What do high-tech sensors, buzzing exhibit halls, and teddy bears have in common? They were all part of our experience at this year’s Smart Buildings Show in London!
Last week, Mark and a few of us from the team made our way to the UK’s biggest event for building automation. We were there to explore the latest innovations in Building Management Systems (BMS), catch up with old friends in the industry, and make a few new ones. And let’s just say, the energy on the floor didn’t disappoint.
From packed stands and passionate conversations to tech demos and office mascots (more on that later), here’s a look at some of our favourite moments from the show.
1. Talking Trends (and Trend Controls)
We started the day with a visit to our partners at Trend Controls. Their stand was constantly buzzing, and for good reason. We got hands-on with the new T1L communications, and Honeywell Forge (Remote Building Manager).
The Trend team gave us a deeper look at how their tech is making buildings more connected and efficient. They’re clearly setting the pace in the BMS world, and we’re proud to be on the journey with them.
2. BMS Training is Getting an Upgrade
Catherine Walker from BCIA gave us the scoop on how BMS training is evolving. She walked us through newly launched courses and teased upcoming ones, including a module focused on ISO standards.
It’s exciting to see the effort going into building stronger foundations for the next generation of BMS engineers. We’ll be watching for those new courses to drop!
3. Putting Apprenticeships in the Spotlight
Apprenticeships in the BMS industry are not spoken about enough! Simon Boagey at Group Horizon filled us in on the current landscape of BMS apprenticeships and how they’re often overlooked in schools & colleges, as awareness is still low.
He also gave us practical ideas on how we can help raise awareness and open doors for future engineers. Challenge accepted, Simon!
4. The best swag of the Smart Building Show 2025 goes to…
Meet Tyrell and Tea, our brand-new office bear mascots, courtesy of tbt Group. Not only was their swag top-tier, but it added some extra joy to our day. (And yes, grown adults can be excited over a teddy…) You’ll be seeing a lot of Tyrell and Tea around the office, and maybe even on our socials!
5. Real Talk on the Show Floor
We had some great chats with people genuinely passionate about moving the BMS industry forward, from training and mentorship to smarter tools and platforms.
A highlight was our catch-up with Aaron Williams and Paul Martin from Forest Rock, who shared how the first day of the Smart Buildings Show had been full of solid engagement and fresh perspectives. It was great to see.
6. Big buzz around BMS tech
Whilst there wasn’t any groundbreaking technology unveiled this year, the innovation on display was clearly inspiring. From advanced controls to cloud-based platforms and smarter sensors, it’s clear that there are many driving forces pushing the industry forward.
We left with ideas already forming for how we can incorporate some of these solutions into our future projects.
7. Nick’s top takeaways
We asked Nick Gay, our Sales and Operations Manager – South West, for his top takeaways. Here’s what he had to say:
“It was great to reconnect with some familiar faces from the industry and spend quality time with new colleagues outside of the office in my new role. iSMA had an impressive presence with a well-delivered pitch, and I’m curious to see more from Siemens and their latest developments. Overall, it was a worthwhile visit, even if there wasn’t anything truly groundbreaking; it’s always valuable to stay close to the pulse of the industry.”
8. Our final thoughts
This year’s Smart Buildings Show was a great reminder of what makes the BMS industry tick: collaboration, curiosity, and constant learning. Whether it’s a new training course, a software demo, or just a really good conversation, there’s always something to take away. We will be sure to return to the event next year, and hopefully, there will be some exciting new technology to see!
