In this month’s Face to Face we speak with Steve Dunning, Managing Director at Martindale Electric, to find out more about test equipment and its role in improving electrical safety.

How has the Martindale product offering changed over the years?

Electrical safety is fundamental to us at Martindale. We offer a comprehensive range of electrical test equipment where safety is always our core principle. With almost 100 years of history behind us, our products have obviously developed significantly. Taking three lines as examples, in 1968 we patented the ring main tester, now known as a socket tester, these have evolved into valuable diagnostic tools for the electrician. Our core tools for safe isolation are constantly evolving, while our PAT testers have taken portability to a new level.

What are the most popular testers amongst electricians?

We are seeing a significant emphasis on safety within the electrical industry from both industry bodies and manufacturers, particularly focused on the safe isolation process. As a result, we see an increase in demand for products associated with this process – namely voltage indicators and associated proving units, including DC supply proving units for those working with renewables. And of course, most electricians have a socket tester!

Can you tell us about Martindale’s Safe Isolation Campaign?

Safe isolation, and then proving dead, sounds like it should be relatively simple. In a recent survey undertaken across the industry we found over 80% of electrical professionals were familiar with the safe isolation process but only around 55% actively followed the process every time. Our Safe isolation campaign ALIVE focuses on building awareness, highlighting five essential steps, and the importance to always following the process.

Has the expansion of EV charging infrastructure created new testing opportunities for contractors?

Absolutely, the focus on increasing EV infrastructure is creating a significant commercial opportunity for electrical contractors and installers. As EV adoption increases, so too does the requirement for compliant installation, inspection and maintenance of charge points. Where many of the EV test tools are dedicated testers or capable multifunction testers for installation and certification, longer term we see a need for some simpler maintenance and service tools such as the recently introduced BZ820-EV EVSE socket tester.

What can be done to further improve electrical safety in the wider industry?

This is really about education around safety processes such as safe isolation, also making sure that test instruments are used correctly and in the electrical environment for which they were designed and specified to be used in. As a manufacturer, safety is our core focus, and we have just launched our new apprentice and training hub to act as a resource for both existing and new entrants into the electrical industry.

What are Martindale’s aims and objectives for the years ahead?

Martindale is a broad-range supplier of test equipment, from environmental testing such as our legionella test kits, through installation testers to safe isolation tools and beyond. Electrical safety is absolutely paramount to us at Martindale. We will continue to offer the most comprehensive range of safe isolation equipment, championing electrical safety in the workplace through the development, manufacture, and supply of trusted, reliable solutions.

Find out more about Martindale Electric here

Catch up on previous ‘Face to Face’ articles here

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It’s been a busy few months in the electrical industry, with new appointments and shake-ups across different sectors. Keep up to date with the latest movements here, as we details who has gone where…

Robert Olver
ESP

ESP has appointed Robert Olver as Area Sales Manager for the East Midlands, where he will play a key role in supporting customers and driving growth across the territory. Rob joins the business with a strong background in electrical wholesale, having progressed from a graduate trainee position into a range of sales and management roles. Throughout his career, he has gained extensive experience in account management, business development and branch leadership, building strong relationships across the industry. In his new role with ESP, Rob will be responsible for driving demand across the company’s product portfolio throughout the East Midlands.

Guy Cowdry
TRITON SHOWERS

Triton Showers has appointed Guy Cowdry as Product Director to lead its innovation strategy, quality function and sustainability ambitions. Guy will head up Triton’s product strategy from concept and development through to launch, optimisation and end-of-life, ensuring the UK manufacturer continues to deliver solutions that align with evolving customer needs, technical advancements and regulatory shifts.

Guy, who is also a Chartered Engineer (CEng), began his career at Dyson, working on its cordless vacuum range and playing a central role in the development of its haircare portfolio. More recently, he spent five years at accessible bathing manufacturer Astor Bannerman, where he established its R&D function, supporting significant business growth and portfolio expansion.

Trevor Grote
THE LIGHTING INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION

Trevor Grote, Managing Director of BELL Lighting, has been appointed President of The Lighting Industry Association (The LIA). Trevor’s appointment reflects the recognition he has earned over many years as a leading figure in the industry. As Managing Director of BELL Lighting – a business with over a century of history and a genuine passion for innovation, quality and sustainability – Trevor has long championed the values that The LIA embodies. His presidency puts him at the centre of decisions and discussions that shape the direction of the lighting sector.

Greg Butler
ELUCIAN

Elucian has strengthened its sales team having appointed Greg Butler as Area Sales Manager for West Scotland. Greg joined the business with more than 10 years of experience in sales and account management, having successfully managed sales across West Scotland for a leading machinery manufacturer. In his role with Elucian, Greg is responsible for developing existing accounts, identifying new business opportunities, and promoting the Elucian product range across West Scotland. Working closely with electrical wholesalers and contractors, his focus is on building lasting customer relationships and supporting the continued growth of the brand throughout the territory.

Charlotte Jago, Matthew Clague, Sam Henderson, Jonathan Knock, Diane Utterson, Julie MacCluskey
ANSELL LIGHTING

Ansell Lighting has announced six strategic appointments as part of its ongoing growth and expansion strategy.

Charlotte Jago has joined the company as Head of Commercial Finance and FP&A, alongside Matthew Clague who has been appointed as Head of Customer Success, Sam Henderson who joins the business as Project Manager and Jonthan Knock who takes up the role of Supply Chain Manager.

Further expanding the management team are Diane Utterson, who takes up the role of Supply Chain Planner, and Julie MacCluskey, who has been appointed as Health and Safety Manager. These key additions mark an important advancement in the company’s growth journey, bringing significant strategic insight and operational expertise to accelerate expansion and enhance service to customers.

David Barnwell
RECOLIGHT

Recolight is delighted to announce the appointment of a new Director, David Barnwell, who will represent Holophane on the Recolight Ltd board; the first time the company has held a seat on the board. David is Managing Director of Holophane, a role he has held since 2019, and brings over 30 years’ experience in the lighting industry, including more than 26 years at Holophane. He also sits on the Board of the Lighting Industry Association, having served as its President from 2024 to 2026.

Catch up on previous months ‘Movers and shakers’ articles here

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Scolmore Group, through its community‑focused platform Scolmore Connect, has announced its growing support for Better Pathways – a respected mental health charity based in Birmingham, West Midlands. The organisation provides life-changing support for people with mental health issues and disabilities, helping over 130 participants each week to develop essential vocational skills that prepare them for employment and volunteering opportunities.

The partnership between Scolmore Group and Better Pathways has been long-standing. The charity’s social enterprise, Better Packing, has delivered commercial packing services to Unicrimp – part of the Scolmore Group – for four years. With up to five volunteers assigned each day to Unicrimp’s Tamworth-based site to help pack some of Unicrimp’s best-selling trade tubs, this collaboration has not only created meaningful work opportunities but has also demonstrated how strong partnerships between businesses and charities can deliver lasting social impact.

During a recent visit to Better Pathways, Lee Taylor, Scolmore Group’s Head of Operations, learned of the charity’s ongoing struggle with persistent water leaks through its ‘Northern Light’ industrial roof, an issue that threatened the integrity of the building the charity has occupied since the 1970s.

In response, Scolmore Group acted swiftly, allocating funding to enable the charity to carry out essential roof repairs. The much-needed refurbishment has ensured a safer, more welcoming environment for service users, staff, and volunteers, protecting the future of Better Pathways’ work for years to come.

Sue Roberts, Chief Executive Officer of Better Pathways, said: “We love working with the Unicrimp team and are thrilled that Scolmore Group is helping us in these ways. This support will help us to maintain our building into the future and means that we can open up our space to more participants who need our support. We cannot thank Lee and his team enough.”

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Killian’s story is one many parents will recognise. When his teenage daughter began self-harming, his world shifted overnight. He made a heart-wrenching but vital decision to separate from her mother and relocate, taking a substantial pay cut to be closer and provide consistent care.

But emotional strength alone isn’t always enough. That’s where the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) from the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) came in. Recommended by his manager, Killian reached out – and was met with empathy, practical support, and a plan tailored to his family’s needs.

The EIC quickly arranged counselling sessions for Killian, giving him a confidential space to cope with the pressure and emotional toll of parenting through a mental health crisis. His daughter was already receiving professional clinical help, but the EIC rightly recognised that supporting the caregiver was just as essential. Killian needed time, space, and emotional tools to process his experience, manage stress, and remain a stable presence for his daughter – and the Charity ensured he had that support.

These sessions became a valuable outlet, helping Killian regain a sense of control and perspective during a deeply unsettling time. By looking after Killian’s wellbeing, the EIC helped protect the long-term wellbeing of the entire family.

Beyond emotional care, the EIC offered Killian financial guidance, knowing that his reduced income could present future challenges. Although he opted not to take the budgeting meeting at that time, knowing it was available gave him reassurance and a sense of stability. He understood that if his circumstances changed again or became more difficult, help was still there – compassionate, non-judgemental, and always ready. This safety net allowed Killian to focus on what mattered most: his daughter’s recovery and his family’s future.

The EAP doesn’t just respond to emergencies – it provides structured, long-term support. Killian was paired with a caseworker who maintained contact, helping him feel connected and cared for as he navigated his daughter’s recovery and his own emotional wellbeing.

By combining financial insight, emotional support, and flexible case management, the EIC’s EAP proved to be a stabilising force in Killian’s life.

If you or someone in your organisation is struggling, don’t wait. The EAP is here for all those in the electrical and energy industries, offering confidential, compassionate help.

For further information, please contact the Electrical Industries Charity directly – 020 3696 1710, fundraising@electricalcharity.org or click here

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It’s been a busy few months in the electrical industry, with new appointments and shake-ups across different sectors. Keep up to date with the latest movements here, as we details who has gone where…

Laurie Wilson, Jean-Baptiste Praud, Gary Groves & Kath Kearns

CMP PRODUCTS

CMP Products – has announced a strategic restructure of its UK and Europe sales team.

As part of the new structure, Laurie Wilson has been promoted to Regional Manager (UK, Ireland & Europe and Central Asia), recognising more than a decade of contribution to the business. Jean‑Baptiste Praud has been promoted to Regional Sales Manager (Europe), while Gary Groves joins CMP as Regional Sales Manager (UK and Ireland) from Riello UPS. Jean‑Baptiste and Gary will report to Laurie, who in turn reports to CEO Vince Patterson. In addition, Kath Kearns will transition into a Key Account Manager (Europe) role, further strengthening support for strategic customers across the region. With nearly 39 years at the business, she has played a key role in driving growth and building strong, lasting relationships with customers across Europe, and her new role ensures continued focus on these key relationships.

Connor Mavers & Declan Shaw

ELUCIAN

Elucian has strengthened its regional sales team with the appointment of Connor Mavers as Area Sales Manager for the South-Central region, and Declan Shaw as Area Sales Manager for the South Yorkshire & East Midlands region. Connor brings a wealth of knowledge and experience within the electrical sector to the Elucian team. His background includes roles in quality and control, where he supported product testing and development, and contributed to achieving LIA‑accredited status for photometric testing. He has also worked in business development, broadening his commercial insight and strengthening his understanding of customer needs.

Declan brings over a decade of sales experience to the role, including several years within the electrical industry. Having worked for a national electrical wholesaler as an Account Manager before moving into manufacturing, he has developed a strong understanding of both sides of the industry and the challenges faced across the supply chain. This combined experience has helped him build strong customer relationships and develop a customer-focused approach to supporting accounts.

Harry Charalambous & Sean Mullan

UNICRIMP

Unicrimp has announced the appointment of Harry Charalambous as Area Sales Manager for the London, Reading and Oxford region, and Sean Mullan as Area Sales Manager for Northern Ireland.

Harry brings more than seven years of experience within the electrical sector. He spent six years in branch management roles with leading electrical wholesalers across London, where he built strong customer relationships and developed a deep understanding of the trade. Most recently, he served as an Area Sales Manager for a recognised lighting manufacturer, further expanding his technical knowledge and commercial expertise.

Sean joins the business with a strong background in branch management and customer-facing roles, bringing experience from both the electrical wholesale and motor industries. Most recently, he has worked within electrical wholesale as a Business Development Manager and Branch Manager, developing his understanding of the sector and building strong relationships with customers. Prior to this, he held branch management positions within the motor industry, where he gained valuable experience in sales, operations, and customer service.

Catch up on previous months ‘Movers and shakers’ articles here

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Scolmore Group’s Regional Sales Manager Audra Fellows and Managing Director, Kevin Beech, recently tackled the Snowdon by Night Challenge in aid of the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC).

Taking on the highest mountain in Wales, standing 1,085 metres, Audra and Kevin joined fellow fundraisers in a night-time ascent of Snowdon, also known as Yr Wyddfa. Beginning in the town of Llanberis, located in the heart of Snowdonia National Park, the challenge saw participants trekking to the summit under the cover of darkness, navigating a route that tested both physical endurance and mental resilience.

This initiative forms part of the Scolmore Groups ongoing support for the Electrical Industries Charity, an organisation with a long-standing history of providing vital assistance to individuals working within the electrical and energy sectors.

Having previously taken on the one of the biggest challenges of her life, Audra is no stranger to extreme challenges after successfully completing the 5895m climb to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Her participation in the Snowdon by Night event reflects a continued personal commitment to pushing boundaries while raising awareness and funds for important causes.

“It’s probably one of the most challenging things I’ve ever experienced” said Kevin Beech, Managing Director of Scolmore Group. “The climb itself was difficult enough, especially in the dark but the descent was even harder! Fantastic views from the top, great to have achieved it with such a dedicated group of people for our very own electrical industry charity”

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Welcome to the July/August issue of PEW. We’ll know by now if our home nations have progressed past the group stage of the World Cup – at the time of writing Scotland have won their opening game, with England yet to play. I am hoping that my own beloved Uzbekistan has fared OK – I have no personal connection other than they are one of my sweepstake teams and, as I do enjoy an underdog story, they are my adopted country this year.

If your life has not been consumed by football these past few weeks then you might have been more alert to the announcement by Ofgem that the energy price cap for households on standard variable tariffs will increase by 13% from 1 July 2026, with the annual bill for a ‘typical’ dual-fuel household rising from £1,641 to £1,862. The regulator said the increase was primarily driven by higher wholesale gas prices linked to instability in global energy markets.

While rising bills are unlikely to be welcomed by households or businesses, they re-emphasise the significant opportunities for electrical contractors and wholesalers prepared to respond to changing customer priorities.

Whenever energy costs rise, attention inevitably turns to reducing consumption and improving efficiency. For electrical contractors, that typically translates into greater demand for technologies that help customers take control of their energy use. Solar PV, battery storage, smart controls, energy monitoring systems and LED lighting upgrades all suddenly become more attractive.

The implications are equally significant for wholesalers. Demand for traditional installation products is not going to disappear any time soon, but gaining an all-important competitive advantage can be achieved by stocking a healthy mix of solar products, batteries, smart devices and energy-management technologies. Going the extra mile to offer technical support and product knowledge may also prove just as valuable as competitive pricing. As highlighted in a special report by Schneider Electric (see page 18), when visiting trade counters, almost three-quarters (71%) of customers rate knowledgeable staff as extremely important.

This issue of PEW has a bit of a motoring theme to it, as a feature from Rolec brings us up to speed with the EV industry, while in Soapbox Darren Binns of Jefferson Tools discusses the company’s involvement in grassroots motorsport.

Enjoy the issue!

– Tracey Rushton-Thorpe

Check out the July/August issue here

Catch up on previous ‘Editor’s Viewpoint’ here

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This year marks a major milestone for Click Scolmore as the company proudly celebrates 35 years of continuous BSI Kitemark certification on its BS1363 socket outlets.

In a market where imitation products and misleading claims are becoming increasingly common, this achievement is more than a badge of honour – it is a powerful reminder of what genuine, independently verified quality looks like.

The BSI Kitemark has long been one of the most trusted symbols in the electrical industry. First registered in 1903, it confirms that a product has been rigorously tested, repeatedly checked and proven to meet recognised industry standards. It offers reassurance that what sits behind the faceplate is every bit as reliable as what you see on the surface.

That reassurance matters now more than ever. Copycat products and ‘like for like’ claims are increasingly finding their way into the market, and while many of these alternatives may look similar, the differences beneath the surface can be significant. Cheaper products often achieve their price point by substituting critical materials with inferior alternatives – thinner brass, or copper where brass should be – compromising durability, safety and long‑term performance.

Click Scolmore’s approach stands in stark contrast. Every product is designed in‑house in Tamworth, Staffordshire, by specialist teams, then developed in close collaboration with a small number of long‑standing overseas manufacturing partners. These factories operate exclusively for Scolmore, supported by investment in equipment, technology and skilled personnel. Regular site visits and strict quality systems ensure that every product meets the company’s exacting standards.

This controlled, transparent and accountable supply chain is not something that can be casually replicated. Yet some suppliers continue to imply that their products come from the same factories or are made to the same standards. Such claims mislead customers and undermine the importance of verified testing and approvals. Without the BSI Kitemark, there is simply no equivalent assurance of safety or performance.

As Click Scolmore celebrates 35 years of holding one of the industry’s most respected quality marks, the message to the market is clear: don’t judge a product by its appearance alone. Judge it by its testing, its materials, its provenance – and by whether it carries the Kitemark that proves its quality.

Commenting on the achievement, Shahm Barhom, Managing Director, Product Certification, BSI, said: “Marking 35 years of BSI Kitemark certification is a significant achievement and reflects Scolmore’s enduring commitment to quality, safety and trusted performance.

“Scolmore’s longstanding certification demonstrates not only compliance, but a proactive approach to maintaining the highest standards over time. We are proud to recognise this achievement and to support organisations like Scolmore that are dedicated to delivering excellence over the long term.”

Find more industry news here

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It’s been a busy few months in the electrical industry, with new appointments and shake-ups across different sectors. Keep up to date with the latest movements here, as we details who has gone where…

Demos Hoursoglou

CMP PRODUCTS

CMP Products has appointed a new Chief Operating Officer to drive productivity and sustainable growth across the division. Demos Hoursoglou brings extensive senior leadership experience across a range of engineering and manufacturing environments, with a strong track record of delivering operational transformation programmes.

Drawing on this experience, he will focus on aligning operational strategy with CMP’s long‑term business objectives to drive sustainable improvements in global performance. His priorities will include enhancing operational efficiency, strengthening safety standards and investing in people development across the organisation.

James Huntingdon & Simon Blazey

TRIDONIC UK

Tridonic UK has announced strategic leadership changes designed to enhance its digital service footprint and expand its reach into the data-driven solutions market. James Huntington has been promoted to Projects, Solutions and Services Sales Manager, whilst Simon Blazey transitions into the role of Major Projects & Digital Services Manager.

By aligning these leadership roles with the company’s digital services roadmap, Tridonic UK aims to deepen its penetration into the data-driven solutions market, providing end users with unparalleled asset management and energy-efficient insights.

Carey Guerin-Oliver

AEMT

The Association of Electrical and Mechanical Trades (AEMT) has appointed Carey Guerin-Oliver to support members in implementing and progressing through its Codes of Practice, reinforcing the Association’s commitment to raising standards across the repair of rotating electrical equipment.

Carey joins at a pivotal stage in the rollout of the Codes, which are designed to establish a consistent, structured framework for electromechanical repair facilities. Her role is centred on helping members understand what is required, begin their compliance journey, and progress towards independent verification.

Catch up on previous months ‘Movers and shakers’ articles here

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Setting goals in the electrical industry is essential for maintaining standards, meeting deadlines, and ensuring safe and efficient delivery of work. Whether working on installations, maintenance, or large-scale projects, clear goals help provide structure and direction.

However, the demands of the industry, tight deadlines, long hours, and high responsibility, can sometimes lead to pressure and imbalance.

Maintaining balance is key. Goals should support both performance and wellbeing, not come at the expense of safety or personal health. In a sector where attention to detail and decision-making are critical, fatigue, stress, and poor mental wellbeing can increase the risk of mistakes. Looking after yourself is not separate from doing a good job – it is a fundamental part of it.

Personal wellbeing in the electrical industry is often challenged by factors such as early starts, physical demands, travel, and high expectations. Over time, this can affect energy levels, focus, and mental health if not managed well. Recognising this early and building healthy habits can make a significant difference.

Understanding how to set realistic and sustainable goals is particularly important in this environment. Effective goals in the electrical industry are often:

• Clear, specific, and aligned with project requirements
• Realistic within time, staffing, and resource constraints
• Flexible to adapt to unexpected changes on site
• Focused on safety and wellbeing, not just productivity

Rather than focusing only on completing tasks quickly, it is important to prioritise doing the job safely and correctly. Consistent, steady progress, supported by good wellbeing, leads to better long-term results.

A useful way to check in with your own balance and wellbeing is to reflect on how your work is affecting you:

• Do I feel focused and in control, or constantly rushed?
• Am I getting enough rest and managing fatigue?
• How is my mood and stress level outside of work?
• Am I looking after my physical health as well as my workload?
• What is one small thing I can do today to support my wellbeing?

If you notice signs such as ongoing fatigue, irritability, lack of focus, or low mood, it may be time to take action. This could include taking proper breaks, speaking to a supervisor, adjusting your workload, or reaching out for support.

Looking after personal wellbeing can include simple but effective actions:

• Taking regular breaks to rest and reset
• Staying hydrated and eating regularly
• Getting enough sleep, especially during busy periods
• Making time outside of work to switch off and recharge
• Talking openly about stress rather than carrying it alone

It is also important to support others in maintaining both balance and wellbeing. In the electrical industry, strong teamwork and communication are essential, and people may not always speak up when they are struggling.

You can support others by:

• Checking in regularly with colleagues
• Encouraging open conversations about wellbeing and workload
• Being aware of signs of fatigue or stress in others
• Promoting a culture where asking for help is accepted
• Leading by example in working safely and taking care of yourself

Creating a supportive environment benefits not only individuals but the safety and performance of the whole team.

Ultimately, goal-setting in the electrical industry should not just be about getting the job done, but about doing it safely, sustainably, and in a way that protects your wellbeing. When personal health is prioritised alongside performance, it leads to better outcomes for individuals, teams, and the work itself.

For more information, click here

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