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Thrive in ’25: Cutting Costs & Boosting Efficiency
UK businesses are facing a challenging financial climate in 2025, with rising operational costs making it more difficult than ever to maintain profitability. The recent Budget announcements have introduced increases to employer National Insurance contributions, a higher National Living Wage, and continued high energy costs, all of which are putting pressure on businesses to find new ways to cut expenses. […]
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The evolution of refrigeration system control and management
Advanced system management for refrigeration systems is becoming a standard requirement for new designs and, increasingly, specified as a retro-fit to existing systems. These systems vary in complexity and the benefits they bring operators as Anthony Lomas, Operations Director of Ultra Refrigeration, explains. Refrigeration System Management Timeline This timeline highlights key developments in refrigeration system management over the decades, showcasing […]
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How Ultra Is Elevating Customer Care in 2025
In-House Upgrades for Exceptional Service It’s been a short while since our last newsletter because we’ve been exceptionally busy improving our systems and delivering outstanding projects! While our service team remained available over the Christmas holiday period, we used this quieter time to enhance our internal systems. These upgrades ensure a smoother, faster, and more responsive service for our customers. […]
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Why the Move to -15°C may not be a universal panacea for the cold chain
With the increasing urgency of addressing climate change and meeting net zero targets, coupled with the rising cost of energy, it’s no surprise that discussions around reducing energy consumption are centre-stage across most industries. In the refrigeration sector, one proposed solution is to raise the standard storage temperature of frozen foods from -18°C to -15°C. Proponents argue that this shift […]
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Unlocking Grants and Support for UK Businesses Investing in Net Zero Refrigeration Systems
As the UK accelerates its drive towards net zero emissions, businesses face increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices. Refrigeration systems are significant energy consumers, contributing heavily to carbon emissions. Upgrading to net zero refrigeration systems offers businesses a way to cut energy costs, reduce their carbon footprint, and align with government climate goals. Fortunately, UK businesses can access a range […]
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Nurturing Talent the Ultra Way
At Ultra, nurturing talent is more than just a policy—it’s a culture that has helped the company develop a strong workforce. Ultra’s apprenticeship programme plays a crucial role in this, guiding apprentices from their early steps in the industry through to becoming experts in refrigeration engineering. In this blog, we explore the journey of Finn Bayliss, who began as an […]
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Should Refrigeration System Design in the UK Be Adapted for Warmer Summers?
The UK is experiencing a marked change in its summer climate, with increasingly warmer and more prolonged heatwaves becoming the new normal. This shift poses challenges to various sectors, especially those that rely heavily on refrigeration systems. A key question now facing the refrigeration industry is whether design parameters, typically set around a maximum ambient temperature of 32°C, need to […]
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i-Air: A Bold New Approach to Cold Store Efficiency and Sustainability
In the world of business, true innovation often requires a leap of faith. It’s not enough to follow the well-trodden path; real success frequently demands the courage to step into the unknown, to take risks, and to embrace change with passion and conviction. This is particularly true in industries like cold storage, where traditional methods have long dominated the landscape. […]
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A Day in the Life – Refrigeration Service Engineer
Dean Carpenter, Regional Refrigeration Supervisor at Ultra Refrigeration, shares his thoughts about his role as an experienced refrigeration service engineer. A Day in the Life – Refrigeration Service Engineer My morning routine generally starts around 5.30AM. Waking early allows me to get a head start on the day and ensure everything is in order. The first thing I do is check my […]
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Reviving CFCs: A Controversial Perspective on Modern Refrigeration
In the realm of refrigeration, few topics are as contentious as the discussion surrounding chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). Once hailed as a revolutionary breakthrough for cooling technology, CFCs have long been condemned for their environmental impact. The Montreal Protocol of 1987 marked the beginning of the end for CFCs, as the world united to phase out these harmful substances. But as we […]
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