Category: industry updates

Elite Control Services Limited (ECS) are delighted to have supported in a major lighting and controls upgrade at the iconic Bet365 Stadium at Stoke City Football Club. The state-of-the-art LED control system, commissioned and installed by ECS, marks a significant improvement in both lighting quality and energy efficiency and features scene programming for ultimate fan interaction.

The new cutting-edge system was designed by Midstream and replaces the previous floodlights, which had been in use since 2014, with an upgraded lighting solution. ECS, a leading expert in dynamic lighting controls and commissioning, was entrusted with ensuring seamless installation and optimal functionality of the controls system, RGBW, and under-bowl lighting – taking charge of the complex integration and infrastructure.

The refreshed Bet365 Stadium consists of 104 Modus S1500 and 66 Modus R1500 luminaires, 59 Modus 300 luminaires, two Robe iForte projectors, and 118 Traxon e:cue RGBW 6500K Washer Go Maxi floodlights. A fully integrated Pharos Architectural Controls system was installed, with three key control points via BPS keypads located in the Match Control, Media Suite, and Groundsman’s Shed. The system now operates at Premier League-standard illumination of 1650 Lux while reducing the stadium’s energy consumption by 51%.

ECS ran on-site demonstrations using demo projectors and Traxon e:cue floodlights to select the optimal beam angles and installation positions. Their extensive expertise ensured the RGBW lighting, projectors, data infrastructure and controls are fit for a Premier League club.

The project also showcases a brand-new feature for the stadium, an RGBW colour-changing system which was designed and supplied by ECS – transforming the stadium on matchdays for an incredible fan experience. This immersive lighting experience covers advertising boards, pitch-side screens, and under-bowl lighting. Additionally, custom Gobo projectors now display the Stoke City FC and Bet365 logos on the pitch pre-game, adding to the excitement.

Adam Hardy, Director at ECS, said, “We’re thrilled to have partnered with Midstream Lighting and Stoke City FC on such a prestigious project. Our team worked tirelessly to ensure the lighting control system not only meets the Premier League specifications but also delivers an energy-efficient, dynamic experience for both players and fans. From concept to execution, our goal was to bring the stadium into the future, and we couldn’t be prouder of the result.”

James Brunt from Midstream Lighting added, “It was fantastic working with ECS on this project. Their expertise in lighting control and commissioning was instrumental in delivering the high-quality, energy-efficient system Stoke City FC required. Together, we’ve created an environment that enhances both match visibility and fan engagement.”

Tridonic UK is pleased to welcome Lewis Wassell to the team as Controls and Solutions Sales Engineer, joining the Projects and Solutions division to support customers across the UK with advanced lighting controls and building optimisation strategies.

With a career spanning 17 years in the electrical and controls industry, Lewis brings extensive experience from his time at WAGO and Schneider Electric, where he developed deep expertise across HV/LV distribution, energy management systems, BMS, and lighting controls. His broad technical background and hands-on project experience position him strongly to support Tridonic’s mission of delivering smarter, data-driven building solutions.

In his new role, Lewis will focus on Tridonic’s Building Asset 360 approach, collaborating closely with Lighting OEMs, consultants, end users, system integrators, contractors, and facilities managers. By working across these stakeholder groups, he aims to help customers achieve better efficiency, compliance, sustainability and long-term operational performance.

Lewis is particularly looking forward to engaging with Tridonic’s extensive customer base throughout the UK, supporting both wired and wireless control solutions. Lewis says, “I’m excited to work with customers on the full breadth of Tridonic’s controls offering, helping them solve real challenges and meet their business goals.”

When discussing the most beneficial technical conversations with clients, Lewis highlights the growing importance of data-rich solutions. He emphasises technologies that support compliance, energy efficiency, predictive maintenance, and wider sustainability strategies – all capabilities increasingly essential in today’s built environment.

Looking ahead, Lewis sees a rapidly evolving controls landscape. “By 2026, I expect continued growth in the demand for building data, greater adoption of wireless controls, and a stronger push to integrate lighting with HVAC and wider building systems. The industry is moving quickly toward interconnected, intelligent buildings, and Tridonic is in a fantastic position to lead that transformation.”

Tridonic UK Managing Director, Richard Strode, adds, “Lewis joins us at an exciting time, as demand for intelligent, connected lighting systems continues to accelerate. His knowledge of both wired and wireless technologies, combined with his strong customer focus, will be invaluable in helping clients unlock the full potential of Tridonic’s Building Asset 360 approach. We are thrilled to have him on board and look forward to the positive impact he will bring to our UK customers.”

Tridonic UK welcomes Lewis and looks forward to the expertise, enthusiasm, and forward-thinking approach he brings to the team.

Market leading lighting manufacturer, Collingwood Lighting, part of the Inovara Group, has announced the strengthening of its leadership team with the appointment of Jason Hopkins, Managing Director who brings a wealth of experience in the construction and home improvements sector.

Jason will work with customers and suppliers to lead the Collingwood Lighting business, developing the product offer to support customers and end users across the residential, commercial, industrial and landscaping sectors to get the best experience from lighting across properties, buildings and landscapes.

Collingwood Lighting offer a range of LED lighting solutions including architectural for high-end and designer applications, decorative, strip and downlights for residential applications, track lights, panels and emergency lighting for commercial applications, high-bay and low-bay for industrial solutions and bollards, feature, spike and floodlights for landscaping.

Jason said:

“Collingwood Lighting has such an innovative heritage with Collingwood having initially been established in 1901. I look forward to contributing to that legacy and driving growth while continuing to deliver excellent value to our customers and making an impact to Inovara Group. Having worked internationally in the construction and home improvements sector for many years, this is an exciting opportunity for me to bring my skills and experience to lead and develop the business for our customers.”

Guy Williams, CEO for Inovara Group said:

“We are delighted Jason has joined Collingwood Lighting to provide his vision and leadership, continuing the company’s mission to drive growth and innovation while maintaining its market leading position. We have ambitious plans for the Group, and his knowledge and the wealth of experience he brings is aligned to our strategic goals for the UK business.”

Jason joins Collingwood having significant experience in several sales and operational roles including Homebase, ICI Paints, Dulux, U-Pol and most recently as Country Director for Axalta Coatings UK & Ireland.

The passing of Frank Gehry marks the loss of one of the most daring and transformative architectural voices of our time. His work challenged convention, reshaped skylines and reminded the world that architecture could be as expressive and sculptural as art itself. At Lucent Lighting we feel honoured to have contributed to several of the extraordinary environments shaped by Gehry’s imagination.

From cultural landmarks to educational spaces and private residences, Gehry’s projects were defined by an outstanding commitment to detail. Every surface, angle and junction mattered. In this pursuit of precision, lighting was never an afterthought but an integral component of how each space was experienced, understood and felt.

Our collaboration with Gehry’s work spans continents. Each project brought its own challenges, shaped by the distinctive philosophy of Gehry’s studio – a philosophy that embraces experimentation, complexity and the profound emotional potential of form.

The list of projects includes but is not limited to, Dr Chau Chak Wing Building, Sydney. Louis Vuitton Foundation, Paris, Gehry’s own residence in Santa Monica, the incredible Luma Tower, Arles. Plus the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi which is set to become one of the most significant cultural institutions in the region.

Frank Gehry changed the way the world sees architecture. To have been involved, even in a small way, in supporting the visual and experiential character of several of his projects is something we hold with great pride and gratitude.

At Lucent Lighting, we remain committed to those same principles. It is a real pleasure to know that, through these projects, we share in a small part of the extraordinary legacy Frank Gehry leaves for generations to come.

Recolight is pleased to announce the appointment of a new director, Cameron Wilson, who will represent Signify on the Recolight Ltd board. Cameron has been with Signify for over 25 years and is the Customer Resolution Manager for UK and Ireland.
On joining Recolight, Cameron said:
“I’m delighted to join the Recolight Board, taking over from my colleague Steve Meadows. I’m a
champion of Recolight’s Circular Economy activity, and all they do to raise the profile of the need
for action on sustainability in the lighting industry. I really look forward to getting to know and
supporting the Recolight team.”
In announcing the news Recolight Chief Executive, Nigel Harvey said:
“We are delighted that Cameron has joined our Board. I know we will benefit from the breadth of
his experience, and knowledge of our industry. Recolight continue to expand the range of services
we offer to meet the changing needs of our Producer Members, and Cameron’s insight will help to
shape our future direction.”
Cameron joins as a non-Executive Director representing Recolight’s founding members along with
board chair Andreas Adam, Senior Director at LEDVANCE, Andrew Clark, Financial Controller at Feilo Sylvania UK, and Steven Reed, Commercial Manager at Trilux.
Recolight recently celebrated twenty years since it was founded and has a record 227 producer
members of the Recolight WEEE scheme.

White Light (WL) is proud to have partnered with Birmingham Hippodrome, one of the UK’s leading cultural venues and a cornerstone of the city’s arts scene, by supplying a sustainable lighting package for a major upgrade to its Patrick Studio.

The Patrick Studio is a versatile performance space and is also used for research and professional development; where new ideas take shape, ready to tour nationally and internationally.
Leading the project on-site was Joe Price, Senior Electrics Technician, who has been part of the Hippodrome team since early 2022. Joe’s role spans all spaces within the venue, ensuring incoming companies and in-house productions achieve the highest technical standards.

The decision to upgrade the studio’s lighting was rooted in two of Birmingham Hippodrome’s core values: being Progressive and Sustainable. “We identified the studio lighting stock as a fundamental part of our offering to clients,” explains Joe. “While prioritising theatrical quality, it was equally important to move to LED sources to improve our environmental impact.”

The new intelligent LED fixtures not only reduce the venue’s carbon footprint but also unlock creative possibilities. “The biggest advancement has been our ability to more accurately recreate the vision of creatives within our space,” says Joe. “Modern intelligent lights give our technicians more tools to add colour, movement, and excitement; while also improving safety by reducing the need to work at height.”

Transitioning from tungsten to LED required careful planning around budget and infrastructure. WL worked closely with the Hippodrome team to design a solution that balanced technical ambition with financial realities. “Jonathan Haynes and the WL team have been fantastic partners,” Joe notes. “From product demos to detailed advice and multiple design iterations, they guided us through a complex process to achieve an install that will last and improve Birmingham Hippodrome for years to come.”
The fixed rig is anchored by ETC Lustr 3 Series profiles and ColorSource V Fresnels, supplemented by several S4WRD Color II retrofits. ETC Lonestar profiles introduce additional versatility, while the GLP Wildbar 16 units deliver an excellent wall wash and the capability to bathe the studio in a wide range of colours. Chauvet ColorBand Pix fixtures were selected to provide dynamic pixel effects.

Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive; from technicians eager to explore new creative tools to companies reimagining their back catalogue of shows. Even audiences have noticed the difference, with productions now benefiting from richer, more dynamic lighting.

Jonathan Haynes, WL’s Senior Business Development Manager comments: “It’s been a pleasure supporting Joe in finding the right equipment for the project. Before arranging any demos, I took time to understand their specific needs, and it’s fantastic to see everything working seamlessly and to hear the positive feedback Joe has received.”

This project reflects Birmingham Hippodrome’s commitment to sustainability, technical excellence, and creative partnership; values shared by WL. Together, they have delivered a solution that enhances artistic expression while building a greener future for live performance.

Photo courtesy of Birmingham Hippodrome

Ansell Lighting has expanded its specialist range of street lights with the launch of the Asuri Pro – a modern, durable luminaire suitable for outdoor hospitality, commercial, and residential area applications.

Designed for easy installation, the Asuri Pro includes a hinged 90° opening, providing instant access to the terminals, CCT and wattage selecting switch. The luminaire is also supplied with an AFIX connector, enabling a quick and easy IP rated connection.

Constructed from die-cast aluminium, the post top lantern features an electrostatic paint finish for enhanced corrosion resistance up to C4M. With a rated lifetime of L80 100,000 h, the luminaire offers long-term performance, making it well-suited to urban amenities and parks where durability is essential.

From an aesthetic perspective, the Asuri Pro features a striped diffuser, which provides softened light and improved visual comfort. It is CCT selectable between 3000K and 4000K and power selectable, offering a choice of outputs in one luminaire.

Mark Abbott, Managing Director at Ansell Lighting said: “The Asuri Pro has been developed in response to customer demand for a street light that offers quick, straightforward installation and maintenance, while also delivering durability. We’re proud to introduce another reliable product to our range that we believe performs exceptionally well at every level.”

For more information visit www.ansell-lighting.com

Tridonic UK is proud to announce that its groundbreaking Multichannel OTD Driver has been awarded Lighting Product of the Year at the 2025 Energy Saving Awards. The honour recognises outstanding achievements in energy-efficient technology and reinforces Tridonic’s leadership in delivering intelligent, sustainable lighting solutions.

Developed for street and urban environments, the Multichannel OTD Driver marks a major advancement in adaptive outdoor lighting. Unlike conventional single-channel drivers, the Multichannel OTD enables dynamic control of multiple LED channels, allowing operators to fine-tune colour temperature throughout the night. Cooler light can be used during peak activity for improved visibility, then seamlessly transition to warmer tones during quieter hours to reduce blue light emissions that can disturb wildlife and nearby residents. This precise, demand-driven approach ensures lighting is delivered only in the appropriate quantity and quality, cutting unnecessary energy use.

The driver incorporates advanced dimming strategies and flexible scheduling, enabling local authorities to reduce output during low-traffic periods without compromising safety. Integration with presence and daylight sensors ensures light levels adapt in real time, boosting brightness only when motion is detected or ambient light drops. With a very low upward light output ratio (ULOR), the system also helps tackle light pollution and improve visual comfort in public spaces.

From an efficiency standpoint, the Multichannel OTD delivers exceptional performance, achieving up to 95% full-load efficiency and offering impressively low standby consumption. Its robust design ensures stable operation across harsh outdoor conditions, while a lifetime of up to 100,000 hours significantly reduces maintenance requirements and lifecycle environmental impact.

Celebrating the award, Martin Thompson, Technical Services Manager and Sustainability Lead, Tridonic UK, said “This recognition highlights the real-world value of intelligent, adaptable outdoor lighting. The Multichannel OTD shows how sustainability and performance can work hand in hand – reducing energy consumption, protecting the environment, and ultimately creating safer, more comfortable public spaces.”

Richard Strode, Managing Director, Tridonic UK, added “We are thrilled that the Multichannel OTD has been named Lighting Product of the Year. In addition to its Build Back Better Gold recognition in September, receiving this award reflects our commitment to delivering high-quality, future-ready lighting technologies. Our teams across Tridonic UK and the wider global organisation continue to push boundaries, and this achievement is a testament to their dedication and expertise.”

The DALI Alliance, recognized as the international authority in lighting technology standardization, proudly announces the launch of its new test and certification specifications for Wireless to DALI Gateways. This groundbreaking release allows seamless control of wired DALI devices from either Bluetooth® NLC (Networked Lighting Control) or Zigbee wireless ecosystems, and provides access to data from DALI systems, paving the way for increased interoperability and flexibility in the lighting industry.

The new specifications allow wired and wireless connectivity within lighting systems and give the flexibility to choose the best lighting control solution for the application. The test and certification specifications will ensure that standardized gateways translate effectively between DALI systems and the wireless protocols, Bluetooth NLC or Zigbee, providing a crucial link between these diverse technologies. These standardized gateways promote market confidence and accelerate the adoption of DALI-based solutions in the evolving world of smart building technologies.

Key Features and Benefits

The new specifications allow wired DALI products, both DALI-2 and D4i, to be controlled within wireless ecosystems, offering greater flexibility and adaptability.
Gateways translate seamlessly between DALI and Bluetooth NLC or Zigbee wireless protocols, providing robust interoperability.
These standardized gateways allow wireless ecosystems to access data from wired DALI devices, including the rich set of luminaire, power and energy and diagnostics data available from D4i luminaires.

As Paul Drosihn, General Manager of the DALI Alliance, explains, “The introduction of these test and certification specifications for Wireless to DALI Gateways is a significant milestone. It opens up new possibilities for integrating DALI with wireless systems, creating a broader range of solutions for the industry. By standardizing these gateways, we’re promoting interoperability and providing a path forward for developers, manufacturers, and professionals in building automation.”

“The completion of the Bluetooth® NLC to DALI Gateway Specification suite marks a significant milestone for lighting control systems,” said Neville Meijers, CEO of the Bluetooth SIG. “These standardized gateways enable seamless integration between DALI’s trusted wired systems and the leading wireless lighting standard. The collaboration highlights the power of open, industry-defined standards in driving innovation, building market confidence, and untapping the full potential of intelligent lighting systems to deliver consistent, value-added solutions for building management and occupants.”

Together, these standardized gateways extend the reach of DALI into both Bluetooth NLC and Zigbee ecosystems, ensuring interoperability across the industry’s leading wireless platforms.

“The integration of Zigbee and DALI represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of smart lighting and building automation,” said Tobin Richardson, President and CEO of the Connectivity Standards Alliance. “Zigbee’s robust, interoperable wireless mesh technology, combined with the precision and scalability of DALI’s digital lighting control, bridges the gap between field-level lighting devices and wireless IoT networks. The standardized gateways enhance flexibility, lower deployment complexity, and pave the way for more intelligent, energy-efficient buildings.”

The DALI Alliance’s commitment to open, industry-defined specifications is essential to ensure the correct functionality of these gateways. Unlike closed, proprietary solutions, standardized gateways help avoid compatibility issues and ensure a consistent user experience across different systems.

For more information about the test and certification specifications for Wireless to DALI Gateways, visit the DALI Alliance website www.dali-alliance.org/wireless/gateways.html

In modern interiors, lighting is about far more than lighting up a room. It defines how people experience a space. But the secret to great lighting lies not just in the fixtures, but in how they work with the ceiling system above them. When ceiling tiles and lighting are designed together, the result is seamless, efficient, and visually striking.

Why Integrate Ceilings with Lighting?

Integrated ceiling and lighting systems bring together form and function to create cohesive, energy-efficient, and future-proof spaces. They maintain clean, uninterrupted ceiling lines even when combining tiles, baffles, lights, and services, delivering a sense of visual continuity across the space.

Integrated LED solutions can reduce energy use by up to 80% compared to traditional lighting, particularly when paired with high-reflectance tiles that optimise light distribution and minimise the number of fittings required. And because the tiles and lighting are designed to work together, installation becomes faster, cleaner, and more predictable – reducing on-site challenges while enhancing overall project efficiency.

Lighting Techniques That Work with Modern Ceilings

Recessed lighting delivers clean, glare-free illumination that’s ideal for workplaces and hospitality interiors, offering a streamlined and professional finish. Ambient and indirect lighting, when paired with high-reflectance tiles, creates a soft, comfortable glow that enhances mood and atmosphere – perfect for restaurants, lounges, and other experience-driven environments.

Track and feature lighting integrate smoothly with baffle or mesh systems to highlight key areas or introduce bold visual accents that define a space. Meanwhile, tree and cloud scene LED panels transform ceilings into biophilic focal points, bringing a sense of openness and calm to offices, classrooms, and healthcare settings. Integrated within ceiling grids, these panels combine visual comfort with acoustic and thermal performance for a truly immersive design solution.

Design by Sector

Lighting design plays a crucial role across every sector, shaping how people interact with and experience a space. In offices, integrated ceilings help improve focus and reduce glare while supporting acoustic comfort: key factors in employee wellbeing and productivity.

In hospitality environments such as hotels, bars, and restaurants, lighting defines ambience and mood. Indirect and ambient lighting can create a warm, inviting atmosphere, while bold feature lighting introduces contrast and visual interest.

Leisure and entertainment settings demand lighting that enhances energy and engagement. Dynamic, integrated lighting paired with acoustically effective ceilings helps create immersive experiences, whether in gyms, theatres, or esports arenas. These environments benefit from adaptable systems that balance performance with creativity, delivering spaces that are visually stimulating yet comfortable and functional.

Zentia Product Solutions

Zentia’s ceiling solutions combine design and performance to transform interiors. Oplia Triangle tiles create striking geometric ceilings, perfect for creative offices or retail, while Prestige tiles boost light reflectance and energy efficiency, supporting wellbeing in workplaces like Velux UK’s HQ. Sonify delivers acoustic control and dynamic form for open soffits, ideal for offices, gyms, and entertainment spaces, and DecoMesh offer a modern industrial look, letting integrated lighting highlight texture and structure in co-working or educational environments.

When lighting and ceilings are designed together, spaces work harder – visually, acoustically, and sustainably. Zentia’s integrated systems prove that ceilings aren’t just backgrounds; they’re active design elements that shape how people see, feel, and perform.

Transform your ceiling into a design asset. Contact Zentia today for expert guidance on integrated ceiling and lighting solutions.