Welcome to the latest edition of Fenestration Digital!
This issue is all about innovation in aluminium systems, with features on Sheerline’s latest advancements, the rise of minimalist hardware, and key industry milestones.
We’re also celebrating Winkhaus’ 25 years with Secured by Design and VBH’s recognition at the Installer Awards. With Conservatory Outlet investing in apprenticeships, REHAU supporting Building Our Skills, and Keystone revealing the latest consumer trends, there’s plenty to catch up on.
As 2025 unfolds, we’re excited to see how aluminium continues to shape the future of fenestration. Grab a cuppa, get comfy, and enjoy the read!
Team FD
REYNAERS’ VISION 7 ENTRANCE DOOR REACHES 1 MILLION MILESTONE IN DURABILITY TEST CYCLE
The Vision 7 Thermal Commercial Door from Reynaers Aluminium has now reached 1 million cycles (2 million open-close cycles) under ongoing performance testing, achieving the highest classification of mechanical durability.
The durability test cycle has been ongoing at Reynaers’ cutting-edge testing centre at the company’s global headquarters in Duffel, Belgium since August 2023.
The aim of the testing is to give a genuine, qualified projection of durability when used in a high-traffic environment, such as a school, hospital or as an entrance door in a commercial building.
Vision 7 is a high-usage anti-finger trap thermal commercial door and framing system suitable for a range of ground-floor applications that has been developed specifically for the UK market.
Reaching this milestone in mechanical durability testing means Vision 7 now meets the EN 12400 Class 8 rating, demonstrating high durability in the most frequent use environments.
After testing is complete the door must not show any sign of deformation or damage. Each level of testing ensures the correct standard of durability for the product’s use, with the Class 8 rating developed to test doors for severe intensity usage, such as in public and commercial buildings.
Ian Osborne, UK Product Development Manager at Reynaers, said: “We are committed to the
continual development of our products and are proud to have achieved this recent milestone in testing and certification for Vision 7.
“The robust testing for Class 8 simulates realworld, high-frequency usage and allows us to ensure that our products are compliant with industry performance standards for the UK and Europe. Vision 7 also offers an excellent thermal rating providing a sustainable solution for our customers.
“By certifying the durability and reliability of high-frequency products, such as Vision 7, we are ensuring long-term performance, reducing the need for replacement products and therefore mitigating the environmental impact of manufacturing and disposal.
“Vision 7 continues to be a result of the collaboration between Reynaers and our key stakeholders across the industry. This ensures our customers can be confident in the efficiency of our products forms a key part of our customer-centred ethos and we continually look to their feedback to further develop our innovative products”
Like the rest of Reynaers’ product portfolio, Vision 7 Thermal Commercial Door is in continual development to enhance its performance and expand its range of hardware options, including the latest panic hardware options.
Find out more about Vision 7 online.
Take a closer look at the New Vision 7 Entrance Doors.
It’s the finer details that matter.
Discover unmatched durability and sleek aesthetics with the next generation of thermal commercial entrance doors from Reynaers Aluminium. With anti-finger trap functionality, Vision 7 is ideal for a range of ground-floor commercial applications.
• Slim visual width due to a narrow bulb radius of only 40mm
We are contributing to more sustainable buildings and developing circular products. Ensuring we reduce our ecological footprint while never forgetting we are a caring company.
With over 50 years of global product development, 7 testing centres worldwide, you can be reassured with Reynaers Aluminium.
FDM LTD TO SPONSOR BRAND NEW FIRE DOOR PRODUCT OF THE YEAR CATEGORY
Fire Door Maintenance Ltd, the home of qualitybased and practical training for fire door safety, are to sponsor the Fire Door Product of The Year category in the 2025 National Fenestration Awards.
The Fire Door Product of The Year category is new to the NFAs this year and reflects the growing influence and importance the fire door market plays within the overall UK fenestration sector.
Established in early 2024, FDM Ltd Training and Development, works with industry, for industry. They are the largest practical and theory led training facilities in the UK and have collaborated with leading industry manufacturers and stakeholders, to enable a new way of learning within the fire door safety sector.
Sarah Rogers, Operations Director at the National Fenestration Awards commented: “we are excited to have FDM Ltd back this new award category for 2025. They are a perfect fit for this category considering the role they play within the fenestration sector, and we are very much looking forward to working with them in 2025 to promote their positive message and services to the wider sector!”
Nicola John, Managing Director at FDM Ltd said: “we are excited to be putting our name to this very important category for the 2025 National Fenestration Awards. Fire door products play a vital role in so much of the sector and country at large and we hope to shine a spotlight further on this very important area within the wider fenestration industry.”
Find out more about FDM Ltd by visiting: https:// fdmltd.co.uk/
The nominations phase of the 2025 National Fenestration Award is now open and will remain so until March 31st. To take part please visit: https://www. fenestrationawards.co.uk/nfa25/
Stay connected with the NFAs:
Web: fenestrationawards.co.uk
Email: info@fenestrationawards.co.uk
X: twitter.com/NatFenAwards
Facebook: facebook.com/NatFenAwards
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/51726620
MEET SHEERLINE’S LATEST INNOVATION: THE FAST CONNECT HYBRID BEAD
By Ben Hartshorn, Sheerline’s Technical Manager
When Sheerline was launched in 2020, PVC-u was still the preference for homeowners, fabricators, and installers. This was because the aluminium sector had been neglected and was lacking investment, innovation, and vision.
We saw an opportunity and developed the Sheerline system from scratch. Putting Garnalex’s experienced R&D teams’ fenestration knowledge to good use designing out common frustrations and making it easy to fabricate in a busy production setting.
In this article, we’ll explore the Sheerline system before sharing details about our latest innovation, the Fast Connect Hybrid Bead.
The Sheerline Difference
When we talk about the Sheerline difference, we aren’t just referring to our reliable five-day lead times, the visibility we give customers before their deliveries are due, or our OTIF, which is consistently above 99%, we’re also referring to our awardwinning products.
Developing our system from scratch provided a unique opportunity to not only energise the aluminium sector, but to make a fully-suited range that is genuinely fabricator and fitter-friendly.
Many of the components used within our products are interchangeable, which reduces complexity and stockholding, saving our fabricator partners time and money. We’ve been able to achieve this by developing a unified chassis that is central to the system.
Clever innovation has been woven into the very
fabric of every Sheerline product. From stylish aluminium grille shrouds that hide external ventilation to concealed couplers, in-built weatherseals, and cills built around common thermal cores.
Creating products with shared components, construction methods, and aesthetics has enabled the team to deliver a system that is more consistent and coherent. This allows for improvements to be made and paves the way for new innovations to be introduced that benefit all the products that Sheerline customers use.
For instance, our first Prestige clip-in bead was specifically designed to be fabricator-friendly, preventing the need for wedge-gasketing, with no requirement to mill beads during manufacturing.
Since then, we’ve gone on to develop the second-generation design of the most hands-on component in our windows and doors.
Meet Sheerline’s Fast Connect Hybrid Bead
Part of our commitment as an innovator is continuous development. As such, we’re always looking for new solutions and improvements to existing challenges. When we started thinking about the requirements for our (patent-pending) Fast Connect Hybrid Bead, we knew it needed to:
• Make glazing even easier
• Support easy removal (as needed)
• Improve thermal performance
We’ve ticked all these boxes by creating a hybrid bead that combines aluminium with a concealed Thermlock® component. As those who work with
aluminium know, there isn’t much give from the material, which is why we’ve in-built flexibility with a hybrid design.
The concealed and patent-pending Thermlock® inner provides the ‘give’ that aids both glazing and deglazing and increases thermal efficiency through its multi-chambered thermal design.
And with a co-extruded gasket to give a generous 5mm of compression, there are less issues for installers on site when dealing with irregular sized units. Designed as a universal bead for the Prestige range, the Fast Hybrid Connect Bead is available in two sizes, 28 and 36mm.
It’s not just the bead that has been redesigned though; we’ve also used a ‘foot-first’ approach for the installation. All installers need to do is locate the plastic foot and press down until they hear it ‘click’ into place.
It’s also been designed to be easily removed when necessary. All the installer has to do is push the bead toward the glass to create a gap, then run a deglazing tool along the gap to release. It’s quick and easy – a real gamechanger for aluminium systems.
Designs for the Future
This commitment to innovative product design and a fully suited range of products that match in terms of warranties, style, finish, security, and more, has resulted in Sheerline becoming an award-winning brand, recognised across the industry.
The products have broad appeal as homeowners want a stylish, modern aesthetic throughout the home, specifiers want to be able to buy from a single source UK supplier, and fitters and installers want to work with products that do what they say they’re going to.
If you could benefit from the Sheerline experience, why not give us a call on 01332 978 000 or email info@sheerline.com.
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SHEERLINE LAUNCHES VERSATILE STRUCTURAL COUPLER
Sheerline’s Structural Coupler is ideal for Grand Design-style projects such as those featuring architectural aluminium utilising Prestige Bifolding Doors sitting under large gable frames.
The clever component can be used in vertical and horizontal orientations, with the latter featuring a cill nose in-built to help with drainage, offering joints additional protection.
There’s also a retro-fit option for existing installations. It’s the ideal solution to help overcome remedial site issues by reducing deflection.
It works by increasing the rigidity of single components in instances where the wind pressure could be more than the deflection allowance.
As well as increasing the integrity of installations by strengthening them, the couplers help increase spans by up to 35%.
Each coupler has a variant suitable for the Classic and Prestige ranges ensuring there’s something
Sheerline’s Design Project Manager, Jon Crohill, said: “We’re confident fabricators and installers will find this versatile component helpful. The rule of thumb is to double a span you need to increase strength by eight, or to increase by 50% increase
Call 01332 978 000 or email info@ sheerline.com for more information about Sheerline’s Structural Coupler.
SHEERLINE’S CLASSIC HERITAGE DOOR IDEAL FOR INTERNAL INSTALLATIONS
The launch of Sheerline’s Classic Heritage Door zerothreshold option makes it ideal for internal installations. The announcement comes at a time when many homeowners are reviewing their living spaces and adding partitions back into their once open-plan homes.
Aside from being a rising interior design trend, brokenplan living offers homeowners practical benefits, enabling them to create spaces specifically for their needs. For example, if they work from home or require discreet storage spaces.
To maintain the bright, airy flows of light and space associated with open-plan living, homeowners can benefit from internal glass partitions. Thanks to the zerothreshold option, Sheerline’s Classic Heritage Door offers this solution.
Sheerline’s period-inspired lockbox design provides authentic heritage styling and homeowners can customise it to make it truly their own. For example, they can choose a single or French Door, unique styling, colour, and alter the number of Georgian bars.
Ben Hartshorn, Sheerline’s Technical Manager, said: “Our zero-threshold Classic Heritage Door is the ideal solution for homeowners who want a stylish partition with heritage aesthetics. It’s a timeless look that works just as well in an ultra-modern home as a character property.”
Click here: www.sheerline.com/product/classic-heritage-door-trade to find out more about Sheerline’s Classic Heritage Door.
SHEERLINE LAUNCHES NEW FAST CONNECT HYBRID BEAD FOR INSTALLERS
Sheerline’s new Fast Connect Hybrid Bead speeds up installations and accommodates both under and oversized units with ease. All while being easy to remove when a glass unit needs replacing. The true fitter’s friend – helping reduce installation time on site.
Its concealed and patent-pending Thermlock® inner improves thermal performance while also providing the ‘give’ that aids both glazing and deglazing. With a co-extruded gasket to give a generous 5mm of compression, there are less issues for installers on site when dealing with irregular sized units.
Connect is available in two glazing sizes 28 and 36mm. It has been designed as a universal bead, useable across Sheerline’s entire Prestige range of windows, doors, bi-folds and patios. Helping to simplify manufacturing and available on our standard 5-day lead times to fabricators.
Delivered to site protected by pro-tape that features a QR code that takes you to the simple glazing and deglazing instructions. Fitting the bead will be second nature to anyone familiar with glazing PVC-u.
The bead also remains more stable during transit in frames, due to the positive click of the hybrid design. Once you’ve tried it you won’t want to go back!
To find out more about Sheerline’s new Fast Connect Hybrid Bead, visit the website where you’ll find our installation video: www.sheerline.com/product/installation-guides
If you want to know more or are interested in switching to the UK’s most innovative aluminium system, please call us on 01332 978000.
THE RISE OF MINIMALIST HARDWARE IN GLASS AND FENESTRATION DESIGN
The demand for minimalist design in modern architecture is reshaping the world of glass and fenestration.
Frameless glass doors and windows are taking centre stage in both residential and commercial spaces, offering unobstructed views and stylish designs.
Loren Jenner, Managing Director at Coastal Group, explains: “Minimalist design appeals in today’s world as it focuses on function with none of the distractions. It helps create calm in an increasingly busy world of noise. Clean lines, neutral colours and sleek finishes offer a welcome break.”
Minimalism has become a defining characteristic of modern architecture and design, celebrated for its ability to create spaces that feel open, uncluttered, and harmonious.
Rooted in the principle of “less is more,” minimalism emphasises simple forms, and a limited colour palette, allowing materials and natural light to take
centre stage. This design philosophy has gained widespread appeal as homeowners and businesses seek environments that promote tranquillity, and
reduce stress. In particular, frameless glass doors and windows have emerged as iconic features of minimalist spaces, offering seamless transitions between inside and out while enhancing the connection to nature.
As a leader in hardware innovation, Coastal Group is proud to offer a range of sleek and modern hardware solutions that perfectly complement this growing trend.
Loren Jenner, Managing Director at Coastal Group, continues: “The rise of minimalist design aligns perfectly with our vision of creating hardware that blends beauty and functionality. Frameless glass doors and windows look great with hardware that enhances without overpowering. Our products are designed to do just that, offering the perfect combination of style and practicality.”
Coastal Group’s stainless steel hardware, including its door furniture, pull handles and flush pulls, embodies the minimalist aesthetic that architects and designers seek. With clean lines and a contemporary finish, these products are not only visually striking but also built to withstand the test of time.
Coastal Group’s commitment to quality is evident in every product, with 316 marine-grade stainless steel ensuring longevity and resistance to corrosion, even in the most challenging environments. The company’s engineering expertise also plays a pivotal role in its success.
Phil Walklett, Engineering Manager at Coastal Group, explains: “Our team is dedicated to innovation and precision. Designing hardware for low profile glass requires meticulous attention to detail to achieve the strength, durability, and sleek finish that our customers expect. We’re proud to provide solutions to these demands that also work
well with modern architectural trends.”
With a focus on minimalist hardware, Coastal Group continues to support architects, designers, and installers in bringing their visions to life.
Whether it’s a stunning residential project or
a cutting-edge commercial space, Coastal’s hardware ensures that form meets function flawlessly.
For more information about Coastal Group’s hardware solutions, visit www.coastal-group.com or contact their team directly.
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WINKHAUS 25 YEAR SBD ANNIVERSARY
Internationally renowned door and window hardware company Winkhaus are celebrating with Secured by Design (SBD), the official police security initiative, after reaching 25 years of membership.
Having joined SBD as one of the first members in 1999, Winkhaus UK Ltd has been continually demonstrating its commitment to high-quality, crime prevention-standard products for a quarter of a century.
Working closely from day one with Jon Cole and the SBD team, Winkhaus’ innovative products are designed to meet the requirements of the SBD initiative, with testing completed at the company’s own UKAS accredited test laboratory. The Winkhaus technical team continue to support the enhancement of standards, always one of the first to implement new legislation, aiding fabricators in their compliance journey and adoption across the wider construction industry.
As Secured by Design members, Winkhaus have a number of products which have achieved Police Preferred Specification across multiple product categories:
Door Hardware:
∙ Winkhaus armorPlate Gearbox Protector
∙ Winkhaus armorShield Cylinder Guard
Window Hardware:
∙ activPilot Concept Concealed Hinges and Face Fix Hinges
Door Systems:
∙ Winkhaus Timber System with Halspan Double leaf FD30
∙ Winkhaus Timber System with Halspan Single leaf FD60
∙ Winkhaus ‘FireFrame®’ FD30S Fire Security Doorset System Nanya Doorleaf
∙ Winkhaus ‘FireFrame®’ with OCL Capstone 2020 Solid and Glazed Doorleaf
Locks:
∙ AV2 Automatic Multi-Point Lock
∙ AV2 Heritage Automatic Multi-Point Lock
∙ AV2E Automatic Multi-Point Lock
∙ AV3 Automatic & FAB Slave Door Lock in Double Doorsets
∙ AV3 Automatic Multi-Point Lock
∙ AV4 Automatic Multi-Point Lock
∙ AV4 Heritage Automatic Multi-Point Lock
∙ Winkhaus Cobra™ Multi-Point Lock
∙ Winkhaus FAB Slave Door Lock
∙ Winkhaus FGTE Multi-point door lock for Double Doors
∙ Winkhaus Thunderbolt™ Multi-Point Locking System
∙ Winkhaus Trulock Multi-Point Locking System
∙ Winkhaus UGTE Multi-point lock for Aluminium Double Doors
∙ Winkhaus XR6-51 Europrofile Cylinder
Justin Harris, Managing Director Winkhaus UK, shared: “We are proud to have reached this milestone of 25 years, working in partnership with a shared ethos to enhance standards and drive awareness of the requirements for safe and secure solutions. As a day one member of the SBD initiative, SBD has been a key part of our fabric for
the majority of our 32 years in the UK.”
Guy Ferguson, Police CPI, commented: “We are delighted to congratulate Winkhaus on their anniversary. Working in partnership with one of our earliest members, we have enjoyed an enduring and mutually supportive relationship.”
Since the inception of Secured by Design, member companies have helped to achieve:
The building of more than one million homes to SBD standards
Crime reductions of up to 87% on new developments (2017) and 61% in major refurbishment projects (2009)
Sustainable year-on-year crime reductions – a significant achievement when most SBD homes are social housing, mostly in deprived and higher crime areas
An overall reduction in property crime of 60%
Our members and their accredited products are contributing to safer communities and reduced fear of crime for hundreds of thousands of people across the nation.
You can find out more about Winkhaus UK and their Secured by Design accredited products on their dedicated member page.
Secured by Design (SBD) is owned by the UK Police Service with the specific aim of reducing crime and increasing safety for businesses and individuals.
SBD seeks to improve the physical security of buildings and the surrounding area using products such as doors, windows, locks and walling systems along with fencing systems that meet the SBD Police Preferred Specification security requirements.
SBD have many partner organisations, ranging from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government through to local authorities, housing associations, developers and manufacturers and work closely with standards and certification bodies.
SBD is the only way for companies to obtain police recognition for security-related products in the UK, through the Police Preferred Specification - a product-based accreditation scheme developed 25 years ago, which provides a recognised standard for all security products that effectively deter and reduce crime. SBD work with manufacturers and standards authorities to ensure that security standards are current and updated to keep pace with emerging crime trends.
Learn more about Secured by Design and our member companies at: www.securedbydesign.com
A FIRST FOR VBH AT THE INSTALLER AWARDS
VBH, the company behind the greenteQ furniture and hardware brand, has announced that it has been shortlisted as a finalist at the 2025 Installer Awards.
The company has reached the final in the Best Installer Support Program/Service Initiative category with the greenteQ furniture guarantee that was introduced during 2024.
The guarantee covers the finishes of the company’s own brand greenteQ Suite and stainless steel architeQ ranges of resi-door, window, and patio door furniture for 20 and 25 years respectively. VBH stress that the guarantee covers ALL finishes, providing ‘no nasty surprises if someone needs to make a claim.’
Gary Gleeson, Marketing Manager at VBH says, “This is the first time that we have entered these awards. This year we felt that our new greenteQ Furniture Guarantee gave us something that has real relevance to installers of all sizes, so we went for it.
“Happily, the judges agreed, and we are very pleased that our guarantee has reached the final cut.”
VBH advise that the guarantee goes further than a simple 20 or 25 year term. If a customer qualifies for the enhanced guarantee, VBH will deal with any claims directly with the consumer.
Gary explains, “The enhanced guarantee takes away all the hassle and expense that installers and fabricators get if they receive a claim. We will ascertain the problem and, if it is a product fault, we’ll replace the item of furniture directly without quibble. If it’s misuse, we’ll explain the issue to the consumer and offer advice for the future. Either way, the consumer gets their issue sorted quickly, and the manufacturer and installer are left free to do what they do best. That’s selling windows and doors!”
The winners will be announced on 13th March.
WELCOME TO WINKHAUS
Winkhaus UK Strengthens Product Management Team with Two Key Appointments
Winkhaus UK is delighted to announce the addition of Lewis Froggatt and Daniel Grodecki, to its product management team. These appointments underline Winkhaus’ commitment to providing exceptional product and design support to our valued partners across the aluminium and fenestration industries.
Lewis Froggatt Joins as Aluminium Product Manager
With over 18 years of experience in the fenestration industry, Lewis Froggatt brings a wealth of expertise to his new role as Aluminium Product Manager. His background spans fabrication, purchasing, and a decade in production management, giving him a deep understanding of the aluminium sector.
Commenting on Lewis’ appointment, Alastair Wheeler, Aluminium Systems Manager, said: “Lewis’ extensive knowledge further enhances the added-value services we provide to aluminium systems houses and fabricators. His expertise will be instrumental in developing tailored solutions to meet both the current and future needs of our customers.”
Daniel Grodecki Joins as Product Manager
Bringing over 15 years of experience in product design and development, Daniel Grodecki steps into the role of Product Manager, further enhancing
Winkhaus’ bespoke design capabilities. With a strong background in engineering design across a range of materials, significant CAD expertise, and a focus on innovation, Daniel will support customers from concept development through to prototyping and testing.
Speaking about Daniel’s appointment, Mark Alton, Head of Product Management, highlighted: “Daniel’s skill set will fast-track our customers’ bespoke developments, helping us deliver futureready solutions with speed and precision. His design expertise strengthens our ability to respond dynamically to our customers’ evolving needs.”
A Continued Commitment to Excellence
The appointments of Lewis Froggatt and Daniel Grodecki reinforce Winkhaus UK’s dedication to innovation and superior customer support. By expanding our product management team, we are better positioned to deliver tailored solutions that align with the future needs of our partners.
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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 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.
REHAU UK TO SPONSOR MACHINERY COMPANY OF THE YEAR
Leading uPVC systems house REHAU UK are to become official sponsors of the Machinery Company Of The Year category at the 2025 National Fenestration Awards.
REHAU threw their support behind the awards in 2024 and helped put on the best awards day and presentation in the history of the NFAs. They will once again be supporting the industry’s most prestigious awards by sponsoring a category which was at the heart of the NFAs.
One of the founding principles of the National Fenestration Awards was to recognise as much of the sector as possible, which meant shining a light on areas that don’t always get as much attention and press as they deserve. Machinery was one of those areas, and it has grown to become one of the standout categories of the NFAs each and every year.
Sarah Rogers, Operations Director at the National Fenestration Awards said: “we are very pleased to be welcoming REHAU UK as official sponsors of the Machinery Company Of The Year category. It is a very important category, and we are looking forward to working with REHAU this year and build a profitable
partnership between us.
Stephen Beresford Head of Marketing at REHAU UK commented: “we are excited to be sponsoring such an important category in this years campaign. The NFAs has developed well over the last few years and we know that the Machinery Company Of The Year category will be as competitive as ever!”
You can find out more about REHAU and how they can help your business by visiting: https://www.rehau. com/uk-en
The nominations phase of the 2025 National Fenestration Award is now open and will remain so until March 31st. To take part please visit: https://www. fenestrationawards.co.uk/nfa25/
Stay connected with the NFAs:
Web: fenestrationawards.co.uk
Email: info@fenestrationawards.co.uk
X: twitter.com/NatFenAwards
Facebook: facebook.com/NatFenAwards
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/51726620
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KEYSTONE MARKET RESEARCH PUBLISHES LATEST CONSUMER FENESTRATION TRENDS REPORT WITH EXPANDED INDUSTRY SPONSORSHIP
Keystone Market Research is delighted to announce the release of its Winter 2025 Consumer Fenestration Trends Report, a highly detailed analysis of homeowner preferences, buying behaviours, and market trends. This comprehensive report continues to build on the success of previous publications and explores material preferences, glazing styles, energy efficiency priorities, and the implications of the upcoming Future Homes Standard.
This year’s report is made possible through expanded sponsorship, with leading industry players Endurance Doors, Epwin Window Systems, the GGF, Liniar, and VEKA supporting the initiative. Their contributions ensure greater accessibility of this unique resource across the fenestration industry, with sponsors able to share the report throughout their supply chains, helping businesses make informed decisions based on detailed consumer insights.
Key findings from the report include:
• Triple Glazing and uPVC Lead Preferences: Triple glazing continues to dominate, while uPVC emerges as the most popular material for both windows and doors this time, offering affordability and energy efficiency.
• Rising Popularity of Sliding Patio Doors: Younger and wealthier homeowners are driving demand for sliding patio doors, which have overtaken bifold doors as the preferred style.
• Low Awareness of the Future Homes Standard: With only 18% of homeowners familiar with the standard, the report highlights that the onus is on the industry to promote energy-efficient upgrades as it looks unlikely currently that the standard will drive additional homeowner sales.
Charlotte Hawkes, founder and director of Keystone, shared her perspective: “Amid the continuing economic pressures our market is dealing with, this report provides actionable insights to help businesses navigate shifting consumer priorities and outline the pockets of opportunity still available. I’m especially proud of the expanded sponsorship, which underscores the industry’s commitment to understanding homeowners’ needs and delivering data-based support throughout the supply chain.”
Businesses interested in to supporting the fenestration industry, and their customers, with Keystone’s trusted consumer insights are encouraged to reach out as a limited number of sponsorship opportunities remain available.
For more information about the Winter 2025 Consumer report and Keystone’s research services, visit: www.keystonemr.co.uk.
SHEERLINE RENEW AS MAIN SPONSORS OF THE 2025 NATIONAL FENESTRATION AWARDS
Leading UK-based aluminium systems company Sheerline are to renew their role as Main Sponsors of the 2025 National Fenestration Awards.
Sheerline supported the 2024 National Fenestration Awards as Main Sponsors and their backing helped to put on one of the best awards campaigns in the history of the NFAs.
As part of their Main Sponsorship for 2025 they will also be sponsoring the Aluminium Fabricator Of The Year category.
Sarah Rogers, Operations Director of the National Fenestration Awards commented: “Sheerline is such a great brand within the aluminium market and we are thrilled to have them on board as Main Sponsors once again for the 2025 NFAs. They are a great company with fantastic plans and ambitions and we are looking forwarded to promoting their message throughout this year.”
Tony Basile, National Sales Director at Sheerline, said: “We are happy to be backing the National
Fenestration Awards as Main Sponsors once again. We are also looking forward to supporting the Aluminium Fabricator Of The Year category this year, which is fast becoming one of the most sought-after categories within the awards itself, and demonstrates the growing influence aluminium has within the wider fenestration sector.”
You can find out more about Sheerline and their range of window and door products by visiting: https://www.sheerline.com/
The nominations phase of the 2025 National Fenestration Award is now open and will remain so until March 31st. To take part please visit: https://www. fenestrationawards.co.uk/nfa25/
Stay connected with the NFAs:
Web: fenestrationawards.co.uk
Email: info@fenestrationawards.co.uk
X: twitter.com/NatFenAwards
Facebook: facebook.com/NatFenAwards
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/51726620
CONSERVATORY OUTLET’S APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMME SEES FURTHER SUCCESS
Wakefield’s Conservatory Outlet is celebrating its expanded support for learning and development as two members of senior management are the first to pass through the company’s Degree Apprenticeship programme.
Michelle Horne (Operations Manager) and Sarah Fox (Account Manager) have completed their Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Operations Management.
To achieve this qualification, comparable to a foundation degree, the pair had to participate in monthly training masterclasses across the course’s two-year duration. Alongside these regular workshops, Michelle and Sarah also received one-to-one mentoring and had to complete a series of practical activities and examinations.
Their final assessment was centred around the delivery of a project they implemented at work, culminating in a presentation about their chosen project’s impact on the business to a panel of academic teachers and business leaders.
Completing the course was a full-circle moment for Michelle, who started her career in the industry as an entry-level apprentice and has since gone on to mentor other learners in the business. This role in helping newcomers to the industry saw her named Mentor of the Year in the West Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards.
“Apprenticeships have been central to my entire career,” Michelle explains.
“Recently, I’ve been helping with Conservatory Outlet’s apprenticeship programme, mentoring several school-leavers as they join the business and begin their professional careers. So, being
Michelle Horne (left) and Sarah Fox (right) received their Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Operations Management from Conservatory Outlet’s Head of HR, Karen Starkey (centre)
able to enter the classroom again, so to speak, and become a learner again was a privilege.
“If you’d have asked me when I first left school whether or not I’d end up with a qualification like this, I’d say absolutely not!”
“Conservatory Outlet has been incredibly supportive and placed great faith and trust in me. They’ve believed in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself. They gave me the best chance to succeed and grow, both personally and professionally.”
It’s a similar story for Sarah, who jumped at the chance to undertake the Level 5 qualification. After completing a Level 2 and Level 3 course earlier in her career in a different sector, she felt
▲ Karen Starkey (l), presenting Sarah Fox with her Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Operations Management
▼ Karen Starkey (l), presenting Michelle Horne with her Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Operations Management
the time was right to dip back into academia after recently moving into a more senior role within the business.
Michelle and Sarah’s achievement is just the tip of the iceberg. Several staff members who are enrolled in the course are expected to complete their final assessments in the coming months, and they will mark the first ‘class’ to graduate from the company’s Degree Apprenticeship programme.
These specific higher-level training qualifications come after a hugely successful year for Conservatory Outlet’s apprenticeships scheme. The company continues to provide training and development opportunities for both new and existing members of its workforce, with nearly a quarter of the manufacturer’s 180-strong team benefitting from access to additional work-based qualifications.
Karen Starkey, Conservatory Outlet’s Head of HR, concludes: “It’s great to see Michelle and Sarah thrive and obtain their Level 5 HND Diplomas. As a company, we firmly believe in apprenticeships and provide a variety of pathways for people to advance their careers, such as this Graduate Degree Programme or support for newcomers to the sector or workforce with Level 2 or Level 3 qualifications.
“We’ve invested £250,000 into training and development. As we continue to grow the business, we must have the ability to bring through and nurture talent. Michelle and Sarah are the first two to benefit from our Degree Apprenticeship programme, and many more will undoubtedly follow.”
For further information, please visit www.conservatoryoutlet.co.uk or follow the company on its socials @conservatoryoutlet.
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EROS
AN AWARD-WINNING END TO 2024 FOR CONSERVATORY OUTLET AS ITS RETAIL NETWORK ACHIEVES IMPRESSIVE GROWTH
Conservatory Outlet’s end to 2024 was extra special as the manufacturer capped off an extraordinary year as it was recognised by its peers in the Wakefield region for its impressive growth during broader market struggles.
The leading fabricator of windows and doors was presented with a special award after successfully increasing its frame count and revenue this past year whilst supporting its Network of Premium Retailers to grow their year-on-year sales by an industry-busting 27%.
As a result, Conservatory Outlet was presented with the Business Growth Success award at the Wakefield Business Awards.
Managing Director Mick Giscombe noted that the victory was an extra special achievement for all involved: “It’s no secret that it has been a tough time for our sector. But our team has stuck to our vision of adding value to everything we do. We’ve fostered a culture of growth and excellence and have used our knowledge and expertise to propel our retail partners forward.
The Wakefield Business community praised Conservatory Outlet’s leadership and effective marketing and sales support, which they noted was a unique and sustainable approach to business growth.
All of Conservatory Outlet’s Premium Retailers benefit from highly tailored and optimised marketing activity and access to one of the country’s leading digital agencies. This marketing mix of on- and offline activity generates a stream of highly qualified leads.
“We provide our Premium Retailers with an exclusive suite of products backed up with top-ofthe-line marketing campaigns,” Mick continues. “Additionally, we support our retailers with fully funded sales training, Network-wide best practice workshops, IT sales platforms, and architecture. This next-level support package has allowed our retailers to flourish. And if they grow, we grow too.”
Bruce Turner, Technical Officer at the Glass and Glazing Federation, echoes these words. After visiting the company towards the end of last year, he noted that “Conservatory Outlet is a forwardthinking company. Their strategy is to help provide growth, not just to themselves but also to their customers.
“Helping their customer base is core to their business model, and the investment in marketing, manufacturing, and IT has helped push everyone forward.”
As well as leading the way in Wakefield to drive growth in the region and across the UK, there was further cause for celebration in the Conservatory
Outlet ranks, as Clearview Home Improvements, one of its Premium Retailers, was named Installer of the Year for the third consecutive year.
The installer picked up the prize at November’s G Awards, with the Preston-based company making history by becoming the first company in the ceremony’s history to win the same award three times – a feat made even more impressive by doing so in consecutive years.
“Clearview’s success is unprecedented and highlights the calibre of the businesses we choose to work with,” Mick continues.
“We’ve worked closely with Clearview’s management team, and they’ve utilised our central support offering, such as aid with marketing campaigns, software improvements and our Sales Training Academy to ensure they remain the best in the sector.”
“Their commitment to every last detail is outstanding and creates a seamless, positive and outstanding customer journey. Being
named Installer of the Year once is a tremendous achievement for them. But to win it three years in a row is something special. A huge congratulations to them!”
With a successful end to 2024, attention turns to keeping that momentum running throughout 2025 and beyond.
“Our mantra is always to add value,” Mick notes.
“Whatever we do, from being a fabricator to helping our retail partners grow through bespoke training seminars and community events, we always look to add value to the businesses we supply. In the first quarter of the year alone, we will host a series of operations, sales, and marketing events across the country. And, of course, we will continue to invest further to ensure that our products and services remain best-in-class.”
Mick concludes: “We give our retail partners every chance at succeeding and growing even more over the coming years.”
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FDM CELEBRATES FIRST ANNIVERSARY, TRAINING OVER 600 PROFESSIONALS IN FIRE DOOR SAFETY
Fire Door Maintenance Training and Development (FDM by UAP Ltd) marks a successful first year, having trained over 600 industry professionals and receiving industry recognition since its 2024 launch.
Over the past 12 months, FDM has played a key role in raising competency standards in fire door awareness, inspection, installation, and maintenance. More than 350 industry professionals have completed fire door awareness or inspection training, while over 200 professionals have gained hands-on expertise in installation, repair, and maintenance.
FDM was established to address the growing need for high-quality fire door training after the Grenfell tragedy, ensuring professionals across the industry have the skills and confidence to meet evolving fire safety regulations. Since launch, FDM has partnered with over 50 industry leaders and top suppliers of door sets and components, including Falcon Timber, GGF, Mann McGowan, Lorient, PDS, IG Doors, Sentry, Strongdor, NorDan, and many more.
Recognised for its practical, industry-led approach, FDM has quickly become a leading training provider. Learner feedback reinforces its impact, with:
92% of participants finding the practical sessions highly relevant
94% saying the course content was easy to follow and understand
95% describing the training as engaging and enjoyable
FDM’s commitment to raising industry standards
was celebrated at the 2024 NFA Awards, where it won the “Training and Development Company of the Year” in recognition of its impact.
Looking ahead, FDM is set to expand its offering in 2025, launching an innovative app at the Fire Safety Event to support professionals in ensuring compliance when installing and maintaining fire doors. A new online training platform will also debut, streamlining course bookings and providing CPD-accredited training to further enhance industry skills.
Nicola John, Managing Director of FDM, said: “This year has been a journey of collaboration and innovation. Every learner who steps into our training centre – from contractors to builders’ merchants – reinforces the importance of what we’re doing. I couldn’t be prouder of the foundation we’ve built for FDM, and we have a lot in store for the industry this year.”
For more information about FDM — Training and Development, or to book a course, visit fdmltd.co.uk/
UKAS is recruiting!
We are seeking independent contractors for ISO 17065 Certification in the field of Windows and Doors (Fenestration) Installation.
We are seeking professionals with in-depth technical knowledge and practical experience in fenestration (Windows and Doors) installation, including design, manufacturing, testing, and inspection.
Candidates should be familiar with industry regulations, particularly the Building Regulations 2010 and related amendments, as well as product installation standards and certification schemes like the Competent Persons Certification Scheme.
While experience with ISO/IEC 17065 and UKAS accreditation is a plus, it’s not essential. Ideally, applicants will have 5+ years of industry experience, though highly skilled candidates with less will be considered. This role offers flexible, independent work in a dynamic, growing industry.
To find out more about the opportunity scan the QR code or visit us online at ukas.com/ careers Scan this QR Code to view our candidate privacy notice:
MADE FOR TRADE TO SPONSOR SPACER BAR MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR
Long-time supporters of the National Fenestration Awards, Made For Trade, are to once again support the sector’s biggest awards platform by sponsoring the Spacer Bar Manufacturer Of The Year category.
Made For Trade are one of the sectors leading suppliers of roof lanterns, sliding doors and bi-folding doors, and have themselves enjoyed success at the National Fenestration Awards over a number of years. This year they are to continue supporting the most inclusive awards platform in the sector by sponsoring one of the most important categories in terms of the supply chain.
Sarah Rogers, Operations Director at the NFAs said: “it is fantastic to have the continued support of Made For Trade in 2025. They have been a backer of the awards for a number of years now, as well as being successful themselves in previous years. We are going to be looking forward to working with them again and to keep promoting their positive message across our platform!”
Ian Bousfield, Marketing Manager at Made For Trade said: “we are very much looking forward to working with the National Fenestration Awards for the 2025
campaign and of course promoting the NFAs to our own network. The NFAs have grown significantly over the last few years and we have been proud to be a part of that journey.”
Made For Trade also won the prestigious Kings Award For Enterprise in 2024, which recognizes and celebrates outstanding achievements by UK businesses in innovation, international trade, sustainable development, and promoting opportunity through social mobility.
The nominations phase of the 2025 National Fenestration Award is now open and will remain so until March 31st. To take part please visit: https://www. fenestrationawards.co.uk/nfa25/
Stay connected with the NFAs:
Web: fenestrationawards.co.uk
Email: info@fenestrationawards.co.uk
X: twitter.com/NatFenAwards
Facebook: facebook.com/NatFenAwards
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/51726620
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