As the UK’s exclusive supply partner of Graf Synergy machines, Haffner delivers the seamless weld machine innovation to take your business to the next level.
• Superior transom welding quality
• V-Perfect ® transom welding technology
• Weld seam elimination
• Suitable for both V Joints and Butt Joints
• Precision accuracy - delivering a perfect weld every time
• Faster, automated fabrication
Discover more of the benefits of Graf Synergy machines from Haffner WINNER
As the construction, fenestration and building products sectors continue to evolve, our industry faces both exciting opportunities and significant challenges. From advances in sustainability and energy efficiency to innovations in manufacturing, installation, and digital technologies, the pace of change has never been greater.
At Fenestra Build, our mission remains simple: to deliver relevant, insightful, and timely content that helps industry professionals stay informed and connected. We are committed to showcasing the people, products, projects and ideas that are shaping the future of our sector.
In this edition, you’ll find the latest industry news, product innovations, market insights and success stories from businesses across the supply chain. Whether you are a fabricator, installer, manufacturer, architect or builder, we aim to provide information that supports your business.
We hope you enjoy this edition and welcome your feedback, news and stories for future issues. Enjoy this edition as always!
This
Slim sightlines
Available in several configurations
Outstanding thermal performance
Classic matt black finish
Christina Shaw Editor M: 07805 051322
E: christina@fenestrabuild.co.uk
Emma Champion Advertising Manager
M: 07508 263262
E: emma@fenestrabuild.co.uk
Justin Lazenby Finance Director / Press Release Enquiries
M: 07711 828710
E: justin@fenestrabuild.co.uk
Chris Champion Editorial Enquiries
M: 07850 267223
E: chris@fenestrabuild.co.uk
Jordan Beaumont Graphic Design E: jordan@identifywebdesign.co.uk
christina@fenestrabuild.co.uk 19 Heather Close, Tickhill, Doncaster, DN11 9UU
At RENOLIT, we’re committed to shaping a more sustainable future. Our latest milestone? A fully funded solar PV project at our Cramlington site in the UK that’s setting new standards for energy efficiency and carbon reduction.
A Powerful Partnership for a Greener Tomorrow
When RENOLIT UK wanted to significantly cut carbon emissions, reduce energy costs, and boost on-site generation, without the requirement to use any of their capital, they knew that collaboration was key. Together with Zestec Renewable Energy, Seed Renewables Limited, and Octopus Energy Generation, they’ve implemented a 1.76 MWp solar solution producing 1.47 GWh of electricity annually that combines rooftop and carport solar arrays, along with an integrated EV charging infrastructure.
The results speak for themselves:
• 331 tonnes of CO₂ reduction forecast in the first year
• 97% of generated solar power used directly on site
• Cost savings already being realised
• Improved long term energy resilience
• Reduced reliance on the national grid
• Engineering Excellence Meets Smart Planning
This project came with a few challenges. For example, we needed to keep the car park accessible while work was underway, and we had to strengthen the warehouse roof before installing the solar panels. Our teams managed these tasks by planning carefully and working closely together. We scheduled the roof and construction work during regular maintenance shutdowns, so there was as little disruption as possible. At the same time, we organized the work in phases to make sure staff could still use the car park throughout the project.
A major transformation and revitalisation of a Newport city centre shopping district has been supported by specialist independent trade fabricator Fentrade Limited.
The project saw the creation of a complete new shopping area within the Kingsway Centre with nine sets of shopfront doors and screens manufactured in RAL9005 matt black finish from Jack Aluminium profiles. The new shopping area will make more space available for small local traders to access start-up retail units and complement the recent addition of a traditional market and entertainment area in the Kingsway. Commenting on this latest commercial undertaking, Chris Reeks, Fentrade’s Managing Director, was pleased with the outcome: “Newport is one of the fastest-growing cities in Wales and it’s been a pleasure to work with the Kingsway Centre to help them develop a shopping experience that will drive more visitors to the city centre. Working closely with their team we provided open, bright and welcoming entrances to appeal to traders and shoppers alike.”
Fentrade’s commercial offering has continued to grow and it has become a go-to fabricator for trade installers requiring high-quality GFT shopfronts and screens suitable for multiple applications. The Kingsway project required non-thermally broken screens with easy-to-use yet secure locking and single glazed laminated panes, but Fentrade’s portfolio also encompasses thermally broken profile systems with multiple options of standard, secure and emergency-access locking. “Being involved in such a project in our home town is a great source of pride for our team and us as a company”, continues Chris, “and it is also exciting for our products to form an integral part of a drive to increase footfall into the city centre when other high street shopping areas are struggling.”
Established in 2018, Fentrade Limited manufactures and supplies high-quality aluminium frames for the trade delivered across Wales, the West Country, Midlands and the North produced from industry-leading systems such as Aluk, Kestrel and Jack Aluminium. The manufacturer has recently relocated to larger premises and undertaken an investment programme of over £500,000 in new plant, machinery and equipment to underscore its’ reputation as a reputable reliable trade fabricator of choice.
Hardware expert VBH has recently taken delivery of a new stocking station from fastener specialist, Rapierstar.
VBH distributes Rapierstar fixing screws to its fabricator customers, primarily from its depot in Swansea.
VBH advise that, not only do they sell Rapierstar products, but they are so impressed by the quality of the range that they use the fasteners in their own workshop within VBH HQ in Gillingham, Kent.
Ross Childs, QC & Accreditations Manager at VBH says, “The team here uses Rapierstar products for pretty much everything that needs a fastener, from window and door samples that we produce for R & D purposes, to those that we send off for independent testing and accreditation. We also use them on windows and doors in our own showrooms and on samples, including display boards, that we produce for customers.
“It gives our fastener customers added reassurance to know that the screws that they purchase from VBH are the same ones that we deem good enough to, literally, hang our hardware on.”
VBH have a close relationship with Mark Calpin, Sales Manager at Rapierstar. Speaking of his company’s relationship with VBH, Mark says, “We’re proud to have been the preferred fastener supply chain partner to VBH for 20 years. In that time, we’ve developed a deep understanding of VBH’s marketing-leading hardware solutions, meaning that we are ideally placed to advise on the best fastening solutions for each application throughout R&D and testing.
“But we also know that the VBH team fully understands the importance of selecting the right type of fasteners and the contribution high quality fasteners make to the success of their customers’ finished windows and doors. Their attention to detail is what keeps them at the forefront of the market.”
More information on VBH’s range can be obtained by contacting VBH direct or by visiting www.vbhgb.com.
Leading home improvement companies from across the United Kingdom met in Manchester to attend CO Manufacturing’s latest Sales & Marketing Conference.
Held this year in the iconic 1868 Suite inside Emirates Old Trafford Cricket Ground, owners, directors and senior leaders from across the CO Retail Network were given the opportunity to learn about the fabricator’s plans for the upcoming twelve months. Additionally, attendees had the chance to hear from the manufacturer’s marketing team, its partner digital agency and other key note speakers who led panel discussions and speeches on the latest trends and topics impacting both sales and marketing within the fenestration sector.
The day-long conference covered a variety of topics, with sessions covering everything from lead generation and AI-driven search marketing through to sales training structures, recruitment and data-led campaign planning.
Those in attendance were also given an early look at upcoming product launches, such as its new Forté Marcella door range and Envisage Flush French Doors.
Reflecting on the event, Greg Kane, CEO of CO Manufacturing, said: “The purpose of the conference is simple: It’s to help our retail partners continue to perform well above market expectations. Whether it’s through sector-leading marketing campaigns, new sales processes, product development or shared learning, our focus is always on creating additional value for our retailers.
“What makes the CO Retail Network different is the openness and collaboration between members. Their willingness to share ideas, discuss challenges and collectively improve is something that genuinely sets the group apart.”
As well as focussing on new initiatives, the conference also highlighted the success of CO Manufacturing’s wider marketing strategy. With lead generation numbers up 14% year-on-year, businesses within the CO Retail Network are reaping the rewards of having access to this specialised and highly tailored marketing support.
As a trade-only fabricator, we can focus on giving you the products and service you need to grow your business:
• Veka Windows and Doors
• Flush Sash Windows
• Conservatories
• Leka and Leka Xi Roofing Systems
• Marketing Support
• Profile 22 Windows and Doors
• Patio and Bifolding Doors
• Conservatory Roofs
• Ultraframe and Wendland Roofs
• Technical and Sales Support
Bespoke secondary glazing specialists Selectaglaze has further strengthened its manufacturing capabilities with the purchase of a second FMC 340 CNC Machining Centre from FOM Industrie, supplied by Haffner.
The investment follows the successful installation of the company’s first FMC 340 in 2023. Having experienced the benefits of improved efficiency, accuracy and automation across its production facility, Selectaglaze had no hesitation in returning to Haffner when a machine replacement opportunity arose.
Duncan Saunders, Head of Production at Selectaglaze, said: “The first FMC 340 has been a fantastic addition to our manufacturing operation, delivering the accuracy, reliability and efficiency we were looking for while helping increase automation across the factory. When the opportunity came to renew one of our older machines, investing in a second FMC 340 was the obvious choice.”
The decision was driven by Selectaglaze’s plans to create a more connected and efficient manufacturing environment. The business is developing a barcode system throughout the factory as part of its longer-term strategy to move towards a fully paperless production process.
Duncan commented: “The addition of the second FMC 340 gives us the platform to further develop our automation strategy. As we roll out our barcode system, our aim is to integrate manufacturing data, dimensions and cutting programmes directly into both machines, creating a more seamless workflow across production, improving efficiency and reducing the potential for errors.”
Haffner worked closely with the Selectaglaze team throughout the project, configuring the software to support the company’s future automation objectives and ensuring both machines are ready to operate as part of a fully integrated production environment.
Hardware expert VBH has developed the greenteQ ORION ICE 3-star profile cylinder for UK door manufacturers.
The cylinder is fully accredited to the latest TS007:2024 kitemark, providing protection against thermal (freeze) and glue attacks, picking, drilling, bumping and snapping, all without the need to add supplementary security devices.
ORION ICE is available in key/key and thumb turn options, in singles and keyed alike pairs, and each cylinder is supplied with five keys as standard, which is a real benefit to end users.
VBH’s proteQ10 security guarantee has been upgraded for customers using ORION ICE. It will pay the end user an increased £5000 in compensation if a break in within the UK is achieved as a direct result of an ORION ICE cylinder being snapped.
ORION ICE is recognised by Secured by Design as a Police Preferred Specification product.
Richard Gyde, managing director at VBH, says, “ORION ICE is the first of our ICE range of security products, which will protect users In Case of Emergency long into the future.
”Our original Orion 3-star has been a great success and is hugely popular within the door and locksmith markets. Companies who use ORION ICE benefit from the fact that the cylinder builds on the qualities of Orion, and features additional innovative technology that protects against the new thermal (freeze) and glue attack methods.
“We know that ORION ICE not only passes the testing required to meet the requirements of TS007:2024, but that it keeps criminals out in the cold in the real world, too. Door manufacturers who fit ORION ICE can be confident that they are achieving the highest standard of door security.
ORION ICE is available from stock at VBH (GB) now.
Glazpart is pleased to offer all customers a 10% discount on all pre-orders of the new AluVent which will be available from the 3rd of August.
The AluVent is versatile with a sleek design that allows it to be frame or sash mounted onto the surface of aluminium window or doors where its low profile sits seamlessly and unobtrusively, making it aesthetically pleasing.
The AluVent follows on from the successful launch of the Bi-Fold Vent in 2025 as Glazpart continues its commitment to the aluminium fenestration sector.
Dean Bradley, Glazpart Sales Director commented, “The AluVent range is an evolution of Glazpart’s trickle vent portfolio in response to industry feedback from companies in the aluminium window sector – a market for which Glazpart has a commitment to delivering innovative products. We are pleased to offer our customers the special offer of ten per cent discount on all pre-orders of this new product.”
Among the AluVent’s unique features, are the ingeniously designed profile end caps that clip into the grille, locking it into position and so avoiding separation from the aluminium profiles (lid or canopy) and allowing for easy secure screw fixing to the profile. With a streamlined, low profile look the AluVent comes with a choice of RAL colour matched end caps, or just traditional black or white which are fitted easily in place without the need for tools.
Developed initially in 3 sizes the AluVent’s performance will meet the building regulations requirements for 2500, 4000 and 5000 EQA size options.
To take full advantage of this special pre-order offer please email sales@glazpart.co.uk.
• Three-hook locking for enhanced security
• Bi-directional steel claws for strong, consistent engagement
• Adjustable keeps for accurate, hassle-free alignment
• Sprung gearbox as standard for smooth operation
• Twin spindle for lever/lever or lever/pad configurations
• 10-year mechanical guarantee
DoorCo is delighted to report a massive 55% growth in the solid timber core brand, BRiTDOR –as more and more customers add the versatile range to their offering.
Ben Aspinall, DoorCo’s Commercial Director, explains more: “BRiTDOR sales are absolutely flying with customers signing up almost on a weekly basis as they recognise the benefits of adding a new product from our ONE range to their door offering
“The important thing to note is that solid timber core doors complement existing composite door portfolios by adding more variety to the range, rather than replacing ORiGINAL foam filled doors. This is vital in continuing to be able to offer choice to
“BRiTDOR’s construction is a solid timber core offering superior strength, security and durability, finished with thermoplastic CoolSkin technology outer layer with heat reflective properties, scratch resistant and a beautiful defined woodgrain, that has
“Our first product to be manufactured in the UK, the BRiTDOR collection boasts the largest range of styles – including exclusive designs styles such as Enzo, Glenman and Eaton – and colours available in its class. We’ve curated the colours so the most popular options, including stains, are available, with the foils colour matched to frames and windows for a superior finish across the home. The addition of colour matched foiled drip bars completes the package.
“Customers say the seamless finish, along with the premium look of the stained options is helping them stand out in the retail market, especially for buyers wanting colour-matched doors and windows.
“We’ve also added Short Doors to the range, reengineered to meet the staggering opportunities for smaller entrances, such as homes built before 1919 (which equates to 2-3 million homes that are likely to have non-standard entrances),
Members of the CO Retail Network are set to take on one of their toughest charity challenges to date this summer as they raise funds for the MND Association.
A team of 20 participants – a record high – from across CO Manufacturing and its Retail Network will complete a two-day hiking challenge across the Brecon Beacons in June, covering more than 27 miles and scaling some of South Wales’s highest peaks, including Corn Du, Pen y Fan and Cribyn.
Based out of Merthyr Tydfil, the group will tackle terrain often used by the British Army for its gruelling training exercises, underlining the physical demands of a route widely regarded as one of the UK’s toughest tests of endurance.
The challenge forms part of an ongoing fundraising effort that has seen the CO Retail Network raise more than £60,000 for a range of charitable causes over the past four years. This year, the group have opted to support the MND Association which leads the fight against motor nuerone disease by supporting those affected by the disease and funding groundbreaking research into the life-limiting condition.
Greg Kane, CEO of CO Manufacturing, said: “These challenges have become an important part of what the CO Retail Network represents. It’s not just about individual businesses, it’s about coming together as a collective to support causes that matter and to do something genuinely demanding in the process.
“There’s a real motivation this year to go further and push ourselves like never before. The British Army use the Brecon Beacons for many of their toughest training drills and what’s good for them is good for us! This undoubtedly will be our most difficult test yet but we’re relishing the challenge.
“We’ve raised a fantastic amount for charities over the past couple of years and we really want to push our combined total above the £75,000 mark this year.”
To support the team and contribute to the fundraising effort, visit: www.justgiving.com/page/co-retail-network-2026
Stricter regulations are not a burden, but a catalyst for driving better standards in hardware says Sam Nuckey, Managing Director of Window Ware.
As an industry, we’ve always evolved in response to regulation, but the current landscape feels markedly different. Today’s drivers, particularly developments around PAS 24 and the ongoing consultation surrounding Document Q, are doing more than simply raising standards.
They are reshaping expectations across the entire supply chain and, crucially, reinforcing the value of quality hardware in a way we haven’t seen before.
For many years, hardware was too often viewed as something specified to meet a price point rather than a performance threshold. It’s a mindset that is becoming increasingly outdated.
PAS 24 has long been recognised as a benchmark for enhanced security performance, but as its influence grows and Document Q continues to evolve, the gap between basic and best-in-class hardware is now almost impossible to ignore.
This shift creates a level playing field where quality wins and presents a significant opportunity. When standards demand higher levels of security and performance, there is no longer justification for using inferior products, and it instead places the emphasis firmly on reliability, durability and proven compliance.
This is something we should actively champion as an industry. The Document Q consultation is particularly important because it underscores the expertise within our sector. It sends a clear message that we are an industry that takes pride in delivering products that protect people and property. Every home deserves to be safe and secure, and higher standards help ensure it is delivered consistently and it’s a huge opportunity for our industry.
Alongside this, there are wider market dynamics at play that could further drive demand. The ongoing conversation around positioning windows and doors as energy-efficient home improvements, eligible for grants or incentives, has gained renewed momentum.
In the aftermath of other products such as air source heat pumps becoming more notorious for not achieving the energy efficiency results expected, if successful it could be transformative and create a real shift in demand in home upgrades, placing even greater emphasis on high-performance products.
There was a time when window specification was largely a conversation about thermal performance, aesthetics and cost.
Today, that conversation is much broader.
As building performance expectations continue to evolve, windows and doors are increasingly expected to support multiple objectives simultaneously. Alongside energy efficiency, they are now playing a role in ventilation strategies, overheating mitigation, occupant comfort and architectural design.
This shift is changing how fenestration is viewed throughout the supply chain.
More demands, more complexity
The introduction of Part O brought overheating firmly into the design process, while SAP calculations and ongoing discussions around future energy standards continue to place greater emphasis on overall building performance.
As a result, glazing choices are increasingly being considered within the context of how a building operates as a whole.
Larger glazed areas, contemporary flush aesthetics and changing ventilation requirements can all influence specification decisions – often creating competing demands. For example, increased glazing can support daylight and design intent while also introducing overheating risk, and ventilation requirements can influence opening configurations, acoustic performance and security considerations. The challenge is no longer achieving one objective in isolation. It is balancing several at the same time.
In my role, I’m increasingly involved in conversations where the starting point isn’t simply achieving a U-value or selecting a preferred aesthetic. Instead, project teams are looking at how fenestration choices interact with ventilation strategies, opening configurations and wider performance objectives from the outset.
That represents a noticeable shift from the specification conversations many of us were having just a few years ago.
