Signify launches Brighter Lives, Better World 2030: improving lives, saving energy, preserving resources
Signify (Euronext: LIGHT), the world leader in lighting, today launched Brighter Lives, Better World 2030, a new program designed to expand the reach of impactful, energy and resource-efficient lighting to improve lives, save energy, and preserve resources. The program is supported by new initiatives that support customer sustainability ambitions. “Brighter Lives, Better World 2030 is designed to deliver solutions that improve lives, save energy, and make better use of resources – which is exactly what our customers are asking for,” said As Tempelman, CEO of Signify. “It shows that impact and opportunity go hand in hand, as we create real value for society, while building a stronger, more resilient company.” Driving impact where it matters most Focusing on customers’ most pressing challenges, Brighter Lives, Better World 2030 responds to rising demand for efficient, connected and electrified solutions. Addressing increasing demand for electricity1 and volatile pricing, resource scarcity and the need for healthier, safer, more resilient and livable environments – the program transforms the potential of light into meaningful impact. “We’re proud to introduce the third chapter of Brighter Lives, Better World. Our new program builds on the progress of the past decade, remaining fully committed to our 2040 net zero ambition, with new targets that focus on reducing the energy and resource consumption of our customers, while continuing to drive innovations that improve safety & security, health and well-being,” said Maurice Loosschilder, Head of Sustainability at Signify. Benefits beyond illumination Signify continues to expand the role of lighting that is designed to improve quality of life, support more welcoming and productive indoor environments, enhance safety and security in cities and communities, enable more efficient food production, and increase access to solar lighting. Energy efficiency as a growth accelerator Energy efficiency is a powerful enabler of electrification and the energy transition. Through continuous advances in LED and connected lighting, Signify helps customers reduce energy demand, manage costs, and lower emissions. By the end of 2030, Signify commits to: Since introducing the Green Switch program in 2020, Signify has supported over 37,000 projects with cities across the globe, helping over 10,000 local authorities to switch their lighting systems from conventional to connected LED. An expanded Signify Switch program offers guidance on how efficient LED and connected lighting can advance energy and cost savings, and emissions reduction, as well as how to improve the quality of indoor and outdoor light, contribute to street safety and install solar lighting where the grid may not be available. Customers can receive support in choosing the right lighting products, systems, and services, as well as identifying sources of finance and funding. Resource efficiency and circular value To advance the circular economy, Signify will scale durable, upgradable, repairable, and recyclable products, alongside circular services. These solutions are designed for circularity, following a “use less, use longer, use again” framework that aims to reduce the consumption of virgin materials and energy while delivering long-term customer value. Signify Circle revenues will include four categories: These products and services will constitute Signify Circle, a new initiative for professional customers to support their circular economy ambitions. It delivers products, services and business models that are aligned to well-defined circularity criteria, alongside clear and transparent labelling and customer education. “Our customers want products they can trust – that last for a long time and can adapt to their changing needs,” said Sophie Breton, President, Professional Business, Europe at Signify. “Signify Circle will help our professional customers in Europe to make informed choices about the products and services they need to support their circular economy ambitions.” Built on a foundation of responsible business Brighter Lives, Better World 2030 is underpinned by Signify’s long-term commitments to low nature-impact manufacturing, inclusive workplaces, fair working conditions throughout the value chain, and expanding access to lighting for underserved communities – ensuring growth is built on transparency, inclusiveness and respect for human rights. Progress on Signify’s Brighter Lives, Better World 2030 program will be reported on a quarterly basis, in line with the company’s financial results. 1 “Global electricity demand is set to grow by over 3.5% a year to 2030” Data just released from IEA https://www.iea.org/news/global-electricity-demand-is-set-to-grow-strongly-to-2030-underscoring-need-for-investments-in-grids-and-flexibility?utm_content=buffer98608&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=buffer Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
10 Must-Have Industrial Handling Tools for Efficiency
In warehouses and factories, a regular day involves moving heavy and bulky items from one place to another. Doing all this manually is challenging and, sometimes, virtually impossible. That is where industrial handling tools come in. These tools make lifting, moving and storing of materials faster, safer and more efficient. In this article, we will look at the 10 most important handling tools that every industrial space needs to ensure smooth operations. 1. Forklifts Forklifts are perhaps the most popular industrial handling tools. They are commonly used for lifting and moving loads that no one wants (or can’t) carry. In an industrial setting, you will need them for tasks like loading trucks, stacking pallets and moving bulk goods. They provide serious lifting power, which speeds up operations. 2. Safety Gear Safety gear refers to essential warehouse protection equipment designed to protect workers while handling materials. They include things like high-visibility vests, steel-toe boots, helmets and safety netting. You will find them everywhere work is happening. These equipment are an essential addition to industrial workspaces because they minimise the risk of injuries in case of accidents. For example, a helmet can prevent serious injury to the head if a box falls on a worker’s head. 3. Pallet Truck Pallet trucks (also pallet jacks) are useful for lifting and moving heavy loads over short distances. You can use it to lift pallets slightly off the ground so you can just roll them to a different location. They are quick and simpler to use – perfect for working in smaller areas where forklifts can’t fit. However, pallet trucks can’t replace forklifts (especially when it comes to loading tasks). 4. Hand Trolley Hand trolleys (also called dollies) are like pallet jacks but for boxes. In an industrial setting, you use these to roll your boxes instead of carrying them. They are great for tight spaces where you need to move several boxes. Dollies save your back from unnecessary suffering by making movement low-effort. You can stack boxes once and move everything in one single trip. 5. Conveyor Belt Conveyor belts are indispensable when it comes to moving items seamlessly from one place to another. Industries used them to cut down on constant walking back and forth. You will find them in different use cases, including packing lines, sorting areas and production lines. Since items move on their own, they reduce the number of workers needed for moving stuff. It also speeds up tasks like packing and sorting. 6. Crane Cranes are commonly used to lift extremely heavy or awkward items vertically. You will often find them in construction areas and heavy manufacturing zones. Some loads are simply impossible to lift manually. For example, a machinery part that weighs more than a car. In such a case, you will need a crane – it handles extreme weights seamlessly and safely. 7. Lift Tables Lift tables are used for raising and lowering items to a comfortable/ergonomic working height. You will commonly find them in shelving, packing and loading areas. Workers will love this equipment because it reduces the need for bending and unnecessary strain during work. For example, they can use it during the assembly of items, ensuring better ergonomics and safety. 8. Industrial Racking (Shelving) Industrial racking is basically shelves that you can use to store items. They are essential for keeping everything organised and accessible – you will find them everywhere (whether in a warehouse or in a factory). Without these shelves, you might have to stack everything on the floor. And finding anything in such a storage setup is a nightmare. So, instead of piling everything on the floor, install these racks and have a place for each item. 9. Barrel Handler If you run an industrial space that deals with barrels or drums, barrel handlers are a must-have. That’s why they are common in industrial storage areas where workers move chemicals and oils. Can you imagine trying to lift a barrel full of chemicals by hand? They are not only heavy but also annoying to control. A barrel handler makes handling such loads less awkward. 10. Packaging Tools Packaging tools do exactly what their name suggests – secure items so they stay in place during transport. In an industrial setting, you will often find them in packing and shipping areas. They are essential because loose goods can easily get damaged while in transit. Conclusion With the important role each plays, these tools are not just ‘nice to have’, they are what keep your daily operations moving. Some of the benefits of investing in them include saving time, reducing effort and improving safety. They can make a huge difference in terms of workflow and productivity. Remember, the right equipment can turn hard, slow work into something manageable and efficient.
Firethorn completes 80-acre logistics acquisition in Bardon
Real estate investor, developer and asset manager, Firethorn, has acquired an 80.2-acre logistics site in Bardon, Leicestershire. The site benefits from detailed planning consent for two units totalling 947,650 sq. ft., with B2 and B8 use. Firethorn has completed the acquisition from Diamantem and will now progress development of the project, with plans to invest in excess of £125m to deliver the units on a speculative and build-to-suit basis. Located within the East Midlands’ “Golden Triangle”, the site sits within the UK’s logistics heartland with direct access to the strategic national highway network at Junction 22 of the M1. The new development will follow previous phases delivered by Mountpark which are now occupied by established distribution and manufacturing occupiers including Amazon, DHL, Eddie Stobart, VF, Vistry, and Pharmacy2U. This is the latest in a series of purchases by Firethorn, following the acquisitions of two logistics sites in Maidenhead and Aylesbury in December, which added a further 26.3 acres to its portfolio. James Sanders, Head of Industrial and Logistics at Firethorn, said: “This latest acquisition reflects our disciplined approach to logistics investment, targeting high quality assets that enable us to create long-term value. “Bardon is one of the UK’s most established logistics locations, ideally suited to large-scale occupiers demanding scale, connectivity, and access to skilled labour. This is an exciting project for Firethorn and we’re looking ahead to delivering best-in-class product in a proven core market. “We continue to actively target prime opportunities in the sector throughout the UK that will deliver strong returns for our shareholders, and respond to market demand.” Firethorn has commenced infrastructure delivery and expect to reach practical completion in 2027. Firethorn was advised by CBRE. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
TClarke steps back from £4bn Agratas gigafactory project
Building services contractor TClarke has reportedly withdrawn from its role on the major £4bn Agratas electric vehicle battery gigafactory currently under construction in Somerset. Industry sources suggest the company has stepped away from the mechanical and electrical delivery team on the vast Gravity Smart Campus development near Bridgwater, following growing difficulties in its working relationship with client Agratas, the Tata Group’s global battery manufacturing business. TClarke had originally been appointed alongside NG Bailey around 18 months ago as joint MEP delivery partners for the project, which is set to become the UK’s largest electric vehicle battery manufacturing facility once complete. According to insiders, tensions between Agratas and TClarke have intensified in recent months as the project moves closer to the start of major installation works. As a result, the contractor is understood to have redeployed staff previously assigned to the scheme to other projects across its business. NG Bailey is now expected to take on the majority of the MEP delivery package previously allocated to TClarke. A specialist contractor is also likely to be brought in to undertake the highly technical cleanroom installation works required for battery production. One industry source said the working relationship between the parties had become increasingly strained as the scheme progressed, ultimately leading to the two organisations parting ways. Sir Robert McAlpine continues to act as construction manager on the project, although its role has evolved into more of a project management function as Agratas engages directly with a number of major package contractors. The change in the supply chain comes shortly after a large-scale MEP “meet the buyer” event linked to the development and is expected to increase pressure on NG Bailey to expand its workforce to meet the demands of the installation programme. The gigafactory scheme has already experienced delays, although construction activity across the site is now accelerating. Steel contractor Severfield recently completed the structural frame for the first phase of the facility, allowing external cladding works to begin ahead of the next stage of MEP installation. Supporting infrastructure works are also progressing. Earlier this year Costain secured a £123m contract to design and construct a new junction on the M5 motorway to serve the site. The new connection, known as Junction 22A, forms part of a wider plan to support construction activity and future operations at the campus by improving access to the motorway network. Procurement activity is also underway to appoint a provider for the site’s water supply and wastewater infrastructure. When finished, the Gravity Smart Campus is expected to play a central role in the UK’s electric vehicle supply chain. TClarke declined to comment on the reported changes. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Developer chosen to deliver new affordable neighbourhood at Birley Fields in Hulme
A developer has been chosen to deliver a new 100% affordable neighbourhood at Birley Fields in Hulme following early engagement with local residents and stakeholders to understand their priorities for the site. Green community space also is at the heart of the development of the new neighbourhood, ensuring improved biodiversity across the site – including a new garden space, while existing trees will be retained and celebrated. Following a two-stage bidding process, Glenbrook has been named as the preferred developer to take forward an ambitious programme of investment to deliver a new residential-led development of genuinely affordable housing. The final tenure mix is expected to include options such as social rent, affordable/discounted rent and affordable home ownership, with details to be confirmed as proposals are refined. Engagement in early 2025 with local residents and stakeholders looked to create meaningful and long-term community involvement to help guide future investment at the site. The process highlighted a number of shared priorities, including: Current proposals set out an ambition to deliver 293 affordable homes, across a range of housing types to meet local need, alongside new high quality public spaces. These are emerging proposals and may evolve as designs are refined through engagement and the planning process. The development will take advantage of modern methods of construction and a fabric-first, low-energy design approach – supported by technologies such as air source heat pumps and solar panels, each contributing to a low‑carbon build. A green heart to the scheme is proposed through the Birley Community Garden – a generous shared space shaped around growing food, informal play spaces, community activity and improved biodiversity. A clear strategy has been set out for achieving a biodiversity net gain, including a combination of on-site enhancements and underpinned by an ecological assessment. Extensive planting will create ‘ecological corridors’ through the site that will create a welcoming green environment, enhancing the biodiversity of the site, where existing mature trees will be retained and celebrated. A largely car-free layout, supported by improved walking and cycling routes, reflects the community priorities around safety and clean air. While shared streets will bring about a day-to-day neighbourliness, supporting a sustainable long-term community of residents – including a new community corner that will provide space for a future creative hub and neighbourhood workspace. The specific uses for this space will be shaped further through ongoing engagement. The development will also have strong social value credentials, linking in with organisations already active in Hulme to support local groups and community-led initiatives – including Sow the City that will help design green spaces through the site, and Venture Arts that will contribute a mural within the scheme celebrating local creativity. The scheme is also expected to create 71 new full-time jobs, support 90 additional roles, and provide a Hulme bursary through Regeneration Brainery to provide an employment pathway into the construction industry for local young people. Glenbrook will now begin to refine emerging designs ahead of further public engagement, which will include the formation of a Community Engagement Collective that will help provide local insight and guide proposals ahead of a formal planning application. Cllr Bev Craig OBE, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “The Birley Fields site has been an underused site for many years, so it’s great to see proposals emerging with the level of ambition and vision that is being developed, as well as a clear commitment to improving biodiversity across the site. “Importantly, genuinely affordable homes – including social rent homes – are at the heart of this scheme, including quality green spaces and opportunities for the local community to come together. This approach has been guided by local people and it’s important that we continue to engage in the neighbourhood as the plans develop further. “This is a great scheme for Hulme, one that we know will meet local need and be a real credit to the community.” Jamie Sutton at Glenbrook, said: “We’re excited by the opportunity at Birley Fields and delighted to continue our partnership with Manchester City Council as their selected development partner. “The essence of Hulme is one of resilience and community spirit – a part of our city that has helped shape modern British music, design, and identity. As a developer, we are acutely aware of the responsibility we hold in delivering such an important scheme, one that provides considered architecture and public realm whilst responding to the needs of the wider community.” “ Over the coming months we will be reaching out and consulting with key stakeholders across the ward as we develop our initial concept in preparation of a planning application later this year.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Chopstix grows presence in Essex with Colchester City store opening
Fast-growing, QSR brand, Chopstix, has continued its impressive 2026 expansion, opening its latest store in Colchester. Opening on Culver Street West, just a short walk from Colchester Castle, the new store is the first site in the busy city centre and is part of a wider growth plan to target high footfall locations. Colchester is the latest step in a busy period of growth for Chopstix following investment from European quick service restaurant operator, QSRP in October of 2024, and closely follows the opening of the brand’s first international opening, in Paris, earlier this year. With Essex identified as a significant opportunity for growth for the business, the Colchester store will create 20 jobs for local people. With more than 150 Chopstix stores across the UK, the business boasts a strong pipeline of new sites, through both company operated and franchise ownership models. Colchester marks the company’s third UK opening of 2026 and the first store to open in Essex, since it launched in Basildon in June 2024. Jon Lake, Chopstix Managing Director, said: “We’ve been looking at growing our presence in Essex for some time, following the popularity of sites in Basildon and Romford. Colchester is a fantastic city, and it felt like a natural next step for us to open here, I’m confident the store will see great success.” Chopstix was established in Camden Market in 2002 by entrepreneurs Sam Elia and Menashe Sadik, who remain involved with the business on a day-to-day basis. The Chopstix Group has undergone a busy period of brand development and expansion as Chopstix sets its sights on becoming the largest Asian QSR company on the continent. For more information please visit: www.chopstixnoodles.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals