Dextra Group plc. are proud to be included in the Lux Magazine Power List of companies for 2014.

This is what Lux Magazine had to say about Dextra:

“Dextra’s premises in Dorset have grown from 300 to 22,700m2 since the luminaire manufacturer was founded in the late 1970s, mirroring the growth in turnover that has made it the largest privately owned luminaire manufacturer in the UK.

Dextra is a regular supplier to numerous major UK retailers including Tesco and Sainsbury’s, and its large UK manufacturing base means it is able to produce and deliver fittings at short notice. It reckons its fleet of 26 vehicles covered more than a million kilometres last year.

The company now employs more than 500 people, all in the UK, producing on average 5,000 luminaires a day with a turnover of £56 million. The company’s luminaires incorporate its own customisable modules.

Last year, Dextra Group invested £3 million in three surface-mount technology (SMT) production lines and expanded its offering with new, tailored LED solutions. Dextra’s factory can now place up to 500,000 LED chips on circuit boards in a single shift and produce up to 10,000 circuit boards a day.

Why we love them

Dextra has built a massive business over the years, and continues to be a favourite with retailers and others looking for reliability and quick service.”

To see the online article, click here.

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Office lighting has undergone a number of significant changes and developments in recent times. Dextra Group PLC.’s Lighting Design Manager, Curtis O’Donnell, discusses the evolution of office lighting, from louvres to LED panel lights and the developments which have impacted upon the lighting sector over the past two decades.

Since their introduction in the late 1980′s, category lighting (Cat 1, Cat 2 and Cat 3) has had a significant impact on office working environments.

Cat 2 louvres have proven to be the most common type of lighting used to enhance office lighting, this is due to their glare-reducing features which make them an ideal solution for Visual Display Terminal (VDT) users.

The development and introduction of category lighting also introduced a number of benefits within the lighting industry as a whole.

The introduction of a Cat system enabled the use of optics to be used in specific areas, where a restrictive, non-focused option had been offered previously.

Their introduction and development also enabled critical environments like Air Traffic Control (ATC) towers to be lit with the confidence that potentially obscuring veiling reflections would not cause any unwanted problems or potentially hazardous issues through reduced visibility.

The introduction of luminaires with built-in louvres enables the delivery of both stylish and decorative lighting as well as the capability to angle the light to achieve effective accent lighting.

Louvre technology offers numerous appealing features, such as high outputs/efficiency and control combined with a stylish and appealing look which compliments countless applications. However, if louvres are not combined with uplighters when used in combination with recessed products, this can lead to an undesirable cave-like effect.

The louvres in Dextra Lighting’s impressive office lighting range have been developed to deliver both effective light distribution and efficiency.

Products such as the Combi Plus showcase both the advancement and appeal of louvre technology.

The popular luminaire utilises Dextra Lighting’s new AWB closed back louvre. This appealing feature has lead to a reduction of wasted bouncing up light, leading to greater efficiency and energy savings.

Certain variants of the Combi Plus are also compliant with BS EN 12464 guidelines, a crucial factor when considering lighting for the work place. The luminaire not only offers compliance to L2 but can also deliver energy cost savings due to its high performance.

The ongoing development and evolution of category lighting has been developed to benefit the quality of lighting within offices. Uses of different grades of aluminium have been adopted over time, leading to both increased efficiency and reflectivity and making for a more pleasant working environment.

The development of LED technology is also having a significant impact on the look and atmosphere within workplaces.

Technological advancements have also paved the way for the introduction of LED panels, a cost-effective and popular technology which has been adopted across the lighting sector to help create a modern office lighting solution.

The introduction of LED panel lighting is having a significant impact upon the office environment through:

• Increased energy savings.
• Increased visual uniformity.
• A greater quality of light.

The MODLED and MODLED Office luminaires are both examples of precision engineered, state-of-the-art lighting solutions, designed to compliment Dextra’s comprehensive fluorescent modular range with an LED alternative.

Through using a central microprism optic Fusion Optix surround, the sophisticated MODLED Office not only complies with stringent BSEN 12464 glare requirements, but has been designed specifically for applications where monitors are used, such as school lighting and offices.

The broad range of highly sophisticated category lighting and LED luminaires available for use within the office environment demonstrates how far technological developments have reached over the last two decades and exemplifies Dextra Lighting’s commitment to being at the forefront of cutting-edge luminaire development and design.

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Whether you are looking for an LED lighting option or T5 lighting solution for your school or educational establishment, Dextra luminaires will receive top marks to help make for a successful school lighting project.

Dextra’s extensive range of high specification luminaires offer an appealing mix of features and have contributed to a host of successful educational refurbishment projects across the country.

Among the extensive array of educational lighting solutions is the highly popular Graduate range. Available in T5, LED and a new LED recessed option; the Graduate range is guaranteed to deliver a top class performance within your application.

The Graduate T5 is supplied with high frequency control gear and manufactured from high grade sheet steel, the robust luminaire can withstand the demands of busy environments and is an ideal solution for the academia sector.

The popular luminaire is manufactured in accordance with BS EN 60598 standards, making it a perfect primary light source solution for educational environments such as schools, colleges and universities.
General areas such as walkways and corridors as well as the health care sector have also benefited from the luminaire’s host of appealing features.

Its high specification curved profile surface luminaire is complete with a reeded, prismatic polycarbonate diffuser and had fully retained polycarbonate end caps, adding a touch of class to the classroom.

The Graduate is also available in an LED option.

Offering a desirable combination of superb energy efficiency and low maintenance, the Graduate LED offers a cost effective and attractive solution to a wide range of applications such as classrooms, corridor lighting and lighting within schools, universities and colleges.

The LED luminaire is constructed with a robust diffuser alongside screw retained end caps and steel housing to assist in the protection against the demands of busy school/college environments.

Its gloss white powder painted finish offers an attractive appearance which can fit in with the décor of any application. Optimum light output ratio is achieved with the Graduate LED’s highly efficient opal polycarbonate diffuser as well as superb distribution of the LED light source.

The luminaire can also be tailor made to your individual preferences, as it is available in 1200mm and 1500mm variants with a range of lumen outputs from 3,800 lumen to 12,000 lumen.

As well as the unique features of the luminaire itself, the Graduate delivers the countless
benefits of LED technology, including:

• Long lifespan.
• Low maintenance costs.
• Flicker free operation, making them ideal for the education sector.
• Fully dimmable features to achieve greater energy savings and longer lifespan.
• No Ultraviolet or Infrared, enabling solutions for a wider range of applications.

The Graduate range also boasts a new addition to the luminaire family, with the Graduate LED recessed.

The luminaire offers the direct/indirect gull-wing aesthetic which is common to traditional fluorescent lighting, but with all the additional benefits of LED technology.

Through use of the Philips LEDs, the luminaire is offered in 600×600 and 1200×600 options, as well as a range of different lumen outputs. It is also available in recessed, semi-recessed with pull up or lay in housing, all providing minimal maintenance and superb efficiency through the LED design.

The range is a perfect educational lighting solution, due to multiple variants offering compliance to BSEN 12464 glare requirements.

Dextra’s extensive range of additional T5 light fixtures also offer an ideal solution for educational lighting.

The Omni Suspended incorporates the latest in T5 technology combined with an attractive slimline appearance to fit in easily with numerous environments.

A range of desired lighting situations can be achieved with the luminaire, due to its standard width and octagonal cross section allowing for both single and twin lamp options, adding further to its versatility.

LG7 guidelines can also be assisted through the suspension of the luminaire in a bi-directional format. The attractive luminaire can be used in a number of different environments and is particularly suitable for use within educational establishments, such as schools and universities.

The T5 luminaire is also suitable for commercial applications as well as offering an office lighting solution.

The Duet T5 luminaire has also been designed to suit a wide range of applications, due to its ability to be surface mounted either individually or continuously run. It is the latest luminaire in the T5 fluorescent lighting range making use of state-of-the-art louvre technology. It also boasts the very latest AWB louvre range constructed out of highest grade aluminium.

Bespoke closed back louvre blades also deliver impressive light output ratios of up to 82%. Easy maintenance can also be achieved through the luminaire’s leaf spring system.

The LG3 louvre also delivers compliance to BS EN 12464 regulations where computer monitors are in use, such as classrooms.

Dextra Lighting’s extensive range of high performing and cost-effective luminaires offers a host of options for school lighting fixtures, guaranteed to be top of the class.

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Gone are the days of early office working, where it was believed that artificial light was far superior to natural daylight.

Previously it was commonly indicated by research that the most effective way to work was ‘under uniform electric light, and little or no benefit was recognised in providing daylight as a source of illumination.’ (1)

Advancements in research studies over the last decade have shed light on the benefits that natural daylight brings to working environments. This advancement and shift in opinion was as a direct result of a study linking a lack of natural daylight to decreased productivity within workforces.

There is compelling research conducted to suggest a direct correlation between “workplace daylight exposure and office workers’ sleep, activity and quality of life.” (2)

When it comes to providing your workforce with both a quality and comfortable environment, coupled with the correct required lighting within the workspace, the lighting used within that setting is of paramount importance.

Through the adoption of proper lighting strategies, a positive impact correlates with the productivity of workforces. There is also a general assumption that productivity is related to a workplace environment which is well-designed and illuminated by daylight. (3)

With crucial health benefits and increased productivity in mind, the importance of daylight dimming controls comes into the forefront when considering suitable office lighting solutions.

With this in mind, Dextra Group PLC.’s state-of-the-art daylight regulation lighting controls enable the effect of natural light to be maximised, whilst lowering the dependency on artificial lighting.

The importance of daylight detection

How does a daylight regulation sensor work?

• State- of- the-art sensors respond to changes in lighting levels and the presence of natural daylight in a specific area.
• When natural daylight intensifies the light level within this specific area, the output of artificial light produced by the luminaire is significantly reduced.
• The change in the natural lighting level is detected by the sensor and works by dimming the luminaire to the appropriate output.
• This results in a means of maintaining a constant, appropriate lighting level within that environment and a lower dependency on artificial light and a more balanced lit environment with a crucial general uplift.

Through accurately regulating a luminaire alongside the natural daylight which is available not only maximises energy savings, but lowers the dependency on artificial light. This also results in the greatest energy savings being achieved in areas which have high levels of natural daylight.

Click here for more information about Dextra Lighting’s lighting controls.

Among Dextra Lighting’s extensive range of office lighting and commercial lighting solutions are the Dexled, Revox LED and Modled, all of which are available with dimming features to make the most of the natural daylight surroundings and enhance the specific environment.

The DEXLED LED luminaire boasts an attractive combination of a traditional louvre design and delivers all the sought-after benefits of LED technology, making it both a stylish and cost-effective choice for a range of commercial applications.

The MODLED Office is a perfect solution for office lighting, due to its specific design for applications where monitors are in use. Through its impressive design to comply with the latest BSEN 12464 glare requirements coupled with its availability in dimming, emergency and sensor control options makes it an ideal choice for a range of office environments and educational establishments (not all variants comply).

The relaunched REVOX LED incorporates Dextra Lighting’s latest LED lighting sources. The popular luminaire boasts all the advantages and flexibility of the fluorescent Revox luminaire combined with dimming, emergency and sensor control options, whilst also delivers energy savings through low power consumption and offers minimal maintenance.

The combination of precision-engineered luminaires and state-of-the-art lighting controls allow the delivery of a more pleasant working environment, allowing employers to reap all the benefits of what natural daylight and well-balanced lighting can bring to their workforce.

Sources:

1.) The Workplace Intelligence Unit, Daylight in the Office- A Matter of Balance

2.) Psychology Today, Exposure to Natural Light Improves Workplace Performance, June 5 2013

3.) The Workplace Intelligence Unit, Daylight in the Office- A Matter of Balance

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Dextra Group plc. have been presented with the highly prestigious Lighting Manufacturing Company of the Year Award, from Building and Facilities News.

Upon being presented with the award, Rupert Martin, Group Chairman and Owner at Dextra Group plc, commented, “We are very proud that after 37 years, a privately owned and managed UK lighting company has been recognised and appreciated for their commitment to UK manufacturing.

“The past 12 months have seen a major investment in square metres, staff, and advanced technology systems across the Group. In addition, major contracts have been won resulting in a huge increase on predicted sales, and there has been a large increase in LED sales.

“We have also seen an abundance of new product launches since Christmas across all of our divisions, including Graduate Recessed LED from Dextra Lighting, Verteco LED from Dexeco, and the Pro-Lite MINI from Dexretail.”

L-R: Keith Brownhill, CEO, Rupert Martin, Owner & Darren Ward, Group Technical Director, receive the award

The Graduate Recessed is the latest addition to Dextra Lighting’s Graduate range of luminaires. Offering the direct/indirect gullwing aesthetic common to many traditional fluorescent luminaires, the Graduate Recessed has the added benefit of LED technology. The Graduate Recessed is available in a wide range of lumen outputs, 600X600 and 1,200X600 options, recessed or semi recessed versions and pull up or lay in housings with long LED design life providing excellent efficiency with minimal maintenance. It boasts compliance to BSEN 12464 glare requirements for installation in applications with VDUs in use such as schools, hospitals and universities.

The Verteco range from Dexeco has provided its clients across the UK with the premium high level energy saving sensor controlled lighting solution for over 5 years. With approximately 100,000 units supplied to a wide range of blue chip clients the Verteco has a proven history of excellent performance, simple installation, significant energy reduction and rapid return on investment. The Verteco LED allows Dexeco to offer all of the unique features found on the Verteco fluorescent combined with improved energy efficiency and low maintenance.

The Pro-Light MINI range has been developed by Dexretail to offer retailers a comprehensive selection of high quality LED spot lights for a variety of applications. With such a wide selection of options available this superb family of products is fast becoming the fitting of choice for retailers nationwide, offering versatility without compromise.

Asked to discuss the Group’s plans and direction for the future, Rupert commented, “Our chief aim is further investment in advanced technology and to increase our production capacity here in our UK based facility.

“The whole industry is currently switching its focus to LED lighting and at Dextra Group we have witnessed an increase in the demand of these products over the last two years. The significant shift in consumer demand highlights the growing desirability of high performing and energy efficient LED technology.

“From LED Down lighting to LED Flood lighting, Dextra Group’s highly sought after range of LED luminaires has fulfilled the high demand for LED technology. The falling demand for fluorescent lighting, HID luminaires and the approaching obsolescence of switch start has been more than offset by increased demand for LED luminaires. Technological improvements have increased LED efficiency and driven costs downward as a direct result. LEDs are now exceeding fluorescent performance in terms of lumens per watt and are rapidly equalising in terms of lumens per pound.

“As a result of these impressive features, it is widely anticipated that this trend will continue to accelerate rapidly over the course of 2014 and beyond.

“Last year further saw the development of a range of customised solutions for key blue chip clients where Dextra Group’s state-of-the-art SMT facilities allow development of LED solutions with tailored lumen outputs and energy consumption designed to meet the exact requirements of the client. Where specific product cost, return on investment expectations and lux levels must be met without fail, we welcome any enquiries to develop a solution to meet your requirements to the last pound, watt and lumen.”

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LED lighting has transformed an East of England Co-op Foodstore in Suffolk.

The Aldeburgh Co-op Foodstore is now home to a range of impressive LED luminaires which have transformed the space and delivered required lighting levels.

A range of reliable and high-performing luminaries, which fulfil the lux level requirements, were selected for the project.

The popular DEXLED 1200 x 600 luminaire was selected to achieve the desired lighting levels, which were to be increased to 1000 lux on the shop floor.

Suitable for a wide range of different applications, the DEXLED combines a traditional louvre design with the latest high transmission optic materials and is available in a wide range of body sizes.

A choice of two, three or four cell louvre variants using the latest Philips LEDs offers additional flexibility and enables the DEXLED to be supplied in 600 x 600, 1200 x 600 and 1200 x 300 variants. Each variant is available in a wide range of lumen outputs which all offer superb energy efficiency.

Suitable for a wide range of commercial applications such as corridors, receptions and meeting rooms, the DEXLED can also be customised in order to fulfil the exact requirements of the application.

The long life of the LED source greatly reduces the need for costly shut down of areas for maintenance purposes

The high performing 15,200 lumen DEXLED fulfilled the required lighting levels during the project.

The LED3 standalone emergency units were utilised alongside the DEXLED in the main store.

The IP20 rated LED3 is manufactured to BS EN 60598.2.22 which delivers a high performance, low wattage LED light source.

Its wide operating temperature of 0 to +35ºC makes it suitable for a wide range of different applications, including general emergency lighting and escape routes.

The versatile module is suitable for surface mounting or installation into plasterboard and suspended ceiling systems.

Dextra Lighting’s range of LED lighting solutions have transformed the space and created a brightly lit and welcoming environment for visitors.

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Visitors to a new East of England Co-op store can browse in brightly lit conditions thanks to a host of luminaires from Dextra Lighting’s extensive fluorescent range.

Visitors to a new East of England Co-op store can browse in brightly lit conditions thanks to a host of luminaires from Dextra Lighting’s extensive fluorescent range.

Darsham Hamper and Café is a new venture for East of England Co-op and has a Farm Shop style feel.

The store is situated on the A12 between Ipswich and Lowestoft and is now home to precision engineered fluorescent ceiling lighting.

The Suffolk-based store has been illuminated with a variety of luminares, including the popular Graduate.

Supplied with high frequency control gear on a removable fused gear tray, the Graduate offers a solution to countless applications, which includes walkways and corridors, educational settings and the healthcare sector.

The luminaire is also manufactured from high grade sheet steel and also boasts branded control gear and components.

Minimal intrusion and disruption into the environment is achieved as a result of the Graduate’s low profile sectional design, for ease of installation.

The new installation is also home to fluorescent downlights in the form of the Protec.

Suitable for a wide range of environments, the range of compact fluorescent downlights are designed with performance and versatility in mind.

From corridor lighting to retail, hospitality and commercial lighting solutions, the Protec has complete flexibility and is available in six different body formats:

• Vertical.
• Medium horizontal.
• Large horizontal.
• Wall-wash.
• Surface.
• IP65.

The variety of different body formats ensures there is an option available to fulfil the needs of any application.

Lamp options also range from single 13W up to twin 42W and are all supplied with high frequency control gear to ensure important energy savings are achieved.

The luminaire boasts complete diversity through an appealing range of thirteen different attachment options, ranging from glass covers to emergency drop legends.

The highly versatile Amenity Decorative luminaire was also utilised within the extensive project.

The luminaire can be wall or ceiling mounted and is constructed with an IP20 polycarbonate body and diffuser.

It is suitable for a wide range of different applications such as stairwells, utility areas, store rooms and corridors and is available in an integral 3 hour maintained emergency option

Highly robust exterior luminaires in the form of the Amenity Exterior were also used within this project.

The popular aluminium luminaire delivers both a durable and stylish solution and boasts a robust opal polycarbonate diffuser which is sealed to IP54.

The Amenity Exterior offers a solution for walkways, building exteriors, walls and under canopy applications and is available in three different styles.

The luminaire is available in three different styles, all of which are available in 28W or 38W 2D single lamp options, with either a white black or matt silver body

The range of popular fluorescent lighting choices has transformed the space and created a bright and attractive, welcoming environment for customers.

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East of England Co-op is delighted to open its first total LED store in the historic village of Lavenham.

The Grade II listed building in the centre of the village has been granted an investment of £670,000, which has completely transformed the space into East of England Co-op’s first village shop.

The listed building has been carefully restored, achieving an industrial feel to the rear of the store to compliment the existing roof structure.

The new store has been granted a new lease of life through use of a host of high-performing LED luminaires.

Utilising the high levels of natural daylight present, the MODLED Suspended, complete with R24 DM integral daylight and presence sensor, was suspended from a cable tray.

The LED panel lighting is designed to compliment the comprehensive fluorescent range of luminaires with an LED alternative. LED lighting provides both an energy efficient and low maintenance alternative to traditional light sources.

Adding complete versatility, the range is available in a variety of different lumen outputs and sizes, as well as having the ability to be surface mounted, suspended individually or in continuous runs.

The layout can also be completely customised, as the luminaire is available with a wide range of corner pieces and blind units.

The MODLED Suspended is suitable for a wide range of different applications, which includes commercial lighting solutions, receptions and corridors.

The popular Graduate LED luminaire was selected for the front of the store and boasts a number of appealing features.

The variant selected for the store boasts an 8,800 lumen output combined with opal polycarbonate diffuser. The Graduate LED offers a cost-effective solution to numerous applications, which includes corridor lighting and within the academia sector.

Constructed with a gloss white attractive finish and steel housing, the luminaire can successfully tie in with the décor of any application, whilst offering a robust solution to withstand the demands of busy environments.

Additional flexibility is also granted, as the luminaire is available in both 1200mm and 1500mm variants with a wide range of lumen outputs from 3,800- 12,000 lumen.

The popular luminaire was selected to successfully achieve a good uniform light distribution across the store.

LED lighting has transformed the space both internally and externally, with customers being able to access the rear car park easily through use of Dexeco’s Impervia LED luminaire.

The popular IP65-rated LED luminaire offers an appealing combination of impressive performance and energy savings over its fluorescent equivalents.

The covered pedestrian walkway is now home to the luminaire, which boasts a Light Output Ratio in excess of 90% and is available in three types of aluminium internal reflector (narrow, medium and wide).

Integral R25 on/off presence detection ensures customers using the external covered pedestrian walkway can access the rear car park, but also adds to greater energy savings through the sensor control.

Powered by Philips SLM LED technology and with a stylish black finish, Hi-Track LED fittings were used in the display windows, which illuminate during the evenings and provide a brightly lit space to showcase the displays.

Offering an ideal solution for retail and display lighting, the Hi-Track is manufactured from die cast aluminium and provides a durable housing with a stylish appearance.

The luminaire is available in 35W and 70W CDMTC as well as 1,400, 2,000 and 3,000 lumen LED variants and is designed specifically to fulfil the varying demands of numerous display lighting applications.

The impressive array of precision-engineered LED luminaires used within the space has created an attractive and welcoming space for visitors in the first total LED store.

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Challenge House in Milton Keynes is the latest location to benefit from the impressive features delivered by Dextra Lighting luminaires.

The building, based in Bletchley, is used as a purpose-built facility used by multiple tenants and is home to over 63,000 sq. ft. of contemporary office space.

The site boasts a workspace equipped with the latest technology, floor-to-ceiling windows to offer high levels of natural daylight, an on-site café and several meeting rooms.

The modern workspace now boasts equally contemporary luminaires resulting from an extensive office lighting upgrade throughout the premises.

Dextra Lighting’s high-performing, precision- engineered range of office lighting solutions have been used throughout the upgrade.

A cost-effective LED lighting option has been utilised in the form of the Protec LED luminaire, which has transformed lighting in the meeting rooms, toilets and improved corridor lighting.

The Protec LED forms part of the popular and well established Protec range of luminaires. Its delivery of impressive lumen packages of up to 3000lm and Light Output Ratio in excess of 90%, makes it an ideal primary lighting sources suitable for a wide range of applications, which includes corridors, meeting rooms, offices, receptions and the academia sector.

The Protec LED delivers dramatic reductions in energy costs over its fluorescent equivalents and encompasses a countless number of impressive features and benefits. LED technology not only offers savings through reduced maintenance costs, but also delivers extended lumen maintenance, flicker free operation and an extended lifetime through the ability to fully dim the LED luminaire.

With numerous beam angle, bezel, reflector and colour attachment options, the luminaire is both cost-effective and versatile, and will compliment the style and fulfil the demands of numerous different applications.

A brightly lit space now greets staff and visitors through this high performing and appealing LED lighting selection.

Office suites have been granted a modern and stylish upgrade through use of the Solution Flush T5 luminaire.

Due to its compliance with stringent BSEN 12464 guidelines, the Solution Flush is suited perfectly to fulfil the requirements of a wide range of applications where monitors are in use, such as office, classrooms, meeting rooms and environments within the academia sector.

When combined with the Blade uplighter, the high performing Solution can achieve compliance with LG7.

Office suites are now complete and equipped with new furniture to compliment the brighter, more pleasant feel within the space.

Those involved in the project are delighted with the finished result.

Peter Rahal, Managing Director of Landmark Property Solutions Limited, said: “I am extremely pleased with the office lighting system designed and supplied by Dextra. It was ideal to go to one supplier who could deliver a specialist solution to all our lighting requirements.

“The Solution Flush T5 unit is especially attractive as it spreads light via use of the Blade uplighter while providing a contemporary modern appearance. This complements exactly the look we were aiming to achieve.

“Similarly with the corridors, meeting rooms and washrooms, the design was excellent using LED lighting to suit each very different room. In the meeting rooms the option to dim the lighting is useful when projectors are being used. An additional benefit is that all the lighting is activated via sensors.

“Finally I would like to thank Dextra as we believe their lighting solution helped to secure VW as a client to occupy the newly refurbished space.”

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An extensive lighting upgrade project has transformed Nottingham Trent University’s on-campus student library.

The Boots Library is now home to a host of luminaires which has made the space brightly lit and welcoming for staff, students and library visitors.

The library encompasses an amber zone designed for quiet study, as well as group study rooms and more than 1,000 PCs.

A variety of Dextra Lighting luminaires successfully fulfilled the 200 lux requirement for illuminating the bookshelves, whilst also providing a contemporary and good working environment for library visitors.

Sustainability was also key for the project, as the design and luminaries selected needed to take into account future upgrades to the library.

A mixture of fluorescent and LED luminaires were chosen for the upgrade project, among them the Element.

The Element luminaire was also used throughout the upgrade project. Suitable for a wide range of commercial applications, the Element slim line luminaire delivers customisable options alongside a stylish and contemporary finish. The Element is designed for either standalone or continuous run applications and is offered in 1200mm and 1500mm lengths complete with T5 lamps and blind units, allowing the demands of any application to be met. This popular luminaire is supplied with front and rear extruded TPA diffusers. This construction enables an equal split with 50% ULOR and 50% DLOR to assist with compliance to CIBSE LG7 standards. An appealing decorative effect can also be achieved with coloured inserts in either the top or bottom diffusers, adding further flexibility to this high-performing luminaire.

The library is now home to a welcoming and better illuminated space thanks to the Protec LED.
With impressive lumen output packages of up to 3000lm, the popular LED down lights are an ideal solution to deliver a primary light source to high end applications, such as meeting rooms, corridors, educational establishments and offices. The Protec LED grants the capability to tie-in with updates and changes in décor, due to its easily removable colour attachments and reflectors. The LED down lights also deliver an impressive LOR of up to 90% and offers significant energy cost savings over fluorescent equivalents.

The lighting upgrade was also complimented with the Hi-Track. Boasting durable housing with a sleek and stylish appearance, the Hi-Track offers retail and display lighting solutions. The luminaire has been designed to fulfil the demands of a wide range of display lighting applications, with its 1400, 2000 and 3000 lumen LED variants. The highly versatile luminaire boasts a complete range of three circuit tracks in both 1m and 3m lengths, starters, ends, joiners, T pieces and corners to provide additional flexibility.

Other products to feature in this project are the Solution Flush and DEX T5 luminaires. An ideal choice for schools and universities, meeting rooms and offices, the Solution Flush delivers compliance to stringent BSEN 12464 regulations.

The ever-increasing importance of energy efficiency is recognised by the DEX T5 luminaire. Ultra-slim and ultra- versatile, the recessed luminaire is suitable for a wide range of applications, which include educational lighting, offices and commercial applications. It also boasts further flexibility as it is suitable for installation into a number of different ceiling types. Certain variants are also BSEN 12464 compliant, making it an ideal solution for environments like the university library space.

The Osram Alu-led, from Dextra Lighting’s sister company Dexretail, was also utilised within this extensive project.

State-of-the-art Dali controls utilised throughout the project enables Nottingham Trent University staff to closely monitor their energy consumption and emergency testing.

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Staff and students enjoy the benefits of striking LED upgrade.

The University of Chichester is now home to an extensive LED upgrade within a number of its teaching facilities and workshops. From LED panel lighting to LED down lights, this project encompasses a wide range of Dextra Lighting’s precision engineered LED luminaires, which have created both a contemporary and stylish feel to various study spaces around the campus.

The Graduate LED is highly flexible, as it is available in both 1200mm and 1500mm variants and a range of lumen outputs from 2,600 lumen to 12,600 lumen. Incorporating screw retained end caps and a robust diffuser, this luminaire offers a sturdy solution to easily cope with the demands of a busy university environment. The wide range of lumen outputs available allows the students to showcase their work to optimal effect.

The use of Protec LED down lights allows the university to offer a welcoming and better illuminated corridor space. With outputs up to 3,000 lumen, the Protec LED is a perfect primary light source for high end specifications such as corridors, meeting rooms, offices and educational establishments. An impressive LOR (light output ratio) of up to 90% helps create a bright and evenly illuminated space. This LED down light also offers significant energy savings over fluorescent equivalents and compliments institutions with a commitment to achieving energy reduction.

The MODLED luminaire was also utilised within the extensive upgrade. The MODLED is suitable for a wide range of different applications, including educational, commercial and retail environments. This family of luminaires incorporates a number of attractive features including a robust steel housing and an LOR of up to 85%. It is available in lumen outputs between 1,750 lumen and 7,600 lumen in 600mm x 600mm luminaires.

The Revox LED luminaire has also been used and provides flexibility for numerous applications. The Revox LED covers several dimming and emergency options with lumen outputs in both 4,400 lumen and 6,600 lumen. This luminaire can compliment a wide range of different environments including educational, offices and meeting rooms.

The Amenity LED offers similar output to traditional fluorescent sources combined with the energy and maintenance savings inherent to LED technology. With lumen outputs of 1,500 lumen or 2,000 lumen and an LOR in excess of 80%, these high performing luminaires are suitable for many applications, including stairwells, utility areas and corridors.

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With an investment of over £4m, Dextra Group plc. has recognised that LED is becoming the light source of choice for its’ clientèle

Following the success of the first SMT line which was installed last year, a dedicated 12,000 sq ft specialist electronics facility has been invested in. Dextra Group are the first major European lighting manufacturer to do this.

A total of four SMT production lines have now been installed in this area, which has the capacity to place half a million LED chips on cards of up to 900mm x 600mm in a single eight hour shift. Each of the four lines is overseen by a team of highly trained staff to ensure consistent operation and replenishment of consumables.

Group CEO Keith Brownhill and Group Chairman Rupert Martin.

Specialist areas for sensor assembly and other sensitive electronics have been incorporated in a single location. A fully controlled environment ensures consistent and high quality production in accordance with all regulations. Every single card produced is tested before being installed into a luminaire, with assurance that only fully operational products leave the premises.

Self-sufficiency has now been achieved, bringing a new level of flexibility to production and design. The ability to customise card designs ensure that exact criteria for cost, lumen output, power consumption and return on investment are met.

Dextra Group plc. are continuously researching solutions to make their UK based manufacturing facility more reactive to their clients needs. Dextra feel that this facility will add to their already considerable investment and belief in ‘just in time’ service whilst upholding the quality of products manufactured and remaining competitive, efficient and client focused.

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Dextra Group plc. is proudly sponsoring the Lux Arena at this year’s LuxLive lighting exhibition, the UK’s biggest lighting event.

The two-day event takes place on 19 & 20 November and will transform the ExCel arena into an exciting lighting industry exhibitor space.

LuxLive 2014 gives visitors the opportunity to meet with representatives from leading global brands and hear over 50 hours of free, informative talks from more than 100 industry experts.

Event highlights are endless, with seminars and demonstrations, discussions, free lighting advice from professional designers and networking opportunities with industry experts to name but a few.

A series of sessions exploring recent projects within healthcare lighting and an insight into the LED advancements in the retail lighting sector will take place. A host of new, interactive sessions will be taking place in the all-new Dextra-sponsored Lux Arena, allowing visitors to explore the latest state-of-the-art lighting technology.

Taking to the stage will be Dextra’s own Nick Shaw with a product presentation, Alex Martin discussing the WEEE Directive and Darren Ward, who will be on the Dragon’s Den panel.

You can attend for free by registering here.

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Following on from last years  Highly Commended award for Dexreco, Dextra Group have once again been shortlisted in the Lux Awards, set to take place on 20th November 2014 at The Troxy in East London.

The categories up for grabs in 2014 are the Manufacturer of the Year Award for Dextra Group plc. and – as in 2013 – Dexreco are in the running for the Recycling Award.

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The Lincolnshire Schools Switch Off Challenge (LSSOC) is taking place on Friday 21st November.

The LSSOC is a fun and easy way to get the whole school involved in reducing the carbon footprint. The LSSOC involves switching off all non-essential electrical items and record how much energy your school has saved.

Why take part?

The LSSOC is a great way to get pupils thinking about how they use energy and the changes they can make to reduce their energy consumption both at school and at home. This has clear benefits for schoosl; by encouraging everyone to use electricity more wisely could result in a reduction of the school’s energy bills and CO2 emissions. Schools that have previously held Switch Off Days have reduced their consumption by up to 58% compared to a normal day. The Challenge will also count towards any Eco-Schools work that is undertaken.

Take part for a chance to win!

The school that reduces their energy consumption by the largest percentage will win a bespoke session with Inspiring Outdoors, an education consultant specialising in outdoor education and sustainability. Prizes are also available for the second and third place schools.

How to get involved

• Register by emailing your name, school and contact details to score@lincolnshire.gov.uk to receive your free Lincolnshire Schools Switch Off Challenge resource pack
• Take two meter readings on Thursday 20th November to establish your normal daily consumption, more details about this will be in your resource pack
• Switch Off and take two meter readings on Friday 21st November
• Send your meter readings to score@lincolnshire.gov.uk

On Twitter? On the day of the challenge, the SCoRE team will be tweeting from around the county – search #lincolnshireswitchoff

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Dextra Group plc. is proud to have been presented with Insider Media’s Made in the South West Advanced Manufacturer award. This award was for the company deemed to be the most forward looking, having consistently used advanced technology or techniques, processes or equipment to solve problems or add value to customers. The award was presented at the award ceremony on 6^th November by Miri Thomas, editor of South West Business Insider and accepted by Darren Ward, Group Technical Director and Natasha Ward, PA to Group Chairman/Marketing on behalf of Dextra Group plc.

As a regional winner with the 2014 Made in the South West awards, we are now short-listed for the national Made in the UK awards 2015.

South West Business Insider explained why Dextra Group was selected as winners of this award;

“With an investment of more than £4 million over the last 12 months into new technology, Dextra Group wowed the judges with its entry this year. They praised it for being “forward thinking and responsive to its customers”

The lighting manufacturer realised early on just how important investing in research and development and state of the art equipment is in order to be able to adapt and respond to the changing needs of the UK and European marketplace.

In recent months, Dextra invested in new surface mount technology, creating four production lines with the capacity to place half a million LED chips on cards of up to 900mm x 600mm in a single eight hour shift. Another investment has been in a new Gema powder coating system, which has resulted in increased quality, environmental benefits and minimal wastage.”

Dextra Group is proud and privileged to have been presented with this award that highlights its outstanding achievements and contribution to UK manufacturing with an unshifting commitment to excellence in service and quality. Company owner Rupert Martin expresses particular pride in having founded Dextra Group in Gillingham, Dorset; a sentiment that is closely tied to his firm belief and continuous investment in the industrial potential of the area.

The whole team at Dextra is extremely delighted to be recognised for its commitment to investing and reinvesting in state of the art equipment and technology. The key to our ongoing success is owed to a complete alignment of core-values and work ethic among the family-run business and its hard-working employees. This unity and determination in the workplace has allowed us to push that bit further towards our ambitious goals and challenges of continuously improving on our extremely high service standards, collectively securing the self-dependency that ultimately protects the promising future of the entire Group and local economy.

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Weeks after being presented with Insider Media’s Made in the South West Advanced Manufacturer award, Dextra Group plc. have now taken the coveted Manufacturer of the Year accolade at the 2014 Lux Awards which took place at the stunning Troxy in East London on the 20th November. Dextra prevailed against stiff competition in the form of EldoLED, GE Lighting and iGuzzini to take the prize sponsored by lighting equipment maker Arrow.

“The judges described Dextra as a stalwart of the lighting industry that has, in a short space of time, managed to re-invent itself for the LED age. The judges described the company’s ability to deliver custom product rapidly and in large quantities as ‘remarkable’.”

For the second year running, Dexreco were recognised, this year’s award being a Commended in the Recycling category sponsored by Recolight.

Retail giant Sainsbury’s won two awards with their energy programme that Dextra Group played a major part in.

More details and pictures to follow.

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Dextra Group plc. have once again made a great impression at the UK’s greatest lighting event.

In a departure from last year’s 64 sq m display stand, Dextra took pride of place by sponsoring the hugely popular Lux Arena, this year featuring presentations from Nick Shaw and Alex Martin, with Darren Ward on the panel in the Dragon’s Den.

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Dextra Group plc. have been awarded the Dorset Business Award Company of the Year at the recent Dorset Business Award Gala Dinner held at the Bournemouth International Centre.

This award was presented to the “best all round business in Dorset” and Dextra were described as “a major employer in Dorset area, providing employment to over 500 people. The scale, efficiency and aspiration of the business is very impressive and there is no doubt that this tried and tested business will continue to expand and support continued growth in Dorset”.

Keith Brownhill, CEO of Dextra Group, dedicated the award to North Dorset and to British manufacturing and thanked employees, customers and suppliers of the company for their continued support along with sponsors and DBA for hosting a fantastic evening.

The three awards Dextra Group have been presented with over the last three weeks are a fantastic achievement and recognition of what the company is able to do and would not be possible without the ongoing commitment and support of all employees.

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Gillingham School “delighted” with Dorset council’s reinvestment in LED lighting for sports hall refurbishment.

Dextra Lighting continue to create opportunities for the educational sector to drastically increase their energy efficiency by combining state-of-the-art LED products with the unrivalled flexibility and delivery time of their bespoke lighting service.

As part of an ongoing programme to refurbish its educational estate, Dorset County Council has made continuous investments towards elevating the standard of learning environments in public schools. Under the advisory of Dorset Property, the council’s primary aim has been to ensure the viability and service effectiveness of its properties, often focussing on installing green technologies such as LED lighting and photovoltaic panels, to improve the energy efficiency and environmental sustainability of school buildings.

Gillingham school was one of the establishments included in the initiative. Having previously worked with the school in a hugely successful LED lighting upgrade in their main assembly hall, Dextra Group were the first to be invited by Dorset Property to embark on the sports hall renovation project, in partnership with framework contractors; Wessex Electricals.

Armed with considerable experience in providing lighting solutions for schools and universities nationwide, the Group could not be more prepared for the task. Beyond their impressively wide range of energy efficient LED products, some of which are specifically designed for sports facilities, Dextra Group companies regularly engineer bespoke lighting solutions for a diverse range of applications and design briefs, making full use of their in-house design and testing labs and cutting-edge manufacturing equipment.

The school takes great pride in its excellent sporting reputation. Having been awarded “Sportsmark Gold” and a “National Sport England” award, the sports hall has been a vital asset, allowing young sportsmen and women to reach their full potential. The Dextra Lighting team met the same high standards in service; designing, manufacturing and delivering bespoke LED luminaires that would significantly improve the quality of lighting, creating a more stimulating sports environment for pupils to enjoy, whilst guaranteeing long-term financial returns. The results would lift the economic burden of meeting the current CRC legal requirements and increase the building’s overall efficiency.

THE BRIEF

The brief for the sports hall presented a variety of design, manufacturing and installation challenges. Firstly, a one-for-one replacement for the former 400W metal halide high-bays had to be performed by gaining access behind a giant translucent sail cloth, through a network of purpose-built maintenance gantries which hung 10m above the gym floor.

Secondly, the overall electrical load had to be drastically reduced as the original system was frequently overheating. Since the lighting was linked to the gym’s air conditioning and central heating via the Trend BMS system, the heat emitted triggered the extractor fans on a daily basis, resulting in further, yet avoidable, energy costs.

Finally, the team had to eliminate the notably long delays experienced by the client when switching between the 3 pre-set scenes (1. Low-level cleaning light, 2. Sports Mode 3. Exam Mode). This was caused by slow warm up and cool down cycles when switching between modes.

Enter the SkyLight 34500

Dextra Lighting proposed a bespoke lighting solution using the popular SkyLight LED 34500 luminaire. It is among the most advanced, energy efficient, high level LED luminaires in its class. Equipped with the latest diffuser optics, this product offers customers an aesthetically pleasing energy efficient LED alternative to traditional high level T5/HID lighting. It is available in a wide range of outputs up to 34,500 lumens which made it suitable for the multiple light level system.

The design team added unique modifications to the product to suit the customers infrastructure, cabling and suspension points to minimise installation costs. By Easter 2014 the team supplied a complete sample for Wessex Electricals to install which included:

• Bespoke mounting brackets with special hook system.
• Addition of customised Metway plug, special leads and Canalis connectors to plug into existing trunking system.
• 1 – 10v Trend compatible dimming control system gear.

The modified SkyLight LED 34500 eliminated all the inefficiencies typical of metal halide technology. In addition to the intrinsic advantages of LED for long life and low maintenance, the new system provided:

• Near instant switching between modes.
• Superior quality of light
• Significant reduction in maintenance since installation in summer of 2014 – No more weekly replacement of fragile lamps or ballasts during term times.
• 35% reduction in lighting load.
• Reduced roof temperature – fans have not been triggered since installation.

These factors combine to maximise energy savings and provide the school with rapid payback for their investment. All installation work was completed promptly and smoothly within the 6 week holiday without interrupting the pupils’ access to the facilities. It comes as no surprise that Gillingham School and Dorset County Council are now “delighted” with the results.

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