Editor, Michael Connolly explains why the new Regs offer opportunity rather than hindrance.
It was Richard Branson who once said: “Red tape will often get in your way, it’s one of the reasons I often carry scissors!” However, with the IET Wiring Regulations 18th Edition update soon approaching – around six weeks at the time of writing this, it should be seen as a business opportunity rather than a hindrance. It is also of course worth remembering that the updates have the safety of those occupying buildings and installers at its core. That being said, manufacturers will be poised with an array of new products designed to meet the new regulations, and in some cases exceed them, all vying for your business.
Being clued up on the latest updates can not only put you ahead of the competition in terms of being able to offer informed, educated buying advice to the customer, but it can also help you make informed decisions when choosing which products to stock. A raft of factors will influence your purchasing behaviour including; availability, returns policy, delivery times and of course, price – but being clued up on the latest changes in the industry puts you in prime position to make the right choice for your business. And going back to my earlier point, armed with the knowledge on the latest update, your customers can feel that they have made the right choice in coming to you.
Talking of bringing in the new, the EDA has announced its ETIM-UK (or electro-technical information model) campaign, which is aimed at improving the quality of technical product data flowing through the electrical installation supply chain, is making progress. It has entered an ‘anglicisation phase’ with product data experts from across the UK’s electro-technical manufacturing base collaborating to translate the classification into correct technical English for use in the UK. The data translations are on course to be finished by end of Q3 this year. I think this is a significant moment in the electrical wholesale industry as a complete transformation of the way in which data is classified should improve business practice and have a positive impact on the industry as a whole. For the customer buying from the wholesaler it should make comparing like-for-like products easier, making more information available, simplifying the process and saving everybody time. For the wholesaler it provides better stock management and will reduce ordering errors.
Have a good month and enjoy the issue.
Michael Connolly
Editor
