Glass News October 2014

STOCKED IN TRADE COUNTERS!

TARGET SMALLER INSTALLERS AND THE WHITE VAN MAN! see page 31 for more details

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper Distribution to: Window, Door & Conservatory Roof Fabricators & Installers, IGU Manufacturers & all associated with glass & glazing industry.

Issue 43 | October 2014

W E NE TUR A FE

!

RT PE EX PAGE 30

D&G Helps

Businesses Grow

COMPOSITE DOORS

FACE To FACE! PAGE 42 & 66

with New Market Intelligence The window and roofline industries have finally started to see an increase in demand, but the companies that are really hitting the ground running are those that know the markets inside out and know what is coming next. D&G Consulting is pleased to announce the launch of its most up to date market reports that help companies do exactly that.

David Amos, Principal of D&G comments: “We can’t quite offer companies a crystal ball but we can give them the next best

thing. Our annual PVC Window, Door and Conservatory Report and Roofline Report are now available and include the very latest reliable information on the current health of the market and perhaps more importantly the forecasts for the future, including key growth areas. Both reports help company Directors of systems companies, fabrication companies, roofline, hardware, glass and component suppliers at all levels of the supply chain to identify real business opportunities and how to make the most of them.

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October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

October 2014

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

A harmonious UK, post 18 September I awoke on Friday 19th September and switched on the News with some, I have to say, trepidation.

I found myself to be relieved that we were still a ‘United Kingdom’, and with a feeling of dread removed. However there was also a slight (but only slight) disappointment that that frisson of excitement that a ‘Yes’ would have brought, had dissipated. Probably a lack of confidence in our politicians’ abilities is to blame as their delivery on anything seems to be questionable. I really think that our constitution should dictate that anyone seeking election in politics should have held down a ‘proper job’ for a decent period before offering themselves to the voters. Professional politicians, with no knowledge of the real world and pampered with fat salaries, ridiculous and seemingly unquestioned expenses, a gold plated pension and the ability to employ members of their family to top up the pot, should be banned from holding office and certainly a cabinet post.

I have nothing against a democratically voted for Independence for anyone. Change when warranted is to be applauded. In a memorable past job I was accused of being unable to accept change – quite laughable when you consider my chequered and varied career, and various and varied incarnations. It seems that asking difficult, but necessary questions and being a ‘devil’s advocate’ as opposed to accepting without question, can easily be misinterpreted as being a non-believer. In the case of the question of Scottish Independence, I find myself relieved for the country as a whole and this may be all about that fear of the unknown. Certainly it is to do with our industry: with a recovery gathering pace, surely the last thing we want is anything that will push us back into recession?

Uncertainties in the market affect exchange rates and I certainly feared that a ‘Yes’ vote would mean a period of financial instability that could mean problems for us all. Add to that the standing of the United Kingdom within the world, greatly diminished over the years, admittedly, but at least still in the higher echelons of influence. For a part of us to be removed and, in population terms, a tiny amount at that, and for that to dramatically change our overall standing so much seems a high price to pay. Our position in the UN, in NATO and, I hate to say it, even Europe, would have been severely influenced. And the breaking up of our ever shrinking armed forces would, I believe, have left us very exposed. Fear of the unknown? Probably.

Looking from the other side, it looks like a bit of a ‘sleight of hand’ has taken place with promises made to reassure the waverers. Too many of these kind of tricky manoeuvres have been seen in the past, and from all parties.

They’ve all managed to screw up my pension in one way or the other with Labour raiding my potential pot and the Conservatives having a go at my old age pension because I was born the wrong line of an arbitrary date, picked out of the calendar. All that aside, the promises that have been made already look a bit dodgy and no one would give you great odds that Scotland will get everything that’s

www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

been indicated. However, a clever manoeuvre

by Cameron leaves Milliband a bit stranded over ‘fairness for the English’. On the face of it…too right! But sneaking it in has far more to do with politics and protecting their future jobs – basically, keeping their snouts in the trough – than anything to do with fairness for England.

WINDOWS! See page 44

It looks very much to me that the call for independence will continue. Indeed if all the promises are kept, Scotland will virtually have independence but with the Bank of England supporting it. It’s only a short step to independence and Salmond has already indicated that there are many ways to skin a cat. I’d say short odds on independence for Scotland within 10 years.

Where does this leave us, and our industry?

Hopefully enough stability to give the markets confidence in our currency and the country’s ability to continue moving away from recession and towards prosperity. The only snag is we have an election only a few months away and, in between our MPs holidays and overseas ‘fact finding’ junckets, they may do a bit of work. That work will consist of finding the best possible way to keep their place at the trough that is Westminster. It will be all about positioning, with the Conservatives making out that they are the only party for the English and Labour desperately trying to look good to the English while retaining their Scottish MPs as their only hope of forming a government, if elected. And the Lib Dems, they’ll just try and find someone to like them.

At the end of sporting contests - well, most anyway - however vicious the rivalry may have been on the pitch, at the final whistle the contestants shake hands and go and have a beer together. I very much fear the disappointed minority in Scotland will find that hard to do. I also fear that unless the English see fair play, they too will be disgruntled. Let’s hope that the disgruntled factions turn their dissatisfaction on the politicians rather than each other.

Recognising everyone’s right to be different and to have their own opinions while living together in harmony, must surely be our aim?

CONTENTS

CONTACT DETAILS

4 Trade News

Publisher & Owner: Christina Shaw 9 The Paddock, Tickhill, Doncaster, DN11 9HS M: 07805 051322 T: 01302 759096 E: christina@glassnews.co.uk

20 Voice Of The Industry 22 TIRC Newsletter 24 Aluminium 28 Glass News Interview: Dutemänn 30 Composite Doors Expert 42 Face To Face 44 Windows 54 Glass News Interview: BRC 56 Conservatories 60 Installer Focus

‘TIME OUT’ Winners

– SEPTEMBER!

Crossword: Veronica Ryder, Bolton Eye Spy: Lee Atkin, Oldham

62 Installer Insights 64 Fabricator Focus 66 Face To Face 68 Hardware 72 Glass News Interview: Carl F Groupco 74 Tech Talk

Spot The Difference: Marney Baker, Cornwall

76 Glass News Interview: GM Fundraising

Sudoku: Mr V J Finch, Mendip Wells

78 Recruitment

Congratulations to all our winners! Good Luck in this months Time Out pages!

84 Fire Door Safety 84 Glasstec Preview 86 Time Out! 87 Find A Supplier

September crossword solution: @GlassnewsMag

Editor: Chris Champion T: 07850 267223 E: chris@glassnews.co.uk Features Editor: Sheilah Reed M: 07880 990144 E: sheilah@glassnews.co.uk Sales: Kathy Leeming T: 01405 947279 E: cathy@glassnews.co.uk Trade Counter Distribution Department: Roz Worgan E: roz@glassnews.co.uk Graphic Design: hook-a-duck Deadline for copy: 28th of each month 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.

Christina Shaw

Did I say I was an idealist?

/GlassNews

Chris

Advertising Enquiries: Christina Shaw M: 07805 051322 T: 01302 759096 E: christina@glassnews.co.uk

Please recycle this newspaper so we can continue to use recycling in our effort to help the environment.

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3

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Tradelink Adds Value

REHAU APPLAUDS POLYFRAME ON ITS AWARDS SUCCESS

with another Investment Truemans launch new online pricing & ordering system

Tradelink Adds Value with Another Investment.

A world class manufacturer of one of the widest ranges of windows, doors, sealed units and conservatories in the UK, Tradelink has invested in excess of £50,000 in crucifix welding to further improve quality and efficiency across its profile range.

Tradelink is fortunate that it has been able to continue to invest in the company during the tougher economic climate,” says Jim Moody, Managing Director, “but

“We have a preferred supplier list but this doesn’t stop us from paying our due diligence and balancing the measureable benefits of each option to us and our customers.”

4

now the market is improving and our output growing, we need to adapt our factories to suit the latest production requirements.

We invested in a welder on the recommendation of one of our production teams and within just 6 weeks the investment had realised the payback benefits the team had highlighted, so a further two machines were ordered.

This allowed us to offer the same quality enhancements and efficiencies across all of the profile systems we manufacture including Rehau 706 chamfered, Rehau Edge and Kommerling C7O O70.

“We consider each equipment purchase very carefully before we go ahead with its installation. We have a preferred supplier list but this doesn’t stop us from paying our due diligence and balancing the measureable benefits of each option to us and our customers, with the actual cost every time we need to renew or revamp our machinery. This ensures our investments are always meaningful and ultimately provide our customers with added value.”

For more information call Tradelink now on 01354 657650 or visit www. tradelinkdirect.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0004

Trade counter Truemans Windows have rolled out a new online ordering system and its popularity is already skyrocketing.

Since the system went live, in August, over 250 customers have requested unique login details, by getting in touch with their local Truemans branch.

The trade counter stirred up anticipation for the new service on the social media platform Twitter, with very positive feedback from customers.

The majority of users were most impressed with the speed and accuracy of the ordering process. The tool enables clients to price and order jobs instantly from a computer, laptop or tablet at any time, day or night.

Managing director of Truemans, Joe Trueman, said: “The system offers an unprecedented level of flexibility for our clients, enabling them to access and manage their orders in one place, at any time.”

“We’ve had some great feedback and we’re delighted that customers are finding it so useful. It takes five minutes to place an order, and it can be done even

during evenings and weekends – how convenient is that!”

“Our teams are always on hand, to offer help and advice on how to make the most of the system. However, there hasn’t been much demand for their assistance, as the ordering process is very straight forward and intuitive.”

The next phase will bring the addition of more helpful features that will enable clients to send professional looking quotes to homeowners including fitting prices, and will allow them to view and print their own marketing material designed to help them win more sales.

Truemans are hard at work getting the additional engines up and running, which will enable clients to price up and order more products, such as bay windows, GRP composite doors, uPVC doors, French, Patio and Bi-folding doors, glass units and accessories.

The next engine lined up for launch will allow clients to order Solidor units in any configuration they want, 24/7.

This will be rolled out within the next couple of months and the trade counter is already predicting its success thanks to the positive precedent established by the casement window engine.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0005

REHAU is proud that leading trade fabricator Polyframe has been nominated for The Yorkshire Post Excellence in Business Awards 2014.

Polyframe has been selected from all businesses in Yorkshire as one of just three finalists in the ‘Companies between £10m and £50m’ category, recognising its phenomenal growth over recent years. The newspaper’s high profile awards are designed to highlight the strength of the region’s business community and, as the organisers say, to ‘show that the spirit of enterprise is alive and well in God’s Own Country’.

One of the key factors in Polyframe’s nomination this year is the recent opening of its fifth factory in Halifax which will create around 300 jobs in the Yorkshire town.

It has also been recognised for the success of both its dedicated composite door factory, which opened in Mansfield in 2013, and its Northern Ireland factory in Portadown, which is successfully targeting the trade markets across Ireland and Scotland.

Martin Hitchin, REHAU’s UK Chief Executive, said: “Polyframe’s success has been very impressive to witness, and we have been

delighted to be able to play our part in that with the supply of top quality REHAU profiles and with sales and technical support.

“Polyframe has hugely out-performed the market over the past four years and has shown that a growth mind set and a real focus on innovation will always attract new customers. What is particularly pleasing is that Polyframe has been able to maintain its commitment to quality and customer service throughout its expansion and has continued to invest across its operation in order to stay ahead.”

The winners of the prestigious Yorkshire Post awards will be announced at a ceremony to be held in Leeds on October 30. It will be hosted by BBC journalist Justin Webb and the keynote speaker will be Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Iain Duncan Smith.

Further independent recognition of Polyframe’s growth came recently when it was named by Santander and Smarter as one of the top 50 fastest growing businesses in the UK. Further information is available at: www. polyframetrade.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0006

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

MADE MORE OF

MORE CHAMBERS

MORE EFFICIENCY

REHAU TOTAL70s profiles are now available with the same multi-chamber technology as our REHAU TOTAL70c range, enabling our customers to fabricate and install fully sculptured frames which are more efficient than ever before. Designed to accommodate either double or triple glazing, the new profiles are a perfect combination of style and performance.

For more details, call our marketing team on: 01989 762600 or visit www.rehautrade.co.uk

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www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

5

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Glazpart are finalists

in the Hardware company category of the National Fenestration Awards 2014 Glazpart are proud to be shortlisted in the National Fenestration Awards 2014 to be announced in December. This reflects the exhaustive work done by the team at Glazpart over recent years. This follows on from over £1,000,000 of investment in the business and the launch of many new products. These include the innovative trickle vent product range of LinkVents to meet building regulations. Glazpart have also developed products for the trade counter market, providing installers with the products they want at the right price.

But what are the National Fenestration Awards? They are unique in that they are the first of their kind in the country that give people and companies from all areas of the fenestration industry their chance to have their say on who should be awarded for their skills and hard work.

No judging panels, no secret voting. The National Fenestration Awards is shaped and decided completely by the input from everyone in the industry. It doesn’t matter if you’re an MD, factory worker or anywhere in between. Anyone who is actively working Nominate in the fenestration industry can take part.

The aim is to recognise ALL parts of the fenestration industry, not just the parts that always seem to get the column inches.

PVC, aluminium, timber and steel will all be recognised. A focus on the people of the industry will also be a theme throughout these awards. We want the NFA’s to truly represent the whole industry.

The Hardware Company 2014 category is for manufacturers of hardware specifically.

Window hardware is an art form in the industry these days. It’s not just hinges and friction stays that make window systems work. There is a huge range of hardware that is complimentary to so many of the profile systems. Add to that increasingly popular colour finishes that turn a good installation into a classy one.

Hardware serves two functions in our industry right now; making windows and doors work efficiently and securely, and adding that final touch of elegance. Hardware component companies play such a large part in our industry, it is only right to recognise the sector.

The nomination of Glazpart reflects the category aims to consider the quality and spectrum of products available from Glazpart.

Dean Bradley, Sales and Marketing Manager at Glazpart commented: “We are proud to be recognised with this shortlisting which recognises the team effort at Glazpart to meet our customer’s needs. We now need everyone to vote online to help us win so visit http:// www.fenestrationawards.co.uk/voting/”. www.glazpart.com READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0008

Polyframe

open in South Wales

Polyframe are proud to announce the opening of their new Trade Centre in Aberdare, South Wales.

The Trade Centre will supply the full Polyframe range and additionally a range of roofline, trims and installer accessories.

Polyframe Aberdare began trading in September and is the latest addition to the Polyframe Trade Centre Group which has branches throughout the UK and Southern Ireland.

The opening of Polyframe Aberdare will enable the business to expand its operation in South Wales but also guarantee the same high levels of service experienced by all customers.

All the services currently offered to Polyframe customers will be available from Polyframe Aberdare, such as the Clearly Greener Recycling scheme which saves money on skip costs and stops post consumer PVCu frames being deposited in land fill sites.

Peter Dyson, Polyframe Sales Director states, “The ethos behind the Trade Centres is to offer the window installer a complete product package and a true local point of contact.

Additionally it enables Polyframe to supply our extensive product portfolio to smaller installers who in the past we have not been able to supply due to transport logistics. We now supply the Aberdare branch three times

a week with fully loaded articulated vehicles, products are then delivered throughout the area on smaller, more cost effective vans. This enables us to be more cost effective and also adds to our green credentials”.

Additionally Polyframe Aberdare will be able to offer up to 11 colour options on a 5/6 day turnaround, including the Polyframe ‘Express Range’ of White Woodgrain, Cream, Irish Oak and Black on White. With four profiles available in the Halo and Rehau systems, 2 decorative and 2 chamfered, Polyframe can give customers the choice that they require.

Polyframe Aberdare can also supply either glazed or unglazed product.

Other unique products available include the Solis Modular Conservatory range, Aluminium products and sprayed PVCu in any RAL colour, and the life saving Fire Escape Ladder.

The Solis range is a unique modular pre designed conservatory system that is available in 5 styles, 4 sizes in each and 5 colour options. All frames are supplied fully glazed which enables the conservatory to be complete in 1 day. All Solis Conservatories are supplied with glazed frames with two openers, French doors, 150mm cill, roof with polycarbonate or glass, guttering and rainwater pipes, all wall fixings, silicones and screws. A full set of working drawings including flashing details is also included which enables the flashing details to be cut before the conservatory is erected.

Polyframe are innovators in the industry and as new products are launched these will also be readily available through Polyframe Aberdare.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0009

SWC celebrates 25 years in business by granting wishes for the Scarborough community SWC, Scarborough’s award-winning fabricator of Halo window systems, recently teamed up with Yorkshire Coast Radio to honour the community that supported its first 25 years of service.

Local residents were invited to submit ‘wishes’ via a dedicated page on the station’s website,

where they were added to SWC’s ‘Wish List’.

For its part, the North Yorkshire company pledged to fulfil as many requests as it could.

A family-run company, SWC has seen yearon-year growth since its inception in a tiny, first floor office in 1989. MD, Susan Richings, elaborates: “This has been our most successful

year, and continues a course of growth that even weathered the economic downturn.

Accepting the G13 Fabricator of the Year award was definitely a highlight; it was great to see our dedication to improving the business recognised.”

The company’s 70,000 square foot facility on Scarborough’s Dunslow Road now employs over 100 staff; testament to SWC’s philosophy of “Building the Future Together”. Perpetual reinvestment has kept them at the cutting edge of the industry, alongside their advocacy of the trusted Halo system: “Fabricating using the Halo profile has been a great benefit for SWC”, Susan continues.

“Customers can see our belief in the system, and it’s reflected in the amount of return business we get. It’s much easier to grow with that kind of stability behind you!”

6

Valuing partnerships has been integral to SWC’s success, and its work with local and national charities acknowledges the importance of community support. The Wish List was another way for SWC to thank those that helped write the success story of their first 25 years. Susan explains: “Prioritising the concerns of our staff and customers has helped us reach this milestone.

They’re the best ambassadors for our products, and we aim to keep them satisfied for the next 25 years.”

SWC – Tel: 01723 582 666 www.swctradeframes.co.uk Halo – Tel: 01282 716 611 www.halo-uk.com READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0010

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

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27/08/2014 13:52

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Edgetech searches for

Top Gun

As part of its 25 year celebrations, Edgetech UK, a Quanex company is giving the industry’s Super Spacer applicators their dream shot! A chance to go up against the best at Top Gun, Coventry.

Can you beat Edgetech’s longest serving technical engineer, Karl Jones to be Top Gun? Or is your ego writing cheques your body can’t cash?

Putting quotes from the 1980s film aside, the Top Gun competition to find the fastest Super Spacer applicator in the UK was launched on Edgetech’s stand at the FIT Show 2014.

Karl set the benchmark for the competition at just 34 seconds to make a sealed unit.

Anyone wishing to challenge Karl’s Top Gun crown can enter the competition by contacting Edgetech. The best Super Spacer applicators will get their shot at the live final going head to head with

Karl at Edgetech UK’s HQ in Coventry.

The winner will be crowned Top Gun and get £500 in gift vouchers for themselves and £500 credit with Edgetech for their company.

Customers will be kept up to date with Top Gun contenders close to beating Karl’s time with a regular leader board.

Managing director, Andy Jones says: “This year marks our 25th anniversary, so we wanted to launch a competition that was a bit of fun for customers and give them a chance to win some prizes. We’re looking forward to getting as many entries as possible and giving Karl some healthy competition.”

To enter the Super Spacer Top Gun competition call 08700 566844.

For more information on Edgetech’s IG Solutions visit www.edgetechig.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0012

Builders Finance Fund failing to help

small house builders, says FMB

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The Government’s ‘Builders Finance Fund’ is not helping the small house builders it was designed to assist, says the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).

of the shortlisted schemes reveals that over half of the schemes consist of more than 50 units which is a far cry from the small sites that the scheme was set up to help.”

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “The Builders Finance Fund was originally trailed in the March Budget as ‘help for smaller builders’, but the 15 unit minimum threshold that has been applied has effectively excluded large numbers of small and micro firms that do not build to this scale. However, analysis

“A handful of firms, including some very large companies, are behind a third of the schemes shortlisted. A recent survey of FMB members revealed that only 8% of respondents built sites of more than 15 units and none had applied for finance under the scheme, which is very telling.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0013

Builders database

brings 13,000 new business opportunities to your doorstep The General Builders database from data experts Insight Data has reached a landmark 13,000 unique email addresses.

The database contains detailed information on over 21,000 small and independent builders installing products such as windows, doors, roofline, conservatories and extensions. Builders can be targeted on a national basis or you can use radius search to find builders local to your area, for example a trade depot or branch.

The database lists builders with under £5m turnover, and Insight Data’s sales manager Zach Ward says this market presents huge opportunities to suppliers in the window industry and shouldn’t be disregarded: “Our research shows small builders are more active than ever in home improvements, offering consumers an alternative to traditional double glazing firms. In fact, some builders are installing more windows and doors than some window companies so if you’re a supplier of uPVC, aluminium or timber

products and you’re not targeting this market you could be missing out.”

Marketing to builders can be a challenge as most don’t advertise themselves or their contact information, preferring to operate on referrals from previous customers.

With the Insight Builders database you can get in touch with the thousands of builders currently involved in home improvement projects across the UK, including extensions, renovations and new-builds.

“Builders aren’t loyal to specific companies and systems so they welcome marketing material promoting new products and services,” comments Zach, “and because many builders work from home you can be confident your direct marketing such as mailer cards and letters will be received and read.

“Most builders tend to run their business via their smartphones, so great offers and promotional email campaigns are also a powerful way to promote your products. And with over 13,000 email addresses updated live in real-time on the General Builders database there’s never been a better time to get involved in this lucrative market.”

For more information on how to target new business on your doorstep call us on 01934 808293.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0014

SYNSEAL JOINS

THE CLUB

WITH G14 SPONSORSHIP! Synseal is proud to have joined a select group of prominent industry brands who have invested in main event sponsorship of the G14 Awards.

This year’s much-anticipated event, rightly considered to be the Oscars of the UK glass and glazing industry, will take place at the London Hilton on Park Lane on Friday 21st November and is sure to be a stylish night to remember.

“Synseal fabricator, installer and retailer customers regularly feature as G-Awards category finalists or winners and we were keen to offer our sponsorship support this year, because any event that strives to champion the ‘best of the best’ quite rightly deserves to be applauded.”

Synseal’s G14 Awards sponsorship follows swiftly after the system supplier’s approved membership of the Glass & Glazing Federation incorporating the Conservatory Association was confirmed in April 2014 and, more recently, associate membership of the Home Builders Federation has also been secured.

David Leng, Chief Executive of Synseal, comments: “Synseal fabricator, installer and retailer customers regularly feature as G-Awards category finalists or winners and we were keen to offer our sponsorship support this year, because any event that strives to champion the ‘best of the best’ quite rightly deserves to be applauded.”

“Our new participation in the GGF, CA and HBF is further evidence of our changing mindset at Synseal” continues David. “As successful UK market leaders with a broad product portfolio embracing windows and doors, conservatories, orangeries, vertical sliders, bi-folds, patios, hardware and now high volumes of insulated glass units, our experienced staff offer loads of technical expertise.”

“Now is the time for Synseal to get more involved with the leading industry bodies and share our well-informed points of view, to help shape best practice.”

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0015

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

THE NEW BLUEPRINT FOR FUTURE TIMBER WINDOW REPLACEMENTS Introducing the exclusive 85mm PVCu

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Timber look 50mm deep cill with traditional throat drip

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Find out more and download the brochure at

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27/08/2014 13:57

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Polyframe launch the most secure and unique TGQ is a finalist range of windows and doors available in the UK for the Peer Awards The Lifestyle Range is a culmination of six months hard work by the Polyframe team to create a window and door range for the high-end retail market. We wanted to create the most secure, exclusive and environmentally efficient product range, which ticked all the boxes for the discerning end user.

The original brief was to develop something new and something with unique selling points that differentiates the range from Polyframe’s existing product offering and it’s competitors.

After extensive research it was decided that security and quality were the two key features that had to be incorporated into the product.

This had to be complemented by aesthetics to ensure that the Lifestyle Range could truly be seen as a premium product for the homeowner.

Polyframe are proud to announce that we have not only met the brief but exceeded it and the Lifestyle Range is now in full production at our Halifax Factory.

Lifestyle Casement windows are fitted with the most up to date and strongest window locking system on the market. The ‘Bear Grip’ multi point lock is tested to 6kN, which is twice the requirement for PAS24 and with a hook penetration of 11mm at every locking point we are confident that the Lifestyle window will resist forced entry. So confident that the Lifestyle Range is backed by an industry leading £3000 10 Year Security Guarantee. It doesn’t stop there though the windows also incorporate solid keeps with a nightvent facility, two hinge guards to every sash and the Lifestyle Extreme friction stay which carries triple glazed units as standard.

Residential, French and Composite doors are fitted with the UK’s only British Standards Institute Kitemark door lock available, again tested to 6kN, which is 1.5 times the requirement for PAS24. This is complimented by a BSI Kitemark TS007 3 Star handle and cylinder combination that guarantees to eliminate cylinder snapping or bumping.

With 3 bi-directional hooks, 2 rollers, 2 shootbolts and anti-drill gearboxes and hook plates this lock provides the ultimate in security. The Lifestyle door also includes heavy-duty high security 3D double knuckle hinges and two DOG bolts fitted as standard to give 2 additional locking points. All doors are again backed by the £3000, 10 year security guarantee.

The Lifestyle Residential and French doors are also fitted with Polyframe’s unique door adjuster “Adjusterdoor”. This innovative product has been designed to stop doors dropping after installation, because no matter how well the door is ‘toe and heeled’

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window energy rating of A+10 as standard for a double glazed unit. The Lifestyle profile itself is also of the highest quality and has five chambers and a 3mm wall thickness to improve the overall efficiency of the product.

With a triple glazed unit the Lifestyle Range can achieve a window energy rating of A+16 and U Values as low as 1.1, additionally the Extreme hinge used throughout the range can carry the extra weight associated with triple glazing as standard. The triple glazing bead has been specifically designed to match the sculptured profile of Lifestyle .

packers can slip over time causing the leading edge of the door to start catching. When Adjusterdoor is installed the glass or panel can not move, and even in the unlikely event that they do move with Adjusterdoor in place the door can easily be re-adjusted without the need to de-glase.

Lifestyle also incorporates fully suited, high security PVD handles and hardware options in a choice of five colours. Door handles and hinges have been tested up to 200 000 times, and window handles up to 50 000 times. This equates to opening the door once a day for 550 years and the window every day for 136 years. All hardware is also salt spray tested for 480 hours so tarnishing and pitting is not an issue on the Lifestyle Range.

An Industry First Polyframe are so confident in the product security that the Lifestyle Range is covered by it’s unique 10 Year £3000 Security Guarantee.

Also included is a 24/7 call out service to secure the property in the unlikely event of a break in, where one of it’s security products is deemed to have failed.

An important element of the project, in addition to the security aspect, was the aesthetics and choice of colours for the consumer. As a result Lifestyle incorporates a whole range of features to ensure that the end user gets a finished product that enhances the kerbside appeal of the property.

Lifestyle is available in a stylish decorative profile and a wide range of 9 colour options including Irish Oak, White Woodgrain, Brown Black on white and Cream Woodgrain in addition to the standard choices of White, Golden Oak and Rosewood. All products also come with fully feature grooved corners for a clean and classical finish. This is complimented by a choice of 5 PVD fully suited hardware colour choices, including letterplates, knockers, spyholes and numerals. All hardware is salt spray tested to 480 hours so the Lifestyle Range is also perfect for harsher environments such as coastal towns where discolouration and pitting can be a real issue.

Energy Efficiency is also an important consideration with the costs of fuel rising and the Lifestyle Range comes with a

Peter Dyson, Polyframe Sales Director, commented, “The Lifestyle Range was born out of the desire to be able to offer our customers a true ‘high end’ retail product.

We believe we have created a product that not only achieves this but also exceeds the expectations of retail window installers.

Security, Efficiency and Aesthetics are three key areas that came to light when we conducted a series of focus groups, along with the right marketing package to help retailers to sell the product. And of course a product range all backed by a leading guarantee package”.

Polyframe have created a comprehensive marketing package for customers that includes brochures, guarantee certificates, hardware sample cases, showroom boards, vehicle stickers and much more. We have also produced a dedicated web site for Lifestyle with the express aim of promoting this to the end user to generate leads for Lifestyle installers. This is further enhanced with the Lifestyle Approved Installer Scheme that gives the end user further confidence in the Lifestyle Range.

Peter continues, “Another key area for customers is the 10 Year Security Guarantee which is seen as a major selling point to the consumer. We wanted to offer our customers something that has real value in the market and the guarantee certainly delivers that. For customers to be eligible to offer the guarantee they must register to be a Lifestyle Installer, this also gives them further credibility when marketing Lifestyle, a brand that we believe will become synonymous with security and quality”.

The concept of Lifestyle is just another forward thinking development in the product portfolio offered by Polyframe, a company with a reputation for quality and innovation.

Polyframe are proud of the options that they can offer to their customers. Manufacturing 7 profiles, WHS Halo Eclipse and Rustique along with 4 Rehau profiles, S706 and Edge in 70mm, Tritec in 60mm and Fully Reversible 70mm. This is further complimented by Polyframe’s own unique Assured range. This extensive range of profile choices enables Polyframe to manufacture windows for both the Trade and Retail markets, with the Lifestyle Range aimed specifically at the high end retail market.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0017

The Triple Glazing Question (TGQ) is a finalist in The 2014 Peer Awards for Excellence in Corporate Responsibility.

The industry initiative led

by Edgetech UK, a Quanex company, made the top grade in the Education of the Community category.

On 24 June Edgetech’s Managing Director Andy Jones and Marketing Coordinator Charlotte Davies presented the TGQ’s entry to other finalists in the category at the Royal Bank of Scotland Head Office on Bishopsgate in London.

Andy Jones explains why it was important to enter TGQ into these awards: “TGQ was a collaboration in the industry and we believed this way of working would be interesting and relevant to other companies and organisations. Getting to the finals means top level recognition for the successful event.”

The Peer Awards recognise those people and organisations that are developing inspirational initiatives that improve life for customers, businesses and society.

Andy adds: “At the Peer Conference all the finalists get together to present ideas to each other. There’s diversity in the entries that you just wouldn’t get elsewhere. In our group – Educating the Community – we were up against British Gas and The Royal College of General Practitioners. Other finalists included British Airways, Sainsburys, SAP and Phillips.

“Our entry went through the reasoning behind creating the TGQ and how we managed to deliver it to such a wide audience.

We were promoting the idea of working in collaboration with other companies in the industry. This was well received and we took many questions from the floor afterwards.

“It was a very interesting day. The winners are announced on Monday 22 September.

But against such a high calibre of companies we believe getting to the finalists category is winning in itself.”

All the entries for The Peer Awards can be found at www.thepeerawards.com.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0018

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

11

TRADE NEWS

Cross-party focus on housing and infrastructure will deliver jobs and growth Cross-party consensus on how best to deliver new housing and infrastructure projects would result in 200,000 new jobs in the construction sector, according to the industry’s leading organisations.

The call came at the launch of the Get Britain Building 2020 Delivery Plan which makes the case for using construction as a driver of jobs and growth and includes a range of recommendations for the next Government, covering the period 2015 to 2020. The Modern Masonry Alliance, Federation of Master Builders, Home Builders Federation and Builders Merchants Federation represent the major players in the construction and housing industry from the manufacturers of bricks and blocks, to the suppliers of building materials, right through to both the large and small builders.

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

BI-FOLD EXPECTATIONS

A new build project in Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, spanning 8,500sq ft has gone up for sale.

early classicism inherited from Regency architecture to design touches from the Queen Anne period, all injected into the new build. To the right hand side of the property is an unexpected one level modern extension, with streamlined design, incorporating bifolding doors.

Completed in February 2014, this seven bedroom build has been designed to blend in with the authentic style of its surrounding area and offers all the detail of a period property with a modern twist.

This modern wing encompasses the kitchen and dining room, plus an extended seating area. These three rooms merge into one open planned space creating a contemporary living area. There is an abundance of natural light generated from two sets of bi-folds that run the length of the property, providing transition between house and garden.

The house developers who undertook this impressive task specialise in building premium quality, high specification homes.

The company originally started out by building small extensions, but has gradually worked up to bigger projects. In fact, the minimum project now undertaken by the developers is 4,000sq ft.

This Victorian styled property conveys a wide range of architectural styles, from

The construction company decided upon aluminium bi-folds after experiencing problems with PVC and wood.

The doors integrated are made from high grade aluminium, in keeping with the contemporary living area. Supplied by Origin, an award winning British manufacturer of bi-folding

John Slaughter, Director of External Affairs at the Home Builders Federation, said: “Home builders are already stepping up their investment in skills as the market recovers.”

John Newcomb, Managing Director of the Builders Merchants Federation (BMF), said: “Supporting both house building and the upgrading of existing homes, the building supply chain is vital to the UK economy. Ensuring continued investment in manufacturing and distribution requires clarity and certainty.”

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0020

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The ten door set is a five by five corner bifold configuration, with the far set operating around a 90° angle clear opening. This set-up provides a completely frameless corner, with unrestricted views of the garden. Each door panel measures 793mm X 2289mm filling an aperture of 8163mm. The five door fits in an aperture of 3997mm with each door leaf measuring 765mm wide by a standard height of approximately 2289mm.

The aluminium doors are powdercoated in anthracite grey on the exterior, whilst the interior is in hipca white to maintain a modern fresh look. Due to the bespoke nature of Origin’s bi-folding doors, the interior and exterior door frames can be any combination of different colours. So whilst the outside of the doors can match the external fixtures and fittings of the house, the interior frame can be a different colour to match the room.

Made from high grade aluminium, the doors provide the right combination of strength and weight, allowing for a narrow and more aesthetically pleasing frame but with easy movement through the large opening.

Mike Leonard, Chief Executive of the Modern Masonry Alliance, said: “While much has been achieved since we launched the Get Britain Building Campaign in 2009, the biggest opportunities to secure more homes, jobs, growth and a balanced economy still lie ahead of us. It is imperative that we begin to develop 30 year local development plans to create the confidence required to secure inward investment in infrastructure, manufacturing, distribution and land, and attract young people into the sector by offering long term meaningful career prospects.”

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), said: “Today we put forward a range of sound actions and recommendations for the next Government to ensure it fully realises the potential of our sector and allows us to help deliver its aims of increasing the pace of economic growth and job creation, and reducing our carbon emissions. We are calling on the next Government to put housing and construction at the heart of its five year plan.”

doors, the construction company specified a ten door set with a moving corner post plus a five door set and incorporated four roof lanterns to increase the vast amount of natural light filling the rooms.

The house has been decorated to a high specification throughout by using an interior designer to offer an opulent, luxurious feel in every room. The entirety of the project took from the end of 2012 through to February 2014, with the actual building starting to take place in March 2013. www.origin-global.com READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0021

GLAZERITE GANG SWEEP THE BOARD AGAIN WITH RECORD NETWORK VEKA TROPHY HAUL Glazerite installers have smashed all past records in the 2014 Network VEKA awards, walking away with more than half the entire trophy table including UK overall champion.

proud to have been a part of their success. We have always been 100% supporters of Network VEKA and all our member customers and these results are a clear endorsement of that support.”

with the North West title, while Prestige Glazing went one better on last year’s finalist nomination by taking the trophy for the East.

Best Newcomer title went to Frames Conservatories Direct of Bury St Edmunds.

As well as Aberdeen-based Thistle Windows and Conservatories taking the national trophy again, Glazerite customers took no fewer than six of the organisation’s ten regional awards, as well as Best Newcomer and 13 of the 30 Regional Finalist positions.

Thistle marked its first full year of partnering with Glazerite with its lucky 13th trophy win, taking both the National top spot and the all-Scotland regional trophy, also reinforcing its clear lead as Network VEKA’s most prolific trophy winner ever. Three members retained the regional title for at least the second year: Goliath Homeworld for the Midlands, Shane Howells for the West and KJM Group for the South. Cheadle Glass celebrated its first full year as a member

All the trophies were presented

by Network VEKA brand ambassador Steve Davis at a special ceremony and gala dinner at the Eastwood Hall Hotel, Nottingham. This is the first year the awards have been held separately from the organisation’s formal AGM.

Glazerite Director Jason Thompson said after the awards: “We never thought they could beat last year’s grand slam but they have. Every one of them has done superbly and we are very

Last year, Glazerite customers took four of the ten regional trophies as well as the newly established award for promoting the Network VEKA brand and ten of the 30 finalist slots.

Steve Davis congratulates Thistle’s Nick and Shona Robson, left, and Alison and Ian Bruce.

Glazerite Windows Ltd is VEKA’s largest UK trade fabricator and a prominent Network VEKA member, with a reputation for unsurpassed customer service as well as a comprehensive product range. The company offers a fully nationwide service based on manufacturing units in Northants and Greater Manchester and a distribution hub in Bristol. www.glazeritewindows.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0022

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

THE AFFORDABLE ORANGERY SOLUTION Ideal for those who are looking for something truly different but want to retain a full glass roof, the Capella also allows you to upgrade an existing conservatory to give it that orangery look.

The design drastically improves the external appearance of a standard conservatory, thanks to the aluminium high fronted gutter which hides the roof bars. On the inside an eye-catching internal soffit gives the appearance of a full blown orangery allows the inclusion of down-lights or speakers, giving you a unique and highly novel appearance that will be the envy of your customers’ neighbours!

Features: • High front gutter hides the ends of the glazing and roof bars • Internal brackets create orangery soffit appearance (170mm or 317mm) • Roof specific kits - no cutting of aluminium sections

Orangery, The Capella

Benefits: • A lower cost orangery solution • Usual building regulations exceptions apply • Easy to fit - adds only a couple of hours to a conservatory installation • Available to retro-fit existing conservatories • Strength throughout - no problem with ladders leaning on the gutter

For all sales enquiries and quotes please email: vikki@fourseasons-roofs.co.uk

JUST NOT OOF A R ANY! P COM

Deal direct with the Directors...

Tel: 01909 735 833 | Fax: 01909 735 385

www.fourseasons-roofs.co.uk | vikki@fourseasons-roofs.co.uk

CONSERVATORY & ORANGERY ROOFS | SOLARIS GLASS | CELSIUS GLASS | NEW WAVE SLIDE & SWING DOORS | GUARDIAN SOLID ROOFS 1014/0023

www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

13

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Pyroguard fires up its investment in glass production Haydock based CGI International, manufacturers of Pyroguard fire resistant glass continues to invest in the future of the company by expanding its technical team and opening a new office in London.

Operating since 1988, CGI International employs over 90 individuals split between its production facilities in Haydock, Merseyside and the east of France. Over the past three years, CGI has seen an increase in its turnover from £12m to £20m as a result of making a number of changes to its UK facility and expanding manufacturing capabilities into France. With new and improved processes, a continued focus on health and safety measures and a new chemical mixing plant,

CGI International is intent on making its mark on the fire glass manufacturing world.

Planning for future growth in both domestic and international sales, CGI International has increased its sales & technical team, who play a key role in devising new fire glass solutions for building projects. The two new recruits are Adrian Gallagher, Technical Sales & Specification Manager for the London area and Phil Hallworth for the North East,

Scotland and Ireland area. Together with Simon Ellison they complete the UK Sales & Technical team.

The next stage of the expansion project is the opening of a London office on the 1st October in the Kings Cross area.

The office will be a base for the Project & Technical teams to work with architects and the construction community in the capital.

A range of samples from Pyroguard will be on show for clients and customers to view and discuss their needs for any ongoing or upcoming projects.

Commenting on the recent changes, CGI International CEO, David Jolliffe said: “We are confident of achieving positive outcomes for our business and our customers as a result of the investment and improvements we have been making over the past few years.

The developments and changes made at CGI International would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication from everyone in the group. We are committed to looking at other areas to improve the future of the company.”

To find out more information on the products that CGI International has to offer, please visit www.pyroguard.eu or follow us on Twitter @pyroguard.

“We are confident of achieving positive outcomes for our business and our customers as a result of the investment and improvements we have been making over the past few years. The developments and changes made at CGI International would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication from everyone in the group. We are committed to looking at other areas to improve the future of the company.”

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0024

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October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

TRIPLE GLAZING – SOME COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS CORRECTED Triple glazing has been in the news a lot this year and has been generating a lot of comment. Gary Morgan, BFRC Technical Director, adds his expert opinion.

Two panes of glass are good, but three must be better There is some merit in this simplistic statement. Triple glazed windows are capable of achieving much higher levels of thermal performance than double glazed. But the choice of low-e coating and gas fill are critical.

For example, consider two triple glazed IGU’s designed to fit into a 28mm glazing cavity: • 4-20-4 Softcoat low-e, argon fill: can achieve a WER ‘A’

or the U value actually increases, meaning a thermal efficiency decrease. Even with two panes of low-e coating, there is still no overall benefit in terms of WER performance.

The addition of an extra coated pane can, if the wrong coating is used, lead to a sharp decrease in the solar gain (g) value, which can lead to a window going from an ‘A’ to ‘B’ or even ‘C’ rating.

In triple glazing the use of Krypton gas in narrow cavities, or Argon gas in wider glazing cavities, does result in much improved window thermal performance.

It is only possible to achieve BFRC A+ ratings using triple glazing About 80% of A+ windows are triple glazed - but 20% are double-glazed. So it is possible to achieve an ‘A+’ with double glazing using thermally efficient frame systems and good warm edge spacer bars.

• 4-8-4-8-4 One pane of softcoat low-e, argon fill: can achieve a WER ‘B’

Triple glazing / A+ windows can lead to overheating

• 4-8-4-8-4 Two panes of softcoat low-e, argon fill: can achieve a WER ‘A’

This is incorrect. Is the suggestion that lower window U values result in thermal overheating?

In order to realise any benefit from the extra pane of glass, it needs to have a low e coating

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This only occurs when the external ambient temperatures are higher than the internal room temperature (a lower U value helps to keep the room cool by keeping excess heat out). It certainly does not cause overheating.

Or is solar gain supposed to be the culprit?

In triple glazed windows solar gain values are at least 10% lower than in equivalent double glazed windows.

Further information If you need expert advice on triple glazing either speak to a BFRC Certified Simulator or contact BFRC direct - 020 7403 9200 / enquiries@bfrc.org.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0025

Labour commits to brownfield first policy for new homes A future Labour government would reintroduce a ‘brownfield first’ policy for house building. This was the message confirmed last night by the Shadow Planning Minister Roberta Blackman-Woods MP at the joint FMB/CPRE fringe event at the Labour Party Conference in Manchester.

The growing housing crisis, with fewer than half the number of new homes being built every year, is a hot political issue and where these new homes should be built is very controversial.

www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) said: “It makes sense to utilise previously developed land but a strict brownfield first policy would not be helpful.”

“What we do need is positive policies to enable and encourage SME house builders to build out brownfield sites.”

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0026

15

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

NFA voting explodes into action!

Leading marketing agency Purplex joins the line-up of G-Award sponsors

Voting has been live for a short time when this was written, but the announcement of the shortlists on Monday 8th September saw an explosion of activity within the industry.

As part of its 10th anniversary celebrations this year, Purplex Marketing has agreed sponsorship of the after-dinner gift at this year’s G14 Awards, held at the Hilton Hotel, Park Lane, London on 21st November.

Industry buzzes after NFA shortlists announced

It had been an epic 7 month long nominations process which saw over 200 separate submissions from all 13 represented sectors of the UK fenestration industry. That was a level of engagement which went way beyond what was seen in 2013, confirming that the National Fenestration Awards have made significant progress since it’s inaugural year.

On the evening of Monday 8th September, the lucky finalists were emailed privately to be informed of their success, with the shortlists and voting being made public soon afterwards. These are this year’s finalists by category: Social Networker 2014

Glass Systems Company 2014

• Listers

• Saint Gobain • Pilkingtons AG

• Premier Conservatory Systems

• Guardian Glass

• Pearl Window Systems

Systems Company 2014

The pride and excitement shown by the finalists has been evident, with many tweeting images of their finalists logos.

Some have even gone as far as to change their Twitter profile images, backgrounds and bios to show off their success at getting to this stage of the annual competition. The NFAs have created a massive and unique energy that has captured the attention and excitement of many parts of the UK fenestration industry.

• Liniar • Accoya • The VEKA UK Group Composite & Paneled Doors 2014 • Lister Trade Frames • Britdoors Group • GFD Trading • Distinction Doors • IG Doors Steel Company 2014 • Crittall • Clement Windows • Cotswold Casements Timber Company 2014 • Glyngary • Stanbrook and Nicholson • Merrin Joinery • Accoya PVC Company 2014 • Liniar • Britplas • Truemans • John Fredericks • Eden Windows, Doors & Conservatories Aluminium Company 2014

• Ben Warren (The Window Outlet)

• AluK

• Petita Wiles (MACO)

• Schueco • Origin

• Liniar

• UK Bifold

• Roof-Maker Ltd • Glazedale

Digital Specialist 2014 • The Consultancy

Hardware Company 2014

• L8est

• MACO

• Motion Lab

• Glazpart Ltd • Adams Rite

Timber Alternative 2014

Young Person 2014

• Ecclectic Systems / Residence9

• Hannah Howdle (Truemans)

• Prestige by Aztec

• Greg Johnson (Warwick Sliders) • Tanasen Surawoot (Joedan Glass)

• Evolution Manufacturer / Fabricator 2014 • Aire Valley Architectural Aluminium

• Polyframe

Every vote counts Since voting went live on Monday 8th September, votes have flooded in at a stunning pace, far outstripping the levels seen in it’s inaugural year. With voting live right up until December 1st, the total number of expected votes looks set to smash the number recorded last year.

With that taken into account, every single vote counts.

Taking part is very simple.

If you’re a registered user on the site, you’re already eligible to vote. If not don’t worry. It takes less than a minute to register and once your details have been confirmed, you’re all set to cast your 13 votes, one per category.

Anyone is free to take part.

Whether you’re on the shop floor, an installer, a manager, a MD or anything in between, the National Fenestration Awards allows you to have YOUR say on who you think deserves to be rewarded at the end of the year. There’s nothing else like it in the industry.

Voting closes Monday 1st December. Don’t leave it too late to cast your vote!

To find out more about the National Fenestration Awards and to get involved visit: www.fenestrationawards. co.uk or follow them on Twitter: @NatFenAwards for all the latest news and announcements from the fastest growing independent awards in the industry!

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0028

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Purplex CEO Andrew Scott said “The G Awards is a celebration of success in our vibrant and innovative industry. It is fantastic that industry leaders and top companies come together for this spectacular evening, and I am proud to support it.”

Purplex is a full-service, integrated marketing agency with 40 full time staff. It specialises in strategy, PR, branding and digital marketing with clients across the UK and Europe.

It has been a busy year for Purplex, exhibiting for the first time at Fensterbau in Germany and hosting the highly successful ‘Marketing Village’ stand at the Fit Show. It was also recognised for outstanding growth and job creation by the Government backed Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).

Andrew Scott.

“Purplex is very much at the cutting edge of marketing technology and we have always invested in great people and innovation, so the G Awards are a perfect fit.” www.purplexmarketing.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0029

TUFFX SUPPORTING CUSTOMERS’ GROWTH For leading glass processing specialist TuffX, ensuring customers can achieve greater sales has always been an important part of business relations. Building working partnerships with customers remains a priority for the company which has seen record sales increasing year on year for the last 3 years, since moving into the purpose built 55,000 sq ft expansion in Knowsley, Merseyside.

Senior management at the company took the progressive approach to customer satisfaction by developing support literature as well as online marketing tools that customers can adapt individually, all of which have been positively received.

Ensuring that the consumer can grasp the technical merits of the glass products available to them has left customers impressed, as they have reaped the benefits of improved sales generation.

Customers state that the POS tools have been extremely beneficial when approaching homeowners, who have been impressed by the performance figures and quality standards offered. Many believe that these have helped to secure the final sale.

Supporting customers with powerfully persuasive marketing initiatives continues to be one of the most important aspects of the business relationships that the TuffX team develops. As most business sectors have been gearing up for some time to

embrace the speed and accessibility of online presence, TuffX has focused on providing customers with initiatives that will help to generate positive sales results. In respect of the Ambience conservatory glass roofing range, customers can take advantage of three marketing support tools. Glass samples and product brochures with simple product data emphasise the benefits of each glass type available in the portfolio; whilst the website www.ambiglass.co.uk can be individualised by each customer and used as an online marketing tool.

The TuffX main site www.tuffxprocessedglass. co.uk has all technical data and statistics readily available regarding the processed glass options manufactured by the company for all sized contracts. This has been specifically tailored for projects that must meet the requirements of architects and specifiers.

Graham Price, Managing Director comments, “Accreditations and industry standards count for nothing if the customer and end user do not understand their benefits. We believe our support tools help to reflect our quality standards.

Graham concludes, “With an array of European accreditations and a vast choice of customer support initiatives we provide complete product confidence which is reflected with our positive sales record.”

Free samples are available from the company by calling 0845 3 400 200. Alternatively, please visit the websites www.ambiglass.co.uk or www.tuffxprocessedglass.co.uk for more information on the range of glass products available.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0030

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

17

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Network VEKA members had a ball at

Annual Awards Ceremony

More than 200 people attended Network VEKA's Black Tie Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony. Held at Eastwood Hall Nottingham, the organisation was pleased to welcome eight new member companies to the event.

The evening was hosted by Network VEKA's Brand Ambassador Steve Davis and began with a champagne reception. This was followed by an audience with the Six-Times World Snooker Champion, who answered questions from the audience about his snooker career and his time in the 'I'm a Celebrity' Jungle.

Network VEKA MD John Ogilvie was delighted to join Steve Davis in announcing some exciting new initiatives for 2015 as well as naming the evening's award winners.

Regional winners are decided based on the collated feedback of nearly 16,000 households across Britain and Ireland – every single customer of every member company, for the whole year.

John says: “It's always a pleasure to see member companies stand up to receive their awards. The standards we set for our membership are so high that we know every single member company is offering their customers exceptional quality and service.

This means the award winners have beaten the best of the best to claim their trophy. They should all be very proud of themselves!

which will be hosted by Steve Davis once again, and will be held in Stratford upon Avon in March.”

After the awards, attendees enjoyed a fourcourse meal and danced to a live band until the early hours. Charity envelopes were collected on the night and a generous £600 was raised for The British Legion.

The full list of winners runs as follows:

Best Newcomer This is the company who, in the opinion of the judges, best recognised the benefits coming from Network VEKA membership.

They enthusiastically embrace and actively use the Network VEKA brand alongside their own to grow sales in the domestic sector, while promoting Assure on the trade side to win and retain installers.

Frames and Conservatories Direct

Embracing and promotion of the Network VEKA Brand

Enjoying the bubbly!

North - The judges praised the company who 'continue to wholeheartedly embrace the Network VEKA brand using it alongside their own in regional advertising and radio campaigns and in-store promotions. They have invested in their new website including a range of web tools and rebranded their showroom, with sales during the period up nearly 30%.'

South - A company bought by new owners a few years back that 'recognised their market and the way their customers do business were changing. They effectively re-launched themselves in conjunction with the Network VEKA brand investing in web enhancements, vehicle graphics, window badges and more to grow business by over 25%.'

AWC Windows and Home Improvements

Rugby Double Glazing

Regional awards for customer satisfaction • Ireland - Betterhomes • Scotland - Thistle Windows and Conservatories • Wales - For the first time in the history of the Network VEKA awards there was nothing to separate two companies so the joint winners were - Ffenestri Kevin Thomas and MPN Windows • North East and Yorkshire - David Brunskill Windows

“I think it's fair to say that Thistle Windows and Conservatories deserves a special mention. The results not only proved the home improvements provider to be the Overall National Winner for the 2nd year in a row, but also the Regional Winner for Scotland - for the 13th time! With more than £5m Network VEKA sales registered and the highest aggregate score, Thistle has certainly set the benchmark for next year's awards.

• North West - Cheadle Glass Company • Midlands - Goliath Homeworld • Western England - Shane Howells • Central England - Lewington and Son • Eastern England - Prestige Glazing Services • South East - Oakwood Windows

“We're already looking forward to celebrating next year's AGM and Awards Ceremony,

• Southern England - KJM Group • South West - Heavers of Bridport • Overall winner - Thistle Windows and Conservatories Tel: 01282 473170 www.networkveka.co.uk

Network VEKA trophies.

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Ian Bruce from Thistle collects his award.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0032

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

INDUSTRY COMMENT Comment to be attributed to Michael Dall, lead economist at construction intelligence specialist, Barbour ABI in response to the Output in the construction industry: July 2014 and new orders April to June 2014.

“It’s encouraging that new orders are continuing on a positive trajectory, but with the rate of growth slowing from recent quarters, today’s announcement still isn’t the silver bullet we need to dispel all concerns about the performance of the construction sector.

“What is particularly interesting in today’s figures is the growing strength of new orders in the private commercial sector and especially for office contracts where we’ve seen an increase by 29% in Q2 versus Q1 this year.

HEAVYWEIGHT KNOCKOUTS FOR

TUFFX BRAND AMBASSADOR Once again TuffX brand ambassador David Price, has garnered another successful victory over his latest opponent Yaroslav Zavorotnyi.

In June this year, the heavyweight champion took care of business by defeating the 39-yearold Ukrainian journeyman in a 10 round unanimous decision fight which took place at the Sport and Congress Center, Schwerin, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Alemania, Germany. The final judges’ scores were 9793, 98-92, and 100-90.

Price appeared to hurt Zavorotnyi with a body shot in the 3rd round and a hard right hand to the head in the 7th. He was able to see the punches coming all night, and so could brace himself for the occasional hard shots that Zavorotnyi landed in the fight.

David’s promoter Kalle Sauerland is now interested in stepping the 6’8” Champion

“Early indications from our monthly Economic and Construction Market Review however, point to a summer slowdown on the commercial side. We would need to see consistent growth in this area before we can confidently say it is having a real impact on the industry.”

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0033

up a class by placing him with a top 10 contender for his next fight in Liverpool, with Sauerland’s goal being for Price to beat the top 10 contender by the end of the year.

“It would be good to come up against someone in the top 10 world ratings and Pricey is already in the top 10 of the WBC rankings himself.” Sauerland said to espn.co.uk.

The TuffX ambassador has recently beaten the following contenders: Yaroslav Zavorotnyi, Ondrej Pala and Istvan Ruzsinszky.

Currently the WBO has the following heavyweights ranked in their top 10: 1.

Dereck Chisora 2. Andy Ruiz 3. Deontay Wilder 4. Tyson Fury 5. Christian Hammer 6. Kubrat Pulev 7. Mike Perez 8. Charles Martin 9. Bryant Jennings 10. David Price.

It is expected that either Charles Martin or Christian Hammer will be the next potential opponents for David to fight .

Graham Price, Managing Director at TuffX comments, “Our customers have shown a real interest in David’s matches and are keen to watch his progress. Supporting him in his challenge for the titles is proving to be a very positive move for all of us.”

Tel: 0845 3 400 200 READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0034

IT’S RAPID!

FMB named CITB Outstanding Strategic Partner The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has been named the ‘CITB Outstanding Strategic Partner’ at the 50th Anniversary Pride of Construction Awards.

The FMB has been recognised for a range of projects and initiatives relating to training and skills but most notably our dedication to encouraging small and micro firms across the UK to train and develop their workforce, and to take on new apprentices.

The judging panel noted that the FMB has been successful in reaching many of the very small firms, particularly with management and business skills training, which has helped them improve both their profitability and productivity.

The FMB fended off competition within the category from JCB and Futureworks (Yorkshire) to be named the overall national winner. The announcement was made at the CITB Awards Dinner at Old Billingsgate in London, which was hosted by actor and TV presenter Alexander Armstrong.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0035

10 HOURS TO REMOVE THE EXISTING ROOF AND THEN REPLACE WITH LIVIN ROOF, INCLUDING PLASTER BOARDING, BASED ON A TEAM OF TWO.

10 HOURS TO REMOVE EXISTING AND REPLACE THROUGH TO PLASTERBOARD │ FAMILIAR SYSTEM - CLASSIC ROOF │ COMPLY WITH BUILDING REGULATIONS - NO RISKS │ VAULTED CEILING, INTEGRATED GLASS PANELS - NO EXTRA COSTS │ 70% OF CONSUMERS PREFER TO SIMULATED TILES Call Ultraframe on 0843 208 6941 or visit www.ultraframe.co.uk/livinroof for more information.

ROOF 1014/0036

www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

19

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY

It would be hard to live in the UK and not be aware of the referendum on Scottish independence and now, with the die cast, we ask a cross section of our industry if they feel the vote, or indeed the process, has affected their business.

What’s your opinion?

With the vote in the referendum saying ‘No’ to Scottish independence, has the uncertainty already had a detrimental effect on your business?

This may be in the form of weaker currency, rifts in relationships or the general feeling of ‘them and us’, although the vote is for a continuing United Kingdom.

John Crittenden Managing Director, Carl F Groupco

Colin Torley Sales and Marketing Director, Veka

Drew Wright, Chairman, Distinction Doors

Roy Frost Managing Director, Deceuninck UK & Ireland

Lucia Di Stazio Director, MRA Marketing

In the wake of the ‘too close to call’ Scottish referendum, we have kept a watching brief at Carl F Groupco.

“Better Together” has won. I have had to live with the referendum since it was announced but, as my daughter, 8 days late and with complications, finally gave birth to my first grandchild at 20.40 on the day of voting (18th Sept), that event took precedence.

I do not believe that the vote has had a detrimental effect on our business.

The vote was decades in the making. The size of turnout – 84% of registered voters and over 90% in places - and the intensity it generated tells you how important it was. The close call rattled Westminster and the UK establishment.

It was a No, but in that context, Yes or No makes little difference with half the voters – the 16 year olds and those who never vote in normal elections voting with heads not hearts.

Expecting five strong years of growth? Think again.

Uncertainty weakens confidence and delays investment.

On a personal level I was keenly interested as the decision would have major historical impact.

The increasingly US style leadership debates were also quite compelling As the vote got closer we did experience an impact, mainly regarding the exchange rate and our requirement to purchase in USD. However, while we had a keen interest – particularly because we have a distribution centre in Cumbernauld, we weren’t on the edge of our seats. Over many years of trading in Scotland, we have become well attuned to the fact that requirements for hardware differ from the rest of the UK. We have therefore always targeted the Scottish market with products and services to meet their specific requirements. Having said that, it was a very hot topic and our Scottish Regional Sales Manager found it cropped up regularly as a discussion point on her sales calls.

20

Maybe ‘No’ was the best for the country as it means less change but there’s now a split where over 45% voted for an independent country. The negative campaigning from the BBC and other London based media organisations, turning Scot against Scot, was worrying. And with the ‘3 Amigo’s’ (Cameron, Clegg and Miliband) promising “extra powers to Scotland should it stay part of the union”, as ‘Yes’ looked more likely, what all this means to Scotland and the UK is still to be seen.

A big disappointment, as a life-long Labour supporter was seeing Alistair Darling and Gordon Brown defending the Government.

Not something I’ll forget in a hurry.

I’m disappointed, but a No vote gives us less uncertainty.

The true affect will only be seen by my children…and now grandchildren.

The Sterling issue has been resolved, and the money markets will continue in their usual way.

Business between Distinction Doors and its Scottish customers will be unaffected.

The result has meant ‘business as usual’, but for how long, depends on what happens next.

Modernising the Constitution appears to be the desire of much of the population of Scotland and Mr Cameron, appears to have promised it, without necessarily having the authority to deliver it.

He seems to have offered the Scottish people everything they wanted, providing they did not vote for Independence.

The politicians in Westminster have lost touch with the country outside of the South East of England and the Government would be well served by rekindling that relationship.

How they deliver the desired modernisation however, may well have an impact on how we do business in the UK and Europe in the future.

There were bad-judgement calls that will be regretted and the Government told civil servants not to plan for a Yes! Poor thinking and weak negotiation handed the voters a single killer question. Complacency led to a lacklustre No campaign and panic led to a giveaway in the week before.

It’s not the end of the campaign and we now have a divided Britain and Scotland although they have won more powers. Regardless of how they voted, we’ll be helping Deceuninck’s new Scottish customers prosper in this more prosperous market. Because when our customers do well, we do well.

Having got this far will the Scots come back to the table for another go at full independence or demand more of the powers promised by politicians so recently? They’re in a strong position. Will Westminster give the rest of the UK the same powers, as Cameron is suggesting (and which may save him his job)? Whatever happens, it’s not good for the economy or for construction.

For most companies who had relaxed after the recession, an uncertain market means working harder to compete. You have to do more marketing and pin down new business more quickly.

Of course it depends where you are. London is busier than ever and likely to stay that way, but the further North or West you go the less certain your future. But wasn’t that what led to the referendum?

We are now in for a long period of uncertainty and confidence is back as an issue for consumers, and for business.

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

1014/0037

www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

21

TIRC NEWSLETTER

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

October 2014

So many good reasons to do a business survey

Let’s be honest. We all think we are doing a good job servicing our customers; we all think we have the best product range in the market. But how many of us have actually asked our customers the question?

I guess the answer is not many, but there are loads of really valuable things to be gained from talking to our customers directly. Of course we don’t always like what we hear when we do ask; but I can assure you of this, customers will appreciate being asked in the first place and that in itself goes a long way to developing the relationships which keeps them placing orders with you.

Think about these as some of the things you could achieve by carrying out a simple business survey amongst your customers

 You could gain a real understanding of your customer’s expectations of you as a supplier  You could find out which parts of your offering are working and help you retain their business  You could find out what could work better to help you retain more business and win more business by having a better service offering

You could find out where you win out against your competition in terms of product and service  Researching with your existing customers will help you get your new business offering right  You could ask your customers where the product gaps are in your particular sector  You could find out where the gaps are in your range  You could develop new products with customer input in mind  You could ask your customers if they are actually aware of all the products you supply  You could use your customers input to really identify the strengths and weaknesses of your business, a great opportunity for on-going improvement

Weakness IDENTIFY

You could win more work!

There really are lots of great reasons to carry out a business survey, not the least of which is the point above – you could win more work! In our experience the findings of all surveys show up some previously un-realised opportunity. Why not give us a call to talk through doing a survey for you?

And here’s the other really important point….. the only telephone numbers involved in a business survey from The Independent Ratings Company is this one 0161 266 1006 – call us today to discuss how we can help you with a cost effective business survey.

Competition

Survey IMPROVEMENT Service Expectations WIN Strengths

GAPS Develop Customer Business Retain

The Independent Ratings Company Business Survey packages – a great way to develop your business!

T: 0161 266 1006 | E: ian@theindependentratingscompany.co.uk | W: www.theindependentratingscompany.co.uk The Independent Ratings Company, 3000 Aviator Way, Manchester Business Park, Manchester M22 5TG

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READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0038

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

WHY DECEUNINCK? In my view...

“Deceuninck’s innovative products help us sell with confidence and stay ahead of competitors.

“Deceuninck is a partner, not just a supplier.

They support us every step of the way and have helped fuel Novaseal’s growth over the past 10 years.”

Gary Grundy, Managing Director, Novaseal

If you’d like to release your hero within call Deceuninck’s Sales Director Rob McGlennon on 07818 383 385 or Gary Grundy on 01329 233 500 www.novaseal.co.uk

AskRoyFrost.com Follow @Deceuninck_Rob Follow @RoyFrost1 Follow @DeceuninckUK 1014/0039 Novaseal ad glass news.indd 1 www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

9/24/2014 9:19:03 AM

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ALUMINIUM

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Tradelink Service Cost-effective aluminium windows & doors Uninterrupted are ideal for creating low energy use buildings, says Reynaers at Home provider of aluminium Despite Floods Leading architectural glazing

thermal performance of window products.

Windows are rated on an A to G scale based on their total energy efficiency, which allows fabricators to quickly and easily choose the most suitable window for their needs.

systems Reynaers at Home says that aluminium systems not only offer top energy efficiency levels, but also can help to add value to a home too.

A lot of companies pay lip service to the term lean manufacturing, but fabricator Tradelink recently proved the tangible benefits of implementing a thorough set of world class principles when service was uninterrupted despite its factories being hit by the recent flash floods.

“I only joined Tradelink a few months ago but a big part of my induction to the company was based on its world class manufacturing principles,” says Jon Tennant, Manufacturing Manager at Tradelink, “which came in handy when our facility in March, Cambridgeshire was flooded. As a true lean manufacturing company, Tradelink has disaster plans in place for all eventualities which allows everyone to act fast, so when Cambridgeshire saw 2 inches of rainfall in just an hour we were as prepared as we could be.

“A decision was quickly made to power down the factories as water was rising up around our welders and becoming a clear safety hazard. Then we had all hands on deck to clear up the water as quickly as possible before the end of the day so we could allow the factory to completely dry out over the weekend.

This kind of disruption would normally affect manufacturer and customer alike, but thanks to a clear plan and the quick actions of everyone involved, production resumed the next working day and no products were delayed as a result of the disruption to the factory. In fact most of our customers probably don’t even know we were flooded!”

Jim Moody, Managing Director at Tradelink adds: “Our world class philosophy ensures Tradelink continuously improves its products and services, but it also means we expect the unexpected. No-one wants their factory to be flooded or have any manufacturing downtime but if it happens it helps to be prepared. I’d like to commend the team at March for their quick actions on the day and for getting us back up and running so smoothly.”

For more information call Tradelink now on 01354 657650 or visit www. tradelinkdirect.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0040

24

The Reynaers at Home Concept Window System had to achieve a rating index of 10 or above to be awarded the A+ grade which is the present highest level. The BFRC rating system checks all of the important factors that contribute to the energy efficiency of a window system, including U-value, solar heat gain, air tightness and sightlines.

According to 40% of architects, a costeffective solution for customers looking to sell or wait for a better housing market can be to install larger windows and doors, which lends a fantastic opportunity for fabricators and installers.

When adding a striking extension to a home it’s important that homeowners have access to sound advice regarding product choice and are able to find the right solution for their specific build. Amongst other issues they should consider the orientation of their

new building, as the direction the rooms face might ultimately help determine their use.

North-facing rooms get less sun than any other, and windows with a high Energy Rating will maximise what energy is gained from the sun so it can remain warm throughout the year. Reynaers at Home has a number of outstanding aluminium window and door systems that are able to maximise light entry whilst at the same time improve thermal efficiency. Its high performance CS 77 HI+ window system has achieved a Window Energy Rating of A+ from the British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC).

The BFRC’s window rating system was introduced to meet the need for simple and accurate certification regarding the

John McComb, Director Technical Services at Reynaers at Home, said: “Our aluminium windows and doors give energy conscious architects and fabricators the ideal system when creating low energy use buildings. The CS 77 HI+ triple chamber system has the highest levels of insulation, thus preserving as much energy as possible. The system can be installed with either inward or outward opening casements and has integrated gasket seals to ensure superior wind and water tightness. The advanced technology brings the Uf Value down to 1.2 W/m2K.” Reynaers at Home is a premium brand dedicated to offering the very best architectural glazing products and service to the discerning householder. For more information see the website www. reynaersathome.co.uk, email homeuk@ reynaers.com or call 0121 421 9707.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0041

New aluminium fabricator off to an excellent start A new aluminium fabricator has opened for business at the beginning of September and it looks like they’re off to a great start. The Window Outlet is a Bristol based company recently established by longtime industry insiders Ben Warren and Clive Uppington.

The new venture has already attracted plenty of attention and interest in the industry, with orders being placed via the social media platform Twitter before the new fabricator has even started trading. Ben’s top-notch networking skills have also gained him a new Social Networker of the year nomination in the National Fenestration Awards 2014.

The Window Outlet is an AluK fabricator of casement windows, entrance doors, bi-folding and patio doors, as well as shop fronts and other commercial applications, using a wide range of specialised aluminium profile

– 24 hours on all quotes, competitive prices and rapid lead times.

“Furthermore, we’re committed to a ‘get it right the first time ‘round’ philosophy and we proactively work with our clients to secure new business – we can provide product and sales training, technical support, as well as showroom support”, concluded the managing director.

Alongside Ben, Clive has taken on the role of sales director.

Together, the two directors have a combined industry experience of over 40 years.

The Window Outlet’s Clive Uppington (left) and Ben Warren (right).

systems such as BW58, BD58, BSF70, BSC94 and GT55. These are available from stock in Black, White and Grey, and on order for all standard and nonstandard RAL colours, as well as British Standard (BS) colours.

business is needed. Having worked in this industry for many years, we know what it takes for a fabricator to be a good partner for its clients and we’re ready to put this knowledge to work.

The Window Outlet MD, Ben Warren, said: “I think the positive response we had so far is a good indicator that our

“We’re not only aiming to offer high quality products, but also an exceptional level of customer service, with fast turnarounds

The Window Outlet is operating from an 8,000 sq. ft. production facility in Ashton Gate, Bristol, and has started trading on September 1st. The company currently employs 6 staff, with plans for rapid growth over the next few months.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0042

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

25

ALUMINIUM

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

PRODUCTION STARTS FOR ALL NEW PROFILE MACHINING CENTRE Production has begun at elumatec’s German manufacturing facility of its all new SBZ 137 Profile Machining Centre, a compact four-axis profile model for working aluminium and PVC profiles.

With its innovative, patented machine concept the SBZ 137 features a machine table that is tilted towards the operator and a new, highspeed ring module.

By tilting the machine table 30 degrees, it enables the operator to work in an ergonomic position as it can be loaded from an upright position, thus reducing potential back strain.

The inclined bed gives the operator a very clear view of the SBZ 137 in all machining positions and cleaning

“The inclined bed gives the operator a very clear view of the SBZ 137 in all machining positions and cleaning the made is faster as swarf automatically falls off the inclined table and can be carried away by an optional conveyor.”

the made is faster as swarf automatically falls off the inclined table and can be carried away by an optional conveyor.

The ring module, which can run at a speed of up to 150 m/min on the machine bed, substantially shortens operation times.

Its increased speed comes from the very small safety gap that reduces travel distances as it moves around the profile to machine the various surfaces.

The first SBZ 137s will be arriving in the UK in autumn.

For more information email sales@elumatec.co.uk or telephone 01908 580800. www.elumatec.co.uk

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0044

WANT YOUR PRODUCTS SPECIFIED? TARGET ARCHITECTS WITH ONLINE !

FORTNIG HTLY

PUBLICA TION!

1014/0045

Email for more information: christina@fenestrabuild.co.uk M: 07805 051 322 | WWW.FENESTRABUILD.CO.UK

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Relentless growth

sees major changes at specialist fabricator The continued growth of the aluminium sector has led a specialist fabricator to ring the changes on the factory floor.

Gloucester based CDW Systems is adding a second shift at its factory and has gone on a recruitment drive to cope with demand.

education sector as schools get refurbished and we’ve had to react by adding in a second shift and employing lots of new staff.”

CDW Systems’ MD Jerry Webb comments: “The economy is picking up and in regional pockets of the UK we are seeing an increasing number of speculative commercial developments happening and aluminium is the material of choice. Domestic demand for aluminium products such as bi-fold and sliding folding doors is also strong.

CDW Systems have been in business for twenty-one years and manufacture and supply a wide range of windows, doors, shop fronts and curtain walling, using some of the leading aluminium profile systems on the market today, including SAPA, ALUK and Smarts.

“We’re also benefitting from an increasing number of high-end residential developments being built – that are specifying aluminium windows and doors. Add in demand from the

“The economy is picking up and in regional pockets of the UK we are seeing an increasing number of speculative commercial developments happening and aluminium is the material of choice.

Domestic demand for aluminium products such as bi-fold and sliding folding doors is also strong.

Jerry also said that sliding doors and bi-folds are no longer niche products in the domestic sector, as homeowners are becoming more aware of the transformative capabilities of these aluminium products.

By proposing to add another shift, the fabricator will increase production hours to 16 a day, potentially bringing lead times down and allowing the fabricator to increase capacity. In total the changes will generate ten new jobs in the region.

The specialist aluminium fabricator brings to market new products yearly; and most recently rolled out its new PassivHaus approved patio door that can accommodate up to 4000kg of glass.

The company is regarded as one of the foremost aluminium specialists and provides extensive support for installers looking to enter the industry and win lucrative new business.

“All this positive activity is great news for us and our customers, and we’ve now increased our production output to help installers take advantage of the current market. We can offer installers the products and support they need to push on and win new business,” Jerry concludes.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0046

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

ALUMINIUM

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Growth in aluminium market reflected

in strong sales for NW Alutech

Lancashire’s NW Alutech have reported strong sales for their aluminium products. Sales Manager Dave Cheetham commented, “There is increasing interest across the board in aluminium and that’s something that’s being reflected in our sales. Because we offer aluminium doors, lanterns and conservatory roofs as well as PVCu orangery and conservatory roofs via our sister brand NW Rooftech, we’re the perfect one-stop shop for fabricators and installers wanting to add these value-added products to their portfolio.”

NW Alutech manufacture the Smart Systems aluminium product range and specialise in bi-folds and sliding patio doors. Dave says, “These high quality products complement our conservatory roof products very well and they’re also popular for meeting the

trend for bringing the inside and outside together.”

Alongside the doors are aluminium lanterns, which provide a dramatic and sophisticated roofing solution.

their customers, offering quality products on a rapid turnaround time with an efficient delivery service.

They can also offer expert technical support, including help with site surveys while tailored marketing support allows customers to make the most of the opportunities the products present.

On the PVCu side of the business, sister brand NW Rooftech manufacture conservatory and orangery roofs. Their experience and expertise is reflected in their status as K2 key dealers.

Dave concludes, “Our product range, which covers complex PVCu and aluminium products, is undoubtedly attractive to many installers because it makes their life much easier. But the reason they stay with us is because we offer so much more than just value-added products.”

And if the company’s growth from a regional supplier to a national one is anything to go by, they certainly do offer much more than just valueadded products!

All products across the business benefit from the company’s in-house painting facility which enables their customers to offer products in any RAL colour. This is just one of a package of benefits that has seen NW Alutech and NW Rooftech grow in recent years from a company supplying the trade in the north west to a company that supplies the trade nationwide.

The team is committed to working in partnership with

Tel: 01704 222 707 www.nwrooftech.co.uk

Tradelink

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0047

7

Just for fun!

Fill in the missing numbers.

1-9 in each line diagonally and horizontally, 1-9 in each of the nine small square grids.

See this month’s TIME OUT! pages for more puzzle fun!

1

3

2 4

6 7

3 5

5

1

9

2

9

1

7 8

6

7

3

2

9

5 4 1014/0048

www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

27

GLASS NEWS INTERVIEW: DUTEMÄNN

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Dutemänn make doors... that’s it!

Glass News’ Editor, Chris Champion, talks to Martin James, Founder and Owner of Dutemänn about his very simple philosophy that Dutemänn make doors, his experience in the industry and aspirations for the future,

Martin, on the face of it, the simple statement that Dutemänn make doors is where we can start and finish this interview!

It is a simple premise, and the base upon which we have built Dutemänn. The essence is that we are totally focused on our product offering, being Aluminium Doors. Our customers appreciate that we specialise in that way as we all benefit.

We have a straightforward offering, and they receive a great product.

Presumably we’re talking about the fabrication of bi-folds, inline sliders and, indeed, entrance doors?

All the doors we manufacture are complex in their construction and our strength is in making high-end aluminium bi-folds, Dutemänn Glide and Dutemänn Haus aluminium doors, of all kinds. If you take the Haus doors alone, we have 94 different panel designs to choose from, all of which were designed in-house.

There are a number on display in your showroom and the finish and mechanical action is brilliant.

I hadn’t realised there was a demand for the aluminium entrance door, although I can see the strength advantage and, I presume, there is no issue with bowing or movement of the panel?

Dutemänn Haus is not a cheap entrance door solution.

However, the strength allied to the very best automatic locks and quality hardware, certainly make a statement. We are not in competition with the PVCu panel or the GRP composite doors. Our customers target homeowners and developers: those wanting a high quality front door. And the demand for this is very high.

Homeowners? I had presumed that the aluminium panel was aimed at the commercial side with offices and shops being the target market?

Not yet! Our customers’ market is new build and refurbishment. Well over 90% of our output goes to the domestic market and will often be as part of an order for a bifold or large pane ‘lift and glide’.

That makes sense but we all know that there are different levels of quality within aluminium fabrication. You’ve chosen to tackle the very high end of the market and your use of quality product shows that. By lowering the quality, and therefore the price point, wouldn’t that have made your market opportunity that much larger?

Maybe but that’s not what Dutemänn is about. Everything we do is to exacting standards and our customers are looking for the very best quality, from a supplier they can trust. For us, it’s all about forming working partnerships with our customers and not simply looking for volume.

As far as volume is concerned, it would be fair to say that you’re bursting at the seams in your Dartford based facility…

That’s very true. We’re currently working out of around 8,000 sq ft but that will change soon and will extend to 20,000 sq ft. I can’t say more than that at the moment but, as they say, watch this space!

Although Dutemänn UK is still a relatively young company, the team behind Dutemänn have been together for over eight years. Our turning point was 3 years ago and the business is built on solid foundations. We’re growing at a sensible year on year rate and expect this progression to continue in a controlled way that doesn’t compromise our service or quality.

Martin James.

Presumably your background and experience in the industry had a lot to do with forming those sort of bonds?

Yes, I think that is the case to some extent. I have been a keen supporter of the CAB (Council for Aluminium in Building) and have been actively involved in CAB for thirteen years, on and off. The industry know me, so when I pitched a simple business idea they listened. Now both suppliers and customers are, I hope, with us for the long term. Relationships in business are so important: and not just with suppliers or customers. The same applies to the people you work with.

What is the workforce in numbers?

There are 16 of us altogether. It really is a team and the contribution from individuals is highly valued, and I don’t just mean in work output. We have also formed a forum made up from 4 of the team. It’s the ideas and thoughts that come from this forum and the factory floor that make Dutemänn what it is. We don’t lose people: they like the Dutemänn way because they are the Dutemänn way. Let’s face it, who wants to be good when you can be great!

With just three years as Dutemänn, and you are nudging over the 50 age barrier, what is your own background?

Varied is probably a good way to describe my career! I have always been in sales – from photocopiers to building materials but I moved into this industry with Schlegel, had time with Acell and in sealants at Tremco but got involved with aluminium at Kaye Aluminium, where I was National Sales Manager.

My nine years at Winkhaus was probably the most enjoyable time and I learned so much about the whole industry. Then I moved into business partnership, some 8 years ago.

And was that in aluminium?

Yes. I went into partnership making aluminium bifolding doors but we had different views on the way forward so, after 5 years, we split up and Dutemänn was born. I kept all the key team members and we had a very clear idea of the products we wanted to fabricate and the market we wanted to be in.

Timing is everything, and I was able to establish great relationships with all our suppliers, initially on trust, with exclusivity to many specific products.

Dutemann Haus.

28

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

GLASS NEWS INTERVIEW: DUTEMÄNN

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

eterniti motors.

On the shopfloor.

Let’s talk a bit about product.

Needless to say I was playing with the products in your showroom…. and particularly the Dutemänn Glide. The action is extraordinary…

That door is only small! The action is due to the doors magnificent mechanism and, in this case, the glass weighs 180 kilos per sash.

The Dutemänn Glide can be up to 6.7 meters long and 3.2 meters high. Whether it is the panel door, an inline slider or a bi-fold, every component is of a very high standard…our customers want the best.

I’m intrigued about the problems of U values and the cold bridging effect of aluminium. Does this present a problem to you?

There are no problems with any of our products achieving, or over achieving

www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

building regs. There is a misconception about U values and aluminium. Let’s put it like this, our Haus door achieves 1.2 W/M2/K with our panels achieve a centrepane U value of 0.69 W/M2/K, and that’s in a 44mm blank.

And triple glazing?

We offer a triple glazing bead in all our products and both Dutemänn Glide and Dutemänn Bi-Fold with triple glazed 44mm or double glazed 28mm beads, to give the customer the choice they require.

And the future, Martin?

I shall keep steering the boat! It’s the people at the company that make it what it is and a steadying hand on the tiller is all it needs.

Yes, we need more space at the moment, and that will come. We will have the ability to increase our volumes by 60% with one shift, so Dutemänn will keep growing while maintaining its levels of quality and service.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0049

Dutemann Glide.

29

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

COMPOSITE DOORS

!

RT PE EX

COMPOSITE DOORS EXPERT

COMPOSITE DOORS EXPERT

Owen Jones, Product Development Manager at IG Doors talks doors.

35 years of manufacturing

composite doors Owen Jones is Product Development Manager for IG Doors who are about to mark 35 years of manufacturing composite doors at their Cwmbran plant; he sits on the technical committee of the Composite Door Association of which the company is a founder member, and along with the rest of the team he has recently overseen the design and introduction of the brand new Truedor range for the trade market. He is this month’s expert...

In terms of the composite door market he has pretty much seen it all; yet after 24 years working with the company he remains as enthusiastic about Composite Doors as the first day he got involved and believes the sector has a great future ahead of it.

“The Composite Door industry is in a great place right now, but that’s not by accident; it is there because of a pro active industry wide development programme designed to raise the standards of the product technically and aesthetically. This approach has helped to build customer interest and confidence in the product group across all sectors and it is an approach which must continue as technical

performance requirements and customer expectations of the product continue to evolve”.

So who better to ask about the future of the Composite Door sector?

We asked Owen to step outside of his primarily technical role and talk to us about the sector as a whole, giving us some key pointers about what it needs to do to maintain its buoyant industry position.

Thermal and technical performance is key “Composite Doors are no different to any other building products in today’s market; they are required to be more thermally efficient than ever before. For a long period of time composite doors escaped the attention of those charged with making buildings more thermally efficient, they were deemed to be high performing by their very nature; but the fact is that now doors are under as much scrutiny as any other fenestration product and we need to ensure that we continue to evolve our product to make it compliant not only with existing but with likely future legislation, and to make it better performing than other door types”.

Contemporary designs for a modern era “At the same time however, everything we do needs to be tempered with consideration of what the customer wants from an aesthetic point of view. I mentioned earlier that the composite door industry is in a great place right now and part of the reason for this is that in the last few years the traditional designs which have been with the sector for so long have been replaced by the sweeping introduction of vast new styles and new colours, new glass patterns and new hardware options”.

“Now the sector arguably leads the wider window and door market for innovation.

The point is that going forward, technical

30

improvement must go hand in hand with an understanding of customer expectations of the product; the two things are not exclusive to one another”.

R&D programme full of innovation and next generation thinking “It is with these things in mind that we at IG Doors, and I’m sure all our competitors, keep our R&D programmes full of new ideas; we are always trying to second guess what the customer groups we serve might want and what the legislative powers might demand of the product group going forward. It is a really exciting time for our part of the industry but the one thing for certain is we cannot stand still. I believe we are in a phase where innovation is going to be more important than ever; to meet imposed demands yes, but more importantly to meet the demands of increasingly knowledgeable customer groups.

They are the people we need to satisfy if we want to see a continuation of the market growth we have experienced in recent years”.

approach which gives them the simplest way to do so; and with the best service imaginable.

The composite door sector has not always been known for great service levels but at IG Doors we recognise that this is key; it is why we have such an advanced on-line design and ordering system for our customers, and why we have put so much investment and effort into making it as simple as possible for them to use. Just as importantly it is there for their potential customers to use. Investment in these systems means we are giving customers great service for the products which they buy and at the same time providing their potential customers with the opportunity to see and understand first hand the benefits of buying composite doors over other product types”.

Great times ahead “It genuinely is an exciting time for the sector; after 35 years of making composite doors we still have an enthusiasm for the product which is second to none. We believe there are great times ahead for the sector if it doesn’t rest on its laurels”.

On-line design and ordering and a customer driven approach to service “Bringing all of the above together will help create the products our customers want to buy from us and we need to support this with an

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0050

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

LIV E NO W

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1014/0051 IG Glass News Oct14 Ad.indd 1 www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

16/09/2014 06:28

31

COMPOSITE DOORS EXPERT

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

New Paint Plant

Opening Soon

The UK’s leading composite door supplier, Distinction Doors, is set to open a new 198m2 paint plant later this year. Distinction’s Marketing Manager, Chantel Roach, said, “We have a policy of continuous investment in our business and the paint plant is part of that.”

“Bringing our painting inhouse will give a wealth of benefits for our customers because it will enable us to improve quality, lead times and cost in this area. We will also be able to work with our customers to develop bespoke colours for their portfolio. Crucially, it will also mean that the colour warranty on our doors will come from us, as the door and cassette provider, rather than a third party.”

The £185,000 paint plant is located at Distinction’s Tankersley headquarters

“Bringing our painting in-house will give a wealth of benefits for our customers.”

NATIONWIDE PRAISES AVOCET’S 3D THINKING One of the UK’s leading window and door manufacturers, Nationwide Windows has heaped praise on Avocet’s Affinity 3D hinge – a product that is so simple it can be adjusted using just an Allen key.

in South Yorkshire and has been equipped with stateof-the-art equipment to give quality and efficiency benefits. This includes a gas catalytic drying system with infrared panels and control system that will speed up the drying process without damaging the product.

It is also equipped with a breathing air unit that operates at minus 40 degree dew point, which will ensure that all contaminants are removed from both the spray gun and breathing equipment before use, improving finished quality as well as health and safety procedures. Capacity is likely to be in the region of 500 doors per week, helping Distinction to continue to meet and exceed demand for its market-leading doors.

The plant will also help Distinction Doors to

increase its commitment to the environment. It includes a heat recovery system that uses the waste heat generated by the site’s compressors to create a thermostatically controlled environment in the paint booth, preparation area and offices above.

Distinction Doors has grown from a standing start to a company with an annual turnover of nearly £40 million in just ten years. This is thanks to an outstanding product in the form of the Nan Ya GRP composite door slab and a commitment to delivering above and beyond customer expectations, as the opening of the new paint plant demonstrates. It’s hardly surprising that it’s the UK’s market leader.

Tel: 0845 2000 816 www.distinctiondoors.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0052

Daryl Cashmore, operations director of Nationwide, said: “We’ve been using Avocet’s 3D hinge for close to two years and in that time not one of our installers has had a bad word to say about it.”

Nationwide’s supply only clients have also been quick to praise the level and ease of the hinge adjustment, highlighting it as a real benefit.

“Put simply,” added Daryl. “Avocet’s 3D hinge is the best and easiest to use on the market.”

The 3D hinge, which is available as an individual product or as part of Avocet’s Composite Door Hardware Package, is PAS024 compliant, has Secured by Design approval, can hold up to 150kg on three hinges, is available in a huge range of colours, and doesn’t require face fixed flag fixings.

In addition, as the only truly active 3D butt hinge available for composite doors in the UK it can be actively adjusted in three dimensions without needing to reset the door position.

And because the product is so simple to adjust the only tool an installer will need is an Allen key.

Christopher Burrows, Avocet Hardware’s head of UK sales (window & door hardware division), said: “To say we’re proud of the 3D hinge would be an understatement of massive proportions. It demonstrates everything

Best on the market – Avocet’s Affinity 3D hinge.

good about Avocet in terms of product development and innovation, and is a clear indication of where we’re planning to take the company under the ownership of the Jain family. As a manufacturer we are fully aware that you live or die by the quality of your products, and what we’ve found under the new ownership is that our products don’t just stand up to scrutiny, they pass with flying colours. And what’s more – they’re getting better because we are committing more people and more money to product development than ever before.”

Avocet’s Composite Door Hardware Package contains only high quality, Secured by Design approved product solutions. In addition to the 3D hinge are its Affinity door handles, Affinity face fit door knocker, Affinity letter plate, and the ABS snap secure cylinder lock – the only retrofit lock on the market with Sold Secure’s Diamond stand and the TS007 3-star kitemark. The company’s confident in these products is such that the package is offered with a £2,000 door security guarantee, which means that if a break-in occurs as a direct result of one of them being at fault then Avocet will provide £1,000 to replace the door and £1,000 in compensation to the homeowner.

For additional information on Avocet Hardware visit www.avocet-hardware.co.uk or call 01484 711700.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0053

New composite door permaskin adds value to Masterdor’s offering Masterdor, part of the Litchfield Group, has just launched a new Anthracite Grey permaskin on its timber and timber thermal doors.

Gary Doxey, Masterdor’s Marketing Manager said, “The permaskin is a high end alternative to paint or GRP finishes and the anthracite grey colour is certain to prove popular.

Masterdor’s range was already popular and this new development looks set to increase that popularity. The Anthracite Grey permaskin compares extremely favourably to the alternative finish options when it comes to colour fastness and scratch resistance, making it appealing for those specifying products for challenging or high traffic areas or those simply

32

wanting a high specification finish. Gary says, “The finish is very attractive and when combined with our Anthracite Grey composite door outerframe it creates a stunning, high end finish. Masterdor is the only company in the UK that is able to bring this revolutionary permaskin technology and this new finish is another sign of the on-going product improvement and the constant research and development journey that we are on.”

Masterdor’s 54mm thermal door combines the best qualities of the alternatives on the market. It’s a timber door with a foam inner core and wrapped in ASA thermoplastic film, comfortably creating a doorset that meets

and exceeds the requirements of a wide range of different markets. The doors can be easily repaired if damaged, a key criterion for social landlords as well as consumers looking for hardwearing, practical products. It’s a made to measure door system that is available in over 40 different styles, all with superb definition thanks to the vacuum application of the outer skin.

The Litchfield Group is renowned for supplying high quality products that work in a wide range of settings. In adding a permaskin finish to one of its products, it’s extending that versatility still further.

Tel: 01773 852311 - www.sheerframe.co.uk

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0054

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

1014/0055

www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

33

COMPOSITE DOORS EXPERT

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

DoorColour Half Page Vert - Glass News Oct 14_Layout 1 22/09/2014 11:23 Page 1

SOLIDOR’S NEW TV CHANNEL New colours NOW AVAILABLE

which COLOUR did YOU CHOOSE? 2ND

olive Grove

1ST

hinges, nor get through the solid timber core. The ‘Sounds Like a Solidor’ video goes on to take you through the full manufacturing process, detailing key product features and highlighting all the Quality Management processes on the way.

The TV channel within the website is also supported with the company’s very own YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/user/ SolidorLtd, where there’s also an additional video showing the unique composition of their solid hardwood core based composite doors. The videos have been proving to be particularly popular for both installation companies and consumers alike, helping to further highlight the many and unique features that set their composite doors apart.

The latest ‘Solidor’s 7 Step Journey’ video takes consumers through the ordering process from the Solidor website through to online design, installer visit, measurement and survey, quote, manufacture and finally to installation. It’s reassuring video for consumers helping them understand what happens throughout the sales, manufacturing and installation process.

The security video shows a determined thief attempting to break in through a Solidor front door and giving up after 2 minutes unable to break the lock, get past the

Gareth Mobley, managing director of Solidor Group comments: ‘It’s important for us to continue to market our unique products in innovative and engaging ways. Consumers are now asking for a Solidor by name, testament to our brand and

highly regarded product design.’

To view the videos for your self log on to www.solidor. co.uk or through YouTube at www.youtube.com/ user/SolidorLtd. For other information including details on their Recommended Installer campaign, then call their sales office on 01782 847300, e-mail enquiries@ solidor.co.uk or add to their Twitter following @ solidorltd.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0057

Purplex launch

Victory Blue

composite door builder

3RD

military Grey

DoorColour - the only paint system designed specifically for GRP doors!

Purchase the entire system including colour formulator, colourants, swatches and materials for both PVC frames and GRP doors, to create any colour from: • RAL • Pantone • BS • Dulux • Farrow and Ball

Purplex, the specialist marketing agency for the glazing industry, has launched a new online composite door builder designed to help companies capture more website sales leads.

The builder can integrate into any website and enables visitors to select their door style, colour, glass and hardware options within a few seconds, then enter their details to receive a quote.

“Having a static website with a few images is no longer enough” explains Purplex head of digital, Adi Day. “Websites with tools such as a door builder have higher visitor engagement

Or choose from the range of 25 fantastic pre-mixed colours.

and this builds trust, brand awareness and dramatically increases sales leads.”

Online designers were pioneered by the automotive industry, with leading car brands offering visitors the chance to select models, colour schemes and options online. The composite door builder is the latest in a range of interactive web tools from Purplex – the line-up already includes a sash window designer and bi-fold door builder, along with options such as ‘brickwork selector’ that enables visitors to compare frame colours against brickwork finishes.

“The online tools are part of a portfolio of web and online marketing strategies designed to attract more visitor traffic and increase lead capture. They are cross-browser compatible so whether a visitor is using Internet Explorer, Safari, Chrome or Firefox they enjoy the same experience” adds Adi. Purplex is a full-service, integrated marketing agency with 40 full time staff. It specialises in strategy, PR, branding and digital marketing with clients across the trade, retail and commercial markets.

RegaLead Limited Columbus House I Altrincham Road Sharston I Manchester M22 9AF Telephone 0161 946 1164 Email sales@regalead.co.uk www.regalead.co.uk

Visit www.purplexmarketing.co.uk or call us on 01934 808132 to find out more.

1014/0056

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Solidor have just launched Solidor TV on their consumer-facing website, with three videos covering security, the ‘Sounds Like a Solidor’ campaign and the recent ‘Solidor’s 7 Step Journey’, showing the process from enquiry through to installation.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0058

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

IT’S TIME TO GET SMART!

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www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

35

COMPOSITE DOORS EXPERT

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Frame Fast’s composite door FAB & SOLID

offers market-leading credentials Frame Fast UK has developed a reputation for the quality of its products and its composite door are no exception. In fact, its composite doors offer market-leading thermal efficiency, stunning aesthetics and exceptional security. Nigel Leivers of Frame Fast says, “We are proud of the quality of the products we supply and our composite doors are the perfect example of this.”

and four distinct colour ranges plus the option of any RAL colour on request, which means that homeowners can personalise their door choice. This personalisation aspect is continued in the 12 different glass designs, 11 of which are triple glazed for extra strength and lower maintenance because the decorative pane is encapsulated between two clear panes.

Recent independent tests have proved Frame Fast’s composite door to be the most thermally efficient on the market – 17% better than its nearest rival. Nigel says, “With energy bills rising all the time, homeowners are looking for products that will help them use less energy. The exceptional thermal efficiency of our doors does exactly that.”

The security of the composite door completes a trio of quality benefits. It has passed the rigorous PAS 24 2012 Enhanced Security and has Secured by Design endorsement.

It has high quality multi-point locks, an impact resistant GRP skin with rigid polymer subframe and a high-density, CFC-free polyurethane foam core. In fact, it’s so secure it can’t be forced within a reasonable timeframe, even with the aid of a police issue battering ram.

Of course, while thermal efficiency is vital, most homeowners are equally concerned with the aesthetics. Frame Fast’s door has exceptional kerb appeal with its stunningly authentic wood grain finish and matching glazing cassette. There are 12 door designs

Nigel concludes, “Any fabricator or installer looking to add a high quality composite door to their portfolio need look no further.”

Trade fabricator Frame Fast is based in a 30,000 sq ft, purpose-designed production facility in Derby and manufactures a range of doors, windows, conservatories, conservatory roofing systems and aluminium products.

Alongside an uncompromising approach to product quality, the Frame Fast team are also committed to customer care and they value every customer whether they purchase one frame or one thousand frames. This approach to business has seen it become the region’s largest trade fabricator of PVC-U doors, windows and conservatories.

Tel: 01332 344459 - www.framefastuk.com READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0060

COMPOSITES

Newton Abbot based Fab Frames Ltd are the latest trade fabricator to take on board the Solidor slab, as they look to promote the merits of a better composite door to their customer network in the South West of the country.

Having previously bought in imported GRP/ paint finished doors, Mike Taylor and the team at Fab Frames were being increasingly asked for a Solidor composite door and felt that they had to response to overwhelming customer demand. Just seven months on and the company have now grown sales to 60 door slabs per month, harnessing the 17 different colours and woodgrains inside and out, among other key product features.

Fab Frames was established in 1998 and is one of the largest trade frame manufacturers in the South West, manufacturing 500 frames a week with a customer focused attitude and ability to offer enhanced levels of support both on-site and through their customer support function. Composite doors have now become their fastest growing product range thanks to Solidor and they have recently added the interactive Door Designer facility to their website at www.fabframes.net to further continue the momentum.

Mike Taylor, managing director of Fab Frames commented: ‘The decision to change to Solidor was an easy one given the

From left to right: Mike Taylor (Fab Frames with Lee Williams, Solidor).

number of requests from our customers.

Just 7 months on and our decision has been vindicated as the product is superb as is every element of support that we get from them and subsequently, our sales growth has been incredible.’

Lee Williams, sales director of Solidor concludes: ‘Fab Frames is an important customer for us and strategically supports the South West region. It’s now clear that both consumers and trade customers are asking for a Solidor by name and with good with good reason, we have so many USP’s that other door companies simply can’t match.’

To find out more about Fab Frames, log on to www.fabframes.net, e-mail sales@fabframes. net or call the sales office on 01626 333713.

For information on Solidor including their Recommended Installer campaign then log on to www.solidor.co.uk, e-mail enquiries@ solidor.co.uk or call their sales office on 01782 847300. You can also add to their Twitter following @solidorltd.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0061

Investment strengthens

Vista’s position in door market Following on from their 2013 investment of an edgebander, beam saw and paint spray booth, Merseyside based Vista has recently purchased an additional saw, welder and corner cleaner, further strengthening their position as one of the UK’s leading composite door and PVC-u panel manufacturers.

The new machines are now fully operational from Vista’s 50,000 square foot factory and will allow the company to produce higher volumes while retaining the exceptional quality standards for which they are renowned.

Vista’s managing director Keith Sadler discusses the news: “Vista have experienced incredible demand in 2014 and we decided now was a good time to increase our manufacturing capacity. We anticipate the number of fabricators and installers buyingin XtremeDoor will only increase over time

36

and the new machinery means we are well prepared for future growth.”

Vista is one of the UK’s largest door manufacturers, producing 2,900 composite doors and 6,000 PVC-u panels on average every month. Vista’s new composite door, XtremeDoor, is the most highly specified door on the market. It is made with the Nan Ya GRP composite slab and has a five point lock, triple sealed outerfame and stainless steel hardware with a 25 year guarantee as standard.

“Most similarly priced composite doors have a two or three point lock, double sealed outerframe and zinc hardware so you can see why XtremeDoor stands out from the competition” Keith adds. “XtremeDoor can achieve a U-value of just 0.8 in some styles and recent tests have proved it to be 19% more thermally efficient than the solid timber core composite door and 17% more thermally

efficient than the traditional timber door – all great selling points for Vista customers.”

thick and is available in a choice of colours and styles.

Vista also recently launched a new thicker PVC-u panel designed to integrate with Modus, Eurocells’ new triple glazed window system. The panel is available up to 44mm

For more information call 01516081423 or visit www.vistapanels.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0062

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

COMPOSITE DOORS EXPERT

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

The One Lite bi-fold door adds even more

choice & value to the Distinction Doors portfolio Distinction Doors, the UK’s leading supplier of GRP composite doors, has just announced a partnership with The Folding Sliding Door Company, who utilise the Fold N Slide hardware range, to offer fabricators and installers a unique GRP composite bi-fold door package.

Distinction Doors’ Marketing Manager Chantel Roach says, “The combination of the quality and innovation of our One Lite bi-fold door plus the quality of the overall package is very exciting and we are delighted to be launching it onto the market.”

As Chantel says, Distinction’s One Lite GRP composite bi-fold door offers outstanding quality and innovation. This is particularly evident in the door’s track. It uses an inline, out of sight system with concealed running gear. This makes it water-resistant as well as incredibly resistant to attack – the door meets

BS 6375 standards and is PAS24 proven. What’s more, the door’s tracking uses stainless steel with sealed bearings for maintenance-free, trouble-free use, eliminating the operational quirks often associated with lesser bi-fold

doors. One Lite is available in white and a variety of wood stain options with future plans to offer buff/buff or buff/white for customers choosing to finish and manufacture the doors themselves. The bi-fold door sets will be

manufactured by Distinction’s project partner The Folding Sliding Door Company and will be delivered in kit form (pre-prepped and ready-made) direct to the customer for easy assembly/installation on-site. Chantel says, “We know from our longstanding relationship with The Folding Sliding Door Company that the team has the same commitment to quality as we do and we’re delighted that they will be responsible for manufacturing and supplying this product offering.”

The addition of GRP composite bi-fold doors to the Distinction Doors’ range is a positive move in response to the growing market and will allow homeowners to benefit from the low maintenance, trouble free performance and elegant aesthetics that GRP composite doors can offer and further complement Distinction’s standard GRP door range.

The quality of Distinction’s GRP composite doors is renowned in the industry. The innovative features and elegance of its One Lite GRP composite bi-fold door means the company looks set to extend this reputation to a new area.

Tel: 0845 2000 816 - www.distinctiondoors.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0063

1014/0064

www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

37

COMPOSITE DOORS EXPERT

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

PRIME TV SLOT FOR HURST COMPOSITE DOOR A bold red composite door from Hurst Plastics has been used to make a stunning entranceway on a property which features in a major home renovation TV series.

In the brand new series ‘The 100k House: Tricks of the Trade’ which airs on BBC Two on Tuesdays at 8pm, property experts Kieran Long and Piers Taylor help owners on very tight budgets to transform their unsuitable properties into dream homes.

DOORCO CELEBRATES 3000th DOOR

THROUGH ITS CUSTOM PAINT LINE DoorCo, the recently re-branded supplier of Capstone composite doors, is celebrating the 3000th door to go through the company’s in-house paint line in the two years since the system was installed at its Macclesfield factory.

The system was designed and installed specifically for the GRP door market using Regalead’s Color Spray colour systems and Renolit foils to provide consistently accurate and high quality matches. A full range of RAL colours is provided in addition to authentic stained finishes. Glazing cassettes and accessories are painted with the panels to ensure an exact colour match.

Products and processes including controlled drying techniques have been developed specifically for the company’s Capstone GRP

doors. An intensive quality control system ensures that every door that leaves the factory is produced to the highest standards to maintain the exceptional finishes for which Capstone doors have become identified. A 10-year guarantee given with every DoorCo GRP residential door is therefore offered with complete confidence.

Couple Ronnie and Nicky Smith bought their 1950s bungalow in High Wycombe three years ago, but the layout was impractical for family living. With a modest £49,000 renovation budget and the expertise of TV architect Piers Taylor, the couple have used imaginative design solutions to overhaul their property and create a fantastic family home for themselves and their two young children.

As part of the ambitious project, the couple moved the front door to the side of the property and fitted the contemporary Bohemia Eclipse composite door from Hurst Plastics. The door, features Hurst’s ‘Brilliance’ decorative glass and architectural hardware to make a bold, modern statement.

DoorCo managing director Dan Sullivan says the milestone is more than just a number: “More than 3000 doors through our own in-house paint line makes DoorCo one of the most experienced suppliers of custom finished resi’ doors in the UK. We control all of our own processes and can therefore offer the highest quality finishes in the market with complete confidence.”

Homeowner Ronnie Smith said: “This has been an exhausting project but we are really proud of the end result. We never dreamed this house could look so good. We now have a beautiful and practical four bed family home with plenty of space for the children. And the Hurst composite door provided the perfect finishing touch. It’s the first thing people notice when they arrive and we’ve had some really positive comments about how great it looks. The design of the door looks like a giant smile, so we call it the ‘happy door’ it’s a very fitting nickname after such a huge renovation!’”

Mark Atkinson, Sales Director at Hurst Plastics, added: “We were delighted to supply our composite door to Ronnie and Nicky. They have completed a fantastic transformation and the door really complements their lovely new home.”

Hurst’s Bohemia collection of composite doors is a designer selection of door styles, unique colours and architectural hardware with a modern edge. Like all Hurst composite doors, it combines the highest levels of security and weather performance with enviable good looks.

The Bohemia Collection features in Hurst’s latest composite door brochure. For further details on this brochure or to request a copy, please contact the Marketing department on 01482 790790 or visit www.hurst-plastics.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0065

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0066

New machinery swings into action at Phoenix Doors Phoenix Doors, part of MASCO UK Window Group Ltd, has increased its manufacturing space and invested significantly in new production machinery to take the company’s GRP composite door manufacturing capability to the next level of growth.

This includes an SCM CNC Tech Z2 52D machining centre,

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which joined two existing single-bed units at the company’s enlarged GRP composite door manufacturing site in August. An additional edge bander is due to be delivered later this year. Capable of prepping two doors in tandem, the Tech Z2 adds greater precision

and flexibility to their weekly production capacity, increasing this by up to 50% on current levels. This additional capability also allows for more planned maintenance across the entire composite door manufacturing operation.

“With the strength of the MASCO Group behind us, we are continuing to invest in machinery, systems and people to deliver the best possible products and customer service,” comments Haydon Statham, Phoenix Doors’ Sales Director.

employs two full-time service engineers looking after machinery at its PVC-U door panels and composite door facilities.

Expansion into a fourth unit at its Bluntisham site has also enhanced its production capabilities.

“The new CNC machining centre is an important investment for us as we continue to grow, while giving us the ability to meet shorter lead times,” he continues.

Haydon adds: “Investment, driven by the Group, is continuing to propel us forwards, increasing our responsiveness to new opportunities and the confidence factor for our customers. As the complete door solution company for the retail replacement market, it’s vital to stay ahead of the game.”

“An added benefit is that it also gives us seamless continuous production without any downtime.

Autumn is traditionally a busy time for us, so the new CNC’s arrival is particularly timely as we gear up for around 570 to 585 composite doors per week.”

In response to its sustained growth, Phoenix Doors now

Contact Phoenix Doors on 01487 740469, email info@phoenixdoorpanels.co.uk or visit the website at www.phoenixdoorpanels.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0067

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

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COMPOSITE DOORS EXPERT

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

DIGITAL DONE FOR DUNRAVEN WITH HURST An increased consumer demand for personalised and individual products has led to a sharp rise in Hurst Plastics’ Direct Digital Glass printing (DDG) technology.

The company has reported that orders for its personalised glass designs have quadrupled in the last three months.

The clever technique, which is exclusive to Hurst Plastics, can reproduce any image directly onto glass to create a truly unique entrance door.

“There is a real appetite for personalised products with homeowners now using them widely to individualise their properties,” says Mark Atkinson, Sales Director at Hurst Plastics. “Our unique digital glass printing service allows installers to create a completely bespoke glass design for a customer’s front door and bring an individual touch to their home. No longer restricted by standard glass designs, homeowners can use any image they want to create something really personal as an entrance into their home,” he adds.

National fabricator Dunraven has been working with Hurst for nearly a decade and has recently supplied a series of personalised glass designs to its customers. Ryan White, Group Marketing Manager at Dunraven, says: “We were seeing an increase in demand for more intricate glass designs which were impractical to create using traditional methods. We had a sample of Hurst’s printed glass made up and it was fantastically received by customers.

The positive feedback prompted us to actively sell the product and we are anticipating more demand from customers as the technique catches on with them.”

IT’S A TRU-LY SOLID COMPOSITE DOOR TruFrame, the UK’s largest fabricator of the Liniar window and door system, are the latest high profile company to take on Solidor’s premium range of solid hardwood core composite door slabs, adding to their already impressive product portfolio.

Dunraven has created a selection of completely unique glass designs for its domestic customers. The designs have been supplied both as a single glazed unit and within a complete Hurst door.

Intelligent printing technology recreates the image onto a piece of glass, which is then fitted into an existing door or a new Hurst door panel. The glass is fully guaranteed and is weather and UV fade resistant.

Dunraven was established in 1978 and now employs more than 500 staff. The company - one of the top 10 fabricators in the UK fabricates and delivers around 2000 products per week. Hurst supplies a selection of moulded, feature and flat PVC-U door panels to Dunraven. The Bridgend-based fabricator chose Hurst as a key supplier because of Hurst’s strong heritage, competitive prices, comprehensive guarantees, short lead times and superior product quality, which virtually eradicated the warping issues that had plagued Dunraven with previous suppliers.

For further details on Hurst’s DDG technology or to request a copy of one of Hurst’s brochures, please contact the Marketing department on 01482 790790 or visit www.hurst-plastics.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0069

The Melton Mowbray based fabricator, are a company committed to supplying the very highest levels of product quality and service.

Their Solidor composite door offering will be fitted with industry leading locking systems from Maco and Winkhaus, along with suited handles, hinges and letterplates from Mila’s ProLinea range. The solid

core slabs will be set into Liniar’s six-chambered Energy Plus door frames, which are available from TruFrame in 15 different coloured and woodgrain finishes, with just a ten day turnaround.

Patrick Firmager, marketing director of TruFrame comments: ‘It’s important for us as a business to offer our customers the very best and we believe the Solidor slab is head and shoulders above anything else. This is an exciting addition to our range and one that our customers are already excited about. We look forward to enhancing an already market leading product with our signature hand finishing process and attention to detail.’

Gareth Mobley, managing director of Solidor Group concludes: ‘We’re delighted to finally list TruFrame as one of our slab-only manufacturers, as we continue to build our complete offering for the composite door market.

Enquiries are on the increase from door manufacturers and we’re pleased to be able to satisfy their demand for a better door slab!’

Solidor continues to break new ground in the composite door sector with a number of industry firsts. The pioneering premium door slab manufacturer now offers its customer a ‘one-stop shop’ for composite doors and all related components and accessories, from door furniture to bespoke glass designs.

To find out more about TruFrame, visit www. truframe.co.uk, e-mail sales@truframe.co.uk or call our enquiries team on 01664 410140. You can also follow @truframe on Twitter.

For more information on Solidor, visit www.solidor. co.uk, e-mail enquiries@ solidor.co.uk or call their sales office on 01782 847300. You can also add to their Twitter following @ solidorltd.

From left to right: Patrick Firmager (TruFrame) with Gareth Mobley (Solidor).

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0070

Susan & Karen raise hundreds on ‘Girl’s Night Out’ for Pendleside Hospice

Network VEKA's Office Manager, Susan Lunney, and Karen Galawan (PA to VEKA's Sales and Marketing Director) have taken part in a sponsored walk to raise money for the local hospice that cared for their late sister Anne.

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Susan and Karen took part in Pendleside Hospice's 'Girl's Night Out' 10k walk with two of their daughters, Shelley and Angela, and raised almost £400 for the cause.

Susan explains: “Karen and I lost our sister Anne on the 9th May 2014, she died in Pendleside Hospice and the staff worked tirelessly to make her last three weeks comfortable and happy - they attended to her every need and really couldn't have done more for her. Being able to raise some money for the Hospice is our way of thanking the

staff for all they do for everyone in their care.

Anne was amazed by their attention, care and dedication.

“The 10k walk took place at 8pm and was followed by a celebration at Burnley Football Club. The event was well attended and it was a fantastic atmosphere, we had a great time for a good cause and we were delighted to contribute nearly £400.”

Tel: 01282 473170 - www.networkveka.co.uk

Picture (courtesy of Lancashire Evening Telegraph) shows L-R: Angela, Karen, Susan and Shelley.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0071

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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FACE TO FACE

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

THIS MONTH: Robert Gyde Supply Chain Analyst, Mila Coventry born Robert Gyde, now in his 32nd year at Mila talks to us at Glass News about his interests, regrets, career and his future.

It’s all about you Where you were born and where do you currently live?

I was born in Coventry but now live in Daventry – not far from Mila’s head office.

What is your education and what did you excel in at school?

I was educated in Nuneaton at a school which at the time had one of the few rural studies departments in the county and that got me really interested in agriculture and the outdoors. As a result I went on to Moreton Morrell agricultural college to study lots of aspects of farming before going to work on a farm in nearby Bretford.

Do you have a favourite sport and what are your other interests?

I’m a keen golfer and a bit of a film buff but I’m truly passionate about football and my beloved Coventry City. Seeing them back at the Ricoh Arena this season has given me a ridiculous amount of pleasure.

“I’m a real tech nerd and can generally be relied upon to have the latest version of most things.”

What’s your biggest regret?

Is there a talent you would like to enhance?

I’m sad to say it’s the fact that I haven’t stopped smoking… yet!

I’m not sure it’s really a talent but I’ve managed to amass an encyclopaedic knowledge of Mila part numbers over the years. It comes in useful in the office and when I’m talking to customers and suppliers but I recognise that it’s not the best party trick in the world.

Is there something, or someone that inspires you?

I’m going to have to say my twin brother, and Mila’s MD, Richard aren’t I? In all honesty, I admire the way in which he has continually led the business to success and developed a genuinely passionate team around him – whether it’s conceiving ideas for new products, ensuring delivery of market leading services or his downto-earth approach and ‘open door policy’ towards every member of staff.

and your future What would you like to do if you weren’t in this industry?

I’d like to think that I would be running my own fishery – breeding fish and providing a place for anglers to come and indulge their hobby.

What is the temptation you can’t resist?

Definitely gadgets. I’m a real tech nerd and can generally be relied upon to have the latest version of most things – whether it’s a phone, a tablet, a laptop or a TV.

your career When and how did you join this industry?

I’ve been in the industry since I joined Mila 32 years ago. After Richard, I’m the longest servicing employee here. I joined when I agreed to help out my Dad, who was Mila’s sales manager at

the time, with some work in the warehouse. Before I knew it, I was working at Mila in Denmark alongside Michael Davison and Lars Borrup-Neilson who were the original founders of the business and really learning the ropes. I spent about a year out there and picked up some useful Danish language skills along the way. When I came back to the UK, I worked in sales and in purchasing, becoming first Purchasing Manager and then Supply Chain Analyst six years ago.

I now work closely with suppliers in the Far East as part of Mila’s award winning logistics team.

The job you do in 25 words…

Is there a mistake you’d like to correct?

It’s my job to make sure we always have the products in stock to meet customers’ demands.

I never take enough holidays.

As a long serving employee, I’m rewarded with 27 days off a year but invariably I never use up my holiday allowance, either because I’m too involved in a project or I just can’t bear to be away from Mila!

It’s a mix of market analysis and global supply chain liaison.

What is your greatest achievement?

Do you have a particular ambition?

I’d like to travel to New Zealand – perhaps I should use some of my unused holiday allowance to make it happen.

How do you want to be remembered?

Probably for my dry wit and my one liners - they get you a long way in this industry!

I started my career working in agriculture and I’ve always loved the outdoors so I’d have to say that mastering the art of fly fishing is high on my list of personal achievements.

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.

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October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

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WINDOWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

KJM Windows relies on SWISSPACER for triple Triple glazing is growing fast and installers want to know that the products they offer will achieve the best results for homeowners.

That’s why KJM Windows uses SWISSPACER. KJM Windows installs windows, doors and conservatories for homeowners in the Hampshire area. KJM began using SWISSPACER with the launch of the Windows Energy Rating scheme in 2005.

KJM is passionate about providing homeowners with the best performing windows. SWISSPACER, the world’s leading warm edge spacer bar, is designed to achieve the best energy ratings and give long lasting performance. SWISSPACER also helps KJM achieve brilliant results in its triple glazed units. By using SWISSPACER, KJM offers

triple glazed windows with U-Values as low as 0.8. KJM is ahead of the market and strongly believes that triple glazing will grow as targets for energy efficiency get higher.

Mark Pearce, Managing Director and Owner of KJM Windows, says: “We push triple glazing because it’s the way the market is going. When you explain to homeowners the benefits of triple glazing they’re convinced that it’s right for them. It’s a way of futureproofing their homes and limiting the impact of rising heating bills.” Mark adds: “SWISSPACER gives us the best energy performance and the reliability we demand from our windows. We’re very happy with SWISSPACER.” SWISSPACER’s Marketing & Sales Manager, Vic De Costa, says: “It’s great to get such positive feedback from Mark. SWISSPACER is ideal for triple glazing because it offers excellent thermal performance and longlasting results. It’s a strong, rigid spacer bar so is strong enough to cope with the extra weight of a third pane of glass.”

Call SWISSPACER on 0845 601 1265 for more information or visit www.swisspacer.com.

Follow SWISSPACER @Ultimate_Spacer.

For KJM Windows call 01264 359355 or visit www.kjmgroup.co.uk.

KJM Windows uses SWISSPACER for the best results.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0074

MD, Bill Ainsworth, opens window on the

future of enduring Darwen fabricator

One of the UK’s longest-standing VEKA fabricators has undergone a dramatic rebranding, better reflecting its focus on window projects as opposed to general building contracts.

The original company, based on Borough Road in Darwen, had traded for over 40 years and worked with VEKA for almost 30.

Now named Darwen Windows, the team is keen to continue offering the same level of quality, service and fast turnarounds that first established its success.

MD, Bill Ainsworth, explains: “We’re excited to have unveiled a brand new website that

guides visitors through the range of work Darwen Windows undertakes. Whether it’s doors, windows, a conservatory, or all three, customers can be confident of our experience and expertise, especially after checking out the photos of completed work on our new Facebook and Twitter profiles.”

NEW OUTWARD-OPENING WINDOW FROM SCHUECO UK DELIVERS QUALITY & ECONOMY IN ONE SYSTEM New from market-leader Schueco UK Ltd is AWS 70 SC, an insulated, outwardopening window that delivers Schueco ‘build quality’ at an economical price, providing a perfect solution for new and replacement windows in houses and apartments, light commercial buildings, local authority properties, schools and clinics.

With a depth of 70 mm, slim sightlines from 63.5 mm (outer frame/vent) and a choice of five vent profiles offering optimum cost/size/ weight options, Schueco AWS 70 SC is ideal for the fenestration in punched openings, ribbon windows and curtain walling.

The system can accommodate double- or triple-glazed units and achieves a typical ‘U’ value of 1.5 W/m2K with 1.0 W/ m2K glazing units, which makes it compliant with

Document L. In addition, a WER up to ‘A’ is an option.

There is a choice of standard or heavy-duty stainless-steel friction hinges, together with multipoint locking for large vents.

The window has opening limiters and its PAS 24 rating means that it offers a high level of security.

Importantly, the window’s versatility in use is matched by the ease with which it can be fabricated.

Using only the minimum number of profiles, it is possible to manufacture a wide variety of sightlines, sizes and weights from slim-line to heavy-duty.

“There is a choice of standard or heavyduty stainless-steel friction hinges.”

Profiles can be pre-rolled or customer-rolled and Schueco’s tried-andtested T-cleat and corner technology ensures strong joints that will last. Corner joints, which may be crimped or nailed, further benefit from a special metal adhesive.

There is a projecting sill option and profiles may be specified with different colours on the inside and outside faces. 90o and variable-angle connections mean bay windows can be easily accommodated and the system is also fully compatible with Schueco ADS 70 doors.

Hinges precision-fix to profiles obviating the use of packers, while ISR stainless-steel fabrication screws combined with profile location points in all hardware components, result in increased throughput and pin-point accuracy every time.

“The new logo’s great and really reflects the streamlining that’s taken place within the company. Of course, our offering to customers will maintain the same high standards we’ve always upheld, and we look forward to welcoming new business under the umbrella of Darwen Windows.”

Bill recalls working with VEKA since the early 1980s, when profile was still imported from Germany prior to advent of the Burnley plant.

“We look forward to continuing what must be one of the longest relationships with VEKA of any UK fabricator, as we know that our customers appreciate the levels of quality and service available. With a name like VEKA behind you, the opportunity to grow your business is always there – and we certainly have aspirations for expansion.”

Contact Darwen Windows on 01254 706 101 and check out their new website at www.darwenwindows.co.uk.

A recent installation by Darwen Windows at Philips High School in Whitefield, North Manchester.

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READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0075

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0076

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

A sash window

for any budget Whether you have a premium project that demands the market’s most authentic sash window, or a new development that needs something more price-sensitive, Roseview Windows have the right product for you.

Ultimate Rose

Ultimate Rose Full mechanical joints, run-through sash horns, the industry’s slimmest sightlines – this window won a G13 award for being the most authentic on the market.

Heritage Rose

Charisma Rose

We manufacture three PVC-u sash windows, meaning you can cater for a wide range of budgets and applications. We deliver nationwide and offer full technical back-up and marketing support, giving you all the ammunition you need to succeed in the lucrative sash window market.

Heritage Rose Authentic features including the industry’s slimmest sightlines and a deep bottom rail – very popular among high-end discerning homeowners.

Charisma Rose A contemporary sash window – ideal for new build or commercial contracts.

Scan Here

Call our new business team today on 01234 712 657 E: trade@roseview.co.uk www.roseview.co.uk Follow us: twitter.com/roseviewwindows Yardley Road Industrial Estate, Olney, Bucks, MK46 5EA

1014/0077

www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

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WINDOWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

BONMAHON’S RUBY ANNIVERSARY Trojan’s Pegasus High Security Window Lock offers uncompromising security The Trojan Group is renowned for delivering innovative hardware products that do their job exceptionally well.

This is perfectly demonstrated in its new Pegasus High Security Window Lock.

The Pegasus High Security Window Lock has multi point locking and guaranteed centre and corner locking for additional security with every installation. It has an extended 20mm reverse locking action ensures the lock which provides enhanced security. What’s more, when windows

are jemmy attacked, the locking actions intensify rather than disengaging as is the case on most locks. The strength of the security credentials are demonstrated in the lock’s PAS 24 accreditation when fitted as part of a window assembly.

Trojan’s Group Managing Director, Tony Chadwick says, “The Pegasus Window Lock is packed with features that are certain to appeal to security-conscious homeowners. It can be seen as ‘more than just a lock’ and is therefore a valuable addition to salespeople’s armoury.”

The security benefits of the Pegasus sit alongside a wealth of other benefits that are certain to appeal to fabricators and installers. It is one size fits all, so a single lock is suitable for all sashes from 400mm to 1750mm,

“The Pegasus Window Lock is packed with features that are certain to appeal to security-conscious homeowners. It can be seen as ‘more than just a lock’ and is therefore a valuable addition to salespeople’s armoury.” giving valuable economies of scale. It’s quick and easy to install too because the keeps are easy to position in the centre and corner of the windows for every application and gasket compression can be adjusted up to 0.75mm.

Offset applications are also achievable from the standard product and the compact central gearbox, which is just 65mm long, means minimal routing is required.

The lock is manufactured using high grade zinc alloy, grades 430 and 304 stainless steel and GF nylon and has been independently tested to EN1191 and BS EN 1670 Class 5. Evidence of the quality of lock is demonstrated in its 10 year guarantee against mechanical failure.

Waterford-based Bonmahon Joinery & uPVC have just celebrated their 40 year anniversary and are the oldest Kömmerling customer in Ireland, with profiles being supplied by Profile Systems for nearly 20 years.

The business began back in 1973 when Mr. John Roche, a qualified carpenter began manufacturing timber windows and doors and formed Bonmahon Joinery & uPVC Ltd. The company began as a small business but through quality workmanship and local support, the company grew and in 1979 the first purpose built factory was built.

Today, the factory area has tripled in size to accommodate the joinery, PVCu and aluminium product range for both the domestic and commercial sectors. Akin to it’s roots, the company remains a family run business under the leadership of John Roche.

Over the years the company has built an impressive reputation as on of Ireland’s most respected fabricators of the C70 Gold® system.

Profile Systems are Ireland’s leading distributor for PVCu and aluminium window and door systems, supplying Profine products under the KBE and Kömmerling brands

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0078

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Paul McCarthy, sales director of Profile Systems comments: ‘This is an incredible achievement and testament to the way in which they run the business. It also fully represents the importance and performance of the Kömmerling products in Ireland through Profile Systems.’

Kevin Warner, head of sales and marketing for profine UK concludes: ‘We have a very strong relationship with Profile Systems and their customer base, as Ireland is of strategic importance to us. Congratulations to John and the family team at Bonmahon.’

For further information on Profile Systems log on to www.profilesystems.ie, e-mail info@ profilesystems.ie on call +353 (0)1890 454501.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0079

illbruck sealants for low carbon home A private residential development near Chelmsford in Essex has achieved air leakage rates within the limits required for the PassivHaus standard, thanks in part to the specification of illbruck’s i3 sealant system for the installation of three different joinery systems within the highly insulated elevations.

The near-to-zero carbon property has been constructed for a private client by Abacus Build, while Kent-based Ecomerchant was responsible for supplying and installing the triple glazed door and window systems.

This was done using a combination of three

Tony concludes, “The Pegasus High Security Window Lock delivers in all areas: it has outstanding security credentials while also offering excellent cost savings.” And that’s why the lock is certain to join the other products in Trojan’s portfolio as one that adds value where it matters..

Tel: 01922 713 933 www.trojangroup.com

across the whole island for over 18 years.

Most recently they have made their own developments to the Kömmerling C70 Gold® system to achieve a u-value of just 0.8W/m2K, alongside the introduction of the impressive lift and slide PremiDoor.

illbruck products – plus an adhesive – that together make up the manufacturer’s BBA accredited i3 system.

When the first pressure test was carried out the consultants registered an air leakage rate of 0.66 cubic metres per hour, per square metre of wall area. It is anticipated that when all of the plastering work is completed, the final air test will show a further improvement of 0.1 m3/m2/hr.

A spokesman for Ecomerchant says: “We supplied a combination of Internorm triple glazed windows along with Bohler units, and Solarlux sliding folding doors. This was the first time as an installer that we had employed illbruck sealants and we found it to be a very good system. The Compriband TP600, in particular, is a nice product to use.” illbruck Compriband TP600 forms the primary weather seal on the outside of the frames. illbruck ME500 Duo Flexible Window Membrane created the main air seal and was bonded to the timber frame structure with integral self-adhesive strips with Tremco SP525 used for overlaps and corners.

Remaining gaps around the installed window frame are taken up using illbruck FM230 Window Seal Foam for a totally integrated approach to fitting door and window frames.

A private residential development near Chelmsford in Essex has achieved air leakag rates within the limits required for the PassivHaus standard, thanks in part to the specification of illbruck’s i3 sealant system.

For further information on tremco illbruck, please visit www.tremco-illbruck.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0080

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

WINDOWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

New ISO-BLOCO FILLER seals cavity wall gaps

New ISO-BLOCO FILLER from ISOChemie provides a fast and cost effective solution for sealing the cavity wall and weatherproofing the window in a check reveal situation.

Specifically developed for cavity walls applications, ISO BLOCO FILLER is fitted between the inner and outer brick walls to provide a high performance, reliable and effective sealing tape solution for all weather protection.

A special elastic foam filler block provides the basis for sealing the window against the brickwork before forming an

airtight closure between the window and the wall aperture to ensure compliance with window energy saving regulations (EnEV) and the RAL quality assurance association. The second component is a foam sealing bar designed to seal the window frame against the outer wall and protect the window connection joint against the elements.

ISO-BLOCO FILLER can be installed all the way around the cavity aperture to provide an airtight seal, providing an ideal solution for check reveals of up to 30% Resistant to temperatures between -30ºC to +90ºC, product is available in a range of options depending on installation requirements: 1000 x 60 x 60 for gaps 60 – 44mm; 1000 x 60 x 80 for gaps 80 – 60mm, and 1000 x 60 x 100 for gaps 100 – 80mm.

ISO-Chemie is one of Europe’s main producers of impregnated foam sealants, specialising in the manufacturer of foam products from polyethylene (EPE), polypropylene (EPP) and polyurethane (PUR) using the latest production techniques.

The company’s UK technical and distribution operation is based in the North East of England, supported by a dedicated logistics service to ensure customer orders are completed as quickly and efficiently as possible (usually next-day delivery).

More at www.iso-chemie.co.uk or email p.thompson@iso-chemie.co.uk.

Tel: 01207 566874

New ISO-BLOCO FILLER from ISO-Chemie provides improved window cavity sealing.

A special elastic foam filler block provides the basis for sealing the window against the brickwork before forming an airtight closure between the window and the wall aperture to ensure compliance with window energy saving regulations (EnEV) and the RAL quality assurance association.”

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0081

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WINDOWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Stevenswood soon to reach 2,000 frames a week SAINT-GOBAIN RAISES THE BAR WITH TOUGHER, WARMER PLANITHERM TOTAL + as it settles into new 55,000 square foot home Europe’s leading low-E glass has now been made better than ever with the launch of the next evolution of the acclaimed PLANITHERM TOTAL+ from Saint-Gobain Glass.

The new PLANITHERM TOTAL+ has an increased g-value, making higher WERs more achievable, and also an even more robust coating to maximise manufacturers’ yield and reduce associated losses.

The g-value is stepped up from 0.71 to 0.73 thanks to the use of SGG’s new lower-iron PLANICLEAR float substrate and further enhancements to the coating, giving not only higher solar gain to contribute to WER banding but also improved aesthetics through its greater transparency.

For IGU manufacturers, its improved magnetron coating has greater mechanical strength and scratchresistance, reducing the wastage from accidental damage and so helping to achieve higher yield ratios.

Saint-Gobain Glass Marketing Manager, Susan Lambeth said: “This new PLANITHERM TOTAL+ not only gives higher WER performance, including the ability to deliver the new A+ band more easily, but also greater efficiencies to our customer, the IGU manufacturer.

PLANITHERM TOTAL+ is one of the core elements of the residential window industry so we know these developments will be welcomed by many.

“Saint-Gobain Glass has always been a world leader in magnetron coating technology, as well as the development of all kinds of advanced glazing and this latest evolution will be a major factor in our retaining this lead.”

PLANICLEAR, which forms the substrate of the new PLANITHERM TOTAL+ was launched earlier this year as a lower-iron glass, giving higher light transmission and solar gain without the price-exclusivity of a specialist full low-iron product.

PLANITHERM has been a residential market leader for over 12 years. As well as undergoing constant evolution to retain that lead, the brand has been strongly supported by TV consumer advertising and in the trade by its unique Planitherm Installer Network and extensive marketing support material.

For more information on Saint-Gobain visit www. saint-gobain-glass.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0084

This July saw VEKA fabricator Stevenswood relocate from its home of 17 years as it completed a move to a new, purpose-built facility in Grange Road, Livingston.

Established in 1997, the Scottish fabricator quickly outgrew its original 8,000 square feet premises, eventually occupying six units totalling 28,000 square feet on the Houstoun Trading Estate in Livingston, near Edinburgh.

Stevenswood has always been an advocate of lean and efficient manufacturing – a principle embraced in its new 55,000 square foot factory, which allows all processes to take place under one roof.

Now, a month since production started, MD, Ron Hepburn outlines the progress Stevenswood has made and the manufacturing capacity the new factory presents: “After a great move, we're now comfortably making in excess of 900 frames a week. With the move, we added a new URBAN four-head CNC corner cleaner, a third Stuga and a new four-head horizontal welder, complementing the existing URBAN six-head and eight-head CNC welders, and moving us to a weekly capacity of around 1,500 by early September.”

“The next phase is to introduce five, ten-hour shifts a week, effectively increasing our weekly production time from 38.25 to 50 hours.

That'll see us hitting a target of around 2,000 frames a week, making us Scotland's number one trade fabricator and one of the top 10 in the UK!” Stevenswood distributes through its own chain of six trade counters across Scotland,

with offers made on further units in Inverness and Carlisle. It has also just ordered two twelve and one eight-ton Mercedes-Benz trucks to supplement the existing fleet.

Buoyed by the support of VEKA, the industry's leading PVC-U systems supplier, Stevenswood has promised a range of pioneering new features, made possible by its investment in state-of-the-art machinery.

Ron continues: “All-in-all we've spent over £1.7 million in the factory and equipment, but we're confident that the long-term benefits will justify the outlay. I'm happy to say the move took place without disruption to our customers, and our standards of service will now surpass their already impeccable levels.”

“It's beyond doubt that having the VEKA name behind us has been a massive help in reaching this milestone. Other fabricators looking to emulate our success would be wise to consider working with such a trusted brand.”

Tel: 01282 716611 - www.vekauk.com READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0085

FRAMEXPRESS DELIVERING THE HIGHEST STANDARDS

frameXpress is well recognised for providing the highest standards in terms of products and performance, and both attributes seem to prove hard to beat. This is accredited not only to product performance but also the guarantees of the flexible, nationwide delivery service that are now benchmarks which customers recognise and have come to rely upon.

The company offers a bespoke delivery service to customers across the UK that is setting them apart from competitors which is resulting in a growing number of companies choosing to install products from the portfolio. In-house manufacturing that can be delivered either to factories or direct to site within 5 days, gives customers an edge and is a further example of the frameXpress commitment to customer service.

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As a company, frameXpress has established a formidable reputation for quality, durability and reliability and is renowned for providing superior standards from manufacture through to output and final delivery.

Ian Davis, Sales Director comments, “The delivery service is one area of our support services which sets us apart from our

competitors. We endeavour to place customers schedules and deadlines as a priority and should there be any issues such as a change of delivery address we will ensure that customers do not have to wait for a scheduled run before delivery takes place.”

Ian continues, “While our range combines technical superiority with unmatched aesthetics, all our products carry our nationwide delivery service guarantee and we are committed to customer satisfaction.”

“We believe that there is no other company that can match the superior delivery standards we offer with the team at frameXpress being in complete control from order processing, through to production and final delivery. This completely reassures our customers and is helping us to gain ground in an aggressive market.”

For more information on the range of products available, please visit the website www.framexpress.co.uk or call 01952 581100 if you have any specific product queries.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0086

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

WINDOWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

SIG Windows pioneers

DON’T MISS OUR NOVEMBER FEATURES!

quality assurance scheme

SIG Windows - formerly known as Window Fitters Mate (WFM) - has pioneered a strict quality assurance scheme for its expansive range of windows and doors to ensure that the glass and frame are in perfect condition prior to dispatch.

Testament to the company’s technical and professional prowess, this latest development seeks to offer complete peace of mind to customers by supplying the right materials to the right place, in the right time and ensuring no delays on their project.

Prior to dispatch, every SIG Windows branch must follow a detailed checklist in order to ensure that the windows and doors are in top quality and condition, and more importantly that they meet the customer’s order specifications. It can then be filed away for future reference.

Post inspection, a QC sticker is applied to the product confirming that the glass and frame are in perfect condition prior to dispatch, and that they don’t have any marks or damage thus ensuring it can be fitted first time. This sticker is the contractor’s assurance that their delivery has been fully checked against their order by the branch to ensure it meets their exact specification.

Steve Jones, Operations Manager at SIG Windows comments: “The QC scheme confirms our commitment to quality and to our customers.

Working with a number of leading and reputable manufacturers enables us to provide a range of high quality products. However, we wanted to go one step further by guaranteeing that our customers not only receive quality products, but

they come with no hassles, no worries and complete peace of mind.”

“This scheme provides the contractor with a true ‘fit and forget’ solution, and ensures that projects suffer no delays, no loss of business or profit, and no potential embarrassment or damage to reputation,” adds Steve.

The launch of the quality assurance scheme by SIG Windows brand follows its recent rebrand and emergence in the lucrative and growing market for windows, doors and conservatories.

Incorporating Window Fitters Mate (WFM) - one of the leading independent suppliers of fabricated windows, doors and conservatories in the UK - the brand forms part of the new SIG Building Plastics division.

For further information on SIG Windows, contact Stuart Base on 01480 466777 or visit www.sigwindows.co.uk

To ensure that customers receive quality products with no hassles, no worries and complete peace of mind, SIG Windows has pioneered a QC sticker that is applied after inspecting all products to ensure the glass/ frame is in perfect condition prior to dispatch. Every window and door that displays this sticker is an assurance that it has been checked against the order/ survey sheet by the branch to ensure it meets the customer’s specification exactly. It also means that it doesn’t have any marks or damage thus ensuring it can be fitted first time.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0087

Marketing & Business Expansion Doors & Hardware Transport & Handling Colour

Email Sheilah!

sheilah@glassnews.co.uk

1014/0088

www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

51

WINDOWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Ripton Windows returns to Deceuninck Ripton Windows is another happy Deceuninck customer. The Hampshirebased window company sells and installs a wide range of Deceuninck products. Ten years ago Ripton was buying Deceuninck windows, but at the time Deceuninck’s UK presence was low and it was easier to swap to another profile.

Matthew Ripton says: “We love Deceuninck’s products! This made it an obvious choice for us. Particularly the 2800 system. It’s a slim line, better looking version of a popular product. The new products they are bringing into the market are also great. The Slide & Swing will soon be taking pride of place in our showroom.”

Around 18 months ago, when Deceuninck began to make more noise in the market, Ripton switched back to Deceuninck, buying from Dekko Windows.

The service that runs alongside the product has given Ripton a big boost: “I’ve never known a systems company to work so closely with a fabricator, let alone with an installer. The fact that I can have phone calls with Roy is a revelation. It’s a real breath of fresh air.

“Roy could run Deceuninck like a normal systems company – just supply the product – but he does so much more. All I would say is just keep doing what you’re doing!”

To find out how Deceuninck can go above and beyond for you call Sales Director Rob McGlennon on 07818 383385. Follow Deceuninck @DeceuninckUK, @RoyFrost1 and @Deceuninck_Rob.

Matthew Ripton of Ripton Windows.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0089

SHAPING THE MILL Universal Arches are no strangers to the commercial market, yet this latest project with Dempsey Dyer is the largest one of it’s kind ever in the UK with the replacement of 655 shaped PVCu windows, as part of a £8.75 million re-development project at Abbey Mill, Leicester.

This impressive project for the re-development of Abbey Mill in Leicester required the replacement of 742 windows and 2 sets of French Doors over a 12 month period. Of the windows, 655 were manufactured with arches and this was to best match the original design with an arched head, as specified by the architect RG+P and by the local Planning Department of Leicester City Council.

There were complex technical issues in terms of product design, wind loading, window installation, whilst satisfying the sensitive nature of the existing mill. There was the added

requirement for near maintenance free products, hence the choice of Deceuninck profile and a mechanically jointed astragal bar solution.

Each arched window required 3 bends, taking an estimated 2.5 production hours. In total this equated to a total production hours of 1,875 over a 26 week period. A weekly schedule was put together with each company sharing the logistics costs and required a true close partnership to ensure that the project was completed on time and to the necessary high quality dictated by the planners, architects and main contractor.

You won’t believe it’s not timber!

Chunky Cill makes R9 by Dekko even more authentic

Dekko Window Systems, the leading Lancashire based fabricator, has further enhanced the authenticity of its Residence 9 window with the launch of the new Radlington chunky cill. Measuring 55mm, the dimensions of this cill are akin to that of a 19th Century timber casement window, making the product look even more like a classic timber original.

“The Residence 9 window is proving to be an excellent choice for customers who prefer the aesthetics of wood but not the associated problems such as rotting, peeling and rattling.”

Kurt Greatrex, sales director of Dekko commented: “With its flush sash, mechanical joints, traditional hardware and authentic colours, the Residence 9 window is proving to be an excellent choice for customers who prefer the aesthetics of wood but not the associated problems such as rotting, peeling and rattling. With its 55m dimension, the new Radlington cill adds another authentic touch to an already superb product and unsurprisingly has already proved a hit with our customer base, particularly those that install into conservation areas.”

Producing over 100 Residence 9 windows and doors per week, Dekko is one of the UK’s largest Residence 9

fabricators. The company manufactures R9 windows and doors from a large manufacturing facility in Ashton-Under-Lyme, Lancashire and delivers to fabricators and installers throughout the UK. Dekko also manufacture the Deceuninck 2500 and 2800 series and the Kommerling C70 and 0700 and doors in chamfered and ovolo systems.

Residence 9 by Dekko is available in a number of heritage colours and mixed combinations and there is a matching French and composite door made with either a GRP or solid timber core slab.

For more information contact Dekko on 01614060055 or visit www.dekkowindows.com.

Peter Dyer, sales and marketing director of Dempsey Dyer commented: ‘We’ve built an incredible relationship with Universal Arches and simply without them the project could not have gone ahead. We’ve even co-supported the G14 Awards for the trophies together.’

Leon Day, managing director of Universal Arches concludes: ‘This was an incredible project to be involved in and required detailed production planning and co-ordination with Peter and his team. Everyone across the project has been thrilled with the end result of a facility to support vulnerable adults.’

For further information Universal Arches log on to www.universalarches.com, call the sales office on 01744 612844 or follow them on Twitter @universalarches. For Dempsey Dyer the contact details are www.dempseydyer. co.uk, e-mail sales@dempseydyer or call 01977 649641.

From left to right: Peter Dyer (Dempsey Dyer) with Leon Day (Universal Arches).

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READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0090

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0091

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

WINDOWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Reddiseals launch new luxury window

furniture range Norton Casement Traditional and contemporary designs forged to a high standard using high-quality brass materials.

The Norton range of ironmongery boasts strength and durability in operation. We offer matching locking fasteners with discreet locks as not to detract from the overall aesthetics of the design, stays and espagnolette handles, which are compatible with our multipoint locking systems, they come with a standard 7mm square spindle and are supplied in a 40mm length.

Each product is hot forged using top quality tooling and machinery ensuring all finishes are hard wearing and exhibit good corrosion resistance.

Each of our new unique pieces are available in seven classic finishes to beautifully enhance any window.

Our selection of quality window furniture is specifically designed for the timber casement market.

So whether you are restoring a period property or renovating an existing window our new Norton casement range offers a wide range of luxurious styles and finishes at affordable/realistic trade prices.

Reddiseals are the largest independent supplier of timber

window components and accessories in the UK and have been successfully supplying the joinery industry since 1989.

Reddiseals specialise in sash window components offering solutions for the restoration and renovation of traditional box sash windows, together with spiral balances and associated furniture.

Reddiseals also provide a comprehensive range of products suited to timber casement windows.

With our extensive choice in products, style and finish, Reddiseals offer the best range, quality and value for money to our customers.

TeresaSymons General Manager commented: “At Reddiseals we

are traditionally known for our extensive range of sash products which can be used in the renovation and refurbishment of existing windows as well as to complement new manufactured styles and specifications.”

“Our knowledge and experience in wooden windows has driven us to launch a new range of products dedicated to the wooden casement window market. Norton Casement which will be exclusively launched at W14, offers a beautifully forged range of quality furniture in various

styles and finishes to suit your specification and budget.”

You can always trust the Reddiseals commitment to service. If you have a technical question, query or need help in finding the right product, our dedicated customer service and technical advice team are there to help.

For your peace of mind, you can trust the Reddiseals commitment to quality. All our products carry a manufacturer’s guarantee. We always manufacture or source products with our customer needs and expectations in mind.

Tel: 01905 791876 Email: sales@reddiseals.com Reddiseals, The Furlong, Berry Hill Industrial Estate, Droitwich, Worcestershire, WR9 9BG www.reddiseals.com READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0092

www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

53

GLASS NEWS INTERVIEW: BRE

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

BRE - a one stop shop for testing,

certification & building information modelling Arriving at the Building Research Establishment for the first time could be likened to that first venture onto a university campus. The 88 acre site, with its landscaped grounds and its multitude of architecturally different buildings, has that academic aura to it….in fact a university in everything but the name and, of course, the sex and alcohol abuse. Chris Champion, Editor of Glass News, meets with BRE’s John Warburton, Sector Manager for Windows and Doors, for a guided tour of the facilities.

All joking aside, but it really does have the aura of a university campus…

As a research establishment, we do have a high volume of academics and I know what you mean about the look of the estate. In fact, many of those buildings are research subjects in their own right and are not actually inhabited. Apart from the Innovation Centre and the buildings that are constructed to show off specifics, such as experimental materials, low energy use, low maintenance and so on, there are also houses within the estate that have been constructed for long term assessment of material degradation.

How did all this come about?

It stems from the need to investigate various building materials and methods of construction suitable for the new housing required following the First World War. The Building Research Board met for the first time in June 1920 and in 1921 the Building Research Station was formed to carry out research work, such as the behaviour of reinforced concrete in floors and the development of a standard for bricks – the UK’s first standard for construction materials.

And this was here in Watford?

Not initially, but it moved from Acton to Bucknalls in 1925. It was ideal as it was a large Victorian house in 38 acres of grounds. The area has been extended over the years to its current 88 acres.

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Building Research Establishment Academy.

Scale models for wind tunnel tests.

in systems design, product development and brand management. Then to Veka, Swish and Jones Windows before joining BRE.

So it was still the BRS, the Building Research Station, at this time? And, presumably, government funded?

It only became BRE in 1972. BRE is the amalgamation of a number of bodies, including the Forest Products Research Board and the Fire Research Board and eventually, like many other organisations, it was privatised in 1997. It’s now a charitable trust with all profits ploughed back into research.

We’ve jumped ahead quite a bit. We saw the model of Mohne Dam as we did the tour, presumably a legacy of the Second World War?

the fenestration industry for many years…

I left school at 17 and my first job was at Kestrel Windows where, from day one, I was fabricating.

It’s something I’ve never regretted and I could still fabricate windows today. It was a great grounding in the industry and I worked my way up in the company over the 9 years I spent there.

From there I went to Profile 22 as a technician, becoming a field services engineer and on into sales and marketing and international development. At Kommerling I was involved

With all that experience within the industry, over a 30 year period, it’s probably not surprising that BRE wanted you…

As you’ve seen as we’ve walked round, the testing facilities are extraordinary. Somewhat surprisingly, however, BRE is not that well known in the fenestration industry and that has to be down to the name. Hopefully, my knowledge of the industry, and the people in it, will enable us to make people aware that there is a one stop shop for certification, testing and research and development.

During the Second World War, staff of BRS were engaged in a number of novel areas of work, including creating a 1/50th scale model of the Mohne Dam that was used by Barnes Wallis in some of his early researches leading to the development of the bouncing bomb. As you’ve seen, it’s still here!

Can we move away from the history of BRE for a moment and talk about your own involvement with the research establishment. You joined in April 2014 after being in John Warburton inside Prince’s House.

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

GLASS NEWS INTERVIEW: BRE

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

That’s an interesting point. In most cases people use different companies for certification, PAS24 testing, air/ water leakage and, of course, fire…

Exactly! Whereas here at BRE, it’s all under one roof, and that includes acoustic testing and the wind tunnel, as well as the Academy, Building Information Modelling, and structural, too.

The wind tunnel is extraordinary and the modelling of football stadia, town centres, high rise buildings like the Shard, is all done in that department?

“As a research establishment, we do have a high volume of academics and I know what you mean about the look of the estate. In fact, many of those buildings are research subjects in their own right and are not actually inhabited.”

Innovation Park.

It is. That work is essential in ensuring that new buildings don’t adversely affect air flow which could cause structural failure in other buildings.

networks and funding streams and leverage these against BRE Group’s world-class expertise and facilities, to bring innovation to market, quickly.

The research that is carried on here is critical to the industry’s future. You’ve seen windows, bricks, roof tiles and so on, all being tested for degradation over long periods. It may look as if these items have just been put here and they’ve rotted over the years but, believe me, this is all monitored and recorded and could have repercussions in years to come.

I really appreciate the insight into BRE and it begs the question why isn’t the fenestration industry more aware of its facilities? aimed at lowering costs, speeding delivery, lowering emissions and increasing exports.

Certainly. I’ve seen windows and doors from a number of different manufacturers and fabricators as we’ve gone round and I wonder how many of them realise that their products are here, and being tested?

I also pointed out to you various products in the Innovation Centre that have been supplied to BRE but that are not being promoted to the full. The audience at BRE is enormous, both in the academic and commercial world. Architects, specifiers, local authorities, building companies from the UK and overseas…products shown at BRE are on display to the world.

You mentioned earlier Building Information Modelling as something offered by BRE. I understand that it’s a multi-dimensional tool that generates a visual model of a building, manages data about it at the design stage, throughout construction, and during its working life. How does BIM fit in with the needs of the fenestration industry?

In simple terms, we will all have to be involved with BIM by 2016 as all government funded projects will require it and, it is likely

www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

The components that our industry makes are inextricably linked with building projects and we will, whether we like it or not, be involved with BIM.

Let’s recap on this ‘one stop shop’ that BRE offers…

Degradation tests. Windows and (in foreground) different timbers in the ground.

The BRE Group comprises BRE, BRE Global and BRE Ventures. BRE Global provides independent third party certification for fire and security products and services, quality management systems, environmental certification including the world famous BREEAM schemes and many more. BRE is the part of the group undertaking research and, of course, testing. There’s also the BRE Academy that offers training and education.

BRE Ventures brings together innovators,

It’s my job to ensure our industry both know about, and use the facilities. The opportunities are phenomenal and the facilities offered at BRE can only help our industry.

Already we have some companies using BRE for meetings and others using it as a southern base for their company. I would welcome anyone getting in touch and I shall happily show then what BRE can do for them.

Many thanks for your time and explaining the workings of the Building Research Establishment.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0093

The BRE Campus.

that commercial projects will follow this route.

The Government's Industrial Strategy, published in early 2013, states that £44billion of public money is spent on Centrally Funded Public buildings, every year. From this, billions of pounds are lost through poor integration and not learning from past mistakes, and the government is aiming for a target saving of 20%.

It follows that construction information is, therefore, often inaccurate, incomplete and ambiguous. By 2016 the Government is aiming to maximise efficiency in the construction industry through best practices

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CONSERVATORIES

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Solid roof gets ‘thumbs up’ from Conservatory Outlet dealer network Successfully launched only three months ago, Conservatory Outlet’s solid roof has already proved very popular with its dealer network. Over 50 units have been produced, placing the Yorkshire-based fabricator well on track to reach its first target for solid roofs, of 10 units per week.

Always on the lookout for new ways of supporting dealers, Conservatory Outlet has expanded its portfolio to help clients take advantage of the changing market.

Michael Giscombe, managing director, commented: “This is a very popular product, and opens up exciting opportunities in the conservatory market for our dealer network.

The successful launch is down to having the right people taking ownership of the project, but timing too was of the essence.”

“Adding the solid roof to our portfolio was definitely a case of having ‘the right product at the right time’.”

The rising demand coming from dealers has led to Conservatory Outlet further strengthening the solid roof department.

Michael added: “We are committed to helping our dealers introduce the solid roof in their offer. Aside from appointing Brian Oxley as our dedicated production manager for this department, we now have a full time member

Insight Data & Purplex Marketing

take part in Jeans for Genes

Insight Data and Purplex Marketing recently raised funds for the charity Genetic Disorders UK. Staff participated in Jeans for Genes day on Friday 19th September.

The team wore jeans, with some even rocking double denim 80s style, to raise money for Genetic Disorders UK.

of staff focusing solely on processing solid roof orders.”

Production manager Brian Oxley has already assisted dealers in showroom or on site installations, making sure the fitting teams are well prepared to deliver projects as smoothly as possible. Two dealers in Scotland are among the first to showcase the product in their brand new showrooms, which will be finalised by the end of the year. Likewise, solid roof conservatories will be an automatic addition to all new dealer showrooms.

One in 25 children born in the UK is affected by a genetic disorder, and the associated health problems mean genetic disorders are the biggest cause of death in children aged 14 and under.

Genetic Disorders UK helps raise awareness and promote

Insight and Purplex staff raised funds on Jeans for Genes day.

understanding of genetic disorders through a range of fundraising activities,

“The team wore jeans, with some even rocking double denim 80s style.”

including Jeans for Genes day. Money raised funds the care and support of children and families affected.

If you’d like to make a donation you can visit http:// www.geneticdisordersuk. org/donate READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0096

A Jean-ius Fund Raiser!

Carl F Groupco Does Double Denim For Charity

Brian said: “Solid roofs are such a lucrative opportunity for our clients, and we’re providing all the necessary support to help them take advantage of it. Half the dealers in our network have already bought or ordered at least one solid roof so far. If things continue this way, we have a realistic long term potential of achieving up to 50 solid roofs per week.”

The charitable team at Carl F Groupco took the opportunity for a dress down, denim focussed Friday to donate to the ‘Jeans for Genes’ charity.

Aside from technical assistance, Conservatory Outlet dealers also benefit from an exclusive agreement with a private sector Approved Inspector, which helps them obtain building control approval quickly and cost effectively.

With jeans being the staple fashion item sported by staff from across the company, double denim was the order of the day for the fund raising folk at the hardware suppliers.

Charity money raisers at Carl F Groupco braved the elements to shake a leg and show support for the one in 25 children born in the UK that are affected by genetic disorders.

Anyone wishing to add to the money being sent to the charity can contact Clare Crockett on 01733 393330. www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0097

Tel: 01924 239813 www.conservatoryoutletdealers.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0094

SELL TO LOCAL BUILDERS 50,000 EMAIL DISTRIBUTION WITH !

FORTNIG HTLY

ONLIN

PUBLICA E TION!

1014/0095

Email for more information: christina@fenestrabuild.co.uk M: 07805 051 322 | WWW.FENESTRABUILD.CO.UK Carl F Groupco’s double denim can can on Jean for Genes day.

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October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

CONSERVATORIES

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

WORKSHOPS FOCUS ON

A JUICY MARKET OPPORTUNITY Synseal has announced new diary dates for technical training workshops that will focus on design and installation of lucrative Orangery solutions.

Fabricator partners with Synseal direct purchasing accounts are invited to attend orangery workshops on a choice of two dates: Thursday 18th September and Thursday 23rd October. Synseal Registered Installers are also cordially invited to attend a special event on Thursday 9th October.

These technical workshops will be held at Synseal’s HQ complex which is located not far from Junction 28 of the M1 motorway in Huthwaite, Nottinghamshire.

The company recently created “orangery central” by undertaking a major showroom refurbishment on the premises, so now a range of impressive orangery design solutions can be viewed up close and personal.

“In our new showroom we have structural orangeries such as the wide-spanning Venetian, parapet wall Integra, flat-roofed Rio and urban styled double-soffit Modena all on display as well as our best-selling hybrid orangery Global Summer” says Mark Schlotel, Synseal’s Head of Marketing. “Our technical workshops are always free of charge to Synseal fabricator and installer partners and the

Orangery training day agenda will identify the value-adding UK market opportunities that exist today for sales of these aspirational products, with focus on practicalities such as construction details, fitting techniques and best practice across our extensive range to achieve stunning Orangery installations.”

For further information contact Mark Schlotel on 01623 446207 or 07764 229694; email mark.schlotel@synseal.com.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0098

TRENT VALLEY LAUNCHES NEW SHOWROOM

– AND GETS READY FOR CONSERVATORIES More space...more style... more products...multiaward winning Network VEKA installer Trent Valley Windows unveiled its new showroom with a bigprize launch event – and announced its intention to build a new conservatory show-site as the next step of the plan.

VIP guests and customers saw a completely refitted showroom, with much more footage given over to showing the company’s extensive range of windows and doors, and also heard of the plan to add the conservatory village to the front of its Nottingham HQ.

Marketing Manager Rachel Briody said: “We can not only show a wider range of products but also in a more comfortable, lifestyle orientated environment and, judging from the reaction of all our visitors, we can see it is going to be a great success.”

Among the new products on show is an impressive display of the highly authentic Glazerite Residence 9 flush sash system that the trade fabricator launched at the FIT Show, as well as a wider range of doors. The company has also created a kitchen scene to show off its kitchen window and cottage-style stable door.”

Trent Valley Windows is one of Network VEKA’s biggest and most successful members and holds many of the organisation’s awards for quality and customer service. It is also a longstanding customer of Glazerite Windows Ltd, the UK’s largest VEKA fabricator and an active supporter of Network VEKA.

1014/0100

Glazerite Director Jason Thompson said: “Trent Valley is a highly professional organisation and amply deserves all its trophies. The new showroom will prove to be a great benefit to the business and we are proud to have supported the company is equipping it.”

The proposed conservatory village, to replace a former unit at a nearby garden centre, is currently undergoing planning formalities. www.glazeritewindows.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0099

www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

57

CONSERVATORIES

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

New Louvre Roof System THE NEW PREFIX CONSERVATORY BIBLE Systems Set to Take on the British Weather Prefix have just launched

An all weather louvre roof system for patios and terraces has been launched

by Fledmex® UK, and the company is currently looking for UK installation partners.

The German system fits with the growing outdoor living concept and allows owners to experience an alfresco environment when the louvres are open and enjoy a fully weatherproof haven when closed.

The Fledmex louvres can be opened up to 90 degrees to release hot air and provide a manageable climate on sunny days. The amount of shade on the patio can also

be managed by adjusting the tilt angle of the louvres. In the event of a rainshower the louvres can be easily closed either manually or by electric motor/remote control, and outdoor events such as barbecues no longer need to be at the mercy of the British weather.

Fledmex® louvres come in a choice of aluminium, polycarbonate, or glass to provide different levels of light on the patio when closed. Integrated shading is also an option for the glass and polycarbonate louvres. There is also a thermochromic glass option,

i.e. the glass gets darker and lets less sunlight through as it heats up.

The Fledmex® roof system comes with an aluminium or timber frame with integrated guttering, and can also be used in conjunction with glazing, bifold, or patio doors to provide a partial or fully enclosed space for use all year round. The system can be attached to an existing wall to cover a patio, terrace, or balcony area, or can be used as a standalone pergola. It is intended for both private homes as well as for commercial applications such as restaurant and hotel terraces.

their latest trade brochure, which has been extended to 28 pages to cover a number of new products, helping to re-define the extended living sector.

It’s already being dubbed as the conservatory bible for the trade from existing customers and for those people collecting one from the recent FIT Show.

As the market for extended living becomes ever more broader in terms of options, Prefix have developed a single brochure for the trade that details, conservatories,

glass, ancillaries, tiled GardenRoom, UrbanRoom and some of Ultraframe’s latest roof offerings and Loggia posts. It’s also highlights the importance of choosing a BBA Accredited fabricator for the manufacture of all roofs.

The brochure also details the 11 foiled finishes on offer and the latest Residence 9 window and door system, that can form part of a complete premium conservatory offering with a matching roof, or integrated under a tiled GardenRoom roof. There’s also the option of the newly launched and contemporary UrbanRoom roof and Prefix also continues to manufacture a complete range of aluminium windows and doors from Smart Systems.

The company’s in-house development of the Multibeam, Retro-Fix and Bi-Span products

All Fledmex® roofs are custom built in Germany and over 6,000 roofs have been installed across Europe to date. The company is currently looking for a limited number of professional UK installers who are interested in the opportunity of selling and installing this new, patented, roof system.

are covered, along with details of Prefix Structures, their specialist large span division manufacturing and supplying portal frames for both domestic and commercial applications.

The Retro-Fix post has been specifically developed for the replacement conservatory sector, in which the company operates their successful RefurbishMyConservatory brand, which is generating valuable, cleansed leads for Prefix’s customers.

It’s the most complete conservatory and glazed extension offering from a conservatory roof fabricator in the UK by a considerable way and this is reflected in this new brochure.

Chris Baron and Chris Cooke co-directors commented: ‘We’ve built an enviable product range in recent years and this is reflected in our new and comprehensive trade brochure. The conservatory market is changing and we’re helping our customers exploit the opportunities in the wider extended living market now.’

Further information is available on the website, www.fledmex.co.uk.

For a free copy of their new trade brochure or GardenRoom brochure, contact the sales office on 01254 871800, e-mail enquiries@prefixsystems. co.uk or add to their considerable following on Twitter @prefixsystems.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0101

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0102

LINIAR PATIO: NEW PART M LOW THRESHOLD LAUNCHED The Liniar design team have re-written the rule book with their innovative patio range – engineering in features such as a built-in decelerator and ModLok™, the patented Liniar Multi Point Lock to name but a few. Offering homeowners reassurance, the multi point lock is Yale branded and comes with a 10 year mechanical warranty.

The Liniar patio door is a real stand out product. It has an effortless opening mechanism and thanks to the revolutionary multi-wheeled ‘air glide’ system, the Liniar sliding patio door feels like its floating on air. The patio door range can achieve a U value of 1.3 W/m2K when fitted

58

with a double glazed unit, and can be triple glazed for those high spec installations. You’ll be able to enjoy a warmer and quieter home as well as lower energy bills.

The latest innovation to the range is the thermally broken aluminium low-threshold option.

It creates a seamless entrance and exit, complete with an integral ramp it is ideal for family homes or where wheelchair access is required.

Ultra-low, the Liniar threshold measures just 24mm at its highest point, with a gold or silver hard wearing anodised finish, which perfectly complements the door hardware.

Tested to the requirements of Part M the thermally broken low threshold improves the overall thermal performance for the full perimeter of the door.

It can be used on 2, 3 or 4 pane patios and is suitable for use on restricted access sites via a mechanical joint assembly.

To find out more, visit www.liniar.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0103

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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1014/0104

59

INSTALLER FOCUS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

GLAZERITE CELEBRATES FIRST Sash UK is VEKA SCHEME SIGN-UPS officially VEKA Approved!

15,000 circulation!

NEED TO TARGET

INSTALLERS?

Amy Grundy, National Sales Manager, Installer Scheme, congratulates Darren Woolf, Sash UK’s National Trade Sales Manager on the company’s new ‘Approved’ status.

Find local installers and the elusive white van man, with Glass News.

Barnsley-based Sash UK is a long-standing, well-respected VEKA fabricator that has been working with the systems supplier for 27 years.

We distribute to trade counters, as well as posting copies to a database of installers.

Email: christina@glassnews.co.uk

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Glazerite Director Jason Thompson & VEKA Approved National Sales Manager Amy Grundy.

It started as a celebration for Glazerite Windows Ltd having its first customer accepted into VEKA’s new Approved Installer Scheme.

Soon it turned into a landslide with not only another following straight after but in excess of thirty more expected to be announced very soon.

“We knew the Scheme would be a winner,” said Glazerite Director Jason Thompson, “But it even took us by surprise. And as well as those first thirty, we are expecting

“It is interesting to see the variety of installers the Scheme is attracting. Even at this early stage, it makes the point that the initiative has something for every business, whatever their size and style.”

to see many more accepted in the near future.”

Glazerite joined the Scheme as an Approved Fabricator as soon as it was launched and has been actively backing it among its UK-wide customer base since day one. The first installer across the line was Geoff Smith & Son of Bacup, Lancashire, followed by Fairweather Windows of Bradford, West Yorkshire.

Jason added: “It is interesting to see the variety of installers the Scheme is attracting.

Even at this early stage, it makes the point that the initiative has something for every business, whatever their size and style. The Scheme gives installers a two-tier choice alongside the long established Network VEKA organisation and will open up the opportunity to a much wider field of competent operators.

“The Scheme is free to join and has no geographic boundaries. All the installer has to do is live up to a number of quality standards and buy from a Scheme Approved VEKA fabricator such as Glazerite. In return, they gain not only additional credibility to put them ahead of their competitors with exclusive POS, livery and marketing material but also a supply of direct homeowner

leads via the dedicated VEKA Approved Installer website.”

Geoff Smith and son Matthew’s quality building, joinery and window business has been in existence over 25 years. As well as the Approved Installer Scheme, they have also joined VEKA Assure to self-certify their installations and will use both brands together on all their vehicles, marketing and advertising from now on.

Fairweather’s Paul Grieg sees the move as a further opportunity to promote the VEKA brand and has already secured one installation on the strength of confirming that he only fits VEKA. Glazerite is not only the UK’s biggest VEKA fabricator, its customers represent a large proportion of the Network VEKA membership, many of whom are regular award winners and have long been regarded as one of the most proactive supporters of the organisation Jason continued: “It is very exciting that VEKA has chosen to add this second quality accreditation scheme and we are sure it will complement the existing Network by spreading the VEKA quality message even further.”

Sash UK, which celebrates 50 years in business next year, has now been officially recognised as a VEKA ‘Approved Fabricator’ to support the new Approved Installer scheme.

Unveiled earlier this year, one of the criteria for becoming an Approved Installer is that products must be bought through an Approved Fabricator. As an official Approved Fabricator, Sash UK can now support its installer customers in becoming VEKA Approved.

The Approved Installer initiative allows companies to prove their commitment to quality and attract new customers with a range of professional marketing materials, including newly-designed items that are exclusive to Approve Installers. It is free to join and Approved Installers will benefit from homeowner sales leads generated via a dedicated consumer-facing website.

Stephen Morrell Sash UK MD explains: “When The VEKA UK Group unveiled the Approved Installer scheme, we were quick to show our support.

“It’s a good way for us to encourage more installers to buy high quality VEKA materials through us. This means increased repeat business, and it’s also beneficial to homeowners in the local area who will be supplied with some of the highest quality systems in the industry.”

Amy Grundy, National Sales Manager, Installer Scheme, adds: “We’re thrilled that Sash UK has become a ‘VEKA Approved Fabricator’. We’ve worked with the team for years and we’re delighted to be supporting them in this next stage of their business growth. We’re looking forward to working with their installer customers through the Approved Installer initiative.”

Tel: 01282 716611 - www.vekauk.com

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0105

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0106

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

No 3.Rio An elegant flat roofed orangery with glazed lantern

collection

A choice of 6 stunning orangery designs

Synseal’s range of innovative orangery solutions are designed to evoke traditional building methods yet utilise the very latest materials and construction techniques to deliver precise detailing and unrivalled aesthetic appeal, whilst ensuring speed and ease of installation.

Utilising proven roof glazing assemblies constructed from one of Synseal’s market-leading conservatory roof systems, K2 or Global roof, these orangery design solutions can be specified with total confidence.

Synseal Orangery advert Rio 2014 No 3 Glass News.indd www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

1

1014/0107

01623 444390

Contact us for more information on Synseal’s 6 orangery solutions info@synseal.com | www.synseal.com

25/06/2014 11:31

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INSTALLER FOCUS

INSTALLER INSIGHTS

New Inspire website helps installers win more sales West Yorkshire-based fabricator Dempsey Dyer has taken its installer support strategy up another notch and rolled out a new fully responsive, consumerfacing website called www. dempseydyerinspire.co.uk The purpose of the website is to generate consumer leads which Dempsey Dyer then feeds to its trade customers. The website is based around ‘Inspire’, the consumer facing brand from Dempsey Dyer. Installers can lean on the Inspire brand and surrounding marketing literature in order to appear more professional and effectively communicate the benefits of Dempsey’s premium product range to their target audience.

With a fresh, clean look, the Inspire website is not only very user friendly and beautifully designed, but it also focuses heavily on lead generation. A novelty that is already proving popular with homeowners is the new Colour Matcher. This interactive feature allows

visitors to choose the brick colour of their house and match it against different windows, giving them a sneak peek into how their property will look like with the new additions.

The new consumer facing website has been developed using the latest web technologies in mind and is tailored to suit the modern consumer. With 53% of google searches now performed on a mobile phone or a tablet, having a fully responsive website makes more sense than ever. This means that the content on the website is displayed differently for mobiles, tablets and desktop computers, in order to give visitors the best possible experience.

Peter Dyer said: “If our trade customers grow, Dempsey Dyer grows, which is why we are keen to provide them with all the tools they need to succeed. We will be updating the website on a regular basis and investing in Pay Per Click to ensure a high number of visitors are landing on the site and that this traffic turns into sales leads for our customers. It’s early days for www.dempseydyerinspire.co.uk but we are already starting to generate good results and this bodes well for the future.”

INSTALLER INSIGHTS How hard do installer schemes

work for you?

In the second in a series of installer focussed articles, Synseal’s Head of Marketing Mark Schlotel discusses when an installer scheme really adds value to an installer’s business.

I wonder how many installer schemes of one description or another exist in the window industry today? I wouldn’t even like to take a guess as there seem to be new ones popping up all the time. Whether they are industry wide or supplier-focussed schemes, can they really make a difference to an installer’s business?

Research tells us that installers definitely want and need essentials such as van stickers and good quality retail brochures. All the leading systems suppliers really value the loyalty shown by installers who want to promote their products and the power of positive brand association should never be underestimated. However, reaching beyond the basic offerings some of the schemes available today are in effect the next generation of installer support and deliver a more comprehensive package with powerful benefits.

Here are a few things you should look out for in a good installer scheme:

Third Party Associations for Credibility

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0108

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1014/0109

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Look for associated benefits that can really deliver some added value to your business.

All Checked for example is a popular online home improvement directory. Fairtrades is a trade association specialising in providing business advantages to busy installers working in home improvement. HomePro Insurance provide a market-leading range of Insurance Backed Guarantees to protect homeowners and Trustmark is where hundreds of thousands of consumers head to look for reputable tradesmen that hold the Trustmark.

All of these provide tangible benefits with great consumer recognition.

Up to Date Marketing Tools An online presence is becoming increasingly important so the support you receive should reflect that. For example individual tailored website design and hosting support is a good start.

function, or through third party websites as mentioned above, installer schemes should bring in consumer sales leads.

Training Best practice can only be achieved through continuous improvement so installer schemes that offer ongoing product training are useful.

Real business support tailored to you Installer schemes with practical value go above and beyond and include elements of tailored support whether it be design of adverts, drop cards and local newspaper advertorials or even trading identity logo creation and development.

Installer schemes really can be extremely valuable tools, if constructed in the right way.

With so many to choose from now, installers can afford to be more discerning in deciding which ones to align themselves with. Synseal’s Registered Installer scheme offers all of the above because we understand it needs to make a difference to the bottom line.

Give Synseal a call today on 01623 444 390 or visit www.synseal.com.

For more information on the fully CE Marked Evolve range visit www.synseal.com or call 01623 443200.

Lead Generation Whether through a dedicated homeowner website with a ‘find your local installer’

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0110

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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Marketing Consultancy | PR & Communications | Creative Design | Web & Digital | Direct Marketing www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

63

FABRICATOR FOCUS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

The Northwest brand goes nationwide Dave Cheetham, Sales Manager at Northwest Rooftech and Alutech, looks at why the company’s name has spread beyond its north west roots to become a brand that’s known and trusted nationwide.

Dave Cheetham is appointed as NW Rooftech & Alutech’s

Sales Manager

Together, Northwest Rooftech and its sister brand Northwest Alutech supply a comprehensive range of conservatory roofs and high performance aluminium products.

The development from regional to national We were founded in 1987 to provide the specialist products that add value to a portfolio which, for most fabricators and installers, are best bought in because the technical expertise and capacity required don’t add up unless you’re manufacturing volume quantities. We wanted to back up the products with customer service excellence and a commitment to building proactive partnerships that would make us a valued and trusted partner. Because we are based in Southport, Lancashire our initial target market was the north west and, until recently, we always considered ourselves to be a north west business and positioned ourselves accordingly. But when taking stock of our

business in the past year it became clear that our sales figures and customer base weren’t that of a north west business. In short, we operated nationwide. With that realisation, we took the decision to embrace the fact that our brand was known and trusted across the country and to reposition ourselves as a national brand.

The products that add value across the country Northwest Rooftech manufactures a comprehensive range of PVCu and aluminium conservatory and orangery roofs to give customers the flexibility they need. We are a K2 key dealer and one of the UK’s largest K2 conservatory roof manufacturers.

The sister brand, Northwest Alutech, manufactures the Smart Systems aluminum product range, including its specialist bi-folds and sliding patio doors.

Together, the two brands are a one-stop shop for specialist products.

The service and facilities that make us a go-to brand We recognise that just being a one-stop shop for specialist products doesn’t add enough

value to our customers’ businesses. We also need to add value in terms of our customer service.

We offer a rapid turnaround time and an efficient delivery service so our customers can close sales and complete jobs quickly.

This rapid turnaround also applies to special orders – we have an in-house paint facility that means we can supply products in any RAL colour rapidly as well as give the reassurance that the products will meet our exceptional standards and be covered by our warranty.

Our experience in the business means we can offer technical support, including on-site surveys, if required. We also provide tailored marketing support to help promote the products to the best advantage.

The one-stop shop that offers so much more The combination of exceptional specialist products and exceptional customer service has proved to be a recipe for success as our development from a regional company to a national one shows. If you’d like to partner with a company that is more than just a onestop shop, please get in touch.

Leading conservatory roof manufacturer, NW Rooftech has just announced that it has appointed Dave Cheetham as its Sales Manager.

Andy Ingman, NW Rooftech’s Director, said, “We are delighted that Dave has joined our team, not only because he shares our commitment to delivering excellence but because he has many years’ experience in conservatory roof sales which will further support the company’s growth strategy.”

Dave Cheetham has a great deal of industry experience and will be well known to many thanks to his extensive expertise. Prior to joining NW Rooftech he worked for Four Seasons Conservatory Roofs and Sash UK giving him knowledge of a wide range of fenestration products.

Dave says, “I am delighted to have joined NW Rooftech at such an exciting time.

The company has recently invested in NW Alutech, their aluminium division which now offers aluminium bi-folding and slimline patio doors. Combined with their K2 conservatory roofs and orangery products through NW Rooftech, it allows installers to purchase their aluminium and roof requirements under one single supplier. I’m proud to be joining them and excited about their future plans.”

As Andy says, Dave’s appointment will allow NW Rooftech to develop its conservatory roof sales throughout the UK while growing the NW Alutech division.

The company, which has been established for over 16 years, has developed from a North West based operation to a national trade supplier. Andy concludes “Dave’s industry experience and enthusiasm creates opportunities to further strengthen our market penetration.”

Tel: 01704 222707 www.nwrooftech.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0112

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October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

1014/0113

A LITTLE MORE THAN JUST A CONSERVATORY ROOF...

WANT BI-FOLDING OR SLIDING DOORS? We manufacture smart aluminium doors with an impressive two week lead time, from date of order to you onsite!

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T: 01704 222707 F: 01704 896569 | E: info@nwrooftech.co.uk Northwest Rooftech Ltd | 88-90 Ralph’s Wife Lane | Banks | Southport | Lancashire PR9 8ER

www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

65

FACE TO FACE

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

THIS MONTH: Tony Bethell Senior Field Engineer, Deceuninck UK Father of two, Tony Bethell, has been in the window industry for 31 years, and with Deceuninck for the last 14 years. Tony has ambitious targets, for his family and his company, but he is always up for a challenge.

It’s all about you Where you were born and where do you currently live?

I was born in Pirton, Hertfordshire in 1965, an only child, and I currently live in Hitchin Hertfordshire, so I didn’t get far! I have two children. A boy, he’s 22, and a girl, she’s 8.

What is your education and what did you excel in at school?

I went to Priory School in Hitchin. I got ‘O’ levels in Maths, English, Geography, Art, History and Biology. I excelled in sport, specifically athletics. Had county trials at 200 Metres, 400 Metres and Triple Jump, and was North Herts District champion at Triple Jump.

Do you have a favourite sport and what are your other interests?

I have no time for doing, just watching, but I’m a Manchester United fan.

Enjoy reading a good book, my favourite author is Chris Ryan.

What’s your biggest regret?

Not seeing more of the world when I was younger.

The world is changing and I would’ve liked to have seen the more beautiful parts before they were ruined.

Is there something, or someone that inspires you?

“I find it very satisfying each time I walk away from setting up a new business, account or customer with Deceuninck products.”

Coming from an ordinary background, I thrive in giving my children everything that I wasn’t able to have. I want them to follow their dreams, have no regrets and, if possible, I want to be able to help them do it. This drives me, so I guess they are the cogs of my machine.

Is there a mistake you’d like to correct?

I do it as I go along!

Is there a talent you would like to enhance?

I look at things methodically; my experience in the industry is being enhanced every day. You never stop learning! I would like to think my talent, apart from doing the best job possible, is getting along with people. It’s key in my job, but also in life.

Adapting to each situation, meeting new people or customers, listening to them and really understanding what they want.

What is the temptation you can’t resist?

and your future

Something I can’t resist...a pretty face! I’m a social animal! And when someone tells me “it can’t be done!”

I can’t resist proving them wrong!

your career When and how did you join this industry?

I left school in 1983, and went to work at N&P Windows in Hitchin. I was a fabricator in a factory for Cliff Nye. After working there for a couple of years, learning as much as I could, I was given an opportunity to do something different.

At the time we were buying profile from oversees, so Cliff Nye decided to go into extrusion. He started making his own profile in Britain and set up a company called National Profiles. I became part of the team

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

If I wasn’t in this industry and I had my time again, I would have been a soldier in the British Army. Hindsight is a wonderful thing! Now? Retired somewhere with a glass of red, which I guess we all want!

Do you have a particular ambition? that launched it, looking after the technical side of things.

The business grew and the wheels turned. National Profiles was swallowed up eventually but I moved with the flow, from National Profiles to Thurgar Bardex then to Heywood Williams.

In 1997 I was approached by Status Systems and decided to move on after 14 years. My role at Status was the same and I had three happy years there before moving again in 2000 to Deceuninck. This is my 14th year and boy what a year!

My ambition is simple, help make Deceuninck the No.1. To work hard and put us where we should be. My recipe for success is: fantastic product, great people, loads of hard work and, in no time at all, we’ll be market leader.

How do you want to be remembered?

I want to be remembered for being able to do what I was asked, when I was asked. For knowing my Onions! A nice guy that knew his stuff and liked a pint or two. Worked hard, played hard…you have to keep it real!

The job you do in 25 words…

Supplying the highest level technical support to new business and existing customers. Building solid working relationships that last.

What is your greatest achievement?

I find it very satisfying each time I walk away from setting up a new business, account or customer with Deceuninck products.

Ask me again when Deceuninck become No.1 in the UK – you won’t have long to wait!

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.

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October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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67

HARDWARE

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

greenteQ Pulls MACO multipoint door locks Frozen Fittings Proving Popular expand Carl F Groupco’s portfolio Carl F Groupco Staff Get Wet For Charity

The addition of MACO door locks to Carl F Groupco’s range of window and door hardware builds on a twenty year relationship between the manufacturer and hardware distributor. Throughout the two decades, MACO’s espagnolette and shootbolt ranges have always been key lines in Carl F Groupco’s catalogue.

Hardware distributer VBH is reporting great successes with the greenteQ stainless steel pull handle series.

The range was developed by VBH head office in Germany, where doors are commonly fitted with key operated (wind-up) locks and pull handles have long been used in place of a lever handle set.

VBH (GB) invested in stock in January this year and can now deliver most of the nine basic designs from their main Kent warehouse.

All greenteQ Pull Handles are manufactured from hard wearing 1.4301 austenitic stainless steel (grade 304-A2), which provides good resistance to weather- and pollution-associated corrosion. There are options of 90° or 45° projection, and with standard or extended legs.

VBH advise that, depending on the design selected, the handles are available from 300mm– 1800mm high and can be used either singularly or in pairs on many door materials including composite, PVCu, timber, aluminium and glass.

More door manufacturers than ever are offering their customers more choice in terms of door style and operation in a bid to differentiate their products from the norm, thus achieving a higher value sale. This in turn leads to further options of locking system and furniture. Where pull handles were once the preserve of commercial doors they are now being specified on many domestic installations in the UK and Ireland.

VBH Area Sales Manager Jan Zammit states ‘It’s important for anyone involved in sales to be provided with a steady stream of top quality, competitively priced products that are available from stock. We’re extremely lucky at VBH (GB) that not only do we have our own greenteQ products that have been developed specifically for the UK and Irish markets, but there is also a huge range of products developed by our colleagues in Germany that we can bring into our market. The stainless steel pulls are a prime example of this and are proving a huge success with my customers.’

The greenteQ Pull Handle series features in the latest greenteQ and VBH PVCu catalogues which can be requested by calling VBH Sales on 01634 263300. Alternatively, the catalogues can be downloaded from www.vbhgb.com. The German greenteQ range can be explored at www.greenteQ.info.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0116

68

MACO locks, which can now be purchased from Carl F Groupco, include the Automatic Z-TA, electronic Z-TA comfort, C-TS lift lever and colonial cylinder operated lock for timber doors.

Commenting on the synergies between the two companies, and the importance of the addition of the new lines to its range, Carl F Groupco’s Managing Director, John Crittenden said: “It’s a logical progression for Carl F Groupco and MACO to cement our working partnership and it is a move that strengthens our position in the market. MACO’s commitment to product innovation and quality

MACO multipoint door locks can now be purchased from Carl F Groupco.

marries perfectly with our ethos of supplying hardware that offers progressive design, durability and exceptional build standard.”

supported by high levels of service. We are delighted to develop our relationship with the addition of our multipoint door locks.”

Reinforcing the progression of the two organisation’s partnership, MACO’s Managing Director, Kevin Whiting added: “Our relationship with Carl F Groupco since the 1980s has always been extremely positive. Their distribution of our espag shootbolt and Tilt before Turn lines has contributed to MACO’s focus offering customers’ value through European product design and manufacture

MACO locking products complement Carl F Groupco’s established hardware range, which includes selected components from Europe’s leading manufacturers including FUHR, PN, Trojan, HOPPE, Siegenia, Kenrick, Cotswold, Securistyle and Greenwood.

Tel: 01733 393330 www.carlfgroupco.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0117

Trojan launch

new retail brochure Leading hardware supplier, the Trojan Group, has launched their new retail brochure showcasing their impressive range of window and door hardware.

The customer-facing brochure promotes the benefits of Trojan’s hardware direct to the consumer. Its aim is to help retail fabricators and installers close the sale by demonstrating

their commitment to quality even down to the smallest detail such as the window handle.

The brochure introduces consumers to Trojan and the quality of the design and materials in all of the company’s products. It then takes the consumer through the Trojan range and what it has to offer including the product’s impressive guarantees.

Six people from Carl F Groupco braved the elements outside their Peterborough distribution centre to take part in a team ice bucket challenge. From left, picture shows Nathalie McKee Sales Coordinator; Carlia McGowan Sales Manager; John Mitchell Technical Support; Kayleigh Scarrott Sales Co-ordinator; Norman Berrill New Business Development – Timber & Aluminium and Sam Agius, Sales & Marketing Assistant. All people pictured participated - further evidence can be found on YouTube.

Following a nomination, Sales & Marketing Assistant Sam Agius persuaded her colleagues to douse themselves in iced water to raise money for the Motor Neuron Disease Association (MND).

Commenting on taking part, John Mitchell, Carl F Groupco’s Technical Specialist said he had no option: Sam fixed him with a steely glare and wouldn’t take no for an answer!

Since accepting the challenge, Carl F Groupco is delighted to report that many of their nominated suppliers and customers have got cold and wet for charity.

Visit www.youtube.com/ watch?v=SiZ2c0eByEI Tel: 01733 393330 - www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

Tony Chadwick, Trojan Group’s Managing Director, said, “Our new retail brochure is designed to help consumers understand the quality their supplier is using and the wealth of options available. Our customers’ appreciate the quality and value of our products, now they have the opportunity to pass that message onto the consumer.”

Trojan hardware has been valued by the industry for its quality for many years. With the launch of this new brochure, installers can now show that quality to consumers.

To order copies of the brochure, contact Trojan customer service on 01922 713933.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0118

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0119

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

HARDWARE

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Nanocoast® – Door Hardware

Designed for the Coast

As many people are aware, sourcing hardware products that will be displayed either near the coast or in highly populated industrial areas can be very difficult, as brass or zinc based products pit and tarnish very quickly due to the salt in the air.

only do UAP offer an industry first lifetime coating guarantee on all Nanocoast® products, and you can have confidence that the products will not pit, rust or corrode no matter what environments you put them in, the products are also extremely competitively priced.

You may wonder why UAP have taken the decision to use 304 grade stainless steel, instead of 200 grade or 316 grade stainless steel which some competitors use. As Ben Jennings, Marketing Manager at

UAP, explains, “the reason for us using 304 grade stainless steel is simple - it gives the products the best corrosion resistant without being too expensive. The 304 grade is an austenitic stainless steel which contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel, and has low carbon content, giving excellent corrosion resistance in a wide variety of environments, and good resistance to oxidation.

It is this 8% nickel content which gives the corrosion resistance at the coast.”

This is particularly evident in areas within a 25 mile radius of the coast, or within 5 miles of high populated industrial areas.

UAP are constantly looking for ways to improve their ever expanding product range, and have developed Nanocoast® hardware - a range of door hardware products that are specifically designed for the coast.

Nanocoast® products are made from 304 grade stainless steel, and have also been salt spray tested to ASTM B117 for 2,000+ hours. Not

“Downgrading the stainless steel quality to a 200 series grade stainless steel means that even though they have similar mechanical and physical properties to the 304 grade, there is decreased nickel content.”

“The nickel is replaced by manganese which results in weak corrosion resistance, and high carbon content leaves the stainless steel susceptible to stress corrosion cracking.”

“On the other hand, the 316 series grade would dramatically increase the prices of the products even though the corrosion resistance only slightly increases, with a nickel content of 10%. 316 it shares similar characteristics to 304 grade stainless steel in resistance to oxidation and durability, and you would usually use 316 when you need a higher resistance to solutions such as sulfuric acid and chlorides at high temperatures.

In this sense, you can see why it seemed illogical not to use the 304 grade to produce our products.”

Ben continues, “So far, we have released three fully suited colour match ranges into our Nanocoast® range; Mirror Polished Stainless Steel, PVD Gold and Satin Stainless Steel. The range includes door knockers, door viewers, letterplates, door handles, numerals, hinges, letterplate shrouds, identity slots, and our newly introduced pull handles and round door knobs.”

Nanocoast® products provide you with true quality, and the competitive prices make them exceptional value for money. Why take the risk with other products which have the potential to rust.

To find out more information, call the UAP sales team today on 0161 796 7268.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0120

1014/0121

The ONLY Kitemarked Security Patio Handle New ProSecure Patio Handle Range

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www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

69

HARDWARE

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

SYNSEAL’S NEW EXCLUSIVE RANGE OF PERFORMANCE HARDWARE Synseal is launching the Performance Hardware range of window and door handles for exclusive use with the company’s Legend, Shield and SynerJy 70mm PVC-U systems.

The new Performance Hardware range includes inline or cranked espag window handles with 20mm or 40mm pin lengths according to system use and lever/lever, lever/ pad or inline lever/pad door handles, all available in a choice of 5 finishes: Polished Gold, Polished Chrome, Satin Silver, White and Black.

A unique Synseal decorative design with common features between the window and door handles creates a complete and matching suite of products. The Performance Hardware range has been meticulously tested to meet and exceed industry standards which is reflected in the guarantees on offer – a ten year mechanical guarantee as well as a five year coatings guarantee on plated finishes and a ten year guarantee on powder coated finishes. The new range is high end quality in construction, designed and sourced by Synseal to ensure a competitive price point for fabricator customers and as large quantity stock levels are available at Synseal in all finishes and sizes, a robust supply chain is always in place to deliver the products they need.

Synseal will continue to partner with some of the leading hardware suppliers in the country because they can offer customers a wide variety of hardware choices, some of which offer a recognised consumer brand. However, the new Performance Hardware range reflects

HOPPE customers feel the benefit following company investment Investing in a buoyant and stable market is often an easy decision, but not one that is taken so lightly when the economic backdrop is unstable.

Synseal’s ongoing strategy to provide a true one-stop-shop supply option for fabricator partners, which includes high quality insulated glass units from Global Glass and now a complete range of hardware options.

Mark Frain, Synseal’s Hardware Category Manager, is delighted to launch this new exclusive range: “Synseal consults with its fabricator partners on a regular basis and the issue of differentiation in hardware is something we have been discussing with them for a while. Our customers understandably want products no-one else has access to at a price that allows them to remain competitive, without any compromise on quality. The devil is always in the detail and after many months of hard work and a rigorous testing programme we have now developed the ultimate solution – the Performance Hardware range.”

“Synseal fabricators that want to be able to offer something completely different to the fabricator down the road can now choose Synseal’s Performance Hardware range, safe in the knowledge that manufacturers using other profile systems won’t be able to follow in their footsteps,” continues Mark. “It’s not often that you can say you genuinely have something completely different to offer your customers which makes sound business sense, but it is pleasing to announce that we are now in that enviable commercial position.”

For further information contact Mark Schlotel on 01623 446207 or 07764 229694; email mark.schlotel@synseal.com.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0122

SOCIAL HOUSING SECTOR?

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70

That never stopped HOPPE (UK), the manufacturer synonymous with innovation, quality and performance in hardware for the window and door and architectural sectors, in committing £400k in 2013 to improve the material flow through its Distribution Centre and as a result, the benefits to customers have been tangible.

“One of the key drivers for us at HOPPE, is achieving great customer service and satisfaction” explains Stewart Lamb, Sales and Marketing Manager for the Door and Window Division at HOPPE (UK). “After a period of research and process reviews, it became apparent that we could be working smarter, so the decision was taken to invest in a complete redesign of the layout of the Distribution Centre in order to house pallet flow racking, high density carton racking, self-contained dispatch sections linked directly to the carrier and new labelling and IT equipment which allows us to keep an up to the minute check on stock levels and product availability.

Distribution Centre.

“As a result of the changes, picking and dispatch errors are down 30%. Feedback from our customers has been extremely positive because of the improvements, which makes it all worthwhile. With additional investment planned in 2015, HOPPE will continue to review and develop processes as well as products, to ensure we deliver on quality and performance.”

For more information visit www.hoppe.co.uk or call 01902 484 400.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0124

HS Portal lift & slide hardware

from Carl F Groupco

HS Portal 300 lift and slide hardware is now available from Carl F Groupco.

Manufactured by Siegenia, the product is an advanced fitting that supports increasing demand for high specification hardware.

Designed for simple yet straightforward operation of sashes weighing up to 450 kg, the HS Portal innovation makes it possible to now open widths up to 12 – 19 metres. With a rise of just 19mm, the system meets the DIN 18025 standard and thermal insulation significantly exceeds the EnEV German energy saving regulations.

Design simplicity is combined with sophistication – the HS Portal gearing enables the lift and slide door to be operated with just one finger.

Additionally, wheels easily clear gaskets which avoid friction in the slide position,

HS Portal 300 hardware – now available from Carl F Groupco.

making opening and closing the door virtually effortless.

An optional electronic opening device is a further design feature which aids easy operation.

The HS Portal lift and slide patio gearing can be used with timber, PVCu and aluminium profiles – for

full details, consult the specification displayed on Carl F Groupco’s website, or call the company’s technical department.

Tel: 01733 393330 www.carlfgroupco.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0125

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

UAP

1014/0126

www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

71

GLASS NEWS INTERVIEW: CARL F GROUPCO

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

When two became one...

To any regular user of the A1, the Carl F Groupco building on the side of the carriageway south of Peterborough is, if not a landmark, certainly something highly recognisable. Visiting John Crittenden, Managing Director of Carl F Groupco and his team at their Peterborough HQ, Chris Champion, Editor of Glass News finds out more about the company.

The Carl F Groupco name is hard to miss as you travel up and down the A1!

Yes, we are pleased with the positioning, being on the A1 has a number of advantages, apart from being visible. The base really is ideal for connecting to the motorways and arterial roads across the UK and that access is vital to our next day delivery of hardware to our customers on orders made by 4pm, from over 5,000 stock items.

The name certainly ‘does what it says on the can’ in that it was a clear way of describing the merger of Carl F Petersen and Groupco. That can’t have been the easiest transition with Carl F and Groupco being direct competitors…

Sworn enemies, to best of friends! It was a strange situation.

One day to be competing, head on, and the next to be working together. It’s not really that unusual a situation within the business world but the moulding of two cultures into one, can be interesting.

And with 42 staff between Peterborough and Cumbernauld, what do they all do during the rest of the time?

To be fair there is plenty to do just to maintain our stock levels, service our customers, liaise with our suppliers, help with technical issues…we hold £3million worth of stock at any time. That’s our lifeblood.

You mentioned technical help. Do you have a team of technical sales people?

John Crittenden, Managing Director, Carl F Groupco.

makes business and economic sense to combine the forces of two organisations and it is a move that has certainly paid off.

Of course, we had some challenges including harmonising two different cultures. The Danes heading Carl F Petersen were very efficient but with quite a relaxed style whereas the Groupco ethic was the more formal British approach. One of the Carl F Petersen team didn’t even own a tie and had to go out and buy one for a meeting! But there is a lot to be taken from the Danish business culture – they are different in their work ethic and believed in empowering their staff to take responsibility rather than have a ’them and us’ relationship between staff and management. That’s something that has been adopted by the merged group.

It’s imperative that the internal sales team are a one-stop shop when it comes to customers’ ordering and technical queries.

I’d say this is an important USP for Carl F Groupco. We don’t just take orders but provide very valuable technical help. The

It’s very evident that there is a real team spirit…

The nature of our business demands that we work as a team. At a time of heavy demand we all pick product, whoever we are.

Mind you, I’m not sure that my involvement in that process is a help or a hindrance!

Can we talk a bit about the history?

Are you able to forecast when you will be busy and staff up, accordingly?

The merger of Carl F Petersen and Groupco took place in 2010 when Groupco acquired Carl F Petersen. However, it often

25% to 30% of our monthly business is done in the first 3 days of any month, and 50% of all sales are made between 2pm and 4pm.

John Crittenden shows Glass News’ Christina Shaw how individual items can be shipped.

72

We’re different to many other companies in that our internal sales team are very technically competent. The internal team is run by Carlia McGowan and between her and John Mitchell, our technical specialist, they are constantly training the team on new products. For instance, since July we’ve added products from Siegenia for aluminium windows, reversible gearing for Eurocell’s Modus PVC system and MACO Multipoint locks.

John Mitchell gives a guided tour of the warehouse.

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

GLASS NEWS INTERVIEW: CARL F GROUPCO

Internal Sales headed up by Carlia McGowan.

old cliché of people buying from people is true, and close relationships are built between the internal sales team and their individual customers. I must emphasise that we have a sales team on the road, too. However, new customers are taken under the wing of one of the internal sales team immediately, so that they have their contact within Carl F Groupco for any issues allied to product, delivery, service or technical.

You are very specific in the products you offer in that, with the exception of some ventilation products, everything you sell is made from one metal or another.

We are a hardware company and, although it would be easy to add in a variety of other products, we would no longer be a specialist hardware company. Our customers come to us, and remain with us, because of the service we provide. That service goes way beyond simply selling and delivering an item. They expect us to know all about that product and its application and support them in using that product in their fabrication.

Just looking around the warehouse, doesn’t the vast variety of products make the process of packing and delivery, difficult?

It does when you have a rail for a sliding door measuring around 7 metres! It would test the patience of a saint trying to get that delivered to a customer, and for it to still be straight on arrival! Is everything plain sailing?

No. We have our trials as any supplier does but we also have a dedicated and resourceful workforce who do all they can to ensure a delivery arrives on time and in full….and straight!

We make life difficult for ourselves as we will deliver one single item or tens of thousands.

Every order will come as a surprise to the warehouse and the fact that they deal with it efficiently, while still retaining a sense of humour, is something of which we can be justly proud.

You also have Carl F direct….

We do, it makes a valuable contribution towards our £18million turnover. It operates

Racking devoted to FUHR locks.

as a direct mail and e-commerce business and specialises in industry tools specifically tailored for the window and fabrication and fitting sector. It means our customers can order tools alongside their hardware order for a next day delivery. This could be power tools, bits, blades, abrasives, hand tools, measuring equipment, health and safety, PPE, maintenance products, ventilation solutions, ladders and accessories.

Is your own background in the hardware business?

Pretty much, yes. I started at 22 years old as a salesman at W J Goodwin, a traditional engineering company in Walsall and one of the original UK manufacturers supplying the emerging aluminium and PVCu markets.

Subsequent positions included senior management roles for Newman Tonks organisations, including Smith Wallis. In 1989, I joined Carl F Petersen as Managing Director and made the transition to MD of Carl F Groupco when it was formed in 2010.

The range of hardware you offer is evident in the warehouse but do you specialise at all?

How big’s the challenge? About 7 metres! John Mitchell and Clare Crockett show the size of the problem.

www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

This business is all about relationships, whether between us and our customers or us and our suppliers. For instance, we’re the largest worldwide customer for Carl FUHR, the German door lock manufacturer, and door products account for 50% of our turnover. The range we offer is varied but in

demand. So we are constantly monitoring the requirements of the industry to ensure that we are offering the right products to our customers.

And the future for Carl F Groupco?

More depots such as Cumbernauld?

It’ll be no great surprise that we want to keep expanding but this will be in a controlled way.

Cumbernauld exists to allow us to provide service across Scotland, including the Highlands and Offshore Islands and if further depots were needed to let us provide our next day service, then of course we would consider it.

We’ve already invested in a number of own brand hardware products, such as the CFG Profile Cylinder, the CFG3* TS007 Cylinder and the CFGLock+ Cable Restrictor and should the need arise, we may well increase our own brand products. Our preference, however, is to continue working with Europe’s leading hardware manufacturers.

We have recently invested around £60K in IT to streamline our ordering, picking and despatch and I can see investment in this area continuing.

Many thanks for allowing us to see the operation at Carl F Groupco and expanding our knowledge of hardware distribution.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0127

73

TECH TALK

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Don’t Panic!

Tech Talk with Strafford Cooke, Technical Manager, Mila

CE Marking applies to panic doors too

After so many column inches were written about CE marking last year, you could be forgiven for thinking that there was nothing more to say on the subject – or perhaps like me you’ve reached a point where you’re just a little bit fed up with hearing about it! substances (REACH requirement), load bearing capacity of safety devices (Threshold requirement) and thermal transmittance (UK Buiding Regs requirement).

For locked doorsets being used on escape routes though, there is one additional characteristic which applies and this is ‘ability to release’.

Strafford Cooke.

If so, I apologise in advance for this column which highlights one key area which I think is still being overlooked by fabricators. This relates to panic doors – which you might only be required to fabricate once in a blue moon but which could certainly catch you out if you’re not prepared.

By their very nature, panic doors, or ‘locked doorsets on escape routes’ as they are officially defined, are only likely to be fitted in commercial environments – in pubs, hotels, hospitals, offices or schools for example. But these are, of course exactly the kind of settings which are more likely to be inspected by a planning officer or the fire department, so it’s essential that they are brought into line with the CE marking regime which should by now be in place in every factory.

Whilst many fabricators may have struggled under the weight of the bureaucracy which surrounds CE marking, it’s easy to forget that its primary purpose is to safeguard the health and safety of the end user - another reason perhaps why it should be applied to panic doors just as rigorously as it is applied to conventional windows and doors.

As we all know by now, the European standard for CE marking accreditation is EN 1435-1 and it covers all doors and windows in the scope of the Annex ZA. Within that, table ZA.1 identifies the relevant essential characteristics which must be determined of each product. This includes dangerous

74

In order to comply with the requirements under ‘ability to release’, any emergency exit device, panic hardware or hinge fitted to the door must have been tested by a Notified Test Laboratory to the relevant standards (EN 179, EN 1125, EN 1935, prEN 13633 or prEN 13637) and crucially the evidence of the test must be obtained from the hardware manufacturer.

What this means is that fabricators need to have evidence of performance in the form of a written test report from a Notified Body.

One of the reasons why I think panic doors are in danger of being overlooked by fabricators is that the exit devices have been required to be CE marked for many years and, when purchased from a leading supplier like Mila, the written test report is already included as standard within the packaging.

However, it is only since 1 July last year that the doors themselves have come under the CE marking regime and that means that it is not just the exit devices which now need to be tested. The rules now extend to the hinge

“Panic doors is one obvious area which is being overlooked but it can easily be addressed simply by choosing the right hardware.” being used as well and the onus is on the fabricator to obtain the evidence that the items being fitted comply with the standards.

The relevant hinge standard is EN1935 so a written test report for that is required along with the test reports for the exit devices to EN 179 and EN 1125. Not all hinges are currently tested to EN1935 though so it is up to fabricators to make sure that they choose one like Mila’s

Evolution hinge which is and that they also obtain a copy of the test report to prove it.

Most fabricators hopefully feel that they successfully addressed the issue of CE marking in their factories last year and I’m sure most don’t want to revisit the issue now that they have the necessary procedures and documentation in place. However, you need to be aware that any gaps in your compliance will

still leave you vulnerable to prosecution. Panic doors is one obvious area which is being overlooked but it can easily be addressed simply by choosing the right hardware and by liaising with the manufacturer to obtain the documentary evidence required.

By Strafford Cooke, Technical Manager, Mila READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0128

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

75

GLASS NEWS INTERVIEW: GM FUNDRAISING

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Giving... and having fun doing it With GM Fundraising reaching the milestone of raising over £1million for its Hope House Children’s Hospice Charity, Chris Champion, Glass News’ Editor, took the opportunity to meet up with Gary Morton to talk about the teams fundraising efforts over the past 15 years.

If any of us have been to a fenestration trade event in recent years, it’s hard not to know about GM Fundraising as we are used to being asked to contribute…

Contribute to a good cause, yes, but hopefully you’ve had fun at the same time! That’s the essence of what we do, raising money but having fun at the same time. Just because it’s a serious and very deserving charity, it is also a very happy place, so we have no intention of being all doom and gloom.

You started the charity some 15 years ago. What prompted you do to this?

I wanted to create an environment where we could all have some fun whilst raising much needed funds for charities such as Hope House Children’s Hospices. It’s really a matter of giving something back. Many of those involved, whether within the GM Fundraising

So let’s talk about some of these events, many of which I must say have been well covered in the trade press.

The trade press has been generous in its support and the coverage we receive has a direct knock-on effect to the money we raise for the next event. I can’t possibly list every event that we have been involved with, nor list the current ones but I’d like to highlight one or two and encourage people to go to www. gmfundraising.co.uk/gallery where all the events are shown.

team or contributors, are successful people in their own right or are involved with successful companies. I felt that raising charitable funds could be made enjoyable and not simply a matter of writing out a cheque or putting money in a collection box. If people are involved in an enjoyable activity that can also raise money, everyone wins!

We’ll get on to some of the activities you’ve been involved in a minute but before that I’m intrigued by your core team. What a bunch of reprobates!

You’re right! They’re all larger than life characters but with hearts of gold. If they weren’t so generous with their time and energy, we would never had succeeded in raising all this money.

It’s worth mentioning your team, simply because of their being well known in our trade. You’ve got Dave Broxton from Bohle UK, Alan Sadler of Profix Window Systems, Graeme Bailey of Business Micros, The Brouha Marketing Team and Adrian

Barraclough of Quickslide. Was it a matter of strong-arming them into GM Fundraising or did they volunteer?

All the team are family people who can appreciate their own good fortune and are happy to make a difference by being part of GM Fundraising. I think I can honestly say that they all came quietly and weren’t pressganged into it at all! Much of our fundraising involves an activity of some kind, and usually sport related, and that appeals to everyone… even Brocko (David Broxton), surprisingly enough! I should also say that apart from this core team there are many other industry personalities that support pretty much everything we do.

One of the things that appeals to me is that every £1 donated goes directly to the cause. I think many of us have been a bit ‘charitied’ out, particularly when you know that a proportion is going to fat salaries or the charity has become politically oriented…

I think that’s a very valid point. Without wishing to decry the efforts of any other charities, I think it is so important that GM Fundraising is seen as being wholly charitable and that any work done behind the scenes is entirely voluntary and unpaid. In fact, we can guarantee that every penny donated, goes directly to the charity. It is the essence of how we want to be seen.

You started out in 1995…

Yes. The first venture was a charitable Gala Dinner that raised £16,761. With that behind us, it just seemed right to continue and get creative in putting events on that people would either take part in or support.

76

Hope 66 is our biggest event yet and raised over £180K, by cycling the iconic Route 66 in the USA. It wasn’t just a matter of those who travelled to the states but those who sponsored riders and followed the whole event on the internet, Facebook and Twitter.

Hope House Children’s Hospices have been very fortunate to have your support. Out of all the possible good works you could have supported, why Hope House?

Hope House provides palliative care for children with life limiting conditions and support for their families, both on site and in their homes but receives only nominal support from the government, with over 95% of its £4.5 million annual operating costs being met by charitable donations. We’re proud to be their largest single donor to date.

We give our time freely and are committed to delivering the highest quality events, whilst ensuring that every penny raised, reaches the children and families at Hope House. To be honest, there can be no more rewarding activity than supporting this charity whilst having a good time and the GM Fundraising team remain dedicated to putting ‘fun’ into their fundraising efforts.

Our relationship with Hope House over some 13 years is very important to us all.

And the future?

We shall continue the support for Hope House and will continue being innovative in our charitable events, making sure that people have fun while the money is raised. We have a number of events in planning and will announce our next major ride in the next few months

Many thanks Gary, and the best of good fortune to you and your team for your continued efforts through GM Fundraising.

READER ENQUIR130001

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

77

RECRUITMENT

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Recruitment

See more positions online at: www.glassnews.co.uk

Helping you find & place positions.

If you are looking to recruit, contact us today for prices!

Email: christina@glassnews.co.uk or Tel: 07805 051322 NEW APPOINTMENT

NEW APPOINTMENT

Senior appointments strengthen dealer support at Conservatory Outlet Yorkshire based fabricator Conservatory Outlet has recently made two new board level appointments that reinforce the company’s commitment to its dealer network and strategically prepare it for the next stage of growth.

Ian Hayes and Neil Booth have joined the company as Network Development Director and Finance Director respectively.

Vastly experienced, Ian will play a central role in the company’s strategy to drive growth organically by helping existing customers increase their businesses.

His expertise in multi-site operations allows him to identify best practices and successfully communicate and implement them across the network of dealers.

Ian said: “Simply offering lead generating websites and bespoke retail brochures is no longer enough for the evolving needs of a wellestablished network with such high-calibre members.

Our holistic approach is aimed at laying the ground for our dealers’ future growth.

It’s more than immediate lead generation; it’s about sustainable growth that will show its benefits long term.”

Crucially, the new Network Development Director’s responsibilities are solely related to existing customers – he will not be involved in the process of establishing new Conservatory Outlet dealers.

While Ian’s focus is to work for, and alongside, Conservatory Outlet dealers by any means possible, the

new Financial Director will ensure the company remains financially sound throughout its growth.

Neil’s background in running highly successful £20m+ turnover businesses strengthens the finance function within the company and his appointment reflects Conservatory Outlet’s target and commitment for the future.

“Balancing the financial and operational aspects of a business throughout its growth is of paramount importance. I’m focusing on sustaining the growth of Conservatory Outlet by maximising the income potential of the business and strategically managing investment to the benefit of our company and our dealer network”, explained Neil.

Conservatory Outlet MD Greg Kane comments: “Naturally we are delighted that Ian and Neil chose to join us. The Conservatory Outlet Network was formed almost a decade ago and these appointments are designed to ensure that existing dealers continue to see as much benefit from our alliance as new ones.’

For more information visit http://www. conservatoryoutletdealers. co.uk/ or call 01924 239813.

Ian Hayes (left) & Neil Booth (right).

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READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0133

SYNSEAL’S NEW HEAD OF QUALITY COMMANDS INDUSTRY EXPERTISE Steve Hill has joined market-leading UK systems suppliers Synseal in the role of Head of Quality, with a full remit to manage the wellestablished quality team and assist to drive the business improvement plan which aims to continually raise standards across the entire Synseal product portfolio.

Prior to joining Synseal, Steve enjoyed 17 years

working for high-profile window industry retailers Safestyle UK marketing products direct to consumers, initially as Quality Manager for a decade followed by another 7 years successfully operating as the company’s Technical Manager.

Steve is experienced in managing all aspects of quality for a large-scale production and window fabrication operation.

Process improvement, Six Sigma and lean manufacturing techniques also feature strongly in his career CV to date, which means he is fully conversant with industry-leading best practices and well-qualified to tackle his new role at Synseal.

David Leng, Synseal’s Chief Executive, comments: “What Steve brings to Synseal

is a refreshingly different mindset. He is adept at championing consumerfacing retail products in terms of both manufactured and installed quality, which as we all know is a highly exacting discipline. Our aim at Synseal is to secure customer delight right along the value chain, from our fabricator partners through to installers and ultimately the end-users, UK homeowners. In this regard, Steve’s experience and quality management credentials are second to none.”

“I’m delighted to join Synseal”, says Steve. “The wide scope of the product range, from windows and doors right through to Global or K2 roofs and orangeries, provides plenty of technical variety and I’m also looking forward to delivering high quality standards for all the planned innovations on the R&D launch roadmap.”

When he is not busy championing quality standards at Synseal, Doncaster-based Steve also enjoys watching his local rugby union team WathUpon-Dearne, playing golf and social evenings out and about with wife Dawn and son McCauley.

For further information contact Mark Schlotel on 01623 446207 or 07764 229694; email mark. schlotel@synseal.com.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0134

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

1014/0135

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www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

79

RECRUITMENT

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

NEW APPOINTMENT

NEW APPOINTMENT

KENRICK EXPANDS TEAM A surge in new business at leading hardware supplier Kenrick has prompted the company to expand it sales team with the appointment of Emma Parkes as Sales Administrator.

its strongest year in the last decade. Emma has many years’ experience and joins Kenrick from Midlandsbased company Roberts Gordon where she worked in sales for seven years.

Emma’s appointment follows a peak in sales orders at the West Bromwich-based company, which has enjoyed

Steve Williams, Sales and Marketing Director at Kenrick, says: “Kenrick is poised for a bright and

exciting future and we are delighted to welcome Emma to the team. Emma brings a wealth of practical experience and knowledge to the Kenrick team and she will be pivotal in managing additional business and helping us to achieve further growth.”

Emma added: “Kenrick is a great brand and I am really pleased to be joining the team at such an instrumental time. The company is focused on quality and service and I am looking forward to building great relationships with customers to further enhance the business.”

Kenrick is a leading supplier of hardware solutions for PVCu, aluminium and timber window and door systems. The company has a proud heritage spanning more than 200 years, having been established

by Archibald Kenrick who manufactured buckles and livery fittings. Kenrick’s range of top quality products includes the market leading Excalibur multi-point window shootbolt are extremely cost effective and easy to install.

THE PERFORMANCE TIMBER PRODUCTS GROUP

APPOINTS NEW CEO

Mr Roy Wakeman, OBE, Executive Chairman of The Performance Timber Products Group (PTPG) has announced today that Joe Martoccia, currently Commercial Director of Ultraframe (UK) Ltd, will join PTPG as Chief Executive Officer. His appointment takes effect from 15 December 2014.

Roy Wakeman, who will remain with PTPG as Chairman, comments: “The search for a new CEO has been a long process and I am confident that Joe Martoccia is the right candidate to take PTPG forwards and continue developing the successful growth strategy of this £20m plus business. We are all looking forward to working with him.”

PTPG was established by Roy Wakeman in 2006 with the acquisition of Mumford & Wood Limited. Revenue at that time

was approaching £6m. Since then the management team has developed the business through organic growth and also through the acquisitions of Timber Windows in 2009 followed by Dale Windows in 2010.

Within the PTPG portfolio, where separate brands target differing core markets, Mumford & Wood is recognised as the UK’s premier manufacturer of fine, bespoke, Conservation™ timber windows and doors designed for traditionally-styled and period properties. The brand remains the favourite choice of architects, developers, planning officers and discerning homeowners. The Timber Windows brand offers made-to-order, high quality windows and doors in traditional and contemporary styles through a unique on-line offering supported with strategically placed high street showrooms and a national network of recognised installers.

Dale Windows is the leading provider of high performance, made-to-order timber windows and doors sold exclusively through the merchant distribution channel and backed with an exceptional online estimating and ordering system. PTPG prides itself on providing an unrivalled level of customer service, support and product offering.

In 2009 Graphite Capital, a leading UK private equity company, invested in PTPG in order to fund the acquisition of Timber Windows. Graphite Capital holds a majority stake in the business. PTPG currently employs 130 people working from headquarters in Tiptree, Essex where Joe Martoccia will be based.

For further information about this appointment please call Roy Wakeman on 01621 818155.

www.kenricks.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0136

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0137

NEW APPOINTMENT

Major appointment at Sternfenster Lincolnshire’s largest and longest established fabricator, Sternfenster, has recently made a strategic appointment as it embarks on its next stage of growth. Steve Lane is a well-known figure in the industry, and has taken up the role of National Sales Manager.

than a decade, manufacturing the 70 mm chamfered profile system - 2500 Series, as well as the fully sculptured decorative 70mm profile, 2800 Series. Sternfenster is also a fabricator of Spectus vertical sliding sash windows and highend Residence 9 windows, and manufactures over 3,000 glass units per week.

Sternfenster Managing Director, Mike Parczuk, said: ”Steve has over 28 years’ experience in the industry and his knowledge will prove pivotal as we look to implement a series of exciting strategies over the next few years. He is definitely the right person for it and we’re delighted to welcome him to the team”.

Steve comments: “I’ve always regarded Sternfenster as a quality fabricator and I’m truly delighted to have joined the team.

Sternfenster’s extremely comprehensive range of products is backed up by a very high level of customer service – including sales and marketing support - and a strong desire for continuous improvement, and that’s exactly the mentality I like.”

Operating from an 80,000 sq. ft. production facility, Sternfenster is firmly established as one of the industry’s leading trade fabricators.

Its strong re-investment policy comes through with every product, thanks to state-of-the-art machinery, including an on-site toughening plant and two fully automated glass lines, automatic aluminium saw and CNC machine centre and a revolutionary Graf Synergy seamless quad welder, the first in the UK.

With a long established reputation for quality and customer service, the fabricator has also recently expanded its successful aluminium

For more information contact Sternfenster on 01522 512525, or visit www.sternfenster.co.uk.

Established 40 years ago, Sternfenster has always been a family run business, and is currently headed by the original founders’ sons, Mike and Simon Parczuk. The fabricator has been working with Deceuninck for more

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department due to increased demand, and is now offering the whole range of Smarts windows and doors, including bi-folds and shop fronts. Further expansion plans for the aluminium division include the opening of a brand new factory in 2015.

Sternfenster National Sales Manager, Steve Lane.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0138

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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1014/0139

NATIONAL SALES MANAGER

£45,000PA + BENEFITS, NATIONAL SECONDARY GLAZING JOB REF: CTR435 In this pivotal position you will be responsible for managing, leading and driving a team of Sales Managers as well as maintaining responsibility for developing your own portfolio of sales. You will be an experienced and enthusiastic, results driven person with strong motivational skills. You will have responsibility for integrating new accounts; developing and maintaining relationships with key accounts; keeping abreast of market trends and filtering the information to your colleagues; experience of operating within budgets and maximising turnover and profits.

PROJECT MANAGER £50,000 - £55,000 PA, SOUTH EAST REGION, SECONDARY GLAZING JOB REF: CTR434 Fantastic opportunity for an experienced Project Manager to join a large Secondary Glazing Company to manage commercial tenders and oversee the processing of sales orders. In addition this person will need good communication and presentation skills, an eye for detail and must come from a Windows & Doors background. You will be familiar with site regulations; have certification awareness and possess excellent Technical Document skills.

RETAIL SALES MANAGER

PRODUCTION MANAGER

£80,000 OTE PA, MIDLANDS

£25,000 - £30,000 PA, LINCOLN, PVCU

JOB REF: CTR432 An opportunity has arisen for a Retail Sales Manager to cover the Midlands area working for an established and growing family run business.

You will have an successful track record in window, door & conservatory sales; excellent communication skills and the ability to handle orders from cradle to grave.

For full information contact us on 01543 897 800.

Contact us for full details on 01543 897 800.

JOB REF: CTR441 An experienced Production Manager is required to maintain & improve the quality & efficiency of an ambitious company. You will already have within PVCu production management experience; will be required to work in the PVCu department assisting with the manufacture of frames & running of the production facility.; must be able to introduce best practice measures & work within and report on department KPIs. Contact us on 01543 897 800.

SERVICE ENGINEER £25,000 PA + CAR, M4 CORRIDOR, PVCU JOB REF: CTR382 A Service Engineer is required to undertake the inspection & repair of composite doors; completion of site reports & other related paperwork; participate in approved training; undertake similar duties as requested by management. Applicants must have fenestration industry experience and experience of the installation & maintenance of fenestration products; hold a full current driving licence; have some level of joinery experience; ideally you will be CSCS registered.

For full information, call us on 01543 897 800.

Applicants must have a background in PVCu & aluminium windows & doors and a strong commercial sales background.

For full information on this role, contact us on 01543 897 800.

Tel: 01543 897 800 | Email: mat@chasetaylor.co.uk www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

www.chasetaylor.co.uk 81

RECRUITMENT

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

NEW APPOINTMENT

NEW APPOINTMENT

NEW PROMAT APPOINTMENTS

DOORCO GOES ON GROWING WITH JAYNE SULLIVAN AS OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

STRENGTHEN CUSTOMER & TECHNICAL SUPPORT CAPABILTIES In a move which underlines its commitment to the fire and security glass industry, Promat has announced two new key appointments.

DoorCo, formerly the Capstone composite door brand, has announced the appointment of Jayne Sullivan as its first Operations Director.

Jayne, wife of MD Dan Sullivan has years of experience both in the corporate world and the family business environment – where she says she began at the age of ten. Now, after Dan and co-founder John Collins have put seven years into building Capstone and DoorCo into its present form, all are agreed the time is right for her to join the team.

She brings with her an impressive CV with blue chip names including Pricewaterhouse Coopers, Ernst & Young and Astra Zeneca, working fields as diverse as energy & utilities, telecoms, entertainment, betting and local government, in various locations around Europe and the Far East.

Jayne says: “My priority as Operations Director will be to ensure that we have robust processes working well over all areas of the business. The company has relied on a small but dedicated team to operate it but as it grows, we will need to make more use of technology so that our staff can focus on more valuable tasks.”

The company had its beginnings when Dan and John, both with years of experience in the door industry, began supplying

Stuart Howe and Geoff Smith have joined the company as Technical Consultants and will work as part of the Promat Securiglass team, providing technical support to the company’s customers, particularly in the specification market.

container quantities of door slabs to large fabricators. The change of identity came about after it began manufacturing prepared doors of all kinds, not just residential composite and took on DoorCo as a name that was more relevant to its new offering. Dan explained that it was the impact an earlier recruitment from the corporate world – of Sales Manager Mike Roe – that highlighted the benefits Jayne could bring to the business with her own corporate background.

Dan concluded: “We are really turning up our focus on the team, which has grown by nearly double in the last year. We have the right people; we now need to support them to develop skills in areas which we need and will continue to add to this as the business grows.”

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0140

“Stuart and Geoff will focus primarily on our PromatSYSTEMGLAS® fire-rated glazing range, and their great industry experience will make a very positive contribution to its continued growth in popularity,”

comments Promat’s Business Development Director, Ian Cowley.

“Geoff and I both have considerable experience of working for an accredited PromatSYSTEMGLAS®installer, and we’ve used the system on many projects that we’ve been involved in,” says Stuart Howe.

“We know the tremendous potential that it offers to architects and specifiers and we’re delighted to help get that message out to the market.”

Promat-SYSTEMGLAS® is a glazing system that allows designers and architects to make full use of natural light within their buildings, by using simple butt joints which eliminate the need for mullions in large areas of fire-resistant glazing. It allows the creation of glazed screens without vertical or horizontal framing, and

Promat UK has announced two new key appointments. Geoff Smith (left) and Stuart Howe have joined the company as Technical Consultants and will work as part of the Promat Securiglass team, providing technical support to the company’s customers, particularly in the specification market.

all-glass doors, while still providing fire ratings of up to 120 minutes. It has been used on many recent projects, including the National Portrait Gallery and the BT Tower in London, Belfast’s Mater Hospital and the Discovery Museum in Gateshead.

“Promat Securiglass has a very strong reputation for the reliable technical advice it provides, and Stuart and Geoff will add considerably to the tremendous technical expertise we can offer,” adds Ian Cowley. “They will be working with architects and specifiers to provide guidance, resolve technical queries and help them create glazing which brings their buildings to life. Having the very best people in the industry helps us create solutions for our customers which meet, and often exceed, their requirements.

These appointments strengthen our ability to offer the industry a service which goes from providing technical advice through to the supply of the glazing itself, all from under the same roof. This ‘singlesource’ ability really sets us apart from the competition.”

More information on Promat Securiglass can be obtained from the company’s recently updated website www. promatsecuriglass.co.uk or by calling call 01344 381350.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0141

NEW APPOINTMENT

GLASS NEWS WELCOMES A NEW MEMBER OF STAFF Having enjoyed unprecedented growth over the last three years, and in line with expansion plans, Glass News is pleased to announce a new member of staff.

Kathy Leeming has years of experience in newspaper advertising sales and is excited to be joining the sales team. Kathy comments: “I started my career in the advertising industry back in 1989 working for Reed Northern Newspapers on a title called the Goole Howden & Thorne Courier.

82

My role was initially telesales but after a short period I was promoted to a field sales representative, this entailed appointment setting with clients and helping organise their marketing budgets.

Johnston Press bought out RNN and then the industry changed and more emphasis was on digital revenue plus the companies portfolio of products including magazines and specialist publications.

I took redundancy in 2012 and thought long and hard about what to do next. Then this opportunity came along at Glass News which suits me perfectly as my years of experience within the Newspaper industry is a great help, it is just a case of learning all about a new product.

I have a 6 year old Labrador called Bruno who is crazy and full of energy I enjoy taking him on long walks (he usually takes me though) plus I like travelling to different places in the

world and in the past few years have been to India, Cuba, The Gambia, America, Canada, North Africa plus many more destinations, my dream holiday is to travel to South America and visit Argentina, Brazil and Guatlemala and The Philippines”.

Contact Kathy - Tel: 01405 947279 Email: cathy@glassnews.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0142

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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GoSend.it is a great lead generator that also promotes our brand. We use it on all our installations and it’s a great investment – a real winner for installers that want more leads”.

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www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

83

FIRE DOOR SAFETY

Pyroguard ignites Fire Door Safety Week 2014

David Jolliffe - CEO of CGI Group, Manufacturers of Pyroguard, marked Fire Door Safety Week by hosting a factory day at their site in Haydock, Merseyside on Wednesday 17th September.

A recent review of 100 cases prosecuted under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 found that inadequate fire doors were the second highest reason for prosecutions.

Fire doors are often left open with the escape routes obstructed and door closers disconnected, meaning safety is not at the forefront of people’s minds. The 15th of

“Pyroguard is proud to be an independent, specialist fire resistant glass manufacturer.”

September kicked off Fire Door Safety Week 2014 and the continued campaign to ensure this crucial element of fire safety is used correctly in every public building in Britain.

David Jolliffe commented “The 3 million fire doors that are installed in the UK every year need to be fitted and used correctly to ensure optimum results. Installing a fire door and then failing to use it properly makes the protection they offer meaningless. Fire doors need to be treated as the safety device that they are, and not just like a normal door”.

Participants invited to the factory day had a tour around the facility and gained an unparalleled insight into how Pyroguard manufacture the quality fire resistant glass that is used in fire doors. They were then transported to an independent testing furnace in Warrington where the glass was tested, and passed with flying colours. Fire doors must meet the highest standards to ensure that they save lives and it is critical that manufacturers of fire resistant glass meet all the requirements and are tested by an accredited third party.

Pyroguard is proud to be an independent, specialist fire resistant glass manufacturer that offers technical support, expert advice and guidance on the specification and installation of fire resistant glass.

David Jolliffe said “It would be easy to simply manufacture fire resistant glass but Pyroguard aims to go beyond that and help our customers and partners in the building industry with complete fire glass safety solutions. Being affiliated with Fire Door Safety Week further highlights our commitment and drive for fire safety that extends beyond the factory door. It is imperative to the success of this campaign that those of us in this industry are committed to spreading the message and making fire safety and all the elements it comprises of something that is treated with the seriousness it merits”.

To find out more information, please visit www.pyroguard.eu and follow us on @pyroguard.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0144

84

GLASSTEC PREVIEW

Promac prepares

to impress

with suppliers at Glasstec For the Promac Group, the opportunities presented by an industry exhibition are not to be missed. Renowned across the world as a leading supplier of machinery, service and technical solutions, the machinery supply giant will once again take to the Glasstec halls in order to support its global suppliers who will be showcasing yet more innovative and relevant machinery for today’s market.

In Hall 16 on Stand A21, For.El will be at Glasstec with their brand new combined machine which comes as natural progression to their highly acclaimed vertical edging and grinding lines. The first of its kind to come to the market, For.El are confident this latest development will deliver glass processors fast, accurate, quality glass products through this highly innovative but simple platform. For the IGU market For.El will also showcase new spacer bar application systems in conjunction with high speed gas coupling and sealing robots.

SoftSolution will hit Hall 14, Stand A40 with a range of products developed to ensure quality throughout production. The Vertical and Horizontal Line Scanners’ digital technology is now well established as the most accurate

“Demonstrating machinery live at exhibitions is part of our heritage and culture and is why we continue to avidly support our suppliers who have the same philosophy at International trade shows. My job, along with the team, is to make sure that all our visitors to the exhibition get individual access to the machinery and time with the manufacturer.”

quality and size control process, with the added benefit of glass thickness and coated product detection. New for 2014, SoftSolution will unveil the Vertical Line Scanner RCF which is designed for distortion control and will produce a complete 3D image of a piece of glass. Demonstrations of the Cullet Scanner and Virtual Digitizer will also be taking place.

Promac’s proud association and support will also be on hand with other leading flat glass machinery manufacturers like Mappi situated in Hall 16 on Stand C37, who lead the way in thermally efficient glass tempering plants. Macotec, who produce high speed highly innovative glass cutting lines, will be in Hall 16 on Stand C59 and Mistrello, one of Europe’s leading brands producing heavy use glass handling and storage equipment, will be in Hall 16 on Stand D60.

“Without doubt the most effective way for people to appreciate the capabilities of any machine, is to see it work with their own eyes” explains Joe Hague, managing director of the Promac Group.

“Demonstrating machinery live at exhibitions is part of our heritage and culture and is why we continue to avidly support our suppliers who have the same philosophy at International trade shows. My job, along with the team, is to make sure that all our visitors to the exhibition get individual access to the machinery and time with the manufacturer, in order to truly appreciate the positive effect it could have on their business.”

For more information about Promac, their products and services, visit www.promac.co.uk or call 01788 577 577.

READER ENQUIRY No: 1014/0145

October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

Glass Edge Processing For more than 30 years For.El has designed and built innovative automated solutions for the double glazing and flat glass industry. Whether machines for laminating glass, edge grinding or automatic production of sophisticated sealed units For.El has the machinery to fit every size, shape and production of any business.

At Promac we are proud to have partnered For.El for the past 25 years with sales, service and technical support.

Please refer to our website www.promac.co.uk or call Promac today on 01788 577577.

21-24 October 2014 Hall 16 Stand A21

For Spares & Consumables www.promacshop.co.uk

TBB – Automatic Warm Edge Applicator

APG20 Gas Coupling Press

SA1400 – Structural Glass Sealing Robot

The Eyeguide, with The Essential Line

www.promac.co.uk

3c Hadrians Way, Glebe Farm Industrial Estate, Rugby, Warwickshire CV21 1ST

T: 01788 577577 F: 01788 567938 E: sales@promac.co.uk

www.glassnews.co.uk | October 2014

1014/0146

85

TIME OUT!

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

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October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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Useful Numbers British Plastics Federation (BPF) Tel: 0207 457 5000

Glass & Glazing Federation (GGF) Tel: 0207 939 9101

British Standards Institution (BSI) – Standards & Publications Tel: 0208 996 9001

GQA Qualifications (formerly Glass Qualifications Authority) Tel: 0114 2720033

BSI – Assessment & Certification Tel: 0845 080 9000

Health & Safety Executive (HSE) – Glass & Related Industries Phil Smith, HM Principal Inspector Tel: 01782 602300 David Appleton, HM Inspector Tel: 0115 9712800

BSI – Product Certification & Testing Tel: 08450 765600 BBSA (British Blind & Shutter Association) Tel: 01449 780444 Building Research Establishment (BRE) Tel: 01923 664000 Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB) Tel: 01453 828851 Dekura Tel: 01952 201631 Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) Tel: 01827 52337 Double Glazing & Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS) Tel: 0845 053 8975 Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme (FENSA) Tel: 0207 645 3700 Get Britain Building (GBB) Tel: 0870 162 0936

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Proskills – Head Office Tel: 01235 833844 Proskills – Glass & Related Industries Neil Robinson – Tel: 07917 015 322 Recovinyl (via Axion Consulting) Tel: 0161 355 7618 The Glazing Ombudsman (TGO) Tel: 020 7397 7200 UK Green Building Council Tel: 0207 580 0623 Veka Recycling Tel: 01322 38721 Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP) Tel: 01295 819 900 Wood Window Alliance (WWA) Tel: 0844 209 261

@GlassnewsMag

Christina Shaw

/GlassNews

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October 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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