DGB Digital January 2025

F E AT U R E D

4 14

30

4 Designing With Colour: The Role Of Doors And Windows 7 Origin Discusses Home Safety 8 New Aluminium Fabricator Launches 10 Origin Joins QUALICOAT 12 What Has DAWS New Concealed Trickle Ventilation Solution, And A Mullet Haircut Got In Common?

14 Complete Door Solutions From Premier Arches 16 Masonite Announces End Of Nicedor 19 Supply 2 Trade Introduce Premium Timber Range Through Glyngary Partnership 20 Timber Window Company Fined £4000 By HSE 22 AGC Glass Europe Acquires SGT (Germany) 24 Everest Windows Warns Of 8.9% Price Increase 26 Forterro Continues Expansion Into The Fenestration Industry With BM Group Acquisition 28 UAP Ltd Acquires Armadillo Metal Coatings 29 Ultraframe Acquires Prefix Systems Ltd 30 A Winter Guide For Window And Door Installers 32 Barclays: 43% Intend To Renovate In 2025 34 Building Our Skills Welcomes Support From REHAU 36 Five Products That Could Thrive In 2025 39 Freefoam ‘Perfect Partner’ For Principality Plastics Warehouse

EDITORS COMMENT Hello and welcome to the January edition of the DGB digital magazine.

Phew, what a start that was. They say January is the longest month of the year, and for good reason, the weather, the festive hangover and fiscal restraint make it a challenging month for all of us.

It seems the business community didn’t get the memo, as we saw a surge of M&A activity in the UK and European markets that was far higher than usual for January. Including a very surprising acquisition in the conservatory sector that few would have seen coming.

In terms of the general outlook, caution would be the word I would use to describe the industry’s perspective on 2025. We have had a smattering of boosterism press releases with the aim of rallying the troops, but the more grounded of us out there know that this year is going to throw up a ton of different challenges and that we will likely see another year of consolidation and insolvencies.

That is perhaps why M&A activity is so high right now. The stronger players are making their moves while they can, and before new tax rules come into force in April. We may continue to see more exit the market as some decide that the conditions are right to call it a day.

We head now into February which could be just as frantic as January.

We hope you enjoy this month’s edition!

Team DGB

Double Glazing Blogger www.doubleglazingblogger.com

DESIGNING WITH COLOUR: THE ROLE OF DOORS AND WINDOWS Ben Brocklesby, director at Origin, discusses the impact of colour and offers practical advice to installers.

options.

The decisions are endless for homeowners when renovating their homes. From floor plans through to materials, aesthetics and function, every aspect must be considered.

Different colours evoke distinct emotions and can influence how different areas of the home feel. For example:

Colour plays a crucial role. It influences mood, atmosphere, and the overall feel of a space.

The trend of aggressively grey and neutral interiors is shifting. While muted tones were once popular for their simplicity, people are now turning to bold colours to bring personality and energy back into their homes.

This even extends to fenestration, because whilst doors and windows are practical elements of a property, they can shape its overall character.

Homeowners will ask their installer to advise them on window and door choices, and this will extend way beyond just functionality and energy efficiency. Now, they’re asking for advice on colour, aesthetics and available

4 DGB Magazine - Aluminium

The psychology of colour

•

Red is associated with energy, passion, and excitement

•

Blue is often linked to calmness, serenity, and trust

•

Yellow can evoke feelings of happiness, optimism, and warmth

•

Green is associated with nature, growth, and harmony

Advising on colour Before a client chooses coloured doors or windows, it’s worth advising them on whether their property has any restrictions. If a property is in a conversation area, for example, renovators may need to seek permission if they opt for a colour which is out-of-keeping

with other properties in the area.

The interior colour scheme is another vital consideration. Interior rooms are redecorated far more frequently than doors and windows are replaced, so it’s important that homeowners select a versatile colour.

There is also a property’s brickwork, cladding, or render to consider.

A good option here could be dual-coloured doors and windows, with a neutral colour, like white, chosen for the inside whilst a more interesting shade is chosen for the exterior.

Futureproofing with colour Colour choices can affect a property’s resale value, so ensure homeowners are aware of this before they opt for a stand-out colour for their doors and windows. Our research shows that unappealing colour schemes can reduce a property’s value by 5% on average.

To avoid this, consider the tone of the colour.

Opting for a bright, post-box red won’t be everyone’s cup of tea. However, more muted red tones, such as burgundy, are rising in popularity as they almost blend into the background like a neutral shade, but offer far more interest than grey.

Choosing quality fenestration Coloured aluminium doors and windows are powder-coated. This process involves applying

a dry powder coating to the aluminium surface and curing it in an oven. At Origin, we recently took a significant step in our commitment to quality by launching our very own in-house powder coating facility.

With everything in our control, it means we can set our own standards of quality and consistently deliver an exceptional product every time.

Innovation is engineered at every level, and it starts with the pre-treatment. The meticulous cleaning and preparation processes, including the use of a unique linishing machine, ensures that our aluminium profile is impeccably prepared for the powder coating application.

With powder coating now in our control, it also means we can offer a wider range of powder coating options, including textured finishes, so that our partners can create truly bespoke solutions for their customers. This opens new possibilities for design and customisation, helping our partners to stand out in a competitive market.

Final thoughts By understanding the psychology of colour, staying informed about trends, and supplying quality products, you can provide valuable guidance to homeowners on choosing the perfect door and windows for their property.

Aluminium - DGB Magazine 5

6 DGB Magazine - Aluminium

ORIGIN DISCUSSES HOME SAFETY Ben Brocklesby, Director at Origin, the UK’s leading manufacturer of aluminium doors and windows, discusses home safety and the key areas of concern for homeowners.

With more than 240,000 break-ins in 2023, home security is of paramount concern to homeowners when renovating or buying a property. Data shows that front doors are the most common entry point (74%), followed by first-floor windows (23%), and back doors (22%).

Renovators and prospective property buyers want assurances that products installed in their homes will protect them and their families from break-ins. Here are the key security features they’ll be asking about:

1. Materials Not all materials are equal, and some are stronger than others. Those looking for strong doors and windows will want to consider aluminium. It’s inherently strong, yet lightweight, meaning it’s resistant to warping (unlike timber) and is more secure than uPVC. Despite this, it remains easy to operate (unlike heavy steel products).

2. Locks With several types of lock on the market, most homeowners don’t know what differentiates them. Multi-point locking systems provide the most protection in residential settings, such as Origin’s unique 8-point locking system. This can be reinforced with tamper-proof cylinders, which are resistant to picking, drilling, and bumping, for added protection.

3. Certifications Awards and certifications act as thirdparty assurance of a product’s quality, and homeowners use them to identify a superior product. All external doors and windows should meet PAS24 standards as a minimum

requirement, but those wanting extra assurance should prioritise products that also hold the Secured by Design accreditation. This policeapproved certification has been awarded to systems within the Origin home collection.

Alongside these elements, there are some additional aspects that construction professionals can advise homeowners of.

These include:

1. Hinges Often exposed on the outside, hinges can be a significant weak point in doors and windows as they can be vulnerable to damage.

Instead, systems from Origin have been designed to deter intruders. For example, on the windows, no hinges are visible externally and hinge guards are installed as standard. These protect the hinges and block opportunists from jemmying the window open along the hinged side.

Hinges are also made from the highest-grade stainless-steel and are capable of carrying exceptionally heavy loads, which exceed above and beyond the standardised tests.

2. Additional options For added peace of mind, Origin products have safety and security features that can be specified. For example, opening restrictors, restrictor hooks or spyholes are available on products throughout the range.

Homeowners want to ensure they are protecting their family and assets. With the increasing sophistication of burglars, products used in renovations and new homes must be robust and exceed minimum requirements. Not only will this provide peace of mind for homeowners and house buyers, but it will add value.

To learn more about the security of Origin products and to open an account, visit https:// trade.origin-global.com/partner-with-origin

Aluminium - DGB Magazine 7

NEW ALUMINIUM FABRICATOR LAUNCHES Customers looking for high-quality, highperformance aluminium fenestration solutions now have an additional answer to their needs thanks to the launch of Endurance® Aluminium.

This newly created fabricator is a sister business to Endurance® Doors – the highly respected manufacturer of solid, secure and stylish composite doors.

Both brands will now form part of a wider Endurance Group.

“The opening of Endurance® Aluminium is an exciting and strategically important development’ comments Stephen Nadin, Chief Executive Officer of the Endurance Group.

“It follows our acquisition of BDC Aluminium in December 2023, which gave us access to new infrastructure, expertise and market insight.

“It was always our intention to build on the existing success of BDC as a trade-focused fabricator and to leverage Endurance’s extensive knowledge of consumer marketing to shape a separate consumer-orientated operation.

“The launch of Endurance® Aluminium represents that vision becoming a reality.”

Endurance® Aluminium will operate from

8 DGB Magazine - Aluminium

the same site as BDC Aluminium in Witham, Essex. Its range will include windows, sliding patio doors, French doors, bifold doors, and Heritage doors and screens.

The new business will combine this comprehensive product offer with the same high levels of service and support that have become a trademark of the Endurance® Doors brand.

Installers can expect this service and support to cover everything from lead generation and product training to assistance with marketing to homeowners.

“We’ve deliberately taken our time to bring Endurance® Aluminium to market” adds Stephen.

“The popularity of aluminium fenestration products continues to soar, and we know we are entering a mature market that is already home to a number of well-established fabricators.

“As such, we wanted to make sure we were launching a business that gives customers not only a new alternative but also a better choice.

“We’re confident we’ve achieved that.”

Web: endurancealuminium.co.uk

ORIGIN JOINS QUALICOAT

QUALICOAT UK & Ireland are delighted to welcome into membership Origin who have recently been awarded their QUALICOAT licence. Origin joins a growing number of powder coaters across the UK & Ireland who are taking advantage of the QUALICOAT Specification to elevate their commitment to coating quality. Origin are now able to use the QUALICOAT label of conformity on all their paperwork and market communications.

The label, which can only be used by licensed members of the QUALICOAT Association, is registered worldwide. Members of the Association include powder manufacturers, pretreatment systems suppliers and powder coating applicators. These three main membership groups form the vertical integration required to precisely specify both product and processes that offer the best quality coating for architectural aluminium products used in either commercial or residential applications.

Origin’s marketing team commented on their successful application for membership, “Qualicoat is a leading international

10 DGB Magazine - Aluminium

specification for the application of powder coating. When we opened our powder coating facility, the target was always going to be to attain accreditation as quickly as possible, as our drive for quality and operational excellence is synonymous with Qualicoat. We know that joining Qualicoat would mean the finish on our products would not only be visually appealing but also robust and resilient enough to handle the challenges of everyday use for decades to come. For our trade customers, it’s a trademark of quality and trust, which is vital for our sales promise.”

The up-to-date QUALICOAT Specification is freely available for download via the UK & Ireland Association website, qualicoatuki. org and the website offers an up-to-date list of licensed UK and Ireland Powder Suppliers, Pretreatment Suppliers and Applicators.

Telephone support is available from QUALICOAT UK & Ireland Head Office in the Midlands on 0330 240 9735, the Association can also be followed on Twitter @Qualicoatuki or on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/company/ qualicoat-uk-&-ireland

DGB | 2024

WWW.DOUBLEGLAZINGBLOGGER.COM

DYNAMIC, SHARP, AND ENGAGING WITH OVER 5550 PUBLISHED ARTICLES, 6580 COMMENTS AND APPROACHING TWO MILLION PAGE VIEWS, THE GLAZING INDUSTRY'S FRESHEST, SHARPEST AND RELEVANT OPINION AND DISCUSSION IS ON DGB. During 2024 DGB is set to be read by over 250,000 people, with over 200,000 of those unique.

They will generate over 350,000 page views this year alone. DGB continues to grow and expand, covering even more of the diverse sector that is UK fenestration. Join the industry's best conversation: www.doubleglazingblogger.com

WHAT HAS DAWS NEW CONCEALED TRICKLE VENTILATION SOLUTION, AND A MULLET HAIRCUT GOT IN COMMON? Well now that we have your attention – mullets were super smart once (apparently!), but over time things have moved on.

Trickle vents have become an increasingly important feature in any new window and door installation since the amendments made to Part F of the building regulations in 2022.

By providing a constant, small amount of ventilation, they help to improve the quality of air in a room and reduce condensation.

Replacement windows should be fitted with trickle vents regardless of whether the windows being replaced had vents in them or not, if no background ventilation alternative is being installed.

Read more: www.doubleglazingblogger. com/2024/08/daws-predicts-optimistic-outlookfor-aluminium-sector/

It’s exactly the same with trickle vents. Up until now, visible trickle vents have been a necessary evil, but many homeowners don’t like the look of them. Now DAWS has a super smart way of doing things with their Smoothvent concealed trickle vent solution.

Smoothvent has an integral head drip and concealed external vent, which is finished off internally with a slim sightline internal vent cover for a neat and unobtrusive finish.

Designed to suit the company’s windows, bifold door and Heritage Systems, the Smoothvent is available in all DAWS standard colours from stock, along with a full-colour matching solution available on a slightly longer lead time.

12 DGB Magazine - Aluminium

Phill Cresswell, Sales Director at DAWS comments: “As anyone in retail knows, it is often the little details that matter the most, and Smoothvent’s sleek looks could just be the thing that swings the buying decision your way. Smoothvent looks like a stylish head drip detail, it just blends in and will help our trade partners stand out from the crowd; whilst everyone else will have a ‘mullet’, DAWS trade customers will be a cut above the rest.”

As with all DAWS products, a simple technical data sheet provides information on the available trickle vent options. Phil adds: “The data sheet contains everything installers need to know to comply with the latest regulations applicable to trickle vent installation. It’s all part of our philosophy of being “The trade aluminium supplier that you can rely on” and in this case it is to innovate.”

DAWS, the trade supplier you can rely on. For more information about DAWS, please visit www.daws.co.uk or call 0151 374 2851.

Aluminium - DGB Magazine 13

COMPLETE DOOR SOLUTIONS FROM PREMIER ARCHES

They say that you can’t fit a square peg in a round hole, but thanks to the comprehensive service from Premier Arches, you can get a fully fabricated door set that fits perfectly into any aperture required.

Widely recognised for precision-engineered arched and shaped frames, Premier Arches is also an expert at manufacturing arched, angled and shaped sashes, slabs, and glass for composites, as well as uPVC entrance and French doors.

Ordering a fully glazed and fabricated door solution removes the need for messy glass templates that can get lost or damaged in transit. This complete, ready-to-install service eliminates the complexities often associated with door assembly, saving valuable time and effort for fabricators, installers, and builders.

Premier Arches offers a wide range of slabs, 14 DGB Magazine - Doors

door panels, glazing and hardware, ensuring customers can meet the requirements of any project.

“We’ve built our reputation on solving complex challenges, and our fully fabricated door service reflects that ethos,” says Sean Greenall, Managing Director of Premier Arches.

“Whether our customers need a shaped frame or a fully finished composite door, we provide the same high standards of quality and attention to detail, ensuring every product meets their exact requirements.

“We’re committed to delivering more than just frames – we deliver complete solutions that simplify our customers’ processes.”

For more information visit www.premierarches. co.uk or email sales@premierarches.co.uk.

DGB

16 YEARS OF LEADING INDUSTRY NEWS & OPINION --WWW.DOUBLEGLAZINGBLOGGER.COM

STREETS AHEAD QUALITY CONTENT

FAR REACHING

LATEST NEWS FIRST

Tackling genuine, thought provoking UK glazing industry issues on a daily and independent basis

Set to be read by over a quarter of a million people, creating over 350,000 page views (2025 estimated stats)

Read the most important breaking news, features, opinion and PR long before you'll see them in print

MASONITE ANNOUNCES END OF NICEDOR

In an email sent to clients this morning, Masonite, owners of Solidor and Door-Stop, announced that they were discontinuing the Nicedor panel range.

This was the text of the email sent to customers this morning: Important Update: Nicedor Discontinuation We are writing to inform you of an upcoming change to our product offering.

Following a strategic review of our portfolio, we have made the decision to discontinue our Nicedor range, with the last orders being accepted on 21st March 2025.

This decision allows us to focus on delivering greater value by driving growth in our flagship brands, Solidor and Residor.

Please be assured that this change will not impact other areas of our business or the high level of service you currently receive across our other product ranges.

Key Dates to note: •

Final Order Date for NDP customers 21st March 2025

16 DGB Magazine - Doors

•

Last Day of Production 27th March 2025

•

Final deliveries 28th March – 1st April 2025

We appreciate your continued support and look forward to strengthening our partnership.

Should you have any questions or require assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact our customer service team.

Masonite aims to wrap up Nicedor by the end of Q1 of this year. The closing of Nicedor sees a reduction in the choice of PVCu door panels in the market.

Door panels have been a shrinking part of the sector ever since composite doors took hold.

There remain a few companies that continue to offer PVCu panels, but it is a signal that this is still a shrinking market.

What will be interesting to see is if this forces customers of Residor and Solidor to look elsewhere for their needs or whether they in turn choose to stop offering panels to their own clients.

DGB

16 YEARS OF LEADING INDUSTRY NEWS & OPINION --WWW.DOUBLEGLAZINGBLOGGER.COM

WHY PAY TO WAIT? MAKE YOUR MARKETING BUDGET WORK...NOW QUALITY CONTENT

FAR REACHING

LATEST NEWS FIRST

Tackling genuine, thought provoking UK glazing industry issues on a daily and independent basis

Set to be read by over a quarter of a million people, creating over 350,000 page views (2025 estimated stats)

Read the most important breaking news, features, opinion and PR long before you'll see them in print

18 DGB Magazine - Timber

SUPPLY 2 TRADE INTRODUCE PREMIUM TIMBER RANGE THROUGH GLYNGARY PARTNERSHIP Supply 2 Trade, a prominent supplier of uPVC and aluminium windows, doors, glass, conservatories, and building plastics, has announced a strategic partnership with premium timber windows and doors manufacturer Glyngary.

Established in 2019, Supply 2 Trade has grown rapidly and now operates five trade counters, with locations in Stoke, Bury, Chester, Telford, and Northwich.

This collaboration enables Supply 2 Trade to meet the increasing demand for highquality timber products, offering customers a comprehensive range of beautifully crafted timber windows and doors.

“It’s been impossible to ignore how popular timber has become, largely because of its strong sustainability, energy efficiency, and durability credentials – and this popularity has created an excellent opportunity for growth,” says Richard Barlow, Managing Director at Supply 2 Trade.

“Partnering with Glyngary allows us to enhance our product portfolio with exceptional timber windows and doors, an expansion that aligns with our commitment to provide customers with superior products and services.”

Glyngary, known for its dedication to craftsmanship and excellence, specialises in supplying installers, house builders, contractors, builders’ merchants, and trade counters. Their suite of physical and digital sales tools is designed to support trade customers in winning projects and achieving business growth.

Joe Trueman, shareholder at Glyngary Joinery, comments: “This partnership offers significant benefits for both companies, and we’re excited to lend our support. Homeowners are increasingly turning to natural materials for their building projects, and Glyngary has focused on refining our branding and systems to make it seamless for partners like Supply 2 Trade to work with us.

“With their established range of uPVC and aluminium windows and doors, introducing timber is the perfect next step and we’re looking forward to a successful and longlasting partnership.”

To find out how you could partner with Glyngary, go to www.glyngary.co.uk.

More information on Supply 2 Trade is available at www.supply2trade.co.uk.

Timber - DGB Magazine 19

TIMBER WINDO FINED £40 An Essex-based company that makes windows and doors has been hit with a £4,000 fine after repeatedly failing to protect its workers from exposure to wood dust.

Timbercraft Windows & Doors Limited, which also manufactures wooden conservatories, was visited by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) on three occasions over a 12-year period.

Those visits, to the company’s workshop on Severalls Industrial Park in Colchester, identified large build-ups of wood dust around machinery as well as other health and safety breaches. These included workers not being provided with suitable respiratory protective equipment (RPE).

The amount of wood dust on the premises put workers at risk Breathing in wood dust excessively can cause asthma and nasal cancer. Guidance on working in the woodworking industry is available and an inspection-led campaign to protect workers continues.

A subsequent HSE investigation found the company failed to adequately control and prevent its employee’s exposure to wood dust in the following ways: •

inadequate local exhaust ventilation (LEV) and a failure to have its LEV thoroughly examined and tested within the preceding

20 DGB Magazine - Timber

14 months; •

failure to have employees face fit tested for their RPE;

•

common dry sweeping of wood dust;

•

using compressed air lines for clearing of wood dust from machines;

•

using incorrect L class vacuums; and

•

failure to have employees who were exposed to wood dust under health surveillance.

HSE inspectors visited Timbercraft Windows & Doors Limited three times over 12 years For each of failures above the solutions are widely known in the woodworking industry: Health surveillance should be undertaken for employees exposed to wood dust; a system of on-going health checks to detect ill-health effects such as occupational asthma at an early stage.

LEV in woodworking should be subject to a thorough examination and test by a competent person, no less frequent than every 14 months. It is a detailed and systematic examination sufficient to make sure the LEV can continue to perform as intended by design and will contribute to the adequate control of exposure.

Adequate LEV will be dependent upon the process, however guidance sheets for control

OW COMPANY 000 BY HSE of wood dust at woodworking machines are available for free from the HSE website.

Face fit testing is required for tight fitting RPE to ensure that it fits the wearers face and does not leak, as this would increase the wearers exposure.

Wood dust should be cleared on a regular basis using a minimum of an M class vacuum.

Dry sweeping and use of compressed air lines should not be used for clearing of wood dust as they create plumes of dust that can then be inhaled once again.

Following the December 2022 inspection, three improvement notices were served relating to control of wood dust. A further improvement notice was served relating to arrangements for monitoring, guarding and other protection devices on machinery.

Each visit by HSE inspectors during the past 12 years had resulted in improvement notices being issued, along with other action taken.

However, despite this, the company still failed to act, including to provide its workers with suitable RPE. Despite repeated visits from HSE the company failed to protect its own workers Timbercraft Windows & Doors Limited, of Crowborough East Sussex, pleaded guilty to breaching Regulation 9(2), 11(1) and 7(1) of Control of Substances Hazardous to Health

Regulations 2002.

The company was fined £4,000 and was ordered to pay £2,792 costs at a hearing at Colchester Magistrates Court on the 16 of January 2025.

HSE inspector Tom McQuade said: “Just seeing the piles of wood dust lying around gave us an indication of how much workers would have been exposed.

“The risks from exposure to wood dust are well known and exposure can cause irreparable harm.

“The fine imposed should highlight to employers in the woodworking industry that the courts and HSE, take failure to control exposure to harmful substances, such as wood dust, extremely seriously.

“Appropriate controls are well documented, and guidance is provided free of charge on the HSE website.

“Businesses need to protect their employee’s respiratory health. And if they don’t, we will not hesitate to take appropriate action.”

This HSE prosecution was brought by enforcement lawyer Arfaq Nabi and paralegal officer Helen Hugo.

Read the original article here: https://press. hse.gov.uk/2025/01/16/repeated-wood-dustfailures-lands-company-with-fine/

Timber - DGB Magazine 21

AGC GLASS EUROPE ACQUIRES SGT (GERMANY) Effective as of 1 January 2025, AGC Glass Europe expands its activities through the acquisition of one of Europe´s largest manufacturers of safety glass, Sicherheitsglastechnik Oelsnitz GmbH (SGT), as well as the Verwaltungsgesellschaft Schuler & Weiß OHG and its subsidiary SG Transport GmbH in Germany.

With a team of around 270 employees, SGT in Oelsnitz in the Vogtland region is manufacturing high-quality safety glass, which is used worldwide in glass facades and building interiors. With this acquisition, AGC Glass Europe enlarges its European network, enhances its value chain, and strengthens its position as a leading provider of innovative glass solutions. The operations of the SGT production facilities in Oelsnitz will continue seamlessly, ensuring the supply of high-quality products to all its customers.

By integrating SGT operations, AGC is also reinforcing its worldwide leadership position in the façade projects business, enabling AGC INTERPANE to supply all kinds of complex structures and coatings, as dreamed of by architects and building owners.

“With the acquisition of our long-standing partner SGT, we are increasing our European market share and strengthening our worldwide position, sending a strong signal to the global stakeholders of building projects”,

22 DGB Magazine - Business

says Mr. Dany D’Hont, AGC’s Vice President Downstream, Architectural Glass Europe and Americas.

“We have enjoyed an extraordinarily pleasant and successful collaboration with SGT for some decades, for which we would like to sincerely thank in particular Wolfgang Weiß and Joachim Schuler. They have created a solid company that stands for high quality, innovation and reliability – values that we at AGC fully share.” highlights Sebastian Schmidt, Member of the Executive board of AGC INTERPANE. Read original press release from AGC Glass Europe here: https://www.agc-glass.eu/ en/news/press-release/agc-glass-europeacquires-sgt-germany

What’s your clients style?

Soho...

or Contemporary?

The next generation of door is here. The new Origin OB-36+ system is available in 2 different collections.

The Soho aesthetic is perfect for replicating a sought-after steel-look design, whilst the Contemporary style offers an elegant way to maximise light levels in a home. Both systems are 2025 Future Homes compliant for thermal efficiency and feature sightlines of just 36mm.

Don’t get left 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

Bi-fold Doors

Front Doors

Internal Doors

Sliding Doors

Windows

Business - DGB Magazine 23

EVEREST WINDOW PRICE IN In an article published today in The Telegraph, Everest Windows, the rebranded Everest Home Improvements after Anglian Home Improvement took over the deceased company, warned of an imminent 8.9% price increase.

Everest has just started their Winter sale, but they are blaming October’s Budget measures for the price increases which could come as soon as next week.

Big price increase At nearly 9% this would be in the realms of the price increases we saw during the COVIDinduced supply chain collapses which saw inflation run out of control for a sustained period of time.

This time, it is down to the dour Budget which has sent shivers up and down the business community. With pleas from all parts of business to the Chancellor to go back on some of the measures, companies are already taking matters into their own hands before April.

Hiring across the board is down, job cuts are already happening and wage rises have been scrapped.

24 DGB Magazine - Business

Companies, like Everest, are already beginning to implement price increases to offset the rising costs in National Insurance and other measures which are set to have an inflationary effect on businesses and therefore consumers. This, not long after we have just got over the first inflation earthquake caused by the various COVID measures which pumped hundreds of billions of pounds into the economy whilst we stayed in lockdown.

The article is blocked by a paywall, but if you are subscribed to The Telegraph, you can read the full article here: www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2025/01/10/ double-glazing-giant-prepares-inflationbusting-price-rises/ Of course, Everest won’t be the only one to raise their prices in the coming weeks. I have had at least one supplier email before Christmas confirming their prices would be going up over 5% in response to the Budget measures. I assume other fabricators and suppliers will be looking at similar price increases.

For installers, the hit will be two-fold. They will be getting hit with increases from their

WS WARNS OF 8.9% NCREASE suppliers as well as costs going up at their own business as well. The end result of all of this is that homeowners are going to be paying a good chunk more this year for their new windows and doors. Just as Labour is trying to embark on a journey to build 1.5m new homes and renovate the tens of millions that need attention.

Inflation coming back It is not long since we managed to get over the worst of the inflation shock. COVID measures and the war in Ukraine caused energy costs to soar and post-lockdown hyper-spending nearly crushed supply chains around the world as well as our own sectors. Inflation rose to double-digits and emails from suppliers adding hefty price increases almost became a weekly ritual.

Now, we may be looking at another round of inflation just when we really don’t need it.

Energy has been rising again over the last six months and has been contributing to the rising inflation we see again. The cost of energy is due to rise again in April.

But it is the Budget measures, coming into force in April, which is going to cause a big jump in costs. Labour, rather untactfully, said businesses could simply “absorb the costs” and get on with it. It does make you wonder how much talking they actually do to businesses because as it happens, businesses are going right ahead and implementing price increases now to offset those measures.

These increases get passed down to consumers in the end, and they will see the cost of new windows and doors, as well as other products, more expensive than they were last year.

There is very little we can do to stop the price increases. The one effective way to keep sales coming in is to sell on quality. Rising prices mean there is going to be even more importance on the quality of product and service in order to justify the higher prices we are going to ask consumers to pay. This is going to hit volume-reliant businesses hard.

But higher-end companies who sell premium products will still find good avenues to pursue, but it will require willpower and fortitude to make growth happen.

Business - DGB Magazine 25

FORTERRO CONTINUES EXPANSION INTO THE FENESTRATION INDUSTRY WITH BM GROUP ACQUISITION The deal builds on the acquisition of Orgadata AG in 2024 to further grow the new Forterro Windows and Doors line of business.

European software provider Forterro has continued its expansion into the window, door and façade industry, with the acquisition of BM Group.

Founded in 1979 and operating from offices in Scotland and England, BM Group is the leading IT solutions provider in the UK and Ireland fenestration software sector. Its products include Evolution, the widely used uPVC order processing and fabrication solution, and Touch, its web-based management platform, which covers all sectors within the windows and doors market: uPVC, aluminium and timber.

The BM Group acquisition is Forterro’s second in the fenestration sector. In November 2024 it announced the acquisition of Orgadata AG, a German company known for its innovative Logikal software for designing, calculating and producing windows, doors and curtain walls.

The Orgadata deal is expected to close in the first quarter of 2025, pending regulatory approvals. Both companies will operate in the newly formed Forterro Windows and Doors business line.

“Adding BM Group to Forterro Windows and Doors means we have an immediate and powerful presence in this market, and it is a perfect fit with our other acquisition in the sector,” said Marcus Pannier, Regional President, Forterro. “BM Group is hugely innovative, and bringing it into Forterro means it can benefit from our experience in scaling and growing companies, taking that innovation to a bigger and broader market than would have otherwise been challenging.”

In addition to its own products, BM Group is the sole reseller of Orgadata’s Logikal product in the UK. Logikal digitalises and simplifies processes around aluminium window, door 26 DGB Magazine - Business

and curtain wall designs so that companies can work more efficiently, and BM Group has implemented Logikal for nearly 20 years.

BM Group’s Managing Director Graeme Bailey will remain with the company, focusing on integrating the BM Group teams into Forterro Windows and Doors, and Chief Technical Officer Jim Cronie will continue to drive product innovation. Bernd Hillbrands, the founder of Orgadata, will head up Forterro Windows and Doors following completion of the Orgadata transaction.

“Forterro is the ideal partner for us, with shared values and culture and a focus on innovation and collaboration,” said Graeme Bailey, Managing Director, BM Group. “Being part of Forterro Windows and Doors means we are better placed to help our customers meet market challenges and realise their growth ambitions, with access to broader expertise, technology and support. Our understanding of Orgadata’s Logikal and implementation with customers was also pivotal to our successful alignment within Forterro.”

“Forterro is an industrial software specialist – it’s a sector we know incredibly well, and the BM Group acquisition is timely, giving us further access to the growing window, door, and façade industry,” continued Marcus Pannier, Forterro. “Our mid-market expertise is second to none, and bringing BM Group to Forterro means that we start 2025 as we mean to continue supporting customers and achieving growth.”

Advisors to BM Group on the deal were Eversheds-Sutherland, Spencer Gardner Dickens and Thomas Nock Martin Accountants. Advisors to Forterro were Alvarez & Marsal, EY and Foot Anstey.

Business - DGB Magazine 27

UAP LTD ACQUIRES ARMADILLO METAL COATINGS

UAP Ltd, the Bury-based door hardware specialist, has announced the acquisition of Armadillo Metal Coatings, marking another milestone in its ambitious growth journey.

The acquisition builds on the success of UAP’s licensing of Armadillo’s Armasmart technology earlier this year, which led to the launch of the industry’s first hardware range that eliminates 99.98% of viruses, including COVID-19.

The patented anti-viral and anti-microbial technology also prevents tarnishing and corrosion, offering a cleaner, safer, and longerlasting solution for health, care, commercial, and residential environments.

The acquisition strengthens UAP’s commitment to innovation, aligning with the company’s strategy of staying ahead of evolving customer needs through technologydriven solutions. It also comes as UAP continues to expand its operations following a record-breaking financial year.

Revenues reached £28.4 million for the year ending April 2024, marking the company’s 15th consecutive year of revenue growth. Revenue growth of more than a third was driven by acquisitions including Security Hardware, Maher London, and the organic expansion of its product offerings, including the launch of

28 DGB Magazine - Business

UAP’s Fire Door Maintenance (FDM) division.

The Armasmart range has brought the business into new markets, including healthcare, hospitality, and education. These industries, where hygiene and durability are critical, stand to benefit significantly from the technology’s ability to reduce germ transmission and maintain a cleaner environment.

The range has also opened new doors into innovative hardware, from glow-in-the-dark solutions to corrosion-resistant finishes, combining functionality with cutting-edge technology.

Nicola John, Managing Director of FDM by UAP Ltd and Armadillo Metal Coatings Ltd, said: “The acquisition of Armadillo Metal Coatings has been a pivotal step as we continue to deliver game-changing innovations for our customers. With Armasmart, we’ve set a new standard for what door hardware can achieve, addressing real-world challenges with forward-thinking solutions. This is just one example of how we’re staying ahead of the curve, and we’re excited about the opportunities this acquisition brings as we continue to grow and shape the future of our industry.”

ULTRAFRAME ACQUIRES PREFIX SYSTEMS LTD

After speculation earlier this month as to the fate of former Ultraframe fabricator and current Sheerline fabricators Prefix Systems Ltd, an announcement today via the Ultraframe trade website confirms that they have bought their former client out of administration.

Here is the statement that has just been published on their website: We can confirm that on the 20th January Ultraframe purchased Prefix Systems ltd. out of the administration process it entered on 8th January.

Ultraframe and Prefix have some similar but also some different products operating across the fenestration, home extension and outdoor living markets.

We will continue to run the Prefix business to properly understand it and evaluate the best way forward to best meet the needs of customers. In the meantime, Prefix will continue to service the needs of its customers and operate as normal.

Importantly, we recognise the quality and long service of many Prefix staff who we are transferring to the new company on existing contracts.

We would also like to thank our Ultraframe customer network whose support has been outstanding.

This follows on from the news that Prefix Systems were put into administration at the turn of the year, with court documents filed just before Christmas.

Prefix Systems was one of Ultraframe’s largest fabricators until they made a very public move over to the Sheerline system. Now, their former customer has been vertically integrated into the Ultraframe business.

In positive news, Ultraframe confirmed that they are moving Prefix staff over on their existing contracts, which means jobs will be saved. The product portfolio, however, is where some changes could be made. They do recognise this in their statement, and hint that over time some decisions may be made as to what continues to be produced and what is cut from the overall portfolio.

So in the end, Prefix is back in the Ultraframe stable. It’s been a pretty rocky start to 2025 so far.

Read the original statement here: https://trade. ultraframe-conservatories.co.uk/trade/news/ Ultraframe-acquires-Prefix/

Business - DGB Magazine 29

A WINTER GUIDE FOR WINDOW AND DOOR INSTALLERS Winter in the UK can be harsh, with cold snaps bringing icy winds and snow that challenge even the most seasoned of workers. For window and door installers, the job doesn’t stop just because the mercury drops. Here’s how you can continue your work safely and warmly through the chilliest months.

Dress for Success Layering is Key: •

Base Layer: Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics like synthetic materials or merino wool to keep your skin dry.

•

Insulation Layer: Fleece or down jackets are excellent for trapping heat.

•

Outer Layer: Windproof and waterproof jackets and trousers protect against the elements.

Protect Extremities: •

Head: A hat or beanie can prevent a significant amount of heat loss.

•

Hands: Use insulated gloves or mittens; consider heated gloves for prolonged outdoor work.

•

Feet: Wear insulated boots with good traction. Double up on socks if needed, but ensure your boots still fit well to avoid circulation issues.

•

Face and Neck: A scarf or neck gaiter can be invaluable in blocking harsh winds.

Hydration in the Cold

and platforms are secure.

•

Tool Handling: Cold can affect dexterity.

Choose tools with ergonomic, insulated grips or wear gloves that allow for fine motor control.

•

Be Seen: High-visibility clothing is not just for road workers; it’s crucial in lower light or snowy conditions.

Equipment for the Cold •

Heated Tools: If available, use tools designed for cold weather or those with heated handles.

•

PPE: Invest in or use personal protective equipment tailored for cold weather, like anti-fog goggles.

Health Monitoring •

Cold Injuries: Watch for signs of frostbite or hypothermia. Immediate action like moving indoors and warming up can prevent serious issues.

•

Emergency Supplies: Keep blankets, spare clothing, and heat packs on hand for emergencies.

Don’t forget to hydrate. Cold weather might not make you feel thirsty, but dehydration can sneak up on you. Warm, non-caffeinated beverages can help maintain your core temperature.

Work Practices in Winter •

Cold-Weather Techniques: Some materials may need to be warmed before use. Check manufacturer guidelines for cold weather installation.

Optimizing Your Work Environment

•

Protecting the Work Area: Use temporary barriers to block drafts when working in homes, keeping both installers and residents comfortable.

•

Short, Frequent Breaks: Regularly step into a warm environment to prevent cold stress.

•

Work Smarter: Plan your day to minimize time spent outdoors. Cut materials inside when possible, and use insulated toolboxes to keep your gear from freezing.

Safety First •

Slip-Proofing: Clear ice from work areas and use de-icing agents. Ensure all ladders

30 DGB Magazine - General & PVCu

Communication and Planning •

Weather-Wise Scheduling: If possible, adjust work schedules around severe weather forecasts or delay work when safety is compromised.

•

Team Checks: Regularly ensure all team members are coping well with the cold conditions.

Winter work in the UK requires extra attention to safety and comfort. By dressing appropriately, staying hydrated, adjusting work practices, and being vigilant about health, window and door installers can continue to provide quality service even when Jack Frost is at his most biting.

Remember, if the weather turns dangerously cold, it’s okay to call it a day and reschedule. Safety should always come first.

Stay warm, stay safe, and keep installing!

General & PVCu - DGB Magazine 31

BARCLAYS: 43% INTEND TO RENOVATE IN 2025 The latest Barclays Property Insights report has revealed that 43% of homeowners intend to invest in home renovations this year, with 24% wanting to improve their homes to boost energy efficiency.

The report also provides interesting insights into the health of the property market. This is the report published by Barclays: Rent and mortgage spending grew 1.8 per cent year-on-year in December, down from 8.2 per cent in November, as more homeowners benefitted from base rate reductions Six in 10 renters think that it would be impossible to buy a home without an inheritance or loan from a family member The reality is more encouraging – one in five recent first-time buyers report receiving financial help from family to purchase their home Two fifths of movers are prioritising properties with a garage or driveway, closely followed by a garden or outside space Barclays Property Insights combines data from across the Bank with consumer research to provide an in-depth analysis of UK housing trends Rent and mortgage spending increased 1.8 per cent year-on-year last month, the lowest rate of growth since August 2024, according to the latest Barclays Property Insights report. Though encouraging, costs continue to increase, and consumers’ confidence in their ability to afford their rental and mortgage payments dropped to 52 per cent in December (down 3 percentage points), the lowest level in 2024.

Concerns around rising interest rates rose slightly to 62 per cent last month (up 3 percentage points), although they remain below the 63 per cent high recorded in June 2024. The Bank of England’s decision to reduce the base rate to 4.75 per cent in November mitigated some of these concerns,

32 DGB Magazine - General & PVCu

as one in five (18 per cent) report feeling more optimistic in light of the recent reduction.

A boost onto the property ladder Renters are still eying up the property ladder despite rising costs, with one fifth (22 per cent) believing that home ownership is within their reach within the next five years. However, obstacles remain – when identifying the biggest barriers to homeownership, two-fifths (40 per cent) say property prices, and 37 per cent cite the amount needed for a deposit.

Seeking to overcome these challenges, demand to access the ‘Bank of Mum and Dad’ is high for the year ahead, as six in 10 renters (57 per cent) believe that it would be impossible to buy a home without an inheritance or loan from a family member.

Although perceived as a necessity, of those who have recently bought their first home, of those who have recently bought their first home, just 18 per cent report having had financial help from family. Rather than ask for a lump sum, 12 per cent opted to make use of a mortgage product which involves family members to increase their borrowing capacity, for example Barclays Family Springboard Mortgage.

Going it alone Despite the prevalence of family support in the market, over a third (35 per cent) of renters saving to buy a home reported building their deposit themselves, preferring to reach the milestone independently. Meanwhile, nearly one in five (17 per cent) are saving for a deposit with a friend or partner to help spread the cost.

Seeking support elsewhere, three in 10 new homeowners (29 per cent) opted to use a firsttime-buyer scheme to assist their purchase, whilst a quarter (25 per cent) locked-into a longer mortgage term to help reduce monthly costs.

Of those saving for a deposit, 15 per cent say

their family is unable to contribute, while one in 10 (10 per cent) is fortunate to have had offers of support for a deposit contribution from parents and/or family members.

To save for their housing fund, many are reviewing and trying to reduce monthly bills (41 per cent), which may be a contributory factor to the -6.7 per cent drop in utilities spending in December, despite rising energy prices.

Other measures include reducing discretionary spending (39 per cent), signing up to cashback rewards (33 per cent) and cutting back on holidays (31 per cent).

New year, new home Three in ten Brits (30 per cent), including both renters and homeowners, report having moved in the last three years. Lifestyle improvements were the biggest motivation (17 per cent), followed by wanting to be closer to family and friends (17 per cent) and finding a bigger home (15 per cent).

Looking ahead to 2025, one in six existing homeowners (16 per cent) intend to relocate this year. Recent drops in house prices are a cause for optimism, with one in 10 (9 per cent) considering previously unaffordable properties in more desirable areas to now be within their price range.

Topping the list of priorities among prospective buyers are: garages or driveways (40 per cent), gardens (39 per cent), and functional spaces (32 per cent), such as pantries or utility rooms.

Homeowners spruce up their properties Consumer spending on household items had its smallest decline of 2024 in December (-0.3 per cent) as homeowners prepared for

the festive season. Purchases of Christmas trees and seasonal decorations also boosted spending in Garden centres (+3.1 per cent).

Looking ahead, four in 10 homeowners (43 per cent) are considering renovating or redecorating. Future-proofing the value of property is front of mind, as a quarter (24 per cent) say they are updating their property to boost energy efficiency, whilst 28 per cent are making improvements to increase the sale value.

Mark Arnold, Head of Mortgages and Savings at Barclays, said: “December brought an easing to the growth in rent and mortgage spending seen in previous months, as the Bank of England’s rate cut in November took effect.

“Saving for a first home remains a huge challenge in the market, with the Bank of Mum and Dad still perceived as necessary by many hoping to get on the property ladder. However, cautious optimism is emerging and many renters are establishing strong savings habits to build a deposit in the current economic landscape. This is helped by the recent softening of house prices and imminent stamp duty changes, which have motivated both potential buyers and sellers to act swiftly.

The indications that over 40% of homeowners are looking to renovate this year should come as some welcome news to an industry that has had to endure a tough 2024 and a pretty dismal outlook for 2025 so far. The fenestration sector is looking for things to be positive about and this could perhaps provide a silver lining.

Read the original article here: home.barclays/news/press-releases/2025/01/1-in-6-homeowners-intend-to-move-in-2025– as-growth-in-mortgage/

General & PVCu - DGB Magazine 33

BUILDING OUR SKILLS WELCOMES SUPPORT FROM REHAU Industry big hitters REHAU have thrown their weight behind Building Our Skills – Making Fenestration, Glass and Glazing a Career of Choice.

REHAU, one of the country’s leading uPVC window systems companies, has provided support to Building Our Skills for approximately a year and has now formalised this backing by becoming a National Partner. Becoming a National Partner means REHAU now has access to the widest range of services, initiatives and materials afforded by the organisation. These include Building Our Skills’ bespoke industry careers fairs, a workplace visits programme, a role with the BOS Advisory Panel, and a wealth of new opportunities and assistance in skills training, apprenticeships and the development of programmes to help attract new starters to Rehau’s many business units.

REHAU’s Stephen Beresford, Head of Marketing, comments: “Becoming a Building Our Skills National Partner is a great fit for us. We have a mutual interest in bringing talent into the industry.

We hadn’t found the right vehicle before to enable us to help achieve this, and I’m very pleased that joining forces with BOS affords us this opportunity. It’s incredibly important that employers are able to attract young people into fenestration in order to ensure that it thrives. I

34 DGB Magazine - General & PVCu

think many of them are unaware of the sheer breadth of roles that we offer.

“As a company, we have already completed several college visits, and I’m looking forward to seeing more of these undertaken through BOS. In addition, we attended both of the BOS careers festivals last year and are engaged with the programme for 2025. We had brilliant feedback from visitors and staff, proving that they are definitely the way forward. All in all, working with Building Our Skills is going to be a key part of our future plans to help attract the best talent and safeguard future skills.”

Building Our Skills’ Partnerships Manager, Mark Handley, comments: “It’s fantastic to have the support of REHAU. Their commitment has been first-class. I would also like to stress that these mutually beneficial partnerships are also ideal for smaller organisations too. Companies can also take on a formalised partnership with us at regional or local levels. We’re calling for the industry – companies large and small – to get behind us at this very important time in our development.

We all know about the skills challenges the industry is suffering, and we know we have to act if we are to protect its future and secure a long-term sustainable future for it.”

Feel free to visit www.buildingourskills.co.uk for more information or email me directly at markhandley@buildingourskills.co.uk.

General & PVCu - DGB Magazine 35

FIVE PRODUCTS THAT COULD THRIVE IN 2025 It has been a bit of a wild start to the new year has it not? Events in the UK and around the world are as turbulent as ever, and Christmas already feels miles away. Hopes for a more sedate and prosperous 2025 are perhaps already fading.

That being said, no matter how tough things are, there are always opportunities to be had if we look hard enough for them. These are my five products in the fenestration sector that I think will thrive in 2025.

1. Heritage aluminium I can speak to this particular product niche thanks to my own experience in 2024. Demand for heritage-look aluminium windows and doors in 2024 was certainly on the rise, and all signs point to that trend continuing to grow.

You don’t need to buy market reports to know this. A quick look on imaged-based social platforms like Instagram and Pinterest will reveal many more installers than just a couple of years ago showing off their new heritage aluminium installations. And it’s not just installers. Fabricators appear to be rushing

36 DGB Magazine - General & PVCu

to the aluminium market to prise open new revenue streams, with heritage aluminium being at the top of that list.

Whilst the market is certainly turning to this niche as a ways to increase revenue, demand is very much being driven by consumers.

Although heritage and steel-look aesthetics have never really fallen out of fashion – it has always looked great – people seem to be rediscovering it and falling back in love with the look that defined the late 1800s and early 1900s.

I believe there is enormous potential in this area in 2025. Installers and fabricators who already sell aluminium will likely be seeing rapid growth in this area already. For installers who have not yet decided to add aluminium to their product portfolios, this would be very much the time to do it. We’re still at the start of this particular cycle, with a good few years worth of growth ahead. Don’t let this upswing in demand pass you buy only because you haven’t dealt with aluminium before. Find a good supplier, learn the product, get some sales training if you have to and then hit it hard. There are gains to be had!

2. Timber entrance doors

3. PVCu flush windows

Yes, they are making a comeback. Aluminium entrance doors have perhaps taken a lot of the spotlight in the last few years, and rightly so, that part of the market has grown significantly.

But for the more eagle-eyed of you, you’ll have seen more high-quality timber doors being installed and then proudly displayed by installers on social media platforms last year.

As a rough estimate, around two-thirds of the PVCu windows we sold at our place last year were flush. It was, by some margin, one of the best years for flush windows we have ever had. If not the best. 2025 I think will be another good year for flush windows for us all.

I believe that this year will see more high-end timber doors being installed as sustainability and general love for timber creep back into the public domain. Timber doors are becoming more widely accessible to installers once again, and a number of manufacturers of timber doors are already increasing their range and options to help give installers the tools to sell them.

This particular trend has perhaps some more momentum to build. The aluminium door market has been firing on all cylinders over the past couple of years, and I expect that to continue. But I do genuinely believe that the timber entrance door market has a lot more room to grow, and with material sustainability at the forefront of almost everything now, timber doors will do well in this new environment.

For us, those sales came by simply demonstrating the difference between standard casements and flush casements, with the client left to decide which one they preferred. We never pushed a particular option over another, we just simply presented everything. As a result of that approach, more and more people chose flush windows.

What also continued to surprise me was the number of clients who continued to say that our competitors had not talked to them about flush windows. Whether that is because they’re marginally more expensive than standard casements, or they are just not tuned into the product, I don’t know. But what I do know is that consumers get far more emotionally excited about flush windows than other PVCu options.

Thin welds or timber look joints, flat frames and a multitude of colours allow the homeowner to tailor their new windows to suit their tastes and property. Visually, flush windows look markedly different from standard casements and really transform the look of a home. I don’t foresee any slowing in demand for flush PVCu windows this year, only rising sales.

4. Aluminium internal doors I know you could probably lump this in with the heritage aluminium niche above, but aluminium internal doors are becoming so popular that they deserve their own mention.

We sold so many of these last year into properties of all types, and again it was driven by homeowners actively seeking the product out. To that end, we actually built a new showroom to house a number of new internal doors, expanding on the selection we already had.

The popularity of steel-look internal doors can again be linked to the general rise in demand for steel or steel-look home improvement products across the board. It is a look that is very much “in” right now and has lots more road to run.

General & PVCu - DGB Magazine 37

But I also think there is a post-COVID element in all of this. After being at home for so long, people learned to appreciate their spaces better. Demand for more light in homes has certainly risen, and aluminium internal doors very much help with that, with the glazing allowing light to spread between rooms.

Not to mention these products look absolutely fantastic. They are genuine architectural centrepieces of any room and excite those who buy them and those who see them when they visit friends and family. Installers have to be involved in this part of the market for 2025.

5. Sash windows If you have noticed, all of these product suggestions are very much in the high-end part of the market. This is where profitable work is going to be over the next few years and where there is any chance of growth. As part of that landscape, sash windows will also play their part.

Whether it is in timber or PVCu, I believe vertical sliding sash windows will play a larger role in proceedings this year. I see more and more homeowners reverting back to products that their period homes would have had, and in many cases that would have been sash windows.

I don’t think we’ll be seeing the explosive growth that aluminium has, although I would not rule it out over the coming few years, but I definitely believe that there is a great opportunity for installers to market sash windows to clients who are seeking a more traditional window replacement this year.

Timber sash windows I think could do well thanks to the sustainability factor. But in PVCu land, with higher-end options now being more widely accepted in conservation areas, there is plenty of opportunity there too.

These are just five areas that I believe installers and fabricators could do well in this year. There will be others that can be added to this list too. Trading conditions are going to be pretty rough I believe once again this year.

There are too many headwinds and risks to think otherwise. However, for installers and fabricators who are more proactive and seek out new work rather than hope it just walks through the door, there will be growth to be had.

38 DGB Magazine - General & PVCu

FREEFOAM ‘PERFECT PARTNER’ FOR PRINCIPALITY PLASTICS WAREHOUSE Freefoam Building Products Ltd has been described as key to the growth of new customer Principality Plastics Warehouse Ltd, supporting the specialist stockist with leads and new business opportunities.

Principality Plastics Warehouse is a multidiscipline distributor of plastics and building products, selling to trade and DIY customers in the South West and Wales. It has branches in Cardiff, Gelli, Swansea, and Gloucester.

Founded in 1992, the company was acquired in 2023 by a team including Matthew Epps (now MD), who saw an opportunity for growth – and saw Freefoam as the perfect partner.

“Freefoam are different to most suppliers in this industry, they’re a manufacturer only,” explains Matthew. “Most of their competition are manufacturers but they also have trade counters. Freefoam is just focused on the distributors, the independents, which is the perfect fit for us.”

Matthew continues: “Freefoam are key to our growth plans, and that’s from the day we sat down with their team in July 2024. We carefully thought out how we can work together and grow the business.

“We stock the full range of Freefoam products: soffit, fascia, window trims, interior panelling, and cladding. But one of the key products in this partnership is the Fortex® range of cladding. It’s a new market for us and we see massive growth in that area with existing customers – but it can also bring a lot of new customers to our business.

“Freefoam gave us lots of support as a new customer. They assisted with lots of product

promotions and launches in the early days, we’ve had specials on Fortex® cladding, and joint social media campaigns. We had members of their staff in the branch for the initial launch.

They’re always available, always communicating. We’re really happy with the partnership. They’re the perfect partner for our business.”

Steve Shaw, Freefoam Area Sales Manager – South Wales & South West, comments: “We’re proud to work with independent stockists like Principality and we aim to help them win new business in every way we can: when they grow, we grow.”

For more information about Principality Plastics Warehouse, visit www. principalityplasticswarehouse.co.uk, or watch our video about the distributor’s relationship with Freefoam here: youtube.com/@ freefoambuildingproducts3766 Learn more about Freefoam’s products, service and support by visiting www.freefoam. com or calling 0800 002 9903. Follow @ freefoam.

General & PVCu - DGB Magazine 39

QUALITY CONTENT

FAR REACHING

LATEST NEWS FIRST

Tackling genuine, thought provoking UK glazing industry issues on a daily and independent basis

Set to be read by over a quarter of a million people, creating over 350,000 page views (estimated 2024 stats)

Read the most important breaking news, features, opinion and PR long before you'll see them in print

WWW.DOUBLEGLAZINGBLOGGER.COM