Planitherm Network Enjoys Continued Success 14
Glazing Summit 36
Restoring Victorian Splendour 64
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WINDOWNEWS
CONTENTS WINDOW NEWS
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TRADE NEWS 4
INDOW NEWS DEAR WGERALD 35 INDUSTRY DIRECTORY PEOPLE 30
WINDOW
GLAZZING SUMMIT 36 HARDWARE & SECURITY
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PRODUCT NEWS 42 THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS
MACHINERY 53 ON-SITE 58 MARKETING / INTERNET
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W INDOWNEW W INDOWNEW W INDOWNEW
THE LATEST INDUSTRY N
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THE LATEST INDUSTRY N
66
AWARDS 70
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TRADE NEWS
Cube Glass Teams Up With Ashleigh Building
Jack Aluminium
And Signs New Contracts Totalling £130,000 The first project for the new client is in Irvine, where Cube Glass is replacing existing windows, doors and building new curtain walling in an extension at the Tarryholme care home, in a deal with a value of £110,000.
Doubles
Subsequently, it has been awarded contracts with Ashleigh for new curtain walling in Annan High Street and replacement and new curtain walls and windows at Struthers Primary School in Troon, with values of £7,000 and £13,000 respectively.
Warehouse Space’
Commercial aluminium specialist Jack Aluminium has doubled its warehouse capacity with the purchase of a new factory. The investment is a result of year-on-year growth for the company behind the TD68 thermal commercial door and JCW curtain walling system. Jeff Pearson, Sales & Marketing Director at Jack Aluminium, says: “This new purchase will take us to the next level. Since increasing the number of products in our range, such as the TW70 TruEnergy Window and TRL90 Flat Rooflight systems, we were rapidly running out of space to stock our profile. This extra space means that we have opportunity to grow our range with more high performance aluminium systems. “So, when the property next to us became available, it made complete sense for us to buy it. There’s no need for us to go through the hassle of moving. We can just start filling up new racking next door!” Jack Aluminium’s factory is based in Coventry and the new premises bring the total factory space to 18,000 Sq. ft. www.jackaluminium.co.uk 4 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
Glass and aluminium specialist Cube Glass has teamed up with south-west of Scotland construction company Ashleigh Building and has kicked off the relationship with three contracts totalling £130,000 in value. It is the first time that Cube Glass has worked with Ashleigh, which has offices in Prestwick and Dumfries, and the new partnership adds to the rapidly-expanding portfolio of quality clients for the Cumbernauld-based manufacturer and installer. In a sector where winning business at all costs is a priority, Cube Glass adopts the unusual position of working only with clients with whom it has a sense of commercial affinity and whose corporate governance values it shares. Gary Thorn, Cube Glass founder and Managing Director, said: “We are delighted to be working with Ashleigh Building, which has a non-adversarial commercial approach and an attractive business ethos.”
Mr Thorn said: “I came into contact with Ashleigh Building through hub South West, the local infrastructure partnership. I won a hub presentation and I met one of their people there and the relationship developed.” The Ashleigh contracts are the latest of more than half a million pounds worth of work which Cube Glass has secured recently and its quotations are now averaging out at more than £1 million a month. Cube Glass, based within Cumbernauld’s Lenziemill Industrial Estate, focuses on curtain walling, doors, windows, glass roofing systems and shop fronts as well as bullet, bomb and blast resistant glass. With record sales this year of around £2.75m, it has 14 highly-qualified employees. Around 80% of the company’s sales are made to major companies such as Hilton Hotels, the Ministry of Defence, Arnold Clark, Morris and Spottiswood and Clark Contracts. It is operating throughout the UK. www.cube-glass.co.uk
TRADE NEWS
Origin Launches
First National
Television Advert
New Warehouse
And Distribution Centre Taking Shape For Epwin Window Systems Work is well underway on the new 300,000 sqft warehouse and distribution centre for leading systems supplier, Epwin Window Systems. Based in Telford, Shropshire the large-scale new build facility is due to be completed and operational by the end of the year. The impressive 18-acre site will be home to both the new warehouse and distribution centre and the new 160,000 sqft aluminium finishing plant which opened in September 2019. The size and scale of the investment in its infrastructure is notably impressive. Clare O’Hara, Managing Director of Epwin Window Systems commented: “The new distribution centre and aluminium finishing plant underpins Epwin Window Systems continuing commitment to sustained business growth and long-term investment as demand for our PVC-U and aluminium systems continues to grow”.
The new state-of-the-art warehouse and distribution centre will optimise efficiency at every level. According to the company, the facility will consolidate all existing warehousing facilities into one sleek operation and has the capacity to hold in excess of 5000 stock lines while utilising the latest technology to help further improve logistics. The new warehouse facility is just one part of a wider programme of investment for Epwin Window Systems during 2019. The company has already expanded its PVC-U extrusion capacity by more than 40%, increased its foiling capacity by 30% and launched a brand-new aluminium window and door system, Stellar. Clare concludes: “We have a track record of continuous innovation and investment in UK manufacturing and the new distribution centre is another example of our commitment to the future.” epwinwindowsystems.co.uk
Bespoke aluminium bi-folding, sliding and front doors and windows manufacturer, Origin, is launching its first ever prime-time television advert, set to premiere on ITV during Coronation Street on Monday 2nd September. The national TV campaign, which focuses on The Origin Front Door, is a big statement of intent from the family-run manufacturer, becoming the first organisation of its kind to launch a nationwide TV advert, says the company. It signifies substantial financial investment from the board and celebrates the launch of Origin’s new e-commerce platform. The advert, which will run on ITV, Channel 4, More 4 and various Sky channels until 17th November, celebrates the important role a front door plays in a family home. It will depict a series of significant and poignant family moments which take place around the front door. This includes a mother-to-be rushing out of the door in labour, the first time the kids crept home late, the arguments and the making up, as well as being the dog’s favourite spot. It has been designed to show that Origin’s Front Doors will be here for today, for tomorrow and for every day. www.origin-global.com WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019 5
TRADE NEWS
Epwin
Window Systems Becomes
Member Of CAB
Housing Must Be Part Of Chancellor’s Epwin Window Systems has joined the Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB), the largest UK aluminium in building trade association. Gerald Allen, Epwin Window Systems’ Marketing Manager, said: “We take our responsibilities towards the sectors we work in very seriously. With the launch of Stellar, our ground breaking new aluminium window and door system, it was important to us to join the biggest trade association for the material.” CAB’s mission is to promote the use of aluminium in building by being the recognised voice of the sector. Its members include consultants, fabricators, installers, systems companies and many specialist product supply and manufacturing companies. It provides high quality technical information and guidance on regulations, standards and best practice and is proactive in a number of aluminium and sustainability initiatives in the UK and internationally. www.stellaraluminium.co.uk 6 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
‘Infrastructure Revolution’ House building and a new retrofit strategy must form part of the Government’s ‘Infrastructure Revolution’, says the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), a policy announced in today’s (4th September 2019) Spending Round by the Chancellor of the Exchequer.
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “The housing crisis is undermining the British economy. If we are to increase productivity and improve our competitive edge on the world stage, then building more new homes must form part of the Government’s campaign to upgrade our infrastructure. I welcome the announcement for £241 million to be spent on the regeneration of high streets, town centres and local economies via the Towns Fund, and additional support for Homes England, however this must be part of an overarching strategy for new build homes and social housing, which will be key to securing a prosperous post-Brexit Britain. What’s more, we need a
retrofit strategy to ensure that our existing homes are fit for the future, and to alleviate the scourge of fuel poverty.” Berry concluded: “An upgrade of our infrastructure, including building new world-class schools and hospitals, will require a strong construction industry. The skills shortage is highly concerning in this respect, with just under two-thirds of builders struggling to hire bricklayers and more than half of builders struggling to hire carpenters. The announcement for an additional £400 million to be pumped into Further Education is a welcome boost to giving colleges and employers the resources they need to train more apprentices, and make T Levels, which will become the vocational counterpart to A Levels, a success. Today’s Spending Round set the scene for a positive outlook for builders, but we need more details about how more new homes will be delivered.” www.fmb.org.uk
TRADE NEWS
Virtuoso Gears Up For Further Growth
2019 is proving to be another stellar year for Virtuoso doors, the Birtley-based manufacturer of composite and PVCu panel doors, with the business on target to achieve growth of 40% by the end of the year. Tony Craggs, managing director of Virtuoso Doors, explains: “This year has been all about building on the terrific success we achieved last year and it’s been an incredible year so far for Virtuoso, with year to date sales well ahead of what we hoped for. “Our recent investment in additional new machinery has given us the capacity that we need, and we’ve taken on more new people to satisfy the increased demand, so we’re ready for a busy but very successful rest of the year. We hit a record-breaking month in October last year and we fully expect to beat this achievement during
the upcoming seasonal period.” Virtuoso Doors has invested £1 million into specialist machinery, equipment and IT systems over the last two years and its factory is now equipped with the most up-to-date beam saws, CNC machines and edgebanders. The firm recently installed a Stuga Autocut sawing centre to provide additional production capacity. Despite its impressive growth, Virtuoso Doors has consistently maintained its impressive service and quality levels. Every single door manufactured goes through a rigorous 48-point QC inspection process which covers every step of the manufacturing processbefore leaving the factory. Driving demand through innovation, the company’s sales of the ultra-modern aluminium textured composite door, Virtu-AL has in-
creased rapidly, particularly as the door is now available in an aluminium outer frame. Virtuoso says it was the UK’s first composite door manufacturer to create an aluminium alternative composite door and the first to offer an aluminium frame for all of its composite doors. “We’re incredibly proud of the success we’ve had as a business and also of the role that we’ve played in bringing pivotal new products, like Virtu-AL, to the market,” adds Tony. “With such positivity and success within Virtuoso, we’re paving the way for another period of growth. We do have ambitious targets, but we’re confident that we will achieve them and we can guarantee that this will all be without compromising on our very exacting standards of craftsmanship and service.” www.virtuoso-doors.co.uk WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019 7
TRADE NEWS with both new and existing customers. With a single client focus throughout all units, each new offer, product and service will be immediately visible and available. The automated system will also ensure a greater alignment in project and trade sales processes.
UK Manufacturing
Investment
With Britain’s manufacturing industry reporting all-time lows in outlays amidst Brexit uncertainly, Yale is bucking the trend by investing heavily in its UK manufacturing offering.
According to a survey by industry trade body EEF, investment by UK manufacturers in new plant and machinery slowed to 6.5% of turnover from 7.5% in 2016*. This is a trend that has continued into 2019, with uncertainty over the UK’s exit from the EU holding back planned investment in many cases. Yale Door and Window Solutions, however, continues to invest in UK manufacturing to the benefit of its customers. The company has continued to invest in automation at both its Willenhall and Cheltenham sites, allowing it to bring product manufacturing back to the UK from overseas. The move brings with it the 8 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
close quality control measures that Yale prides itself on. With both sites accredited to EN ISO 9001:2015 for quality management, the sites will contribute to the rising quality standards in UK industry. Yale is also in the process of expanding its warehouse to 254,008 ft2, approximately four times the size of the previous building, and moving it to a more UK central location to help provide best-in-class services, all in time for winter 2019. As well as these investments, Yale is also introducing a new CRM system across the business that will enhance customer service, communications and account management, improving the customer experience. The CRM system will put customer experience at the heart of the business, helping to maintain strong relationships
Paul Atkinson, Sales and Commercial Director of Yale Door and Window Solutions, comments: “We have always been passionate about maintaining and building on a UK manufacturing base, especially with the current uncertainty surrounding Britain’s exit from the EU. There are multiple benefits to manufacturing in the UK; being closer to the market we operate in means we are able to respond to customer requirements and fluctuations much quicker. “There are also research and development benefits for our customers when it comes to new products. For example, we recently announced that we were upgrading to stainless steel on all of our multipoint lock faceplates as standard, with the whole manufacturing process taking place solely at our Midlands head office. “We also see a benefit in supporting the local and UK economy; by maintaining and growing manufacturing at our Willenhall and Cheltenham sites we believe this will help contribute to the UK job market. In a similar vein, Yale is proud to be an official member of Made in Britain, which aims to bring together the entire British manufacturing community.” For more information on Yale Door and Window Solutions, please visit www.yaledoorandwindowsolutions.co.uk * www.theguardian.com/ business/2017/oct/23/brexit-fears-holding-back-manufacturing-investment-study-finds
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TRADE NEWS
Investment And Integration Transforms Glazerite East Having recently announced plans for a £1m investment boost, the Glazerite UK Group Ltd has completed the second phase of its programme, this time at its Glazerite East plant.
As part of plans to strengthen its performance for installers, the VEKA fabricator has welcomed new equipment at the Peterborough-based plant, which fabricates products from the Halo profile systems range. Following the investment, which has included the installation of a brand new Haffner SMR 5 head inline welding machine, the site’s capacity is set to significantly increase, with the ability to fabricate 800 frames per week by the end of this year. Glazerite acquired the site in February 2016 and has completely transformed its technical capabilities, aligning it with its other facilities in Bolton and Wellingborough. The results have been huge, with Glazerite East hugely increasing its output, and shortening its leadtime from three weeks to just five days.
Glazerite East has also recently installed a £100k Stuga cutting and machining centre, which was relocated from the group’s Northwest division, as well as four new vertical tables, four door line tables, and a corner cleaner. With the addition of the new machinery, the plant has been completely reconfigured to optimise efficiencies and improve performance across all areas.
Matthew Thomas, Managing Director of Glazerite East, explains: “The new equipment is part of a major overhaul of the site’s capabilities, which has also seen improvements to the flow of the plant and freed up space for frame storage. The 5 head Haffner can weld two frames simultaneously, something we weren’t able to do before, and it has made set up time and cycle times quicker and much more efficient. “Since Glazerite took over the site three years ago, our team has been working hard to improve our lead times and output. We’ve already upped production from 350 to 600 frames per week, and cut
10 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
lead times of standard products to just five days, in alignment with the rest of Glazerite.” Matthew adds: “The team here has undergone some major changes to work processes, and they’ve truly embraced the adoption of technology, moving from manual processes to automation on the shop floor. It’s been a big but important culture change, and with additional training and support, we’re seeing a real difference in how our team approach their work.” Next on the agenda for the 45-strong Glazerite East workforce is the soon-to-be-launched mechanical jointed version of the Halo Flush Sash, following an increase in demand from consumers looking for more authentic-looking windows. Matthew adds: “Glazerite East has a bright future, and with the recent investment we’re looking forward to increased production and enhancing our relationships with installers.” www.glazerite.co.uk
TRADE NEWS
Tradesmith Invites Installers
To Its 3 New Showrooms
Sussex trade fabricator Tradesmith is throwing its doors open and inviting installers, builders and private developers for a tour of its three new and upgraded showrooms and its three factories. Based in Hailsham, Tradesmith has factories dedicated to Residence and WarmCore and aluminium doors alongside its main PVC-U plant. Over the last 18 months, Tradesmith has significantly increased its range of high-end products, now manufacturing Deceuninck Heritage flush sashes, ultra-premium Residence
R9 and R7 windows and aluminium systems in addition to its VEKA Halo range of windows and doors. A new double-decker showroom has been built and furnished this year, with Ultraframe and a classic Stratus roof on the top floor, along with VBH Invisifold Slide & Fold patio doors and bifold WarmCore doors incorporating built-in sliding blind systems. From this showroom visitors can look through a top-ofthe-range R9 casement into the Residence factory to see R9 and R7 windows being made.
On the ground floor below, there is a collection of stunning R9 and R7 windows, popular Deceuninck Heritage flush casements, and Masterframe vertical sliding sashes. An extensive collection of Tradesmith’s hardware range includes new hand-forged options by From the Anvil. The new VEKA ultramatt Spectral system is also on show – Tradesmith is the first fabricator in the UK to display a window with this unique finish. In the third, ground floor showroom, specialist Spitfire doors sit alongside composite doors from Solidor and Calibre, and double-rebated options from The Door Factory. The display area also includes Tradesmith’s own popular Sussex door range, as well as an Invisifold window and the UK’s first set of Bluesky-certified acoustic windows. “We’re always happy for our customers to take homeowners here to help them sell, but now we’re opening our doors to all installers. Everyone who has seen our facilities has been impressed. What’s more, companies who haven’t bought from us before will receive a £100 voucher towards their first order!” www.tradesmith.info
Certass TA Launches New ‘Business
Essentials’ Benefits
Industry trade body Certass Trade Association (TA) has launched Certass TA Business Essentials – a new benefit for members. The business support package includes valuable information, resources and free helplines on HR, health & safety, debt recovery, tax and legal issues to help installers get even more value from their membership. Chair at Certass Trade Association, Jon Vanstone explains: “From
talking to our installer members, we knew that there was a real need for practical help and advice on these subjects. Many of them are independent installers who are fitting on site as well as running their business, so free access to these resources can really help them run things more efficiently and profitably.”
can get any questions or issues answered by specialists. They will also have access to more than 750 downloadable documents, including template contracts, letters and checklists to help with their business admin. On top of this is access to a professional debt recovery service, so that installers don’t have to get weighed down chasing rogue consumers for payment.
Certass TA Business Essentials is Certass TA Business Essentials inavailable to TA members now and cludes direct access to experienced is completely free of charge. HR, health & safety, legal and tax advisors over the phone, so they www.certassta.co.uk WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019 11
TRADE NEWS
GGF Management Restructure Starts
To Take Shape ISO Chemie has relocated its UK operations to accommodate expansion and growth, says Andy Swift, sales and operations manager – UK & ROI
New Investment Sees ISO-Chemie Boost
Steve Rice, GGF Managing Director
Following a recent announcement regarding the management restructure at the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF), work is now well underway to ensure the GGF maintains and builds on its position as a leading trade body in the industry. The restructure is designed to bring the internal GGF departments closer together with a greater focus on technical assets. Recruitment for more technical personnel, including a new Director of Technical Affairs, has already started to boost this valuable resource for Members. Steve Rice, GGF Managing Director, responsible for the full running of the Federation’s operations, commented, “With many challenges ahead for the industry, it is imperative that the GGF is fully prepared for the forthcoming major regulatory and legislative changes. The restructure and recruitment of more technical staff will ensure that we continue to deliver high-level services for the benefit of GGF Members.” www.ggf.org.uk.
UK Customer Service Foam sealants and air tightness specialist ISO-Chemie has invested in new office and warehouse facilities to accommodate expansion and growth plans. In a move that will also boost customer service, the company’s office has been relocated to Slough, while distribution operations will be based out of a new warehouse in North London. It also reinforces ISO-Chemie’s strategy to develop their solutions whatever may come of the Brexit situation. Relocating from its previous warehouse in the North West, the move allows inbound deliveries from Germany to arrive a day faster, enhancing delivery times. New investment will see UK customers, who include door and window installers, designers, architects and housebuilders, benefit from quicker deliveries of foam sealant tape products from the company’s German manufacturing facility. Customers will also be able to take advantage of a system that allows them to collect stock as well as re-
12 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
ceive next day deliveries, while architects and those responsible for technical specification of window and doors products, will be able to tap into expertise around the benefits of using specialist technology to secure air-tight solutions. Andy Swift, sales and operations manager – UK & ROI, is at the forefront of building the brand in the UK, raising awareness of thermal leakage around windows. He said: “We are seeing continued strong demand for our products from all sectors of the market. By making these investments now to support our operations, we will be well placed going forward to continue to provide customers with a fast, efficient and cost-effective service.” In addition to foam sealing tapes, the company’s range of advanced fire-rated structural products such as ISO-TOP WINFRAMER ‘TYPE 1’ E30, which can protect the entire window area from fire for up to 30 minutes, will also be a key focus in the light of forthcoming changes to building regulations. www.iso-chemie.eu/en-GB/home
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TRADE NEWS
racey Hill, sales manager at Planitherm Network member Ideal Window Solutions
Planitherm Network Enjoys Continued Success
Over a year since its re-launch, the Planitherm Network by Saint-Gobain Glass continues to impress customers, installers and fabricators alike.
Having recommended the benefits of Planitherm to their customers for a number of years, the team at Fareham-based installer Ideal Window Solutions have seen an improvement in customer knowledge thanks to the launch of the rejuvenated Planitherm Network in February 2018. The revitalised Network has helped ensure their salespeople and customers have the
best knowledge possible.
The Planitherm Network is designed to help fabricators and installers to win more business by upselling to homeowners based on the comfort benefits of different types of Planitherm glass such as enhanced security, reduced overheating, noise reduction, energy efficiency and furniture fade protection. The Planitherm range is now available in three options: Energy Standard for maximum energy efficiency; Comfort, which also offers enhanced security,
14 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
noise reduction and furniture fade protection; and Comfort Plus for all these benefits plus solar control for sunny rooms. It’s all about using language that the consumer will understand so that they choose the right option for them. The three-option range simplifies the conversations yet highlights the fact that choosing the right type of glass will have a huge impact on the performance of your windows. Trading since 1997, Ideal Window Solutions recognise the importance of marketing material that makes the relevant information clear and easy to understand for consumers. Tracey Hill, sales manager at Ideal Window Solutions, says: “Consumers should be able
TRADE NEWS to make a decision easily with advice that is practical and understandable. While a lot of installers are keen to push the benefits of products such as triple glazing, in my experience the Planitherm range is often a better option in a lot of cases. And because the Planitherm comfort range can provide up to a 63% improvement on thermal efficiency when compared to older-style double-glazing, it’s often the most cost-effective option too.” “Not only are Planitherm marketing tools very clear for our salespeople, and most importantly our customers, to use but the team at Saint-Gobain have been fabulously supportive, and even came out to our showroom to talk us through the new marketing material. They consistently provide the kind of ongoing support that is really helpful to our business and staff.” When a customer recently visit-
ed the Ideal Window Solutions showroom looking for a product that would reduce noise, Tracey was confident that the Planitherm Comfort option could be the answer to their problem. Catherine Green’s bedrooms had been rendered almost unusable due to a nearby road and, after being quoted over £11k to install triple glazing in just one window, she was beginning to despair. Unwilling to accept what she was being promised by some of the companies she had approached, Catherine found Ideal Window Solutions’ shop in Chichester by chance. Following a conversation with Tracey, Catherine decided she could trust her advice and got the best solution for her needs. Catherine explains: “The windows have now been replaced with Planitherm’s Comfort glass in three of the bedrooms of the house and they have signifi-
cantly lessened traffic noise. I am happy with the product and the price was reasonable in the circumstances. I would definitely recommend the Planitherm product range to normal double glazing and would recommend Tracey Hill at Ideal Window Solutions.” A key benefit of the Planitherm Network is the wealth of information on the website and access to sales and marketing tools to help fabricators and installers to start having different conversations with their customers and choose the right glass to meet their changing needs. For more information, or to become a Planitherm Network Member, visit http://www. planitherm.com/planitherm-network-home/ uk.saint-gobain-building-glass.com
Deceuninck Sales Power Near-30%
Ahead Of A Declining Market
Deceuninck has announced yearon-year sales up 18% to the end of July, in stark contrast with the market. According to installation statistics from FENSA, volume in H1 2019 was down 8.2% compared to the same period in 2018. “We’re nearly 30% up on the market,” says Deceuninck MD Rob McGlennon. “So Deceuninck must be getting it right for fabricators and installers. Our colour percentage rose to 60% of sales in June and it’s still climbing. All our top 20 customers are selling over 50% of their sales in colour against a market which is less than 30% colour. Many fabricators sell well below this.
entirely from stock. We are extending our in-stock offer to 30 colourways, with a further 20 available on a 15-day lead time. That’s a total of 50 colours and colourways installers and fabricators can sell “Why are our sales storming? on no lead times (because they’re Because of colour, which we supply in stock) or very short lead times.
It’s not just colour. Our flush sash is a star – it’s the leading flush sash – and we’ve added a flush door to complete the heritage flush suite.
Rob explained: “Commercial sales are flying too but we have more contracts than fabricators to make them, so if any commercial fabricators are reading this get in touch, because we need you! Partnering fabricators rather than just supplying them has proven to be a very successful policy. Powering their growth, has powered ours. “The market has fallen, but it’s busy-busy for Deceuninck fabricators and installers.” www.deceuninck.co.uk WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019 15
TRADE NEWS
Emplas Are Kubu Official Launch Partners that differentiates them from their competitors. The Kubu lock offers just that.
Emplas is offering the Kubu Smart Lock from Avantis on all entrance doors as standard, as an official launch partner.
The Kubu lock is fitted to doors and connected to the Kubu App and Home Hub so that homeowners can check on the lock status of their door. Kubu also features a WiFi perimeter feature, so when homeowners leave their property and their phone automatically disconnects from the home WiFi to 4G, Kubu will send them a notification to tell them if they have left their door unlocked Ryan Johnson, Managing Director at Emplas, says: “We’re very excited to be working with Avantis on something that’s going to revolutionise the window and door
“Kubu is something not only different and exciting for the homeowner, but beneficial too. With the Kubu lock, they’ll never leave home without the door being unlocked again.” industry. “We’ve decided to take the Kubu lock and become launch partners as we want to be at the forefront of innovation and technology. “We have decided to supply the Kubu lock on every single door that we manufacture, at no extra cost to our customers. This is a first in the UK market.” “The key for us is to give installers an advantage and something
Mark Bromley, CEO of Avantis, says: “Emplas is the perfect partner to be launching this product. They’re young and fresh with dynamic, forward-moving ideas. “To have the opportunity to deliver Kubu as part of the Emplas product package is a wonderful opportunity for Avantis. The whole product range reflects quality in every sense, and we believe the Kubu smart lock will be a fantastic addition.” www.avantis-hardware.com
Leads2Trade On The Lookout For Conservatory Installers As Lead Gen Reaches All-Time High One of the country’s leading provider of double qualified sales leads for companies in the home improvement industry is on the lookout for more conservatory installers. Leads2Trade are generating 40% more conservatory leads compared to the same period as last year and need to strengthen their nationwide network to cope. And Andy Royle, co-founder and Director at Leads2trade, says there could be even more on the horizon. The Stockport-based company has been leading the way in matching conservatory installers with homeowners looking to add a conservatory or replacement conservatory roof to their home.
atory leads is down to two things – the ‘improve don’t move’ trend and increasingly more sophisticated designs. “Better designs and better materials have seen the conservatory become popular as a room that now stays warm in the winter and cool in the summer months,” said Andy. “We are delighted to be generating 40% more conservatory lead volumes, but we don’t have enough installers to take advantage of them,” said Andy.
“But more and more homeowners are also deciding to stay put rather than move and are looking to add value to their home in the process with a conservatory.”
“The demand is clearly there, and the conservatory market is providing a huge opportunity that installers can’t afford to miss.”
Becoming a Leads2Trade installer member means you get the very best leads, which have been double qualified by Leads2trade’s in-house call centre, in postcodes of your choice. www.leads2trade.co.uk.
For Andy, the increase in conserv-
16 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
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TRADE NEWS
Quickslide Invests
In Well-Being Of Staff With 24-Hour Counselling Service
And New HR System As part of an ongoing commitment to ensure the physical and mental well-being of its employees, Brighouse-based fabricator, Quickslide, has announced a new BUPA Employee Assistance programme, as well as a new online HR and H&S system that will directly notify staff when they have been booked on to training courses and also allow them to manage their annual leave at a click of a button. The BUPA Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) is a confidential mental health and wellbeing service that offers 24-hour counselling to all of Quickslide’s employees and any other individuals living in the same household, should they need it. Mental health awareness, and the ability to address personal or work-related issues, is a key priority for Quickslide as the company recognises that its staff are the most important element of the
business.
In line with its employee wellbeing ethos, Quickslide’s new online HR and H&S system has also been designed to make it much easier to request and manage holidays and sick leave, access all personal documentation and skills data held by the company, as well as keep track of the latest training courses. Quickslide’s Commercial Director Clare Lumb commented: “We’ve introduced the new BUPA Employee Assistance Programme because, primarily, we’re a people business and the well-being of everyone that works at Quickslide is of the utmost importance. By increasing awareness of mental health issues and putting measures in place to address them, we are not only living up to our responsibility to ensure that our staff are happy, but we also make the most
18 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
of their potential, which in turn results in an increase in productivity.” “Our new online HR and H&S system has also been introduced to make life easier for everyone at Quickslide,” continued Clare, “As well as simplifying the process of requesting leave and recording sick days, it allows us to properly manage absence and implement careful holiday planning to ensure that the business is rarely undermanned. One of the other main reasons we decided to proceed with the new system is the extensive library of training courses that it offers our staff,” Clare continued. “Senior management can quickly and easily assign training courses to employees as the need arises. For instance, within the first three months of implementing the system, all our employees were required to undertake a manual handling course to ensure that they were aware of the latest principles and practices of manual handling in the workplace. “With this new system, we can ensure that the right employees are armed with the right knowledge, when they need it,” Clare concluded. www.quickslide.co.uk
TRADE NEWS
‘Consumer Finance Provides The Solution
To Britain’s Savings Crisis’ Says Improveasy
Add to this an almost non-existent savings culture in the UK and it presents a challenging climate for retail businesses – especially in the home improvement market.
A recent report has revealed the true extent of Britain’s savings crisis, with a remarkable 15% of Brits having no savings at all. The report, which was compiled by Finder, also found that one-inthree Brits have less than £1,500 in savings. It also revealed 22-29 yearolds are the worst at saving, with 53% not putting aside any money for a rainy day. Whilst the number of Junior ISAs in the UK is rising, the average amount invested has declined by 22% compared to just two years ago. Adult ISAs, on the other hand, have seen a sharp decline in recent years, with just over 10,000 ISAs active in 2017/18. The most common defence for the lack of savings is lacklustre earnings, while twothirds of Brits said they didn’t have a financial plan in place. Austin Barcley, Managing Director of industry finance provider Improveasy, argues that this challenging savings culture should serve as a catalyst for installers to start offering point-of-sale consumer finance. Austin comments: “There’s little debate that consumer confidence is incredibly low, struggling against a backdrop of political and economic instability and Brexit uncertainty.
“While other markets and industries have turned to consumer finance to help remedy this scenario, it is still far from being readily available in the glazing sector. This continued savings crisis should serve as a wake-up call to installers and home improvement companies to meet the demands of the market and offer flexible finance options at the point of sale. “When you consider 83% of consumers said retailers offering finance influenced their decision to purchase, it’s an opportunity that businesses cannot afford to miss.” Improveasy’s range of finance packages, including 0% APR and ‘Buy Now Pay Later’ allow homeowners to have all kinds of home improvements installed immediately and pay in monthly instalments, rather than saving for potentially years at a time. Their service also allows companies to avoid the lengthy process of becoming FCA regulated. Instead, installers become an Appointed Representative (AR) of Improveasy and can offer finance options under the Improveasy banner or using their own company’s brand. As the exclusive finance partner to FENSA and GGF Group members, new customers can benefit from a year’s free membership of FENSA when they sign-up with Improveasy. www.improveasy.com
Sidey Supplies
Timberweld®
To Scotland
Established in 1932, Sidey is one of the UK’s largest and most experienced fenestration specialists. As a market leader in manufacturing, supplying and installing high-quality products, Sidey has now improved its offering using Timberweld technology. Timberweld is a patented method of jointing PVC-U which creates perfect corners with a butt-joint on the outside and inside of a window. As the only licenced manufacturer in Scotland, Sidey is helping customer homes stand out from the crowd. “We work hard as a business to continually develop our offering and provide customers with the best products,” comments Steve Hardy, Joint Managing Director of Sidey. “Customers are willing to pay more for premium products, such as the growing trend for grey profiles and flush sash windows, but they want premium quality in return. Timberweld allows us to achieve the sleek, modern appearance customers expect – all in a timely and cost effective way. “The launch of the product in our showroom in Perth will allow us to fully demonstrate the benefits of Timberweld,” he continues. “Customers love the traditional timber look, which Timberweld achieves with the vertical line on both sides of the window.” WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019 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
Polyframe Protection Promise Makes PAS24 Easy Polyframe has made it quick and easy for customers to quote and price their PVCu windows and doors to ensure that they meet the industry recognised requirements of PAS24:2016 and qualify for the new ‘Polyframe Protection Promise’ (PPP). Backed by Yale, the Polyframe Protection Promise is claimed as the best homeowner security guarantee in the industry and Polyframe is so confident in the security of its products that it is delivering up to £6,500 in the event of a break-in through correctly configured windows and doors. The PPP gives homeowners the comfort of outstanding protection against forced entry. It also provides installers with a real advantage by being able to offer such an impressive level of cover. Available on all five market-leading profiles it supplies, quoting and ordering the PPP guarantee is quick and easy with its updated online and form-based ordering
systems. Customers can process their Polyframe Protection Promise specification products by simply selecting the ‘PPP’ option when placing their order. When ordering online, this automatically selects the correct Yale hardware configuration to comply with PAS24:2016 and qualify for the guarantee. Richard Lee, PVCu category director at Polyframe, says: “We’re making it easier than ever for customers to get everything they need from Polyframe and we’re excited about this new development which means customers can be confident about selecting the correct hardware specification. It’s fast and accurate and it it means it’s as easy as the click of a button. “Many customers are already taking advantage of our free cloud-based quoting and ordering system to select the right hardware configuration and the feedback from them has been very positive. As well as eliminating the chance of making any mistakes on their hardware specification, the system
22 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
also puts installers in control of their quoting and ordering no matter where they are. Delivering a fast and straightforward online experience, it allows them to easily quote and order their Polyframe products online 24/7, 365 days a year, which is exactly what they want.” Polyframe is dedicated to helping all customers make the most of their PVCu business. With multiple profiles from one supplier including REHAU, VEKA, Eurocell, Halo and Duraflex combined with marketing support and dedicated account managers, installers can rapidly expand their product range and achieve sustainable growth, says Polyframe. Polyframe is part of Customade Group, which operates nationwide and employs 1100 people in multiple manufacturing sites across the UK. The group also includes REAL Aluminium (aluminium), Atlas Glazed Roof Solutions (glazed roofs), Virtuoso Doors (composite and PVCu door panels), Hourglass Seal (sealed glass units), Stevenswood Trade Centre (trade counters) and Fineline Aluminium (specialist glazing). www.polyframe.co.uk/ppp
TRADE NEWS
TuffX Tops The Half Million
With Second Investment
Boost This Year Glass manufacturer TuffX has taken its investment over the £500,000 mark in this year alone with a new £250,000 Bottero cutting line that’s set to boost the growing company’s cutting output by over a third. The highly-advanced, multi-functional Modulinea cutting line – the third cutting line now installed at the TuffX factory – can load, cut, grind, mark and break out glass sheets from 1.5metres square up to 6.1m X 3.3m and up to 25mm thick, and also features a unique automatic label function. TuffX Managing Director Graham Price says the new line is not only helping the specialist processor to stay ahead of growing demand for
its broad range of products but also ensuring that its tight lead times and high standards of service are not only maintained but surpassed. “Our strength is not only in our unique offering of toughened, heat soaked, laminated and other specialist glasses – in sizes that few can match – but also in our turnaround times and customer support.
“As well as a 35% increase in our overall cutting capacity, the addition of this line will give us additional flexibility to build on all of those qualities as well as satisfying our growing customer base.” The Bottero Modulinea 363EVO-J makes use of ‘open cut’ technology, it has a tilting table for handling flat glass sheets, a highly automated air cushioned shape cutting table, a six-station double-sided loader as well as many other advanced features. The investment comes only months after TuffX spent over £300,000 on three new machines – a Bovone ELB 12 HD straight line edging machine, a Delta Radius corner grinding machine, and a Schiatti drilling machine – and previous investments in machinery, fleet and workforce have ensured that TuffX has remained at the forefront of toughened, oversize and other specialist glass processing for nearly 25 years. www.tuffxglass.co.uk
New VEKA Spectral On Show At
Tradesmith
Launched at this year’s FiT Show, VEKA’s new Spectral finish attracted a lot of attention. Now installers can see them in Tradesmith’s newly opened three showrooms at the factory in Hailsham in East Sussex. Spectral is an exclusive high-end system developed by VEKA using patented technology to create an ultrasmooth, ultramatt finish, with the highest performance benefits. Tradesmith’s showrooms, the first to display Spectral windows, include French Doors in Umbra Grey with Platinum Grey on the inside of the frame, and a flush sash window in Platinum Grey. Scratch-resistant, anti-fingerprint, and resistant to UV, harsh chemicals and extreme weather, the new material is designed to absorb light
Dawn Stockell says: “Spectral has been years in development and was created with our customers at the very heart of the process. We’ve already had some exceptional feedback and I’m glad that installers in East Sussex and the surrounding areas can see (and feel) this product for themselves at Tradesmith’s showroom, as it’s unlike anything else in the industry.
to create denser, richer colours. It’s also fully recyclable. “It’s a real attention grabber,” says MD Mark Hutchinson. “It’s a beautiful finish that makes windows and doors look stunning. It’s a finish you just want to touch. I expect we’ll be selling a lot of this.” VEKA UK Group Marketing Director
“VEKA UK Group understands the need for original products that not only look great but offer perfect performance. Matt finishes have long been favoured by architects and designers, and this sophisticated aesthetic is also now being requested by discerning homeowners; Spectral gives installers another string to their bow when it comes to these ‘high style’ projects.” www.tradesmith.info WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019 23
TRADE NEWS
New Gold Star Vans For
The Window
Company
(Contracts)
Alutech Systems Backs Building Our Skills Retrieving ladders from the roofs of vans used to be an occupational safety hazard for almost all window fitters and many other onsite tradespeople. Award winning commercial installer The Window Company (Contracts) has come to the rescue however and introduced a new ladder system for its vans which eliminates that risk once and for all. Working with a specialist provider, the Chelmsford based company is now equipping all its new vans with a pneumatic lifting and lowering mechanism for rooftop ladders which means that fitters never need to climb onto the top of vans again. They just release the obligatory safety catch and then they can raise or lower the ladders with a pole. The innovation helped The Window Company (Contracts) achieve a much coveted Gold rating in the GGF’s GLASS (Goal Less Accidents Safer Sites) health and safety scheme last year. www.thewinco.co.uk
Alutech Systems Limited is set to launch a different type of offering to its customers and admits partnering with Building Our Skills – Making Fenestration A Career of Choice and making use of the information and support it is providing, will go a long way to securing its future service offering. Becky Taylor, Marketing for Alutech Systems Ltd, the UK distribution operation for the Alutech Group comments on why being associated with the campaign and its efforts will help provide long-term rewards. ‘We are beginning to see the Building Our Skills campaign receive real recognition for highlighting the industry’s skills shortage and the need to upskill existing workforces’, Becky adds, ‘Alutech Systems is in the process of undertaking a relaunch of our own offering to help fabricators challenge the level of service they receive through their supply chain, and by tapping into the relationships be ing developed by Building Our Skills is going to allow us to support training and development for our own staff.’ The Building Our Skills campaign
24 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
has been working tirelessly for the last 14 months to create a network of industry employers to back the efforts of the campaign and its quest to help raise awareness of the career opportunities for young people and newcomers to the industry, alongside developing partnerships with Government agencies which can raise the profile of businesses and the industry in the companies local communities. ‘Alutech Systems Ltd has a great work ethic already in place and considers staff training and development high on its priority list. Their business sits well in the remit we have for businesses to become a Building Our Skills industry partner, ‘explains Stephanie Tague, Head of Building Our Skills. ‘They are currently investigating opportunities working with a local Government funding scheme, partnered with the campaign which provide industry qualifications to local businesses.’ Stephanie adds, ‘The more training given to internal staff helps the industry offer better support and best practise when recruiting young people and newcomers in the future.’ www.buildingourskills.co.uk www.alutechsystems.co.uk
TRADE NEWS
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TRADE NEWS
One Million Milestone For Morley
Glass & Glazing
Uni-Blinds® sealed units manufacturer Morley Glass & Glazing is celebrating a significant milestone alongside glass company SaintGobain Glass and distributor GLASSOLUTIONS.
units with ScreenLine® integral blinds inside. Ian Short, managing director of Morley Glass & Glazing was presented with a glass wall plaque to mark the milestone. He said: “We pride ourselves on manufacturing high quality sealed units, the majority of which are supplied with integral blinds inside for the bifold door market, as well as a wide range of other doors and windows
Over one million pieces of SaintGobain glass have been supplied to Morley Glass & Glazing by GLASSOLUTIONS in the last 10 years mainly for use in the company’s Uni-Blind® double-glazed sealed
for the residential and commercial markets.
“The quality of our products relies on the quality of the component parts and we have worked hard to achieve a supply chain excellence. The quality of the glass is paramount, and we are very satisfied with the range of Saint-Gobain glass from GLASSOLUTIONS. The Planitherm range offers superb comfort qualities such as thermal efficiency and solar control, as well as noise reduction, furniture face protection and security properties. For added solar control we have also been impressed with the SGG COOL-LITE range. I’m honoured to receive the plaque which will take pride of place in our showroom. David Evans, site manager at GLASSOLUTIONS Dudley said: “It’s great to see our glass helping one of the industry’s most respected sealed unit manufacturers go from strength to strength. We would like to congratulate Morley on this fantastic achievement, and we look forward to seeing further success as our partnership continues.” www.morleyglass.co.uk
Crystal Clear Peace Of Mind homeowners with a way to carry out their conservatory project with complete peace of mind.
The Ultraframe Ultra Installer Scheme is celebrating its 15th anniversary since being established by the conservatory and extension specialist in 2004.
At a time when the glazing industry was plagued by stories of rogue traders, Ultraframe was keen to raise the standards and the reputation of the industry, while providing
26 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
The Scheme is the original and longest-standing of its type in the conservatory sector and its aims have been clear since day one – to recognise and promote the activities of elite Ultraframe installation companies who can demonstrate the highest levels of service throughout their sales, installation and after-sales processes. To find out more about the Ultra Installer Scheme membership, visit: trade.ultraframe-conservatories. co.uk/trade/ultra-installer-scheme/
TRADE NEWS uous development, committing to a more than £5m spend on new factory extension, machinery and infrastructure since April 2017.
Customer Poll Reaffirms
Emplas’ Commitment
To Customer Service
A new customer poll has found more than two thirds of Emplas existing customers gave the trade fabricator a 9 or 10 out of ten for support and service.
Conducted earlier this year, the study was designed to benchmark Emplas’ performance and identify areas where there was scope to do better as part of a commitment to continuous improvement. This included the use of the Net Promoter Score metric, which is widely adopted by Fortune 1000 Companies and calculated on a single question: ‘how likely are you to recommend a company, its products and service, to someone else?’ Scored out of 10, those who respond with a response of 9-10 are classed as ‘promoters’; those returning a 7 or 8 are classed as ‘passives’; while those giving scores of 0-6 are classed as ‘detractors’. The final metric (NPS) is based on a calculation of the number of promoters, less the number of detractors. With two thirds of respondents falling into the promoter camp, this gave Emplas a Net Promoter Score of 58.5%. “The result was exceptional”, said Roberto Canassa, IT and Customer Experience Director, Emplas.
“anything above zero is seen as a positive. A Net Promoter Score of almost 60% is absolutely first class. “Our focus now will be on picking up on the very important feedback we received from those customers who didn’t give us a ranking of eight or above to understand why and identify areas for improvement.” In addition to the NPS metric, the survey also included a detailed assessment of all customer touch points with 91% or respondents stating that they were either satisfied or very satisfied with the support that they received from their dedicated customer coordinator. Emplas’ ordering process, which includes 24/7 online ordering through the EVA portal, was rated as excellent by 72% of respondents. Product quality was rated as excellent by almost 60% of those responding. “The survey results weren’t entirely complimentary. It identified a number of areas for improvement, including our returns process”, continued Roberto. “That is, however, the point. We want to know where we are getting it wrong just as much as where we’re getting it right”, he added. Emplas’ growth has been underpinned by a programme of contin-
This has included a £1.4m spend on new machinery, including the purchase of a second Schirmer machining and cutting centre, multiple Rotox welders and saws, bringing its weekly capacity up to 3,200 frames across two shifts. The focus here firmly on automation of process and with it improved product quality, the second Schirmer giving the fabricator two fully automated window lines with 90% of products going through just two Rotox 8-head welders. Emplas has also added a Graf SLS Seamless Sill Welder, which employs the same principles as the Graf SL4FF, to manufacture a seamless bay window sill, to its offer last year, alongside a six-figure investment in further integration of its IT systems. Ryan Johnson, Managing Director, Emplas, said that the results of the customer poll were encouraging but that they represented the start of a process. He said: “We’re clearly pleased by the results we’ve seen. The team here is very committed to do everything it can to support our customers but we’re not perfect, we don’t get it right every time and we need to learn from those experiences. “Ultimately what we do needs to work for each and every one of our customers, as close as we can get it to all of the time. We’re committed to service excellence and while we’re on the right road, there is still some way to go. “The most important thing for me personally, is that we’re very much on that journey with our customers and through a genuine commitment to partnership working, will grow and move forward into the future with them.” www.emplas.co.uk WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019 27
TRADE NEWS
Reliant Chooses Central For Reliability With almost 40 years’ experience in supplying home improvement products, it’s no surprise that Midlands based Installer, Reliant Windows, has enjoyed such longevity because of its continued commitment to quality, service and reliability. Aligning themselves with suppliers they know are also committed to the same values is one of the reasons they enjoy such a great relationship with The Boing Boing Group and everything the fast-growing fabricator has to offer from two companies under the Group umbrella; Central RPL and Central ASL.
for aluminium products which we find is more in demand from our commercial customers, they have the right products to ensure we can offer our customers what they need. We’ve been around a long time and have seen the ever changing demands of the market, so we understand you need to evolve in order to stay ahead. It’s easy for us to do this with the help of a forward thinking fabricator like Central, as they continue to launch new products and initiatives that will support us in our desire to sell the very best home improvement products.
John Allen, Managing Director of Reliant Windows explains: “We have a great relationship with the team at Central. Whether it be RPL in the supply of PVC-U products mostly for our domestic customers, or ASL
“We recently worked with Central ASL on a commercial project of over 80 aluminium frames and curtain walling for Rosebury Place in Bath. We were delighted with how everything went. Delivery times
28 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
were met, the product standard was absolutely first class and we received great customer service throughout the process. Reliable suppliers make things so much easier and that’s definitely something we get from Central, every time.” Gary Morton, CEO of the Boing Boing Group concludes: “Keeping our customers happy is at the heart of everything we do, which is why we put so much focus on developing our offering to ensure we deliver on their expectations. We have an excellent relationship with John, Nick and the team at Reliant and we work hard to ensure we gets things right, for them and for all of our customers, every time.” For more information on Reliant visit www.reliant-windows.co.uk For more information on PVC-U products from Central RPL visit www.centralRPL.co.uk or for aluminium visit www.centralASL.co.uk
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Epwin Window Systems
PEOPLE es we face as an industry and a clear sense of what we can be doing collectively to meet them head on. Our thanks go to Sean Parnaby who has played a central role in our growth. Paul is committed to continuing to drive forward Sean’s excellent work in promoting our sector and ensuring it remains attractive to young people who seek a long and rewarding career.” Statement from Paul Bailey, new President of the British Woodworking Federation:
Paul Bailey
Paul Bailey Appointed As President Of The British
Woodworking Federation The British Woodworking Federation (BWF), the UK’s woodworking and joinery industry trade association, has appointed Paul Bailey, founder and managing director of European Doorsets, as its new President. He succeeds Sean Parnaby, managing director of West Port Timber Windows, who has been President of the association since October 2016. Paul has over 30 years’ experience in the woodworking sector. He established European Doorsets, manufacturers of bespoke performance doors,
doorsets and associated joinery items, in 1990 and for a number of years has been an active member of the BWF. Paul has been integral to driving forward the BWF’s aims and ethos, having been a member of the association’s board of directors for 13 years and vice president since 2016. Helen Hewitt, CEO of the BWF said, “We’re delighted that Paul has taken up the reigns as President of the association. He brings with him experience and knowledge of the sector, an understanding of the challeng-
30 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
Political events continue to dictate the activities of businesses across all sectors and the uncertainty over Brexit has undoubtedly made it difficult to plan ahead, particularly for the joinery and woodworking industry. However, if any sector has the skills, experience and resilience to make alternative plans and get on with things, then it’s ours. I’m confident that with support from the BWF and overarching leadership from the Confederation of Timber Industries, the industry is well placed to build on the encouraging growth it has experienced over the past few years. There are two areas in particular that I believe are fundamental to ensuring this progress continues; attracting the next generation of talent and communicating the benefits of wood to professional audiences and the general public. Attracting and retaining talent The latest innovations in wood manufacturing require a diverse range of new skills, including computer-aided design and programming, and we’ll be competing with other manufacturing industries to attract the best talent. The BWF believes that ensuring a future workforce for the sector is built upon three key stages:
PEOPLE promoting woodworking to young talent, ensuring apprentices quickly become workready and, finally, continuing to support career development to create the stars and leaders of tomorrow. A series of BWF initiatives have been carefully designed to support each of these stages, and I’m looking forward to playing a part in their success. The BWF’s “Wow I Made That” schools programme is designed to inspire and engage young minds – connecting education with industry to offer routes into apprenticeships. The BWF supports employers and develops apprenticeship standards to ensure they are fit-for-purpose for the modern and innovative manufacturing techniques that we increasingly use as a sector. Apprenticeship schemes and grants available from the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) are making qualifications a more realistic achievement for many. High quality-programmes and funding help to give young people a real chance, equipping them with the technical skills that they, and our industry, so desperately need. Promoting wood as a building material The BWF’s Build it Better with Wood campaign champions the many benefits of using wood as a building material, with sustainability, efficiency, safety and healthy buildings as the key drivers / messages. As an industry we must continue to communicate these benefits to a broad range of stakeholders, and I see this as a large part of my wider role as the BWF’s President. Through my particular area of specialism within woodwork and joinery, I have long been
an advocate of the virtues of wood as a safe building material. Amid uncertainly and inertia among local councils concerning the replacement of inadequate fire doors, products independently certified through the BWF’s Fire Door Alliance scheme can give building owners the confidence they have chosen products that are reliable and durable, and will perform as required in the event of a fire. I’m thrilled that this has now been definitively evidenced through independent testing of timber fire doors by the UK Government, which published its findings in July 2019. The BWF’s Fire Door Alliance will be actively pushing this safety message over the coming months, culminating with the BWF’s flagship awareness campaign Fire Door Safety Week in September, which continues to gain influence yearon-year. The BWF will also continue to drive forward its other highly successful initiatives – the Stair Scheme, and Wood Window Alliance. There is a fantastic opportunity for us to promote the benefits of wood staircases and window frames to both professional and consumer audiences, building on the growth that both sectors have enjoyed in recent years. I’m excited about the future as I take on the role at such a critical time for our industry. United by a passion for wood, I’m looking forward to working with my colleagues at the BWF to raise the profile of UK woodworking, tackle the skills gap and drive innovation and growth throughout the sector. For more information on the British Woodworking Federation, please visit: http://www.bwf.org.uk/
Victorian
Sliders Announce New Group
Managing Director
Andy Jones will be joining Victorian Sliders as Group Managing Director as the company continues to build on its position as a market leader in the fenestration industry, reporting directly to Chief Executive Scot Starkey. Previously Andy was Group Sales and Marketing Director at Synseal (Aperture) and before that served 12 years as Managing Director at Edgetech UK and Europe. Andy has more than 30 years’ experience of the industry and with his extensive knowledge Andy will be a key player in leading Victorian Sliders, says the company. Andy said: “I am extremely pleased to be joining Victorian Sliders at such an exciting time in its evolution, Scot and the team have developed an incredible infrastructure which places Victorian Sliders in an ideal position to move forward to the next phase of Scot’s ambitious growth plans and I very much look forward to being part of that and working alongside everyone in the coming months.” WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019 31
PEOPLE
CMS Window Systems Strengthens Board With New Chairman Appointment
Sam Cross Celebrates Decade Of
Service
Sam Cross, account director at leading full-service marketing agency Purplex, is celebrating ten years with the award-winning firm. Sam joined Purplex in February 2009, initially as a copywriter working on client campaigns, but he quickly progressed through the business and was appointed account director in 2014.
Today he is responsible for developing powerful multi-channel marketing strategies for some of Purplex’s largest clients. Sam comments on his decade of service: “Purplex has grown enormously over the past 10 years and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed being part of this journey. “When I first joined, we had seven staff and predominantly offered ‘traditional’ marketing services such as PR and direct mail, whereas today we have more than 70 staff and offer the full spectrum of marketing services including online lead generation, TV and radio. “The business has changed a lot in the last decade but our obsession with delivering results has always remained the same, and that is why we’ve been able to retain and attract so many clients.”
CMS Window Systems has appointed former Tyman plc CEO Louis Eperjesi as Chairman, adding significant building product manufacturing and supply expertise to its senior management team. Louis brings three decades of director-level experience to CMS, having most recently been CEO at Tyman plc, owner of the ERA door and window hardware brand, and he continues to be a Non-Executive Director of Ibstock plc. His strong track record in the building products market includes senior roles with some of the industry’s most highly respected brands, including Kingspan, Baxi, Lafarge and Mira. The Chairman’s appointment is another important step for leading window, door and curtain walling designer, manufacturer and installer CMS as it targets growth of more than 25% in this financial year. The expansion of its aluminium façade division fuelled by new contract wins UK-wide, and new supply relationships with social housing and housebuilding sector clients across Scotland and the north of England, look set to drive this growth, along with the evolving CMS Trade division serving Scotland’s trade installers. Louis Eperjesi said: “The growth of CMS to become one of Scotland’s most successful manufacturing businesses of its kind in the space of just 13 years has been extremely impressive and shows that ambition and drive underpin everything at CMS. I am looking forward to being able to make my contribution to the exciting future that lies ahead for the business, as customers in the building and
32 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
housing markets increasingly seek supply chain partners who are serious about sustainability, quality and innovation.” David Ritchie, CEO at CMS Window Systems added: “We are delighted to welcome Louis as Chairman and the significant building product manufacture and supply experience he brings. His strong commercial, marketing and product background will be invaluable as we push forward with our expansion UK-wide and build on our success through our capacity to handle larger scale commercial projects and further supply and install contracts in social housing and new build.” Based near Cumbernauld, CMS is one of Scotland’s largest designers, manufacturers and installers of windows & doors and aluminium facades. Serving social housing providers, housebuilders, commercial developers and trade installers, the company employs more than 315 people across its operations at its main Castlecary manufacturing plant, recycling centre and HQ, plus its door factory and recycling centre in Kirkcaldy and its new trade factory in East Kilbride. Find out more at www.cmswindows.com
PEOPLE
Nick Roberts Starts New CEO Role At Travis Perkins
tations and rapidly evolving sales channels, my job will be to ensure Travis Perkins, with its strong reputation and market leading brands, is well positioned to deliver change and maximise the opportunities they bring. I feel privileged to lead the company through such a period of change, and to bring my experience together with that of the Group’s management team to build long term sustainable value for all of the Group’s stakeholders,” he continued.
Nick Roberts has formally taken up his new post as CEO for Travis Perkins. Mr Roberts first joined the Group as CEO designate on 1st July to ensure a smooth handover with his predecessor, John Carter, before taking up the CEO role on 5th August.
He said: “Since joining, colleagues across the Group have welcomed me with great warmth, and I have been struck by their quality, character and commitment, as well as the capability we have across the Group. Over the coming weeks and months I will be focused on the clear plan that we’re in the middle of executing, which is to focus on the trade and simplify the Group, and positions us well for the future.
“This is an exciting time from an industry perspective and, based on the changes that lie ahead of us in areas such as customer expec-
Mr Roberts joined Travis Perkins from design, engineering and project management consultancy, Atkins, where he was President. He has over 25 years of international consulting experience, and is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion.
Joining The Family Business If you needed any more proof that software specialist Business Micros is a family business, then the company has turned the spotlight on two of the lesser known siblings – neither of whom share the surname Bailey! New Project Leader Vince Kelly was the first member of staff to feature in the company’s 40th anniversary campaign which is highlighting the contribution of key members of staff, and now it is the turn of Vince’s sister Lisa Lockhart who also works at the company’s Penpont HQ. Lisa is the Accounts Administrator and while hers might not perhaps be a familiar name or face to many, she is the person who helps to maintain Business Micros’ hard-earned reputation in this industry for paying people on time. She is responsible
here 14 years later, primarily because this is such a friendly and supportive working environment and really does have a genuine family feel. “What I like most about the job is the fact that Business Micros is a company which always aims to treat customers, suppliers and staff fairly and ethically. Those values definitely chime with me and make me proud to be part of the team.”
for all purchase and sales invoices and has been a member of the team since 2005, joining a full 21 years after Vince. She says: “I saw how happy Vince was working here so when this opportunity came up, I jumped at the chance. I’m still
For much of the time that Lisa has worked at Business Micros, the number of staff remained fairly constant. In recent years though, the Penpont office in particular has expanded considerably, with additional programmers and software developers joining the business to work on the next generation Infinity software which launched at the FIT Show. WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019 33
PEOPLE
Paul Tranter Joins Listers As Sales Director Paul Tranter has been appointed as Sales Director at Listers Central, based in Stoke-on-Trent and part of the GJB Holdings Group.
Gowercroft MD Is Appointed To
The Executive Board
Of The Confederation
Of Timber Industries
Andrew Madge, Managing Director of timber window and door specialist, Gowercroft Joinery, has been appointed to the Board of the Confederation of Timber Industries (CTI). The CTI represents producers, manufacturers and distributors across the entire supply chain and speaks for the timber industry as a whole in matters relating to jobs and skills, quality control, economic growth and environmental protection. In his new role, Andrew will be acting on behalf of the British Woodworking Federation (BWF), where he is also sits on the Executive Board, to ensure that that its 700-strong membership is well supported and represented in key areas. Andrew Madge said: “I am delighted to be invited to join the CTI Board. As we move towards a low carbon economy, I believe that the CTI and the BWF together will play a vitally important role in ensuring that the use of timber and timber products remains at the top of the agenda and the natural choice for specifiers, designers and constructors.” www.gowercroft.co.uk
Paul joins Listers with a wealth of industry experience at a very exciting time and says, “I’ve been involved in the window industry since I left school. I started in the factory of a small fabricator and progressed into sales in the early 2000s, working with many wellknown, nationwide brands in the industry. “I have known Roy Frost, our Group CEO, for a long time, and have always been keen to work with him. I’ve been watching Roy’s group develop and grow over
recent years, with its clear focus on Premium Products, great service, emphasis on quality materials and ‘Fit and Forget’, all backed by a truly outstanding customer support and our ‘Make it Yours’ tailored marketing range.”
Danny Hague Joins
Victorian Sliders lenge after watching the company grow under the ownership of Scot Starkey, who Danny has been an acquaintance of for many years.
Danny Hague is the newly-appointed Sales Director at Victorian Sliders. Danny is a well-known figure in the fenestration industry, having spent more than 25 years in a variety of senior sales roles for both extrusion and trade fabrication companies. He says he was attracted to the role at Victorian Sliders because it represents an exciting new chal-
34 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
Danny says: “Victorian Sliders has all of the style, performance and reliability which installers would expect from a top brand, yet it comes with a no frills, no nonsense approach which makes it surprisingly cost effective”. Victorian Sliders are always looking for new ways to progress and are pleased to bring Danny on board to serve their Trade customers across the UK. Danny’s practical experience and knowledgeable input will be beneficial to the company in a competitive market. www.victoriansliders.co.uk
DEAR GERALD
Dear
Gerald Dear Gerald
The new Garnalex aluminium extrusion factory
After a lifetime in PVC-U, people wonder why I’ve fallen for Aluminium.
changed. Aluminium’s service levels also compare poorly with the standard offered by the PVC-U market.
I just love aluminium, its possibilities and its sustainability. And I’m knocked out that about 75% of all the aluminium ever produced is still in use!
Innovation in aluminium has lagged PVC-U and timber, which practically reinvented itself in the last 20 years. We believe it’s time for an aluminium catch up.
For those who don’t know, we’ve invested £9 million so far in a state-of-the-art Garnalex factory which will start extruding aluminium profiles for trade customers in October and an aluminium window and door system at the end of Q1 2020.
Few aluminium systems companies extrude or extrude in the UK: they buy-in and subcontract the finishing and painting. There’s been very little capital expenditure invested in new machinery in recent years, so maintaining good productivity and quality can be difficult.
We are investing to fill a gap in capacity, and a gap in innovation, quality and service. The UK consumes around 190,000 tonnes of aluminium profile a year, but it only makes around 110,000 tonnes so it has to import the rest. People don’t need reminding that lead times are long in aluminium. It takes several weeks from Europe and there are long delays in the UK too, plus potential complications importing from further afield. Now we also have the added complications and uncertainty from Brexit. So, the need for more made-in-Britain product is obvious. What are the other gaps? Having been an aluminium profile customer enables you to see things with fresh eyes. It’s always puzzled me that compared to the changes we’ve seen in timber and PVC-U, aluminium windows and doors have changed little in the last 30 years or so. Their appearance is pretty similar, they’re fabricated as you would have made them back then, and they install in the same old way. Apart from improving their thermal performance, very little has
We assembled a high-powered team of technical experts to take a fresh look at aluminium with the aim of making a new system easier, faster and better to fabricate and install than other aluminium systems by incorporating all the innovations and improvements that should have taken place over the last 30 years. The team examined every aspect of aluminium windows and doors from performance and looks, to how they’re made and installed. And they’ve redesigned the aluminium window and door from the ground up. Anyone can make big claims, and the industry is not shy of overclaiming, but we’ll let fabricators and installers be the judge of these claims. When you’ve seen it, I think you’ll agree that it is aluminium, but not as the industry knows it. Roger Hartshorn CEO, Garnalex WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019 35
GLAZING SUMMIT tion and accreditation, including GGF and BSI leaders, will share the latest developments. It isn’t all window industry speakers though. The Glazing Summit team have secured Neil Parker, a chief economist, market analyst and director of RBS/Natwest bank will share his views on Brexit and the economic outlook for the UK glazing market. Meanwhile, Andrew has brought in two heavyweights from the financial world to discuss mergers, acquisitions and restructures – including a director of Thincats who have £800million available for funding acquisitions, and a partner in PCR, who advise companies on corporate restructuring.
Andrew Scott, founder of the Glazing Summit
Stellar Line-Up Of Speakers
Secures Glazing Summit
As Must-Attend Event With only a few days left the Glazing Summit promises to inform, educate and connect fabricators, installers and suppliers from across the industry. The conference takes place on Thursday 12th at Edgbaston Stadium, Birmingham with a packed agenda tackling the key issues facing the industry. Andrew Scott, founder of the Glazing Summit, commented; “After the buzz of the inaugural Summit last year, our intention for 2019 was to bring together 250 industry leaders for a high-value day. Since the speakers were announced, this has snowballed with almost 300 delegates at-
tending.”
Speakers include Martin Thurley, MD of Liniar and John McCombe, Technical Director of Reynaers. Safestyle PLC and previous Everest Marketing Director Martin Troughton will also take to the stage alongside Peter Hall, ex Operations Director of Anglian and now serial entrepreneur who is actively acquiring window companies. Two giants in the technology field, Mark Spanberg and Johan Ambulm are flying in from Stockholm and Berlin to discuss the future of home automation and smart-tech for windows and doors, while experts on regula-
36 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
Andrew commented; “Our entire line-up of 24 speakers are prepared and ready to share knowledge, expertise and their opinion on the future of the industry, how to maximise the opportunities ahead and navigate around the pitfalls.” It’s easy to see why hundreds of industry leaders will be at the prestigious Edgbaston Stadium and Conference Centre, Birmingham for the one-day conference. Attendees this year will be able to get involved in the discussions thanks to Slido, a Q&A and polling platform, which will allow the audience to participate and ask questions. The day will be rounded off with the Glazing Summit Leaders Dinner, which brings together around 150 senior industry leaders. This year the host is former Olympic and World Championship gold medallist Roger Black MBE who will inspire and entertain guests. To view the agenda, see the speakers or make a last-minute booking for the conference and/ or leaders dinner can be made at www.glazingsummit.co.uk
GLAZING SUMMIT
Corporate Finance Lender Set To Turbocharge The Glazing Summit One of the UK’s most disruptive and innovative providers of business finance has put their weight behind the Glazing Summit.
disrupting the traditional funding markets, taking a more strategic view and backing entrepreneurs who want to grow. I’m delighted Damon can join our line-up of speakers.”
ThinCats is the game-changing provider of business finance up to £15million to facilitate business growth – including working capital, growth finance and acquisitions. Their Chief Development Director, Damon Walford, will join the panel at the Glazing Summit’s ‘Mergers and Acquisitions Debate’, advising delegates on the financial mechanisms to create growth. Damon was previously managing director of Aldermore Bank PLC and a director of RBS Invoice
finance. Andrew Scott, founder of the Glazing Summit, commented; “Whether you’re a large fabricator or a small installer, our industry is hampered by a lack of available finance, with traditional banks often reluctant to lend. I’ve worked with the ThinCats team and they are
Smart Tech Heavyweight Speaks
At The Glazing Summit
Window and door technology expert Johan Ambulm will join a stellar line-up of speakers at the Glazing Summit on 12th September.
Until recently Johan was Vice President for Group Technology and Digital Development at Inwido AB. Inwido is said to be Europe’s largest window and door fabricator, manufacturing some 100,000 frames per week. At Inwido Johan headed their Smart Connected strategy, which included Smart security and safety, Home Living, and Smart Products. He launched an end-to-end solution for Smart windows, Smart doors, Smart blinds and third-party retail accessories, using their proprietary technology and apps. The Scandinavian technologist will
The Glazing Summit is the annual conference for installers, fabricators and suppliers and tackles head-on the key issues facing the industry. This year the Summit is held at the prestigious Edgbaston Stadium and Conference Centre, Birmingham, with a stellar line-up of speakers. To see the full agenda and book tickets visit www.glazingsummit.co.uk different markets and products embrace technology. I’m delighted he has agreed to join us directly from IFA in Germany, the world’s leading trade show for electronic appliances. Johan has recently taken up a new role within Assa Abloy as Global Director for In-Home Services at Yale Residential Living. At the Glazing Summit, he will be sharing his experience of the Smart development journey and answering questions on Smart technology in windows and doors.”
Johan Ambulm
fly in directly from the IFA Consumer Electronics Show in Berlin, where exhibitors include Amazon Alexa, Phillips Hue, Samsung and many others. Andrew Scott, founder of the Glazing Summit, said; “Johan is an international expert on Smart integration and operates from a global perspective, seeing how
The Glazing Summit is the annual conference for installers, fabricators and suppliers and tackles head-on the key issues facing the industry. This year the Summit is held at the prestigious Edgbaston Stadium and Conference Centre, Birmingham, and tickets are almost sold out. www.glazingsummit.co.uk WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019 37
HARDWARE / SAFETY & SECURITY
Blu Launches KM9 Series Patio Door Handle Range
used in multiple scheme applications the dummy handle has been designed to look the same as the working handle providing vastly improved aesthetics over other existing designs in the marketplace,” added Loren.
To Meet Growing Consumer Demand
One of Cornwall’s leading hotels – The Watergate Bay Hotel – recently fitted the new KM9 Series handles and has already seen the benefit.
Performance door and window hardware manufacturer bluTM has launched its new KM9 series Patio Slide Handles to meet growing UK demand for larger sliding door systems.
are spending time, money and effort trying to enhance their patio doors, yet continue to overlook the importance of the hardware when it comes to giving their products a competitive edge.
The handle range – all manufactured from 316 Marine Grade Stainless Steel – has been designed to combine contemporary styling and aesthetics with guaranteed anti-corrosion performance.
“Poorer quality handles not only let down the look of the door, but also negatively affect performance and are likely to corrode and fail in a couple of years’ time. This results in visits back to site to sort performance issues and unhappy customers,’ said bluTM MD Loren Jenner.
Enjoying a stunning position right on the beach, their existing sliding door handles quickly deteriorated and corroded as a result of its location. Consequently they decided to upgrade to blu’s new solid 316 Stainless Steel Patio Slide Handles.
For Larger Sliding Door Systems
As with all bluTM door and window hardware, the patio handles feature its unique ‘Super-Satin’ finish providing a soft feel and reducing the chance of any airborne contaminants settling on the hardware and causing tea-staining. “The growing trend for larger sliding doors is a definite opportunity for fabricators in the UK. Many
“Our KM9 Series Handle is the first of its type in the market – contemporary, modern looking Straight Slide Patio Door Handles mounted on a solid back plate and universally handed. It’s been designed to operate a range of lock systems including Sobinco and Yale. When
38 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
The Facilities Manager at the hotel commented on the difference the handles made, stating: “We chose blu’s Patio Handles not only because of their durability for our tough environment, but because they are much better looking and performing than the previous handles. Plus, they’re more in keeping with the style and environment of the hotel.” blu-performance.com/product/ straight-slide-patio-door-handlesolid-backplate
HARDWARE / SAFETY & SECURITY
Yale’s Lockmaster 21 Launch Supported
By Carl F Groupco Carl F Groupco has announced the addition of Yale’s new Lockmaster 21 to the range of lock solutions featured in its hardware catalogue of over 7,000 product lines. Celebrating 21 years since the launch of the Lockmaster, the new product is Yale’s latest advancement to its established Lockmaster multipoint door lock range. Commenting on key design features of the Lockmaster 21, Carl F Groupco’s Sales Director John King said: “We are delighted to play a supporting role in the launch of the Lockmaster 21 and to offer this innovative product with its enhanced security and durability features to our customers.
“The Lockmaster’s signature hook and pin unit has been positioned within 100mm of the pre-compression rollers which aids security testing. Additionally, the centre case has been strengthened to protect against the latest break in methods and pre-compression rollers engage slightly ahead of the security locking points to ensure smooth engagement and reliable locking.
“The faceplate of the door lock is manufactured from 430 grade stainless steel which improves durability and aesthetics while enabling Yale to improve their manufacturing process and reduce the carbon footprint. One piece keep enhancements, including screw-in hardened plastic buckets, improve longevity and a 13mm axis with profile related packers ensures a perfect fit and greater loads during security testing.” As with all Lockmaster door locks, the new product is British built including metal pressing, die casting, injection moulding and assembly which are all carried out at Yale’s UK headquarters. www.carlfgroupco.co.uk www.yaledws.co.uk
Mighty. Smart.
Retro fittable, standard backplate size, key override & works with any Apple device.
In fact, AVIA is so smart that it’s the only smart lock in the UK to have achieved ETSI TS 103 645 specification for consumer IoT security & comply with the government code of practise for consumer IoT.
WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019 39
HARDWARE / SAFETY & SECURITY
Yale Introduce
The £1,000
Anti-Snap Cylinder Guarantee New Additions
To greenteQ
Aspire Range
The greenteQ Aspire hardware range, designed for contemporary sliding doors, has been expanded to include a new Bi-fold Intermediate Handle, Sprung Door Handle and Escutcheon Plates. Both handles are available in nine finishes, including the new Brushed Graphite. Designed to operate locks on the intermediate points of a bi-fold, the Aspire Intermediate Handle uses 43mm fixing centres, matching most intermediate locks in the market. It is suitable for use on aluminium, PVC-U and timber bi-folds and, standing at only 16mm from the face of the profile, allows the sashes to fold back neatly in the fully open position. Aspire Sprung Door Handles and Escutcheon Plates have been designed for use on aluminium residential and bi-fold doors, with a strong spring ensuring the lever always returns to the 90˚position. www.vbhgb.com
With research revealing that there were a staggering 644,000 domestic burglary incidents in England and Wales last year alone and with 70% of these burglars gaining entry through a door, it is now more important than ever that maximum-security locks are in place to offer protection from potential break-ins, says Yale. The Platinum 3 Star Cylinder is Yale’s most secure lock yet; so much so in fact that Yale is offering a £1,000 guarantee in the unlikely event that the cylinder is snapped under attack due to a forced break-in. The company says the Yale anti-snap cylinder guarantee provides ultimate peace of mind to homeowners and in turn, fabricators, distributors, and installers. In the event of a burglary or break-in taking place at a home due to a prolonged attack on a Yale Platinum 3 Star Cylinder, Yale will offer a goodwill payment of £1,000 for the inconvenience (subject to the terms and conditions*). Paul Atkinson, Sales and Commercial Director of Yale Door and Window Solutions, comments: “We have the utmost confidence in the performance of our Yale Platinum 3 Star Cylinder and are extremely pleased to be able to launch this latest assurance to our customers. “The anti-snap cylinder guarantee promises consumers that one of the crucial components of the door – the profile cylinder – is supplied by an experienced, market-leading manufacturer. The guarantee truly demonstrates the
40 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
confidence we have in our product here at Yale, generating a feeling of trust for the consumer. “The Yale Platinum 3 Star Cylinder provides maximum security against known attack methods, and it can be suited and re-pinned at Yale’s head office in the Midlands or by Kitemark approved stockists. It has also been independently tested by BSI to be awarded the British Kitemark TS007:2014 3 Star accreditation – a standard developed in response to concerns around cylinder attacks. “In addition, the 3 Star Cylinder has been tested to the British Standard BS EN1303:2005 and is Secured by Design approved – meaning it could save homeowners money when it comes to renewing their insurance premiums.” As well as being anti-snap, anti-bump, anti-pick and anti-drill, the Yale Platinum 3 Star Cylinder also features a sacrificial front section which secures the home in the event of a snap attack. For full terms and conditions and more information on the Yale anti-snap cylinder guarantee, please visit yaledoorandwindowsolutions.co.uk
HARDWARE / SAFETY & SECURITY with an update of the SmartConnect app, ensuring existing users can also enjoy its smart capabilities. Commenting on the latest SmartSecure development, John Crittenden, Carl F Groupco’s Managing Director said: “It’s incredible that, when we launched SmartSecure in 2016, we talked about being able to use an app to monitor your door and provide access keys. Now you don’t even need to log into the app – you can talk to Amazon Alexa.
Amazon Alexa SmartSecure Advancement A smart tech advancement by FUHR benefits users of Carl F Groupco’s SmartSecure electronic door locking and access control brand in the UK. The development means that customers can now use Alexa-enabled devices, such as Amazon Echo, to control the SmartConnect app functions.
SmartConnect is an intelligent, WLAN-based SmartSecure option that uses a smartphone app to set access rights and manage security. The addition of Amazon Alexa, which can be asked to control smart home devices, is a significant SmartConnect advancement with straightforward set-up. Amazon Alexa functionality is available
New Ultion WXM Performs 5X
Normal 3 Star Test Standard
Says Brisant-Secure Ultion WXM has extra molybdenum, the metal that is 25% denser than iron, integrated within its design. Brisant-Secure redesigned and improved the materials used to increase the strength and durability that Ultion brings. The BS EN1303 test requires standard 3 Star locks to achieve 100,000 cycles. If the lock and key meet the required 100,000 cycles, it can be sold in the UK with this accreditation. Ultion WXM is still going strong at 500,000 cycles,
says the company, and it’s the extra molybdenum that is keeping it going strong. Brisant-Secure has purposefully created a lock that is at the top of its game for quality, durability and performance. Surviving under duress is the key reason a homeowner chooses a lock. It has to work with all sorts of doors and resist every burglar attack. Research has shown that over 85% of door buyers say security is the most important factor when buy-
“Because Alexa lives in the cloud it’s always getting smarter which means new capabilities are always being delivered to your device. Using Alexa with SmartConnect is simple and hands-free – just ask, and Alexa will respond instantly. Voice control is a massive trend in home automation that provides enormous benefits including speed and simplicity.” Carl F Groupco’s technically qualified advisors are on hand to provide advice on the integration of Amazon Alexa with SmartSecure functionality and capabilities. www.smartsecure.co.uk ing a door and they’re prepared to pay for high performance and build quality. In Ultion WXM the two-part plug has increased engagement with the new curved cap and this section is moulded from molybdenum. This is then coupled with the thicker WXM key. Improved drill protection is delivered with 20 anti-drill points and the core shielded with a new molybdenum plug. Lockdown Mode becomes Double Lockdown Mode. Ultion’s £1,000 security guarantee continues to give the homeowner confidence that the door they buy will fulfil the most important factor: keeping the bad guys out. www.brisant-secure.com WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019 41
PRODUCT NEWS
A New Cutting Edge
At Force 8 Doors Force 8 has recently taken delivery of the latest generation of CNC machines to further expand their composite door production. Since the introduction of the Decadence range the demand for the unique contemporary doors has steadily grown over the past two years. The new machine replaces one of the older CNC’s, to help speed production of the new range of composite doors. Force 8 have been manufacturing composite doors for over 10 years, specialising in unique designs which require a higher degree of accuracy, hence the investment in a second state of the art CNC machine. Force 8 are one of the few companies in the UK producing arched and part arched doors, which is linked to their single length profile bending service, therefore millimetre perfection is a necessity, rather than a luxury. With the new machine installed
arched doors can be milled and at the same time the frame can go through the bending and fabrication process, giving Force 8 the assurance that both will be a perfect fit. “This new unit will give us greater flexibility to produce even more new designs, linked with our paint facility it will open up a world of new possibilities” comments Dennis Sumner, Managing Director at Force 8. This is the latest in a long list of investment and innovations over the past two years, both in machinery and software, which included the addition of a unique online door design system. “As a company we are constantly improving our products and service to the trade.” continues Dennis. “The new CNC machine will make a big difference to our production and speed up our lead times. We have seen demand grow in recent months due
42 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
to the anti-bowing properties of the Decadence doors, which includes a reinforced slab, Sure Fire three latch system, adjustable hinges and heat resistant paint. This helps to combat the growing problem of bowing within composite doors, but these innovations require accuracy, which the new CNC will provide” For further information about Force 8 and the Decadence range of composite doors, visit their website at: www.force8.uk
Advertorial
KORNICHE ALUMINIUM ROOF LANTERN THE INSTALLERS CHOICE “My experience of fitting the Korniche Roof Lantern.. The initial delivery was on time and the driver was helpful. The product is really well packaged and clearly not going to get damaged. The installation process is really simple, made easier by the fact that this product has clearly been designed with ease of installation in mind, the engineering in the Korniche makes the whole process simple and fool proof! I can highly recommend this lantern and it looks fabulous, clean lines and as far as light goes you would be hard pressed to find a product that lets in more!! As a builder I look to use reliable, substantial and well made products that are user friendly from an installer point of view and the Korniche ticks all the boxes for me. I would like to qualify my view by saying that I have fitted many different types of lantern from various manufacturers and the Korniche is by far the best from an installation and cost perspective, not only that the price point is amazing for the quality of the product.” ROBIN CLEVETT #SKILLBUILDER
Installers and Builders are realising the potential in the growing flat roof extension market with the Korniche Aluminium Roof Lantern. The lantern provides a huge advantage with competitive pricing, fast national delivery all available in bespoke sizes in standard and RAL colours. Added benefits of a rapid and easy installation - Fitted in minutes, glazed in seconds.. The Korniche Lantern offers far more than it’s closest competitors Made for Trade offer exceptional support with the Korniche Roof Lantern. Brand and product awareness campaigns at national exhibitions and shows alongside promotional sales literature and showroom samples ensure Builders, Specifiers and Installers have everything needed to develop sales with Korniche. Alongside direct sales support to make things even easier Made for Trade have developed KwikQuote - an online estimating tool which allows MFT’s partners to quote direct to their clients under a discount structure which rewards growing sales. Having just completed a move to a 108,000ft2 head office and new production facility expanding operations for Korniche Aluminium Systems - now is the time to jump on board with the Made for Trade award winning team to offer the best in Aluminium Roof Lanterns and BiFolding Doors.
www.korniche.co.uk sales@madefortrade.co
‘Out of all the roof lantern manufacturers Korniche have got it just right. From quotation to delivery, service is seamless with all our orders delivered on time and all at a very competitive price. Without doubt the best value roof lantern on the market’ Richard Burgess, Managing Director, Lonsdale Patent Glazing & Rooflights
ALUMINIUM SYSTEMS
PRODUCT NEWS
ODL Europe’s Capstone Securedesign™ Door Slab Ticks All The Boxes Composite doors are the most popular type of entrance door in the UK. But Nathan Barr, Managing Director of ODL Europe, sounds a note of caution. “Composite doors provide the level of performance homeowners are looking for. But if you want customers who are still delighted with you and your work years after the job completed, you need to choose your composite door range with care.” Nathan highlights the benefits of the new Capstone SecureDesign™ Door Slab and says ambitious businesses looking to build long term customer satisfaction and growth need to take a look at what it has to offer. He says: “The Capstone Door Slab has got a worldwide pedigree and
has proved itself time and time again. And in the Capstone SecureDesign™ Door Slab, the best just got better.” It features a high-density polyurethane foam core which has been designed and engineered for the best flowability of the foam, reducing possible foam voids, bulging and uneven surfaces. According to the company, the use of polypropylene eliminates water absorption, so the doors will not bulge or rot, even if water intrudes through openings from seals failing on glass or letterplates. The SecureDesign™ boards are injection moulded to the specific design so you get the same specifications and consistent performance in every door. Plus, the woodgrain is taken from real oak woodgrain with
44 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
the stain being applied by hand for superb aesthetics. And the finish achieves some of the UK’s best adhesion and UV stability ratings too, says the company. The SecureDesign™ door slab is built into the door so it’s an integral part of the door core, rather than ‘floating’ in it. The improved foam flowability creates fewer areas of vulnerability. Overall, the Capstone SecureDesign™ Door Slab is claimed to easily pass the cut through test and more than meet the requirements of PAS 24:2016. Importantly, despite the innovation in the new slab, it’s similar in weight to LVL and machines like LVL. It means fabricators can retain a consistent fabrication practice but achieve an improved quality of door. Nathan concludes: “The Capstone SecureDesign™ Door Slab from ODL Europe shows it’s what on the inside that counts and gives fabricators and installers clear points of differentiation when promoting to their customers.”
PRODUCT NEWS
Residence Is Backing
Panel Door Performance
ODL Europe’s In-House Door Prepping Facility Proves Popular For Customers
With the launch of Residence Doors at the FIT Show and true to form, The Residence Collection are embracing bespoke and hand-crafted entrance door manufacturing by using existing sash and bead profiles, coupled with a performance door panel in either 28 or 44mm. This means that existing manufacturers of The Residence Collection can seamlessly move in to the entrance door market with the considerable options of R2, R7 and R9 frames and the common sashes, mullions and glazing beads across the range. The manufacturing techniques are not too dissimilar to the way in which timber doors are manufactured, with the added benefit of the larger, smaller, wider or slimmer sizes that composite doors cannot accommodate. From an overall design perspective, the panels can be sourced in foils or sprayed to match the sashes and frames, with spraying opening up all the design trend colours such as Farrow & Ball. Given the nature of The Residence Collection, both period inspired doors
and more contemporary options can be manufactured, along with everything else in between. The structural strength of the profiles within The Residence Collection and the nature of this type of door manufacturing means that the performance of these beautiful hand-crafted doors is impressive, without the worrying issues of bowing and warping that’s currently an issue with some composite doors. Sarah Hitchings, sales and marketing director of The Residence Collection commented: ‘Our customers now have the opportunity to manufacture entrance doors with existing profiles, coupled with high performance panels. It’s also a manufacturing philosophy that’s true to the heritage of The Residence Collection. She continued: ‘We now have a product platform that will enable us to penetrate the door market as a whole, through our customers and backed by our wondrous brand.’ residencecollectiontrade.co.uk
The bespoke door prepping service has proved to be a popular addition to their growing customer base due to the company’s flexible approach. Nathan Barr, ODL Europe’s Managing Director, explains: “Our in-house door prepping facility has been designed to work with our customers and offers a range of flexible services to meet their individual needs. From simple door sizing to a fully prepped door service with or without edge banding, we’ve got all your door prep requirements covered with a totally bespoke service to suit the needs of our customers.” The in-house facility also includes prepping the door with the customers’ choice of door lock, letterplate and door hinges. Prepping of ODL Europe’s TriSYS glazing cassette and Capstone door slab can be carried out together for total product consistency. The new door prepping service is part of a wider programme of investment for ODL Europe. The company recently commissioned a further 15,000 sq ft of manufacturing space at their Bootle headquarters to give an overall capacity of 61,229 sq ft and help drive further efficiencies. www.odl.com/europe.htm WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019 45
PRODUCT NEWS
Raising Awareness Of Fire Doors That Protect Us While We Sleep paign activities are being held throughout Fire Door Safety Week, which is supported by a number of agencies, including the Home Office’s National Fire Safety campaign, the National Fire Chief’s Council and London Fire Brigade. A free toolkit of resources, available at www.firedoorsafetyweek. co.uk, is available to help landlords, tenants and anyone with an interest in or responsibility for fire safety at a property to get involved. The week will also see the launch of a hard-hitting video underlining the powerlessness of tenants and residents to protect themselves from fire if responsible authorities fail to take action over fire safety. Fire door safety campaigners are stressing the life-saving role that fire doors play in protecting us while we sleep, as part of this year’s Fire Door Safety Week (23-29 September), run by the British Woodworking Federation. The awareness week, now in its seventh year, will once again highlight the importance of fire doors and good fire safety practice. This year it will focus on the critical role fire doors play in protecting us when we’re asleep, particularly in specialised housing such as care homes, children’s homes and sheltered housing as well as houses in multiple occupation and communal properties. Research conducted for this year’s Fire Door Safety Week amongst care home workers will reveal concerns about fire safety as well as a lack of clarity about
the crucial role that fire doors play in care home buildings. Helen Hewitt, Chief Executive of the British Woodworking Federation, said: “We all need to feel protected, and especially so when we are asleep. Fire doors play a vital role as the first line of defence against fire and smoke, containing their spread while buildings are evacuated. But they must be properly installed and maintained, and good fire safety practice must be shared and followed. That’s why we continue to raise awareness every year through Fire Door Safety Week. “Good practice is especially important in buildings with multiple occupants and residents who may be vulnerable. It is quite literally a matter of life and death.” Numerous events and cam-
46 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
Brand new for this year’s campaign is an interactive mock criminal trial, aimed at providing manufacturers of fire safety products, consultants, contractors, designers, installers and other potential duty holders with an insight into where they may be liable in the event of a fire incident. Helen Hewitt added: “We encourage individuals and organisations to get involved this year, share our free resources and run their own publicity campaigns and events to support the campaign’s vitally important messages.” The campaign aims to build on the success of 2018’s Fire Door Safety Week, which reached over 35 million people through PR, social media and events with the message: shut the door on fire and smoke.
PRODUCT NEWS
Toadstools By Force 8
This is the second Toadstool frame and door Force 8 have fabricated and installed in Sale, Greater Manchester. The first client had three companies attempting to manufacture this unusual frame, two said it could not be done on viewing it, and one gave up at the survey stage. The second client approached Force 8 after recommendation from the previous customer. The project was a slightly different design from the first, with French PVC doors rather than a single composite door. “In reality, there is no such thing as a standard arched frame, and the Toadstool designs are the perfect demonstration of this ”, comments Dennis Sumner, Managing Director at Force 8. “We would be interested to see if there are any more
houses around the country with a similar design, or a more unusual entrance”. The Force 8 arched frames are available in a VEKA Halo or a System 10 profile with a fully reinforced one-piece sash bend. Using this
process allows for arched profiles to be produced up to 6500mm in length, which will ensure a stylish unblemished finish. Other companies bend their profile in sections and then weld them together to create the arch, which is not structurally as strong as a single length of profile. “Installation companies are missing out on a small but lucrative area of the market, for the simple reason it looks too difficult or their present fabricator does not have the resources to manufacture these unusual frames”, continues Dennis. “If your present fabricator is not equipped for arched or special shapes, we would welcome any design challenges from installers, not forgetting that we can also supply arched, or part arched composite doors to complete the project”. www.force8.uk
WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019 47
PRODUCT NEWS Distinction Doors has introduced two new obscure glass options to their offering, expanding their current obscure collection from four to six. ‘DD-Minst’ and ‘DD-Cont’ come as 24mm double glazed units with 6.8mm laminated glass and can be included as stylish modifications to selected door styles across all Distinction ranges. Over recent months, a number of Distinction’s Business Development Executives reported an increase in customers requesting new, on-trend opaque glass styles in order to help them satisfy similar requests they have been receiving from their own contractor customers. The addition of the DD-Minst and DD-Cont designs is a direct response to this growing demand for opaque glass styles. Marketing Manager Bethaney Larkman has been working to keep Distinction customers abreast of the changes: “We always keep our trade customers promptly informed of all
Distinction Doors Score Six For Opacity
we can supply a variety of sizes and either toughened or laminated finishes.”
product developments, but given the popularity of the existing obscure options, this news is bound to be especially well received. DD-Minst features a soft, almost watery, look with shallow depressions while DD-Cont is sharper and more intricate with a similar pattern to tree bark. We feel that we have successfully filled in the gaps that sat between the initial four obscure choices, two of which are plain (Satin and Clear). Across all six of our opaque styles
It’s clear that Distinction pays close attention to the developing needs of the consumer market and is flexible enough to respond swiftly to any changes in demand. Unsurprisingly, the Distinction warehouses are primed with a full stock that’s ready and waiting to fulfil forthcoming orders. Bethaney added: “Years ago you would find the same, leafy pattern in most bathrooms across the country – we all know the one! Not only do people have so much more choice now, but it’s fashionable to bring opacity to front doors, not to mention the enhanced privacy and greater sense of security it brings.” www.distinctiondoors.co.uk
The Door To Opportunity From Epwin Window Systems The Stellar aluminium door range from Epwin Window Systems, delivers designer edge products for consumers and practical benefits for both fabricators and installers too. This is the view of Gerald Allen, Marketing Manager of Epwin Window Systems, who said: “Stellar has taken the ever-popular flush styling to the next level when we launched the flush door. The flush lines extend inside and outside of the door for the ultimate in simple, streamlined design that’s so popular with today’s design-conscious consumers”. Stellar is perfect for residential doors, internal doors and French doors because the slim sightlines ensure the frame never dominates. There’s also a bifold door, perhaps the most popular aluminium product for UK home-
owners. Usefully, it’s available with a choice of PVC-U beading that suites with PVC-U systems for a more harmonious solution. The door line-up will be completed with the addition of a Lift & Slide Patio Door which is due to be launched soon. It’s available
48 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
in 2, 3 and 4 pane variations and is suitable for openings of up to 6.5 metres. Sash widths of up to 3 metres wide are available via a range of interlock sizes to achieve the best combination of sightlines and size capability. www.stellaraluminium.co.uk
PRODUCT NEWS
Shepley
Choose GeoFast For
Vuelta Flush Sash Windows Launched earlier this year by Shepley and featuring authentic timber-look joints, the Vuelta by Visage Flush Sash is an ideal choice for heritage properties – especially when twinned with colour-matched astragal bars from The Georgian Bar Company Ltd. “We designed and developed the Vuelta Flush Sash to enhance any property, whether contemporary or classic,” says Ian Griffiths, Shepley Managing Director. “But Georgian bars are an increasingly popular choice for homeowners who want a traditional appearance.
“It was vital to us that the highend styling and superior quality of Vuelta was matched by our choice of astragal and we didn’t have to look far. We’ve been working with The Georgian Bar Company for many years now, so when we approached them with our requirements for the Vuelta Flush Sash, we had full confidence that they would tick all the necessary boxes. “The Vuelta Flush Sash is available in 14 standard painted and natural wood finish colour options. The GeoFast bars are beautifully colour-matched and supplied on lead times that work with our own, so there’s
no hold up in supply. “The quality of the mill finish bars goes without saying and that’s one of the reasons why we’ve built such a great working relationship with The Georgian Bar Company over the years.” Shepley says the Vuelta by Visage Flush Sash window is the first of its kind. The unique new jointing and welding process produces a perfect replica of a timber joint without compromising thermal efficiency or strength. “It’s great to be involved in projects like this,” says Philip Dewhurst Jr, Commercial Director of The Georgian Bar Company. “The launch of high-quality new products can only enhance the market and the Vuelta Flush Sash is an impressive window. “GeoFast bars are the ideal complement to give them the classic styling required for traditional properties.” For more information on The Georgian Bar Company go to www.geofast.co.uk WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019 49
PRODUCT NEWS
Exclusive VS Systems From Masterframe
New And Improved Specification Sash window specialist Masterframe has developed its own bespoke PVC-U system to create three new window collections, making it easier for installers to choose the right sash window for the project. “The three vertical sliding sash products: Authentic, Heritage and Vintage, each offer unique design benefits for the trade, specifiers and developers,” explains Carol Slade, Managing Director at Masterframe. “Every product is available with Timberweld® corner design and white wood foil as standard to give a true timber look for any home.”
of a timber window for both refurbishment and new build installations.
With the exclusive sash window license to use Timberweld technology, Masterframe’s range offers a great opportunity for installers. The unique Masterframe profile is combined with a high-strength welded joint for a perfect butt-joint effect both inside and outside the window. This creates the traditional look
“The trend for replicating timber and preserving that authentic finish in homes is a growing market,” continues Carol. “And our new collections have been designed to make it easier for installers, specifiers, architects and developers to choose the perfect window for their projects.” All ranges have a different range of standard features and options. www.masterframe.co.uk
VEKA’s Revolutionary SPECTRAL
Available Now From Modplan
Trade fabricator Modplan has just added SPECTRAL, the revolutionary new material from VEKA to its range. Modplan’s International Sales and Marketing Director Justin Williams said: “We support fabricators by giving them a competitive edge in the products and services we provide. SPECTRAL provides the sophisticated matt finish that today’s insightful, style-conscious consumers are looking for.”
SPECTRAL is an exclusive material developed by VEKA UK Group. It uses next generation surface technology to create an extraordinary finish that is claimed to be unrivalled by any other matt PVC-U surface on the market. It reflects less light than most ‘flat matt’ finishes, says the company, generating an ultramatt appearance that absorbs rather than reflecting light. This creates a
a ten year guarantee. And at the end of its life, it is fully recyclable.
denser, richer quality of colour for a unique appeal and a ‘velvet-like feel’ to the touch. The surface is highly durable, extremely scratch resistant and anti-fingerprint. It is also resistant to UV light, extreme weather conditions and harsh chemicals. VEKA UK Group says dirt is easily wiped away, meaning the surface stays beautiful for longer than the average laminate. It comes with
50 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
SPECTRAL is available in Platinum Grey, Umbra Grey, Anthracite Grey and Graphite Black and one or both sides of the product can be laminated. The finish can also be used in conjunction with other colours from the VEKA’s Variations range. For example, a Variations White Woodgrain can be used on the internal face and SPECTRAL in Anthracite Grey on the external face. Justin concluded: “By being one of the first fabricators to bring SPECTRAL to the market, we’re demonstrating our ability to stay in touch with trends and rapidly react to market demands. It’s an example of the Modplan difference and how we add value to our customers’ businesses.” www.modplan.co.uk
PRODUCT NEWS
Modplan Adds LEKA Xi To Its Range
Trade fabricator Modplan has added the new LEKA Xi Conservatory Base System to its range. Justin Williams, Modplan’s International Sales and Marketing Director, said: “The LEKA Xi Conservatory Base System is a new modular extension that raises the bar in thermally efficient home extensions or garden rooms. Since its launch at FIT 2019, the latest addition to the LEKA stable has been gaining plaudits due to its intelligent design that allows construction in just three to five days. It’s a superb product to further support our growing conservatory offer.” Like the LEKA Warm Roof and the LEKA Orangery Roof, the LEKA Xi is a unique proposition that the company says sets a new standard for the industry. It’s a modular system that’s tailored to homeowner and installer requirements and is constructed using a LEKA base, LEKA walls and the LEKA roof system. There are three- or four-sided options, so it can be used for both home extensions and standalone garden rooms. There is a choice of finishes and options for dwarf walls, full walls or defined heights and internal partition options are available too, if a subdivided space is needed.
Both the thermal efficiency and lifespan are exceptional thanks to the GRP construction of the base, walls and roof. It means it creates a flexible, multi-purpose space that gives homeowners valuable extra living space.
The modular nature of the system means it is ideal for sites with access restrictions because it arrives flatpacked. It is also exceptionally fast to install. There is minimal groundwork required and installation typically takes three to five days, including fitting of the LEKA base, LEKA walls and LEKA roof system. Like all Modplan’s products, the new LEKA Xi Conservatory Base will be manufactured in dedicated state of the art facilities at its headquarters near Newport, Gwent. The company offers sales, marketing and service support to enable installers to make the most of the opportunities on the market. Justin concluded: “Modplan’s aim is to continually deliver the products our customers need to stand out in a competitive market. And in the new LEKA Xi Conservatory Base System, our customers have the best in thermally efficient modular extensions that will add really value and open up additional opportunities for them.” www.modplan.co.uk WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019 51
PRODUCT NEWS
Hodgson’s Heritage Putty Goes Back
To Black
sulated glass units and the PVB interlayer of laminated glass. It can also be used for internal and external applications and is isocyanate, silicone and solvent free and is in a moisture cure format, durable and permanently elastic.
On the back of their widely used and trusted white heritage putty, Hodgson Sealants have just launched an additional black variant in response to customer demand and as a glazing solution for the steel window segment. The heritage putty from Hodgson Sealants provides the visual appearance of a traditional putty, yet benefits from the fact that it can be painted within a matter of hours with water or solvent based paints. The introduction of the black colour will enable businesses to restore and replace windows where there is a requirement for slim or reduced sightline heritage glazing. Herit-
age glazing includes applications in conservation areas, listed buildings and in period properties. This heritage putty from Hodgson Sealants has been specifically developed and tested so that it’s suitable for use in contact with the edge sealant of in-
Gary Thomas, commercial director of Hodgson Sealants commented: ‘Our heritage putty is a strong seller for us and part of our heritage glazing systems that have been developed and tested here in the UK. The introduction of black will further support the requirements of our customers and also to address more of the steel window segment.’ www.hodgsonsealants.com
Geocel AIRBLOCK Tightens
Up On Air Tightness Finding solutions to air leakage in buildings is increasingly pressing, a requirement which is now vital due to legislation and mandatory air leakage testing of new homes, extensions and commercial buildings. AIRBLOCK Flexible Foam from sealant and adhesive specialist Geocel provides a simple and convenient solution to some of the most common air leakage points, offering a versatile solution to filling voids to improve energy efficiency. Because up to 30% of energy can be lost from a building through excessive air leakage, Part L of the building regs requires that new homes and non-residential buildings must be built airtight to ensure optimum energy efficiency, minimize heat loss and reduce energy costs.
The regs include stringent air tightness tests for new residences and commercial buildings – even extensions and alterations – are required to achieve an air tightness of maximum 10 m3/hr/ m2 air loss. Geocel’s AIRBLOCK Flexible Foam helps fill voids and seal the gaps where air leakage most
52 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
commonly occurs – where building services enter and leave the building (such as electrical cables vents and pipes), gaps around windows and doors, around suspended floors and loft hatches, even through light fixtures, and is Ideal for application in hard to reach areas. Because it is a high performance polyurethane foam AIRBLOCK will fill and seal most construction materials. The unique AIRBLOCK formula gives low expansion during application, minimising the chances of distortion around frames and joints but with a flexibility that retains the airtight seal during natural expansion or contraction of the building materials. It can be cut, sawn, sanded, painted or plastered over after application.. www.geocel.co.uk
MACHINERY
Alimatic Architectural
Aluminium Systems Turns To Haffner Murat To Improve
Manufacturing Efficiencies Alimatic Architectural Aluminium Systems, a successful and growing commercial aluminium fabricator in Braintree, Essex, has just invested in a new Spring S4 4 Axis Machining Centre, a TT405 Double Mitre Saw and a HP114 Corner Crimping Machine from Haffner Murat. Sean Folley, Director at Alimatic said: “We’re a commercial fabricator so product quality and manufacturing efficiency are fundamental to our continued success. As we continue to grow, we needed to invest in further high-quality fabrication machinery to maintain the quality and turnaround time we’re known for. We turned to Haffner Murat as their ma-
chines offer excellent value and are made to the highest quality with reliability.” Sean also praised the service his company received, in particular from Regional Sales Manager Bryan Dando. “Our relationship with Bryan is one of trust. His understanding of our company and his knowledge of the machinery market allowed us to choose the right machines for the business.”
ing Centre is a 4-Axis CNC machining centre with moving portal, especially designed for milling, drilling, threading and cutting bars or work pieces made of aluminium, PVC, light alloys and steel. The TT405 Double Mitre Saw automates profile cutting and has a solid cast construction to enable accurate length and angle cutting. The HP114 Corner Crimping Machine uses a hydraulic operating system and hydraulic clamps to sustain high-pressure crimping and enable maximum profile stability.
Alimatic’s investment will give it the manufacturing efficiencies it was looking for, enabling it to meet growing demand without compromising on quality or efficiency.
Bryan said: “The aluminium market is seeing growth at the moment. Forward-thinking fabricators like Alimatic wanting to maintain momentum and take market advantage are investing in improving quality and efficiency. We enjoyed working with Alimatic and look forward to watching how their machinery investment fuels their growth.”
The Spring S4 4 Axis Machin-
www.haffnermurat.com WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019 53
MACHINERY ning process with the status and progress monitored and recorded at the end of each working day to ensure that it stayed on track. All went smoothly and, at the end of the installation, final commissioning and operator training was conducted by an Emmegi (UK) technician who had experience not just on the Quadra L1 but also on the bi-folds and aluminium windows fabricated by TWR. Now that the machine is installed and fully operational, a follow up visit is also being scheduled to ‘top up’ any additional training requirements and answer any questions or queries which arise once the machine has had time to run in full production.
Textbook Installation Of Emmegi Quadra
Machine At TWR
When Wayne Hunter was appointed as Service and Operations Manager at Emmegi (UK) earlier this year, he promised to improve the entire customer experience, right from the point when a machine is ordered all the way through to when it is delivered, installed and serviced. He is already delivering on those promises, with what is being described by Terry Richardson of the TWR Group in County Durham as ‘a textbook installation’ of a brand new Quadra L1 machining centre. Since Wayne’s arrival at Emmegi, he has been implementing
new project management procedures for machine installations, and the TWR Group was the first customer to benefit. Starting by recommending a professional machinery lifting company to unload and safely position the machine in the factory on the date agreed, Emmegi (UK) then sent one of its own technicians to oversee the delivery and start the build and assembly immediately. Right on schedule, other members of the Emmegi service team arrived on site the following day and the installation followed a newly prescribed plan-
54 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
For Terry Richardson and the team at TWR, the process was very straightforward. He said: “Emmegi (UK) did exactly what they promised – the machine arrived on time, the engineers got straight to work installing it and it was up and running exactly when they said it would be. We were kept informed on progress throughout and we were impressed by just how quickly and efficiently the whole team worked.” The TWR Group is the latest in a line of ambitious aluminium fabricators opting to invest in Emmegi’s flagship Quadra L1 machining centre which can cut, machine and transom notch all in one operation. It machines profiles continuously in 360° without the need to reposition, turn the bar over, or process more than once; and also offers market leading tolerances, with the machine automatically adjusting for different profile sizes and even different systems. Emmegi estimates that fabricators can typically prepare aluminium profiles using a Quadra
MACHINERY up to three times faster than with a conventional machinery set up, yet with only minimal manual input required. For TWR, which produces around 90 aluminium bi-folds a week in both Smart Systems and Cortizo profile and a growing number of aluminium windows, the Quadra brings its aluminium production in Peterlee more in line with its PVC-U operation in Sunderland which has relied on this type of integrated machining centre technology for many years. He adds: “The benefits of all in one machining are obvious to anyone who has ever worked in PVC-U. It saves time and manpower, reduces the risk of manual errors and produces a more consistent, premium quality product.” The TWR Group’s aluminium production facility in Peterlee is now entirely equipped with Emmegi machinery, including a Phantomatic X4 four axis machining centre, a Precision TS2 twin head saw, and end millers, crimpers and taping machine. Terry Richardson added: “I’ve always been impressed by the quality of the Emmegi machines and the knowledge and experience of the team. Now that they are making these investments in operational processes as well to support all that, I really can’t see any reason to look anywhere else.” Wayne Hunter is delighted that the changes he is implementing are already having an impact. He commented: “We’re determined to develop operational systems at Emmegi (UK) which are the best in our sector. Our plans are definitely on track as the installation at TWR so clearly demonstrated.” www.emmegi.com and www.twrgroup.co.uk
Phoenix Windows
Invests In A New SMR-4 Welder From Haffner Murat times, the SMR-4 is packed with features that improve product quality and cut waste. It is factory set each time and has automatic transom fences, automatic corner fences and automatic transom and mullion alignment, all things that add impressive value to the fabrication process.
Phoenix Windows has invested in a new SMR-4 welder from machinery specialists Haffner Murat Ltd. The SMR-4 welder has been marketed as the fastest and most accurate welder on the market today. So, when Phoenix Windows needed to upgrade their current ageing welder, they turned to Haffner Murat. Duncan Brown, Director at Phoenix Windows said: “We pride ourselves on manufacturing the highest quality windows and doors and believe in offering the right quality at all times. We needed to replace our current ageing welder and we understood the SMR-4 welder to be one of the best on the market today. So, when the time came to make a new investment, we had no hesitation in turning to Haffner Murat.” The SMR-4 welder offers a wealth of benefits to fabricators. It is up to four times faster than conventional welders and can carry out three square welding, which equates to one extra frame per cycle. As well as features to speed up production and reduce lead
The machine is already having a positive impact on the business. Duncan said: “We are delighted with the new SMR4 welder and the quality of product is superb. This isn’t the first time we have purchased from Haffner Murat and I am sure it won’t be the last. They offer superb machinery at a competitive price and the advice and support from Bryan Dando of Haffner Murat was excellent.” Phoenix Windows, have been fabricating PVC-U products for the trade and DIY markets for over 25 years. They manufacture Rehau’s 706 system from their Lowestoft premises and offer a wide range of window and door products. Bryan Dando, Area Sales Manager at Haffner Murat concludes: “We want fabricators to invest in machines that help their business and work with them to make sure they make the right investment. It’s an approach that builds trust and means they’ll return to us in the future, as Phoenix Windows have done. We are delighted they are happy with their purchase.” www.haffnermurat.com WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019 55
MACHINERY The Vertical Edger allows us to do a lot of things more effectively but specifically to meet that demand”, he added.
Greaney Glass Products
‘Edges’ Ahead With Forel And
Promac Group
Supplied and installed by Promac Group in May this year with the Forel Art VW Vertical Washing Machine, the Art EM Vertical Edger has been developed by Forel as a highly affordable and infinitely flexible platform for edge processing of float and laminate glass including edge arrissing, rough edge grinding and edge polishing. This makes it suitable for use with IGU, toughening or grinding and processing lines. Forel’s trademark vertical alignment of the Art EM making the process cleaner compared to horizontally aligned platforms, says the company. The use of a patented carriageway and suction cups with the capacity to handle weights of up to 200kg/m reduces manual handling and the risk of roller damage and scratches to the glass. Self-learning using on-board editor and CAD files the Art EM also automatically checks glass for the correct alignment constantly monitoring and automatically adjusting the speed of the grinding tool to process product to ultra-fine tolerances.
Leading independent Irish IGU specialist and glass processor, Greaney Glass products, has invested in a new Forel Art EM Vertical Edger and Art VW Vertical Washing Machine, as it gears up for growth in the commercial sector. With ‘phenomenal’ demand for larger and added-value IGU’s from Irelands booming commercial developers, plus corresponding demand for processed glass products, the two cutting edge platforms form a key ele-
ment in the Galway glass building products specialist’s own growth strategy. “The vertical edger is there to give us increased capacity, but also better quality across IGU and processed glass lines, and particularly to meet increasing demand for laminates”, explained Kevin Greaney, Operations Director, Greaney Glass “We’re seeing growing demand for laminate from domestic but particularly commercial sectors.
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The Forel Art EW washing machine also offers a high degree of flexibility and is suitable for use with all glass types and coatings. Automatically measuring and adjusting for glass thickness and coating type it guarantees the perfect contact between up to eight brushes and the glass. This includes automatic detection of soft-coats. “It’s a much more affordable platform than other edgers, delivers a high degree of flexibility in its fit with tempering, IGU and processing lines – and ultimately delivers a better quality prod-
MACHINERY uct from balustrades through to IGUs”, said Promac Group’s Mike Whitlam. “This includes edge-ground laminates, which significantly reduce the risk of venting and increasingly form a key element in commercial and particularly façade specifications.” Greaney Glass Products was founded in 1973 by brothers Martin and Willie Greaney. The business was taken over by Martin’s sons, Kevin and Ronnie in 1998, setting the company on a course for increased specialism in commercial IGU and pro-
cessed glass supply in addition to its trade business. The investment made by Greaney Glass Products in its new Forel line underpin a dual strategy aimed at driving continual improvement in product quality and growing the company’s glass processing business, which currently accounts for between 10 and 15% of its current turnover. Managing Director, Ronnie Greaney, said: “The demand that’s being generated in and around Dublin and increasingly regionally by the commercial
sector is phenomenal. “Processed glass products is increasingly important to us alongside larger and specialist IGUs”, he continued. “Quality is key for both”. “All of our larger laminate units are edge-ground, reducing the risk of venting and delivering a better quality of product. The Art EM is also giving us better edge quality, reducing wastage in our toughening lines. It’s a very flexible platform and is a key part of our strategy for future growth.” www.promac.co.uk
Familiar Look To New Tekna 954
From Emmegi (UK)
steel from any angle from -90° to +90°. It features dynamic pendular operation with two different operating modes. In single-zone mode it can machine bars up to 7m in one single working area and in double-zone mode it can work on multiple pieces in two separate, different sized areas. A 12-piece tool magazine is integrated into the mobile gantry, which can hold a blade up to 250mm on an angular machining unit. A 21in touch monitor comes as standard with the familiar Emmegi/Tekna user friendly interface.
Emmegi (UK) has extended its range yet again with the addition of another new CNC machining centre from its sister company Tekna. The new TKE954 4 axis CNC machine replaces the existing TKE944 machine, which will be familiar to customers in the UK. It has a moving gantry and variable work zones and a dramatic new look thanks to the addition of a newly designed cabin complete with laser access control for optimum user safety. If the styling cues on the new
TKE954 look vaguely familiar, then it is probably because the head of the design team at Tekna had previously worked as a designer for a leading car manufacturer. A striking new ergonomic techno-polymer safety cabin with large glazed areas gives operators better visibility as well as improved soundproofing, and a laser scanner provides more precise access control to the machine. Like the 944, the TKE954 can drill, mill and machine aluminium and
Ian Latimer, Managing Director of Emmegi (UK), says that by offering the Tekna machines in the UK, it is giving customers access to machines which are particularly good value and which fill specific gaps in the Emmegi range. He says: “We can always make sure that a customer gets exactly the right machine to suit their needs and their budget, rather than just the best machine within a more limited range.” More details are at: www.tekna.it and www.emmegi.com WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019 57
ON SITE
12 Acres Of Solar
Control Glass Gives Landmark Dubai Tower tial building will be clad entirely in glass.
The glass features a state-ofthe-art multi-layer coating that incorporates a microscopically thin layer of silver to help reduce heat transmission to just 21 per cent, while maintaining a neutral colour balance in the light passing through, maximising the views.
Of course, Dubai’s climate means that preventing excessive heat build-up inside heavily glazed buildings will always be a priority. For this project, the architect chose to install 50,000 square metres of Pilkington Suncool™ One 30/21 solar
The building is clad in an area of glass equivalent to 192 tennis courts, but because of the advanced magnetron sputtering technique used to apply the coating, just eight kilogrammes of silver was needed to cover the whole tower. That’s a piece
The Coolest Views In The City
The Palm Tower, a new landmark from master developer Nakheel, under construction at the heart of Dubai’s iconic Palm Jumeirah, promises that each of its luxury hotel rooms and apartments will feature one of the best views in the city. To achieve this, the 52-storey, 240-metre-tall hotel and residen-
control glass so that residents and guests enjoy both stunning vistas in cool, comfortable surroundings.
58 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
ON SITE
Window Ware
Delivers Winning Formula For KCW
Windows To Complete School Science Block
Window Ware has helped one of its customers deliver safe and simple window operation to a local school science lab. of silver approximately the size of a laptop. Pilkington Suncool™ One 30/21 was originally developed by Pilkington United Kingdom Limited, part of the NSG Group, for Intraco UAE, which has used the glass on a number of projects in the past. Leo Pyrah, product manager at Pilkington said: “The view you will get from these hotel rooms and apartments is one of the major draws of this building, but clearly a fully glazed skyscraper in such a hot climate creates challenges from an energy management perspective. “The bespoke coating we have developed alongside Intraco lets the developer and its customers enjoy the best of both worlds – a stunning view with much reduced solar heating.” As the centrepiece of the world-famous Palm Jumeirah,
The Palm Tower is set to become a new landmark for Dubai. When completed, the mixed-use complex will feature 432 apartments and 290 hotel rooms, as well as a rooftop dining and recreation destination featuring a 360-degree roof top infinity pool, a high-end restaurant and a public viewing deck offering sweeping views of The Palm, the Arabian Gulf and the Dubai skyline.
KCW Windows, an accomplished family-run fabricator with over 35 years of experience, was asked by Bedford Borough Council to tender to replace ten worn-out windows at a local boys’ school. The team at KCW called on Window Ware to supply Caldwell folding openers for their new Smarts aluminium windows.
Leo Pyrah continued: “Dubai is a city that is pushing architectural and technological boundaries and we’re excited to have played a role in shaping the look of its iconic and ever-evolving skyline.”
Speaking about the project, Gemma Deegan, KCW’s Commercial Estimator comments: “Although the windows in the science lab weren’t high up, they were hard to reach over wide workbenches and obstructions. By choosing to opt for pole operation even at low level, the windows could be operated easily and safely. With Window Ware’s help, we made sure we were using the right opener variant for the job. That ontap product expertise is a real clincher for us”.
www.pilkington.co.uk
www.windowware.co.uk
As well as creating a comfortable climate for users, the solar-control glazing will also significantly reduce the need for air conditioning, reducing costs and emissions.
WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019 59
ON SITE
Blu Hardware Selected For Multi-Million Pound Beach Front Development Performance hardware manufacturer bluTM has been selected for a luxurious multi-million pound beachfront development in Cornwall, overlooking one of the world’s most beautiful bays.
operating them, the architect sought a performance solution and turned to Exeter-based Harmony Profiles – a specialist in the manufacturing of bespoke architectural aluminium glazing products.
A range of the company’s 316 Marine Grade Stainless Steel hardware has been fitted to eight, two and three storey beach lodges at the Carbis Bay Hotel, just outside St Ives. Featuring spacious openplan lounges with multiple floor-toceiling Lift and Slide doors leading to private sun decks and sea-facing balconies, bluTM hardware was selected to counter the threat of corrosion.
According to Harmony Profiles Contracts Coordinator Adam Tolman, when the brief for the hardware specification came through he knew there were very few hardware manufacturers capable of providing the right solution.
Architects responsible for the development were well aware of the impact the corrosive atmosphere could have on the look and performance of the Lift and Slide doors. To prevent quality issues for guests
“When you looked at the quality, location and style of the development we needed a solution that not only offered faultless performance for the multiple Lift and Slide doors featured in the lodges, but that really looked at home on such a quality development. “But not only did it need to be aesthetically right, it had to withstand the high corrosive salt environ-
60 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
ment. There really were only one or two hardware manufacturers in the market that could meet the brief and bluTM was the obvious choice,” said Adam. “It was the combination of the quality, performance and look and feel that set the bluTM hardware range apart. The Stainless Steel finish was also important and with the guaranteed anti-corrosion performance we knew we were recommending a solution that would meet their needs not just now but in the future,” added Adam. Having taken samples of the bluTM hardware down to site to show the architect, Harmony Profiles was selected to provide the Lift and Slide doors for the development, in addition to bluTM lever handles and a range of bar handles. “We were delighted to be able to provide the Lift and Slide doors for such a prestigious build as the one at Carbis Bay which adds to our growing portfolio of luxury coastal properties we are supplying to. The level of detail and quality throughout the build is so impressive and our Lift and Slide doors look fantastic, providing a great focal
Senior’s ON SITE
point for the lodges. The client is extremely happy with the finished look and performance and we know the hardware components from bluTM match the extremely high quality of our Lift and Slide doors,” added Adam. Manufactured from 316 Marine Grade Stainless Steel, the bluTM range of door and window hardware comes with a Lifetime Guarantee. They are designed to withstand the elements and thrive even in the most corrosive environments.
Products Flock Together At The
New Doncaster Wool Market
bluTM Managing Director Loren Jenner said the Carbis Bay Hotel project was the latest in a growing number of stunning coastal developments benefitting from its hardware.
The combination of slim profile aluminium curtain walling and high-performance aluminium commercial doors from Senior Architectural Systems has played a key role in the major refurbishment of Doncaster’s historic Grade II listed Wool Market. “You only have to see for yourself the quality of the Carbis Bay Hotel development and the beach front lodges to realise there is absolutely no compromising on quality on any level on this build. We are seeing more architects, more developers and more quality manufacturers like Harmony Profiles specifying bluTM hardware, which is a testament to its quality and performance. “Working with the team at Harmony Profiles was fantastic as they clearly share our vision for delivering quality solutions for its customers. We are really pleased the combined approach has had such a positive impact on the development,” said Loren. www.blu-performance.com
As a South Yorkshire based company, with its head office just down the road in Denaby, Senior was the ideal choice to supply the fenestration systems for one of Doncaster’s most iconic buildings. Redesigned by leading architects Bond Bryan, the Wool Market is one of the ten separate markets located in the town’s Market Place and has been transformed into a modern leisure destination, providing a hub for local traders as well as drink and food outlets. A key feature of the new Wool Market is its stunning glazed façades which have been created through the use of Senior’s SF52 aluminium curtain wall system. Combining enhanced
thermal performance and offering exceptionally slim sightlines, Senior’s SF52 curtain walling system has been integrated with Senior’s high performance SPW 501 aluminium commercial doors. Further access has been provided through the use of Senior’s ALI FOLD aluminium folding sliding doors. The attractive fenestration package allows natural light to flood the market to create a warm and welcoming interior, with the flexible door arrangement extending the useable space by seamlessly linking with the outdoor seating area. The redevelopment of Doncaster’s Wool Market has also utilised the talents of another local company, with South Yorkshire based specialist contractor Danum Windows Ltd fabricating and installing Senior’s aluminium fenestration package for main contractor Willmott Dixon and end-client Doncaster Metropolitan Borough Council. www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019 61
ON SITE
Aluminium Alumni: Students In Scotland Benefit
From Titon Hardware Over 630 Sobinco Chrono aluminium tilt and turn window systems with SF Xtra trickle vents from Titon have been installed at three student accommodation blocks at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh. The new, contemporary designed halls of residence contain over 450 large single en-suite rooms, as well as shared kitchen/ lounge areas. Named after past professors from the University (Anna MacLeod, Mary Fergusson and Muriel Sparks), the new student accommodation opened on the Edinburgh campus in September 2017. The three buildings were designed by Fletcher Joseph architects and built by leading UK construction group Watkin Jones, with Glasgow-based company Marshall Brown (Windows) Limited responsible for the fabrication of the windows.
Commenting on the accommodation project, Brian Ross, Commercial Manager at Marshall Brown (Windows) Limited, said: “We opted to use Titon having previously fitted their hardware on numerous projects. As a company, their products and services are second to none. For the Heriot-Watt University buildings, both the Chrono and SF Xtra vents offered ease of fabrication, while the tilt and turn systems are robust, as well as easy to maintain and replace. Plus, as they utilise plastic rods, there is no risk of corrosion, which is excellent from a reliability perspective.” Titon’s SF Xtra is a high performance, surface mounted aluminium slot ventilator. It is the shortest trickle vent on the market to provide 5000mm² EA, says the company, making it suitable for domestic and non-domestic applications. There are two width
62 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
variants, one for use over a 13mm slot, the other for a 16mm slot. The vent is also available in made-to-measure sizes or bar length for self-assembly, with all versions suitable for use with either a plastic or aluminium canopy. Sobinco Chrono fast-fit hinge and locking systems are suitable for most aluminium link bar profiles. They are suitable for virtually all variations of open-in window, with options available for high-security and French casement. A standard tilt and turn units can be assembled in around five minutes, greatly reducing fabrication time, while a choice of handle designs and attractive RAL colour finishes are also available Titon has been the exclusive UK distributor for Sobinco for nearly 40 years, supplying tilt and turn window systems, pivots, catches and handles, as well as locks, liftslide systems, roller assemblies and handles for doors. For more information about Titon and its range of window & door hardware and ventilation systems, visit: www.titon.com
ON SITE
Spectus Windows
Provide Finishing Touch For New Build Development In Derbyshire
Established Spectus fabricator Titan Trade Windows has installed 65 Elite 70 casement windows and doorsets in the first phase of a substantial new build development with Woodall Homes in Derbyshire. The 78-house new build development is situated in the rural Derbyshire suburb of Bolsover. It is a mixture of two, three and four bed detached houses and bungalows all of which are finished to a very high specification and that includes the windows. White casement windows that meet Document Q compliance and achieve a window energy rating of 1.2 W/m²K are required for all properties in the development but without compromising on the window aesthetics. Titan Trade Windows were more than confident that the Spectus Elite 70 windows would deliver what was required and having worked with Woodall Homes for over ten
years, Titan’s expertise and high level of service were perfect for this latest development. Ben Vowles, Operations Manager at Titan, commented: “We have a great relationship with Woodall Homes and have worked with them on six of their previous new build developments. We have a proven record for delivering projects on budget and to deadline and this on-going project will be no exception.” Titan Trade Windows work closely with Woodall Homes throughout the phased development. Ben said: “As soon as the apertures are ready, our survey team visit the site on a plot by plot basis and ensure we get the installers to site as soon as the scaffolding is removed. All plots are quoted and manufactured at plan-stage and our longstanding relationship with Woodall Homes allows the two parties to communicate regularly ensuring the
multiple plot site runs seamlessly throughout the call-off process.” The project is the perfect example of what can be achieved with businesses working closely together. And the same can be said with Titan’s excellent relationship with Spectus Systems. Ben said: “Having in-full deliveries and superb after-sales support from Spectus Systems has allowed us to continually deliver on quality and price to secure such longstanding relationships”. Established in 2004, Derbyshire-based Titan Trade Windows are building a strong reputation with housebuilders in the area. In Spectus they have a systems house capable of supporting their requirements and commitment to delivering excellence in every aspect of their work. www.spectus.co.uk WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019 63
ON SITE
Restoring Victorian Splendour
It can be tough to balance traditional Victorian style with high-performing solutions – for the recent refurbishment of a large stone period home, this was exactly what was required. The Victorian property is located in the town of Minchinhampton, central Gloucestershire, and had specialist needs during its renovation, particularly when it came to the windows and doors. In order to achieve a traditional appearance with modern performance the owners called on specialist fabricator Roseview and window and door specialist Glassier Window Systems Limited to provide expert advice and high-quality products that fit in with their requirements. Glassier is a well-established company in the heart of Worcestershire. Since its inception in
1982 they have grown to become leaders in the supply of windows, doors, conservatories and glazed extensions throughout Worcestershire, Gloucestershire, Herefordshire and Warwickshire, winning a variety of nationally recognised awards along the way. At the inception of the project last year, Colin Cole – the homeowner – contacted Roseview with a special request to specify high-quality and easy-to-maintain windows that would complement the traditional aesthetics and Victorian feel of their family home. Colin was looking for alternatives that combined the heritage of the building and the conveniences of modern construction and specifically requested Roseview’s Ultimate Rose vertical slider manufactured using REHAU heritage profiles which seemed like the perfect choice.
64 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
REHAU’s popular Heritage Vertically Sliding Sash profiles were enhanced by Roseview to manufacture the Ultimate Rose sash window. It has been designed to replicate the charm and character of a timber sash window and with slim timber-like profiles and Roseview’s 35mm meeting rail, the window’s style and authenticity was the perfect answer to the requirements of Minchinhampton. Howard Nicholls, Managing Director at Glassier, said: “The owners were on the lookout for windows that incorporated all the desirable traditional features of a timber sash window, yet with all the additional benefits and conveniences of modern PVC-U. On conducting their own research before approaching us, they found the Ultimate Rose using REHAU’s Vertically Sliding Sash Window profiles perfectly met with their requirements and we completely agreed. “Glassier has been using REHAU profiles for several years now and the quality and finish of all the products is second to none. The Vertically Sliding Sash Window complements traditional timber windows and is an ideal modern replacement to heritage properties across the country. They are so good that they are accepted by local Conservation officers. “The system includes all the classic detailing found in period sash windows, including a deep bottom rail, slim sashes for improved sightlines and an optional Astragal Georgian bar. It would take an expert to spot that it is PVC-u and so, we did not hesitate to recommend the product for this
ON SITE refurbishment project.” The Ultimate Rose has been specifically designed to be the most authentic PVC-u sash window that also boasts supreme modern features and benefits. Its ‘A’ rated energy efficiency comes as standard with the product along with its enhanced security and excellent acoustic performance, helping to block out external noise. This lends perfectly to what the owners were looking for during the refurbishment at Minchinhampton. Richard Burrells, Director at Roseview Windows said: “Colin Cole was looking for the most authentic and maintenance-free windows that would fit in and complement the style of their Victorian property. Colin is himself a developer and recently came across our popular Ultimate Rose windows and fell in love with its authenticity. We put him in touch with our local Approved Installer Glassier and have had fantastic feedback from the customer and am sure they will be able to reap the benefits of the product for years to come.” The installation simply makes the windows look as though they have been decorated with nothing really changed. Furthermore, the REHAU Heritage window system has been developed following extensive consultation with conservation bodies and housing associations. Kevin O’Neil, Commercial Manager for REHAU, said: “We are very excited that our Heritage Vertical Sliding profiles were selected for this refurbishment and we are confident that it meets all the requirements of the building. The Ultimate Rose has been manufactured with authenticity in mind, but not at the cost of modern features and benefits. It is easy to maintain making it the ideal choice for this family home.” www.rehau.co.uk
Housing Scheme Gets A New Outlook Thanks To
Senior
Regeneration and the local community have been put at the heart of a vibrant new housing project in Hull, which has been created through the extensive redevelopment of the former head office building of social enterprise organisation The Goodwin Development Trust.
Designed by Hodson Architects and comprising 41 new dwellings, the Hugh Webster Place housing scheme features bright and colourful cladding which has been complemented by the use of Senior Architectural Systems’ slim profile SPW600 aluminium doors and windows. The fenestration package has been designed, fabricated and installed by Glass & Framing Solutions Ltd for main contractor Houlton & Sons. The stepped profile and positioning of the development, which increases from two to four storeys from the south to the north, ensures that each of the homes and gardens enjoys adequate levels of daylight. Framing the residents’ views are Senior’s versatile SPW600 aluminium windows which are ideally
suited to the housing sector as they are cost-effective, durable, robust and easy to maintain, says Senior. Specified alongside Senior’s SPW600 aluminium single entrance doors to give consistent slim sightlines, Senior’s high performance SPW600 aluminium window system also offers excellent thermal efficiency to easily achieve compliance with Part L of the Building Regulations, with the additional option of an enhanced thermal version for even lower U-values.
The scheme has been designed to offer affordable housing with a reduced energy footprint and as such, sustainability has been built in. Alongside Senior’s thermally-efficient aluminium windows and doors, the development has been created using off-site timber construction and even features a shared courtyard for growing fruit and vegetables. Hugh Webster Place won the best Social Housing category at the South Yorkshire & Humberside Local Authority Building Control (LABC) Awards 2019. www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019 65
MARKETING / INTERNET
TV Campaign Reaps Huge Rewards For FENSA Approved Installers FENSA, the UK’s largest government-authorised compliance schemes for replacement windows and doors, is reporting the first six months of its prolonged TV ad campaign that launched in March as “far exceeding expectations” and that FENSA Approved Installers are reaping the benefits. “It’s fantastic to see the campaign performing beyond our high expectations. We aimed to improve standards across the industry and drive awareness of the FENSA brand” stated Anda Gregory, Managing Director of FENSA, “What we are seeing as so far are homeowners making the FENSA certificate part of the purchasing process. It is a very positive result to see the TV campaign driving business to our community of Approved Installers via the FENSA website.”
The TV campaign is the first of its kind in the industry and the impressive statistics confirm why homeowner awareness of FENSA has never been higher. The recent FENSA sponsorship on TV channel Dave, and their ‘Weekends on Dave’ comedy programming, provided 6 separate ad ‘idents’ shown over the course of 11 weekends and were seen over 170 million times. Backed up by the main TV ad and a series of online marketing campaigns, the FENSA brand has been seen over 225 million times over the past six months. Further analysis revealed that in addition to an increase in installer searches, homeowners made 412,000 searches through the FENSA website for information regarding FENSA Certificates, factors that are directly attributable, explained Anda, to the
66 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
TV campaign. “The statistics are impressive: The TV ad has been seen by 56% of the UK population to date and each person has seen one of our ads an average of 8 times. With the advertisement gaining more recognition throughout the year, and it running until December, our Approved Installers have good reason to believe that knowledge of the FENSA certificate will continue to build.” FENSA Director of Membership Chris Beedel is also optimistic: “With consumer awareness of FENSA at an all-time high, there has never been a better time for installers to join. Off the back of the advertising campaign the value of being a FENSA Approved Installer is now clearer than ever with our brand reputation and website driving business towards the FENSA community.” Since 2002 FENSA has issued more than 13.5 million certificates on behalf of their Approved Installers as proof of compliance with building regulations, making the organisation significantly the largest available to homeowners in England and Wales.
MARKETING / INTERNET
New Online Hub Is A Hit For UAP
are searchable by product type as well as accreditation i.e. Secured by Design, Document Q and Fire-Rated. Drawing on UAP’s extensive product knowledge, the online resource hub includes new features such as Troubleshooting. Designed to aid existing customers and those wishing to select the right hardware solution, the section answers frequently asked questions and offers guidance on repair and maintenance.
A new online resource hub from hardware solutions provider, UAP Limited is already proving popular with web users, just two months after going live. The number of users has increased by 35% compared with the same period in 2018 while the number of sessions has gone up by 20%. The UAP team
has also been encouraged by a notable rise in new users, up 3.9%. When developing the new site, UAP focussed on navigation and the user experience. Products are categorised under the company’s sub brands, Doormaster; Fullex; Nanocoast and Salamander. They
Opportunity Knocks
With Senior’s New
Domestic Door Brochure When your customers ‘Ask for Ali’, you can now respond with a new glossy aluminium door brochure, says Senior Architectural Systems. Designed to appeal to the residential consumer and to provide trade installers with a useful sales tool, the new Door Collection brochure is the ideal introduction to Senior’s high-performance Ali and PURe® door ranges. Benefitting from high quality images and clear product information, the new guide makes it easy for installers to help their customers choose their preferred style of door and talk them through the different configuration, sizing and finishing options.
As well as providing important information on the security and safety features of the range, the new door brochure also includes details of the different design options, such as the choice of colours and
Partnering with uPVC, aluminium, composite and timber door manufacturers, UAP’s products and services are backed by industry-leading accreditations and affiliations, providing peace of mind. Certificates and membership details can be easily accessed via the new site, ideal for both fabricators and specifiers. www.uapcorporate.com finishes available via Senior’s inhouse powder coating service. Commenting, Senior’s marketing manager Jonny Greenstreet said: “Senior’s stylish range of single, double, folding sliding and sliding aluminium doors have become a popular choice in the domestic market as more and more residential customers discover the benefits that aluminium systems offer over PVCu and timber products. The new Door Collection brochure is the perfect way to showcase our product offering and more importantly, help our own trade customers generate new business opportunities, and we are delighted to be able to offer them this new resource.” Copies of Senior’s new Door Collection brochure can be requested directly from its team of technical sales managers. seniorarchitectural.co.uk/askforali WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019 67
MARKETING / INTERNET
New URBANroom Brochure From
Prefix Prefix Systems have just updated the consumer brochure for URBANroom, their contemporary aluminium glazed extension which is available as a complete kit from the foundations upwards or as a roof only option with their unique gutter shroud. URBANroom is the contemporary twist on the conservatory, using aluminium throughout, yet with thoughtful modern design and clean lines. This full kit aluminium glazed extension is composed of aluminium roof, full height aluminium windows and doors, performance glass throughout and a contemporary gutter shroud. The product philosophy of UR-
at Prefix Systems under the Opal brand, which includes the choice of French, patio, bi-folding and lift and slide doors.
BANroom allows for a number of corner design options including contemporary slimline corner posts, thermally efficient brick piers or rendered corners and alternatively the super insulated aluminium clad columns. These options are carefully shown in an easy to digest format within the brochure, allowing consumers to swap out options to suit their taste and requirements. The windows and doors come courtesy of the dedicated aluminium division
New Look For
Freefoam Website
Freefoam Building Products are delighted to announce a new look for its consumer focused website – myfascia.co.uk. Previously called ‘my roofline matters’, the site aims to give homeowners all the information they need to make an informed choice to have fascia and gutter replaced, with a quick and simple process to request an accurate quote from a local installer. All enquiries are then passed to Freefoam Registered Installers, offering them pre-qualified local leads.
The make-over features more focused and simplified to provide a comprehensive guide on fascia replacement and the benefits
of choosing Freefoam products and installers. With answers to common roofline questions, a gallery of photos, video testimonials from satisfied customers, and interactive tools to engage users, the site guides homeowners through all the information
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Thanks to the use of aluminium throughout, there is a vast array of power coated finishes in literally hundreds of different RAL colours, yet the expectation is that further sales in the grey colours will continue to grow. Hannah Gilrane, marketing co-ordinator of Prefix Systems commented: ‘We’ve added more content to the URBANroom brochure so that consumers can see the different design options available. This brochure can also be used in conjunction with our new Opal brochure for aluminium windows and doors, helping to make the sales process easier.’ www.prefixsystems.co.uk and expertise they need. With speed and simplicity in mind, enhanced mobile optimization gives users the capability to get their home improvement project stated at the touch of button from anywhere. Louise Sanderson, Marketing Manager explained “After reviewing the search and user experience data from our previous site, we decided to make strategic changes in how the site serves the homeowners needs. Firstly to make an attractive easy to use site for homeowners and secondly a platform to harness the power of online search to maximise visibility and lead generation. We’re committed to supporting our Registered Installer network and this updated site will enable us to generate high quality, live leads – a significant benefit for any home improvement company” www.myfascia.co.uk
MARKETING / INTERNET desire from customers looking to both increase and remodel their living space. “We believe there are only a very small number of high-quality lead providers and Leads2Trade have a strong reputation within the home improvement lead generation market. “Their leads are heavily qualified, and they operate in partnership with customers.” DNA have not looked back since and are now looking to grow the conservatory side of the business, with Leads2Trade having a big role to play.
DNA Home Improvements To Grow Conservatory Business With
Leads2Trade Link-Up A home improvements company is looking to grow the conservatory side of its business with lead generation company Leads2Trade. DNA Home Improvements signed up to the Leads2Trade network in January and have been taking conservatory leads since March. A 5-star independent local Trusted Trader, DNA was established in 2007 and has successfully grown year on year prior to new investment, thanks to offering value for money, good straight forward advice and professional installation.
Shortly after the business received investment, DNA decided to link up with Leads2Trade. Phil Anderson, a Director and one of the new shareholders in the DNA Group, explained: “We knew of Leads2Trade’s reputation as a quality lead provider in a market-place where quality leads can be hard to come by. “It’s key that all enquiries we get as a business are fully GDPR compliant and that we don’t waste time on customers who are not serious about investing in a home improvement project. “We see massive growth in the market being driven by a real
“At DNA we strongly believe in developing strong, professional, open trading relationships. For long term success, we need to share ideas and feedback and look always at how we can improve to the benefit of our customers but also suppliers,” added Phil. “We believe this is the best and most efficient way to operate and we are always keen for Leads2Trade’s input, especially where they have significant experience and knowledge and can help us to develop and improve.” The Stockport-based Leads2Trade has been leading the way in matching conservatory installers with homeowners, and co-founder and Director Andy Royle is looking forward to helping DNA grow in that sector. “We are delighted that DNA Home Improvements are really benefitting from our service and we are looking forward to playing a big part in their conservatory growth through our sales leads,” commented Andy. .leads2trade.co.uk dnahomeimprovements.co.uk WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019 69
AWARDS
British Woodworing Federation 2019 Awards
Call For Entries Open The British Woodworking Federation (BWF) has launched a call for entries for its prestigious BWF Awards, which includes a brand new category for 2019, ‘The Rising Star Award’. Now in its 11th year, the event provides an unrivalled opportunity for the woodworking industry to come together to showcase its most outstanding work from the past year and to celebrate the individuals behind it. The ‘Rising Star Award’ category has been introduced this year to recognise and champion individuals within the industry who are having a positive impact on their organisation and the wider community.
Helen Hewitt, Chief Executive of the BWF, launched this year’s call for entries: “The BWF Awards shine a much-deserved spotlight on the UK’s woodworking sector to showcase the incredible things that can be achieved using wood, and the people – whether new to the industry or long-standing – that make it the highly innovative and industrious sector that it is. “The quality of submissions we received last year was truly fantastic, and we’d like to encourage businesses of all sizes, focusing on a whole range of wood products and projects, to come forward and tell us why they deserve recognition.” Commenting on the introduction of the Rising Star Award, Helen
70 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
said: “This new category has been introduced to recognise individuals whose dedication and hard work has made a real difference either to the organisation in which they work, or to the wider woodworking community. As a trade association, we are now placing a greater focus than ever on supporting career development and creating the leaders of the future, and as part of that we want celebrate those who have demonstrated that they have a very bright career ahead of them.” All entries are free and should be submitted by 17:00 on Friday, 13th September. Businesses can nominate themselves or be nominated by a client or supplier. The shortlist will be announced in October, followed by the BWF’s Annual Dinner where the award winners will be announced and celebrated at the Honorable Society of Lincoln’s Inn, London on Friday 22nd November. Further information about the BWF Awards and entry forms visit www.bwf.org.uk/awards2019
Ultraframe Team Shortlisted 10 Times
for Prestigious Awards
AWARDS
GGF Supports Construction
Marketing Awards The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) is once again supporting the Construction Marketing Awards – a great celebration of marketing talent across the industry.
Ultraframe and its customers have been shortlisted 10 times across various categories of the inaugural Conservatory & Orangery Awards. The Awards, which will take place in late October, have been established to celebrate and promote excellence in conservatory design and build. Ultraframe has been shortlisted for Best Solid Roof System for its Ultraroof system, the strongest and most thermally efficient roof of its type on the market, which was declared the consumer-preferred solid roof by 8 out of 10 homeowners during independent research carried out earlier this year, claims the company.The unique Ultrapanels used in the Ultraroof system have also been shortlisted for Technical Innovation of the Year, along with the Ultrasky Flat Skylight which is a finalist in the Best Rooflight or Lantern category. Finally, Andrew Thomson, the company’s long-standing Design & Development Director who is well respected throughout the industry and who has been responsible for the creation of Ultraframe’s pioneering product range over the last
15 years, is a finalist in the Outstanding Achievement category. Many of Ultraframe’s customers have also been shortlisted for their stunning installations featuring Ultraframe conservatory and extension roof systems. These companies are Forest Edge Home Improvements, Durham Design, Niddal Windows, Mendip Conservatories, SEHBAC and Lifestyle Windows. Commenting about the impressive number of shortlisted entries, Ultraframe Marketing Director, Alex Hewitt, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that Ultraframe and so many of our customers have been shortlisted for awards at the Conservatory & Orangery Awards. It’s fantastic that the systems themselves have been shortlisted, as well an installations showing how they can be used in real life situations to create stunning conservatories and extensions. We would like to wish all of those shortlisted the best of luck and we look forward to celebrating the successes of our sector at the awards later in the year.” ultraframe-conservatories.co.uk
The awards are for everyone, with entries invited from any team or individual responsible for marketing and / or business development strategy within the Construction and Built Environment supply chain. This includes companies involved in materials supply or manufacture, building or infrastructure design, build or installation, maintenance, engineering, consulting service or solutions provider in the Built Environment sector. On the GGF’s endorsement of the awards, James Lee, GGF Director of External Affairs commented, “We are delighted to support and promote these awards to our industry which has many exceptional marketers. I encourage all those who have planned and implemented successful marketing campaigns in the last twelve or so months, to enter and get their outstanding work recognised at the Construction Marketing Awards.” There are 24 categories and companies can enter multiple categories. The Construction Marketing Awards are £50 + VAT per entry and entries are now OPEN. The deadline for entries is Friday 20th September 2019. Material referenced should have been completed between June 2018 and August 2019. www.cmawards.co.uk WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019 71
CHARITY
Distinction Doors Raises £1,180
For Help 4 Homeless Veterans Distinction Doors is proud to announce that it has raised £1,180 for Help 4 Homeless Veterans – a Barnsley charity that supports former members of HM Forces facing homelessness – thanks to the outstanding efforts of its employees at a summer BBQ fundraiser.
In an effort to raise as much money as possible for Help 4 Homeless Veterans, staff at Distinction organised a range of activities and lighthearted challenges at its Tankersley premises, including a cake sale, mystery tombola, a prize draw for a free Distinction Door – including installation – and a free day’s holiday. There was also a bean bag throwing competition, with a large bottle of Prosecco up for grabs for the overall best ‘hot shot’, big shot’, ‘pot shot’ and ‘cheap shot’, while Distinction’s IT support analyst, Milan Tomic, successfully completed a ‘3 peaks challenge’ by walking
Help 4 Homeless Veterans prides itself on its ability to react quickly to the needs of ex-Forces personnel whenever possible and so far has helped around 400 veterans with housing problems – essential work that is only possible with grants from supporters, donations from the general public and charitable contributions from local businesses such as Distinction Doors. 23km on a treadmill. Based in South Yorkshire, Help 4 Homeless Veterans received royal recognition in April 2018 when it was presented with the Duke of York Community Initiative Award by HRH Prince Andrew. The charity has a working agreement with Barnsley Council and Doncaster Council to rent housing stock, and then sub-let to veterans at cost, with no profit made on the rents.
Distinction’s HR Director, Helen Lovack, commented: “We were delighted to present a total of £1,180 to a representative of Help 4 Homeless Veterans at the company’s recent summer BBQ fund raiser. I’d like to say a huge thank you to all those who helped to make it such a successful event, and to enable us to support such a worthy cause, one that is helping those who have given so much for our country.”
YMCA – The Euroglaze Way When you find out that Village People’s YMCA was at number one in the charts when your business was founded, then the only decision to be made when you’re planning the 40th anniversary charity fun day is surely cowboy or Native American?
For Martin Nettleton, Managing Director of Barnsley based trade fabricator Euroglaze, the decision was Native American, leaving the other five ‘band members’ at Euroglaze to choose between biker, police office, sailor, cowboy and construction worker for the day. Glen Park, Wayne Elkin, John Rigby, Wes Aspinwall and Rob Speight all threw themselves into the spirit of 1979 and not only did a perfor-
mance of the iconic routine which will live long in the memory, but also took part in the sponsored van pull and tug of war competition – all in full costume.
The ‘fun’ didn’t stop there however with plenty of fairground games, old fashioned stocks, a hog roast and a tombola all laid on for staff, customers and suppliers, including Rehau, to help raise money for Euroglaze’s chosen anniversary charity Retina UK. Tunnel vision glasses were supplied to all those having a go at the strong man and ball in the bucket games so that they could experience the reality of living with the inherited sight loss which Retina UK
72 WINDOW NEWS SEPTEMBER 2019
funds research into as well as providing support for those affected.
In total, around £500 was raised at the Open Day, with Jay-Jaye Park, the 9-year old son of Operations Director Glen and Customer Service Administrator Nicky contributing an impressive £150 with his very own sponsored van pull. More anniversary events are planned over the coming months including an online competition for customers and a virtual cycle ride from Lands End to John o’Groats to help Euroglaze reach a £10K charity target. More details are at: www.euroglaze. co.uk and www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/euroglaze-ltd1
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