The biggest trade signal this Wednesday is Plumb Centre's Gen T programme, which marks a shift in how merchant chains are trying to win the next generation of heating and plumbing professionals before they pick a buying habit. Elsewhere, Staifix has produced solid installation guidance on wall ties and starter kits, Knauf Insulation has launched a free embodied carbon calculator, GRAF UK has brought an award-winning rainwater harvesting range to the UK market, and Amblers Safety continues to push its new RHEON metatarsal boot range. Here is everything worth knowing today.
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Key stories
Plumb Centre launches Gen T — targeting the next generation of trade professionals Plumb Centre (part of Wolseley) has announced Gen T, a structured initiative aimed at better understanding and actively supporting tradespeople who are early in their careers. The programme looks to engage younger heating and plumbing engineers before they establish loyalty elsewhere. Details on the specific support offered are being rolled out via the Plumb Centre network. Source: Professional Builders Merchant
Staifix: Wall Starter Kits & HRT4 Wall Ties — best practice guidance published Staifix, the Ancon and Leviat brand, has released practical installation guidance covering wall starter channels and HRT4 wall ties. The guide focuses on achieving compliant masonry connections on site, covering fixing starter channels and tie selection criteria. Useful reference for cavity wall builders and groundworkers checking compliance on current jobs. Source: Professional Builder
Knauf Insulation launches free embodied carbon calculator Knauf Insulation has released an online tool that lets specifiers calculate the embodied carbon in insulation choices rather than looking only at operational carbon. The tool is free to use and gives a more complete picture when comparing mineral wool or rigid board options for projects where carbon reporting is required. Source: Professional Builder
GRAF UK releases AA Eco-Plus rainwater harvesting range GRAF UK has brought its award-winning rainwater harvesting systems to the UK market. The AA Eco-Plus range is designed to maximise the use of captured rainwater rather than relying on mains top-ups, making it relevant for new build projects where sustainable drainage and water efficiency credits are being chased. Source: Professional Builder
Amblers Safety: new RHEON metatarsal boot range Amblers Safety, part of the Footsure group, has launched a new line of metatarsal protection safety boots incorporating RHEON technology. Amblers is positioned as the first brand to integrate RHEON into metatarsal boots. The range targets groundworkers, steel fixers, and anyone working where falling object risk to the top of the foot is high. Source: Professional Builder
Häfele UK: homeowner kitchen research 2026 Research from Häfele UK highlights what clients are currently asking for when commissioning a kitchen. Multi-purpose worktop space, improved storage solutions, and flexible layouts that accommodate home working rank highly. Useful briefing intelligence for kitchen fitters and joiners scoping a job. Source: Professional Builder
NICEIC remote EVCP training course — Level 3 now available online NICEIC has launched a one-day tutor-led remote course for the Level 3 Award in the Requirements for the Design and Installation of Domestic and Small Commercial Electric Vehicle Charging Installations (2921-34). Electricians who cannot get to a training centre can now qualify without losing a full day's travel. Demand for EVCP-qualified electricians in the UK continues to grow. Source: Electrical Trade Magazine
Wrekin Civils Hub opens — UK manufacturing showcase Wrekin Products and Geoworks have opened a new customer experience centre designed to show UK-based manufacturing capability in civils and drainage. The hub is aimed at contractors, merchants, and specifiers wanting hands-on product access rather than brochure decisions. Source: Professional Builders Merchant
Paslode RoofTile Nailer — coming soon signal strengthens The world's first dedicated roof tile nailer from Paslode continues to build pre-launch interest. If you are ordering roofing plant for Q3 or Q4, this is worth putting on your watchlist. Full coverage already published on this blog.
Milwaukee Tool UK: impact drivers, impact wrenches, battery and charger kits Milwaukee UK continues to push its M18 FUEL range across impact drivers, impact wrenches, and starter battery/charger bundles. If you are building out or refreshing your cordless kit, the current range covers right-angle, sub-compact, and heavy-duty fastening options. Battery and charger kits are the recommended entry point for new platform users. Source: Milwaukee Tool UK
Makita Workwear UK — range live Makita's UK workwear range is available via makitaukworkwear.com. The collection runs from base layers to outer jackets in the Makita teal colourway. No specific new launch signal today — the brand continues to promote the range across trade channels.
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Watchlist — follow-up candidates
- Plumb Centre Gen T — details of the programme mechanics (mentoring, discounts, events?) are expected to follow. Worth tracking for a longer feature once substance is confirmed.
- Paslode RoofTile Nailer — no UK release date confirmed yet. Check Paslode UK channels for stock date.
- EVCP demand data — NICEIC's remote training launch points to ongoing qualification shortfalls. A look at how many electricians are EVCP-qualified versus demand could make a useful data piece.
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