Glass News November 2022

The Glazing Summit smashed its attendance record for the fourth year in a row as the fenestration industry’s finest came together for another vital day of debate, discussion and networking.

Almost 500 delegates descended on Edgbaston Stadium for what was hailed as the best Glazing Summit – and the event also featured more bigname sponsors, more expert speakers and more keynotes than ever before. And according to Glazing Summit founder and CEO of organisers Purplex and Insight Data Andrew Scott, the numbers show the event’s growing importance to the industry.

“The Glazing Summit has grown year on year and to get our biggest ever turn out not only shows the event’s significance in the industry calendar, but it also shows the desire as an industry to come together to share ideas and tackle

the issues we are all facing,” said Andrew.

“After the boom in home improvements through the pandemic, we now face economic and global uncertainty so it was an important time to get together and discuss where we’re heading and how we can best navigate our way through the challenges ahead.

“Times are going to get tougher but rather than doom and gloom this year’s Glazing Summit showed there is plenty of opportunity out there for agile businesses and I hope those in attendance left as optimistic about the future of the industry as I did.”

Attendees enjoyed five dynamic debates and discussions with a panel of industry experts on important issues such as the current supply chain challenges, people and skills, regulations, innovation and merges and acquisitions. They were also inspired by world class keynotes,

including Richard Harpin, CEO of Homeserve PLC and one of the most successful entrepreneurs in the UK, who closed the event, Barclays Chief Economist William Hobbs and legendary retail and customer experience expert Peter Cross.

The evening’s Glazing Summit gala dinner included a hugely motivational speech from legendary athlete and sports personality Kriss Akabusi to round off the 2022 event.

“The Glazing Summit is only as good as its panellists, keynotes and agenda and we raised the bar again this year,” added Andrew. “The combined knowledge and experience in the room was incredible and I’d like to thank everyone who attended and all our sponsors for making it a truly memorable event. I’m already looking forward to another equally important Glazing Summit next year.”

To book your place early at next year’s Glazing Summit, which will take place on Thursday, October 12 at Edgbaston Stadium again, visit www.glazingsummit.co.uk, call 01934 808293 or email hello@glazingsummit.co.uk.

Read about this years Glazing Summit on pages 22.

I can’t be the first to think that we never seem to hear good news these days. I’m virtually at the stage of not even wanting to watch, hear or read the news, anymore. I read the other day that someone said we need contrasts in this life. If there was nothing but good in the world it wouldn’t be very good – we need a bit of bad otherwise we wouldn’t recognise what good looks like. Hmmm…fair enough. Day and night would be another example: it’s the interaction between these two forces that creates variety and gives life meaning. Bit deep? All I can say is please may we have some good ‘cos I’m forgetting what it looks like?

Close to print date but worth waiting for, we have managed to get a report in for this month following the Glazing Summit and you may just get to see yourselves in the pictures!

We are always talking about the skills shortage and there really doesn’t seem to be an instant answer to the problem. We all know training, apprenticeships and visiting and talking in schools and colleges can have some effect but is it a case of trying to get more to the roots? For some unknown reason I have started getting emails from Ascot media group, based in Friendship, Texas. They were sending me a press release about a new book entitled “What does your Daddy do?” The author is Joshua Page, an electrician by trade. Page is passionate about informing the younger generation of all the career options they have in addition to college. Page believes that choosing a trade and working with his hands saved his life and allowed him to have the life he loves. As a father of two, his mission is to teach his children and their generation about how fulfilling a career in the trades can be and to encourage them to follow their own path in life.

This book introduces young readers to Ashton, whose fifth-grade class is having career week. Ashton isn’t sure exactly what his dad does, so he goes home and asks him. Ashton then gets to learn about all the cool work his dad does as

an electrician and all the interesting tools he gets to use. As career week continues, all the students get to share stories about what their parents do.

“I wrote this book to plant a seed in a younger generation’s mind about how ‘cool’ the trades are and to start the conversation young,” Page added.

Now I know this is a slow burn and is not going to answer our staffing problems immediately but, to be fair, all our efforts to get people to choose a trade, and fenestration specifically, will also take time before we see an influx of new blood. I can’t help feeling that converting people from their current jobs to one in our industry is the quickest solution although still not easy. What I like about this book, and the thought behind it, is getting parents in fenestration to talk to their children about what they do and perhaps sewing a seed. It may not have wings but it’s just a thought…

High on everyone’s agenda is sustainability and an important part of that is recycling. I was fortunate to join an editor’s visit to Deceuninck’s recycling plant at Diksmuide in Belgium to see how the largest uPVC recycling plant in Europe does it, and it’s pretty impressive. A report is in this issue.

Also, this month, a visit to Avantis at Rugeley to meet Mark Bromley and Marc Henson to talk about the Kubu product and understand the multi-national company that Avantis has become was certainly eye-opening. Mark, of course is no stranger to hardware having owned and sold Milenco but the move into manufacturing and technology was inspired and his products are used in a whole variety of industries and not just fenestration. I had the great pleasure of sitting next to Made For Trade’s Richard Gaunt at the Business Leaders’ Dinner, following the Glazing Summit, and it struck me how two extraordinarily successful entrepreneurs such as Richard Gaunt and Mark Bromley have the foresight and trust to move aside in favour of the next generation. In MFT’s case Richard and Ashley Gaunt are firmly in the driving seat and Ryan Bromley and his team now lead the way within Avantis. Clever and successful succession planning from both a work and financial point of view. Needless to say, neither Richard nor Mark have entirely left the scene and are prepared to throw the odd hand grenade into

mix if needed!

OUT’ WINNERS

OCTOBER!

@GlassnewsMag

Christina

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.

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BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

Looking for a composite door offer that combines premium quality, established brand awareness and a competitive price tag? Then look no further than the new, single rebate Apeer44 range.

With the home improvement boom now but a distant memory, installers are facing a tougher challenge to win sales.

Despite economic pressures however, demand is still there and especially at the more affluent end of the market, territory that’s typically associated with premium products that include higher value entrance doors and composites.

Apeer, now one of the UK’s biggest composite door brands, has worked tirelessly to ensure its customers are suitably well equipped to take advantage of this demand, with innovations such as the aluminium inspired Silka finish – and now the Silka aluminium window and lift ‘n slide range – proving a huge success.

But the R&D department at Apeer never rests for long. A new product range, Apeer44, has just been launched, an offer

that embodies the quality and attention to detail of the Apeer brand, but with a new, more competitively priced single rebate, 44mm composite range.

Apeer’s Managing Director, Asa McGillian, sheds some light on the Ballymena firm’s latest product development: “We’ve enjoyed a huge amount of success with our 70mm composite range, with the Silka finish that was originally designed to challenge aluminium entrance doors and more recently with the introduction of our new suite of Silka windows and doors.

“But the feedback from our customers and from consumers is that there is still a strong market for a high quality, single rebate composite offer, one that delivers all the performance and high end aesthetic

associated with Apeer, just at a more attractive price point.”

Apeer44 features 13 new door designs and also includes a new range of glass options from RegaLead, including the popular New Orleans and Aurora designs.

In addition to a collection of stylish new side panels, as well as on trend, premium black hardware that includes bar pull handles and lever handles, Apeer44 also boasts a smooth finish option on two of the door styles that also feature smooth glazing trims and matching smooth cassettes.

Available now, Apeer’s new, high quality Apeer44 brochure is reinforced with accompanying digital literature and professionally produced videos, which have now become a hallmark of Apeer’s marketing campaigns.

The company has invested significantly in marketing activity over the last five years, including a highly impactful consumer video campaign introduced at the start of the first Covid lockdown, and is now said to be reaping the benefits of such prolonged brand exposure.

Such is the familiarity of the firm’s marque, that the launch of Apeer44 has been timed to coincide with a decision to position all products under the ‘Apeer’ umbrella brand.

“It was really down to gut instinct to light a fire under our marketing campaign when we did,” admits Asa, “but our market research, and our sales success, have more than justified the decision.

“We have created some outstanding marketing material to support the launch of Apeer44, but when combined with such positive brand awareness, it means our customers can really hit the ground running,” he concludes.

“We know that the demand for an attractively priced, high-quality single rebate composite is there and with economic conditions putting pressure on even more affluent households, we’re confident that it’s a market sector that will keep on growing.”

www.apeer.co.uk.

“We have created some outstanding marketing material to support the launch of Apeer44, but when combined with such positive brand awareness, it means our customers can really hit the ground running.”

“We’ve enjoyed a huge amount of success with our 70mm composite range, with the Silka finish that was originally designed to challenge aluminium entrance doors and more recently with the introduction of our new suite of Silka windows and doors.”

“The thought of reinventing ourselves was daunting, but Glazerite was with us throughout. We haven’t looked back.”

Ross Heaver Heavers of Bridport

Ending in-house fabrication so we could focus solely on installs was a huge decision for Heavers. It was key we found the right fabricator-partner to help us move our business forward.

We’d been thinking about making the switch from fabricator-installer business to Installer only for a few years, but rising prices finally gave us the push to do it.

The thought of reinventing ourselves was daunting, but Glazerite was with us throughout. Leaving fabrication behind was a huge decision, and we had to get it right for us, our team, and our customers. Quality and performance are at the heart of what we do here at Heavers, so it was important we found a fabricator we could trust.

Glazerite stood out for us; they have fantastic facilities and can provide products we’d never have been able to fabricate ourselves, which means we don’t have to turn down non standard jobs. Crucially, their own scope and ambition for growth matched ours.

If you’re a fabricator-installer looking to #StopFabricating#StartProspering we’ve got you, every step of the way.

Talk to us about how we can make your business prosper.

01933

sales@glazerite.net UK Group Limited

GERDA: STEEL YOURSELF FOR SOMETHING DIFFERENT

During the early ‘noughties a fear of market saturation was settling over the replacement window ‘double-glazing’ industry. True, the majority of UK homes that could be fitted with replacement windows, had been and the outlook looked gloomy. The expression ‘replacing the replacements’ was coined though without any real belief that people would actually upgrade in any meaningful volumes; window sales were surely about to fall off a cliff.

The evolving reality of course was that the replacement window and door industry, as it has so many times in its relatively short history, picked itself up, grasped the nettle and collectively realised that we, the Great British homeowning public, can never lavish enough cash and care on our ‘castles’ and of course, we kept buying windows after all.

The market evolved over the next decade in two key ways: the market fragmented and product sectors previously regarded as ‘niche’ became viable in their own right; and the power of product innovation seemed to have dawned as window systems houses, hardware suppliers, composite door manufacturers and others suddenly realised that exciting new products stimulate spending! Vertical sliding and flush sash windows are just two examples of how innovation grabbed the attention of homeowners and, whilst

replacement windows were not bought in the volumes that the industry had become used to in the previous thirty years, neither were they being sold for peanuts.

And that included composite doors. Almost overnight, the humble GRP-faced slab that began life on these shores as a cheap and effective solution for social housing, took on an upmarket persona and was developed to appeal to homeowners who liked the appearance (especially compared to moulded PVC), feel and promise of security and insulation that was inherent. Brands proliferated, price point and quality differentials emerged and voila, the home improvement industry had a whole new sub-sector in its own right. No longer was a front door chucked in as part of a 10-window deal.

Now, the biggest issue for homeowners is choice. There are literally dozens of brands offered by thousands of installers and often, with very little to differentiate them except price. Enter Danny Williams of Pioneer Trading. With a previous history of bucking the trend when faced with downward spiralling prices and margins with little to differentiate one white casement window from the next, Danny persuaded his system supplier to produce his own, exclusive window. With careful branding and product differentiation, especially in its performance, Pioneer’s installer customers could, with their hands on their hearts, tell their buyers: “No madam, the price our competitor is quoting you is not like-for-like’.

It worked. And now Danny is doing something similar with residential doors. The key differential this time, is steel; steel and aluminium-faced residential doors manufactured by Gerda, a firm that has its emphasis firmly on security and thermal performance and which are about as different as can be achieved against a sea of GRP composites.

Danny explained his approach: “Our search for a residential door that provided genuine and tangible differentials began in 2019, for something that I could offer to the market generally and not just our installer customers. I kept being drawn back to Gerda residential doors, and then a couple of coincidences pushed me towards them; around two years later, we launched Gerda at this year’s FIT Show. And thankfully, it was a huge success!”

Gerda achieves differentiation on a number of key fronts: Casual Internet searches reveal a dearth of steel-faced residential doors, and still surprisingly few aluminium that are pitched at the middle market. And the Polish-based brand is rooted in security, the company well-known for a raft of other security products, throughout mainland Europe. British homeowners seeking such reassurances will be impressed not just with the inherent strength promised by the facings, but also the hardware.

The new Apeer44 range has a door for every style, taste and personality.

The thermal performance is developed for harsh Eastern European winters and the stats are impressive. Both steel and aluminium doors offer thermal transmittance as low as 0.74 W/m2K for solid doors and 0.81 W/m2K for glazed versions. The class leading Altus door being offered by Pioneer in the UK boasts an 88mm depth, three chamber reinforced aluminium internal construction with PU cores, with FUHR multi point security lock and hardware located into reinforced aluminium outer frames. Such features are typical across the range.

Apeer44 is the coolest new way to express a sense of style. Choose from our collection of designer doors, crafted glass and uber-fashionable furniture to set any house apart from the rest.

The first Gerda doors are now being installed in UK homes after an impressive FIT Show debut, says Danny: ‘We have been taking decent orders since July and have around 40 dealers now appointed with showrooms furnished, and finishing touches being made to the systems and communications between Gerda and ourselves and of course, the market, in preparation for ramping up sales.

“We will be ready for volume sales from January and have a growing distribution network throughout the UK, including negotiations being finalised with a distributor in the Republic of Ireland, though we still have opportunities in the north of England, and Scotland. With every one of our distribution partners, the emphasis has been on their ability to offer the highest service levels, something that has become poor within the resi-door industry; composite door producers had better steel themselves!” concluded a smiling Danny.

Tel: 01245 362236 – www.gerdadoors.co.uk

apeer.co.uk

apeer.co.uk

apeer.co.uk

The new Apeer44 range has a door for every style, taste and personality.

The new Apeer44 range has a door

The new Apeer44 range has a door for every style,

Apeer44 is the coolest new way to express a sense of style. Choose from our collection of designer doors, crafted glass and uber-fashionable furniture to set any house apart from the rest.

way to express a sense of style. designer doors, crafted glass and uber-fashionable furniture to set any house apart from the rest.

Apeer44 is the coolest new way to express a sense of style. Choose from our collection of designer doors, crafted glass and uber-fashionable furniture to set any house apart from the rest.

DOOR DESIGNER LICENCE WORTH £399 UP FOR GRABS IN HURST DOOR’S INSTALLATION OF THE MONTH CONTEST

Hurst Doors, one of the UK’s largest PVC-U door panel and composite door manufacturers, is launching an Installation of the Month competition commencing October.

Prize winners will receive a year’s free subscription to the retail version of the Hurst Composite Door Designer, worth £399 plus VAT.

To be in with a chance to win, all the company’s customers have to do is send in their pictures of recent Hurst door installations.

The Hurst team will then judge the winner, with the help of followers

voting for their favourite on Hurst’s social channels, and the company responsible will be awarded ‘Installation of the Month’ and win the prize! In addition, the homeowner of the winning installation will also receive a £50 Amazon voucher.

“We know that every week, our fantastic customers complete hundreds of stunning installations all across the country,” comments Sales Director Mark Atkinson.

“With our new competition, we want to shine a light on their workmanship and skill, and celebrate their success.

“We look forward to receiving some excellent submissions, and crowning our first Installation of the Month!”

Easily integrated into an installer’s website, Hurst’s user-friendly door designer allows homeowners to tailor

the perfect door to their needs and preferences.

Choosing from a vast array of options, users can specify the exact style, colour, hardware, glass designs and more, as well as add Secured by Design.

The designer can be fully customised to feature a company’s branding, and allows installers to send personalised emails to their customers.

The platform also syncs with Hurst Live, Hurst’s exclusive 24/7 trade-only online ordering portal.

This means that any leads customers generate through the door designer on their own website can be managed within their Hurst Live account, from quote to order, to delivery.

To enter the competition, installers of Hurst Doors can either share their

project images on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter, making sure to tag Hurst Doors or alternatively, send in their images to marketing@hurstdoors.co.uk.

Terms and Conditions apply, see website for details.

For more information, please call 01482 790790 or visit: www.hurstdoors.co.uk.

With the help from Hunter from 90’s TV series Gladiators, Endurance Doors have opened a new showroom in Brigg, North Lincolnshire to help drive consumer sales in the local market, formed as a basis for Installer Partner product training, whilst also providing a physical platform for marketing launches and activities This new cutting-edge retail environment for entrance doors is located separately to the manufacturing facility, but still within Brigg, North Lincolnshire. It features seven doors in total from across the Endurance range, along with wall mounted hardware boards, colour swatches and even a super-

sized interactive digital board. The doors include two from the Classic, Country and Urban Collections, along with a new ultrapremium Avantal doorset which is already generating considerable interest.

Consultations can be booked online with a Design Consultant, whilst the virtual showroom also gives web visitors a taste of this new retail investment by Endurance. It also fully reflects the consumer marketing strategy that underpins the strong Endurance Doors brand too.

Stephen Nadin, managing director of Endurance Doors enthused: ‘This isn’t a typical trade only showroom, but a cutting

edge, premium retail environment. We feel this is the perfect opportunity to develop new marketing ideas, provide both online and face to face design consultations and generate high quality leads for our Installer Partners in our immediate area.

He continued: ‘It was fitting to bring Hunter back for the day to open the new retail showroom and we’ll be looking to have him back again to revisit the sledgehammer test. He’s got through a GRP door, another timber composite, but not yet one of ours!”

For further information on the Endurance Solid and Secure composite door range including the ultra-premium Avantal door

STRONG ALUMINIUM VOLUMES INSPIRE FRAMEPOINT’S® LATEST FEATURE

The volume of aluminium quoted by installers on Tommy Trinder’s Framepoint® app continues to surge; September alone saw £11million of aluminium products quoted to homeowners via the platform.

“Our numbers suggest that around two thirds of installers now include aluminium products in their portfolio,” says Tommy Trinder’s founder and CEO, Chris Brunsdon. “To keep with the demands of our users the challenge has been to ensure Framepoint® can cope with the complexity and options that aluminium provides whilst, as ever, keeping the app super simple and fast to use.”

Latest in a run of aluminium orientated features launched by the firm is the ability to touch, show and price a wide range of interlocks on patio doors. Says Chris; “Demand for stylish aluminium sliding doors has soared in recent years, largely

because they let homeowners flood their properties with natural light. Interlocks have become slimmer and slimmer as a result. Our latest release allows users to show clients the effect of a slim interlock in one touch - both up close and on the house.

“Seeing is believing when it comes to convincing homeowners to invest in premium products and we’re confident that being able to quickly and simply model the dramatic effect of these expansive glass areas will help installers win orders.”

A range of up to 5 interlocks can be configured in Framepoint® in sizes ranging from an ultra-slim 20mm all the way up to 100mm. Sliders can be finished in any RAL colour in a tap, and it’s one click to add finishing touches such as stainless style ironmongery and flush thresholds.

“Customers love to try before they buy and it's a wow moment when you are able to bring all the design elements together in a few clicks and have them render in full photo-realistic detail,” Says Chris.

Installers can find out more about how Framepoint® can help sell aluminium and book a free demo at www.tommytrinder.com.

THE BENEFIT OF HINDSIGHT

Has 2022 panned out as expected? The straight answer is no, I don’t think any one of us could have anticipated what would happen as the year unfolded. As Covid was starting to retreat, Putin was doing the opposite. His relentless attack on Ukraine has had a devastating impact on both a human and business level, sending energy prices through the roof and, with it, anxiety over the cost of living. Then, just when we thought it couldn’t get much worse, our own Government sent the markets into a tailspin with the erroneously named ‘mini budget’, that was anything but. All this, and I’ve not even mentioned our own industry yet.

Earlier this year, in the Glass News New Year edition, I said “I think we’re in for a challenging 2022 – household disposable income will very likely shrink as a result of inflation, interest rates and taxation, and where there’s a drop in disposable income, there will be a drop in spending”.

In fact, the one surprise is that the forecast downturn in the market for this year, does not appear to have happened yet. Some are reporting a slowdown, others are as busy as ever. Although I’m a pragmatist, even I was underplaying what we now know, with the benefit of hindsight. The only point I didn’t raise eleven months ago was the spectre of recession but, by the time you read this, that might have changed too.

The issues with which we started the year have not dissipated. Supply and delivery remain an industry issue, not least the rapidly increasing cost of goods from overseas, as well as scarcity of skilled labour and international trading conditions. Never before has it been so important not to be over reliant on imported goods, particularly given the state of the pound against other currencies. Unless you’re an exporter, of course, in which case this could be the window to grow your markets. And never before has it been so important to have certainty in your supply chain, giving customers the confidence in delivery and quality they deserve.

No prizes then, for guessing what much of the conversation was focussed on at FIT Show, back in May. While there seemed to be fewer

“Solar Calibre has received a lot of interest in its higher end products and, inevitably, it will be these products that offer the differentiation needed to maintain margins.”

people walking the aisles, it was still great to feel the buzz again. We attended as Solar Calibre, our composite door business, with a major focus on quality products backed by top customer service and distribution. Solar Calibre has received a lot of interest in its higher end products and, inevitably, it will be these products that offer the differentiation needed to maintain margins. I believe this will continue to be the theme for 2023. Businesses must look to keep their costs under control and to a minimum. If they can spend time seeking out the sales opportunities that will provide high margins and a profitable return, they might just ride out the storm. Looking at this from a more positive perspective, the feared slowdown in the housing market will very likely inspire homeowners to improve rather than move, which has its benefits for our industry.

And, with 2023 on the horizon and no sign of the energy crisis abating, there is the possibility that this will encourage the market, as other commentators have also noted. We are all consumers and we are all

exploring how we can most effectively use and retain energy. Added to this is another top driver, the impact of digitalisation which makes home working far more feasible for many, who will again want to make sure their homes are as energy efficient as possible. For those who haven’t already looked at replacing their doors and windows, now is the time to encourage the homeowners who do still have some disposable income. Our industry has excellent products that can help them really make a difference and, while the outlay can be significant, the return on investment will be notable versus the cost of electricity and gas, in the coming months and probably years.

We’ve sought out 2023 industry forecasts but, in truth, you have to ask if they’re realistic when so much remains up in the air for our economy. At the time of writing the Glazing Summit is approaching which will hopefully bring a consensus on what our industry believes will happen over the next 6 to 12 months. I’ve outlined the main focus points, as I see them: minimise reliance on imported products, keep a steady eye on the supply chain and work hard on high end products with good margins. It may also pay not to be overly reliant on the trade and domestic market. The Solar Fabrications group of businesses are in a strong position, but we don’t rest on our laurels. We hold our nerve, keep a clear collective head and wait for the next thing, alongside everyone else.

Gareth Jones, Managing Director Solar Fabrications

Problem?

Problem? Solved.

Solved.

We design, innovate and manufacture precision tooling and specialist machinery for PVCU and Aluminium Systems Professionals and Fabricators. We deliver practical solutions to complex machining challenges for leading global extruders, operating to the very highest service standards in close partnership with our customers. We make what you need, to make windows and doors.

We design, innovate and manufacture precision tooling and specialist machinery for PVCU and Aluminium Systems Professionals and Fabricators. We deliver practical solutions to complex machining challenges for leading global extruders, operating to the very highest service standards in close partnership with our customers. We make what you need, to make windows and doors.

Find out more at our new website jade-eng.co.uk

Find out more at our new website jade-eng.co.uk

MACHINERY: ‘THE DEVIL IS ALWAYS IN THE DETAIL’

So says Adam Jones, joint managing director of profile machinery and tooling manufacturer – and now manufacturing process design consultancy - Jade Engineering Ltd.

Qualifying his comment Adam says: “You would be surprised how often fabricators decide to invest a large sum of money to step up their output and improve quality - the two main reasons for a company to do so – and then base their decision on parameters that are provided solely by the manufacturer or broad assumptions, rather than independent, expert assessment of their needs.

“This is even more surprising when you consider the investment often runs into six figures,” continued Adam. “The point I am making is that whilst CNC machinery has revolutionised frame making over the past twenty years or so, as clever as they are, they are seldom the complete solution.”

Which actually works in Jade’s favour, as Adam’s co-director Sean Mackey explains: “CNC machinery works best when producing large volumes of similar specification. And whilst the more sophisticated machines offer greater flexibility, there are many occasions during a shift when specials and one offs are required, but for which it makes no sense to interrupt the flow of the work being processed by the CNC. Which is where our standalone, single function machines come into their own.”

The point made by Adam and Sean is well established by the number of such machines to be found in Britain’s framemaking facilities: hundreds of Jade’s superbly engineered but fundamentally simple machines can be found cheek-by-jowl alongside some of the most sophisticated CNC equipment. But, says Adam, most of these have been supplied over the years following a realisation that the company’s brand new, shiny CNC, does not have all the answers: “We are here to support fabricators – we work with the majority of window and door fabricators through supplying their CNC machines with tooling – and through our experience we would be able to advise on the potential issues that the fabricator will run into ahead of the installation, thus anticipating any issues and preventing interruptions.

“Typically, volume manufacturing might be interrupted by remakes, one-off frames and perhaps tidying up a job by hand, which it doesn’t pay to interrupt the flow of the CNC for,” said Adam. “Our specialist machines require minimal set-up and prep, run at the flick of a switch and will mill, cut, weld or clean extremely accurately and quickly. They prevent bottlenecks, carry out repeat tasks quickly and accurately and allow the bigger kit to do what it does best.

Jade’s engineers have developed and demonstrated such a deep understanding of frame manufacturing that the firm has crystalised its expertise into a third division of the firm, adding to Jade Tools, and Jade Machines. Logically tagged Jade Consult, its projects include the design and implementation of machining processes and equipment for the fabricators of solid roofs for Guardian Warm Roof; similar ‘Swiss-Army knife’ tools for aluminium profiles on behalf of Garnalex; and a full production line for Roseview’s latest iteration of the company’s award-winning Ultimate Rose vertical sliding window.

As if to emphasise the point made by Adam and Sean regarding the essential role for standalone machinery even in sophisticated frame making facilities, Roseview’s Olney and Wollaston, Northamptonshire facilities are peppered with Jade end millers and punch tools, located between the CNCs.

Jade Consult includes design, development, machinery specification and supply, commissioning and even training: “It’s tremendously satisfying,” said Sean,” because it’s at the heart of what we do as engineers. And why my favourite section on the new Jade website is the ‘Problem? Solved.’ section…because it’s a gallery of what we do best, why so many fabricators who had our machine tools installed by their system supplier when they switched, then become our customers directly. We are proud of that.”

www.jade-eng.co.uk

And they are reliable – we probably shot ourselves in the foot with that,” he joked, “as we have machines out there that are 25 years old or more.”

Adam Jones, Jade Engineering

Sean Mackey, Jade Engineering

CMY

REVOLUTIONARY FLUSH SASH

NFA New Product of the Year, the revolutionary double-rebated flush sash Resurgence window from Liniar offers all the charm of a traditional timber window with the benefits of exceptional modern energy efficiency.

Resurgence is designed with a range of fabrication options, from mechanically jointed to Timberweld® and is simple to install, with no glass bonding.

Stocked in range of modern colours, Liniar’s most recent addition to its window suite delivers patented perfection.

A UK first, with double co-extruded bubble gaskets and an external seal discreetly mounted out of sight, Resurgence looks as beautifully as it performs.

LINIAR’S OUTDOOR RANGE

Customers want more choice - and with Liniar’s outdoor range

before!

Liniar’s low maintenance PVCu decking and fencing ranges are designed, manufactured and stocked right here in the UK. Available in a range of styles, a variety of colours and a wide variety of accessories including foiled balustrades to match Liniar windows and doors, outdoor products are the idea opportunity to provide a fully matching finish with a single point of contact for guarantees.

As we progress through post-lockdown life, consumer enquiries for PVCu decking and fencing have skyrocketed – don’t miss out on the chance to provide homeowners with just what they want.

Find out more: https://www.liniar.co.uk/outdoor-range/.

Rio French Door

REHAU have expanded their Rio product range to include the Flush Fit French Door. We have taken the design elements of our Rio Flush Fit Window and developed a complimentary French Door that allows you to apply its unique clean aesthetic to every element at home.

Windows. Reinvented for modern life. www.rehau.uk/rio enquiries@rehau.com Tel: 01989 762600

IN RESEARCH WE TRUST

Trust is key to customer relationships. It underpins the value of your business and competitive advantage. Yet most companies give it little thought until it’s damaged or lost. Isn’t that strange when it can be measured, monitored and managed at relatively little cost, asks Mike Rigby, CEO of MRA Research?

We live in a world of growing distrust. Public trust in government, politicians, police, bankers and the media is low and declining. Business leaders are seen as increasingly untrustworthy.

According to Ipsos, across 28 nations around the world about 59% of people rate doctors as trustworthy, but only 12% trust Politicians. One in four trust business leaders. That’s bad for businesses because trust is essential to building a growing enterprise. With it, you can turn one-off buyers into repeat customers and brand ambassadors: 81% of consumers say trust is a deciding factor.

THE TRUSTED MARK OF QUALITY

To understand why trust is important, we need to go back to the origins of modern-day branding.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, the introduction of mass production in the Industrial Revolution made it quicker and cheaper to make products than ever before, but it often came at the expense of quality, health and lives.

To differentiate their goods from items of inferior quality, manufacturers branded their products. The brand became a mark of quality and confidence, helping them build a reputation as a company which could be trusted to meet expectations.

In 2008, as China went through its own industrial revolution, 22 companies were caught adulterating milk and infant formula with melamine to artificially boost protein levels and pass nutrition tests. 300,000 children were poisoned, and six babies died. Along with other scandals, it reinforced the Chinese love affair with western brands they could trust.

By the start of the twentieth century, brands such as Coca Cola, Cadbury, Mercedes, Chanel and LEGO had been founded. Their investment in trust, quality and the marketing to build their brands paid off with a stream of high margin earnings to this day.

But as legendary investor Warren Buffet said: “It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it.” Trust is earned through the consistent delivery of a quality product or service, and it can be lost in the blink of an eye.

WOULD I LIE TO YOU?

A 2019 survey by Edelman, found that four out of five people said that being able to trust a brand to do what is right was a major consideration for a purchase, but only one in three now trusted most of the brands they bought and used.

Even long-lived apparently reputable brands take risks and get it wrong, and this has eaten away at the trust we have in brands.

In 2015, Volkswagen admitted that 11m of its cars were built with software that was designed to cheat emissions testing. Cars fitted with these ‘defeat devices’ emitted up to 40 times the legal limit of nitrogen dioxide when on the road, posing threats to public health and the environment.

VW has tried to move on but, at the last count, the cumulative cost of the scandal to it was more than 26 billion euros.

In 2017, Japan’s third largest steel maker – Kobe Steeladmitted to fabricating the strength and quality data of its steel. Its customer base includes Boeing, Toyota and General Motors, and it is through luck alone that the substandard steel hasn’t yet caused safety issues in the cars, planes and

trains it was used to make. It later transpired that data cheating had been going on at Kobe Steel since the 1970s, and as a result the Japanese government-sanctioned seal of quality was stripped from some of Kobe’s products.

The falsifying of product and test data had more serious consequences in Grenfell. The ripples from the tragedy and public inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the fire are ongoing. Previously admired building product brands have been put in the stocks and research shows that many specifiers will never again touch them with a bargepole. The commercial consequences are still unfolding.

DO YOUR CUSTOMERS TRUST YOU?

Those are extreme examples, but to what extent do your customers trust your claims and promises, that your product or service will perform as expected? It’s their reputation on the line if they specify, commission or install it and it doesn’t go well.

Do your customers trust you will have the products they want when they need them, onsite as expected, or will they waste time and money waiting for it to be delivered?

We have come full circle, back to the birth of brands when consumers needed reassurance that they were buying quality and could trust the brand’s claims and promises. The difference is that in a world of growing distrust, a recognised brand is no longer enough to establish trust. Brands need to constantly prove it, and that means measuring, monitoring and managing them so they deliver for customers and perform for brand owners.

If you want help measuring and monitoring trust in your brand to better manage it, speak to Yvette Kirk or email yvette@mra-research.co.uk.

INSPIRATIONAL KEYNOTES AND A HIGH-OCTANE EVENING, SO WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?

Continued from the front page story: Where does the event go from here? Well, far from peaking, organisers are keen to raise the bar again next year, with Glazing Summit 2023 set to take place at the same venue on Thursday, October 12.

Where does the event go from here? Well, far from peaking, organisers are keen to raise the bar again next year, with Glazing Summit 2023 set to take place at the same venue on Thursday, October 12.

Andrew added: “Not only did we break our attendance record this year, but we also had more sponsors, more speakers and more keynotes – and I’m looking forward to another equally important Glazing Summit next year.”

GLAZING SUMMIT 2022 INSPIRES INDUSTRY

Twenty-six big name sponsors, including headliners Yale, and 24 expert speakers helped make this year’s Glazing Summit the best yet.

In the capable hands of hosts Paul Godwin, Chris Champion, Charissa King and Sam Cross, five dynamic debates took place.

After Insight Data CEO Andrew Scott revealed the facts and figures on how the industry has fared from Insight Data’s ‘State of the Industry’ report, VEKA UK MD

Neil Evans, Solar Fabrications MD Gareth Jones, Regency Glass Director Steve Massey and Glazpart’s Sales Director Dean Bradley provided an interesting debate on the supply chain crisis and discussed price increases and whether companies can absorb them, the problems with carrying higher stock as

orders start to slow, and a shortage of labour contributing to quality levels dropping.

A people and skills debate with GGF Technical Officer John Mannell, Elmhurst Windows MD Richard Abrahams, 23 Doors Director Eilidh Hudson and Sherry Adams, CEO of charity We Mind & Kelly Matters shone the spotlight on attracting more young people, women and diversity

into fenestration, and the growing concern around mental health in the industry.

The regulation minefield debate with the GGF’s Kevin Jones, Reynaers Director John McComb, FENSA Assessment Manager Lee Galley and Glazpart’s Dean Bradley discussed whether the industry treats legislation as seriously as it should, a lack of knowledge and a lack of evidence of compliance.

Innovation, from products to processes, was discussed by window industry investor Joe Trueman, Solarframe MD Will Hickman, Rehau’s Head of Product Management Russell Hand and ASSA ABLOY UK’s Head of Product Innovation David Herbert.

The final debate saw Safestyle’s Marketing Director Martin Troughton, Unique Window Systems MD Sunil Patel, Gary Hyem, Director of FRP Corporate Finance and Licensed Insolvency Practitioner Sam Talby discuss how ambitious businesses can take advantage of the market opportunities that will present themselves in the next 12 months.

“We lined up some of the industry’s most experienced people to share their views on the five biggest issues and the debates were brilliant,” said Andrew. “It was clear that, despite the tough times ahead, the market is there, and the best businesses will take it.”

Continued on page 24...

Glazing Summit 2022.

Andrew Scott, Glazing Summit Founder & CEO of event organisers Purplex Marketing & Insight Data.

Paul Godwin, Vast PR, hosting the New Supply Chain Crisis Debate. Panelists (L-R): Neil Evans, VEKA UK, Gareth Jones, Solar Fabrications, Steve Massey, Regency Glass, Dean Bradley, Glazpart.

Keynote Speaker, CEO of Homeserve PLC.

After-dinner speaker, Olympian Kriss Akabusi MBE.

Kriss Akabusi and Vicky Francis, Purplex Marketing.

Glazing Summit Founder & CEO Andrew Scott and Olympian Kriss Akabusi MBE.

Keynote Speaker, Peter Cross, Former Director at John Lewis.

Glazing Summit 2022 - Networking. Paul Atkinson, Yale, Dean Bradley, Glazpart and Mark Enderby, MACO UK.

INSPIRATIONAL KEYNOTES

What also makes the Glazing Summit unmissable is its mixture of world-class keynotes to inspire and educate delegates in equal measure when it comes to all things business. And this year’s event was no exception.

Barclays Chief Economist William Hobbs, a frequent contributor of economic insight to Bloomberg and CNBC, provided his economic outlook for the country after the recent budget and with interest rates rising sharply, and while predicting a global recession in the short term, those businesses that can show best practice will be best placed to adapt.

Legendary retail and customer experience expert Peter Cross, a former director of John Lewis and Waitrose, and business partner of ‘the queen of retail’ Mary Portas, then took to the stage to share his insights on the future of shopping and how the home improvement industry can become irresistible to its target customers by providing a seamless customer experience.

And Richard Harpin, CEO of Homeserve PLC and one of the most successful entrepreneurs in the UK, provided the final keynote on how he built a multi-billionpound company.

Andrew said: “Our three keynotes were fantastic and hit three different touch points. Will was able to shed some light on what things could look like for businesses and the UK economy over the next 12 months, while Peter left delegates inspired with actionable strategies on how to win and, more importantly, keep customers.

“Richard then rounded things off in style with the story of his successful journey as an entrepreneur and his tips on how to build a business bigger.”

A HIGH-OCTANE EVENING

World-class sporting achievement and inspirational business advice combined for delegates at the Glazing Summit Gala Dinner –thanks to legendary athlete Kriss Akabusi MBE. The former Olympian, one of the most sought-after, and inspirational business speakers in the country due to his experiences both on and off the track, was the highlight at the exclusive evening. He talked about his achievements of winning the 400 metre hurdles gold at the 1990 European Championships, being part of the gold medal winning 4x400 relay

team at the 1991 World Championships, amassing three Olympic medals, and the dynamics of becoming a champion and how to perform under pressure.

Andrew said: “We wanted our dinner guests to not only have a wonderful fine dining experience but to leave inspired. By combining his experience of self-motivation and attainable personal development, Kriss delivered the perfect high-energy motivational after-dinner speech which was truly inspirational and engaging.”

To book your place early at next year’s Glazing Summit, which will take place on Thursday, October 12 at Edgbaston Stadium again, visit www.glazingsummit.co.uk, call 01934 808293 or email

hello@glazingsummit.co.uk.

Keynote Speaker, Peter Cross, Former Director at John Lewis.

Alex Holbrook, CiiLOCK Engineering, Kriss Akabusi and Steph Massie, Purplex Marketing.

Glazing Summit 2022 - Registration. Vicky Francis and Natalia Hood, Purplex Marketing.

Andrew Scott, Glazing Summit Founder & CEO of event organisers Purplex Marketing & Insight Data.

Charissa King, Editor of GGP magazine, hosting the People & Skills Debate. Panelists (L-R): Richard Abrahams, Elmhurst Doors, Eilidh Hudson, 23 doors, Sherry Adams, We Mind & Kelly Matters, and John Mannell, GGF.

After-dinner speaker, Olympian Kriss Akabusi MBE.

Paul Godwin, Vast PR hosting the Innovation Debate. Panelists (L-R): Joe Truman, Window Industry Investor and Will Hickman, Solarframe.

After-dinner speaker, Olympian Kriss Akabusi MBE.

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CHRIS CHAMPION, EDITOR OF GLASS NEWS, COMMENTS:

“The Glazing Summit has established itself as one of the industry’s important events. It is so much more than a networking opportunity: it’s an opportunity to express thoughts and hear other opinions while learning from figures from both within and from outside our industry.

“For me there were a number of highlights to the day. The fact that so many people gave up their time to attend proves the worth of the event and for the event to attract its biggest attendance is testimony to the care and skill in providing a balanced programme of discussions and presentations, plus the ability to attract top rate speakers. Those giving talks had no need to be there – it wouldn’t affect their own businesses by one iota and I suspect to have them travel to Birmingham is down to the persuasive skills of Andrew Scott. The talk by the Investment Director at Barclays, William Hobbs, was a highlight for me. It could have been all doom and gloom and I think it surprised many that he was so positive. Added to the that he had a really good, laconic delivery, that was enjoyable to listen to. I also learned that discussion panels should not necessarily be all set at 40 minutes. The input from the panel on The Regulation Minefield was such that it could have carried on for another 30 minutes at least. GGF’s Kevin Jones, RISA’s Lee Galley, Dean Bradley from Glazpart and John McComb form Reynaers all had such a knowledge of Part L, Part F and Document Q and I felt they were cut off in their prime!

“There were, of course, many highlights and others may well choose differently to me. There was one highlight that I’m sure all would agree with and that was the impeccable organisation, and great credit must be given to Andrew Scott and all his staff from Purplex and Insightdata. They carried out their role politely, efficiently and, it must be said, it looked like they enjoyed it. The 4th Glazing Summit was certainly the biggest and, up to this point, the best, although I think all have been really good. We can be sure that the 5th Glazing Summit in 2023 will have moved up a further gear!”

Glazing Summit Dinner.

Glazing Summit 2022.

Chris Champion, Glass News, hosting the Navigating the Business Landscape Debate. Panelists (L-R): Sam Talby, Undebt, Gary Hyem, FRP Corporate Finance, Martin Troughton, Safestyle, Sunil Patel, Unique Windows.

Kevin Emery, Sam Cross and Harry Rowlands, Purplex Marketing.

Paul Godwin, Vast PR hosting the Innovation Debate. Panelists (L-R): Joe Trueman, Window Industry Investor, Will Hickman, Solarframe, Russell Hand, REHAUand David Herbert, ASSA ABLOY UK.

Glazing Summit Conference 2022. Chris Champion, Editor of Glass News, hosting the Regulations Minefield Debate. Panelists (L-R): John McComb, Reynaers, Kevin Jones, GGF, Lee Galley, RISA/FENSA and Dean Bradley, Glazpart.

Keynote Speaker, Will Hobbs, Barclays Bank.

Chris Champion, Editor of Glass News, hosting the Regulations Minefield Debate. Panelists (L-R): John McComb, Reynaers, Kevin Jones, GGF, Lee Galley, RISA/FENSA and Dean Bradley, Glazpart.

Charissa King, Editor of GGP magazine, hosting the People & Skills Debate. Panelists (L-R): Richard Abrahams, Elmhurst Doors, Eilidh Hudson, 23 doors, Sherry Adams, We Mind & Kelly Matters, and John Mannell, GGF.

IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU...

Where were you born and live currently?

I was born in Staffordshire and haven’t ventured out yet! I am only a short drive from our office in Rugeley.

Your Education

It was at High School when I first discovered that I enjoyed business studies. I took the subject at GCSE and really did not want it to stop there.

I wasn’t entirely sure what I wanted to do after high school but after a few open days at my local colleges I knew I didn’t want to do a college course, it wasn’t for me, I needed more independence rather than sitting in lessons just like school. It was when I was at one of the many open days that I saw an advert on screen in the reception area for apprenticeship applications. Would you believe that’s where I saw the Avantis advert?!

I went to my first interview at Avantis when I was still in year 11, in that break between

your exams in April half term. I was 15 at the time!

I did my Level 2 Business Administration Apprenticeship with Avantis and I managed to carry on throughout Covid and achieve my results, it was for this apprenticeship that I also achieved West Midlands Apprentice of the year for. (It was a really good lift for me after all the stress trying to get everything done throughout lockdowns!)

I then made the decision to stay at Avantis but I didn’t want to leave my education there, so I asked if I could do my Level 3 here too. Which I have just this week received my results and I have achieved a Distinction. I am so happy with this, it hasn’t been easy but it was definitely worth it.

Your Favourite Sports or Interests

I love going on walks with the family and my dog!

I have a 1 year old Labrador and i’m not sure who enjoys it the most really haha. We have National Trust Memberships and we cross off a new destination most weekends, its great.

Something or someone that inspires you

Definitely my parents, they have always encouraged me to work hard and it will pay off.

I have always wanted to make them proud which has pushed me to get to where I am today.

The temptation you can’t resist

Now my favourite Saturday night after a chaotic week is getting a Chinese takeaway and eating it on the sofa with a real feel good film on, the more cringe the better for me hahaha!

YOUR CAREER...

When and how did you join this industry.

I have touched on this above but more details are: whilst doing my business apprenticeships I worked mainly within the customer service department, so it was my responsibility to ensure all of our customers’ requirements were met and we gave them the best possible service.

At the beginning of this year we had more requirements in marketing so I started helping out the department for a day a week, assisting with Marketing Admin and wherever else when needed. And I have loved it ever since. As much as I enjoyed helping our customers and building those relationships I think this department suited my personality more. I think FIT Show really helped me make my mind up on moving to marketing full time, I loved every minute of it, I took on a lot of responsibilities, from arranging our amazing party, to inviting all of our customers and arranging logistics for our staff.

What is your job

I am now Marketing Assistant. I have only been in this position for a few weeks so it will progress as my responsibilities increase but for now I am responsible for overbranding our marketing assets for

customers as we offer an extensive range of marketing to support our customers. Planning our social content, this has to be done a month in advance so that we are always prepared and have content ready at all times, this involves working with the whole team (and keeping them on their toes when I have to) to get tasks done and collating it all in our content calendar. As we grow, we will be going to a lot more events and shows so I will be a key member of the team organising and planning these.

Your greatest achievement

My greatest achievement is definitely completing my apprenticeships here at Avantis, and receiving Apprentice of the year. I have gained so many skills through doing this and it really has made me the person I am today.

What would you like to do if you weren’t in this industry

I find this a really hard question as there’s so much I would love to give a go if time wasn’t a thing!

But I have always said I would love to be a business owner one day and own a hotel and hold weddings there. I definitely have crafting genes in me so would also love to set the venues etc. I love making things and creating gifts in my spare time.

AND YOUR FUTURE...

A particular Ambition

My career is really important to me, I want to grow and take on more responsibilities. I also want to become a homeowner in the next few years and enjoy my life and see the world!

The way you want to be remembered

Genuine, kind and hard-working. It costs absolutely nothing to be kind and I have always been brought up to “what goes around comes around”. I will always work hard and do my best for others.

THIS MONTH: Morgan Fisher, Marketing Assistant, Avantis Group

Morgan Fisher discusses her time at Avantis Hardware as an Apprentice and how she has progressed to her new role as Marketing Assistant for Avantis Group.

SWAN

Sheerline’s Prestige range was recently chosen to replace aging sash windows in a large grammar school in Kent, helping to freshen the look of this traditional brick building. As the transformation had to take place over the summer holidays, it was crucial the project was delivered on time, and Sheerline’s agile service was key to helping the team at Swan Doors & Windows meet this deadline.

At over 20 years old, the existing sash balances were beginning to fail. This meant if a window was open, it could close at any time. This was obviously a serious safety concern that needed to be addressed quickly with minimal disruption to the school.

Improving the thermal performance of the windows was also an important consideration and a key reason that Sheerline’s Prestige range – with its unique Thermlock® thermal break was chosen for the project. With energy prices rising, home and business owners alike are looking for sustainable ways to cut their costs without compromising on warmth.

TO TRANSFORM SCHOOL

Transforming Borden Grammar School was a collaborative effort that brought together contractors Waller Associates and Swan Doors and Windows Ltd, fabricators who are beginning to reap the benefits of offering the Sheerline aluminium range.

Swan commented, “We used Sheerline over other options for this project because we liked the overall quality of the product and the availability that helped us keep to the tight timescales.”

After consulting with the school, they choose a Prestige window in a Georgian style finished in Hipca Gloss White RAL9910 for a contemporary take on the windows that were being replaced. It was key to choose a style that enhanced the look of the school but still matched its character and other buildings on the school estate.

The fabricators at Swan appreciated the quality of the aluminium profiles and the feel of the windows in operation. They required little to no adjustment on site, which is what the team at Sheerline aimed for when designing the system. In addition,

Wallers Associates commented on the fact the frames were easy to glaze and said they would be happy to recommend Sheerline to future clients.

Paul Ewart, Director, Swan Doors and Windows Ltd., said: “Sheerline provided on-site technical support for our first few jobs to ensure that all our staff were trained appropriately, and that the product was fabricated correctly, which we found invaluable. We hope to continue building our order book with Sheerline products.”

Since the installation, the classrooms are brighter and airer, and as the glass installed is solar controlled the classrooms will be cooler in summer, and warmer in winter. Even though the style change has been subtle, the now renewed exterior looks much improved. Changing to 50/50 top opening sash windows also means they are safer and easier to operate.

CEO of Sheerline Roger Hartshorn said: “The feedback we’ve received from Wallers Associates and Swan is a testament to the hard work we put into designing the

Sheerline range. When we first developed the idea, we knew we had to overcome the existing issues within the industry, and that’s what we’re doing.”

“We’re proud to provide unrivalled support to our customers, whether they’re home or business owners, installers or fabricators – everyone receives technical support and high-quality customer service,” he added.

To find out about adding Sheerline’s range of Part L compliant, aluminium windows and doors to your product offering, or to specify them on your next project please call 01332 978000 or visit www.sheerline.com.

FUTUREPROOF YOUR BUSINESS

200 Spectus casement windows have been installed in an iconic retail building refurbishment in Batley, West Yorkshire. Redbrick Mill is an iconic department store for furniture and interiors and is home to over forty carefully selected high-quality retail brands. A former steam powered woollen mill built in the 1860’s, Redbrick Mill was launched by a local textile entrepreneur in 2000 with the ambition to create a major high-end retail destination. The manufacture and installation of the 200 Spectus casement windows was awarded to longstanding Spectus Approved Window Contractor, Jade Windows (Brighouse) Ltd. Based in Batley, West Yorkshire, Jade Windows is a longstanding family-owned business with considerable experience in the commercial sector and an exceptional track record of working on several prestigious commercial projects.

The contract required the fabrication and installation of 200 bespoke 3 metre x 3 metre casement windows with arched frames to perfectly replicate the aesthetics of the building’s original timber frames. The windows were manufactured in Anthracite Grey with Georgian bar detailing to visually replicate the industrial aesthetics that this

iconic building required. All products were manufactured in the 70mm Spectus Bevelled system by Jade Windows.

The popular Spectus Bevelled system has all the technical credentials for high-quality commercial applications. It can achieve a Window Energy Rating of Band A++ and U values as low as 0.8W/(m2K). In this project, the windows were manufactured in Anthracite Grey finish to the external and internal faces. This chosen colour palette perfectly replicated the required aesthetics and delivered a ‘crittall’ window effect which has long been associated with Art Deco and Modernist movements in early 20th Century architecture. All products were manufactured to PAS24:2016 standard.

With over 200 windows needing to be installed on a busy retail site, effective project management was essential. Jade Windows liaised closely with the building owners to agree a phased installation programme for minimum disruption.

Now the project is complete, the iconic mill has been transformed. Ryan Fozard, Sales Manager at Jade Windows commented: “The iconic store has been completely transformed. The bespoke windows perfectly blend with the historic architecture of the former mill and the chosen aesthetics pay homage to its industrial heritage. We are delighted to have worked on this prominent project and once again, the quality and reliability of the Spectus system has delivered at every level. This is a symbolic stand-out building in Batley and we are proud of the finished results.”

Tel: 0845 34 3968 www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

With the economic climate causing us all issues, Fabricators and Installers are certainly looking for new ways to secure leads. Thinking ‘outside the box’ could be key, and the solution may not be what you expect.

In 2008, the UK weathered the worst recession in its history, but despite that, research shows that home improvement spending increased, particularly amongst luxury products. Our industry didn’t just survive, it thrived. To secure revenue, we diversified our products and services. This resulted in a better product portfolio, with improved quality and choice. Arming ourselves with those improved products and continuing to innovate has proved invaluable.

Let’s talk about the Vertical Slider (VS), one of the most coveted window styles, not only due to aesthetics, but also due to its historical association with style and wealth. It is of course the default style for heritage buildings, but we are also seeing a rise in it being specified in luxury new build developments, as architects and designers recognise not only the elegance of this traditional style, but also, its superior ventilation performance.

Most UK windows are now replacements of replacements, which means that homeowners are giving more consideration to their choice, and willing to invest in enhancing features such as style, hardware, and colour. Providing an interesting modern twist has become an art form, and the Imagine Vertical Slider offers traditional

design that boasts the modern performance benefits of PVCu.

Designed and launched in 2018, this new generation window hosts 30 ‘clever little details’ and is still the most technically advanced VS on the market.

VEKA customer Window Warehouse has recognised the opportunity this highend product can offer and has recently undertaken a successful expansion project, which has enabled it to begin fabrication of the Imagine VS.

In these uncertain times, investing in luxury may seem an unusual thing to do, but history has shown that there is a market out there. By offering homeowners this affordable, accessible, heritage system, you could start to explore it.

www.veka.co.uk

SPECTUS WINDOWS AND DOORS DELIVER FOR NEW LINCOLNSHIRE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT

FINALISTS ACROSS THE BOARD

Quickslide are delighted to have been shortlisted in the Best Windows category at the Build It Awards 2022, for their Legacy PVCu sliding sash windows. Quickslide’s Legacy sliding sash windows are designed to be the perfect timber replica and have become synonymous with heritage windows. In addition, following the changes to building regs earlier this year, Quickslide partnered with Glazpart to design an exclusive new trickle vent solution to ensure full compliance in a single sash window without compromising on that allimportant traditional aesthetic.

TUFFX GLASS STEPS UP TO THE JOB

With space at a premium and homes of three or even four storeys becoming increasingly popular, dark, narrow, purely functional stairwells are commonplace, but with the addition of glass these can become bright and welcoming focal points which dramatically improve the quality of living space.

738 Spectus windows, 95 Spectus French doors and 27 Spectus single doors have been installed in the first phase of a new build housing development in the village of Kirton near Boston, Lincolnshire.

The Spires development is an exclusive collection of 2, 3 and 4-bedroom homes designed and built by Ashwood Homes. The new build development will provide a mixture of private homes with 21 of the builds set to be affordable housing.

Ashwood Homes aims to build properties of the highest quality and it extends the same discerning approach to partnership companies and the products chosen on its numerous developments. In the case of The Spires development, the new build project was awarded to experienced, longstanding Ashwood Homes partner, Highseal Manufacturing Ltd, part of the Fair Share Group.

Established in 2012, the Fair Share Group is an independent manufacturing facility based in Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire. The company fabricates the Spectus 70mm PVC-U window and door system from Epwin Window Systems and is committed to delivering manufacturing excellence and onsite installation support at every level.

The new 152 first-phase plots made up of 2, 3 and 4-bedroom properties, were manufactured in white on both sides from the popular Spectus Bevelled 70mm System.

The Spectus Bevelled System is a 70mm flagship PVC-U window and door system from Epwin Window Systems. Its product pedigree and elegant streamlined aesthetics are suitable for all property styles. In this project, all manufactured windows needed to adhere to Document Q, Building

Regulations and BSi Kitemark standards for the energy and security performance.

As an experienced fabricator and installer, the Highseal Manufacturing team is familiar with the requirements and protocols of new build developments. As such, the team worked closely with the housebuilder and site contractors to ensure the window and doors were manufactured and installed in line with the timescales required. The first phase development commenced in November 2019 and was completed in September 2022.

Holly Donaldson, Office Manager at Highseal Manufacturing Company, said: “Ensuring the windows were manufactured and installed on time was crucial as the second fit on the electrics can only be completed once the buildings are completely weatherproof. As such, we worked closely with all site contractors for a seamless build.”

With the first phase now completed, the Highseal Manufacturing team are scheduling the start of second phase of the development. Holly, said: “We are delighted to have partnered again with Ashwood Homes on this new development. The company has a number of developments across the region featuring family homes between two and four bedrooms. As with all of its projects, these properties are built to a high specification. The first phase of The Spires development has been a great success and we are looking forward to working with Ashwood Homes on their second phase which consists of 670 Spectus windows, 85 Spectus French doors and 8 Spectus single doors.”

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

It’s been a particularly successful year for the UK’s leading doors and windows manufacturer, who also recently achieved finalist spots for two G Awards and in the National Fenestration Awards (NFAs). From a record field of entries this year for the G Awards, Quickslide are shortlisted for both Fabricator of the Year and Customer Care Initiative of the Year, along with Vertical Sliding Window Company of the Year at the NFAs.

Managing Director Ben Weber said it was an honour to be shortlisted in so many industry awards and categories: “We’re always pleased to have our efforts and results recognised at the top awards in our industry, and even more so this year when the categories are so far ranging across all the areas of our business that are so important to us and our customers: celebrating our great products, fantastic quality and the customer service we pride ourselves on.

“Awards like these showcase the amazing skills and service across our industry and we’re so proud to once again be taking our place amongst the best. Plus looking forward to a few good celebrations with our industry colleagues too, of course!”

The Build It Awards winners will be announced at the award ceremony at London’s Bankside Hilton hotel on Friday 25th November.

www.quickslide.co.uk

With this in mind, TuffX were chosen to supply 15mm toughened safety glass with dubbed corners, in a mixture of rectangle and CNC-shaped panels, along with 33mm laminated walk-on floors with sandblasted corners to a residential property in Plymouth with grand designs for a doubleheight staircase.

The project was used to complement and complete an open-tread glass staircase with a glass balustrade and walk-on glass landing. The finished result is a bright, airy and modern space with maximum natural light flowing through three floors and reaching out across the living areas beyond at every level.

It's a clever way of bringing the multiple floors together and showcasing the impressive sense of space on offer in the property while creating a connected and homely feel throughout. Topped with a walk-on glass floor that pulls the whole look together and creates a stylish talking point.

Overall the whole effect is one of a bright, light space that shows off the full height of the property to maximum effect from every floor.

“We’re delighted to see the finished result for this project, which truly shows the potential of toughened safety glass to absolutely transform modern openplan, multi-storey living,” said TuffX’s Commercial Director Paul Higgins.

“When space and natural light are at a premium, glass makes an effective solution as well as a bold design statement for balustrades, walk-on floors and staircases — so why not combine all three?”

www.tuffxglass.co.uk

CARL F GROUPCO STOCKS LATEST UKCA STANDARD PRODUCT

Leading independent hardware supplier Carl F Groupco has confirmed that the popular FUHR 870 Type 8 Emergency Exit multipoint door lock now meets the new UKCA standard. John Crittenden, Managing Director of Carl F Groupco, said: “The FUHR 870 lock is one of our most popular products so it was important to confirm it would have the correct accreditations when the CE mark is no longer recognised in this country. We liaised with the product team at FUHR to confirm all the correct certifications were in place.”

The government has announced it intends to end recognition of the European CE mark in Great Britain by 1 January 2023. Instead, products must be tested and certified by a UK-recognised approved

body. To indicate a product conforms to the relevant standards, the UKCA mark must be affixed to products.

John said: “We see it as our responsibility to support our customers by being ahead of the curve. So checking our products conform to the latest regulations is an important part of our customer commitment.”

The FUHR 870 Type 8 Emergency Exit multipoint door lock allows a door to be opened at any time to provide an emergency exit from the inside. From the outside, access can be provided using a key. After opening, the cylinder must be locked to regain full security. It is suitable for use on PVC-U, aluminium, composite and timber doors. Single and double door options are available.

Carl F Groupco stocks a comprehensive range of hardware products that meet every trend and project requirement. They also work closely with their customers and offer next-level technical support to proactively solve hardware problems, offer advice and find solutions. Confirming the status of the FUHR 870 Type 8 Emergency Exit multipoint door lock is a perfect example of their proactive approach. It’s why the company has a decades-long track record and is one of the UK’s leading independent hardware suppliers.

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

NEW ANODISED FINISHES FROM GREENTEQ

Hardware manufacturer

VBH, the company behind the greenteQ brand, has recently added two new colours to its suited range of residential door, patio door and window furniture.

In response to requests from customers, the popular Alpha resi-door handle set is now available in two anodised aluminium finishes. This brings the number of available finishes to 12.

VBH describe greenteQ Alpha as a premium quality handle set for use with entrance doors and bi-fold doors. It

features a number of benefits including sprung levers, thicker fixing bolts and a flange around the cylinder profile cut out. As a part of the greenteQ Suite, it is matched in colour and lever style to Alpha casement and tilt & turn handles, and

Aspire lift/slide patio door handles.

Gary Gleeson, Marketing Manager at VBH says, “Alpha was originally launched in 8 painted and plated finishes, before we added our Enduro and Antique Black options in 2019.

“A number of customers who buy these original finishes also have a need for gold and silver anodised finishes, and don’t like mixing handle styles to obtain these colours. We are happy to have used these requests as the catalyst to expand our colour range further.”

As components of the greenteQ Suite, the new anodised handles are covered by the greenteQ 10-year performance and surface guarantee, and are approved for use on Q-secure guaranteed installations. These installations are guaranteed against break-in, with up to £8000 available in compensation.

For more information on the new finishes, contact VBH on 01634 263263, email info@vbhgb.com or send them a Tweet @vbhgb.

KENRICK EXPANDS HARDWARE COLLECTION WITH RANGE OF RESTRICTORS

Leading hardware supplier Kenrick has extended its comprehensive suite of hardware solutions with the addition of a new range of window and door restrictors –all of which have been manufactured in the UK.

The new range includes a cable window restrictor, a springloaded stainless steel window restrictor and a 90° door restrictor.

Both window restrictors are suitable for any type of window manufactured in timber, PVCu or aluminium. They have been designed to accommodate varying opening sizes to allow air flow, whilst preventing the window from being fully opened. The cable restrictor is perfect for retro-fitting and the spring-loaded restrictor is well suited to new builds. They are both ideal for domestic and commercial applications.

Made from aluminium and steel for greater durability, the 90° door restrictor features an adjustable friction brake to prevent the door from slamming shut in windy conditions. It has multiple screw ports, with friction providing restriction and a permanent stop at 90 degrees. It will

fit almost all timber, PVCu and aluminium doors with a eurogroove and has a ‘hold open’ function at 90 degrees to provide a more reliable hold. The restrictor, which is suitable for open-in and open-out doors, is only visible when the door is open and can easily be disengaged to allow for free movement of the door.

The restrictors, which are manufactured in the West Midlands come with a comprehensive 10-year mechanical guarantee. Furthermore, the spring-loaded window restrictor and the door restrictor have also been tested to 20,000 full cycles.

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 locking system, the four-point Centurion system and the Easifit and Espagnolette locking systems.

Tel: 0121 553 2741 – www.kenricks.co.uk

F

ACHIEVES CYBER ESSENTIALS CERTIFICATION

Leading independent hardware supplier Carl F Groupco has just announced it has achieved Cyber Essentials certification. John Crittenden, Carl F Groupco’s Managing Director, said: “Holding the Cyber Essentials certification helps us guard our business against cyber attacks. It also gives our customers the reassurance that we have cyber safeguards in place to not only protect their data but also ensure business continuity.”

Cyber Essentials is an effective, Government backed scheme that helps protect organisations, whatever their size, against a whole range of the most common cyber attacks.

John said: “Every business takes steps to ensure the security of its physical premises. By seeking Cyber Essentials accreditation we’re taking the same approach to our virtual assets.”

Government research shows that cyber attacks are a serious threat to business.

In the last 12 months, 39% of UK businesses identified a cyber attack. One in five businesses (20%) said they

experienced a negative outcome as a direct consequence of a cyber attack. Where the attack had a financial consequence, the average estimated cost was £4,200.

John said: “The figures make for sobering reading, which is why we’ve taken the steps we have. We now know we are protected against a wide variety of the most common cyber attacks. My thanks go to every member of the team who worked hard to show how we meet all the requirements of the scheme.”

Carl F Groupco has a decades-long track record of being a value-added hardware supplier thanks to its core principles of product quality, first class service and industry knowledge. In achieving Cyber Essentials certification, it has taken proactive steps to secure all aspects of its business, demonstrating its commitment to being a reputable, reliable and responsible hardware partner to its customers.

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

VBH TRADE COUNTER SERVING WELSH CUSTOMERS

Hardware manufacturer VBH, reports that more customers than ever are using the improved trade counter facility at the company’s Swansea site. The counter is open during weekday working hours and offers a large selection of hardware from VBH’s own greenteQ brand, as well as from other top marques including Yale and AGB.

VBH advise that fabricators, installers and maintenance companies within a wide radius of Swansea regularly call in to collect products including profile cylinders, patio door gear, resi-door and window hardware, vents and construction chemicals among other items.

Operations Manager at VBH Swansea says, “Often, customers can’t wait for a delivery so prefer to call in and pick up what they need for the day. As well as the convenience of being local, we cater for orders of all sizes, with no minimum

order value and no need to pre-order. Walk-ins are welcome.”

The trade counter has proven so popular that it has been listed as a finalist in this year’s National Fenestration Awards in the Trade Counter of the Year category.

Dave concludes, “We may not have the biggest or most plush counter, but

our wide stock range and friendly, experienced team make it an attractive option for local businesses. Being named as a finalist is a massive pat on the back for our hard-working team, and a win would be the cherry on top!”

VBH Swansea can be contacted on 01792 794566, and the full address can be found in the ‘Contact’ section of www.vbhgb.com.

ERA INTRODUCES REVOLUTIONARY TRUEGLIDE BALANCE

As part of its continued commitment to product innovation, ERA, one of the UK’s leading home security and fenestration component providers, has launched a new balance for vertical sliding windows that sets new standards for efficiency and performance.

Designed and manufactured in the UK by ERA’s experienced engineering experts, the revolutionary TrueGlide balance enables sash window manufacturers to deliver market leading functionality and reliability for any PVCu, timber or aluminium window.

Offering an extensive weight carrying range between 4.5kg and 28.4kg, ease of use is effortless due to low operation forces creating an enhanced user experience as the window manoeuvres quietly, smoothly and easily with the lightest of touches.

Providing increased safety, each balance features a dual action close that prevents any sudden closure of the window or trapping of the fingers. The window closes smoothly to a safe point and then fully closes with a final motion.

Dual action springs utilise an open coil structure ensuring the window is held

firmly in any chosen opening position, whilst the inner spring generates a smoother and more consistent force. The addition of sophisticated lubricants built into the balance also reduces friction torsion and noise for a superior sash lift.

James Wilson, Technical Product Manager at ERA, said: “TrueGlide is a reflection of our ongoing dedication to product development to ensure every solution we manufacture provides fabricators with the highest possible standards of performance and durability”.

“The result is a balance that has been completely redesigned to provide an optimal user experience, without compromising on quality or longevity. Each component has been carefully engineered to deliver harmonious operation that provides manufacturers with an unrivalled solution for a wide variety of sash window types.”

“Aside from being a leading one-stop shop for all sash window manufacturers’ gearing and decorative furniture requirements, we provide extensive technical support in the form of our engineering experts and dedicated field service engineers, who are on hand to help streamline the fabrication

process and ensure the highest quality manufacturing standards are achieved.”

Supplied with white outer tubes as standard, brown, grey, black or tan finishes are available on request. Each pretensioned balance is optimised for each individual window to facilitate the speed of installation, whilst also eliminating the requirement for fine tuning on site.

The balance forms an extension of ERA’s versatile gearing and Fab&Fix decorative furniture offering to deliver a complete suite of high performance solutions that deliver first class functionality and aesthetics.

Available in nine fully suited finishes such as Hardex Chrome and Pewter, the decorative furniture includes standard and high security cam locks and keeps, handles, eyes, pulls, travel restrictors and knobs. When fabricated with high security locks and accessories PAS 24 security can be achieved.

Extensively tested in accordance with BS EN 13126-13:2012 in excess of 20,000 cycles, TrueGlide is supplied with a 10 year mechanical guarantee. The TrueGlide balance has been tested in accordance with BS EN 12046-1:2003 for load and weight carrying capabilities. As each balance is manufactured at ERA’s headquarters in the West Midlands, UK delivery is available in just three to five days.

For further information on ERA’s diverse portfolio of security products, visit www.eraeverywhere.com or contact the sales team on 01922 490 000 or email info@eraeverywhere.com.

RESEARCH HOLDS THE KEY TO THE SUCCESS OF ELECTRONIC LOCKS

David Jennings, CEO of UAP, explains the drivers behind the launch of a new ultra-secure electronic lock and how a focus on the customer experience has shaped its development.

Smart technology is rapidly filtering through all our lives. From smart bulbs and speakers through to the with Internet of Things (IoT), the technology is all around us. People of all ages are now turning to smart home tech, a trend largely been driven by the pandemic which forced everyone to more actively engage with online tools.

This shift in consumer behaviour has accelerated the launch of smart door locks with consumers now faced with a variety of options aimed at improving convenience and security. UAP, like many other manufacturers, has stepped into the smart market but our journey began five years ago. What followed was extensive research, planning and testing aimed at developing a concept unlike any others.

AVOIDING RISKS

We began by researching customers’ priorities and the factors needed to provide the best possible experience. From the outset, this saw us disregard biometrics such as fingerprint readers as they could cause a host of problems. Say for example, a homeowner was carrying a bag of shopping on a cold and rainy day. Having to put the bags down at their door, remove the gloves and get a fingerprint reader to work spells hassle. There is also a risk of the reader not recognising the print or the technology shutting down if it gets too hot.

The other major concern was security. It is a fact that hackers have stolen, and will steal, digital fingerprints and other biometric data. You only need to do a Google search on hacking of biometric data to see the real risks involved. Once your biometric data is stolen then you can’t simply change it – it is lost forever and that means your security is also jeopardised for the long term.

PRIORITISING NEEDS

We then sought to find out what features would matter the most to customers. We learned that security, ease of use, speed, reliability and flexibility were all essential to improving their experience.

People want to be able to shut their door and for it to automatically lock, without having to lift a lever and turn a key. They want a choice of tools for locking, and the process needs to be audible, so it is clear the door is secure. At the same time, we learned that in some instances, the consumer may want to reduce or extend the time it takes the door to lock, if for example, they had forgotten something in the house.

If the door lock is operated using a smartphone App, that needs to be simple too. And the App must offer functions that provide the flexibility demanded by customers such as enabling friends or family to operate the lock.

Regarding security, we recognised that some people were worried about keyless car theft and shared similar concerns about an electronic door lock. To address this, we needed to develop technology that would make the key fobs ultra secure.

MEETING CONSUMER DEMAND

Armed with our research and a clear picture of how we could improve the customer experience, we spent five years developing the IONIC. The electronic lock is the first in a series of ‘smart’ products set to be launched under UAP’s Fullex Ai brand.

Simple to install and easy to use, the IONIC can be operated using a smartphone App, a fob, push button on the inside, or a thumb turn. When a consumer gets to the door, they simply press the handle down and walk in.

The time it takes for the lock to activate can be adjusted to suit the consumer. The App can be used to set up new users and time settings, allowing one off access for workmen or regular access for cleaners or carers for example.

Security is enhanced through face recognition, which builds additional authentication into the App. The fobs have been manufactured in a way that prevents them from being cloned and the lock itself holds no data with the user’s own phone controlling the system rather than a server.

To make the IONIC as reliable as possible, we based it on the Fullex Crimebeater lock which has a proven track record. The electronics have been developed by a specialist manufacturer in Europe and every printed circuit board is tested multiple times before being shipped to the UK for assembly.

SETTING THE STANDARD

The research and insights we have gained on the customer experience have enabled us to develop a unique, patented design. We believe this could become a standard for all electronic multipoint locks ensuring we can meet the changing needs of consumers today and in the future.

No need to grapple with a set of keys, or try to remember a passcode, just let yourself in. TouchKey is the future of security within the door lock market, it’s simple to use as you are the key.

Using fingerprint technology, all you need to do is hold the handle and place your thumb on the sensor, which is positioned where your thumb would normally go when opening a conventional door. Force 8 are the first to offer this innovative system on any of their new doors, with a special introductory offer of only £495. The system is self-contained within the door and no extra wiring is required, making installation easier.

The TouchKey App from ERA gives the homeowner full permission to control and monitor who has access to the property and track the activity of who has entered and at what time. The system can store up to 50 profiles, and all the information is stored on ERA’s cloud platform, and not stored on the phone or handle, creating a

two-factor authentication with ERA’s server when anyone enters the property to prevent hacking. In the event of a problem with recognition, TouchKey can also be opened by a smart phone

The system is not confined to a domestic property, Force 8 have already installed a TouchKey into a local solicitor’s premises to allow the staff access the private area of their offices. Hill & Co Solicitors have been using the TouchKey for the past few months

are very

The security and mechanical aspect of the

is second to none. When closing the door, all six locking points automatically secure the door tightly to the frame and for easy smooth opening from the inside without a key, simply use the internal thumb

The system is extremely advanced, with

technology

learning and adapting the characteristics of an enrolled fingerprint template through valid verification over time.

Force 8 previewed the TochKey at this year’s FIT Show, and it proved to be extremely popular. The whole system is backed up by ERA and guaranteed. As our world becomes more technical and complicated, TouchKey gives access to suit your lifestyle.

IT’S THE PERSONAL TOUCH THAT COUNTS

Stowmarket Glass has been a customer of Bohle’s for more than 30 years, buying all manner of items from the glass consumables supplier. Managing Director Luke Browes explains that while product quality remains key, relationships are what matter most.

Stowmarket Glass was first set up in the early 1980s by my father Paul Browes, and it has been a family-run independent glass company ever since, supplying and installing glass products in and around Suffolk.

We get involved on a range of projects, and we are currently working on Colchester Hospital, and Clare College, Cambridge. Much of our work is from existing customers, and we understand the importance of building and maintaining relationships.

We have been a Bohle customer for as long as I can remember

– certainly long before I was here – so I would think we've had an account with them for approximately 30 years. We use them for as much as we physically can, from glass cutters, PPE,

lifting equipment, all the way through to physical hardware such as glass clamps, and shower screen fittings. If they do it, we prefer to buy it through them.

When it comes to lifting equipment, we use Bohle for whatever we can get. For example, we buy the Veribor suction lifters on a regular basis, which we sell in the shop. And they’re just something that's on the van day in, day out, because they are so useful.

As glass has got heavier over the years, Bohle has brought out different equipment, such as the Liftmaster B1 Lifting System. It is a universal product that fits in the back of a small vehicle, and you can fit it in someone's hallway for installing heavy pieces of balustrade glass. So, when we first saw that an open day launch at Bohle, it was a no-brainer – we had to get it straight away. It’s useful for all manner of needs, such as fitting small shop fronts. It just takes the stress off the guys when they are lifting and manoeuvring glass.

Products aside, it is the customer service which has kept the relationship going with Bohle. I think it is fair to say we have built up a strong relationship, and I

know that if I need some specific information about a product, I can just give them a phone call or drop them an e-mail, and they will come straight back to me. I deal mostly with our rep Mike Turner, who is great. If I've got bulk orders for example, and we're trying to meet a deadline, then he will always go the extra mile to help us.

On quality issues, we speak to someone like Helen McKerracher who is very responsive. For example, we had a job about six years ago where we supplied mirror heat pads. Shortly afterwards, we got a phonecall from the main contractor saying they were getting electric shocks from the heat pads. So, we passed the enquiry straight over to Helen, who organised a site visit, and it turned out that the main contractor had installed the product incorrectly.

Bohle did everything they needed to do to rectify the problem. Not only did it take it off our hands, but we didn't have to waste time going down to site. Helen took care of it all which meant peace of mind for us.

Being able to speak to someone over the phone is really important. Although I’m still young, I'm quite

old school. I like the traditional ways of doing things like picking up the phone if you need to speak to somebody. And Mike Turner’s great for that. Rather than write emails back and forth, he will just pick up the phone. That way, he can explain something quickly and efficiently, which I can pass on to my customers, and it needn’t be long-winded.

Yes, Bohle products are excellent, but it is the customer service that has kept our relationship going for so long, and 30+ years is pretty good going.

More information about Stowmarket Glass can be found at www.stowmarketglassco.co.uk. For more about Bohle’s product and service offer visit www.bohle.com email info@bohle.ltd.uk or call the customer services team free on 0800 616151 for more information.

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THIS CHRISTMAS

Construction charity CRASH is calling on businesses to support its vital work with the launch of the annual Christmas Card fundraising appeal.

CRASH helps people who are homeless and sleeping rough - and adults and children who need end of life care in a hospice - by constructing or rebuilding the hospices, shelters and homes that make so much difference to their lives.

The charity can only continue this work with the help of generous companies within the construction sector donating time

and money. More than 100 companies - including VolkerFitzpatrick, Arcadis and Hilti – support the annual CRASH Christmas appeal which raised £83,000 in 2021.

For the 2022 ‘Help keep the lights on’ appeal, CRASH is asking for donations of £600, £1,200 or £2,000 to receive a range of bundles which can be used by pledging companies in the lead up to Christmas.

In lieu of sending company Christmas gifts, with a pledge of £600, the donating company will receive an animated e-card

that can be sent out to your business network. The company name will also be included on CRASH’s ‘thank you’ communications.

For donations of £1,200 a company logo will also be included in these communications and, for a £2,000 donation a company will become a ‘CRASH Christmas Champion’ with pride of place on all the ‘thank you’ messages.

Francesca Roberts, Chief Executive of CRASH, said: “CRASH brings the industry together to refurbish and construct places that care for people when they are at their most vulnerable.

“We build and refurbish shelters and hostels to offer safety and dignity to people who are homeless. We help hospices by constructing caring, welcoming environments where children and adults can receive end of life care.

“We can only do this by working with the best companies in construction.”

CRASH has been running its Christmas Card Appeal since 2000 and is hoping to be able to beat 2020’s record donations of £96,000.

To make sure your company joins the prestigious list of donors and partners, please donate to the Christmas Card Appeal at https://www.crash.org.uk/christmas/

Profile 2000, the Essex-based trade and retail manufacturer and installer, has signed a new three-year supply agreement with Epwin Window Systems. The agreement means Profile 2000 will have been manufacturing Spectus products for nearly two decades.

Steve Monk, one of Profile 2000’s Directors, said: “We’ve been manufacturing Spectus products since 2004 and the system is as popular with our customers as ever. The quality and system’s aesthetics have played a big part in the success of our business because our customers recognise what the Spectus name means and the value it adds.”

Profile 2000 manufactures the Spectus Bevelled and Spectus Ovolo Window and Door Systems along with the Vertical Sliding Sash System. Steve comments: “Spectus products look good, and because

we are the only company in the area to offer Spectus, this gives us a clear competitive advantage. Plus, the products meet all the latest Building Regulations, so we know we’re covered.”

Steve also appreciates the strength of Epwin Window Systems. He comments: “They are a strong supply partner for us. Continued investment means they’re always delivering the best in state-of-the-art quality, which adds value to our business.”

Commenting on the new supply agreement, Katrina Earl, Sales Director at Epwin Window Systems, said: “We have worked closely with Steve and his team since 2004 and this new agreement demonstrates the strength of our partnership. We are delighted Profile 2000 will be continuing to supply our Spectus system to their customers, and we look forward to further

developing this long-standing relationship into the future.”

Based in Canvey Island in Essex, Profile 2000 serves customers in Essex and across the South East. It is one of the largest manufacturers of PVC-U windows, doors and conservatories in the area, and the company prides itself on careful quality control and straightforward customer service.

Spectus from Epwin Window Systems is widely recognised as one of the market’s best and most complete PVC-U systems. The flagship Spectus Bevelled and Ovolo systems can be used in a full range of windows, doors and conservatories – including casement and tilt & turn windows, residential, French, bi-fold and patio doors. The Spectus Vertical Sliding Sash System was one of the first PVC-U

sash window systems to enter the market and remains the market leader today thanks to its authentic aesthetics and impressive performance.

Spectus products have been installed in millions of properties up and down the country because, as Profile 2000’s decision to extend its supply agreement shows, they tick every box.

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

While the weakening of the pound has had considerable headline news, the fact is that this will be good for UK businesses who export goods overseas, because these will become less expensive to foreign buyers, claim Kömmerling.

With the C70 window and door system, PremiLine patio door and vertical sliding sash window all produced in hot climate mix, the opportunities for exports are strong. Sales to Asia, Africa and Australasia are already prevalent, while Kömmerling are also looking at sales channels for WarmCore in Australasia, North America and beyond.

According to the Financial Times, the pound has struggled to recover since the Brexit referendum and it’s fallen further in recent weeks as the markets react to the mini budget that was presented by Kwasi Kwarteng, the new chancellor on 23rd September. With economic uncertainties in the UK likely to impact currency for some time yet, the opportunities for exports will remain significant in the months and years to come.

Robert Thiroff, managing director of profine UK and executive director, international markets of profine Group commented:

‘There’s never been a better time in which to look at export opportunities for Kommerling, given that we already manufacture several systems in a hot climate mix and the fact that Warmcore has become competitive as a next generation hybrid platform. Fabricators can look at the more immediate markets of Europe, while we can supply bar length or even finished goods in the form of the VS and Warmcore further afield.’

For further information please visit www. profine-uk.com, e-mail enquiries@profineuk.com or phone 01623 579200. There’s

also a dedicated site for KÖMMERLING at www.kommerling.co.uk. You can also follow them on social media platforms including Twitter @profineuk and @kommerling_uk.

ROOF ASSURED BY SIKA STRENGTHENS ROOFING DISTRIBUTION TEAM

Roof Assured by Sika has strengthened its Roofing Distribution team with the appointment of Jim Mapplebeck as Business Development Manager for the North of England and Scotland and Lorna Woolley as Business Development Manager for the Midlands.

Both Lorna and Jim bring a wealth of business development experience to the roles; Lorna having previously worked for Marley Eternit and James Hardie Building Products and Jim,with extensive liquid applied system flat roofing experience, working for both Jewsons and Gibbs & Dandy

Now, as part of the Roof Assured Distribution team, they will be responsible for developing the brand’s ambitious goals of being a leading supplier and manufacturer of flat roof waterproofing membranes to the UK domestic market.

Their day-to-day role will involve building relationships with existing installers and driving forward recruitment of new installers through the Roof Assured by Sika installer programme. They will also be responsible for overseeing the growth of the Sika Roofing Distribution division via the expansion of the Sika Roofing

Stockist network, to bring the RoofPro range of waterproofing flat roof products and systems to trade counters across the country.

Lorna said: “I am delighted to be joining the Roof Assured team at this exciting time in the brand’s development. I’ve only been in the role for a short time but I have been made to feel so welcome. It’s obvious that Sika invest in their teams and I shall take the opportunity to build on my skills through their excellent professional development programme. I enjoy building relationships and I look forward to thriving in the role both from a personal and professional perspective”.

Jim said: “I am looking forward to bringing my experience in the construction product supply industry to seeking new, and servicing current, relationships with both stockists and installers. The Roof Assured distribution division is at a new and exciting stage of growth and I am very keen to rise to the challenge of being part of the team that takes the brand from strength and strength. Sika has an enviable global reputation and I am pleased to be part of such a recognised and value driven brand.”

Roof Assured is part of the global Sika brand and announced in 2021 a brand development to introduce a wider range of roofing products to the domestic market through a distribution network of nationwide Roofing Stockists.

THE NATION’S FAVOURITE ARCHED FRAME SUPPLIER

With a fresh approach to fabrication, Premier Arches is re-shaping the future of profile bending to become the UK’s number one supplier…

When it comes to what fabricators need, a wide choice of well-made products, reliable service, and an easy process all combine to create the perfect recipe for the ideal supplier.

And when it comes to meeting fabricators’ needs and making their lives easier, bespoke arched and angled frame supplier Premier Arches certainly ticks all the boxes.

So what makes the company stand out?

COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE

Managing Director Sean Greenall maintains that first and foremost, it’s a dedication to exceptional manufacturing quality.

“The process of profile bending can be complex and time-consuming, and something many fabricators simply aren’t equipped for, given their focus on more streamlined manufacturing. As a result, many have no choice but to turn down bespoke and potentially very lucrative jobs because of the headache they bring,” he explains.

“At Premier Arches, we can help fabricators win more of these types of jobs, as our speciality lies in manufacturing the awkward products that others don’t want to make.”

Working from a 10,000 square foot factory in St Helens, the company uses state-ofthe-art machinery to manufacture arched, angled, gable, circular and entirely bespoke windows and doors in a range of systems, offering a full service to fabricators, trade counters, and installers.

Premier Arches runs a stringent training programme for its fabricators, employs tight quality control processes designed to catch mistakes, and has adopted a culture of quality first, speed second.

PAIN-FREE PROCESSES

Going hand in hand with manufacturing excellence is a commitment to making customers’ lives easier.

“When it comes to profile bending, most fabricators simply don’t have the time, the tools, or the expertise to carry this out in-house, and so our goal is to make that entire process simpler and pain-free,” Sean explains.

One major way the company makes customers’ lives easier is by supplying arched and angled frames in a wide range of PVC systems, including Rehau, Eurocell, Liniar, Veka, Halo, Duraflex, and Residence Collection.

And thanks to a new account with the Epwin Group, Premier Arches has recently added Optima from Profile 22 to its broad range of systems, ensuring fabricators across the UK can benefit from its extensive and high-quality product portfolio.

The company also offers a full CAD service, allowing customers to see beforehand exactly what they’re getting.

“Our CAD service is beneficial to both our customers and our manufacturing team, allowing for designs to easily be changed if needed, and also making it easier for fabricators to collaborate with each other during the manufacturing process. This then helps our manufacturers work faster and smarter and reduce production costs, ultimately leading to quicker project completion,” says Sean.

Another key way Premier Arches helps to make its customers’ lives easier is with its unique online pricing and ordering platform, allowing fabricators to get quotes within seconds, compared to what can often be a several day wait for quotes and order acknowledgements.

“Pricing and ordering arched frames has a reputation for being time-consuming because of the complexity of the products, but our custom built online pricing and ordering platform has changed this, and we’ve seen first-hand the impact this platform has had on streamlining our customers’ processes,” says Sean.

A SUPPLIER YOU CAN TRUST

Even the best manufactured products won’t go very far if not matched with equally good customer service, and this is another principle Premier Arches abides by.

The team has a passion for getting the product and service right for every

The brand development aligns with Sika UK’s, strategic growth initiatives and their commitment to protecting and waterproofing homes and buildings around the world to the highest possible standards.

customer, every time, and also recognises that with the complicated process of profile bending, things can sometimes of course go wrong.

When this does happen, they always make a point of being open and honest with customers – if something goes wrong, or is delayed, customers are informed, and the problem is prioritised and solved as quickly as possible.

Sean concludes: “Combining a commitment to excellence, pain-free processes for fabricators, and honest customer service, Premier Arches certainly stands out from the crowd as an arched frame supplier that can be trusted.

“The arched frame market has a reputation for being unreliable, but at Premier Arches, we’re committed to changing that perception and re-shaping the future of the industry to become the country’s number one supplier.”

Visit www.premierarches.co.uk

Jim Mapleback, Business Development Manager, Roof Assured by Sika, Roofing Distribution, North and Scotland

Lorna Woolley, Business Development Manager, Roof Assured by Sika, Roofing Distribution, Midlands

VEKA URGES THE INDUSTRY TO BE HEARD IN CONSULTATION

Building regulations are causing confusion for many in the UK fenestration world, and VEKA plc is urging the industry to speak up regarding further changes that are due to be imposed in 2025. U-Values and differing calculation methods are already causing a headache for many, but with more planned updates in the pipeline, the industry needs to act quickly to ensure that it is heard.

THE FACTS

Currently, the U-Value for windows in new dwellings is 1.2 W/m2K in England. In Scotland new regulations from December will also require a 1.2 U-Value, whilst in Wales it will be 1.3 from November.

Recent changes are the first step in the government’s drive to net zero emissions. A consultation next year will decide the next steps and it has been suggested that a U-Value of 0.80 will be recommended.

In England, there are 4 different methods of calculating U-Values, whilst Scotland has one, and Wales has 3. These different test methods all present different results.

Also, fabricators that sell products in all 3 countries are finding the varying calculation methods add complexity to their operations.

THE FICTION

To calculate thermal efficiency, the actual

values of all the products used in a building are compared with ‘notional values’, and if necessary, adjustments can be made. It is these notional values the government will consult on.

Rather than using the exact specification of a window, the values are very often calculated on a standard configuration, meaning that the windows will not perform as expected.

THE FIGURE FIDDLING

Currently, if a window does not hit a U-Value through one calculation, it is possible to use another method that may hit the mark. It can be comparable to weighing yourself on 3 sets of bathroom scales to see the result you want. With the exception of the exact size and configuration, current methods are not comparable, truthful, or viable. As an industry, we need to call for one method across all 3 countries

that aligns with the accepted calculation methods across in Europe.

VEKA plc Technical Director Paul Kennington has a real concern that the fenestration industry is severely underrepresented at consultation stage. He said, “It’s important that our industry is heard. A recent consultation only had around 750 responses from the building sector, with just 50 or 60 from construction and an even smaller number from fenestration. We need more people of influence to talk about this if we are going to influence legislation.”

The DLUHC (Department for Levelling up, Housing and Communities), plan to begin their consultation next year, with likely implementation in 2025. If you would like to register for a notification of the consultation, then please email marketing@ veka.com

www.veka.co.uk

EXCEEDING BUILDING STANDARDS AND FUTUREPROOFING TENANTS’ HOMES

Established in 1993, Broadacres Housing Association (BHA) has a proven track record of providing high quality homes. Since its founding, the not-for-profit organisation has grown significantly and now boasts a portfolio of over 6,500 homes across Yorkshire and other locations in the north of England. Stock can be found in towns like Northallerton, Darlington and Harrogate, as well as larger cities such as York and Leeds.

Even with this growth, BHA has always emphasised quality and longevity when working with its suppliers on both new build and retrofit projects. REHAU has been a key partner in this respect, with the company’s windows having been installed successfully in many of BHA’s longest-standing homes.

Until recently, a small collection of bungalows in St Gregorys Close, Crakehall were no different. Despite holding firm for more than three decades, the older REHAU windows fitted in these homes needed removing. After consultation, BHA decided to replace them with the TOTAL70C – a newer, more efficient REHAU design that’s better suited for 21st century needs.

As James Marley, BHA’s Construction Manager, points out, the upgrades were partly driven by the organisation’s vision to be ‘the best rural housing association in the country’. However, it was also practical for the association to keep ahead of the regulatory curve by fitting homes with high-performing materials that exceed current standards. “Close attention is given to the budget and how we can use it effectively,” says James. “Any investment needs to provide maximum return, both in terms of performance and durability. That way tenants get a better home that will last, and the association saves more money over time.”

Improvements of this kind are in part driven by the Decent Homes Standard, a technical document first published in 1997. For a property to be deemed a ‘decent home’ it must meet certain criteria. This includes up-to-date facilities and services, as well as windows and doors that provide a good degree of thermal comfort through efficient insulation. A similar standard is now also planned for the private rented sector, which will require large-scale remedial action to improve the condition of roughly half a million properties across the UK.

LASTING VALUE

While upgrades are part of day-to-day work for BHA, James believes it’s still important to take a longer-term view when upgrading homes. “We seek quality products that not only adhere to the Decent Homes Standard, but also ones that will futureproof our properties against proposed changes to housing legislation. Broadacres has used REHAU windows for many years knowing they are resilient to the country’s highly seasonal weather. This is especially important for a site like St. Gregorys where all the tenants will be living on the ground floor. Without adequate windows and doors, cold draughts and damp can create big problems later on.”

REHAU’s TOTAL70C system is ideal for organisations seeking lasting performance. Products in this range have exceptional thermal properties, achieving A+ on the Window Energy Rating system, while also surpassing the

requirements set out in Part L of the Building Regulations. For windows an overall U-Value of 1.6 W/m2K is needed; the TOTAL70C sits well underneath this threshold at 1.31 W/m2K.

This level of performance, as James explains, is an advantage when working across such a large portfolio. “BHA’s current major works specification has been prepared with REHAU’s guidance. This new window makes it easier for us to meet our carbon reduction targets, while also laying the groundwork for future challenges around thermal performance in homes. We know from customer surveys that window replacement is a top priority, so it’s vital to get it right the first time, especially when you’re dealing with thousands of buildings.”

SPEED AND SECURITY

BHA’s decent homes replacement cycle sees it budget and plan for windows to remain in-situ for 30 years without premature failure. REHAU has proven itself against this measure. However, as Keith Hogan and Kevin Hudson, Directors at Newlife Windows, BHA’s preferred installer, point out there are other more practical benefits to using a product like the TOTAL70C system.

“Newlife is REHAU approved,” says Keith, “so our team is very familiar with the company’s profiles and what’s needed to fit them to a high standard. This familiarity also means we can replace and install the new products quickly, which is not always the case for competitors’ designs. Knowing we can enter a person’s home and be confident we’ll complete the job to schedule 99% of the time is great for customer satisfaction and our relationship with Broadacres.”

Keith’s final point, as James is keen to highlight, is key for a housing association. “No one wants to have their day disrupted with building work, but we also need to make improvements to our homes from time to time. Newlife Windows can give us a schedule and we’ll know that the work will be finished according to the timescales given. This is a big advantage when liaising with tenants and is partly down to the good design and functionality of REHAU’s windows.”

Beyond this, the TOTAL70C system also provides customers with greater resistance to break-ins. If required, the hardware used on all REHAU’s TOTAL70 range can be fixed into the steel reinforcement on both the sash and frame, increasing the security level for residents. “This installation

method is simple,” says Kevin Hudson, “particularly if you’re already removing existing REHAU frames from the property. It’s important to have this feature available for properties like those at St. Gregorys.”

FRAMES FOR THE FUTURE

BHA’s long-standing relationship with REHAU has been driven by product performance and longevity. However, sustainability has also been key, with the association currently working beyond the requirements set out in the Future Homes Standard. It also has its own set of KPIs based on the UN’s global development goals. These include a commitment to alleviate fuel poverty and a pledge to minimise impact on the environment.

“REHAU is a natural partner for BHA when it comes to sustainability,” says James. “We know the windows have excellent thermal efficiency, and this helps our tenants to spend less on their energy bills when the weather gets cold. Knowing the new frames are made from older recycled ones is an added bonus.”

James is referring to PVCR, which has seen significant investment in its waste management and recycling machinery since becoming part of the wider REHAU Group in 2014. PVCR collects used PVC material, such as old door and window frames, and puts it through a number of different treatment processes so it can be redirected back into the manufacture of new polymer products. In doing so, PVCR not only limits the amount of plastic that ends up in landfill but also allows REHAU, its parent organisation, to operate a self-sustaining business model inspired by the circular economy.

REHAU is committed to upgrading technology used in the treatment process and, therefore, the volume of material that can be recovered for future use. Currently 55% of a salvaged PVC window frame is converted into material used in new REHAU products, with roughly another 30% of the by-product created through shredding and granulation, being sold on to other businesses. PVCR aims to increase the amount of good-quality PVC being reused to 70% and finding viable markets for as much of the remaining 30%.

Sustainable suppliers, as James points out, “make it easier for an organisation like BHA to do its job without losing track of the bigger picture. We have our own set of CSR targets that would be harder to achieve were it not for companies like REHAU. In a market like housing, where the focus is always shifting, having reliable products made the right way is so valuable.”

James concludes: “Long-standing relationships like the one between REHAU and Broadacres are ultimately based on trust. These windows make our tenants’ lives better, which is the most important thing, but the fact we know they’ll fit without fuss and also look good once installed is what really sets them apart. REHAU is specified as standard across all our projects because we know what we’re getting, even if that means looking further when a supplier isn’t nearby.”

For more information about REHAU’s TOTAL70 system, visit https://www.rehau.com/uk-en/casement-windows

PYROGUARD’S EXPERTISE KEY ON REGENERATION OF HISTORIC SPANISH CONVENT

expertise, supplying bespoke glass components to suit the on-site framework.

in the Spanish city of Zaragoza, the Capuchino Convent de San Antonio de Padua forms part of a wider historic complex, comprising the Church of San Antonia and an ossuary monument (Sacrario Militare Italiano) built to honour the Italian soldiers after the Spanish Civil War. With the construction of a new social centre on the site, the Convent was also regenerated and underwent functional adaptations. The project presented teams with many challenges, mainly how to work within the parameters of a historic building and bring it in line with modern-day regulations, all while simultaneously respecting its heritage and aesthetics.

When it came to the building’s compartmentation, an important part of any building’s passive fire protection strategy, the use of glass was key. To ensure that any new glazing was in keeping with the convent’s style and heritage, the Duramen System from AFVidrio was chosen – a timber frame with a varnished oak finish.

A bespoke EI120 fire resistance test was then carried out, using AFVidrio’s frame in collaboration with Pyroguard. This fire test was a critical phase of the project and provided

assurances of the overall glazing system’s performance. Pyroguard’s expertise and technical knowledge was key in helping to design and pass the EI120 fire test, which featured its Pyroguard Protect fire safety glass.

Another challenge of working within historic buildings, as opposed to a new development, is having to adapt the building products to suit the existing structure. On the Capuchino Convent de San Antonio de Padua project, a selection of the glazing units were semi-circular doors and other shaped glass, rather than the standard rectangular panes. Here, Pyroguard again demonstrated its technical

Speaking about the project, Miguel Marin, Project Director at AFVidrio said: “Undertaking any project with Pyroguard is a guarantee of success, Pyroguard provide you with confidence in terms of the product quality and local regulations.

“The knowledge and capabilities of Pyroguard’s technical team were instrumental in ensuring both a successful fire test and the subsequent on-site installation of the fire safety glass system. This and the quality of their fire safety glass all contributed to us meeting the end-client’s deadline in a timely manner. We were particularly impressed with the great light transmission that Pyroguard Protect glass delivered – a very important and valuable attribute within the fire safety glass market.”

Pyroguard Protect is Pyroguard’s range of toughened fire safety glass, which can provide integrity and heat insulation protection from 30 up to 180 minutes. Certified to 1B1 impact classification, Pyroguard Protect can also offer highperformance acoustic properties and UV stability.

The renovation of the Capuchino Convent de San Antonio de Padua was completed in February 2022.

For more information, please visit: www.pyroguard.eu.

The Innovative Hybrid Bi-Folding Doors at their Best

• Fully compliant to meet new building regulations

• Energy efficient with U-values of 1.4 W/(m2.K) in existing dwellings

• Aluminium and PVC Hybrid combination = high performance

• Colour match existing PVC windows and doors

• Full Renolit range of colour choices, available on request

• Low threshold option (family and wheelchair friendly)

• Superb security including Secure by Design options

DECEUNINCK DEMONSTRATE SUSTAINABILITY IN ACTION

We hear much about sustainability and, indeed, much is written on the subject however seeing sustainability in action and understanding a company’s philosophy both for now and for the future gives meaning to a lot of, perhaps, empty words.

Joining a trade press visit to Deceuninck’s recycling plant in Diksmuide, Belgium, Glass News’ Editor, Chris Champion, had the opportunity to see how this multinational organisation is investing for the future – both for themselves and the public as a whole. On then to Hooglede-Gits to Deceunink’s HQ and production facility to view the extrusion and foiling lines and to learn about the new Elegant product, Deceuninck’s new energy efficient window system which redefines expectations of performance and delivers significant manufacturing efficiencies through a modular approach with each of three frame options creating five design options each through a choice of five universal sashes.

The Diksmuide Recycling Plant is the largest in Europe but, interestingly, Deceuninck’s own research shows that just

10% of people interviewed thought that uPVC windows were the most recyclable material. In fact only 14% knew that uPVC could be recycled, hence it is vital that our industry explains that uPVC is a low maintenance, energy efficient and high value application – which is fully recyclable at end of life. The survey figures that indicate that a massive 86% are unaware that uPVC is recyclable – within our industry we are all well aware of this but indications are that this information is slow in getting through to consumers. Before we get too despondent, there is an awareness that uPVC is perceived as the most energy efficient but sustainability is just one of the considerations along with security, price, energy efficiency and appearance when choosing new windows.

It probably comes as no surprise that it is the 25 to 34 year old age group that are most aware of the importance of sustainability and these are the big purchasers of windows in the future. The Diksmuide plant has seen investment of 15 million euros and has a capability of recycling 45,000 tons of uPVC per annum. What does that mean? Basically it is stopping 3 million windows

per annum ending up in landfill, delivering a reduction on CO2 emissions of 90,000 tonnes compared to virgin feedstocks and providing a 90% energy saving. The message is clear. We can all make a difference, but it is up to us all to educate the general public that uPVC is not a threat, not destined for landfill, and is a sustainable product. I was talking with a guy while playing golf who was telling me he was having his windows replaced. Interestingly, uPVC for uPVC. I was telling him about my visit to Deceuninck’s recycling plant, making him suitably jealous by telling him of our stay in Bruges. He had been feeling slightly guilty thinking that his old windows were destined for landfill but perked up considerably when he realised there was every chance they would be recycled. Guilt averted! Getting through to those outside our industry that we are serious about recycling and sustainability is not easy. Shaking off the image of the foot-in-the-door salesman and the deals that are too good to be true is not easy and it cannot be left to the system houses alone to herald the changes in our industry. Fabricators and installers need to join the battle and, to be fair many are. However, the sustainability message should be a very large part of the sales ploy as I firmly believe the homeowner wants to feel they that they too are playing their part and can proudly tell their neighbours that their new windows are made from recycled materials.

It may be difficult for the homeowner to understand how their old windows can end up as new ones and unfortunately it is not possible to ship the general public to Diksmuide to see Deceuninck recycling vast quantities of windows. Suffice it to say that if they could see what happens in the process they would be satisfied that the industry is doing something right. On the face of it, it isn’t a complicated process. Collecting frames and mashing them up, then removing waste products such as gaskets, timber and metals in a series of washing, filtering and magnets

resulting in pellets of uPVC sounds easy. The logical process is, however, costly. It requires serious investment to build a plant such as Diksmuide.

Recycled content has been a bone of contention in the window and door industry, driven by historical concerns about material stability and the reaction from the end-user. What Deceuninck’s research shows is that today, the second of these points is unfounded.

Homeowners have no issue with recycled content in windows and doors. In fact, if offered products with equal levels of performance and the same appearance, the only difference being that one used recycled content, YouGov research shows that the vast majority of homeowners, some 66%, would choose the product that used recycled material. And many of us, more than a third of homeowners, would be prepared to pay a premium for products which had a higher recycled content.

Rob McGlennon (6th from left) and Chris Jones (2nd from left) hosted the trade editors on the visit to Deceuninck

Material arrives for recycling

shopfloor

The recycling plant at Diksmuide

Part of the Deceuninck Recycling plant

Having experienced the workings of the recycling plant we were taken to HoogledeGits to Deceuninck’s headquarters and plant to see the extrusion and foiling lines, but also the pultrusion lines. This part of the visit was to see the new Elegant window and door system, which has been engineered to maximise thermal performance and design reach, at the same time as minimising stock-holding.

Elegant is built around i-COR, a modular ultra-energy efficient outer frame, which is available in three different frame depths, a standard 76mm system, plus 84mm and 115mm options. Each frame is compatible with five different sashes including Elegant Abstract, a sleek minimalist flush sash option and ThermoFibra Infinity, Deceuninck’s ground-breaking glass-fibre reinforced sash, which has a rebate of only 7mm, while achieving u-values of as low as 0.88W/m2K.

Rob McGlennon, Managing Director, Deceuninck, said that Elegant represented a step change in window and door performance but also manufacture.

“Our standard offer is the 76mm frame. If you took that in isolation and disregarded the 84mm and 115mm frames you can manufacture five different windows including what we believe will be a very popular flush sash option, Elegant Abstract.

“You don’t have to hold masses of stock. Production is easier because outer frame dimensions don’t change, so it’s less complicated to cut, mill or rout, also saving time, and the u-values are incredible”, Rob explained.

In addition to the Flush Elegant Abstract and ThermoFibra Infinity, Elegant is also available in Infinity, which features a subtle transition between the frame and sash; Elegant Origin which has a classic detailing; and the more pronounced square chamfered, Elegant Grando. ThermoFibra Infinity employs Deceuninck’s patented ThermoFibra glass fibre reinforcement system eliminating steel from the sash. ThermoFibra is where ‘pultrusion’, mentioned earlier, comes in. Pultrusion is a process for making composite materials in which fibres and resin are pulled through a heated die. Where the composite is pulled through a very long die, this is a process called pultrusion. In pultrusion, resin-

soaked reinforcements are pulled through a heated die where the resin is cured.

It combines this with Forthex, Deceuninck’s extruded insulated thermal reinforcement, which maximises design potential without the need for traditional steel reinforcement using embedded steel wires in a lowdensity insulating foam core. As strong as steel reinforced windows but 30% more thermally efficient with 40% savings on materials and weight ThermoFibra and Forthex are also 100% recyclable. I queried this as fibreglass is usually burned but, in the case of Deceuninck, the fibreglass elements are filtered out and go to making concrete. So yes, 100% recyclable.

Rob continued: “Elegant moves PVC-U into a different space, through the way that it is made; and through the through-life performance and the high-end architectural aesthetic that it delivers.

“Elegant shifts the conversation from a discussion limited to one about PVC-U and aluminium, to one about next generation, premium low maintenance and energy efficient composite windows and doors.”

Elegant also uses recycled material in manufacture, something which sits as part of Deceuninck’s ambitious sustainability strategy.

This includes a commitment to cut the CO2 emissions from its own operations (Scope 1&2) by 60% by 2030 from a 2021 baseline, as part of the Science Based Targets programme. Something it is working to achieve in part through the €15million investment it has made in one of the world’s most advanced recycling and compounding facilities.

With the capacity to reprocess up to 45,000 tonnes of post-consumer and post-manufacturing PVC-U per year it gives Deceuninck capacity to prevent more than three million windows from going to landfill annually.

Rob continued: “There is a powerful sustainability story which underpins Elegant and which gives it immediate reach in the commercial sector, as an alternative to and alongside, aluminium products.

“We know, however, that that story also resonates with the end-user.

“In combination with the minimalist

sightlines and it’s very strong architectural aesthetic, Elegant has very strong end-user appeal, as a low maintenance and ultraenergy efficient, composite window and door system.”

There is little doubt that Deceuninck are working extremely hard on their whole sustainability project and it includes new products that are thermally efficient, recycling of materials and being aware of the company’s carbon footprint. A large part of this project is aimed at education for all: Deceuninck employees, fabricators and installers and the buying public. They are certainly not alone in doing this but it is fair to say that Deceuninck are doing an excellent job and are continuing to invest towards everyone’s future, and good for them.

QUOTE. ROB MCGLENNON MANAGING DIRECTOR, DECEUNINCK

“Our homes account for around 14% of the UK’s CO2 emissions. Cutting the amount of energy that we use to keep them warm in winter is now a key infrastructure priority, something only reinforced by the current cost-of-living crisis.

“It creates a direct link between heat loss, hard economics and sustainability. Heat loss through poorly insulated properties is not sustainable environmentally or economically. It is also not sustainable politically.

“This is driving a shift in expectation. The energy efficiency of their homes has new resonance with consumers, something which, despite the pressures on household incomes, creates opportunity for the window and door industry if we’re effective in driving the energy efficiency message.”

ThermoFibra and Forthex in an Elegant frame

Part of the process of removing waste products

Elegant frames look well in a modern villa

76mm ThermoFibra Infinity in a refurbished house

Leading arched and angled frame supplier Premier Arches has successfully kept up with a growing demand for its specialist products, despite market challenges.

The successful delivery is something Managing Director Sean Greenall attributes to the company’s three core business principles of outstanding quality, clear and honest customer service, and a make life easier offering.

“Today’s market certainly looks very different to how it did two years ago, and as the industry boom we all enjoyed slows down, so has demand for home improvement products,” says Sean.

“In general, consumers who previously had more disposable income as a result of the pandemic no longer have that extra cash to hand and are therefore no longer spending on improving their properties.

“At the same time, however, there will always be higher earning households who still have the money to spend, and generally, it’s this group that would rather invest in premium products – such as arched and angled frames.

“This of course means that our customers are experiencing a continuing demand, and it’s our aim at Premier Arches to supply them with the quality

products they need, on time, every time.”

Based in St Helens, Premier Arches manufactures and supplies arched, angled, gable, circular and entirely bespoke windows and doors in a range of stocked systems including Residence 9 and Optima from Profile 22, plus a host of non-stocked systems, offering a full service to fabricators, trade counters, installers and local builders, saving them time and hassle.

The company also supplies fully manufactured product offerings, including the frame, sash, hardware, accessories, and glass.

Sean continues: “Keeping up with demand is something we’ve always prided ourselves on at Premier Arches, so while the market changes and becomes more challenging, we’re still here to deliver the premium products our customers need, and to remain the reliable supplier they can trust, even when times are tough.”

www.premierarches.co.uk

FREEFOAM: INCREASED CAPACITY, INCREASED

Freefoam Building Products are delighted to announce the arrival of two additional new extrusion lines to their production plant in Northampton.

Supplied by Austrian company Greiner Extrusion, the new lines will increase production capacity by 12.5%. With continued expansion, a growing customer base and increased turnover this significant investment further underpins Freefoam’s commitment to remain at the forefront of PVC extrusion capability in the UK.

“We’ve been planning this addition to our facility for many months and I’m very pleased to see our plans come to fruition. These new lines will increase capacity of our production of PVC fascia, soffit and gutter products and allow us to operate more efficiently” explained Geoff Barnett, General Manager.

“We have a long and successful relationship with Greiner and by choosing these new lines to work alongside our existing extruders we can make significant efficiencies. We follow and embrace

AND

lean principles of manufacture and this standardisation across the production plant allows complete interchangeability between lines. It maximises the benefits of transferable skills, tooling and spares in order to keep lines continually running and minimise down time”

The new lines will also bring new jobs. Operating a 24/7 production facility means an extra 5 team members will be joining Freefoam, making a total of 154 now employed in Northampton.

Freefoam are committed to continuous improvement and maximising efficiencies and these two new lines form part of these developments. Alongside a wide range of other infrastructure projects around the manufacturing and mixing plant site in Northampton these changes will ensure Freefoam production facilities are fit for purpose now, and in to the future.

“We have ambitious growth plans over the next 2 -3 years” commented Colin St John, Commercial Director “and we need to ensure we have the infrastructure in place to meet these ambitions and the demands of our customers. This investment will allow us to plan ahead and maximise production capacity to future proof our business. I’m particularly pleased to be bringing new jobs to Northampton. We run our entire UK production, distribution and sales operation from this site and we bring a whole range of professional, administrative, skilled and semi-skilled roles to the local economy.

To see video visit: https://bit.ly/3EHwXMD www.freefoam.com

The Double Glazing & Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS) has been championing better mental health in the fenestration industry since the ‘stark and emotional’ results of their Mental Health Survey were delivered earlier this year. The organisation has taken the first proactive step in helping to relieve stress and anxiety in the workplace, with the formation of a Self-care Toolkit, designed to support those working in the industry.

DGCOS Chief Exec, Faisal Hussain, explains more about the toolkit and why DGCOS felt so strongly about investing in it: “DGCOS is supporting our members at every stage of their installer journey. It is important to us to take positive steps to offer real solutions as part of that package, and this extends to the wider industry too.

“Our industry-first Glass and Glazing Mental Health Survey induced an outpouring of support and interest, and in some cases, installers sharing their own personal battles with us, and delivered stark and emotional results. It really showed the

price we’re paying in terms of mental health as a sector following the challenges of the last few years. It’s been tough on everyone and it’s no wonder our mental health is suffering.

“The Self-care Toolkit is the first in a series of proactive steps DGCOS is taking to try and support those affected. One of

the best things we can do for ourselves is practice self-care. Engaging in a self-care routine can reduce or eliminate anxiety and depression, reduce stress, increase happiness, and more. It can help you adapt to changes, build strong relationships, and recover from setbacks. This can be difficult in a work environment but taking time out

and slowing down during the day, actually makes you more productive. Knowing where to start is a challenge though, so this is why launching a toolkit is the step we’re taking in our quest to support better mental health in our industry.

“The toolkit will provide installers with items to help practice self-care in their day-to-day life. It includes specially selected items like headphones so you can listen to music, podcasts, audio books or even mediation guides to help you relax during your break. We have also included therapeutic items to aid exercise, relaxation and sleep at the end of a busy day.

“It is a work in progress, and we are interested to hear what you’d like to see included in the toolkit that would help lower stress levels and ease tension during the course of your day. We will be sending out a sample selection to our staff to trial initially, before rolling out to our members. If however, you would like to be part of the trial, please get in touch with me directly: f.hussain@schemes.org.uk

GLAZERITE WELCOMES A NEW ADDITION TO SALES TEAM

The Glazerite UK Group has appointed a new Sales Manager as part of its ambitions for growth.

Calum Williams joined the trade fabricator on 24th October 2022 to further strengthen its customer relationships in the Southwest.

Calum, who has worked in the fenestration industry for more than 15 years, says of his appointment: “I’m excited to join Glazerite. They are a modern, ambitious company with a great ethos and an extensive range of products. This includes heritage frames such as the VEKA Imagine Vertical Slider, Halo Flush Sash and the Residence Collection products. These present some real opportunities for our installers and especially those based in the Southwest, which is home to many conservation areas.”

Calum adds: “The fenestration industry has served me well and I’m passionate about helping others break into it. I give regular career talks to highlight the variety of opportunities it offers, and to inspire new blood to become part of this rewarding and social industry.”

Calum is re-joining Glazerite’s Group Sales & Commercial Director, Jeff Dunn, who he worked with at Consort. Jeff says:

“Welcoming Calum to the team gives us a chance to deepen our customer relationships in the Southwest. I look forward to the energy and passion he will bring - he is a great fit for Glazerite and eager to start meeting existing and prospective installers in his new territory. It’s an exciting time for anyone to be joining Glazerite and I am delighted to be working with Calum once again.”

www.glazerite.co.uk

NEW BLACK & WHITE GUIDES TO U-VALUES FOR ENGLAND, SCOTLAND AND WALES

After the success of our Black & White guide to window U-Values launched at this year’s FIT Show, we have created a version for Scotland and Wales to prepare for the imminent Building Regulation changes expected to take place later this year. The original guide, which was based on the English regulations, has also been revised to ensure that all our customers have the most up to date information at their fingertips.

An industry first, our first guide was launched at this year’s FIT Show and gave clear and concise information on how all VEKA’s window systems can meet a U-value of 1.2 W/m2K. This was in response to updated Building Regulations that came into force in June.

The new regulations in Scotland that come into force in December will also require a 1.2 U-Value, whilst in Wales it will be 1.3 from November.

Differing calculation methods across the 3 countries are causing confusion for fabricators, but we are committed to supporting our customers in navigating these.

The specifications in the new suite of guides are

country specific, fully reinforced, and realistic to fabricate. There are no grey areas or hidden small print and they apply to both light and dark colours.

Both guides include detailed drawings of chambers and reinforcements and are available to be downloaded from our website. For additional support, email technical@veka.com.

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CAPITALISING ON SALES LEADS DURING TIMES OF LOWER DEMAND

As an industry, following on from the last couple of years’ disruption, we’re now entering yet more unprecedented times, with inflation at an all-time high, interest rates rising at a staggering rate, and consumer confidence at an all-time low. The concern for the industry is that demand is now reducing as a result. So what can companies do to maximise the potential of any sales leads that may come their way?

Group Sales Director Nigel Bishop and Head of Customer Relations Charlotte Curtis, from leading systems company Liniar, discuss lead generation and conversion, offering advice on navigating consumer buying behaviours.

LEAD GENERATION

Nigel tells us, “Starting with a positivewhen consumer confidence is low, potential leads tend to be more inclined to convert as enquirers are more likely to be ready to make a purchase. But handling those enquiries needs some strategic thought.

Consumers with low confidence need reassuring, compelling evidence that they are making the right decision. They need to know that any investment they make is sound and will help them in the short, medium and long term.”

Nigel continues, “As budgets are squeezed by rising inflation, windows and doors are likely to be a distress purchase – a purchase made out of necessity, rather than pleasure. Let’s be honest, we’d all prefer a lovely holiday to replacing our windows and doors, and as the squeeze on the UK’s wages becomes tighter, people will have to make some tough choices.

Communication with prospects should be nurturing, helpful, reassuring and most importantly transparent. Offer genuine advice, be honest about energy savings and make sure your messaging is easily understandable.”

LEAD CONVERSION

Charlotte says, “If your marketing and lead generation systems are working (and I can’t stress this enough) make sure you respond to enquiries in a timely manner. Not just at the initial point of contact, but throughout the buying process. If you say you’re going to get back to a potential customer, make sure you do. I know it sounds simple, but you’d be staggered by how many customers leave the buying process due to poor communication.”

PUT YOURSELF IN YOUR CUSTOMER’S SHOES

It’s easy to make assumptions, so take a moment to really think about what information and communication would make you happy during a large purchase and apply that to your customers.

Charlotte advises, “It’s easy to take it for granted that potential customers understand everything you’re telling them, so it’s important to check and give them

the opportunity to ask questions. Empower them during the buying process so that they feel well informed and reassured.”

Nigel adds, “We can all believe that we are giving potential customers a great experience, but we only know if that’s true when we ask for honest feedback. Taking this feedback on board can help your future marketing and lead generation activity as well as improving your conversion rates.”

WORD OF MOUTH

Before a project is completed, consider how you’d like the customer to feel – and more importantly, how they are likely to share their experience. Word of mouth (WOM) recommendations are one of the most powerful marketing tools you can have in your arsenal! However, if the customer service hasn’t been good, negative reviews can travel a lot further than news of a positive experience. Always bear this in mind during any project, and go out of your way to identify and resolve any issues as they arise to make sure the customer is satisfied by the time work is finished

Charlotte tells us, “Capturing a positive review digitally is a fantastic way to capitalise on WOM testimonials. Consumers and companies will carry out due diligence when considering making large purchases and at times like this, more than ever, they will want to be reassured that they are making a sound decision. Having good digital reviews can not only help create lead generation but can also be used as a tool to aid conversion. Rather than wait, build it into your follow-up system to ask every customer for a review via either Google, Facebook or Trustpilot. Many won’t think about doing so unless their experience has been bad, so proactively seeking good reviews will help your business to stand out.”

SUPPORT FOR LINIAR CUSTOMERS

Nigel concludes, “At Liniar, we believe in supporting our fabricator network and as such we pass on all leads for trade and retail work. We work closely with fabricators and installers to create case studies and news articles to share online, which can help raise their own brand awareness and website rankings. As we go into the next period of uncertainty this will be more important than ever for the Liniar family of customers.”

To have your project featured on the Liniar website contact marketing@liniar.co.uk with details.

Nigel Bishop

Charlotte Curtis

LIVINGSTON FC MANAGER DAVID MARTINDALE HELPS OPEN WINDOW SUPPLY COMPANY’S NEW HEAD OFFICE AND MANUFACTURING FACILITY

West Lothian based window and door manufacturer Window Supply Company (WSC) officially opens their new head office and manufacturing site in Whitburn, West Lothian with a special Open Day. The event was officially opened by Livingston FC Manager David Martindale, following a complete refurbishment of the locally renowned former Levi’s site.

The company relocated its headquarters and manufacturing operations to Whitburn in Central Scotland having quickly outgrown their original facility in Houstoun Industrial Estate in Livingston. The major relocation project required a complete renovation of the almost derelict former Levi’s site.

Through the support of many local tradespeople, Window Supply Company have now completely transformed the facility to a modern bustling factory employing over 160 people. To celebrate the completion of the project, Window Supply Company hosted an Open Day, inviting key suppliers, local tradespeople, and members of the local community along to the event.

Officially opened by Livingston FC Manager, David Martindale, the company invited key suppliers to a tabletop exhibition. Among the major suppliers were Derby based systems company Liniar alongside their sister company

Avantek Machinery, Abacus Agents, Soudal, Kubu smart technology and Hurst. Suppliers were able to speak directly to WSC customers and showcase new product developments, run live product demonstrations and provide free giveaways.

Guided tours of the 105,000 square foot site ran all day showcasing the £multi-million investment in state-of-theart machinery and technology which will enable WSC to increase manufacturing by a staggering 250% and employ

more people from the local community. In a marquee, catering for the event was alongside free drinks and a DJ.

As team sponsors of local boys club Whitburn FCA 2009’s, the team were invited along to the event to tour the new head office, meet the company directors and take part in a photo opportunity. The company painted the factory walkway the same colours as the team strips, making for a great photo.

Operations Director Martin Linden, responsible for the major project says, ‘The results of all the hard work that have gone into transforming our new head office and manufacturing site are phenomenal and we are grateful to all the local tradespeople involved in what has been a huge project. The open day event was a fantastic platform to bring together not only our key customers and suppliers, but also welcome members of the local community. As a major employer in the area, we are keen to take an active role in supporting the local community’.

Window Supply Company Limited is in 7 Murraysgate Industrial Estate, Whitburn, West Lothian, EH47 0LE. The company also has trade counters in Aberdeen, Bellshill, Dundee, Livingston, Loanhead and Sheffield.

www.windowsupplycompany.co.uk

WARNING – FAKE CSCS CARDS IN CIRCULATION

GQA Qualifications has identified a new style of fake CSCS card that is currently in circulation, and site managers are urged to be extra vigilant when granting access to construction sites.

Fake cards are not a new phenomenon, and the vigilance of construction site management teams can prevent unqualified workers from gaining access to their sites when they present a fake card. The fake card currently in circulation can be identified

due to the poor quality of the GQA logo, the different style of CSCS hologram (coloured instead of silver), fonts and text alignment, and the clarity of the background on the card design, though to the untrained eye the fake card may pass initial scrutiny.

The problem is made worse by the fact that the fraudsters behind the scam have also developed a background website which provides training and qualifications records for the individual named on the card,

meaning when the QR code on the card is scanned it appears to link back to genuine records.

To combat this fraud, and to ensure that only properly qualified workers are able to access site, GQA recommends the use of the recently released CSCS Smart Check app where site safety management teams can scan the QR code with the knowledge they will not be directed to fraudulent websites.

For further information or to report a fake GQA card, please contact GQA on 0114 2720033 or email info@gqaqualifications.com.

Roof Assured by Sika, provides flat roofing technologies for the UK domestic roofing market, and recently exhibited at The Homebuilding & Renovating Show, London, Excel. The Homebuilding and Renovating Show is the go to show for self builders and renovators.

James Buckley, National Sales Manager, Roofing Distribution, said: “Visitors flocked to our stand over the three days of the Show. The combination of our high performance RoofPro single ply and liquid membranes and expert installation from our installers, is a very popular flat roofing solution for these visitors who want the absolute best for their dream project.  They are not prepared to compromise.”

The show was an excellent opportunity not only to tell visitors more about the RoofPro membranes as a flat roofing solution but also to get first hand feedback from self builders and renovators on how they approach their project, what are their concerns, and what is important to them when they are thinking about a flat roof.

James continued: “Although we’ve exhibited at a fair number of the Homebuilding and Renovating Shows there is always

something that surprises us. It’s not just about visitors to the stand learning about our products and services but I

can’t stress enough how much WE learn from visitors. The opportunity to engage with homeowners, self builders and renovators face to face is invaluable. It opens our eyes to the emotional and practical challenges they are facing in carrying out what is often a dream project or particular roofing issue. It’s so much more than just talking about the features and benefits of flat roofing as the product, it’s investing in a flat roof as a visual and not just a function. An excellent show for visitors AND exhibitors”.

The range is not only in high demand with self builders but also with homeowners renovating and upgrading their existing flat roofs on garages, porches, conservatories, balconies and even dormers.

The RoofPro range of flat roof waterproofing systems is available to Roof Assured installers via a nationwide nektwork of roofing stockists.

All together a very successful show for both Roof Assured by Sika and visitors.

If you are interested in joining the Roof Assured by Sika Installer programme visit http://www.roofassured.co.uk/installers/become_an_installer/

YORKSHIRE’S CONSERVATORY OUTLET

SAYS ‘OLA’ TO TWO NEW RETAILERS

The UK’s leading manufacturer of high-quality windows, doors, home extensions and conservatories has welcomed two new companies to its retail network.

Conservatory Outlet, which was formed in 2005, has taken the number of retailers it supplies to 29, with the arrivals of Ayrshire’s RMC and Dundee-based installer Ecofit, ensuring the Wakefield-based company now has a presence in every postcode in Scotland. The formal announcement was made by CEO Greg Kane during the firm’s annual ‘Network Celebration’ and marks what has been a tough, but ultimately rewarding period for the home improvement sector.

Held at the iconic Esferic building in Barcelona’s Montjuic park, key stakeholders

from the businesses that form the Network joined together to celebrate their achievements of the past year and discuss how to manage further supply chain pressures, energy price rises and fluctuating consumer demand.

They also discovered how Conservatory Outlet has invested £100,000 into a new academy to support staff with sales training and a raft of new measures being introduced to help facilitate growth, along with other initiatives and a look ahead at what’s in store over the next twelve months.

“Whilst many of our competitors took major casualties and lost many clients during the last two years, we’re been able to maintain all of our network - a fact we put down to the shared values of honesty, quality and innovation,” explained Greg, who is joined in the senior management team by MD Mick Giscombe.

“Not only have we remained intact, but Conservatory Outlet has strengthened our coverage in key strategic areas with the arrival of two of Scotland’s finest home

improvement specialists in RMC and Ecofit. This takes us to 29 companies, with another new member set to be announced shortly.”

He continued: “I don’t think we’ve ever had two years like we’ve just seen, moving from the issues surrounding COVID-19 to supply chain disruption and, this year, massive price rises. Throughout this, our focus has remained on delivering new solutions, products and initiatives to drive leads for our retailers.

“Our marketing team, working with DigitalKOG, is helping members with new website content, social media, digital and in-person campaigns to make searching and purchasing the right options a lot easier.”

The Conservatory Outlet Gala Dinner was used to recognise some of the achievements of its members, with West Yorkshire Windows (WYW) celebrating 15 years in the network and Amber Home Improvements, Premier Windows and Conservatories and Mitchell Glass all marking their 10-year anniversaries.

Wycombe-based Hazlemere took two titles (Best New Living Space and Most Complex Design Installation), 5 Star the Best Window and Door Installation accolade and Archie Dootson of WYW taking the Apprentice of the Year award.

There was also time to highlight Trevor Malia as the Network’s ‘Unsung Hero’. He joined James Oliver Conservatories as an apprentice and now, 30 years on, leads a conservatory fitting team that works on all the company’s flagship and high-value projects.

Karen Clough, Marketing Director, went on to add: “Barcelona has been a fantastic trip and underlined the superb community and family spirit we have in the network.

“This was none more evident when eight of us – Joey Heaton (TWC), Stewart Kelly (Eden), Mervyn & Lindsey Stanley (ERG) and Paul Reid, Garry Myles and Sarah Boyle (all Ecofit) - decided to skydive from a plane at 10,000 metres. Together, we managed to raise more than £2,700 for the NSPCC and a further £900 for Prospect House in Swindon. It was a brilliant opportunity for the Network to come together and show support for some fantastic charities.”

Greg concluded: “This weekend has been amazing, arguably our best and most productive one yet.

“We pride ourselves on being a close-knit Network and being able to come together to discuss challenges, celebrate achievements and lay out a path for our combined and continued success is of real benefit to everyone involved.”

For further information, please visit www.conservatoryoutlet.co.uk or @conservatoryuk on twitter.

Faisal Hussain CEO

WIDE RANGE OF

With a reputation as a leading aluminium bi-fold hardware supplier, AT Precision has now added a full range of gaskets to its portfolio.

Thanks to investment in two new extrusion lines as well as a rigid polymer extrusion line, the Durham-based company can supply a range of wedge, captive, flipper, and bubble gaskets, as part of its Everseal range.

Sold per metre, all gaskets boast superior ageing properties, are unaffected by most aqueous oils and oil-based fluids, and are resistant to abrasion and flex fatigue. They are also ozone resistant and UV stable.

“Everseal gaskets are compatible with any aluminium system on the market, and

because we manufacture our products in-house, we’re able to offer the same highquality performance at a more affordable price,” comments AT Precision Sales Director Michael Hewitt.

“While most aluminium fabricators rely on the convenience of buying their gaskets from their systems company or supplier, it’s by no means the best value for money. By coming directly to us for their gaskets, aluminium fabricators can cut out the middle man and potentially save thousands of pounds a year.”

AT Precision has also been asking its customers to send in samples of any gaskets it doesn’t currently provide – in return, the company will have specific tooling made

FROM AT PRECISION

and build on their stock of popular gaskets, ensuring fabricators always get the products they need.

As well as their new gasket range, AT Precision manufactures the Everglide range of bi-fold hardware, which includes rollers, top guides, pull handles, hinges, cleats and shootbolt handles, all of which are made from cast aluminium and are compatible with major systems.

The company also offers a 10-year guarantee on all its products, and promises next day delivery for orders made before 1pm, with free delivery on orders over £250.

Michael concludes: “The Everseal range of gaskets is a strong addition to our product

portfolio, and by coming directly to us for both their gasket and hardware needs, fabricators will be getting great quality products at lower prices, coupled with excellent customer service.”

Visit www.atprecision.co.uk.

DOWSIL™ 993 Structural Glazing Repair Kit is now available from the UK and Ireland’s leading supplier of sealants and adhesives, Sherwin-Williams. Offered in a ready-to-use, 675ml two-part cartridge and applied using a battery application gun, DOWSIL™ 993 Structural Glazing Sealant Kit is ideal for on-site installation or repair of structurally glazed units.

With European Approval (ETAG 002), DOWSIL™ 993 Structural Glazing Sealant offers excellent adhesion to a wide range of substrates including coated, enamelled and reflective glasses, anodised and polyester paint, coated aluminium and stainless steel. It has an odourless and non-corrosive cure and provides excellent stability through a wide range of temperatures from -500C to 1500C. It is also highly resistant to UV radiation and humidity.

Available in black and grey, the DOWSIL™ 993 Structural Glazing Repair Kit is compatible with all DOWSIL™ Façade Silicones.

“We are really happy to be adding the DOWSIL™ 993 Structural Glazing Repair Kit to our product offering,” commented Laura Hettenbach, Senior Trade Brands Campaign Manager at Sherwin-Williams. “Whilst the standard DOWSIL™ 993 Structural Glazing Sealant is available in large containers, this product is small and compact meaning it can be easily used for quick, on-site repairs - harnessing all the same benefits as the original product.”

To learn more about DOWSIL™ 993 Structural Glazing Repair Kit, please visit: https://bit.ly/3TWojOD

Experienced trade, domestic and commercial fabricator

Kingfisher Windows has signed a new three-year supply agreement with Epwin Window Systems. The agreement further strengthens the two-decadelong partnership between the two companies. Lee Beetham, Commercial Director of Kingfisher Windows, said: “We have worked with Epwin Window Systems for the last two decades and enjoy an excellent relationship with them. Their award-winning systems allow us to manufacture a comprehensive product portfolio that is well valued across the commercial, trade and domestic sectors.”

Kingfisher Windows manufacture the popular 70mm Optima PVC-U window and door system and the multiaward-winning Stellar aluminium system. Lee said: “Both systems deliver market-leading credentials, which are important to our business. The strength of their products has allowed us to secure several largescale commercial and new build contracts in addition to growing our trade and domestic sales.”

Reflecting the value both companies place on long-term supply partnerships, Katrina Earl, Sales Director at Epwin Window Systems, said: “One of our core principles at Epwin

Window Systems is to build strong partnerships with our customers. Our reputation is built on stability and continuity, and this supply agreement extension forms an integral part of this strategy. Kingfisher Windows is a great example of a successful fabricator, and we look forward to further strengthening our relationship with them over the next three years.”

Based in Drighlington, between Bradford and Leeds, Kingfisher Windows has been manufacturing and supplying a comprehensive range of window, door and conservatory products for over thirty years across the North and North West of

England. The long-established family-based business has been trading from the same premises since 1989. All of its products are manufactured to exacting standards and legislative compliance to support its rapidly growing customer base. It is also a member of FENSA and Yorkshire Constructing Excellence.

Epwin Window Systems is the UK’s largest supplier of multiple cutting-edge window and door systems, designed to give their customers a competitive edge. Combined with a proactive package of sales, marketing and technical support that delivers at the highest level, it’s a compelling proposition for any

future-focused business. Lee concludes: “Our relationship with Epwin Window Systems is mutually successful and we value the proactive support the business continues to offer. We are delighted to have renewed our longstanding agreement and look forward to further cementing our relationship with them over the next three years.”

Tel: 0845 34 3968

www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

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Your Christmas donation will help people who are homeless, and those who need

by constructing the buildings they need.

we create places that care for people now, and for years to come.

THE IDEAL PARTNER FOR INSTALLERS

As part of a series of industry podcasts hosted by The Double Glazing and Conservatory Ombudsman Schemes (DGCOS), Glass News reviews the conversation between DGCOS’ Chief Executive, Faisal Hussain, architect, TV presenter and DGCOS Brand Ambassador George Clarke, and Thom Emerson, Sales and Marketing Director of DGCOS member, Ideal Window Solutions, which shines a light on the working relationship between the two organisations.

The Double Glazing and Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS) is recognised as being a consumer champion, having already helped hundreds of thousands

IDEAL WINDOW SOLUTIONS

Ideal Window Solutions is a DGCOS member who has operated in the Installer market for over 25 years, working on new build developments with housebuilders, as well as domestic and retail installation for general consumers. In addition to the installation side of the business, they also have an active maintenance and repair division. The longevity in their customer relationships means that when products are truly end of life, those customers tend to come back.

A founding member since 2010, Ideal Window Solutions has over 12 years of association with DGCOS and has protected over 6,500 customers. When asked the benefits

“We’ve had very few situations that have been taken all the way to litigation, thankfully. It is expensive, even if you do win, and I strongly believe one of the main reasons for this is the support we get from DGCOS. They have helped us to put good contracts in place that are solid and robust and have managed to mitigate any complaints before they escalate.

KEY BENEFITS OF WORKING WITH DGCOS

“One of the key benefits to any relationship is trust. I trust DGCOS as an organisation to support my business and my customers in the best way possible. Consumers also put trust in recognisable brand ambassadors, and this is most definitely true of DGCOS’s brand ambassador, George Clarke. When the partnership with George first launched, there was a lot of engagement and the ongoing association has been a real benefit to our business.

“You don’t need to be doing unique projects with unusual requirements to benefit from their assistance, as DGCOS is also there for the everyday, ordinary work too. As we’ve said before, issues are commonplace in any home improvement/ construction project and DGCOS offers support at every stage of the journey.

WOULD YOU RECOMMEND DGCOS?

“Absolutely. In my mind, they are the Rolls Royce of consumer protection. Our business ethos aligns with theirs and we have a very open relationship. We take full advantage of their installer journey benefits, lifting the lid on our business - our financials, our contracts, our procedures – to DGCOS to gain insight into where we can improve. If you take this support, you will improve and it will, ultimately, make you more profitable.”

Faisal Hussain concludes: “Ideal Window Solutions is an ‘ideal’ member for DGCOS. Like us, the people behind the brand believe in doing the right thing and most importantly, they care. They are a great example of what is good in our industry and this is proven in the successes we’ve seen in their dispute resolution results. Having been a founding member they have been fundamental influence on the services DGCOS delivers and the open relationship forged is the benchmark for many of our members. We do offer a service that supports the installers’ business but that’s a two-way street, and we continually work with our members to improve. They feedback to us what we’re doing right and wrong and where we can improve. We also make sure that when we’re dealing with consumers on their behalf, they are invited to engage with a satisfaction service to monitor how they feel after the service with a complaints procedure for anyone that is not happy. At the end of the day, DGCOS is about doing the right thing – and so is Ideal Window Solutions.”

COLOURED TRICKLE VENTS IN DEMAND AT KOLORSEAL

colours is helping them to provide broader options for their business.”

the

For more information on the Kolorseal colour range and colour coating services, please visit the website www.kolorseal.co.uk or call 01924 454856.

building.

Fabricators have grasped there is a need to match trickle

they offer in their range,

from the products they install in their homes and offices.

from Kolorseal ensure

provide a seamless match to their

As well as foil colours, Kolorseal can provide the trickle vents in alternative colours if required.

door

Deborah Hendry, Managing Director, Kolorseal comments, “With trickle vents now mandatory, to guarantee a healthier living environment, it has become clear that more fabricators want to offer window and door products that look as good as they perform.”

Colour in home and corporate design has become increasingly important, with homeowners now more demanding than ever when it comes to combined aesthetics and performance.

Deborah concludes “Fabricators, installers and builders are now fully aware of their legal obligations to provide trickle vents for new projects and renovations. Being able to seamlessly colour match trickle vents with customers’ foil

BUILDERS MERCHANT BUILDING

BUILDERS MERCHANT BUILDING INDEX

AUGUST MERCHANT SALES ARE UP, BUT VOLUME IS DOWN AND INFLATION’S STILL CLIMBING

The latest figures from the Builders Merchant Building Index (BMBI), published in October, reveal that builders’ merchants’ value sales were +10.0% up in August 2022 compared to the same month in 2021. But volume sales were down -4.2% with +14.8% price inflation driving growth.

All bar one category sold more in August 2022 compared to the previous year. Nine categories outperformed Merchants overall with Renewables & Water Saving (+27.3%) and Kitchens &

“Month-on-month, total merchant sales were up +1.1% in August compared to July. Volume sales were flat (-0.2%) and prices increased +1.3%.”

Bathrooms (+26.9%) leading the field. Heavy Building Materials (+17.7%) also performed well, while Timber & Joinery Products (-5.7%) sold less. With an extra trading day in August 2022, likefor-like sales were +5.0% higher. Compared to August 2019, a more normal pre-pandemic year, total merchant value sales were +29.9% higher. Volume sales were down -1.2% while prices were up +31.5%. With one extra trading day this year, like-for-like sales were up +24.0%. Three of the

twelve categories grew more than total Merchants with Timber & Joinery Products (+39.9%) the strongest. Landscaping (+35.8%) and Kitchens & Bathrooms (+30.5%) also fared well. Heavy Building Materials (+29.6%) grew marginally more slowly, ahead of Plumbing, Heating & Electrical (+18.2%) and other categories.

LAST THREE MONTHS

Total sales in the three months June to August 2022, were +2.8% up on the same period last year, with price inflation of +15.7%, and volumes down -11.1%. With two less trading days, like-forlike sales were +6.1%. Ten of the twelve categories sold more than merchants overall with Renewables & Water Saving (+19.6%) growing the most. Kitchens & Bathrooms (+16.7%) and Workwear & Safetywear (+13.9%) also did better while Timber & Joinery Products (-10.9%) was weakest.

MONTH-ON-MONTH

Month-on-month, total merchant sales were up +1.1% in August compared to July. Volume sales were flat (-0.2%) and prices increased +1.3%. With one more trading day in the most recent period, like-for-like sales were down -3.5%. Services (+5.9%) grew the most, with Kitchens & Bathrooms (+4.9%) not far behind. As in July, Landscaping (-6.1%) was the weakest category.

ROLLING 12-MONTHS

Total Merchants sales in the 12 months September 2021 to August 2022 were +21.9% higher than in the same 12 months three years earlier (September 2018 to August 2019) with no difference in trading days. All categories sold more with Timber & Joinery Products (+39.0%) and Landscaping (+37.3%) well out in front. Renewables & Water Saving (+21.1%), Heavy Building Materials (+17.1%) and Kitchens & Bathrooms (+16.5%) recorded lower growth by comparison. Tools (+0.4%) was weakest.

For the full report, including comments from the BMBI’s panel of leading industry Experts, please visit www.bmbi.co.uk.

GfK’s Merchant Panel includes national, multi-regional and regional merchants such as Buildbase, Jewson, Travis Perkins, EH Smith, Gibbs & Dandy, MKM and Bradfords. GfK’s Builders’ Merchant Point of Sale Tracking Data represents more than 80% of the value of the builders’ merchant market.

GfK insights can trace product group performance and track relevant features. GfK can also produce robust like-forlike market comparability, tailored to the requirements of an individual business.

The Builders Merchant Building Index

The BMBI is published every month, in print and online. A full quarterly report is available every three months.

The BMBI is a brand of the Builders Merchants Federation. Launched and produced by MRA Research, it uses sales-out data from GfK’s Builders Merchant Panel. BMBI includes a panel of leading industry Experts, who speak exclusively for their markets.

GfK’s Builders Merchant Panel

METAL TECHNOLOGY SYSTEMS ACCREDITED BY PASSIVE HOUSE INSTITUTE

Metal Technology’s System 17 Hi+ Curtain Walling and System 5-45 Hi+ Window have been certified by the Passive House Institute, recognising that our products meet the required energyefficiency criteria. Furthermore, System 17 Hi+ curtain walling has been awarded with the highest ranking of A+.

The PHI is an independent research institute that has played an especially crucial role in the development of the Passive House concept - the only internationally recognised, performance-based energy standard in construction.

Following an extensive R&D and technical development process, these products can be integrated into Passive House projects, to assist in providing the overall requirement of Passive House criteria.

Metal Technology has been appointed to supply its ‘next generation’ Passive House systems for one of the world’s largest Passivhaus buildings, at 26,666m2 – St Columba’s RC High School and Woodmill High School. This is part of a 55 acre, circa £220m development for the Dunfermline Learning Campus, comprising these two high schools and a new college for Fife Council and will accommodate up to 2,700 school pupils and 2,500 college students.

Metal Technology have also played an intrinsic role in the design process of Scotland’s first Passivhaus Primary School, which is being built in North Perth to replace the current North Muirton and Balhousie Primary Schools and the £29m South West College in Enniskillen - Northern Ireland’s first Passivhaus Premium Plus education facility.

Metal Technology’s product system manuals and Logikal estimating and production software have been updated to allow pricing and manufacturing. Please speak to one of our sales representatives in relation to any current projects that require design or pricing assistance.

For further technical information please contact our technical department by emailing sales@metaltechnology.com or visit https://www.metaltechnology.com/passive-house/

Artist’s impression of St Columba’s RC High School + Woodmill High School - Part of the new Dunfermline Campus

South West College, Enniskillen, Northern Ireland

INTRODUCING THE NEW

Silka Super-Slim A-Rated Aluminium Window System

INTRODUCING THE NEW

Silka Super-Slim A-Rated Aluminium Window System

The first window in the industry to have foam filled frames with u-values as low as 0.94w/m2k. The fine powder texture is available in dual colour and is the perfect partner to the Silka Composite Door.

To discover more call 0345 672 9333 or email sales@apeer.co.uk apeer.co.uk

The first window in the industry to have foam filled frames with u-values as low as 0.94w/m2k. The fine powder texture is available in dual colour and is the perfect partner to the Silka Composite Door.

To discover more call 0345 672 9333 or email sales@apeer.co.uk apeer.co.uk

A STELLAR CHOICE FOR PALATIAL DOMESTIC PROPERTY

Stellar aluminium windows and doors have been installed in a palatial refurbishment project in Gerrards Cross, South Buckinghamshire. The attractive five-bedroom detached property was fitted with 25 Stellar aluminium fully flush casement windows and five sets of Stellar flush doors. The products were manufactured by Epwin Window Systems’ fabricator Capital Windows of Uxbridge, Greater London and fitted by Absolute Windows in Buckinghamshire.

The stand-out residential home is set in a desirable location and exacting standards were needed throughout the whole renovation, including the choice of windows and doors. Stellar was selected due to the system’s high-end flush aesthetics which were important to the homeowner. Richard Embleton, Owner of Absolute Windows, explains: “The homeowner was looking to refurbish their property with products that aesthetically replicated the original timber window and doors that were previously fitted. Stellar’s flush detailing on both the internal and external faces delivers the sympathetic aesthetics this project demanded and was the perfect product solution for this high-end job.”

He added: “The windows and doors were manufactured with a black external face to replicate the traditional charm with a

“Stellar’s flush detailing on both the internal and external faces delivers the sympathetic aesthetics this project demanded and was the perfect product solution for this high-end job.”

clean white internal face to complement the interior decor. The use of leaded lights to the glass units also helped to replicate the original window and door features.”

The project also included the manufacture and installation of a 4.2 metre high, three section bay window to the front aspect of the property. Richard said: “The large-scale bay window is a dramatic focal point on the house and the slim sightlines of Stellar were perfect to maximise this large, light filled space.”

The multi-award-winning Stellar aluminium window and door system was purposely designed to give the domestic market the best in cutting-edge aluminium windows and doors. Neil Smith, Head of Sales (Aluminium) at Epwin Window Systems, said: “Stellar’s flush aesthetics on the internal and external faces are unique to the aluminium market and present a visible point of difference especially within the domestic sector. As this project confirms, Stellar offers the credentials that give consumers the aesthetic differentiation they are looking for especially as the market continues to shift towards higher value, traditional flush products. In Stellar you have a range of aluminium windows and doors that gives installers an opportunity to secure business at the highest level.”

Buckingham-based Absolute Windows has been fitting Stellar aluminium products since the system came to market in 2019.

Richard concluded: “We work closely with Capital Windows as their product quality and attention to detail is excellent. Stellar is an easy product to install but most importantly, its unique flush aesthetics are next-level and never fail to impress the homeowner.”

Tel: 0845 300 9356

www.stellaraluminium.co.uk

EPWIN

Epwin Window Systems has just completed a sixteenweek, six-figure investment in an extension to its Stellar aluminium powder coating plant. Phil Parry, Business Development Director at Epwin Window Systems, said: “This new extension increases our powder coating footprint by 40% and allows us to keep pace with growing demand. It’s a powerful reflection of the way the industry has embraced what our Stellar Aluminium Window and Door System has to offer.”

The meticulously planned build was phased over a sixteen-week period with no impact on production output or supply. The new extension maintains the exacting quality and state-of-the-art standards for which Stellar is known.

Martin Westwood, Production Manager at Epwin Window Systems, said: “The emphasis we place on quality was always evident in our facilities and was central to us achieving our QUALICOAT licence. Our commitment to quality has continued in this new extension.”

The new powder coating line is a continuous looped track system that

EXTENDS

delivers a high level of consistency through the powder booth and oven. When combined with the improvements to the pre-treatment seven-stage bath/tank system, Epwin Window Systems has significantly reduced scrap levels, while maintaining the same high standards throughout the process. Martin commented: “As an example of the consistency of the operation, we recently ran 700 Stellar parts through the system with zero scrap, which is great from an environmental and a waste management perspective.”

The extension to the powder coating facility reflects Stellar’s increasing popularity. Aluminium systems are increasingly popular in domestic projects and Stellar was designed to give fabricators and installers a competitive edge by setting a new standard for the sector.

It offers outstanding aesthetics thanks to its slim sightlines. It is also the only system on the market to offer a genuinely fully flush option thanks to the patented reverse butt joint that means there is no need to use dummy sashes or reverse rebate adaptors.

As well as state-of-the-art production facilities, every component is also visually inspected at a distance of one metre rather than the industry standard three metres. This ensures the level of quality today’s consumers expect.

Phil concluded: “Epwin Window Systems is committed to continuous investment in its plant and processes to ensure we deliver the excellence our customers have the right to expect. This investment in our Stellar Aluminium powder coating plant is the perfect example of this commitment in action.”

Tel: 0845 340 3968

EPWIN WINDOW SYSTEMS ACHIEVES QUALICOAT STANDARD

Epwin Window Systems has announced it has received its QUALICOAT licence, which means all its Stellar aluminium products are now QUALICOAT-approved. Martin Westwood, Production Manager at Epwin Window Systems, said: “We are delighted to become a QUALICOATlicenced powder coat applicator. We have always adhered to the QUALICOAT specification because it ensures the high level of quality we deliver with Stellar, but having the official seal of approval was always very important.”

Angus Mackie, Chair of QUALICOAT UK and Ireland, commented: “We warmly welcome Epwin Window Systems into membership of the Association. Gaining a QUALICOAT license show a real commitment to powder coating to its highest quality and ensuring that the most up to date coating technology is followed.”

Fewer than 25 businesses are QUALICOATlicenced, which reflects the demanding nature of the specification. It is more wide-ranging than BS EN 12206 (coating of aluminium and aluminium alloys for architectural purposes) and requires twice yearly, unannounced, third party accreditation visits. Martin commented: “I am very proud of the hard work our team

puts in every day to ensure that we meet the exacting QUALICOAT requirements.”

The licence process took around 18 months to achieve and was delayed by the COVID pandemic. The first audit was pre-arranged with the final unannounced audit taking place in late September, after which the team found out they had passed. Martin said: “The QUALICOAT specification is often a requirement for commercial projects and it’s a specification that’s increasingly requested in the retail sector too which gives our customers a competitive edge.”

The license reflects the quality of the Stellar system that is evident at every level. As well as meeting the requirements of the QUALICOAT specification, every product is visually inspected at one metre, rather than the industry standard of three metres. Martin said: “Stellar was always designed to be second to none, which means there’s no room for compromise. Excellence comes as standard.”

Stellar has set a new benchmark for aluminium systems. It offers exceptionally slim sightlines and is unique in the industry for having a reverse butt joint that delivers true flush lines inside and out – and means it is as easy to fit as PVC-U. In achieving the QUALICOAT licence, it’s continuing to set itself apart as the aluminium window and door system of choice.

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

INVESTMENT AT FENTRADE SUPPORTS CONTINUED GROWTH

Aluminium fabricator Fentrade has recently invested in new manufacturing machinery to support its continued growth. Chris Reeks, Fentrade’s Director, said: “The new machinery enhances quality and production flow across the board. It also means we can cut a wider variety of shaped profiles, which will help support the growth we’re experiencing in shaped gable frames on residential extensions.”

The company has taken delivery of an Elumatec TS161/21 Table Saw, complete with roller conveyors. It has also added another bead station, which

will support fabrication of the newly introduced Reynaers CP130 sliding patio range and the Jack Aluminium SD70 Heritage Door.

The investment in new machinery is being coupled with new staff to help handle the increased demand. Three new fabricators have been taken on in the factory and a part time support role has been created in the office.

Chris said: “Our success has been built on exceptional products backed up with attentive service on reliable turnaround times. These latest investments will enable us to continue to meet these demanding

standards, even as we continue to grow.”

Fentrade is a young company but one that’s growing fast. This latest investment follows a doubling of manufacturing capacity last year, plus investment in state-of-theart fenestration software.

The company is based in Newport, Wales, and works with trade and retail customers throughout Wales and the West and along the M4, M5 and M6 corridors. It partners with renowned industry brands such as AluK and VBH Greenteq and manufactures a full range of aluminium windows, doors, bifolds, inline sliders, GFT commercial screens, shopfronts and curtain walling products.

The product range is supported by a commitment to returning quotations within 24 hours, offering superb attention to detail and ensuring reliable on time, in full deliveries direct to its customers. As Fentrade’s investment shows, it’s an offer that’s proving increasingly popular.

Tel: 01633 547787 fentradealuminium.co.uk

FREE TRAINING OFFER FROM EMMEGI (UK)

Emmegi (UK) says user error is now the biggest single cause of machinery breakdowns, with lots of avoidable problems stemming directly from poorly trained operators.

In response, the Coventry-based aluminium machinery specialist is offering a day’s free onsite training for any customer who takes out a new Emmegi service contract.

Operations Manager Wayne Hunter explained the motivation behind the offer: “Component failure on a CNC or saw is actually very rare if the machine is consistently operated in line with our training guide. That means always running it at correct speeds, always keeping the cutters sharpened and making sure you avoid collisions which can cause hidden damage.

“We see some fantastic examples of customers who have kept their machines running reliably for many years and crucially at optimum performance levels - simply by

making sure everyone who operates the machine has been properly trained.

“The investment these companies make in training pays for itself just in terms of avoiding breakdowns, but it also means they make the most of their machine’s features and capabilities – and get lots of valuable advice and tips from our experts.

“Unfortunately, the trap that too many companies fall into is allowing operators to train each other, which means things are inevitably missed and bad habits get passed on.

“We provide operator training as standard when a new machine is installed, but if the product portfolio changes or a new operator takes over, then we always recommend that customers call us to arrange an additional training session as soon as possible. When you compare the cost of that with the cost of replacing a component which has failed because the machine is operating incorrectly, then it’s a pretty simple equation.”

Emmegi (UK)’s offer of a day’s free training to customers who opt for an Emmegi service contract for the first time is designed to encourage better uptake of training and demonstrate its ongoing value. The training offer is flexible so customers could, for example, choose a half day of software training and a half day of operator training if they prefer.

More details on the offer and on Emmegi (UK)’s training packages are available from the team on: 02476 676192 or via: https://www.emmegi.com/en/location-worldwide/uk.

New challenges, trusted solutions

QUICKSLIDE REACHES

G

CATEGORIES

Leading window and door fabricator and VS specialist Quickslide has become a finalist in this year’s G Awards in the two key categories that it entered, Customer Care Initiative of the Year and Fabricator of the Year.

For the Customer Care Initiative Quickslide submitted a scheme that has successfully reduced its engineer callouts by more than 60%, by identifying that many installers assumed handling and fitting VS windows was the same as other frame types, whereas the reality is quite different. Quickslide therefore set out to train its installer customers, which in turn allowed greater resource to be applied to quality control in the Quickslide factory, further reducing remedial site visits.

For the Fabricator of the Year entry Quickslide submitted details of the company’s extensive system development programme, within which its in-house R&D team developed integrated CRM, Scanning and Despatch applications designed to provide solutions way ahead of standard industry products.

These have resulted in significant increases in lead conversion rates, average order values, reductions in after-sales callouts, together with on time and in full (OTIF) improvements at the highest levels since pre-COVID.

“The investment that we have made in our internal systems is producing significant benefits to our customers, which is the whole point,” explained Quickslide Chairman Adrian Barraclough. “The G Awards is the industry’s leading event of its type and previous wins for Quickslide have been terrific for showing appreciation for our people and the effort that they put in to create excellence within our company. Even being recognised as a finalist is a huge boost for us all at Quickslide.”

Epwin Window Systems has been confirmed as a finalist in two G22 Award categories. The Telford-based business has been shortlisted in both the New Product of the Year and the Promotional Campaign of the Year categories.

Clare Bailey, Managing Director at Epwin Window Systems, said: “The G Awards celebrate excellence in the window industry so we are delighted to have received these nominations. They reflect the hard work of our talented in-house teams as we continue to set new standards for the industry.”

The systems house has been nominated in the New Product of the Year category for its newly-designed Stellar aluminium window and door system (Part L). The new Stellar aluminium system was developed to prepare it for Part L of the Building Regulations, as well as the more stringent protocols that will come into force over the coming years. The newly designed system demonstrates a level of ingenuity and innovation with a refusal to compromise in search of product excellence.

There is also a nomination in the Promotional Campaign of the Year for the

Epwin Window Systems’ ‘We’re Ready’ campaign. The attention-grabbing campaign was designed to showcase how the systems house could help fabricators secure a competitive advantage even in the face of turbulent economic conditions. The multichannel campaign ran across print, social and digital platforms and had three distinct pillars, each of which focused on a core advantage of working with the business. The G Awards are the premier event for the glass and glazing industry. The winners will be announced at the G22

Awards Presentation & Gala Dinner on Friday 25th November at the prestigious Intercontinental London Hotel on Park Lane.

Clare concludes: “The G Awards are always an opportunity to celebrate excellence. Not only have we been confirmed finalists, but it’s good to see some of our customers and installing partners achieving finalist status in their respective categories. Good luck to all the finalists.”

Tel: 0845 340 3968

www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

FOCUS SCORES WINDOW WARE CUSTOMER CARE G-AWARD NOMINATION

Window Ware has made the shortlist for Customer Care Initiative of the Year at the G22 Awards – thanks to a focus on helping its customers with new digital ways of working.

Last July, the leading hardware distributor launched a new website and online platform that set out to support customers better and save them time, with everything from self-serve product information and resources, personalised product displays and nowait, best-price quotations to instant stock check, self-build Tilt & Turn hardware kits and an online marketing support portal.

Sarah Binns, Window Ware’s Head of Internal Sales & Marketing, said: “We saw a shift in buyer behaviour due to the pandemic, whereby interactions with customers had become increasingly web based, while fabricator and installer expectations had risen too.”

“Our customers needed quick answers, a timelier service and greater self-sufficiency wherever possible so we transformed our website to provide a better online experience and put facilities in place that enabled them to make better, faster, more informed purchasing decisions.”

“As a result, our customer satisfaction rate has stayed consistently high – on average 91.33% for the last 17 months - despite challenging market factors and increased order volumes. We also managed to not only retain most of our existing customers but gain new ones too, to ultimately grow the business by +30% compared to 2019. What’s more, our web sales rose by 34%, our average monthly web order value grew by 16% and now 1/3 of all customers buy online.”

Window Ware’s Credit Control Manager, Sharon Fowler won the G21 Unsung Hero Award last year, so the Bedford-based company

is hoping to make the winners’ roll call once again. Sarah added: “We couldn’t have been prouder when Sharon took the title of Unsung Hero last year – it was thoroughly deserved – and we’re keeping our fingers crossed that Window Ware can repeat her success in the Customer Care Initiative of the Year Award this year.”

G22 organiser Tony Higgin said: “This year the short-list was chosen from a record field of entries, up 40% on 2021, making judging closer than ever before and creating a really tough challenge for the judges to select the finalists.”

The prestigious Gala Dinner and Awards evening takes place at the Intercontinental London Park Lane on Friday, November 25 when the winners will be announced.

Window Ware has been successfully serving the window and door industry with leading brand hardware, tools, and consumables since 1987. For more information, call 01234 242 724, email sales@windowware.co.uk, or visit www.windowware.co.uk.

TAP

SHELFORCE BUSINESS MANAGER RECEIVES

NOMINATION

The award recognises those in the industry who have gone above and beyond, and Howard has made the shortlist alongside just three other nominees thanks to his commitment to investing in inclusive employment.

Shelforce provides high-quality windows and doors, including fire doors, to local authority building projects. Contributing to a much greater agenda, however, is the company’s social vision, employing some of the city’s most vulnerable people, with 75% of its workforce having a disability.

Since joining the company in 2013, Howard has overseen a strong staff development programme which has created an environment where individuals with a complex, diverse range of disabilities and challenges can succeed and thrive.

He has also built-up unique development partnerships with local schools and colleges to equip young people with disabilities with the skills and confidence to take their first steps into the workplace.

“I’m absolutely thrilled to be shortlisted for the Unsung Hero at the G22 Awards,” said Howard. “As a company we have benefitted hugely in our inclusive, integrated recruitment approach, and it’s my aim to encourage other businesses to adopt our employment model. The right skills are out there.”

The prestigious Gala Dinner and Awards evening takes place at the Intercontinental London Park Lane on Friday, November 25 when the winners will be announced.

To find out more, call 0121 603 5262 or visit www.shelforce.com.

TK Surrey

If you are only now slashing your prices to secure business, that suggests you were selling with decent margins before this period. And to me, it sounds like you have fallen into the trap that I believe besets the majority of retail window companies –selling on price. Which leads me to ask the question: Have we lost the art of selling?

I am of the ‘White Gold’ generation TK –literally. When the TV comedy first aired it was like a documentary to me, an extended Panorama, though I am delighted to say that seldom were the bad bits that bad (though we did have our moments).

Of course, ‘double glazing’ had a bad reputation from that time and often deserved too, but my closest oppos and I studied selling, absorbed it, soaked up every tip we could learn, read every sales book and turned it into an artform. My dad used to explain to me the importance of time keeping, preparation, taking care of the details. I befriended the fitters, hung around them to learn tips on products and installations, tricks of the trade. And mixing that with a healthy dose of Artful Dodging enabled us to make some serious money, more than any of those around us that relied solely on blagging.

Selling on price is a one-way ticket to the bottom TK; because whilst you are using that to close sales now, it’s a difficult habit to break. The pitfalls of habitually slashing prices have far more serious implications

DANNY WILLIAMS

than simply working harder for less money. When you set out on a lead you will already have it set in your mind what you want for the job, how low you will go, which then preconditions the sale to be a self-fulfilling prophesy before you even pull up at the kerb. By definition you are on the defensive and worse still, no matter how low you go, there will always be someone out there that will nick another hundred quid off your quote. And ironically, when a punter buys from you on price it is seen as a weakness, not a strength, because they beat you down; you gave in to them.

Loyalty is zero. And with so many sales generated by recommendations, the leading recommend to their friends will be ‘they were the cheapest’, which again, defines you. And on top of all that you will work harder for less: when you make less money on every job, you have to do more jobs to make what you need.

And then you may well lose the sale to someone that actually recognises that homeowners, the majority in my view, want to know that they are safe in your hands, that the products they are having installed will be the right products for their home, that they will be installed well and with years of unfailing service ahead of them.

The goal is to help the homeowner make a decision that is good for them. I learned a long time ago that understanding my products, listening to the needs of the homeowner, understanding their desires but even more so their fears, means that price will play a reduced role in the decisionmaking process.

Homeowners may look for a low price – after arriving at a general product spec they have to start somewhere. But improving a home is, by definition, aspirational. Understand that, empathise, display your product knowledge and make

recommendations that, whilst potentially driving the price up, will result in the homeowner enjoying a far more satisfying transaction.

But don’t just take my word for it: there has been countless studies that prove, for high ticket items at least, the lowest price is consistently near the bottom on homeowners’ lists of desires. Which means that a salesperson who is able to listen to, understand and respond accurately to the criteria that is important to the customer, will improve their chances of getting their moniker on the contract.

Selling on price might be an instinctive thing to do, driven by insecurity rather than common sense, but by highlighting why you are better than the competition – and especially those that are selling on price –focusing on what advantages you will bring to the deal, you will find favour with most customers. You may lose deals to punters that are entirely price focused, but on the rest, your improved margins will more than make up for it.

Here’s a first from me – homework! Get hold of these as audiobooks and listen to them when you’re out and about preparing to chuck your margins down the drain over the next couple of weeks . No such thing as audiobooks when I was at this particular coalface, but I got something out of every book I read (all available on Amazon – I checked) What have you got to lose? Well, quite a lot actually.

The Ultimate Sales Machine: Turbocharge Your Business with Relentless Focus on 12 Key Strategies by Chet Holmes

Sales: Mastering the Art Of Selling: 10 Mistakes To Avoid Like The Plague, 12 Powerful Techniques To Reveal Any Hidden Objections & Close The Sale (Sales, ... To Sell, Sales Strategies, Closing Sales) by Adam Richards

Howard Trotter, Business Manager at Shelforce, has been nominated for the Unsung Hero Award at the G22 Awards.

* Danny

director

Chelmsford

“We are a small but successful retail installer in Surry. We

and slashing our margins to get the business. Is this what you are finding?”

Scott Dowling Cairngorm Group

Scott Dowling Cairngorm Group

Scott Dowling Cairngorm Group

MORE INVESTMENT IN RESOURCES AT BM ALUMINIUM

Simon Crilley is the latest signing at Business Micros Aluminium, joining the team to plan and manage the introduction of new LogiKal software products and features into the UK markets.

Taking on a newly created role as Product Manager, Simon will be working directly with both fabricators and systems companies to ensure that the LogiKal offering adds maximum value to their operations and helps them keep pace with current and future market challenges.

Based at BM Aluminium’s Tewkesbury HQ, he will also help customers with remote and on-site product training and track programming needs so that LogiKal is always up to date with specific product and system requirements.

Simon has a vast amount of aluminium industry experience, having spent more than 30 years in

fabrication, product development, technical support, and system design.

He has been a LogiKal user and BM Aluminium customer himself, so speaks the language of customers and understands just how important it is that the software they rely on delivers real payback on their investment.

He explained: “Lead times and supply chain issues continue to pose problems for fabricators. Software

can obviously play an important role in helping to mitigate the impact of that by speeding up ordering, pricing and processing and optimising operational efficiency. LogiKal is already the most versatile and reliable software in the market, and, over the next few months, we’ll be announcing some exciting new options which I know will make it even more valuable to our customers.”

www.bmaluminium.co.uk

Sheerline’s newest appointments will bolster the sales team and support its ambitious next level expansion plans. In just two years, the Sheerline brand has gone from strength to strength, building a reputation for being one of the most innovative aluminium window and door systems on the market.

It was successfully launched after Derbyshire manufacturer, Garnalex, spotted a gap in the market for premium UK made aluminium windows, doors, and roof lanterns that offered easy fabrication and installation, exceptional thermal efficiency, and stylish, consistent aesthetics.

The newest member of the Sheerline sales team, George Esler, Area Sales Manager, joins to look after customers based in the North. As part of his new role, he is supporting installers and fabricators

who are ready to switch to Sheerline’s comprehensively Part L compliant and fully matched system.

Having previously worked for Window Ware as an Area Sales Manager, George brings with him a wealth of valuable industry experience and will play a crucial role in helping new and existing customers to get the most out of the Sheerline range.

In addition, Tony Basile has been promoted to Sheerline Sales Director. He has worked for Garnalex CEO Roger Hartshorn since 1991 at Eurocell, Liniar, and now Sheerline. In his new role, Tony is responsible for the sales team and spearheads growing the Sheerline brand.

Tony commented: “As we grow, the intention is to expand the team and make sure we continue to give our fabricator network the continued high level of support and guidance they

have become accustomed to. We want to make sure that all our fabricators feel wanted, needed, and respected.”

Putting new members of the sales team in place now will ensure Sheerline achieves its strategic growth targets without sacrificing the high levels of customer service its customers value.

Part of the ethos behind Sheerline is continual investment, both in cutting-edge equipment and the people who help turn the Sheerline vision into a reality. To date, this investment has enabled Garnalex to establish one of the most modern and efficient aluminium facilities in the UK with an experienced and knowledgeable workforce.

Roger Hartshorn, Garnalex CEO, said: “The strategic decisions we are making now will take our business to the next level. We’re putting the right people in the right positions to help us improve our systems while maintaining our efficiency.”

“It is a pleasure to work with such a dedicated, hardworking, and knowledgeable team and I look forward to seeing our strategic vision come to fruition,” he added.

Find out more information about Sheerline by visiting the website here: www.sheerline.com.