Cover Story
Lighting the way: the story of Forum Lighting Solutions
In the heart of Oldham in Greater Manchester, housed in old textile mills, Forum Lighting Solutions has quietly become a cornerstone of innovation in the lighting and smart controls industry.
F
ounded in 2013, Forum is part of the Cascade Holdings Group, which has been trading in the UK for more than 60 years. The family-run business – which sells lighting products to some of the UK’s largest retailers – spotted a gap in the market to sell high-quality, energy-efficient lighting and smart control solutions for commercial and residential, directly to electrical wholesalers.
And so, Forum was born. A decade later, Forum has evolved from a modest idea into a thriving business, supplying products across the UK and Ireland. It has become renowned for combining cutting-edge technology, such as its flagship Kinetic wireless switch range, with exceptional design, a wealth of knowledge and second-to-none customer service.
The secret to success
Forum’s journey from a start-up to an industry leader within 11 years is testament to its adaptability and forward-thinking approach. The company’s success has been built upon a dedication to quality and product design, excellent customer service and technical back up and always holding a high level of stock so that there is never a situation where customers have to wait to receive their orders. Next-day delivery is a promise for Forum, and is something that the business is proud of.
Putting people at the heart of Forum The company not only prides itself on being a great place to do business with, but it also ensures it is a great place to work. The family business mentality and culture certainly retains staff: 40% of employees have been with Forum since it started, and most other staff have worked for the company for more than five years. Commercial director Lawrence Benjamin said: “I have been with Forum since its inception. It is quite simply a fantastic place to work; everyone here is passionate about doing a great job and about going above and beyond for our customers. It is so important to us that we can deliver on our promise of next-day delivery and that we display our technical expertise in the way we do business.”
Steve Kaye
Sales director James Ireland is another key team member who has been with Forum since 2013. “I was already working in the lighting industry when Lawrence asked me to join Cascade and assist in setting up Forum. “I have been here for 11 years, and I definitely have less hair and more grey hair! But I cannot imagine working anywhere else. Everyone is
10 | electrical wholesalerDecember 2024
so down to earth and friendly whilst being committed to excellent products, customer service and aftercare. The future is exciting for Forum and I look forward to being part of it.” Forum recently bolstered the business with the addition of an experienced and energetic marketing expert, Steve Kaye, who has been appointed as the businesses’ new marketing and sales manager.
Steve has more than 30 years’ experience in the bathroom industry, having previously worked for HiB, the leading and innovative bathroom products company, where he was instrumental in helping to grow the business from zero to market leader.
After a long career at HiB, Steve felt it was time for a change. “I am really excited to have joined a rapidly growing and dynamic company where my experience will help guide them. They have all the right components in place: great products, great service, really friendly staff. I am on a mission to make sure that everyone knows what Forum are capable of.”
Commenting on Steve’s appointment, Lawrence said: “We have closely watched the
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