A manufacturer of high-quality products for professional plumbers, Instantor, has been unveiled as exclusive headline sponsor of Plumbex trade show set to take place at the National Indoor Arena in Dublin over September 10th and 11th 2025.
Plumbex, part of the Bepex Trade Events, is firmly established as a must-attend exhibition for professional installers in Ireland. Instantor is one of the event’s longest-serving exhibitors and will be showcasing its latest plumbing innovations and market-leading press solutions alongside the pumping portfolio of sister brand Tucson Pumps on a flagship 51 m² stand.
As headline sponsor, Instantor will be promoted prominently in a comprehensive range of online and offline communications including pre-show, during show and post-show initiatives.
Debbie Moloney, Brand Manager at Instantor, explained: “In Ireland, Instantor is the recognised market-leader in press technologies. We provide the complete range including the Instantor Press system of fittings and Pex-al-Pex pipe, copper press fittings for water and gas, stainless steel press fittings and tube, and our brand-new R Press fittings for ACR applications. We also have a choice of user-friendly press tools, jaws and accessories. We’re delighted to have been named as headline sponsor of Plumbex Dublin and we are looking forward to, once again, talking to installers and merchants about how our products can help save time and money.”
Karen McAvoy from KMP Publishing, organiser of Plumbex added: “We’re thrilled to welcome Instantor as headline sponsor of our event in Dublin. They have supported our series of events strongly in recent years and this extension of our partnership further underlines the status of Plumbex as the industry’s leading trade show in Ireland.”
In addition to its main stand, Instantor will be providing breakout sessions delivering free competency training for its gas copper press fittings and Paktermo by Instantor CSST gas tube and fittings.
Instantor has utilised its extensive knowledge and experience of press fittings to design a brand new Press Tool. This was revealed to merchants, and plumbing and heating installers, at InstallerSHOW 2025. The ground-breaking new Instantor Press Tool is a major leap forward in tool technology, benefitting from a brushless, direct drive motor that delivers an outstanding, long-lasting performance.
Exclusively available from Instantor, the innovative new Press Tool is compatible with the current offering of trusted Instantor jaws and battery packs, and the improved balance and ergonomics ensure it’s more comfortable to hold. What’s more, for added peace of mind, Instantor is offering a market-leading 3 year warranty.
Further improvements include a digital OLED screen that advises users of press counts and the battery life, while indicating any faults that may arise. Designed to make pressing fittings easier, even in challenging environments, the new Press Tool from Instantor also benefits from an integrated work light for dark installations, while the swivel head helps with awkward angles. A press completion light has also been added, flashing green when a press is successful and red when incomplete, helping ensure reliable installations.
Neil Gaffney, Managing Director, Instantor, comments: “At Instantor, we strive on providing innovative, reliable and forward-thinking solutions to simplify tasks for installers. Built by plumbers, for plumbers, Instantor tools are made to make a positive difference, while giving the user the reassurance that it comes from a brand they can trust. We were delighted to be able to demonstrate our brand new Press Tool at InstallerSHOW 2025. It delivers a superior performance, while making the pressing process even easier, especially when access to pipes is restricted or obscured.”
Key features and benefits of the brand new Instantor Press Tool:
Manufacturer of high-quality plumbing products, Instantor has re-launched its website following a strategic redesign to deliver a more intuitive and user-focused digital experience. The updated platform reflects Instantor’s commitment to supporting installers, merchants, and specifiers with easy access to technical resources, product information, and practical tools, all within a streamlined, mobile-optimised interface.
A major focus for the website refresh was to create separate resource sections for installers, merchants and specifiers, which provides content produced specifically for each audience and so that they can quickly and easily find the most relevant and appropriate information. The new website also includes information on Instantor’s comprehensive training package including free training and competency sessions, and demo days at merchant trade counters. The new site provides further details with links to make an enquiry for booking a demo day, competency training or an apprentice session. Furthermore, the About us section captures an essence of the Instantor brand and details its rich history, dating back to 1926. Users can also download Instantor’s brochures and stay up to date with the company’s latest news.
With dedicated product pages for Instantor’s portfolio, including its latest products launched at InstallerSHOW 2025, the new website incorporates filters that allow for a smart, effortless search process whilst enabling users to quickly find the best product for any given requirement. For example, press fittings can be searched for by body material, operating pressure, operating temperature, size, profile and application. Technical specifications, certifications, warranty information and other product details are then available for the trade to make the correct product choices for any installation or project.
Ian Moss, Senior Divisional Digital Marketing and Projects Specialist at Sanbra Group, who project managed the development of the new site, comments: “The website refresh has been an extensive project that has spanned over eight months, and we are incredibly proud of what has been achieved. Our goal was to make life easier for the people who rely on Instantor every day, whether that’s on-site installers, busy merchants, or project specifiers. We’ve created a digital space that’s intuitive, informative, and tailored to the needs of the trade. From smarter product filtering to dedicated resource hubs and training support, the new platform is all about giving our customers quicker access to the tools and information they need to get the job done.”
The Instantor team hit the NEC Birmingham in full force this year for Installer Show 2025, and what a show it was! From 24th–26th June, Stand 4F18 became a hub of innovation, engagement, and energy — and we’re proud to say it was our biggest and most successful appearance to date.
Each corner of our stand hosted a dedicated demo zone. Visitors could get hands-on with:
We believe there’s no better way to understand our products than to see them in action — and our demo stations were buzzing from open to close.
This year, we added a little friendly competition into the mix with the Instantor Grand Prix — a live game where visitors raced to collect Instantor and Tucson icons and rack up points on our digital leaderboard. It wasn’t just fun, it was fierce!
We were joined by renowned MC Paul Booth, who brought high-octane energy to the track.
We hosted a special press reception for top titles in the industry, including Construction Magazine, Installer, Heating & Plumbing Monthly, and more. With food, drink, and a showcase of the latest Instantor innovations, it was a great way to connect with media and industry voices shaping the trade.
It wouldn’t be a party without a mascot, right? Stan, our iconic brass nut mascot, made his UK debut and stole the show (and a few selfies) — even teaming up with the Installer Wrench for a mascot double act we didn’t know we needed.
We’ve already started following up with the brilliant installers who took time to visit us — they’ll be hearing more about our new products in the coming weeks. For our merchant partners, the wheels are already in motion, with conversations progressing quickly.
Next year marks 100 years of Instantor, and you better believe we’re planning something special. We’ll be moving to Hall 5 with an even bigger stand, more innovation, and (if Stan behaves) maybe even a centenary surprise or two.
Thank you to everyone who stopped by, asked questions, tried out products, or just had a chat. We’re proud to support the trade — and proud to keep growing in the UK.
Every installer understands the challenges of working to tight deadlines and the risks posed by missing a single pressed joint. One unsealed fitting can lead to water damage, customer complaints, and costly callbacks. With this in mind, Instantor has introduced a Leak Before Press (LBP) option to its Press System solutions – a smart, fail-safe feature that gives installers peace of mind on every job.
In water-based applications, LBP fittings are designed to visibly leak under low pressure, if they haven’t been pressed. This creates an immediate visual alert, allowing plumbers to identify and correct any missed fittings before leaving the site. It’s a straightforward yet highly effective safeguard that helps prevent small oversights from becoming costly issues.
The new LBP Press fittings are an alternative option to the original, trusted, Instantor Press fittings, with no compromise on the quality or durability expected from an Instantor product. Manufactured from CW617N brass and 304 stainless steel, these fittings are built to last and deliver a reliable, corrosion-resistant seal. They’re available in sizes up to 32 mm and pair perfectly with the Instantor Pex-Al-Pex pipe.
Neil Gaffney, Managing Director, Instantor, comments: “At Instantor, we’re proud to continually enhance and update our trusted and established solutions to improve the working standards for installers. LBP fittings enable installers to spot any issues before they cause problems, they are a simple enhancement that adds major peace of mind and ultimately reduces callbacks. Backed by a 50-year warranty (when used with the Instantor Pex-Al-Pex pipe), they are another example of how Instantor is committed to delivering smarter, safer, and more efficient plumbing solutions.”
Key features and benefits of Instantor Leak Before Press (LBP) fittings:
In response to growing concerns over drinking water quality and associated health risks, Instantor has enhanced its market-leading range of compression fittings by introducing lead-free brass options.
The new lead-free compression fittings by Instantor are manufactured with CW511L brass*. This high grade material is used on all parts of the compression fittings that come into contact with the water supply. The material complies with the revised European Commission Drinking Water Directive, which aims to regulate the use of lead in components used in water supply systems. The current maximum limit for lead in drinking water is 10 μg/l. The revised directive states that by January 2036, the limit will decrease to 5 μg/l**.
Instantor has manufactured the original brass compression fitting since 1926 and continually refines its collections, paying close attention to industry needs and end-user feedback. The new compression fittings have been developed in response to increasing concerns over the impact that lead has on the quality of drinking water, which can result in health issues**. The lead-free compression fittings are suitable for use with copper and PEX tubes, and are available in imperial (½, ¾ and 1 inch) and metric (15, 22 and 28 mm) sizes to benefit both the UK and Irish markets.
What’s more, Instantor’s lead-free range of compression fittings is reassuringly approved by the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) and the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF). Additionally, as with all Instantor products, the new range has been exhaustively tested to ensure unrivalled performance and reliability. The fittings are available for immediate delivery to customers across the UK and Ireland.
Neil Gaffney, Managing Director, Instantor, comments: “For nearly 100 years, Instantor has been a trusted name in brass compression fittings, known for quality and reliability among installers, merchants, and specifiers. We are committed to providing innovative plumbing solutions that meet the latest market demands. Our dedication to engineering excellence is at the heart of our new lead-free brass compression fittings, ensuring the same trusted performance while adhering to the changes in legislation and improving the overall quality of drinking water.”
The Instantor Press System, an all-in-one solution combining press fittings and multilayer Pex-Al-Pex pipe, removes the need for heating and plumbing engineers to use heat-based methods such as welding and soldering. Driven by profound confidence in the durability and reliability of its products, following years of rigorous research, testing and development, the Instantor Press System now comes with an extensive 50 year warranty.
The Instantor Press System is designed to be a quick and easy solution for plumbing projects on any scale; domestic, commercial and industrial. Using a press tool, the installer simply crimps the fitting securely on to the pipe in three easy steps: cut, calibrate and press.
Instantor Press Fittings are manufactured using high-grade CW617N brass and 304 stainless steel, which are corrosion-resistant materials that are built to be long-lasting and reduce the risk of leaks or contamination. The Press Fittings are available in sizes from 16 mm up to 63 mm.
The Instantor Pex-Al-Pex is a multilayer pipe for use in potable water, underfloor heating and all general heating and plumbing applications. Available in sizes up to 63 mm in straight lengths and up to 32 mm in coils, it is butt-welded providing a solid and resilient finish and is 100 per cent oxygen and water vapour tight.
Andy Burton, Divisional Marketing Manager – Heating, Plumbing & Kitchens Division, Sanbra Group, says: “At Instantor, we’re committed to delivering reliable solutions that empower heating and plumbing professionals to work more efficiently and safely. Launched in 2015, and underpinned by ongoing research and development, the Instantor Press System has gone from strength to strength. Not only does the Instantor Press System simplify the installation process, but it also provides peace of mind that the installation will stand the test of time with our extensive 50 year guarantee.”
What’s more, Instantor boasts unrivalled stock holding including over 1.4 million metres of Pex-Al-Pex pipe at any given time, supported by a state-of-the-art distribution centre and advanced logistical capabilities to provide merchants and distributors with assured supply.
Andy adds: “Our brand new Mobile Training Academy has started visiting trade counters across the UK and we encourage anyone considering press fittings to come and learn about the Instantor Press System. We can provide a deeper understanding and demonstrations of our press solutions, as well as the Tucson Pumps portfolio in a dynamic, hands-on environment. Keep an eye on our social media channels to see where the Mobile Training Academy is heading next.”
Key features and benefits of the Instantor Press System:
Manufacturer of superior plumbing products, Instantor has invested in a brand new, dedicated training and demonstration vehicle. The Instantor Mobile Training Academy will be visiting trade counters, merchants’ head offices and plumbing colleges, in the UK and Ireland, to carry out expert training and product demonstrations on-site.
The innovative mobile unit is designed to provide a deeper understanding of Instantor press solutions and the Tucson Pumps portfolio in a dynamic, hands-on environment. Installers, merchants and students will have the opportunity to experience the ease and efficiency of making press joints first-hand in the dedicated demonstration area. Furthermore, Instantor’s latest competency training will also be available with the opportunity for installers to receive ID cards that demonstrate their approved proficiency in press fitting Instantor products.
Additionally, the vehicle enables Instantor to perform health checks on Instantor Press Tools, ensuring that installers who already use the Instantor Press System can maintain their tools in the best condition. It will also provide refreshments, allowing visitors time to engage with the Instantor team over a hot drink and a bite to eat.
Andy Burton, Divisional Marketing Manager – Heating & Plumbing Division, Sanbra Group, says: “The launch of our Mobile Training Academy is the latest milestone for Instantor and takes our commitment to supporting trade professionals to a whole new level. Not only will the mobile academy showcase how our products can deliver significant time and cost savings, it will also provide the latest competency training for Instantor installers and ensure merchants can stock our products with the confidence that they will provide the best solutions for their customers.
“Beyond this, the Mobile Training Academy presents us with the opportunity to support the next generation of plumbing and heating engineers. The vehicle will enable us to bring our state-of-the-art training to the doorsteps of colleges, giving students and apprentices the opportunity to gain experience on the benefits of press fittings first-hand. Inspiring young installers is an exciting prospect, and we look forward to having more opportunities to do so throughout 2025.”
Manufacturer of superior plumbing products, Instantor has again been acknowledged as one of Ireland’s Best Managed Companies, after receiving the 2024 Gold Standard Winner accolade at a recent awards evening.
The programme, run by Deloitte, recognises privately owned companies who are operating at the highest levels of business performance. The 2024 award marks the fourth consecutive year that Instantor has been recognised by the initiative.
Ireland’s Best Managed Companies continues to be the mark of excellence for privately owned and managed companies across Ireland. Every year since the launch of the programme in 2008, hundreds of entrepreneurial companies have competed for this designation in a rigorous and independent process that evaluates their management skills and practices. Those who are successful are acknowledged for mastering their growth strategies across all key management functions.
Alan Hogan – Heating, Plumbing & Kitchens Divisional Managing Director, says: “We’re extremely proud of the recognition that we have received for the hard work undertaken by the Instantor team in recent years. Instantor has manufactured state-of-the-art products for professional installers since 1926 in Ireland and we have established ourselves as the market leader in press solutions. We also launched the Instantor portfolio into the UK market in June 2024.
“We have dedicated tremendous effort into expanding our plumbing and heating product range, entered a new market and implemented a number of strategic improvements to our infrastructure, capabilities and processes. Being awarded the Gold Standard Winner accolade is a demonstration of our commitment and investment in maintaining our position as a market leading brand, and providing our valued customers with quality, reliable products and exceptional service.”
Brian Murphy, Lead Partner for Ireland’s Best Managed Companies Awards Programme, said: “The Irish economic growth story has been extraordinary, and we see this evidenced in the success of Irish indigenous businesses and the confidence shown by Best Managed Companies. Ensuring Ireland’s entrepreneurs and the companies they start get the support they need to grow and scale is crucial.”
Manufacturer of superior plumbing products, Instantor is welcoming installers to its brand new testing and training centre based in Santry, Dublin. Its first Discovery Day took place on 5th September 2024 with nine UK installers plus representatives from InstallerSHOW in attendance. Providing a unique insight into Instantor’s products, culture and values, as well as valuable training sessions, the Discovery Days are part of Instantor’s ongoing commitment to working in partnership with trade professionals.
The Discovery Days begin with a brief introduction to Instantor and the wider Sanbra Group, which Instantor is part of. Guests are then given a behind-the-scenes tour of the new visitor centre and testing lab to learn how products are designed, engineered and exhaustively tested.
Beyond this, installers are then able to get hands on with Instantor’s market-leading products with training sessions held by the experienced in-house team. This includes competency training on Instantor’s press fittings and multilayer Pex-Al-Pex pipe, plus its copper press systems for both gas and water applications. Upon completion of the training, the installers are presented with personalised competency ID cards.
Andy Burton, Divisional Marketing Manager – Heating & Plumbing Division, says: “We were delighted to welcome the group of installers to our first Discovery Day. Instantor recently completed a major research project to establish what installers really wanted from manufacturers. Product reliability and performance were two of the key findings and, with this in mind, we were determined to open our doors to show how Instantor excels and exceeds these requirements. Our facilities in Santry are truly world class and we want as many installers as possible to see and experience the core of our business.
“The testing lab gives us full control of our product development and testing process. Our test machines are comparable to those used in major independent UK and European test centres. Seeing is believing and the chance to show installers our rigorous testing process demonstrates the excellent reliability of our products, while the training sessions help installers to complete projects to the highest possible standards.”
In addition to learning about Instantor, the Discovery Days also provide installers with an insight into the innovative pumping solutions from Instantor’s sister company, Tucson Pumps.
Andy adds: “We aim to hold regular Discovery Days and will follow on from the success of our first. They will be invaluable in helping us build on our partnerships and support for installers even further.”
