IEC Lock, a company within the Scolmore Group, has announced the launch of its latest product – the easy grip handle. This new addition expands IEC Lock’s patented range of lockable connectors, reinforcing the company’s commitment to delivering practical, high-performance solutions for secure power connectivity.

The easy grip handle has been developed as a retrofittable accessory, designed to integrate seamlessly with IEC Lock’s existing C19 and C21 connector range. By introducing rear-release functionality, the handle enables easier and more efficient operation while maintaining the robust locking performance that IEC Lock products are known for.

Engineered with multiple contact points, the easy grip handle improves handling and usability, particularly in environments where access may be restricted or where frequent connection and disconnection is required. Its ergonomic design ensures a secure grip, supporting safe and reliable operation across a variety of applications.

The product is suitable for use in demanding environments, including data centres, broadcast facilities and medical settings. With an operating temperature range of -20°C to +100°C, the easy grip handle is built to perform consistently under challenging conditions.

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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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Martindale Electric has launched another high-quality installation testing accessory. The new LAMPKIT20 ensures a reliable connection to light fittings for measurement and test purposes, without the need to hold or attach test probes or disassemble the housing.

The LAMPKIT20 is supplied with five lamp socket adaptors, allowing electrical test equipment to be connected via industry standard 4mm sockets. Included are adaptors for the most common fittings  B22, B14, E27, E14 and GU10, a two-wire test lead set with 4mm banana plugs, all supplied in a heavy denier protective carry case. All adaptors have an EN61010-1 CAT II 300V safety rating.

Challenging to achieve with standard probes or crocodile clips, the LAMPKIT20 gives a solid connection to difficult-to-reach lamp fittings, ensuring the best measurement possible. The adaptors are ideal for general purpose measurements and as part of an electrical installation test kit.

As with any adaptors of this type, the LAMPKIT20 items are specifically designed for connection of test equipment to standard light fittings. They are not designed to be used for connection of any other equipment to the mains supply.

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Ratio EV has announced the launch of its new City range, a next-generation EV charging solution designed specifically for the demands of public charging infrastructure.

Building on the success of the io7 and io8 platform, the City range has been engineered to support charge point operators (CPOs), local authorities and electrical contractors delivering reliable, accessible and future-ready charging in public environments.

At the core of the City design is a focus on accessibility and public usability. The unit features PAS 1899-compliant accessible sockets, helping ensure that public charging infrastructure can be used more easily and inclusively by all drivers.

The charger also integrates dual charging capability of up to 22kW per socket, allowing two vehicles to charge simultaneously, making it ideal for high-demand locations such as town centres, residential streets and public car parks.

Unlike traditional charge points, the io7 and io8 City have been purpose-built to operate effectively in shared public spaces. Its IK10 impact-rated aluminium enclosure and durable, marine-grade finish provide resilience in exposed environments, while its compact pillar enables flexible deployment across a wide range of sites.

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Unicrimp, a Scolmore Group company, has announced the expansion of its Q-Crimp fixings range with the introduction of a new white grommet strip.

Following the successful launch of the product in black, the addition of a white option responds directly to market demand and provides greater flexibility for a wider range of installation environments. Available in 3m, 5m and 10m lengths, this new product reflects Unicrimp’s ongoing commitment to developing practical, installer-focused solutions that meet the evolving needs of the electrical sector.

An essential component for consumer unit installations, the premium white grommet strips have been engineered for both durability and ease of use. Manufactured from a flexible yet hard-wearing material, they are designed to protect cables from sharp and abrasive metal edges, helping to ensure a safe and compliant installation. This makes them particularly suited to rewires and consumer unit replacements, where reliable cable protection is critical.

The heavy-duty white grommet strip can be easily cut to the required length, offering installers a convenient and efficient solution on site. Retaining the same performance characteristics as the original black version, the new white variant allows for improved aesthetic integration where required, without compromising on quality or protection.

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Seaward Electronic has expanded its PV testing offering with the launch of the PV:1525-IV, introducing IV curve tracing capability and completing the PV:1525 Series – a range of PV installation testers for 1,500V systems, combining electrical commissioning tests and IV curve tracing within a single platform.

Built for residential and commercial rooftop solar systems, the PV:1525 Series combines essential electrical commissioning tests with a single, intuitive workflow. With the addition of IV curve tracing, installers and O&M professionals can now move from core safety testing through to advanced performance analysis using the same platform.

The Series supports open-circuit voltage (Voc) measurements up to 1,500V DC, short-circuit current (Isc) up to 25A, insulation resistance testing to 1,500V DC, and continuity measurements. This makes it well suited to today’s higher-voltage residential and commercial rooftop systems, where traditional 1,000V tools may no longer be sufficient.

The PV:1525-IV extends the series with IV curve tracing for performance analysis, enabling installers and O&M professionals to move beyond basic safety checks and gain deeper insight into system performance. With both models built on the same intuitive workflow, users can choose the level of capability that matches their application, from fast commissioning through to detailed performance analysis.

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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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Ovia has expanded its domestic lighting range with the launch of the Infinity COB LED Strip, designed to deliver smooth, dotless illumination for residential and commercial applications. Created to meet growing demand for discreet architectural lighting, the strip provides consistent light output and clean visual lines, making it ideal for kitchens, living areas and refined commercial environments.

Using Chip on Board (COB) technology, LED diodes are mounted directly onto a printed circuit board and coated with a phosphor layer that acts as a built‑in diffuser. This construction produces continuous, uniform light without the visible spotting common in traditional LED strips, resulting in a clean, continuous lighting effect.

The Infinity range includes Standard and Pro Series options to suit different project requirements. The Standard range delivers an average light output of 100 lumens per watt and is available in 8W and 12W versions, supported by a three-year warranty. For projects requiring brighter output and cleaner light, the Pro Series offers an enhanced output of 135 lumens per watt and is available in 6W, 9W and 12W variants. The Pro Series is backed by a six-year warranty, providing additional assurance for installers and end users.

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

Unicrimp has reinforced its commitment to supporting electrical wholesalers with the introduction of a comprehensive suite of point-of-sale (POS) solutions, designed to maximise product visibility, streamline merchandising and ultimately drive sales.

Q-Crimp countertop fixings POS

Created to support the newly launched Q-Crimp Fixing Additions range, this countertop display showcases the Plus Series high-performance woodscrews alongside Bullfix fixings. The updated packaging is fully recyclable and features a universal branding approach, reinforcing sustainability while maintaining strong shelf presence. Additionally, the fixings are supplied in contractor-friendly trays, improving usability on-site and enhancing convenience for installers.

Trade Tub floor stand display

The Trade Tub POS stand is a flexible, dual-section unit designed to optimise in-store merchandising. The lower section is configured to hold trade tubs, ensuring easy access to high-demand products, while the upper section offers wholesalers the freedom to customise displays according to their specific requirements. This adaptability enables distributers to tailor their offering to suit customer demand and available retail space. 

Slat wall display

A key component of the POS offering is the Slat Wall Display system, which will allow wholesalers to present Unicrimp’s diverse product ranges in a structured and visually engaging manner. These boards are highly versatile and can be configured to suit a variety of retail environments. Wholesalers can select from brand-specific boards, each carefully curated to highlight the distinct features and benefits of individual product lines, ensuring a clear and intuitive customer experience.

Catalogue dispenser

To ensure wholesalers have access to up-to-date product information, Unicrimp also provides a dedicated catalogue dispenser. This solution is designed to neatly house current catalogues and supporting literature, enabling customers to easily access detailed product specifications and guidance at the point of purchase.

Marketing support

In addition to physical POS solutions, Unicrimp provides extensive marketing support through the marketing hub on its website. This resource offers wholesalers access to a wide range of tools, including online ordering, product literature, imagery, and video content, enabling a fully integrated approach to product promotion.

Electrical wholesalers looking to enhance their in-store offering and benefit from Unicrimp’s POS displays and wall boards are encouraged to contact their local Unicrimp sales representative for further information, or click here

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Brady’s new BradyPrinter i4311 is designed to bridge the gap between stationary benchtop label printer power and mobile flexibility. A well-known limitation for most mobile label printers is the maximum width of the label. Brady’s i4311 marks the new maximum label width at 101.60mm for connected label printing systems that retain true portability.

The larger print width brings a lot more applications into the mobile label printing range, including perforated work-in-progress tags, common size rating plates and larger cable tags, wraps, sleeves, asset labels, component labels and GHS-compliant chemical labels.

The printer is powered by a battery that can handle 5,000 large labels on a single charge. Swapping batteries has been made easy and they can be charged in 3.5 hours.

The new BradyPrinter i4311 can print labels from phones, tablets and laptops, and even from central company systems using Brady’s software development kit or ZPL support. In addition to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, the i4311 also features ethernet and USB-C connections. The printer’s on-board 7’’ (17.78 cm) touch screen offers both on-device support as well as the capability to print labels directly from the printer.

Just like other Brady printers the i4311 includes LabelSense technology to automatically set label material burn, size and pre-print settings as soon as a label roll is loaded.

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