New solar panels have been installed at AUK in Haverhill and Building Adhesives in Stoke-on-Trent
The ARDEX Group UK has commissioned more than 1600 solar panels at its manufacturing facilities in Stoke-on-Trent and Haverhill.
The high-performance photovoltaic (PV) systems have been installed on warehousing and manufacturing units at both sites and will generate approximately 30% of the ARDEX Group UK’s electrical power requirements.
The installation of solar panels is part of a global sustainability initiative in which the company is investing around 3 million euros globally.
Installation of 1332 panels were completed at ARDEX UK in Haverhill in September last year and since commissioning, more than 269,686 kWh of solar energy has been produced – equivalent to the consumption of 100 houses.
A more modest 334 panels were installed at the Group’s Stoke-on-Trent facility – Building Adhesives Ltd in Trentham – with commissioning completing in March this year. This is due to limitations for more panels from the local grid, however plans remain to invest in more panels at Building Adhesives Ltd once the local grid has been updated and allows this to be done.
Since March 50,080 kWh of electricity has been produced – which is the equivalent of taking 9,814.4 kg CO2 out of the atmosphere or planting 594 trees. It meets 14% of total energy needs at Building Adhesives.
David Hackett, Managing Director of the ARDEX Group UK, said: “The installation of solar panels at our two UK manufacturing plants is an important part of our overall commitment to improve our sustainability performance in the UK.
“This has included ensuring our electricity is generated by renewable sources, increasingly adopting LED lighting throughout the facilities (100% completion in 2023), using battery-powered FLT’s (100% completion in 2023) and maximising the use of post-consumer waste in our packaging.
“We continue to look for sustainable solutions to meet our business requirements as we aim to be Carbon Neutral for our Scope-1 & 2 impacts by 2030.
“In addition, the installation of the panels makes us a bit more independent from current energy prices and possible energy shortages.”
The Ultimate Advantage – Introducing Knopp Ultimate 4, A New High Performance Screed Additive
We are pleased to announce the launch of Knopp Ultimate 4, a high-performance, liquid screed additive for cement screeds that represents a significant addition to our product portfolio. This high-performance additive enables foot traffic within 24 hours and tiling within 48 hours, substantially expediting project timelines without compromising on strength or quality.
Product Overview
Knopp Ultimate 4 is an innovative screed additive designed to meet the demanding requirements of modern construction projects. Its key features include:
Rapid Drying: Ready for foot traffic in 24 hours, tiling in 48 hours, resilient floors from 4 days.
High Strength: Achieves CT-C40-F7 strength class.
Versatility: Suitable for bonded, unbonded, and floating screeds.
Minimal Depths: Bonded screeds from just 20mm and floating from 35mm.
Moisture Resistance: Suitable for damp environments and exterior applications.
Depths:
Bonded: 20mm
Unbonded: 35mm
Floating (Domestic): 35mm
Floating (Commercial): 50mm
Underfloor Heating: 35mm above pipes
The Ultimate Advantage When compared to standard screeds and other accelerators on the market, Knopp Ultimate 4 offers:
Faster drying times, allowing for quicker project completion
Higher strength classification for durability and longevity
Thinner application possible for bonded screeds, saving on material costs
Improved cost-effectiveness per m³, boosting your bottom line
Want to see the difference for yourself?
Contact our screed team today on 01440 714 939 for a personalised consultation and let’s work together to take your screed projects to the next level.
ARDEX are delighted to introduce X 7 R S1, a new improved version of their favorite X 7 R rapid-setting flexible tile adhesive.
Advancements developed by ARDEX UK R&D specialists has allowed the company to further improve a trusted technology making it more suitable for the modern demands of tiling.
Superseding X 7 R, ARDEX X 7 R S1 provides a great upgrade for fixers at no extra cost rather than adding more products to the range.
ARDEX X 7 R S1 comes in grey and white (X 7 R S1 W) and the new formula has:
EX7RA flexibility and strength with fibre technology. This provides increased adhesion performance and enhanced performance on problematic substrates with limited movement.
EX7RA Improved consistency with a smooth formulation. Making it easier to mix and apply to help you tile faster as well as being easier on the arms!
EX7RA 50% pot life – now with now with 60 minutes in the bucket. This means there is more time to use the product in the bucket before it goes off. This allows for bigger, less frequent mixes, giving longer to spread the adhesive, saving on time and wastage.
X 7 R S1 is suitable for internal and external areas, without the need for any additional additives. It is classified as C2FES1 with new S1 deformability
This is in addition to current properties including the ability to mix to a semi-pourable consistency for solid bed fixing large format floor tiles, and adjustable water content for the ability to produce a slump-free mix for wall tiles
Alex Underwood, Head of Marketing at ARDEX said: “If you’re already using ARDEX X 7 R, then it’s time to switch to X 7 R S1 today. If you love X 7 R, then you’ll love X 7 R S1 even more with its improved characteristics at no extra cost.
“If you visit your trade counter, you will already find X 7 R S1 available and ready to use. So why wait, get tiling with X 7 R S1 today.”
GivBax Rewards shortlisted for top international award
GivBax Rewards – the new loyalty programme from the ARDEX Group UK – has been named as a finalist for a prestigious international award.
The programme – designed for users of BAL or ARDEX products – has made the shortlist in the Best B2B category at the International Loyalty Awards.
ARDEX Group UK is up against global giants including Budweiser, Ferrero and ExxonMobil which is already proving testament to the success to date of GivBax Rewards and recognition of such a leading programme.
The International Loyalty Awards celebrate excellence, innovation and best practice in the loyalty industry from across the world. This iconic contest celebrates the loyalty industry’s most exceptional projects on a global scale. Testament to the longevity of the awards, is the high esteem in which they are held across the world and the exceptionally high standards adhered to.
All categories are judged by an influential and respected judging panel, which comprises over 25 loyalty experts working in all markets and sectors. They have a wealth of experience working in loyalty and know what it takes to shine and succeed in our ever-changing competitive world. The judging is robust, credible and transparent including shortlisting, pre-scoring and a judging session over three days when the panel discusses each entry in detail to select the winners.
GivBax Rewards has been recognised in this global shortlist due to both the ease-of-use member benefits provided by innovative receipt-scanning technology and cash reward redemption via ATMs, together with its success to benefit so many ARDEX and BAL customers in just 6 months.
Within 6 months of launch 8.8% of ARDEX Group UK sales have been logged within the program, with a 73% member engagement rate.
For the first time ever, the public will also be able to vote for their favourite loyalty programme in a new category – “The 2024 International Loyalty Programme of the Year – As Voted by the Public.” This will be open to all finalists in every category.
Voting opens on 1st March and runs until 31st March, with the winners being announced in Dubai on April 24th.
David Hackett, Managing Director at ARDEX Group UK, said: “Being named as a finalist for this prestigious award is a testament to the innovative forward-thinking nature of the ARDEX Group UK – where we are always looking at ways to add-value to our products and services.
“Despite only being 6 months old, GivBax Rewards has already seen more than 17% of our total customer base signing-up and using the programme, with tens of
thousands of pounds worth of redemptions being made – that is cash back directly into the pockets of fixers and floor layers across the country. GivBax members have been blown away by the programme, which is shown by the numerous positive reviews submitted as part of the award entry.
Check out ARDEX and BAL’s social media accounts to find out how to vote for GivBax Rewards for “The 2024 International Loyalty Programme of the Year – As Voted by the Public.”
To find out more about GivBax Rewards or to sign-up to the program visit:
ARDEX.co.uk/givbax
Introducing FlowPlus – the revolutionary all-in-one liquid cement screed additive
ARDEX is delighted to announce the launch of FlowPlus in the UK, an innovative all-in-one liquid cement screed additive.
Working in partnership with Knopp GmbH, an ARDEX group company, and leaders in cement and screed additives, we’re excited to introduce FlowPlus to the UK market. FlowPlus has been a proven success in Europe for over 12 years and incorporates Knopp’s industry-leading admixture expertise and innovative technologies optimised for the British market.
The FlowPlus liquid additive has been carefully designed to contain all the necessary components to deliver exceptional screed performance. Mixed with your local aggregates, cements and fillers, FlowPlus produces a superior flowing screed that ensures fast installation, excellent workability and a smooth finish. It’s ideal for mobile batching plants such as TransMix or Bremat trucks, or for mixing at batching plants for delivery by ready-mix trucks.
With extended working times of up to 2 hours, FlowPlus allows screed installers to achieve flawless SR1 levels and very low shrinkage of 300-500μm/m. You can also expect excellent productivity with a 3-man crew able to lay up to 1000m2 in a single day, and the screed can also fully encapsulate UFH pipes for improved thermal conductivity.
FlowPlus also gets top marks for sustainability and is formulated from responsibly sourced raw materials to achieve an A+ rating and extremely low VOCs to ISO 16000 standard. Minimal laitance and dust formation means less waste and less post-installation treatment, plus there’s no need for post-curing under standard conditions.
ARDEX offers full FlowPlus support with bespoke mix designs based on your local supply chain, on-site flow and density testing and aftercare advice. Unlock the next generation of screeds with FlowPlus. Call 01440 714939 today to find out more.
ARDEX UK are once again exhibiting at SPATEX – the UK’s largest pool, spa and wellness show – which is taking place next year from 6th to 8th February at the Coventry Building Society Arena.
At the heart of the pool and leisure industry, SPATEX is backed by a number of prestigious associations including ISPE (Institute of Swimming Pool Engineers), SPATA (Swimming Pool and Allied Trades Association) and BISHTA (British and Irish Spa and Hot Tub Association).
ARDEX will be returning to Stand D1 to showcase their world-class tiling solutions for pool and wet leisure installations – providing an extensive range of products, designed to work as systems – not only for fast-track installation times, but that also produce long-lasting, durable finishes.
Join the ARDEX team of technicians and specification experts to find out why ARDEX are the experts in swimming pool and wet leisure installations – with systems specified on a many prestigious projects including the London Aquatics Centre for the 2012 Olympic Games, the Toll Cross International Swimming Centre for the 2014 Commonwealth Games and many, many more!
Visit our stand and talk to our professionals about your pool projects, find out about our products and systems and how we tap into the resources of the ARDEX Group – a global leader of high-performance building products – to provide solutions to a range of situations.
Shaun Howarth, Head of Business Development at ARDEX will also be delivering a RIBA-approved CPD – “Specify Tiling in Swimming Pools and Leisure Centres” at 1.15pm on Tuesday 6th February in the ISPE Workshop Arena.
Shaun will be discussing the latest developments and standards in swimming pool design and tiling and considerations for contractors and architects when selecting and specifying the most appropriate tile fixing solutions for use in swimming pools and leisure centres.
After more than 20 years with ARDEX and over 10 years with BAL, Peter Bell, Managing Director, is passing on the baton to his deputy, David Hackett.
Peter has enjoyed a stellar career with the ARDEX Group underpinned by his leadership of ARDEX and BAL, two highly successful, market-leading UK businesses. Testament to his commitment and legacy, Peter also holds a group steering position as an ARDEX Global Management Committee member as well as roles on various group boards, including India, Ireland, and the Middle East. He will retain these roles until the end of 2023.
As from 1st July 2023, David Hackett will take on the position of UK Managing Director.
Born in Sydney Australia, David’s career with the ARDEX Group began after the acquisition of Australian Building Adhesives (ABA) along with its sister company Building Adhesives Ltd (BAL) in 2001.
Moving to Europe in 2007, David completed MBA studies in international business throughout several countries including Russia, United States, China, India, Romania, and Austria.
David’s career path took him to ARDEX Head Office in Germany where he took on Corporate Unit responsibility of Global Marketing for the ARDEX Group. Working on global brand strategy and the introduction of the ARDEX Academy concept around the world were highlights of this time.
In 2011, David’s next challenge saw him move to BAL in Stoke-on-Trent where he took on the role of Sales & Marketing Director. “Customer First”, innovation and product development are central to David’s business ethos and the success of BAL Micromax 2 , BAL White Star Plus, BAL Rapid-Flex One and BAL Level Max are testimony to his efforts.
In 2016, David became General Manager at Building Adhesives, overseeing all functions in the Stoke business. Alongside his peers in the UK Leadership Team, David has successfully steered the BAL ship for the last six years. The alignment of the ARDEX and BAL Commercial Teams in 2021 has paved the way for a more potent market reach model, and further consolidates the UK management “One-Team” approach.
As commented by Peter Bell: “David’s promotion to UK Managing Director is a great example of how the ARDEX group opens development pathways for its key people. It also demonstrates how we promote from within, and how we encourage people to take on international assignments to open up career progression opportunities.
“As part of passing the baton to David, we expect our UK businesses to continue to thrive under his leadership. His commitment to our people, our customers and our strategic vision make him a great choice to lead our talented team into the future. I am confident that ARDEX & BAL will continue to succeed and achieve new milestones under his leadership.”
According to David: “ARDEX and BAL’s strategic focus areas are strongly aligned to our core values and include a focus on developing our people, accelerating our digital capabilities, the innovative & sustainable solutions we provide customers, and maintaining our customer-centric approach. This is about listening to our customers’ needs and improving the products & services we provide, based on their feedback.”
David continued: “I am excited and honoured to be stepping into the role of Managing Director and look forward to building on Peter’s impressive legacy. ARDEX UK & BAL have a fantastic culture, a tremendous team, and an unparalleled enthusiasm for making a difference. We do this through outstanding products, expert advice and excellent customer service.”
David Hackett’s appointment as Managing Director represents a natural progression in his career. He brings a wealth of experience including tile retailing in Australia, Corporate marketing roles in Germany and manufacturing expertise in the UK along with Board member responsibilities with the UK Tile Association (TTA). Add to this his dedication to firm growth by delivering on the ARDEX and BAL commitment to its people, customers, and community.
Peter Bell will continue with his ARDEX Group responsibilities throughout the remainder of 2023.
Bank Holiday- 19th September
Everyone at ARDEX and Building Adhesives Ltd is saddened by the passing of Her Majesty The Queen, who served with grace and selfless devotion for the UK and Commonwealth as our longest serving monarch.
As we all pay our respects, ARDEX UK and Building Adhesives Ltd will be closed on Monday 19th September to allow us all to remember and pay tribute to Her Majesty The Queen. This will mean our offices will be closed and deliveries will not be made on this day, with a return to business from Tuesday 20th September..
If you would like any further information relating to this prior to this date, please contact our Customer Services Team by email on customerservices@ardex.co.uk or by phone on 01440 714939.
Introducing ARDEX EG 18 Plus
When tiling swimming pools, wet areas or installations that require hygiene protection, an epoxy grout is often the best solution.
ARDEX EG 18 Plus is a new, improved formula three-part epoxy grout that provides a hygienic, durable and impervious finish.
You can see this product being demonstrated FIRST at SPATEX 2022 – the UK’s dedicated international pool, spa and wellness show taking place at Coventry Building Society Arena in Coventry.
Visit the ARDEX stand from 1st to 3rd of February to see the product in action.
The three-part technology found within ARDEX EG 18 Plus locks the colour within the filler, ensuring improved, longer lasting colour-tones. It also provides for easier mixing and easier application with an epoxy grout float.
Improved rheology ensures the grout holds well in the joints – even on walls.
What’s more, ARDEX EG 18 Plus cleans off far easier than other epoxies: emulsifying pads are not required (but can be used if preferred). Installers can just clean off with a good quality sponge – even on heavily textured, anti-slip tiles.
It also cleans off easily from just 15 minutes after application, with a long clean off time of 45 minutes (cleaning off from 15 mins to 60 mins after application).
Ideal for swimming pools, bathrooms, hydrotherapy spas, hospitals, domestic and food preparation areas, ARDEX EG 18 Plus can withstand full loads after 2 days of curing.
After 7 days it is resistant to aqueous salts, chlorine water, commercial cleaning agents, dilute mineral acids.
Available in White, Bahama Beige, Silver Grey, Grey and Anthracite it can be used from 2mm to 12mm joints – perfect for any installation or design where a hygienic or water impervious grout is required.
Contact the ARDEX team for more information, or pre-register to join us at SPATEX 2022 for FREE at https://spatex-2022.reg.buzz/
ARDEX donates to local charity fighting poverty
ARDEX UK, a Haverhill-based specialist manufacturer of construction materials for the tiling, flooring and general construction trade, have donated £2,000 to local charity Reach Haverhill.
Reach Haverhill, which has facilities on Hollands Road and Leiston Road, works to help people out of poverty by providing several services to help them get back on their feet.
Visitors to Reach Haverhill can ask for help with housing and benefit queries, CVs and job applications as well as providing access to online resources. Timed appointments and home visits are also available for complex matters.
Reach Haverhill aims to get to the root of the issue. A client may come in asking for food or furniture, but this may be a symptom of an underlaying problem, or complex set of problems.
Together with the client, they conduct thorough financial assessments to begin to understand the real need. Reach then works to help them get control and back on their feet.
Peter Bell, Managing Director at ARDEX UK said: “Reach provides vital work, particularly at Christmas time, supporting those in poverty in and around Haverhill get the support they need to help start to turn their lives around.
“ARDEX recognises the outstanding work they provide to the community, which is why we have chosen the charity to receive a donation from us to support their amazing work.”
Henry Wilson MBE, CEO of Reach said: “This is fantastic support and will go a long way in helping many families struggling to keep their homes warm and put food on the table.
“Just the other day we received a call from young mum, her partner had just left and was panicking about how she was going to feed her baby let alone herself.
“This gift will mean that we can continue helping families who often end up in hardship through no fault of their own!
“I really cannot thank ARDEX UK enough for their very generous support.”
