Martin Smith, Conex Bänninger’s Business Unit Director – UK & Ireland, answers some questions on the company’s new M-Profile press-fit range <A> Press Copper.
Q. Why was the <A> Press Copper fitting range developed?
M-profile is the leading press-fit profile in the UK market and, until now, has not been available within the extensive Conex Bänninger portfolio of products. However, in response to demand from installers, we felt it time to introduce a solution of our own.
As a global leader in the manufacture of plumbing fittings and valves, the decision to launch <A> Press Copper made sound commercial sense addressing that gap and strengthening the overall offer and delivering a compelling new solution to the market.
With more than a century of innovation behind it, this new range aligns seamlessly with a long-standing strategy of providing a solution for every application. Rather than replacing existing systems, <A> Press Copper both supplements and complements the wider product catalogue, giving specifiers, installers and contractors greater flexibility and choice.
The M-profile market is undeniably competitive, and some may question the timing of this entry. Yet heritage, technical expertise and market understanding play a decisive role in success. However, extensive consulting with trade professionals convinced us that the introduction of <A> Press Copper was going to be welcomed by them.
The objective was clear: deliver a solution that prioritises quality, reliability and installer confidence, while offering genuine peace of mind on site.
Compatible with most standard M-profile jaws ensures ease of adoption, while the quick and straightforward installation process makes it ideal for both new-build and retrofit projects. A dependable two-point press delivers a permanent, flame-free connection, eliminating the need for hot works permits and reducing risk, time and complexity on site.
With over 115 years of experience in copper fitting design, Conex Bänninger is globally recognised for engineering excellence and product innovation. Its reputation has been built on a succession of trusted systems, including Conex Compression, >B< Press, >B< Sonic Copper Push-Fit and >B< MaxiPro. This depth of experience underpins every element of the new range, from material selection and manufacturing precision through to performance and durability.
As a result, specifiers, installers and contractors can approach <A> Press Copper with confidence. Designed as a true ‘fit-and-forget’ solution, the range benefits from meticulous attention to detail and rigorous quality control, backed by an experienced technical sales team. This combination of product integrity and professional support is central to delivering long-term value.
The business continues to invest in advanced manufacturing technologies while embedding sustainability into its operations, ensuring consistent, high-quality solutions for modern building systems. At its core is a clear focus on meeting the everyday needs of plumbers and installers, regardless of the task at hand. Whether installing a radiator, completing a repair or delivering a large-scale commercial project, the goal is to ensure the right solution is always close to hand.
The reality of today’s M-profile marketplace is one of overcapacity, with intense competition. Therefore, <A> Press Copper has been positioned as a competitive, premium-quality product that delivers genuine value for money.
While it is not the cheapest option on the shelf, it offers reassurance through the use of high-quality materials, technical expertise and the backing of a multinational manufacturer.
Q. What kind of applications is the range suitable for?
<A> Press fittings are quick and easy to install and are available in copper for drinking water applications. This flame-free range is designed with a 2-point press system featuring an unpressed joint indicator. It is suited to heating system applications, hot and cold water, solar and renewables.
Q. What sizes are available?
Available in 15–54 mm sizes, the product uses an unpressed-joint indicator O-ring, which indicates if a joint has not been pressed. The O-ring contains two in-built water pathways that allows water to pass through and create a noticeable leak when the system is tested at low pressure (0.1 to 6.0 bar).
Q. What is maximum operating pressure rating of the new range?
<A> Press Copper has a maximum operating pressure of 16 bar at a maximum operating temperature of 110°C. WRAS approved, the range also holds DVGW certification.
Q. What kind of feedback have you had from installers that have already seen the range?
The range was first previewed at InstallerSHOW 2025. Early feedback from installers has been overwhelmingly positive, with praise for the product’s solid feel, balanced weight and straightforward installation.
Compatibility with most standard M-profile jaws ensures ease of adoption, while the quick and effective installation process makes it ideal for both new-build and retrofit projects.
Q. Is a guarantee included?
When professionally installed, used and maintained in accordance with the installation instructions, <A> Press has a 25-years guarantee against material defects resulting in errors of manufacture from the date of purchase by the end-user.
Image: Conex Bänninger
