As we bid farewell to a momentous year in our history, we take a look back at some of the highlights of our Centenary celebrations and take this opportunity to express our gratitude to our teams and clients for helping us create some memorable events. Looking ahead, we talk to Matt Murray, our Sales & Marketing Director about our anticipations for the coming year.
A YEAR-LONG CELEBRATION
The pulse of our centenary celebrations echoed through various local events, forging deeper connections with our valued customers. Key highlights of our Centenary Year include:
OPENING OF CU PHOSCO AUSTRALIA
On 17th February, we went full circle and opened CU Phosco Australia, the only office outside of the UK, and the homeland of our founder, Charles Albert Marques.
Lead by Keith Henry, a lighting professional of over 35 years, the focus will be continuing CU Phosco's success in Australia and setting up the new business venture, which is a departure from our traditional distribution partner model in other countries.
THE CENTENARY RACE CAR
We supported Jack Woodcock MG Motorsport with a fully liveried CU Phosco car. Jack raced in the MGCC racing series, featuring at Brands Hatch, Oulton Park, Silverstone and Snetterton. If you looked quickly, you could catch a glimpse of the CU Phosco centennial logo and branding as Jack sped past!
LSE CENTENARY DAY
Our year of celebrations kicked off with the London and Southeast Centenary Day in Ware, which set the tone for the festivities. Bringing together partners from our key accounts and management team, the day started with a tour of our factory, a review of our history, an awards presentation and, more importantly, working with our customers to determine the future. And of course, there was cake...!
BIZ4BIZ AWARDS TRIUMPH
Recognition poured in as we clinched three prestigious awards, including the coveted Business of the Year 2023, at the biz4Biz Awards in June. The acknowledgement was a testament to the dedication of our teams and the legacy of the Marques family in Hertfordshire and the lighting industry.
100 YEAR BBQ
What better way to thank the team that got us to 100 years than an extra special BBQ? An evening at Fanhams Hall provided us with the perfect opportunity to
celebrate not only this milestone but also some of our team members who have chalked up over 40 years working at CU Phosco!
LORDS CRICKET GROUND: THE HUNDRED YEARS CRICKET DAY
On the 8th of August, 2023, we hosted a memorable event at Lords Cricket Ground. Despite the weather's unpredictability, clients enjoyed a day filled with cricket excitement, guided tours of the iconic Lords Pavilion, and the warm hospitality of the Lords Tavern suite.
EXPORT AGENTS DAY AT NEWMARKET
September saw the culmination of celebrations with Export Agents Day at Newmarket, symbolising our global presence and collaborative efforts. Over 30 members of our International agents and distribution partner network were shown the future plans for CU Phosco and treated to a day at the races to celebrate.
SOUTH WALES & SOUTHWEST CENTENARY DAY
In October, Clients were treated to a day’s Super car experience at Castle Combe near Bath. A thrilling high octane fuelled day was enjoyed by all with prize awards at the Manor House, following the days adrenalin filled day.
HOME COUNTIES CENTENARY EVENING
In November, Flight Club Shoreditch saw clients enjoy a fun evening of Darts at the Flight Club, with centenary festivities at the venue.
RACE NIGHT IN SHEFFIELD
The Westgate works, enjoyed a celebration evening at Sheffield Greyhound track, to celebrate the centenary. Another fabulous night although some went home with less cash than they started.
PARTY IN THE FOREST - COLEFORD
A magical evening unfolded at the historic Speech House in Coleford as we gathered with colleagues, past and present, and local suppliers. The Party in the Forest was an enchanting celebration with dinner, dancing, and a festive atmosphere that resonated with the spirit of our centenary.
CENTENARY AUSTRALIA COMPETITION
In May, we launched our Centenary Competition for one lucky winner with the prize being two weeks in Australia for two people. The winner will be confirmed shortly, and they will enjoy 14 days in Sydney, celebrating the Australian heritage of our founders.
LAUNCH OF NEW HERITAGE PRODUCTS AND DARK SKY APPROVAL
Our commitment to innovation was demonstrated with the launch of upgraded heritage luminaires. Notably, our Road Lighting luminaires received DarkSky approval, aligning with our dedication to reducing light pollution and preserving the night sky.
ANTICIPATING THE 2024 OUTDOOR LIGHTING MARKET
As we stand on the threshold of 2024, Matt Murray, our Sales & Marketing Director, shares insights into the anticipated trends shaping the Exterior Lighting Market:
1. PRESERVING THE NIGHT SKY
A commitment to reducing light pollution remains at the forefront, with our DarkSky Accredited luminaires leading the way in balancing outdoor lighting needs with environmental preservation.
2. CIRCULARITY AND SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES
The industry's commitment to circularity and sustainability intensifies, focusing on affordable yet eco-friendly solutions that balance cost-effectiveness with environmental responsibility.
3. TECHNOLOGICAL EVOLUTION
Rapid advancements in LED technology continue, requiring lighting companies to innovate continuously to meet the evolving demands of a carbon-neutral future.
4. IOT INTEGRATION
Greater alignment of IoT products for efficiency and customer support, including remote access lighting systems and 5G network support, will mark a technological revolution.
5. TALENT ATTRACTION
Attracting fresh talent to the sector becomes imperative for sustained innovation, blending new perspectives with industry experience.
In 2024, we will remain committed to our sustainability and circularity goals and to meeting the evolving needs of our customers. Our international expansion continues, focusing on telecommunication and smart city projects. As we look forward to the next 100 years, challenges are not just obstacles but opportunities in the dynamic field of exterior lighting. Thank you to all who have been part of our incredible journey. Here's to the next century of brilliance!
If you haven't already looked at our key milestones, events and the people that have shaped the business, head over to this page.