A look at the latest display solutions to help your in-store purchases.

WALL TOGETHER NOW

In today’s competitive wholesale environment, standing out on the shop floor is more important than ever. With installers increasingly seeking hands-on interaction and instant clarity when choosing products, strong point-of-sale presentation can make the difference between a quick enquiry and a completed sale. All LED’s Dynamic Wall Display systems have been designed with this in mind, combining visual impact, product education and practical merchandising in one cohesive solution.

Drive engagement

All LED’s POS displays are engineered not just to showcase products, but to actively drive engagement. Each display presents key ranges in a structured, easy-to-navigate format, allowing customers to see, compare and understand product features at a glance. Working demonstrations, clear labelling and organised layouts help simplify technical specifications, reducing the need for counter explanations and speeding up purchasing decisions.

For wholesalers, this translates directly into measurable benefits. A well-positioned display encourages impulse purchases, increases basket value and promotes premium product upgrades. By presenting lighting solutions in a professional, illuminated format, the display reinforces product quality while strengthening brand credibility within the branch.

The modular design of the All LED Dynamic Wall Displays ensures flexibility across different branch sizes. Whether installed as a compact feature wall or a larger, high-impact installation, the system maximises available space while maintaining a clean, modern aesthetic. Integrated lighting samples allow installers to see colour temperature differences, output variations and finish options in real-time, turning the display into a working sales tool rather than static shelving.

Low maintenance

Beyond aesthetics, the displays are designed to be low maintenance and easy to update as new products launch, protecting the wholesaler’s investment over time. With All LED’s continued innovation pipeline, the display system evolves alongside the product range, keeping branches current and relevant.

For wholesalers looking to enhance in-branch experience, increase customer dwell time and drive product awareness, All LED’s Dynamic Wall Displays offer more than presentation, they deliver a smarter way to sell lighting.

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In this month’s Face to Face we speak with Luke Norcross-Evans, Product Development Executive at Aico, and get the lowdown on the alarm system market.

Q. What alarm systems and detector technologies are currently proving popular in the UK market?

Interlinked alarm systems remain a leading choice, with RF, hard-wired and hybrid options providing full-property coverage and flexible installation for both new builds and retrofits.

Multi-sensor alarms combining smoke and heat detection are increasingly preferred for their fast, reliable response and reduced false alarms, forming a core part of Aico’s range.

There’s also growing interest in connected solutions, such as our HomeLINK technology, which allow landlords and housing providers to monitor system performance and plan maintenance more efficiently.

Q. What is HomeLINK and what benefits can it offer to residents and landlords?

HomeLINK is the technology behind Aico’s Connected Home Solution, designed to link together multiple, in-property, life safety devices like our fire and CO alarms and environmental sensors into one single connected system to create a clear overview of the compliance and the health of a home.

For residents, it offers peace of mind. The main benefit is reassurance that their home is being monitored for risks that aren’t always visible, like poor indoor air quality or early signs of damp.

For landlords, the real value is evidence and actionable insight. Instead of reacting to complaints, they can proactively use data trends to spot patterns, prioritise interventions, and demonstrate compliance with safety standards.

 Q. What are the key factors behind the surging popularity of environmental sensors?

The growing popularity of environmental sensors is being driven by a heightened focus on indoor air quality and occupant wellbeing, alongside the increasing need to monitor damp and mould risks to ensure legislative compliance.

A key factor of course is the introduction of Awaab’s Law, which is accelerating the need for social landlords to identify and address hazards within strict timeframes. This is naturally pushing the adoption of sensors that can provide early warning of conditions that lead to damp and mould.

Advances in connected technology also enable real-time data and remote monitoring, supporting a more proactive, data-led approach to compliance and resident safety within property management.

Q. How has the ability to access real time data helped to improve visibility for alarm system end users?

The ability to access real-time data has significantly improved visibility for alarm system end users by providing immediate insight into the status and performance of devices across a property or portfolio.

Users can receive instant alerts to activations, faults or maintenance issues wherever they are, enabling faster response and reducing the possibility of systems being left inoperative and the serious risks associated with it.

Overall, it allows for remote diagnostics and maintenance planning, minimising unnecessary callouts and improving efficiency with faster response times. The real-time data supports a more proactive, transparent approach to system management, enhancing safety, compliance and user confidence.

Q. How are modern fire safety solutions able to better integrate with connected home systems?

Modern fire safety solutions are increasingly designed to communicate seamlessly with connected home systems, allowing alarms, CO detectors, and environmental sensors to work together as part of a single ecosystem.

Technologies like RF interlinking and cloud-based platforms enable connected devices to share data in real time, triggering alerts, notifications, and automated responses across the property.

Integration also extends to property management and monitoring platforms, giving landlords and housing providers a unified view of multiple safety systems. This connectivity allows for faster responses, proactive maintenance, and a more intelligent, data-led approach to home safety.

Q. What are Aico’s aims and objectives for the next 12 months?

Over the next 12 months, Aico is focused on continuing to raise standards and sharing genius across the housing and fire safety sectors, supported by further innovation in our current technologies and services.

A key priority is advancing our connected home solutions and data-led insights, alongside continued investment in education and professional development.

This includes expanding our range of CPD certified and City & Guilds-assured training programmes and qualifications, covering areas such as connected home technology and developments in CO detection. These courses provide industry-recognised accreditation and support improved competence across the sector.

Alongside this, Aico will continue to strengthen partnerships, sustainability initiatives and community engagement, with a clear focus on delivering smarter, safer, and more connected homes.

Find out more about Aico here

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Marcus Walsh, Director at Ventilux, highlights the apprenticeship opportunities the company has championed with Hugh Baird College.

At Ventilux, we believe in building more than emergency lighting systems – we’re building careers, confidence and long-term futures. As an independent emergency lighting manufacturer, we’re proud to play a hands-on role in developing the next generation of electrical engineers. Incredibly, not one but three of our current employees have all been studying at Hugh Baird College, combining academic learning with real-world experience on-site. For us, apprenticeships are not a tick-box exercise. They are an essential part of how we grow our business, strengthen our team and invest in the industry’s future.

Daniel Bold, Reece Webb and Harry Adams are shining examples of why apprenticeships matter. Each of them is gaining practical, hands-on experience in live environments while contributing to high-profile projects across the UK – from Manchester Airport and historic London landmarks to major installations in Scotland.

Competence and confidence

Working on complex emergency lighting installations gives our apprentices invaluable exposure to real challenges: compliance, coordination with other trades, problem-solving on-site, and delivering to strict safety standards. This practical learning complements their college studies and accelerates both their technical competence and professional confidence.

By working with a respected local college, we’re able to align on training standards, ensure apprentices receive the right academic support, and maintain open communication about their development.

Les Simmons, Ventilux’s Installation and Service Supervisor and mentor to the apprentices, explains: “Ventilux is a family-run business that wanted to provide apprenticeships to local young people to grow the team. Working with a local college, such as Hugh Baird, is a great professional relationship.”

That partnership ensures apprentices benefit from structured learning in the classroom while developing practical skills under experienced supervision on-site.

Daniel Bold joined Ventilux in June 2024 after completing his Level 1 and 2 Diplomas at Hugh Baird College. He has quickly become a valued member of the team and describes Ventilux as a “supportive, nice, family-run team.” His progression demonstrates how apprenticeships can provide a clear pathway from education into meaningful employment.

Reece Webb began his apprenticeship in October 2024, transitioning from the Autocare sector. With no prior electrical experience, Reece brought determination and a strong work ethic. His rapid development highlights the accessibility of apprenticeships to those willing to learn and embrace a new career path.

Harry Adams, our newest apprentice, joined us after completing his Level 2 and 3 Diplomas. He has found a welcoming, growth-focused environment where he can continue to build on his qualifications while gaining valuable site experience.

The electrical and emergency lighting sectors face ongoing skills shortages. For independent manufacturers like Ventilux, the solution isn’t simply to recruit talent – it’s to create it.

Fresh perspectives

By nurturing apprentices from the start of their careers, we’re not only strengthening our own team but also contributing to the wider industry. Apprentices bring fresh perspectives, enthusiasm and a willingness to embrace new technologies. In return, we provide mentorship, structured development and the opportunity to work on prestigious, technically demanding projects.

As a family-run business, we take pride in creating a supportive environment where young professionals can grow, make mistakes, learn and ultimately thrive. For Ventilux, apprenticeships aren’t just about today’s workforce. They’re about ensuring that the next generation of engineers is skilled, confident and ready to uphold the highest standards in safety and compliance. By investing in people now, we’re helping to secure a stronger future for our business – and for the industry as a whole.

For more on this topic, click here

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Now is the perfect time to plan ahead and get ready for when demand for heating and ventilation products spike, so you’re primed and ready to maximise sales.

Investing in the EDA’s award-winning Product Knowledge Modules isn’t just about learning, it has a measurable positive impact on your business and strengthens your position as the trusted expert your customers reply on.

Fewer mistakes and increased sales

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.

Best-in-class commendations

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.

The EDA’s training module Heating and Ventilation covers:

• The principles of heat
• Heating – elements, controls and types of heaters
• The principles of hot water
• Types of water heaters
• The principles of ventilation
• Ventilation applications

Online learning through The EDA Academy

When studying the modules, there is a choice of formats:

• Online learning through The EDA Academy (with video and interactive content), OR
• A hard copy textbook which is yours to keep

Test your knowledge

Have a go at this quiz sampled from the Heating and Ventilation 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. True or false: The hotter the object the more radiation it gives off.
Q2. Convection is the transfer of heat between what elements?
Q3. A mechanical thermostat contains a bi-metallic strip, how many strips of metal are there?
Q4. A tundish should be installed in a system as this shows a homeowner, what?
Q5. What size unvented cylinder is recommended for a property with 4 bedrooms, 2 baths and shower?
Q6. Fill in the missing word. Forward curve fans are very good at providing __________

Scroll down for answers

Answers

Q1: True
Q2: Liquids or gases
Q3: Two metal strips
Q4: Whether a fault has developed and maintenance is urgently needed.
Q5: 210 litres
Q6: Pressure

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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Outdoor LED lighting is set to grow by almost 10% a year, but are you making the most of this lucrative market? In this article Anthony Martindale, senior product manager at Collingwood lighting explores some profitable opportunities for you and the contractor.

While there is always a market for security lighting, the flexibility of modern LED fittings means that you can offer the contractor and their customers far more to win higher value business.

The difference is partly mindset. Instead of thinking about functional lighting think about the visual impact that the products can create, that is where the real margin is.

For you and the contractor, you may already be selling 80% of the job but missing that extra 20% that will significantly increase the order value. And outdoor lighting jobs are getting bigger and more sophisticated, both for homeowners to create “outdoor living rooms” and for commercial businesses who want that curb appeal to create an edge over the competition.

Helping the contractor win these larger projects will pull through more luminaires plus other products including drivers, IP rated connectors, cabling, junction boxes, and lighting control.

Landscape lighting

A big ongoing trend is the focus on outdoor living and entertainment. People want lighting to create a relaxing outdoor area for socialising and to highlight features and draw the eye.

Whether it’s for someone’s garden or the outdoor space in a pub or restaurant the entertainment area is a place to relax and socialise. Here more subdued lighting with a warmer colour temperature of less than 3000K to create a relaxed atmosphere is a good choice.

But the magic happens when you consider feature lighting to create interest. It may be an interesting texture on a wall, a plant, or a water feature. Or it could be that functional lighting of a path or steps, which serves the dual purpose of safety and drawing the eye. Contrast is key, picking just a few elements and leaving the rest in shade.

Commonly used products in landscape lighting include spotlights, outdoor downlights, wall lights, ground lights, bollards, spike lights and to add an extra wow factor LED strip lighting.

Architectural lighting 

Lighting a building’s façade can be part of a wider landscape lighting scheme and/or serve a vital role in enhancing a business’ curb appeal. For some, in the hospitality business for instance, it is vital to attract footfall. What is certain is that it is another chance to sell a solution for higher margin business.

Again, the secret is to accurately illuminate the right areas and crucially avoid any light spillage that could cause light pollution or glare. In practice this means that you should be able to offer the contractor products with different beam angles depending on what they want to light.

A fitting with a wide beam, of for example 110°, will create a wash of light across a surface or illuminate an area of the building from further away. A medium beam of about 45° is a good for mid-level lighting to create a swathe of light across a dedicated area. And to pick out features, details and even entrances of a building you will need a narrow beam of about 6°.

Decorative wall lights are another way that the contractor can highlight architectural features or light entrances. Again, you need to consider what beam angle the contractor needs.

The colour temperature of the lighting is also important. This can depend on what material you are lighting.

For warmer coloured materials such as wood or sandstone a warmer light of 2700K or even 2200K will help it glow. To help bring out the natural elements of stone and for red brick suggest 2700k or 3000K. And for white materials a cooler light of 4000K or more will add drama, but cooler lighting should be used sparingly because it can cause light pollution and have a negative effect on nocturnal animals.

Avoiding light pollution

If you want to avoid returns from outdoor lighting projects, then you also need consider the DarkSky requirements that many local councils demand. The products you sell must ensure that the contractor avoids light pollution that affects both neighbours and nocturnal wildlife.

Luminaires that have hoods or shields allow the installer to target light output to ensure there is no light spillage causing glare.

Luminaires also need to avoid any upward spillage of light which causes that glow we see from urban areas. To avoid this, you need to provide luminaires that have a ULOR, or upward light ratio of less than 0.5% or 50 lumens.

For uplighting, your customers need to accurately target the light so that it only lights what is needed. Beam angle is important to ensure there is no light spillage and supplying asymmetric lighting will ensure that they can accurately target the light.

Lighting control and accessories

But targeting the light where it is needed is just part of the story. Proper lighting control means that the final customer only uses light when they need it, a key part of DarkSky requirements that will also save them energy.

This control could be as simple as PIR sensors, timers or even manual switching or it could be more sophisticated lighting control that allows the final user to set different lighting scenarios.

Finally, you need to have confidence that the products you supply to the contractor will stand the test of time. Most will need a minimum IP rating of 65 and be durable enough to withstand the British climate. Check the warranty of what you are selling, the last thing that either you or the contractor wants is to be called back to the job.

Outdoor lighting is about far more than security and safety, although this is of course vital. If you can help your customers win higher value outdoor lighting projects their reputation and business will grow and you will sell more luminaires and other products. It’s a win win for everyone involved.

For further details, click here

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Off-grid renewable power and lighting expert, John Foster, Managing Director, Prolectric, talks about renewable lighting and the operational risks for businesses that rely solely on diesel power.

As regulators call for the tightening up of environmental standards on site emissions, early adopters of renewable technologies are now not only ahead of the game when it comes to compliance but are able to realise a competitive advantage. As fuel markets remain unpredictable and supply chains increasingly fragile, more organisations are recognising the strategic value of futureproofing and diversifying their onsite energy sources. As a result, off-grid renewable power is rapidly becoming an intrinsic part of a site operator’s risk-management strategy – and no longer just perceived as an isolated tick box sustainability exercise.

With skills shortages, high inflation, rising material and equipment costs, not to mention volatile fossil fuel supply chains, pressure is mounting from all directions. As a result, we are currently witnessing a phenomenal pivot within our client base, where long-term established customer businesses have parted with their traditional diesel-dependent equipment in favour of investing in renewable off-grid alternatives. Business, they say, is booming, in what is globally a very difficult market.

For many companies, the adoption of more sustainable business practice is having a halo effect, helping to enhance brand reputation and attract more environmentally conscious clients who share similar values. The strategic reinvention and repositioning of traditional diesel-dependent businesses is clearly paying dividends.

Lighting the way

As industries across the UK accelerate their transition to lower‑carbon operations, renewable lighting has emerged as one of the most practical ways to reduce environmental impact while improving operational efficiency. From construction and infrastructure to events and urban environments, renewable lighting technologies are proving that sustainability and performance are no longer mutually exclusive.

Prolectric designs and manufactures both permanent and temporary off-grid solar lighting solutions for the UK market. Prolectric permanent solar street lighting solutions provide reliable, low-maintenance illumination, which is mains-free and fully compliant with British Standards and DarkSky Approved.

In the temporary lighting category, solar tower lights, column lighting and perimeter and zonal lighting systems deliver safe, sustainable and fully off-grid illumination for construction sites and infrastructure projects, as well as on many other schemes and applications. For example, they are often supplied to warehousing projects and are equally at home on film sets. Designed for rapid deployment and consistent performance, these solutions reduce operational costs while eliminating diesel dependency.

Tower lights are essential for safe and productive work after dark and in areas of poor lighting – and with so many mobile tower lights available in the market it is important to understand the various options available. They are operated all year round, offering the most essential, versatile and functional components to extend construction hours after dark.

Prolectric created the original solar-powered tower light in the UK in 2017, pioneering the transition from diesel and fossil fuel-powered tower lights to solar and hybrid alternatives. Since then, our solutions have saved customers over £40m in diesel costs and over 83m kgs of CO₂e.

Prolectric’s tower lights are designed and engineered in the UK at a manufacturing facility in Clevedon, near Bristol. From here, the company is able to specialise in developing lighting solutions that are specifically designed and built for the UK market. There is a unique and often challenging balance to strike in the UK winter between lower solar yield and longer nights.

Patented autonomous lighting control technology ensures lights operate reliably throughout the night, working as long and as hard as Prolectric customers do. The technology was specifically developed by an in-house R&D team in response to general market perceptions that off-grid solar lighting does not work consistently in the UK. Based on over 10 years of climate data, including sunrise and sunset patterns, combined with GPS location of the light and the battery state-of-charge analysis, the lights intelligently self-regulate their brightness to ensure they stay on all night.

Tower power

Advanced tower lights include specialised telematics systems which enable remote monitoring and control from any location. Prolectric has also developed the only solar lighting solutions on the market that eliminates the need for battery draining. Battery draining is commonly employed by traditional diesel tower lights to prolong the useable life of a battery and is required multiple times a month by our competitors’ products. The battery will be drained to 0 and then recharged using an external power supply back to 100%. This is a level of maintenance that we believe can be avoided by providing true setup-and-forget solutions, which are unique to Prolectric.

As many lighting towers are used in very harsh weather conditions, the design of the canopy can be a gamechanger when it comes to optimising performance and usability. It is vital that the body of the light tower is made of material that is corrosion- and crack-resistant, environmentally friendly and able to meet the demands of the working environment.

Prolectric’s tower light canopies are built from robust, powder-coated steel to protect the tower’s internal components from the elements. What is more, the innovative design and tough material helps ensure that the tower continues to perform throughout years of service, helping retain a high resale value and providing an outstanding Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). Wind resistance is another important consideration; our tower lights are rated for use in up to 80km/h wind speeds and are fitted with outriggers to provide further stability.

Proven technology

Renewable solar lighting is no longer a niche or futuristic technology; today it is a proven, high‑performance solution delivering real-world environmental and commercial value. As industries continue to decarbonise site operations and developments, solar and hybrid lighting will play an increasingly central role in creating cleaner, quieter and more resilient projects. For organisations looking to future-proof their energy sources and take meaningful steps towards sustainability, without compromising safety or productivity, renewable lighting offers one of the most rewarding and immediate opportunities to make a difference.

Find out more here

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Smarter homes need smarter energy. Robert Stuart-Walker, Head of Product at Sync Energy, looks at how home energy management systems are changing the game.

The drive towards net zero and growing consumer awareness of energy costs are reshaping how households use electricity. Homeowners are no longer content to passively accept whatever their utility bills deliver – they want control, transparency and efficiency. That’s where home energy management systems (HEMS) come in, providing an intelligent, connected approach to monitoring, controlling and optimising energy consumption in the modern home.

For electrical wholesalers, this shift represents both an opportunity and a responsibility. Growing consumer demand for sustainable solutions means that offering smart, reliable and future-proof products is no longer optional – it’s essential. Wholesalers need to be confident in the systems they provide. The Sync Energy approach is to deliver not just hardware, but a complete ecosystem with professional-grade support. It’s about giving both installers and homeowners confidence that the technology will work, seamlessly, for years to come.

Connecting power, storage and savings

At its core, a home energy management system is a centralised platform that monitors and controls a household’s energy flows. It enables real-time visibility into how energy is being consumed, whether it’s coming from solar panels, stored in batteries, or drawn from the grid. More importantly, it provides tools to optimise that consumption – shifting usage to off-peak periods, directing surplus solar energy to useful tasks, or charging electric vehicles (EVs) intelligently to reduce costs.

Sync Energy’s Flow demonstrates this approach well. The system unites hybrid inverters, modular battery storage, solar diverters and EV chargers through the single, intuitive Sync Energy app. By bringing all these components together, Sync Energy makes energy management simple for homeowners. They can see, control and optimise everything from one interface, whether they’re at home or on the move.

For consumers, the benefits are tangible. Sync Energy Flow can reduce energy bills by storing electricity when it’s cheapest or most abundant and using it when needed most. When paired with solar PV, homeowners can dramatically increase self-consumption, meaning less reliance on the grid and a shorter payback period for their investment. For those with EVs, intelligent chargers such as Sync Energy’s Wall Charger 2 or Link Charger can take advantage of surplus solar power or off-peak tariffs to deliver efficient, cost-effective charging.

Key components of a connected home

A key strength of the Sync Energy Flow ecosystem is modularity. Hybrid inverters sit at the heart of the system, converting DC from solar panels or batteries into usable AC power while intelligently deciding when to draw from the grid or store energy. Stackable or wall-mounted designs allow homeowners to scale their system to meet evolving energy needs, while integrated safety features such as AC and DC surge protection simplify compliance.

Battery storage is equally flexible. Sync Energy’s modular LiFePO₄ batteries offer up to 35.84 kWh of expandable storage, a 90% depth of discharge, and over 6,000 life cycles – engineered for durability and reliability.

Installers appreciate the plug-and-play connectivity and easy handling of our batteries, whilst for wholesalers, this translates into fewer call-backs and a system that’s genuinely easy to sell, install and support.

Smart EV charging is another critical touchpoint for modern HEMS, such a Flow. The Wall Charger 2, compatible with the Octopus Intelligent Go tariff, allows homeowners to manage dynamic charging up to 7.4 kW without the need for an earth rod, while the slim Link Charger integrates seamlessly into home aesthetics. Both chargers are fully app-controlled, support OCPP 1.6J connectivity and include Auto Solar Charge and Tariff Sense functionality to optimise costs automatically.

Even simpler components, like solar diverters, play a vital role. These devices redirect surplus solar generation to heat water or power resistive loads, complementing battery storage for a fully optimised home energy system. Some homeowners start with a diverter as a cost-effective first step and over time, they can expand into batteries and intelligent chargers, all managed through the same app.

Why this matters for wholesalers

The HEMS market is not just about technology – it’s about service, reliability and future readiness. Wholesalers must be able to offer products that deliver tangible value to homeowners while also supporting installers with fast, clean and professional installations. Sync Energy designs with this in mind – modular designs, plug-and-play connectors, adjustable mounting feet and dedicated wiring areas all reduce installation time and complexity.

The market is evolving quickly – consumers want sustainable solutions that are simple to understand and use; installers need products that are fast to install and reliable; and wholesalers need to be able to back those products with exceptional support.

By partnering with a supplier that provides a full ecosystem, wholesalers can future-proof their offerings. As more homes adopt solar, battery storage and EVs, demand for integrated, easy-to-manage systems will only grow. Products like Sync Energy Flow allow wholesalers to offer a single solution that covers multiple household energy needs, reducing the need for multiple vendors and streamlining the supply chain. 

Meeting the Net Zero challenge 

The UK government’s Net Zero agenda is a driving force behind the growing interest in HEMS, with households being encouraged to electrify heating, transport and other energy-intensive functions. Smart home energy systems help consumers participate in this transition, offering ways to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, optimise renewable energy use and make meaningful cost savings.

Every home equipped with intelligent energy management is a step closer to a sustainable future. For wholesalers, this is an opportunity to be part of the energy revolution by stocking products that genuinely make a difference.

Total control, total peace of mind

The unifying element across the Flow ecosystem is the Sync Energy App. It provides complete oversight of the home’s energy system, from solar generation and battery storage to EV charging. Homeowners can schedule, monitor and optimise energy use, share access with family members, and receive real-time updates on performance and costs. For wholesalers, the app is a key selling point – it simplifies handover from installer to homeowner, provides confidence in the system’s reliability and reinforces the value of a connected solution.

Looking Ahead

The HEMS market is poised for growth, driven by cost-conscious, eco-aware consumers and government incentives for electrification and Net Zero compliance. For wholesalers, having a partner like Sync Energy means they can meet this demand with confidence, backed by a complete, scalable and future-ready product ecosystem.

Wholesalers who embrace this opportunity today will be offering products and support that will be in demand for years to come. It’s not just about selling product – it’s about empowering homeowners to take control of their energy and contribute to a greener, smarter future.

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Outdoor lighting is a fast-growing category for electrical wholesalers, driven by rising demand for safety, security, energy efficiency and outdoor living. Mike Collins, Managing Director of Ovia, part of Scolmore Group, highlights the key considerations wholesalers should keep front-of-mind when supporting contractors on outdoor lighting projects.

Understanding contractor requirements

Before recommending products, wholesalers need a clear picture of the contractor’s goals and application. Outdoor lighting can serve multiple purposes – safety and security, aesthetic enhancement, and enabling outdoor space usage after dark. Each application requires different fixture types, lumen outputs, beam angles, colour temperatures and control options. Strong consultation can ensure the contractor receives expert guidance on choosing the right lighting solutions for the particular project being worked on.

Stocking the right fittings

The outdoor lighting market continues to expand, with LED, smart and solar lighting leading demand. Advancements in LED technology – higher efficacy, better colour quality and longer lifespans – mean LEDs remain the default recommendation for many projects. LEDs can consume up to 80% less energy than traditional bulbs and have a longer lifespan, reducing electricity costs and carbon emissions. With many commercial clients now pursuing Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) targets, wholesalers can add value by highlighting the energy saving and sustainability benefits of LED upgrades.

Solar lighting is another growth opportunity for wholesalers. Solar street lights provide complete independence from the power grid and, due to low maintenance and minimal operator costs, solar lighting has emerged as a popular and reliable source to power street lights. There are many benefits to solar street lighting with the main advantages being their energy efficiency and the ability to provide significant cost savings over time. Conventional street lights are dependent on electricity from the grid, which is often generated from non-renewable sources and can therefore contribute to air pollution. Other benefits include no cabling or excavation, resulting in easy installation and no risk from power outages. Ovia introduced its first solar power lighting solutions last year with a solar powered LED security floodlight and two solar powered LED street lights joining the company’s growing portfolio of exterior lighting solutions.

Controls that drive efficiency

Wholesalers can differentiate themselves by guiding contractors toward appropriate control options. Timers, photocells and PIR sensors ensure lights operate only when needed, reducing energy consumption and extending product life. Offering controls as part of a complete exterior lighting solution can also increase basket size and simplify contractor purchasing.

Durability and compliance

Exterior lighting can be subject to harsh environmental conditions, and therefore factors to consider include IP ratings, materials and temperature rating. Fixtures need to be rated appropriately for outdoor use, with sufficient protection against dust and water. Corrosion resistant materials such as aluminium, stainless steel or composite polymers are ideal.

Supporting good lighting design

A strong lighting layout is just as important as the fixtures themselves. Wholesalers who can discuss light distribution, uniformity, glare reduction and colour temperature will quickly build trust with contractors.

Ovia offers a free lighting design service, which provides contractors with professionally produced exterior lighting schemes. This support helps ensure compliance with relevant standards, accurate product specification and optimal light distribution across the project. The company also recently launched a new, advanced Lighting Design Calculator – an easy-to-use online tool developed to support contractors, wholesalers and specifiers in designing effective, regulation-compliant lighting schemes with ease and efficiency.

By directing contractors to these free services, wholesalers can add value by positioning themselves as a trusted, solutions-focused partner – helping build stronger, longer-term customer relationships.

For electrical wholesalers, exterior lighting is an opportunity to guide contractors toward safer, more efficient and more visually effective solutions. By understanding the application, recommending the right technologies, and highlighting emerging innovations such as solar and smart controls, wholesalers can strengthen contractor relationships and grow sales in this expanding category.

Additional information can be found here

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The Manrose Black Tiled Fan is an exciting new addition to the Manrose range. Boasting a sleek, bold design, it is engineered for performance and aimed at customers who want more than just functionality. Offering style, durability and quiet efficiency, the Manrose Black Tiled Fan ticks all the right boxes for modern households.

The Black Tiled Fan brings a fresh aesthetic with its black tiled fascia complementing today’s interior trends and fitting seamlessly into modern bathrooms and WCs. This is paired with a low sound level of only 38dB(A) at 3m and an impressive extraction rate of 75m³/hr (21 l/s). Developed with efficiency in mind, the fan features a low energy motor operating at a maximum of 16W consumption.

Offering electricians an easy install, the Black Tiled Fan is designed for wall and panel mounting, with its comprehensive range including a built-in timer model. Boasting Manrose’s trusted reliability, the fan is manufactured with thermoplastics for strength and durability, has an integral backdraught shutter, and features a high-quality, dependable, long-life motor warranted for a minimum of 30,000 hours, which all adds up to fewer callbacks for installers.

Providing performance you trust and design you choose, the Black Tiled Fan is stylish, reliable and easy to sell, delivering quiet, efficient ventilation for every bathroom. 

To view the full range of products from Manrose, please visit: https://www.manrose.co.uk/

HOW TO ENTER

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

Q: How many hours is the Black Tiled Fan’s long-life motor warranted to run?

A) A minimum of 20,000 hours

B) A minimum of 25,000 hours

C) A minimum of 30,000 hours

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

Deadline for entries: 31/05/2026

The post COMPETITION: Win a Manrose Black Tiled Fan, Air Purifier & £50 Amazon Voucher appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

Drug and alcohol misuse is becoming more prevalent in the workplace. Regular testing, within a drug and alcohol policy, can play a vital role in ensuring the safety of employees, with simple, non-invasive testing devices that can provide fast and discreet results. Mark Burrup, drug and alcohol testing expert at Draeger Safety UK, talks about the risks associated with substance misuse in the workplace and how to mitigate these risks to keep people safe.

Drug and alcohol abuse poses a serious safety issue for all businesses, but particularly so for those involved in safety critical roles such as electricians. In such scenarios, the misuse of drugs or alcohol – and even the effects of some prescription medications – has the potential to risk not only individual safety, but that of colleagues and members of the public, too.

In addition to the human cost, substance misuse across the UK results in billions of pounds in lost productivity and workdays, increased absenteeism and a substantially heightened risk of accidents. Impairment through drug and alcohol misuse can significantly affect judgement, slow reaction times and reduce hazard perception – dangerous for everyday tasks, but even more so for those handling tools and electrical equipment, where one mistake could cause serious injuries to themselves and others, as well as potential liability for their employer.

Side effects

Furthermore, it’s not just the use of illegal drugs which can pose safety risks; studies have shown that a combination of physical injuries and rising mental health issues in the industry has resulted in a significant increase in workers using prescribed drugs. While these treatments are beneficial, some – for example benzodiazepines, often prescribed for anxiety, have side effects which can cause dizziness, fatigue, blurred vision and reduced concentration, potentially compromising safety.

Dräger has recently partnered with the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) to publish a new Best Practice Guide to provide the information and tools needed for companies to act decisively to manage the problem of drug and alcohol misuse at work. Clear policies, supportive interventions, employee education and proportionate testing programmes all play a vital role. By taking a proactive, evidence based approach, employers can better protect their workforce, fulfil their legal obligations and broader duty of care, and help prevent avoidable harm.

Research undertaken as part of The Dräger Safety and Health at Work (DSHAW) Report 2022  showed that 83% of workers would comply with a corporate drug and alcohol testing programme as they believe it is in everyone’s interest to be safe at work. This suggests that the proactive approach now being taken by many organisations is increasingly in line with workforce concerns and expectations.

A well thought out drug and alcohol policy, which includes awareness of when prescription medication is being taken, is especially important where safety-critical tasks (as defined by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE)) or workplace driving are involved. A good policy will explain the risks and outline the strategy and controls adopted by the organisation to prevent – and where necessary manage – substance misuse among staff, while also being fair, transparent and consistent.

Screening programmes

Many companies are now carrying out or introducing in-house testing for alcohol and drugs, using simple non-invasive devices that are quick, discreet and easy to use. Breathalysers capable of analysing a person’s breath alcohol content are commonly used as part of screening programmes, and innovations such as the greater use of digital and connected technology, as well as data management software, make both recording and the management of test results and data much simpler.

In addition, as the requirement for more portable and discreet methods of drug testing has risen, there has been an increase in demand for saliva based drug screening kits. These can be used to screen for a range of drugs – including opiates, amphetamines, methamphetamine, cocaine, benzodiazepines and THC (cannabis) – and give a reliable indication of recent drug use. Saliva based test kits also provide rapid results, allowing a manager to take immediate action to protect workplace safety – for example, by suspending the employee from work pending further investigation and testing.

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