World News

Industry news and insights from Europe and around the World

UK News

Latest news and developments in the United Kingdom

Products

Keep up-to-date with the latest new products and technology

Features

General articles, applications and industry analysis

SIRACH workshop at IIR Congress

41511265_sUK: The UK’s SIRACH network is to host a workshop on differing global approaches to innovation at the forthcoming IIR International Congress of Refrigeration in Japan.

Established by the UK industry in 2008, and now part of the Institute of Refrigeration, SIRACH (Sustainable Innovation in Refrigeration Air Conditioning and Heat) has concentrated on innovation in the UK and Europe. However, the ways in which innovative projects are carried out and developed can vary around the world. This workshop will compare how innovation is approached in the UK, Japan and the USA and compare the differences and similarities and look to understand the drivers for success.

Speakers will include Dr Graeme Maidment, president of the IoR, Dr Andy Pearson of Star Refrigeration, Prof Pega Hrnjak of the University of Illinois and Prof Emeritus Koichi Watanabe of Keio University.

They will explore the main drivers for innovation, what environment nurtures innovation and how is it created, what interventions and drivers are there that help innovative products succeed and what role culture plays in innovation.

The workshop will take place on August 20, during the 24th IIR International Congress of Refrigeration, taking place in Yokohama.

Latest News

10th July 2026

DEFRA’s F-gas decision is a delay, not a reprieve

UK: Manufacturers’ group FETA has implored companies to continue prioritising lower-GWP refrigerants despite the delayed revision of Britain’s F-gas regulations.
9th July 2026

Epsilon Zero R290 heat pump from Swegon

ITALY: Swegon has introduced Epsilon Zero, a new range of R290 air-to-water heat pumps designed for light commercial applications and multi-family housing.
9th July 2026

Nordic Climate buys Meridian Cooling

UK: Swedish contracting group Nordic Climate is continuing to make inroads into the UK with the acquisition of Poole-based Meridian Cooling.
9th July 2026

Chiller company Smardt appoints new CEO

CANADA: Oil-free centrifugal chiller technology company Smardt has  appointed Sandeep Nair as its new CEO. He succeeds Albert Yam, who transitions to executive director on Smardt's board.
9th July 2026

HPA UK appoint governing body committee

UK: The UK heat pump association, HPA UK, has set up a new governing body committee to steer the Association’s strategy and direction. 
9th July 2026

Six through to WorldSkills UK final

UK: Two apprentices attending Glasgow Kelvin College and two from training provider Total People are amongst the six competitors who have won through to the RACHP WorldSkills UK final. The six…