60 seconds with…Christopher Smith, Lift Division Manager, Bew Electrical distributors ltd.

Tell us about your business, when was it formed and what do you do?

BEW Lift Division formed in 2019.

At BEW Lift Division, we know how important it is to have the right products available when you need them. Thats why we”ve built a strong supply network across our 22+ branches in the UK, ensuring live stock visibility and the ability to move products efficiently between locations.

Our Ilford branch serves as the main hub for lift products, holding key stock to support lift companies in maintaining and servicing lifts.

Who are your customers? Which markets do you serve?

Lift companies, consultants and some fabricators.

Having been in the industry for over 25 years, supplying lift equipment, I have built relationships with lift companies and engineers and gained a lot of experience.

How many times have you been to LIFTEX?

Four times, twice with another company so I have a bit of experience in setting up a stand and being an exhibitor. I find it very interesting seeing the different stands and what the market has to offer.

What are the main issues that your customers deal with and how do you help them?

We mainly deal with the engineers or admin staff that have been given a list of items. The admin staff are not always aware of the items they are after, as they are not engineers, so we help them identify it. Also, we may receive photos of items that help us, and we then provide a quote with lead-time etc.

Are there any issues that specifiers, contractors / owners should be aware of in the next 12 months?

The industry is slowly moving over to LED lights and doing away with the fluorescent tubes.

How can we, as an industry, help designers and building owners to become more energy efficient and meet Net Zero targets?

By staying updated on products our suppliers provide, as changes are happening all the time.

What will you be promoting / what can visitors expect to see on your stand?

We will be showing our New Wireless shaft lighting kit, and our Lift car lighting, made by one of our suppliers Konnex. They will also be on the stand to show these items and answer any questions. We are also also speaking about how Bew can be of service.

What advice would you give to anyone visiting the show? What should they look for and how can they get the most from their visit?

My advice would be is to give yourself plenty of time to visit the stands and speak to some of us, as we are a friendly bunch and offer a wide range of knowledge and experience.