Ben Kettell, Author at MVIS Ltd

Paving the Way with Solar-Powered Solutions

Posted on 11th August 2023 at 8:00 am.

In today’s fast-paced world, the push for sustainability has become more crucial than ever. As one of the UK’s leading providers of portable VMS & Intelligent Transport Solutions (ITS), we have taken a significant step towards a greener future by ensuring that all our solutions are solar-powered.

We have placed great emphasis on sustainability and environmental factors since our inception in 2012, and a fully solar powered fleet is one of the major elements of our sustainability policy.

Harnessing Solar Power for a Cleaner Environment…

The first and most apparent benefit of using solar power is its positive impact on the environment. By harnessing the sun’s energy, our solutions significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuels and decrease greenhouse gas emissions. Solar-powered solutions such as Variable Message Signs and CCTV towers not only operate efficiently but also do so with minimal environmental impact.

The Road to Net Zero

The UK highways sector plays a crucial role in achieving the country’s ambitious environmental targets on the road to net zero emissions. As a key player in this sector, we have recognised the importance of adopting sustainable practices to align with the UK’s environmental goals. By utilising solar-powered ITS solutions, we help the highways sector transition to a more sustainable and eco-friendly future.

Human Factors

In addition to environmental benefits, solar-powered ITS solutions have a positive impact on the wellbeing of operatives working on the UK’s highways. A sustainable factor often overlooked is human sustainability – with environmental and economic factors often placed number 1 & 2 in the priority list.

By eradicating the need for frequent battery changes, our solar-powered devices reduce the exposure of workers to potentially hazardous conditions on the busy roads. This not only promotes the health and safety of operatives but also contributes to increased operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

“Solar is incredibly important to us.” Says MVIS Sales Director Graeme Lee.

“As the UK, and the UK highways sect strives to achieve its environmental targets and work towards a net-zero future, MVIS continues to lead the way, and we’re extremely proud to be able to say that our entire fleet runs from solar energy.

“Whilst we’ve always had an eye on our environmental impact – it shouldn’t be lost that the solar model also keeps our people out of harms way, as well as reduces exposure to any potential abuse whilst on a scheme or site.

“Sustainability is not just a buzzword to us, but a core value driving real change. We continue to learn and evolve and act accordingly – in both our product range and the way in which we deliver it, never losing sight of how our people fit into that equation too.”

MVIS Go Back to School as Part of Manchester Week.

Posted on 19th July 2023 at 2:20 pm.

Written by Ben Kettell

As part of our Corporate Social Responsibility, we are only too happy to get out into communities and not only educate young people on what we do on a daily basis but also give advice and information on careers available upon leaving school and college.

Our latest visit took us to The East Manchester Academy. The school is an age 11-16 High School, located in the heart of East Manchester’s regeneration area in Beswick and is a member of the Greater Manchester Education Trust. We spoke to a year 8 class about career paths and to give them a brief lesson in programming messages to display on our VMS via our web-based editing platform Web Studio.

Group Commercial & Operations Director, Anne Ashman & Marketing Manager Ben Kettell spent the afternoon giving the pupils an insight into how MVIS has grown since 2011 and also how their varied careers paths have brought them to this point.  Both Anne & Ben fielded questions from the group regarding all sorts of queries including salary expectations, day-to-day challenges, and the best route to go down in order to get into the industry.

It was then the students turn to programme their very own messages to be displayed on MVIS VMS-A positioned outside the school. Children learnt about just a few of the features a VMS-A has to offer including the 5 LED colour options and also getting to grips with the ability to resize their message depending on character size and length. They also turned their hand to creating their own imagery and pictograms to display, with some fantastic results.

Molly Reeve Year 8 Teacher said “It was great to host MVIS Ltd as part of TEMA’s Manchester week celebrations. Students were thoroughly engaged in the Q&A with Ben and Anne, and they loved the opportunity to try a design task for themselves and then to see their work displayed on a sign.”

Anne added: “It’s always nice to get out in the community, speak to students and help them get a better understanding of what MVIS signs do and how they work. Lots of the students that we spoke to had seen the MVIS signs before in and around the Etihad Stadium next to the school, so next time they see them, they will have a much better understanding of how the message has got there and the work that goes into it”.

MVIS Newest Temporary Recruits!

Posted on 17th July 2023 at 8:00 am.

Written by Ben Kettell

MVIS has always been open to receiving students for Work Experience.

Pupils from local schools come to MVIS to be taught on daily life working in a business. We teach them about our company and how we operate, this is no different for Lucas who joined us the week commencing 03/07/2023 in the workshop and Connor joining the week commencing 17/06/2023.

At the beginning of his week Lucas completed our “New Starter” pack. He undertook a right to work check, was given an employee handbook, shown around all the buildings facilities. He then met the team and had an induction on the workshop and our health and safety processes. He was also informed as to where the fire assembly point is and what to do in an evacuation situation.

He worked alongside our Workshop Supervisor, Cain Gregory, who showed Lucas how the workshop runs and operates during a week of work with us. Helping Lucas to understand what goes in to servicing after a VMS sign and giving him a better understanding of how the electronics of a sign works. Lucas was kept busy, washing signs and testing batteries. He learnt about the benefits of using solar panels and how we are an environmentally friendly company.

Connor assisted our Management Accountant, Augustine Shaijan. Working with an experienced member of staff ensured that Connor developed a deeper understanding in the world of accounting regarding VAT and the HMRC.

Connor then continued to work with Ben Kettell, our Marketing Manager, to analyse the trends of social media, researching when we need to upload posts to maximise traction from our social media posts. As the week drew to a close, Connor was tasked with inputting and analysing data and creating our latest CO2 emissions report.

The opportunity for pupils to work with industry professionals and benefit from their wealth of knowledge is one of the many benefits of the work experience scheme.

It was a real pleasure having Lucas and Connor with us and would happily have them back!

The Cost Saving Way to Revolutionise Air Quality Monitoring on the UK’s Roads

Posted on 16th June 2023 at 8:42 am.

Written by Ben Kettell

MVIS is a company known for our expertise in providing portable VMS units & ITS solutions and now, once more, we are at the forefront of innovation with the introduction of our environmental sensor. The sensor, which can be seamlessly integrated into any of our products, enables clients to monitor the external environment and gather comprehensive air pollution data.

By combining advanced technology with a strong focus on sustainability, we are bringing our own values into our product range by providing a solution that revolutionises air quality monitoring at a time when hitting key environmental targets are a hot topic for the industry.

Recognising the urgent need to address environmental issues, we have made a concerted effort to develop solutions that align with its own commitment to sustainability. The environmental sensor is a testament to this dedication, providing clients with a powerful tool to monitor air pollution and make informed decisions regarding safety and environmental impact.

Enhancing Air Quality Monitoring

The ITS Integrated Environmental Sensor can be seamlessly combined with any of our ITS solutions, enabling our clients to monitor air quality in real-time. This innovative device utilises the latest generation of electrochemical sensor technology and LoRaWAN communication to collect and record data securely onto an online dashboard. With low power

demands, the sensor is ideal for various applications, including temporary deployments where cost-effective and high-density ambient air quality monitoring is required.

The Environmental Sensor’s adaptability offers a cost-effective alternative to static air quality monitoring stations. Its versatility of being able to integrate with our entire product range allows clients to cover more space efficiently without compromising data accuracy. Whether it’s monitoring air pollution in urban areas, construction sites, or event locations, the sensor provides a discreet and simple solution that integrates seamlessly.

The knock-on cost-saving benefit? There is no need for an additional air quality monitor unit on site.

Data and Analysis

Data collected from the Environmental Sensor is displayed in real-time on an online management dashboard. Each unit’s status is clearly presented, allowing clients to monitor multiple sensors at once. The dashboard provides easy-to-read dials for quick insights, while more detailed graphs enable clients to analyse minute-by-minute and day-by-day data trends. This granular level of data truly puts decision makers in the know when it comes to understanding air quality patterns. This in turn enables more easily being able to identify potential issues and implement measures for improved environmental management.

Speaking of the sensor, MVIS Group Commercial & Operations Director, Anne Ashman, told us:

“The highways sector is facing more and more pressure to decarbonise, and we’ve seen a huge increase in focus across the industry compared to say, 5 years ago. Sustainability has been a pillar of our business since 2012, and providing a product such as the environmental sensor is an extension of who we are and the values we hold dear.

“By making the sensor available to our customers, it means they have a cost-effective, easily integrated solution to provide the date that can aid them in meeting the targets required by our industry.”

Solutions for site theft – helping to solve TM’s problem

Posted on 26th May 2023 at 11:26 am.

Written by Ben Kettell

Highways worksites are notorious for being targeted by thieves, and the cost of theft can be a huge financial burden for companies operating in this sector.

The cost of theft on highways worksites can be significant, both in terms of the value of the stolen assets and the cost of replacing them. This creates a conundrum for companies operating in this sector – should they increase their costs to account for the possibility of theft, or simply accept the cost of replacing stolen assets when it occurs?

Alternatively, can other solutions be implemented to deter theft to begin with?

Fortunately, we have a range of products that can help prevent theft and provide peace of mind for those working on highways projects.

One of our standout products in this regard is our solar IP CCTV tower. This tower is equipped with high-quality cameras that provide 360-degree coverage of the worksite, ensuring that any suspicious activity is captured on camera. The tower is also solar-powered, meaning that it can operate even in areas where there is no access to mains electricity.

The solar IP CCTV tower is an ideal solution for worksites that require a security presence. However, it’s not always necessary or practical to have a large CCTV unit in place. For these situations, we offer a compact portable CCTV unit that can be easily deployed where a smaller footprint is required, or in arenas where the units may be required to be moved around the worksite as needed.

In addition to its CCTV solutions, we also offer a range of other products that can help prevent theft on highways worksites. For example, the company’s portable VMS units can display warnings to potential thieves – including messages regarding the presence of CCTV in operation.

By trusting in MVIS, traffic management companies can take a proactive approach to preventing theft and reducing the associated costs. Not only do these products help to deter thieves, but they also provide valuable evidence in the event of a theft occurring.

In conclusion, theft is a major concern for companies operating on highways worksites, and it’s important to take steps to prevent it from occurring. Our range of products, including the solar IP CCTV tower and compact portable CCTV unit, are an ideal solution to this problem, providing a reliable and cost-effective way to deter thieves and protect valuable assets. By investing in these products, companies can reduce the risk of theft and ensure that their projects are completed on time and within budget.

A Great Fleet and Prices to Match!

Posted on 24th May 2023 at 3:57 pm.

Written by Ben Kettell

Here at MVIS we boast a large fleet of impressive Intelligent Transport Systems. All our products are designed and manufactured with the purpose of keeping the roads safe.

Hiring from MVIS you will get all the benefits of our products whilst not having to: – deliver, set up store or maintain them yourself. We deliver, day and night and set up all our ITS units, from our 3 sizes of portable VMS, Compact CCTV, to our Solar IP with CCTV on your site, highspeed network or roadside, supplying the correct vehicles needed for install and the RAMS, so you can ensure the safety of workers and your equipment. All while experiencing the MVIS Platinum Level of Service.

With our recent acquisition by the team at Quadrant, MVIS are now selling our products to you. Buying from us and acquiring one of our products ensures that you will have complete freedom to install your products whenever you need to, with our support in the background. Our ITS Solutions are an important asset to any sector and WebStudio means that your signs can be controlled remotely from the safety of your office or on site.

With great new prices and the most experienced team supplying Intelligent Transport Systems to the market, it would be wrong to not take advantage of this opportunity.

Buying or hiring from MVIS has never been simpler!

Contact our knowledgeable and dedicated sales team:

Streamlining Sales and Hire.

Posted on 12th May 2023 at 10:42 am.

Written by Ben Kettell

After Quadrants recent acquisition of MVIS Ltd, Bartco UK and Bartco Australia, the decision has been taken for the UK companies MVIS Ltd and Bartco UK to be combined. Giving a simpler uniformed sale and hire process to all our customers, old and new. Further embedding our platinum level service.

The whole Quadrant global group is to be uniformed and work much closer using the strong skills across the global entities. We believe that this is the right move for MVIS Ltd and Bartco AU and are excited about the prospect moving forward.

Our newly promoted Head of Global R&D David Chamberlain has already started working closely on development of new products for the UK market. With our MVIS R&D manager Tom Hooton and new promoted Global Group CEO Pat Musgrave, to deliver the new products the market requires and to help MVIS move forward into the next generation of ITS products.

Tom and Pat are sharing the knowledge the UK has acquired over the last 11 years of working in the UK ITS market with Bartco Au and the products that have been developed here for the highspeed network, an area Australia is currently heavily investing in.

The acquisition by New York based Quadrant has given the global companies a further opportunity to combine the knowledge and skills of the staff who already work within the companies, along with the experience the new owners also bring to the group.

Anne Ashman MVIS Commercial & Operations Director said:

“These are exciting times. The changes that have already started to be implemented have had a positive impact on the staff and company. Meetings are being held with the global team and we are all working to the same goal, sharing our knowledge, and playing to our strengths. To have this opportunity for UK and Australian companies to work even more closely together and share our knowledge to promote the companies to new levels is a great opportunity for us all”.

Pat Musgrave Group CEO Commented:

“Taking control of the global group has given me the opportunity to look at an improved pricing structure for our customers across hire and sales in both the UK and Australia. Working closer with the R&D department is allowing me to look at new products and markets to provide the already high quality ITS products both Bartco AU and MVIS Ltd have become known for along with new products that will propel the group companies into the next generation”.

Celebrating 8 Years of Tim

Posted on 11th May 2023 at 11:47 am.

Written by Ben Kettell

Here at MVIS we are celebrating the 8-year anniversary of Tim Hill our On-Site Technician.

He has been a crucial part of the MVIS Ltd, and we are proud to say that he is a long-standing member of the team.

Tim has worked an array of different roles during his 8 years, increasing his skills throughout his time with MVIS, knowing our products and been a senior member of the team others can rely on for his technical knowledge.

Our Commercial and Operations Director, Anne Ashman, says:

“Tim has always been a reliable pair of hands to trust with any task, no job seems too small for him, he has definitely been my go-to person many times for a last-minute job.

It has been a pleasure to see Tim grow over the last 8 years of being with our company and seeing him become equipped with new skills and qualifications and perfecting the ones he already has.

Congratulations Tim on 8 years with us.”

VMS-A vs VMS-C

Posted on 4th May 2023 at 4:28 pm.

Written by Ben Kettell

Our Variable Message Signs are manufactured with the sole purpose of getting your message across. Both the VMS-A and the VMS-C display full graphics and pictograms and are perfect for a plethora of uses.

But which Variable Message Sign is better for you?

Manufactured in house at MVIS, the VMS-A is perfect for urban settings and road works with speed zones of up to 50MPH.

Used as a stand-alone temporary VMS it can be paired with a radar to detect traffic and display messages such as, ‘Slow Down’ or ‘Too fast’.

The VMS-A’s compact size and adjustable legs means it has a smaller footprint. So, it won’t take up as much room, and as a result is reliable under all conditions.

Although similar in function the VMS-C is bigger and made for all roads with speeds over 60mph. Its adjustable legs give the sign the ability to become more stable while expanding its surface area.

Customers can program the sign remotely using a simple SMS, direct serial connection, or our live web-based interface, changing messages on the VMS from the comfort of the office.

A LED Sign from MVIS will always be the most reliable way to get your message across, with our Platinum Level Service and our advice on the Intelligent Transport Solution that Is perfect for you.

A Bright New Future for VMS & ITS Market Leaders Bartco and MVIS

Posted on 3rd May 2023 at 9:40 am.

Written by Ben Kettell

We are delighted to announce that Quadrant Management has acquired both Bartco Australia & MVIS Ltd, global leading suppliers of portable variable message signs and other intelligent transport systems.

Quadrant Management is a US-based private equity investor. Owning a range of businesses across the world, including multiple manufacturing companies, it now adds Bartco AU & MVIS Ltd to its portfolio of businesses.

The acquisition follows the sale of shares by MVIS Ltd and Bartco AU’s former directors Troy Wollard and Dave Musgrave to Quadrant Management, whilst Pat Musgrave will remain a shareholder of the group.

Pat is the current Managing Director of the UK companies and will take on the role of Group CEO with the focus on expanding the company’s global footprint. Key MVIS Ltd personnel such as UK Group Commercial and Operations Director Anne Ashman, Sales Director Graeme Lee, and Bartco AU CEO Anthony Arandt and Group FC Andrew Cahill will continue in their roles. David Chamberlain becomes Group R&D manager working closely with technical teams in both MVIS Ltd & Bartco AU.

The acquisition enables Quadrant to grow its portfolio of product manufacturers and specialist service providers at a time when the governments worldwide are investing strategically in transportation infrastructure.

For MVIS Ltd & Bartco AU, becoming part of the wider Quadrant group brings a host of exciting benefits. The acquisition provides opportunities for collaboration and innovation across a range of industries as well as increase capability in Research & Development to further bring innovation.

After over a decade of driving innovation including being the first to introduce colour VMS signs, the acquisition marks an exciting new chapter and provides the perfect platform to further propel the companies to even greater heights.

Ted Deinard of Quadrant Management said: “To acquire such a key player in the portable VMS & ITS market is a great honour for us. With Bartco AU & MVIS’ knowledge, products, and high level of customer service we feel that we can build on these strong foundations and support them to reach even greater heights.”

Pat Musgrave commented:

“This acquisition brings a lot of excitement, positivity and new energy to the team. We look forward to working closely with supporters and collaborators across the world including through other Quadrant companies, which will further upskill our team, and in-turn further deliver on our Platinum Level Service promise.

“This begins a new exciting era, and one that comes underpinned by alignment of the values and ethos that has positioned MVIS Ltd and Bartco AU where they are today.”