By sponsoring HIP LOY 2026, CORGI helps provide up-and-coming apprentices with valuable industry exposure, hands-on experience, and the opportunity to launch their careers with confidence and professional recognition.

HIP Learner of the Year 2026: What’s New

• For 2026, HIP will be touring six regions across England and Wales between January and February, bringing the competition to venues that include:
• This year’s Grand Final will again follow the regional heats, giving regional winners—and one highest-scoring runner-up—the chance to compete for the national title.
• Participants (Level 2 or 3 students/apprentices) must be aged 25 or under at the time of application.
• Entry is free, and every competitor receives a certificate for taking part, regardless of final placement.

Why CORGI Is Proud to Be Involved — And What We Bring to the Table

Supporting real-world skills and industry readiness

The competition tasks involve practical installation work — often mirroring the kinds of real-world plumbing and heating jobs learners will face in their careers. By backing HIP LOY, CORGI helps apprentices gain valuable hands-on experience under realistic conditions, building their technical confidence and professional readiness.

Showcasing CORGI’s Products and Solutions in Action

Through our sponsorship, our products are often used in competition tasks — reinforcing CORGI’s presence in the sector and highlighting how our solutions meet real installation challenges. This helps strengthen awareness of the CORGI brand and supports our commitment to providing industry-grade quality for installers.

Engaging Educators and Colleges via HIP’s “Meet the Lecturer” Sessions

HIP Magazine hosts a “Meet the Lecturer” series alongside the Learner of the Year competition, enabling educators to connect directly with trusted industry specialists such as CORGI. This initiative provides a valuable platform for lecturers to explore CORGI’s current offerings and the practical support we provide to the sector.

As recognised in HIP Magazine as Industry Specialists, CORGI uses these sessions to reinforce our position as a knowledgeable and trusted partner within the heating and plumbing industry. By participating in these sessions, lecturers gain insight into how CORGI supports both them and their learners throughout their careers.

Our diverse range of resources — including technical manuals, spare parts, workwear and specialist training support — helps equip educators with the tools they need to train the next generation effectively. This collaboration ensures that future professionals are well prepared with the latest industry knowledge and best practice, supporting a smooth transition into self-employment or modern, increasingly digital trade environments.

Looking Ahead: How CORGI Intends to Engage Through 2026 and Beyond

As HIP LOY 2026 unfolds across the country, CORGI will continue to:

• Actively support regional heats and the Grand Final through sponsorship and presence — helping ensure the competition remains a high-quality, industry-respected event.
• Provide products, technical documentation and support materials to colleges participating in HIP LOY, supporting both students and educators.
• Engage with educators through HIP’s “Meet the Manufacturer” sessions to build enduring relationships and help shape plumbing & heating training standards for the future.
• Share highlights from the competition (when social release permits), celebrating the dedication, skill and ambition of young learners — reinforcing CORGI’s commitment to the future of the trade.

HIP Learner of the Year continues to be one of the most important platforms for spotlighting emerging talent in the UK plumbing and heating industry. By backing this competition in 2026, CORGI is not only investing in the future workforce — we’re also contributing to a culture of excellence, innovation, and professional pride in the trade. We look forward to seeing the next generation of talent flourish, and to supporting them with the tools, knowledge and resources they need to succeed.

As the UK’s biggest event for the heating, plumbing, and renewable sectors, InstallerSHOW brings together professionals, innovators, manufacturers, and educators from across the industry to share ideas, showcase technology, and shape the future of the installer profession.

This year, CORGI Services was proud to be right at the heart of the action on Stand 5G43, where we rolled out CORGI Trade nationwide, introduced CORGI Skills to a new wave of professionals, and shared insights on the importance of trust, training, and technology in the home improvement and retrofit space.

Nationwide Rollout: CORGI Trade Takes Centre Stage

One of the headline moments for us was the official national launch of CORGI Trade – our innovative new platform designed to connect homeowners with certified, local tradespeople they can trust.

After a successful pilot in southern Scotland, the platform is now rolling out across the UK, and InstallerSHOW was the perfect place to introduce CORGI Trade to the wider installer community.

Engineers and tradespeople at the event were invited to register their interest, explore the platform, and discover how CORGI Trade removes the noise of lead-generation marketplaces by connecting consumers directly to a single, vetted tradesperson at a time – reducing competition, improving customer experience, and making it easier for professionals to do what they do best.

Training for the Future: Introducing CORGI Skills

Also launching at the show was CORGI Skills, our new training and certification initiative that helps installers upskill in high-demand areas such as retrofit, PAS 2035 compliance, and low-carbon technologies.

We were excited to share a free introductory course on Low Carbon Technology, available by scanning the QR code on our stand. This offering sits alongside our partner, CORGI Technical, who also made their free “Understanding Damp and Mould” course available to attendees – equipping professionals with knowledge that’s not only in demand, but essential for improving the safety and sustainability of homes across the UK.

Live Engagement: A Space for Great Conversations

Across the three days, our stand became a hub of activity , from in-depth chats with engineers and contractors to networking with manufacturers, industry leaders, and fellow organisations shaping the future of the built environment.

We even had the chance to speak with Prince Ansah of P&A Gas Services Ltd, who stopped by to talk about his experience as a gas engineer, the challenges in the field, and his impressions of CORGI Trade. The short interview will be shared on our channels soon, so keep your eyes peeled!

Exploring the Future of the Installer Profession

Beyond the stand itself, CORGI Services was proud to contribute to a number of powerful conversations during InstallerSHOW’s industry sessions – including panels focused on:

• The future of the installer profession
• Upcoming regulations and how to prepare
• Low-carbon installations, green skills, and smart home tech
• Challenges and opportunities in social housing and retrofit

These sessions reflected the shared urgency across the sector to prepare for the future – through training, collaboration, and a commitment to quality and trust.

Thank You to Everyone Who Made It Possible

We’re incredibly grateful to our partners, team members, licensees, and every visitor who supported us throughout InstallerSHOW. Whether you were there in person or followed our updates online, your support helps power our mission to deliver trusted services and drive positive change across the home improvement sector.

What’s Next?

With CORGI Trade now live and CORGI Skills gaining traction, we’re entering an exciting new chapter. Our focus remains on empowering professionals, protecting homeowners, and promoting innovation across heating, plumbing, and beyond.

If you missed us at InstallerSHOW, don’t worry – you can learn more about our services and join the movement by visiting:

🔗 www.corgitrade.co.uk
🔗 www.staging-node-g65bw9-csl1-dev-com.stackstaging.com

Or follow us on social to stay connected.

Catch Up on the Action

We’ll be sharing photos, interviews, and content from the show over the next few weeks, including insights from our team, feedback from visitors, and behind-the-scenes highlights. Follow us on social media and be part of the journey.

Whether you’re a homeowner looking for peace of mind or a tradesperson looking to grow your business, CORGI Trade is designed to serve as a modern, intuitive bridge between need and expertise — backed by a name that people know and trust 

What is CORGI Trade? 

CORGI Trade is a digital platform that empowers homeowners to request jobs and certified tradespeople to respond — all within a fully CORGI-branded ecosystem that ensures professionalism, safety, and service quality. 

The concept is simple: 

1. A homeowner visits the CORGI Trade platform and submits a request for work. 

1. The request is automatically matched to the nearest qualified tradesperson in our trusted database. 

1. The tradesperson receives the lead and can respond directly to the homeowner to arrange the job. 

The CORGI Trade platform is smart, scalable, and built for the needs of today’s connected homeowner — while giving tradespeople a streamlined way to access new business, build their reputation, and deliver the quality of work they’re known for. 

Why It Matters 

Trust is everything in our industry. And right now, trust is being tested — with rogue traders, questionable ratings platforms, and homeowners unsure where to turn. CORGI Trade offers a reliable alternative:
✅ No gimmicks.
✅ No public reviews manipulation.
✅ Just verified professionals, meeting real demand, under a brand that people recognise. 

As we transition toward a low-carbon future, the need for skilled, qualified engineers and installers has never been greater. CORGI Trade is our answer to that challenge — a way to support our tradespeople, reassure the public, and play our part in shaping a safer, smarter built environment. 

For Tradespeople: A Smarter Way to Grow 

For engineers, plumbers, and installers, CORGI Trade isn’t just a lead generator — it’s a business growth tool. 

Here’s what you can expect: 

📍 Location-based job allocation: Automatically receive nearby job requests in your area. 

📞 Direct homeowner contact: No middlemen. No delays. Just fast, clear communication. 

🛒 Built-in access to CORGI Family products: Need parts or tools? The platform includes links to CORGI Family partner suppliers for a more seamless workflow. 

🧰 Built for professionals: Only certified and competent tradespeople will be listed, upholding the CORGI standard. 

And because the platform is CORGI-branded from top to bottom, you’re not just another listing — you’re part of a trusted national network that consumers already believe in. 

For Homeowners: Confidence in Every Click 

Finding someone to work in your home shouldn’t feel like a gamble. That’s why CORGI Trade has been built with homeowner confidence at its core. 

Benefits include: 

🧑‍🔧 Verified, competent tradespeople only 

⏱️ Fast, no-fuss job request process 

📱 Direct contact with professionals — no call centres or chasing 

🟠 Backed by the CORGI name — a symbol of safety and standards for over 50 years 

Whether it’s a gas boiler repair, a new heat pump installation, or everyday plumbing needs, CORGI Trade helps homeowners find the right person, right away — with the reassurance that every tradesperson has been vetted to meet industry standards. 

A Win for the CORGI Family 

CORGI Trade also benefits our licensees and long-standing partners across the CORGI Family. By centralising job requests and integrating access to relevant products and services, the platform offers multiple commercial and branding benefits for everyone involved — from product suppliers to certification bodies. 

It’s a powerful example of the CORGI ecosystem in action, working together to support competent trades and informed consumers in one place. 

Continuing the CORGI Legacy 

CORGI Trade is more than a platform — it’s a new chapter in the CORGI story. 

A chapter where: 

• Trust is matched with innovation 

• Consumers are empowered with choice 

• Tradespeople are supported to thrive 

• And our commitment to standards evolves for the future 

We’re proud to lead the way — and excited for what comes next. 

Stay tuned for the official launch date and follow our journey as we roll out CORGI Trade across the UK.
👉 Want to learn more or be part of it? Visit the CORGI Trade website or follow us on social media for updates. 

We caught up with Deborah to hear more about what it meant to represent CORGI Services on the road and why supporting future engineers matters more than ever. 

A Flying Start to 2025 

“This year’s competition has been electric,” says Deborah. “There’s been so much energy and excitement in every regional heat, and you can really feel how much it means to these learners. It’s been a flying start to the year for us at CORGI Services and being there in person has made it all the more meaningful.” 

From Manchester to Exeter, Deborah travelled to each location to meet the finalists, speak to tutors, and see the next generation of plumbing and heating engineers in action. 

Why Sponsorship Matters 

“For CORGI Services, sponsoring this award is about more than brand visibility. It’s about building relationships, inspiring confidence in the trade, and showing learners that they are valued,” she explains. “These young professionals are going to shape the future of energy, renewables, and safe home environments.” 

Supporting the Learner of the Year Award aligns directly with CORGI’s commitment to raising standards in the sector and promoting a skilled, confident workforce. 

Standout Moments 

Asked about standout memories from the events, Deborah recalls: 

“One of the most inspiring things was watching how seriously the learners took the competition. The level of skill, especially under pressure, was outstanding. And I loved seeing how proud their families and tutors were, that sense of community was powerful.” 

What’s Next? 

With the grand final around the corner, CORGI Services will continue to follow the journey of the finalists and celebrate their achievements across our platforms. Deborah’s message to this year’s competitors? 

“You’re already a success. Making it to a regional heat is no small feat, and you should be incredibly proud of yourselves. Keep learning, keep pushing, and know that the industry needs you.” 

Supporting the Future 

At CORGI Services, we’re proud to champion young professionals entering the industry. The HIP Learner of the Year Award is just one of the many ways we’re investing in the future of home services, alongside CORGI Trade, CORGI Skills, and our partnerships across the sector. 

Stay tuned as we share more highlights from the regional events and shine a light on the people and organisations shaping the next generation of excellence. 

Our very own Deborah Stephenson, Business Development Manager, recently represented CORGI at the regional heats of the competition, visiting Weston College, Weston-Super-Mare, on 14th January and Gower College, Swansea, on 16th January. These visits not only reinforced CORGI’s sponsorship of the event but also allowed us to engage directly with the future workforce of the industry.

While the official event photographs remain under wraps to ensure a fair competition, excitement is already building online. HIP Magazine has shared video highlights across their LinkedIn and social media channels, capturing the energy of the competition and the enthusiasm of the apprentices.

Showcasing CORGI’s Practical Impact

During her visits, Deborah was able to see CORGI Controls products being used in the competition tasks, reinforcing the brand’s presence in the sector. Additionally, she previewed professional images featuring CORGI-branded filters, which will serve as valuable assets in our ongoing efforts to promote brand awareness and product innovation.

Engaging With Educators Through the ‘Meet the Lecturer’ Initiative

One of the key highlights of Deborah’s visit was the opportunity to engage directly with lecturers from the participating colleges. Through dedicated presentations, she introduced educators to CORGI’s comprehensive support offerings, including resources from our licensees.

Lecturers responded with enthusiasm, particularly appreciating the practical benefits of CORGI Direct manuals and paperwork.  With many apprentices preparing to embark on self-employment or move into digitalised work environments, CORGI’s solutions are set to make a significant impact on their career journeys.

Looking Ahead: HIP Female Skills Competition 2025

Following the success of these events, Deborah will next attend the HIP Female Skills Competition 2025. While CORGI is not an official sponsor of this event, we are excited to continue promoting the CORGI brand and engaging with educators and apprentices at every opportunity.

At CORGI, we remain committed to supporting skills development within the industry. By actively engaging with apprentices and educators, we are helping shape the future of the trade, ensuring that the next generation is equipped with the knowledge, resources, and opportunities they need to succeed.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to champion excellence in the heating and plumbing sector!

Band of Builders is a unique charity that provides practical, financial, and emotional assistance to members of the construction community facing hardship. From home adaptations for tradespeople living with life-altering injuries to offering vital support for families in crisis, Band of Builders embodies the values of care, compassion, and solidarity. CORGI is honoured to join forces with such a vital organisation, amplifying its efforts to make a tangible difference in the lives of tradespeople across the UK. 

CORGI’s Chief Executive Officer, Anna Scothern commented on the partnership:  “We couldn’t be more thrilled to become an Associate Supporter of Band of Builders. This charity does extraordinary work to support the backbone of our industry: the tradespeople who build, repair, and maintain the spaces where we live and work. At CORGI, we’ve always believed in championing those who make our communities thrive, and this partnership is a natural extension of that mission.” 

Supporting Tradespeople: A Shared Mission 

The partnership with Band of Builders aligns perfectly with CORGI’s ongoing role as a sponsor of the National Home Improvement Council (NHIC). As a sponsor, CORGI actively promotes initiatives that raise standards, celebrate excellence, and provide much-needed support to trades professionals. This collaboration aims to create safer homes and workplaces while championing the invaluable contributions of the trades community. 

By joining Band of Builders, CORGI extends its commitment to addressing the real-life challenges faced by tradespeople. This partnership reflects CORGI’s belief in the power of community and the importance of supporting those who dedicate their lives to improving the built environment. 

Building a Brighter Future Together 

As an Associate Supporter, CORGI will work closely with Band of Builders to: 

• Raise awareness about the vital role tradespeople play in society and the challenges they face. 
• Support life-changing projects that directly benefit tradespeople and their families. 
• Engage the wider industry in creating a culture of compassion and support.
  

Band of Builders CEO, Gavin Crane, shared his enthusiasm for the partnership:  “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome CORGI as an Associate Supporter. Their reputation for safety, quality, and community aligns perfectly with our mission to support tradespeople through some of their toughest times. This partnership is a testament to the shared belief that no member of our construction family should ever face hardship alone. Together, we can make a lasting impact and continue building brighter futures for those who are the backbone of our industry.” 

About CORGI 

For over 50 years, CORGI has been a trusted name in promoting safety, trust, and expertise in the trades industry. From certifications and training to advocacy and industry support, CORGI’s mission is to empower tradespeople and enhance safety and standards across the built environment. 

About Band of Builders 

Band of Builders is a registered charity dedicated to helping members of the UK construction industry and their families in times of need. Founded on the belief that no tradesperson should face hardship alone, the charity brings together volunteers, supporters, and sponsors to deliver life-changing projects that embody the spirit of solidarity. 

For more information on CORGI’s partnership with Band of Builders or its work with the NHIC, please contact: 

Claire Comber, Marketing Manager Email: ccomber@staging-node-g65bw9-csl1-dev-com.stackstaging.com Phone: 020 3457 3703 Website: www.corgi.com 

As a long-standing advocate for safe and sustainable homes, CORGI Services is committed to supporting the transition to low-carbon energy, aligning with the NHIC’s mission of creating healthier, more energy-efficient homes for all.

The transition to renewable energy sources is no longer a distant ambition—it’s a necessity. As the UK moves towards meeting its net-zero targets, the home improvement sector plays a pivotal role in making this shift.

From energy-efficient heating systems to renewable energy installations, CORGI Services is at the forefront of helping homeowners reduce their carbon footprints while enhancing comfort and safety.
Supporting this event reinforces our commitment to the future of low-carbon homes. We believe that collaboration across the industry, government, and consumers is crucial in driving change. Our work with NHIC ensures that we are contributing to a shared vision of a greener, more sustainable future for the UK housing stock.

Additionally, as advocates for mental health and well-being, CORGI Services recognises the importance of supporting both the physical and mental health of professionals working within the sector. This holistic approach to the workforce’s well-being aligns with NHIC’s mission and is an essential factor in ensuring that the sector can meet the demands of the energy transition.

The Parliamentary Luncheon is a key platform for us to champion not only renewables but also the people who are driving these changes within the industry. We are excited to be part of this conversation and look forward to contributing to the long-term sustainability of homes across the UK.

As we look ahead to NHIC’s 50th anniversary campaign, “Home is Where Our Heart Is,” we’re eager to continue our collaboration and advocacy for a better, greener future.