In-Comm Training, which offers apprenticeships and upskilling courses at academies in Aldridge and Telford, has been gifted a selection of Garant cabinets and cleaning stations by the industrial tooling manufacturer and supplier in a bid to boost best practice on the shopfloor.

The focus will be on encouraging adoption of 5S (short for sort, set in order, shine, standardise and sustain), a workplace methodology that focuses on optimising productivity, minimising waste and maximising team morale through an efficient workspace. 

However, before apprentices can begin to organise and increase their productivity, having the facilities to properly ‘5s’ a workspace is vital. 

"Our partnership with Hoffmann Group gives learners the perfect opportunity to cultivate the skills and qualities required to work on a busy and professional shopfloor," explained Ashley Wainwright, engineering academy lead for In-Comm Training in Telford.

"Learning to be an engineer isn’t just about the knowledge, it’s also about behaviours and, in particular, the importance of keeping a workshop organised.”

"Storage cabinets from Garant, Hoffmann Group’s exclusive brand, are modular and produced with 5S in mind. With a variety of shelf configurations and the option to add perforated panels for additional storage, it is a perfect fit for training the next generation of engineers."

In-Comm Training is committed to ‘bridging the skills gap’ by equipping businesses and individuals with industry competencies, fostering a workforce prepared to meet the challenges of modern-day manufacturing.

With state-of-the-art academies in the Black Country and Shropshire, the provider gives more than 700 companies access to employer-led apprenticeships, upskilling courses and consultancy every year.

Wainwright, a former In-Comm apprentice who spent seven years in industry before returning in 2023, continued: "When I was learning, I wasn’t exposed to the high-pressure environment that working directly for industry offers. This is why ensuring we equip apprentices with vital skills required for working on the shopfloor is so vital for futureproofing their careers.

"Partnerships, like the one we have with Hoffmann Group, give learners access to high-quality industry equipment that allows them to take ownership of tooling and ensures safe storage."

Prior to attaining the Garant cabinets, In-Comm Training’s Fluid Power area had a lack of storage, which led to difficulties when storing tools on work surfaces. 

Wainwright quickly identified the issue and installed the specialist storage equipment, which immediately eliminated the quantity of damaged hydraulic hoses and manufactured components, whilst also promoting the standards of the 5S methodology.

"We understand the importance of a tidy workspace for optimum efficiency as a manufacturer ourselves,” added Yasmin Williams, Workstations and Storage Specialist at Hoffmann Group UK.

"Our business is passionate about developing the next generation of engineers and this is reflected in the relationship with In-Comm Training. Effectively, the equipment we are supplying is helping learners adopt best practice and those learners could well become the Engineering Directors of the future.”

"Learners are spending more time learning rather than searching for things. The equipment from Hoffmann Group UK has had a massive effect on budding engineers taking ownership of their workspaces and developing the 5S mentality," he concluded.

www.in-comm.co.uk

www.hoffmann-group.com​

The appointment strengthens the Board at a time when the UK engineering and manufacturing sector navigates a period of rapid change.

Ritchey brings a wealth of experience from across highly technical industries, including aerospace, defence, marine, nuclear and energy, and a proven track record of leading complex engineering organisations and programmes. His insight will be invaluable as Enginuity continues to champion an employer-led skills system that equips businesses with the talent they need now and into the future. 

In his role as deputy chair, he will work closely with chair Jim McDonald, the Board and the Executive Team to help shape Enginuity’s strategic direction and support collaboration between industry, education and government. 

"We are delighted to welcome Ian as deputy chair of Enginuity Group. He brings outstanding engineering leadership experience and a deep understanding of the skills challenges facing employers today," said Ann Watson, CEO of Enginuity.

"His breadth of experience across demanding sectors will help us as we work with partners to strengthen the UK’s engineering and manufacturing skills system."

Ritchey is widely respected in the engineering community and has held senior leadership positions at Rolls-Royce, including head of aerospace research and technology, defence engineering director, executive vice-president engineering and technology for Commercial Marine, and, most recently, group chief engineer, where he led the global engineering function. 

He holds degrees from Cambridge and Stanford Universities, is a Chartered Engineer and a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering, where he chairs the Education and Skills Committee. Ritchey is an Honorary Professor at Durham University, where he supports research, teaching and industry engagement, a Governor of Education Partnership North East and a Director of Connect Northumberland, an employer-led workforce development initiative.

"I am pleased to join Enginuity Group," he stated. "Engineering and manufacturing are central to the UK’s economy and to tackling major challenges such as net zero, productivity and technological change.

"A strong, coherent skills system is essential to ensure employers have the talent they need. Enginuity’s role in connecting industry, education and policymakers is critical, and I look forward to working with Sir Jim, Ann and the Board to advance this important work."

enginuity.org

Fabricated by Quality International Co ltd FZC, one of the leading Module Fabrication and Assembly yards in the UAE, the modules were loaded out in a monumental operation at Khalifa Port, Abu Dhabi Ports’ flagship deepwater multi-purpose port. Achieving this milestone required seamless coordination with port operations, including adjustments to infrastructure to handle oversized cargo.

Every stage of the operation was thoroughly studied by Mammoet engineers to guarantee safe and efficient execution. The project also marked the largest outward shipment in Khalifa Port’s history.

The modules were moved from the fabrication yard at Khalifa Port South Quay to the adjacent quayside, covering approximately 2.5 kilometers, before being loaded out and shipped in four consignments.

Mammoet’s scope included weighing the modules using twelve 300t and eighteen 150t jack and load cells, applied in different configurations depending on each module’s size and weight. For transport and loadout, Mammoet deployed 120 axle lines of self-propelled modular transporters (SPMT) and four power pack units.

The heaviest and tallest unit - a Process Gas Cooling Module - weighed 2,464t and measured 38 meters long, 23 meters wide, and 32 meters high.

Through careful planning and close collaboration with all stakeholders, the operation was completed seamlessly. Mammoet’s team ensured these critical assets were handled with maximum safety, precision, and reliability, ready for integration into the new facility. This project further demonstrates Mammoet’s capability to manage every step of the journey, wherever in the world it needs to go.

"Having been part of the UAE’s industrial landscape for 50 years, Mammoet is proud to support this record-breaking operation," said Michel Bunnik, commercial director, Mammoet Projects AMEA. "With modules fabricated here in the UAE and shipped through Khalifa Port, this project demonstrates the country’s strength as a global hub for energy and infrastructure. Our long-standing presence allows us to bring world-class expertise while working hand in hand with local partners to deliver safe and reliable solutions."

www.mammoet.com 

INDUSTRY MINSTER Chris McDonald, has defended Government planned apprenticeship reforms following fears from businesses across the country that they will undermine standards reduce economic growth

Speaking exclusively to broadcaster Steph McGovern on her Steph on Skills - powered by Enginuity, the minister was told that shorter and less exacting apprenticeships could lower standards and damage industry’s ability to grow.

Responding to questions about fears that the reforms might lower standards and undermine the UK’s renowned ‘gold standard’ apprenticeships, Minister McDonald made it clear that the Government remains committed to maintaining and enhancing quality, while also broadening opportunities for young people.

"A key focus of these reforms is to significantly expand the number of apprenticeship opportunities available to young people across the country," said McDonald. "We want apprenticeships to be a first-choice pathway, not a fallback. The Prime Minister himself has backed this, aiming for two-thirds of young people to progress through apprenticeships or university."

McDonald acknowledged industry feedback regarding the apprenticeship levy, pointing out that many businesses have found the current system too restrictive. "We’re listening to industry," he explained. "Many employers, especially in sectors like hydrogen and carbon capture, have asked for shorter, more flexible courses that allow them to upskill staff efficiently. We’re responding to that by making the system more adaptable."

He illustrated the importance of flexibility with the example of an apprentice working offshore, who must be multi-skilled in areas such as mechanical and hydraulic engineering to meet the demands of modern industry. "Multi-skilling is increasingly vital. If you’ve previously trained in offshore oil and gas, for instance, but lack hydraulics experience, these reforms will make it easier to access new opportunities in growing sectors like offshore wind," McDonald said.

Addressing concerns about potential impacts on standards, the Minister emphasised, "We shouldn’t conflate difference with lower quality. Industry pays according to skill, and qualifications remain robust. For example, achieving code five welder status still opens doors to roles that require the highest expertise and command higher pay. The reforms are about widening participation and meeting industry needs, not diluting standards."

Ann Watson, CEO of former Sector Skills Council Enginuity, responding to the Minister’s remarks, said: "Let’s hope that the minister is correct in his assertions. Apprenticeships within the engineering and manufacturing sector are an important quality mark of competence and employers whilst welcoming continuous improvement do not want assessment of competence to be undermined.

"Enginuity is continually assessing industry opinion and is only too well aware of the genuine fears held by so many SMEs across the country - many are unaware of the reforms and those that are, have concerns about the reforms undermining the apprenticeship brand. 

"To make the reforms a success it needs to be a truly collaborative approach to finding the right solution to maintain employer confidence in the apprenticeship and to provide more opportunities for young people within a sector that desperately needs more engineers and manufacturers.

"The problem with radical reform is that once made and damage is done to the system, it’s very hard to row back and repair."

Steph’s interview can be heard in full on the ‘Steph on Skills’ podcast, available on all major platforms.

Watch Steph on Skills

www.enginuity.org

Manufacturers are facing significant pressures at the moment: excessive ‘bank vault’ levels of inventory, the need to drive efficiencies beyond traditional inventory management, ongoing cost pressures, supply chain complexities, and rising wage and National Insurance costs. These challenges focus attention on one critical issue - money tied up in inventory.

Money Sitting in Inventory

Inventory is often managed very differently from other high-value assets. If a business had a bank vault containing £2m, it would do everything possible to protect, leverage, and manage it. Yet inventory, which can have the same or greater value, isn’t always given the same consideration.

We recently encountered a store holding £7m pounds in goods, of which 70% hadn’t moved in five years. That’s nearly £5m pounds of working capital at risk of being written off unless we have a solution to keep the stock moving and valuable. Business leaders are increasingly recognising that unmanaged inventory represents trapped cash - capital that could otherwise support a far leaner, more resilient operation.

It’s this that creates the need or demand for an Onsite Solution. Quite simply, a HAYLEY DEXIS Onsite team member really is worth their weight in gold - around £9m at today’s rates. Gold rates aside, our Onsite teams use an in-house system, Track Up, to demonstrate how we can support in saving these millions.

So, what is an Onsite Solution? 

An Onsite Solution provides dedicated support to a customer’s manufacturing facility, going well beyond the traditional trade counter route to market. Think of it like having your own personal MRO expert focused solely on you, with the full strength of the branch network behind them, helping reduce factory downtime and drive cost savings.

When customers first look at an Onsite setup, from my experience, the starting point is often simple: regain control of inventory and reduce stock levels by leveraging our local branches. But in reality, that’s just the beginning.

An Onsite Solution becomes a strategic lever for continuous improvement, efficiency and productivity - especially for organisations operating under sustained economic pressure. In 2025, I made the decision to put our regional team through the Lean Six Sigma programme, to be more aligned with industry needs and, more importantly, to talk the same language. An integrated approach is the only way to fully unlock these operational and financial benefits.

By embedding our team directly into the customer’s operation, we become an extension of their business. That means faster response to breakdowns, immediate support on the ground, and significantly reduced downtime - helping to avoid repeat failures before they happen.

What Sets HAYLEY DEXIS Apart

Our Onsite Solutions are differentiated by the combination of our supply framework, technical expertise, and nationwide branch network. We provide full support through a nationwide system to ensure expertise, supply, and resources are always available when needed. Our core values - stock, service, and people - enable us to work seamlessly with our customers to deliver the right solutions, at the right time, with minimal disruption. 

A true 360-degree MRO Solution

And our service doesn’t stop there. Our service extends well beyond inventory management. We work closely with our customers through a complete 360-degree MRO solution through value-added services. For example, through targeted energy surveys, pneumatic assessments, and compressed air leak surveys, we identify inefficiencies that often go unnoticed but steadily inflate operating costs. All the time using Lean Six Sigma methodology.

Our engineers combine rapid data collection with fast turnaround engineering solutions, ensuring improvements can be implemented without unnecessary disruption. We recognise that no two operations are the same, so our approach is flexible, often tailored to the specific needs of each business. 

Just as importantly, our service and product teams deliver deep technical expertise with immediate access to 24/7 engineering support, all underpinned by the scale, resilience, and reach of our nationwide branch network. Our in-house team challenges the status quo, brings ideas to the table, and leads improvement projects that deliver real, measurable results. As mentioned previously, our bespoke Track Up system uses analysis to prove time and cost savings to add value for the customer.

Looking Forward

As we move into 2026, 2027 and beyond, I predict more businesses will look to unlock the full value of inventory management and drive ongoing performance improvements, with HAYLEY DEXIS Onsite Solutions continuing to play a bigger role in how operations are supported.

The real differentiator, however, won’t be whether an Onsite model is in place, but the partner chosen to deliver it. As with the bank vault analogy at the start, success depends on having the right people, backed by a strong local connection and proven processes that reduce risk to ensure a smooth, well-managed transition.

Done properly, an Onsite Solution isn’t just a change in how inventory is managed - it’s a long-term partnership that delivers control, resilience, and measurable value. And that’s exactly how we approach it.

Adrian Easter is group strategic contracts director at HAYLEY DEXIS

If you’re serious about trying to reduce costs and improve productivity, we'd be happy to discuss HAYLEY DEXIS Onsite Solutions with you.

The programme enables businesses to replace older single-phase uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems with innovative, energy-efficient Vertiv models, all while minimising costs and environmental impact.

As organisations increasingly prioritise responsible practices and operational efficiency, the Vertiv Power Swap Programme facilitates the responsible collection, refurbishment, and recycling of legacy equipment, helping customers to reduce e-waste and align with environmental regulations like the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) standards.

"While many UPS vendors offer recycling or limited trade-in options, the Vertiv Power Swap Programme is designed specifically for the UK channel and single-phase UPS market, uniquely combining discount incentives and an efficient trade-in process. The Vertiv Power Swap programme helps our partners to reduce their carbon footprint," said Stuart McDougall, channel marketing specialist, Northern Europe at Vertiv. "With the launch of this new initiative, we're supporting UK businesses to upgrade their power protection whilst decreasing their environmental impact. This is more than a discount - it's a win for energy efficiency, budgets, and operational reliability."

Martin Ryder, channel sales director, Northern Europe at Vertiv, added, "This programme strengthens our commitment to the channel by providing partners with an opportunity for enhanced margins and customers with reliable, innovative UPS technology. The Power Swap Programme makes it easier than ever to transition to high-efficiency solutions like the Vertiv Edge, Vertiv Liebert GXT5, and Vertiv Liebert GXE, enabling greater uptime and cost savings in today's demanding IT environments."

Key program features

• Replacement of legacy systems: Target and replace single-phase UPS units up to 5kVA from any vendor or manufacturer.
• Accelerate adoption of high-efficiency models including Vertiv Edge, Vertiv Liebert GXT5, and Vertiv Liebert GXE.
• Support recycling: Encourage responsible and compliant procedures in handling of old units through certified recycling processes.
• Empower customers and partners: Provide end-users with cost-effective upgrades to reliable critical power infrastructure and resellers with scope for margin expansion.

Key programme advantages

The programme delivers compelling benefits designed to address real-world challenges and provide stronger customer value:

• Savings of up to 40%: Customers can access significant discounts on new Vertiv UPS systems, freeing up budgets for end-users and providing partners the opportunity for enhanced margins.
• Free on-site collection: Vertiv handles pickup of old units directly from customer sites - a gamechanger for businesses in congested city centres, eliminating logistical hurdles like transportation and disposal.
• Fully managed experience: From initial registration to final recycling, Vertiv oversees the entire process for hassle-free compliance and peace of mind.
• Access to new technologies with warranty coverage: Upgrade to Vertiv's latest UPS solutions for mission-critical applications.

Participating is straightforward through a simple five-step process:

1. Identify: Customers approach their local trusted IT Partners with legacy single-phase UPS units to trade in
2. Register: IT Partner logs into the Vertiv Partner Portal to submit details of their eligible legacy UPS unit.
3. Validate and approve: Vertiv reviews eligibility and issues a unique discount code.
4. Purchase: Redeem the code when buying a new Vertiv UPS through an authorised reseller.
5. Collect and recycle: Schedule free collection of the old unit with Vertiv, which is then responsibly recycled in line with WEEE directives.

The programme is available immediately to UK customers and partners until the end of 2026. 

Customers can learn more on the dedicated landing page, while partners can visit the Vertiv Partner Portal or contact our local Vertiv representative for further details.

www.vertiv.com

EMI Solutions is now positioned to provide sales, technical support, design-in services and sales functions to their growing European customer base. Having their own company and local stock in Italy ensures European customers are supported by a reliable supply chain.

As a manufacturing company based in India, investment in European markets is key to EMIS continuing their successful growth. Being close to their customers is essential as more than 40% of their turnover is from custom designed products. The new agreement with the LDI Logistics Group, located on the outskirts of Milano will improve support for their key markets of Industrial, Machine Control, Power Quality, IT, Robotics, EC-Charger, Smart Building, Defence and Medical applications.

LDI Group will provide third party warehousing via Interlaziale who bring 48 years’ experience, fifteen locations in Italy, three million shipments per year, more than five hundred employees and international certifications including ISO9001, ISO14001, ISO18000. Its central logistics hub is close to the area of greatest industrial production in North Italy and to the largest industrial area in the country.

EMI Solutions has been designing and manufacturing EMI filters for more than 40 years and is a global source for efficient EMC solutions across all industries, applications and the frequency spectrum (50Hz - 40GHz). Products available include EMC Components, Inlet filters, Feedthrough Components, Power Quality, Military Grade Filters and Surge Protection.

EMIS aims to offer an end-to-end solution to meet industry’s ongoing EMI Challenges. With a robust global supply footprint across eight industry segments, EMIS is continuously investing in technology and skills to deliver its promise of efficiency with seamless customer support.

Customers are supported by a very experienced consulting team, a fully equipped Pre-Compliance Lab and a huge safety certified standard product offering of over 2500 part-numbers produced in their own very efficient facility.

emisglobal.com

Based on research which shows that 73% of people will not return to a washroom after a bad experience, Tork’s Washroom Guide, available on its website, provides recommendations on improving inclusive hygiene, environmental sustainability and operational efficiency.

"Our data shows that when washroom users and cleaners’ needs aren’t met, a business can suffer," said Olivia Slater, commercial director, professional hygiene at Essity. “With three in four people concerned about washroom hygiene, and one in two likely to face barriers to meeting their needs, small, targeted updates to the washroom - the most visited room in a facility - can make a substantial difference for both users and cleaning staff."

Recommendations:

1. Lean into inclusive hygiene

Washroom users said that when the following 'must have' elements are provided, which exemplify inclusive hygiene, the majority (59%) of people say a business can improve its positive image:

• Toilet paper and paper hand towels in dispensers that are easy to grasp (67% said these are a “must have”)
• Spaces and design elements that enable privacy (63%)​
• Disposal bins in the stall for personal items including incontinence and menstrual products (60%)
• Physical accessibility - including grab bars and ramps - for everyone (58%)
• The availability of paper hand towels (57%)

2. Promote sustainability

The washroom is an overlooked place for reducing environmental impact by businesses, yet 67% of people want washroom managers to prioritise environmental sustainability. Tork recommends the following actions:

• Promote sustainability practices with signs in the washroom
• Ensure teams understand the importance of responsible sourcing and look for third-party certified products using training and educational assets. 
• Control consumption with 'one at a time' dispensing to reduce waste.
• Support sustainability goals, avoid landfill with recyclable packaging and recycling schemes like Tork PaperCircle paper towel recycling.

3. Support employee efficiency

Investing in washroom features and supporting cleaning staff can improve business revenue. To empower cleaning staff, many of whom feel unsupported and enhance user experiences, Tork recommends:

• Working smarter with data-driven cleaning that identifies service needs in a facility.
• Installing high-capacity dispensers that reduce the need for frequent refills, allowing cleaning staff to focus more on cleaning rather than refilling.
• Using compressed towels for refills to serve more users before cleaners need to refill again.  
• Sourcing products with ergonomic packaging including Tork Easy Handling packaging for easier carrying, opening and disposal.

"By addressing these critical aspects, industrial businesses can help washroom users and cleaners meet their basic needs and deliver an experience that meets the needs of as many as possible. Investing thoughtfully in inclusive hygiene, sustainability and operational support meets evolving user expectations," Slater continued.

Tork helps businesses realise the benefit of sustainable hygiene with a focus on four key areas materials and packaging, use and waste, carbon and hygiene for all. It also provides free training and educational assets

www.torkglobal.com 

The five-year agreement establishes a broad collaboration focused on knowledge development, skills advancement and territorial impact.

"For Vertiv, this collaboration with the University of Bologna is a strategic step that allows us to combine advanced research, technological innovation and talent development," stated Giovanni Zanei, vice president, large power conversion at Vertiv. "Joining forces with the University means contributing not only to regional growth but also to generating knowledge and solutions that will impact digital projects and infrastructure globally."

Key initiatives include research, development and innovation projects funded at regional, national and European levels, technical-scientific consulting, scholarships, research grants, PhD programmes, as well as the creation of shared laboratories and research infrastructure. A key focus will be the promotion and dissemination of results through seminars, events and forums on cutting-edge topics.

"This agreement represents a model of virtuous collaboration between university and business, capable of generating shared value, concrete opportunities for students and researchers, and new trajectories for sustainable development," said Giovanni Molari, the university's rector.

On the education front, qualified Vertiv experts will contribute to educational programmes from undergraduate to doctoral levels, including specialised training courses, Summer and Winter schools, and interdisciplinary programmes. The collaboration also includes up-skilling and reskilling initiatives for Vertiv employees, potentially establishing a dedicated Advanced Training School. Students and graduates will benefit from curricular internships, recruiting events, and international opportunities within Vertiv's global network.

The framework also addresses technology transfer, with collaborations on patents, university start-ups and spin-offs, as well as workshops, contests and open innovation initiatives, along with emphasis on public engagement, sustainability and social innovation, with projects benefiting the territory and community.

Vertiv.com/careers

Pallet Trucks UK is encouraging employers to recognise that investment in reliable manual handling equipment sends a clear message about how much their workforce is valued.

While pay, flexibility and progression remain important, day-to-day working conditions play a significant role in whether employees stay or leave. In warehouses, this often comes down to the tools used to move goods. Ageing, poorly maintained pallet trucks, stackers and lift tables can slow work, increase physical strain and create frustration, particularly for experienced staff who know how much difference good equipment can make.

By contrast, robust pallet trucks and lift solutions that operate smoothly, handle loads predictably and require minimal effort can transform how a role feels. Even modest upgrades can reduce fatigue, lower the risk of strain-related injuries and make long shifts more manageable. In a sector where many roles are physically demanding, these small improvements can have an outsized impact on morale.

Pallet Trucks UK works with businesses of all sizes, from independent operators to large distribution centres, supplying equipment designed for durability, ease of use and long service life. Hand pallet trucks, electric pallet trucks and compact lifting solutions remain a practical alternative to more complex machinery, particularly in busy or space-constrained environments where simplicity and reliability matter most.

"Staff notice when employers cut corners on the kit they use every day. If a pallet truck is hard to manoeuvre, unreliable or constantly out of action, it sends the wrong signal. Investing in decent equipment shows respect for the people doing the work, and that has a real impact on how valued they feel," said Phil Chesworth, MD at Pallet Trucks UK.

"Retention doesn’t always require sweeping changes. Often, it’s about removing daily frustrations and making the job safer and more comfortable. When workers can do their job without battling the equipment, it improves morale and, ultimately, loyalty."

With an ageing workforce and continued competition for skilled warehouse operatives, many employers are rethinking where investment delivers the greatest return. For Pallet Trucks UK, the answer often starts on the warehouse floor, where dependable manual handling equipment supports safer working practices and demonstrates a long-term commitment to the people keeping supply chains moving.

www.pallettrucksuk.co.uk