Glass News December 2023

TWO MORE LEADING TRADE FABRICATORS THE RIGHT PEOPLE READ GLASS NEWS DEBATE THE FUTURE OF WINDOW MATERIALS THE UK’S LEADING TRADE NEWSPAPER FOR WINDOWS, DOORS AND CONSERVATORIES

Issue 153 | December 2023

Eight of the leading trade window fabricators I’ve spoken to (Garrard Windows, Listers, Sternfenster, BSW, John Fredericks, Dempsey Dyer, Mercury and Central) see aluminium growing strongly as a percent of the mix. Mercury’s view was more nuanced, with Steve Cross forecasting growth in aluminium but saying that with PVC windows trying to look more like aluminium and aluminium using increasing amounts of non-aluminium thermal breaks, they might meet in the middle and become just windows.

State of the art machinery in the Garnalex factory

SOFTWARE & IT

Mike Rigby

However, two fabricators (Pioneer Trading Company and Truframe) see a healthy future for PVC-U, with Pioneer envisaging the pendulum swinging back to PVC-U. But let’s look at the facts first.

Continued on page 56

IS !!

TH NTH MO

IS !!

TH NTH MO

SEE PAGE 38

SEE PAGE 50

PRODUCT REVIEW 2023

Deceuninck recycling capacity of 45,000 tonnes of recycled material prevents 2.3 million windows from going to landfill every year.

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DECEMBER 2023

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

WE SHOULD BE PROUD OF THE SERVICE WE OFFER, EVEN IN DIFFICULT TIMES Amongst all the many things that are wrong with the world you’d think that, especially during hard times, looking after your customers would be key. We all spend enormous amounts of money to attract new customers and then to lock them in, so providing excellent service is surely less expensive than going out and searching for new customers all the time?

Back in my ‘working’ days in the travel industry we went to great lengths to retain customers, year on year, knowing that this was the most economic way to operate.

During the winter when we shipped customers, and prospective customers too, into theatres around the country, I would stand on stage and ask the audience who had been on holiday with us before? Hands would shoot up all over the auditorium and so I would ask who had been on more than one…and so on. Every night we could guarantee that we would get people proudly proclaiming that they had been with us well over 30 times and, at that point we could have shut down the show, and gone home, because those multiple holidaymakers had just sold our company to the rest of the audience on the basis of ‘they must be good then!’

Why do I mention this? Simply because I was intrigued to read today that ‘companies with shoddy customer service face a crackdown’. You’d think that the crackdown would be that they would lose customers.

But no. We are being told that ministers are considering fining companies with poor customer service. So, banks and energy companies that leave customers hanging on the ‘phone will be hit in the pocket.

The plans also include the practise of ‘drip pricing’, for instance where airlines add sneaky charges at checkout. All well and good, you may say, and it’s about time all these charlatans are brought into line.

But think about our own industry. If we offer poor customer service we lose that customer and they probably share their poor experience with all their pals and that doesn’t bode well for future sales. Our customers can vote with their feet, and I presume this proposal from ministers will include making the moving or cancelling of contracts easier but, nevertheless, these

large corporations and utility providers really don’t care. Back to my point earlier, they don’t seek to retain customers and are quite happy to keep spending millions on advertising and promotion to swing potential customers their way. What a strange world we live in! What, of course, is not clear, and never is when fines are mentioned, is where does the cash go?

Certainly not back to the customers – us!

There must be this big pot somewhere filling up with £ millions, but can anyone tell me who gets their grubby paws on it?

Whenever I have a rant like this it’s because it infuriates me that people think of our industry as being full of sharp practice artists. We have to work hard to provide excellent products and service: it doesn’t just fall into our laps! Regrettably the demise of companies such as Safestyle and UKWG does little to enhance our reputation and I read with great interest a comment piece from Emplas’ Ryan Johnson which was not only a good read but also made a huge amount of sense. I thoroughly recommend you seek out Ryan’s letter in this issue of Glass News. It centres around what may or may not be the cause of these companies’ demise. Some claim that the industry’s staple diet of white PVCu windows is to blame. Surely not? My normal unscientific survey that involves watching what windows are being installed, as I roam the country, indicates that white PVCu is still the most installed window, whether traditional casement or flush finish. Blame, as Ryan says, should perhaps be aimed at venture capitalists desperately looking for their chunky internal rate of return, or just poor management! The word is that business is down and, when you’re playing with small margins, a sizeable reduction in sales can cause big problems.

If inflation is coming down and, allegedly, going to reach the government’s targets, perhaps this will be a short-lived trend.

November 2023 crossword solution:

CONTENTS 4 Face To Face 6 Energy Efficiency 6 Trade News 32 Hardware 36 What Door?

38 Software & IT

‘TIME OUT’ WINNERS – NOVEMBER! Sudoku: Olivia Thompson, Hurst Doors, Hull Eye Spy: T Stinson, Rotherham, South Yorkshire Spot the Difference: Rebecca Hudson, Vange, Essex Crossword: Mark Venn, Hailsham, East Sussex Congratulations to all our winners! Good luck in this months Time Out pages!

41 Letters 42 Marketing 44 Industry Awards 48 Glass News Interview: Building Our Skills 50 Product Review 2023 56 Trade News 70 BMBI 72 Cold Calling 74 Careers & Qualifications in Fenestration 76 Machinery 78 Time Out! 79 Find A Supplier

@GlassnewsMag @GlassNewsmag

Christina Shaw @Glass News

@GlassNewsMag /GlassNews

glassnews™ is a registered Trademark.

The views contained herein are not necessarily those of glassnews™ and whilst every effort is made to ensure information throughout is correct, glassnews™ does not accept liability for errors. The views expressed by contributors and the content of letters, are not necessarily those of glassnews™ and therefore cannot take responsibility.

The paper we use is 100% recycled.

CONTACT DETAILS Christina Lazenby Managing Director / Advertising Enquiries M: 07805 051322 E: christina@glassnews.co.uk Emma Champion Advertising Manager M: 07508 263262 E: emma@glassnews.co.uk Justin Lazenby Finance Director / Press Release Enquiries M: 07711 828710 E: justin@glassnews.co.uk Chris Champion Editor / Editorial Enquiries M: 07850 267223 E: chris@glassnews.co.uk Kate Carnall Graphic Design E: kate@glassnews.co.uk Deadline for copy: 16th of each month Please recycle this newspaper so we can continue to use recycling in our effort to help the environment.

I had an interesting conversation with Building Our Skills’ Mark Handley about the Career Fairs that are scheduled to take place next March with the first in South Yorkshire and the second in Manchester, with more planned later in the year. They are being supported at these fairs by a mixture of system houses, fabricators, roofing companies and even a recycling company – some 25 companies in all. This is all about seeking out the next generation for our industry and showing young people that this is an industry that is worth considering for a career. Any company that wishes to be involved with this initiative should contact Mark Handley at Building Our Skills.

Chris GOT SOMETHING TO SAY? Email Chris at: chris@glassnews.co.uk

www.glassnews.co.uk | December 2023

3

FACE TO FACE

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

THIS MONTH: Piers White, Sales Manager, Whitesales Despite being a member of the White family behind the Whitesales brand, Piers has had no special treatment – starting out at 13 with a holiday job in the warehouse.

He knows the rooflights business inside out though and is now sharing all that knowledge and experience with customers in the window and door market.

IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU...

nothing better than knowing I’m part of a team at Whitesales that won’t let a customer down.

Where were you born and live currently?

AND YOUR FUTURE...

Surrey – where Whitesales is based. I was born in Woking, but now I live in Farnham.

What would you do if you weren’t in this industry?

Your education and subject or activity in which you excelled?

You could probably sum it up as ‘C’ for consistent. I did OK but sadly, didn’t really see the benefit of it at the time and was far more interested in sport and PE than anything else.

Your favourite sports or interests?

All sports – but especially football and cricket. My big interest though is fishing – lakes, rivers, and sea. I’ve spent far too many hours trying to hook the big one! It might seem contradictory, but I’ve also got a big 420-litre tropical fish tank at home which provides hours of entertainment. And a 4-year old son to teach fishing tricks to!!

Your biggest regret in life?

Probably that I didn’t see the benefit of school…

The temptation you can’t resist…

Pancakes. I can’t pass a crepe stall without buying one and it’s my go-to breakfast (and sometimes lunch…) at home.

Someone of something that inspires you As a football fan, it would be Sir Alex Ferguson. Not just because of the success he had at Manchester United but for the way he worked with individuals to get the best out of them. We could all learn a lot from that.

YOUR CAREER...

When and how you joined the industry?

I started working in the Whitesales warehouse in the school holidays when I was 13 and joined the business as soon as I finished school. I worked my way from the warehouse into purchasing and then into

sales, and I’ve progressed from internal to external sales and from merchant sales into fenestration.

The job you do?

My title is Sales Manager, Fenestration but the job’s as much about relationship building as it is about sales. We want fabricators and installers to choose Whitesales as their rooflights and lantern partner, so I’m out and about most of the time explaining why that’s a better way to buy rooflights and how Whitesales can save them time and hassle and ultimately help them make more money.

Your greatest achievement?

It’s got to be the number of customers who say I’ve lived up to my promises. There’s

Having been in rooflights and lanterns for my whole career, I don’t know anything different.

But everyone in my family is entrepreneurial – my grandfather set up Whitesales and my dad and two uncles grew it to a point that it split into three separate companies – Whitesales, Ryno (decking and paving systems) and Sertus (smoke ventilation and access products) so I’d probably try and do something similar for myself.

A particular ambition?

I’m not thinking beyond making a success of this new role and helping Whitesales make a big impact in this industry.

How would you want to be remembered?

As someone with integrity who did what they said they would. Someone who promised AND delivered and was always open and honest. www.whitesales.co.uk

If you would like to appear in ‘Face to Face’, or would like to nominate someone else to be featured, simply email chris@glassnews.co.uk.

4

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

Think cladding.

Your customers are.

Cladding has seen a huge spike in demand in the past year. According to the Rated People Home Improvement Trends Report 2023, cladding saw the biggest increase in demand in 2022 out of any home improvement job – a massive 743%!

That alone is impressive, but what makes Freefoam’s stunning range of easy-to-install, long-lasting cladding stand out from the crowd even more? Our choice of colours, of course.

We offer a variety of colours to suit any homeowner’s requirements from pale shades of cream and grey to stronger blues and greens.

See what Freefoam’s colour cladding looks like on a home. Our PVC Cladding Visualiser Tool at freefoam.com will bring your ideas to life.

Get in touch now on 0800 002 9903 to find out how your customers can get confident with colour cladding.

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BUILDING PARTNERSHIPS

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

CONSERVATORY OUTLET RECORDS 125% EPWIN WINDOW SYSTEMS’ BOARD U-COMPLY N CALCULATOR APPOINTMENT INCREASE IN SALES OF ITS ENVISAGE FLUSH CASEMENT WINDOWS ADDING VALUE AT SCOTIA Conservatory Outlet, the WINDOWS UK’s leading fabricator AND DOORS of windows, doors, Ayrshire-based Scotia Windows and Doors has made a key appointment to its board with Tony Campbell, formerly of Saint-Gobain (SG), being installed as Director of Operations after joining the group in February.

Epwin Window Systems has confirmed an increase in downloads of its thermal efficiency calculator U-Comply N by customers calculating the thermal performance and transmittance of their window and door specifications.

The U-Comply N online tool is fully accredited by the BSI and the BFRC and can be used to prove a product’s compliance with Part L of Building Regulations.

Gerald Allen, Head of Marketing at Epwin Window Systems, said: “With the changes to Part L, the compliance aspect is gaining significance across all market sectors – over 2,600 calculation reports have been generated by our customers in the past 12 months alone, each based on their chosen specification, including profile, glazing unit, reinforcing and more.”

The U-Comply N reports have increased in importance since the introduction of the updated Part L of Building Regulations last year, which was the stepping stone to the Future Homes Standard in 2025 aimed to reduce the carbon emissions from new homes by implementing higher energy efficiency requirements.

Gerald commented: “To demonstrate compliance with Part L, decision-making must be documented throughout the design process. Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) assessors and local building control need to see the decisions and how designs meet the new regulations. The U-Comply N reports provide this evidence.”

The U-Comply N calculator is part of Epwin Window Systems’ Connect digital platform, which aims to elevate customer support across all business touchpoints and be the industry’s most comprehensive customer resource hub. To date, it has over 1,000 registered users and sees over 2,000 direct downloads per month, as well as the 2,600 calculation reports, demonstrating the extensive value the platform is delivering to fabricators and installers.

Campbell, who spent 15 years in multi-site manufacturing and operations with Glass Solutions before moving over to SG’s timber kit division, Scotframe, adds an additional layer of expertise to the Scottish volume fabricator, which has built an enviable reputation supplying to the New Build sector. From its Kilmarnock super campus, Scotia is also expanding its production of aluminium products and has laid solid foundations to address the requirements of the new Future Homes Standard, using to good advantage the strength of its Passivhaus design team.

Managing Director Gavin Smith said, “Tony’s promotion reflects the positive impact made in the short space of time he’s been with the company. His experience with one of the world’s leading operators in the sustainable construction sector is already shaping Scotia for a new and challenging phase in the industry, and these improvements to our production and processes will help the group strengthen its position in the market, not only as it endures a sustained period of uncertainty, but also as we look further ahead to a recovery in the industry in the longer term.

and specialist home improvement products, has recorded a 125% increase in the sales of its trademark collection of Envisage flush casement windows.

Designed to replicate the look of traditional timber windows, Envisage windows are known for their sleek appearance, exceptional thermal performance and durability.

Conservatory Outlet offers its Envisage windows with welded or mechanical timber-style joints, a key differential over other comparative systems.

This unique selling point has driven sales amongst homeowners across the country, as Conservatory Outlet’s CEO, Greg Kane, explains.

“A year ago, Envisage flush casement windows made up around 8% of our total sales. After strong trading throughout 2023, that split stands at 18% of sales, an increase of 125%.

“We have seen a substantial uptick in orders of our Envisage flush casement windows, especially options with timber-style mechanical joints. When people want to improve their homes, it is clear they care just as much about the style and design of their windows as their performance and security.”

“The Envisage window provides the best of both worlds. It combines the strength and energy efficiency associated with UPVC windows and the classic, clean look and feel of traditional wooden frames.”

The Envisage flush casement window boasts simple, clean lines, authentic proportions and opening lights that do not stand proud of the frame.

The system also provides exceptional performance, security and insulation demands required by today’s market.

Capable of achieving a WER of A+ and U-Value of 1.2, the Envisage collection is also Secured by Design accredited and is available in a range of traditional and contemporary colours, including a colourway exclusive to Conservatory Outlet, Olive Grey.

Conservatory Outlet is showing continuous year-on-year growth. Much of this success is due to its exclusive product portfolio and the close level of support it provides its Network of Premium Retailers around the UK. Managing Director Mick Giscombe adds: “Heritage-style products are extremely popular at the moment.

“The Envisage flush casement window caters to this market, offering a highquality flush finish, distinctive design options and a stunning collection of colours and hardware styles.

“We always aim to provide our customers with innovative solutions to meet market demands and the Envisage window, which Conservatory Outlet launched in 2017 and has seen continuous advancements over the years, has proved to be a fantastic product for retailers, installers and homeowners alike.”

For more on the Envisage Collection, please visit: https://www. conservatoryoutlet.co.uk/windows/ envisage-flush/ Further information and updates about Conservatory Outlet can be found on the company’s website www. conservatoryoutlet.co.uk. You can also follow the company on LinkedIn.

The calculator builds on the support Connect was able to offer when the Building Regulations were updated last year, when it provided a wide range of practical guidance, including hosting live stream Q&A sessions to assist customers in navigating the complexities of the new legislation.

In a further demonstration of its value, Connect has been shortlisted in the Best Business Initiative of the Year and Customer Care Initiative of the Year categories at the G Awards 2023.

Epwin Window Systems is a company dedicated to pushing boundaries and setting industry standards. It’s something that’s clearly in evidence in its Connect portal and the U-Comply N calculator.

Tel: 0845 340 3968 www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

6

Anthracite Grey Envisage Flush casement windows with timber style mechanical joints

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

EDGETECH ROUNDTABLE WHY FORCE 8 FINDS SECTOR READY SPECIALISE IN JUST FOR TRIPLE GLAZED FUTURE VEKA AND HALO

The UK glass sector is ready for a large-scale shift to triple glazing, and thinks it’s the right move for fenestration, wider construction, and society as a whole.

That was the key message to emerge from Edgetech’s Triple Glazing Question roundtable debate, which took place in Birmingham on the 28th of September.

With the Future Home Standard just 18 months away, the sector faces big challenges as it seeks to meet ever-tightening performance requirements.

In Birmingham, senior figures from leading trade bodies, glass suppliers and IGU manufacturers discussed the industry’s ability to adapt.

Through a mixture of open, free-flowing discussion and anonymous polling, the event gauged attendees’ opinions on a range of important topics.

They were asked whether they favoured a mandatory shift to triple glazing for new-build, and about the industry’s ability to cope if that were to come into force.

The discussion also covered current demand for triple glazing, and whether making it the norm for new-build would generate greater consumer interest.

Much uncertainty remains around the Future Homes

Standard – but the mood in the room was extremely optimistic, as Edgetech Managing Director Chris Alderson explains.

Leading composite door supplier, DoorCo announces it will be back at FIT Show 2025, confirming they will be occupying stand H80 in Hall 9 and sponsoring the event, once again.

“We had a great day of discussion and debate in Birmingham, and the results were hugely encouraging.

“We all know that the Future Homes Standard will have a major impact on the sector, but the exact nature of that impact is still unclear.

“At the moment, we don’t know if it will make triple glazing mandatory for all new-build properties.

“However, those in the room were resoundingly in favour of that option, and were very confident the industry could quickly adapt to it.

“It was yet another demonstration of our sector’s resilience and ability to deal with change, and left me more confident than ever that it has a very bright future ahead of it”.

At the end of the discussion, Edgetech revealed its plans to hold a full Triple Glazing Question event at Coventry’s CBS Arena in March 2024, bringing together hundreds of industry leaders to discuss the issue in more depth.

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

Showing the forming of an arch in one single length of profile with no breaks or welds

For the past three decades, Force 8 have been in the specialist profile bending sector and have built a reputation that is second to none.

Throughout that time, they have dedicated their efforts to just two primary profile selections, namely, Veka and Halo. The focus on the Veka profile has stemmed from its versatility, offering a wide array of sections that make it the ideal choice for bending profiles for various installations in either windows or doors.

The specialisation of Force 8 in Veka and Halo profiles has afforded them the opportunity to fine tune their operations. This has enabled Force 8 to make strategic investments in cutting-edge software, state-of-the-art CNC machinery, and even a precision milling machine with the ability to navigate corners seamlessly, which is all geared up exclusively for Veka.

Additionally, their remarkable three decades of industry experience, coupled with a highly dedicated workforce, have been instrumental in solidifying their position as leaders in their field.

Force 8 has consistently exhibited a flair for innovation and adaptation, which has allowed them to maintain a lead role in the industry and keep one step ahead. Remarkably, to their knowledge they are still the only company in the UK producing a fulllength bend, which means that an arched frame for a door or window is formed from a single length of profile, with no welds or breaks.

Dennis Sumner, the founder of Force 8, emphasises, “Achieving

8

DOORCO RETURNS TO FIT

our level of quality bending would be unattainable if we were bending multiple profiles, and constantly changing settings, tooling, formers and software. We would become jack of all trades and masters of none, we prefer to be true masters of our craft. This approach has also enabled us to maintain an extensive inventory of Veka and Halo profiles, ensuring that a wide array of sections are consistently available, which would be almost impossible with multiple profile brands and sections”.

Their craftsmanship extends beyond their products and machinery, encompassing the very structure of their organisation.

Notably, in November 2021, they pioneered a move into an Employee-Owned Trust (EOT), marking a significant milestone within the industry. Two years later, this strategic decision has proven to be an outstanding success, in an industry where staff and skill shortages are starting to bite, Force 8 has found what it believes is a unique and longlasting solution to the problem.

As mentioned earlier, a dedicated workforce is crucial to the quality and success of the company.

Dennis concludes, “the EOT was the last piece of the jigsaw, if you are specialising in one profile for bending, equipping the factory with the correct machinery and software for that profile, you need the right people to make it all work, which is why we can claim to be masters of our craft.”

“The DoorCo team will be back at FIT 25, bigger and better than ever before”, says Marketing Manager, Ellie Pool. “After the success of our last event in 2022, it wasn’t a hard decision to make to return.

FIT offers a unique platform, as the only dedicated industry exhibition, to provide companies with the opportunity to showcase their products and developments to a prequalified audience. However, we recognise the big investment required to attend exhibitions, so we’ll be making the most of the opportunity with lots to engage our visitors, from new innovations to plenty of hospitality.

“FIT is a great opportunity to connect with our customers on many levels. Last time, we set a new precedent that we’re determined to exceed.

“Personally, this will be my first FIT Show as an exhibitor. Earlier this year I visited the event and was impressed by the depth of innovation on display and the tangible atmosphere delivered, so I’m excited to be part of the next show.

“We are working closely with the FIT Show team to ensure we and our visitors have the very best experience”.

FIT Show event director, Nickie West said: “We’re very excited to welcome DoorCo to the lineup for FIT Show 2025. Doors remain the number one product that our visitors want to see, and the extensive range that DoorCo offers will perfectly complement the diverse offering of all products and materials at FIT Show 2025. The team are always extremely creative when it comes to their FIT Show campaign, both in the run up to and during the event, I can’t wait to see what they’ve got planned!”

Ellie concludes: “We’ll be bringing lots of innovation and entertainment to FIT Show 2025 and looking forward to sharing more about our plans in the lead up to the show.”

For more information call: 01625 428955 or visit: https://trade.door-co.com/

www.force8.uk

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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simple to sell | simple to survey | simple to order | simple to install Secondary glazing is simple, versatile and highly profitable. It comes in a range of styles - with or without subframes - and is simple to install, whatever the weather.

Should you be offering it to your customers? The decision is simple.

01234 712657 trade@roseview.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

RISE IN ALUMINIUM FABRICATORS SHOWS MATERIAL IS IN ASCENDANCY With the new ‘Sate of the Industry’ report by awardwinning specialist data supplier Insight Data revealing that the number of aluminium fabricators is on the rise, the materials popularity has never been higher, says Jeremy Phillips, Group Chairman of CDW Systems.

As specialists in aluminium fabrication, we have witnessed first-hand the rapid rise of aluminium and Insight Data’s most recent ‘State of the Industry’ report showing the number of aluminium fabricators increasing is no surprise.

According to the data, there are now 921 aluminium fabricators, which is up from 884 in 2021. In fact, it continues an upward trend since 2017 and 801 fabricators, showing a steady rise every year since.

When you consider that, during the same period, there has been a continued decline in the number of PVCu fabricators, from 1,407 in 2017 to 1,177 today, it shows that there is no sign of the popularity of aluminium slowing down.

HIGH END After the home improvement boom in the years that followed the pandemic, the market has slowed due in no small part to the economic outlook and the cost-of-living crisis. One thing that has not changed is the demand for aluminium.

Despite the economic downturn, homeowners with money will always still spend it and it’s no surprise that installers are looking to diversify and offer consumers higher end options such as aluminium bifold doors, sliding patio doors and heritage windows, so they can tap into that market.

POPULAR FACTORS There are, of course, plenty of factors driving the popularity of aluminium, not least its sleek, and minimalist aesthetic appeal. Whether it’s for windows, doors or curtain walling, aluminium offers an elegant and contemporary touch that never goes out of style while its adaptability to various finishes enables a wide range of colour and texture options. Its unique combination of lightweight properties and exceptional strength has led to its adoption in a wide range of industries, making it perfect for commercial projects.

Energy efficiency is a major concern in modern construction and fabrication and aluminium’s inherent thermal properties allow for the creation of thermally broken systems that significantly improve energy performance and help reduce heating costs, contributing to sustainability and energy savings.

RENSON UK ACHIEVES ISO 9001 CERTIFICATION Following a stringent auditing process, leading ventilation louvre specialist Renson UK has achieved ISO 9001 certification, joining the 1% of elite UK businesses to be accredited.

ISO 9001 is recognised internationally as the world’s most widely adopted Quality Management System, demonstrating a company’s ability to deliver high-quality services to customers on a continuous basis.

Martin Daniels, Renson UK’s National Sales Manager, comments: “Over the past year, we’ve implemented internal re-structuring in order to drive business growth and to ensure better customer service, as well as price adjustments in order to be more compatible with the wider louvre and ventilation product market.

“We’ve had a careful look at all our offerings, and following changes in personnel, system changes, and streamlining of production processes, we are now able to offer the high-quality and market-leading products associated with Renson, at competitive prices.

Durable and highly resistant to rust and the corrosion caused by modern industrial pollutants, aluminium requires very little long-term maintenance too.

“Achieving ISO 9001, which is recognised as an international standard, is both an honour and a testament to our team’s commitment to delivering great service for our customers.”

SUSTAINABILITY IN SPOTLIGHT

Renson UK specialises in high-quality, fully tested louvre systems, mechanical ventilation products, fans and window vents, while also providing design support, and NBS specifications to ensure compliance and technical performance.

With the shift towards sustainable materials more significant than ever, aluminium will play an increasing role thanks to its sustainability and recyclable credentials.

It is arguably the most sustainable building material in the world and is almost endlessly recyclable, with the recycling process creating high quality aluminium which loses none of the physical properties of primary aluminium. Recycling aluminium saves 95% of the energy required to produce aluminium from raw materials and, being light weight, aluminium is easy to handle which reduces the environmental impact and cost of transportation.

The company also specialises in integrated ventilation solutions (IVS), a complete, oneunit airtight and rain resistant ventilation system that includes blanking panels, insulated blanking panels, bespoke plenums and factory-fitted dampers.

All products offer outstanding weathertightness and have been fully tested to the highest standards, having undergone rigorous BSRIA testing to EN13030:2001.

Aluminium’s remarkable longevity and resistance to corrosion mean it can endure harsh weather conditions for decades, ultimately reducing the need for frequent replacements and giving aluminium products a life span that can be measured in decades rather than years.

Martin concludes: “Our journey to ISO 9001 certification signifies not only our unwavering commitment to excellence, but also our adaptability and resilience as a team, and as a prestigious international recognition, is a milestone we celebrate proudly.”

It’s no surprise that the number of aluminium fabricators is rising year-onyear, with the popularity of high-end aluminium products providing plenty of opportunities for installers in the UK, both commercially and residentially.

For more information, visit https://www.renson.eu/en-gb/forprofessionals/contact

ISO CHEMIE OPENS WEBSHOP FOR UK CUSTOMERS A new webshop has been opened by window and door frame sealant tape specialist ISO-Chemie to provide UK customers with rapid and easy access to products, installation information and orders 24/7.

Accessible via an office PC, laptop, tablet or mobile device, the versatile webshop - available via ISO-Chemie’s web portal enables customers to browse and place online orders and review their purchasing history. It also opens up access to CAD file downloads as well as extensive application information and specification detail on the company’s range of foam tape sealants and associated products, including BIM services.

Products can be viewed and ordered at the touch of a button via an interactive display to save time and ensure selection accuracy.

Associated documents are also available for downloading and viewing while orders can be tracked.

In addition, ISO-Chemie offers planning, calculation and installation tools via its ISO-PORTAL. Specification documents, training videos and BIM-ready object data for products are also available to support designers and architects.

The ISO-Chemie webshop is part of a package of added value customer support services said UK sales and operations manager Andy Swift, who added: “With our digital service we offer our customers the best possible support in planning and implementing their construction projects.

For us, this requires an efficient customerfocused ordering process.”

Register at www.iso-chemie.co.uk

Established in 1992, CDW Systems aluminium products include windows, bi-folds, sliding patio doors, commercial entrance doors and curtain walling.

For more information visit www.cdwsystems.co.uk or call 01452 414853.

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ISO Chemie has open a new webshop to provide UK customers with rapid and easy access to products, installation information and orders 24/7

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

Breaking the silence around mental health Tune in at nhic.org.uk for our special podcast series on mental health EPISODE

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EPISODE

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Managing loneliness and working away from home How to achieve work-life balance and manage demands Support in the home improvement, renewables sectors and for tradespeople

Accessing debt support and achieving financial health

0345 053 8975 info@dgcos.org.uk installers.dgcos.org.uk The Double Glazing and Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS) is a consumer protection scheme for the installation of double glazing products. Being a member of DGCOS shows that as an installer you are committed to complying with high standards of consumer protection.

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

GLAZPART’S TRUE COLOURS COME TO THE FORE

Dean Bradley Glazpart Sales Director 2023

With an ever-competitive marketplace, combined with increasing consumer focus on aesthetics, Glazpart has, in the last decade, consistently invested in state-ofthe-art machinery, systems and tooling to provide a vast spectrum of colours and finishes of its award-winning Link Vent range - launched in 2013 and expanded with the Link Vent 4000 in 2022 to comply with changes to Building Regulations.

The Link Vent has become the leading ventilation solution for building designers, window manufacturers, fabricators and installers and as such, Glazpart is now in pole position to supply all colours/decorative finishes of trickle vents for any type (wood, uPVC, aluminium ) of window or door profile.

Link Vents can also be camouflaged in window profiles in over 40 moulded system house colours, with finishes to also match embossed and woodgrain patterned foils. It can even be sprayed at source to match aluminium RAL colours.

As demand increases due to the consumer choice of windows and doors and with the regulatory changes (in June 2022), Glazpart has led the way with the development and easy availability of trickle vents that come in more than just the common colours (white and grey).

Glazpart is an approved colour paint sprayer for many paint systems developed for application onto plastic. The spray systems are special coatings designed to paint uPVC and other hard plastic such as ABS, polycarbonate and acrylic where the systems form a molecular cross bond with the plastic surface.

With thousands of colours available that match most UK, European and International colour systems, the most popular colours in Glazpart’s Link Vent range include, Chartwell Green, Anthracite Grey, Redwood, Black and Cream. Glazpart’s specialist colour matching service also allows for matching non-standard colours and supplied colour samples.

In addition, Glazpart’s colour spraying systems can also produce matt or super matt finishes for highly visible trickle vents. These kind of finishes usually present significant challenges to most component manufacturers due to the cost, investment and achieving the colour accuracy of matt finishes.

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Glazpart can colour match a vast range of window and door frame foils and the company can always manufacture at short notice to ensure customers have the products readily available.

Smart design, easy fitting, and functionality are Link Vent fundamentals but it is the huge choice of colours and decorative finishes that sets the product apart from the competition.

Dean Bradley explains: “Glazpart is an approved colour paint sprayer for many paint systems developed for application onto plastic. The spray systems are special coatings designed to paint uPVC and other hard plastic such as ABS, polycarbonate and acrylic where the systems form a molecular cross bond with the plastic surface. In addition, we have a specialist colour matching service that can match non-standard colours and supplied colour samples.”

For homeowners, the benefits go beyond simple aesthetics but also durability. The colours are extremely stable and resistant to UV light, so homeowners can be safe in the knowledge that the vents will hold their colour in extreme weather conditions without noticeable fading.

Glazpart’s true colours have certainly come to the fore as the Link Vent continues to be the go-to trickle ventilation solution for both the supply chain and homeowners across the UK.

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

Link Vent 4000 One of Glazpart’s award winning range of trickle vents

New product of the year Link Vent 4000

Window component of the year 2022

Window component of the year

For more information and to find your local stockist visit:

glazpart.com/trickle-ventilation | 01295 264533 or call to speak with one of the team.

Learn how to become one of our Glazpartners visit glazpart.com/partners

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

COMMON SENSE AND COMMUNICATION

THE KEY TO A GREAT SALES STRATEGY

A great sales process is all about good old fashioned common sense and excellent communication. James Lee, Business Development Manager for Solar Calibre Doors offers guidance, without giving away any trade secrets.

we regularly check Window Fitters Forum and other social platforms), we know that lots of installers are reporting that the SFS hinge is very much the preferred choice. We are now using it on our Benchmark GRP door, which will be going live very soon. We also know through customer feedback how

In terms of our extended service, we have an inhouse spraying facility, offering all the premium colours inhouse. For higher volume customers, we can produce bespoke doors, working with them to get the best price, for cost-effective solutions. We have a new quality control section which includes ‘natural light’, so we can ensure colours and finish are as they would be, in situ, not just in the factory. Again, feedback is key.

For example, we are actively looking at how to improve our packaging to eradicate any possible damage in transit. In certain situations – our bigger contracts for example – our delivery vehicle has a forklift truck attached, to help offload the product.

And, if a customer needs an assisted fit, we can bring in our ‘out in the field’ site technician, who is also able to support with any remedial work – this service is always well received by our customers.

Solar Calibre Doors recently purchased a package from Insight Data, to support our sales strategy. Through this we can find out who and where our potential customers are, who they are currently buying from, who might be a little unhappy with the service they’re getting, and where we might well be able to help them. And that is where we score highly. One of the most important aspects of any sales role is the ability to listen, hear what your customer is saying, what are their requirements, how can you work with them to produce the product or service they really need? In our view, this is all part of adding value to our product offer. It is interesting that many potential customers are not totally happy with the service and supply from their existing supplier. At Solar Calibre Doors we pride ourselves not only on the quality and timely supply but when things fall short our customer care team ensure inconvenience is minimised.

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complements the more standardised, mass market GRP solution and we encourage installers to consider adding it to their range to add differentiation, increase margins and maybe access a part of the market generally not so adversely affected by the cost-ofliving crisis.

We have invested in our systems and our people – we have a new team member, and a strong group of colleagues in support, on customer service, technical, logistics, delivery, and internal sales handling quotes, inputting orders and taking and making phone calls. We don’t hide behind emails, we are all real, named people. We like to think we are a personable company, we take on feedback and we don’t shy away from awkward conversations, because at some point we all have them, and we learn from them.

“We supply across the board, so into the Social Housing, Local Authority and Trade sectors and our reach is national.

Many of our customers have come via recommendation, which is fantastic - we have a strong nucleus of customers who are very happy with the service levels provided but we are always looking to extend our offer and build the business. We have just had a second line added in our composite door production facility – my target is to fill that second line.

To give an example, by keeping our collective ear to the ground (we make sure

popular our Craftsman door is – originally introduced nearly two decades ago as Masterdor – and which we are continuously improving, building on all our research and structural development. For example, its thermal core offers unrivalled levels of efficiency for a timber door. Craftsman

James Lee, Solar Calibre Doors

Solar Calibre Craftsman timber door

All of this comes together under our sales strategy. I know that ‘cold calling’ will never go away but you have to ask yourself how would you want to be treated? If I’m on the receiving end, it will always be ‘don’t be pushy, listen to me’ - it is definitely about listening, not just hearing. It’s important to recognise the difference.”

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT SUPPLIER FOR

CONSERVATORY ROOFS? Connaught have been fabricating the Ultraframe System for over 18 years.

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Probably the best prepped roof on the market - we do more so you do less!

T: 01709 710100 E: info@connaughtconservatories.co.uk F: 01709 525262

www.connaughtroofs.com

Unit 3, Lloyd Street, Parkgate, Rotherham, S62 6JG

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

A STEEL WINDOW SURVEY A SUCCESSFUL DAY FROM ASWS WILL SAVE AT THE RACES FOR VBH TIME AND MAY HELP SECURE THE TENDER! With 60 years’ experience as a specialist steel window refurbishment and replacement company, ASWS is offering a valuable survey service to property owners, contractors and architects. ASWS has already completed eight surveys in 2023, so far, across London, including Mayfair, Haringey, Marylebone and a few on Regents Street and Oxford Street.

Known for their large, prestigious projects in the capital like Battersea Power Station, The Whiteley, BBC Bush House and Hackney Town Hall, part of ASWS’s company ethos is the continual support and guidance for clients. ASWS has seen a rise in the number of landlords and architects employing the company’s services to obtain detailed, expert guidance they can submit with tender information packages to help them secure accurate costs for their projects. In addition, several main contractors utilise this service to assist in offering all options of refurbishment and/or replacement to their clients. With a greater emphasis on planning, a good facade scheme can go a long way for a contractor or architect in creating a good relationship with local planning authorities.

Working mainly on listed buildings, ASWS begins a survey by gathering together as much information on the current state of the building in question. The first step is to track down any available drawings and photographs of the outside of the building and using these to put together an initial information pack before visiting the site to conduct a thorough survey of the current state of the existing windows. During the site visit ASWS inspects every individual window, photographing and sketching it, and notes the state of the glazing, any missing ironmongery and the state of the steel frames. This results in a detailed description of every window and allows ASWS to put together a generalised summary of the overall task backed up with more specific information on what absolutely essentially needs to be replaced, what would be desirable and any further improvements and upgrades that could be made, while all the time mindful of planning requirements for the specific building.

The survey and the information gained can then be collated to produce a comprehensive bill of quantities and a specification document for pricing purposes, which can be invaluable in the preparation of cost plans and project budgets.

The surveys have proven popular with architects and contractors in London and the South East but ASWS can work outside of these locations!

For further information on Associated Steel Window Services, please visit www.asws.co.uk or call 020 8665 5335.

Hardware manufacturer, VBH, had a successful day at Doncaster races on Saturday 28th October for the National Fenestration Awards presentation event.

The greenteQ iQ Security Window Espagnolette, which works with Kubu to link windows to smart home networks, was named as the Best Window Component of 2023.

Members of the VBH team from various departments enjoyed champagne upon arrival, followed by a sumptuous three-course lunch and a full race card. Those who had a flutter report mixed success.

The company also won the Digital Marketing Campaign category for its work in promoting the popular greenteQ Q-Smart fingerprint operated electronic door handle.

this award. I work with the best team that makes all this possible.”

The VBH team’s final success came when Media Coordinator, Hayley Martin, was named as Social Networker of the Year. Hayley said, “I’m still in shock, but thank you for

To find out more about greenteQ iQ, Q-Smart or any other hardware in the VBH range, contact the company on 01634 263263, email at sales@vbhgb.com, or send them a Tweet @vbhgb.

When the awards winners were announced though, VBH had a better time of it, being successful in three categories.

FREEFOAM AWARDED SUPPLY CHAIN SUSTAINABILITY SCHOOL GOLD STATUS Freefoam Building Products Ltd has been awarded Gold status by the Supply Chain Sustainability School (SCSS).

SCSS Gold status recognises Freefoam’s commitment to building sustainability and ESG skills and knowledge. The Supply Chain Sustainability School is a free online platform that provides training and learning content aiming to ‘inspire and enable’ the built environment sector to implement positive change. Topics can range from Energy and Carbon reduction, Waste and Resource Efficiency, Sustainable Procurement, and Social Value.

Kevin Cronin, Chief Operating Officer at Freefoam, and part of its dedicated Sustainability team, explains: “This membership level shows that we’ve demonstrated a significant increase in sustainability competence, and actively shared knowledge and experience with

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Members of the school are required to complete an initial assessment, where their knowledge is benchmarked, and areas for improvement are identified.

Members then receive customised learning resources to bridge any knowledge gaps.

“A big part of our journey to Building a Sustainable Future for our business includes training for our teams,” comments Colin St John, Freefoam’s Commercial Director. “It’s not just manufacturers like Freefoam who are benefiting – but also other stakeholders within the construction value chain such as builders’ merchants and product end users.”

Freefoam’s Gold level membership comes just a few months after

Supply Chain Sustainability School awards Freefoam ‘Gold’ status

achieving Silver, demonstrating their investment in Building a Sustainable Future for their business.

Learn more about Freefoam’s sustainability initiatives and read case studies at freefoam.com/professional/ sustainability-archive. For more on Freefoam’s products, service and support visit www.freefoam.com or call 0800 002 9903.

PREMIER ARCHES SEES RECORD-BREAKING MONTH Leading arched frame supplier Premier Arches has seen a recordbreaking sales month, having sold over a quarter of a million pounds worth of arched and angled frames in October. This record sales month comes as the company has finished its 2022-2023 financial year with a 45% increase compared to the previous financial year.

Currently selling 650 arched frames per month, the St Helens-based company is an established supplier within the industry, all thanks to three core principles: manufacturing excellence, clear and honest customer service, and a ‘make life easier’ offering for customers.

County Hall, London

team members, our supply chain, and the wider public.”

Managing Director Sean Greenall comments: “Our dedication to excellence extends beyond our products – we offer fabricators a

simple and pain-free process for profile bending, transforming what can often be a daunting procedure into an efficient one that saves both time and money.

“We also provide an instant online pricing and ordering system along with professional CAD drawings and nationwide delivery, additional services that contribute significantly towards our commitment to delivering excellent customer experiences throughout every stage of the process.

“Looking ahead to 2024, we are planning further expansion by investing over £100K in state-ofthe-art manufacturing machinery.

This investment will position us for even greater growth while ensuring we continue to provide top-quality products at competitive prices.

“With a record-breaking sales month and an unwavering commitment to innovation and customer-central solutions, Premier Arches stands as a testament to excellence in the industry.

As we gear up for further expansion and investment, our promise remains unchanged – to make the complex simple and to continue to deliver exceptional products and services that help our valued customers get ahead.”

Visit www.premierarches.co.uk.

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

CREATING BRIGHT FUTURES

Say Hi The time has come to

58BW HI

BSF70 HI

58BD HI

Our home ready, Part L compliant, HI window and door collection is available now Working in close collaboration with our customers, we’ve been crafting and

fine-tuning your favourite systems from our much anticipated HI collection, with even more updates arriving in the near future.

All of this is to play our part in improving efficiency, reducing carbon emissions and creating brighter futures for homes across the UK.

Say ‘Hi’ by visiting aluk.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

OFFERS PRESTIGE SECURITY AS STANDARD LINIAR JOINS FUTURE HOMES HUB SHEERLINE – ALL PRODUCTS IN THE RANGE NOW SBD CERTIFIED

Liniar, the UK’s leading PVCu systems company and a subsidiary of Quanex, is proud to announce it recently became a member of the Future Homes Hub.

The Hub brings together all those involved in home building to help to achieve the climate and environmental goals for the sector linked to the Government’s legally binding Net Zero and wider environmental targets. Liniar places a strong emphasis on providing energy-efficient products that not only contribute to low-carbon building solutions but are also manufactured with a steadfast commitment to sustainability.

Ed Lockhart, CEO of The Future Homes Hub said, “New homes are undergoing rapid change to be ready for the climate and environmental challenges of the 21st century. No area of the economy is moving faster in this transition than the homes we build; the new homes sector will be zerocarbon in operation through the Future Homes Standard.”

He continues, “We have a collective responsibility to deliver the sector’s climate and environmental targets while building higher quality homes at the scale needed.

We can only do this if we all work together.

“I am therefore delighted that Liniar has joined the Future Homes Hub to be part of this positive change. We’re looking forward to working together with this growing

Sheerline is delighted to announce that every product within their Prestige range is now Secured by Design (SBD) certified.

With the Prestige Lift & Slide Patio Door recently joining the rest of its aluminium windows and doors to offer full SBD accreditation.

Martin Thurley, Group Managing Director

community to share our solutions and expertise, accelerating progress to a net zero future.”

Liniar Group Managing Director Martin Thurley states, “Liniar has a proud history of designing and developing innovative, highly energy efficient products for the construction industry, and is committed to collaborating on the UK’s journey towards Net Zero.

“The recent launch of our Passivhauscapable window and door system Zero|90 is a prime example. These products offer some of the best energy performance capabilities and noise-reducing properties on the market, as well as a genuine solution to future-proofing regulatory compliance.

Being manufactured using recycled components also means Zero|90 offers whole life carbon reductions, making it one of the most sustainable window and door systems in the UK.”

This latest addition underlines Sheerline’s commitment to delivering the safest, most secure products possible. It gives homeowners additional peace of mind as manufacturers must go through a stringent third-party process to achieve SBD accreditation, the official police-backed security initiative.

Prestige Lift & Slide Patio Doors were designed with security in mind, offering PAS24:2022 as standard. In-built security features such as high security interlocks, bind sashes together to stop unwanted intruders, and are rated to an impressive 4.5KN. These security features are coupled to some unique selling features such as retracting hook-locks with flush-fitting keeps that prevent snagging clothing when the doors are open. Creating secure doors with real consumer appeal.

SBD accreditation clearly signals to homeowners that the Prestige range is strong and secure enough to withstand attacks from opportunist criminals.

Offering SBD certified products is all part of Sheerline’s business ethos, which centres on giving consumers the best possible aluminium windows and doors in terms

Martin adds, “Liniar also continues investing in its facilities to ensure sustainable manufacturing processes and we’re currently on track to achieve our ambitious goal of being carbon neutral by 2025.”

of style, security, and sustainability, all created around a common system platform –something that differentiates the company from its competitors.

The Prestige Lift & Slide Patio Door was designed to help homeowners create a room with a view. It’s available in dual and triple track and operates flawlessly at any size, offering a maximum width of 6.5 metres unjointed and a maximum height of 2.5 metres.

As a high-performance product, thermal efficiency is in built through Sheerline’s proprietary Thermlock® technology.

Utilising a multi-chambered thermal break that is more insulating than traditional polyamide alternatives. As a result, the product offers double glazed Part L compliance as standard.

Roger Hartshorn, Sheerline CEO, said: “Since launching Sheerline, we have proven repeatedly that we know what homeowners want and we are committed to providing that without compromise–the fact our entire Prestige range is now SBD accredited illustrates this point perfectly.”

“We understand the need to be exceptional in order to standout and shake up the aluminium industry, which is what we’ve been doing since day one. But part of the reason this SBD accreditation is so important to us is because of what it symbolises for homeowners and their families. It provides peace of mind and reassurances that regardless of whether they are in their home at night or away on holiday, their windows and doors won’t let them down,” he added.

To find out more about Sheerline’s Prestige Lift & Slide Patio Door, visit the website here: sheerline.com/lift-and-slide-patio alternatively, contact Sheerline on 01132 978000 or email: info@sheerline.com.

Follow @SheerlineSystem for the latest news and updates.

He concludes, “Joining the Future Homes Hub will enable Liniar to play a part in helping to shape the agenda for the future of sustainable construction in the UK and we look forward to collaborating with this community.”

HOW TO RESPOND TO THE STATE OF THE INDUSTRY REPORT Alex Tremlett, Operations Manager at Insight Data, shares his thoughts on how to respond to the State of the Industry report following this year’s Glazing Summit.

Throughout the pandemic, the home improvement boom helped prop up the glazing industry. However, appetites for improvements have since weakened as further issues disrupt our social, political and economic landscapes.

The impact of the cost-of-living crises, RussiaUkraine war, and Brexit have all contributed towards the industry compressing. Since 2019, Insight Data have calculated an average of 38.4 companies leaving the industry per month.

For most remaining companies, demand and volumes continue to decrease.

Many eager installers have picked up orders from those which have fallen away into dissolution and liquidation. Whilst these

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quick wins fill their orderbooks, it does not exempt them from the current market conditions. The absorption of these orders gloss over challenges facing the industry like a temporary pain relief. Both small lifestyle installers and large national companies will soon have to contend with the stagnation or decline of new orders that is already a reality for many.

To overcome this, the key is not to win the existing demand given by companies falling away, but to win new business. As such, fenestration companies are called to question how they can create a sustainable stream of lead generation and sales.

An immediate solution is found when utilising a data-centric approach. For busnesses of all sizes, using data-driven analytics helps to pinpoint desired

customer demographics and personalise marketing initiatives. For the companies who underscore their sales and marketing strategies with data, they are afforded more leads and increased client conversions – protecting them against the stagnation and decline of the industry.

But how? With the support of Insight Data, companies gain access to unprecedented trade and commercial market intelligence that allow them to source high-quality prospects.

Thanks to our fenestration database now holding contact information for over 21,000 decision makers within 13,649 fabricators and installers, access to crucial information is made readily available. Through our innovative technology tool Salestracker, users are supported with contact

information, google map integration, document storage, credit profiling and an optional CRM tool to help manage leads and customer accounts – diminishing the threat of an empty orderbook during this challenging time.

Remember, temporary solutions often become permanent problems. If you are concerned that your order book lacks value and opportunity, put to use the power of data today. To win new business with the support of Insight Data’s databases and sales and marketing expertise, call 01934 808 293 or email hello@insightdata.co.uk.

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

VEKA PLC HONOURED AS 'PVCU SYSTEMS COMPANY OF THE YEAR' AT THE NATIONAL FENESTRATION AWARDS 2023 VEKA Plc has been named as the 'PVCu Systems Company of the Year' at the esteemed National Fenestration Awards (NFAs) 2023. The NFAs, renowned for its unique participatory voting format, represents the voices and opinions of industry peers, making this recognition even more significant as it reflects the trust and high regard held by fellow professionals in the sector.

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The award, presented on the 28th October at the Hilton Garden Inn, Doncaster Racecourse, honours VEKA's steadfast commitment to manufacturing superior PVCu systems, distinguished by unparalleled quality, innovation, and a customer-centric approach. The NFAs, now in its tenth year, has become a benchmark for excellence in the UK fenestration calendar, celebrating the industry's most innovative and forward-thinking companies.

“This award is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of every member of the VEKA team.” as showcasing VEKA's innovative approach to resource management and sustainability in manufacturing.

Tim Taylor, Commercial Director of VEKA Plc, reflected on the win with pride, "To be chosen by our industry colleagues as the 'PVCu Systems Company of the Year' is an incredible honour. It not only highlights our commitment to the industry but also reinforces our dedication to sustainability and excellence. This award is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of every member of the VEKA team."

As VEKA Plc celebrates this remarkable achievement, the company also looks to the future with renewed vigour to uphold its leadership in the industry, driven by a commitment to quality, innovation, and the environment.

VEKA extends its heartfelt gratitude to all who supported and voted for them, affirming that such recognitions further fuel their mission to deliver excellence in every aspect of their business.

The award further acknowledges VEKA's significant energy savings initiatives and waste reduction methods, as well

For more information about VEKA Plc and its pioneering PVCu systems, visit vekauk.com.

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

GET INTO GEAR FOR THE NEW FUTURE HOME STANDARD

THE CLOCK’S TICKING ON 2025 – ARE YOU READY? In 2025, the government’s new Future Home Standard is expected to make triple-glazing the norm.

For IGU manufacturers, that will present a major logistical headache – but one that automation could make significantly easier.

However – to be ready, you have to act now as the standard lead time for an automated spacer application line can be up to twelve months.

Choose Super Spacer® for quality you can trust Super Spacer® offers superb performance in triple glazed units, delivering consistent sightlines and parallelism, and significantly simplifying the production process.

At Edgetech, our team of experts can help you at every step of the transition. Don’t delay – enquire about automation today!

T: 02476 995 704 www.edgetechig.co.uk

E: ukenquiries@edgetechig.com

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

ENDURANCE® DOORS TEES OFF FOR GOOD CAUSE TCR SYSTEMS’ CUSTOMERS HELP DRIVE NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH ALUK

Manufacturer of solid, secure and stylish composite doors, Endurance® Doors has staged another highly successful charity golf day.

This year’s event was held by the business on Wednesday 27th September at Elsham Golf Club, Brigg. It brought together over sixty people from across the window, door and supporting industries to raise funds for Lindsey Lodge Hospice.

care, emergency care and end-of life-care, as well as bereavement and family support.

As an independent charity, Lindsey Lodge relies heavily on donations from both individuals and organisations to continue its 30-year history and to meet its annual running costs of approximately £3.7m.

Located close to Endurance® Doors’ production site in North Lincolnshire, Lindsey Lodge provides high quality palliative care for both day and in-patients affected by life limiting conditions.

The winning team on the golf day consisted of Rob Pryde from Willerby Ltd, Wayne Dowie and Alan Clarke from Spartan Windows, and Gaz Mellor, who attended as a guest.

Ben Chamberlin from Metsä meanwhile won the prize for the longest drive.

Its specialist services include symptom management, physiotherapy, lymphoedema treatment, complimentary therapy, nursing and practical

Commenting on the event, Scott Foster, Sales and Marketing Director at Endurance® Doors, said: “Endurance® Doors has a firm commitment to corporate social

responsibility and to playing a positive role within our local communities and society as a whole.

those involved in the event and especially our sponsors whose continued support and generosity makes the day possible.”

“Our annual charity golf day reflects this and enables us to build on our already strong relationship with customers and suppliers, whilst raising funds for such an important and worthy cause as Lindsey Lodge.”

The sponsors of the Endurance® Doors’ charity golf day included: Vekaplan; Metsä; Dugdale; ODL Europe; ERA; Business Micros; Winkhaus; Coastal Group; SFS; Rochling; Rehau; Avocet; Mila; Exitex; Maxi Mover; Chemique Adhesives; CNC Recycling; Garnalex; Kite Packaging; Brit Ad; Renolit; Soudal; and RegaLead.

“On behalf of the entire Endurance® Doors team, I would like to thank all

SHEERLINE INSTALLATION OF THE MONTH COMPETITION OPEN FOR ENTRIES Sheerline has launched a new Installation of the Month competition to provide an opportunity for installers to showcase the quality of their work. It is designed to be easy to enter to encourage businesses of all sizes to get involved, and get some free PR.

with the winner announced across social media in the first week of each month.

Winners will receive a £100 Amazon voucher, along with their 15 minutes of fame! Installers and fabricators and can enter as many times as they’d like to each month.

The only requirements are to submit photos or videos each month of projects that use Sheerline products, either via email or on social media. Entrants are also encouraged to follow and tag Sheerline for increased post visibility.

There are no limitations on the types of products installed or the nature of the project. Sheerline welcomes entries that show anything from a wholehouse makeover to a sleek modern S2 conservatory

Posts or emails should clearly state which products have been installed, where the project is based, and any other information that may be relevant, such as the colours chosen as well as the purpose of the project, for example, an upgrade, replacement, or renovation.

Entries will be reviewed at the end of each month,

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installation, a feature framing picture window, or a transformational Prestige Lift & Slide Patio.

Aside from showcasing Sheerline’s products, the aim of the competition is to celebrate the breadth of work of installers around the UK. Any project– regardless of the size or budget–has the potential to completely change a living or work space for the better.

Dave Wigley, Head of Marketing, said: “We know that up and down the

country, Sheerline products are being used to transform residential and commercial properties. But we don’t often get to see the end results. Our Installation of the Month competition is the perfect opportunity for installers to share their great work and for us to see how our products are being used.”

“We welcome photos and videos of the finished project, but we also love to see before and after photos–it really is amazing to see the difference new windows, doors, roof lanterns, and conservatories can make to a property.

Especially when they are perfectly matched and meet the customers’ exact requirements,” he added.

When established conservatory roof specialist TCR Systems decided to add aluminium bifolds to its product portfolio, it asked its existing trade customers which product and system they liked the best.

The most popular response was AluK and, largely as a result, TCR Systems is now fabricating and supplying both AluK’s BSF70 HI and F82 Plus bifolds.

Caroline Thompson, TCR’s Marketing Manager explained: “Installers told us they liked the quality of the AluK products, the strength of the brand in the retail market and the ease of installation. They felt that AluK had a distinctive offering, different from many of the other aluminium systems companies, and offered good value for money.

“We met with the AluK team and were impressed with the technical, sales and marketing support available. We particularly liked the fact that there are two Part L compliant options in the range, which means we can offer doors at different price points to appeal to different sectors of our market.

“TCR Systems has been a One Stop Shop supplier for Ultraframe conservatory roofs, lanterns and rooflights for more than 13 years and the AluK brand sits very comfortably alongside that, with a similar reputation for proven quality and innovative design.

“Our customers can now access quality roofs and bifolds from TCR at the same time, all backed by the same friendly and efficient service.”

TCR Systems, based in Coleshill, Birmingham, plans to use the move into bifolds to expand what is already a very successful business. Caroline added: “We see bifolds as the natural add-on to our roofs for customers who are installing conservatories, orangeries and extensions.

“We plan to increase our volumes and make sure our customers right across the South and Midlands don’t want to go anywhere else.”

The AluK BSF70 HI bifold can be used for up to 7-panel doors with sizes up to 2400mm high, with a pop-out handle which ensures the panels all stack neatly square. The F82 Plus bi-fold offers market leading U-Values of 1.2 with double glazing and 0.9 with triple glazing and can be used for premium installations with panels up to 3000mm high.

More details on the AluK products are at: https://uk.aluk.com/en-gb/products and on TCR Systems at: https://www.tcrsystemsltd.co.uk/

To be in with a chance of winning, installers are invited to submit their entries either via social media or by emailing: info@sheerline.com. You’ve got to be in it to win it!

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

GLAZPART SHARES VIEWS FROM THE SUMMIT Glazpart once again sponsored and participated in the Glazing Summit at Edgbaston Stadium, Birmingham on 12 October and yet again it proved to be an ideal platform for Glazpart to share views and concerns on the changing regulations currently impacting and set to impact the glass and glazing industry.

The Future Homes Standard is a set of rules that will come into effect from 2025 to ensure new homes produce over 30% less carbon emissions than the new homes being built to current Building Regulations.

Following the June 2022 interim changes to Building Regulations, which impacted replacement and renovation (existing buildings), the legislative measures from the Future Homes Standard will see further changes in the regulations, particularly in the legislation around energy efficiency, security, ventilation and overheating for new build property.

As a leading designer and manufacturer of plastic glazing accessories including trickle vents, it was only fitting that Glazpart was invited to be a key contributor to the Glazing Summit’s first panel debate on the “Regulatory Minefield”.

Dean Bradley, Glazpart Sales Director was part of a panel of four experts on the

www.glassnews.co.uk | December 2023

“Regulatory Minefield” and commented, “It was great to take part in the panel discussion on the challenges the industry faces on existing and incoming regulations.

I was pleased to share my concerns about the regulatory changes at this crucial time in the evolution of building regulations and environmental policy. In 18 months, the Future Homes Standard will be implemented and with the interim changes made to Building Regulations in June 2022 likely to continue, the industry needs to be thinking well in advance of any further changes to regulations.”

The Regulatory Minefield topics covered the probable changes to window u values (the heat transfer measurement used for assessing a window’s energy efficiency; the lower the U-Value, the better the insulation and energy efficiency.

The panel held the consensus that the U-Value for windows will in all likelihood shift from 1.6 w/m2 to 1.2 w/m2 for the replacement market and 0.8 w/m2 for new build which will in all probability stipulate that triple glazing has to be installed (depending on the semantics of the final document).

Aligned to U-Values changing, window and door companies will also likely need to comply to meet the incoming regulations for security under Approved Document

Q, which for new build will mean that for all accessible windows to comply they will have to have laminated (security) glass on the outer pane and potentially steel reinforcement in frames and sashes. This will present major challenges due to the weight of the windows. Companies will have to use upgraded hardware and adjust for the protection, transportation, storage, lifting and installation of the units.

As well as the obvious issues that many in the industry may have with the regulations, Dean Bradley raised the following concerns about companies complying in time.

“The industry needs to be ready for any changes and the challenges they will present. Companies should be gearing up to comply from day one of the implementation. In June 2022, when Approved Document F was enacted as an interim change to Building Regulations, very few companies in the industry were in position to comply with the new legislation.

Within a few months, most of the more responsible companies were complying but it was fortunate Glazpart had stocks (about one million vents) of our Link Vent range pre-prepared to cope with the demand.

Even now only about 70% of the industry are compliant with the Approved Document F regulations. For Future Homes, the

industry needs to be ready to embrace, engage and comply with any changes that will impact them and not wait until the last minute.”

Following the Glazing Summit, Dean Bradley, summarised, “Once again it was a fantastic event and great to hear the attendance figures were the highest ever. We were pleased to share our views, concerns and knowledge in the panel debate and enjoyed the multiple opportunities to network with key players in the industry.

Overall, it proved to be an enjoyable and productive day for the Glazpart team.” www.glazpart.com

23

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

ANNOUNCES BASK IN THE GLOW WITH TUFFX DGCOS NEW 6 AND 2 YEAR

REGISTRATION OPTIONS

With continued pressure to innovate our way to more energy efficient, sustainable homes, TuffX has risen to the challenge with the official launch of its long-awaited electrically heated glass product, Glow. For bi-fold doors in the first instance the glass offers homeowners a revolutionary new way to heat their homes.

“With traditional heaters and gas boilers being recognised as inefficient, there is an urgent need for effective and affordable alternatives,” explains Paul Higgins, Commercial Director of TuffX. “Glow offers a solution that is like underfloor heating in that it doesn’t require wall space but is also not prohibitively expensive. Utilising infrared technology, it is thermostat controlled like existing familiar heating systems. The product offers fabricators a completely unique solution to a growing problem.

“The system comprises of a sealed unit that is layered with intelligent conductive coatings to emit radiant heat into the home,” continues Paul. “With this advanced technology it can be utilised as a primary heating source with temperatures reaching 35-40°C and has the added benefit of eliminating unsightly condensation.

And speaking of aesthetics, we are pleased to bring this product to market with no visible trace of a heating system inside. The coatings we have used are completely undetectable.

From a homeowner’s perspective the glass will look the same as that found in any other bi-fold door.

“The Glow heated glass system is fully compliant too, conforming to EN12150 and EN1279 Parts 1-4 and is a fantastic solution for the upcoming Future Homes Standard as it’s a direct replacement for the soon to be obsolete gas heating systems. It also boasts a 1.2W/m2K U-Value for optimum energy efficiency all year round. Glow heated glass for bi-fold doors will be open to applications for approved trade partners from December, allowing fabricators and installers to benefit from this unique innovative product in their portfolio.

Paul concludes: “Consumers need alternative sustainable heating methods that are realistic and don’t cost the earth. We are proud that the TuffX development team have cultivated such a fantastic solution for the end user, but that is also easy for fabricators and installers to add to their offering. The product with its radiant technology really is a game changer and we’re excited to see its impact in the market.”

Faisal Hussain, DGCOS Chief Executive, explains the thought-process behind the decision: “Did you know that under Competent Person Scheme requirements installers must provide 6 years’ financial protection for consumers when replacing windows and doors? And, that some Competent Person Schemes also only require 6 years’ consumer protection too.

As an industry, we have always offered 10 years

as standard, and this could be an unnecessary expense. We want to give our members the option to provide either a new standard 6-year registration or a 10-year ‘added value’ registration. Consumers would still have free access to all our services, under the 6 and 2 year options, which includes our advice line, mediation and access to the Ombudsman.

“The new 2-year registration level is specifically designed for smaller jobs such as replacement handles, locks or individual units, where a 10-year guarantee is neither needed nor required.

“By offering different registration levels, we are reducing the financial burden on installers at a time when companies have to compete for every penny earned, and when costs are increasing. Installers

can still meet their legal requirements towards their customers but can do it at a more accessible price point, something that we believe will appeal to medium sized businesses, in particular. As it stands, the 10-year package is still vital for companies who are FENSA members to match their requirements on guarantees.

“As I have spoken about before, overdelivering on consumer rights by having 10 year guarantees in place adds to the wider cost for all of us across the industry. More information will be provided when the new registration options go live, which is expected to be in 2024.”

For more information about DGCOS and membership benefits, visit installers.dgcos.org.uk.

!

IZE PR

“We understand that with such revolutionary ideas, our fabricators and their installer customers need additional support. TuffX is offering full training on Glow’s features and benefits, and correct installation methods to our approved trade partner fabricator customer base, which they can then disseminate to their installers.

To support the changing market, The Double Glazing & Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS) is introducing shorter 6 and 2 year registration options for members, in addition to its current standard of 10 years, allowing members to offer more relevant protection on installations and replacements.

WIN £10 CASH PRIZE!!

Circle three differences in the boxes below, fill in your contact details and send your competition entry to: FAO: Miss Christina Lazenby, Glass News Competitions, 19 Heather Close, Tickhill, Doncaster, DN11 9UU or Email: christina@glassnews.co.uk. Entry deadline: 20/12/23.

Name:

Tel:

Address: Postcode: Email:

www.tuffxglass.co.uk

24

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

TRADE NEWS

EPWIN WINDOW SYSTEMS ACHIEVES PAS24:2022 ACROSS ITS PVC-U SYSTEMS Epwin Window Systems has confirmed all its PVC-U window and door systems have achieved PAS24:2022 signalling a commitment to staying at the forefront of industry standards.

Adrian Crutchley, Product Accreditations Manager at Epwin Window Systems, said: “We are delighted to be amongst the first systems companies to be able to confirm that our multiple PVC-U window and door systems have all achieved PAS24:2022 certification. This achievement further demonstrates our commitment to adopting and meeting the latest industry standards to deliver secure and reliable solutions for our customers”.

& Door System, Flush Tilt & Turn Window System, Fully Reversible Window System, Flush Casement Window System, Vertical Sliding Sash Window System and the PatioMaster Inline Sliding Door System.

N, which is part of its Connect digital platform, provides reports that are approved by the British Standards Institute and can be used to prove a product’s compliance with Part L of Building Regulations.

Epwin Window Systems has a robust track record in delivering outstanding systems that meet or exceed regulatory requirements. As well as the PAS 24:2022 accreditations, the company has the industry’s largest choice of Part L-compliant window and door systems.

Epwin Window Systems has developed a reputation for technical innovation and excellence as an industry leader. In supporting its customers with regulatory changes and being amongst the first to confirm all its PVC-U window and door systems achieve PAS24:2022, it’s continuing to prove its commitment to setting exacting industry standards.

Its customers also benefit from support in complying with regulations. Its free thermal efficiency calculator U-Comply

Tel: 0845 340 3968 – www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

PAS 24:2022 sets out enhanced security standards for doorsets and windows, indicating the certified products have undergone testing and meet specific criteria for resisting physical attack. The new accreditation, which officially came into effect in September 2022, phasing out the earlier PAS 24:2016 standard, helps specifiers meet Building Regulations and the requirements of the police’s Secured by Design scheme. It applies to all new windows and doorsets as manufactured and prior to installation.

The accreditation promotes security and denotes enhanced security performance intended to resist the type of attack normally associated with casual or opportunistic burglars.

The PAS 24:2022 accreditation covers Epwin Window Systems’ entire PVC-U system range which includes the Spectus Elite Window & Door System, Optima Window

www.glassnews.co.uk | December 2023

25

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

FREEFOAM FORTEX® CLADDING TRANSFORMS STUNNING SHROPSHIRE RENOVATION Colin St John, Commercial Director of Freefoam Building Products Ltd, looks at how PVC cladding is being used to transform high end properties, including an impressive rural refurbishment in a picturesque Shropshire village.

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The past couple of years we’ve seen external cladding grow and grow in popularity as a home improvement trend. Attractive, easy and quick to install, PVC cladding in particular is in demand, with lower maintenance – and longer guarantees than timber. And with a wider choice of premium colours and finishes than ever before, it’s now being fitted on a variety of properties to boost kerb appeal and increase value. Our stockist and Registered Installer customers say the right cladding is now seen as a superior option for larger, high-value

properties, chosen to complement bespoke bifold doors and quality windows and doors.

An excellent example is the recent installation of Freefoam’s Fortex® cladding on a major home renovation in the heart of rural Shropshire. The project was recently featured in the Autumn issue of online consumer home improvement magazine, Improve.

Colin St John Commercial Director of Freefoam

Homeowners Claire Andrews and husband spent a full year renovating her large detached property – and cladding was key to her vision. “I wanted to create a New England style,” explains Claire, “but in keeping with the rural surroundings. We designed the house with a mix of brick, render, and cladding which we feel gave a lovely mix of materials, colours and textures.”

This major home improvement project included rebuilding the dormer and roof, fitting an orangery to the rear, adding a new master bedroom (over the old garage area) and a utility/boot room to the side of the property. Due to the extensive nature of the renovation, the front and rear gardens and the driveway needed relandscaping, which completed the transformation. The aesthetics had to be right – and the cladding was one of the most important features.

Claire wanted a bigger garden with more open space, so the plot and location were the initial draw. “I had a vision of the renovation the second I saw the house,” she says, describing it as a great opportunity for them to create their home in an established village.

Claire first came across Freefoam when researching cladding on the internet, and ordered several free samples to check the colour options and quality. The idea of very low maintenance cladding was a huge draw, but the realistic wood print and colour

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

FORTEX® CLADDING Fortex® PVC exterior cladding features an attractive embossed wood effect in a choice of three styles, Double Shiplap, Weatherboard, and Shadow Gap (launched earlier this year).

Fortex® cladding is available in a range of 10 contemporary colours, from soft shades of Pale Gold, Pale Blue and Sage Green to more dramatic tones of Anthracite Grey and Argyl Brown, all of which are designed to work with trends in other exterior elements such as windows, doors, bifolds, roofline and guttering.

SUPERIOR DURABILITY Low-maintenance, Fortex® is manufactured as a long-term decorative cladding solution, able to withstand many different weather conditions.

LIGHT AND EASY TO INSTALL The cladding panels are designed to make storing, handling and fitting quick and easy. The Fortex® system comes with a range of PVC fitting accessories, colour matched to achieve a professional finish. combination were the winning factor. “We did consider real wood, and looked into concrete-based products,” adds Claire, “but when weighing up the options we felt this was the best match to the scheme.”

It was important for the cladding to complement the colour of the new windows and doors, which had already been chosen.

After reviewing the samples from Freefoam, Claire picked the on-trend Misty Grey from Freefoam’s Fortex® Weatherboard range, a very popular shade which was launched a couple of years ago. In fact, the light grey tone (with a hint of green) colour-matched

the RAL code of the other elements, helping bring the whole look together. “We were really lucky this was part of Freefoam’s standard colour palette.”

The style of the cladding was also important – the feather edge ‘Weatherboard’ option overlaps to create a traditional look that worked perfectly with Claire’s overall design.

“We love the effect of the cladding! We have had so many positive comments about the whole transformation, but the cladding really does pull everything together. The neighbours in the village think the stye and colour is really in keeping with the local architecture and we have recommended it many times. We would recommend Freefoam cladding 100% - from the install to the upkeep, to the colours and styles available. We really couldn’t be happier.”

www.glassnews.co.uk | December 2023

To learn more about Fortex® and Freefoam, visit www.freefoam.com – or call 0800 002 9903 to boost your business and add cladding to your product portfolio.

27

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PAS24 as standard requires laminated glass installation | Door price based on a Trade RRP for a 5-5-0 configuration 3500 x 2000, stock colour, unglazed. Volume discounts available.

Door and Glass prices include delivery, postcode restrictions apply | Prices are correct at point of publishing and may be subject to change.

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

DOORCO’S INNOVATION WEEK As leading innovators in the composite door market, it was no surprise to see DoorCo’s recent INNOVATiON Week where they shared a huge number of announcements across digital channels about new products coming to market and new people joining the business. DoorCo’s Marketing Manager, Ellie Pool, gives us a run through of this exciting presentation and everything we are to expect from DoorCo in the coming months.

With so many innovations piling up at DoorCo, all ready to share with our customers at the same time, we were unsure of how best to share everything we’ve been working on over the last 12 months in a digestible format for our customers.

Social media is used effectively by a large proportion of the industry and therefore, the perfect platform to make a statement (or should I say statements!). So, Monday 13th November 2023 saw the launch of DoorCo’s first INNOVATiON Week, where we shared all the new stories and assets the team has gone over and above to create to support our customers in bringing the wide range of innovations to market.

entry to the market, Eaton will be available in our tallest, widest size ever (950mm x 2100mm) with equal trimability at both the top and bottom of the slab, allowing the slab to be rotated 180 degrees and used both ways. This means from one slab you can create six prepped door designs, all brought together in the NOiR Collection. Eaton has a totally stunning new design of its woodgrain finish too.

The modified ¾ lite door slab following feedback from customers and our own experience of fabricating the door.

As well as some new engineering to enhance this classic product, with simplified mouldings to the product more adaptable and extend the number of designs, we’ve also upgraded the finish with an etched linear detailing.

TECHNOLOGY TUESDAY – GRIPCORE 2.0 & BM TOUCH Next up in the new door category is GRiPCORE 2.0, which has a brand-new core. The first of its kind in the industry, GRiPCORE’s core has evolved into a hybrid timber-foam core

that is stronger, more secure and more thermally efficient than solid timber core counterparts. The core construction comprises layers of both PIR foam and HDF plywood, compressed between two sheets of aluminium. The combination of foam and wood provides enhanced thermal capabilities and impressive strength, whilst the aluminium acts as a vital layer for protecting against moisture infiltration. It’s then finished with an additional sheet of exterior grade plywood and of course, our signature GRP skins complete the design for flawless correlation with the core. When you bring all the elements together, you’re presented with a one-of-a-kind, premium slab that delivers a low centre-pane U-Value of just 0.8.

GRiPCORE will be available to order from January 2024 and will come with an updating brochure. It will also be available on our brand-new door designer with BM Touch.

Working with Business Micros, the new designer has been developed using their new Touch system to create an easier to use and more visual tool with an even more seamless lead enquiries service.

A YEAR OF INNOVATION, SHARED DAY BY DAY After a year of consolidation in 2023, building strength within the team and focusing closely on product development, 2024 is the year where we go full force to show the market everything we’ve created. INNOVATION Week was dedicated to sharing all the new products we have been working on behind the scenes, with daily announcements showcasing our largest wave of innovation yet.

MONDAY – EATON AND THE NEW 3/4 LITE We wanted to start the week with a bang, so we kicked off with one of our greatest door launches to date - the new Eaton blank, supported by the modification of the ¾ lite blank.

The Eaton slab has been designed to be the perfect hybrid between traditional and modern styles, as well as a real dream product for distribution customers. A one-of-a-kind

Andy Grogan

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December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

ROUNDING OFF WITH GLASS AND FIRE

MID-WEEK INTRODUCTION TO ANDY GROGAN, AND TWO NEW STANDARD COLOURS To break up all the new product launches, we decided to throw something a bit special into the middle: the announcement that Andy Grogan has joined the DoorCo team as Regional Sales Manager. A well-known and well-respected figurehead in fenestration, we’re really excited to have Andy join the business at such a pivotal time.

Speaking on his new role, Andy says: “I’m so pleased to have joined the leading composite door supplier in the industry.

After many years in the fenestration industry, I’m excited for a new challenge and with so much innovation coming out of the DoorCo factory at the moment, this feels like the perfect time to have come onboard.”

Alongside Andy, Wednesday also saw us announce that Slate and Agate is now a standard colour on the most popular ORiGINAL and FLiP designs. These two shades have been best-sellers (outside of our current standard shades) over the last 12-18 months so switching them over to standard colours makes them more accessible to our customers, with reduced cost and lead times.

THURSDAY - STABLE DOORS, SIDE PANELS AND FAST FLIP The penultimate day of INNOVATiON Week started with yet another new door, this time our new Stable Door. There will be 6 classic countryside designs in the farmhouse style, that can be from specifically specially engineered foam-filled ORiGINAL slabs or the new GRiPCORE 2.0 solid core slab and completed with a new lock from Winkhaus and stable door kit from Stormguard. The result is a highquality, efficient solution for our network of fabricators wanting to supply homes with stable doors.

www.glassnews.co.uk | December 2023

Another new product further enhancing the style capabilities in the ORiGINAL door range is the new flush side panel, which offers better flexibility, particularly for the popular Medinah design. The new flush panel allows the cassette to be placed at any height in line with the door, therefore creating a cleaner and more uniform look for the entranceway.

Also on Thursday was a reminder about the recent enhancements we’ve made to the FLiP glazing cassette system. Fuelled by customer-led innovation and our desire to always do better, the second-generation FLiP cassette is even quicker and easier to install. The much-loved key features - Foam in Place® technology (which removes the need for glazing tape or wet seals) and our 3 distinct profiles – remain, but the corners and connectors are the main features to have been developed. FLiP is now faster than competitor systems on the market, proven in a recent filmed time trial – available to view on our website!

To finish off INNOVATiON Week, we announced a really exciting new range of glass designs being added to our existing collection Casino, Skyscraper & Lavish.

The new NOiR range, is based on the styles of the 1920’s – think art deco, Great Gatsby, gold and black – an era we felt really encapsulates everything that our new slab Eaton is: modern yet traditional and effortlessly sophisticated. No collection is complete without a new range of glass so, we worked with our partners RegaLead to create some stunning new exclusive glass designs: Casino, Speakeasy, Empire, Metropolis, Jazz, Blossom, Palazzo. As well as perfectly showcasing the new Eaton, Knightsbridge and Tatton door designs in the NOiR range, they look equally stunning in some of our existing Designer doors, like Monza II Augusta and the Links Augusta Long.

Last but certainly not least is the invitation to register interest in FiRECORE, DoorCo’s fire door solution that is due to launch in Spring 2024.

Developed with Winkhaus and tested in collaboration with key testing bodies, this has been a fantastic example of brilliant partnerships working together to create a truly reliable and fit for purpose product.

Every single announcement shared across INNOVATiON Week was the result of the hard work our team has put into ensuring we remain at the forefront of the innovation space. Staying still and stagnant simply isn’t an option for us, and customer-led innovation is truly at our core. It’s a tough market out there and our customers need the very best offering to help them win business.

So far, the engagement and feedback we have had from our customers and the wider market has been great. We’re looking forward to hitting the ground running in 2024 and can’t wait to see which of the products and designs become the new fan favourites.

There is a new story or mini-brochure available for every new innovation, so to find out more about any of the new products or to keep up with future DoorCo announcements, follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/ company/doorco-ltd/

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TRADE NEWS

HARDWARE

LEGACY VS: WHATEVER AT PRECISION INTRODUCES RECYCLED THERMAL DIRECT TRADE REINFORCEMENT BARS TO PRODUCT PORTFOLIO WINDOWS SPONSORS THE WEATHER Quickslide’s Legacy vertical slider is Leading hardware supplier AT Precision preservation of our planet, and we firmly BRIGHTON YOUTH officially one of the best performing sash has introduced Recycled Thermal believe that our recent investments in a new windows available on the market, as Reinforcement (RTR) bars to its product recycling scheme as well as our new RTR FOOTBALL CLUB proven by the results of its recent weather portfolio. bars have been truly worthwhile. performance tests.

During testing, windows are assessed for air permeability, water tightness and resistance to wind. Legacy VS was successfully tested against wind speeds of up to 120mph to achieve a 1200 rating, while for water tightness it withstood being sprayed with eight litres of water per minute for 40 minutes with zero leakage, earning it a higher level Class 6A classification.

Leading aluminium trade supplier Direct Trade Windows has signed up to sponsor a local Brighton-based youth football club in their upcoming season, further strengthening the company’s commitment to supporting local communities.

Withdean Youth FC is an FA 3-star accredited grassroots football club that provides training for both boys and girls aged eight to 18. The club focuses on nurturing young talent and providing them with opportunities to develop their skills in a supportive environment.

By sponsoring Withdean Youth FC, Direct Trade Windows aims to contribute towards the growth and development of these aspiring athletes.

As a leading supplier in the steel-look aluminium industry, Direct Trade Windows manufactures and supplies a wide range of premium products including steel-look aluminium windows, doors and internal screens, bi-folds, patio doors and internal doors as well as shopfronts and aluminium façade systems. Their dedication to quality craftsmanship has made them a trusted partner for installers nationwide.

The company operates from its headquarters just outside London, with an additional show home in Brighton where customers can view a wide range of products up close and in situ.

Director AJ Hassanali comments: "We are thrilled to be sponsoring Withdean Youth FC for their upcoming season. As a company deeply rooted in our community values, we believe it is essential to support local initiatives that promote youth development through sports. With a stateof-the-art show home in Brighton, it’s a part of the country that means a lot to us, and we hope that our contribution will help provide these talented young individuals with more opportunities for growth.

“At Direct Trade Windows, we understand the importance of supporting local initiatives that promote youth development and teamwork. By sponsoring this talented group of young athletes, we hope to make a positive impact on their journey and contribute to their success both on and off the pitch."

Visit www.directtradewindows.co.uk.

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Meanwhile air permeability testing – designed to assess a window’s loss or gain of air – earned Legacy the highest-performing level Class 4, far better than the Class 2 window requirement for the UK and also great news for homeowners looking for superior energy efficiency to reduce their monthly bills.

Quickslide’s Legacy features several innovative weather-proofing details that contribute to its weather performance, including multi-chambered frames and sashes, and an overall WER of ‘A’ as standard. An aesthetically pleasing weatherbar and integral window cill with an internal upstand add additional levels of defence against external elements.

“We’re delighted to receive our latest weather performance testing results for Legacy,” says Managing Director Ben Weber. “They provide clear proof of the year-round weather performance, durability and strength of our windows.”

“Homeowners can have confidence our windows perform whatever the weather throws at them, and what homeowner wouldn’t want to reduce their energy bills and while simultaneously increasing their home’s comfort and property’s value?

All while maintaining that all-important authentic timber-look styling, especially with our new enhanced Legacy about to hit the market, with its new slim mid-rail and refined run-through sash horns.” www.quickslide.co.uk

Made from 100% recycled uPVC, the RTR bars add strength and increased thermal performance to windows, are quick and easy to install, and boast a minimum lifespan of 35 years.

The addition follows the recent launch of the Durham-based company’s own in-house recycling scheme, complete with a factory expansion and £370K investment in a new extrusion machine.

The scheme sees AT Precision picking up unused or unwanted uPVC materials from its customers, and processing these for use in manufacturing its range of RTR bars.

Sales Director Michael Hewitt comments: “In the face of a pressing climate crisis, the fenestration sector is directing more effort towards sustainability – at AT Precision, we are dedicated to playing our role in the

“Our innovative recycling scheme has not only expanded our manufacturing facility by an extra 10,000 square feet, but has also solidified our commitment to sustainability.

“Meanwhile, the new RTR system delivers a multitude of benefits for both the environment and for our customers, including enhanced thermal efficiency, quick and easy installation, and an impressive minimum lifespan of 35 years.”

With a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Durham, AT Precision manufactures the Everglide range of bi-fold components such as rollers, guides and hinges, as well as the Everseal range of highquality gaskets.

The company also specialises in security hardware, PVC infill extrusions, and aluminium profile for bi-folds.

And because all products are manufactured in-house, they come at a significantly lower price compared to systems companies.

Michael concludes: “AT Precision is renowned for delivering high-quality hardware solutions nationwide – now, with our renewed commitment to reducing our carbon footprint, we can continue to add to our product portfolio while doing our part for the planet.” www.atprecision.co.uk

UAP BROADENS CHOICE OF DUO HANDLES UAP, the specialist in locks and hardware for doors and windows, has extended its range of DUO door handles.

Fabricators can now choose from a granite finish, which adds to a further five colour options including satin stainless steel, white, black, gold, and mirrored polish.

With a 243mm long backplate, UAP’s DUO door handles are designed to maximise aesthetics and quality. The tube-shaped handle ensures a comfortable grip for the operator and complies with the requirements of the Equality Act (formerly the Disability Discrimination Act).

Barry Halpin, National Sales Director at UAP said: “Our DUO door handle is highly

versatile and has been manufactured to offer a more attractive appearance than many others currently available on the market.

“As well as ensuring a door is easily accessible for the disabled, fabricators and locksmiths can stock just one handle for several types of application.”

Optimising reliability, UAP’s DUO door handle range has been salt spray tested for 2,000 hours to meet the ASTM B117 standard. Each handle is made from highgrade stainless steel and comes with a lifetime coating guarantee. www.uapcorporate.com

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

NEW

SupaSecure™

stainless steel handles are now...

The Only Sold Secure Silver Accredited Door Handle. ...which means it’s the strongest, most secure, BSI Kitemarked, TS007 2 Star Accredited security handle on the market.

KM735758

HARDWARE

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

SLAM DUNK! KUBU STRENGTHENS ITS INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY PORTFOLIO EVEN FURTHER WITH GRANTED PATENT FOR COIL SENSING TECHNOLOGY Hot on the heels of its recent “clip-in” window sensor patent - a mechanism that allows sensors to be effortlessly clipped on and off a mounting bracket affixed to the window frame’s interior - Kubu announces another significant addition to their portfolio of intellectual property, with the granting of a patent for its innovative wire coil sensing technology.

ENHANCED VARIATION OF FEDERAL’S IRON GUARD 3* CYLINDER LAUNCHED BY CARL F GROUPCO Independent hardware distributor Carl F Groupco has just added an enhanced variation of the Iron Guard 3* Cylinder manufactured by Federal to its portfolio.

John Crittenden, Managing Director at Carl F Groupco, comments: “The Iron Guard 3* Cylinder has all the qualities you would expect from a 3* accredited cylinder, plus additional benefits. I’m delighted to be stocking an enhanced variation that offers our customers more functionality and adds even more value.”

Advanced features include a patented firing pin mechanism which engages if the cylinder is snapped. The cam will lock itself down, preventing unauthorised access via the cam and providing an extra layer of security. Additionally, a unique trap pin feature further enhances security. In the event of attempted picking or bumping, the trap pin is fired into the plug chamber locking the plug and preventing access. In both scenarios, the cylinder can be safely operated from the inside.

Another benefit of this variant is that it’s non-handed; the sacrificial cut features on both the internal and external sides of the cylinder meaning that no matter which direction the cylinder is fitted, there will be the same anti-snap protection. In addition, for locksmiths and repairers, the feature will reduce stock holding requirements.

A horizontal keyway for the secure dimple cut key provides visual security to ward off intruders, as does the Kitemark that’s visible on the face of the cylinder. It comes with five keys and a keycard so keys can be registered and reordered securely. The cylinder has a nickel finish with brass barrel and is available as double, single and thumb turn options as well as keyed-alike pairs.

Carl F Groupco’s enhanced Iron Guard 3* Cylinder is a TS007 3 star kitemarked cylinder that is Sold Secure Diamond certified and Secured by Design accredited.

The Iron Guard 3* Cylinder will join Carl F Groupco’s extensive range of premium quality window and door hardware that always reflects current market trends. The company supplies to customers nationally, including to the Scottish Highlands and offshore islands, from its distribution centres in Peterborough and Cumbernauld.

This latest patent specifically covers the use of wire coils enclosed in a plastic housing, enabling a sensor to accurately report the opening, closing, locking and venting mode of a window or door.

Ryan Bromley, Co-founder of Kubu, remarked, “Each patent we secure is a reflection of our unwavering commitment to genuine innovation in the smart security space. Our wire coil technology is another feather in our cap, reinforcing Kubu’s leadership in the Smart Security industry.”

The fenestration industry is rapidly evolving, with Fabricators and Installers on the lookout for genuine, reliable Smart solutions. The fenestration market, however, is witnessing many new products - from rebrands of imported tech to

genuine certified innovative products making it ever more difficult for industry professionals to know who they can trust.

Mark Bromley, CEO at Kubu, stated, “It’s imperative for fabricators and installers to choose tech from a manufacturer, rather than a distributor, and that the manufacturer can evidence that they own the IP for the products they are selling.”

Ryan continued, “Our position in the market has been further reinforced, as we now have two very distinct patents relating to window sensors.”

“One that covers a sensor being clipped to a bracket and now this one that covers metal detection on a window. Both are very unique and narrow in their scope, giving us very strong protection on this type of smart sensing product.”

Kubu’s message remains consistent and clear: when choosing a smart partner for your business, opt for genuine, patented technology.

For more details on Kubu’s patented technologies and the value they bring to the fenestration industry, visit getkubu.com, email trade@getkubu.com or call 0330 555 9545.

Carl F Groupco is renowned for its impressive product range and being a valued partner that brings many added benefits to its customers. The introduction of an enhanced variation of a product from a highly respected brand illustrates this ethos perfectly.

For more information visit: https://www. carlfgroupco.co.uk/door-hardware/ cylinders/federal-iron-guard-3-cylinder

MILA’S STAINLESS STEEL SUPASECURE HANDLE ACHIEVES FIRST AND ONLY SILVER SOLD SECURE GRADING Mila’s popular SupaSecure™ TS007 two star door handle has just become the highest rated security handle in the UK, scoring an unprecedented Silver grading from Sold Secure.

The stainless steel SupaSecure™ is the first and only handle to have been awarded the coveted Silver grading alongside its PAS24 and SBD accreditation, and gives Mila customers absolute reassurance that they are fitting and promoting the most secure option available

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– in combination with either a 1-star or a 3-star cylinder.

Previously, the highest grading achieved by a two star handle in the Sold Secure attack test administered by the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) was Bronze, but the inherent strength and design innovation in the SupaSecure™ have enabled it to go one better.

Part of the extreme strength comes from the fact that the SupaSecure™ is produced using the

same investment casting process used to produce aerospace components. It has been independently tested to BSEN1906 Grade 4 for extreme durability and corrosion resistance.

The clever design features developed by Mila’s own in-house team include chamfered backplate shoulders which provide anti-grip protection for better mole grip resistance and an integrated cylinder guard visibly raised within the backplate which protects against snapping.

There is also a slotted, rotating disc which shields the cylinder completely.

Richard Gyde, Mila’s Managing Director explains: “If you’re fitting either a 1-star or a 3-star cylinder, the addition of a security handle eliminates any risk of cylinder manipulation. And, if you are adding a handle, why wouldn’t you opt for a proven solution from Mila which has just received such a ringing independent endorsement in our latest round of testing?”

As well as its security credentials, the popular SupaSecure™ handle is crafted in Mila’s Supa™ stainless steel for enhanced durability.

It has been independently performance tested for corrosion resistance to BSEN1670 Grade 5 and has sailed through more than 1000 hours in a salt spray test.

As a result, the handle comes with a 25-year guarantee on the surface finish as well as on mechanical operation.

It is available now in a choice of polished or brushed

stainless and polished or brushed PVD gold finishes.

All the product details are at: https://www.mila. co.uk/supasecure-doorhandles/

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

Iron Guard 3* Iron Guard 3* Iron Guard Iron Guard 3* 3* Cylinder Cylinder Cylinder Cylinder

Scan to View the Scan to View the Iron Guard 3* Cylinder Iron Guard Range 3* Cylinder Range T: 01733 393330 (Peterborough) T: 01733 393330 (Peterborough)

Scan to View the Iron Guard 3* Cylinder Range E: sales@carlfgroupco.co.uk E: sales@carlfgroupco.co.uk T: 01236 721557 (Cumbernauld) T: 01236 721557 (Cumbernauld) @carl_f_groupco

@carl_f_groupco

Carl F Groupco

Carl F Groupco

Carl F Groupco

Carl F Groupco

T: 01733 393330 (Peterborough)

Scan to View the T: 01236 721557 (Cumbernauld) Iron Guard 3* Cylinder Range E: sales@carlfgroupco.co.uk

@carl_f_groupco www.carlfgroupco.co.uk www.carlfgroupco.co.uk T: 01733 393330 (Peterborough) Carl F Groupco T: 01236 721557 (Cumbernauld) Carl F Groupco E: sales@carlfgroupco.co.uk

@carl_f_groupco

www.carlfgroupco.co.uk Carl F Groupco Carl F Groupco

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

REGALEAD SAYS LILAC DOORS ARE SET TO SOAR IN 2024 RegaLead adds four new colours in lilac hues to its standard colour range. As Google searches for lilac doors increased by 271 percent over the past 12 months, and RegaLead has seen more and more request from customers for lilac shades, these were the inspiration for the new colours.

RegaLead’s team of colourists found the lilac options within the RAL palette uninspiring and made the decision to develop its curated lilac colour shades that are perfect for doors. Created to give both traditional and modern interpretations of lilac, the stunning door colours include Lilac Blush,

Mulholland Drive, Plum Blossom, and Moroccan Sunset.

as well as complementing a variety of architectural styles, and RegaLead’s four lilac hues means there’s something for every home.”

“Keeping ahead of colour trends is key to supporting customers,” says Guy Hubble, Joint Managing Director at RegaLead.

“Ideal Home published a report saying that lilac as a front door colour is set to soar in 2024, backed up with comments from leading interior and exterior design trendsetters.

“We know that the popularity of pink doors over the last few years shows homeowners are more than happy to stray from the black-grey-white palette. Lilac is a more romantic and playful version of grey, making it

a perfect choice for people who want a clean and subtle front door but with a splash

of colour. What’s more, lilac pairs with both light and dark exterior paint colours

Lilac Blush is the pinkest of RegaLead’s four shades, offering a classic colour twist for traditional doors.

The more muted and darker lilac Mulholland Drive looks fantastic against black frames, which makes it perfect for both traditional and modern door styles.

Moroccan Sunset oozes lilac sophistication, especially when paired with chrome door furniture. While Plum Blossom is a charming lilac shade designed for homeowners looking to subtly set their home apart from neighbours.

“Colour is such a personal choice,” adds Guy. “But homeowners want to choose from a curated collection of colours. They want to be inspired, not bamboozled! Adding new shades to keep ahead of colour trends means that we can support sales for installers. Our colour trends postcards are available from Regalead to download for customers to use on their socials too.

“We predict that sales of lilac doors will soar in 2024.”

For more information about Regalead’s lilac door collection and other decorative glass products, please visit https://www.regalead.com/.

SMART LAUNCHES ALITHERM HERITAGE 60 DOOR SYSTEM, FULLY COMPLIANT WITH DOCUMENT L Smart Architectural Aluminium today announced the launch of its new Alitherm 60 door system, the latest addition to the company’s proven Alitherm Heritage portfolio. Fully compliant with Document L of the Building Regulations, this new range of high-quality, high performance single and double doors provides an elegant solution for both new build and refurbishment projects.

The doors’ distinctive slim sightlines perfectly complement

the existing Smart Alitherm window ranges, which together mimic the appearance of traditional steel window and door systems – while delivering all the performance benefits of a modern aluminium system.

With a range including single and double doors, as well open-in and open-out options, Alitherm 60 provides a ready replacement for steel doors on heritage applications, such as building renovations or apartment conversions, or for

sensitive conservation areas, where planning regulations require a like-for-like product replacement.

With a classically elegant design, the new doors also feature an enhanced polyamide break to provide excellent thermal performance, in compliance with Document L of the Building Regulations. A full range of complementary hardware, including stainless steel, heritage and Art Deco fittings, is also available together with Smart’s

extensive colour palette to provide complete design flexibility.

Commenting on the Alitherm 60 launch, Smart’s CEO, Eddie Robinson, said: “This new range is a great addition to our existing suite of Alitherm Heritage systems, which have proved to be exceptionally popular in projects across the UK. “Integrating seamlessly with these existing systems, and fully compliant with the new Document L requirements, the elegant lines

and outstanding performance of Alitherm 60 make it the perfect solution for architects, developers, installers and fabricators.”

For more details, visit www.smartsystems.co.uk or call 01934 876 100.

RESIDENCE DOOR COLLECTION BY APEER NOW AVAILABLE IN ANTHRACITE GREY Apeer has further enhanced the range of colour options for its premium, highly energy efficient Residence Door Collection, with the addition of anthracite grey.

The Residence Door Collection by Apeer, which has attracted a huge amount of interest since its debut earlier this year at the 2023 FIT Show, was launched with seven standard grained Residence colours, two smooth Residence options and eight premium finishes.

Anthracite grey has now been added following popular demand from customers, as Apeer’s Managing Director, Asa McGillian, explained: “Colour choice is one of the most important elements of the purchasing process when considering a new entrance door, especially for such

36

a high-quality offering as our Residence Collection range.

“The addition of anthracite grey to our existing palette of premium colour options means even more choice for end users and even more opportunity for our customers to take advantage of ongoing demand at the higher end of the home improvement sector.”

The Residence Door Collection by Apeer is the result of a unique collaboration between two of the industry’s most respected, premium brands.

It’s built around a high-density, moisture resistant PU core that’s reinforced with steel mesh embedded into the PU core and enhanced by Stormguard thresholds and weather deflectors.

With a substantial, 120mm front-to-back format, The Residence Door Collection by Apeer offers market-leading U values from as low as 0.51 W/m2k, comfortably ahead of anticipated Future Homes Standard requirements.

The doors benefit from 78mm quadruple glazing as standard, and homeowners can select from 20 door styles, including traditional, contemporary and stable designs, plus options for full sidelights and top lights.

The impressive standard specification incorporates the best hardware options and includes Ultion Keytag-equipped keys that can be tracked and located via Apple devices.

For more information visit: www.apeer.co.uk.

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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www.glassnews.co.uk | December 2023

37

SOFTWARE & IT

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

WINDOWS OF DISTINCTION CHANGE THE GAME WITH TOMMY TRINDER

Celebrating their 30th anniversary in 2024, Teignmouth based Windows of Distinction is a veteran of the industry. Andy Ford, company founder, recently shared insight on how quoting software from Tommy Trinder has supercharged their long-standing reputation and helped moved the business forward.

“Conversion rates have definitely improved with Tommy Trinder,” says Andy. “It’s been a game changer. The app gives us

a big advantage competing with large companies, or any other company for that matter!”

In an era where the personal touch can sometimes takes a backseat to efficiency, Windows of Distinction have harnessed the power of Tommy Trinder to deliver both.

The software’s user-friendly interface and best-inclass presentation allows Windows of Distinction to create stunning, professional, and crystalclear quotes that inspire confidence.

“Customers don't really know what they're getting with traditional methods.

With Tommy, it's far clearer for a customer. When they look at the quote, they can see exactly what they're

getting – colour and style of handle, the style of frame, the product, the glass – it's all there and it's all really, really clear.”

The team at Windows of Distinction have also enjoyed significant time savings since using the software. Particularly, says Andy, when bringing together products from multiple suppliers into one quote for homeowner, such as composite doors and PVCu windows. “Before Tommy Trinder, we’d be producing two quotations because they came from different places. Now, it's all on one system, so it does make life a lot quicker,” said Andy.

Andy is the first to admit that he’s “not techy,” so he’s been pleasantly surprised at how quickly he and his team have taken to using the Tommy Trinder platform. “It’s so easy for us to use. Dragging, dropping, and changing the size of the windows, very simple to do”.

The Tommy Trinder platform is subscription based and billed monthly.

To find out more about and book a free demo installers should visit www.tommytrinder.com.

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December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

SOFTWARE & IT

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

MADE SMARTER NATIONAL ROLL-OUT TO TURBO CHARGE DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION FOR SME MANUFACTURERS Made Smarter, a programme helping SME manufacturers access technology and digital skills, is to be rolled out nationally.

The Government has committed to expanding the Made Smarter Adoption Programme to all nine English regions in 2025-26 before working with Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland from 2026-27.

The announcement by HM Treasury, on Friday November 17, means hundreds of thousands more SME manufacturers will get access to technology advice, leadership, and skills training, as well as grant funding for digital internships and technology projects.

The commitment, alongside plans for £4.5 billion in funding for British manufacturing, will also boost productivity, growth, and decarbonisation for SME manufacturers across the country.

Launched in the North West in 2019, the Made Smarter has engaged with 2,500 manufacturers and funded 334 technology projects, which are forecast to create 1,550 jobs, upskill 2,772 existing roles, and increase North West GVA by £242m. The successful blueprint has since inspired Made Smarter adoption programmes in the North East, Yorkshire and the Humber, the West Midlands, East Midlands, and West of England.

The announcement coincides with the publication of a new report by Made Smarter. ‘Delivering Impact: How Made Smarter Inspires Digital Transformation’ outlines the impact of the adoption model and proposes ways to make it even better.

Brian Holliday, Co-Chair of the Made Smarter Commission and MD of Siemens Digital Industries, said: "This announcement by the Treasury clearly demonstrates that UK manufacturing matters. It represents a tremendous investment boost for our makers that will enable the confidence to invest in innovation, productivity, and sustainability. Key sectors benefit but so does the long tail of small and medium firms which is really important to directly address our recent challenges of weak overall productivity and investment.

"I believe the business benefits of digitalisation are now clear, while being an enabler for industrial decarbonisation too - the package of measures announced in bolstering Made Smarter, targeted regulatory reform and sector support, along with our world-class Catapults and Universities now makes the UK one of the best countries on the planet to sustainably design, make and export goods."

said: “I am delighted that the Government has recognised the extraordinary impact that Made Smarter’s adoption programme is having on digitalisation of SME businesses.

“Over the last four years we have worked tirelessly to help North West makers to start their digital journey by providing them with specialist advice to help them select the right approach, level of investment and tools for their business. The programme has proven the value technology and digital skills can bring to the manufacturing sector.

“While we await further details on the funding package, the commitment to a national roll-out is a huge vote of confidence in the contribution SMEs make to UK manufacturing. It will undoubtedly turbo charge the digital transformation of the sector.”

Donna Edwards, Director of Made Smarter’s North West adoption programme,

Paul McLaren, Chair of Made Smarter North West’s Steering Group and Production Director for BAE Systems, said: “Made Smarter has demonstrated that targeted support can be a catalyst for growth and a real enabler for change. UK manufacturing is moving into a phase where resilience is as important as it has ever been. Made Smarter is helping SMEs create robust plans to deliver impactful results.”

Juergen Maier, Industrialist and author of the Made Smarter Review, added: “I am delighted that the Made Smarter programme, kicked off by the manufacturing review I had the privilege to lead in 2017, is now being expanded England-wide and with promised continuity to 2030. It is exactly this sort of policy continuity that our manufacturing sector is looking for and I know it will stimulate investment and productivity.”

To learn more visit madesmarter.uk.

Move into the new age of customer communications with the AdminBase Customer Portal

www.glassnews.co.uk | December 2023

39

SOFTWARE & IT

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

STREAMLINING FOR MAXIMUM EFFICIENCY Streamlining to maximise productivity and profitability have never been more important. Rhonda Ridge of Ab Initio’s AdminBase, discusses what it means to streamline an installation business and explains how to go about it.

When we think about streamlining a business, we often deliberate about what we can automate to reduce time spent on a task and improve efficiencies. But it’s not quite that simple. You need to understand what the problems are before you can implement the right solution. Bill Gates once said: “The first rule of any technology used in a business is that automation applied to an efficient operation will magnify the efficiency. The second is that automation applied to an inefficient operation will magnify the inefficiency.” You can’t simply

shoehorn automation into a business without first recognising how it operates. For installation businesses, a good CRM system can streamline fantastically, but it needs to be a system that has been designed with home improvement companies in mind.

UNDERSTANDING THE PAIN POINTS An installer management system that has been created wholly for installation companies will have done the background work for you in terms of understanding where the pain points in your business are.

But once implemented, as well as magnifying the efficiencies, it will also help to easily identify less efficient areas of the operation, allowing you to address any potential issues before they become a problem.

Ab Initio created AdminBase with a wealth of experience in installation businesses, which is why the system is now an allencompassing offering that helps to bring an entire operation together. It does so by holding all information from every

department in one central system that anyone can access at any time. It allows installation businesses to keep abreast of the whole operation, to see what is working well and what isn’t, and how to maximise resources. The automated system allows communication to flow far more easily around the organisation as well as externally with customers.

The automation starts from the very beginning of the sales process thanks to the PricepointTM Sales feature. It ensures a smooth online user experience from the first point of contact and is simple and intuitive to use with endless product types featured and professional high-definition images used. It creates customised quotations, and if a homeowner opts for a product combination that isn’t possible due to manufacturing restrictions, the system will highlight it before the order is placed, thanks to its clever built-in Manufacturing IntelligenceTM. AdminBase will also track all leads until they reach completion, whatever the outcome, so that nothing gets missed.

Ab Initio Managing Director, Rhonda Ridge

GIVE CUSTOMERS WHAT THEY WANT Once a prospect is converted into a customer, the AdminBase Customer Portal gives homeowners access to their own online account, just as they would have when shopping with the big online retailers. Homeowners can log in 24/7 to confirm appointments, pay invoices, and report any snagging issues when the job is complete. All information on each project is kept in one place and is easily accessible by anyone in the business that needs it, vastly improving the customer’s experience throughout the entire project.

AdminBase also allows installation businesses to run reports at any time, for a quick overview of how the company is doing. The reporting function in AdminBase streamlines access to information. If the data is in AdminBase, you can run a report on it, without the need to export the data to another programme. The reports can be viewed in virtually any layout and while most of our customers find the reports we create and customise to their business is all they need, should they need anything extra, all reports are customisable too.

As the market continues its more difficult phase, maximising efficiencies by streamlining every aspect of an installation company has never been more important.

And the companies that haven’t got this strong foundation in their business will soon start to fall behind those that do.

Streamlining processes company-wide allows you to take a step back, easily access the information you need and make informed decisions that are best for your business.

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December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

CARL F GROUPCO UPGRADES CRM SOFTWARE TO FURTHER ENHANCE ITS CUSTOMER SERVICE Independent hardware distributor Carl F Groupco has just announced a £20,000 investment in upgraded customer relationship management software, ‘theCRM’. Steve Lamb, IT Manager at the company, said: “This upgrade reflects our dedication to being at the forefront of technology and using it to assist our teams in providing the best to our customers both in terms of product delivery and customer service.”

The new system will give deeper levels of insight and information that Carl F Groupco can use to support customers’ businesses. Steve commented: “theCRM will enhance our customer service by providing greater transparency of information. Our sales team stands to gain from additional sales forecasting and reporting capabilities. Furthermore, it incorporates business intelligence and analytics functionality, offering insights that will aid us in refining our business practices and approach for our customers."

The system has been custom-developed to meet Carl F Groupco’s demanding requirements.

It harnesses the power of automation to help drive increased productivity and efficiency. The system also integrates seamlessly

with Carl F Groupco’s ERP product management software and its My CFG online customer portal to provide complete visibility across all platforms.

Data security has also been considered. Steve said: “Security was an important priority for us and theCRM uses a highly robust system and protocols to protect both our data and our customers’ information.”

Steve concluded: “We’ve extensively tested and trained theCRM throughout the company to ensure it adds value from day one. The team are excited about what it has to offer and are already using it to support our business and our customers.”

Carl F Groupco provides an extensive range of premium quality window and door hardware and has longstanding relationships with Europe’s most innovative manufacturers.

The company has always set itself apart with the quality of service it provides to its customers.

Its investment in upgrading its customer relationship management software and the attention to detail in the implementation process underscores the company's unwavering dedication to this commitment.

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Tel: 01733 393 330 www.carlfgroupco.co.uk www.smartsecure.co.uk www.carlfdirect.co.uk

WHAT’S YOUR OPINION? Feel free to get in touch with your views on the industry, legislation, government, or even the newspaper.

Contact Chris: chris@glassnews.co.uk

www.glassnews.co.uk | December 2023

OPEN LETTER: IN DEFENCE OF THE WHITE CASEMENT WINDOW Ryan Johnson, Group Managing Director, Emplas explains why any business failure is bad for the industry.

The failure of any big window business inevitably draws comment. Safestyle and UKWG are two examples. Analysis has highlighted size, scale, and product offering. Safestyle, in particular, has drawn criticism from some for having too great a focus on ‘standard white PVC-U’.

They argue that this ‘narrow focus’ directly contributed to its downfall, a glaring failure on the part of the retail giant to recognise a shift in home improvement trends away from white product to foils, flush and aluminium – a failure of the volume model.

This analysis is far too simplistic. Yes, UKWG and Safestyle were volume businesses. To attribute their failure to the decline of the mass-produced white window? For me it doesn’t resonate.

Sectors of the industry are pushing a narrative that home improvement is moving away from white PVC-U to colour and aluminium. They do it because they have a direct commercial interest - as we do.

“White PVC-U windows remain central to our offer.”

Emplas manufactures white PVC-U windows at volume. We also manufacture and supply flush windows, foiled products, and aluminium.

We started by manufacturing white PVC-U windows - and we grew by manufacturing white PVC-U windows.

We’ve expanded and adapted our product offer along the way, but white PVC-U windows remain central to our offer.

Why? It’s because of demand. White casement windows are the backbone of this industry. They are packed with technology, including a new generation of smart products.

Flush, foils and aluminium are an important part of Emplas’ offer and the retail mix, but not everyone wants or can afford them.

White casements are its foundation, and we should be proud of that, not talk down a technically advanced product.

“Volume fabricators are drivers of innovation.”

The narrative that volume manufacture and white casements are the cause of Safestyle and UKWG’s demise is false.

Venture capital and management failure play a far bigger part.

The loss of Safestyle is damaging. It’s been suggested that the gap that its left will lead to a cascade of leads to smaller independent retailers. There may be some short-term gains long-term, however, it will cost the industry.

Safestyle was an innovator. It built awareness and it generated leads through its spend on marketing. Safestyle reached people thinking about buying windows and people who didn’t even know that they were thinking about buying windows.

These leads used to filter down to independent installers. We know, we saw it in our own retail businesses.

I’m not suggesting Safestyle was a retail lead generation service for the rest of the industry, but it did create retail demand.

Independent retailers are going to have to fill that void by increasing their own marketing spend.

I also want to push back on some of the comments about the volume model.

Volume fabricators are drivers of innovation. We work in partnership with our suppliers to develop new products and we set new standards for service and support.

Emplas’ partnerships with Kubu and Avantis have been instrumental in bringing new innovations to market. We also work closely with Epwin to drive positive change in our industry.

The work that we have done on 24/7 ordering, or tracking, two-hour delivery slots and 20-minute notifications on arrival, have driven a shift in expectations of service. We have more exciting developments to come in 2024, which will move the industry even further forward.

That innovation has been built on demand for the white casement window and will continue to be built on it. We would be wise to remember it.

Ryan Johnson, Emplas

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INDUSTRY AWARDS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

THREE IS THE MAGIC NUMBER FOR MFT The National Fenestration Awards 2023 proves successful for Made for Trade. The national fabricator and sole manufacturer of Korniche collected three industry awards this October.

• Winner - Conservatory Product of the Year – Korniche Roof Lantern, Made for Trade • Winner – Bi-Folding Door Manufacturer of the Year, Made for Trade • Winner – Aluminium Fabricator of the Year, Made for Trade Made for Trade may not have had a stroke of luck at the Doncaster Racecourse on October 29th, but they more than made up for it with three significant wins that are crucial to their business.

Retaining the prestigious Aluminium Fabricator of the Year award for 2023 is a testament to the consistent quality of Made for Trade's service, products, and fabrication.

The Korniche brand continues to impress and satisfy its trade customers nationwide.

After an impressive six years as the market leader for the Korniche Roof Lantern, winning the Conservatory Product of the Year in 2023 is a true testament to its excellence and its established position in the fenestration landscape. While many competitors have emerged in recent years with their own iterations of lantern roofs, none have matched the ground-breaking advancements achieved by the Korniche Lantern. Its unparalleled ease and speed of construction and installation, coupled with its exceptional strength, continue to set the benchmark in the industry.

Manufacturing and engineering development is pivotal at Made for Trade, and they take pride in their ongoing engineering and design of innovative products and services. Winning the title of Bi-Folding Door Manufacturer of the Year further validates the company's investment and unwavering efforts in perfecting the Korniche Bi-folding Door. Installers have been drawn to this product due to its remarkable ease and speed of installation, thanks to the ingenious Speedbead. This knock-in bead sets a new standard in the market, allowing door sashes to be glazed quickly and effortlessly. It also enables swift adjustments and any necessary remedial work without causing any damage to the bead or the frame. This revolutionary product sets Made for Trade apart from others in the industry.

The team from Made for Trade, including Ian Bousfield (Marketing Manager), Mike Robinson (Head of Sales Operations), and Kevin Bell (Senior Sales Associate), attended the NFA 2023 event. The company received multiple nominations and shortlisting for awards, making the day a resounding success off the racecourse. Ian Bousfield expressed his appreciation for the National Fenestration Awards, highlighting how they provide an excellent platform for the industry. The nomination, shortlisting, and voting processes allow the entire industry to participate, allowing businesses to showcase their products and services and let the industry determine the deserving winners in each category.

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December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

Congratulations to all the runners, riders, and winners of the NFAs in 2023.

40 years of MFT. For more Made for Trade services and Korniche products go to www.madefortrade.co.

INDUSTRY AWARDS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

DOUBLE AWARD WIN FOR UAP The success of UAP - and its CEO - have been applauded with two top awards.

Beating stiff competition, including leading global brands, UAP was crowned Hardware Company of the Year at the National Fenestration Awards 2023. The business was set up in 1996 by CEO David Jennings who was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his contribution to the fenestration industry.

SHEERLINE RECEIVES COVETED NATIONAL FENESTRATION AWARDS FOR PEOPLE AND PRODUCTS The team at Sheerline are celebrating after winning not one, but two coveted awards at this year’s National Fenestration Awards, which took place on Saturday 28 October at Doncaster Racecourse. It was an extra special evening as the awards celebrated their tenyear anniversary.

First, Sheerline’s Prestige Lift & Slide Patio was awarded the title of New Product of the Year. This coveted award is particularly rewarding for Adrian Redshaw, Design Director, and the rest of the R&D team, as it completes the Prestige range for now, and has already become a firm favourite with Sheerline customers.

It’s also a great achievement because competition was fierce within this category – with ten other products competing. For the latest addition to the Prestige range to have stood out is a testament to the work that goes into Sheerline’s R&D, product development, manufacture, and sales and marketing.

For instance, the Prestige Lift & Slide Patio has recently achieved Secured by Design accreditation helped by its in-built security features, which include high security interlocks designed to prevent unwanted intruders from entering the property.

All delivered with the consistent design options that give homeowners the ability to achieve consistency throughout their home. And all based on Sheerline’s patented corner assembly method, with innovative Thermlock® thermal breaks.

The second award Sheerline picked up recognised the outstanding leadership of

www.glassnews.co.uk | December 2023

CEO Roger Hartshorn as he was named MD/Director of the Year. A fantastic result, particularly as 16 other, well regarded industry figures were also up for the title.

It’s an even better result when considering Roger was awarded a lifetime achievement award last year for the positive impact, he’s had on the fenestration industry. To be recognised by his peers, fabricators and installers two years in a row is a significant achievement.

It reflects what Roger has shown time and time again; that with the right knowledge and investment in both people and equipment, beautiful products that work well, that are technically engineered and innovative, will succeed. There is clearly a demand for beautiful aluminium windows and doors that go above and beyond what everyone expects.

Roger Hartshorn, Sheerline CEO, said: “We’d like to say a big ‘thank you’ to the team behind the NFAs–it’s been another tremendous success, and it truly is one of the highlights of the fenestration awards calendar. To see Sheerline recognised and celebrated among our peers and friends is fantastic. Of course, it’s also hugely rewarding to call another one of our products award-winning.”

“We deliberately work to ensure our products are the best, not just for homeowners, but for installers and fabricators too. Last year it was a pleasant surprise to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award–it’s not something that happens every day–and being named Director of the Year is another great win for Sheerline and shows we still have more to give,” he added.

This is just the beginning of awards season for Sheerline, so watch this space!

To find out more about the award-winning Prestige Lift & Slide Patio, or any other of the wide range of Sheerline aluminium products visit the website here: www.sheerline.com/lift-and-slide-patio

Launched in 2013, the National Fenestration Awards aims to be the fairest, most inclusive fenestration event, rewarding the very best in the sector. Following nominations from people working across the industry, the winners received their awards at a ceremony held at Doncaster Racecourse on 28 October 2023.

Armed with just a computer, David launched UAP from his spare room. His idea was simply to manufacture installationready door knockers that were pre-drilled and finished. At the time, there was nothing comparable in the UK, marking the start of a journey which has seen UAP rapidly grow.

From humble beginnings, David has been instrumental in expanding UAP’s customer base and product portfolio both organically and through strategic acquisitions. Today, UAP stands as a £22 million business, boasting seven leading brands: UAP Locking Systems, UAP Fullex, UAP Intelligent Hardware, UAP Firemongery, UAP Trade Locks, UAP Security Hardware, and online specialist X-Fort.

Throughout his career, David has prioritised high-quality, market-driven products and championed innovation. As well as nurturing loyal partnerships with manufacturers across Asia, this strategy has seen investments in-house product development, including the recent launch of IONIC, an ultra-secure electronic lock.

David has also embraced new technology, investing in 3D printing to reduce waste during product development, demonstrating his vision for a more sustainable future.

As the UAP family has grown, so has David’s commitment to people. He has cultivated a culture of inclusivity through initiatives such as the UAP

Training Academy and by developing talent and promoting internally. In 2019, he introduced a profit-sharing model, underlining his passion for treating people fairly and recognising their vital contributions to UAP's success.

Beyond the boardroom, David has been a driving force behind the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility activities, from fundraising to build schools and a hospital in Nepal, to planting 50,000 trees, and donating PPE to local charities and community groups during the pandemic.

A leader beyond his business, David also serves as the Vice President of The Encephalitis Society and is the co-owner of the Manchester Thunder Netball team.

Speaking at the NFA Awards, Sarah Rogers, head of the NFA said: “This award celebrates the lifetime achievements of a man who has not only built a remarkable business empire, but left an indelible mark on the lives of countless individuals.

“David Jennings is a visionary, a humanitarian, and a true inspiration to us all. This Lifetime Achievement Award is a testament to his unparalleled dedication, and we thank him for sharing his vision and passion with the world.”

Commenting on his award, David Jennings added: “I feel very honoured to be recognised for my achievements and exceptionally proud of everyone in the UAP team. Their skills, hard work and dedication have been pivotal to our success and achieving the coveted Hardware Company of the Year award.

“When I set up UAP, I didn’t expect to have a particularly long career in hardware. It wasn’t long though before I realised how dynamic the industry is. New legislation and evolving customer needs are delivering constant change and creating vast opportunities for innovation. This has translated into many new products and initiatives at UAP and why I’m so passionate about the business and the wider industry.

“To also be recognised for life outside work is very humbling. I’ve always wanted to try and make a positive impact that extends beyond the corporate world and feel incredibly grateful to be in a position to do that.” www.uapcorporate.com

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INDUSTRY AWARDS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

BAYSIDE, WORTHING WINS BUILDING BEAUTY AWARDS 2023, THE RICHEST PRIZE IN UK ARCHITECTURE

PRODUCT INNOVATION IS THE KEY TO SUCCESS AT VBH Hardware manufacturer, VBH, has been successful at the Medway Business Awards, winning the Product Innovation category during the ceremony held at The Great Hall, Priestfield, on Friday 17th November.

The award was given for VBH’s work with their greenteQ ‘smart’ products, initially with the Q-Smart fingerprint/app operated door handle, and with the more recent development of the greenteQ iQ range of security window locks and multipoint door locks.

On their visit to VBH House in September, the judges were impressed by how greenteQ iQ locks can be quickly upgraded by the simple addition of a sensor to work with Kubu to link windows and entrance doors to a smart home network.

Benefits to the end user include a quick check

on the open/closed and locked/unlocked statuses of windows and doors via the Kubu app, security and comfort alerts etc. Products fitted with greenteQ iQ locks can also be linked to other elements of the network, such as heating, lighting etc.

The Medway award comes hot on the heels of the greenteQ iQ security window lock receiving the Best Window Component award at the National Fenestration Awards in October.

the ordinary to the extraordinary. If greenteQ iQ locks are fitted to windows and doors as standard, it is a very simple and inexpensive process to link them to a smart network at any time if the customer wishes.

“VBH has been very successful in recent years, and one of the keys to that success is the constant stream of new innovations that we are bringing to market, including our new ‘smart’ products.”

VBH reports that both the window and door variants of greenteQ iQ are selling well.

VBH directors Simon Monks and Vince Kay led a merry band of VBH revellers on the night, and a great time was had by all.

Gary Gleeson, Marketing Manager there, says, “Installers who offer the greenteQ iQ/Kubu concept are reaping the rewards of homeowners’ hearty appetite for upgrading their new installation from

To find out more about greenteQ iQ window and door locks, or any other hardware in the VBH range, contact the company on 01634 263263, email at sales@vbhgb.com, or send them a Tweet @vbhgb.

Ayrshire-based Scotia Windows and Doors has come away with not one but two prestigious accolades for the high standards of service which it has provided to its New Build customers over the past year.

This focus has been recognised further with the award from Barratt Homes North for OUTSTANDING CUSTOMER SERVICE. This is a great reflection of all Scotia’s hardworking teams and is a measure of just

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Engineering Winner – Copyright: Raquel Diniz

Last night, the Royal Fine Art Commission Trust unveiled the winners of its 2023 Building Beauty Awards at a glittering ceremony in the Sea Containers House amphitheatre.

ENGINEERING WINNER

With prizes presented by Booker Prizewinning magic realist author Sir Ben Okri, the awards – sponsored by Ballymore – celebrate new buildings, engineering structures and urban landscaping schemes that add beauty to Britain’s built environment. The esteemed judging panel was led by Stephen Bayley Hon FRIBA, Chairman of the Royal Fine Art Commission Trust and one of Britain’s foremost design critics.

OVERALL WINNER & BUILDING WINNER

TWO PRESTIGIOUS AWARDS FOR SCOTIA WINDOWS AND DOORS

First up is the award for BEST CONTRACTOR, presented by Miller Homes, which is a huge achievement given its status, and which rewards the hard work and attention providing consistent products and installations across its Scottish sites.

Miller Homes has a well-defined Quality Assurance process which backs up routine NHBC reviews and to be recognised in this way reflects Scotia’s commitment to achieving the highest standards possible in the production, supply and installation of windows and doors.

Overall Winner – Copyright: Tim Crocker

how significant proper support and careful attention are to Barratt’s overall success. It is a particularly important part of Scotia’s offering with the advent of the New Homes Quality Code and its focus on properly supporting and servicing new homeowners.

Managing Director – Gavin Smith – praised Scotia’s entire workforce for all their commitment, dedication and passion which have combined to achieve these successes. “It is a tremendous accolade to be recognised by such high-profile customers and in such a competitive market, and demonstrating our ability to continually meet such high standards is fantastic news,” he added.

The overall winner, chosen from the four category winners, was Bayside in Worthing, which received a £12,000 cash prize – the richest prize in British architecture – and will now represent the UK in the race for the International Building Beauty Prize at the 2023 World Architecture Festival in Singapore. Bayside was also the winner of the Building Award, beating Barking Riverside Station and One Silk Street to take the title. This mixed tenure housing development, designed by Allies & Morrison for Roffey Homes, comprises a 170ft seafront tower alongside a six-storey garden square and a beachside café.

Public Space Winner – Copyright: John Sturrock

Woolbeding Glasshouse in Midhurst, Sussex, was the winner of the Engineering Award, coming out on top over the Cody Dock Rolling Bridge. Designed by Heatherwick Studio for the Woolbeding Charity in collaboration with Eckersley O’Callaghan, who worked on the structural and façade engineering, this ten-sided, 1500sq ft subtropical greenhouse is inspired by Victorian ornamental terrariums, with an opening roof using a hydraulic mechanism to give the plants direct sunlight and ventilation.

PUBLIC SPACE WINNER Taking the crown in the Public Space Award category was Elephant Park in Elephant & Castle, London; a public realm project

by Gillespies for Lendlease, beating the Battersea Power Station Public Realm to the title. Elephant Park is a sequence of landscaped spaces conceived as part of the regeneration of the old Heygate Estate in south London, and operating on a range of scales from a new set-piece park (at two acres one of the largest post-war parks in central London) to a transformation of the streetscape along a major traffic artery.

LITTLE GEM WINNER The “Little Gem” title went to the Plas Glyny-Weddw Café in Llanbedrog, Gwynedd, designed by Sanderson Sculpture, Mark Wray Architects and Fold for Plas Glyn-y-Weddw, beating Angel Yard to the top spot. This spectacular sculptural addition to Wales’s oldest art gallery comprises marine-grade structural glazing, wrapped in an envelope textured with nearly 90,000 handcrafted stainless-steel barnacles, which create a permeable layer that filters natural light to the interior.

Little Gem Winner – Copyright: Gareth Jenkins

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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GLASS NEWS INTERVIEW: BUILDING OUR SKILLS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

BUILDING OUR SKILLS

– INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION TO JOIN OUR INDUSTRY Glass News’ Editor, Chris Champion, puts some question to Mark Handley, the Partnerships Manager for ‘Building Our Skills’, to find out more about the initiative, the involvement of the industry as a whole, the reaction from young people and the plans for the Career Fairs planned for 2024.

The whole Building Our Skills concept has grown rapidly but can we look back to the basics? As far as Fenestration is concerned, in simple terms, what is the primary aim?

When I started with Building Our Skills, in May last year the aim was to help spread the awareness of Fenestration. I was tasked to work with education, MOD and the MOJ, whilst also speaking with the industry to get them on board and support what we are trying to achieve. It’s surprising how many people don’t know what the word ‘Fenestration’ means and it’s great when you meet them again as they have all done their research.

Attracting new entrants to the industry will undoubtedly help fill the skills gap but is the aim to continue upskilling, even for existing employees?

The main objective is certainly to attract new entrants into the industry, the aim being to ensure there is a continuous flow year on year. We also need to work with these candidates and help support their future growth and knowledge of their desired roles with qualifications and accredited training. However, what I have found whilst introducing fresh faces into the industry is the companies that are supporting this are also very keen to upskill their existing staff, by offering additional training and qualifications. This is fantastic way to strengthen the future of the Fenestration industry.

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The current generation definitely has a different outlook and understanding from when I attended school. The first conversations are always interesting and insightful. Some students want to start off in management because their parents are managers. After speaking with them and explaining how a career path works, and what their options are, they get quite excited that they can achieve their goals.

Mark Handley

The involvement of companies across the whole industry is key to success – how many companies are now involved in this initiative?

We have the support of 92 companies, these are across the whole sector and range from the system houses like Veka and Schuco, Fabricators, installation companies, Software, marketing etc….this list goes on. When I am presenting in schools, one of the questions I get asked, quite regularly, is about the sustainability of our industry. We have CNC Recycling as a partner and the support we receive helps answer this each and every time.

What sort of roles does the industry offer? Is it all about hands on fabrication or installation or does it go wider than this?

Fenestration has a very broad range of roles to offer. We have been speaking with our supporters and asked if they could help us by supplying the roles within their business.

When we sat down and looked at the lists, the one we compiled has 102 different roles.

This shows we are a truly diverse industry with so much to offer.

The generation now in school have different ideas and aspirations from previous generations. Are they prepared to work and build a career or do they just want to start at the top and work up?

What reaction do you get from students when you introduce fenestration as a career choice. Do they just think it’s ‘white gold’ and ‘foot in the door sales’?

I think, following on from the question above, the students get quite excited that some old man with a beard from Barnsley can help them with getting their ‘foot in the door’ and start their career and where it could take them if they put the effort in. This, in itself, I find quite rewarding. The stumbling block is the parents because they have had some kind of experience of the ‘white gold’ era.

I know you invited around 100 people from the education sector to the FIT Show but the acceptance rate and those that turned up was disappointing. How are you managing to get the careers teachers on board with the idea of apprenticeships?

As disappointing as it was that the expected number didn’t turn up, it was also a success because it was the first time anyone involved in education actually attended. When I speak in schools, it’s over a number of visits. The first sitting with the teachers and the careers staff leads me to explain what we have to offer and the help we give. What I’ve found is that schools struggle working with industry outside of school-based careers events.

You have now planned regional events and I know you have two Careers Fairs scheduled for March next year. Can you tell us more about that, who is involved from the industry, the numbers you expect and so on?

These events are in National Careers Week next year, the first in South Yorkshire and the second in Manchester with two further ones planned for late in the year. The events are titled ‘50 Careers In One Day’, and we will have 25 companies supporting us at these events. There will be enablers to assist with entry into Fenestration, then a whole range of companies ranging from local, regional, national and international.

We have CNC Recycling, GQA, Veka, RPS, Yorkshire Warm Roofs, GGF, Kubu and many more. The events are aligned to job roles, not the companies, and it’s amazing to have them all on board with what we have set out to achieve. We will have at least 50 people there from the companies attending with, hopefully, as many varied roles as possible. The aim is to have over 1000 students join us and learn about their potential future.

Is there a sticking point with parents who may have pre-conceived ideas about the fenestration industry such that they may actively discourage their children from joining the industry?

There have been sticking points over the last 12 months, but working closely with the schools and speaking to parents helps give a clear understanding of what is out there for their child. With the events next year we will be making the information available online for parents to access, and open their eyes to the opportunities out there and the support offered.

How important is it to get over to students the experiences we have had in working in the industry?

After all, it seems that once you are in this industry, very few leave it and people move from one company to another, gaining skills, and climbing the career ladder.

It is vital that we all share our experiences.

We are all different people and have all had a varied career. Part of the speech I give in school is about my work life history. I started off in a factory as a fabricator at 16, an industry I didn’t really want to be in, but I’m still here. As you say, I moved through a few companies, learning more skills on the way, gaining as many qualifications as were offered and, at 42, I became a Sales

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper and Marketing Director. My story hopefully sparks a light of hope in the students that if I can achieve it, then they can too.

Once you have talked in schools and have students interested in the apprenticeship concept, how do you then go about placing them with companies?

This is where our supporters step up and open their doors and this is also why we need the support of the industry behind us, with more supporters joining our campaign. Speaking with the students and the companies local to their schools we do all we can to make that connection, introducing both parties, and discussing their specific role. We then work with someone like Sam at GFTS, who then helps them start their apprenticeship.

People all need to earn money but actually enjoying the work they do is fundamental to being successful.

How can you convince young people that working in our industry can be very enjoyable and satisfying?

The biggest challenge is the question ‘Is it hard work?’ My reply is that if you want to succeed then it will be hard work and you will only get out what you put in. I also help guide them to find something that they will enjoy as they will be working for 8 hours

www.glassnews.co.uk | December 2023

a day, 5 days a week. But at the end of that week, at 16, they will have £210 in their pocket. Who doesn’t want to earn that at 16? The more qualifications they get and the more experience they gain will, over time, help their wage grow and will help with any future opportunities for progression.

A girl concentrating on playing with her ‘phone while you are talking to a class must be irritating, so how can you convince her that the fenestration industry could offer her a career?

This was an interesting one!. It was at a lunch time detention I was invited to attend.

Out of a group of 15 there was one girl, and she was at the back playing on her phone.

I just asked if she was ok and if she was going to join in? Her reply was that working with windows wasn’t for her. I asked what she was interested in and she just shrugged her shoulders. I then had a conversation with her about social media, Snapchat, Facebook, Instagram and so on and would she consider a career in social media marketing? She wasn’t even aware that this was a career option and, on my next visit to that school, she had done some research and was looking at what was out there for her in that role.

How many different roles can we, as an industry, offer?

I think previously I quoted 102 roles. I think that what we must do is listen to the

GLASS NEWS INTERVIEW: BUILDING OUR SKILLS students, and indeed anyone who wants to join our industry, and point them in the right direction to the role that might suit them best.

Where do we rank when it comes to promoting our industry as a good place to work and, on the other hand, where do we rank as far as creating the opportunity for students to learn about fenestration specifically?

As an industry we are absolutely fantastic at promoting the new products and the innovation we have, but we don’t do nearly enough on what it has to offer as a career choice. When I was at school the careers advice offered was for the armed forces and that is still the same now, adverts on TV etc. I think with the Building Our Skills campaign, over the past 18 months, we rank quite highly as far as offering opportunities to students. There is no one else doing what we are now doing as an industry and the GGF work closely with us, offering their careers pathway into industry.

Fairs. Can other companies join in the initiative and how do they go about it?

You are 100% correct. These careers events will only succeed with support of the industry. To become a supporter of Building Our Skills is quite easy - just send me an email and the company logo. Being a supporter requires your help in one of many ways: giving up an hour of your time to speak in school, open your facilities to a group of students, join our advisory panel, support us at careers events and support our practical training centres.

It would be great to see more companies partner up with Building Our Skills to inspire and build a better future for fenestration.

The Career Fairs can only succeed with the support of the industry as a whole. I know there are some 90 companies supporting Building Our Skills and around 20 will be attending the Careers

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PRODUCT REVIEW 2023

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

PRODUCT REVIEW THE GLASS NEWS ROUND UP OF

PRODUCTS TO ADD

TO YOUR PORTFOLIO

HELPING YOU GAIN MORE SALES IN 2024

ZERO|90

THE FUTURE OF FENESTRATION

Zero|90 is an ultra energy efficient window and door system by Liniar, designed and made in Britain for a low-carbon future. The range includes the UK’s first Passivhaus-certified PVCu casement window, and offers a sustainable, cost-effective solution to rising energy prices and external noise.

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Delivering U-values as low as 0.66 W/ m2K, Zero|90 can save homeowners up to £15,000 in energy costs over a normal useful lifespan of 35 years. Using less energy also helps to reduce a building’s carbon footprint, supporting the UK’s journey towards Net Zero.

Zero|90 offers twice as much noise protection in comparison with standard double-glazing - reducing noise by up to 42dB. This means occupants can enjoy a more peaceful home environment for an overall enhanced quality of life.

Featuring a recycled core and fully recyclable at the end of its useful life, Zero|90 contributes to the circular economy for additional carbon savings to those

generated by its energy performance. This makes Zero|90 one of the most sustainable window and door systems in the UK.

innovation built into every Zero|90R frame, making ultra energy efficient performance accessible to older buildings too.

An innovative retrofittable option, Zero|90R, means installers won’t need to remove the plaster line or face expensive replastering work when replacing standard 70mm frames. New windows will fit neatly into the existing reveal, thanks to the clever

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Visit https://www.liniar.co.uk/zero90 to see the full range.

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

PRODUCT REVIEW 2023

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

SELECTA SYSTEMS – THE MASTERSLIDE PATIO DOOR Over the last few years the patio door has had some kind of renaissance and they now seem to be the cost effective solution to creating a wall of glass. So, what we have done at Selecta is bring the MASTERslide patio door bang up-to-date and a more attractive proposition for the homeowner, whilst also being more fabricator and fitter friendly.

We designed a brand-new two-part interlock, which not only serves as an added security measure for PAS 24, but also provides both the fabricator and installer with a far more simpler solution. It improves the fabrication and installation time, whilst also allowing greater flexibility for adjustments when on site.

An aluminium low threshold has also been added to the patio door for Document M compliance. The new low threshold has a height of just 20mm compared to a full PVCu frame and cill at 80mm, thus providing easy access and egress. Aesthetically, it also improves the look and enhances the appeal of the patio door.

Another desirable upgrade comes in the form of the locking system. The addition of a 12 point shootbolt lock adds to the overall security, passing the requirements of PAS 24 with relative ease.

The upgrades to the MASTERslide patio door certainly provide you with a modern sliding door option that meets and exceeds the requirements of customers.

The MASTERslide package also comes with a host of new marketing tools including a sales video, brochure, sales and tech sheet and also our amazing Window and Door Designer! Find out more at www.selectasystems.com.

A LEGACY FOR THE FUTURE

Quickslide’s flagship Legacy vertical slider has been a market leader in traditional timberlook sash windows since it was introduced back in 2020, and now it is reaffirming this status with the launch of the new enhanced Legacy for 2024.

that can be managed via an app. It can be ordered in exclusive dual foil finishes to suit both

Featuring a stunning new slim midrail along with refined run-through sash horns, the Legacy VS has been brought bang up to date with the option of smart sash fasteners

www.glassnews.co.uk | December 2023

internal and external aesthetics and includes colour-matching woolpile and trickle vents.

The new slim midrail is over a centimetre narrower than standard, and this – along with fully mechanical joints, the deep bottom rail and curvy ovolo frame – ensures Legacy’s place as the most traditionally styled sash window available on the market.

An innovative weather bar and the option of astragal bars and a choice of hardware add to the authentic period detailing.

Set to usher in a new era for heritage windows, the enhanced Legacy VS brings together the best of old and new, and retains the superior performance and thermal efficiency that has already made Legacy windows such a popular choice among discerning homeowners. www.quickslide.co.uk

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PRODUCT REVIEW 2023

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

AB INITIO PRODUCT REVIEW:

SAY YES TO PRODUCTIVITY AND PROFITABILITY Boasting over 20 years in the market, the AdminBase installer management system is continuously improving to offer even more ways to improve productivity and boost profitability. Some of the most recent developments include an upgrade to its My AdminBase Diary app and a new Taskboard feature.

Taskboard is an online job board where projects are broken down into tasks, assigned to individuals, and given a deadline. This method of operating ensures work allocation

is always visible and fair. Meanwhile, the flexibility of the My AdminBase Diary app has been extended to make it easy for managers to see the appointments assigned to their team members as well as their own.

Add to this the existing reporting features, sales features in partnership with PricepointTM and award-winning customer portal, and it’s clear to see how AdminBase continues to take the market by storm.

SENIOR OPENS THE DOOR TO INNOVATION

Sourcing an aluminium residential front door that looks the part and offers enhanced thermal-efficiency and security may seem like a tall order but Senior’s latest PURe® door innovation more than measures up.

Senior Architectural Systems has joined forces with leading composite door supplier Hallmark Doors and Panels Ltd to create a new residential entrance door that combines patented PURe® thermal-efficiency with PAS 24 security.

The two British based manufacturers have developed a robust external door option by combining Senior’s low U-value PURe® Commercial Door frame with Hallmark’s stylish aluminium doors panels. The innovative system has been fully tested to meet the security standards of PAS 24 and to offer exceptional energy-efficiency.

The new front door option is available in a wide choice of designs from Hallmark’s extensive range of over 50 aluminium door panels which includes both classic and contemporary styles. This design flexibility is supported by the reliability of Senior’s established and patented

52

PURe® technology, with the door frame benefitting from an impressive thermal barrier created using ultra-efficient polyurethane foam. The Hallmark door panels also feature an effective Raventherm thermal core for extra efficiency, with optional glazing trims.

The bespoke aluminium door panels can be ordered directly from Hallmark and then fitted into Senior’s PURe® Commercial Doors. Customers are advised to clearly state their requirements at the specification stage as this is not a standard product.

For contact details, please visit www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk or search for Senior Architectural Systems on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

PRODUCT REVIEW 2023

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

A PREMIUM DOOR WITH CLASS LEADING U VALUES Officially launched at the 2023 FIT Show, The Residence Collection by Apeer boasts high end aesthetics, outstanding performance and U values from as low as 0.51 W/m2k – making it the best performing door of its type on the market today.

Delivering class leading energy efficiency that surpasses the Passive House benchmark of 0.89 and the anticipated requirement for the Future Homes Standard,

the product range is a unique collaboration between two of the industry’s most recognisable and respected brands.

Designed as an ultra-premium addition to Apeer’s popular Apeer44 and Apeer70 composite door offerings, The Residence Collection is built around a highdensity, moisture resistant PU core, reinforced with aluminium anti-cut through security mesh and enhanced by Stormguard

thresholds and weather deflectors.

It is a specification that delivers the ‘weight’ and feel of a product that’s been developed to take advantage of healthy demand at the top end of the home improvement market.

Featuring 78mm quadruple glazing as standard, it is available in 20 door styles, including traditional, contemporary and stable options, as well as nine standard colours. Homeowners can

choose from seven grained and two smooth finishes, as well as options for full sidelights and top lights.

The Residence Collection also boasts the very best hardware as standard, including Ultion keytag-equipped keys that can be tracked and located via Apple devices.

For more information visit: www.apeer.co.uk.

NEW FORTEX® ‘SHADOW GAP’ UAP ADDS UNIVERSAL DOOR CLADDING FROM FREEFOAM HINGE TO PORTFOLIO One of Freefoam’s most popular new product launches in 2023, ‘Shadow Gap’ cladding features an embossed finish like painted pine, with a deep groove between boards. Part of the premium Fortex® cladding range, it can be fitted horizontally or vertically.

Shadow Gap is available in seven shades, including Anthracite Grey. The new colour – often used in high-end bifolds, doors and windows - is now offered across the entire Fortex® range. This allows installers

to upsell, helping homeowners match their cladding to roofline, windows and doors, for a total house transformation.

Co-extruded with a rigid foam core, Shadow Gap is easy to store, handle and fit. Like the rest of the Fortex® cladding range, it’s designed to withstand many different weather conditions and comes with a 10-year guarantee.

View the full Fortex® cladding range at www.freefoam.com or call 0800 002 9903 to learn more about Freefoam’s service and support.

UAP, the specialist in locks and hardware for doors and windows, has launched a new hinge compatible with both right and left doors.

Manufactured in-house by Security Hardware, which was acquired by UAP last year, the Universal Flip Axis hinge has a patented lift on and off design. This means it can be easily fitted to right or left doors without swapping the pin. Compression, height and lateral adjustment can be achieved with door closed, preventing any unsightly gaps.

hinge has already been tested by several fabricators.

Following its success and the positive feedback we’ve received, we’ve built up our stock levels and are now formally launching the product to the wider market.

“We believe the hinge’s unique design is one of the most advanced available.

A universal jig enables door manufacturers to install the product very quickly making it ideal for high volume assembly where speed is essential.

To further ease fabrication, all the components are preassembled in a box.

“With a wide range of sizes and colours available, the hinge can also meet any design requirement.”

As with all products manufactured by UAP companies, the Universal Flip Axis Hinge has undergone rigorous testing to ensure quality and performance. It meets the BS EN 1670 Grade 4, and BS EN 1191 standards, and is also PAS 24:2016 compatible as part of a door assembly.

Available in rebate sizes ranging from 17mm to 25mm, the hinge has a contemporary appearance and comes in seven different colours, including white, chrome, black, gold, brown, oak and anthracite grey.

Freefoam’s new Fortex® ‘Shadow Gap’ cladding in Anthracite Grey

www.glassnews.co.uk | December 2023

Gareth Davies, Area Sales Manager for UAP, said: “The Universal Flip Axis

53

PRODUCT REVIEW 2023

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

WINDOW WAREHOUSE’S WINNING COMBINATION! Working with leading extrusion supplier Veka and dedicated hardware manufacturer Caldwell, our vertical sliding windows are of the absolute highest quality. With a fully sculptured 146mm outer frame and sculptured sash, the option for Georgian & Astragal bars, run-through sash horns, and a deep bottom rail, our windows boast a flawless design from every angle. Tilted sashes allow simple cleaning, and homeowners can choose from an array of smooth and woodgrain finishes.

These vertical sliders ensure thermal insulation with U-values as low as 1.4W/ m2K when double-glazed. With a 4-5 week lead time on standard and foil profiles, it’s no wonder they have been a big hit.

Throughout this year we expanded our product range by adding DoorCo’s composite doors, specifically made for the UK market. These doors meet the requirements of the current building regulations as well as being in line with approved document Q. Choosing to

manufacture these doors was simple as they are extremely easy to install, and the design possibilities are endless.

Integrating the DoorCo slabs into our bespoke handcrafted frames has allowed us to streamline our customer's processes with the ability to address any challenges in-house with speed and precision. These doors offer an exemplary standard of

security with a slam-shut lock available, supported by CFC-free polyurethane foam to ensure a superior seal and complete weatherproofing.

If you would like to change your vertical slider or composite door supplier we offer experience, excellent quality, and service.

Contact us at info@window-warehouse.co.uk or call 02392 327744.

THE NEW KORNICHE FLAT GLASS BY MFT FOR 2024 In 2024, Made for Trade is excited to introduce the revolutionary New Korniche Flat Glass product. With full fabrication now in full swing for the new year, this innovative addition to the award-winning line-up of Korniche products is set to make a significant impact in the market.

Designed to complement the existing Roof Lantern and Bi-folding Doors for singlestorey extension projects, the Flat Glass offers an alternative solution for those seeking aluminium glazing systems. Made for Trade prides itself on delivering highquality products, and the New Korniche Flat Glass is no exception.

The New Flat Glass has already garnered substantial interest and sales leads from homeowners and self-builders, thanks to its successful sales progression and market testing throughout 2023. Its unveiling at FITSHow and subsequent appearances at two Homebuilding & Renovating Shows have further solidified its appeal.

With its sleek design and unrivalled functionality, Flat Glass is poised to become a game-changer in the industry.

Homeowners and self-builders can now choose from a range of options to enhance their living spaces while benefiting from the replacement glass offering future peace of mind along with the ease and speed of

54

installation, from the engineering expertise Made for Trade is known for.

As we enter 2024, the availability of the New Korniche Flat Glass marks an exciting milestone for Made for Trade.

With its commitment to providing innovative and reliable solutions, the company is dedicated to meeting the ever-evolving needs of its trade customers.

Experience the future of aluminium glazing systems with Made for Trade.

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

PRODUCT REVIEW 2023

ULTIMATE ROSE

Ultimate Rose represents the pinnacle of modern sash window manufacturing. It merges an authentic traditional timber aesthetic with the performance and maintenance benefits of modern uPVC materials.

Featuring an unmatched 35mm midrail, it has a slim and sleek design. Seamless run through horns and seamless technology throughout are just some of our handcrafted finishing touches that complete the look of these distinguished sliding sash windows. But the Ultimate Rose isn’t just ultimate in terms of style; it will also provide homeowners with fantastic performance.

A rated for thermal efficiency, it’ll keep homes warm throughout the year, potentially saving customers on heating costs. While the heat stays inside, noise will be kept out, with our Ultimate Rose windows providing a high level of sound reduction as standard, which can be upgraded even further.

UNMATCHED TIMBER AESTHETICS As the name would suggest, Ultimate Rose windows offer the ultimate in timber aesthetics, redefining tradition. To achieve this, they feature an ultra slim midrail, true endsealed mechanical joints, seamless construction throughout and unique sash horn designs, as well as extended options like chalk finishes, deep cills and staff beads.

PERFECT FOR CONSERVATION Because of the level of authenticity they offer, our Ultimate Rose sash windows are perfect for conservation areas. They have been accepted for use in conservation areas across the UK, often in places where other replacement windows have been rejected.

HIGH SECURITY Ultimate Rose windows are secure as standard, and can be easily upgraded to PAS24, giving them SBD accreditation and making them compliant with Part Q. To find out more visit www.roseview.co.uk.

INCARNATION

Incarnation secondary glazing is suitable for homes, offices, hotels, schools – any project that requires enhanced thermal and/ or acoustic insulation without changing the primary windows. There are many instances where original windows cannot be replaced; it may be down to practicality, budget or conservation. This is where secondary glazing comes into play, and it’s why more and more trade installers and architects turn to Incarnation.

www.glassnews.co.uk | December 2023

SUBTLE STYLE. DRAMATIC DIFFERENCE

With its super slim sightlines, Incarnation secondary glazing complements any style of property. On top of that it’s fully customisable, available finished in any RAL colour, with toughened or acoustic glass.

Innovative modern or traditional hardwood subframes complete the framework, and everything comes pre-assembled with discrete furniture.

Its slim profiles and outstanding thermal and acoustic performance mean that secondary glazing is recommended by both Historic England and the Listed Property Owners Club as a suitable product for improving windows in historic buildings. It’s easy to see why the benefits are second-to-none.

To find out more visit www.roseview.co.uk.

55

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

THE BIG WINDOW MATERIALS DEBATE “There’s no question aluminium is gaining share, and to look at installation stats from Tommy Trinder it is storming away. But where does it go from here? Some argue that the future market favours PVC-U; others that the top end of the market belongs to the new aluminium. New? Certainly the new aluminium systems that have emerged in the last four years are very different from the aluminium systems of old that that were designed with commercial markets in mind, rather than residential. But looking back over the last 10 years, we’re reminded that the future is not already written in stone. It’s influenced by the players in the market and is the result of the decisions they make,” says Mike Rigby CEO of MRA Research.”

“In this third article, I asked two more leading trade fabricators, who offer PVC-U and aluminium, their current experience and thoughts, and how they see the future of window materials. Their sharply differing views are a reminder that it’s a genuine debate and there’s lots to think about.”

Mike’s first two BIG window materials debate articles sparked a lot of interest. As the official debate partners, Glass News is hosting the debate, and there’s much to come in the coming months. Please take part in our survey and share your views. We want to know what you think.

Mike Rigby

56

Continued from the front page...

Currently 490 installers working mainly at the higher end of the market use Tommy Trinder to present quotes to homeowners. It’s a persuasive sales tool that gives Tommy Trinder MD Chris Brunsdon access to an amazing amount of detail. I don’t think his customers represent the middle to lower end of the mass market but they are an accurate window on the premium and middle to upper end of the market. The analysis is based on 490 installers and 400,000 items.

It tells us that 85% of these installers sell aluminium, up from 78% a year ago. And aluminium is 16% of all items installed, with 81% PVC-U and 3% timber. By value however, aluminium’s share is lifted to 35%, with PVC-U dropping to 59% and timber doubling to 6%.

Share of value by region varies in the South from 39% in Cornwall and Devon, 42% and 41% in the Home Counties and London to 35% in East Anglia. In contrast, aluminium is in the 20%s of value in the Midlands, Wales and the North West, and drops to 12% in the North East and Scotland.

By item, bifolds (54%) and sliders (46%) account for a significant share of total aluminium value.

Sixty two percent of Tommy Trinder installers sell PVC-U flush casements and 81% of flush casements are foiled.

In contrast, 41% of PVC-U windows are foiled.

Sixteen percent of items but 35% of value - follow the money indeed!

If you sell in the upper third of the market to the Haves, those mostly over 50s homeowners who own their

own homes or have small mortgages, and whose homes have risen strongly in value over the last 20 years, your future is assured whatever the state of the market. Those homeowners account for around 90% of UK savings and they can afford to buy in good times and bad. They like colour and good looks, flush and equal sightlines, big openings, comfort, sustainability, energy saving and security, and they choose the best products they can buy. If your products meet that spec, they’re largely materials neutral.

GARRARD WINDOWS Lucy Griffiths, General Manager of Garrard Windows says: “We were originally a PVC-U fabricator and added aluminium 13 years ago. In the last quarter, sales of aluminium accounted for 14% of items and 37% of sales value. In five years, by 2028, sales could be 50%. Customer taste is driving sales. The slim sightlines of aluminium are very appealing, and the u-values Sheerline’s range can offer with their Thermlock thermal break, mean that we can offer aluminium products that rival PVC-U for energy ratings and u-values. Homeowners are becoming increasingly concerned with the environmental impact of their decisions."

PIONEER “We’re manufacturing suppliers to the trade within the window and door industry,” says Danny Williams Managing Director of Pioneer Trading Company. “I do not specify a particular product or range.

“PVC-U represents 75 percent, aluminium 10 percent, composite

Danny Williams, Pioneer

doors 5 percent, with roof products, solid and traditional, 10 percent of trade sales. Commercial installations, and Gerda are separate to Pioneer’s normal operations.

“My belief,” Danny explains, “is products will need to be more energy efficient, with this as a consideration, PVC-U will remain strong and continue to have over 80 percent of the market as a minimum. It will recover lost market share from aluminium.

PVC-U is easier to manufacture with automation, more cost effective to manufacture and less labour intensive, more energy efficient for the end user, and is generally a much more costeffective option. Aluminium will have to have deeper thermal breaks and multiple thermal breaks, foam inserts around the glazing, intermediate gaskets, and more costly glazing options. So it’s going to become more unattainable and more niche. Aluminium fabricators will start to experience a decline over the coming years.

A view back along the 50m long bed of Garnalex's aluminium press

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

On time every time, a Garnalex robot efficiently ferries heavy precision extrusion dies between toolroom and the aluminium press

“Aluminium Syscos have become fat dumb and happy, I understand there is much gloating about the growth over recent years, with expectations of a never ending golden era. But my view on that is there has been plenty of cash, especially over the last couple of years, and that has changed as we are returning to the economic conditions of decades ago. Those that have rushed in to manufacture aluminium recently are probably aware it has become a race to the bottom, much worse than experienced in PVC-U. Many are doomed, but they just don’t know it, in my opinion. Historically, aluminium was the first replacement window type then PVC-U replaced it. We will see in the next few years if history repeats itself."

Photo courtesy of Garnalex

EDITION 6- PVCU

EDITION 6- PVCU

The Sketch

The Sketch

MARKET INTELLIGENCE FOR INSTALLERS

MARKET INTELLIGENCE FOR INSTALLERS

Analysis of the most recent 270,000 items quoted on Framepoint® by over 420 of the UK's leading window installers.

Analysis of the most recent 400,000 items quoted on Tommy Trinder by 460 of the UK's leading window installers.

16%

ALUMINIUM BIFOLDS MARKET SHARE

...of all items installed in the UK are ALUMINIUM

10%

Aluminium 16%

Ali Windows Ali 10% Bifolds Sliders 10% 8% PVCu Windows 30%

Other 28%

...of the total UK windows & doors market.

Timber 3%

PVCu 81%

Ali

ALUMINIUM BIFOLDS account for

Comp Door - 6% PVCu Door - 4% PVCu Sash - 4%

(ITEMS #)

...But ALUMINIUM accounts for

35%

of the market

BY VALUE

ALUMINIUM BIFOLDS MARKET SHARE

Timber 6%

Aluminium 35%

PVCu 59%

DO YOU SELL ALUMINIUM?

(VALUE £)

...of installers sell aluminium up from 78% 1 year ago

Aluminium... stronger in the South.

29%

Ali Sng Doors 6%

Ali Sliders 24%

Ali Dble Drs 6%

...of the UK aluminium windows & doors market.

(BY VALUE £)

TRENDING BIFOLDS VS SLIDERS

SELLING PRICE PER DOOR LEAF - INSTALLED

85% 12%

..AND ALUMINIUM BIFOLDS account for

Ali Bifolds 29%

Ali Windows 36%

(VALUE £)

ALUMINIUM MARKET SHARE BY REGION

(BY VALUE £)

NATIONAL AVERAGE SELLING PRICE

Sliders nearly neck & neck with bifolds for market share

Thermal break rolling machine at Garnalex

WHAT WILL DRIVE CHANGE? "Energy efficiency and price."

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES FOR PVC-U? Danny says: "With less and less Syscos, their market shares are all significant, so they’re not under pressure to be aggressively taking market share. I would suggest it could be a prosperous time for them, even when the industry is experiencing a general reduction: they are not under pressure to develop new products to attract or retain market share. There is a consideration to make more energy efficient systems for future homes requirements, but it cannot be achieved with their current glazing options. The frames will not take optimum IGU specifications; the main profile sections need to be deeper than 70mm inside to outside, with multiple gaskets and more multi chamber sections that do not require steel or plastic reinforcement. That’s not hard to achieve if they don’t always do what they’ve always done."

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES FOR ALUMINIUM? Danny emphasises the challenge: “This is more of a challenge. Aluminium Syscos have a great habit of designing what they want to, not what the end user wants. They don’t design-in easy to manufacture, and they don’t design-out ugly. We don’t like fat windows and doors: we have PVC-U for

£1204

£1194

+VAT

Per leaf Installed.

12% £1091

£1261

22%

ON TREND - STEEL LOOK

32%

22%

£1079

35%

20%

£1049

41%

£1429

42%

39%

19% of aluminium entrance doors are 'steel look' profile

Black 7%

BIFOLDS VS SLIDERS

Brown 1%

54%

BIFOLDS

46%

Deep Btm Rail

Grey 7%

(VALUE £)

©TommyTrinder.Com Ltd 2023

#SellMoreWindows

tommytrinder.com

www.glassnews.co.uk | December 2023

BlackALUMINIUM BIFOLDS - COLOUR 7% Over half of ali bifolds are anthracite grey!

White 25%

Grey Grey 7%7%

©TommyTrinder.Com Ltd 2023

#SellMoreWindows

www.tommytrinder.com

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES FOR STEEL? Danny give a shout out for steel. “We could see a resurgence in steel, if manufacturing was developed to be faster in larger quantity. It’s slim, strong, and attractive, and it could be developed to be more energy efficient than aluminium.

Let’s not forget that everyone is trying to copy the look of steel in aluminium.

Why don’t we just make steel? It’s cheaper, easy to recycle, looks good, and people like it in new build, replacement, and conservation. There are no boundaries, and clients expect it to be at a premium.

Steel looks good.”

But, in the end, it’s what you do that moves the market away from one material and to another. You’ve heard the arguments from fabricators for and against: now it’s your turn to take the survey and share your views.

Anthracite Anthracite 12% 12%

14%

Mech Joints

“Timber is what it is. We will always have timber for conservation, listed and the highend discerning client. People don’t want to cut trees down and the cost is prohibitive.

Niche!”

Eight of the trade fabricators I spoke to set out the case for strong growth in aluminium, and two trade PVC-U fabricators made the case equally persuasively for PVC-U.

Anthracite Grey

SLIDERS

SLIDERS

47%

DO YOU SELL ALUMINIUM BIFOLDS?

53%

Agate Grey 15% Black

Anthracite 12%

53%

...of installers sell an ali bifold.

Agate Grey 3% Other Greys 3%Black 7% Cream 1%

Bifolds still ahead, but sliders are closing the gap

SLIDERS

84%

£1159

Aluminium market share by value (£) based on analysis of the last 400,000 items quoted on Tommy Trinder by 460 window firms.

BIFOLDS

£1218 £1238

BIFOLDS

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES FOR TIMBER?

ALUMINIUM 8 V PVC-U 2

£1011 £1001

that. If you’re paying more, you want sexy.

Patio sliders with 20mm interlocks is a good start, not lift and slide. The big challenge for aluminium is energy efficiency. Currently the calculations are cheating; they aren’t achieving what they’re actually claiming. One could see in the future a My Diesel Claim scenario if we’re not careful. Aluminium, the material, is a challenge. It’s a great conductor - we make cables and saucepans from it. We make the handles from plastic because it doesn’t conduct, and it’s a better insulator. It needs to be developed with energy efficiency, unfortunately that will come with a cost."

A view of the assembly facility at Garnalex

https://shorturl.at/lABZ6

57

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

ASWS LEADING THE WAY ON LEAD

HIGH SECURITY BUILDING ENVELOPES FROM SCHÜCO Winning façade packages just got easier for Schüco fabricators with the full integration of Sälzer high security systems into the Schüco product catalogue.

Schüco partners in the UK and Ireland can now consult directly with Schüco UK on high security solutions for building envelopes and order prefabricated Sälzer products direct from Schüco. This enables them to expand their product offering without having to take on the risk of fabrication or bring the necessary expertise in-house.

Sälzer GmbH has been specialising in innovative high security systems for over 50 years and became part of the Schüco family in 2018. What sets the Sälzer suite of products apart is the fact that multiple security requirements can be combined in the same system. A highly burglar-resistant façade, for example, can be built to be bullet or blast-resistant in some areas, or it can provide equal protection against all three threats.

Not only does the system allow different requirements to be met but there are no sightline differences when transitioning between the high blast resistance façade to low blast resistance facades. What's more, the high-security façade can be seamlessly combined with a section of façade that does not provide any protection.

This uniform design has been achieved through the close collaboration of the two building envelope

58

specialists from the planning and development stages. The S1es-50/S1es-60 high-security façade was based on the Schüco FWS 50/60 (Façade Wall System, 50/60 mm face width) mullion/transom façade.

All Sälzer designs are thoroughly tested and certified by independent institutes, often far beyond the standard requirements.

The S1es-50/S1es-60 highsecurity façade system offers burglar resistance up to resistance class RC 5 as well as bullet resistance up to FB7. It can also withstand a blast test with 500 kg of explosives. As a result, the high-security façade offers a high degree of resistance to burglars armed with heavy equipment and assailants with long firearms, as well as terrorist attacks.

The high-security system is complemented by a wide range of tested and certified high-security Sälzer doors and windows. A variety of design options is available including dual colour systems, outward opening and motorised options, and high security sliding doors.

Look no further when designing a building envelope that requires the comprehensive protection provided by Sälzer’s high security system range and the design quality, precision engineering and technical advice for which Schüco is renowned.

For further information visit www.schueco.uk/saelzer, contact your local Schüco Business Development Manager or email mkinfobox@schueco.com.

Associated Steel Window Services (ASWS) looks at the continuing health threat posed by a class of paint banned for the past 30 years, and how one London based metal window specialist has learned to deal with it.

Commercial property companies and the construction industry are fully experienced now in the measures which must be taken to counter the threat posed by asbestos in its many forms, but our older properties still contain other potentially dangerous substances with one in particular hiding in plain sight.

The use of lead paint was banned back in 1990, yet it is not a notifiable issue.

The removal can be just as challenging as the medical conditions linked to the mineral fibres are still claiming thousands of lives each year.

Director of ASWS, Kris Bennell, commented, “There is a temptation for people to think lead paint is very much a problem of the past, but because it is tricky to remove safely – and like asbestos, it presents a far lower risk as long as it remains undisturbed – there has been a tendency in the industry to just apply new coats of paint over the top. Therefore, if lead paint is present, it is likely to be the bottom one or two coats, which means there remains the

risk that if the surface is impacted by trolleys or other hard objects, then small fragments or dust can be inhaled and cause serious illness.”

As a highly experienced contractor that takes risk assessment seriously across its activities, ASWS always recommends a lead paint analysis to clients as part of its survey procedures, addressing the façade and inner surfaces such as columns and handrails, as well as the fenestration.

The paint samples, which are taken all the way back to the substrate material, are referred to a laboratory, where any result above 1.0% Lead percentage by mass (Pb) requires precautions to be taken, as per the HSE Control of Lead at Work Regulations.

“Dealing with lead paint in old buildings is actually a growing industry and an area of work where we have built a very flexible capability. We can offer grit-blasting in-situ or at our premises, as well as removal by chipping or chemical poultice, dependant on the lead content levels. Ultimately though, lead paint is not a prohibitive problem, it is a management process.”

Kris Bennell continued, “Any actions which turn lead paint into dust or involves heating it up are potentially dangerous in terms of breathing problems, or even causing heavy metal poisoning, which is an irreversible condition. This should not be cause for undue consternation, as it is controllable, but requires correct use of RPE (Respiratory PPE) together with barriers to protect the public or other workers and selection of the appropriate removal method.”

“The options include grit blasting which can be noisy, must be controlled by tenting or exclusion zones and requires the provision of showers allocated just to the operatives involved. The other alternatives are using handheld chipping and scraping tools or there is chemical removal process.”

“As we did recently on a large project in London’s Dover Street, you apply a water based alkaline paste to windows or other surfaces, which must remain for 24 to 72 hours before being scraped off. Not only is the paint retained within the ‘poultice’, but it converts any lead present into a compound that can be safely disposed of without endangering the environment.”

Kris Bennell concluded, “Dealing with lead paint in old buildings is actually a growing industry and an area of work where we have built a very flexible capability. We can offer grit-blasting in-situ or at our premises, as well as removal by chipping or chemical poultice, dependant on the lead content levels. Ultimately though, lead paint is not a prohibitive problem, it is a management process.”

ASWS is a long-established member of the Steel Window Association and well recognised expert in the repair of metal windows, from the earliest wrought iron examples through to contemporary curtain walling. The family run business is frequently called upon to prepare condition surveys during the appraisal stages of a project, which then become part of the planning or listed building permission process. The company also maintains a very large stock of ironmongery and metal frame components to assist in its restoration work.

For more information on ASWS, please visit asws.co.uk.

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

INSULATED GLASS PERFORMANCE THAT’S BUILT

BY DESIGN After more than 40 years in the industry, we’ve built up exceptional levels of knowledge and technical expertise. That’s reflected in the quality and performance of our insulated glass components.

As the UK’s leading manufacturer and supplier of over 2,500 insulated glass components including two of the highest performance warm edge spacers available, we supply our products worldwide.

For Insulated Glass Product Performance that’s built by design, talk to us now on +44 (0) 121 331 3950 or visit thermosealgroup.com

EuroSiv 3A Molecular Sieve Desiccant

EuroSeal Insulated Glass Sealants

Dedicated to Insulated Glass

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Factory

Phill Cresswell

GREAT QUALITY AND PRODUCT RANGE,

WITH EXTRAORDINARY GROWTH – THAT’S DAWS Glass News’ Editor, Chris Champion, visited Knowsley, Liverpool, based DAWS, an aluminium fabricator that has grown rapidly from inception just 5 years ago.

Starting and growing a business over the last 5 or 6 years may not have been the easiest time in history to do it, but if it’s done in a planned and controlled way it can certainly be successful. From a turnover of £90k back in 2018 to £6m in 2023 looks good, moving from £1m turnover in 2021, to £3.3 million in 2022, then to £6 million in 2023 is pretty rapid!

The DAWS story is an interesting one.

DAWS, or Door and Window Systems, is an aluminium fabricator supplying residential products to the trade only. The four Directors worked together as employees for many years for a large PVC fabricator before leaving and going their separate ways in 2017/2018.

Dave Harrison and Robbie Rogers initially started out in 2018 manufacturing Aluminium Rooflights, from a small unit in

Looking over the shopfloor

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Birkenhead the business then moved to Bootle before settling on Knowsley in 2022, with Julian Wetherall and Phill Cresswell joining to make up the four man Senior management team. The DAWS factory is certainly impressive and shows that they mean to be a serious player in the market, whilst giving them the space and infrastructure to grow the business over the coming years Looking down on the shopfloor from the offices on the mezzanine floor, the immediate reaction is how clean and tidy everything is, and that’s not easy for an aluminium fabrication company. In talking with Phill Cresswell , I enquired about his fellow directors: “They’re down there,” he said. Sure enough, there was Robbie and Dave working on the shopfloor alongside the production management team and everyone else. DAWS is very much a handson business and they have set out with clear aims for the company. They want to make aluminium as straightforward to buy and fabricate as PVCu and, to achieve this they are “taking all of the best bits of the PVCu side of our industry” and bringing this to aluminium. They are looking to grow with the right customers that can then rely on DAWS to be a good, solid supplier. They want to be seen as easy to deal with and take the headaches away for their customers.

Apart from excellent fabrication, with great care to ensure all products leave the factory in perfect condition, Phill explained how employing technology is key to becoming an excellent supplier.

Barcoding of components that ensures correct assembly and provides a history of products that is traceable is important. They have adopted the Evolution software and worked with Business Micros to be able to integrate with Touch software that will give them the ability to offer digital ordering to their customers that will automatically programme CNCs, giving a quote and order system that operates the shopfloor, provides ‘scan onto and off van’ for deliveries and delivery notes, and an invoicing and accounts package, too. They are expecting that the integration of the Touch software will take place during the 1st quarter of 2024.

This investment in technology has been very important to DAWS and has been instrumental in ramping up the growth of the company, providing efficiencies within the administration and production side of the business. Another key element has been the holding of stock. Although no one wants to see their cash tied up in stock it became clear that that was required if their striving for excellence was to be achieved and their

premises, which boasts an acre and a half of yard space, provides ample space for storage of aluminium. They have even gone to the trouble of designing covers for stillages so that their massive stockholding is kept in pristine condition. Even then, in line with their wish to be an excellent supplier, every

“The whole presentation of DAWS exudes quality, skill and care, and it is not surprising that an installer visiting the company with the intention of looking for an aluminium products supplier is not going to have to look any further.”

Gasketing on the shopfloor

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

All the benefits of the Smoothfold Bifolding Doors

Working on the bifolding doors

The whole presentation of DAWS exudes quality, skill and care, and it is not surprising that an installer visiting the company with the intention of looking for an aluminium products supplier is not going to have to look any further. The DAWS mantra is: “Simply put, we want to give you a headache free life when it comes to ordering your trade aluminium and steel look products. Our aim is for you to end up thinking of us as your best and favourite supplier and everything that we do is done with this in mind.”

Just one of the range of Entrance Doors

Careful measuring!

DAWS vehicles

Well presented marketing materials

bar of aluminium is inspected prior to use.

In fact, the tape is removed for inspection and then every bar is re-taped. Time consuming but essential if standards are to be maintained.

It turns out that it’s an alarm, a Shock Dot, that records whether the product has been unduly knocked or dropped during delivery….ingenious and an excellent failsafe that ensures that product is up to DAWS’ high standards.

I asked about their methodology for quality control? It’s an ongoing procedure with one operative passing the product to the next in line with them, checking the product before accepting it into their care, if it’s not right it is handed back in the chain so it makes complete sense for an operator to do their part right first time, as they will only have to do it again if they don’t! Everything is scanned and logged so the production management team can see everything that is happening in real time. It’s a method that works and ensures an excellent product at the end of the line, having been checked at every stage. I was also looking at a brand new range of beautiful all aluminium composite entrance doors that DAWS resells and was intrigued to see a small electronic device attached to the packaging.

www.glassnews.co.uk | December 2023

And what is the product range offered by DAWS? There’s Smoothfold Bifolding Doors and Sliding Doors, Designer Entrance Doors, Heritage External and Internal Steel Look Doors and Windows, Smoothsash 400 Windows and Roof Lanterns. A good range of lovely products and I must admit my eye was on the Crittall style doors and windows! DAWS ensure they only use high end products such as Ultion handles on their bifolds and I was surprised to see the component box that comes with Bifolds and Sliding doors even has a welcoming bag of Haribos in it for the fitter who is lucky enough to open the box first!

What is DAWS current sales area? I say ‘current’ because, with the speed of their growth, it is inevitable that their sphere

of influence will widen. Currently, they operate in a 100 mile radius and I was interested to note a fleet of modern delivery vans, all without livery. It is unusual to note a company that doesn’t wish to use every opportunity to display their name and what they do. “It’s simple,” so I was told. “We supply our products to installers of varying kinds and sizes and they are selling under their own brand to the end-user, being homeowner or trade. We want to support our customer and not muddy the waters by confusing their customer if they see a van branded with DAWS on it, although we do have one liveried vehicle for our own collecting purposes.” Another intriguing point I noted was that they are using the name ‘Tatler and Nordoff ’ as a range name for high end installers to sell under that umbrella. It’s certainly a name that trips off the tongue and well represents the quality that DAWS is striving for – however, I’m told that those from Sheffield may recognise ‘Nordoff ’ as being a word with a different meaning from that intended!

Checking profile and re-taping

DAWS is big enough to be super competitive on price and lead times, yet small enough to still care about their customers. They look at their customers, not as a number but as a valued customer and they look to help their customer, and their team and business, thrive and grow. Good sentiments but also ones that the DAWS team believe in, totally. DAWS is certainly a business to watch over the coming years as I for one, think it is going places.

All the benefits of the Smoothfold Bifolding Doors

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TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

UNIQUE OFFERS #ARTISTRYINALUMINIUM Award-winning fabricator of PVCu and aluminium windows, doors and curtain walling, Unique Window Systems is set to expand its already comprehensive product offer.

From November 1st 2023, the business, which works with trade installers on a supply only basis and large commercial clients looking for a complete supply and fit solution, will offer a number of products from CORTIZO. A vertically integrated Spanish manufacturer with nine production facilities and operations in over 31 countries, CORTIZO is respected around the world for the premium quality and aesthetic appeal of its range.

which provides maximum levels of natural light with minimum visual obstruction.

Available in a variety of configurations, including two, three, four and six-panels, the CORTIZO 4700 sliding door system has a sash weight capacity of up to 400kg and can accommodate glass thicknesses of up to 32mm. The different opening choices include one, two or three sliding sashes.

In addition, Unique will now supply CORTIZO bi-fold plus doors. Offered in a range of customisable designs and finishes, this system can be used to create stunning and functional entrances as well as to separate and unify different internal and external spaces.

Three CORTIZO products will initially be available from Unique, all of which are ideally suited to both residential and commercial applications.

It features an 80mm deep frame and a glazing capacity of up to 48mm. A slim central section of just 110mm again ensures a larger glazed area and increases the amount of natural light entering a building.

This includes the CORTIZO 4700 sliding door system. Designed for use across large, glazed areas, this system has a slim profile

This system offers internal opening with up to 14 sashes and outward opening with 14 sashes and a 90º corner sash without a mullion.

ALLTRUCK PROVES ‘BEST IN THE BUSINESS’ FOR CN GLASS

From its production facility in Banbury, CN Glass cuts, toughens and process glass, supplying most types of windows, doors, double glazing, conservatories, and custom glass for a wide range of applications in the commercial and residential sectors.

“We have an extensive delivery fleet with a number of vehicles specially adapted for the safe and secure transport of glass products,” says CN Glass. “The new vehicle from Alltruck is no exception, and was specified with a number of bespoke features, designed for the task.”

External glass sheet racking is fitted within the truck’s curtain sides - which can be tensioned and opened from either end, to give 85% access across the body length, larger items can be loaded through a sliding roof.

The 18-tonne DAF chassis is fitted with adjustable electronically controlled rear air suspension, to ensure a fully shockabsorbent ride.

“The truck specification exactly matches our particular transport needs,” adds CN Glass. “We were looking for a company who

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Aside from their remarkable aesthetics, all three CORTIZO systems now available from Unique offer equally attractive functional benefits.

This includes excellent acoustic performance, unlimited colour choices, impressive weathertightness and exceptional security. The three systems also contribute to greater energy efficiency offering Uw values of 1.1 W/m2K for the 4700 sliding doors, ≥ 0.8 W/m2K for the bi-fold plus doors and 1.0 W/m2K for the casement windows.

Speaking of the introduction of the CORTIZO products, Mir Patel, senior manager at Unique, said: “Unique already offers our trade installer partners and commercial clients a comprehensive choice of PVCu and aluminium fenestration products.

General Manager Chris Pell said: “This is a significant milestone for us, and we are confident that the investment will contribute to further elevating our standards of quality and product innovation in addition to supporting our customers with ongoing testing.” could match our quality of service with the ability to supply a combination of quality equipment and dedicated aftercare. We found this, and more, in Alltruck. They are certainly the best in the business when it comes to glass carriers.”

Formed in 1990, Alltruck plc offers an extensive choice of commercial vehicles for rental, contract hire, and sale, comprising tractor units, trailers, vans and rigid vehicles. Depots are strategically located in Nottingham, Leicester and Loughborough.

Repairs, builds, maintenance, and MOTs are carried out from the company’s own workshop & bodyshop. They also run a fleet of mobile technicians for any customers who require that extra convenience.

CN Glass is accredited with British Standard, BS EN1279 Part 2 & Part 3 for the manufacture of double-glazed units.

Tel: 0116 402 1790 – www.alltruckplc.co.uk

“Far from seeing this as a cause for complacency however and in line with our focus on ‘Building on Success’, we continue to look at how we can expand our offer with systems that deliver performance and benefits that meet current and future needs, tastes, and standards.

“The addition of CORTIZO products to our range reflects that. We are looking forward to working with this internationally respected manufacturer and to showing our customers the impressive possibilities of #ArtistryinAluminium.”

To support its launch of the three CORTIZO systems, Unique has created a new promotional video. This can be viewed at https://bit.ly/cortizofromunique or by scanning the QR code below.

TOTAL HARDWARE SECURES NEW PRODUCT RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND TESTING CENTRE Independent hardware supplier Total Hardware has announced it has secured a new product research, development and testing centre. Located in the Midlands, the centre underscores the company’s commitment to product innovation and excellence.

Alltruck, the UK commercial vehicle contract hire specialist, has supplied a specially modified DAF CF 260 to CN Glass for distribution of its diverse range of glass and related products.

With a history spanning 50 years, the company is seen as the foremost supplier and installer of superior glass products in Oxfordshire.

Unique will also fabricate CORTIZO casement windows. This range of hinged windows offers either side hung or top hung outward opening.

It also enjoys slim sightlines of just 65mm helping to optimise natural light levels as well as a thermal break zone of 32mm.

Total Hardware’s popular own product lines currently include the Quantum range of premium hardware for windows and doors, the Superior 25 stainless steel door hardware collection and the Duration friction stays and window locks.

Additionally, the company is gearing up for the imminent launch of its new Apex range. Chris said: “We are thrilled to introduce Apex, our next generation of window locking mechanisms set to launch in January 2024. The new range offers tangible innovations aimed at benefiting our customers.”

training to ensure it continually exceeds its customers’ expectations. Its customers also enjoy rapid turnaround times from quotation to despatch as well as reliable next-day deliveries nationwide.

This compelling combination of benefits is one of the reasons many of its customers have been with the company since it was founded in 2004.

The new product research, development and testing centre will enable the company to continue to deliver on its commitment to anticipating and reflecting market trends. Its capabilities will also help enhance customer service and support. Chris concluded: “We are excited about the opportunities our new centre offers and look forward to unveiling new developments shortly. Watch this space!”

Tel: 0113 243 2255 www.totalhardwareltd.co.uk

Alongside its own product lines, Total Hardware also offers a comprehensive range of hardware products from leading worldwide hardware manufacturers at prices that enable its customers to maintain their competitive advantage.

Customer support has always been a focus for the business. It believes in continuous investment in technology, equipment and

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

WINKHAUS JOINS THE NATIONAL FENESTRATION AWARDS AS A MAIN SPONSOR Winkhaus UK are proud to announce that we have joined the National Fenestration Awards for the remainder of the 2023 campaign and whole of 2024 as a main sponsor, as they celebrate their 10th anniversary.

The National Fenestration Awards has stood for inclusion and representation for years and has sought to bring the whole of the sector together to find the very best people and companies for the last decade. Winkhaus is excited to join the NFAs during this special milestone and look forward to promoting their positive message in the months ahead.

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“Winkhaus are a leading name both in Europe and the UK when it comes to window and door hardware. They dominate the residential door market with their high-quality products, and we are very excited to have such a fantastic company and brand on board. We are looking forward to partnering with them over the course of this campaign and the next!”

The team at the National Fenestration Awards said: “Winkhaus are a leading name both in Europe and the UK when it comes to window and door hardware.

They dominate the residential door market with their high-quality products, and we are very excited to have such a fantastic company and brand on board.

We are looking forward to partnering with them over the course of this campaign and the next!”

Winkhaus have recently launched AV4, their newest addition to their range of autoLocking solutions. AV4 has the highest operational tolerances to date, with a 40% reduction in operational force as compared to the AV2 and increased operational efficiency. The AV4 is also non-handed, which has led to a 50% reduction in parts making this a more efficient offering for suppliers.

Our AV4 range is compliant with the requirements of PAS24:2022 and Secured

by Design and comes with a heritage option to suit more traditionally designed doors – perfect for the composite door market.

The AV4 is also smart-tech compatible with the introduction of the EAV4+ motor later this year, again building on their already successful range of door motors.

Voting for the National Fenestration Awards 2023 is now closed. Winners were announced on 28th October at a sparking awards presentation at the prestigious Doncaster Racecourse. We would like to congratulate all who won an award for this year’s event! To find out more about tickets and how to sponsor this great event, please visit: fenestrationawards.co.uk.

For more information about AV4, please visit www.winkhaus.co.uk/en/ or email marketing@winkhaus.co.uk.

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

Trade Supply Aluminium Windows and Doors Flush Casement Window

The aluminium system with the slimmest sightlines on the market • Flush and Fully Flush Casement Options • Easy glaze knock in beads • Patented Reverse Butt Joint

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Expertly crafted and exceptionally designed from high end aluminium.

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Windows | Sliding Doors | Bifolding Doors | Residential Doors

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

REGALEAD REPORTS SUCCESSES WITH URBAN BAR FOR BIFOLD DOORS Urban Bar from RegaLead has been added by a significant number of aluminium fabricators, across multiple window and door systems, to make it the number one product to create the industrial heritage look.

The trend for industrial heritage continues to grow, with more companies introducing an astragal bar system to transform standard bifold doors. However, as with the PVC versions, aluminium astragal bars have not been without issues, mainly “popping off ” due to expansion. The new Urban Bar solution from RegaLead has been designed to resolve this common issue by use of a multi-patented clip system and is now fast becoming the system of choice for fabricators.

The clip is integral to the success of RegaLead’s Urban Bar system. It uses a tried and tested strung steel clip, patented across the world to ensure that once fitted, they stay in place. The universal clip works with both width of bar, 25mm and 40mm, to create both heritage and modern aesthetics.

While the authentic look of separate transoms and mullions is completed quickly and efficiently in the factory with SDLs and astragal bars. In addition, the deep profile running gasket is a key part of the system to create a perfect finish.

Urban Bar is available in 10 industry standard colours plus a selection of Renolit foil finishes including Smooth Anthracite, Golden Oak and Irish Oak. Urban Bar is also available as a mill finish for customers

looking to powder coat themselves or in a painted finish to match any RAL colour.

Guy Hubble, Joint MD at RegaLead says: “The success of Urban Bar has exceeded our expectations. It’s been impressive to see how installers have found new ways to create both traditional and contemporary designs.

“One application we weren’t expecting was the use of Urban bar on PVCu flush sash windows. It works because the slim Urban Bar is a perfect fit with the low-profile

sashes. What’s more, the result is stunning, transforming standard flush sash windows into the industrial heritage steel-look.

“The popularity of Urban Bar continues to grow and the number of enquiries we’ve received for shows a real desire for the industrial look for glazing in homes.”

For more information about Regalead’s Urban Bar collection and their other ranges of decorative glass products, please visit https://www.regalead.com/.

GLAZPART SHORTLISTED FOR THREE BUILDING PERFORMANCE AWARDS The Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) has announced that Glazpart’s Link Vent 4000 has been nominated for three Product Innovation awards in the following categories: Wellbeing, Air Quality and Thermal Comfort.

On hearing the news Dean Bradley, Sales Director of Glazpart commented: “We are delighted to be shortlisted for such prestigious awards. The Link Vent 4000 has proved to be an essential addition to our

trickle vent range since it was launched in 2022 in time for the Building Regulations changes to Approved Document F (ventilation). To have our product recognised for its contribution to improving homeowners’ wellbeing, air quality and thermal comfort is a great testament not only to the product’s performance but also to our production, sales and marketing teams that have brought the Link Vent 4000 to the marketplace with such great success.

We are now looking forward to attending the awards in February.”

The Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) is the professional body that exists to advance and promote the art, science and practice of building services engineering and to support the community of built environment professionals in their pursuit of excellence.

The CIBSE Building Performance Awards always attracts high quality entries and a diverse selection of projects, companies, people and products from across the building industry.

The annual event showcases the achievements of companies and individuals who develop strategies for refurbishment and energy-efficient operation of existing buildings, design new buildings that operate more effectively and develop the products and systems that support them. Those shortlisted included detailed evidence which demonstrated actual measured performance and not just design intent or performance specifications.

Winners from the shortlisted entries will be announced at the CIBSE Building Performance Awards on Thursday 29 February 2024, at Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London. For more information on the Awards, please visit the awards website. www.glazpart.com

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December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

GLAZERITE EXPANDS ITS MANUFACTURING FOOTPRINT INTO YORKSHIRE The Glazerite UK Group has opened up operations at its North Division in Barnsley as part of the fabricator’s ambition to secure further growth for its installers. The purpose-built 30,000 sq. ft facility will focus exclusively on the production of Deceuninck 2500 and 2800 profile systems.

It follows Glazerite’s announcement earlier this year that it had welcomed Deceuninck to its portfolio, with the firm fabricating the 2500 bevelled range of casement and tilt & turn windows, and residential and French doors.

Closely located to the M1 and M62, the Barnsley site, situated in Darton, has the capacity to produce more than 1,000 frames per week. Manufacturing begins in early 2024 and will be a welcome boost for the local area which has recently seen job losses from the Safestyle site closure in Wombwell.

Rob Brearley, Glazerite's Group Managing Director, says: “It’s long been our ambition

Rob Brearley and Rob McGlennon at Glazerite North Division

to launch a manufacturing facility in Yorkshire, particularly given the number of installers and connections we work with around the region.

“Together with our North West Division in Bolton, which focuses on our VEKA profile, we can offer the Deceuninck range and better support customers across the country with high-quality products.”

The new facility has also enabled Glazerite to add the Deceuninck 2800 sculptured profile to its product offering. Rob adds:

“Deceuninck gives our installers access to another high-quality option alongside our VEKA, Halo and Residence Collection portfolio that can help them win new customers and stand out in the market.

“We’re delighted to further cement our partnership with such a renowned system house that puts delivery, performance, innovation and customer focus at the heart of everything it does.”

Rob McGlennon, Managing Director, Deceuninck, says: “We’re delighted to be growing our partnership with Glazerite.

Their commitment to having a bespoke Deceuninck factory producing both our 2500 and 2800 ranges is great news. It’s an exciting time for Glazerite and we are looking forward to seeing the site grow as it supports installers to realise success in their end markets.”

Glazerite has gone from strength to strength in recent years, with turnover growth of more than 25%. Today, it is one of the UK’s leading fabricators with a comprehensive product offering underpinned by addedvalue solutions for its customers.

Glazerite’s Rob concludes: “Our growing footprint and portfolio expansion is a fantastic opportunity for our installers, whatever their end market and end customer budget. It’s a great way to start 2024 and we’re excited to see what the future brings for us, our suppliers and our customers.” www.glazerite.co.uk

Left to right: Darren Rhodes, Jeff Dunn (both Glazerite), Chris Jones (Deceuninck), Matthew Thomas (Glazerite) and Rob McGlennon (Deceuninck)

“Together with our North West Division in Bolton, which focuses on our VEKA profile, we can offer the Deceuninck range and better support customers across the country with high-quality products.”

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December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

Introducing the Stellar Aluminium Slimline Bifold Door from Mercury Our Stellar Slimline Aluminium Bifold Doors are manufactured to the highest standards to deliver outstanding product performance.

• Superb slimline aesthetics • Faster installation with patented pre-gasketed knock-in beads • Tailed glazing gaskets and under-glass seal for enhanced thermal performance • Slimline 117m meeting stile • 28mm, 36mm, and 44mm glazing options • Choice of colour options manufactured to Qualicoat specification

T: 01452 383 344 E: sales@mercuryspecialistframes.co.uk

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Mercury Glazing Supplies Ltd Unit E1, Goodridge Business Park, Goodridge Avenue, Gloucester, Gloucestershire, GL2 5EB

BMBI

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

BUILDERS MERCHANT BUILDING INDEX

Q3 VOLUME DOWN -10.5% ON Q2 2022. VALUE SALES DOWN -3.3% The latest total volume sales from Britain’s Builders’ Merchants from BMBI showed that Q3 2023 volumes fell -10.5% compared to the same period in 2022. Total value sales were down -3.3% with prices rising +8.0%.

There was no difference in trading days.

For the full report, Expert comments and Round Table Debates, visit www.bmbi.co.uk.

GfK’s Builders Merchant Panel GfK’s Merchant Panel includes national, multi-regional and regional merchants such as Buildbase, Jewson, Travis Perkins, EH Smith, Gibbs & Dandy, MKM and Bradfords. GfK’s Builders’ Merchant Point of Sale Tracking Data represents more than 80% of the value of the builders’ merchant market. GfK insights can trace product group performance and track relevant features. GfK can also produce robust like-for-like market comparability, tailored to the requirements of an individual business.

The Builders Merchant Building Index (BMBI) The BMBI is published every month, in print and online. A full quarterly report is available every three months. The BMBI is a brand of the Builders Merchants Federation. Launched and produced by MRA Research, it uses sales-out data from GfK’s Builders Merchant Panel. BMBI includes a panel of leading industry Experts, who speak exclusively for their markets

QUARTER 3 YEAR-ON-YEAR The three largest categories all sold less: Heavy Building Materials (-1.5%), Landscaping (-7.0%) and Timber & Joinery Products (-13.1%).

QUARTER-ON-QUARTER Total value sales dipped -1.4% in Q3 2023 compared with April to June 2023. Volume sales dropped -2.1% and prices edged up +0.8%.

With four more trading days in the most recent period, like-forlike sales were -7.5% lower in July to September compared to Q2.

SEPTEMBER SALES YEAR-ON-YEAR Q3 results weren’t helped by September total value sales, which were -6.1% down on the same month in 2022, with no difference in trading days.

Volume sales fell -13.0% while prices rose +7.8%. Value sales of the largest three categories, Heavy Building Materials (-5.8%), Landscaping (-6.7%), and Timber & Joinery Products (-13.9%), were significantly down, although some smaller categories, Tools (+7.4%), Decorating (+7.3%), Kitchens & Bathrooms (+5.9%), Plumbing, Heating & Electrical (+3.3%) and Ironmongery (+1.7%), sold more.

LAST 12 MONTHS October 2022 to September 2023 value sales were down -1.9% on the same 12-month period in 2022, with no difference in trading days but volume sales plunged -13.0% with prices increasing +12.8%.

BMBI’s Expert for windows and Doors, Rob McGlennon, Managing Director of Deceuninck UK said: “Sustainability will define the UK window and door

“We’re improving our own sustainability too but we’re also supporting our customers to do the same through the products we supply, help to reduce their environmental impact.”

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industry in the next decade.

Research commission by Deceuninck revealed that more than two thirds of end users (68%) would choose windows and doors with a higher recycled content over products that don’t contain recycled content. Being able to lower their carbon footprint had an impact on the purchasing decisions of more than 70% of respondents.

technology, and Phoenix, our 100% recycled window.

“We’re improving our own sustainability too but we’re also supporting our customers to do the same through the products we supply, help to reduce their environmental impact, plus dedicated resource and marketing support so they can tell their own sustainability story.”

“High energy prices have also put home energy efficiency front and centre. We’re working to make UK homes more energy efficient with a new generation of products, including Elegant which includes the option for enhanced performance via our Linktrusion

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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COLD CALLING

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

DANNY WILLIAMS

‘COLD CALLING’

Each month our special correspondent Danny Williams* replies to a reader’s letter...

“There seems to be a plague of company failures at the moment Danny. Sales are down - we have noticed it at the cheaper end of our product range and orders - but we are also weathering the storm as we have been cautious with debt. What’s your take?”

PJ, Retail installer, Shropshire

UNDER THE INFLUENCE

There have been two very high-profile company failures in recent weeks PJ and I hear rumours about a number of others. Those recent failures are of course UK Windows and Doors Group, and more recently Safestyle.

UKWDG was of course, a large trade supplier and as such will not be discussed or be of interest to homeowners. But the failure of Safestyle has caused ripples and questions about the validity of our industry.

Both companies have in common that they sold on low price and both, I believe, were heavily geared. And with any dip in the market – and you have confirmed that you are experiencing lower sales - already stretched margins can quickly turn every sale into a loss.

What distinguishes UKWDG from Safestyle is that the former was backed by private equity, which in our sector at least, seems inevitably to lead to failure. I recognise that some PE-backed firms out there are apparently doing OK, but other, formerly great brands have bitten the dust after the life had been sucked out of them by PE firms that are short termist, demand crippling fees and unrealistic returns, and have little if any commitment towards legacy and the people that work for them.

Their attitude stinks.

Safestyle, on the other hand, was a one trick pony: whilst it had dumped the gobby wrestler for the more refined former goalkeeper David Seaman in its TV advertising, the message remained the same: we are cheap and we will beat any price. The ads and every element of their marketing and sales tactics planted their marker firmly in the low end. Which coincidentally is now the sector hardest hit by the cost-of-living crisis and with little appeal to wealthier, often older homeowners for whom a loudmouthed bloke with a cape and even a corny ex footballer, had little appeal.

Today’s most profitable home improvement customers are better heeled, aspirational and knowledgeable homeowners whose drivers are lifestyle led rather than a need to fix knackered windows at the lowest cost.

Although the details have yet to emerge at the time of me two-finger-tapping out this column, I believe that both firms were very heavily in debt. And that, coupled with withering sales of products for which a key USP was price, was always going to see them fail.

For 12 years or so we had the consistently lowest interest rates in UK banking history, which fundamentally changed the way that many – most? – companies did business. Whilst many firms would remain cautious for a few years, once low interest rates became the norm, even the most cautious FD relaxed and allowed his firm to take on debt, because it made sense to do so. Expand now, abandon caution – go for it!

“I firmly believe that we will never have the incredibly low interest rates that we enjoyed from 2009 until 2020, although rates will reduce somewhat from where they are now.”

Except me. I never overcame a core fear of business debt, which has pretty much dictated my life since I was a late teenager.

It is something that I regret to a degree but overall, it has stood me in good stead.

I have never, in nearly forty years of being in the window and door industry, taken on significant debt, other than financing the odd machine. Most of our business investments have been made with cash. My only regret is that I hesitated, for reasons that I will explain, to purchase a large factory around 10 years ago, which by now of course we would have paid off.

However, whilst with the benefit of hindsight that was a mistake, it is balanced by the smugness of being debt free in my business world, and highly solvent. I have not entirely missed out however, as I have a significant property portfolio, but one that placed no burden on the company and which capital exposure could be easily resolved if the brown stuff hit the fan.

inflation, was more than his business and many others could bear. Highly profitable businesses failed, pretty much overnight.

If this sounds familiar, interest rates back then shot up to 17%, dipping again in the early ‘Eighties to 9% but then rollercoastering through to the end of the decade to around 15%. Today, 5.25% is causing havoc to some highly geared companies. Including those that are the subject of this column.

I firmly believe that we will never have the incredibly low interest rates that we enjoyed from 2009 until 2020, although rates will reduce somewhat from where they are now.

But whilst watching my dad’s business fail, with the huge consequent impact it had on my family, made me so cautious as to miss out on a decade of virtually interest-free finance, I am now a bit of a smart arse when I witness firms struggling with what to some are ruinously high spikes in repayments.

He ran a tight ship and the purchase of machines was always done using finance, just as it is today. He never exceeded his overdraft, and paid all his bills and repayments on time.

I love this stuff PJ: I am conditioned to operate in this kind of environment because it is what I was brought up to face, though in a far worse business environment than this. Whilst others were getting fat dumb and happy building up a house of cards that has been blown down far too easily because they had never faced – or had forgotten – the challenges of running a business in which finance was a huge challenge, my caution under the influence of watching how it took my old man apart, has stood me in good stead.

But the huge rise in interest rates in the late ‘Seventies and early ‘Eighties to combat

Shame those running UKWDG and Safestyle hadn’t been around then.

My fear of exposure to debt was formed when I was around 19 years old in the early ‘Eighties when I witnessed my dad’s business, a large plant hire business that also included steel rigging, haulage and other add ons, go spectacularly pop.

* Danny Williams is managing director of Chelmsford based Pioneer Trading and has been involved with all aspects of the windows and doors industry for 35 years.

His activities include manufacturing a full range of windows and doors in PVC-U and aluminium, an IGU facility, retailing and commercial contracting.

72

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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CAREERS & QUALIFICATIONS IN FENESTRATION

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

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NEW APPOINTMENTS

NEW APPOINTMENTS

WHITESALES APPOINTS WINDOW SUPPLY COMPANY ANNOUNCES NEW FENESTRATION TEAM CHIEF OPERATING

Whitesales has had such a great response to its entry into the fenestration market that it has now appointed a dedicated sales team to look after fabricators and installers buying its range of rooflights and lanterns.

Piers White and Karl Grandfield, familiar to FIT Show visitors as the double act assembling the SkyVu lantern on the Installer Stage, have both been appointed as Sales Managers for fenestration.

Piers is looking after customers in the South and Karl is looking after customers in the Midlands and North, but they are very much a team, using their shared knowledge and experience to help customers make the most of Whitesales’ comprehensive product range and distinctive service offering.

Piers, who has worked at Whitesales since 2012 in a variety of customer service and sales roles, says that fabricators particularly like the fact that Whitesales holds so many rooflight sizes in stock and offers fast

delivery straight to site. Karl, who had 12 years as a carpenter fitting windows and doors before he joined Whitesales in 2015 as a contracts manager, says that customers also really value the fact that Whitesales doesn’t manufacture any other products apart from rooflights, so will never compete with its own customers on windows and doors.

Both Piers and Karl have been talking directly to fabricators since Whitesales’ hugely successful appearance at FIT, and several have already added Whitesales’ rooflights and lanterns to their offering.

These fabricators are now getting the full Whitesales support package, which includes literature, product samples, a technical advice line, an online product configurator and a free quoting and drawing service for commercial projects.

Karl commented: “Piers and I are focused on building great relationships with fabricators, which we know we can back up with quality products which suit this market perfectly, impeccable service and impressive marketing support. We’re incredibly excited about the scale of this opportunity for our business and for all those fabricators who choose to partner with us.” And Piers added: “We know we can offer fabricators a better way to buy their rooflights, saving them time and hassle, and helping them make more money.”

More info on the Whitesales proposition for fabricators is at: https://www.whitesales.co.uk/fabricator

"We know we can offer fabricators a better way to buy their rooflights, saving them time and hassle, and helping them make more money.”

74

OFFICER

Scotland based uPVC windows and doors manufacturer Window Supply Company (WSC) announces the appointment of Martin Linden as Chief Operating Officer, a new post designed to oversee the responsibility of the company’s UK wide operations.

Prior to his promotion, Martin was Operations Director, responsible for manufacturing operations and most recently relocating the company’s head office and manufacturing to a new 105,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility in Whitburn, West Lothian. Transforming WSC’s new company headquarters from a semi derelict building to the modern facility that exists today, manufacturing 1500 frames per week and employing over 170 people.

Duncan Murray, WSC’s Chief Executive Officer says: ‘Firstly I would like to congratulate Martin on his new role as COO. Since the business started, we have tracked phenomenal growth. Martin has been pivotal in continuing to strategically adapt how we operate, and his promotion to Chief Operations Officer is a natural move. His impressive background in operations and forward-thinking vision will enable the company to transition to the next level in operational excellence. Martin will be responsible for the day-to-day

operations of the business allowing me to focus more on strategic initiatives.’

Martin has more than 25 years’ leadership experience with a strong track record in UK manufacturing. He has scaled and led large diverse teams, driving growth through technology and innovation and places the voice of customer at the forefront of products and services.

Martin Linden says: ‘I am delighted to be appointed Chief Operating Officer at Window Supply Company. I am incredibly proud of the team’s achievements to date and would like to thank them all for their hard work and dedication. I will continue to build on our strong foundations and drive operations to the next level to enhance our position within UK fenestration.’ www.windowsupplycompany.co.uk

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

CAREERS & QUALIFICATIONS IN FENESTRATION

ENDLESS CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

AVAILABLE AT DOORCO

Privately owned, continuously growing and socially alive, what more could you look for in an employer? We caught up with Dek Wright, HR Manager at DoorCo about the plethora of career opportunities available inside the doors of the 2023 Manufacturing Award’s ‘Fastest Growing Team’.

OPPORTUNITY AT ALL LEVELS Progression and opportunity are at the heart of what we’re passionate about as an employer here at DoorCo. We’re committed to offering brilliant opportunities for individuals at all stages of their careers.

Our recent hires have ranged from apprenticeships all the way up to new members of our Senior Management Team, which just demonstrates the rate at which the business is growing at all levels. We recognise the need and benefit of adding new talent to our team as we continue to grow. Fresh perspective in all areas allows us to remain current, innovative and above all, ahead of the curve.

APPRENTICESHIPS FUEL OUR FUTURE TEAM Another area of opportunity we’re proud to be able to offer is a range of apprenticeships across many departments including technology, marketing, finance and manufacturing. Apprenticeships are an ever-evolving chance for people of all ages to develop a career and we’re continuously looking at where we can facilitate these roles within the business. We currently have apprentice roles up to and including level 4 working as part of the team, with current vacancies in Technology and Manufacturing.

Apprenticeships are often viewed as a great way for people to enter the workplace or have a change in their career. As an employer, it’s particularly beneficial as we’re able to train people right at the very start of their careers, even if they have started a career elsewhere or progressed into other types of further education beforehand.

It’s not just about the experience of the job either. We have a very strong culture

www.glassnews.co.uk | December 2023

at DoorCo which sets us apart from our peers and makes us, us. We strive for continuous improvement across the board, from the shopfloor to the directors and everyone within DoorCo is committed to our success. We’re also a family run business, so although very driven, it’s done in a nurturing and caring way. To be able to instil this culture and offer opportunity for progression as part of our family is very important to us all.

INTERNAL PROGRESSION KNOWS NO BOUNDS It’s also no secret that it is more effective in all ways to develop, coach and provide exceptional opportunities for employees to support the growth journey. A long-serving employee will have acquired more business knowledge and customer understanding and if included in business decision making, will have far more interest in delivering

excellence and operating within our employee values framework.

We’re proud of the internal progression stories that live on within our business.

From Receptionist to Manufacturing Cell Manager and Technology & Projects Lead to Head of Technology and Marketing, we don’t believe in limiting potential. If a member our team has an interest and a skill, we’re committed to investing in this and helping individuals reach their desired end role, whether this is in their current department or other areas of the business.

REWARDS AND BENEFITS As well as offering the opportunity for a vibrant and rewarding career, we are committed to supporting the health and wellbeing of our employees by offering a range of benefits that help improve their every day lives, such as discount schemes, holiday buy and sell, and health cash plans.

We also like to have fun, with pay day treats, dress down Friday’s, mini competitions like baking and pumpkin carving at Halloween, and we have also recently formed DoorCo FC where staff can enjoy football training and five-a-side competition.

HOW TO JOIN THE TEAM Interested in joining the DoorCo team?

We’ve got vacancies open right now for a range of roles including Production, Warehouse and office-based positions. All our open roles are available to view via the Vacancies page of our trade and retail websites, or you can email your CV to us at jobs@door-co.com.

We’re excited to be continually growing our team and look forward to seeing who the next members of the team will be.”

To join the DoorCo team, view vacancies here: https://trade.door-co.com/jobs/

75

CAREERS & QUALIFICATIONS IN FENESTRATION

MACHINERY

NEW APPOINTMENTS

ELUMATEC AND EMMEGI SET TO JOIN FORCES IN UK

PAUL GREENAWAY BACK ON THE TEAM AT ALUK Paul Greenaway, a hugely experienced and popular figure in the industry, has rejoined AluK as an Area Sales Manager, teaming up once again with Managing Director Russell Yates.

He will be looking after customers in east and southeast England, helping them make the most of current market opportunities and providing access to AluK’s extensive training, marketing and technical support.

Paul says he’s delighted to be back and to be part of Russell’s new chapter at AluK. He explained: “There’s real excitement around Russell’s return amongst staff and customers and, having worked with him here from 2016 until I left in 2020, this feels like a great time to be back on the team.”

Paul Greenaway has spent more than 35 years in the window and door market and worked in variety of sales, production, technical and indicative testing roles. He has been an installer and a fabricator, as well a systems company sales manager so understands all the pressures and challenges that customers face.

More info at: https://uk.aluk.com/

NEW APPOINTMENTS

NEW EXECUTIVE MARKETING ASSISTANT TO BOOST BUSINESS GROWTH AT WARWICK NORTH WEST Leading uPVC and aluminium trade fabricator Warwick North West has appointed a new Executive Marketing Assistant in order to boost business growth.

Liverpool Hope University graduate Emily Hill joins the Bootle-based company with a degree in Business Management, and has taken on the role of collaborating with the sales, marketing and product development teams, as well as liaising with external stakeholders.

“What drew me to Warwick North West was not just a commitment to product quality and customer service, but a unique commitment to giving back to the local community through partnerships with workforce development organisations and charity initiatives,” Emily said.

“The team at Warwick has made me feel so welcome, and I very much look forward to getting involved in different aspects of the business, ensuring increased visibility of the Warwick brand, as well as contributing to its overall continued growth.”

Warwick North West manufactures and supplies hundreds of customers across the retail, commercial and new build markets with high quality products, including a wide range of windows, sliding patio doors, bi-fold doors and composite entrance doors.

As a strategic partner of the Liverpool Chamber of Commerce, the company has a commitment to job creation in the local area, having partnered with Nobody Left Behind, an organisation that provides industry-specific training to young people, and Inside Connections, a community interest company committed to supporting prison leavers and young people at risk of offending.

Warwick has also partnered with children’s charity Ykids and Alder Hey Children’s Charity in an effort to help better the lives of vulnerable children.

Director Greg Johnson comments: “We are thrilled to have Emily join our team as Executive Marketing Assistant. Her qualifications combined with her enthusiasm make her an excellent fit for our company. We are confident that she will contribute greatly to our marketing efforts and help boost overall business growth.” www.warwicknorthwest.co.uk

76

elumatec (UK) and emmegi (UK) have announced plans for a formal collaboration in the UK market, designed to help both businesses deliver an even better service to customers.

The move is part of the ‘One Company’ approach being implemented by the Voilàp Group, which owns both elumatec and emmegi, as well as other well-known brands such as Tekna, Someco and Keraglass.

‘One Company’ is all about making the most of the synergies that exist in the individual Voilàp Group businesses, enhancing their inherent strengths and promoting individual talent. It is focused on

“The benefits to customers will come in the form of better access to a broader range of machines and software, more servicing and maintenance resources, and more investment in process efficiencies.

excellence and growth – excellence in processes and service, and achieving growth by supporting customers to grow.

The Group’s organisational model is one of the reasons why it is able to design highly innovative products and compatible software which distinguish Voilàp in the market for excellence. Being able to draw on complementary talents, skills and knowledge helps it to serve customers with a portfolio of products and services that meet all their needs.

In the UK, elumatec and emmegi will continue to operate alongside one another but with a shared vision and shared access to the other Voilàp brands.

In a joint statement Ian Latimer, Managing Director of emmegi and Neil Parton, Managing

Director of elumatec, said: “This is an exciting new chapter for both our businesses and has been warmly welcomed by staff.

We are still finalising our new operational structure, but we will certainly be working more closely together in the future, identifying new shared opportunities in the UK and Ireland and growing our combined market share.

“The benefits to customers will come in the form of better access to a broader range of machines and software, more servicing and maintenance resources, and more investment in process efficiencies.

“Our customers will continue to deal with their current emmegi or elumatec contacts, and can contact either of us directly for more information.”

More info at: www.emmegi.com/en/home and www.elumatec.com/en/home

December 2023 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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