Senior’s 2020 Vision 27
ODL Europe Launches New Glass Range 47
Best Ever Year For GGF Brand Awareness 63
WINDOWNEWS
CONTENTS WINDOW NEWS
W INDOWNEWS THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS
TRADE NEWS 4
INDOW NEWS WGERALD 36 DEAR INDUSTRY DIRECTORY PEOPLE 30
WINDOW
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Cover picture: Integral blinds specialist IGUNEWS manuTHE LATEST INDUSTRY
facturer HiTech Blinds has reportedl exponential market growth, read more on page 19
WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020 3
TRADE NEWS
Finance Specialists
Improveasy Named The
UK’s 23rd
Fastest
Growing
Business Record-Breaking End To
Victorian Sliders’
Improveasy Managing Director, Austin Barcley
Leading home improvement finance principal Improveasy, has been named the 23rd fastest-growing privately-owned company in the UK. That’s according to the annual Sunday Times Virgin Atlantic Fast Track 100 report, which ranks companies on their performance over the past three years. Manchester-based Improveasy secured their place following a remarkable three years of consistent year-on-year growth. In fact, Improveasy has grown by an astonishing 138% in the last year alone. Managing Director, Austin Barcley attributes their overwhelming performance to the success of their flexible finance packages, helping hundreds of installers nationwide answer the changing buying habits of today’s consumer. www.offercustomersfinance.com 4 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
Bumper 2019 Said to be Europe’s biggest sash window manufacturer, Victorian Sliders is celebrating a record-breaking end to a successful 2019. The company made a staggering 2,347 windows in the second week of December, more than any other in its fifteen-year history. It comes as the South Wales firm reaches the end of a year that saw it register an 8.98% growth in sales – something which Group Managing Director Andy Jones says will set the tone for 2020. “We’ve got some incredibly ambitious plans for the twelve months ahead,” Andy comments. “We’ve invested £10m over the last five years to lay the foundations for the next phase in our history – and in 2019, we’ve seen that really start to bear fruit. “Now, we’re able to produce
more windows, more quickly, to higher standards than ever before. But in 2020, that’s going to accelerate even further. “By the middle of the year, we’ll have launched the next generation of EcoSlide window, an ingenious new design we’ve developed entirely in-house, and we’re planning to spend a further £1.8m on other projects.
“Some of this will go on bringing more state-of-the-art technology to our recycling centre and mixing plants – and we may have a few surprises in store on the product front before the year is out. “All in all, we’re delighted with our performance in 2019, and are gearing up for even bigger and better things in 2020!” For more information visit www.victoriansliders.co.uk or call 01269 846200.
TRADE NEWS
Window Supply Company To Expand After
Receiving Investment From BGF
deliver on this growth potential the business needed investment and we are delighted to have secured this funding from the team at BGF.”
Livingston-based Window Supply Company (WSC), which manufactures and distributes high quality window products, has secured a £2m equity investment from BGF, said to be the UK and Ireland’s most active investor in growing businesses.
capacity three-fold over the next five years, as well as more than trebling its number of trade counters. There will also be significant investment in people, with staff numbers expected to more than treble over the next three years to 125.
WSC manufactures PVCu and aluminium windows, doors and conservatories from its manufacturing facility in Livingston, supplying builders, joiners and window installation companies across Scotland through its network of 5 trade counters based in Aberdeen, Dundee, Glasgow, Edinburgh and Livingston.
Duncan Murray, CEO of Window Supply Company, said: “Our trade counter model and the high standards we demand when it comes to quality and service have combined to help us gain strong market traction in a short space of time. There has been an increasing market shift towards trade as the primary route to market for windows, doors and conservatories and the response we have received from customers has given us the confidence to embark on this ambitious expansion plan.”
WSC’s current team of 40 is led by chief executive Duncan Murray, alongside operations director Martin Linden and executive director Ron Hepburn, all of whom have extensive experience in the industry. Murray, Hepburn & Linden founded the business in March 2019. The company will use the investment received from BGF to support its plans to scale the business on the back of significant customer demand. WSC is aiming to grow its manufacturing
Ron Hepburn, executive director of WSC added: “From a standing start less than a year ago, the business has achieved strong revenues and we are forecasting that demand will almost double within the next 18 months. We believe there is significant opportunity to replicate our business model in other geographies. To
Patrick Graham, Head of Central Scotland & Northern Ireland at BGF, said: “WSC is a relatively young company but its founders and management team have vast amounts of experience and an established track record of growing businesses in this sector. We know from working with them previously that Duncan, Ron and Martin have a clear focus on providing high quality in both their products and their customer service and we are excited by the prospects for the future growth of the company. “The team has set ambitious but achievable growth plans to replicate its model across a broader geography and we are delighted to be providing the funding and support to execute them.” As part of BGF’s investment Maurice McBride will join the company as non-executive chair. McBride is a seasoned non-executive director who has worked with numerous growth companies across the UK, including Premier Hytemp and Parklands Group, an Aberdeen business also backed by BGF. McBride will work closely with the team and will bring his expertise, guidance and knowledge to support management’s growth plan. BGF provides patient capital to businesses with revenues typically between £5m and £100m in exchange for a minority, non-controlling stake. It initially invests between £1m and £10m and can provide additional funding to support further growth. www.bgf.co.uk WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020 5
TRADE NEWS
Double R Starts
2020 With A Bang!
IG Doors
Celebrates
20 Years With Spectus
IG Doors in Blackwood, South Wales, is one of the market leaders in the new build and social housing refurbishment sectors. It has also been a Spectus fabricator since 1999 and has just signed a new three-year supply agreement with the systems house. Rhys Davies of IG Doors said: “We choose our supply partners very carefully – our reputation depends on getting it right. We continue to work with Spectus because the product quality and service is superb and they continue to proactively support our business needs.” As well as praising the quality of the product and service, Rhys also highlights the quality of the technical support the company receives. He said: “For two decades we have worked closely with the Spectus technical team and this proactive support has been invaluable to us.” IG Doors buys the Elite 70 bevelled door outerframe from Spectus. It uses the outerframe with its GRP composite doors, which is a key product line for the company, not least because it was one of the first companies to bring composite doors to the UK market, claims the company. 6 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
Ian Simms
Double R Glass & Roofing Systems Ltd is delighted to announce that it has kickstarted 2020 in style with glass sales up 13% at the end of 2019 compared with the previous year. Overall company sales across glass and conservatory roofs have increased by half a million in the same period. The company is also showing no signs of slowing down with the announcement that 8 new members of staff have joined Double R in January. “The glass sector is in a constant state of flux at the moment, with the supplier landscape seemingly changing by the week,” says Ian Sims, Managing Director of Double R. “As a result, an increasing number of fabricators and installers are prioritising security and a stable supply chain when looking for an IGU partner. We have always prided ourselves on putting customers first, genuinely, and we have found over the past few years that this approach has become particularly pertinent. It’s not easy, in fact we
probably had more than our fair share of problems last year, but we worked hard to rectify them quickly and keep our customers informed and as a result didn’t lose any business through the number of challenges we faced. “As well as standing by our customer focused principles, we have also continued to invest in the business to ensure we have the machinery and people to stay ahead of the increased demand we’ve seen for our sealed units, decorative glass and our conservatory roofs. We have recently employed a further 8 people – 7 joining our production team and another engineer – for just this purpose. “In such a competitive and crowded market, we’re pleased to start this year in such a robust position and look forward to continuing to support our IGU and conservatory roof customers with their ambitious plans for 2020 and beyond.” To find out more visit www.glassandroofs.com
TRADE NEWS
Victorian Sliders Supercharges
Glass Line With £250,000 Lisec Investment Victorian Sliders, has invested over half a million pounds in sealed unit production.
ahead.” Victorian Sliders have invested more than £10m in the last five years, acquiring an extensive range of state-of-theart cutting, welding, cleaning and extrusion equipment. But that’s just the start of the company’s ambitions.
With the acquisition of a £250,000 Lisec fully-automated sealed unit line, the company has significantly expanded its glass capacity – just in time for the busiest and most ambitious year in its history. It’s just the latest purchase in a series of investments designed to lay the foundations for extensive growth in 2020 and beyond, as Group Managing Director Andy Jones explains. “A lot of people don’t realise that Victorian Sliders isn’t really a fabricator – it’s a manufacturer. “Fabricators put together components they’ve bought
from elsewhere. At Victorian Sliders, we do it all ourselves – the extruding, the sealed units, the foiling, the painting, the vacuum forming, the recycling, and more. “With the Lisec machine, we’re now able to produce more sealed units, more efficiently – something that will prove vital as we seek to ramp up our volumes in the year
“Next year, we’ll be investing a further £1.8m, taking our recycling operation to the next level, and unveiling a number of exciting new additions to our product range. “It’s that commitment to constant improvement that’s made Victorian Sliders the biggest and best sash window manufacturer in our industry.” For more information visit www.victoriansliders.co.uk or call 01269 846200. WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020 7
TRADE NEWS cost route – to an effective retail marketing campaign.” Retail support can be accessed by Emplas Approved Installers through their EVA login, or via their dedicated customer support assistant.
Ryan Johnson, Managing Director, Emplas
The Installer Network
Without The Tie-In Emplas has launched its new Approved Installer Scheme, offering wide-ranging lead generation and sales support, plus plug-in-and-play digital retail sales tools.
Part of the trade-specialists customer service and support offer, qualifying members of the scheme get access to dedicated lead generation, including network listing; real-time lead distribution; automated customer response and real time reporting. They can also access a free retail window and door configurator website plug-in, allowing homeowners to develop a visual representation of their new windows and doors and see them in different colour options. Emplas Approved Installers can also upload a 360° ‘own-label’ virtual tour of Emplas state-ofthe-art manufacturing facility, plus dedicated consumer product showcase videos. The comprehensive support package also includes show8 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
room support and sales materials and literature, branded product brochures, technical guides, downloads and product image bank. Customers can also access website and SEO support through digital specialist, ICAAL as an approved Emplas partner. Ryan Johnson, Managing Director, Emplas said: “Retail lead generation is tough. Our customer support strategy is twofold. We’re generating retail leads direct for our customers but we’re also making tools and resource available to them to support their own campaigns. “This includes a retail window and door configurator, which can be uploaded to their website and allows consumers in effect to build their own window or door and try out different colour options, plus access to print and other retail collateral that we’ve trialled and developed within our own retail business. “It’s a short-cut – and far lower
The launch comes after a call last month by Emplas for installers with experience in, or the ability to enter the commercial sector. It was made after the trade specialist sector, became inundated with leads from housebuilders. “We’re continuing to see exceptional demand from new build”, continued Ryan, “and we’re still very keen to speak to installers with new build and commercial installation experience, or with the infrastructure to enter the market for the first time, including experience in Window Designer.” Emplas has invested more than £5m investment programme on its shop floor since 2017, giving it increased capacity but also flexibility with two fully automated window lines and with 90% of products going through just two Rotox 8-head welders. This brings Emplas’ weekly capacity up to 3,200 frames across two shifts. “We’ve got the infrastructure right and we have capacity to grow and grow sustainably”, Ryan said. “This brings our focus very much back to customer support, particularly lead generation – across sectors. “We’re making tools available to members of the new Approved Installer Network, without any complex tie-ins or commitments. Simply that they share our values and commitment quality and customer service. For more information on Emplas visit www.emplas.co.uk
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How Is REHAU Responding
To Last Year’s UN Climate Change Conference Agenda? By Martin Hitchin, Chief Executive, REHAU UK
centage of profiles produced using recycled material rising from 25% to over 40% since 2014, and set to increase to 50% next year. Why have we done this? Because action is needed to preserve the planet for future generations.
“The 25th UN Climate Change Conference ended in December with a plea for business to do more to combat climate change. We at REHAU welcome the comments made at the conference, having taken this call to action seriously for many years. “The need for business to improve the sustainability of their manufacturing processes to benefit the environment is not new news. However, it has been thrown into stark relief at the UN’s recent conference, and the term circular economy is now on everyone’s lips. More needs to be done and REHAU has taken this to heart long ago, having manufactured window profiles 10 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
from old recycled PVC window material since 1988. “By implementing a closed material cycle, we have conserved natural resources and reduced CO2 emissions, with the per-
“To that end, we have set up a Europe-wide network to ensure over 70,000 tonnes of used PVC materials are recovered and funnelled into production via internal and external processing plants – approximately the weight of the 345-metre long cruise ship Queen Mary II. Since the profiles are extruded from recyclable PVC material, they can pass through this cycle seven times. “We are also investing heavily in in-house and external recycling
TRADE NEWS facilities to close material cycles, having spent over 65 million euros in the past few years. Beneficiaries of this investment include the REHAU Group’s two recycling companies DEKURA and PVCR, and our Polish plant in Srem, all of which process large volumes of recyclable PVC and produce new window profiles. “These new profiles are then co-extruded from a mix of this recyclate and new material at our Wittmund, Srem, Blaenau and Morhange sites, with the internal recyclate content paired with REHAU’s HDF surface. Because we have optimised the recycling processes at all these sites, we have been awarded the renowned VinylPlus product label – the first and only window manufacturer to receive this certificate at all our European locations. “Finally, our sustainable window profiles marketed under the new REHAU EcoPuls label save around 90% in carbon emissions when compared to conventional profiles, due to the use of recycled material. This results in 97,000 tons of CO2 saved per year – approximately the same as a forest of 7,800,000 trees, which is roughly the size of Berlin. These EcoPuls windows are also highly energy-efficient, combining reduced energy loss benefits with their sustainability credentials. “In summary, REHAU are committed to relieving the burden on our environment, and thoroughly agree with the message sent by the UN’s Climate Change Conference. Manufacturers need to take bold, decisive action when it comes to improving sustainability, and initiatives that establish circular economies are a welcome first step. Indeed, companies could do worse than follow REHAU’s lead on this.”
New Year High For Atlas
Atlas Glazed Roof Solutions has announced that it is more than 15% ahead of budget for new business, with many new installers benefiting from the multi award-winning showroom support package from the company. Gareth Thomas, sales and marketing director at Atlas, says: “2019 was a terrific year for Atlas and we are delighted to have welcomed so many new customers on board. We fully expected demand to be high for our Lantern 2.0 because it is the best lantern available on the market today, but we’re very pleased with how the Atlas Flat Rooflight has performed, with year on year sales up by 16%. In a challenging market, we’re really proud to have achieved these impressive results and we’re looking forward to sharing a great year ahead with all of our customers.” The company says the Atlas Flat Rooflight was created to deliver ‘ALL SKY AND NO ROOF’, bringing ultimate performance and maximum light in a sleek, minimalistic design. And, like the Atlas Lantern 2.0, it has
been designed to be easy to fit to help installers speed up their installations and enhance their profits. “Installers have definitely caught on to the incredible selling potential of these products, which are perfect for the growing flat roof extension market,” adds Gareth. “And we’ve seen a marked increase in the number of firms installing display products in their showrooms. We do encourage our customers to invest in their showrooms because we know that they’re likely to sell a third more products because of them. There really is no better way to show off the contemporary look and minimalistic design of the Atlas range – when homeowners see how good the display looks, it makes an easy sale for the installer.” Installers are now also able to source the Atlas lantern and flat rooflight through Stevenswood trade counters and the products are on display in many of Stevenswood’s national network of 34 branches. www.atlasroofsolutions.co.uk WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020 11
TRADE NEWS
40 Fabricators Switch
To Deceuninck For ‘Better Products And Better Service’ nies, 11 (28%) from middle sector systems, and 7 (18%) from budget sector systems companies. One was a new start.
Soaring Sales of
Carl F Groupco’s Tilt & Turn Fittings
Hardware distributor Carl F Groupco reports exceptional growth in orders for tilt & turn fittings. Commenting on the significant expansion of sales for the company in this sector, Carl F Groupco’s Managing Director John Crittenden said: “Credit must be given to our team who provide a comprehensive and responsive service to our customers. Specific focus has been given to tilt & turn product lines, including support and promotion for Roto’s NT tilt & turn solution: the system, which was added to our catalogue in February 2019, has widened our selection for customers, particularly within the commercial and specification sectors. “Our distribution facilities allow for the supply of hardware to fabricators of any size. A key reason that we have won business and increased turnover is because no request is too large or small. At Carl F Groupco we fulfil orders from one off windows through to major contracts, with full service and support whatever the size of contract.” www.carlfgroupco.co.uk 12 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
Deceuninck MD, Rob McGlennon
Deceuninck says in the last three years, no fewer than 40 fabricators switched to Deceuninck from a total of 10 different systems companies. These forty fabricators are a mix of types and sizes from the very large through to the medium and small. Some specialise in commercial, some in new build housing or retail. Many are trade fabricators, others are a mix of trade, retail and commercial. Most moved from other premium sector systems, but many have switched from middle or budget systems, so some are paying a good deal more to get what they need to grow. But the reasons they give for joining Deceuninck are more choice, an unbeatable colour offering, the Heritage Flush family, better service and relationships, and the opportunity to grow. Deceuninck’s strong green credentials, with one of the largest, most modern recycling plants in Europe, has also been a strong contributory attraction. Twenty-two (55%) switched from premium sector systems compa-
Deceuninck Managing Director Rob McGlennon said: “No fabricator takes the decision to switch systems lightly. It’s a big undertaking. They do it because they feel they must – to remove the brakes that are holding them back, and to acquire the growth factor, the competitive edge that will enable them to win business and grow in good markets and bad. In the case of these 40 fabricators who moved to Deceuninck in the last three years, it was the right decision because their sales are flying! As are ours. “These fabricators were hungry to succeed. Our philosophy is to partner fabricators and give them #BestInClass products, support and service so they do well. Deceuninck fabricators set themselves apart with colour and products like the Heritage Flush Window, Heritage Flush Door and Slider 24 patio door. Most of them now sell over 50% colour – our overall sales are 60% foiled – nearly twice the market average. “In a market that’s reported to be down around 10%, we finished 2019 a clear 20% up. And we topped a great year by winning ‘Component Supplier of the Year’ at the G19s. And better still, two customers walked away with coveted prizes too. Sternfenster won ‘Fabricator of the Year’ and Nolan uPVC won ‘Installer of the Year’. Here’s to a prosperous and successful 2020!” www.deceuninck.co.uk
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TRADE NEWS
GGF Best Placed For
Brexit Readiness
Following the outcome of the recent General Election and with a Conservative Government and clear majority in parliament, it now looks likely that the UK will withdraw from the European Union next year. The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) has been in constant liaison with the Government department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) on Brexit and its implications for the glass and glazing sector. In October 2019, the GGF gained funding from the Government to prepare for Brexit. With this government grant the GGF has produced an information brochure and a new section of the GGF website. In the coming weeks and months, the GGF will
the Brexit Bill still needs to go through Parliament, however with a Conservative majority, it is likely to be passed in Parliament. The default position – if the Bill is not passed and MPs reject the Bill, the UK would leave without one.
continue to update GGF Members and the industry on the changes as they happen. The Brexit date is currently set for 31 January 2020. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has already agreed a deal with the EU, but
Product Quality Most
Important To Homeowners The latest Certass Trade Association members survey has found that product quality is the most important thing for homeowners, with more than 96 percent of respondents saying that product quality was extremely important or very important to their customers. Second on the list was finish of work (94 percent) and courteousness came in third at 91 percent. Jon Vanstone, Chair at Certass Trade Association, says: “These results confirm that homeowners aren’t necessarily price-driven when they are choosing an installer to fit their new windows, doors and 14 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
conservatories, though it is still an important factor. “What’s more important to them is the quality of the products they fit in their homes, polite and friendly fitters and the high standard of work that our members offer. This is what sets the local tradesper-
With or without a deal, you can currently read the potential impact of Brexit and various scenarios drawn up by GGF and industry experts in the GGF Brexit Hub. The Brexit Hub contains information on legislation, policy, technical standards, import/export scenarios and latest news. To find out more and to stay informed please visit www.ggf.org.uk/brexit-hub son apart from the large, national retailers and it’s proven by the thousands of positive reviews we receive for our members from their customers. That’s why we champion local installers.” The survey also indicates the growing trend for window installers expanding into other areas of home improvement, with 38 percent of respondents saying that they undertook extension work and 34 percent involved in roofing work. Jon adds: “Some really interesting stats came back from this survey and these will drive our initiatives going forward, so that the package we offer to members is relevant and helps them to tackle the problems they face on a day-to-day basis.” www.certass.co.uk
TRADE NEWS
Morley Glass & Glazing
And Saint-Gobain Glass Take Recycling To The Next Level Integral blinds manufacturer Morley Glass & Glazing is working in partnership with Saint-Gobain Glass to take recycling to the next level. The two companies are joining forces to recycle and re-use post-consumer glass; that is glass that has been taken out of old windows that have reached the end of their life. Saint-Gobain Glass already operates the UK’s largest cullet or waste glass return scheme and, since the introduction of using cullet in the manufacture of float glass, the company has been able to increase the amount of recycled material utilised to 35% rising to 41% in some cases. However, the majority of the 56,000 tonnes of waste glass returned every year comes from the manufacturing process (pre-consumed glass) rather than glass that has been
utilised in end products.
environmental charities.
Morley Glass & Glazing has now stepped in and offered its 50,000 sq ft manufacturing space in Leeds, West Yorkshire to serve as a collection centre for post-consumer glass and has installed a glass crushing machine and employed one new member of staff to manage the scheme. See the video here of the glass crushing machine in action.
“It seems such a waste for our vans to return empty after delivering our sealed units with integral blinds inside throughout the UK, so why not encourage our customers to pack them full of old windows and doors that they are replacing. This saves our customers the cost and inconvenience of disposing of them to landfill or other commercial recycling schemes that will levy a charge for the service. We will then separate the metal and frames from the glass and ensure each element is recycled and re-used as fully as possible.”
Ian Short, managing director at Morley Glass & Glazing said: “We already send our waste glass from the factory to Saint-Gobain Glass in Eggborough to become cullet and be used in the production of new float glass. Now we are offering our customers the opportunity to return their post-consumer glass to us for recycling free of charge. The money we receive for the recycled glass will be donated to local
For more information about Morley Glass & Glazing’s glass recycling scheme visit www.morleyglass. co.uk or visit Morley Glass’s YouTube Channel to see the glass crushing machine in action. WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020 15
TRADE NEWS
Management Buyout For Window Widgets And The Residence Collection
business has been carefully diversifying its product range in becoming the trusted number one component supplier of its kind to the aluminium and PVCu window and door markets. In 2012, Window Widgets launched what was to become a defining window system in the form of Residence 9 and today it forms part of The Residence Collection of design-led PVCu window and door systems.. This change in ownership will see the business revert back to an owner/managed entity that will be built on entrepreneurial flair and spirit. Under the new ownership, the directors are already looking to implement an investment programme to support further growth, with bold ambitions for the future direction of the business. The deal completed on the 13th December 2019 and was led by the UK management team with financial advice from Cattaneo Corporate Finance, legal advice from Legal Clarity and financial support from Shawbrook Bank.
from left to right: Richard Bonner (Operations Director), Sarah Hitchings (Sales and Marketing Director), Michael Hart (Technical Director), and Gregory Pigott (Finance and Commercial Director).
Window Widgets (2006) Limited, which includes The Residence Collection of premium windows and doors, has been acquired by the existing UK management team from USAbased Masonite International Corporation. The terms of the deal were not announced. The UK management team includes Sarah Hitchings (Sales and Marketing Director), Michael Hart (Technical Director), 16 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
Richard Bonner (Operations Director) and Gregory Pigott (Finance and Commercial Director). There are two distinct parts to the business, firstly Windows Widgets, who supply a wide range of accessories and ancillaries to over 800 window fabricators across the UK, including in-house manufactured and CE Marked baypole jacks. For nineteen years this
Sarah Hitchings, sales and marketing director of Window Widgets and The Residence Collection commented: ‘I along with the other three directors of this business are thrilled with the deal, something that’s good for the workforce and within the market sectors we operate in. We now have an opportunity to invest, innovate and realise the considerable potential of this business and we’re eager to put our plans in place and to drive this business further forward.’ For further information please visit windowwidgets.co.uk or residencecollection.co.uk
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TRADE NEWS incorrectly and discussed how to maximise the infeed magazine capacity so that batching and sub batching of jobs is more efficient. TWR made their principle machine operators available for a dedicated training session with Emmegi’s senior engineer Garry Barehead and, as a result, TWR is happy that its Quadra is now running ‘faster and better’ and delivering an improved return on investment.
Emmegi Wins Kully Hunter, Service Manager, Emmegi
Praise For Smart Approach To Service Emmegi (UK) has made significant investments in its service team over the past year, appointing Kully and Wayne Hunter to manage service and operations, and increasing the size of its onsite engineering team to seven. The response from customers would suggest that this is paying dividends, with lots of positive feedback on how quickly service issues are now being resolved and how effectively Emmegi are now training customers to get more from their machines, whilst also trying to eliminate avoidable breakdowns. Alongside its own onsite team, Emmegi (UK) has contracted a team of experienced engineers from its Italian HQ to work in the UK for the next year, and is extending its use of remote servicing on software in particular so that specialists based in Italy can dial into a customer’s machine set 18 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
up and very quickly resolve any issues.
Wayne Hunter explained: “Just by working a little bit smarter, we are now resolving issues for more customers, more quickly. Our processes are more efficient, but we are also taking a more proactive rather than reactive approach, which is already delivering better value for customers.” A typical recent example is at TWR Group in County Durham where Emmegi installed a new Quadra L1 machining centre in July 2019. When TWR contacted Emmegi (UK) with a series of queries on the machine, Emmegi despatched two of its engineers to review how it was being operated and to provide training and advice. They advised the team at TWR on positioning of the gripper height and clamp setting adjustment to avoid lengths from being cut
The same smart working approach helped another customer recently when they had a problem with their Satellite XT. Kully ensured that Emmegi solved the problem within 90 minutes of it being reported by utilising an engineer who was able to dial in and diagnose almost immediately that the MG pilot was simply disconnected. Similarly, PSP Aluminium were back up and running within 75 minutes of reporting an error message on their X6 CNC machine when Kully asked Emmegi in Italy to dial in and remotely recover a file folder which had gone down. Wayne added: “We are encouraging customers to send us videos of faults so that we can diagnose and respond more effectively. Sometimes, of course, we are finding that there isn’t even really a fault – it is simply that the machine hasn’t been set up correctly or the operator hasn’t been adequately trained. In these cases, we can provide instructions direct from the service centre in Coventry to save time and get customers up and running really quickly, or send out engineers to give more detailed advice and training, with the overall aim of helping customers to achieve a more reliable and efficient operation.” Emmegi can offer bespoke training packages to customers at any point after a machine has been purchased. More details are available from Wayne or Kully Hunter on: 02476 676192. www.emmegi.com
Iceni Windows
TRADE NEWS
Poised For Growth
With Kenrick
Integral
Blind Market
A leading trade fabricator has boosted production and is on target to increase turnover by 15% this year with the help of its hardware supplier Kenrick. Having invested in a new 40,000 square foot factory in 2017 to expand production of its range of PVCu and aluminium windows, Essex-based Iceni Windows wanted to source a new shootbolt that was quicker and easier to fit. As well as helping Iceni Windows to speed up production rates, it was also important that the new system could be adapted to suit the Rehau, AluK and Residence 9 profiles that Iceni uses. After reviewing a number of solutions, the firm chose the Centurion Fast Fit shootbolt window locking system from Kenrick and has increased production to 700 frames a week since switching. Paul Foyle, managing director at Iceni Windows, explains: “We had been working with our previous supplier for some years and were happy with the product, but we wanted to find a shootbolt that would speed up the fitting time for our fabricators even further. We liked the design of Kenrick’s
Centurion Fast Fit shootbolt and were impressed with how Kenrick tailored the keeps so that we could use it across all of our windows. This means that we don’t have to order and stock a variety of shootbolts, which is a huge benefit to us. “Adding more factory space and switching to Kenrick has helped us to ramp up production and we’re well on course to increase turnover by 15% this year, which is a terrific achievement. We’re certain that Kenrick will be able to keep pace with our growth and we’re looking ahead to a long and successful future with them.” Steve Williams, Kenrick’s sales and marketing director, added: “We’re delighted to be working with one of the industry’s fastest-growing fabricators and to have supported this impressive growth with a product that’s designed to maximise productivity. We’re pleased to have delivered just what they want with a flexible and cost effective locking system that’s guaranteed to perform. We’re looking forward to continuing our alliance with Iceni Windows and to support them in their next phase of growth.” www.kenricks.co.uk
Growth
Integral blinds specialist IGU manufacturer HiTech Blinds has reportedl exponential market growth as installers look to add value and margin in a second time replacement market.
This follows the announcement that HiTech Blinds has achieved record 44% year-on-year growth, attributed by its Sales Director, Ian Woolley, to increased market share but also wider growth in demand. “We’ve picked up business from competitors but there’s also been a more general market growth”, he explained. “That’s been driven by a number of factors. Integrated blinds are a natural fit with growth products including aluminium bi-folding doors where homeowners want minimalist design but still want privacy. “And also, through their appeal in a second time replacement market as something tangibly different. We’re also seeing an emerging retro-fit market develop. Collectively its contributing to very significant market growth for HiTech and our customers.” www.hitechblinds.co.uk WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020 19
Window News TV has been designed to showcase supplier’s videos in an engaging way, with maximum coverage of the UK glass and glazing industry at a cost effective price. Window News TV has its own homepage with the videos categorised under three main headings: Instructional, Products and Corporate. There is a prominent link from the main Window News homepage to Window News TV and our twice-weekly Newscasts also highlight the latest videos contained within this important area of the website. All videos are tweeted out to Window News’ industry leading twitter following once going live on the website
Should you choose, you can also include your video within a half or full page advertising space within the monthly online Window News magazine, which will contain a live link direct to the video. Having invested the time and money into producing a polished video, let Window News take it to the audience it deserves! For more information please contact us in one of the following ways: Call Gerald Batt on 01255 850245, email gerald@ windownews.co.uk or complete the enquiry form on the Window News TV homepage www.windownewstv.co.uk
TRADE NEWS
Apeer Goes Public
With Radical ‘Lifestyle’ Promo Video For Silka
In the first salvo of a comprehensive promotional campaign designed to appeal to style-conscious homeowners, composite door and window maker Apeer has produced a radical new video supporting its heralded new Silka door range. More akin to a rock video than anything previously produced to promote residential doors, links to the production, which is accompanied by a suitably hard-edged and memorable audio track, will be posted on a range of online ‘lifestyle’ media with an upmarket demographic appropriate to the perceived customer base for the Silka door range. The Silka video is the first of five being produced as part of 22 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
a campaign designed to appeal directly to homeowners in support of Apeer’s retail installer network located throughout the UK. Videos will be accompanied by a range of print and digital brochures and other supporting material, in addition to SEO work to drive traffic to the consumer-focused website. A 25% increase in leads generated for Apeer retail installers is the key benchmark for the campaign. “The Silka video has tremendous impact and is perhaps more akin to an upmarket car production than a residential door,” explained Asa McGillian, Apeer’s managing director. “But as homeowners increasingly change their windows and doors as a lifestyle choice
together with home décor refurbishments, rather than the stress purchase that used to drive sales, then so we must reach out and appeal to people on a similar level. “The clean, technical surface finishes of the Silka door and its componentry are beautifully captured in the video, which we believe will appeal to those looking for a similar styling vibe throughout their homes. Our other door ranges and Lumi frameless window and door range, will be treated with imagery appropriate to the styling of each product.” View the Apeer Silka video here: https://youtu. be/84Qh3RLZyFM www.apeer.co.uk
TRADE NEWS
Dave Thomas
Haffner Murat
Becomes Member
Of Council For
Aluminium In Building
Georgian Bar Figures Show
Growing Rise In Coloured
And Foiled Sales
For a busy fabricator manufacturing around 3,000 products per week, it’s essential that you partner with suppliers who provide superior products and outstanding customer service – which is why Garrard Windows has such a successful relationship with The Georgian Bar Company. Since forming in 1997, Garrard Windows has grown substantially and is now one of the UK’s largest PVCu and aluminium fabricators. With 250 staff operating out of an 86,000 sq ft factory in Buckinghamshire, Garrard’s window and door trade customer base spans the whole of the South of England.
Key to the company’s success is a firm objective to remain reliable, efficient and customer orientated – and these are qualities that Garrard also benefit from by working with The Georgian Bar Company. “We’ve used GeoFast from The Georgian Bar Company ever since
we launched more than 15 years ago,” says Adam Webb, Director of Garrard Windows. “Not only is it a brilliant product, but they’re a fantastic company to deal with.
“Both Phil Dewhurst Sr and Phil Jr are very responsive whenever we need anything, and they provide an excellent service from point of order to delivery.” The snap-on astragal-style bar clip system from The Georgian Bar Company gives an authentic, traditional Georgian appearance. It is easy to install, aesthetically pleasing and has been designed to stay put with an ingenious mechanical fixing. Adam says: “Because of the clever design of Geofast, you basically fit them and forget them, which is exactly what you need to be able to do when you’re as busy as we are. We can have total confidence in the quality and reliability of the bars.” www.geofast.co.uk
Machinery suppliers, Haffner Murat Ltd has joined the Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB), the largest UK aluminium in building trade association. Dave Thomas, Managing Director of Haffner Murat, said: “We are delighted to become a member of CAB. Our range of aluminium machinery has continued to expand and our CAB membership will help reaffirm our commitment to the aluminium sector.” Haffner Murat supply a comprehensive range of aluminium machinery from Haffner, Fom Industrie and ITALMAC. All ranges offer a selection of aluminium machines that are designed for all levels of fabrication and budgets. Dave said: “We have extended our aluminium machinery offer over the past few years to support our growing customer base. In 2019 we started supplying state-of-theart aluminium machinery from Fom Industrie who, for over 40 years, has delivered innovative machinery to a global market. And we are the UK’s official agent for the Italian range of ITALMAC aluminium fabrication machinery. ITALMAC has an international reputation for quality machinery that combines the latest technology with skilled engineering and competitive prices. “ ` www.haffnermurat.com WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020 23
TRADE NEWS
Expanding Your Window Business
With Roofline Freefoam Building Products have launched a new video to illustrate how PVC roofline products work seamlessly as part of a wider home improvement offering.
Working with Nottingham based company N G Roofline Windows & Doors Ltd Freefoam filmed a refurbishment installation to illustrate how roofline products, fascia, soffit and gutter, can be fitted as part of a wider project including replacement windows and doors. Owner Ashley Marvin started his business in 2012, offering fascia, soffit and guttering in and around the Nottinghamshire area. Working to a very high standard, with first class 24 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
customer reviews, Ashley soon found that promoting and fitting roofline led to customers requesting other long lasting, low maintenance PVC home improvements. The company now fit doors, windows, flat roofs and dry verge with several fitting teams who specialise in different areas of work. Ashley explained “The business has gradually grown over the last seven years. I started off with roofline but wanted to expand what we offered. Doors and windows were a natural progression from fascia and soffit, and work perfectly together for us. Homeowners want long lasting, low maintenance products on their home, and we can offer the full pack-
age. It’s meant we can expand our range and gives us more opportunities to develop new business” N G Roofline Windows & Doors are a Freefoam Registered Installer. Freefoam know that roofline products are fitted by a range of companies including window and conservatory installers, roofers and general builders. Freefoam are committed to supporting all home improvement businesses so the scheme is open to any company who are fitting roofline on a regular basis. Ashley commented “We’ve always been a Freefoam Registered Installer. We get marketing support from Freefoam, brochures we can leave with customers and information packs to help our sales process. Their support has certainly helped our business grow.” To find out more about becoming a Freefoam Registered Installer go to myfreefoam.com/installers
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TRADE NEWS
The Amplifi Solutions Team
New Partnership
For Northern Ireland R&D Tax Specialists Is A Clear Winner For The Industry Northern Ireland’s qualified Research and Development (R&D) tax specialists, Amplifi Solutions, has announced a major new partnership with national industry body, Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF). All innovating members of the GGF across the country are set to benefit from the collaboration. GGF represents companies that manufacture, supply or install glass and glazing products in the UK and internationally. The new partnership means that any members of the GGF will now be able to avail of expert R&D tax advice throughout the year – all with a special 20% discounted rate on fees, which are chargeable only on successful claims. Chris Maylin, Managing Partner at Amplifi Solutions 26 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
commented on the new partnership: “Research and development opportunities exist throughout the UK and Ireland in a range of exciting, innovative and modern industries. Partnering with the Glass and Glazing Federation allows us to reach even more businesses than ever and offer their members trusted and tested support.”
The expert team at Amplifi, including Management and Chartered Accountants, has worked with hundreds of businesses to provide an end-to-end specialist technical service that takes companies throughout the entire process. From an initial and free exploratory meeting, creation of the R&D claim, and Submission to HMRC – culminating in the receipt of the cash benefit of tax relief, Amplifi Solutions will
steer the entire process. Steve Rice, GGF Managing Director, said: “We are delighted to announce our new partnership with Amplifi Solutions. As the leading trade body within this industry, we are keen to partner with only the best experts. Working with Amplifi Solutions means our community will have the very best R&D tax advice on hand, as and when it’s needed. Indeed, Amplifi was recently retained by one of the GGF Group’s companies and a claim for a rebate is now being submitted. We found Amplifi very easy and helpful to work with.” R&D tax credits can be awarded to any company proving they are undertaking steps in research or development – even when those projects don’t succeed. The tax breaks were introduced in 2000 by the Government to encourage and reward R&D within limited companies or PLCs. For more information on R&D tax credits, or working with Amplifi Solutions visit www.amplifi.solutions
TRADE NEWS to education, healthcare and high-rise projects as it offers controlled ventilation with a restricted opening to help prevent falls from height. Our curtain wall offering has also been extended with the launch of our new SF62 system, which has been specifically developed for schemes that require large fenestration designs but may also face challenges in terms of structural movement. To further support our architectural clients, in the new year we will also be launching our RIBA approved CPD available on ‘curtain wall, design, delivery and detail’, which will be delivered by our experienced team of architectural advisors.
Senior’s 2020 Vision Senior Architectural Systems has established itself as a popular and reliable supply chain partner for many architects and main contractors. Following a year of investment in both its product range and inhouse resources, Jonny Greenstreet, Senior’s marketing manager, looks back at what’s been happening and what’s in store for 2020. Our product range is always evolving as we identify new
and innovative ways to meet the ever-changing aesthetic and performance requirements of our clients. The development of our patented PURe® aluminium windows and doors range has continued this year with the development of the PURe® Commercial Door which is our largest, strongest and most thermally-efficient door system to date. We’ve also added the PURe® Parallel Push aluminium window to the range which is ideally suited
In addition to developing our product range, over the last twelve months we have also invested in our in-house services. On the factory floor, recent improvements to our vertical paint line is set to significantly increase the quality and speed of our powder-coating service and to better meet the growing demand for coloured aluminium profiles. We also launched our new Training Academy at our South Yorkshire HQ and this has enabled us to provide more in-depth practical and theoretical product training to our network of fabricators and installers. Looking ahead, we will be increasing the number of training sessions offered and also have some exciting plans to refresh our product showroom in the new year. Investment and innovation have been key to our success over the last three decades and will continue to frame our vison for future growth. www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk
WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020 27
TRADE NEWS
Trustmark Builds New Independent Financial Protection Panel To Further
Enhance Consumer Protection A new Financial Protection Panel of independent experts and industry representatives has been formed by TrustMark, the Government Endorsed Quality scheme, to assess the financial protection available to consumers looking to undertake any home improvements, repairs, maintenance or energy efficiencies in or around the home. The panel aims to provide reassurance to consumers that if they employ a TrustMark Registered Business they will have the correct financial protection mechanisms in place, such as insurance backed guarantees and warranties, that will protect prepayments, deposits, post completion workmanship, rectification of defects or major damage and non-compliance with Building Regulations as a minimum. Chaired by TrustMark’s Non-Executive Finance Protection Director, Lynn Hugo, the Finance Protection Panel is a working group that consists of two layers – the ‘Finance Protection Oversight Panel’ and the ‘Industry Assessment Panel’. Together their collaboration will bring together a wealth of knowledge, proficiency and views to ensure that the financial protection stage of the consumer journey is safer and there are no gaps in the provision of consumer protection. The Finance Protection Oversight Panel is made up of well-respected senior industry experts in regulation, insur28 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
schemes. Lynn Hugo, says: “The Financial Protection Panel is a collaborative approach from the industry to provide the consumer with optimal protection for any work they choose to have carried out by a TrustMark Registered Business. We will only accept financial protection schemes that have been through rigorous approval and meet the TrustMark Framework Requirements and appropriate standard of financial protection. We have a fantastic team who are committed to enhancing consumer protection, and by working together, we can ensure that the consumer journey is as safe and secure as possible. Consumer protection is at the heart of TrustMark’s vision and service delivery, so this is one important step to achieving this.”
A register of verified financial protection schemes will be published by TrustMark and be publicly available for both consumers and businesses on the TrustMark website under ‘Services’ heading. All works carried out in and around the Lynn Hugo, TrustMark’s Non-Execu- home will have financial protective Finance Protection Director tion as required by the Framework Operating Requirements including all energy efficiency ance, finance, consumer proimprovements, and have a tection and legal and they will duration cover of a minimum appraise and validate the differ- of two years, with the excepent financial protection policies tion of certain energy efficient from the TrustMark Scheme measures that will require a Providers to ensure they are minimum of 25 years. providing fair terms without consumer detriment and abide The Financial Protection Panel by the Consumer Rights Act is one of three councils being 2015. Supporting this panel developed to support the Trustwill be the Industry Assessment Mark Board with the strategic Panel, which is a representation direction of the organisation, as of TrustMark Scheme Providwell as providing strong collabers, and they will review and orations and developments to focus on each of the financial serve the industry and consumprovider policies to ensure they er. are all offering a robust and impartial method of financial For further information visit protection for use within their www.trustmark.org.uk.
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PEOPLE
BFRC Strengthen Technical Resources With Industry Leading Expertise The British Rating Fenestration Council (BFRC), a division of GGF’s Commercial arm and the body responsible for establishing the independent ‘rainbow’ ratings system for verifying the energy performance of windows and doors, has announced the addition of two new technical resources on a permanent basis. George Higgs, Lead Building Physicist and Managing Director of Building Energy Physics Consultancy Ltd and Richard Bate, Technical Director of Build Check Ltd will provide further technical support to BFRC and bring with them a wealth of knowledge and established proven track records 30 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
within the field of fenestration product testing and evaluation. Both are long standing members of the BFRC Technical Committee and their increased input, ahead of new product launches in the summer, will broaden the technical diversity and integrity of the BFRC, contributing towards wider acceptance of BFRC ‘rainbow’ energy ratings as the industry’s de facto energy performance scheme. Lis Clarke, BFRC Operations Director, says she is delighted to have secured the further input of two of the industry’s leading experts: “As the most widely used ratings system in
the window and door sector it’s vital we continue to set the benchmark and improve standards throughout the industry. Bringing in such hugely knowledgeable resources such as George and Richard will improve our technical standing and expertise immeasurably, ensuring that BFRC calculations become even more technically robust.” Build Check’s Richard Bate responded by saying: “Being the very first BFRC registered simulator and having over 20 years’ experience with independent testing and product certification for the fenestration industry I am delighted to assist in helping them achieve the ambitious goals they have set for the year ahead.” George Higgs of BEPC said: “I have had a long standing relationship with BFRC for many years and therefore delighted to be able to work with them as a technical consultant.”
PEOPLE
Adrian Redshaw Joins Garnalex
on a part-time basis for Garnalex, helping to develop the Sheerline product range, but this level of new product development is a full-time job for myself and the whole Design team.
Adrian Redshaw is the latest industry technical expert to join Garnalex, and will be focused on the launch of the innovative Sheerline aluminium window and door system.
“We launch Sheerline – a truly ground-breaking aluminium window and door system – at the end of March. We’re designing this exciting system from the ground up to make it easier to fabricate, install and sell, so we’ll have lots to tell the market in the coming months. Watch this space!”
As Sheerline Design Director
Adrian or ‘Reg’ as he’s better known, takes up the full-time role of Sheerline Design Director this January, and has enjoyed a long and successful career within the industry. Starting his career at LB Plastics he later moved to HL Plastics and has worked with Garnalex CEO Roger Hartshorn for over 30 years. He was instrumental in the design and development of Eurocell’s many products and then as Design Director was responsible for the design and de-
velopment of Liniar’s window and door systems. Adrian left Liniar in June 2019 to join a long-term friend in a new business start-up, but was quickly drawn back to work with Roger and join the Garnalex team. He explains: “I was initially working
Roger Hartshorn adds: “Adrian’s a well-known industry figure, and his track record at Eurocell and Liniar speaks for itself. Working closely with Phil Parry, Sheerline Testing & Standards Director, and the rest of the five-strong design department, he will ensure Sheerline surpasses industry expectations and transforms the aluminium market. www.sheerline.com
Apeer’s Regional Sales Manager
Nigel Evans Retires Apeer’s Nigel Evans is retiring at the end of January, with Lucie Miller set to take over his role as Southern Regional Sales Manager. Nigel, a well-known face in the industry with over 43 years of experience, leaves the company after six years. He takes with him his encyclopaedic knowledge of people and companies that his colleagues will miss. “It has been a pleasure to have Nigel on board” said Asa McGillian, Apeer’s Managing Director. “He is known by lots of people and he knows the industry inside out. We wish him all the best in his retirement.” Nigel is looking forward to
spending more time with his family in retirement, having recently become a grandfather of three, as well as enjoying more tennis. “I wish all my colleagues and customers the best, and every success for the future,” he said. Excited to expand her sales role in this area is Lucie Miller, who joined Apeer in October from Truedor. She is looking forward to developing Apeer’s business in the south of England and introducing more customers to the comprehensive Apeer door and Lumi window ranges. Lucie has plenty of products to introduce customers to, including the company’s two most recent products: Apeer’s smooth-skin Silka composite doors which
look just like aluminium and are proving very popular with customers, and the newest iteration of its heralded Lumi frameless windows, Lumi2, for the replacement window market. www.apeer.co.uk WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020 31
PEOPLE
Matthew Glover Returns
To West Yorkshire Windows
As Managing Director Matthew Glover, known for his involvement with industry brands Conservatory Outlet and The FIT Show, has announced his return to West Yorkshire Windows, which he co-founded in 1993 with brother Andrew, to manage the company on a day-to-day basis as Managing Director. Matthew will head the existing management team at West Yorkshire Windows, joined by Richard Morris as Commercial Director. Following a short transition, Andrew Glover, an avid supporter of glazing industry charity fundraising events and former President of the Glass & Glazing Federation, will leave to pursue other interests after almost 25 years with the company. After building a significant 32 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
majority stake in recent months in the company, Matthew has announced ambitious plans to grow West Yorkshire Windows sales by 40% in three years, with what he says will be “a return to key basics” and backed by the creativity and advanced marketing strategies that helped to establish such brands as Conservatory Outlet and the FIT Show. He has also announced a significant investment programme to ensure financial stability and to achieve the ambitious sales targets. With West Yorkshire Windows enjoying such accolades as Conservatory Installer of the Year and Installer of the Year, Matthew says he is excited to be returning to the retail market full time: “After I relinquished
day-to-day involvement in the FIT Show and the completion of other key projects, I now look forward to returning full time to the industry that has provided so much for my family over many decades. We were brought up in the window and door business, selling and making windows in our teens, and I am excited at the opportunity to get back to the front line.” Matthew has been instrumental in creating some of the window and door industry’s best-known brands. He co-established Conservatory Outlet in 2005 to provide a complementary manufacturing operation to West Yorkshire Windows and other trade customers, with the companies separated in 2009 to increase focus for both operations. Matthew eventually completed the sale of Conservatory Outlet to the current owners in 2013 to focus on the FIT Show, a majority stake in which was sold in 2018. Matthew continues as Chairman of FIT Events Ltd, which operates the FIT Show.
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Epwin Window Systems
PEOPLE
ODL Europe Further Strengthens
Their Sales Management Team
ODL Europe, supplier of the TriSYS frame system, the Capstone composite door slab and Blink enclosed blinds has further strengthened its management team with the appointment of Andy Meakin as Business Development Manager. Andy is a well-known industry figure having spent over two decades working for various hardware manufacturers, system sales, fabrication businesses and latterly with Everest Home Improvements. As such, he brings with him a wealth of customer-facing experience and in-depth industry knowledge. Commenting on his appointment, Andy said: “I am delighted to have joined ODL Europe. It’s a well-respected business and continues to gain market share with its ambitious plans for growth. The company continues to invest to bring new technically-lead products to the market and I am delighted to part of a growing and innovative business.” 34 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
Brisant-Secure Welcome Derrick Purvis
Steve Stewart and Nick Dutton, CEO’s of Brisant-Secure, are delighted to welcome Derrick Purvis to the team.
Derrick has twenty years in marketing and product management roles, fifteen of which were with Avocet Hardware. He has a degree in Design Marketing and has worked with high profile clients, managing projects for the likes of B&Q, Wickes and Homebase. His experience with product development, marketing, promotions, launches and brand development are all skills that Brisant-Secure will welcome into the team. Derrick said, “I am delighted to have been given the opportunity to join Brisant-Secure and look forward to helping them with their plans for continued growth. Having spent 15 years in this sector, I have been seriously impressed with the rise of the Ultion lock brand which positions itself as a market leader. And I also expect the 2020 Sweet
hardware range will soon follow the same path.”
“One of the main things that attracted me to Brisant is that they strive to produce products that make them stand out from the crowd and provide the tools their customers need to help them sell more. In an industry that often looks to produce hardware that just meet the standards, Brisant looks to exceed and set new standards. It is a really exciting time to be joining the company.” Steve Stewart, who has previously worked with Derrick for many years said, “We believe that Derrick’s experience across the lock and hardware sector will enable wider groups to appreciate the design and build quality that underpin all Brisant products.” For all enquiries on the Brisant-Secure product range visit brisant-secure.com
PEOPLE
Growth Prompts Trio Of Appointments At Virtuoso
from left to right – Adam Bracken, Paul Smurthwaite and Ian Kasher.
Virtuoso Doors is ready to see in the New Year on a high with the announcement that its year to date sales have grown by more than 35%. And with more growth predicted for 2020, Virtuoso has bolstered its senior management team with the appointment of three new managers to help the firm to further improve on its quality and production processes. The appointments of Ian Kasher as SHEQ manager, Adam Bracken as supply chain manager and Paul Smurthwaite as engineering manager underline Virtuoso Doors’ commitment to continually invest in quality and service. Ian Kasher brings nearly 35 years’ experience in quality and is tasked with driving further quality, health, safety and environmental improvements throughout the business. He is currently implementing new systems and procedures to ensure that all of Virtuoso Doors’ products are of the highest quality. Paul Smurthwaite joins Virtuoso Doors with more than 30 years’
experience in the industrial sector, having worked across a number of industries including the aerospace and automotive industries. Paul was recruited to develop and oversee an extensive maintenance programme that sustains increased production and minimises machinery downtime at Virtuoso. As supply chain manager, Adam Bracken works closely with all of Virtuoso’s suppliers to source raw materials and improve the firm’s overall supply chain performance. Since joining, Adam has introduced a paperless purchasing system and implemented new supply chain metrics to evaluate vendors and measure Virtuoso Doors’ OTIF performance. Tony Craggs, Virtuoso Doors’ managing director, commented: “Virtuoso Doors is a leading composite door manufacturer and we’ve earned an exceptional reputation for the quality of our doors. There is always room for improvement though and these three appointments mark our commitment to constantly invest in quality, service
and efficiency. Ian, Adam and Paul have already helped us to fine-tune our production processes and make improvements in a number of areas and I’m confident that we’ll raise the bar even higher as we continue to grow.” Virtuoso Doors has achieved impressive growth over the last two years and has consistently maintained its industry-leading service and quality levels and OTIF record of 98%. Every door manufactured at Virtuoso goes through a rigorous 48-point QC inspection check, which covers each step of the manufacturing process, before leaving the factory. The three senior appointments follow a significant £1 million investment in machinery, including saws, CNCs, edgebanders, paint facilities and specialist equipment. Virtuoso has also introduced new processes throughout the business, which are designed to improve quality control and overall efficiency whilst also reducing waste. www.virtuoso-doors.co.uk WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020 35
DEAR GERALD
Dear
Gerald Dear Gerald As a supplier of widow restrictors, I always check out what’s been installed wherever I am. So you can imagine my shock when I stayed in a hotel run by a large hotel group in Torquay over the summer to see a standard plug chain, washer and screw fitted as a window restrictor instead of a restrictor that’s been designed for the purpose of limiting the opening of windows. Next to the makeshift restrictors, there was also a sign from the hotel’s maintenance team saying: ‘Caution!! Do not open due to safety reasons!!’ I cannot believe that an organisation who should have the safety of their customers as their primary concern would think it is acceptable to fit such an ill thought out solution to the problem of injury or death caused by falling from windows. In addition, the cost of providing their proposed solution probably greatly outweighed the fit and proper solution – fitting a purpose-built window restrictor that has be tested to the relevant standard BS EN 13126-5:2011. In fact, the liability to the hotel is compounded by such poor solutions to mitigate risk. What if a guesat doesn’t heed the advice and opens the window with the inadequate restrictor and accidentally falls or deliberately jumps out? Was the hotel taking reasonable precautions by installing an inadequate device and warning signs? Would the insurance company say the hotel was at fault for not installing standard purpose-made products that are readily available? These are valid questions, and not ones I would like to answer, especially after the type of trauma involved. I imagine in such a case the first place an insurance investigator would look would be at the window restrictors. There are no reasons to do any of this. Off the shelf window restrictors are not expensive and they are tested to BS EN 13126-5:2011. This standard specifies the requirements and test methods for durability, strength, security and functionality of devices that restrict the opening of windows. It means that any window restrictor on the market must be tested and pass these standards. It’s not good enough to rely on makeshift products, and I urge hotel managers, owners and shareholders to check their window restrictors to ensure they comply with the regulations. Yours sincerely, Toby Staff. Managing Director Newstar Door Controls 36 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
Dear Gerald
Mandatory Changes To EN 1279 From March 19th 2020 Our industry could be forgiven for being distracted with the countless economic and political challenges that were thrown our way in 2019, but in 2020 we have a new and very specific challenge to face, and we need to prepare quickly to ensure continued compliance. The standard for the manufacture of Double-Glazed Sealed Units (IGU’s) has been amended. It is currently in transition and becomes mandatory on the 19th March 2020. This hEN standard – EN 1279:2018 product standard – is needed to comply with the Construction Products Regulation and has undergone several changes that will affect Sealed Unit Manufacturers. The changes need to be addressed urgently. We can’t cover the complexities of the changes in this letter but here’s a summary of how sealed unit manufacturers will need to comply from the March deadline. Primary and Secondary Sealant – compliance with EN 1279:4-2018 Molecular Sieves – change in test method and compliance with EN 1279:4-2018 Foamed Spacer Systems – test methods and compliance with EN 1279:4-2018 Testing to EN 1279-6:2018– new parameters and tolerances. Change of documentation to reference the new standard. The changes are relatively straight-forward but there is a process that needs to be adhered to before the deadline to ensure ongoing compliance, so companies do need to act sooner rather than later. As is always the case with changing legislation we’ve found there is a general lack of awareness across the industry and no sense of urgency to meet the deadline, which inevitably leads to a last-minute rush when the deadline is upon us. We’re already helping our existing customers to get up to date ahead of the deadline, but we’ve also tried to help companies further afield by providing some free of charge impartial guidance on the issue on our website www.censolutions.com. We’re also happy to talk to anyone who has any questions about these important upcoming changes so that as an industry we can achieve the changes in time for 19th March. Yours sincerely, Wayne Rogerson, CENSolutions Joint MD
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PRODUCT NEWS
HS Trade Increases Composite Door Capacity
And Improves Efficiency With Distinction’s
Prepped Product Service Lincolnshire based window and door manufacturer, HS Trade, has revealed that it has benefitted from an increase in the capacity of its composite door offering, combined with less stock holding and a saving in labour costs, since signing up for Distinction Doors’ prepped product service at the start of the year. HS Trade has been a customer of Distinction Doors for 10 years, and while the company has always praised its long-standing composite door supplier for the high standard of its product and service, it says the decision to switch to prepped doors has not only greatly improved efficiencies and reduced cost, but has in turn helped to further improve 38 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
the service offering to its own customers.
Michael Gromett, owner of HS Trade, commented: “We had a discussion with the Distinction team and came to the conclusion that if we took advantage of the company’s prepped service it would allow us a hassle free option to offer glazed and edge-banded doors, as well as increase the capacity of our door division in the process. “It was a decision that has really paid dividends,” he continued. “The composite door sector is an increasingly competitive one, but this is the reason that we have always sourced our products from Distinction Doors. The overall service from Distinction is excellent, from the online
ordering process, all the way to delivery, and the fact that our doors are now supplied glazed and edge-banded has made it even easier for us to offer the best composite door in the marketplace.” Distinction has reported that sales of its prepped doors, supplied complete with its high-quality glazed units, have seen a significant increase across 2019, a result of more customers taking advantage of its full prepping, painting and glazing facilities. The leading composite door specialist, which introduced its own range of exclusive glazing units three years ago, has recently increased shifts and invested in equipment in order to meet current and future demand. www.distinctiondoors.co.uk
PRODUCT NEWS
A Stable End To The
Year From Force 8 According to Force 8, the unique Smooth finish Tudor Stable Door from the company has been a runaway success. Launched at The FIT Show earlier this year, the composite door has proved very popular, particularly with property development companies. “Traditionally this style of door has a timber grain finish, but with all the demand for the smooth aluminium look-alike doors, it seemed the natural progression”, comments Dennis Sumner, managing director of Force 8. Interest has accrued from developers looking for something more contemporary, rather than just the standard timber look stable door, particularly in the new build sector, where anthracite grey has proved
very popular. Force 8 added an inhouse paint facility to their Stockport factory earlier this year, giving them the ability to spray the door and frame at the same time, giving a perfect colour match. In addition to the above, the Force
DOORCO_Glass Times advert July_August 2019 31/07/2019 16:06 Page 1
8 Stable door can be fabricated to open outwards as well as inwards, giving it a unique versatility that, as far as the company understands, is not available from any other manufacturer. One of the main selling points of the door is the bespoke locking system, which delivers impeccable security. Featuring a hook and anti-lift pin on both the top and bottom leaf, along with a combination of hook and deadbolt centre cases. The new lock has been carefully designed by Yale to complement both modern and traditional stable door styles in the Force 8 range. Add to this a PAS 24 and a perfect colour match frame, and you have a winning combination. “We have brought all our knowledge and skills to this door system and believe that we have produced probably the best Stable Door on the market to date”. comments Dennis. www.force8.uk
NEW
PATINA COLOUR RANGE
INNOVATION? Over the last decade, DOORCO has rewritten the composite door rulebook. We are committed to upholding a market of choice that gives our customers the competitive edge. Our innovation means our customers never stand still. T 01625 428 955 E info@door-co.com W www.door-co.com
WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020 39
PRODUCT NEWS
Aperture Launches Warden Fire Doors
with EN:1634-1 and BS 476: Part 22 standards, but we haven’t stopped there. Our FD30S door sets have been engineered so that they don’t just perform to the expected 30-minute fire rating, but consistently exceed it. They have been fully furnace tested on both sides and fully smoke tested to European standards.
Endurance
Launches
“Critically, we’ve also tested door sets with the viewer, letterplate and handle as standard – leaving no room for error on critical parts of the door that can often lead to failure. Customers have also highlighted to us their requirement for more glass options on fire doors, so we’ve successfully tested the doors with sidelight and decorative combinations too.
Colour Matched
Finishing Trims
Endurance Doors has just launched a range of perfectly matching finishing trims for their customers to purchase, alongside one of their solid timber core composite doors. Through the online door designer, they also have the opportunity to add these finishing trims that’s already been cut down to a handy 2.3m size to their order. The addition of these coloured matched trims is a major plus for installers, as these products have been cut down to size for a small van and are colour matched, so there’s no need to source full sized packs through their respective local plastics stockist. The profiles include 25mm ‘D’, 45mm flat, 65mm flat, 20mm square and a 17.5mm quadrant with no minimum order quantity and these products are also available on short lead times. Given the number of colours in the range from Endurance, these trim packs are available in the 16 colours of Elephant Grey, Anthracite Grey, Pearl Grey, Chartwell Green, Cream, French Navy, Racing Green, Rich Red, Raven Black, Schwarz Braun, Golden Oak, Irish Oak, Walnut, Rosewood, Mahogany and White. www.endurancedoors.co.uk 40 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
As the fire door market starts to gain momentum again, The Aperture Group has been busy getting its new fire door offering through the updated industry standards and is now pleased to announce the launch of its range of Warden Fire Doors – one of the most extensively tested ranges on the market, claims the company. Robin Baker, Managing Director of the core Aperture Business explains: “We understand the crucial role our products play in protecting residents once installed, which is why we have engineered our timber fire door range to hold full test 2018/19 reports. Our doors have been through a rigorous testing regime and now hold full Certifire third party accreditation. “The Warden Fire Doors range has been developed to fully comply
“Our Warden range of fire doors have been crafted with care by our dedicated fire door team, so follow stringent quality controls to make sure that each and every door leaving the factory achieves the highest standards. Each style utilises high-grade components, including graphite intumescent within the frame and on the door at critical points. Every single one of our fire doors is also given a unique trackable barcode allowing components and materials to be tracked back to their original source. “Our industry has had to up the ante when it comes to fire doors to ensure we have products that are truly fit for purpose moving forward. We have taken this responsibility extremely seriously and by allocating a dedicated fire door team and going above and beyond with all of the tests carried out on our products, we’re confident the range of Warden Fire Doors will provide end users with the necessary protection and more.” www.aperture-trading.com
PRODUCT NEWS
Aurora Upsells With Apeer And Lumi
Urban Door Styling With The ABODA Collection The ABODA Collection from Rocal Group is a revolutionary range of premium door panels, that have been carefully developed with true urban design credentials and by harnessing the latest materials. This is a new evolutionary product development from Rocal Group which features high performance PVCu door skins for outstanding long-term performance, whatever the climatic conditions, says the company. There are 16 designs in the range with 9 different finishes for the standard ABODA series, along with a further 20 finishes available in the striking STEEAL collection. The STEE-AL collection within ABODA introduces a flush 316 grade stainless steel glazing system, while the standard range harnesses a new slimline variant. There are also a number of glass options from the Baroque, Metro, Ornate and Principal ranges, which can be seen in the dedicated 20-page brochure and online at abodadoors.co.uk.
Stephen Nadin, Managing Director of Rocal Group commented: ‘We have spent some time in developing ABODA as we firmly believe that there is a market for premium, well-designed and high specification door panels. We’ve introduced new foiled finishes, a flush steel glazing system and modern design thinking to create something that we believe is the ultimate urban range in the sector. He continued: ‘The entrance door market for panel doors still provides a sizeable opportunity for companies who are keen to retain their door manufacturing facilities and with the latest CoolSkin door skins, reinvigorate the door panel sales with a product with proven long-term performance. Ultimately, the ABODA Collection will provide fabricators and installers with an opportunity to offer a next generation door panel to their portfolio.’ For further information please visit www.abodadoors.co.uk
Crewe-based Aurora Windows has no problem putting Apeer and Lumi doors next to cheaper alternatives, as co-director Chris Upton explained. “Customers only have to see and feel them and they can tell immediately they are looking at something quite different,” he said, “It’s more than just offering more choice – it’s a real opportunity to upsell because they work and feel so much better.” Aurora first looked at Apeer because it had a 70mm door that other suppliers couldn’t match. But, he added: “Once we had it, we began to see how different it was in they way it handled and we saw the customers were noticing it too. They see the price difference with the cheaper doors but they can also see why they are paying a bit more, and they obviously like that.” www.apeer.co.uk WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020 41
PRODUCT NEWS strength carbon steel cam protection block to prevent snapping and plug extraction. One of the key features of the cylinder is that it is engineered with a snap secure sacrificial point which will break if it is tampered with from the outside, ensuring that the internal parts of the cylinder can’t be damaged, and the lock can still be operated safely from the inside.
Mila Adds Sold Secure Diamond 3*
Security Cylinder To Prosecure Range Mila is offering customers the ultimate in cylinder security with the launch of a Sold Secure Diamond Standard, BSI 3* Kitemark cylinder. Part of Mila’s proven and hugely popular ProSecure hardware range, it gives fabricators a simple way of complying with the latest TS007 security hardware requirements, as well as a powerful new sales opportunity. Anti-drill, anti-bump and anti-pick, the new ProSecure cylinder is independently tested and fully accredited to what are recognised as being the most rigorous industry stand42 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
ards. It is one of only a small number of cylinders available in the UK that come with the reassurance of both the Diamond Grade and 3* Kitemark approvals, and the logos are laser etched onto either end of the cylinder face. The new ProSecure cylinder is manufactured from brass and hardened carbon steel and features a whole raft of innovative features designed to give the homeowner absolute confidence in their security. That includes anti-pick pins, hardened steel anti-drill pins in the barrel and low and high driver pins to prevent cylinder bumping. There is also a high
For additional homeowner peace of mind, the Mila ProSecure cylinder comes with three restricted profile dimple keys as standard and a unique warranty card number which means that only the card holder can order additional keys for their cylinder. Mila is supplying the new cylinder in matt nickel or matt brass finishes and with a thumb turn option for the inside if required. Managing Director Richard Gyde says that is an important addition to Mila’s range because it gives fabricators another risk free route to 3 star compliance. He says: “We already offer our 2 star ProSecure handle and 1 star cylinder for doors being fitted with a conventional handle and now we can offer the same level of security performance for doors being fitted with standard handles or escutcheons. “Mila customers can of course get expert advice from our team on the best security options for their individual door ranges and they can rely on Mila for in stock availability and next day delivery.” The Mila ProSecure 3* cylinder comes with a 10 year mechanical operation guarantee. More details are available at: www.mila.co.uk
N EW
PRODUCT NEWS
VBH Provides
A Safe greenteQ Exit
Hardware specialist VBH has added Anti-Panic emergency exit and panic hardware to its greenteQ range of products. Manufactured in Italy, the range consists of panic bolts and panic latches in cross-arm and pushpad versions, and is available from VBH stock in white and silver finishes. Touch bars, mortice and electric devices, and other finishes, are all available on a special order basis. Panic latches are available as either single-point or 3-point versions. VBH Marketing Manager Gary Gleeson advises, “All Anti-Panic bolts and latches are tested, certified and CE marked to the relevant BS EN1125 or 179 standards.
ProSecure
MAXIMUM SECURITY Cylinders
3 Star Security · Sold Secure Diamond Standard · Snap Secure Technology · TS007 compliant · Restricted Profile Dimple Keys ·
“Anti-Panic is available for single and double PVCu, aluminium and timber doors and there is the option of fitting an outside access device where controlled access from outside the building is required.” greenteQ Anti-Panic devices are reversible, cutting down on a fabricator’s stock holding and eliminating handing errors. Gary adds, “So many fabricators now use greenteQ products on their standard doors. The addition of Anti-Panic to the range now enables them to gear up their emergency exit doors using hardware from an established industry brand that they trust. They know that the door will open freely if it is ever called into use in an emergency.” www.vbhgb.com WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020 43
Order Today for Next Day Delivery Call Mila Sales 01327 312 400
2019
Lock Cylinders Diamond
KM535608
CLME08161454 KM535608
PRODUCT NEWS
New Contemporary
Square Pull Bar Collection Carl F Groupco’s Product Manager for the Roto range, Julie Warner, demonstrates Sovereign’s tilt & turn window
From Mila The new pull bars offer what Mila is calling the ‘ideal combination’ of looks and performance, with a market leading 25-year guarantee on the finish to make them an even more attractive sales proposition.
Carl F Groupco Expands Supply
Services For
The guarantee comes from the fact that the bars are manufactured as standard in marine grade 316 stainless steel designed for coastal and high pollution areas. They have been successfully weather tested to an impressive 1000 hours in a salt spray environment, which is way beyond the 480 hours required for a Grade 5 rating under the corrosion test BSEN1670: 2007.
Sovereign
Carl F Groupco has been selected by the Sovereign Group to supply Roto NT tilt & turn fittings. As one of the hardware distributor’s longest standing customers, Sovereign chose Carl F Groupco for the company’s dependable delivery promise and excellent service. Roto’s tilt & turn system, which comprises modular NT face fix hardware and a Designo fully concealed hinged option, supports demand for premium quality tilt & turn windows. Commenting on the selection of Carl F Groupco to supply the Roto tilt & turn products, Dave Fitton, Production Director for the Sovereign Group said: “Carl F Groupco has supplied our organisation with hardware for nearly forty years and the level of support provided has always been at a consistently high level. The distributor is one of our most reliable suppliers and we can’t give enough praise to Julie Warner, Carl F Groupco’s Product Manager for the Roto range and to the rest of the company for the back-up provided. We have had absolutely no areas of concern with the service provided to us over the last four decades – we can’t commend Carl F Groupco highly enough. www.carlfgroupco.co.uk 44 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
This new collection is part of Mila’s proven Supa™ stainless steel hardware range which already includes hugely popular round pull bar options in a variety of sizes and shapes. Mila is launching a stylish new range of square shaped, stainless steel pull bars in its trusted Supa™ range, perfect for the new generation of contemporary aluminium, timber, composite and PVC-U doors. Sleek and modern in brushed stainless steel, the new collection includes inline, offset and square options in 1200mm lengths to give customers a choice of looks for even the most high-end door designs. They can be back to back, concealed or through-fixed to suit any type of door, and come with the option of Supa™ square escutcheons for a fully suited contemporary look.
Managing Director Richard Gyde says that Mila is keeping pace with demand from customers who want pull bars which suit the styling of their contemporary new door ranges but who don’t want to sacrifice either quality or performance for distinctive aesthetics. He explains: “These Supa™ bars offer something really stylish and contemporary but also come with all the reassurance of a Mila guarantee and Mila service and support. That, we think, ticks every box for customers selling into the premium retail market in particular.” More details on Mila’s complete pull bar range are available via the website at: www.mila.co.uk
PRODUCT NEWS openings. Hardware is from Fullex, including the interlock mechanism, and is guaranteed for 10-years. The HWL patio is also supplied with a Kinetica 3*** BSI Kitemarked TS007 cylinder High-quality stainless-steel tracks guarantee the maximum possible service life and smooth running, while the clean sightlines of the 70mm outer frame are further enhanced through a wide choice of colours and low sightline black or grey gaskets.
HWL Launches PAS24 As Standard Across Its
PVC-U Patio Range HWL Trade Frames has launched PAS24 as standard across its inline sliding PVC-U patio door range. Manufactured in Kömmerling’s PremiLine PRO system, the new offer from HWL achieves PAS24 without the use of interlocking bolts, leaving sightlines uninterrupted. Available in lead times of as little as 7-days, the addition of the German-engineered system, forms a central element of HWL’s growth strategy for 2020. “There’s a lot of focus on aluminium doors but we sell a huge volume of PVC-U patios into domestic and newbuild settings”, says Mark Haley, Managing Director, HWL Trade Frames.
Mark Haley, Managing Director
“The flexibility to go out and offer a PAS24/Part Q approved door as standard, is a major benefit to our customers. There’s an up-sell for the end-user but it also increases reach into new build”, he added. The Kömmerling PremiLine PRO is available from HWL Trade Frames in 2, 3 or 4 panel
It’s central thumb-turn opening and closing mechanism, means that the PremiLine PRO can also be operated from a seated position. Available with a low threshold option, this makes it suitable for wheelchair users, meeting requirements under Part M and the Lifetime Homes Standard It’s the latest evolution in HWL’s product range, which also includes the supply of R9, R7 and R2 .This includes its highly-innovative non-glass-bonded R9 window, which features a 90° butt welded joint inside and out, replicating a mechanical joint and a traditional timber joint – but without the requirement to glass bond. “We offer Residence Collection plus two aluminium bi-folding and inline sliding door systems. The importance of PVC-U patios can sometimes become lost in and amongst all that”, Mark continued. “However, for installers it remains a key product. Offering Part Q as standard is a major advantage for many our customers given the requirement for it on so many home improvements, in addition to new builds.” For more information log on at www.hwlwindows.co.uk WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020 45
PRODUCT NEWS
Two Roof Glass Brands, Combined Technical Capabilites Clayton Glass is a multi-award-winning business that has again been listed as one of the 1000 Companies to Inspire Britain in 2019. Its SMARTGLASS product has long been associated with outstanding quality and performance and now the recent acquisition of the Celsius Glass brand brings further product capability to customers. From a technical perspective the customers of both Celsius and SMARTGLASS now have additional brand propositions and technical capabilities to promote to discerning consumers. According to the company, with a market leading U-value of 0.9 W/(m2K), Celsius Elite is the first dedicated conservatory roof glass to achieve a sub 1.0 rating, while SMARTGLASS Ul46 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
tra 86 is the sector benchmark for a g-value of 86%. For trade partners, this means that they can now choose the best glass for each individual project and to support consumer demand. Together this means that customers can offer both brands with the backing and support of an award-winning business in the form of Clayton Glass. #TheClaytonDifference has been a service initiative that has really captured the imagination of customers across the business for the last two years. Ultimately, it’s their commitment to invest and implement a better way of doing business by combining IT solutions with an outstanding level of customer care. With the combined resources
and expertise, a research and development programme is now being introduced to help realise a next generation glass solution that offers both a market-leading U-value and g-value in a single IGU. At the same time there are other product developments being looked at for glass roofs, along with bi-folding and patio doors options. Ryan Green, managing director of Clayton Glass commented: ‘We want both the Celsius and SMARTGLASS brands to enjoy cross selling opportunities with the ultimate conservatory roof glass offering and this is a major plus for customers. While we continue to invest in further service initiatives, we’re also undertaking careful research and development to create the next generation of specialist glass for the glazed roof and bi-folding and patio door markets.’ For further information please visit claytonglass.co.uk and celsiusglass.co.uk
PRODUCT NEWS
ODL Europe Launches New Glass Range ODL Europe has just launched its new impressive door glass range. Comprising 25 designs, with four ODL-exclusive design options, the glass range offers a wealth of choice for customers and homeowners. Nathan Barr, Managing Director of Bootle-based ODL Europe, said: “We are very excited to launch our new glass range. Our range comes with a wide variety of unique decorative glass options that have been carefully designed to work with various door styles. Whether it’s traditional, contemporary or minimalist we have options to cover all taste and styles, along with four unique glass designs, that really raise the bar in glass design.” The door glass range is available in either double or triple glazed options, has been manufactured to
five times stronger than ordinary annealed glass and complies with EN12150, the international standard for safety glass. For customers looking for enhanced security performance, the glass can be supplied with an upgrade option. This consists of the outer pane of toughened glass being replaced with a 6.8mm laminated glass, which eliminates any attempt to break through when under attack.
the highest standards and comes with recognised accreditations for performance, strength and thermal efficiency. All glass units are made with toughened glass which is up to
Furthermore, all sealed units are manufactured to BS EN1279, a standard that guarantees the quality of components and most importantly the seal, which comes with a manufacturer’s 10 year-warranty. www.odl.com/europe.htm
A Premium Solution From
Iso-Chemie To Winter Sealing As winter’s icy grip bites, faster and easier joint sealing in temperatures as low as – 30°C is provided by new ISO BLOCO 600 Premium Edition foam tape from ISO-Chemie.
The pre-compressed impregnated self-adhesive foam tape, which has been independently tested* and is BBA approved, can be used on joints up to 42 mm, providing a high-performance weather tightness and thermal/acoustic insulation seal for fenestration and façade applications. The versatile ISO BLOCO 600 Premium Edition can be used to provide effective gap seals to accommodate expansion and movement while remaining permeable to trapped water and water vapour in extreme weather conditions – similar to
a flexible breathable style material for the building facade.
New ISO BLOCO 600 Premium Edition foam tape from ISO-Chemie faster provides easier joint sealing in temperatures as low as – 30°C
Quick and easy-to-apply, the tape can be used to seal joints providing excellent thermal and acoustic insulation properties. Product can accommodate a temperature range of -30° to +90° and is impermeable to driving rain with a minimum of 600 Pa, making it one of the best performing tapes in its class. Once installed, a building is better protected from elemental factors like wind, dust and moisture ingress by accommodating the changes in structural movement caused by environmental, cyclical and settlement factors. iso-chemie.eu/en-GB/home/ WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020 47
MACHINERY
Emmegi Offers New
Version Of Satellite XT Emmegi (UK) is launching an updated version of its Satellite XT 5-axis machining centre – branded the Satellite XTE.
A product of Emmegi’s ongoing innovation and development programme in Italy, the new XTE version features a new ergonomically designed cabinet which provides improved safety, better soundproofing and easier visibility for the operator. The Satellite XT is already a popular model in the Emmegi range with a mobile gantry for milling, drilling, tapping and processing five workable sides on large sections of aluminium and steel. The new model features the same 15kW electrospindle and 500mm blade tool and the same gantry set up, but is equipped with a larger 48 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
24-position tool magazine and exchanger arm system for faster tool changeover. It is the new cabinet which really sets the XTE version of the machine apart though. With wide glazed sections, it gives the operator a better view of machining taking place and opens up in two sections to provide easier access for cleaning and maintenance. It also reduces noise volumes and effectively segregates the work area from the rest of the tool magazine to better contain the swarf, with the option of dedicated machine fume extraction if required. Both the Satellite XT and Satellite XTE allow fabricators to machine one profile section, cut it into sections and then ma-
chine the ends of these sections without interrupting the workflow. The sawblade can produce compound cuts, straight cuts, splicing and trimming, making these machines a good choice for companies notching curtain walling sections in particular. The Satellite XT already allows users to work in dynamic double mode so that while sections are being machined on one side of the machine, the next sections can be positioned via workpiece clamps on the opposite side. On the XTE version, this feature is enhanced thanks to new compact and sturdy independent servo-controlled clamps which are easy to configure. In line with all of the new machines in Emmegi’s range, the Satellite XTE features an adjustable 24in touchscreen monitor with user friendly interface. More details on both versions of the Satellite are at: www.emmegi.com
MACHINERY
Epwin Window Systems Becomes The First Systems House To Have A State-Of-The-Art
Automatic Profile Wrapping Machine tomers tap into the growing trend for colour which offers a powerful selling point. The Luna R means that Epwin Window Systems will be supplying the state-of-the-art in coloured profile quality.”
Epwin Window Systems has taken delivery of the Luna R automatic profile wrapping machine, which takes foiling to the next level. Gerald Allen, Marketing Manager at Epwin Window Systems, said: “We are very excited to be the only systems house to currently have this latest technology. Together with our investment in two new twin lines earlier in 2019, it will help us set a new standard for foiling in the industry.” The Luna R is able to wrap even the
most complex of profiles perfectly. In addition, the machine reduces set up times, providing additional capacity and product accuracy. Gerald commented: “As coloured profiles continue to grow in popularity, fabricators and installers will need to match customers’ increasing expectations. For any fabricator and installer wanting to capitalise on the opportunities that colour offers we will soon be unveiling our new colour offering to help our cus-
Epwin Window Systems has a long track record of continuous investment in its systems and processes to ensure it continues to meet the needs of its customers. In 2019, the systems house increased its extrusion capacity by 40% and its foiling capacity by 30%. It is also about to open a brand new, 300,000 sq ft state-ofthe-art warehouse and distribution centre in Telford. The investment in the Luna R is just the latest example of this ethos in action. www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk
Quickslide Invests In Future-Proof Machinery ing and cleaning of window profile after the welding cycle.
Quickslide’s Brighouse factory has recently seen the addition of two URBAN corner cleaning machines and two quad welders following an investment of £350,000 in its factory infrastructure.
A leading manufacturer of made-to-measure sliding sash windows, bi-folding doors, casement windows and doors in PVCu and aluminium, Quickslide says the spend is part of a £2m investment plan which spans 12 months. This centres around increasing capacity while improving quality and efficiency. URBAN machines are known for their machining quality and
Ben affirmed how much Quickslide has grown over the last decade and how the fabricator is now manufacturing close to 1,000 windows a week.
excellent precision and, says Quickslide Managing Director Ben Weber, will increase throughput at key points of the company’s fabrication process. The robust quad welders ensure reliability and repeatability while the corner cleaning machines allow efficient process-
He explained: “We have installed the Schirmer ‘Rolls Royce’ of cutting centres and machinery like this is certainly something that we needed to make the appropriate level of investment in. We have already made huge strides in system and product innovation and this latest step is all about future-proofing the business for the next five to ten years.” www.quickslide.co.uk WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020 49
MACHINERY what we’re doing”, he said. “As a process crimping is highly reliant on the individual operative. They have to set up, run a test, scrap it if it’s not right, set it up again. On a window you’ve got the frame and sash, so that’s two set ups, two potential errors, and the biggest cost by a mile – time”, he said.
Smart Thinking: BDC Aluminium Becomes The First In The UK To Invests In ‘Revolutionary’
4-Head Crimper From FOM BDC Aluminium has become the first fabricator in the UK to invest in a revolutionary new 4-head Ever Theta frame crimping machine from FOM. Supplied by Promac Group as FOM’s authorized supplier in the UK, the Ever Theta cuts full-cycle times to as little as 2 minutes and 31 seconds – roughly half the time it takes using a traditional single head crimper. At the same time, it also brings exceptional accuracy and new precision to manufacture using profile scanning technology. This includes flagging out of tolerance profiles of as little as 0.4mm out in length or 0.9mm on the diagonal, bringing a very high degree of accuracy to 45 mitre and 90 joints. The machinery specialist argues that combined, this delivers a stepchange in product quality but also the speed of manufacture with the potential to revolutionize manufacture of aluminium frames. Purchased by BDC Aluminium as 50 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
David Green
part of a programme of investment in its manufacturing capability, Managing Director, David Green, said the FOM Ever Theta would support the Smart System fabricator in bringing an ever-higher standard of product quality to its customers. “Everything we do is driven by quality. We manufacture a wide range of aluminium products and to a very high standard. The crimper is faster and we can do more – but it also brings new precision to
The Ever Theta can be used in the manufacture of frames of as little as 320mmx400mm and up to maximum frame dimensions of 2600×1100 mm; 2600x2000mm; 2600x2900mm; 2600x3800mm; and 2600×4700 mm. The maximum crimping height is 160mm. Automating the crimping process, it operates across 21 CNC axes and has been designed for use in the manufacture of all types of frames, delivering a highly accurate and repeatable crimp. It delivers this through an in-built profile and panel dimension measuring system. This allows it to scan the profile against maximum tolerances. As the infeed conveyor passes the frame along the line everything is again measured, guaranteeing quality of joints and squareness of frames. “If you look at how long it takes to crimp a frame with a single head CNC machine you’re at 5 or six minutes and a lot of handling and rotation. The Ever Theta does it in less than half that, with little to no handling”, explained Paul Yeo, Sales Manager, Promac Group. He continued: “You simply line the frame up on the bed and the machine does the rest. It’s a very impressive piece of kit and a platform which has the potential to revolutionize the manufacture of aluminium frames delivering a host of benefits, not only in time and efficiency but also, accuracy.” For more information log on at www.promac.co.uk. For more on BDC Aluminium visit www.bdcaluminium.co.uk.
ON SITE
Modern Glazing Brings
New Life To Victorian Gatehouse As Student Hub Students at Royal Holloway University of London will now find a brand new, architect-designed private accommodation and social hub located in Egham, Surrey. The privately-owned facility, called Hox Haus, is in an extended and re-modelled Grade II-listed Victorian gymnasium located a short bus-ride away from Royal Holloway, University of London.
ed, part of the NSG Group, said: “There is a good body of research evidence building that suggests there is a strong relationship between natural light in working and studying spaces and the wellbeing of those using the space. “It has been shown to promote better sleep, increased physical activity and increased productivity, all conducive to more effective study.”
The project blends its original Victorian brickwork with two new glazed ‘light box’ additions which will provide students with lightfilled spaces in which to work, socialise and relax.
In order to maximise the benefits that the glazing delivers to students using the facility, a structurally-glazed curtain-wall system from manufacturer Raico was selected for the project.
Michael Metcalfe, national sales manager – UK processing, at Pilkington United Kingdom Limit-
The system ensures that, externally, only a narrow silicone joint remains visible between each
pane of glass, maximising sightlines in and out of the building while minimising obstructions to natural light entering. The glass used throughout features the high-performance Pilkington Suncool™ 66/33 solar-control coating. This means that just 33 per cent of the sun’s energy can pass through, significantly reducing the heating effect on the interior, while 66 per cent of light is allowed in, maintaining excellent brightness and views. Further solar control is provided by the shading created by anodised metal fins that project from the glazed wall in key areas, a feature that also adds a distinctive contemporary aesthetic to the design. Michael Metcalfe continued: “In any building that has large areas of glass, there will always be a risk of excessive heat build-up, which can result in either an uncomfortable environment for occupants or high running costs and poor environmental perforWINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020 51
ON SITE mance if high levels of air-conditioning are used. “Our solar-control coatings are engineered to minimise this effect, making it easier to maintain an ideal temperature all year round without compromising on the advantages large areas of glazing bring to a building.”
Victorian Sliders Set
The Tone For 120
Heritage-Look Homes
David Holt, Founder of architects and designers 74 said: “We wanted to create a light-filled and largely transparent overall space that brings the outside in, references the building’s semi-rural location and offers a warm, comfortable and relaxing homefrom-home for students. The interior feel was to be like a country retreat or clubhouse-with-a-twist. “Fostering social interaction was at the heart of the design, and the glazed elements play a key role in that. We wanted all of the spaces, even those intended for individual study – to feel connected.” Paul Williams, managing director at Vitrine Systems, said: “The combination of Pilkington solar-control glazing and the stateof-the-art Raico structural glazing units means students will get maximum benefit from working in a bright and airy space, whilst having beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. “The high quality off the materials also gives the building a ‘premium’ feel which will help fill students with a sense of pride in their surroundings and help attract the most talented individuals to apply to study at the college.” Hox Haus opens its doors to students for the 2019-2020 academic year. It features IT-equipped workspaces for individual or group study as well as a downtime space with TV and games lounges, tea points, vending machines and built-in bar points to allow pop-up catering for social events. 52 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
Hundreds of Victorian Sliders sash windows are gracing a stunning coastal housing development in Seamill, West Kirkbride.
ics we were looking for with modern performance, and second, because they were able to supply us with high volumes at a consistently high quality.
Just minutes from the Firth of Clyde, and with dramatic views of the Isle of Arran, the Chapleton estate takes its inspiration from the Scottish domestic architecture of the 17th, 18th and mid-19th centuries.
“The development includes over 120 houses in all – 35 affordable, and around 90 privately-owned – and the vast majority include Victorian Sliders windows.”
The range of two, three, four and five-bedroom houses it encompasses have been solidly built from natural materials to give them an authentic feel – and housebuilder Hope Homes wanted them to have windows that complimented that vintage character. “We chose Victorian Sliders for two key reasons,” comments Anne Hope of Hope Homes. “First, because the windows balance the traditional aesthet-
Andy Jones, Victorian Sliders Group Managing Director, comments: “It’s hugely gratifying to see our windows featured in such an ambitious, picturesque development. “We’re one of the only sash window manufacturers in Europe who could supply a development on this scale, and we’re delighted with the results. We look forward to collaborating with Hope Homes again in future.” www.victoriansliders.co.uk
ON SITE to have been involved in such a prestigious project in Poland. Our hardware has certainly impressed, as another 500 windows fitted with the same Titon products are set to be installed from now into the new year. This is testament to the versatility and quality of our hardware portfolio, as we offer a wealth of handles, espagnolettes and hinges suitable for a wide range of applications.” Overture espagnolette handles are part of Titon’s Overture suite of window and door hardware. This stylish handle is ergonomically designed to include a solid and sculptured grip, and is available in straight or handed versions, in a variety of finishes.
Titon’s Hardware
Exported To Prestigious Refurbishment In Poland Over 300 sets of Titon window hardware have been fitted as part of the ongoing refurbishment of the Rother’s Mills buildings on Mill Island, located in the historic old town of Bydgoszcz, Poland. The products installed include Overture E handles, Kenrick Standard Espags, top hung Venture hinges and Capture safety restrictors, which were all supplied onsite by Titon’s Polish distributor, AGAS. Mill Island has been a popular tourist destination since 2006, with the Rother’s Mills buildings being one of the central attractions. Following significant investment in a number of nearby museums, the decision was then taken to refurbish Rother’s Mills with brand new windows, while allowing the buildings to retain their original characteristics.
Commenting on the project, Remigiusz Bieńkowski, Technical Sales Advisor at AGAS, said: “The historic riverside buildings have hundreds of timber windows, so required high quality hardware to ensure robustness and durability. Following extensive research, it was clear Titon offered the most suitable range of products, complying with the project’s specification, as well as the relevant building regulations. We have worked with Titon for over two and a half years, and have always been extremely impressed with the quality of their hardware and exceptional customer service. These sentiments were shared by our client Zakład Stolarski Marek Kapeja, who worked on the Rother’s Mills refurbishment.” Daniel Obara, Export Manager at Titon, added: “We are proud
The Venture friction hinge range is suitable for domestic applications on side or top hung windows. It has been developed by Titon’s window fittings team and is tested to the latest standards. All hinge dimensions and opening geometries have been designed to fit most window profiles. There are a number of versions in the range, including top hung, side hung and Egress Easy-Clean, available in standard or Hi Stack configurations. The addition of the Tenure Hinge Security Guard also allows the Venture hinge to meet the requirements of PAS 24 as part of a compliant window system. The Kenrick Standard Espagnolette locking mechanism is designed to meet the requirements of the UK market – where peace of mind, performance, longevity and basic security are vital. It is suitable for use on PVCU, timber or aluminium windows. Finally, Capture is an automatically engaging spring-loaded window safety restrictor for use on side and top hung windows to limit opening and can be retrofitted. Capture is supplied in austenitic steel and in a choice of three different lengths for use on deep sections. Various pin heights are also available to suit all cavity sizes. www.titon.com WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020 53
ON SITE
AB Glass Appointed For Second Installation
On Bristol Project Aluminium manufacturing and installation company AB Glass has started work on a contract in the former Guardian Exchange building in Bristol for Kier Construction.
The three-acre site, now known as Glassfields, refers to its former use as the original glassworks site of the ‘Bristol Blue’ manufacturing company. Royal London Asset Management has refurbished the historic Broad Plain terrace, with the plan to develop the cleared site on Temple Way, to build a 200room Jury’s Inn. Royal London Asset Manage54 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
ment is currently developing two of the four plots on the site – plot 2 and 4. AB Glass previously worked on plot 2 – a 21,000m² office building, which has been designed to provide flexible working space. Due to the high standard of service AB Glass provided on plot 2, the company was appointed to carry out the work on plot 4, which began in November 2019.
The award-winning company based in Swansea is providing the design, manufacture and installation services on plot 4. The aluminium systems being used by AB Glass for the project include the Kawneer AA100
curtain wall, AA540 windows and AA540 and AA190 doors. David Snell, operations director, Kier said: “We are delighted to be working with AB Glass on the delivery of plot 4. The standard of service is always of the highest quality, which is exactly what we require. It is very exciting to see the level development in the centre of Bristol at present, and we are pleased to be working on the delivery of two key projects for the area.” Alan Brayley, managing director at AB Glass, said: “We are very happy to have been providing our manufacturing and installation services to plot 2 of this project for some time, and as a result of our team’s high level standard of work, we are proud to have been contracted to also carry out work on plot 4.” www.abforglass.co.uk
ON SITE
Spectus Delivers Required Specifications For New Build Retirement Village
Over 300 Spectus Elite 70 System windows were used in the construction of a new build retirement village in Chorley town centre. Chorley Council commissioned a 65-apartment retirement village to provide those aged 55 and above with an independent living space with access to care and support. The development, Primrose Gardens, is in the centre of Chorley and is part of the Council’s strategic masterplan for the town centre. The development partner for the build was Eric Wright Construction. The window contract on the build was awarded to Spectus Approved Window contractor JADE Window and Door Specialists, a family run
company based in Batley with over 25 years’ experience in the industry. The 65 apartments had over 300 windows in total manufactured in anthracite grey on the external face and white internally. Thermal efficiency was a particular focus to keep running costs on the apartments to a minimum. The Elite 70 System from Spectus was able to meet this requirement. It is a five-chamber system, which increases thermal performance, meaning it is capable of achieving a Window Energy Rating of A+ and U-Values to 0.8W/m2K. The system is Secured by Design accredited where a high level of security is a requirement.
Primrose Gardens’ town centre location meant careful programming and logistics planning was required to ensure minimum disruption and safe access. The construction was also on a reduced timeframe to enable Chorley Council to start delivering services as quickly as possible. JADE Window and Door Specialists are an experienced commercial contractor, so the team was able to take these factors into account and still deliver a high-quality installation to the timescale. The construction was completed on schedule in Autumn 2019. www.spectus.co.uk WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020 55
ON SITE
Profile 22’s Optima Windows Used In High Quality
Retirement Housing Development Profile 22’s Optima windows were specified in the development of 26 one- and two-bedroom apartments in a retirement development in Upper Norwood, London. Lewis House is a development from McCarthy & Stone, the UK’s leading retirement housebuilder, and included 97 windows and 26 door and sightlight combinations. The project was undertaken by Profile 22 Approved Window Installer Newview Homes Ltd. The company is one of the largest installation companies in the South East and is the one of the few UK installation companies to hold both ISO 9001 for Quality Management and ISO 14001 for Environmental Management. 56 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
The window specification required a U value of 1.4 wm2/k on all windows and Secured by Design accreditation on ground floor and easily accessible first floor windows. Acoustic glazing was also required because Lewis House is situated on a busy road so traffic noise needed to be minimised. Visually, the local authority had requested a grey exterior to give a modern appearance and provide a close match to aluminium. Newview used Profile 22’s Optima 70mm casement windows in smooth slate grey on white with 28mm Low E sealed glass units. Secured by Design accredited windows were fitted where required. Michele Wietscher, Commercial and Finance Director at Newview,
said: “The Optima profile is always well-received because of its ability to meet demanding requirements at a competitive price.” The windows were manufactured by Newview’s long term fabrication partner, Emplas Window Systems Ltd, one of the UK’s largest window and door fabricators. Newview is an experienced commercial installer used to working on new build developments so was well-placed to ensure installation ran smoothly and coordinated with all other trades on site. Everyone involved is delighted with the finished result. Senjey Sehmi, Senior Technical Manager South East, McCarthy & Stone Retirement Lifestyles, said: “We are very happy with the appearance of the windows, as they give a clean and contemporary look, which is in keeping with the architectural style of the building.” www.profile22.co.uk
ON SITE
Vistamatic Supply Specialist Vision Panels For New Royal Hospital For Sick Children In Edinburgh Plans were approved in 2005 to build a new children’s hospital in Edinburgh.
is of paramount importance, this allows nursing staff to monitor patients accurately and efficiently without compromising on people’s dignity.
The new facility will replace the old Royal Hospital for Sick Children, currently based near Edinburgh city centre, that has been caring for children and young people in the Lothians and beyond for more than 150 years.
Dorsuite’s project manager commented: “We have been incredibly busy working at the new hospital in Edinburgh. We ordered 142 vision panels from Vistamatic, which we asked to have delivered to our Glasgow site. We fitted the panels into our internal doors and we transported them to the new hospital site in Edinburgh.
Once opened, the new Royal Hospital for Sick Children will offer a range of services including acute medical and surgical care, specialist surgical and medical care, haematology and oncology, day care and critical care to children and young people.
“Due to the size of the development, and to avoid localised congestion, all contractors were given a timed delivery slot so they could get their products moved in. We had to adhere to these strict timings but everything went to plan as Vistamatic agreed to ship their products directly to us and we then organised a timed delivery.
More than 140 specialist vision panels from Vistamatic were supplied to Glasgow-based Dorsuite for the Scottish hospital project. Vistamatic’s triple-glazed Vistamatic MAX-XL, both non-fire rated and FD30 fire rated, were made to measure. Specifically designed to offer a streamline appearance to any internal door, these full-length panels fit vertically into any door blank and were primarily used in the hospital’s internal patient rooms. Ideal for projects in all sectors, not just healthcare, the MAXXL provide a contemporary streamline appearance whilst offering the right amount of observation in a medical environment.
Claimed to be easy to fit and install, with no cutting or drilling required, these vision panels from Vistamatic fit into any frame and can be manually operated to open or close the glazed observation panels. These offer a large viewing aspect whilst demonstrating the appearance of a venetian blind. In a hospital environment, when patient care and privacy
“The vision panels from Vistamatic were perfect for the job.” Dorsuite was chosen to supply two major hospital projects in Scotland, in a combined deal worth around £6m. Together, well over 5,000 doorsets were delivered on budget, within agreed timescales and fitted by specialists. www.vistamatic.com WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020 57
MARKETING / INTERNET
FENSA’s ‘All The Proof You Need’
TV Marketing Campaign Leads To A Huge
Increase In Homeowner And Installer Awareness but these numbers have exceeded our expectations,” said Chris Beedel, FENSA’s Director of Membership. “To see so many of our Approved Installers using the FENSA brand to achieve this goes to show how homeowners now understand the value of the FENSA certificate. For 73% of homeowners to say they would only use a FENSA Approved Installer to replace their windows and doors is fantastic, and the value of being FENSA Approved is growing by the day.” FENSA’s latest benchmarking survey has revealed a large increase in homeowner and installer awareness of the UK’s original and most well-known competent person scheme for the installation of replacement windows and doors, following the launch of its first TV ad in March 2019 and the accompanying social media campaign. The ‘All the proof you need’ campaign was designed to make homeowners aware of the importance of choosing a FENSA approved installation company – and asking for a FENSA certificate on completion of the job – to ensure their replacement windows and doors comply with building regulations, are energy efficient and registered with their local council. A follow-up survey, conducted by YouGov in November 2019, 58 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
has revealed that the marketing campaign far exceeded expectations and that FENSA-approved installers are reaping the benefits. After nine months of the campaign, 73% of homeowners said they would now only use a FENSA installer to replace their windows and doors. In addition, 50% of homeowners said they now know to ask for a FENSA certificate. As a result FENSA’s website has seen a huge increase in visitors, particularly those using the ‘Find an Installer’ page to find FENSA-approved companies in their local area. Among FENSA-approved installers, the survey revealed, 67% now use the FENSA brand to win work. ”We wanted to see an increase in consumer awareness of FENSA and of installers using the brand to secure new contracts,
The TV advert became the first of its kind in the industry when it launched in March. Based on the simple and direct message to homeowners to ask for a FENSA certificate, the campaign was conceived after FENSA realised that, in spite of legislation, many installers still do not register replacement windows and doors with local authorities, meaning homeowners can be left with problems and costs if installers who are not part of a competent person scheme leave homeowners with non-compliant work. FENSA’s ad, along with sponsorship on TV channel Dave and an accompanying series of online marketing campaigns, has meant the brand has been seen almost 250 million times, ensuring homeowner awareness of FENSA has never been higher. www.fensa.org.uk
MARKETING / INTERNET
ODL Europe Introduce New Composite Door Brochure
ODL Europe have just published a new composite door brochure to support their growing customer base. Nathan Barr, ODL Europe’s Managing Director said: “Our new brochure showcases our complete composite door collection including our newly-launched decorative glass range. The brochure is intended to support our customers while appealing to today’s design-conscious consumer by demonstrating the choice on offer.”
The comprehensive 48-page brochure is filled with high-quality images throughout covering the full range of doors and glazing options available from ODL Europe. The contemporary brochure design perfectly demonstrates the extensive door range which includes a choice of 30 door styles, two finishes, 29 colours, three glazing frame choices and a new decorative glass range with 25 glass options. Nathan
said: “Our new brochure will not only support our fabricating customers, but also translate into better representation of our products to the general public. Furthermore, the brochure stresses the technological benefits of our products so today’s consumer can buy with increased confidence. The contemporary design of the brochure is intended to illustrate the strength and innovation of ODL Europe.” 2020 sees the 75th anniversary of parent company ODL and the company has an enviable track record of investment in its products and services to ensure they stay ahead of the curve and help support their customers. ODL Europe is no different – and the new brochure is just one example of this in practice. www.odl.com/europe.htm
500% Increase In Website
Enquiries For Roofline Solutions South East home improvement company Roofline Solutions has seen a 500% increase year on year in enquiries thanks to a new website, delivered by Purplex. The company saw 84 enquiries delivered in October compared to just 14 last year, while a huge 2,057 sessions were also completed, compared with 653 across the same month last year, meaning a very impressive increase of 215%. With more than 17 years of industry experience, Roofline Solutions have been supplying roofline and cladding replacements to homeowners and the trade across Surrey, Berkshire and Hampshire.
Having originally linked-up with leading full-service marketing agency Purplex to manage the digital marketing on their previous website, it soon became apparent that they needed a new, improved platform. And having gone live in August, it has delivered some spectacular results. Ricky Moss, joint owner and
Director of Roofline Solutions, said: “We noticed a large uplift in enquiries after the website went live which has continued over the ensuing months. We are delighted with the results and look forward to continuing working with Purplex in the future.” Adi Day, Purplex’s Digital Director, commented: “It’s great to see the new website has helped to significantly drive traffic to Roofline Solutions and increase enquires by such a huge margin. “The company is going from strength to strength and we look forward to supporting their future growth.” purplexmarketing.com WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020 59
MARKETING / INTERNET
Business Micros Launches
Its Own Courier Service Business Micros has begun the roll out of its exciting, Next Generation software solutions with the launch of Courier – a mobile delivery scanning app for fabricators. Courier has been created to work alongside Business Micros’ EvoNET Despatch planning tool and provides the final link in the chain, scanning and recording each item as it is delivered to guarantee On Time In Full performance every single time. Simple and affordable, Business Micros says Courier gives delivery drivers the tools they need to do a great job. EvoNET Despatch ensures that all items are loaded onto the vehicle correctly, and then the driver uses the integrated Courier app on their Android scanning device to scan those same items as they are unloaded, ensuring that nothing can ever be 60 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
missed off.
As well as eliminating paper delivery notes, the app captures the customer’s signature and automatically sends an email conformation to record each completed drop. To start using Courier, fabricators need to create an online account with Business Micros to download the app. Once they have entered their security information and the registration numbers of their delivery vehicles, they can start setting up their delivery routes by vehicle through EvoNET and exporting them to the Courier Cloud server. The driver using the app simply clicks on each drop once they arrive at that customer and then scans off each item using their device as they unload it from the vehicle. Once every item has been
scanned, the customer can sign for that delivery and at that point the information is captured and saved offline. Once the device is within range of 4G or WiFi, then the information is passed back to EvoNET. Nick Bailey, Business Development Manager at Business Micros, says that Courier delivers all the simplicity and ease of use which it promised when it announced its Next Generation software at last year’s FIT Show. He says: “This is so easy to integrate into any delivery set up and eliminates all those missed items and delivery errors which end up costing money. It empowers drivers and helps them to impress customers with an efficient and reliable service.” www.businessmicros.co.uk/courier
MARKETING / INTERNET
Kubu Launches Dedicated Installer Site For Kubu Pro Hardware manufacturer, Avantis, has launched a new dedicated installer website for its smart lock innovation, Kubu. The new website gives installers access to everything they need to be a Kubu Pro and is live at www.pro-kubu-home.com. Mark Bromley, CEO of Avantis, says: “We’ve created the brand new Kubu Pro website to make it really easy for installers promote and demonstrate Kubu to potential customers. “Via the website, installers can sign up to become a Kubu Pro and find a fabricator that is fitting Kubu Equipped Door Locks into their doors as standard.” Once registered and signed up,
Kubu Pro installers will get access to the Kubu Pro portal, which is an exclusive resource centre that contains a wealth of marketing material, including images, videos, brochures, leaflets and showroom displays. The Kubu Pro portal has been designed to fully equip installers with everything they need to know about Kubu and get them set for smart
technology. Once homeowners have had their Kubu Equipped Doors fitted by installers, they can buy their Smart Kits directly from the Kubu website and set it up themselves, connecting to the Kubu App and Kubu Home Hub. It can also be added to Amazon Alexa and Google Home Hub, where homeowners can check on the lock status of their door. If homeowners leave their home with the door unlocked, the WiFi perimeter feature sends a notification to their phone via the app to let them know. Mark adds: “We know how busy installers are and how competitive the market is. www.pro-kubu-home. com has been set up to make it easier for installers to win jobs quickly and differentiate themselves, thanks to the easy sign up and process and the extensive library of marketing support.” www.pro-kubu-home.com.
Abcell Launch Exclusive New AluK And Guardian Brochures The trend to improve and not move has led to more homeowners investing in glazed extensions to create new living spaces. Abcell has launched two exclusive new brochures to help installers sell the dream. Abcell says Guardian™ Warm Roof and AluK products are perfect for creating these light-filled rooms and the new brochures have been produced to show the many benefits of the two ranges for both newbuild and refurbishment projects. “As the UK’s biggest trade manufacturer of Guardian, we welcomed the recent announcement of their partnership with VELUX®,” says Paul Ford, Abcell Managing Director. “Having these two huge
brands working together opens up a whole range of opportunities to our customers and we wanted to produce a brochure to illustrate this. “As well as the VELUX range of roof windows, the new literature also features the Guardian Solstice Skylight system, displaying the full range of options available, along with key features of the roof and choice of tile colours and styles.
“We’ve also designed the ‘AluK Aluminium Windows, Doors & Glazing’ brochure to show the range of AluK products that we now fabricate. We aim to provide our customers with the greatest choice of products possible, and by adding AluK to our suite, we now offer slimline aluminium windows, bi-folds and patio doors, as well as entrance doors, heritage windows and even verandas. “Brochures are an ideal way to help installers sell the benefits of products to homeowners and show the full range of options available. These exclusive new brochures provide our customers with an additional sales tool to make their job easier.” To find out more about Abcell and to download the new brochures, go to www.abcell.co.uk WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020 61
MARKETING / INTERNET
Installer Makes The Right Choice With Customade
Digital Package An installer is reaping the benefits of Customade Group’s new digital marketing package, having generated dozens of qualified customer leads and achieved an astonishing return on investment of 1420%.
tomers. We’re not digital experts though and needed some technical support to get things moving.
Glasgow-based Right Choice Homes was one of the UK’s first installers to buy-in to Customade’s tailored programme, which was launched at the FIT Show last May. In the first two months, it transformed Right Choice Homes’ digital presence and helped the firm to achieve a very healthy return on a modest investment.
“Naturally, we were very interested to hear about the new package from Customade that promised to bring all the technology and knowhow we needed to enhance our image, reach new prospects and deliver those all-important leads. We decided to invest in it almost immediately and we are so pleased that we did – within weeks we were generating leads and converting a very high proportion of them into profitable work.”
Barrie Knox, owner of Right Choice Homes, explains: “We’d been using traditional methods, like local press advertising and door to door leafleting to promote our business throughout Scotland, but we knew that we really needed to boost our online presence to win more cus-
Customade Group’s specialist team carried out a full ‘digital fitness’ audit and developed a bespoke package to quickly achieve measurable results for Right Choice. This included website optimisation, web analytics and a targeted advertising campaign to
62 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
capture new customers via social media. Right Choice also invested in Customade’s Quote-To-Win app – an easy to use app that has been designed to help convert quotes to sales 24/7. “The Quote-To-Win app has really delivered for us,” says Barrie. “It puts all our leads and quotes in one place and helps us organise and follow them up quickly and efficiently. The app is so easy to use because it does all the hard work behind the scenes and we can use it anywhere and at any time of day. “Getting leads in and then converting them is a challenge for any installer, but we’ve overcome this hurdle with the new app and a greater online presence. In the first two months, our lead campaign netted more than £20,000 worth of business from a very modest investment – we’re very pleased with the results so far.” Right Choice Homes was one of the first installers in the UK to invest in the digital programme from Customade. According to Customade, the end to end package improves installers’ online presence and drives leads to help them work productively and achieve growth in a rapidly changing market. With less time needed to administer quotes and leads, installers have more time to convert them and concentrate on profitable business. www.customade.co.uk
MARKETING / INTERNET
Best Ever Year For GGF
Brand Awareness
The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) is pleased to announce that 2019 was the best year ever for GGF brand awareness with the latest stats showing over 300k unique users used the GGF website – GGF.org.uk and MyGlazing.com. In addition the page views across both sides combined exceed 800k with over 300 new pieces of content added to the GGF websites. The volume and quality of GGF content was also reflected in the offline (print) media with over 133 million opportunities to see the GGF brand in the trade, consumer, political and regional press as over 850 articles mentioned the GGF in
James Lee, GGF Director of External Affairs
Leads 2 Trade To Launch
New Software In 2020 Leads 2 Trade is set to strengthen its position as the UK’s leading provider of double qualified sales leads with the launch of three new software systems in 2020. The Stockport-based firm, which provides leads for companies in the home improvement industry, is re-investing in its technology to increase the quality of service to its members. From January, members will now be able to advantage of new contractor appointment booking software, have access to a new sales lead vault and shortly after will be able to integrate with the new Leads 2 Trade app. The appointment booking software will provide members with a new easy to use electronic diary system built into the members area dashboard to allocate appointments to their sales teams and will
include a new automated SMS messaging platform. The lead vault, which only certain members will be given access too, will be a new area within the members area dashboard that will display leads that have been qualified by Leads 2 Trade’s contact centre but have not been sold due to, for example, product type or lack of postcode area coverage. Andy Royle, Leads 2 Trade’s co-founder and Managing Director, explained: “2019 has been a busy
the press. On the highest ever levels of brand awareness, James Lee Director of External Affairs commented, “I am delighted that the figures show another outstanding year for our marketing communications. This is largely down to our prolific content strategy and the introduction of the Members’ First newsletter which, combined with our smart search engine marketing has optimised our online content and driven relevant users to the respective GGF websites. Thanks to all our Members, the GGF Marketing Communications Committee and our external agencies who have all helped make this year truly exceptional for the GGF brand.” For further information go to: www.ggf.org.uk or for consumer information generated by the GGF please visit www.MyGlazing.com year for Leads 2 Trade with changes to nearly every element of our business designed to streamline the lead generation process. “We firmly intend to continue to deliver the very best service to our members in 2020 and these exciting new software developments will further strengthen the quality of the leads we supply.” Two years ago, Leads 2 Trade introduced their premium lead delivery methods for members, set against a standard lead that is just supplied via email or text message, including pre-qualified hotkey telephone leads and a revolutionary appointment booking service. And, according to Andy, it’s the continuous development of these services that puts Leads 2 Trade head and shoulders above their competitors. “One of the reasons behind our growth as a business is we never stop improving,” added Andy. www.leads2trade.co.uk WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020 63
AWARDS
Quickslide Coined As Calderdale Business
Of The Year 2019 For any business, winning an award and receiving recognition for your efforts is a humbling experience. When the awarding institute comprises of those right on your doorstep, representing fellow local corporates, the accolade is undoubtedly even more so. Celebrating a double win of precisely that nature is Yorkshire based manufacturer Quickslide. The Calderdale Excellence in Business Awards – held at The Arches, Halifax in November – brought together a cross section of companies in a lavish evening of home-grown acknowledgement. Contrary to assumptions that the home improvement sector is at the mercy of Brexit and Government uncertainty, Quickslide’s popularity 64 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
within the industry was prominently recognised, with an announcement as ‘Overall Business of the Year 2019’. Having already secured the ‘Large Business of the Year’ award earlier in the evening, Quickslide triumphed for a second time against leaders in IT, medical supplies, telemarketing and recruitment. Quickslide’s Chairman Adrian Barraclough explained how much of the company’s success is indebted to highly proficient and professional relationships with their installer customers: “The awards are a magnificent achievement for the company and huge endorsement for our philos-
ophy of valuing our staff, suppliers and customers equally. Our installers represent Quickslide on the ground, and it is crucial that they understand how their professionalism and work ethic contributes to the achievement overall.” Compere and local news presenter Harry Gration outlined the reasons given for Quickslide’s success as a constant endeavour for innovation, investment in people, contribution to the community and overall business performance. Adrian continued: “We strive for recognition at this level to in part, enable the businesses of our installers to thrive, and be the first choice for homeowners.” Looking to the future, Adrian confirmed Quickslide’s forthcoming plans for a £2 million investment in machinery, new factory extension and in-house systems which will see the business’s capacity significantly increase during the next few years. www.quickslide.co.uk
Victorian Sliders
AWARDS
In The Running For Prestigious Business Award
Senior In Line
For Top Regional
Manufacturing Award Victorian Sliders is celebrating a finalist spot in the prestigious West Wales Business Awards. The company, which has invested over £10m in the last five years, has been shortlisted in the sought-after Manufacturing category. The Ammanford-based firm now has the capacity to make a sash window every 40 seconds at its state-of-the-art 240,000 square foot factory. It also extrudes its own profile, makes its own sealed units and manufacturers its own hardware. It’s the company’s innovation, independence and relentless growth that caught the eye of West Wales Business Award judges, who every year seek to find and reward the best entrepreneurs and organisations the region has to offer. Sponsored by JCP Solicitors, LTC Mobility, Nuwave, Morgan le Roche and others, the Awards will culminate in a glamorous black-
tie event on January 24th, where winners will be announced. “This is a fantastic way for us to start a new year, and a new decade,” comments Victorian Sliders Group Managing Director Andy Jones. “We’re a proud Welsh manufacturer, and one of the region’s biggest employers.
Senior Architectural Systems’ manufacturing expertise has secured the fenestration systems house a nomination at the 2020 Made in Yorkshire Awards, organised by regional business media company Insider Media Ltd.
Senior has been shortlisted in the Manufacturing Innovation category in recognition of its pioneering PURe® range of thermally-efficient alumini“In 2020, our 15th year in busium windows and doors. The ness, we’ll be continuing to grow patented framing system is our share of the Vertical Sliding the first on the UK market to window market. We currently deal incorporate a thermal barrier with more than 3,000 installers manufactured from expandand manufacture 2,000 frames per ed polyurethane (PUR) foam, week!” a material more commonly used in insulation and cladThis latest recognition comes after ding products. As a result, Senior’s innovative PURe® Victorian Sliders were voted winners in the Vertical Sliding Window windows and doors offer enCompany category at the National hanced thermal efficiency and have the potential to achieve Fenestration Awards last year. some of the lowest U-values In December, the company expe- available on the UK market, says the company. rienced its most productive week ever, manufacturing 2,347 frames. Senior will be joined by the other award nominees at the For more information visit www.victoriansliders.co.uk or call official award ceremony in Leeds on 5th March 2020. 01269 846200. WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020 65
EVENTS
Senior’s
Aluminium Day Wins Gold! Senior Architectural Systems is celebrating after winning one of the top prizes at the Construction Marketing Awards for the successful launch of the company’s first ever Aluminium Day. The fenestration systems manufacturer was presented with the ‘Best Social Media Campaign’ award in recognition of the online event that was hosted by Senior back in March 2019. Aluminium Day was launched in order to raise awareness of the versatility of the metal, from its popularity as a building material and use within the food manufacturing industry to its role in transport and aerospace design, as well as celebrating the success and skills of those who work 66 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
with the material. Attracting contributions from across the fenestration and construction industry, the campaign reached a wide and varied audience – with the #AluminiumDay hashtag being used in four different countries and seen by nearly 200,000 people. Plans are now underway for the next event which will held on Friday 13th March 2020. The date itself, the 13th day of the third month, gives a nod to the fact that aluminium is the third most abundant metal in the world and its atomic number is 13. As well as making a note of the date, Senior is keen to encourage as many people and companies as possible to get involved and get tweeting.
Commenting, Senior’s marketing manager Jonny Greenstreet said: “The first ever Aluminium Day was a huge success and helped to generate some great conversations across a variety of social media platforms. It was great to see so many of our customers and supply chain partners joining in and using the hashtag to get their own messages out to a much wider audience. We will of course be posting our own content but it’s really just a day to celebrate aluminium and those who work with it, and that’s a sentiment that everyone can get behind!” As well winning the top award at the Construction Marketing Awards, Senior’s Aluminium Day campaign was also highly commended at the recent Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) PRide Awards. Further updates about Aluminium Day 2020 and how to get involved will be available soon via Senior’s social media channels. seniorarchitectural.co.uk
EVENTS
Big Name Sponsors Already On Board For Glazing Summit 2020 Some of the biggest names in the industry have already come on board for Glazing Summit 2020 – and plenty more have expressed an interest in getting involved, say the organisers. Glazing Summit 2020 takes place on Thursday, October 8 at Edgbaston Stadium and Conference Centre. The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) have been announced as headline sponsors for a second year running, while Unique Window Systems are sponsoring the exclusive Leaders Dinner. Reynaers and Edgetech have also confirmed they are backing the event again, while ODL will be sponsoring the Champagne
Reception once again. Andrew Scott, founder of the Glazing Summit and CEO of organisers Insight Data and Purplex Marketing, said: “When we announced that the Glazing Summit would be returning in 2020 at the end of last year’s event, the response was really positive. “But since we revealed the date, venue, and plans to make it even bigger and better this year, momentum is already gathering, even at this early stage. “To get the calibre of sponsors already on board this early in the year shows how valuable the industry views the Glazing Summit and we are determined to raise the bar again.”
Last year’s event, which also took place at Edgbaston Stadium, attracted almost 350 industry leaders from across the glass and glazing industry and 25 expert and keynote speakers, who tackled the biggest industry issues. There are a whole host of sponsorship opportunities are available for Glazing 2020, so if you don’t want to miss out visit www.glazingsummit.co.uk, call 01934 808292 or email hello@glazingsummit.co.uk
Buzzing Birmingham Bash Wraps Up Year Of The PiGs
2019 is the year of the pig and that has certainly proven to be the case for the industry’s top networking event, as another hugely successful calendar concluded with the ever-popular Birmingham PiGs party in November. The Pitcher & Piano was once again packed to the rafters with familiar faces, as well as lots of new attendees, as the West Midlands played host to the last event of a year that has seen PiGs journey to Manchester, FiT Show, London, Glasgow and Atlanta.
organisers of PiGs, says: “Birmingham PiGs always attracts a great crowd and it was a fantastic night. The bar was absolutely buzzing and it looked like there was lots of good conversations taking place.
Andy Ball of Balls2 Marketing,
“It was a very fitting way to
round up what has been another superb year for PiGs. The event just keeps going from strength to strength, or you could say it gets ‘pigger’ and ‘pigger’, and we’re already looking forward to an even busier 2020.” Watch this space for the announcement of the 2020 dates. If you would like to know more about becoming a sponsor, contact Sarah on sarah@balls2marketing.co.uk or call 07540 049655. Don’t forget to like the Facebook page and follow PiGs on Twitter to get all the latest updates. WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020 67
CHARITY
Entries NOW OPEN For The SupaLite
Charity Football Tournament
Following a tremendous year of fundraising in 2019, Preston-based SupaLite is proud to announce the triumphant return of their popular charity football tournament.
With the return of the tournament, Nina Colquhoun, Finance Director at SupaLite is hoping to encourage even more teams to enter and raise more money for their new chosen charity Mind.
The SupaLite Charity Shield will be up for grabs on Saturday March 28th 2020, with entries now open for new teams. The 2019 tournament took place back in March and saw teams from across the local area and the glazing industry take part. After a very competitive but entertaining day, the Glass Times team lifted the coveted trophy.
Nina comments: “After the huge success of the 2019 tournament, we are delighted to be bringing back the SupaLite Charity Shield in 2020. With a few months to go, we’re calling on local businesses along with our suppliers, customers and industry friends to register a team in this brilliant event.
The tournament was in aid of the charity Cash For Kids and saw vital funds raised through entry fees and an all-star raffle. With prizes including a signed Harry Kane England shirt, event wristbands and a training session with boxing gold medallist Scott Fitzgerald, the raffle alone helped to raise an incredible £771. 68 WINDOW NEWS JANUARY 2020
“This time around, we’re hoping to make the tournament even bigger and better to raise as much money as we can for a really worthy cause. We have a big target to overcome after a successful 2019, but I’m sure with businesses ‘up for the cup’, we can surpass it in 2020.” The 2019 tournament was designed to help Nina meet the
necessary fundraising goals to secure a place in the London Marathon. With her spot secured, Nina successfully completed the marathon and smashed her fundraising goal of £2,500. With the help of friends and family, colleagues, suppliers and industry supporters, Nina went on to raise a fantastic £4,000 for the charity. Along with the 2020 football tournament, Nina will be taking on the London Marathon again, having secured a ballot place for the 26.2 mile marathon. If that wasn’t enough, Nina will also be taking on a second marathon in 2020, along with a gruelling 50 mile ultramarathon in the Lake District. With entries now open for the tournament, businesses can contact Nina or one of the SupaLite team to register. www.supaliteroof.co.uk
THE AWARD WINNING
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COMPOSITE DOOR MANUFACTURER 2019 as voted by you!
0345 2000 816 | customerservices@distinctiondoors.co.uk distinctiondoors.co.uk | door-designer.co.uk 70 WINDOW NEWS 2020 Tried, tested and trusted, theJANUARY UK’s number 1 composite door supplier