A new partnership with Nedal Aluminium will see lighting specialists CU Phosco carry forward more than 30 years of ALC expertise, while giving specifiers greater choice across steel and aluminium lighting columns.
CU Phosco is expanding the breadth and depth of its lighting column portfolio through a new partnership with Nedal Aluminium B.V. and the acquisition of The Aluminium Lighting Company’s (ALC) patented technology, including the Echalon® raise-and-lower column system.
From 1 September 2026, CU Phosco became Nedal’s distribution partner for the UK and Ireland, ensuring continuity for existing customers while bringing aluminium alongside its established steel lighting column range. The move follows the planned conclusion of operations at ALC, a family-run business that has represented Nedal in the UK and Ireland for more than 30 years.
During that time, ALC helped establish aluminium lighting columns across the UK market, developing specialist solutions and building a strong reputation for engineering knowledge, technical support and customer service.
For CU Phosco, preserving that legacy has been an important part of the transition. As another long-established family business with deep roots in lighting column design and manufacture, CU Phosco will carry forward ALC’s patented technology and specialist product knowledge while providing the scale,
Sustainability is another important part of the expanded offer. Nedal aluminium columns are manufactured using re-melt aluminium and are fully recyclable. Their lightweight construction can simplify transportation, handling and installation, while aluminium’s natural corrosion resistance helps reduce ongoing maintenance requirements.
Nedal has also invested extensively in reducing the environmental impact of its manufacturing operations, including the use of recycled aluminium and green electricity, alongside external sustainability and responsible sourcing programmes. Combined with a long service life and low maintenance requirements, these characteristics make aluminium an important additional option for projects where whole-life environmental performance is a key consideration.
As part of the transition, CU Phosco has acquired ALC’s patents, securing the future of technology developed by the business and creating a platform for its continued development.
Central to this is Echalon® patented raise-and-lower aluminium column system. Designed for locations where access is restricted, Echalon® incorporates an integrated hinge mechanism that allows the column to be lowered for installation and maintenance. Its design can reduce reliance on external lifting equipment and make access to luminaires and equipment quicker and simpler.
Available in conical and stepped configurations and in heights up to 12m, the system is particularly suited to railway platforms, pedestrianised town centres, car parks, and other locations where conventional maintenance access can be difficult or disruptive.
The lightweight aluminium construction, one-person safe operation and passive-safe options further extend its application across rail, highways and public infrastructure. By acquiring the patents, CU Phosco will protect the engineering legacy behind Echalon® while supporting its future development and application.
(Picture: CU Phosco)
