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Farrans sponsorship delivers new response car for Great Western Air Ambulance Charity

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Company Teams Background-November 2025 - 8

As part of their delivery of the new Public Transport Interchange at Bristol Airport, leading construction and civil engineering contractor Farrans has provided sponsorship for a new response car for Great Western Air Ambulance Charity.

The speedy Volvo is now on the road and responding to emergency situations, helping to save lives across Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset, South Gloucestershire, Gloucestershire, North Somerset and parts of Wiltshire.

As one of the busiest air ambulance services in the UK, being called to over six incidents every single day on average, it has an experienced team of Critical Care Doctors, Advanced and Specialist Paramedics in Critical Care and Pilots.

Suzanne Lutton, Head of Stakeholder and Social Value at Farrans, said: “While on site building the Public Transport Interchange at Bristol Airport, Farrans has been committed to an impactful social value programme of activity. Early on in the build we identified partner organisations to work with and Great Western Air Ambulance Charity was one that we recognised delivers an incredibly important service for the people in this region. The team work 365 days a year to respond to calls for urgent medical help and we are pleased to be able to support them in this way. We know that the new response car will be an important resource as they respond to emergencies on a daily basis.”

Tim Ross-Smith, Operations Officer for Great Western Air Ambulance Charity said: “This vehicle helps ensure our crews can be there for patients and families at the moments that matter most. Farrans’ and Bristol Airport’s support is already helping us save more local lives.”

Andrew Goodenough, Infrastructure Director at Bristol Airport said: “Great Western Air Ambulance Charity provides vital services to our region, and it’s been our pleasure to support the charity over the last two years.

“When Farrans commenced work on our new Public Transport Interchange that opened last summer, we were thrilled they also chose to support Great Western Air Ambulance Charity.

“To be able to add an additional vehicle to their fleet will be invaluable and it’s great to see such strong and continued support from Farrans throughout their involvement with the Airport.“

ASSA ABLOY Door Group highlights TEMPEST doorset benefits to safeguard data centres

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ASSA ABLOY Door Group is highlighting the benefits of its highly advanced TEMPEST security door for safeguarding data centres, as it is engineered to protect against both physical intrusion with RC4 burglary resistance, and electromagnetic data leakage.

As data centres become one of the world’s fastest growing critical infrastructure verticals, protecting information is no longer limited to cyber security alone. Electromagnetic emanation, where sensitive data can be intercepted from electronic emissions, poses a growing risk in the industry.

Designed for use in high-risk and high-value environments like data centres, secure server rooms, critical national infrastructure and other classified facilities, the TEMPEST door provides electromagnetic shielding and high physical security performance.

Tested to IEEE Std 299-2006, the door delivers shielding effectiveness ranging from 44.7 dB to 121.4 dB across frequencies from 30 MHz to 5 GHz, helping to prevent RF and EM signal leakage that could otherwise be exploited for unauthorised surveillance or data extraction. 

TEMPEST offers high RC4 burglary resistance, combining reinforced steel construction, anti-burglary bolts and high-class locking systems providing a robust barrier against physical attacks. The doorset has also been engineered for integration into Faraday cages, SCIFs and secure RF rooms, ensuring a complete approach to both cyber and physical security.

The TEMPEST doorset has customisable sizes and finishes, which aligns security performance with architectural design and operational needs that are common in modern data developments.

Brian Sofley, Managing Director at ASSA ABLOY Door Group, said: “Critical infrastructure is always evolving, and the TEMPEST door has been developed to meet the growing need for solutions that don’t just protect access, but information itself. 

“By addressing both electromagnetic and physical security risks, it will help the facilities managers of data centre and other high-risk environments meet compliance standards and safeguard their premises, assets and information.”

To learn more about Door Group and the range of products and services it provides, go to https://bit.ly/4jCFHGq.

Northern Irish Consultancy Johnston Houston Becomes Drees & Sommer UK

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Johnston Houston, the renowned property and construction consultancy based in Belfast, has today announced it has officially rebranded as Drees & Sommer UK, marking a new chapter as part of a leading international construction consultancy.

Founded in 2007 by Michael Johnston and Kerr Houston, the rebrand follows Drees & Sommer’s acquisition of the business in September 2024. Since the merger, the experienced team of 26building surveyors, cost consultants, and project managers have continued to deliver exceptional results for clients across Northern Ireland.

The consultancy’s Building Surveying service has gone from strength to strength in the last 12 months, with recent notable instructions including technical due diligence for the sale of Ernside Shopping Centre in Belfast, which is one of the city’s most prominent retail destinations.

The team has also successfully completed Phases 1 and 2 of The Residences at Kings Hall, a 40-apartment retirement living scheme where they provided comprehensive project management and quantity surveying services. Both phases have now been handed over to clients.

Speaking on the rebrand, Michael Johnston, Director of Drees & Sommer UK, said: “This rebrand represents an excellent opportunity for our clients and staff alike. As part of Drees & Sommer’s international organisation, we now offer access to deep layers of expertise and experience across the full range of construction services, while maintaining the local knowledge and personal service our clients value. It was the natural next step following our strategic merger last year.”

Kerr Houston, Director of Drees & Sommer UK, added: “We look forward to continuing to serve our clients with the same dedication and professionalism they have come to expect, now enhanced by the resources and capabilities of a global consultancy. It’s an exciting development, and we’re committed to building on this momentum throughout 2026 and beyond.”

Kenneth Wood, Partner at Drees & Sommer UK, said: “This rebrand brings together Johnston Houston’s established reputation in the Northern Ireland market with Drees & Sommer’s extensive global expertise, creating enhanced opportunities for both our clients and our growing team. We were delighted to welcome the Johnston Houston legacy into the Drees & Sommer UK family last year, and we look forward to continued growth and success under their new name.”

BAGNODESIGN to exhibit at KBB Birmingham 2026

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SANIPEX GROUP is thrilled to reveal that BAGNODESIGN, its luxury bathroom brand, will make its KBB Birmingham debut in 2026 where it will give retailers the opportunity to see its latest launches alongside some of its core ranges.

Visitors to stand G30 will be able to see Carlyle and Fonteyn, its two newest collections, which provide retailers with complete bathroom solutions characterised by a harmonious design language that flows throughout.

Empowering retailers operating in the premium end of the market to create aspirational bathrooms that blend understated luxury with refined details, Carlyle and Fonteyn provide cohesive, sophisticated solutions that simplify the design process. Fonteyn is influenced by mid-century design, while Carlyle is a modern classic range that is inspired by the elegance of 5-star hotel living.

Looking to replicate the brand’s recent success at HIX 2025, where it unveiled Carlyle and Fonteyn to the hospitality sector, BAGNODESIGN’s stand at KBB Birmingham will also feature its Studio 316 and Beach House collections, alongside other key ranges.

Combining beauty, functionality, durability and sustainability, Studio 316 provides retailers with an elegant range that blends accessible luxury with exceptional value for money.

Visitors will be given the opportunity to experience the depth and breadth of BAGNODESIGN’s brassware offering with mixers from each of its collections, including Bristol, Orology and M-Line, displayed on a dedicated wall. Samples of every finish, from Soft Bronze, PVD Oyster and Chrome to Amour Lip Gloss and Anthracite will be on show, highlighting the quality and elegance of BAGNODESIGN’s timeless collections, which encourage individuality and creativity throughout the bathroom.

BAGNODESIGN’s expert team will be available throughout the four-day show, which is set to take place at the NEC from 1 – 4 th March 2026. For more details, contact SANIPEX GROUP on 01924 233977 or visit www.bagnodesign.it

Sirius Buying Group strengthens its Board of Directors

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Sirius Buying Group
, one of the leading buying groups in the electrical appliance and kitchen retail sector, continues to strengthen with the appointment of two additional non-executive directors. Gary Bennetta, Director at Appliance World, and Mike Scothern, Director at Harry Garlick, will join the board from1st January 2026.

Steve Jones, Managing Director at Sirius Buying Group comments, “Helping to strengthen internal operations for our Members and Suppliers, as well as supporting the Group’s overall development, Gary and Mike’s new roles on the board are yet another example of Sirius’ progressive approach and focused growth plans. Everything we do puts our Members and Suppliers firmly at the centre.”

Gary Bennetta says, “I am thrilled to be able to bring my experience to Sirius so it can continue to develop the Group, expand its network, and remain open to new ideas from somebody with firsthand experience. Having been a Sirius Member for nearly 20 years, I have benefitted greatly from the many different group opportunities over the years. There is huge value to what Sirius brings to the independent retailer, and it is this level of support that adds to the strong sense of community among Members. With managing my own retail multi-channel business, I truly believe the independent retailer is in a unique position to become deeply embedded in its local community by providing a more authentic experience, which larger chain stores can’t replicate. I can’t wait to bring my personal experience to the group so collectively, we can strengthen our Members businesses for the long-term.”

Mike Scothern adds, “I would like to thank Sirius for the opportunity to join its board of directors and make full use of my 40 years’ experience in electrical retail. I’ve been a Sirius Member for a number of years, and my business has benefited from the Group’s partnerships and shared expertise. I look forward to offering my guidance to the board so that, collectively, we can learn from within, continue to pursue the correct strategies, and further strengthen the value Sirius brings to all Members.”

For Sirius Members, these appointments will deliver ongoing benefits, including stronger representation and support to ensure decisions are made with day-to-day business needs firmly in mind. Members can also expect improved collaboration with Suppliers, helping secure stronger opportunities, insight and long-term partnerships, alongside clearer strategic direction to ensure the Group continues to evolve and remain relevant in a changing market.

As of 1st January 2026, the board of directors for Sirius Buying Group will include Steve Jones, Marion Morton, Mark Veysey, Phil Cox (Empire Appliances), Lyn Knight (Abbey Appliances), as well as newly appointed non-executive directors, Gary Bennetta (Appliance World) and Mike Scothern (Harry Garlick).    

For more information, please contact Sirius Buying Group: t 0330 133 8336, e siriusoffice@siriusbuyinggroup.co.uk, w siriusbuyinggroup.co.uk Office 10, Equinox South Business Centre, Bristol BS32 4QL

Kingspan introduces new A1-rated K-Roc products

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Kingspan Insulation has unveiled the latest additions to its popular K-Roc range of Euroclass A1-rated insulation:

·         K-Roc Soffit Slab

·         K-Roc Flat Roof Slab 70/039

·         K-Roc External Wall Slab and

·         K-Roc Partial Fill Cavity Wall Slab.

The rock mineral fibre insulation products provide simple, practical solutions for applications where enhanced fire performance may be required.

K-Roc Soffit Slab is suitable for use on a wide range of structural ceilings including basements and underground car parks. The A1 rated mineral fibre slab is available in thicknesses from 100 to 200 mm to suit project requirements and has a thermal conductivity of 0.036 W/mK.

For external wall applications on masonry constructions, K-Roc External Wall Slab can provide an effective solution. Suitable for use behind traditional and lightweight polymer modified renders, the insulation achieves a thermal conductivity of 0.037 W/mK and can be installed as part of both new builds and refurbishment projects.

K-Roc Partial Fill Cavity Wall Slab joins Kingspan’s existing range of Euroclass A1 rated external wall solutions, alongside K-Roc Framing Slab and K-Roc Rainscreen Slab. The insulation achieves a thermal conductivity of 0.035 W/mK and is designed to be installed with a clear cavity (in line with the regulatory requirements for the application), supporting its use in applications where walls may be exposed to significant driving rain.

K-Roc Flat Roof Slab 70/039 can be fitted on new or existing roofs with concrete, timber or metal decks. The product is fully compatible with most mechanically fixed single-ply waterproofing systems and achieves a thermal conductivity of 0.039 W/mK.

All four products have been assessed under Assessment and Verification of Constancy of Performance (AVCP) System 1 for Reaction to Fire.

The new K-Roc products form part of Kingspan’s full spectrum range of insulation solutions, helping project teams meet their targets on any developments. The products are backed with dedicated technical support.

Why UK Vans Fail Their MOT –Based On 20 Years Of DVSA Records 

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 MoneySuperMarket’s new Van MOT Fail Checker reveals the most common MOT faults for the UK’s most popular van models 

  • Van insurance expert MoneySuperMarket has analysed over 815 million MOT results 
  •  The Nissan Primastar and the Fiat Scudo are the UK vans most likely to fail a MOT  
  • Vans most likely to pass include the Volkswagen Amarok and Mitsubishi L200 
  • The huge analysis of DVSA data reveals the most common MOT faults for vans include worn-out handbrakes and broken registration plate lamps 

The results of an enormous MOT data study have been released this week by van insurance expert MoneySuperMarket.   

Researchers at MoneySuperMarket filtered down over 815 million MOT results from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) to create a Van MOT Fail Checker tool, showing the most common faults for over 70 different van models.   

Alongside the Van MOT Fail Checker tool MoneySuperMarket also released a new MOT Fail Report revealing which van models have, on average, the best and worst MOT pass rates.   

The most frequently seen MOT faults in UK vans 

The new research shows the top reasons UK vans fail their MOT- the handbrake isn’t strong enough to safely hold the vehicle securely; the registration plate lamps aren’t functioning correctly; or the windscreen wipers aren’t effectively clearing the windscreen.  

Handbrake failure is a common MOT issue in many van models.  Drivers often don’t notice handbrake problems, especially if they usually park on flat surfaces or leave the van in gear.  

Other very frequent fail reasons include the front tyre tread depth falling below requirements of 1.6mm; the windscreen washer providing insufficient washer liquid; or front position lamps not working. 

The 10 Most Frequent Van MOT Fail Reasons in the UK from 2005  
Rank  Fail Reason  Number of Fails  
1  Handbrake: efficiency below requirements (3.7.B.7)  6,445,966  
2  Handbrake efficiency below requirements (1.4.2 (a) (i))  3,206,260  
3  Nearside Registration plate lamp not working (1.1.C.1d)  2,704,739  
4  Offside Registration plate lamp not working (1.1.C.1d)  2,577,212  
5  Nearside Windscreen wiper does not clear the windscreen effectively (8.2.2)  2,468,859  
6  Offside Windscreen wiper does not clear the windscreen effectively (8.2.2)  2,396,945  
7  Offside Front Tyre tread depth below requirements of 1.6mm (4.1.E.1)  2,373,803  
8  Windscreen washer provides insufficient washer liquid (8.2.3)  2,253,081  
9  Nearside Front position lamp(s) not working (1.1.A.3b)  2,210,491  
10  Nearside Front Tyre tread depth below requirements of 1.6mm (4.1.E.1)  2,177,809  

Alicia Hempsted, Van Insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket, says: “For tradespeople and van drivers, an MOT failure can mean more than just inconvenience – it can lead to lost earnings and even invalidate your insurance. That’s why our Van MOT Fail Checker is designed to help drivers spot common issues, like worn tyres or faulty handbrakes, before test day. By analysing over 20 years of MOT fail results, we’ve created a tool that empowers van owners to make informed choices, save money, and stay safer on the road. While we can’t guarantee a pass, taking proactive steps could help reduce the risk of unexpected costs.” 

Nissan Primastar and Fiat Scudo among van models most likely to fail their MOT  

Based on van models that have had over 10,000 MOT tests since 2005, the Nissan Primastar is the model most likely to fail an MOT, with the Fiat Scudo and Vauxhall Astravan completing the top three. 

Vans With The Highest MOT Fail Rate  
Rank  Car Model  Failure Rate  
1  Nissan Primastar  35.32%  
2  Fiat Scudo  34.10%  
3  Vauxhall Astravan  31.81%  
4  Suzuki Carry  31.50%  
5  Citroen Nemo  30.65%  

Bobcat Introduces Smarter Machines for Simpler Operation at CES 2026

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– AI-Powered Technologies, Advanced Displays and Modular Batteries Designed to Revolutionise Compact Construction Equipment –

Bobcat, a global leader in compact construction equipment, unveiled a suite of groundbreaking technologies at CES 2026 to transform how work gets done. Engineered for simplicity and productivity, these innovations aim to make equipment operation more intuitive, empowering operators to accomplish more with confidence. The new solutions integrate artificial intelligence, electrification, autonomy and connectivity into a scalable system of solutions designed to support operators, technicians and fleet owners alike.

“For nearly 70 years, Bobcat has led the compact equipment industry by solving real problems for real people,” said Scott Park, CEO and Vice Chairman of Doosan Bobcat. “Today, as workforce needs change and jobsites become more complex, we’re responding with intelligent systems that empower people to accomplish more, faster and smarter. These innovations aren’t concepts for the distant future; they’re advancements that are shaping how work gets done right now.”

Bobcat Jobsite Companion: The Industry’s First AI-Enabled Feature for Compact Construction Equipment

At the centre of Bobcat’s CES 2026 announcement is Bobcat Jobsite Companion, a first-of-its-kind, AI-enabled feature for compact construction equipment.

This prototype technology will provide real-time support and automation for everyday machine tasks. Operators can simply ask a question or state a command, and the system responds through voice and display interactions—adjusting attachment settings based on environment, offering operational recommendations and automating more than 50 functions without taking hands off the controls.

Powered by Bobcat’s proprietary AI large language model, Jobsite Companion runs entirely onboard the machine, enabling real-time responsiveness without reliance on cloud connectivity. This ensures full functionality even in remote or connectivity-limited jobsites, a critical requirement for construction environments. This technology redefines the machine-operator relationship, delivering the most significant interface evolution in nearly two decades.

“Jobsite Companion lowers the barrier to entry for new operators while helping experienced professionals work faster and more precisely,” said Joel Honeyman, Vice President of Global Innovation at Doosan Bobcat. “It’s not just smarter technology; it’s a smarter experience that puts expert-level guidance directly in the cab.”

Service.AI: AI-Powered Support for Faster Repairs and More Uptime

Bobcat also announced Service.AI, an AI-powered service and support platform designed to minimise equipment downtime by giving dealers and technicians instant access to Bobcat’s full repair expertise. With Service.AI, Bobcat dealers and technicians can instantly retrieve repair manuals and warranty details, receive real-time diagnostic guidance, and leverage Bobcat’s extensive archive of historical cases for faster troubleshooting.

This prototype technology delivers the expertise of a master technician—providing step-by-step guidance to streamline the service process and complete repairs efficiently. By simplifying complex diagnostics, Service.AI not only accelerates repair timelines but helps to address the ongoing labour shortage.

Collision Warning and Avoidance System: Purposeful Innovation for Jobsite Confidence

Bobcat showcased its prototype Collision Warning and Avoidance System, the first and only system in development for the compact equipment industry designed to actively slow or stop a machine before a collision occurs.

Using advanced imaging radar, the system tracks the position, direction and speed of surrounding objects in real time. If a potential hazard is detected, the machine will automatically alert and even slow down or stop the machine. Designed to assist operator awareness without adding complexity, the system is already being cited through customer testing as a differentiating factor for choosing Bobcat equipment.

Advanced Display Technology: A Smarter View into the Jobsite

Bobcat also highlighted its Advanced Display Technology, a MicroLED, transparent, auto-tint, touch-enabled display concept seamlessly integrated into the cab door or machine window.

The system overlays critical operational data directly onto the operator’s field of view, allowing them to see both the jobsite and machine insights simultaneously. Integrated features include:

  • 360-degree camera views
  • Collison warning and avoidance alerts
  • Jobsite feature display
  • Real-time machine performance data
  • Real-time visual asset tracking and monitoring

“It’s not just a screen,” Honeyman said. “It’s a smarter window into the work, delivering clarity, control and confidence.”

RogueX3: The Next Evolution of Autonomous, Electric and Modular Equipment

Bobcat is pushing the boundaries of innovation with RogueX3, its most advanced concept machine to date. Fully electric and autonomous, RogueX3 takes modularity to the next level, adapting seamlessly to a wide range of jobsite needs.

The version showcased at CES features an electric powertrain and can operate remotely or autonomously without a cab. However, RogueX3 was engineered for ultimate flexibility. Its modular design allows interchangeable components—cab or no cab, wheels or tracks, configurable lift arms and more—so users can tailor the machine to specific tasks. Looking ahead, the machine could be built and powered in multiple ways, including electric, diesel, hybrid or even hydrogen. Building on insights from RogueX and RogueX2, RogueX3’s innovative design has already generated multiple pending patents that will shape the future of Bobcat’s product lineup.

Bobcat Standard Unit Pack (BSUP): Modular Power for an Electric Future

Powering Bobcat’s electric future is the Bobcat Standard Unit Pack (BSUP), a fast-charging, modular battery system engineered for rugged jobsite conditions. BSUP units are:

  • Stackable and designed to fit the space constraints of compact equipment like loaders, excavators and forklifts
  • Designed for dusty, dirty and high-impact environments
  • Scalable across Bobcat equipment and available to other OEMs

By enabling flexible, cleaner and quieter operations, BSUP will serve as a foundational building block for the next generation of electric construction equipment.

Together, Bobcat Jobsite Companion, Service.AI, Collision Warning and Avoidance, Advanced Display Technology, RogueX3 and BSUP form an integrated system of solutions set to redefine what’s possible on the modern jobsite.

“We’re not just imagining the future — we’re engineering it,” Park said. “By combining AI, autonomy, electrification and connectivity, Bobcat is creating technology that empowers people, simplifies work and sets a new standard for the industry.”

Products and technologies featured at CES are showcased as prototypes or concept models, highlighting the innovation shaping the future. While not commercially available at present, several are advancing toward commercialisation.

About Bobcat

Since 1958, Bobcat has been empowering people to accomplish more. As a leading global manufacturer of compact equipment, Bobcat has built a proud legacy of innovation and a reputation for delivering smart solutions to customers’ toughest challenges. Bobcat now offers extensive line ups of compact machinery (including loaders, excavators, telehandlers, portable power, compact tractors and mowers) and material handling equipment (including forklifts and warehouse solutions), plus a broad range of attachments, parts and services. All of these products are backed by the support of a worldwide network of independent dealers and distributors. The Bobcat brand is owned by Doosan Bobcat.

About Doosan Bobcat

Doosan Bobcat is a company within the Doosan Group. Doosan Group is a top-tier global enterprise that has proudly served customers and communities for more than a century. Doosan Bobcat is based in Bundang, South Korea.

To learn more about Bobcat’s products, attachments and services, visit www.bobcat.com.

Kytun Recognised for Innovation as Performance Plus Takes Top Honour

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Donegal based roofing and rainwater specialist Kytun has picked up the Most Innovative Product award for its Performance Plus Aluminium Slate Trim at the 2025 Pitched Roofing Awards, reinforcing its position as one of the UK and Ireland’s most forward-thinking roofing manufacturers.

Held in November at The Midland Hotel in Manchester, the awards celebrate technical excellence, innovation and best practice across the pitched roofing sector. Kytun also sponsored the Best Use of Slate for a Domestic Project category, reflecting its long-standing commitment to quality slate detailing and the installers and designers who deliver it on site.

Innovation driven by real-world roofing challenges

The pitched roofing sector is undergoing a clear shift. Traditional mortar-based solutions are increasingly being replaced by dry fix systems that offer improved durability, faster installation and consistent performance over time. At the same time, pressure is growing around sustainability, waste reduction and long-term compliance.

Performance Plus was developed to address these challenges head-on, delivering a continuous dry fix solution for slate and tile roofs, removing the need for additional materials or multiple installation stages. By combining form, function and speed, it creates a cleaner roof edge and viable alternative to traditional methods that are vulnerable to weathering and failure.

For installers, the benefits are obvious: Performance Plus can reduce installation time by up to 50%, enabling efficient installation without compromising finish or performance. The system installs cleanly, creates consistent alignment along the verge, and eliminates the variability often associated with mortar applications.

Performance, durability and long-term good looks

Performance Plus has been cleverly engineered for both speed and longevity, so Kytun can confidently provide a 30-year warranty as standard.

Aesthetically, the slim aluminium profile provides a sharp, uniform finish that complements both contemporary and traditional builds: an increasingly important consideration as homeowners and designers place greater emphasis on detailing.

From a performance perspective, the use of aluminium also supports wider industry movement towards durable, low-maintenance materials that perform consistently over time.

Sustainability as standard, not an afterthought

The Roofing Awards judges highlighted innovation and sustainability as key factors in Kytun’s win, and rightly so.

By reducing material waste, removing wet trades from the verge installation process, and extending product lifespan, Performance Plus aligns with more responsible building practices. Aluminium’s recyclability further strengthens its sustainability credentials, supporting circular economy principles increasingly valued across residential and commercial construction.

This focus is not isolated to a single product. Kytun’s broader dry fix roofing systems range reflects a manufacturer-led approach to sustainable innovation, one that starts with real installer feedback and ends with practical, compliant solutions that stand up to scrutiny.

Supporting excellence across the industry

Kytun’s sponsorship of the Best Use of Slate for a Domestic Project category reinforced its ongoing support for craftsmanship and technical skill within the roofing industry. The category showcased how high-quality materials, thoughtful specification and skilled installation can deliver outstanding results, particularly in slate roofing where detailing matters.

Speaking after the event, the Kytun team highlighted the awards as recognition not just of a product, but of a wider commitment to performance-led design, manufacturing quality and installer-focused innovation.

Setting the benchmark for modern dry fix systems

Winning Most Innovative Product at the 2025 Pitched Roofing Awards positions Performance Plus as a benchmark for modern verge solutions – one that reflects where the industry is now, and where it is heading.

As regulation tightens, sustainability expectations grow, and time pressures on site increase, solutions that combine speed, durability and clean detailing are no longer optional. They are becoming the standard.

For Kytun, this recognition signals more than a successful awards night. It underscores a clear mission: to design roofing systems that perform better, last longer and make life easier for the professionals who install them.

Find out more about Performance Plus at kytun.com

Chadwicks Group Appoints Eimear O’Reilly as HR Director

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Eimear O'Reilly Chadwicks Group Picture Conor McCabe Photography.

Chadwicks Group, Ireland’s leading builders’ merchanting company, is pleased to announce the appointment of Eimear O’Reilly as HR Director of Chadwicks Group. As HR Director for Chadwicks Group, and as a member of the organisation’s Senior Leadership Team, Eimear will lead the company’s people strategy.  

In the role, Eimear will shape and deliver a forward-looking strategy that supports the company’s ongoing transformation and growth ambitions. She will lead initiatives to enhance the employee experience, strengthen talent pipelines and build organisational capability, ensuring Chadwicks Group is equipped to meet the evolving needs of its colleagues, customers and wider market. 

Eimear brings over 20 years of extensive experience in Human Resources, organisational development and people strategy across a wide range of sectors, including financial services, insurance and mobile technology. Her career spans leadership roles with well-known brands such as Allianz Ireland Insurance, Bank of Scotland, AIB, Meteor Mobile and Vodafone, as well as senior positions in global operational and engineering environments. 

Most recently, Eimear served as HR Director with Allied Universal, following a successful five-and-a-half-year tenure with Hilti Fastening Systems. Throughout her career, she has delivered significant achievements in organisational development, talent management, employee engagement and change leadership. She is also a qualified business coach, an experienced mediator, and currently serves as a Director of Positive2Work Skillnet Ireland, contributing to national workforce development initiatives. 

Speaking on the appointment, Patrick Atkinson, CEO, Chadwicks Group, said: 
“We are delighted to welcome Eimear to the Senior Leadership Team at Chadwicks Group. Her deep experience across HR, organisational development and people management will play a crucial role as we continue to invest in our colleagues and shape the future of the business. Eimear’s strategic insight and strong focus on developing high-performing teams align closely with our ambition to deliver an exceptional customer experience and support our growth plans across Ireland.” 

Speaking on her appointment, Eimear O’Reilly, HR Director, Chadwicks Group, commented: 
“I am delighted to be joining Chadwicks Group at such an important stage in its growth journey. Chadwicks’ strong reputation, values-driven culture and commitment to developing colleagues aligns closely with my professional principles and experience. I am excited to contribute to the next chapter of Chadwick Group’s success.”