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EDA strengthens UK supply chain ties at Light + Building 2026

April 1, 2026
EDA Delegation to Light and Building 2026

In March, a senior delegation of UK electrical wholesalers and supply chain leaders travelled to Frankfurt as part of an EDA-led visit to Light + Building 2026 – the world’s leading trade fair for lighting and building services technology.

Bringing together more than 150,000 visitors from across the globe, the exhibition remains a key barometer for innovation in electrification, energy management, smart buildings and connected technologies. For UK wholesalers, it offers a valuable opportunity to see emerging trends first-hand and strengthen relationships with global manufacturing partners.

This is the third time the EDA has organised a formal delegation, following successful visits in 2018 and 2024. In 2026, the focus was firmly on future-proofing supply chains, digital integration, and supporting the UK’s transition to net zero through smarter, more efficient building solutions.

As well as senior leaders from EDA Wholesaler Member businesses, the delegation once again reflected the strength of cross-sector collaboration. EDA Wholesaler Member businesses were joined by representatives of key trade bodies across the electrical and building services supply chain, including the Electrical Contractors’ Association, SELECT, Cable Makers UK (BCA) and the Lighting Industry Association (LIA).

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Margaret Fitzsimons, CEO at the EDA

Margaret Fitzsimons, CEO at the EDA, said:

‘In 2026, the conversations are increasingly centred around electrification, digitalisation and green technologies – all critical priorities for the UK market.

‘For our wholesalers, seeing these innovations at scale helps inform investment decisions, strengthen supplier partnerships and anticipate customer demand.’

EDA delegates describe their visit to Light + Building 2026

"Electrifying!"
"Truly impressive in terms of scale and representation, incredibly useful to expand my understanding of industry and product developments"
"Very valuable"
"Lots to see, great overview of what's to come"
"Enjoyable, busy, non stop trip"

The two-day programme combined visits to the stands of EDA Affiliate Manufacturers exhibiting at the show with free time to explore. There was also a networking event in the evening with affiliate manufacturers, enabling delegates to explore new product developments and discuss commercial opportunities.

Experiencing the innovation at Light + Building

The Sector Gets Together: EDA Wholesalers and Manufacturers at the networking dinner on the Monday evening
EDA Light and Building 2026 Networking Dinner
Relaxing after a day at Light and Building
Will-Rich-of-Wiska-gives-a-vote-of-thanks-on-behalf-of-the-manufacturers