SECTOR INSIGHT
THE FUTURE OF MACO’ S TECHNICAL DEPARTMENT: GROWTH, INNOVATION, AND INDUSTRY COLLABORATION
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» AS WE APPROACH THE 40th anniversary of MACO UK, Jemma Brookes, Head of Product Management shares that the Technical Department is entering one of its most ambitious and exciting growth phases to date. Inspired by recent industry insights and the evolving needs of our customers, Jemma is proud to share a snapshot of our current progress and our vision for the future ahead of this incredible milestone for the business.
Our test facility continues to see a steady stream of bookings from partners across the sector. This growing demand reflects the confidence customers place in MACO as a trusted technical authority. We’ re also driving
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forward with new technical solutions to meet the evolving needs of the fenestration sector, strengthening partnerships with new |
customers, and supporting them every step of the way.
Our commitment to industry collaboration is stronger than ever, and as new members of Timber Development UK and Women in Timber, we are excited to contribute to and learn from initiatives that support sustainable building practices and promote diverse voices across the sector.
We are also honoured to take part in the recent Women in Fenestration Network launch, an inspiring event that will bring together passionate professionals committed to building a more inclusive and connected industry. We’ re excited for the upcoming opportunities to engage further and continue helping
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to amplify the incredible talent within our sector.
A special highlight goes to the newest members of our PSI Team, Pavan Dhillon and Ahmed Abubakir, who have quickly exceeded expectations. They are already independently supporting onsite training and customer visits, building strong relationships, and becoming trusted points of contact across the MACO customer base.
We continue to listen closely to the market and to our customers, ensuring we can continue to deliver the high standards MACO is known for whilst helping to shape industry progress.
www. maco. eu
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HKC SUPPORTS INSTALLERS THROUGH PSTN SHUTDOWN
» AS THE UK MOVES CLOSER TOWARDS the shutdown of analogue PSTN telephone lines, security installers are being urged to act now to protect monitored alarm systems that still rely on legacy signalling.
With this in mind, HKC Security is advising installers future-proof their customers’ estates with reliable, British Standard-compliant dual-path communication solutions designed for fast retrofit and minimal disruption.
Ian Moore, Head of Technical, HKC Security at HKC, explains:“ The retirement of PSTN infrastructure will directly impact monitored intruder alarm systems that depend on analogue lines to communicate with alarm receiving centres( ARCs).
“ Without an upgrade, these systems risk losing connectivity altogether, leaving end-users without monitoring or emergency response, and potentially invalidating insurance cover that requires compliant alarm signalling.”
Industry guidance recommends replacing analogue signalling with at least DP3-level dual-path connectivity. HKC’ s range of IP and mobile-based solutions has been developed to support installers through this transition, delivering robust, insurer-approved signalling without unnecessary complexity.
A suggested PSTN replacement is the HKC 4G WiFi Dual Path Communicator, designed for fast retrofitting to Quantum70 and SW10270 panels. The plug-on module provides dual-path connectivity via 4G( with 2G fallback) and Wi-Fi, securely linking systems to the HKC SecureComm Cloud.
Key features include instant IP signalling to major ARCs, remote programming and maintenance, software updates, heartbeat monitoring and jam detection, as well as support for off-board antennas in challenging signal environments. End users also benefit from a modern experience via the SecureComm2 app, offering alerts, event logs and remote system control.
For installers, the focus is on continuity, compliance and ease of migration. HKC solutions are designed to integrate seamlessly with existing systems, reduce time on site, and provide confidence that upgraded installations meet insurers’ expectations for dual-path, British Standard-aligned signalling.
Ian adds:“ With the move to an all-IP network well underway, we are encouraging installers to engage customers early and plan upgrades proactively. By moving away from analogue dependencies now, installers can avoid future shutdown risks while delivering reliable, resilient security systems that will remain operational long after the PSTN switch-off.”
www. hkcsecurity. com
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FEBRUARY 2026
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