DGB Digital Magazine July 2025 by doubleglazingblogger

4 Committee Restructure Drives More Effective Representation At CAB

6 Direct Trade (Yorkshire) Ltd Extends Stellar Aluminium Range

7 Endurance® Aluminium Targets Increased Sales For Installer Partners 9 Endurance® Aluminium Launches Installer Partner Scheme 10 Sean Banks Appointed As Operations Manager For BDC Aluminium

12 Transforming Spaces With Natural Light 14 Unique Window Systems Acquires Assets Of AluFold Direct

16 From Rock Bottom: The Journey Back Kelly’s Heroes Take On Their Toughest Challenge Yet 17 Endurance® Doors Surpasses 3000 Trustpilot Reviews

18 A Hard Day At Work

22 How Long Will This Cycle Last?

24 Liniar To Host Exclusive Webinar Launching Brand-New Energy Performance Calculator

26 Open Letter: Could You Lower Your Overheads?

28 Pilkington UK Opens New Glass Production Line In St Helens 29 Stuga Confirms Continued Stability As Stürtz Enters Insolvency Proceedings In Germany

30 Builders’ Merchant May Value Sales Unchanged (0.0%) Year-OnYear But Volumes Up +2.1%

32 Glyngary Backs Reece As He Rides For GB In Cycle Speedway World Championships

34 West Yorkshire-Based XL Joinery Enters Administration

EDITORS COMMENT

Welcome to the July edition of the DGB Digital Magazine

We head now into the meaty part of summer. The school holidays are in full swing, families go away for their well-earned time away, and the fenestration sector enters it’s traditionally quite period.

Except this time, we are entering it from an already quiet period. In June we had the MD of VEKA UK talk about the slow pace of business activity in our sector, and now we enter a six week period where we know it is going to be slow going. The question at this point is how much damage is this going to do as we enter Q3?

We saw continued volatility in the UK and European markets, with the parent company of Stuga in Germany going bust, although Stuga went to the market to reassure that they were stable as a business.

We also took a look at how long this downturn cycle may actually last. If we can see an end, perhaps we can work to bring a little bit of optimism back.

There are plenty of important stories this month, and I hope that you enjoy this month’s edition.

Team DGB

COMMITTEE RESTRUCTURE DRIVES MORE EFFECTIVE REPRESENTATION AT CAB

The Council for Aluminium in Building has restructured its committee model, increasing agility and improving representation

The new structure replaces the previous model, creating a series of smaller committee groups designed to keep companies and supply chains with aligned interests together.

This includes a new Fabricators, Manufacturers and Glazing Working Group; a Standards, Legislation and Testing Working Group; Hardware Working Group; System Design, Finishing, Consultants and Software Working Group; Closed Loop Recycling Working Group; and U-Value Charter Working Group.

Nigel Headford, Chief Executive, CAB explained: “Our membership is diverse, and we wanted to make sure that if members were giving up their time to contribute to a working group, that time was well spent.

“The way that we were structured previously meant that the issues being discussed in working groups were very broad and weren’t always relevant to everyone in the room.

“We wanted to make groups smaller and more focused so that everyone in them was more engaged and felt that they could contribute more

directly to what was being discussed.”

Each individual working group feeds into the CAB Technical Committee via an individual working group chair for further discussion and consideration as relevant.

Trialled for the first time in April, the structure now forms an established model with the next working group meetings scheduled for September.

“If there’s a change in regulation, we can actually talk to the different working group that’s relevant to that legislation, to look at that independently but still bring the groups and their collective expertise together in our Technical Committee”, Nigel added.

“It means that you haven’t got a meeting going on with 30 people in it, where five people are active and 25 are sitting there twiddling their thumbs.

“You have a series of agile and focused interest groups with far better communication between them.”

For more information visit www.c-a-b.org.uk . Alternatively email enquiries@c-a-b.org.uk or call the team on 01453 828851.

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DIRECT TRADE (YORKSHIRE) LTD EXTENDS STELLAR ALUMINIUM RANGE

Direct Trade (Yorkshire) Ltd, one of the UK’s largest trade-only fabricators, has reported exceptional uptake for Stellar Aluminium since adding the system to its product portfolio in August 2022. The decision to switch to Stellar marked a strategic move away from what would be considered other traditional aluminium systems, driven by Stellar’s status as a complete Part L compliant window and door solution.

Mark Powell, Sales Director at Direct Trade (Yorkshire) Ltd, said: “With the 2022 changes to Building Regulations, we needed a complete aluminium window and door system that was Part L compliant by design. Stellar Aluminium was well ahead of the curve when it came to its U-values and compliance, so was an easy decision for us to make. It also offers a level of design flexibility and installation simplicity that is impressive.”

Since adding the system to its portfolio, the response from Direct Trade (Yorkshire) Ltd’s customers has been overwhelmingly positive. Mark said: “Order volumes have continued to climb and exhibiting at FIT 2025 generated strong interest in the new Stellar Heritage Window and rebated Casement Window, further evidence that the system is resonating with our customers and potential new business.”

Mark continued: “Stellar is also as straightforward to work with as PVC-U, which was also important to us. The knock-in pre-gasketed beads make it incredibly installer-friendly, and the five-day turnaround, including all standard RAL colours, means we can maintain our competitive three-week lead times without compromise.”

Stellar’s in-house marine-grade, QUALICOAT-approved surface finish reinforces confidence in long-term durability and the system’s expanding sash options mirror the variety typically associated with PVC-U systems.

Crucially, the switch to Stellar Aluminium didn’t just deliver product benefits. Mark commented: “The marketing support from Stellar has been excellent. The quality of the assets and POS materials has allowed us to communicate the advantages clearly and build even stronger relationships with our customers.”

Direct Trade (Yorkshire) Ltd now manufactures the full Stellar Aluminium range, with particular demand for standout products like the Stellar Aluminium Inline Sliding Door, valued for its low sightlines and expansive glazing options. The company is also seeing increasing interest in the Heritage Casement Window, which combines classic aesthetics with modern performance.

Joe Leeming, Key Account Manager at Stellar Aluminium, concluded: “Direct Trade (Yorkshire) Ltd’s decision to switch to Stellar reflects the strength of the system’s credentials. With full Part L compliance, fabrication efficiency and modern aesthetics, it’s everything today’s market demands.”

For further information, visit www.directtradeltd.co.uk

ENDURANCE® ALUMINIUM TARGETS INCREASED SALES FOR INSTALLER PARTNERS

Endurance® Aluminium is building on its commitment to maximising the success and growth of its installer partners.

Having recently unveiled an online configurator for its range of bifold doors, the fabricator of aluminium windows, doors and internal screens has now launched a new heritage door designer

(http://endurancealuminium.co.uk/heritage-doorconfigurator).

The latest introduction further strengthens the already impressive arsenal of sales tools the business offers its UK-wide customer base.

Scott Foster, Group Marketing Director at Endurance, comments: “As a progressive, customer-centric organisation, we’re always looking for new and innovative ways to support our installers and to help them increase both order volumes and margins.

“Recognising that most buying journeys now start online, we continue to invest heavily into digital assets alongside other offline collateral such as showroom materials and brochures.

“Web-based door designers in particular remain a highly effective means of lead generation because they create excitement and sales

momentum.

“They enable consumers to get inspired and to begin picturing the possibilities of their new and stylish addition to their home.”

The new Endurance® Aluminium heritage door designer allows users to explore the fabricator’s single and double heritage door products alongside a variety of sidelight, toplight and decorative bar options.

Once users are happy with their overall selection, they can then experiment further with different internal and external colours as well as alternative hardware choices until they find an exact combination that suits their vision, aspirations and tastes.

The door designer also makes it easy for consumers to request a quote for their chosen configuration. All leads generated via this method will be distributed by Endurance® Aluminium to installer partners who are local to the source of the enquiry.

This complements wider lead generation activity being carried out by the fabricator on behalf of its installer partners which includes social media and digital marketing as well as TV advertising.

Endurance® Aluminium is also offering installers the ability to feature the new heritage door designer on their own websites. These versions can be customised with the installer’s branding.

“There is considerable expertise of consumer marketing within the Endurance group and we have already used this to shape Endurance® Doors into a well recognised and respected brand” adds Scott.

“We are now using that same knowledge and experience to drive similar levels of success for Endurance® Aluminium. Our installer partners are an important part of that journey and our continued development and launch of tools to support them reflects that.”

ENDURANCE® ALUMINIUM LAUNCHES INSTALLER PARTNER SCHEME

Endurance® Aluminium has begun onboarding businesses to its newly launched installer partner scheme.

The new scheme from the fabricator of aluminium windows, doors and internal screens mirrors a similar and established programme from sister brand, Endurance® Doors.

It is designed to act as a catalyst in the success of installer customers, providing them with a comprehensive package of support that covers sales, marketing, training, business development and more.

Scott Foster, group marketing director at Endurance®, explains: “At Endurance® Aluminium and across the Endurance® group, we fully recognise the importance and value of our installer partners. They are a vital link in our route to market and play a pivotal role in shaping the perception of our brand.

“Our success and that of our installers are very much intertwined, and as such, we are committed to doing everything possible to help them succeed.

“The launch of the installer scheme for Endurance® Aluminium is evidence of that commitment in practice and reflects our ethos of ‘Together, we grow.’”

As a member of the Endurance® Aluminium installer partner scheme, businesses enjoy access to a full arsenal of tools that includes digital and social media marketing assets, product samples, showroom materials and custom-branded sales literature.

Installer partners also benefit from a regular supply of warm local sales leads created by Endurance® Aluminium’s ongoing and extensive lead generation activity.

This activity ranges from significant consumer-focused marketing through to a dedicated ‘Find an installer’ feature on the fabricator’s website.

The launch of the Endurance® Aluminium installer partner scheme follows a series of webinars to help installers understand the new fabricator’s product range and the many innovative benefits it offers. Initially, membership of the scheme is open only to individuals and organisations that are members of the Endurance® Doors’ installer scheme.

Scott adds: “Since the launch of Endurance® Aluminium onto the market a little over six months ago, it has gained serious momentum, helped by the breadth and quality of its product range as well as the growing popularity of aluminium fenestration solutions.

“The launch of our new installer partner scheme will accelerate those achievements, delivering even greater success for our own business and those of our installer customers.”

SEAN BANKS APPOINTED AS OPERATIONS MANAGER FOR BDC ALUMINIUM

BDC Aluminium has appointed Sean Banks as its new operations manager, bringing over 30 years of manufacturing experience and operational leadership to the role.

This appointment supports BDC Aluminium’s ongoing growth and expansion following its acquisition by the Rocal Group in late 2023.

Sean’s background is rooted in steel fabrication, where he built expertise in both traditional and LEAN manufacturing methods. He is known for leading teams through change and driving continuous improvement across operations.

Sean joins BDC Aluminium having spent most of his career at Woods Air Movement, progressing through a variety of roles, from production engineering through to operations management.

More recently, he held a senior position at Ransomes Jacobsen during a period of exciting

growth and development for the business, where he further broadened his strategic and leadership capabilities.

At BDC Aluminium, Sean will oversee daily production and lead initiatives focused on safety, efficiency, quality, and productivity.

His appointment is seen as a strategic move to strengthen internal systems and prepare the business for its next phase of development.

Speaking about his new role, Sean said: “I’m excited to join BDC Aluminium and contribute to its next phase of growth.

“My focus will be on building strong operational systems that support continuous improvement, team development, and LEAN practices that deliver real value to our customers.”

Sean’s experience will play a key role in scaling operations to meet increasing demand without compromising on service or quality.

Commenting on the appointment, Paul McEneaney, general manager at BDC Aluminium, said: “We’re pleased to welcome Sean Banks to the team. His experience and leadership make him a valuable asset as we move forward with our growth plans.

“He’ll play a key role in strengthening our processes and improving how we operate dayto-day. That means greater consistency, faster turnaround times, and even better service for our customers.”

BDC Aluminium continues to invest in its infrastructure and team, ensuring it remains well-positioned to deliver high-quality aluminium products across the UK.

With Sean’s leadership, the company is set to further refine its operations and enhance its offering in line with customer expectations.

TRANSFORMING SPACES WITH NATURAL LIGHT

It is well established that maximising natural light boosts wellbeing and transforms living spaces. Victoria Brocklesby of Origin shares expert tips on using glazing and design to brighten homes beautifully.

Natural light in a home has all kinds of benefits, alongside performing the practical role of illuminating spaces. Research shows that a lack of natural light harms physical and mental wellbeing, including sleep quality and general mood, while those who live in bright properties report being happier in their home.

There are simple ways to maximise light using glazing, but also some more dynamic and creative options. These are my top tips and considerations for bringing more natural light into your next project.

Function

How to best maximise natural light will depend on the function of the room and where it is in a property. A common example is a kitchen extension at the back of a house, which offers the ideal opportunity to make a statement and flood the space with daylight throughout the day when the room is most in use. Outside of the kitchen, a homeowner using a room as an office space is likely to want light in the morning and early

afternoon, but not necessarily the evening.

Orientation

The orientation of the home will also have a significant impact on how you can make the most of the natural sunlight. An east facing wall will benefit from the sun in the morning, but will be in shade by the afternoon. Use this to the homeowner’s advantage by considering when they will be using certain rooms the most. Using the office space as an example again, prioritise south facing walls for glazing, so the room benefits from light throughout the daytime.

Type of products

To pull as much of this all-important light into a room as possible, opt for a combination of slimline sliding doors, or bi-fold doors, and larger panels of fixed glazing.

Replacing solid internal doors with designs that feature glazing will also help filter brightness throughout a home. These not only let light stream through, but also break up space without creating a cramped or closed-off feeling, playing into the growing ‘broken plan’ trend.

Glazed extensions are another option. These are growing in popularity because they help bring in daylight, but also add an interesting,

modern design feature that works well with both contemporary and period properties. However, if limited by planning or budget constraints, a single wall or bi-fold, or sliding doors will have a similar effect. Not only will they pull in lots of natural light for that airy, open feel, but they also allow the space to be physically extended when the doors are open, as the inside space will seamlessly connect to the outdoors. This works particularly well for clients with families or those who enjoy entertaining.

Size

Not all spaces are created equal. For smaller projects where functionality needs to take priority when it comes to fitted elements of the room, like cabinets in a kitchen, consider other ways to increase the feeling of space in the room.

Large picture windows, bi-folding windows or corner windows are great options for maximising the view without taking up as much wall space as doors. Aluminium frames also benefit from ultraslim sightlines to further help bring the outdoors in. Windows also don’t have to be at eye level. For example, clerestory-style windows (a row of windows set above eye level) are a great way to switch things up and be creative with positioning. These can be used in conjunction with standard

positioned windows to add interest and maximise light. Gable-end windows are another sure-fire way to make a light-filled design statement. They are also the perfect solution where a shallow roof pitch needs to be taken into consideration, like in loft conversions.

Colour

The colour of door and window frames can also influence how light enters and moves through a room, so I’d recommend opting for lighter coloured frames to disperse light, especially in smaller spaces or areas where natural light can be limited. Opting for a manufacturer that offers over 150 RAL colours means that clients aren’t limited to a select few light colours to choose from, thus allowing a truly bespoke glazed door or window statement to be made.

In summary

The most effective way to make the most of natural light in a property is to utilise glazing wherever possible. When this is more challenging, it is vital to consider the orientation of the home to best channel light to the homeowner’s advantage.

Contact Origin to discuss your project – CLICK HERE

UNIQUE WINDOW SYSTEMS ACQUIRES ASSETS OF ALUFOLD DIRECT

Unique Window Systems Ltd, a multi-awardwinning fabricator of UPVC and aluminium windows, doors, and curtain walling, has acquired the business and assets of AluFold Direct Ltd.

Sunil Patel, joint managing director at Unique, explained: “Having recently increased our turnover to £45 million and growing, we are in a strong position to invest in the business, and the acquisition of AluFold’s assets gives us the opportunity to further boost our aluminium capabilities. With more companies being forced to close their doors in ongoing difficult market conditions, we are particularly pleased that the acquisition will help us grow further and retain capacity in the industry.

“We have already celebrated 20 years in business this year, but we are not resting on our laurels. Our longevity makes us even more ambitious. We want to continue to give our installers, and their homeowner customers, and the wider commercial market everything they need now and in the future, and as the demand for aluminium windows and doors continues to grow, it’s a great time for us to strengthen our

geographical footprint.”

AluFold’s factory in Blackburn is home to cuttingedge machinery, including CNC machining centres, CNC 4-headed crimpers and dedicated assembly lines, and so provides Unique Window Systems with an opportunity to increase its presence in the North. The deal was supported by Gunner Cooke LLP and Freeths LLP from a legal perspective and Torr Waterfield as accountants and business advisors.

Sunil continued: “We know that homeowner expectations are rising, and to help our customers deliver on these expectations we need next-generation capabilities and superior environmental performance across our entire UPVC and aluminium range. Coupling the impressive assets from a well-respected brand such as AluFold Direct, with Unique’s considerable resources and expertise builds on an already solid foundation of quality and performance.

“We are excited about this next stage of growth,” concluded Sunil, “and the headstart the acquisition gives us and our customers for 20 more successful years.”

FROM ROCK BOTTOM: THE JOURNEY BACK KELLY’S HEROES TAKE ON THEIR TOUGHEST CHALLENGE YET

This September, get back on the saddle to set off from the Rock of Gibraltar on an extraordinary journey of hope, resilience and awareness, in support of mental health and suicide prevention.

“From Rock Bottom, The Journey Back” is the latest and most demanding cycling challenge undertaken by the mental health charity Kelly’s Heroes. Covering over 1,265 miles and climbing 57,000 feet across 14 gruelling days, the team will ride through Spain and France, crossing into the UK to finish in Portsmouth, each pedal stroke a powerful symbol of recovery and determination.

The charity was founded in memory of Kelly Hewitt with a mission to save lives. Initially, the idea was to raise funds to support the delivery of mental health services through charities. However, Founders John Hewitt and Rachael Hewitt quickly found that what they needed to do was offer frontline mental health services, including free counselling and online chat support.

The Kelly’s Heroes riders have taken part in a number of high-profile cycling challenges, including John O’Groats to Land’s End in 2000, The Loneliest Road, across Europe and the USA in 2022, each one becoming an inspiring way to raise awareness and vital funds for the services offered by the charity.

The significance of this latest challenge lies not only in its distance but in its meaning. The journey begins at “Rock Bottom”, both a physical place and a metaphor for the lowest point in someone’s mental health battle. Day five of the ride coincides with World Suicide Prevention Day (10th September), marking a poignant moment of reflection and global solidarity.

“This ride symbolises what recovery can look like,” says John Hewitt, founder of Kelly’s Heroes. “From the darkest place, there is always a path forward. It won’t be easy, there are hills and setbacks, but with support, the journey back is possible.”

Deceuninck are headline sponsors for the ride, which will cover a huge proportion of the ride costs. There are also a number of kit sponsorship opportunities for businesses who may like to be involved. Sponsorship helps cover the ride’s costs, allowing fundraising to go directly into life-saving services. Sponsors will benefit from brand exposure through campaign media, rider kits, digital content, and meaningful alignment with our cause that really is making a difference and matters.

To find out how you can support, sponsor or follow the journey, visit: https://justgiving.com/campaign/ a-journey-from-rock-bottom-2025

ENDURANCE® DOORS SURPASSES 3000 TRUSTPILOT REVIEWS

In a highly competitive retail market such as home improvements, it’s imperative to build trust with consumers, which is why Endurance® Doors is delighted to have received its 3000th online review – more than any other fabricator.

“Consumer spending remains tentative, and awareness of less scrupulous suppliers is increasing,” says Scott Foster, sales and marketing director at Endurance® Doors, “so more homeowners than ever are turning to online reviews for reassurance before they buy. That is why we have partnered with our installers to develop a strong online reputation.

“Reaching the 3000-review milestone on Trustpilot is a huge achievement, but of course, to help boost sales, they need to be positive! Of these 3000 independent consumer reviews, Endurance® Doors has been awarded the maximum five out of five stars by 88%. This puts us streets ahead of the competition as we are the only large-scale fabricator to achieve 5-stars, let alone achieve the highest rating in so many reviews.

“There are a few reasons our online rating is so high. The first is that we deliver excellent quality products that stand the test of time with their solid timber core, heat reflective foiled skins,

high-end hardware and moisture barrier.

“Secondly, we can only achieve these ratings working with our Installer Partner Network. We only work with installation businesses that offer an exceptional customer experience. And finally, we maintain control over the distribution of our product to ensure our high standards are not compromised.”

Scott explains how its online reputation helps its installers: “Our online reputation is a potent sales tool that can be wielded by our Installer Partner Network. It helps to build trust with their homeowner customers, positions them as a business that sells great quality products, and ultimately increases their conversions and profit margins, and supports their growth.

“We want to see our installers sell more composite doors because their success feeds into the achievements of our own business.

“There are also a lot more challenges when it comes to selling to consumers now than there used to be, so we want to do everything we can to support our customers to grow their sales in the new landscape. This includes building a powerhouse of positive online reviews to develop trust and recognition in the brand, as part of our wider ‘Together, We Grow’ campaign.”

A HARD DAY AT WORK

I think it will be a long time before any of us forgets seeing Chancellor Rachel Reeves crying during Prime Minister’s Questions last week. Setting aside your own personal views on her policies and decisions, it was hard to watch a person reduced to tears on such a public stage. I have taken some time to formulate my thoughts on what happened and what we can learn from it as business leaders. But I will try my best to articulate my opinions on this one.

Emotions at work

The way I see this, is that politics isn’t the number one issue here. We know that the approval ratings for Labour, the PM and the Chancellor are at historic lows. I haven’t spoken with or met anyone who believes the decisions they are making are the right ones for business or the country. There isn’t much debate to be had about that.

The bigger story here, for me at least, is showing emotions at work. Specifically, being upset and stressed. For anyone watching PMQs live, or watching clips on social media later on, you’ll have seen Rachel Reeves visibly upset, crying mid-way through the session as the PM was pressed on whether he would continue to back her. When he did not explicitly give that support in front of hundreds of MPs and millions watching on TV, that appeared to make things even worse.

To be clear, it is perfectly fine for emotion to break through. It would be inhumane otherwise. She went on to say that the issue on the day was personal, and the hype about whether she would continue as Chancellor quickly diminished. What followed, however, was debate on social media about being upset at work, and whether people in positions of power should be stronger than Rachel Reeves was that day. Of course, resilience at work is always a

necessity for any person in any job. Some times you have good days, some times you have bad days, no matter what job or role it is. It just so happens to be in this case that the person upset was the Chancellor, who has perhaps the worst job in the country in trying to return it to growth and prosperity. A task that many of us would not wish to have thrust onto our shoulders.

Even the Chancellor is a human being, and sometimes the pressure of the situation breaks through, no matter how hard you try to keep it at bay. I am sure many, if not all of us, have been there at some point in our working lives. I know I have. Frustration and anger can often get the better of all of us. Especially at the moment when market conditions are incredibly tough right now, and companies are struggling to survive month to month. The pressure must be intense for all of us in every position of a business.

For me, showing emotion at work is OK. Bottling it all up makes things way worse and causes additional problems. What does then matter even more so is how people are managed within the business when things do get tough.

Using the episode with the Chancellor, what came to mind is that it was a dire failure of leadership on the part of the Prime Minister.

Managing people and leadership

As I was watching the Chancellor struggle to hold it together, I wondered why on earth she was on the front bench in the first place. She was clearly upset as she sat down ready for PMQs to begin, and things only got worse for her during the half-hour or so of questioning. All the while Keir Starmer seemed utterly oblivious to her unfolding emotional battle. Which I found

bizarre, as you could tell by the stony faces of the rest of the Ministers on the front bench that they knew Rachel Reeves was seriously struggling.

Indeed, the day after Keir Starmer confirmed to the media that he was not aware that his Chancellor was upset at the time or before, and that it was a personal issue that caused the upset. For someone who was getting up and sitting down next to her for over half an hour, to not even get an inkling of her distress shows a remarkable lack of leadership and empathy. Essentially, he left her on her own to fend for herself in a situation she was clearly struggling to manage. Very poor on his part indeed.

For those in business, leaders have a responsibility to put in place procedures and methods to ensure that what we saw at PMQs does not happen. It is important for managers, MDs, CEOs etc, to build a workplace environment where people who are stressed, who might be struggling with their mental health, or generally just having a really tough day, can find a place of safety to refocus. This is good, positive leadership and demonstrates to workers that if they were to find themselves in a bind, their place of work will be able to help them out. We know better than we ever have done before the importance of mental health, especially at work.

Perhaps now more than ever, when our market is facing one of the toughest trading environments in decades, putting a focus on staff wellbeing is the most important. That isn’t what happened last Wednesday in Parliament, and leaders in our sector and across business can use that as a lesson of what not to do, and continue to make positive progress in building and curating safe working environments for all.

Long-standing MACO customer Direct Trade (Yorkshire) Ltd has announced the integration of Sense by MACO—an innovative smart sensor solution for windows and doors—into its product offering. This move reflects Direct Trade’s commitment to quality, innovation, and long-term value for its customers.

Why Sense by MACO?

Sense by MACO is a discreet, intelligent sensor system that monitors the status of windows and doors— whether they are open or closed – and integrates seamlessly into smart home systems. It offers homeowners enhanced security, energy efficiency, and peace of mind. The system is Matter-compatible, ensuring interoperability with a wide range of smart home platforms.

But for Direct Trade, the decision to adopt Sense by MACO wasn’t just about the technology—it was about trust and alignment.

“Our relationship with MACO made this a no-brainer,” says Sales Director Mark Powell. “We’ve seen other smart solutions before, but they didn’t quite hit the mark. Sense by MACO ticks all the boxes. It’s easy to integrate into our existing processes, and it allows us to offer our customers more flexibility and choice without overhauling our production.”

Customer-Centric Innovation

Direct Trade plans to offer Sense by MACO as an optional upgrade across its product range, giving customers the freedom to choose smart features that suit their needs. The company is confident that as awareness grows, so too will demand.

“Since the FIT Show, interest in Sense by MACO has gained momentum,” Mark Powell explains. “We got some incredible leads and we’ve already gained some great business as a result. Existing customers are starting to understand the benefits, and we’re seeing a shift in mindset—especially among the next generation of decision-makers.”

While some consumers, particularly from older

generations, may initially be hesitant about smart technology, Direct Trade sees this as an opportunity to educate and support its customers through the transition.

“It does more than people expect. It’s not just about knowing if a window is open—it can integrate with heating systems, improve energy efficiency, and enhance home security. Once people understand that, they’re on board.”

A Partnership Built on Support and a Shared Vision

Direct Trade’s collaboration with MACO is a testament to the power of strong supplier relationships. The support from MACO has been instrumental in helping Direct Trade bring Sense by MACO to market confidently.

“The support has been great,” Mark Powell explained. “We’ve had everything we need to get started, and MACO’s team has been with us every step of the way.”

MACO also sees Direct Trade’s decision as a significant milestone.

“Direct Trade’s decision to offer Sense by MACO demonstrates their commitment to offering their customers a range of solutions to suit the growing demand for smart products,” a MACO spokesperson commented. “They are a valued partner, and we’re excited to see how they continue to lead the way in smart fenestration.”

Looking Ahead

As the industry continues to evolve, Direct Trade will, in turn, continue to embrace smart technology whilst staying true to its values.

“Exploring opportunities like Sense by MACO allows us to give our customers the edge,” Mark Powell added. “It’s about more than just staying competitive—it’s about leading the way.”

For further information, visit www.directtradeltd.co.uk

HOW LONG WILL THIS CYCLE LAST?

You can begin to feel the industry ask itself: how long is this going to last?

It feels as though we’ve been talking about difficult trading conditions for a while now. As we’d be right. As I see it, we have been stuck in this downward cycle for around two years. I wouldn’t say it began once inflation started to rise. It takes time for things like that to filter down through the economy.

to raise interest rates. But while that remedies the inflation problem, it creates massive problems elsewhere, which is exactly what it did to the mortgage market. That in itself was a huge problem for the economy that I would say has only partly recovered. I was one of the unfortunate ones who had to remortgage just as interest rates were at their highest. Yay.

So,

where exactly are we in this particular cycle?

But if we were to mark some of the major industry failures against a five-year inflation chart, we can work out with some relative accuracy when this downturn began: I cannot fit every significant failure on that chart, and I am sure you won’t need reminding of the sheer number we have seen over the past two years. But what we can see from above is that roughly a year after the peak of inflation, the damage began to take its toll. We have since been stuck in an economy that is barely growing, inflation is gradually rising once again, and unemployment, sadly, is rising too.

The main tool in combating higher inflation is

“Wooaahh, we’re halfway there”

Sorry, I won’t do that again.

One way to decipher where we might be is to look back at the last black swan event, and that is the Great Financial Crisis of 2008. That is where we saw the shock collapse of Lehman Brothers during the subprime mortgage crisis. That particular event nearly crippled the world’s financial system. Governments around the world conjured up staggering amounts of money and support to keep banks alive, or else risk global chaos. In all honesty, living standards in the UK have been on a gradual downward slope ever since that crisis.

But when we look back at that period of time, the measures that were taken, and when we can say relative stability began to return, it was around four years later in 2012. If I look back at the sales figures for our own installation company, we can see exactly when the GFC took hold and when things began to turn a corner. And I would judge that to be around 2012. So it may well be that if history does indeed repeat itself, we are likely only halfway through this particular downturn.

Catalysts

We all know it, Britain is stuck in stagflation. Persistent inflation, a continued cost of living crisis, and consumer confidence are all making for very hard trading conditions right now. It is the reason we are seeing such a high number of insolvencies and voluntary closures.

So what exactly is going to be the thing that turns this ship around? We need a catalyst. Something significant that can jumpstart economic growth and turn people’s opinions and confidence around in the right way. We could look to the BoE to lower interest rates in a more significant way. That was their response to COVID and the GFC, and it kept the economy chugging along. Sadly, I don’t think that option is on the table. The current landscape of the economy is not lending itself to that idea at all.

AI is certainly one that could change everything.

In the 1990s, the internet really took hold, and the UK economy benefited as a result. I am pleased to see our industry (for the most part) is embracing the opportunities AI will bring. For example, it is allowing SME installers a fantastic way to create marketing content in a fast and free fashion, which will allow them to promote their business more vigorously, without the expensive monthly retainers of agencies. I can already feel the hate for that one.

Tax. Yeah, that’s all heading in the wrong direction.

Consumer confidence is an area that we will want to see improve. For big-ticket items, like windows and doors, solid consumer confidence is key. It has not been strong for a good couple of years, but if we were to see that start to recover in a meaningful way, then this could translate to stronger business activity in our own sector.

At the moment, it is not clear where the catalyst we need for improvement is coming from. But I will say this: all cycles come to an end. Nothing ever lasts forever. Not even the Great Depression. Whilst things are tough now, it also means there are new skills to learn, methods to try, products to expand on and lessons to ponder on. Tough times are a great way to hone our skills, so that when better times return, we’re all in a stronger position to make the most of it.

We just need to hold on.

LINIAR TO HOST EXCLUSIVE WEBINAR

LAUNCHING BRAND-NEW ENERGY

PERFORMANCE CALCULATOR

For window and door fabricators, balancing the demands of verifying regulatory compliance, energy efficiency, and customer expectations is no small feat.

As part of Quanex, the team at Liniar understand those pressures first-hand and have been working hard to automate and refresh their existing calculator with a brand-new Energy Performance Calculator.

On Tuesday 22nd and Wednesday 23rd of July Liniar customers are invited to an exclusive demo and Q&A session as part of our online launch event.

Speed Meets Accuracy

Daryl Fradley

Daryl Fradley, Liniar’s Design & Fabrication Director, led the complete overhaul of Liniar’s Energy Performance Calculator, which was one of the UK’s first online energy efficiency tools. This latest project has seen Liniar’s in-house Design and IT teams collaborating to deliver a fully bespoke piece of software.

“We’ve designed the all-new Energy Performance Calculator for accuracy, speed, and total transparency,” he explains. This next-generation tool is accessible to Liniar customers through Liniar Connect and delivers real-time U-values and BFRC-approved energy performance reports in under a minute, giving users in-depth insights with just a few clicks.”

He continues, “We’re excited to host our online event and demonstrate this fantastic tool to our customers – it’s genuinely going to make their lives so much easier.

“Whether you’re preparing quotes, supporting building control documentation, or educating homeowners, the calculator removes any guesswork and standardises reporting – all with dynamic data that adjusts automatically as you input different glazing, spacer bars, or frame configurations and much more.

“That flexibility isn’t just a nice-to-have. In a marketplace where every decimal in thermal performance can impact customer decisions, reliable simulations are vital. The tool lets users build and save a library of configurations, making it easy to reference or repeat simulations with consistency. Each report includes a breakdown of thermal performance, a frame summary, detailed cross-sectional drawings, and in-depth sim values – so it’s not just data, it’s valuable insight.

Selling with Confidence

As the fenestration industry evolves, it’s crucial that the tools to support it keep pace, something the team at Liniar have recognised and invested in providing.

Daryl concludes, “We firmly believe when it comes to energy performance, accuracy and transparency are more than regulatory checkboxes, they’re a key differentiator –you’re not just selling a product, you’re selling confidence along the entire supply chain.

Invites to the EPC launch webinar will be landing in inboxes soon – if you’re a Liniar customer, keep an eye out and save the date! For more information on Liniar’s full product range, visit www.liniar.co.uk

OPEN LETTER: COULD YOU LOWER YOUR OVERHEADS?

In a candid letter Paul Sullivan, Managing Director Anglo, holds his hands up to mistakes of the past, while setting out a clear vision for the future in support of fabricators.

I’ve spent three years out of the market. Coming back into Anglo this time around its personal. I want to put back into an industry that has given me so much.

I want to make sure that the team here are rewarded for their hard work, and the fabricators who helped me to build the business first time around are looked after properly and get the product and the service that they deserve.

That’s why I’m going to start by saying sorry.

I’m sorry that service hasn’t been as good as it should have been; that on occasion, not by design, you’ve been let down.

I’ve been in post for less than a month, and we’ve already put in measures to change that, but I still believe we should own our mistakes.

We’ve made massive inroads; our manufacturing quality is better than it ever has been, and we’ve achieved ISO9001 a globally recognised standard for quality management.

These are big steps for any business – but while we’ve been doing it, we’ve been guilty of losing sight of what is most important, and that’s the customer.

Our service and lead times haven’t been where they should be.

I’d like to reassure all of our customers, and those who, with good justification, moved away from us in the past 12 months, that I am holding myself personally accountable for service levels going forward. There will be no excuses, and we will deliver.

This includes a commitment that the longest you will ever have to wait for an order will be 5 days. That’s anywhere in the country. For many of our customers, we’ll have product with you within 3 or 4 days from your point of order – that’s bar length and cut-to-size products.

I also guarantee that we can save you money; that’s regardless of whether you are buying from a systems supplier or another steel roll former. Whoever it is, we’ll beat them on any like-for-like product.

We’re now part of the Amari Metals Engineering Group (AMEG). It’s a global metals giant, and that gives us incredible buying power, far greater than when I owned Anglo. We’ve already secured our steel prices through next year, future proofing our pricing structure.

It means that we can offer you guaranteed savings on steel reinforcement prices today but also insulate your business from an expected uplift in steel prices later this year. There isn’t a roll former who can match us.

With rising employment and energy costs putting even more pressure on fabricators, even smaller customers should expect savings of around £30,000 a year, simply by buying reinforcement direct and an accompanying reduction in overhead.

If you’re a bigger manufacturer, you can save anywhere up to £125,000 a year by buying-in cut-to-size reinforcements direct, rather than going through their systems companies and cutting their own product.

My message is blunt. If you’re reading this, pick up the phone and get in touch. We will help you to reduce your overheads guaranteed – and back that up with exceptional service. It’s my reputation on the line, not just Anglo’s. For more information about Anglo, visit www.anglometal. co.uk, email enquiries@anglometal.com or call 0161 231 2354.

Paul Sullivan, Managing Director, Anglo

PILKINGTON UK OPENS NEW GLASS PRODUCTION LINE IN ST HELENS

Pilkington United Kingdom Limited, part of the NSG Group, has launched a new glass production line at its Greengate Works site in St Helens as part of a multi-million-pound investment to safeguard the future of rolled texture glass manufacturing in the UK.

The new rolled glass production line manufactures Pilkington UK’s Texture by Pilkington glass range, featuring 21 original designs and textures used for privacy and style in interior design.

Production of the range has moved to Greengate Works from nearby Watson Street Works, which stopped production last year after two centuries of pioneering glassmaking.

Moving the production of Texture by Pilkington will enable the company to save 15,000 tonnes of CO2e annually, with Pilkington UK now manufacturing all glass from one furnace in the town, instead of the two between Greengate Works and Watson Street Works. Pilkington UK are supporting the council with plans to transform the Watson Street site.

Investing in the new line supports Pilkington UK’s wider sustainability goals, which include a 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to 2018 levels and achieving net zero by 2050. The upgrade received £3.7 million in funding through the UK government’s Industrial Energy Transformation Fund (IETF), which supports industrial decarbonisation efforts.

Pilkington UK’s Greengate Works in St Helens continues to pioneer the future of glassmaking globally. In recent years, it’s hosted a number of global firsts in hydrogen-fired glass production, achieving key milestones in reducing emissions across the sector following the move to Greengate Works.

* Based on a carbon saving of 15,000 tonnes of CO2 and the average CO2 emissions per car per year in the UK of 1.7 million grams (NimbleFins)

STUGA CONFIRMS CONTINUED STABILITY AS STÜRTZ ENTERS INSOLVENCY PROCEEDINGS IN GERMANY

Stuga Machinery Ltd has confirmed its business remains fully operational, financially stable, and legally independent following the announcement that insolvency proceedings have been formally initiated for Stürtz Maschinenbau GmbH and Stürtz Holding GmbH.

Filed on 18th July, the proceedings relate solely to the Stürtz Group’s operations in Germany and selected international divisions. The process is now being overseen by a court-appointed insolvency administrator from law firm Lieser in Koblenz and is expected to run for approximately three to six months, while refinancing or investment options are explored.

Although part of the Stürtz Group and very much aligned with its vision, Stuga Machinery Ltd is a UK-registered company, incorporated separately from the Stürtz Group and operating under its own UK-based management team. The business is not part of the insolvency filing and continues to trade profitably and without disruption.

“We fully understand the concerns that news like this may raise, particularly among long-standing customers and partners,” says Ed Williams, Managing Director of Stuga. “Let me be clear: Stuga continues to trade normally, remains solvent, and is committed to fulfilling all existing customer agreements, service obligations, and new machine installations. We have a strong

order book, a stable team, and a clear plan for the future.”

Stuga has operated successfully in the UK for 40 years and retains full control of its engineering, production, sales, service, and aftersales operations. While the company has benefitted from access to the wider Stürtz machinery portfolio since becoming part of the group in 2022, it has always maintained the operational autonomy to serve UK customers independently and remains one of the group’s most successful and stable subsidiaries.

To safeguard continuity of service, particularly for Stürtz-built machinery installed in the UK, Stuga is taking a number of proactive steps, including:

Securing critical technical documentation and PLC configuration files

Ordering key spare parts and wear items to protect short-term availability

Enhancing local service capability through internal training and UK-based support partners

Reviewing and developing UK and EU-based supply options for long-term continuity

These measures are designed to ensure that even in the event of prolonged disruption to operations in Germany, Stuga can continue to deliver service, support, and replacement components to UK customers without interruption.

“Our customers should feel confident that their investment in Stuga machinery, service, and support remains secure,” adds Ed. “We are monitoring the situation in Germany carefully and will continue to provide updates where appropriate. But most importantly, the full Stuga team remains focused on ensuring continuity, quality and responsiveness for all our UK partners.”

UNCHANGED (0.0%) YEAR-ON-YEAR BUT VOLUMES UP +2.1%

The latest Builders Merchant Building Index (BMBI) report, published in July, shows builders’ merchants’ total value sales in May were unchanged (0.0%) compared to May 2024. Year on year volumes rose +2.1% but prices fell -2.1%. With one less trading day in the most recent period, like-for-like value sales, which take trading day differences into account, were up +5.0%.

Looking at value sales by category, five of the twelve categories sold more compared to May last year. Renewables & Water Saving increased +23.4%, followed by Miscellaneous (+3.8%), Landscaping (+1.9%), Timber & Joinery Products (+1.4%) and Services (+1.0%). The largest category, Heavy Building Materials, sold 0.4% less, while Workwear & Safetywear (-7.0%) was weakest.

Value sales in May were unchanged (0.0%) compared to the previous month’s sales. Month-on-month, volume sales were up +1.0% but prices slipped -1.0%. Value sales for four categories were up compared to April, with Timber & Joinery Products up +1.4%, Decorating and Landscaping (both on +1.3%) and Renewables & Water Saving (+0.9%) ahead of the rest. Total Builders Merchants was ahead of the biggest category, Heavy Building Materials (-0.3%). There was no difference in trading days. Total value sales in the 12 months June 2024 – May 2025 were down -1.8% on the previous 12-month period (June 2023 – May 2024). Volume sales were -0.6% lower, and prices were down -1.2%. Five of the twelve categories sold more in terms of value sales with Tools (+4.4%) up the most, followed by Services (+3.7%), Workwear & Safetywear (+3.3%), Miscellaneous (+1.1%) and seasonal category, Landscaping (+0.6%). Both the two largest categories, Timber & Joinery Products (-3.5%) and Heavy Building Materials (-2.0%), declined. Renewables & Water Saving (-11.7%) was the weakest category.

Total value sales in the first five months of the year (January to May 2025), were +1.2% higher than the first five months of 2024.

Mike Rigby, Managing Director of MRA Research, which produces the BMBI repor,t says: “May hasn’t been a month for Merchants to write home about, with no change in value sales compared to weak May sales last year, or

April this year. Where there were improvements in volume, many were offset by a drop in prices, leaving Builders’ Merchants treading water.

“The latest Homes England stats, published on 26 June, show there was an improvement in housebuilding starts (+5%) and completions (+12%) between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025, compared to the previous year. But with just 38,000 new houses starting construction during that period, it’s clear that as we pass one year of Labour government, nothing much has changed with regards to injecting some oomph into housebuilding.

“Whether improvements are on the horizon remains to be seen, in what is turning out to be a particularly unpredictable year. Overall consumer confidence, as tracked by GfK’s long-running index, shows a two-point increase in June to -18, following a three-point improvement in May. This upward trend could be a good omen for the RMI and housing markets, particularly as there was also a +5-point increase in how consumers see the economy shaping up over the next 12 months. Mortgage and remortgage approvals are on the up, too.

“But, and currently there’s always a but, Inflation is stuck at 3.4%, partially due to higher food costs, so many households will still be feeling the pinch. With expected hikes in petrol prices later this year, caused by conflict in the Middle East, oil prices are likely to rise. That will put discretionary spend under pressure, pushing households to reassess their priorities with some postponing home improvement projects, which will slow the flow of work in the pipeline for trades and merchants.”

Set up and run by MRA Research, the BMBI – a brand of the Builders Merchants Federation – is a monthly index of builders’ merchant sales, and the most reliable, up-to-date measure of Repair, Maintenance, and Improvement (RMI) activity in the UK. The index is based on actual sales from GfK’s Builders’ Merchant Point of Sale Tracking Data, which captures value sales out to builders from generalist builders’ merchants, accounting for 88% of total sales from builders’ merchants throughout Great Britain. An in-depth review, which includes commentary by sector experts, is provided each quarter.

May’s BMBI report is available to download at www.bmbi.co.uk.

GLYNGARY BACKS REECE AS HE RIDES FOR GB IN CYCLE SPEEDWAY WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

Glyngary Joinery is proud to sponsor team member Reece Pollitt, who has been selected to represent Great Britain in the 2025 Cycle Speedway World Championships, set to take place this September in Suffolk.

Reece, a bench joiner at Glyngary for nearly five years, will compete both as part of the GB national team and in individual events against top riders from around the world, including teams from Australia, Poland, and across the UK.

“I’m absolutely over the moon to be selected,” said Reece. “Riding for Great Britain is something every cycle speedway rider dreams of – it’s the pinnacle of the sport. I’m also racing individually, so I’ll be lining up against some of the best riders in the world. It’s going to be tough, but I’m ready for it.”

Cycle speedway is a fast-paced, contact cycling sport raced on short oval tracks. Its popularity rose in the UK after World War II, when young riders began racing around bomb craters and cleared sites using stripped-down bikes. Since then, the sport has grown into a competitive league-based system, with teams and competitions stretching across the UK, Europe, and beyond.

“It’s a single-gear bike, no brakes, and full contact,” explained Reece. “It’s a bit mental, but I’ve been doing it since I was about nine or ten –so nearly 17 years now. Luckily, I’ve only broken my thumb in all that time!”

This year’s World Championships will be held across three tracks in Suffolk – Ipswich, Great Blakenham, and Kesgrave. Reece will be racing in both team pairs and solo formats, where tactics, speed, and nerves of steel come into play. In a typical race, four riders take to the track – two from each team – with points awarded based on finishing positions. “The aim is to work with your teammate and try to finish in first and second for a maximum score. It’s more tactical than people think.”

Reece currently works as a bench joiner at Glyngary’s workshop, producing high-quality timber windows and doors. He’s well respected among his colleagues for his work ethic, attention to detail, and team-first attitude.

To support Reece in his journey to the World Championships, Glyngary has sponsored him with a £500 contribution towards his travel,

accommodation, and racing costs.

“We’re delighted to support Reece,” said Joe Trueman, Director at Glyngary Joinery. “He’s a valued member of our team, and we’re proud to see him representing not just Great Britain, but also Glyngary, on the world stage. Cycle speedway is a tough sport that takes a lot of commitment, and Reece puts his all into it – just like he does in the workshop.”

Reece added: “I’m so grateful for Glyngary’s support. It’s not a high-profile sport, and there’s not a lot of money in it – so sponsorship like this really helps. I’m travelling up and down the country every week to train and compete, so every little bit goes a long way.”

The whole Glyngary team will be cheering Reece on as he takes to the track this September and wishing him every success as he races for the world title.

WEST YORKSHIRE-BASED XL JOINERY ENTERS ADMINISTRATION

In a major development affecting both the joinery and fenestration sectors, XL Joinery, a leading UK manufacturer and supplier of timber doors and associated products, has officially entered administration. The news marks a significant turning point for a company that has been a key name in the industry for decades.

Background: A Trusted Name in Timber

Based in West Yorkshire, XL Joinery built a strong reputation as one of the UK’s foremost suppliers of internal and external wooden doors. With a focus on quality craftsmanship and innovation, the company served both the residential and commercial markets, providing solutions to a wide variety of customers — from national housebuilders and architects to local tradespeople and homeowners.

Established over 25 years ago, XL Joinery became well known for its broad range of timber door styles, materials, and finishes, carving out a solid niche in a competitive market. They operated out of a large distribution centre in Birstall and employed a significant workforce both locally and across the UK.

A Diverse Product Portfolio

XL Joinery’s strength lay in its extensive product offering, which spanned both joinery and fenestration sectors:

Internal Doors: Oak, walnut, white primed, pre-finished, and painted options — often in contemporary and traditional designs.

External Doors: High-performance timber doorsets designed for style, security, and durability, including Part L-compliant offerings.

Door Kits and Sets: Including pre-finished and fire door options, ideal for project-based installations and

streamlined site delivery.

Glazed Doors and Sidelights: Featuring a range of clear, frosted, or decorative glazing styles that bridged joinery with modern fenestration requirements.

Bespoke Services: Custom sizing and configuration support for unique or large-scale commercial projects.

Industry Impact

The administration of XL Joinery will raise concerns for many in the construction supply chain. The company was a trusted supplier to builders merchants, trade professionals, and developers, and its sudden exit from the market will likely cause disruption in procurement, particularly for timber-based door solutions.

The move may also create short-term uncertainty in product availability, especially for projects midspecification or reliant on XL’s custom door sets and fire-rated products.

With the company operating at the intersection of joinery and fenestration, its absence will be felt across multiple segments, from traditional door supply to more modern, fully integrated door systems.

Next Steps

As administrators work to manage the company’s affairs, the industry will be watching closely to see if parts of the business or product lines are salvaged, sold, or acquired. There may be opportunities for other door manufacturers or distributors to step in and support customers now left with supply gaps.

For now, XL Joinery’s administration represents another blow in what has been a turbulent period for many within the construction and building products sector, as companies continue to grapple with cost inflation, supply chain instability, and changing regulatory demands.

Don’t get le behind. Stand out from the competition and futureproof your business by opening an account with Origin today. Call 0808 192 0042 or visit origin-global.com/partner-with-origin

QUALITY CONTENT

T a c k l i n g g e n u i n e , t h o u g h t p r o v o k i n g

U K g l a z i n g i n d u s t r y i s s u e s o n a d a i l y

a n d i n d e p e n d e n t b a s i s

FAR REACHING

S e t t o b e r e a d b y o v e r a q u a r t e r o f a m i l l i o n p e o p l e , c r e a t i n g o v e r

3 5 0 , 0 0 0 p a g e v i e w s

( e s t i m a t e d 2 0 2 5 s t a t s )