As we approach EIC Day on 10^th September, the charity highlights its ‘Power of Ten’ campaign and the different ways to get involved.

On 10th September, the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) celebrates EIC Day, marking its anniversary. This day honours the incredible journey that began with 10 pioneers who each contributed £10 to help those in need within our industry. The EIC now invites readers to join in through the ‘Power of Ten’ campaign.

The Thames Moonlight 10 mile walk

One of the highlights of the celebration is the Thames Moonlight 10-mile walk, a symbol of unity and commitment. The EIC charity team will be taking part in this inspiring event, walking together under the moonlight to raise funds and awareness. Those working in the industry are encouraged to join the EIC on this journey, either by walking or by supporting its efforts through donations. 

Create your own Power of Ten Challenge

Can’t make it to the walk? No problem. Readers can still be part of the celebration by creating their own “Power of Ten” challenge. Here are some ideas to get started:

• Run a 10k: Lace up your running shoes and hit the pavement for a 10k run.
• Cycle 10 miles: Take your bike for a 10 mile ride through your favourite trails.
• Bake 10 cakes: Host a bake sale with 10 delicious cakes and donate the proceeds.
• Walk 10 miles: Organise a local walk in your community with friends and family.

Whatever challenge you choose, your efforts will help the EIC to continue providing critical support to those in need within the electrical industry.

How to get involved

1. Join the Walk: Sign up for the Thames Moonlight 10 mile walk and join the team for an unforgettable evening.
2. Create a Challenge: Set up your own Power of Ten challenge and raise funds in your unique way.
3. Donate: Support the moonlight walking team by making a donation. Every contribution counts and helps the charity make a bigger impact.

Spread the Word

Help spread the word by sharing the Power of Ten journey on social media. Use the hashtags #PowerOfTen and #EICDay to connect with others and inspire more people to get involved.

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James Mitchell, Managing Director UK & Ireland at Kerridge Commercial Systems (KCS), has identified the ERP trends he anticipates being key for the electrical wholesale industry in 2024.

Recent decades have seen rapid technological change. Digitalisation, automation, and other technological advances have been identified as one of the major trends changing business and are transforming industries globally. The use of digital technologies has enabled companies to not just sell extra, but to reshape the business by optimising resource, increase staff productivity, work more efficiently, and optimise supply chains. This not only aids in reducing costs and increasing profits but provides businesses with greater flexibility and reactivity that contributes to an increase in customer loyalty and satisfaction, offering a better all-round customer experience.

1. Efficient inventory management

The triple supply shocks of Brexit, Covid and the Russian invasion of Ukraine have begun to fade easing the restrictions on demand and reducing the costs of inventory. While this is positive news for the industry, it does bring potential challenges for electrical wholesalers who have purchased items at increased costs during times of higher rates of inflation and when supply was restricted. “Keeping a tight rein on your stock is essential, with a strong ERP system, such as K8, a business’s entire stock is opened up to assessment and analysis. It’s simple to rebalance supply and demand, purchasing and sales, movements, and replenishments, allowing business to significantly improve their ability to respond to changes within the market. Prices can be electronically uploaded from suppliers to ensure they’re always up-to-date, customer prices are based on purchase prices to ensure you retain a profitable business. Being able to gain full visibility and track stock movements, transfers, and availability in an instant allows you to take any corrective action if required. You can even source stock at the quotation stage to ensure it will be available for your important contracts.” Explains James Mitchell.

2. Cloud and security

Businesses are becoming more and more vulnerable to the threat of increasingly sophisticated cyber-attacks than ever before as cyber criminals harness the power of AI. Attacks can lead to complete loss of systems and data, exposure to hackers, and poor performance. Data security should never be overlooked, selecting a reputable ERP provider will ensure that best practices are followed with regards to data authentication, access control and encryption.

If you aren’t already using cloud software, then it’s time to mitigate these risks and make the switch. Running your business solution on-premise, your hardware and the operating systems used to run it could be outdated and be at risk of failure – especially if you haven’t upgraded in the last few years.

All KCS solutions are available as SaaS in the cloud. This offers enhanced data protection and real flexibility in how you work.

3. Advancements in ERP intelligence

As ERP solutions continue to evolve, they’re incorporating technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and robotic process automation (RPA). Once fully integrated, the ERP system performs tasks for businesses that once required manual operation. For example, in K8, electrical wholesalers can increase forecasting accuracy by analysing sales history and building in seasonable variables, safety stock and planned growth, avoiding overstocking or running out of stock. This development saves costs while freeing up time for employees to focus on the business areas that generate more revenue.

4. Maximising opportunity in times of low economic growth

Economic growth in the UK is predicted to be low in 2024, however the business sectors that we operate in are resilient and they constantly seek new and innovative ways in which to serve customers and ensure a positive business model. As a key provider of software and business solutions to the industry, KCS understand that ERP software is the driving force behind our customers business. Here are just a few ways K8 and digitising your businesses can help maximise opportunities and keep your business on track in 2024:

Sell for the right price every time

Selling prices can be linked directly to cost prices to protect your margins, K8 has in-built functionality that highlights exceptions should this drop below acceptable levels or into a negative.

Optimise your stock holdings.

Don’t let stock gather dust on your shelves. K8 highlights excess stock and can suggest internal sourcing and redeployment to ensure stock is never left on the shelves for too long.

Easy upload of data

Stop manually regularly uploading new supplier cost prices, you can schedule these to update on a specified date and time and avoid the hassle of late-night data maintenance.

 Dynamic stock maintenance

Keep on top of changing customer buying patterns, minimum and maximum stock holdings are calculated on the most up to date figures to keep you ahead of the curve in today’s volatile market. 

Keep your customers in the loop

Provide your customers with instant access to price and availability with an integrated online web solution that allows your customers to access your products and services when they need them, together with their own account details such as invoices, balances, and payments. You can also reduce time spent searching through prices and reports by emailing price lists directly to the customers you want.

Most ERP providers can – and should – keep up a continual level of investment in new features. Product development and ongoing investment help you thrive in today’s challenging marketplace.

But the same also applies to your organisation. From your ERP software to your web presence, finance and accounting, optimising your systems and processes through digitalisation strengthens your business model and improves customer service. By giving your staff the digital tools to stay ahead of your competitors, you can use the latest technology to streamline tasks and gain greater efficiencies.

 For more information, click here

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

PUSH THE BUTTON

The Hole Saw System point of sale display from Mandrex showcases the company’s M42 8% cobalt bi-metal range. These are the hole saw of choice for professional electricians around the world because of the quality of the HSS M42 grade and their unique patented one-click quick-release arbor.

Fast and efficient, exchanging hole saws is a matter of simply pushing the button and sliding. Mandrex’s quick-release arbors are universal, meaning they don’t just work with the brand’s own entire range – they fit any hole saw on the market. The Mandrex system also allows electricians to work with greater precision by mounting two hole saws on the same arbor.

Mandrex boasts a large hole-saw range making it the perfect choice for a point of sale display offering customers a comprehensive solution. Precision engineered in Holland, the M42 range features ejection holes for extra chip release and weight reduction. Hardened steel and special tooth geometry provides a smooth cut every time with less feed pressure.

Mandrex’s main point of sale display features a bespoke range individually tailored to each stockist’s needs. Mandrex also offers an additional small stand featuring its complete hole saw kits for electricians.

Susan Bailey, UK Marketing Manager for Mandrex, said: “Retailers tell me they value our high levels of customer service and always get great feedback from customers about the quality, durability and value of our hole saw range. From our distribution and service centre in West Sussex we offer next-day delivery and keep a huge range in stock at all times to ensure your point of sale displays are always fully stocked.”

For more information, click here

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The EDA’s Product Knowledge Modules help businesses like yours create cross-selling and up-selling opportunities by building knowledge and confidence.

These training modules have won a Princess Royal Training Award so you can be assured of their value.

Introduction to the Principles of Electricity is one of 12 training courses in the programme and offers the knowledge that underpins the other 11 modules in this EDA series.

E-learning option

All the EDA training modules are now available in a digital format via the EDA Academy, an e-learning portal.

Introduction to the Principles of Electricity training module covers:

• Introducing electricity
• Direct current and alternating current
• Electrical safety
• Ratings and markings of electrical equipment
• Introduction to low-voltage electrical installations
• Electricity and the environment
• Qualifications and accreditations for electrical installation work

Years of knowledge to give your team a commercial edge

City & Guilds accredited, this training programme harnesses decades of combined expertise from product experts at EDA manufacturers and allied trade associations to create an accessible and practical training opportunity for you and your team.

Test your knowledge

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

 Q1: What do we call a substance that helps prevent electricity flowing?

Q2: How can we reduce the amount of electricity we use?

Q3: Give three examples of renewable generation.

Q4: What colours are used for identifying conductors in single-phase circuits?

Q5: How does an incandescent lamp generate light?

Q6: What does this symbol mean on a product?

Scroll for answers

Q1: Insulator
Q2:

• Smart metering can help us monitor and hopefully reduce energy usage
• We can fit low-energy lamps when older lamps fail
• We can buy low-energy replacement product

Q3: Solar energy. Wind power. Tidal and wave power.
Q4: Phase (or Line) – Brown
Neutral – Blue
Earth – Green and Yellow
Q5: The filament heats up when electric current flows, until it glows and emits light
Q6: It uses Class II (double or reinforced) insulation for protection against electric shock.

How did you do?

Full marks: Well done!

3 – 5 out of 6: Not bad. Could the EDA training help you to fill in any gaps in your knowledge and help you progress in your career?

Less than 3: The EDA Product Knowledge Programme could be just what you need to boost sales.

Watch the video and download the Course Directory

There’s plenty of information online at www.eda.org.uk including video and 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 or click here

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Michael Crowther, Sales & Marketing Director at Hylec-APL, celebrates 10 years of Debox, the versatile junction box family designed to save electrical installers time and money.

Whether in domestic or commercial settings, junction boxes remain an essential component in any electrical circuit. Functioning as a central hub for wiring connections between fittings or devices and the mains power supply, these vital enclosures provide protection, isolation and easy access for maintenance or inspection. By offering mechanical strength and durable electrical continuity, they also help wiring installations comply with regulations.

However, not all junction boxes are created equal – and installers must take care to use them in a way that ensures consistently safe, reliable and compliant electrical installations. That’s exactly why Hylec-APL introduced its innovative Debox junction box a decade ago. Debox re-imagined the junction box, simplifying installation through virtually tool-free operation and saving time by including everything needed to reliably and safely connect cables.

A decade of Debox

10 years on from its introduction at LuxLive 2014, the Debox series of cable junction boxes now extends to five models to address different application use cases – and millions of units have been sold worldwide since its launch. The entire range has been designed to make installers’ lives easier and save installation time by including everything they need – from integrated terminal blocks with rapid connections and cable clamps to tool-free closure and maintenance-free operation.

Meanwhile, installers are having to deal with increasing numbers of electrical or electronic devices and fixtures – from LED up- and down-lighting to all kinds of smart home and building automation functionality. This often drives up the time, complexity and ultimately cost of installations, as well as the risk of quality and compliance issues.

So, for busy electrical installers looking to quickly and methodically wire up multiple devices or fittings on-site, Debox’s integrated design simplifies and guides them through the process, saving time and money without compromising quality – and crucially, ensuring consistently safe, reliable and compliant installations.

Debox S: the original Debox

Re-imagined and designed to speed up every installation, the original Debox S is a cost-effective, innovative all-in-one cable junction box. Complete with 4-pole 24A UL/VDE-approved terminal block as standard, Debox S conforms to EN60598-1 (GWT 650°C). Pre-fitted with external fixing lugs for fast, easy mounting, Debox S comes complete with everything needed – including in-built cable clamps and locking clip – for rapid, simple and virtually tool-free installation.

Debox SL: the 100% tool-free Debox

Debox SL introduced the first ever completely tool-free in-line electrical junction box. Now featuring a new easier-to-use, double-lever screwless terminal block, Debox SL offers maintenance-free connections. Its safe, fast and reliable 100% tool-free assembly is supplied complete with 4-pole 16A connector block, capable of accommodating 2, 3 or 4 conductors in round or flat profile cable for lighting circuits or power.

Debox SL2: the 5-pole Debox

Debox SL2 is the smallest junction box available with five poles. Each individual 32A screwless lever connector can take up to three conductors and the box features unique push-fit cable clamps. Debox SL2 saves valuable time and makes installation easier for smaller and larger internal wiring jobs, as everything needed is supplied with the box, with no need to use a screwdriver to securely join wires or mount the box itself.

Debox SM⁴⁰: the miniature Debox

Debox SM⁴⁰ is the first 4-pole in-line junction box that fits through a 40mm aperture, yet still retains generous cable management space, making Debox SM⁴⁰ ideal for use in LED lighting applications. As with all Debox junction boxes, Debox SM⁴⁰ comes ready for use, supplied with everything needed, including the terminal block, making connection simpler and easier. The miniature Debox SM⁴⁰ is only half the volume of Debox S or SL, making it the most compact 4-pole junction box available.

Debox 11: the outdoor Debox

Debox 11 is a highly versatile surface-mounted junction box for external weatherproof applications. It comes with 10 soft membrane covered cable entries, providing quick puncture-entry and self-sealing rated to IP66. Eight entries are threaded M20, ideal for cable glands, with no need for an internal locknut, offering even higher protection rating to IP67. Five 3-pole screwless connectors are supplied and the housing is made of flame retardant, impact-resistant polypropylene.

Simpler by design

Ergonomic design and convenience for electrical installers are at the heart of the entire Debox range. The design of all models aims to simplify and speed up installation, without compromising quality. All components required are supplied, with no loose screws or parts that can be easily dropped or lost – and the versatile Debox junction box family’s registered design features offer faster, more efficient and therefore cheaper installation through its simple and virtually tool-free use.

For more information, click here

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Samac Fixings has announced the introduction of new screw lengths, specifically designed to comply with the updated UK building regulations for roof insulation which now mandates a minimum level of 0.18W/mK for all new-build homes and extensions.

Understanding and responding to the industry shift, Samac Fixings has added 6x220mm and 6x240mm screw lengths to its Performance Range. Engineered to travel through increased thickness of the latest insulation materials, the screws ensure compliance, quality, and reliability.

The extended screws are crucial in maintaining the structural integrity of roof insulation. They provide a more secure grip and penetrate the full depth of the insulation, offering proper support and preventing damage. Moreover, they distribute pressure more evenly across the insulation layer, critical for maintaining the stability of the insulation over time. This ensures buildings remain energy efficient and compliant with the latest standards.

For more information, click here

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HiKOKI Power Tools has introduced the 36V Multi Volt Cordless ½” High Torque Right Angle Drill. Engineered to meet the demands of tradespeople, it guarantees high performance, versatility, and durability.

Its motor technology delivers power, increased efficiency, and a longer lifespan. Capable of accepting any HiKOKI 18V/36V Multi Volt battery or being plugged in via a mains power adapter, the Drill ensures that work continues uninterrupted.

HiKOKI has meticulously designed the Drill with top and two-position side handles, providing superior control during use. The tool’s lightweight design, coupled with a two-finger trigger, allows users to work longer and more comfortably.

The Drill is equipped with Reactive Force Control (RFC) technology which can shut the tool down in the event of a dangerous twisting motion, protecting the user from potential injury.

Additional features include an LED light for low-light conditions, rubber over-moulding for improved grip, a mechanical clutch, and anti-kickback protection. Offering resistance against corrosion, the Drill features a nickel-plated chuck and is a compact tool – ideal for tight spaces. The Drill comes with three- and five-year Heavy-Duty Warranties.

For more information, click here

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CEF has launched a new industry product, designed by a loyal CEF customer. The JAKODA Socket Tester Holder, created by Duncan Thomson, using components from his local store, is now available to purchase across 400+ CEF branches and online.

Duncan, an electrician himself, has solved a significant problem for professionals in the industry – socket testers being damaged while loose in tool bags. After years of frustration and replacements, Duncan took to creating his own solution, using components sourced from his local CEF Bideford branch, and innovatively put together at his kitchen table, the STH was created.

After introducing the product to his local store and a few posts on his Instagram page, Surf Bay Spark, it quickly gained popularity in his local area and with tradesmen around the UK. He continued producing them at home and eventually, as demand grew bigger, he was approached by one of CEF’S own suppliers, Super Rod, to assist.

This led to the partnership which has seen the JAKODA Holder produced and sold in CEF’s 400+ branches throughout the country, as well as on the brands website, making his product available to tradespeople all over the UK.

For more information, click here

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Job management software is helping electrical contractors and wholesalers increase efficiency and produce sales data of real value, explains James Chillman, UK Country Manager of Fergus.

Over the last few years there has been a significant rise in the use of job management software by hard working professionals, many of whom shop at their local electrical wholesaler. The reasons for this move are many, but the main drivers include automating tasks, decluttering administration and moving to a system that helps electricians to grow their business, giving them the time back to do the things they love.

Job management software, like Fergus, allows electrical contractors to become more efficient, manage their teams, invoice on time and monitor profit levels on every single job. It also allows them to review and order materials from their preferred wholesaler. Over 26 electrical wholesalers, building and plumbing merchants, including Yesss Electrical, Rexel, CEF and Edmundson Electrical, are now integrated on the platform, helping electrical contracting businesses to manage their supplier interactions, invoicing and job costing quickly, saving time and money.

For wholesalers, this integration has the potential to deliver valuable data on purchase patterns, levels and trends and adds a level of customer loyalty and convenience. Fergus was originally developed in New Zealand and soon grew in Australia too. Wholesalers in these territories soon found that the integration with job management companies increased sales levels and opened up sales insights.

The supplier integrations allow automatic import of supplier invoices, directly matching line items to the appropriate jobs. This saves significant time for electricians as the painstaking process of manual invoice entry is eliminated, freeing up evenings and weekends that were once consumed by administrative tasks.

Just one click

With just one click, invoices can be instantly assigned to jobs, ensuring that every material cost is accurately allocated and nothing is overlooked. This level of precision in tracking supplier documents and costs across jobs is unparalleled, offering users a comprehensive overview of their financials in one location.

Fergus also simplifies the materials procurement process with the ability to send purchase orders directly from the platform to wholesalers for pricing, pickup or delivery. This functionality saves time and streamlines the supply chain management. Trades businesses can now skip the line, secure in the knowledge that Fergus is handling their procurement needs with speed and accuracy.

One of the most significant benefits of these integrations is the ability to invoice in minutes. With labour and material costs already allocated to jobs, Fergus users can generate customer invoices swiftly, directly from quotes or by creating a quick invoice that incorporates all material and labour costs. The system also allows for the incorporation of used stock for a job, pulling in line items with up-to-date pricing from supplier price books that are instantly imported into Fergus. Applying margins and discounts is equally straightforward, enabling businesses to manage their billing with a few simple clicks.

For more information, click here

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Martindale Electric has launched the Drummond MTL15 test lamp and MTL15PD-S Kit which includes a test lamp and proving kit.

The new test lamp extends the application areas for Drummond test lamps to higher voltage installations. With AC/DC voltage indication thresholds of 50, 230, 400, and 690V plus a 1000V CAT IV safety rating, the test lamp is the ideal solution for proving dead in all installation categories.

Ensuring reliable indication of hazardous voltages, the new test lamp does not require batteries and has no ranges or switches. It is compatible with six existing interchangeable test probes accessories to aid safe and easy measurement in all application types – particularly where access is restricted. In addition to the two standard 62mm straight probes, a 62mm angle probe is also included.

The new kit encompasses the test lamp and proving device, all housed within the combination carry case which provides the simplest solution for implementing safe isolation practices onsite, in accordance with the Electricity at Work Regulations. For convenience and to save time, the proving unit can be used without having to remove it from the case. The PD690S voltage and power output is matched to the test lamp to illuminate all voltage bands and prove it is functioning correctly.

For more information, click here

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