Category: industry updates

Zumtobel and its sister brand, Thorn, both lighting brands of the Zumtobel Group, have designed a cutting-edge lighting scheme that supports MEMS Power Generation's operational efficiency, employee wellbeing, and environmental sustainability goals.

A Pioneering Facility for a Leading Power Solutions Provider

MEMS Power Generation, founded in 1978, has evolved into the UK's premier specialist in temporary power solutions. With one of the country's largest generator rental fleets, MEMS constructed its new headquarters in Kent, which has been designed to serve its growing workforce for decades. As MEMS nears its 50th anniversary, the £6 million investment in this facility showcases its commitment to future growth and sustainable innovation.

The Lighting Project

Zumtobel and Thorn were tasked with designing a lighting solution that aligns with MEMS' ambitious green agenda while addressing the unique challenges of a 24-hour operational site. Working closely with electrical contractor Gilbert and Stamper, and main contractor WW Martin, Zumtobel and Thorn provided a comprehensive, energy-efficient lighting scheme throughout the facility, including circulation areas, office spaces, plant rooms, and external surroundings.

Zumtobel's advanced LITECOM lighting control system played a key role in helping MEMS meet stringent planning conditions. The system is programmed to ensure that lights in key areas, such as the main office and circulation spaces, automatically switch off during non-working hours. Additionally, LITECOM is configured to create a notional corridor of light in the main office, ensuring that after-hours, when the lights are activated, they form a well-lit path to the stairs and corridor downstairs, which was a specific planning requirement.

In the storage areas, the LITECOM system connects to Zumtobel's TECTON luminaires, providing on/off control or absence detection. This means lights only turn on when needed, significantly reducing energy consumption.
The system allows MEMS full control over lighting schedules, enhancing both operational efficiency and energy savings, while maintaining optimal working conditions for staff.

Objectives

The project's primary goal was to integrate a lighting system that maximises operational efficiency while minimising energy consumption. MEMS sought a solution that would meet their technical and aesthetic needs and contribute to their wider sustainability goals. With employee wellbeing as a priority, the lighting design aimed to create a comfortable, adaptable, and future-proof working environment.

The Future-Proof Lighting Solution

Zumtobel's AMBITUS suspended luminaires were selected for the office spaces and meeting rooms, chosen for their slim profile, award-winning design, and ability to mimic natural sunlight. The AMBITUS system provides both direct and indirect lighting, creating a balanced atmosphere conducive to both focus and collaboration.
Additionally, Zumtobel's PANOS Infinity pendant luminaires were installed in the reception area, offering flexibility, high light quality, and superior glare control. For the stairwells, LANOS luminaires were utilised, enhancing visibility and safety.
Thorn's products were strategically placed in various areas of the facility. IQ Beam luminaires were installed in the offices, while Cetus luminaires were used in the circulation areas, providing excellent light distribution and durability. In the canteen, Omega C luminaires ensured comfortable and energy-efficient lighting. The storage areas and plant rooms were fitted with Aquaforce Pro luminaires, known for their robustness and efficiency.

Externally, Thorn’s Areaflood and Piazza II LED floodlights illuminate the building's façade, creating a striking and secure environment. Emergency lighting was handled by Voyager Blade exit signage, ensuring safety throughout the facility.
Thorn’s Controls managed the remaining areas’ lighting controls, integrating into a comprehensive system that provides full automation and energy-saving features, fully aligning with MEMS' sustainability goals. The system uses presence detection sensors to optimise energy use. In the WC areas and corridors, the controls enable simple on/off functionality, automatically turning lights on when a person is detected and off when the space is unoccupied.
In the offices and meeting rooms the system uses sensors, which allow the lights to dim when areas are partially occupied or when natural daylight is sufficient. This not only ensures energy efficiency but also provides the right level of lighting for different tasks, improving both comfort and sustainability.

Results and Benefits

The collaboration between MEMS, Zumtobel Group, and their contractors has resulted in a world-class
headquarters that seamlessly integrates modern aesthetics, employee wellbeing, and sustainability. The lighting system delivers excellent working conditions and keeps energy usage to a minimum, supporting MEMS' green ambitions.

David Conelly of Gilbert & Stamper, the electrical contractor, shared his thoughts: "Working with Zumtobel Group on this project has been a fantastic experience. The quality and flexibility of their products have allowed us to deliver a lighting solution that exceeds the functional and aesthetic requirements of MEMS' new headquarters." Mark Diffey MEMS Power Generation adds, “Partnering with the Zumtobel Group on this project has been key to supporting MEMS green ambitions for our new headquarters. Their versatile and reliable products have enabled us to provide a lighting solution that fully meets our functional and aesthetic standards while aligning with our commitment to sustainability.”

Products

Zumtobel
AMBITUS
LANOS
TECTON & TECTON C
RESCLITE PRO on TECTON
PANOS Infinity pendant
LITECOM

Thorn
Cetus
Aquaforce Pro

National Communication Museum, Hawthorn, Melbourne

The innovative new National Communication Museum (NCM) recently opened its doors in Melbourne, showcasing a series of dynamic displays with a system by Pharos Architectural Controls to connect audiences with the artefacts, stories and technologies that played a fundamental part in the history of communication.

The museum has been transformed by award-winning architects, Carr, from a 1930s telephone exchange building on the grounds of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people in Hawthorn, into an interactive exhibition with two floors of immersive displays.

The exhibition explores how technology shapes us, showcasing integral technologies from the past alongside the cutting-edge advancements that will connect us in the future. Offering hands-on experiences and nostalgic artefacts for all ages, NCM provides a fascinating and welcoming space to explore the landscape of technology from the 1850s to the present day and beyond.

A single-universe Pharos Designer LPC (Lighting Playback Controller) is responsible for the lighting control of the project, alongside a Pharos Designer TPS 5 (Touch Panel Station). The Pharos system is interfacing with a Philips Dynalite system to create energetic and refined lighting throughout the interior.

The Designer LPC is an award-winning, all-in-one DIN-rail mounted DMX lighting control solution for themed entertainment and LED lighting installations. It features individually controllable and independently running timelines and scenes letting you build dynamic, precise, fully customisable pre-programmed lighting effects with the freedom of real-time manual overrides and the versatility of powerful show control and integration features, ideal for managing multiple interactive displays and exhibits

The Designer TPS 5 is an elegant interface with a customisable, capacitive touchscreen, compatible with any Pharos Designer controller. This technology allows you to create multiple pages of lighting controls, including buttons, sliders, keypads and colour pickers, and configure their appearance and visual feedback allowing museum staff easy access to select lighting overrides.

Tony Symms, Regional Sales Manager for APAC at Pharos Architectural Controls said: “The NCM is a fascinating museum which highlights the ever-evolving advancements of technology and how they impact our lives. We’re pleased to know that Pharos technology is trusted to bring these dynamic installations to life.”

Lighting solutions provider, bluebottle, added: “The dynamic museum displays and immersive installations have been brought to life through the creative controls provided by Pharos. The LPC was the perfect solution to provide flexibility and versatility to meet the needs of each unique space.”

The museum has proved popular with families, residents and tourists, taking them on a journey of how technology has impacted on their lives and will continue to shape their future.

Sunbury Cross Subway, a busy pedestrian and cyclist underpass in Sunbury-on-Thames, has undergone a major lighting upgrade funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Safer Streets initiative. Forming part of the wider Surrey County Council LED upgrade programme—which delivers county-wide benefits—the project aims to boost visibility, enhance public safety, and modernise outdated lighting infrastructure.

Effective lighting is essential in the underpass to reduce the perception of crime and create a safer, more welcoming space for users. Poor visibility, dark spaces, and inadequate light distribution can contribute to unease in enclosed environments, making lighting a critical factor in user confidence. The previous system suffered from structural and water damage, poor coverage, and an outdated control system, which reduced its effectiveness and required an upgrade.

To resolve these issues, and those experienced across the county, DW Windsor worked with Surrey County Council, M Group Highways (formerly Milestone Infrastructure), and Urban Control to develop a lighting scheme that provides consistent illumination while balancing efficiency and user experience. Additionally, the replacement of the old subway fittings with LED luminaires provided greater energy savings than the old fluorescent lamps which were banned in the UK in February 2024.

DW Windsor supplied Kova luminaires fitted with integrated control nodes to illuminate the underpass. Engineered for durability in demanding environments, the vandal-resistant lights feature a robust stainless steel construction and impact-resistant polycarbonate glazing, ensuring exceptional resilience with an IK10+ rating. The luminaires were mounted along the length of the underpass at even spacings to eliminate dark spots and improve visibility for pedestrians and cyclists.

A key consideration was ensuring the lighting levels were optimised to provide a sense of security while maintaining efficiency. The team conducted extensive on-site testing at 100%, 50%, and 10% outputs to assess the most effective illumination for the subway environment. This approach ensured the lighting was precisely calibrated to user needs, delivering the ideal balance between safety, visibility, and energy efficiency.

As a result of these findings, the team implemented an adaptive dimming strategy to ensure lighting levels remained appropriate throughout the night. The lighting operates at 100% output during winter months from 4pm, ensuring full brightness when it is most needed. As foot traffic decreases, the output gradually dims to between 80% and 50%. After midnight, the lighting reduces further to 10%, minimising energy consumption while maintaining a safe and inviting environment.

In addition to energy efficiency, the scheme was designed to meet industry best practices for lighting performance and safety. The new system complies with BS 5489 lighting standards, delivering an average illumination of 350 lux during the day while allowing light levels to dim to 100 lux at night. This ensures a smooth transition from bright external areas into the subway, improving visual comfort for pedestrians and cyclists.

One challenge was ensuring reliable connectivity within the subway tunnels, which restricted signal transmission. DW Windsor worked with CMS provider Urban Control to integrate smart lighting controls, enabling seamless communication between the central management system (CMS) and the luminaire nodes. This allows remote monitoring and dynamic adjustment of lighting levels, improving long-term operational efficiency.

Graham Skinner, Business Unit Manager at Urban Control, said: “The collaboration between DW Windsor, M Group Highways, and Urban Control has transformed both the lighting and smart control capabilities of Sunbury Cross Subway. By successfully integrating Urban Control CMS technology with luminaires in a challenging subway environment, this project has set a benchmark, with other boroughs and councils now following this pioneering example.”

Gary Thorne, Senior Projects Manager at M Group Highways, said: “The Sunbury Cross Subway project is a fantastic example of how smart lighting technology can enhance both safety and efficiency in urban spaces. This project not only improves visibility and user confidence but also sets a precedent for how intelligent lighting can transform public infrastructure.”

Clients and partners

Client – Surrey County Council

Contractor – M Group Highways

Lighting – DW Windsor

Control – Urban Control

New product innovations, enhanced services, and expanded support.

Leading lighting designer and manufacturer, Ansell Lighting, has unveiled its S18 product catalogue, showcasing a host of new lighting innovations, enhanced customer services, and expanded support tools for electrical wholesalers and contractors.

Key Highlights of S18 include:
Nine New Product Innovations and 212 New SKUs
The S18 catalogue introduces nine brand-new lighting solutions and updates to 12 existing product lines, offering a total of 212 new SKUs. These additions reflect Ansell’s commitment to continuous innovation.

Featured product launches include:

Tornado EVO

A relaunch of one of Ansell’s most popular industrial battens, the revamped Tornado EVO features a host of new enhancements designed to improve performance and ease of installation. Now rated IP66 and IK10, it offers superior protection against dust, water jets, and impact—ideal for heavy-duty indoor or outdoor use. Installation is faster and more flexible thanks to three side conduit entries, a moveable terminal block with three positions, and a disassembled base and diffuser. It will be available in 2ft, 4ft, 5ft, and 6ft sizes and backed by a seven-year warranty.

Foliar Connect

Blending plug-and-play convenience with feature-focused illumination, the Foliar Connect range redefines residential outdoor lighting. The collection Includes three discreet, spike-mounted luminaires: Planter Spike, Mini Flood Spike, and Spot Light Spike, each designed to blend into landscaping while highlighting outdoor features. Available in black or natural green finishes, the range is controlled via a central hub, allowing users to add, remove, or reposition lights without additional electrical work. Offers CCT selection (3000K–4000K) and optional OCTO smart functionality.

LuxMed

A sleek, modern bedhead luminaire designed specifically for healthcare environments such as hospital wards. It features a single-piece body for easy cleaning and hygiene and independent control of up and down lighting to meet LG2 requirements. It comes dimmable as standard and includes a first-fix back plate for quick installation.

S18 also includes details of Ansell’s bespoke LED Strip Cutting Service, launched following the successful debut of its LED-Cell Strip range—believed to be the most comprehensive on the market. The Bespoke LED Strip Cutting Service delivers pre-cut, pre-soldered strips tailored to customer specifications within 72 hours and backed by a five-year warranty.

Ansell continues to enhance its customer service support through the popular On-Site Warranty of up to three years, which provides on-site repair or replacement for registered products, and the newly launched OnSite Survey Service, offering direct installation support from Ansell electricians to help contractors optimise lighting solutions on-site.

Mark Abbott, Managing Director of Ansell Lighting, commented: “S18 is more than a product catalogue – it’s a reflection of our ongoing commitment to innovation, service, and support. From new product launches to expanded services like our Bespoke LED cutting and OnSite Survey, we’re proud to offer solutions that make life easier for our customers.”

The S18 brochure is now available for download at: https://ansell-lighting.com/en/downloads#
Printed copies can be ordered via the online platform or through your local Area Sales Manager (ASM).

CU Phosco is proud to announce its exclusive UK partnership with Heper, a
renowned family-run lighting manufacturer based in Turkey. This strategic
collaboration brings together two companies with deep-rooted legacies and a shared
passion for engineering excellence, sustainability, and lighting that enhances
people’s lives.

With over 130 years of combined experience – CU Phosco celebrating over 100
years of innovation last year, and Heper with more than three decades of expertise –
together, CU Phosco and Heper offer a more complete portfolio of lighting solutions
for UK specifiers – from road and pathway illumination to specialist tunnel and
amenity lighting. This partnership combines functional infrastructure with
architectural enhancement, delivering high-quality lighting with purpose.

“Heper shares our ethos as a family-run business driven by engineering integrity,
responsible manufacturing, and long-term partnerships,” said Matt Murray, Sales
Director at CU Phosco. “Their commitment to sustainability is impressive – from
recyclable packaging to a 100% solar-powered production facility – and their designs
complement and strengthen our existing product offering. Together, we can deliver
smarter, more sustainable lighting solutions for every part of the urban environment.”
Commenting on the partnership, Heper’s Can Gurel, International Sales
development Specialist, said: “We’re proud to be partnering with CU Phosco, a
company whose values and engineering-led approach closely align with our own. As
two family-run businesses with a strong commitment to responsible manufacturing
and high-performance lighting, we saw clear synergies from the outset. We’re
already collaborating on exciting projects, including Blackpool Tunnel and Alloa
Glassworks, and we look forward to bringing our complementary expertise together
to deliver more sustainable, future-ready lighting solutions across the UK.”

A Shared Vision for Responsible, Engineered Solutions

Both CU Phosco and Heper are family-owned businesses that value long-term
thinking, precision engineering, and sustainability. This shared vision underpins
every aspect of our partnership – from product development to customer support.
While CU Phosco continues its journey toward measuring carbon footprint and
exploring B Corp certification, Heper’s advanced sustainability practices – including a
fully solar-powered factory – offer valuable insight and inspiration. Both companies
are aligned in their ambition to push the boundaries of what responsible lighting can
look like in practice.

A Complementary Partnership
As leaders in their respective fields – CU Phosco in street, flood and high mast
lighting, and Heper in landscape, amenity and tunnel lighting – the partnership
strengthens both the breadth and depth of what CU Phosco can offer to the UK
market.

The expanded range means greater flexibility for specifiers looking for tailored, high-
performance and aesthetically driven solutions.

New applications will include:

Bollard Lighting – Sleek and efficient, ideal for pathways, parks and the public realm.
Tunnel Lighting – Robust and reliable lighting for high-performance and high-safety
applications.

Post-Top and Wall Lighting – Contemporary styling for urban, commercial and
residential applications.
All solutions have been developed with environmental responsibility in mind –
including optics designed to minimise upward light spill and support dark sky
objectives.

“This partnership isn’t just about filling gaps – it’s about expanding what’s possible,”
added Matt. “Our customers will now benefit from enhanced design choice, extended
application coverage, and the shared technical expertise of two lighting
manufacturers who care deeply about quality lighting installations and sustainability.”

Designed for the Future

Heper’s dedication to performance is reflected in its close collaboration with optics
specialist Bartenbach and its focus on responsible production. From LED bollards
with up to 12m spacing to precision tunnel luminaires, their range has been designed
with modern cities and infrastructure in mind.

With this partnership, CU Phosco reinforces its commitment to offering holistic, high-
quality lighting solutions that meet the evolving demands of specifiers and city
planners across the UK.

Bulkhead LED luminaires are suitable for a wide variety of applications, providing general lighting. While there are many options available, newer models offer a wealth of benefits that can make installation more straightforward and deliver better results. Here Peter Alexander, Head of Sales UK and Ireland at LEDVANCE, discusses what to look for specifying a bulkhead.

Bulkheads are by design robust and durable. They primarily provide general lighting rather than a decorative solution, but this does not diminish the importance of considering different factors when specifying a bulkhead.

Given the need for bulkheads to be strong and offer longevity, it is wise to check IP and IK protection. These are clear indicators of what pressures and environments the fitting can withstand- and more importantly, operate safely within.

By choosing an IP rating of 65, you can be sure that the bulkhead offers the ability to withstand dust and water. This level of IP rating offers the highest level of dust protection, meaning it’s completely dust-tight. Regarding water, it’s protected against water jets from any direction. This makes an IP65 Bulkhead suitable for application even in arduous environments.

With regard to IK ratings, this scale represents a product’s resistance to external mechanical impacts. IK10 is the highest level, so specifying a Bulkhead at IK10 ensures it can withstand a significant impact without sustaining any damage.

Future-proofing is also a key factor. Look for a plug and upgrade system, such as the one featured in the new Bulkhead Combo from LEDVANCE. This luminaire provides optional integration of sensors and/or emergency modules, to enhance functionality as needs and requirements change, whilst also making it a low-cost solution to the end user.

Longevity is an additional important consideration. As bulkheads offer general lighting with a focus on function rather than form, there will be little need to change the luminaires to match upgraded decor or design. With this in mind, a solution that can be fitted and remain in situ for a long time is ideal. A lifespan of 50,000 hours is the perfect solution to deliver this, as not only does it reduce maintenance costs, but also time and resources, each of which limits carbon footprint.

Linked closely to this is performance and efficiency. As bulkheads can be on for long periods of time given the areas they illuminate, looking for high-levels of efficiency is beneficial. Choosing a Bulkhead of 120lm/W will deliver this. With regard to performance, specifying an ultra-low flicker solution will ensure a comfortably lit environment that ensures optimum occupant safety.

Finally, flexibility and customisation options are incredibly helpful. Being able to specify one solution with the ability to match the requirements to the application allow for an easy and adaptable installation. 

For example, the new LEDVANCE Bulkhead Combo features three selectable wattages – 9, 13, and 16 – and three colour temperatures to choose from – 3000K, 4000K and 5700K. By offering this customisation, the bulkhead becomes an adaptable lighting solution that meets the needs of a wide variety of installations.

By understanding these considerations and factors for specifying a bulkhead, the most robust solution, that also delivers excellent performance, can easily be identified. And, by choosing an LED bulkhead from a trusted lighting manufacturer, peace of mind and reliability will also be assured.  

N Family Club, a leader in early years education, partnered with TRILUX to
deliver a high-end lighting solution for their expanding network of award-winning nurseries.
Working closely with the client and M&E consultants Plenarius Design, TRILUX designed a
flexible, energy-efficient scheme that enhances both indoor and outdoor spaces.

N Family Club is redefining early years education through outstanding environments that feel like a
home-from-home for families and educators alike. When it came to lighting, the nurseries needed
solutions that matched their innovative vision: elegant, adaptable, and energy-efficient.
TRILUX worked directly with N Family Club and M&E consultants Plenarius Design to deliver the
project, designing flexible lighting schemes tailored to each nursery locations’ unique character
while maintaining a consistent quality experience across all sites.

The client sought a lighting partner that could deliver exceptional design, practical functionality, and future-proof solutions. TRILUX impressed with its strong product portfolio and the flexibility to adapt designs for the specific demands of each site – whether conversions of historic churches, galleries, or purpose-built spaces.

Peter Spencer MCIOB, from N Family Club, commented: “TRILUX offered exactly what we
needed, with a range of high-quality fittings that meet both our aesthetic design standards, and
operational requirements. They have been proactive from the outset in helping find solutions to
address the specific demands of each project and supporting our design and construction teams in
providing expert knowledge and advice to ensure we achieve the best possible results.”

Working closely with the client and contractors, TRILUX supplied all fittings onsite, ensuring a
streamlined process from specification to installation.
The lighting design was centred around creating a high-end look and feel while supporting the
nurseries' flexible learning environments. Thanks to the wide range of optical systems in E-Line
Pro, each area could be individually tailored, offering excellent glare control and a high colour
rendering index of Ra >90 – perfect for stimulating young minds.

Indoor lighting was carefully zoned to match learning activities, from focused tasks in classrooms
to playful spaces like the Atelier art rooms. Meanwhile, robust external lighting ensured outdoor
learning areas remained accessible and welcoming in all seasons – a key part of the N Family
Club educational philosophy.

Mike Cheeseman, Plenarius Design, M&E Consultants, commented: "TRILUX's expertise in education lighting was invaluable. Their understanding of how light influences learning
environments helped us achieve exactly what the client wanted – outstanding spaces that support
both child development and operational efficiency."
Leatherhead was one of the key sites under this major rollout, with TRILUX solutions now forming
the benchmark for all future N Family Club projects. The lighting toolbox includes:

• E-Line Pro/Finea continuous-row system – flexible optics for multiple applications
• SNS compact LED downlights – high visual comfort and low glare
• Siella G8 recessed luminaires – for bright, UGR<19 glare free spaces
• Olisq – decorative wall luminaires for circulation and breakout areas
• Oleveon Fit – robust surface mounted luminaires for back of house
• Emergency Lighting variants
• External lighting – including Combial floodlights, 8841 bollards and Skeo Curv for car
parks and outdoor play spaces

By delivering a full solution covering every area of the nurseries – inside and out – TRILUX
demonstrated its expertise and flexibility once again.

As N Family Club continues to expand across the UK, TRILUX remains a trusted partner, helping
create inspiring, sustainable environments where the next generation can flourish.
For further information on TRILUX’s educational lighting range please visit:
https://www.trilux.com/en/applications/education/educational-institutions/

CONFERENCE

Each year, key stakeholders from across the emergency lighting supply chain gather to discuss upcoming changes affecting the sector. This year, The Lighting Industry Association (The LIA), is delighted to announce that its keynote speaker headlining its 2025 programme will be Simon Weston CBE.

Simon is a British Army veteran renowned for his charity work and remarkable recovery from life-changing injuries sustained during the Falklands War. In 1982, he was aboard the RFA Sir Galahad when it was attacked and destroyed in the Blue Cove Air Attack, suffering burns covered 46% of his body. He has become well-known across the UK and abroad, notably for redefining his role in life, and his message is one of achievement, of triumph in the face of adversity, and of seizing the moment and succeeding.

Connecting with the conference, Simon will be discussing the importance of Emergency Lighting and how a lack of it in his accident impacted him greatly.

In addition to Simon’s keynote speech, throughout the day the programme will cover a wide range of topics relevant to emergency lighting, presented by leading industry experts.

Ayça Donaghy, CEO of The LIA, said: “The ICEL Emergency Lighting Conference is a vital event for those working in the sector to network, develop their knowledge and keep to date with key developments.

“We’re excited that Simon Weston will be joining us to deliver the keynote speech. Not only are his experiences linked closely to the importance of emergency lighting, he is also a truly inspirational figure that I know all attendees will be waiting to hear from.

For more information, visit https://www.thelia.org.uk/member-services/events/icel-emergency-lighting-conference.html