The Original Mini-Max (1988)
The year 1988 marked a pivotal moment for Fern Howard as it was the year we introduced our first product to the market: the Minimax (read more here). This launch signified a strategic shift for the company, moving beyond supplying components to offering a complete lighting fixture.
The Minimax was conceived as an energy-efficient bulkhead fitting utilising a GE T5 2D fluorescent lamp and featuring a polycarbonate base and diffuser. This design choice reflected the prevailing energy-efficient lighting technology of the era. The product quickly gained traction and became a popular choice within the UK’s wholesale market.
Not the First Upgrade and Not the Last One
Fern Howard is proud to announce the upgraded version of the legendary Mini-Max, ECO Mini-Max!
Earlier upgrades brought a complete shift from the original 2D technology to the more energy-efficient and longer-lasting LED. The currently released new version takes the single colour temperature 4000K PCB and single wattage driver to a new multi wattage and adjustable CCT.
Taking the energy rating from “E” towards “C“, will apply pressure on competition and the market to keep increasing the energy efficiency solutions. This is a market leading result for bulkheads, and it cannot go unnoticed!
Additionally, to the energy saving, it takes the work off the electricians and installers shoulders. With two conduit entries, pre-drilled cable entry at the back(sealed) and fixings for wall installation, it will take less effort to install. Giving the customer a TIME IN A BOX solution!
Visit our website to view the full range of the NEW Mini-Max ECO.
Leading the Way in Energy-Efficient Lighting
As a pioneer in the energy-saving lighting industry, Fern Howard has always been at the forefront of innovation, constantly seeking new breakthroughs in LED technology. Our latest Universal Gear Tray and now the ECO Mini-Max exemplifies this dedication to progress, achieving an extraordinary energy efficiency of up to 150lm/W.
This represents a remarkable up to 19% improvement over our current bulkhead, positioning it as the leading product in its category within the UK market*. This achievement is a testament to our commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions that cater to the evolving needs of our customers.
*Based on internal market research conducted in September 2022.
ECO Mini-Max Reaches impressive "C" Energy Rating
Utilising the same technology as our Universal Gear Trays, the ECO Mini-Max with an Energy rating of C is quite impressive given the current stringent regulations. The latest regulations in both the EU and UK have redefined energy labels for lighting products to enhance clarity and encourage better energy efficiency. These regulations, known as the Single Lighting Regulation (SLR) and the Energy Label Regulation (ELR), replaced older systems and now rate products on a scale from A to G, with A being the most efficient.
Previously, many LED products were rated as A++, but under the new system, these same products might now be rated F or E due to the recalibration aimed at promoting further innovations in energy efficiency. This recalibration ensures that there is room for future advancements and more efficient products to enter the market.
Additionally, these regulations also push for a circular economy approach, where products are designed to be more reliable, upgradeable, and easier to repair and recycle. This not only improves the product lifecycle but also reduces environmental impact by minimising waste.
For more detailed information on these regulations, you can refer to the full documentation on the European Commission’s website or the UK government’s legislation page.
Versatile and Adjustable for Optimal Lighting
The Mini-Max ECO bulkhead stands out with its adjustable power and colour temperature settings. This versatile feature not only helps wholesalers and retailers save valuable storage space but also provides users with unparalleled flexibility and adaptability.
Electricians and installers can select the desired colour temperature (warm light at 2700K, white light at 4000K, or daylight at 6500K) and adjust brightness levels (11W, 14W or 19W) to create the most comfortable lighting environment for any indoor space.
This customisation capability ensures that the lighting can be tailored to suit specific needs, enhancing the overall user experience. Take advantage of the Mini-Max ECO, with ideal use for Housing associations, youth centres, sports areas, walkways, car parks, and loading bays.
Extending Product Lifespan: The ECO Mini-Max's Role in Sustainability
In our commitment to reducing the environmental impact of solid waste, we focus on extending the lifespan of our products. The new Mini-Max ECO light fitting is designed with aluminium PCBs, providing excellent heat dissipation that significantly extends the product’s lifespan. This ensures it meets the highest standards among similar products, boasting an impressive lifespan of up to 50,000 hours (L80).
This longevity translates to fewer replacements and reduced waste, aligning with our sustainability goals and contributing to a greener planet.
TIME IN A BOX!
Fern Howard first introduced the TIME IN A BOX packing concept in 1997, which quickly become an incredible success with installers.
Fast forward to 2025 and the light fittings no longer have lamps and bulky gear trays with massive 2D modules. Our Light fittings, with gear trays hinged to the base now require even less time to install.
To up the game we have upgraded the Mini-Max ECO bulkhead with two conduit entry points, a pre-drilled cable entry point (with a seal), as well as provided the required fixings for the wall installation.
Electricians and installers, we made our move, it is time for yours! Choose, TIME IN A BOX and call our sales team at 01420 4700 400.
The Start of a NEW ECO Range!
The Mini-Max ECO is more than just an upgrade – it is a stepping stone to our new, company-wide ECO Range.
This commitment across all Fern Howard products focuses squarely on what matters in the UK market today:
- Market-Leading Energy Efficiency: Driving down running costs.
- Genuine Sustainability: Longer lifespans and responsible design.
- Future-Proofed Compliance: Meeting stringent UK energy regulations.
It is tangible proof of our dedication to innovation and providing cutting-edge, compliant solutions for UK installers, specifiers, and wholesalers. Expect further additions to the ECO range as well other exciting projects we are currently working towards.
Explore our latest NEW Mini-Max ECO!
Contact your local wholesaler, call us direct on 01420 4700 400, or email sales@fernhoward.com.
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