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Grapevine
27th March 2026
Welcome to this week’s Grapevine, the place to get your bitesize FM updates in one place, in a handy five-minute read.
Got a story for us? Please send news stories & press releases to: newsdesk@twinfm.com
Thank you for joining us, we’ll jump right in...
First Choice Drainage, Joblogic and The Hire Partner are the latest companies to sign up to sponsor the Facilities Industry Annual Summer River Boat Party taking place on 9 July.
We hear that Henshall & Sheehy is currently recruiting for several key positions, including Mechanical Engineers, Electrical Engineers, HVAC Engineers, Multi-Skilled Engineers, and Plumbers. Established in 2009, HSS are a building services installation and maintenance company. Operating from offices in London, Birmingham, and Manchester.
Duncan Waddell and Brian Atkins have recently released their book, Facility Asset Management – Performance, Risk & Value.
The book explores how integrated facility asset management can effectively drive performance, reduce risk, and create long-term value. Early reviews indicate it will be a major contribution to the ongoing professional debate regarding the integration of facility and asset management practices.
It is currently available through major booksellers, including Amazon and the BPP website, for those interested in adding it to their professional library.
The London School of Economics and Political Science, in partnership with Equitix and Bouygues UK, has secured planning approval to redevelop Bankside House into a 1,945-bed student residence. This all-electric, BREEAM Excellent project aligns with LSE’s 2030 strategy to provide 6,000 beds and guarantee housing for all first-year students.
Designed by Carmody Groarke and Sheppard Robson, the development features three towers and two pavilions centered around landscaped courtyards. All rooms will offer sub-market rents, with 15% classified as Affordable Student Accommodation. The scheme also integrates a Community Hub, café, and public realm improvements to enhance local connectivity.
The project utilises a whole-life carbon approach, targeting 99% landfill diversion and 20% recycled content to ensure high environmental and circular-economy standards.
Global investment management firm, Squarepoint, has agreed to pre-let the entire 400,000 sq ft building at 65 Gresham Street for its London office. Developed by investors advised by J.P. Morgan Asset Management and designed by Squire & Partners, the redevelopment is scheduled for completion in 2028.
As one of the City’s largest building reuse projects, the all-electric scheme targets a 66% whole-life carbon reduction and operational carbon 12% lower than 2022 GLA criteria. The retrofit includes an extension with four new floors, 26,000 sq ft of roof terraces, and enhanced environmental performance. Occupants will benefit from new F&B amenities on a pedestrianised Aldermanbury, best-in-class end-of-trip facilities, and close proximity to the Elizabeth Line.
A national scholarship launched by AJ Products has revealed that UK university students view wellbeing as the foundation of productivity rather than a reward. The findings show that future employees prioritise flexible environments that adapt to individual energy levels and personalities, favouring features like biophilic design, quiet zones, and community-focused layouts over traditional corporate structures.
A key takeaway is that students from diverse backgrounds propose vastly different solutions for workplace stress, seeking environments that offer trust, belonging, and adaptable setups. Notably, Riaz Kahn’s winning entry utilised Speech and Language Therapy principles to design a three-zone layout that manages noise-related stress within realistic budget constraints.
British lighting brand Industville has opened its first London showroom and design hub at the historic Cannon Brewery, 152 St John St, Clerkenwell. The 1,329 sq. ft. studio is designed as a collaborative space for designers and architects, featuring an upper level focused on lighting atmosphere and a lower level for product application and finishes. The showroom is open Monday to Friday, 9:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Samsic UK has released a new guide, "Why Multi-Site Office Portfolios Struggle With Cleaning Consistency, And How To Fix It," to help facilities managers navigate the governance challenges of fluctuating office occupancy.
The guide explains how integrating AI and data-led monitoring—such as occupancy sensors and live dashboards—can eliminate operational blind spots and transition cleaning from static schedules to real-time, demand-based activity. This approach improves service consistency, strengthens audit compliance, and identifies cost-saving opportunities by reassigning unnecessary tasks. You can download the free guide here.
Additionally, JPC by Samsic has launched a redesigned website at jpcbysamsic.uk. The new platform showcases their concierge-led cleaning model and the premium London landmarks they support, while highlighting their investment in AI-assisted planning and sustainability tools like the Materiality Tracker.
The Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management (IWFM), in partnership with Equans UK & Ireland, has released a new guidance note: "Climate Adaptation for WFM."
Available as of March 19, this resource provides a framework for addressing escalating climate risks like extreme heat and flooding. It covers risk assessment, data-driven planning, governance, and practical measures such as flood preparedness and overheating management. Climate Adaptation for WFM is free to download from www.iwfm.org.uk/resource/climate-adaptation-for-wfm.html.
Metcor Pumps, part of the Metcor Group, was recently named Distributor of the Year at the Pump Industry Awards 2026. Formed through the integration of Anglo Pumps and Deckpro Pumps, Metcor Pumps combines specialist pump expertise with the wider capabilities of Metcor Environmental and Metcor Electrical. This combined expertise delivers one-stop solutions across pumps, drainage, electric vehicle chargers, LED lighting, solar PV and testing, spanning planned preventative maintenance, reactive response, repairs and remedial works.
System Hygienics, part of PTSG Fire Solutions, has been named a finalist in the Outstanding Organisation category at the Fire Resilience Excellence Awards (FREAs) 2026. This shortlisting recognises thirty years of expertise in fire damper testing, maintenance, and ventilation cleaning. The winners will be announced later this year.
Additionally, PTSG has completed the acquisition of Testing Services (UK) Ltd, a nationwide specialist in electrical inspection and compliance. For over 20 years, Testing Services has provided high-quality services including EICR, PAT, emergency lighting, and fire alarm inspections.
Our popular Facilities Industry Annual Summer River Boat Party is celebrating its 10th Anniversary on Thursday, July 9th, 2026, and is set to be our biggest yet. We expect 400 industry professionals to join us for an unforgettable evening of quality networking and hospitality on the River Thames.
Headline Sponsor: MS Webb & Co
Badges & Lanyard Sponsor: YorPower
Entertainment Sponsor: KGN Pillinger
Supporting Sponsors: Ability Facilities Management, Core Facilities Services, First Choice Drainage Solutions, Joblogic, OMGC, PTSG, The Hire Partner, Westbury FM
Companies Confirmed: 3Way Cleaning, BBGG, Capcon Engineering, City Electrical Factors, CoSourced, CYS Security, EcoBreeze, Edmundson Electrical, Emerald Lifts, Envirotech Energy, HOSS Engineering, Jones Facilities Management & Construction, KEM Pumps, Matrix Industries, PFS Group, Precision Lift Services, Prolec Solutions, Rexel, Senseco, Sunbelt Rentals, TestUK, Unite Lift Services, Warm Spark Building Services, Yesss Electrical.
Will you be joining them?
20th March 2026
Welcome to this week’s Grapevine, the place to get your bitesize FM updates in one place, in a handy five-minute read.
Got a story for us? Please send news stories & press releases to: newsdesk@twinfm.com
Thank you for joining us, we’ll jump right in...
Andrew Wilkinson is joining the Global Key Accounts Senior Leadership Team at ISS, where he will lead one of ISS's largest global accounts across 28 countries.
Jaguar Building Services promoted Tom Amos and Sid Newbon to Business Unit Directors - Associates.
Magnetic International UK Ltd, the UK subsidiary of Magnetic GmbH, appointed Alpesh Trivedi as Director in the UK. Magnetic GmbH is a recognized leader in chemical-free heating water treatment across Germany and Europe.
In his new role, Alpesh will focus on growing the UK business as the market increasingly shifts toward sustainable, chemical-free approaches aligned with VDI 2035 guidelines and closed-loop system best practices.
Landsec has agreed to a 192,000 sq ft lease with BP, who has committed to the entire Ink Building at Timber Square. Starting in 2028, this HQ workspace will support their talent attraction and proximity to Canary Wharf operations, following recent SE1 moves by PayPal, Lego, and ServiceNow.
Landsec are also launching 175,000 sq ft at the Print Building, which will be available for viewings next month. This reimagined print works offers floor plates ranging from 8,000 to 25,000 sq ft, a rooftop Clubroom, and a communal terrace.
OCS has acquired Top Security, a technology-led security firm operating across Ireland. This acquisition expands OCS’s Irish capabilities in remote monitoring, control room operations, and radio communications resilience through Top Security’s established nationwide network and Alarm Receiving Centre.
United Infrastructure announced that its subsidiary, Social Infrastructure, has been appointed by The Guinness Partnership to deliver a £364 million planned maintenance and investment contract across the North West and Greater Manchester.
Spanning 15 years (November 2025 – March 2041), this partnership will involve an annual delivery of approximately £24 million across 20,000 homes. The programme includes internal and external upgrades, mechanical and electrical works, fire safety improvements, and energy-efficient retrofits. This initiative supports Guinness’s commitment to reaching net zero carbon by 2050 while further expanding United Infrastructure’s footprint in the region.
Simon Eastlake, former Managing Director at Office Space in Town, has launched a new office search company, Flex-Re Spaces. He is joined by Co-Founder Colin Becker and Senior Associate Olly Becker, both formerly of Metrus.
Flex-Re Spaces is actively seeking industry partners within the agency, design and build, and facilities management sectors to create synergies and referral opportunities. As part of this commitment to collaboration, they have launched a Partnership Programme that offers commission for referrals.
The company operates alongside its sister brand, Flex-Re Advisory, which launched in October 2025 to provide flexspace CRE advisory services, helping landlords successfully integrate flexspace into their portfolios.
GPE has secured a new headlease and development agreement with the Evelyn Estate to refurbish 7/15 Gresse Street and 12/13 Rathbone Place, W1. The agreement extends the lease term to 2148 and permits the conversion of the buildings into "The Howlett," a 42,800 sq ft Fully Managed workspace.
Located in Fitzrovia near the Elizabeth line, this sustainable redevelopment follows planning approval in September 2025 and is scheduled for completion by early 2027. This project expands GPE’s Flex portfolio to 660,000 sq ft, building on strong leasing momentum that has achieved £35.4 million in annual rent this financial year.
Dale Power Solutions, one of the UK’s largest critical power backup engineering firms, has opened a new, expanded facility in St Albans. The move establishes the site as the southern hub for its growing commercial Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) division.
Following increased demand across multiple sectors, the company’s commercial UPS team has relocated to the larger premises. The new site has been developed to support continued growth across the South of England and to strengthen collaboration between sales, engineering, and service teams.
The facility includes a purpose-built UPS showroom for equipment demonstrations and customer meetings, alongside modern collaboration spaces designed to support project planning and technical consultation. The location will also be used by the company’s nationwide service division, helping to deliver faster, more integrated support across the full UPS lifecycle.
First Mile has announced the top-performing recyclers in the commercial real estate and office sectors as part of its annual Recycling Standard campaign. Amazon (Sidekick), Grosvenor, and The Net-A-Porter Group Ltd lead the sector, having recycled a combined total of over 2,600 tonnes this past year.
The campaign, which now includes an enhanced recognition scheme, benchmarks performance across 30,000 UK businesses. To achieve Gold accreditation, organisations must reach an 80% recycling rate and utilize multiple waste streams, including food recycling and zero-to-landfill general waste. These standards help managers align with the 2025 Simpler Recycling regulations through data-driven reporting and flexible collection services.
Our popular Facilities Industry Annual Summer River Boat Party is celebrating its 10th Anniversary on Thursday, July 9th, 2026, and is set to be our biggest yet. We expect 400 industry professionals to join us for an unforgettable evening of quality networking and hospitality on the River Thames.
Headline Sponsor: MS Webb & Co
Badges & Lanyard Sponsor: YorPower
Entertainment Sponsor: KGN Pillinger
Supporting Sponsors: Ability Facilities Management, Core FacilitiesServices, OMGC, PTSG, Westbury FM
Companies Attending: 3Way Cleaning, BBGG, Capcon Engineering, City Electrical Factors, CYS Security, EcoBreeze, Edmundson Electrical, Emerald Lifts, First Choice Drainage Solutions, HOSS Engineering, Jones Facilities Management & Construction, KEM Pumps, Matrix Industries, PFS Group, Precision Lift Services, Prolec Solutions, Senseco, TestUK, Unite Lift Services, Yesss Electrical.
13th March 2026
Welcome to this week’s Grapevine, the place to get your bitesize FM updates in one place, in a handy five-minute read.
Got a story for us? Please send news stories & press releases to: newsdesk@twinfm.com
Thank you for joining us, we’ll jump right in...
The Momentum Group announced several strategic hires and a restructuring of the property advisory division to support its next growth phase. This coincides with the rollout of individual visual identities for four brands: Advise, Build, Manage, and Maintain.
Andrew Quinn joins Momentum Advise as Director, leveraging 19 years of infrastructure and development experience to support clients' strategic visions. Gary Pinch joins as Associate Director, bringing 14 years of cost management and procurement expertise. Additionally, Phil Hutchinson and Paul Cammack have been promoted to Associate Directors.
From a single-handed startup, Steve Frankham MBE retires after 44 years at the helm of Frankham Group. Steve built the Group into a leading multidisciplinary consultancy with 250 employees and over 700 clients across the housing, infrastructure, and commercial sectors.
Following a period of significant growth and the recent opening of a fifth office in Birmingham, the existing management team, led by Richard Chitty, will continue to drive the business forward. This transition is supported by a new investment from LDC (part of Lloyds Banking Group) led by Nicol Fraser, Tom Jervis, and Eliza Morton.
LDC’s partnership will accelerate Frankham’s 2030 strategy, focusing on further geographic expansion and both organic and acquisitive growth.
Two Midlands companies and a site manager were sentenced on 6 March 2026 following an illegal asbestos clearance at a Greenheath Road demolition site in Cannock. An HSE investigation found that Sohan Group Limited failed to appoint a principal contractor and hired an unlicensed firm, Disa Properties Limited, to remove 218m² of asbestos debris despite being aware of the risks.
Sohan Group Limited was fined £74,900 for CDM regulation breaches, while the demolition contractor, Maize Metals Limited, was fined £13,400. Site representative Ali Raza Baig received a 26-week suspended prison sentence, a three-month curfew, and a five-year director disqualification for failing to engage a licensed contractor or implement safety measures. This case highlights the legal requirement to commission a refurbishment survey and utilize competent, licensed contractors before disturbing pre-2000 building fabrics.
Transport for London (TfL), the Old Oak & Park Royal Development Corporation (OPDC) and four west London boroughs and have committed £6.65 million to advance the West London Orbital rail scheme. This funding, which includes £400,000 from the Mayor’s 2026/27 budget, will fast-track design and modelling ahead of a public consultation in summer 2026.
The proposed route utilises under-used freight lines to connect key hubs—including Brent Cross, Old Oak Common, and Hounslow—via up to six trains per hour. The project is expected to support 25,000 new homes and 11,500 jobs while reducing annual car trips by 650,000. Current work focuses on finalising plans for four new stations at Old Oak Common Lane, Neasden, Harlesden, and Lionel Road.
A final decision on seeking statutory powers via a Transport and Works Act Order is expected in late 2027.
The latest BCIA Market Information Report shows the UK building controls and BEMS market remained stable in 2025 with a total value of £840.4 million, a 0.1% year-on-year increase. Despite a 1.2% dip in Q4 revenues to £207.5 million, the sector demonstrated overall resilience.
The Products segment saw annual revenues remain stable at £39.0 million, as growth in OEM activity effectively offset weaker performance in distribution channels. In contrast, Q4 activity for Installed Systems declined by 2.3% to £110.5 million; however, integrated system delivery continues to be a stable component of overall market value.
The Service and Maintenance segment showed positive momentum, growing by 2.1% annually to £220.1 million. This increase reflects a growing strategic focus on long-term system optimization.
BCIA President Jen Vickers noted that while Q4 saw a slight softening, the industry's role in energy efficiency and net zero remains vital. The outlook for 2026 suggests a period of consolidation and steady investment in smarter building performance.
Ranger Fire and Security has acquired MarkOne Safety Solutions, a Midlands-based specialist in fire safety and emergency lighting systems.
Following the recent acquisition of Ignis Fire Protection, this integration significantly enhances the company’s regional resourcing and service capacity. Managing Director Mark Haynes and the MarkOne team will continue to lead the business, while now benefiting from the Ranger Group’s operational support and specialist network.
Daikin’s manufacturing facility in Ostend, Belgium, has received the prestigious Factory of the Future award for the fourth consecutive time, meaning the factory – which manufactures many of Daikin’s heat pump products supplied to the UK market – will now have held this leading accolade for 12 continuous years.
Awarded by the Belgian technology federations, Agoria and Sirris, the Factory of the Future Award recognises companies that demonstrate commitment to digitalisation, talent development, smart processes, sustainable products and world-class production. In particular, the judges highlighted the progress Daikin has made in implementing high end digital solutions and innovative forward-looking technology in its production processes.
The award comes as the UK heat pump market is scaling rapidly to support national decarbonisation targets, so access to well-designed solutions, backed by reliable European supply chains will be essential in this effort.
The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has updated its "It’s in your hands" campaign to help employers and workers prevent work-related skin disease, which costs the industry millions in compensation and absence.
BSIF is encouraging businesses across the UK to download and use refreshed materials and to make prevention of skin disease a routine part of workplace health management. Visit: https://bsif.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Its-in-your-hands.pdf
Alfa Laval launched FreeWaterLoop, a new liquid-based cooling system for data centre facility loops. This integrated solution combines advanced pump engineering, high-performance heat exchangers, and filtration into a single scalable system designed for high-density computing.
FreeWaterLoop facilitates the transition from air-based to liquid-based cooling by leveraging natural water sources to provide continuous flow while minimizing net water consumption. This approach offers significant energy savings and reduces the physical plant footprint compared to traditional systems.
Following a rigorous tender process, the Westgrove Group has been awarded a three-year multi-million pound Total Facilities Management (TFM) contract for Festival Place in Basingstoke, managed by Estama. Westgrove will now provide comprehensive services including cleaning, security, waste, and hard services. This partnership supports Festival Place in maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for its millions of annual visitors.
Our popular Facilities Industry Annual Summer River Boat Party is celebrating its 10th Anniversary on Thursday, July 9th, 2026, and is set to be our biggest yet. We expect 400 industry professionals to join us for an unforgettable evening of quality networking and hospitality on the River Thames.
Headline Sponsor: MS Webb & Co
Badges & Lanyard Sponsor: YorPower
Entertainment Sponsor: KGN Pillinger
Pre-Boarding Drinks Sponsor: GardenStyle
Supporting Sponsors: Ability Facilities Management, Core Facilities Services, OMGC, PTSG, Westbury FM
Companies Attending: 3Way Cleaning, BBGG, Capcon Engineering, City Electrical Factors, CYS Security, EcoBreeze, Edmundson Electrical, Emerald Lifts, First Choice Drainage Solutions, HOSS Engineering, Jones Facilities Management & Construction, KEM Pumps, Matrix Industries, PFS Group, Precision Lift Services, Prolec Solutions, Senseco, TestUK, Unite Lift Services, Yesss Electrical.
Will you be joining them?
6th March 2026
Welcome to this week’s Grapevine, the place to get your bitesize FM updates in one place, in a handy five-minute read.
Got a story for us? Please send news stories & press releases to: newsdesk@twinfm.com
Thank you for joining us, we’ll jump right in....
Trinity Fire & Security Solutions, part of Premier Technical Services Group Ltd (PTSG), has appointed Amanda McIntyre as Managing Director.
Amanda joins from Johnson Controls, where she led the UK&I HVAC, Industrial Refrigeration and Controls service division, holding full P&L responsibility for an $80m business
In her new role, Amanda will be responsible for the strategic leadership and operational oversight of Trinity’s fire detection and integrated security systems business, including design, installation, commissioning and maintenance services.
RED Construction Group announced two senior appointments to support its next growth stage and target revenue of over £200m.
Alastair Gordon-Stewart joins as Group Finance Director. Bringing over 30 years of industry experience, including 12 years at Kier Group, he will lead financial reporting and drive cash flow.
Michael Walsh has joined as Strategic Director to strengthen the Group's hospitality presence. He will build on recent successes, such as the net zero voco Zeal Hotel and the refurbishment of the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel.
Planet Mark Founder , Steve Malkin, has been named in the edie 100 for 2026.
The list recognises 100 of the UK’s most impactful sustainability leaders, following nominations and independent judging.
According to a leaked transcript from a February Global Real Estate and Facilities meeting, Amazon plans to eliminate 49,000 desks this year, totaling approximately 10 million square feet globally. Despite a five-day return-to-office mandate implemented in January 2025, the company reports current office utilisation is only at 70%.
Apleona announced the acquisition of Morrison Facilities Services (Morrison), marking its fourth UK acquisition in three years.
Based in Livingston with six locations across Scotland and England, Morrison employs approximately 300 specialists and focuses on the public sector, including schools, universities, and healthcare facilities. This acquisition strengthens Apleona UK’s market position and enhances its self-delivery capabilities across the pharmaceutical, manufacturing, and retail sectors.
Totalmobile and Solvares Group announced a merger to create a comprehensive international platform for field service and workforce optimisation. This follows the 2024 investment in Solvares by Five Arrows and Deutsche Beteiligungs AG, and the subsequent acquisition of Totalmobile.
The merged entity will combine Totalmobile’s ‘Field First’ execution platform with Solvares’ scheduling and optimisation expertise. Now employing over 800 people, the group supports 4,000 customers across Europe, the UK, and Australasia in sectors including healthcare, facilities management, and infrastructure. This combination provides a scaled, AI-enhanced platform to meet the growing demand for complex resource management and frontline service delivery.
CIBSE Certification announced that NABERS UK Energy for Office ratings, including the 4.5★ benchmark, are now recognised as meeting the operational energy requirements of the UK Net Zero Buildings Standard (UKNZCBS), as defined in Annex C.
Since becoming the NABERS UK administrator in 2024, CIBSE has collaborated with NABERS, the Better Buildings Partnership, and the UKNZCBS team to align these certifications with national standards. This milestone confirms that NABERS UK ratings can now be used to demonstrate UKNZCBS compliance for existing offices.
OCS has launched OCS Energy Services, a dedicated business unit integrating engineering, renewables, and FM expertise to accelerate Net Zero results.
The full-lifecycle delivery model follows five stages—Discover, Design, Deliver, Maintain, and Optimise—to provide customers with a structured path toward measurable carbon reduction, energy savings, and estate resilience. This unified approach leverages the company's national engineering workforce to support infrastructure from initial assessment through long-term performance.
Applications are now open for the 2026 Deborah Rowland Scholarship, marking the third year of supporting emerging talent in facilities management. Founded by Deborah Rowland and the IWFM, the program provides fully funded IWFM-regulated qualifications (Levels 2, 3, and 4) to widen access to professional development.
This year, the Xenon Group will again provide two of the available qualification places. The 18-to-24-month program includes monthly mentoring sessions with experienced professionals. Following the success of previous cohorts, the initiative continues to grow to meet rising demand for career progression in the sector.
Portfolio has been appointed by CBRE to provide cleaning and associated services for Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer (HSFK) across four London offices, including Canary Wharf and three City locations. A dedicated team of 39 and an account manager will deliver services including housekeeping, window cleaning, confidential waste management, and pest control.
The Cleaning & Hygiene Suppliers’ Association's (CHSA) 2026 Bursary is now open for applications from the children of members’ employees.
Successful applicants will receive £6,000 during their university career, distributed as £2,000 at the start of each of the first three academic years. This initiative, which has supported 28 students since 2016, reflects the CHSA's commitment to giving back and introduces young people to diverse career opportunities within the cleaning and hygiene sector.
Applications will undergo a rigorous selection process, with bursaries awarded this September.
Our popular Facilities Industry Annual Summer River Boat Party is celebrating its 10th Anniversary on Thursday, July 9th, 2026, and is set to be our biggest yet. We expect 400 industry professionals to join us for an unforgettable evening of quality networking and hospitality on the River Thames.
Headline Sponsor: MS Webb & Co
Badges & Lanyard Sponsor: YorPower
Entertainment Sponsor: KGN Pillinger
Pre-Boarding Drinks Sponsor: GardenStyle
Supporting Sponsors: Ability Facilities Management, Core Facilities Services, OMGC, PTSG, Westbury FM
Companies Attending: 3Way Cleaning, BBGG, Capcon Engineering, City Electrical Factors, CYS Security, EcoBreeze, Edmundson Electrical, Emerald Lifts, First Choice Drainage Solutions, HOSS Engineering, Jones Facilities Management & Construction, KEM Pumps, Matrix Industries, Murray Lifts, PFS Group, Precision Lift Services, Prolec Solutions, Senseco, TestUK, Unite Lift Services, Yesss Electrical.
Will you be joining them?
27th February 2026
Welcome to this week’s Grapevine, the place to get your bitesize FM updates in one place, in a handy five-minute read.
Got a story for us? Please send news stories & press releases to: newsdesk@twinfm.com
Thank you for joining us, we’ll jump right in....
ThisweekinFM was recently invited to London’s Landing Forty Two for the launch of Bellrock Consulting.
By integrating consulting, proprietary technology, and self-delivered maintenance, the firm aims to replace industry fragmentation with a unified model focused on building safety, decarbonisation, and asset investment.
During the event, Managing Director Dan Weiss highlighted how this integration provides turnkey solutions through four pillars: Building Advisory, Building Assets, Building Compliance, and Portfolio Services. The launch also featured Antony Slumbers, who discussed the essential partnership between AI-driven data and human expertise in modern estate management.
Premier Technical Services Group (PTSG), the international specialist services and building compliance group, has appointed Craig Doig as Managing Director of its Water Treatment division, strengthening the Group’s senior leadership platform.
Craig joins PTSG with more than 20 years’ experience leading complex, multi-site operations across facilities management, public sector and commercial environments. He brings a strong track record of delivering profitable growth, improving operational performance and building high-performing leadership teams in compliance-led, safety-critical settings.
Business Improvement District (BID) Better Bankside has appointed Leo Charleson as its new Placemaking Manager. In this role, Leo will drive creative, community-focused projects to make Bankside’s public spaces greener and more welcoming. He will lead several high-profile initiatives, including a cultural collaboration with Tate Modern, the redevelopment of America Street, and the reimagining of the Hope Exchange site.
Leo will also oversee urban greening efforts, such as upgrading the Better Air benches, and contribute to the Low Line initiative to transform historic railway arches into vibrant business and cultural hubs. His selection was driven by his expertise in people-centric urban environments and his deep understanding of Bankside’s unique blend of industrial heritage and modern creativity
NEC has launched the NEC4 Facilities Management Contract (FMC) Service Manager Accreditation programme to equip professionals with the skills and authority to manage services under NEC4 FMC contracts.
The programme supports the industry shift toward proactive, lifecycle-based asset management through collaborative performance tools. The pathway includes an introductory online module followed by four days of interactive training in Manchester (with virtual options available), concluding with a formal accreditation assessment and certification.
ENTRO Service Group (ENTRO), a European specialist in fire & security and entrance solutions, has officially entered the UK market through the acquisition of Bi-Fold Rolfe and Aberdeen Alarm Company. With five locations, 100 employees, and €10 million in annual revenue, these partnerships establish a strong service-led platform for expansion.
Both companies will retain their existing brands, leadership, and operational autonomy while gaining access to ENTRO’s group resources in HR, procurement, and digitalisation.
Following its Gold Drum B2B Award-winning debut, The Mitie Podcast returns for a second series. Hosted by Chris Moriarty and Ian Ellison, the four weekly episodes explore unique UK locations—including Heathrow Airport, Boulby Underground Laboratory, and Mitie’s Intelligent Security Operations Centre—to showcase how technology and people transform high-performing environments.
Key discussions feature Dr. Paul Redmond on multigenerational workspaces, Jason Towse on data-led security, Helen Longfils on social impact, and Gareth Rees on the ethical future of AI in physical spaces.
Knowlemore, the London-based provider of private, non-branded, and fully managed workspaces officially appointed Jones FM as their Hard FM provider. This new collaboration combines Knowlemore’s industry expertise with Jones FM’s commitment to robust, compliance-led delivery.
Moving forward, the partnership will focus on ensuring safety, reliability, and consistency across the entire Knowlemore portfolio.
Derwent London announced that it has exchanged contracts for the disposal of 80-85 Tottenham Court Road W1 for £32.6m (before costs), reflecting a capital value of £755 psf. The sale is at a premium to June 2025 book value and is scheduled to complete in June 2026. The purchaser is a joint venture between Purestone Capital and BPS London, both private investors. The acquisition is the first for the newly formed value-add platform headed up by Rishi Khurana and Mahir Vachani.
The freehold property comprises 28,300 sq ft of offices across six floors plus four ground floor retail units, with a total floorspace of 43,300 sq ft.
Makita UK has launched a new XGT® redemption promotion. Customers who spend a minimum of £390.00 (excluding VAT) on qualifying XGT® products from an authorized dealer can claim a free BL4040F 40VMax battery.
The XGT® range provides high-performance power for trade professionals, with tools that rival corded or petrol equivalents. The included BL4040F battery features tabless cell technology for a 35% power increase over the standard BL4040, improved cooling under heavy load, and a 45-minute charge time.
To participate, users must register their proof of purchase via Makita’s online form within 28 days of the transaction. Please note that the £390 threshold must be met on a single invoice; combined smaller invoices are not eligible. This offer applies to all XGT® products except multi-platform models. Validated claims will receive their battery after 30 days.
Our popular Facilities Industry Annual Summer River Boat Party is celebrating its 10th Anniversary on Thursday, July 9th, 2026, and is set to be our biggest yet. We expect 400 industry professionals to join us for an unforgettable evening of quality networking and hospitality on the River Thames.
Headline Sponsor: MS Webb & Co
Badges & Lanyard Sponsor: YorPower
Entertainment Sponsor: KGN Pillinger
Pre-Boarding Drinks Sponsor: GardenStyle
Supporting Sponsors: Ability Facilities Management, Core Facilities Services, OMGC, PTSG, Westbury FM
Companies Attending: 3Way Cleaning, BBGG, Capcon Engineering, City Electrical Factors, CYS Security, EcoBreeze, Edmundson Electrical, Emerald Lifts, First Choice Drainage Solutions, HOSS Engineering, Jones Facilities Management & Construction, KEM Pumps, Matrix Industries, Murray Lifts, PFS Group, Precision Lift Services, Prolec Solutions, Senseco, TestUK, Unite Lift Services, Yesss Electrical.
Will you be joining them?
20th February 2026
Welcome to this week’s Grapevine, the place to get your bitesize FM updates in one place, in a handy five-minute read.
Got a story for us? Please send news stories & press releases to: newsdesk@twinfm.com
Thank you for joining us, we’ll jump right in....
On behalf of the ThisWeekinFM team, our sincere thanks to Leah Graham and Richard Sharp for inviting us to the KGN Pillinger presentation and factory tour this week.
The session was incredibly useful, insightful, and informative. It was fascinating to hear more about the company's trajectory, see their fabrication process in action, and have the opportunity to meet the wider team. We truly appreciate the time you took to host us and share these behind-the-scenes insights.
The City of London Corporation Planning Committee recently voted in favour of the £1.2bn redevelopment of Liverpool Street Station. This project, which now includes a 318ft mixed-use tower, follows significant revisions to the May 2023 proposal.
The original plans faced thousands of public objections, including from Westminster Council and Historic England, regarding the partial demolition of the Victorian station and a tower above the Grade-II listed Andaz Hotel. The revised plans by Acme notably reduce the office block size, realign the building to protect the hotel, and redesign the entrance. Key improvements include an expanded concourse, new family and quiet rooms, and landscaping near the Kindertransport statue. These upgrades are intended to future-proof the UK’s busiest station, where annual passenger numbers are projected to reach 158 million by 2041.
Former Carillion CEO Richard Howson has withdrawn his legal challenge against the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) regarding a provisional £400,000 fine for financial rule breaches. His hearing at the Upper Tribunal, will no longer proceed. This follows recent fine reductions for former finance directors Richard Adam and Zafar Khan after they similarly withdrew their challenges.
Salesforce has renewed its lease at 110 Bishopsgate through 2036, retaining 124,910 sq ft across levels 26–33 and 36–37. This follows a record year for the tower, which saw 80,000 sq ft leased to tenants including Qmetric, MNK, Danske Bank, Cantors Europe, and Genpact. Only 40,000 sq ft now remains available in units from 5,500 sq ft.
The building features world-class amenities, including three bars and restaurants, Europe’s largest private aquarium, and upgraded infrastructure with enhanced bike facilities and a new building management system.
DMA Group has been appointed to provide planned and 24/7 reactive MEP maintenance services for the River Park Tower development in Nine Elms.
This 57-floor development, featuring 391 apartments and comprehensive luxury amenities, represents a significant project for the company.
CORE M&E Maintenance has launched as a standalone business following the demerger of IM Maintenance and Technical Services (IMMTS) from IM Mechanical & Electrical Services (IMMES). As part of the wider CORE brand—which includes CORE Technical Services (design and renovation) and CORE Interiors (fit-out)—the company provides mechanical, electrical, and air conditioning services across London and the surrounding areas.
Led by Managing Director Steve Braddick, CORE M&E Maintenance has assumed an established portfolio of HVAC and building services maintenance contracts alongside project-based fit-out activity.
Rapport, provider of bespoke guest services, announced expansion into Norway, driven by client demand for their bespoke guest services model. This expansion is through with a partnership with KLP Eiendom, one of Scandinavia’s largest commercial real estate firms.
London-based contractor Jerram Falkus Construction has filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators following the sudden closure of its sites this week.
Despite reporting a turnover of £47.6 million and returning to a marginal pre-tax profit of £37,000 for the year ending July 31, 2024, the firm cited significant challenges from pre-inflation fixed-price contracts and project delays. Major ongoing projects affected include 62 council homes for Tower Hamlets Council and a Passivhaus learning centre at Kew Gardens.
Founded in 1884 and employing 63 staff, the Shoreditch-based company has disabled its website and social media. Both Tower Hamlets Council and Kew Gardens are currently assessing the implications for their respective projects.
The British Pump Manufacturers Association (BPMA) announced four new member organisations: New Haden Pumps Ltd, Sensys Ltd, Valvenok Ltd and VULKAN Industries Ltd.
The Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management is relaunching its Women in FM (WiFM) Network. Chaired by Christy Smith of Integrated Estate Management, the network aims to attract new talent, clarify career pathways, and provide practical progression support through events, networking, and resources.
Churchill Group has retained its EcoVadis Bronze Medal, improving its score to reach the 71st percentile of all rated companies. Key highlights include full marks for environmental certifications (ISO 14001 and ISO 50001) and significant progress in sustainable procurement, ethics, and labour & human rights.
Additionally, the Group has validated near-term science-based targets via the SBTi, committing to a 50.4% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by FY2032. Despite an increasingly challenging sustainability landscape, Churchill Group remains committed to maintaining this momentum.
The Cleaning & Hygiene Suppliers’ Association (CHSA) announced its inaugural awards celebrating excellence and talent, with winners to be revealed at the Gala Ball on Thursday, 18 June, at voco® St John’s, Solihull. Four categories will be awarded: Distributor of the Year (Sponsored by Greyland Ltd), Manufacturer of the Year, Rising Star and Outstanding Contribution to the CHSA
The Manufacturer and Distributor awards will be shortlisted by an independent panel and decided by a member vote based on quality, ethical standards, and sustainability. The Rising Star will evidence exceptional performance, impact, rapid growth, initiative, a commitment to development, and professionalism and collaboration. The winner of Outstanding Contribution to the CHSA will have a track record of going above and beyond, have evidence of making significant impact on the CHSA or the cleaning and hygiene industry, have made a sustained long-term contribution or delivered a single major achievement, have demonstrated leadership and served as a role model.
Our popular Facilities Industry Annual Summer River Boat Party is celebrating its 10th Anniversary on Thursday, July 9th, 2026, and is set to be our biggest yet. We expect 400 industry professionals to join us for an unforgettable evening of quality networking and hospitality on the River Thames.
Headline Sponsor: MS Webb
Badges & Lanyard Sponsor: YorPower
Entertainment Sponsor: KGN Pillinger
Pre-Boarding Drinks Sponsor: Garden Style
Supporting Sponsors: Ability Facilities Management, Core Facilities Services, OMGC, PTSG, Westbury FM
Table Owners: 3Way Cleaning, BBGG, Capcon Engineering, City Electrical Factors, CYS Security, Edmundson Electrical, Emerald Lifts, First Choice Drainage Solutions, HOSS Engineering, Jones Facilities Management & Construction, KEM Pumps, Matrix Industries, PFS Group, Precision Lifts, Senseco, TestUK, Unite Lift Services, Yesss Electrical.
Will you be joining them?
13th February 2026
Welcome to this week’s Grapevine, the place to get your bitesize FM updates in one place, in a handy five-minute read.
Got a story for us? Please send news stories & press releases to: newsdesk@twinfm.com
Thank you for joining us, we’ll jump right in....
Paul Saville-King joined Unispace as Group CEO. Unispace is a global leader in workplace strategy, design and construction for corporate offices and life sciences laboratories. Paul was previously Group Product Offer at CBRE.
After 37 years as Managing Director at Jaguar Building Services Ltd, Paul Roberts, is transitioning to the role of Chairman. Steve Jackaman, who has worked closely with Paul for 17 years, has accepted the position of Managing Director.
Group Metropolitan Board Director Karl Warner is now Operations Director, and Steffan Chapman has been promoted to Mechanical Director.
Corps Security announced the appointment of Kathryn Fleming as Non-Executive Director (NED). Kathryn joins the board alongside Chairman Chris Nickols, CEO Mike Bullock, NED Fiona Strens, and CFO Paul Craggs.
NG Bailey is creating over 70 new positions through its award-winning apprenticeship programme, with applications now open across its UK divisions.
Launched during National Apprenticeship Week, these roles cover disciplines including project engineering, electrical, quantity surveying, and IT services. The programme offers industry-recognised qualifications and competitive salaries, providing opportunities for individuals of all backgrounds to work on major national infrastructure projects.
Full details on available roles and the application process are available at https://www.ngbailey.com/apprenticeships
Tendra Technical Services has unveiled its 3–4 year strategic plan following the integration of its three initial acquisitions: The James Mercer Group, Fletchers Engineering, and Coat Facilities Group. Established by the Triton Smaller Mid-Cap Fund II in December 2025, Tendra aims to become a leader in UK built environment technical services.
By uniting the leadership of these firms, Tendra is leveraging shared capabilities and a unified identity to drive growth through revenue synergies and operational collaboration. The group remains active in its expansion and expects to finalise its next acquisition within the coming months.
Great British Energy – Nuclear (GBE-N) has appointed Mott MacDonald and WSP to provide specialist environmental services and permitting support for the Small Modular Reactor (SMR) programme at Wylfa. The five-year appointments are valued at up to £25M.
Under this joint approach, both firms will provide multidisciplinary expertise in environmental assessment and regulatory compliance to ensure robust approvals for this nationally significant project. This collaboration builds on previous work with GBE-N, including Mott MacDonald’s siting projects at Oldbury and WSP’s strategic advisory support, to accelerate the UK’s transition to low-carbon energy.
JLL announced its 48-month reappointment to the Crown Commercial Service’s Estates Management Services Framework (EMS2), securing positions across seven lots of the new framework iteration (RM6343).
This framework provides government departments and wider public sector organisations with flexible and streamlined procurement routes across seven critical lots:
- Lot 1: Multi-disciplinary (Total Estates Management)
- Lot 2: Estates (Property) Management
- Lot 3: Agency & Lease Management
- Lot 4: Surveying & Strategic Advice
- Lot 5: Valuation & CPO
- Lot 6: Business Rates
- Lot 7: Workplace Services Performance Partner
Mitie has been awarded a new three-year contract with the London Fire Brigade, covering 97 sites across Greater London. The agreement includes cleaning, security at two offices and the Command Centre, guest services at headquarters, and pest control at Lambeth River Fire Station. The contract features an option for a two-year extension.
To support the Brigade’s carbon reduction goals, Mitie will utilise eco-friendly products, local suppliers, and a fully electric fleet. Operations will be managed via the Merlin Connect platform for enhanced efficiency and task tracking. Additional services include landscaping and washroom hygiene.
Riaz Kahn, a first-year Speech and Language Therapy student, has won a national scholarship from AJ Products UK for a workplace design addressing the "invisible workload" of communication stress.
Kahn’s winning proposal utilizes clinical research on cognitive load and sensory overload to create a practical three-zone layout: a Focus Zone for concentration, a Collaboration Zone for teamwork, and a Voice Zone for private calls. The design includes sound-absorbing materials, live sound feedback displays, and features to encourage microbreaks.
At the UK Green Building Council they are preparing for one of their biggest launches of the year so far: the Framework for a Nature-Positive Built Environment. It’s coming on 18th February, and you can join the launch webinar to hear more about it from an excellent expert panel by signing up at https://ukgbc.org/events/framework-for-a-nature-positive-built-environment-launch/
Skanska has begun the transformation of One Appold Street in the City of London for Broadgate, a joint venture between British Land and GIC. The project will retain the existing 1980s concrete and steel structure while adding six floors and a new facade, resulting in a 14-storey building with 360,000 sq ft of office space and 48,000 sq ft of leisure facilities.
Skanska’s in-house specialists will provide MEP services, prioritizing sustainability through circular design to target NABERS 5–5.5* and BREEAM Outstanding ratings. Executive Vice President Terry Muckian and Project Director Tony Boorer highlighted that structural refurbishment significantly reduces carbon impact compared to demolition. Completion is expected in Q1 2029.
LID Publishing is releasing The Human-Centric Leader by Simone Fenton-Jarvis and Louisa Clarke on 26th February 2026. According to the press release, this book positions leadership as critical infrastructure by integrating people, profit, and performance.
Building on the framework of The Human-Centric Workplace, the authors provide a practical model focused on four key areas: leading yourself, people, the organisation, and communication. The book offers a human-first approach to balancing purpose with a viable business model to drive engagement and trust during periods of technological disruption.
Sowga, a Pareto company, has been awarded a major Mechanical & Electrical (M&E) services contract with BNP Paribas Real Estate UK Property Management following a competitive tender process.
The contract covers over 50 mobile locations across London and the Home Counties. These will be serviced by Sowga’s in-house mobile M&E engineering solution, featuring a dedicated team of mechanical engineers, electricians, and multi-skilled specialists.
As part of the onboarding process, Sowga has initiated a comprehensive mobilisation programme, including asset verification and data gathering, to ensure long-term consistency and compliance.
L&G has deployed over £1bn in real estate debt this past year, recently highlighted by a £385m refinancing of Almacantar’s One and Two Southbank Place. This transaction increases the existing £300m facility and extends the loan maturity to A
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