Hello and welcome to the July edition of NFA Digital!
A new half of the year begins and we start with Labour controlling the levers of power. After previous General Elections there has been a “bounce” – the lifting of spirits with the public as a new party brings hope of better times. It encourages spending and a generally better mood. It is unclear what sort of bounce we will see this time as the dire state of the public finances will likely put a strain on what can and cannot be done to improve the fortunes of the country.
At the time of writing, England are preparing to play Spain in the Euro 2024 final. A fantastic achievement for a team that was looking very shaky at the start. A win will bring a huge boost to the national mood, at least in England, and give us all something positive to talk about. Let’s hope the boys bring it home!
Within the sector, talk has been about the dip in business activity caused by the General Election. June looked pretty slow for much of the sector, driven into an induced slumber as the public awaited the result of what was, in the end, a landslide win for Labour.
That is now out of the way, and hopefully that will bring back some clarity to the public to allow them to make more spending decisions. Stronger than expected growth in May will also provide a boost to consumer confidence, which is all important.
We hope you enjoy this month’s edition of NFA Digital!
Team NFA
Latest Award Shows Innovation Is ‘Core Ethos’
UAP Ltd takes home GAI Community Award for ‘major growth drive’ in company innovation
This year’s Guild of Architectural Ironmongery Member’s Day proved successful for UAP as the team took home the coveted Company Innovation trophy at the event’s Community Awards. The accolade is reserved for companies that can demonstrate innovation through improvement in processes, which will in turn improve the company, its customers or the wider society. Speaking of UAP’s validation of this, the award judges said the hardware manufacturer was a “great entry that demonstrates innovation being a core ethos for the company; certainly on a major growth drive
and putting it in the infrastructure, products and real estate to deliver it.”
UAP National Sales Director, Barry Halpin who collected the award said: ”It’s great to be recognised for our innovations as a business. I’m so proud of everyone at UAP, and another amazing achievement and recognition for the hard work the whole team put in.”
News of the award came shortly after UAP – and sister company FDM – were shortlisted for eight NFAs later this year, marking a grand start to 2024’s awards season.
www.uapcorporate.com
Celebrate Excellence in Fenestration at the 2024 National Fenestration Awards!
Mark your calendars for an evening of glamour and recognition as the 2024 National Fenestration Awards descends upon the prestigious Doncaster Racecourse on October 26th. Established 11 years ago, the National Fenestration Awards have become a beacon of excellence in the industry, with winners determined annually by industry nominations and subsequent voting on shortlists.
This year’s event promises an unforgettable experience, featuring captivating entertainment, a live DJ to keep the energy high, and ample networking opportunities for professionals to connect, collaborate, and forge new partnerships.
The highlight of the evening will be the prestigious awards ceremony, where outstanding achievements and contributions within the fenestration industry will be celebrated and honored. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary event! Tickets for the 2024 National Fenestration Awards are now available for
purchase. Secure your place today and join us for a night to remember.
For ticket purchases and more information, visit https://www.fenestrationawards.co.uk/winnersevent/ or contact Sarah at info@fenestrationawards. co.uk or 01924 911234.
About National Fenestration Awards
The National Fenestration Awards were established 11 years ago to celebrate excellence and innovation in the fenestration industry. Winners are determined annually by industry nominations and subsequent voting on shortlists, making the awards a true reflection of industry excellence and recognition.
Stay connected with the NFAs:
Web: fenestrationawards.co.uk
Email: info@fenestrationawards.co.uk
Twitter: twitter.com/NatFenAwards
Facebook: www.facebook.com/NatFenAwards
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/51726620
Second To None Full Aluminium Product Range
PAS 24 Security as Standard and U Values as Low as 0.8.
The manufacturer that treats you as an individual not just a number
Our selection of Aluminium Systems is one of the best in Cheshire. We offer a wide variety that will suit each and every person’s budget and needs. No matter if you are trade or public get in touch today. You’ll be surprised by how convenient and easy it is to do business with us
Full Product Range
• Bi fold doors pas 24 security as standard also super slim 107mm sightlines, trickle vents through sashes or outerframe/ integral cill option
• Internal aluminium steel look doors and screens, ideal product for creating bespoke glazed interior partitions, dividers or walls of glass. hinged, pivot and sliding options
• Aluminium casement windows, pas 24 security as standard slim profiles with a flush or stepped sash options
• sliding patio doors an ultra-modern, superslim sliding patio door solution with double and triple track options and the option of lift & slide. 25mm/50mm interlock options
• Market leading sheerline s1 lantern with thermlock
• Super-efficient flat rooflights for commercial and domestic projects
• Heritage art-deco industrial style doors
• Low-rise curtain walling great for residential and commercial projects
• Entrance doors with endless customisation options
• Commercial doors and framing great for retail and office spaces
Why Choose us?
• Project and product support on site/remote
• Digital brochures available
• Competitively priced
• No frequent price increases
• Fantastic customer service
• Quick lead times
• Delivery to site or business premises
To get a quote see the below contact details:
Start a quote on the website click the following link www.vitrinealu.co.uk
Email a quote at info@vitrinealuminium.com or contact us for a quote on 01925387099
For Installers, Fabricators and Specifiers, REHAU Answers provides:
▪ A U-Value Calculator in line with the latest Building Regs
▪ Compliance Guidance
▪ Up-to-the-Minute FAQ’s.
Access Answers today to quickly fulfil all your project requirements.
www.rehauanswers.co.uk
SCAN
The VitrineAlu range of ALUNA Entrance doors encompasses flush & non-flush options, both available in a range of standard size options to suit a variety of openings.
Designed with flexibility in mind, the VitrineAlu style of door is complete with a range of colour, lock and accessory options, as well as optional top & side lights. Fully customisable to be configured and styled through a selection of standard sizing options up to 1100mm x 2200mm maximum.
From stainless steel pull bar handles, to lever handles, there is a wide variety of high-quality door furniture combinations to create the perfect finish for your door. With the stunning design options and excellent thermal efficiency, with U-values as low as 0.68 W/m2K, this style of door combines all the best features for a market-leading door.
Benefitting from the Winkhaus multi-point hook locking as standard, the door is packed with features and accessories for the ultimate security in any home. Option to upgrade to electronic lock with fingerprint reader GU SECURE connect, to ensure your home is as protected as possible.
Sheerline Strengthens Sales Team with New Hire for the South East Area
Sheerline is delighted to announce the appointment of a new Area Sales Manager for the South East region. The appointment is part of the company’s strategic vision to bolster the sales team and ensure the company has a strong regional presence to assist customers around the UK.
Mike Sillwood brings with him over 30 years of experience in sales, account management, and business development. This includes 15 years within the fenestration industry with a focus on design and hardware, so he may already be a familiar face to potential customers in the area.
Because of this experience within the fenestration industry, Mike was already aware of Sheerline’s products, which was part of the appeal of the role for him. It also means he is well placed to champion
the brand to customers who are thinking about broadening their offering.
As a goal-orientated salesperson, Mike is looking forward to promoting Sheerline within the South East region, highlighting the brands’ awardwinning product range and the benefits of working with a company that is changing the aluminium landscape for the better.
Tony Basile, Sheerline’s National Sales Director, said: “The South East region is key for us and our long-term strategic growth plan, that’s why it’s fantastic to have Mike on board. He’s got a strong background in sales and was already familiar with our products before joining the team, so he already understands the brand and what our customers value.”
Mike commented: “Having witnessed Sheerline’s significant growth over a short period, when the opportunity came up to join the team, I knew it was not to be missed. What I particularly like about the company is the fact it’s forward-thinking, innovative, and has a diverse portfolio of products and actually makes everything it sells.”
If you’re based in the South East Area and are interested in fabricating Sheerline’s wholehouse aluminium system, get in touch with Mike today by calling 07786 188272, or email him on: mike.sillwood@garnalex.com
CALLING ALL ELUMATEC FANS HAVE YOUR SAY!
FINALISTS IN:
�� Machinery Company of the Year
elumatec UK
�� Managing Director of the Year
Neil Parton
�� BDM/Sales Executive of the Year
Andrew Robson
�� Customer Service/Operations Person of the Year
Allie Short
Are You Where You Want To Be?
The Benefits Of A Mid-Year Performance Review
Hands up if – earlier this year – you thought an autumn election was on the cards.
I’ll admit, I wasn’t anticipating a mid-year opportunity to give my opinion on the government’s performance. But in business, we can – and I’m convinced we should – always set aside time for a mid-year review of our business performance.
Now, I know you’re likely to have set a budget just a few months ago and that the budgeting process will start again soon. But, as the election date issue shows us, circumstances change, and curve balls arrive. The sooner you respond to events that need your attention the better. If there’s something adrift in your operation, you can react. If you wait six months, you could have a far bigger problem on your hands. Similarly, if an opportunity has arisen, you can grab it now and start to accrue the benefits.
What to include in your review
It would be flippant of me to say anything and everything but, to be worthwhile, a review should be comprehensive. There’s little point focusing entirely on your record-breaking output and ignoring your perilous cash-flow situation.
Consider your key metrics. Where are you in relation to them? Don’t simply look at the numbers – think about whether that metric is still relevant to your organisation. If the global market for Widget A has dried up, why continue to focus on achieving zero reworks on your Widget A production line?
In short, assess your progress against the key
metrics that are currently relevant or that you expect to be relevant shortly. Be prepared to adjust objectives that no longer serve – even if they were deemed priorities in your most recent budget. We know that markets change. We know that innovative technology arrives and revolutionises the way we work. It follows that goals must change too.
External factors – political and social events – also lead to change. A review gives you the chance to think about economic factors or policy changes you might need to prepare for. For example, what impact could a change in how apprenticeships work have on your operation?
Naturally, you’ll need to review your business finances. What’s happening with your cash flow? Is your selling price still appropriate? Are your costs under control? Are you getting the best possible deals from your supplier? If you budgeted to spend £1,000 per tonne on Input X it’s too easy to congratulate yourself if you’re purchasing it for £900, but you shouldn’t if the market price has dropped to £800.
Consider new opportunities. Remember the old saying about the early bird catching the worm? What could you start now that could be paying dividends by the end of the year? Will an investment allow you to gain an important and valuable contract?
And while you’re reviewing all these things, remember to recognise the progress you’ve made and the targets you’ve hit. A mid-year review isn’t just about discovering where you need to redouble your efforts or about changing direction. It can be a wonderful time to celebrate your successes and reward those who have gone the extra mile.
How to conduct your review
Do you have your best ideas when you’re in the office, under pressure, juggling countless priorities? Or do they arrive when you’re away from the desk, perhaps in a different environment, with a bit of space and calm? For me, it’s the latter. That’s why I recommend you set aside the time for a thorough review. If possible, head offsite to avoid disturbance.
Make sure you have the information and the people you need with you. Listen to the messages others feel are important. What insights can you glean from your employees? Are they engaged and motivated? What ideas can they bring to the table? Keep an open mind.
And listen to your gut. You can have every KPI on target and be on track to bring your budget plans home, but that doesn’t mean you’re on the right track. Are your actions still in line with your business’s purpose and vision? Are you comfortable with your ESG position and direction?
Ready for the next six months
A mid-year review shows you what’s working and what isn’t. It gives you time before the critical budget period to implement changes. What’s more, as both an evaluation of your performance to date and a timely review of your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats, it’s crucial groundwork for the budgeting process itself.
Espag Window Handle Demand Up
Coastal Group, a leading manufacturer of external door and window hardware, is reporting a significant rise in demand for espagnolette window handles.
The surge is predominantly driven by an increasing number of composite and aluminium manufacturers seeking high quality, reliable and stylish hardware solutions.
“We’ve always worked closely with manufacturers across composite, timber and aluminium products,” explained Coastal Managing Director, Loren Jenner, “but the interest in aluminium products has grown in recent years because of its durability, aesthetics and low maintenance. It’s only natural that demand for complementary hardware follows.”
“Our espag handles are engineered with advanced multipoint locking mechanisms built in,” added Loren Jenner. “These ensure maximum security without compromising on style or functionality.”
Coastal Group invests heavily in research and development to meet the evolving demands of the industry, working with partners in the composite and aluminium market to develop bespoke products suited to their changing needs.
Growth in the aluminium market has been spurred by trends in modern architecture and contemporary home design, along with more energy efficient door and window products. Coastal’s espag handles have been developed with sleek lines, CNC machining and quality throughout to work perfectly alongside.
“As living costs spiral, consumers are looking for energy-efficiency throughout their homes,” continued Loren Jenner. “Aluminium, paired with our high performance stainless steel espag handles, provide that superior insulation and contribute to energy savings.”
Security is another critical factor driving demand for traditional espag handles. As residential and commercial property owners become more concerned about safety, there is heightened focus on how window hardware can provide protection against break-ins.
“The SST100 espag handle is part of our continuous product development program,” added Phil Walklett, Engineering Manager at Coastal Group. “We’re always looking for ways to not only meet but exceed industry standards for performance and durability.”
Coastal’s SST100 espag window handles are meticulously crafted from marine grade stainless steel and are part of the company’s BLU range. This premium material is designed to resist corrosion and withstand even the most challenging environmental conditions, such as those found in coastal and inner city areas.
As the trend towards sustainability, security and aesthetics shows no sign of slowing down, Coastal Group is proud to be at the forefront, providing hardware solutions that meet demand.
“We look forward to continuing our partnership with aluminium window manufacturers,” concluded Loren Jenner, “and contributing to the advancement of external door and window hardware solutions.”
For more information on Coastal’s high quality SST100 espag handle and other hardware products, please visit coastal-group.com.
UAP is pleased and proud to announce that its TS008 letterplate has received an updated TS008 certification from BSI Kitemark. The award-winning Soterian TS008 letterplate is available in standard and slim version. The Soterian Slim letterplate is unique to the UK market and the most compact TS008-compliant letterplate ever made. Manufactured for 44mm-70mm composite, timber and uPVC doors, the product is fast and easy to install; providing a convenient, safe and more secure solution for the end user.
UAP’s CEO David Jennings commented: “The Soterian letterplate is undoubtedly our flagship product here at UAP – it has its own dedicated team and workshop here at our Bury base, with boxes being shipped all over the world every day.
“Alongside the Fire Door Maintenance training centre, also here at our HQ, the letterplate has put our company on the map for fire safety and specification. The updated TS008 certification acts as further proof to our commitment to the fire sector, and innovation across the fenestration industry as a whole.
“The certificate’s in the post!”
www.uapcorporate.com
Kitemark Update Further Proves Importance Of Certification
Designed in-house and with a dedicated floor and team for its daily production, UAP’s Soterian TS008 letterplate is truly unique to the UK market.
Now world-renowned, the Soterian Slim letterplate is the most compact TS008-compliant letterplate ever made. Manufactured for 44mm-70mm composite, timber and uPVC doors, the product is fast and easy to install; providing a convenient, safe and more secure solution for the end user.
UAP’s former Technical Services Director, John McLoughlin was the chief designer and innovator of the product, and since it came to market it has won numerous trophies, including Best Technical Innovation at last year’s GGP Awards. The Soterian’s latest accolade comes in the form of an updated BSI Kitemark certification.
But behind the headlines of the awards and accolades, the TS008 letterplate has become an emblem of UAP’s continued dedication to fire safety and security, as CEO David Jennings explains.
“The Soterian stands for everything we stand for here at UAP,” he begins. “Industry is built on innovation. At UAP we have in-house technical teams and our own testing lab to make sure every product is designed and developed to the highest standard there is – our own.
“Looking at the wider fire safety and security sector, the letterplate is just one step; albeit a very significant one. Opening the doors to the Fire Door Maintenance training centre earlier this year, we made that giant leap into changing the landscape for specifiers, architects and installers too.
“When it comes to testing and certification, you need to have the right products, yes, but you also have to be confident and competent with every other stage in the process – when to use them, how to use them. We provide it all here at UAP.”
UAP’s TS008 letterplates are available in standard and slim version, both non-fire and fire-rated.
GQA Qualifications is a multi-industry awarding body writing vocational based qualifications to support a wide range of career paths.
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
Learn about Building Regulations, working safely on site, how to remove windows and doors from buildings and replace with new ones
All courses fully accredited and could contribute towards NVQ Qualifications
With further assessment and achievement, successful candidates can go forward to achieve CSCS Cards to enable them to work safely on site
Training delivered in Sheffield in a fully Covid secure environment
For more information on training contact sayhello@buildingourskills.co.uk
For more information on vocational qualifications and CSCS cards contact info@gqaqualifications.com
www.gqaqualifications.com
proteQ10 Guarantee is Simplified
VBH, the specialist behind the greenteQ hardware range, has made improvements to the registration process for its proteQ10 profile cylinder anti snap guarantee.
Under the guarantee, which covers the popular greenteQ Orion TS007 3 star profile cylinder, consumers can expect a payment of £2000 should an Orion snap to allow a successful break in.
VBH has launched a completely new registration process to make it ‘even easier’ for the end customer to register their cylinder.
The information card that comes with each cylinder has now been updated to include a QR code that takes the customer directly to the registration page of a new website.
The easy-to-use site takes the visitor through the simple registration process in just a few clicks. Once registered, the cylinder’s 10-year antisnap and function guarantees are activated. In addition, by setting a Key Security Password during registration, the user activates the free Key
Security Scheme, which prevents additional keys from being ordered via the key number unless the password is provided.
Gary Gleeson, Marketing Manager at VBH, says, “We have had over 18,000 individual registrations since launching the proteQ10 guarantee and security scheme.
“These improvements to the key card and website make product registration easier than ever. greenteQ Orion is the obvious choice for installers and lock replacement specialists, as it is easy to explain the benefits of the cylinder and the process of registering for proteQ10 to potential customers.
“Once the cylinder is registered, VBH takes over responsibility for all dealings with the end user in the unlikely event of an issue, saving our customers the potential headaches and costs of call outs and providing replacement products.”
VBH can be contacted on 01634 263263 or by email at info@vbhgb.com.
Hallmark Doors & Panels ltd
The UK's No.1 Manufacturer
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aluPilot: Streamlining Aluminium Window Production
Time is a critical factor in manufacturing and installing windows, and Winkhaus UK’s efficient concealed fitting system, aluPilot, is designed to optimise the production process. Using aluPilot, aluminium fabricators can reduce production time by up to 10 minutes per window compared to traditional aluminium Euro Groove systems. Faster and easier installation can reduce the cost price of an aluminium window, saving time, money and increasing productivity.
This time-saving result has been confirmed through extensive testing with manufacturers during the development and roll-out of aluPilot to European and UK systems houses. When multiplied across weekly production, these time savings really start to add up.
aluPilot can be used across a range of modular applications including tilt turn, turn tilt, tilt only, turn only, and includes a range of restrictors and turn limiters. In addition to efficiency gains, aluPilot supports impressive weight capabilities, accommodating sash weights up to 300kg, making it versatile and adaptable to diverse applications.
Manufacturing concept
The drive rod concept of aluPilot simplifies and streamlines the window manufacturing process by eliminating several traditional steps:
• No cutting or punching of connecting rods
• No punching of profile grooves
• No waste from offcuts of connecting rods
• No Screws
With aluPilot, components are clicked into place, making the process more efficient and reducing cutting waste.
Installation concept
The installation concept involves connecting rods which are installed externally using a bayonet locking system for secure and efficient high-power transmission. The sash hinge is fixed seamlessly with a CLICK mechanism, eliminating the need for machining the sash profile and screwing the fitting system into place. Height adjustment is positioned at an accessible angle to facilitate easy adjustments, and installing the sash both at the bottom and top is tool-free and straightforward, enhancing accessibility and ease of installation.
Tool concept
aluPilot features a complete range of mounting accessories for easy installation:
Drive Mounting Tool: Secures the drive in the profile until connecting rods are mounted.
Positioning Aid: Determines keep positions accurately during installation of standard and PAS24 specification fittings.
Sash Edge Protectors: Protects sash corners during installation with concealed fittings.
Drilling Jig: Predrills PAS24 screw positions using a jig for pre-assembled keeps.
Jig for Security Locking Modules: Positions security locking modules on turn windows at the driveside sash corner, suitable for both left and righthanded operations.
Smart packaging
‘Smart packaging’ ensures complete component protection and organisation in one box, minimising the risk of missing parts and simplifying assembly with pre-assembled components, and no loose parts or screws. The packaging is well-organised for efficient part retrieval, saving time during assembly. It reduces hardware by up to 25%
(standard) or 70% (burglar-resistant), streamlines installation steps, and allows easy fine-tuning of keeps without damaging profiles.
Collaborative Development and Support
The aluPilot system is exclusively sold directly to systems houses, ensuring that the product range is customised and tailored specifically for their needs. This approach allows our customers to receive a bespoke range of aluPilot products that align perfectly with their particular profiles and specifications.
When integrating the aluPilot system, the components undergo rigorous testing in conjunction with the profiles provided by the systems house. This testing phase provides seamless compatibility and functionality, ensuring that aluPilot becomes an integral part of the profile design. By testing the “click in” system components alongside the profiles from the systems house, any necessary adjustments or fine-tuning can be made at Winkhaus to optimise performance and reliability, meeting the precise requirements of the system. This collaborative testing process not only enhances the integration process but also ensures that the final product meets high standards of quality and performance.
With over 100 years of combined industry expertise in product development, manufacturing, and testing, the Winkhaus technical and laboratory teams offer proven solutions to ensure the success of its partners’ future innovations. Our added value services include consultation, CAD design, 3D prototyping, product assessment, product development days, and UKAS laboratory accreditation.
Alastair Wheeler, Winkhaus UK’s Aluminium Systems Manager, stated: “At Winkhaus, we pride ourselves on being a collaborative partner, working closely with system houses to meet their specific needs. Through mutual development, testing, and certification, we ensure that each system house can enjoy the benefits of a bespoke window solution that saves precious production time.”
Among the tests offered are:
• PAS24: Enhanced Security Performance
• BS6375 (part 1, 2, and 3): Performance of Doors and Windows
• BS EN1634-3: Smoke Control Test
• TS007: Enhanced Security Performance
For further information on Winkhaus Laboratories’ services or to discuss testing requirements, interested parties are encouraged to contact the team via email at test.lab@winkhaus.co.uk.
To learn more about the features and benefits of aluPilot, visit our website, www.winkhaus.co.uk/en/alupilot, or contact marketing@winkhaus.co.uk.
DIY
“At MB DIY, we understand the diverse needs of our customers. Whether you are a trader needing a variety of fitting materials or a fabricator looking for reliable supply chains, we offer products from numerous manufacturers all under one roof. Our aim is to ensure that every trader and retailer has the tools they need to succeed, supported by flexible pricing structures and a strong commitment to customer service.”
Michael Greenup, Director
Comprehensive solutions for the joinery and window industry
Robust product stocks with an extensive array from the industry leading brands
Competitive and customised pricing strategies plus tailored support services for our customers
SLINOVA
The slimline sliding door
Stylish, minimalist and sustainable.
SLINOVA offers slim sightlines and the flexibility of a dual and triple track door system, as well as a large number of sliding door combinations. With a minimalist discreet design, SLINOVA provides outstanding performance and design, for today’s modern contemporary homes.
Winkhaus UK has just completed the process of renovating our Kettering office bringing to life our vision of creating a warm, inviting and modern space for employees and visitors that truly showcases our brand.
On Thursday 13th June, one of our Owners and Managing Partners, Miss Sofie Winkhaus visited to officially open the finished project. The refurbished office features a more open plan, which brings staff closer together and encourages them to collaborate. One example of this is our technical management and laboratory team, who are now together in one space, making it easier for them to
discuss concepts, develop plans and technical solutions to help fast track our customers’ projects, getting them to market earlier and aiding in guaranteeing their success.
Justin Harris, Managing Director of Winkhaus UK, said: “The refurbishment is the perfect showcase for the added value products, services and solutions that differentiate us in the market and aids in delivering our company vision and mission of ‘guaranteeing our customers’ success’.”
“Our brief was to create a modern office environment which nurtures the incredible talent we have within the company. We place our customers and staff at the centre of everything we do, so it’s appropriate that, as a 5th Generation family business, Miss Sofie Winkhaus was present at the unveiling.”
To learn more about the products and services that Winkhaus offers, visit www.winkhaus.co.uk/en/ or contact marketing@winkhaus.co.uk.
aluPilot
The efficient fitting system for aluminium windows
Click. Click. Done. Save up to 10 minutes per aluminium window.
