and Shadow Gap Plus.

Shadow Gap features a

narrow channel between

each board creating a

distinctive shadow effect,

whilst the innovative

Shadow Gap Plus has the

same channel but with an exposed black

co-extruded line, which further emphasises

the ‘shadow’ effect. The beautifully modern

Shadow Gap Plus profile creates a dramatic

and architecturally interesting finish, which

results in an appearance

that is not often seen in the

UK’s RMI market.

Shadow Gap is available in

all six NatureClad colours;

Chiminea Charcoal,

Cumulus Grey, Morning

Dew Silver, Moonlight

Anthracite, Coastal Sand,

and Rich Espresso, while

Shadow Gap Plus comes in

Cumulus Grey and Coastal

Schlüter stars in

stunning bathroom

Schlüter Systems offers more than

10,000 products designed for the

long-lasting installation of tiles

and natural stone. The portfolios

include trims, waterproofing,

underfloor heating and shower

drainage systems. Worldwide, the

products and systems have created

the very best in bathroom design in

both style and durability.

One example is a renovation

and extension project which

included the refurbishment of the

residence’s 4.8m x 2.7m master

en-suite. Enlisting the services of

Quell Bathrooms, the client set

out the fundamentals of what he

wanted – bath, shower and double

basin with storage. He then gave

free rein to Vincent Pope, Quell’s

MD, to come up with a few ideas

from which the final design was

selected. The resulting wetroom

featured a number of different

Schlüter-Systems products in order

to ensure a sound finish for the

client’s considerable investment.

An integrated linear drain wetroom

kit, Schlüter-KERDI-LINE-WRKL,

was used to provide guaranteed

waterproofing and drainage for

the bathroom; it comprised a

waterproofing and sealing kit,

shower boards, drainage channel &

support with a tile support grate.

The waterproofing and sealing

kit contained Schlüter-KERDI

waterproofing membrane, plus

Schlüter-KERDI-KEBA sealing band,

Schlüter-KERDI-KERECK preformed

corner pieces and Schlüter-

KERDI-COLL sealing adhesive.

The KERDI membrane from the

kit was used to waterproof the

back wall and around the shower

wall. The rest of the room utilised

Schlüter-KERDI-BOARD waterproof

backerboard in 10mm thickness.

All joints and junctions were sealed

with the aforementioned set of

sealing products.

For further information, call 01530

813396 or visit: www.schluter.co.uk

Sand, allowing both profiles

to beautifully complement a

variety of exterior designs.

Offering the natural texture

of wood but without the

weight, both Shadow

Gap and Shadow Gap

Plus deliver a sleek,

seamless appearance,

especially when installed

with matching trims and

joints, which are available

in complementary wood tones. Both

profiles also support horizontal, diagonal,

and vertical installation to meet evolving

customer trends and market demands.

“Since its release last year,

NatureClad has led the way

in terms of its innovative

design and composition.

Its PVDF-layered foil finish

delivers an exceptionally

durable, super-matt wood

effect finish with highdefinition

detail. The

addition of Shadow Gap

and Shadow Gap Plus

pushes this range even

further,” explains Lewis

Reaction to fire vs

fire resistance

Carl Thompson, Technical

Manager for CA Group,

addresses the issue.

In the construction

sector few topics

are as critical as fire

performance testing,

including Fire Resistance

and Reaction to Fire. While

both address fire safety,

they do so from very different

perspectives. Understanding these

differences is essential for designers,

manufacturers, and contractors

striving to achieve compliance,

safety, and clarity in specification.

BS 476 provides methods for

assessing how building materials

and elements of construction

perform under fire conditions. Part 22

specifically deals with fire resistance,

or how long an element can

maintain its integrity and insulation

performance when exposed to fire.

It will be replaced in 2029 with BS

EN 1364-1 which follows similar

principles.

BS EN 13501-1 is a European

harmonised classification system

often referred to as ‘Euroclass’. It

does not test materials directly but

provides a framework for classifying

reaction to fire performance based

Litchfield, Product Marketing Manager at

Swish Building Products.

“Our 2 new profiles enhance the NatureClad

range with greater design versatility,

reinforcing our commitment to new product

development and innovation with our

customer’s needs in mind. We’re confident

the contemporary design, high-quality, and

adaptability of Shadow Gap & Shadow Gap

Plus will prove just as popular as our existing

NatureClad range with both installers and

homeowners alike,” concludes Lewis.

Both variations of NatureClad Shadow Gap

and Shadow Gap Plus profiles are available

in 165mm single planks in 5m lengths. For

further information about Shadow Gap and

Shadow Gap Plus, as well as the extended

NatureClad range, visit: www.swishbp.

co.uk/index.php/products/cladding/

natureclad or call 01827 317200.

on results from other specific

EN test methods. BS EN

13501-1 addresses how

a material reacts to fire,

rather than how long it

can resist fire.

Much focus is given

to Euroclass following

the changes in 2019 to

Approved Document B

for England, and in particular

Regulation 7(2) limiting cladding

materials to A2 or better for ‘Relevant

Buildings’ (high rise residential

buildings). This potentially has led to

confusion between reaction to fire

and fire resistance standards, with

the risk of misinterpreting Euroclass

ratings as offering a degree of fire

resistance.

For professionals specifying materials

or designing to code, understanding

not only the standards, but also

the philosophy behind them, is key

to making informed, life-saving

decisions and creating low-risk

specified solutions. Reaction to Fire

classification cannot be used to

demonstrate Fire Resistance, and vici

versa.

T 01388 834242

enquiries@cagroup.co.uk

www.cagroup.co.uk

20


JANITZA achieves CIBSE accreditation

for industry-leading CPD

Janitza is pleased to announce that its

CPD presentation ‘Maximise Uptime by

Transparency: All-In-One Metering Solutions

for All Industries’ has secured official

accreditation by the Chartered Institution of

Building Services Engineers (CIBSE), with

participating engineers therefore receiving

CPD certification points required for initial

and subsequent certification.

Commenting for Janitza, UK Country

Manager, Tim Andrews, says, “This

recognition demonstrates Janitza’s

commitment to delivering high-quality,

industry-relevant training that supports

the ongoing professional development

of engineers, consultants, and technical

specialists across the

UK and beyond.”

The accredited CPD

session delivers

comprehensive

insights and empowers

understanding

of the latest allin-one

metering

solutions, focusing on

transparency, energy

management, predictive

maintenance, and the

integration of power quality and residual

current monitoring technologies.

Attendees will learn how these solutions can

maximise uptime, reduce costs, and ensure

compliance with regulatory standards,

making them essential for mission-critical

environments such as data centres,

hospitals, and industrial facilities. In addition,

Janitza’s speakers will provide practical

insights and expert recommendations based

on more than 60 years of experience in

energy measurement technology and power

quality monitoring.

The training course will be available from

December 2025 onwards. Those interested

Building Products & Services

can secure their attendance via the CIBSE

portal at: https://bit.ly/janitza_cpd

or by emailing Tim Andrews at:

tim.andrews@janitza.com or William Lloyd

at: william.lloyd@janitza.com


Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning

Why the hotun ® Dry-Trap Tundish and

the hotun detect ® Alarm System are best

practice for water-heating systems

HVAC installations, including hot water

sealed-system boilers and unvented

cylinders, require discharge devices for P/

TRVs (Pressure/Temperature Relief Valves).

Critical for compliance, safety, efficiency and

maintenance. The hotun ® dry-trap tundish

with the hotun detect ® audible/visual alarm

unit sets a new standard for best practice.

You can terminate to an internal waste

or soil pipe and you will need a tundish

followed by a trap:

▲ A wet trap will dry out then toxic fumes can

enter a living space.

▲ A membrane trap is a great solution but

it takes up space, is expensive and you

cannot see inside should it be blocked or

fail.

The hotun ® dry trap tundish is your best

practice option:

▲ Smallest solution in class (from 73mm

between pipes) with comprehensive

options (size, colour, fittings, etc);

▲ World first patented hot water solution,

award winning, accepted for use by major

manufacturers (eg. Worcester Bosch,

Vaillant, Ideal, Ariston, OSO and many

more)

▲ Independently tested and approved, also

flow-rate tested

▲ Open-sided, enabling visibility of water

even if no longer passing

▲ Maintenance in situ without disconnection

from the pipework

▲ Single piece construction (welded to

prevent failure)

▲ Full air break to drain standard is met incl.

backflow test

▲ 10 year warranty

▲ Unique alarm option enables compliance

with G3 to support impaired users

▲ The alarm restores visibility at point of

discharge and alerts to passing water

when an installation is behind a door or

panelling

▲ Can prevent boiler lock-out and

can save wasted energy and

water

hotun ® It’s not just a tundish!

For more information you

can visit the hotun ® website

or you can call their technical

helpline on 01332 702678.

www.hotun.co.uk

The Solenoid Valve Operating Magnet solves the problem of

operating a solenoid valve when a system is without power.

The Small Tool with

a Big Attraction

The Solenoid Valve

Operating Magnet is

a tool that converts

Electrically Operated

Solenoid Valves into

hand-operated valves.

The Solenoid Valve

Operating Magnet

assists during

the installation,

recovery of

refrigerants, and

commissioning and

decommissioning

of plant and

machinery.

When placed onto a

valve stem (with the coil

removed), it causes the

armature to open or close.

This enables service

engineers to operate

solenoid valves manually

in refrigeration, air

conditioning, water, oil,

gas, and fuel installations.

The magnet is

the same shape

and size as a

large cotton reel.

02381 550189 www.fridgenius.com

24


A Midlands company is celebrating 35 years

of supplying and repairing electric server

motors to businesses across the UK

Alpha Electrics, based in

Leicester, has grown year on

year and employs 14 people,

developing a strong reputation

for reliability, technical

expertise and high standards

of customer service.

Over the past three and a half

decades, the company has

built long-standing relationships with customers

and suppliers, becoming a trusted partner for

businesses that rely on specialist electrical

equipment to keep their operations running

efficiently.

The family-owned business specialises in electric

motors used in the aerospace, automotive,

precision engineering and food sectors, servicing

around three thousand units every year.

In addition to repairs, Alpha Electrics also provides

condition monitoring, fault diagnosis, performance

testing and preventative maintenance. These

services help organisations reduce downtime,

improve safety and extend the operational life

of critical machinery, delivering both cost and

environmental benefits.

Rajesh Patel, sales director, Alpha Electrics, said,

“We’re really proud of what

we’ve achieved particularly in

recent years, which has been a

challenging time for everyone,

especially small businesses.

“We have helped thousands

of businesses including blue

chip companies in a range of

industries, such as aerospace,

packaging and food with a strong customer base

in the Midlands and across the UK.

“As well as our core business of repair,

maintenance and service of industrial electric

motors and drives, we are expanding our service

into facilities management focusing on London

and the South East. This expansion allows

us to offer a more

comprehensive service,

supporting the day-today

operational needs of

our customers.

“By continuing to

diversify, I’m confident

we can keep growing the

business with its success

being enjoyed by future

generations of our family

continuing to

deliver for our

customers.”

Automotive

Mirza Safi,

maintenance

manager, Everest Ices Ltd, said, “We’ve been

working with the team of specialist engineers at

Alpha Electrics for more than 20 years.

“By helping to maintain our existing equipment,

we haven’t had to spend money on replacement

machinery, which has saved us significant costs

over the years.

“They’re always available to provide a solution

when we have technical issues with our

equipment enabling us to keep the business up

and running and maintain

production schedules.

“It’s like having your own inhouse

testing, maintenance

and procurement division,

giving us confidence and

peace of mind.”

For more information, visit:

www.alphaelectrics.com or

follow on LinkedIn.

Global plastics leader

turns to Lanes Group

Water Management

Icosa Water rebrands

to Last Mile Water

Drainage engineers from

Lanes Group have completed a

complex project to rehabilitate

a production pipe at a factory

run by a world-leading specialist

plastics manufacturer. Victrex plc

commissioned Lanes Group's pipe

rehabilitation and lining division

to replace a defective liner in an

effluent pipe with a new one at its

factory in Fleetwood, Lancashire.

The Lanes Group team used

specialist remote access

technology that allowed the

pipe to be renewed with the

least disruption and in the

shortest possible time. Victrex

manufactures advanced plastics

called PEEK and PAEK polymers.

Its products are used around

the world, in a wide range of

applications, including use in jet

and vehicle engines, electronic

components, and medical

implants.

Regular checks carried out by the

company’s maintenance team

identified a potential problem with

a section of a 300mm-diameter

clay production pipe taking

effluent to an on-site treatment

plant. The pipe had previously

been rehabilitated by a different

contractor, who had inserted a

35-metre-long liner between two

manholes to smooth its surface

and add structural strength.

A CCTV pipe survey carried out

by the Lanes Group team showed

that a 13 metre section of the liner

had developed a fault. This was

impairing the effluent flow and

could have put the pipe’s structural

integrity at risk. Lanes Group

worked with its German liner

supplier, IMPREG and with Victrex

to select the liner with the chemical

resistance needed to match the

composition of effluent carried in

the pipe.

www.lanesgroup.com

Icosa Water, the New Appointment

and Variation (NAV) licensed water

and wastewater service provider

across England and Wales, recently

announced its rebrand to Last

Mile Water. This change reflects

the company’s integration into the

broader Last Mile group, one of the

UK’s leading multi-utility providers.

As the UK’s second-largest NAV,

serving roughly 47,000 homes

across 386 sites, Last Mile Water is

already a core component of the

Last Mile group, which operates over

910,000 connections nationwide.

The integration responds directly

to growing demand for multi-utility

solutions from developers and will

enhance homeowners’ customer

experience.

“Planners, consultants and

developers now expect the

convenience and efficiencies of

a single, multi-utility provider

that can deliver everything in one

co-ordinated package,” said Rob

Bradley, Executive Director, Last Mile.

“Fully integrating an already strong

NAV brand into the Last Mile offering

gives a clear signal – we’re here to

help accelerate housebuilding and

commercial projects as a one-stop

shop for your water, wastewater, gas,

electricity and heat.”

As a licensed NAV, Last Mile

Water has the same duties and

responsibilities as traditional water

companies, though it can provide

developers with cost savings through

shared trenching, flexibility, speedier

decision-making, and reduced

connection times. According to

Ofwat, developers report 25-50%

faster delivery of water connections

when working with NAVs.

Homeowners can access information

about water and wastewater

services on the new Last Mile Water

website at: https://lmwater.co.uk

Developers can learn more about the

benefits of the NAV model for water

at: https://lmwater.co.uk/developer


Water Management

Building for water security

Following the dry

summer of 2025, the

Environment Agency

has warned that even

with average winter

rainfall some areas in

Britain will still be in

drought next spring.

The recent weather

pattern variations

can only compound

the existing concerns

about the anticipated

UK water deficit. To

offset the predicted

daily deficit of 4,017

mega litres per day

by 2050, major water

companies have

been developing

plans to upgrade the

UK’s water supply

and reduce current

usage from 150 litres

per person per day

to 110.

While smart meters are seen as a significant

part of the solution to reducing domestic

water usage, Thames Water have recorded

post installation savings of 12-17%, most

major UK water companies have announced

their plans for Advanced metering

infrastructure, where all new connections

or meters will replaced with the latest

generation of smart meters.

Groundbreaker – the best location for smart

meters

Groundbreaker is an insulated, surface

mounted enclosure for a secure water

management system and smart water

meter. This locates the meter above ground,

providing a better environment for smart

technology over traditional underground

boundary boxes, extends signal transmission

and allows easy meter exchange.

The unique location of the Groundbreaker

Groundbreaker – removes the need for

street furniture

Groundbreaker – the perfect housing for

smart meters

water management

system future proofs

the network and

minimises the risk

of developing future

leaks. The position

of the meter allows

for an unjointed

water supply, hence

maintaining the

integrity of the

supply. The use of an

uninterrupted supply

has been recognised

as best practice

by Water UK and

the Home Builders

Federation.

In addition to new

developments,

Groundbreaker

is ideal for

redevelopment or

refurbishment of

properties that have

architectural or

water supply structures that make traditional

metering options impractical.

This point of entry location makes it the

perfect solution for installation in existing

properties with shared supply or challenging

architecture. Its location on the building also

means no street furniture or liability in the

highway.

Save water, save energy, save money

Stewart Clements, Director of the Heating &

Hotwater Industry Council (HHIC), explained,

“It’s important that those responsible for

building new homes

and for upgrading

existing homes –

including both social

and private housing

providers and

landlords – recognise

the different factors

involved in minimising

energy consumption

and in making

tomorrow’s homes

the efficient properties

needed to achieve

decarbonisation and

reach the net zero

target for 2050.”

“The energy used to

heat water for devices

and appliances

emits an average

of 875kg of CO 2 per

household per year.

This is equivalent to

the CO 2 emissions

from driving more

than 1,700 miles in an

average family car.”

Simply installed between the

manifold and water meter

NRv2 LoFlo – additional water savings

built in

Energy Saving Trust

While water efficient appliances, ie.

dishwashers and washing machines, can

reduce domestic water and energy usage,

much of this hot water used in ‘time critical’

usage, eg. taking a shower or running the tap

to rinse dishes.

Lo-Flo – additional water saving, built in

To further improve home water efficiency,

major water companies are also rolling

out flow regulating devices, such as

Groundbreaker’s LoFlo. These modulate the

level of flow entering premises – regardless

of network pressure, meaning a reduction in

the level of water used by customers when

‘variable use’ appliances (ie. showers, taps,

hosepipes). As the flow of water into the

premises is limited, then the amount used

by the customer is also limited – but without

providing a degradation of service, and more

importantly not requiring any intervention or

behavioural change on

the part of the customer.

The NRv2 LoFlo can

be easily and simply

fitted to any meter

installation or retrofitted

on meter exchange

or when upgrading

or remediating

underground meter

chambers. Thus,

allowing Water

Companies to manage

demand with little or no

impact on consumers

and at minimal cost to

the water undertakers.

Whether it’s new build

or redevelopment,

Groundbreaker has a

range of products to

design in water efficient

homes.

For further product

details, visit: www.

groundbreaker.co.uk

26


The Manchester Cleaning Show 2026 Preview

Manchester Cleaning Show returns for 2026

The Manchester Cleaning Show, the UK’s

second-largest cleaning and hygiene trade

event after London, will return to Manchester

Central on 18-19 February 2026, bringing

together the brightest industry innovators

and decision-makers from across the North.

Registration is now open for the UK’s

second-largest cleaning and hygiene trade

show. With major names already confirmed,

organisers are calling on more businesses

to exhibit and connect with the North’s most

influential cleaning and facilities management

professionals. This follows the success of

2024, which welcomed over 80 exhibitors

and 2,500 attendees.

Attendee registration is now open, but

organisers are also encouraging suppliers,

manufacturers & service providers to secure

their exhibition space early to make the most

of growing demand for northern connections.

Major names are already confirmed for the

2026 show, including Jangro, Killis, Lucart,

Team Software, BICSc, Tork, Northwood

Hygiene, i-Team, Embassy UK, and SC

Johnson Professional.

With a reputation as the North’s essential

cleaning and FM event, the show provides a

platform to connect businesses with buyers

and influencers from across the likes of

hospitality, healthcare, large venues, and

education.

Exhibitors can showcase innovations, build

relationships, and gain practical insights that

drive real business growth.

Notably, 76% of the 2024 attendees did not

attend this year’s London event, making

Manchester a unique gateway to reach

regional buyers.

In addition, 79% of the 2024 visitors held

purchasing power, and 27% controlled

Celebrating 50 years of excellence

– The Dual Pumps story

Founded by Tony Herridge in 1975, Dual

Pumps Limited has grown from a small

garage-based operation into a leading

distributor of pressure washers, pumps,

and fluid-handling components. Over the

past five decades, the company has built

a reputation for reliability, innovation, and

quality service.

Tony worked as a sales representative for

Hypro in the UK and Europe, a role that

would prove instrumental in shaping the

company's future. This early experience

laid the foundation for lasting business

relationships. His work soon led to

partnerships with other major brands,

including Interpump, Pratissoli, Banjo, Pacer,

and Flojet, marking the beginning of a long

and successful collaboration that would help

define Dual Pumps' product offering.

In 1977, the company opened its first office

in Oakham with two employees before

expanding to Melton Mowbray in 1982. A

major milestone came in 1983 when Dual

Pumps became the official UK distributor for

Interpump, the world’s leading manufacturer

of high-pressure plunger pumps.

Innovation has always been central to Dual

Pumps. In 1996, it launched its first product

catalogue, later expanding to a 160 page

edition in 2001. Today, the company offers a

432 page catalogue and a mobile-responsive

B2B website featuring over 10,000 products,

streamlining the purchasing experience for

trade customers.

Recognising the need for greater capacity,

Dual Pumps moved into a 35,000ft 2 facility

on the outskirts of Melton Mowbray in 2012,

enabling it to meet increasing demand

and enhance service offerings. The launch

of the Evolution Series Engine-Driven

Pressure Washers in 2015, featuring over 60

models across ten series, further cemented

the company’s reputation for highperformance,

durable products tailored to

industry needs.

budgets exceeding £1 million, with

organisations such as Asda, Savills,

Heathrow, Royal Mail, David Lloyd, and

leading UK universities all in attendance.

Paul Sweeney, event director, said, “The

Manchester Cleaning Show has become

the heartbeat of the industry in the North.

Exhibiting here puts your brand directly in

front of high-value decision-makers who

want to connect locally, do business faceto-face,

and discover what’s new. For any

company looking to grow its reach beyond

London, this is where those opportunities

begin.”

The 2026 Manchester Cleaning Show will

feature live product demonstrations, expertled

seminars, and networking opportunities,

alongside an exhibition floor showcasing

the latest products and sustainable solutions

driving the industry forward.

https://cleaningshow.co.uk/manchester

In 2020, Dual Pumps achieved ISO 9001-

2015 certification, demonstrating its

commitment to quality and continuous

improvement.

Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond

As Dual Pumps marks its 50th anniversary, it

stands as a testament to growth, resilience,

and dedication to customer satisfaction.

The company now employs 44 people,

serving over 2,500 customers, from

sole traders to international OEMs, and

distributing products from more than 90

leading global manufacturers.

From humble beginnings to becoming a

trusted partner worldwide, Dual Pumps

continues to set the standard for reliability

and innovation. With a strong foundation

and a vision for the future, it remains

committed to delivering high-quality

solutions for an ever-evolving industry.

At Dual Pumps, dependability isn’t just a

promise – it’s a legacy.

Contact

T 01664 567226

info@dualpumps.co.uk

www.dualpumps.co.uk

28


Our Terra4

docking

station is the

world’s first

multi-dryer

Plug & Play

platform

Compatible with our Pebble

Mini, Pebble+ and F4 Eco

+44 (0) 1425 616 103

hygiene@velairgroup.com

www.velair.co.uk

Once installed, the Terra4 Docking

Station becomes the fit and forget

product, allowing for any of our Plug & Play

hand dryers to be easily upgraded, maintained

or replaced within seconds, by anyone; no

skilled labour required. Managing your hand

dryer requirements has never been so easy.

Oxy-Gen Powered ® is the only technology that

harnesses the power of pure oxygen to

guarantee the delivery of fragrance into the air continuously,

consistently and accurately for 30, 60 or 90 days

+44 (0) 1425 616 103

enviro-save@velairgroup.com

www.enviro-save.co.uk

Recommended Supplier Directory

We believe that embedding sustainability,

transparency, long-term customer

relationships and trusted partnerships

in all aspects of our daily activities is

key to build and maintain leadership as

a responsible timber importer. It is our

mission to show that timber is the world’s

most ecological and sustainable material.

GSM Activate is a manufacturer of

electronics and access control devices,

which specialises in GSM (simcards)

based technology based in West Sussex,

England. GSM is the global system for

mobile communication. When used with our

products it enables you to use your mobile

phone as the key component in security,

access control and automation applications.

Up in the world. Up any building. Up on

every level. Direct Hoist takes you up in

the world with market-leading construction

hoists for any commercial project. Direct

Hoist deals with hoists, and only hoists.

Goods hoists, personnel hoists, goods

and personel hoists, on contract hire, or to

purchase.

Fridgenius have been supplying National

and International Distributors & Partners with

the Solenoid Valve Operating Magnet since

1995. Designed and manufactured in the

UK, the innovative tool is a valuable addition

to any HVAC service engineer’s toolkit.

Fridgenius supplies a range of Magnet sizes

for use in refrigeration, air conditioning,

water, oil, gas, and fuel installations.

Service Sealing Solutions Ltd

The Original KSE Range is renowned for its

robust construction and proven reliability.

It provides a solid, watertight solution

suitable for environments where durability

and consistent performance are paramount.

This range is well-suited for installations

where the primary focus is on long-term

resilience and straightforward functionality.

Service Sealing Solutions is the sole UK

distributor for the sealing industry’s top

manufacturers; DOYMA, FRANK and HKD.

Service Sealing Solutions Ltd specialises in highquality

service duct sealing systems for utility

services & watertight seals. Offering a high level

of expertise to developers & specifiers for sealing

against water and gas ingress around service

entries in basements and high-rise buildings.

CheckedSafe delivers straightforward,

customisable and cost-effective compliance

tools that enhance safety and efficiency

across diverse sectors. After all, why work

harder, when you could work smarter?

Together with our dedicated team of

developers and account managers, we offer

comprehensive compliance services across

various platforms.

Adveco Ltd. and sister-company Adveco

(AWP) Ltd, which trades as AO Smith Water

Heaters, have been suppliers of products

and services for commercial water heating

projects for the past 50 years. Today, Adveco

Ltd. is the trusted specialist provider of

bespoke, low carbon hot water and heating

systems to the building services industry.

Gold & Wassall Hinges is the leading name

in hinge manufacturing in the UK, and has

been manufacturing hinges of all types,

including continuous hinges, heavy duty

hinges, butt hinges and special purpose

hinges. Our impressive stock range boasts

over 25,000 continuous hinges and over

120,000 other hinges.

DCON Safety Consultants is an

independently owned Built Environmental

Safety, Health & Wellbeing Consultancy. We

prioritise and specialise in the highest levels

of informed & intelligent advice, senior

project resource allocation and compliance

assurance. We know that every project with

potential benefits also has potential risks.

30


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Commercial Ventilation

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Beacons & Feeder Pillars

Beacons & Feeder Pillars

Construction Consultancy

Baqus Group provides nationwide

construction consultancy

services to sectors, including:

Hospitality • Healthcare •

Residential • Industrial • Arts

• Commercial • Leisure

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


01425 616103 | https://velair.co.uk

Projects

WE ADVISE, DESIGN, MANUFACTURE,

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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

Contact 01442 253341

info@castlegatesandautomation.co.uk

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01425 616103 https://velair.co.uk


STEEL BUILDING

SOLUTIONS

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INDUSTRIAL AGRICULTURAL DOMESTIC

Built on steel. Driven by service.

At Castle Steel Buildings, exceptional service is our cornerstone. We understand

that every project is personal, which is why we tailor every step to you – ensuring a

smooth, satisfying experience from first contact to final delivery.

GET A FREE ONLINE QUOTE AT

WWW.CASTLESTEELBUILDINGS.CO.UK

OR CONTACT US ON

01302 301402

INFO@CASTLESTEELBUILDINGS.CO.UK

Building and Facilities News Issue 1013

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