Fenestration Digital Edition 49 JULY

Hello and welcome to July’s edition of Fenestration Digital!

It has certainly been a busy month within fenestration in terms of new products. A raft of companies have announced brand new products or new innovations to existing products, with a view to give installers more chances to win new business.

More often than not, when downturns happen, innovation expands. Suppliers seek to win new business and give their customers chances to open up more revenue streams by giving them new tools and products to entice homeowners into investing in their homes. We’re in a new innovation cycle now which could last for a significant period of time.

Although the outlook is uncertain, new products and new opportunities make for exciting times. Competition will rise and market activity will increase. The second half of this year is certainly going to be fast paced!

We hope you enjoy this month’s edition!

Team Fenestration Digital

EDGETECH’S SUCCESS CELEBRATED AT QUANEX AWARDS

For Quanex (the billion-dollar, US building products powerhouse that owns Edgetech, Liniar and other leading brands), celebrating success is an integral part of the culture.

This is why the Houston-based firm is proud to hold an annual internal awards event – and this year, Edgetech’s unwavering commitment to safety was singled out for praise.

Edgetech Coventry received a Safety & Stakeholder Emerald Award for its rigorous safety processes and for the exemplary conduct of its employees.

In addition, Jason Blundred, Edgetech Coventry’s long-serving Head of Operations, received the President’s Service Award for his decades of outstanding work at the company.

Edgetech Managing Director Chris Alderson

comments: “At Quanex, we passionately believe that highlighting and celebrating our successes is a vital part of sustaining a world-class business.

“Recognising the incredible contribution made by thousands of Quanex employees around the globe makes us proud of everything we achieve.

“For me, it’s especially gratifying to see Edgetech’s tireless efforts to maintain a safe, efficient working environment be recognised in this way.

“I’m also extremely pleased for Jason. His commitment to the company is incredible, and we’re extremely fortunate to have him.

“I want to take this opportunity to thank all our fantastic employees. Without their hard work and dedication, none of what we do would be possible.”

Edgetech employees gathered to watch the event, streamed from Quanex HQ in Houston, Texas, while enjoying fish and chips and ice cream from a van hired especially for the occasion.

For more information, please call 02476 639931 or visit www.edgetechig.co.uk

HOW EUROCELL’S PARTNERSHIP APPROACH IS SUPPORTING ITS NETWORK OF FABRICATION PARTNERS

Eurocell’s philosophy of ‘Grow with us’ is more than just a mantra, it’s living and breathing through its network of fabrication partners and its focused, partnership approach is key to supporting their growth. From family-run businesses celebrating decades in operation, through to newer companies, Eurocell is helping fabricators achieve their commercial ambitions.

Sustainability credentials and product innovation from Eurocell have helped Warwick Development North West win business and keep pace with changing client demands.

The family-run operation has benefitted from new business wins across the commercial, new build and social housing sectors thanks to expert support received from Eurocell, but also the sustainability credentials offered through its recycling scheme and use of recycled PVC-U, and high-quality product options including Modus and Logik.

Warwick Development North West has seen how ‘Grow with us’ can work in practice. It has continued to evolve the Eurocell products it offers alongside investments in machinery and this, in addition to its valued partnership with Eurocell, has seen it benefit from an uplift in trade.

Viewing itself as one team with Eurocell, Warwick Development North West also attended Eurocell’s recent fabricator forum and valued the opportunity to share best practice and find out more about the practical ways Eurocell is supporting its network of partners.

Greg Johnson, Managing Director at Warwick Development North West, summarises why the partnership with Eurocell is so important to the company: “Eurocell is a strong and reliable partner and has been able to support us as we’ve diversified and grown our business with varied products and investments in machinery. We really value working as one team with its team and how it enables us

to win contracts and deliver high quality products and service to our customers.”

Gemini UPVC Ltd based in Oldham has been in business for 38 years and continues to go from strength-to-strength. It is currently planning to expand its premises to continue to meet demand and is looking to update its site and add a showroom. Its expansion plans are following continued growth and investments in machinery made possible by Eurocell. This means it now has the infrastructure in place to bring in and service new accounts.

For Gemini UPVC Ltd, Eurocell’s range of products have been vital in its growth, especially the ability to mix and match and integrate systems, while the forwardthinking innovation of Eurocell has meant the team at Gemini UPVC Ltd has felt supported as it has continued to drive the business forward.

Expansion plans have also been key for Leamore Windows in Walsall. Over four

decades, this family-run business has grown from offering glazing repairs to its current operation manufacturing windows, doors, bifold doors, and conservatories, among others. Now employing 75 staff, the business’ factory showroom has been refurbished and is set over two floors, showcasing hundreds of products. With a full package of support available, wide, innovative product ranges, and sustainability credentials proven through its recycling operations, Eurocell is committed to helping fabricators grow. As the examples of Warwick Development North West, Gemini UPVC Ltd, and Leamore Windows demonstrate, this can unlock significant opportunities for businesses and see them thrive.

To learn more about the range of products and support available for fabricators from Eurocell, visit https://www.eurocell.co.uk/ growwithus

HOMEBUILDING & RENOVATING SHOWS

All three pioneering Korniche products will be on show to the trade and public at the next event, taking place in London this Autumn

Following on from a rapturous reception at the 2023 FIT Show that saw not just a standout product unveiling but also an in-house fundraising challenge en route, Made for Trade are gearing up for more of the same at the Homebuilding & Renovation Show London, coming up on September 22nd- 24th.

Taking place at London’s ExCeL, the regional variant follows hot on the heels of a hugely successful national version of the event back in March. Here, a 9% increase in footfall was recorded from the previous year to generate some 26,000 people on site - proving that the housing renovation market is far from seeing doom and gloom but still stronger than ever here in the UK.

The success of the National event made a notable impact

on MfT’s year; providing not only sales and leads to many of the Made for Trade customers in the Midlands area, but also getting the multi-award winning Korniche product range in front of thousands of new customers. MfT are now able to utilise the next in the programme of busy H&R events to introduce the new Flat Rooflight to the industry and attendees of the London exhibition, where the reception is expected to be just as positive as at its FIT Show launch.

The Korniche Flat Rooflight takes all the USPs and attributes on which the brand has made its name in the industry, and applied them to a flat glass system in order to meet consumer and trade demand for such a high quality engineered product with Korniche’s unrivalled ease and speed of fitment. The aesthetic appeal mirrors that of the Bi-Folding

doors and Roof Lantern, with a sleek and ultra-slimline profile alongside the highest thermal efficiency – something buyers want to see now more than ever.

Made for Trade have once again

TRADE CAPITALISES ON NATIONAL THAT ARE PROVING BUSIER THAN EVER

invested further in nationwide promotion for the Korniche brand for the benefit of trade partners and are set to join at the ExCeL with a significant display, and more product placement than ever.

MfT

will look forward to having the full three-product range: the new Flat Rooflight joins the display alongside the Roof Lantern and Bi-Folding door in single, patio, four and five leaf configurations. The MfT stand layout is designed in such a way that the marketleading and multi-award winning benefits to both the homeowner and their trade installer are clear to see to save time, hassle and money; truly a win-win component for extensions and home builders.

As per the FIT Show in May, Korniche and Made for Trade brand ambassador Mark Millar will again be on site in support of the pioneering North East company at the London exhibition. The TV presenter and recognised tradesman with be meeting new and existing customers and helping to promote the trio of Korniche products - of which he has first hand experience

- to consumers, before he makes an appearance on the event’s ‘MasterClass Stage’ on Saturday 23rd.

As consumers continue to request Korniche by name to their builders and installers, The Homebuilding & Renovating Shows are the ideal platforms at which to showcase Korniche products to homeowners in a position to invest in their own selfbuild projects and upgrades; further building the brand in a way that works for both parties.

Are you a London-based installer or trade retailer, or homeowner looking to plan a new project? With proven sales success UK-wide as trade partners realise the consumer-led benefits of Korniche engineering, this is one show that really cannot be missed – head to the ExCeL in September to see the products for yourself and speak to the Made for Trade team to see why Korniche is the brand for you.

GARNALEX AWARDED QUALICOAT APPROVAL FOR STATE-OF-THE-ART IN-HOUSE PAINT PLANT

Garnalex’s in-house state-of-the-art powder coating plant has been recognised for its’ quality assurance processes after being awarded a QUALICOAT coating applicator approved licence – the world’s leading quality label for aluminium coatings. This is especially significant as Garnalex is currently the only manufacturer in the East Midlands to hold the coveted licence. As well as helping them stand out from the competition, the licence gives customers peace of mind as they know the company’s products are of the highest standard.

To gain the licence, Garnalex underwent QUALICOAT’s rigorous approval process, which involved a detailed application outlining every step of the company’s powder coating process and submitting samples for testing.

Being an approved licence holder means Garnalex has and will continue to adhere to QUALICOAT’s specifications for its’ plant, equipment, coating materials, and finished products. QUALICOAT has a continuous monitoring programme in place.

For licence holders, this ensures they keep their approval, while their customers continue to benefit from the highest standards possible. This is in line with QUALICOAT’s mission to maintain the standards and quality of coatings for alloys and architectural applications.

Since investing £1.3 million to bring powder coating in-house, Garnalex has gained control over its’ quality assurance processes while Sheerline’s customers have benefited from improved quality delivered in as responsive and agile way as possible.

Ross Hartshorn, Technical Production Director, said: “Since bringing our powder coating in-house, our paint plant has gone from strength to strength, gaining multiple industry recognised accreditations, including the QUALICOAT coating applicator approved licence.” “This is all part of our strategy to ensure we maintain our edge and keep both Garnalex and Sheerline ahead of the competition. The team have worked hard to ensure we gain this approval – it’s a fantastic result, particularly as we are the only manufacturer in the East Midlands to hold this quality licence,” he added.

To find out more about Garnalex’s state-of-the-art powder coating plant, visit the website here: https://www.sheerline.com

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Making Doors Special

“A SPACER FOR ALL SOLUTIONS” AT VITRUM 2023

Warm-edge spacer bar experts Edgetech, who are a proud part of the Quanex family, will exhibit their highly successful Super Spacer® range at the Vitrum show in Milan.

From 5th- 8th of September, the biennial event will draw thousands to the Fiera Milano exhibition centre. Showcasing the latest in glass manufacturing technology, it will be an excellent opportunity to show exactly what Super Spacer® has to offer.

Edgetech Managing Director Chris Alderson comments: “In 1989, Edgetech was the first manufacturer to introduce flexible, foam-based warm

edge spacer systems.

“Super Spacer® continues to excel on all fronts –delivering on everything from energy efficiency and room comfort to streamlining unit production and ensuring an aesthetically pleasing edge seal.

“As countries across Europe strive for net zero in the built environment, and solutions like triple glazing increasingly become the norm, these benefits will prove more powerful than ever.”

In addition to the extensively tried-and-tested Super Spacer®, products such as the

Super Spacer® T-Spacer™ SG, specially developed to meet the requirements of the structural glazing and XXL glazing market, will also be on show.

Furthermore, Edgetech will display a selection of new colour variants, including samples in ruby and green. These will complement the company’s standard colour range of Grey, White and Black.

Visitors will find Edgetech at Hall 7P, Stand S04.

MORLEY GLASS AGREES LEEDS KNIGHTS TITLE SPONSORSHIP FOR NEXT TWO SEASONS

Leeds-based integral blinds manufacturer Morley Glass has signed a deal to extend its sponsorship of ice hockey team Leeds Knights for at least the next two years. The company will continue to be “Title Sponsors” of the team who were crowned the Planet Ice NIHL National Division Champions this year, and expectations are even higher for the 2023-24 season which begins in September.

The officially named “Morley Glass Leeds Knights” describe the sponsorship agreement as ‘pivotal’ as it helps to reinforce their ambition to be one of the established sporting brands in Leeds - starting with the defence of its title. The funding will enable the club to include new and upgraded branding within the rink and the Morley Glass logo will be prominently positioned on its new jersey design for the 2023-24 season.

Warwick Andrews, Managing Director of Leeds Knights said: “We are delighted to have extended our deal with Morley Glass; their investment for the next two years provides us with the confidence to build for the future. Morley Glass have been instrumental in supporting the growth of the club and it will be a pleasure to work alongside them as an integral part of our team.”

Ian Short, MD of Morley Glass added: “It has been amazing to see the work that everyone involved with Leeds Knights puts in, which is reflected in how much they’ve achieved in such a short period of time. We’re proud to support the team and wish them the very best of luck for next season.”

The NIHL National Division, in which Leeds Knights play, is a professional ice hockey league formed of 11 teams nationwide and is the second tier of ice hockey in the UK. Leeds Knights entered the league after the Covid pandemic, following the opening of the new 2000-capacity Planet Ice Arena in 2019. To find out more about Leeds Knights visit www.leedsknights.com. And find out more about Morley Glass at www.morleyglass.co.uk.

INTEGRAL BLINDS ARE NOT JUST FOR BI-FOLDS

Our bespoke integral blinds are made to measure to suit all window and door applications (including bi-folding and sliding doors).

morleyglass.co.uk

SHEERVENT® ADVANCES AN ALREADY MARKET-LEADING LANTERN

As the architectural industry constantly pushes the boundaries of innovation, one name stands out amongst the rest - Sheerline. Known for their impeccable craftsmanship and cuttingedge designs, Sheerline has once again captured the spotlight with their latest innovation: the SheerVent® opening window for the Sheerline S1 lantern roof. With its remarkable aluminum slim sight lines, exceptional ventilation capabilities, and promising potential for installers, the SheerVent® is set to redefine the way we view roof windows.

Aesthetics Meets Functionality

The first thing that catches the eye with the SheerVent® is its slender aluminum sight lines. Sheerline has seamlessly integrated highquality aluminum frames, allowing for larger glass surfaces and maximizing natural light infiltration. The result is an unobtrusive and sleek design that not only enhances the aesthetics of any space but also ensures an unobstructed view of the world outside.

The SheerVent’s slim sight lines present a paradigm shift in roof window design, giving architects and homeowners the opportunity to create spaces that exude sophistication and modernity. By minimizing visual interruptions, this innovative feature enables the window to blend harmoniously with any architectural style, from contemporary masterpieces to timeless classics. With the SheerVent®, form meets function in perfect harmony,

enhancing both the interior and exterior of buildings. Embracing the Power of Ventilation via the Roof Ventilation is a crucial aspect of any living space, and SheerVent® takes it to a whole new level by introducing roofbased ventilation. Unlike conventional windows that open to the side, the SheerVent® opens upwards, allowing hot air to escape through the roof, promoting a healthier indoor environment and optimizing energy efficiency.

This roof-based ventilation concept not only ensures a consistent airflow but also reduces the risk of rain ingress during those unexpected showers. The cleverly designed rain baffles prevent water from entering the interior, so residents can enjoy the benefits of natural ventilation, rain or shine. Moreover, the SheerVent’s innovative mechanics allow for easy operation, giving users full control over the amount of ventilation required, from a gentle breeze to a complete opening for maximum airflow.

Opening New Sales Opportunities for Installers

SheerVent® not only caters to the needs and desires of homeowners but also presents a wealth of new sales opportunities for installers and professionals in the architectural and construction industries. By introducing a product that sets new standards in both design and functionality, Sheerline has effectively provided installers with a powerful selling point that

can easily sway potential customers.

The ability to offer a roof window with such slim sight lines and exceptional ventilation capabilities can give installers a competitive edge in a crowded marketplace. Forwardthinking homeowners and architects, seeking to enhance their living spaces with state-of-the-art features, will undoubtedly be drawn to the SheerVent’s allure. This presents installers with a unique chance to upsell their services and offer high-end, innovative solutions that differentiate them from their competitors.

Excellence in design

The SheerVent® opening window for the Sheerline S1 lantern roof is a testament to Sheerline’s commitment to innovation and excellence in design. With its aluminium slim sight lines, roof-based ventilation, and potential to enhance sales opportunities for installers, the SheerVent® sets a new standard for roof windows.

Architects and homeowners alike will be captivated by its elegant aesthetics and functional brilliance, while installers will recognize the opportunities it brings for expanding their businesses and offering cutting-edge solutions to their clientele. The SheerVent® is not just a window; it’s a statement, an experience, and a gamechanger in the world of roof windows. As we move into a new era of architectural excellence, the SheerVent® leads the way as a shining example of what the future holds for roof window design.

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Accredited training leading to qualifications

If you are looking to retrain for a new career, or looking to develop your skills to open up opportunities why not consider practical training in window and door installation

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For more information on training contact sayhello@buildingourskills.co.uk

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NEW SWEET CLASSIC DOOR KNOCKER

Brisant Secure has expanded its Sweet furniture range to include a Classic Door Knocker, providing homeowners and trade professionals with a traditional option that complements the contemporary design of the Sweet range. The Sweet range was introduced as a cutting-edge design with contemporary aesthetics. The introduction of the Classic Door Knocker means that doors with a traditional design can now benefit from the

behind the quality of its product with a remarkable 20-year direct-to-homeowner guarantee. The Classic Knocker is available in all six colors offered within the Sweet range, including the popular Rose Gold.

“We understand that our customers have diverse preferences when it comes to door

performance, durability and unique guarantee of Sweet door furniture.

This new addition carries all the exceptional benefits synonymous with the Sweet range. It features an incredible 8000-hour tested coating, surpassing industry standards by over 30 times, compared to the flagship EN 1906:2012 corrosion standard, which typically requires only 240 hours of testing. Moreover, Brisant Secure stands

furniture, and we are committed to meeting their needs,” said Nick Dutton, CEO at Brisant Secure. “The addition of the Classic Knocker to our Sweet range gives homeowners and trade professionals that traditional option. We believe this new offering will add a touch of elegance to any entrance while maintaining the quality and reliability that Brisant Secure is known for.”

The Sweet Classic Knocker is available now. For more information about the Sweet range, please visit our website at https://www.brisant-secure.com.

SHEERLINE EXPANDS SALES TEAM TO CONTINUE GROWTH

To help make their innovative, thermally efficient aluminium range available to more installers, homeowners, and specifiers across the whole of the UK, Sheerline have expanded their Sales Team with some new key appointments. Further strengthening the companies

reach North and to the South West.

With the imminent launch of their slimline Classic Heritage Door, Sheerline now offers truly

whole house solutions, allowing fabricators and installers to offer easy-tounderstand, fully compliant products that share a unified platform.

To help spread the message of just how good aluminium can be, Howard Hirst joins Garnalex as Area Sales Director – North. Howard brings with him a wealth of experience and

looks forward to helping existing customers realise their growth ambitions, as well as

expanding Sheerline’s

network northwards. He will also cover the North of Wales. Also strengthening the Sales Team is Martin Hepburn, who started as the Area Sales Manager covering the West Midlands, South Wales and South West at the beginning of July.

No stranger to the fenestration industry, Martin brings with him over 30 years’ of experience in commercial management, business development, and strategic sales planning. He’s spent the past five years as the Commercial Sales Manager (Trade and Retail) for Reynaers.

Tony Basile Sheerline’s National Sales Director, comments: “These new positions, working alongside Paul Greenaway who covers London and the South East, are key to helping us

deliver the service levels we are committed to, for each and every Sheerline customer.”

Roger Hartshorn, Sheerline

CEO, also said of the new appointments: “It’s fantastic to welcome Howard, and Martin onboard. Having worked with Howard at both Eurocell and Liniar, I’m confident that we will continue to achieve our ambitious growth targets. It’s good to have him back in the family!”

“With these new appointments, we’re combining the best of tried and tested with new blood to create a strong and experienced team with a depth of knowledge from across the industry. That we’re able to attract and retain such talent is a testament to our commitment

to our people, products, and customers,” he added.

To find out more about Sheerline and its’ new products, visit the website here: http://www.sheerline.com, Alternatively, contact the team on 01332 978000 or email info@sheerline.com

THE POWER OF

Kamila Kasperowicz, Marketing Director at UAP, gives an insight into the company’s people-focused culture and the team members in the running for an NFA Award.

UAP’s rapid growth in recent years has brought many changes, but one thing that has stayed the same is our commitment to our people. As our biggest assets, we want our people to feel happy, safe and valued. This aim has seen us develop and foster a culture focused on employee wellbeing, innovation, training and professionalism.

Our CEO David Jennings, who founded UAP in 1996, has been the driving force behind our culture and growth. As a company that started life packing door knockers in a small room, we now have seven brands in the UAP family, more than 100 employees, and a cooperative structure meaning every staff member owns a share of the business.

The companies which have joined UAP in recent years have been strategically acquired, bringing complementary products into our portfolio and ensuring customers have an unrivalled choice of hardware. David, who has been

nominated as Managing Director of the Year at the 2023 NFA Awards, has not only identified these companies, but led the seamless integration of their people.

With a focus on upskilling, wellbeing and collaboration, David has also orchestrated the launch of the UAP Training Academy, Doggy Daycare for staff, and most recently, our relocation a new, larger site which will take place later this year. This move will bring all our processes under one roof, including a new training facility to support the ongoing personal development of our people.

As UAP has expanded, we have sought to attract new talent into our business too.

Rhyann Renzulli, our marketing executive, is

OF THE PEOPLE

just one example.

Rhyann, who is a finalist in the Young Person of the Year category at the NFA Awards, began working part-time with UAP while at university, joining our team on placement. As part of her degree, she conducted extensive research into wellbeing and internal marketing at UAP, interviewing our staff to find out what they valued the most. She graduated with a first class degree in business and marketing, and was offered a permanent role in our marketing team in June 2023.

A rising star, Rhyann is working on a variety of events that support our wellbeing strategy, applying the knowledge she gained during her research. She is also using her skills to support our team with internal communications, newsletters and email marketing.

Looking ahead, we will continue to be powered by our people. From operations through to senior management, who we are drives what we do and will continue to shape, strengthen and evolve UAP as well as our future success.

NUKI PLUS WINS BEST

SMART SECURITY AWARD AT T3 AWARDS 2023

Ultion is thrilled to announce their victory at the T3 Awards 2023. Their revolutionary product, the Ultion Nuki Plus, has emerged triumphant in the fiercely competitive Smart Security category, leaving behind formidable competitors such as Arlo, ERA, T-Link, and Yale.

The T3 Awards, renowned for recognising technological excellence and innovation, witnessed intense competition this year. However, Ultion’s approach of prioritising locking first and emphasising security as their foremost concern set them apart from the competition. Their commitment to prioritising security has been

previously acknowledged by T3, who commented that the Ultion Nuki Plus “might be the best smart lock” they have ever seen.

The Ultion Nuki Plus has set a new standard for smart lock systems, combining cuttingedge technology with a wide range of convenient access options. With features such as built-in Wi-Fi, a rechargeable USB-C battery, and compatibility with keycodes, voice commands, the Nuki app, key fobs and fingerprint access, Ultion’s lock offers unrivalled convenience and security. The built-in bridge allows users to effortlessly control the lock from their smartphones, while the auto-

unlock feature adds an extra layer of sophistication and convenience.

“We are incredibly proud to receive this prestigious accolade at the T3 Awards. It is a proud moment for Ultion,” said Nick Dutton, CEO of Ultion. “This recognition is a testament to our unwavering dedication to delivering smart security solutions that not only offer convenience but also provide peace of mind to our customers. With our steadfast commitment to keeping the bad guys out, we will continue pushing the boundaries of innovation in the smart security sector.