Upex welcomes new apprentices amid AI growth

Independent electrical wholesaler Upex Electrical has welcomed two apprentices to its Yorkshire and Durham teams, reinforcing its commitment to people-first growth at a time when many firms are using AI to reduce headcount.

At Upex, technology is being used to empower staff rather than replace them. 

The firm has introduced AI-enabled workflows across sales, marketing and operations to remove repetitive admin tasks – freeing up time for staff to focus on customer service, mentoring apprentices, and developing their careers.

The new apprentices, Harry Ketley in Newton Aycliffe and Lewis Crabtree in Thirsk, are both enrolled on the Electrical Distributors’ Association (EDA) Trade Supplier Apprenticeship, gaining hands-on experience in products, service and commercial operations.

Harry said: “I’m excited to learn new skills and start my career in the industry.”

Lewis, pictured below, added: “For me, it’s about building product knowledge and customer service experience so I can really contribute to the business.”

From left, managing director Dan Mooney, Lewis Crabtree and Thirsk branch manager Jimmy Hall

Dan Mooney, managing director at Upex Electrical, added: “We’re proud to bring Harry and Lewis on board. 

“Our strategy is simple, invest in people, and use technology to make their jobs easier, not redundant. 

“AI handles the admin so our team can do more of what matters - serving customers, building relationships, and supporting the next generation of electricians.”

As well as expanding its team, Upex is developing a seamless online ordering platform for account customers and piloting an AI product assistant to handle routine queries. 

To deliver this digital roadmap, Upex has partnered with York-based digital agency Disruptor. 

Sam Risker, chief executive at Disruptor, added: “Working with Dan and the Upex team has been fantastic. 

“They had the vision and courage to embrace new ideas and trusted us to put the right AI strategy in place. 

“The result is a system that frees their people to focus on customers, while building strong digital foundations for growth. 

“This balance gives Upex a real edge.”

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