Grapevine

8th May 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

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 There is no Grapevine this week as we are currently taking a short break. We will return next week.

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1st May 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

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Thank you for joining us, we’ll jump right in...

Arcus Facilities Management has appointed Simi Gandhi-Whitaker as Managing Director for Account Management.

Simi brings extensive leadership experience from Carillion, Galliford Try, EMCOR UK, and Mitie, where she specialised in building high-performing, customer-centric teams. She is a prominent industry figure, formerly serving as Chair of ‘Women in FM’ for the IWFM and recognised as a finalist in the Women in the City Awards.

Robertson Group has rebranded its Facilities Management division as RFM and appointed Adrian Mole as Chief Executive Officer.

Adrian has been with Robertson for eight years, previously serving as Executive Managing Director, and brings over 30 years of industry experience to the role. He will lead RFM's next growth phase, focusing on hard and soft FM services alongside expanded offerings in energy management and decarbonisation.

Workman has promoted 57 employees across 11 UK offices following a year of sustained growth and investment in specialist capabilities. These promotions span various service lines, including property management, building consultancy, sustainability, and HR, reflecting the firm's evolution in areas like building safety and data analytics.

The seven new Partners are: Michelle Barker (Manchester, Property Management), Chris Church MRICS (London, Retail & Leisure), Marcus Dodd MRICS (London, Property Management), David Hall MRICS (London, Property Management), Olivia Hamilton MRICS (London, Property Management), Ian Reynolds MRICS (Milton Keynes, Building Consultancy) and Craig Watson MRICS (Glasgow, Building Consultancy)

CBRE, has named Denis McGowan Executive Managing Director within its Global Workplace Solutions (GWS) Financial & Professional Services Sector. In this role, Denis will have executive responsibility for CBRE’s GWS Enterprise accounts in the EMEA and APAC regions. He will report to Sector President Mike Hart.

Denis comes to CBRE from the investment and development firm Osborne+Co, where he was responsible for key relationships with clients like Santander, Wells Fargo, and Citi, as well as the partnership with tech driven hospitality provider BoB W. 

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Despite challenging sector conditions, Wates Group achieved a turnover of £2.56bn and a statutory profit before tax of £29.2m. This accomplishment extends Wates Group's record of profitability to 26 consecutive years.

Furthermore, the Group concluded the year in a strong financial position, with a record net cash balance of £248.3m—an increase of £52.7m. The  order book also saw significant growth, increasing by £1.3bn over the course of the year.

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Sizewell C has appointed McLaren Construction as its construction management partner for key infrastructure projects. Under this framework agreement, McLaren’s Construction Management and Specialist Projects division will supervise the delivery of the temporary accommodation campus, amenity building, project office, and emergency response building.

McLaren will also coordinate the construction of the permanent College on the Coast in Leiston. This post-16 education campus is designed to remove local barriers to training and provide life-changing opportunities for thousands of residents in the host town.

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Complii (formerly Compliance Group) has acquired Parr Fire Protection Services Ltd, a specialist in fire alarms, emergency lighting, extinguishers, risk assessments, and training. Parr Fire will continue to operate under its current leadership, including Managing Director Ian Blackledge and Operations Director Dale Jackson.

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The Worshipful Company of Pattenmakers is now accepting entries for the annual Future Leaders FM Award. This free-to-enter award recognises early-career professionals with up to five years of experience in the Workplace and FM sectors.

The winner receives a bespoke personal development program valued at £2,000, developed in consultation with their employer, alongside a £500 bursary from i-FM to support industry event participation or professional memberships.

Entries are open until August 14th, 2026. Further information and the online entry form can be found here. 

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Shaftesbury Capital PLC has appointed Workman to manage its property management and operational finance services, replacing CBRE. This transition is set to take effect at the start of June.

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Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust has appointed Sewell Facilities Management to a five-year contract for planned preventative maintenance and on-call repairs across its estate.

Sewell FM will manage over 100 sites, including ambulance stations, offices, and call centres, serving 5.2 million people across nearly 6,000 square miles. Their team of engineers and technicians will maintain heating, ventilation, plumbing, fire safety, water hygiene, and critical systems like generators. This partnership includes a 24/7 call-out service to ensure all facilities remain safe, compliant, and operational, minimizing impact on emergency and urgent care services.

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Following a successful tender process in December 2025, Anchor Group Services has completed the mobilisation of a multi-site contract for FI Property Group. This partnership, built on a shared "people-first" ethos, covers six locations including Brunel Shopping Centre, Newbridge Square, The Woods Warwick, Wellington House, and Chesterfield Block.

The contract involves delivering integrated security and cleaning services through a team of approximately 34 colleagues. To ensure quality and retention, all transferring staff will immediately receive the Real Living Wage. The transition was managed via a coordinated, multi-departmental briefing process to ensure operational transparency and alignment from the outset.

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ABM’s new white paper, How Modern Workplaces Win, reveals that nearly 90% of global workers would trade part of their salary for a more personalised work experience, reframing the return-to-office debate. While major firms like Microsoft, Instagram, and HSBC are increasing office mandates, King’s College London research shows compliance with full-time requirements has dropped from 54% to 42% over two years.

The survey of over 500 workers across the UK, US, and Ireland indicates that employees are not opposed to office life; 85% would spend more time there if facilities were improved, and over 80% agree that great office spaces enhance culture. These findings suggest that addressing the quality of the workplace experience, rather than relying on mandates alone, is critical for businesses looking to improve office occupancy and productivity.

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The PV Fire Intelligence Network (PV-FIN), chaired by the BRE, invites professionals across the fire prevention, solar energy, and construction sectors to share their experiences regarding solar PV safety via a national questionnaire.

The research aims to establish reliable data on the causes and consequences of solar PV-related fires to recommend future risk-reduction solutions. Participants are invited to complete sections relevant to their expertise regarding work practices, near misses, and fire incidents.

All responses are confidential and must be submitted by Tuesday 30 June 2026. For more information, visit https://www.pvfin.org/ 

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The Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management (IWFM) has published a revised edition of its Good Practice Guide: Recycling, Waste and Resource Management. Written by sustainability specialists Nicki Chennells and Kirsteen Harrison, the updated guide reflects recent legislative changes and shifts in professional practice, positioning waste management as a core component of sustainability and organizational resilience.

Designed for facilities management professionals at all levels, the guide provides strategic context and practical guidance on the waste hierarchy, circular economy, carbon measurement, and compliance. It aims to help FM teams navigate growing pressure to meet ESG commitments and net zero targets while mitigating legal and reputational risks.

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Sybron, a supplier of cleaning, hygiene and catering products to some of the largest names in UK hospitality, is relocating its 70,000 sq ft Head Office and distribution centre to ICON Harlow this August. Following last year's management buyout and the opening of their Stafford facility in November, this move supports the long-term growth strategy and commitment to sustainability.

The new Grade A facility features improved storage capacity, efficient HGV logistics, and eco-friendly infrastructure including LED lighting and air-source heat pumps. Operations Director Bradley Henwood and Sales & Marketing Director George Mason noted that this expansion allows for increased bulk ordering, enhanced service offerings, and greater development opportunities for our staff.

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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  

Registered Organisations: 3Way Cleaning, Acumen FM, Apex Lifts, BBGG, Capcon Engineering, Cheeky Panda, City Electrical Factors, CoSourced, CYS Security, Edmundson Electrical, Emerald Lifts, ​Envirotech Energy, HMAC Ventilation, HOSS Engineering, HVAC Recruitment, Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management (IWFM), Jones Facilities Management & Construction, KEM Pumps, Matrix Industries, PFS Group, PGSO, Prolec Solutions, Rexel, Senseco, Singu, Sunbelt Rentals, TestUK, Unite Lift Services, Warm Spark Building Services, Yesss Electrical.

Will you be joining them?

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24th April 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

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Thank you for joining us, we’ll jump right in...

Great to see Lee Tristram promoted to Business Unit Head at Jaguar Building Services. Lee joined the business as an Account Manager in 2020. Congratulations on this well-deserved achievement.

After fourteen years at Sowga, Aaron Guidice has moved on to ABM UK where he has taken up the position of Vice President, Technical Solutions

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Are you a Business Owner in the UK South, Southwest, or South East considering the future of your FM or cleaning company?

We are working with a client that is actively seeking acquisitions in your region. If you are exploring the possibility of selling, now is a crucial time to consider your options. Contact: laurence@twinfm.com

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JP Morgan Chase has announced plans to build a new 3-million-square-foot tower at Riverside South in Canary Wharf. This project, which is double the size of the Shard, will serve as their EMEA headquarters for 12,000 staff and is estimated to contribute £9.9 billion to the UK economy over six years.

Construction will begin upon approval and is expected to take six years. This move marks a significant commitment to Canary Wharf following the recent Budget and the firm outgrowing its existing 33-storey tower

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Senseco Systems Limited has been acquired by andwis Group. This acquisition establishes andwis as the UK’s largest and highest accredited independent Fire & Security provider.

The addition of Senseco significantly strengthens andwis capabilities by adding over 300 engineers and eight dedicated service lines.

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Kent-based MS Webb has received two accolades at the regional FSB and HSBC Small Business Growth Awards 2026. The company was named Runner-Up for the Expansion & Growth Award (South East) and Winner of the Family Business Award (South East).

The Family Business Award recognises MS Webb’s 30-year legacy and the leadership of Joe and Greg Webb, who continue the family-led approach established by founder Malcolm Webb. Additionally, the runner-up status for Expansion & Growth highlights their successful strategy in service innovation and client relationship management.

As regional winners, MS Webb will now attend the National Final in London to compete for the national Family Business Award.

MS Webb provides professional security, event support, and corporate hospitality services across Kent and the wider South East. They combine industry-leading practices with a strong focus on people, safety, and client satisfaction.

The company is the headliner for this summer's Boat Party.

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SFG20’s State of Facilities Management 2026 Report, based on a survey of nearly 200 industry professionals, highlights a significant disconnect in asset management. While 72% of respondents identified asset management as a top three-year investment priority, 38% either do not update their registers or are unaware of update frequencies.

The report finds that only 58% use dedicated software like CAFM, while 50% still rely on spreadsheets and 4% use paper records. Notably, those using software reported 70% accuracy compared to 60% for manual methods. Although 15% of professionals now report 100% register accuracy—a 6% increase from last year—nearly 1 in 10 organisations still lack an asset register entirely. Furthermore, monthly updates have declined from 22% to 13%, suggesting that while accuracy is improving for some, the consistency of maintenance is wavering. The full report can be found here

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NG Bailey secured a five-year contract extension with St Johns Shopping Centre in Liverpool, marking a landmark partnership of more than 20 years.

We understand the Facilities Services team will continue providing planned and reactive maintenance with five on-site engineers. This renewal follows a competitive tender highlighting the company’s alignment with the client's strategic priorities, including the rollout of the Core Connect energy management platform for real-time performance and leak detection.

The contract also encompasses staff welfare upgrades, ESG strategy days, and community initiatives such as tree planting, electrical safety events, and educational outreach via the onsite beekeeping programme. Additionally, the site will serve as a training ground for NG Bailey apprentices.

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The Haberdashers’ Company has appointed MAPP to manage its Central London retail and office portfolio.

MAPP will provide property and facilities management services focused on commercial performance, operational efficiency, and occupier experience. The instruction includes the Gresham Street freehold, retail units on West Smithfield, and the 20,000 sq ft Hosier Lane office building, where MAPP is currently providing refurbishment consultancy and mobilisation services.

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Helical Plc, Places for London, and Mace Construct have signed the main works contract for the Paddington Over Station Development (OSD). Designed by Grimshaw Architects, the scheme has achieved a 97.4% BREEAM Design Stage score and will feature market-leading technological infrastructure, end-of-journey facilities, and south-facing terraces on all office floors.

Keltbray is currently progressing enabling works and concrete cores. Steelwork is scheduled to begin in October, with project completion expected in Q3 2028.

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Congratulations to Matt Chapman and the team at Leeds-based soft FM provider SBFM on being ranked third in the Ward Hadaway Yorkshire Fastest 50 list for 2026. This ranking identifies the region’s fastest-growing large businesses based on average turnover growth over a three-year period.

SBFM recorded a turnover of £78.9 million in its most recent accounts, reflecting an average growth rate of 61.08%. This achievement highlights the company's sustained expansion across the UK and Ireland.

The Ward Hadaway Yorkshire Fastest 50, published in partnership with the Yorkshire Post, focuses on long-term momentum among profit-making, private, regional organisations.

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Otis Worldwide Corporation and WeMaintain announced that they have closed an agreement under which Otis will acquire a majority stake in WeMaintain, a technology-enabled service company for the elevator and escalator industry. 

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Macro has published its 2025/26 Gender Pay Gap Report, marking a significant shift toward forward momentum for the business.

The mean gender pay gap is now 4.6% and the median is 9.3%, with women comprising over half of the workforce and earning more than male peers in the highest-paid roles. While the remaining gap is driven by senior-level representation rather than unequal pay, the company states it will remain focused on strengthening the talent pipeline and ensuring fair, transparent progression. This report is about accountability and building a workplace where everyone can thrive. You can read the full report here

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Service Works Global (SWG) has launched Geminus, a next-generation platform designed to advance digital transformation in facilities and property management.

By acting as an intelligent adapter, Geminus integrates fragmented data from existing CAFM, BIM, IoT, and building management systems into a single, reliable source. This flexible, tiered platform offers high-resolution 2D and 3D visualisation to improve decision-making and asset management, providing a scalable path toward a fully connected digital twin environment.

With over 30 years of FM expertise, SWG developed Geminus to help anorganisation’s structure and validate building information across its entire lifecycle.

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The Keyholding Company (TKC) has launched the Protection Readiness Tracker (PRT) to help organisations align with Home Office guidance on Martyn’s Law.

Designed for large or fragmented property portfolios, the PRT enables security and facilities teams to track counter-terrorism measures across multiple sites through a single platform. Users complete brief digital assessments for each location, centralising commentary and documentation to generate estate-level dashboards that highlight implementation gaps and portfolio trends.

The PRT is an addition to TKC’s award-winning Risk Management Tool, a digital platform designed to give organisations clearer visibility of security risk across complex estates. 

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Following a competitive tender, York-based specialist PPS has been awarded a seven-figure, three-year contract with Bolton Council. PPS will supply cleaning chemicals and hygiene consumables to approximately 90 schools across the borough.

Leveraging over 25 years of experience, PPS will provide dedicated account management to ensure high standards of safety and compliance. This partnership supports Bolton Council’s environmental objectives while marking a significant milestone in PPS’s public sector growth.

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Chris Thomas, Managing Director at J.V. Price Ltd completed only three weeks of training for the Flawed Hero Midnight Marathon, which starts at midnight on 26 April in Letchworth. Chris will be joining 300 others to run 26.2 miles through the night to finish before sunrise.

Chris is raising money for Prostate Cancer UK and would greatly appreciate your support to help him reach his fundraising target. You can donate here.

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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  

Registered Organisations: 3Way Cleaning, Acumen FM, Apex Lifts, BBGG, Capcon Engineering, Cheeky Panda, City Electrical Factors, CoSourced, CYS Security, Edmundson Electrical, Emerald Lifts, ​Envirotech Energy, HMAC Ventilation, HOSS Engineering, HVAC Recruitment, Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management (IWFM), Jones Facilities Management & Construction, KEM Pumps, Matrix Industries, PFS Group, PGSO, Prolec Solutions, Rexel, Senseco, Singu, Sunbelt Rentals, TestUK, Unite Lift Services, Warm Spark Building Services, Yesss Electrical.

Will you be joining them?

 

17th April 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

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Thank you for joining us, we’ll jump right in...

Peter Williams has recently started a new role at Advantos. Peter has joined the Group Executive Team, where he will be responsible for leading the organisation’s core operations.

As you may know, Peter previously served as the Business Unit Director with Apleona Technical Solutions.

Adrian Knight has a new role as Group Director of Estates, Facilities and PFI at Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust and Isle of Wight NHS Trust.

Some significant news regarding a well-respected figure within our industry. Deborah Longstaff has decided to move on from Eden Brown / Resourcing Group to explore new professional opportunities.

As a highly regarded professional, Deborah’s departure marks the end of a notable chapter with the organisation. We wish her the very best in her future endeavors and look forward to seeing her continued contributions to the industry in her next role.

Simon Esner has been appointed as the new Chairman at PINCH, the independent catering company. This is a significant development for the organisation as they continue to grow within the sector.

Kärcher UK announced the appointment of Gareth Prosser as Managing Director. Gareth joins from Hilti, where he spent over two decades in senior leadership, most recently as Vice President for Great Britain.

OCS has appointed Simon Humphrey as Sustainability Director for its UK and Ireland business.

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NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS) has issued a preliminary market engagement (PME) notice for the proposed Sustainable Transport and Infrastructure 2 framework agreement (SBS10540).

Valued at an estimated £200m (excluding VAT), this renewal framework aims to provide NHS organisations and the wider public sector with a comprehensive procurement route for sustainable solutions. Key areas include Micro-Mobility, Drone Delivery Services, Robotic Logistics, Traditional Courier Services, Car Park Management, Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure, and Cycle Parking and Infrastructure, all of which support net-zero objectives,

The closing date for this PME is 12 noon on Thursday, 14 May 2026. More details are available here.

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Peterborough City Council has started operating key services including recycling and waste collections and street cleansing.

Back in March 2025 councillors agreed to insource services to the authority which were operated by Peterborough Limited (PL) under the Aragon brand. The council served 12 months' notice on its contract with PL and officers have since worked to complete the transfer.

The decision was made as part of a review of the council’s contracts and companies to ensure services are being delivered in the most efficient and effective way.

As a result, the following services will now be operated by the authority: recycling and waste collections, street cleansing, parks, trees and open spaces, some home to school transport routes, workshop facilities, facilities management and property services.

The operation of the council's leisure facilities, libraries and archive services, Flag Fen and Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery will be provided by Peterborough Limited and its subsidiary Peterborough Culture, Heritage, Learning and Leisure Ltd (PCHLL), with a dedicated, specialist management team in place.

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It was a pleasure catching up with Dave Murphy recently. As you may be aware, Dave sold Technical Drain Solutions (TDS) to the Metcor Group last year. This investment is a key component of Metcor's broader strategy to establish itself as the premier drainage specialist for commercial facilities managers both in Central London and across the wider UK market. Moving forward, Jake Murphy is leading the senior team at TDS. 

Dave also shared that he is now concentrating on building his other business, B&R Bars Ltd (Building & Refurb Solutions) which provides a full range of professional building maintenance services ranging from minor repairs to full property refurbishments

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BW Interiors Limited (trading as BW: Workplace Experts) has reported a 132% increase in pre-tax profit to £13.9 million for the fiscal year ending 31 December 2025. Driven by a strong central London office market and return-to-office strategies, turnover rose to £326.7 million from £244 million in 2024.

With net assets of £18 million and £57 million in cash reserves, BW is targeting £500 million turnover by 2030. The company entered 2026 with over £210 million in secured work—targeting £375 million for the year—and has already secured £42 million for 2027.

Recent milestones include completing a £63 million tech office and moving to a new 16,500 sq ft headquarters at The Carter. Since 2016, the team has expanded from 65 to nearly 320 employees, with a continued focus on larger schemes across the commercial workplace, higher education, legal, tech, and private equity sectors.

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Following Julie Hulme's recent update regarding Wynex Global's expansion across the Midlands and the South, the business is seeking reliable partners to support ongoing and overflow requirements. Specifically, for specialists across various disciplines, including plumbing, roofing, electrical, gas, drainage, and general building maintenance.

To express your interest, please send your details to onboarding@wynexglobal.com. The team will review all submissions and contact you with further information regarding rates and PQQ details, as well as to arrange an initial call where suitable.

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Assist Security Group (ASG) announced the expansion of its partnership with independent property management company, Ashdown Phillips, to provide physical security for four Ashby Capital portfolio properties: The JJ Mack Building, The Avenue, The Kensington Building, and Kensington Arcade.

The contract commenced on 1st April 2026.

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SoFlow Service Partners has taken a majority investment in Doncaster-based GreenSpark Group establishing a national platform for critical environmental services.

Founded in 2010, GreenSpark provides specialist compliance, drainage, and industrial services to sectors including logistics, facilities management, and utilities. Supported by over 100 professionals across its Doncaster headquarters and Gateshead depot, the company helps commercial operators manage aging infrastructure and increasing regulatory scrutiny to prevent environmental incidents and operational disruptions.

This investment positions GreenSpark to scale its holistic environmental consulting and infrastructure maintenance solutions for blue-chip customers nationwide.

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Avison Young has been appointed by the Gooch Estate as the property manager for Typhoo Wharf in Digbeth, Birmingham. This appointment follows a competitive tender process for the estate and its public realm.

Located near the future HS2 Curzon Street Station, Typhoo Wharf is set to become a central hub for Birmingham’s creative quarter. The project involves the regeneration of the historic Typhoo Tea Factory, which will provide 84,000 sq ft of commercial space for the BBC’s new Birmingham headquarters, scheduled to open in 2027. The wider masterplan will eventually deliver 800,000 sq ft of residential and commercial space, including new leisure facilities.

Avison Young’s Midlands-based Real Estate, Facilities, and Infrastructure Management team will manage the site and oversee public realm activation as further plots are developed. Redevelopment work is already underway.

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Phenna Group acquired Ventilate Consultancy & Control Limited (VCC) and Ventilate Grease Control Limited (VGC), collectively known as "Ventilate."

Based in the UK, Ventilate is a specialist provider of kitchen ventilation compliance and fats, oils, and grease (FOG) management services. Ventilate will join our Certification and Compliance Division as an add-on to ECAS. 

This acquisition marks Phenna Group's eighth deal of 2026, further strengthening our position as a global leader in the Testing, Inspection, Certification, and Compliance (TICC) sector.

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The Entrance Systems Alliance (ESA), formed by ADSA and DHF, has launched a Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Occupational Work Supervision (Construction).

Designed for current or aspiring supervisors with industry experience or a Level 2 qualification, this workplace-based program assesses practical ability through onsite evidence rather than exams. To earn the diploma, learners must complete six mandatory units and two optional units, covering core responsibilities such as health and safety, work coordination, and team performance.

This qualification offers a clear pathway to senior management by ensuring learners gain practical skills applicable to modern construction environments.

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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  

Registered Organisations: 3Way Cleaning, Acumen FM, Apex Lifts, BBGG, Capcon Engineering, Cheeky Panda, City Electrical Factors, CoSourced, CYS Security, Edmundson Electrical, Emerald Lifts, ​Envirotech Energy, HMAC Ventilation, HOSS Engineering, HVAC Recruitment, Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management (IWFM), Jones Facilities Management & Construction, KEM Pumps, Matrix Industries, PFS Group, PGSO, Prolec Solutions, Rexel, Senseco, Singu, Sunbelt Rentals, TestUK, Unite Lift Services, Warm Spark Building Services, Yesss Electrical.

Will you be joining them?

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10th April 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

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Thank you for joining us, we’ll jump right in...

Fisher German’s commercial property management division has announced six promotions following a successful year.

Michelle Dove, Omar Farooq, and Prakash Vaghela have been promoted to Senior Associates, while Michelle Knowles, Julian Dow, and Vanessa Baldwin have been promoted to Associate level. These represent part of 77 total promotions Fisher German has made across the company following a busy start to 2026.

The firm’s recent growth includes winning a major contract to provide consultancy services for Great British Energy – Nuclear as it develops the UK’s first small modular nuclear reactor at Wylfa in north Wales. Additionally, Fisher German continues to secure high-quality instructions across its agency, advisory, infrastructure, and property management divisions.

Wolseley Group has named Simon Dennis as its new Managing Director for the Wolseley Infrastructure division.

Simon steps into the role after leading Jointing Tech, a brand within the division, and brings nearly two decades of experience within the group.

Lolly the hospitality technology company, announced the appointment of Jaz Dail as Business Development Manager to support their continued growth and expanding customer base.

Jaz brings over 30 years of experience in retail technology, EPOS, and commercial strategy. In his new role, he will focus on identifying new business opportunities and delivering end-to-end technology solutions to help our customers address operational challenges.

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The Financial Times reports that BlackRock is considering the 45-storey Canary Wharf skyscraper currently occupied by HSBC for its new London headquarters.

The report indicates the asset manager is looking for at least 600,000 square feet of space and has also examined sites including Bishops Square near Spitalfields Market and 75 London Wall. While HSBC is scheduled to vacate in 2027, Canary Wharf is currently seeing a rebound after the COVID-19 ⁠pandemic, as firms like JPMorgan return to the office.

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Facilio Inc. has been selected by Charter Hall to unify and digitise operations across its portfolio of over 100 Australian office assets. Following a competitive tender, Facilio’s Connected CMMS now provides a single operating layer for real-time data visibility, automated SLA tracking, and streamlined procurement and compliance workflows.

The partnership focuses on automating vendor performance, digitising PO and invoice workflows, and ensuring audit readiness through mobile-enabled inspections and live dashboards. By replacing manual processes and Excel-based reporting with AI-enabled workflows, Charter Hall aims to enhance service delivery and scale operational efficiency.

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Classic Lifts and Concept Elevators (UK) Limited have officially rebranded and have begun trading as andwis Lifts, as part of the andwis Group.

Over the coming months, a new brand identity will be introduced across uniforms, vehicles, proposals, and invoices.

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Veritas Facilities Management launched their new website: www.veritas-fm.co.uk.

The new site reflects the business evolved brand strategy and updated customer value propositions. Over the last three years, Veritas Facilities Consultancy has expanded its scope while remaining dedicated to making Facilities Management a strategic enabler rather than an overhead.

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Great Portland Estates plc (GPE) has successfully let the final 11,680 sq ft at SIX St Andrew Street, London EC4 to an AI company. This development is now fully occupied, with AI-related firms accounting for 25.2% of GPE’s Fully Managed portfolio.

This milestone underscores the strong momentum of GPE’s Managed offer, following a final quarter of 19 completed deals and record viewing levels. Located in Farringdon, the refurbished site offers eight floors of office space and high-quality communal amenities, including a rooftop terrace and wellness studio.

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Camden Council has unanimously granted planning permission for the British Museum’s forecourt revamp.

The approved plans to install two visitor welcome pavilions, landscaping, and new wayfinding infrastructure represent a significant step in creating a more accessible civic space and reducing visitor queues. While concerns were raised regarding the architectural impact on the 19th-century building, the council's support for these improvements is a positive development for the museum's northern and southern forecourts.

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Levy, the sports and entertainment arm of Compass Group plc, has launched Lyvera, a new international umbrella brand designed to expand its global experience offering. The strategic goal is to double the turnover of the Lyvera portfolio to £350m and double Levy’s European market size by the end of 2028.

Lyvera consolidates a portfolio of market-leading businesses: Keith Prowse, Gullivers Sports Travel, The Experience Golf, Lime Venue Portfolio, Events International, The Venues Collection, and the recently acquired iLuka Collective. While these brands will continue to operate individually in the UK, Lyvera will integrate their expertise to deliver premium experiences, sports travel, and venue management on an international scale.

A key example of this synergy is the new 20-year, £100m partnership with The Jockey Club. This collaboration will revolutionise the spectator experience across 15 racecourses, covering hospitality sales, event delivery, and retail merchandising.

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The Building Controls Industry Association (BCIA) announced Air Ambulances UK (AAUK) as their official charity partner for the next two years.

Effective March 1st, 2026, to coincide with Jen Vickers’ presidency, this partnership supports AAUK’s vital work funding the UK’s 21 air ambulance charities. As each mission costs approximately £4,165, these donations are essential for providing rapid, pre-hospital care.

The BCIA Annual Awards on May 7th, 2026, will serve as the inaugural fundraising event.

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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, Edmundson Electrical, Emerald Lifts, ​Envirotech Energy, HOSS Engineering, Jones Facilities Management & Construction, KEM Pumps, Matrix Industries, PFS Group, Prolec Solutions, Rexel, Senseco, Sunbelt Rentals, TestUK, Unite Lift Services, Warm Spark Building Services, Yesss Electrical.

Will you be joining them?

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2nd April 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

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Thank you for joining us, we’ll jump right in...

James Lester has been appointed as the new Managing Director of Eurest, Dine, and 14forty. Joining from CBRE, James arrives during a period of exceptional growth for the business.

Social enterprise and security specialist Corps Security has named Charlotte Rogers as Divisional Director for London. With extensive experience leading large-scale security operations, Charlotte’s background spans guarding, security technology, and risk-led service delivery.

In her new role, she will lead the London division with a focus on aligning operational delivery with commercial strategy to drive client retention and growth. Her objective is to establish the division as a value-adding partner by embedding continuous improvement and strengthening client relationships.

Following its acquisition by Tendra Technical Services, Coat Facilities Group has announced several senior appointments to support its goal of doubling revenue over the next five years.

Key internal promotions include Luke Yates to Managing Director at Diamond Facilities Support, Jodie Wilson to Associate Director at Jet Through, and Matt Collins to Lead at Sanctuary Fire & Security. Additionally, Kasey Rose has been named Associate Director for Reactive Service Delivery, while Steve Clarke will now oversee Fleet and QHSE.

The group has also expanded its team with the hiring of Robert Wollerton as Group Business Development Manager and Joe Badou as Project Surveyor for Nationwide Roofing Repairs. Group CEO Adam Atkins noted that these leadership changes are central to the company’s strategy to scale expertise and enhance service delivery through innovative technology.

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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.

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Jerram Falkus Construction Limited has been fined £40,200 following the death of 19-year-old labourer Renols Lleshi, who fell six floors down a ventilation shaft at the Ark Soane Academy site on 5 July 2023.

An HSE investigation revealed the shaft was covered only by plasterboard and foam. Because routine inspections failed to include the 12th-floor roof garden, this hazard was not identified or communicated to the scaffolding team. The company pleaded guilty to breaching Regulation 4(1) of the Work at Height Regulations 2005 and was ordered to pay an additional £2,000 surcharge and £5,000 in costs on 18 March 2026.

HSE reminds employers that all work at height must be properly planned, supervised, and conducted using stable, appropriate equipment to prevent avoidable accidents.

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The Department for Business and Trade recently announced a legislative package to address late payments, which reportedly cost the UK economy £11 billion annually. Key reforms include a ban on retentions in construction contracts, a mandatory 60-day maximum payment term for large firms, and a requirement for all commercial contracts to include statutory interest on late payments at 8% above the Bank of England base rate.

Additionally, the Small Business Commissioner will receive new powers to investigate payment practices, adjudicate disputes, and fine large companies for persistent late payments. Read more here.

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On behalf of Canary Wharf Group (CWG), Savills has secured planning permission for the comprehensive refurbishment of One Eden (formerly 33 Canada Square). Located adjacent to Eden Dock, this tp bennett-reimagined destination will provide over 545,000 sq ft of high-quality workspace, retail amenities, and an optional rooftop restaurant.

This retrofit sets a new benchmark for sustainability by retaining 97% of the existing structure and utilizing fully electric heat pump technology. With embodied carbon estimated at less than 471 kgCO2/m2, the project exceeds the UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard targets. Advanced building systems will further deliver a 44% reduction in regulated carbon emissions.

Key features include a light-filled internal atrium, winter gardens, a rooftop terrace, and robust operational resilience via dual power supplies. The development is targeting BREEAM Excellent, NABERS 4.5-star, WELL Platinum, EPC Rating A, and WiredScore Platinum certifications.

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Mecsia has announced the acquisition of FMS Fire & Security Ltd. Based in Scotland with over 25 years of expertise, FMS Fire & Security specialises in fire detection, CCTV, access control, and integrated security systems. This strategic addition enhances Mecsia’s fire safety capabilities and increases its workforce to more than 1,500 people across the UK.

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Ranger Fire and Security has acquired Total Fire Group, a Bolton-based fire safety consultancy with over 20 years of expertise. This acquisition enhances the company’s national platform by integrating Total Fire’s risk assessment and consultancy services with existing delivery capabilities.

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DMA Group won a new three-year contract with the London Borough of Sutton to provide comprehensive Hard Facilities Management services across its corporate and operational estate.

Under this agreement, which includes an extension option, DMA will manage planned preventative maintenance, statutory compliance, 24/7 emergency repairs, and capital project works. The company’s  BiO® service management platform will centralise delivery, providing real-time tracking and automated scheduling to support Sutton’s sustainability and service quality goals.

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Great Portland Estates plc (GPE) has reached practical completion at 2 Aldermanbury Square, EC2, delivering 321,650 sq ft of headquarters office space. The 13-storey building is fully pre-let to Clifford Chance, who will soon begin their fit-out.

Delivered on time and to budget, the project achieved a BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ rating and a NABERS 5* Design For Performance target. Sustainability highlights include an embodied carbon figure of 561kgCO₂e/m² and a pioneering steel reuse program that diverted 1,500 tonnes of steel from the former City Place House to GPE’s 30 Duke Street development.

The building features a panoramic roof terrace, flexible floorplates, and a double-height reception, all located within walking distance of Moorgate, Liverpool Street, and Bank stations.

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Turner & Townsend has published a Global Tall Buildings report analysing skyscraper development across London, New York, Seoul, Tokyo, Mumbai, and Dubai.

The report highlights that London’s office construction costs have risen by 40% since 2020 due to inflation, regulatory changes, and Brexit. Consequently, building in London is now three times more expensive than in Seoul and ten times more than in Mumbai. A key finding is that building shape and massing are as critical as height, with architectural choices causing up to a 25% variance in costs.

Despite these challenges, demand for sustainable, high-quality space remains strong. The report identifies a "fifth wave" of London construction focused on "doing more with less"—balancing high expectations for sustainability and social impact with financial viability in a constrained economic environment.

The full report is available to read here.

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The British Council of Offices has commissioned Arup to author a major update to the “Good Practice in the Selection of Construction Materials” guide, co-funded by both organisations.

First published in 2011 to provide risk-based alternatives to exclusion lists, the 2026 update will align with modern regulations, sustainability standards, and technical requirements. Key enhancements include a focus on environmental impact (embodied carbon, circularity, and toxicity), expanded coverage of materials like concrete systems and composites, and updated guidance on fire safety and whole-life carbon assessments.

The guide is scheduled for release in October 2026.

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HubStar has released "The Hybrid Policy vs Reality Playbook," a practical guide to help workplace leaders, HR, facilities, and IT managers align hybrid strategies with actual employee behaviour.

Many organisations currently rely on fragmented data and assumptions, leading to a gap between policy and reality. This guide provides a framework for creating data-driven policies and includes a four-step "Policy-to-Practice" plan to align workplace habits with business objectives.

Obtain a free copy of The Hybrid Policy vs Reality Playbook directly from the HubStar website here.

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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?

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27^th 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

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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.

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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. 

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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 cle

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