When was Collingwood founded?

Collingwood was founded in 1901 as FEC Limited. It moved into electronics and lighting in 1961 as Collingwood VLM, and was renamed Collingwood Lighting in 2001 — making 2026 its 125th year.

What does Collingwood specialise in?

Landscape, functional and emergency lighting for the UK and Republic of Ireland electrical wholesale trade.

Why is the 2002 LED range significant?

In 2002 Collingwood became the first company to supply a purpose-built LED range to the UK electrical wholesale trade — an early bet on a technology that now defines the whole sector.

How do Collingwood and Inovara Group relate?

Collingwood is the founding brand of Inovara Group. Its Gold rating belongs to Collingwood but evidences the standard the wider platform is built to.

Does Collingwood hold any sustainability accreditation?

Yes — EcoVadis Gold, retained for three consecutive assessment cycles, placing Collingwood in the top 5% of companies assessed worldwide.

Which markets do you serve?

The UK and the Republic of Ireland, served continuously since 1901.

Collingwood names new Managing Director

Leadership appointment supports the brand's growth strategy and continued investment in the UK market.

28 July 2026 · Collingwood Lighting · 1 min read

Collingwood Lighting has appointed a new Managing Director to lead the brand through its next phase of growth within Inovara Group.

The appointment follows a period of sustained investment in the UK market, including the expansion of the emergency lighting portfolio and a renewed focus on the electrical wholesale channel that has defined the business since 1901.

Priorities for the year ahead

Deepen the wholesale partnerships that carry the landscape, functional and emergency ranges.
Bring the site-adjustable downlight platform to every major distributor.
Hold the EcoVadis Gold standard across the supply chain.

Written by

James Hartley

Head of Brand, Collingwood Lighting ·
28 July 2026

Press & editorial enquiries:
press@collingwoodgroup.com

Frequently asked questions

: Collingwood was founded in 1901 as FEC Limited. It moved into electronics and lighting in 1961 as Collingwood VLM, and was renamed Collingwood Lighting in 2001 — making 2026 its 125th year.