We hear how commercial heat recovery has been deployed in a Carmarthen health and wellbeing project.

Vent-Axia’s award-winning Sentinel Apex units have been specified for the landmark Carmarthen Health and Wellbeing Hwb project, delivering energy-efficient ventilation to this transformative multi-million-pound development. The 245,000ft2 scheme is repurposing the former Carmarthen Debenhams building into a Health and Wellbeing Hub.

Facilities

The new hub will offer a range of services including public healthcare, a Customer Service Hwb, and new 24 hour Actif gym. Other facilities will include a family entertainment centre, with indoor adventure golf, toy town soft play, E-Go Karting, and TAG Active. Part-funded by the Welsh Government’s IRCF Fund, with further funding from the UK Government, the development will benefit from Sentinel Apex units installed across all three floors of the building, with four Sentinel Apex HR21 specified to meet the demand of the gym area alone.

Formerly a shopping centre, the building has been redesigned as a dynamic Health and Wellbeing Hwb for the people of Carmarthen. The extensive refurbishment involved a full reconfiguration of the internal space to create a welcoming environment that balances health, wellbeing, and entertainment under one roof. The project team includes: main contractor, Bouygues; M&E Consultant, Hoare Lea; Sub-Contractor, FP Hurley & Sons (Crosshands), and Distributor, Ventilation Warehouse. The Sentinel Apex commercial heat recovery units were specified for their energy efficiency, good indoor air quality, and their ultra-quiet operation, as well as meeting stringent Specific Fan Power (SFP) and dBA acoustic requirements, ensuring a comfortable and compliant building.

Neil Higgins, Contracts Manager, F P Hurley & Sons said: “We chose the Sentinel Apex units because they deliver exceptionally quiet operation and low Specific Fan Power, ensuring they met all Building Regulation requirements. The units were also available in a wide range of airflows, allowing us to specify the correct units for each space. In short, they offered the ideal balance of airflow, low noise, and energy efficiency.”

Adam Bullon from Ventilation Warehouse added: “I have worked with Vent-Axia for a long time. The Carmarthen Health and Wellbeing Hwb was an interesting job with the Sentinel Apex ticking all the right boxes for the project, including energy efficiency, noise, and ease of maintenance. Twenty Sentinel Apex units were delivered over three project stages.”

Maximum comfort

A brilliant fit for the Carmarthen Health and Wellbeing Hwb project, the Vent-Axia Sentinel Apex is the next generation of commercial heat recovery ventilation, providing specifiers help in creating low-carbon buildings. The Sentinel Apex is specifically designed to have a high level of energy efficiency with industry-leading SFP and low embodied carbon. Individuals using the Carmarthen space will find maximum occupant comfort as this has been a priority for the development of the Sentinel Apex unit, operating quietly whilst improving indoor air quality.

The Sentinel Apex offers the highest level of IAQ and thermal comfort, whilst maintaining the lowest energy and noise levels, both of which were vital for this refurbishment. Offering up to 93% heat recovery efficiency (EN308 test method), ultra-low sound levels, which are independently tested and verified by SRL Technical Services Limited, and extremely low SFP, the Sentinel Apex has notable performance improvement in comparison with previous commercial heat recovery units and delivers ‘Simply more as Standard’. Its intuitive controls are compatible with Vent-Axia’s range of Sentinel-X Sensors, allowing for easily configurable set points ensuring optimised IAQ, in line with Part F of the Building Regulations, all while minimising ventilation energy consumption.

In order to achieve the highest levels of IAQ, the Sentinel Apex unit features ePM10 50% extract and ePM1 55% supply filters (M5/F7 equivalent) as standard. By carefully selecting the filter media and by utilising the latest motors and impellers (with better than IE5 efficiency), the Sentinel Apex maintains an extremely low SFP with low sound levels whilst maintaining excellent IAQ. The Sentinel Apex also aids thermal comfort with an integral automatic summer bypass that is designed to provide free cooling when available but is sized to eliminate performance loss.

Specifiers can choose from five sizes, as the Apex has been developed for a wide range of applications, and delivers airflows up to 4000m3/hr. At the Carmarthen Health and Wellbeing Hwb 20 Sentinel Apex units were installed, including four Sentinel Apex HR21s used in the ground floor gym area alone, while Sentinel Apex HR15 units were used for the offices on floor 1 and floor 2, displaying the wide range of Apex units used in the project, in turn ensuring air flow meets design requirements in different parts of the building.

Designed to operate on the principles of demand ventilation, the Sentinel Apex is ideal for applications where the rooms are used at different times of the day by a variable number of people, making it well-tailored to the Carmarthen Health and Wellbeing Hwb. The Sentinel Apex system, with the matched range of Sentinel-X Sensors, can monitor occupancy and air quality, responding by adjusting the ventilation accordingly, to maintain the IAQ and thermal comfort within predefined limits, whilst recovering up to 93% of the extracted thermal energy.

In control

The Sentinel Apex’s new advanced integrated control system has 3 levels of interface, all as standard: simple purpose-designed onboard user interface controlled incorporating an alphanumerical, 2-line display which lets users know how the system is operating with 4-button keypad for fan status and a basic commissioning setup mounted within the control panel. This allows easy commissioning and set-up. A full range of wired and wireless communication sensors available, with either through local mains or battery-powered options.

The controls are designed to take the complexity out of the control system making it easy for the user, with two levels of interface: one for the engineer allowing commissioning and one simpler one for the end-user allowing them to easily monitor and boost the system if additional ventilation is required.

Designed to have a low embodied carbon footprint, Vent-Axia has used the CIBSE TM65 data collection methodology to collect accurate, detailed embodied carbon information for the Sentinel Apex, working from a component level up. This methodology ensures data is comprehensive, accurate, reliable and up-to-date, making it easier for specifiers to focus on designing low carbon sustainable buildings.

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We find out how Aico is improving fire detection systems in ventilated homes.

Flagship Housing is a UK social housing provider, managing over 33,000 homes across the East of England. The organisation not only builds, lets, maintains and improves homes for rent and sale, but also reinvests profits to fund more affordable housing and community-focused services.

Objectives and safety priorities

Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) and Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) systems are increasingly used within social housing to improve indoor air quality and address damp and mould. While these systems deliver clear health benefits, they also introduce important fire‑safety considerations, particularly around ductwork, compartment penetrations, and the potential for smoke movement within a dwelling.

Since Davin Gee joined Flagship Housing three years ago as Compliance Manager (Electrical), Aico has worked closely with him to develop a robust, standards‑led solution that improves resident safety while providing meaningful compliance assurance.

The project was designed to achieve two primary objectives:

• Improve resident safety in properties fitted with PIV or MVHR systems
• Provide live compliance data and remote notification of fire alarm activations

A key requirement was ensuring fire detection coverage met the intent of BS 5839‑6, particularly in areas where higher‑risk ventilation equipment is installed.

Davin Gee commented: “We at Flagship Housing continuously look at ways to prioritise our residents’ safety whilst at home. One way that we could do that is by increasing fire detection within properties with MVHR and PIV systems. Due to the potential for mechanical ventilation and interconnected ductwork to accelerate the spread of smoke and fire, enhanced detection ensures earlier warning for occupants, mitigates ventilation-related risks, and provides an appropriate level of life safety, particularly for vulnerable residents.”

Fire-risk drivers and life safety considerations

Fire‑safety risks associated with ventilation systems do not generally arise from the units themselves. Instead, guidance consistently highlights risks linked to ductwork, compartment penetration, specification of materials, and the movement of smoke through properties.

Many of the most serious incidents continue to involve smoke spread and compartment failure, reinforcing the importance of effective containment measures.

For Davin Gee, the primary driver for this project was the need to prevent smoke being moved throughout a property during a fire event. While ventilation systems are essential for everyday living conditions, active airflow during a fire can unintentionally aid smoke spread.

By ensuring fire detection is installed in the same areas as PIV and MVHR units, and by automatically isolating ventilation systems when an alarm activates, the approach directly targets one of the most significant life safety risks within the home.

Integrated fire safety solution

Flagship Housing adopted a standardised specification for all properties fitted with PIV or MVHR systems.

Each applicable property is equipped with:

• Ei3024 Multi-Sensor Fire Alarm – Provides enhanced smoke and heat detection.
• Ei428 RadioLINK Relay Module – Isolates the ventilation system upon alarm activation, helping limit smoke and fire spread.
• Ei1000G The Gateway – Enables remote notification of alarm activations and provides live compliance data.

This integrated approach ensures protection for residents while giving Flagship Housing immediate visibility should an incident occur. 

Implementation and installation

Installation is being completed by Karma Electrical & Fire Systems Ltd, an Aico Platinum Partner.

Platinum Partner is an Aico initiative that rewards installers who meet Gold Standard Installer requirements, are registered with NICEIC and hold an ISO 9001Quality Management system certification. 

All installers involved are fully trained and competent, having completed Aico Expert Installer training, Introduction to Damp and Mould, and the City & Guilds assured AA2426‑01 course. Early installations were supported on-site to ensure consistency and best practice from the outset.

Karl Sharman, Managing Director at Karma Electrical & Fire Systems Ltd, commented: “The Aico system is incredibly straightforward to install. From an installer’s perspective it’s well designed, logical, and easy to integrate with ventilation systems. More importantly, it gives the Registered Social Landlord far greater visibility of compliance and resident safety than traditional standalone alarms.”

Key outcomes

The project, initially for the 150 homes where Flagship Housing has ventilation systems installed, now sees that any property that has been retrofitted or any new builds will have these systems installed.

The scheme has already delivered benefits, including:

• Improved resident safety
• Reduces risk of smoke and fire spread within dwellings
• Improved assurance of compliance with BS 5839-6
• Immediate notification to Flagship Housing when alarms activate

Residents benefit from safer homes, while Flagship Housing gains improved oversight and confidence in its fire safety strategy.

Programme status and future specification

The rollout across existing properties is currently underway, with completion expected shortly.

For all new PIV and MVHR installations, this specification will now form the minimum standard, embedding fire safety considerations at the point of design rather than as a retrofit measure.

Trevor Sawyer, Relationship Manager at Aico, said: “I’m extremely proud to have been part of this collaborative approach with Flagship Housing. By strengthening fire detection in properties with MVHR and PIV systems, we’re not only enhancing compliance, but more importantly, helping to make homes safer for residents. It’s rewarding to support a forward-thinking organisation that places tenant safety at the heart of its decision making.”

This project highlights the value of strong collaboration between housing providers, manufacturers, and competent contractors. By focusing on smoke containment, automatic ventilation isolation, and real time data, Flagship Housing has implemented a proactive, resident‑focused fire safety solution that goes beyond basic compliance.

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David Williams, Schneider Electric’s VP Transactional Business and Major Pursuits UK&I, explores the shift from traditional in-person trade counters to blended, multi-channel experiences for the electrical installation industry.

Our electrical installation industry continues to navigate changes and new trends. The digital world has opened many opportunities across our sector, both now and for the future.

Schneider Electric’s research into the Trade Counter of the Future reveals current and future evolutions in our industry.

Distribution is now firmly multichannel

The trade counter remains the vital channel – accounting for 41% of all purchases. At the same time, we’re seeing a purchasing evolution with increases in the use of digital channels. Our research found that three in four customers are expecting to use online for ordering and quoting more in the next five years. And let’s not forget, websites aren’t the only digital channel. Trade customers are also using email, mobile and even messaging apps such as WhatsApp to place orders these days.

It’s important to recognise that multichannel is here to stay. To succeed in this multichannel world, consistency of service and product availability across all channels are vital to create a seamless experience that suits individual customer needs.

Adapting to generational differences

Despite the move to online, a generational divide is evident. Younger tradespeople (25-34 years) overwhelmingly prefer online and mobile ordering, with 84% expecting to increase their use of digital channels in the next five years. In contrast, 39% of those over 55 don’t think their use of online will change.

This means wholesalers could benefit from segmenting their communications and offerings. Digital-first, mobile-friendly platforms are essential for younger trades, while relationship-driven, face-to-face service remains crucial for older customers. Channels like WhatsApp, YouTube, TikTok, and email should be tailored to audience age and digital behaviour.

Setting new standards in terms of speed and convenience

Consumerism has raised the bar when it comes to fulfilment and convenience in our everyday lives. This is influencing the business sector where speed, convenience and customer service are key elements in the purchasing journey, it’s no longer just about price.

Over half of trade customers now expect the same speed and convenience from their business suppliers as they get in their personal (consumer) lives. More than half say they choose online ordering because it saves valuable working time (56%), it offers convenient delivery direct to home or job site (54%) and it ensures fast, reliable and on-time deliveries (53%).

To respond to this, it’s worth investing in supply chain transparency, real-time stock visibility, and robust fulfilment infrastructure to meet these expectations with a seamless approach.

Differentiating with knowledge and education

When visiting trade counters, almost three-quarters (71%) of customers rate knowledgeable staff as extremely important, two-thirds (66%) like to browse new products and two in five are attracted by innovation hubs to trial new technology (41%) or attend live demonstrations (43%).

As product research and price comparisons move online, the physical trade counter can differentiate itself with its deep expertise and experience. Innovation hubs, digital POS displays, and QR-linked product information can transform the trade counter into a centre for upskilling and discovery. Training modules, digital brochures, and incentives for attending knowledge sessions can drive footfall and foster loyalty, especially among younger and new-to-industry tradespeople.

Aligning to customer behaviour and preferences

We identified two main customer mindsets that need to be considered. “Quick Collectors,” who value efficiency and speed, and “Browsers”, who seek advice, product discovery, and in-person engagement.

In this increasingly multichannel world, the trade counter can be reimagined as a hybrid service hub. Express lanes and streamlined collection points will cater to the Quick Collectors, while interactive education zones, live demonstrations, and innovation hubs will engage the Browsers.

Getting ready for the trade counter of the future

In our multichannel world, the trade counter is evolving. Channel customers expect a seamless blend of speed, service, and knowledge regardless of the channels they prefer.

Wholesalers are perfectly positioned to deliver consistent experience wherever an order is placed, while using the physical counter to provide what digital alone can’t: trusted expertise, hands-on discovery and human relationships.

By embracing these changes, electrical wholesalers can not only keep pace with evolving customer expectations and behaviour but also secure their place at the heart of the industry for years to come.

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Industrial controls are at the heart of modern industry, enabling machines, processes, and facilities to operate safely, efficiently, and reliably. From switches and relays to sensors and programmable controllers, these products support everything from manufacturing and logistics to energy and infrastructure. As automation and digital technologies continue to expand, demand for industrial control solutions is growing rapidly.

For wholesalers, this creates opportunities to move beyond product supply and become trusted advisors to customers. Understanding the fundamentals of industrial controls can help identify new sales opportunities, support technical conversations, and deliver greater value across a wide range of applications.

Fewer mistakes, increased sales, improved customer satisfaction 

By reducing costly mistakes, improving accuracy, and building deep product confidence across your team, the modules empower staff to provide clear guidance on the products they sell. This increases customer satisfaction, builds trust, creates upselling opportunities and ensures customers return.

If your people aren’t studying the EDA’s training modules, your competitors are already ahead because thousands of EDA training modules are studied each year.

Best in class

Setting the benchmark for professional skills development in the UK’s electrotechnical sector, this EDA training programme has two Princess Royal Training Awards – in 2022 and again in 2025. A commendation only awarded to the UK’s best-in-class training, plus they carry the City & Guilds’ Accreditation. And if you are an EDA business, you get exclusive access.

The EDA’s training module Industrial Controls covers:

• Switches and Indicators
• Relays and Contactors
• Fuses and Breakers
• Motors and Motor Control
• Power Supplies
• Enclosures and Panel Layout
• Programmable Control and Automation
• Sensing and Instrumentation
• Environmental Considerations
• Trends in Industrial Controls

Test your knowledge

Have a go at this quiz sampled from the Industrial Controls module and check your answers below. If the results show that you need to boost your team’s know-how, talk to the EDA today.

Q1: 2-Way lighting circuits are used to provide light switches at the bottom and top of the stairs to control a single lighting circuit. The switches have three terminals marked COM, L1 and L2. How many poles and throws does the switch have, and how is this abbreviated?

Q2: What electrical property of a cable determines how much heat is generated?

Q3: Many fuses provide protection against both short circuit and overload faults. What type of faults do circuit-breakers protect against?

Q4: Give two example uses for motors in industrial applications.

Q5: What are PLC IO modules used for?

Q6: What is the main difference between a solenoid and a control valve? 

Scroll down for answers

Answers:

Q1: The switch has one pole (to control a single circuit) and is known as double throw or CO. This is abbreviated as SPDT or SPCO.

Q2: Resistance.

Q3: Just as with a fuse, circuit-breakers operate in the case of either short circuits or overload.

Q4: Typical uses include pumps, compressors, conveyors, and machinery.

Q5: IO modules are used to wire the PLC to the input and output devices.

Q6: A solenoid valve is used to either open or close a pipe (shut off), whereas a control valve is used to regulate the flow.

How did you do?

Full marks: Well done.

3 – 5 out of 6: Time to fill in any gaps in your knowledge and build confidence.

Less than 3: EDA Product Knowledge Training needed.

Watch the video and download the Course Directory

There’s plenty of information online at www.eda.org.uk, including a video and a downloadable course directory, giving you a summary of what’s covered in each of the 12 training modules.

The EDA team is ready to help. Call 020 3141 7350 or email training@eda.org.uk.

For more information, click here

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The EV industry is evolving at an unprecedented pace and navigating this rapidly changing landscape requires more than ambition; it demands expertise, partnership, and long-term thinking. Darren North, National Sales Manager for Rolec, looks at how EV Infrastructure is reshaping wholesale demand.

No longer a future-facing trend in the UK, electric vehicle adoption is now a day-to-day reality shaping specification decisions, stock profiles, and conversations at the trade counter.

For electrical wholesalers, EV charging has evolved from a niche category into a core part of electrical distribution, driven by installation demand across residential, commercial, and fleet environments.

As demand increases, so too does complexity. Charging speeds, site requirements, and system interoperability are key technical factors determining what gets specified, supplied, and installed.

For wholesalers, this shift is creating both opportunity and responsibility: the opportunity to grow margin-rich categories, and the responsibility to support installers with accurate, practical guidance.

For Rolec, an emphasis on collaboration and capability-building reflects the company’s long-term view of industry growth built on competence, consistency, and confidence.

Home or commercial use EV charging

When selecting an EV charger, there is no universal solution. Requirements differ significantly between domestic, workplace, fleet, and public charging environments, meaning wholesalers increasingly need to understand not just the products, but the applications they are designed for.

For home charging customers, price sensitivity remains a major consideration. Installers and end users are often looking for cost-effective solutions that combine compact, aesthetically pleasing units with dependable performance. Reflecting these priorities, Rolec’s EVO, ZURA, and BasicCharge ranges are designed to provide accessible home charging solutions that balance functionality, ease of installation, and affordability.

Commercial charging introduces a wider set of considerations, many of which directly influence installation complexity and long-term operational efficiency.

Location

Different charging environments require different hardware solutions. Workplace, public, residential, and fleet applications all present distinct operational demands. For example, exposed or high-traffic environments often require more robust infrastructure offering durability and vandal resistance.

Outlet options

Commercial sites are increasingly looking to maximise charging availability while minimising infrastructure costs. Dual and quad outlet units can help reduce groundwork, cabling, and installation time while increasing the number of charging outlets available on site. Multi-outlet solutions such as Rolec’s HEX charger are helping operators maximise charging availability from a single installation footprint.

Connectivity challenges

Reliable connectivity is essential for monitoring, billing, and access control. However, this can become challenging in underground car parks or remote locations where signal strength may be limited. To address this, Rolec’s charging solutions offer multiple connectivity options, including 4G, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet, ensuring chargers remain online 24/7.

Charging speeds

Charging speeds range from 7.4kW AC fast charging to ultra-rapid DC solutions up to 650kW, depending on application and site requirements. In commercial and fleet environments, operational efficiency is critical, with vehicle downtime, turnaround times, and site utilisation all key considerations.

Data management

The ability to extract and analyse data is becoming increasingly important for commercial operators. Access to detailed reporting, including energy consumption per vehicle, enables a clearer understanding of operational costs and fleet efficiency and chargepoint utilisation.

Innovation in EV infrastructure

Alongside growing demand, EV charging technology is evolving rapidly. The most significant innovations are not only about faster charging speeds, but also about smarter systems and energy management.

Load management

Load management has moved from an optional feature to a standard requirement. Dynamic load balancing is now frequently used to prevent overloading supply infrastructure, particularly in multi-charger set-ups. These systems allow several chargepoints to operate within available capacity by intelligently distributing power across a site.

Interoperability

OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol) has become increasingly important in preventing vendor lock-in. Customers are actively seeking flexibility across networks and software platforms, rather than closed ecosystems. Rolec supports this approach with products designed to be natively OCPP compliant. The company currently works with more than 45 chargepoint management system (CPMS) partners worldwide.

Integrated software

The value of EV charging is no longer defined solely by hardware. Back-office platforms play a critical role in monitoring, billing, remote management, and energy optimisation, shifting purchasing decisions towards total system capability rather than unit price alone.

Growth in the wholesale channel

As EV charging continues to evolve, wholesalers are increasingly acting as knowledge hubs as much as stockists. Key priorities across the channel include staff training, installation knowledge, and dedicated manufacturer support for technical and specification queries. As installations become more varied and technically demanding, confidence at the counter is directly influencing orders.

In response, leading manufacturers are placing greater emphasis on knowledge transfer and channel engagement, an approach that sits at the foundation of Rolec’s strategy. This extends beyond product supply, supporting wholesalers and contractors throughout the project, from pre-sales enquiries and specification support through to quotation, onboarding, and handover.

This end-to-end approach reflects a broader industry shift towards collaboration across manufacturers, wholesalers, and installers, where successful delivery depends on technical understanding rather than product supply alone.

Rolec’s support is further reinforced through hands-on training, access to technical resources, and practical guidance on the latest system developments across EV infrastructure projects. With over 35 years of manufacturing experience, Rolec continues to develop its product range with a focus on reliability, flexibility, and ease of deployment across multiple applications.

Built on standards

As the EV charging market evolves, consistency, compliance, and operational discipline are becoming increasingly important to wholesalers and installers alike.

At Rolec, this commitment has been formalised through ISO certification, providing a structured framework across quality management, environmental responsibility, occupational health and safety, and energy management. Importantly, this does not introduce new intent; it strengthens and formalises practices already embedded across the business. It demonstrates that systems, processes, and controls are in place to meet recognised international standards, ensuring responsibility and efficiency are built into every stage of delivery.

For customers, this is more than a certification, it is confidence and consistency.

A category moving into maturity

EV charging is no longer an emerging add-on category for electrical wholesalers; it has become a core part of their renewables and electrification offering.

As charging technology becomes more advanced, the role of the wholesaler is also evolving. Those who adapt fastest to this shift will not only capitalise on growing demand but also help define the delivery of EV infrastructure across the UK.

Further details can be found here

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When the going gets tough, the tough need good footwear. That’s why Bobcat is giving readers the chance to win one of two pairs of these high-performance, superior-comfort Dakota boots with an RRP of up to £125 each.

Launched by Overland Shoes, the experts behind some of the world’s most iconic footwear brands, the new-to-market Bobcat Safety Footwear range sets a new standard in durability, comfort and style for work shoes and boots.

The Dakota safety boot is one of the most popular in the range, built to deliver all‑day performance and protection shift after shift. At its core lies Bobcat’s advanced Leaf‑Spring Technology insole, engineered to return energy and reduce fatigue.

For the ultimate performance day-in day-out, the Dakota also features a rugged triple-density outsole, ladder grip, scuff cap resistance and fuel oil resistance. Meanwhile, an ankle zip ensures easy on-off convenience, while a hiker-style lace system delivers a secure, supportive fit. Coupled with a bold, stylish design, luxury textiles and breathable linings, the end result is the ultimate choice for busy electricians looking to move forward in comfort and confidence.

For more information please visit: www.bobcat-footwear.com

HOW TO ENTER

To be in with a chance of winning, simply choose the correct answer from following choices:

Q. What is the name of one of the most popular new safety boots now available from Bobcat Safety Footwear?

A) Dakota

B) Detroit

C) Dallas

Simply fill out the form below and tell us your answer for the chance to WIN!

Deadline for entries 31/08/26

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In this month’s Face to Face we speak with Glenn Ward, General Manager of Dunasfern, and find out more about the business and the industry sector it operates in.

Q. Can you tell us a bit about Dunasfern and what the company offers?

Dunasfern has been serving the data and communication market for over 43 years and has evolved into one of the leading suppliers of data infrastructure products across the UK. Breadth of product range and being commercially competitive are essential and a given in today’s world but at Dunasfern, the real benefit and differential we offer, is the market leading customer service and focus we dedicate to every customer and every order.

Q. How has the cabling solutions industry changed since Dunasfern first entered the market?

Since the birth of LAN data cables and the growth in networking computers, we have seen a massive increase in data demand and speed of transmission. This need to transmit more data and faster has continued and accelerated since the pandemic in 2020 with more hybrid working, streaming meetings almost continually and with the evolution of AI, this demand for data capacity and speed will only continue to grow.

Q. What products and solutions are popular with customers at the moment?

Within the whole communications spectrum, LAN data cables represent the largest volume and value, and we are continuing to see demand migrate from Cat5e to Cat6 and even Cat6a. There is still significant demand for low data use within CCTV environments and Cat5e is a perfect choice for this type of solution. Within the solar market, we are seeing Cat5e shielded SWA armoured cables installed to feed the CCTV cameras around the site. Further to this, we are seeing increasing demand for Belden type equivalent cables, alarm cables and even coax and telephone cables. The old 1308 BT type telephone cables are now being used in door entry systems due to them being a really cost-effective solution.

Q. What markets does Dunasfern operate in and how do requirements differ depending on environment?

Dunasfern is the leading supplier of data networking products to electrical wholesalers and in this market demand is mainly centred around Cat5e and Cat6 installations using PVC, LSZH and PE insulation and mostly unshielded. In a harsher industrial installation and in areas where power cables run close by, a shielded cable would be required to minimise data interruption. Coupled with this is the supporting infrastructure connectivity products such as plugs, modules, faceplates cabinets, wall boxes and all products within, such as patch panels power distribution, patch leads, etc. The demand for fibre cable installations is quite low but in larger commercial and data centre installations, fibre is the cable of choice rather than copper.

Q. Has the growing home automation market resulted in increased demand for structured cabling in homes?

The biggest increase in demand at home has followed on from the pandemic in 2020, with more people working from home, streaming meetings, whilst the children are streaming learning platforms or gaming. This has significantly increased demand for data but with increased performance from Wi-Fi networks and routers, the need to install data cables at home is currently quite low, unless the home is very large. This data demand is set to continue to increase with the development of AI, so it maybe the case that a need for data cables installed within homes will be required.

Q. What are Dunasfern’s plans for the year ahead?

Our plan is to continue to work proactively with our electrical wholesale partners, to help bring greater awareness of the wide range of data networking products available from them. We do this with a range of point-of-sale merchandise, a training programme designed to improve awareness within the branch staff to help them in their discussions with their customers and bespoke promotional activity at branch level. As our business continues to grow, we are always looking to strengthen the team and increase the resources to support our wholesale partners.

At Dunasfern, we want to continually strive to improve the proactive support we offer across customer service, product availability and commercial support. We take nothing for granted and our dedicated account managers are always on hand to discuss ways to improve our collaborative approach.

Find out more about Dunasfern here

Catch up on previous ‘Face to Face’ articles here

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As UK summers grow increasingly hotter, electrical wholesalers are seeing a clear shift in buying habits. Cooling solutions, once considered seasonal, are now essential across both domestic and commercial markets. We find out how Prime Electrical Distributors and Devola are helping wholesalers meet surging demand.

With forecasts suggesting that 2026 could be among the hottest summers on record – and conditions already warmer than average – the opportunity for wholesalers to expand into cooling has never been greater.

Meeting demand

Prime Electrical Distributors (PED), alongside its exclusive in-house brand Devola, is helping wholesalers meet this demand with a comprehensive, high-quality product offering backed by strong service and availability.

Established in 2009, Devola has become a fast-rising name within the HVAC sector. Its reputation is built on delivering reliable, well-designed products at competitive price points, without compromising on quality. This balance is particularly important for wholesalers looking to offer dependable solutions while remaining competitive in a price-sensitive market.

Today, Devola’s range includes over 100 products available from its UK distribution centre. The portfolio covers portable air conditioners, dehumidifiers and a wide variety of fans, giving wholesalers a complete solution for cooling requirements. The range continues to grow, with new products – including hand dryers and towel rails – set to launch later this year.

The need for cooling is being driven by changing environmental conditions. UK temperatures continue to rise year on year, with heatwaves becoming more frequent and intense. These rising temperatures have a direct impact on working and living environments. In commercial settings, excessive heat can lead to physical strain such as heat exhaustion and cramps, while also reducing concentration and productivity. As a result, businesses and organisations are placing greater emphasis on maintaining comfortable indoor climates.

This shift is driving demand across multiple sectors, including education, local authorities, hospitality and office environments. For electrical wholesalers, it presents an opportunity to provide practical solutions that address a growing and immediate need.

Air conditioning

Devola’s range of portable air conditioners is a key part of this offering. With more than 10 models available in both white and black finishes, the range combines strong performance with modern design. These units are ideal for spaces where permanent installation is not practical, offering flexible, effective cooling.

Portable air conditioners work by drawing warm air into the unit and passing it over refrigerant-filled coils, which absorb heat. The cooled air is then circulated back into the room, while hot air is expelled through a hose connected to a window. This simple but effective process allows users to quickly create a comfortable environment.

A major advantage of Devola’s air conditioning range is the inclusion of smart technology across all models. Users can control their units remotely, set schedules, and optimise performance to suit their needs. As smart home and workplace solutions become more common, this feature adds real value for customers and an additional selling point for wholesalers.

Alongside air conditioning units, Devola offers a wide selection of fans. The range includes high-velocity floor fans, desk fans, pedestal fans and tower fans, ensuring there is a solution for every application and budget. This breadth of choice allows wholesalers to meet diverse customer requirements, from personal cooling to larger-scale airflow solutions.

Partnership

The strength of the Devola brand is further enhanced by its exclusive partnership with Prime Electrical Distributors. PED has built a strong reputation within the industry for reliability, service and customer support, making it a trusted partner for wholesalers across the UK.

All Devola cooling products are available for next-day delivery nationwide, enabling wholesalers to respond quickly to spikes in demand, particularly during peak summer periods. This level of availability is essential in a fast-moving market, where timing can make a significant difference to sales. PED has also invested in expanding its UK sales team to support the growing demand for Devola products. This ensures that wholesalers have access to the expertise and support they need to make the most of the opportunity.

Electrical wholesalers can also benefit from becoming approved Devola stockists. This provides access to regular promotional offers and preferential trading terms, helping businesses maximise profitability while remaining competitive.

As the UK continues to experience rising temperatures, the demand for cooling solutions will only increase. For electrical wholesalers, this represents a clear opportunity for growth.

With its established reputation, expanding product range and commitment to quality, Devola – supported by Prime Electrical Distributors – offers a complete and reliable solution…

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LEDVANCE highlights some of its initiatives that are helping to create a lasting impact beyond the product.

In the electrical and lighting sector, it’s easy to focus purely on performance metrics – efficiency, output, controls and compliance. These are, of course, critical. But increasingly, the industry is recognising that its role stretches far beyond specification sheets and installations. The most forward-thinking companies are those finding ways to connect with communities, inspire future generations and demonstrate real social value.

A standout example of this in action comes from LEDVANCE and its recent player escort initiative with SV Werder Bremen. While the campaign itself has now concluded, it serves as a powerful example of how a lighting manufacturer can step outside its traditional remit to create something genuinely memorable.

The concept centred around one of football’s most iconic moments: walking onto the pitch alongside professional players. For the February 2026 Bundesliga fixture between Werder Bremen and FC Bayern Munich, LEDVANCE offered 11 children the chance to experience exactly that – but with a creative twist that tied directly back to its core business.

Rather than running a standard prize draw, the company invited children aged six to nine to design and create their own football-themed lamps. Whether painted, crafted or drawn, each entry was a reflection of imagination, individuality and the connection between light and sport. It was a simple idea, but an effective one: encouraging creativity while subtly introducing younger audiences to the concept of lighting design.

Stepping into the spotlight

A panel of judges, including members of the LEDVANCE marketing and sales teams, selected the most imaginative entries. The winners were then given the opportunity to step into the spotlight in a way few could ever forget.

On matchday, those selected walked hand in hand with professional players onto the pitch, in front of thousands of fans. Each child received a full player escort kit to keep, along with tickets for an accompanying adult – ensuring the experience could be shared with family. The entire day was captured on film, creating a lasting reminder of what, for many, will be a once-in-a-lifetime moment.

While the experience itself is extraordinary, what makes this initiative particularly compelling is the thinking behind it. LEDVANCE didn’t simply attach its name to a sporting event; it created a meaningful engagement that links brand, creativity and community.

Importantly, this was not an isolated effort. The company has a track record of using its partnerships in football to deliver wider social value. Previous initiatives have included working with children from the Caritas Youth Care Center St. Vinzenz in Landshut, offering similar matchday experiences to those who may not otherwise have access to them. By continuing this approach, LEDVANCE is demonstrating a long-term commitment rather than a one-off campaign.

At the same time, the initiative reinforces the company’s technical credentials. As the official lighting partner for Werder Bremen, LEDVANCE has played a key role in delivering modern, energy-efficient lighting at the club’s home ground, the Weserstadion. Beyond this, it has contributed to major projects such as the BayArena, home of Bayer Leverkusen, as well as a wide range of smaller-scale sports facilities.

This dual focus – combining engineering expertise with community engagement – is increasingly relevant across the electrical wholesale sector. Customers and partners are no longer looking solely at product performance. They are also asking what companies stand for, how they contribute to society, and whether they are investing in the future.

For wholesalers and contractors alike, there is a clear takeaway. Lighting is not just functional; it shapes experiences. From grassroots sports pitches to elite stadiums, the environments we help create have a direct impact on how people feel, interact and remember moments.

Creativity in outreach

Initiatives like the LEDVANCE player escort competition also highlight the value of creativity in outreach. By asking children to design their own lamps, the company moved beyond passive participation and encouraged active engagement. In doing so, it planted a seed – introducing the idea that lighting can be imaginative, expressive, and even fun.

There’s also a broader message here about accessibility. While large stadium projects often dominate headlines, LEDVANCE’s portfolio spans facilities of all sizes, ensuring that local clubs and community venues can benefit from the same level of innovation and efficiency. This inclusive approach mirrors the ethos behind the competition itself: opening doors and creating opportunities.

Ultimately, what sets this initiative apart is its balance. It celebrates technical excellence in sports lighting while simultaneously delivering a human story – one centred on excitement, creativity and inspiration.

For an industry sometimes perceived as purely technical, that’s an important reminder. Behind every installation is an opportunity to make a difference, whether that’s improving sustainability, enhancing wellbeing, or simply creating moments people will never forget.

And in this case, that moment was simple but powerful: a child stepping onto a football pitch, under world-class lighting, hand in hand with a hero.

Read more about the projects here

Catch up on previous ‘Soapbox’ articles here

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Clear guidance on inspection regimes, evolving terminology and practical considerations is helping wholesalers and contractors navigate electrical equipment safety with confidence, says Steve Dunning, Managing Director at Martindale Electric.

Electrical equipment safety remains a fundamental responsibility across every workplace. Yet confusion still exists around what needs to be tested, how often, and even what the process should be called. While Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is a familiar term, the introduction of Electrical Equipment Testing (EET) reflects a broader, more accurate understanding of today’s requirements.

At its core, the requirement is straightforward. Under the Electricity at Work Regulations (1989), any electrical equipment that could cause injury must be maintained in a safe condition. PAT emerged as an established method of meeting this duty, focusing on the inspection and testing of portable electrical appliances to ensure they are safe for continued use.

However, the industry’s shift towards the term Electrical Equipment Testing is more than just a rebrand. Introduced in the fifth edition of the IET Code of Practice for In-Service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment, the updated terminology addresses a long-standing misconception that only smaller, movable items require testing. In reality, the scope extends far beyond traditional ‘portable’ devices.

EET better reflects the full range of equipment that must be considered, including a wider variety of mains powered appliances and equipment. This could encompass anything from laptops and kettles through to vending machines, refrigeration units and even larger industrial equipment. While PAT remains widely used in conversation and training, understanding EET ensures that no equipment category is overlooked.

Frequency 

One of the most common questions surrounding PAT or EET testing is how often it should be carried out. Unlike some regulatory requirements, there is no universal testing interval defined in law. Instead, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recommends a risk based approach, often interpreted in practice as annual testing, but this is only a guideline.

The appropriate frequency depends heavily on both the type of equipment and the environment in which it is used. For example, a power tool operating on a construction site is subject to significantly greater wear and risk than a desk lamp in a hotel room. As such, it requires more frequent inspection and testing.

This flexibility can make compliance feel ambiguous for employers. While PAT or EET testing itself is not explicitly mandated, the legal obligation to maintain safe equipment is absolute. In practical terms, regular inspection and testing provide a recognised and defensible way to demonstrate compliance with both the Electricity at Work Regulations and the Health and Safety at Work Act (1974).

For contractors advising clients, or for wholesalers supporting those contractors, this distinction is important. The conversation should not centre on whether testing is legally required, but rather how businesses can evidence that they are meeting their duty of care.

Equipment selection

In most commercial and industrial environments, such as offices, hotels, factories and public buildings, testing is typically carried out on site. This may be undertaken by an in-house maintenance team, but more commonly is delivered by specialist contractors.

For those carrying out testing, the choice of equipment is critical. Portability and ease of use are key considerations, particularly for engineers working across multiple locations throughout the day. Lightweight, handheld testers that are simple to operate help improve efficiency while reducing user fatigue.

Modern units, such as Martindale’s HPAT550 and HPAT650, are designed with these needs in mind. Features like USB-C charging support extended use in the field, while intuitive interfaces help streamline the testing process, particularly for less experienced operatives.

Beyond the tester itself, record keeping is another essential element of any PAT/EET regime. This can range from traditional handwritten logbooks through to fully digital, cloud based systems. Regardless of the method, maintaining accurate records is vital, not only for operational tracking but also for demonstrating compliance during audits or inspections.

Labelling also plays a key role. After testing, equipment is typically marked with a clear pass or fail indicator, providing immediate visual confirmation of its status. For wholesalers, this creates an opportunity to supply complementary products such as labels, logbooks and bundled kits. Solutions like the Martindale PATKIT1 PAT Accessory KIT, which include 1,000 pass labels, 200 fail labels, IEC adaptors and logbook, offers a convenient way to support both new and existing users.

Compliance

A persistent misconception within the industry is that PAT testing is a legal requirement in its own right. In reality, legislation focuses on outcomes rather than processes. Employers must ensure equipment is safe; PAT/EET is simply one of the most widely accepted ways of achieving this.

This distinction matters because it reinforces the importance of a tailored, risk-based approach. High-risk environments, such as construction sites or manufacturing facilities, will naturally require more frequent and rigorous testing regimes than lower-risk settings like offices.

For contractors, this means applying professional judgement rather than relying on fixed intervals. For wholesalers, it means understanding the nuances of different applications so they can recommend appropriate solutions and equipment.

Ultimately, whether it is referred to as PAT or EET, the underlying objective remains unchanged: ensuring that electrical equipment is safe to use. The updated terminology simply brings greater clarity to the scope of what should be included.

Regular inspection and testing, supported by appropriate equipment and robust record keeping, not only helps organisations meet their legal obligations but also reduces the risk of accidents and downtime. From contractors on site to wholesalers at the point of supply, having a clear understanding of both the terminology and the practical requirements is essential. By doing so, they can provide informed guidance, support compliance, and contribute to safer working environments across every sector.

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