N/A by Christina Lazenby

Welcome

TO THE OCTOBER 2025 EDITION!

MANUFACTURING ACCOUNTED FOR 10% OF ADMINISTRATIONS IN 2025, ANALYSIS REVEALS

The manufacturing industry accounted for 10% of administrations in the first six months of 2025 – the fifth worst-hit sector in the UK – according to analysis by full-service law firm Shakespeare Martineau.

A total of 783 UK businesses filed for administration in the first six months of 2025 – an 11% decrease from the 879 recorded during the same period in 2024.

However, the figure remains 3% higher than in 2023, signalling that UK companies are still facing significant pressures despite some signs of economic stabilisation.

Along with retail, hospitality, construction, property and manufacturing were the worst-hit sectors, collectively accounting for 60% of all administrations.

Hospitality saw a slight increase (80 vs 78), reflecting ongoing pressure on disposable incomes and discretionary spending. In contrast, manufacturing (77) and construction (79) both saw significant year-on-year declines, down 29% and 26% respectively.

The drop in manufacturing and construction filings could be the result of earlier failures having already removed the weakest operators. It may also reflect a slowdown in activity, with firms putting investment and hiring decisions on hold due to continued uncertainty.

Despite a drop in administration volumes, businesses should not be complacent.

To conclude, it is still a rocky road ahead, but perhaps there is light at the end of the tunnel as we navigate ourselves towards the end of this year and into

PAGE 9 HAFFNER NAMED AS FINALIST IN THE G25 AWARDS

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

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

FENTRADE SECURES CONTRACT FOR NATIONAL LIBRARY OF WALES REFURBISHMENT

Independent specialist manufacturer Fentrade has been awarded the window manufacture and supply contract as part of an extensive refurbishment of the iconic National Library of Wales in Aberystwyth.

Fentrade Director Chris Reeks said: “As a company proud to be based in Wales, we’re honoured to be playing a role in the refurbishment of one of the country’s most iconic buildings.”

The system selected for the project is the AluK Optio 58BW, a high-performance solution with clean lines that will respect the architectural and heritage significance of the building, which is Wales’ largest library.

The frames will be manufactured in RAL 8019 Grey Brown and Urbane Steel Bronze, which were chosen to complement the existing fenestration and be sympathetic to the building structure. The choice of glazing unit has been equally carefully considered, because they need to protect the 6.5 million books and significant holdings preserved in the building from the sun’s UV rays.

WHAT’S IN THIS ISSUE?

PAGE 11

CO MANUFACTURING MARKS 20 YEARS IN STYLE WITH A SPECTACULAR GALA DINNER IN ATHENS

Fenestra Build™ is a registered Trademark.

PAGE 15

EXPAND YOUR POWER TOOL KIT AND CLAIM A FREE MAKITA BATTERY

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

“GET

TEL: 01302 278756

FAX: 01302 247612

EMAIL: christina@fenestrabuild.co.uk

WRITE TO US: 19 Heather Close, Tickhill, Doncaster, DN11 9UU

PAGE 19

KENRICKS UNLOCKS NATIONWIDE AVAILABILITY OF AK TOUCH SECURETM WITH SEVENDAY WINDOWS

PAGE 21

MODPLAN INVESTS TO FURTHER EXPAND PRODUCTION CAPACITY.

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

ASWS EXTENDS LIFE OF HARDWOOD WINDOWS ATOP

IKEA’S NEW OXFORD STREET STORE

As arguably the best-known retailer of timber furniture across Europe and beyond, Ikea takes its environmental responsibilities; these include the sustainable sourcing of materials, very seriously. It is fitting, therefore, that the creation of the company’s latest store in the UK has featured the conservation of 14 large hardwood windows which had been exposed to the worst of the weather for more than a century.

The Swedish chain’s ESG commitments focus on three key areas – Health & Sustainable Living, Climate, Nature & Circularity. It follows that the carefully considered in-situ repair of these mansard frames by fenestration repair specialist, Associated Steel Window Association (ASWS), offers a respectful resonance. As the London-based contractor has proved on previous projects, such as the conversion of the nearby County Hall, avoiding replacement often delivers the lowest impacts.

In the case of 214 Oxford Street, the North-east segment of the famous four Oxford Circus landmark buildings, ASWS was initially called in by Avison Young, the client’s representative, to carry out a full condition survey of the steel, timber and street level bronze windows which surround the structure. Then when it began work for main contractor McLaren Construction in early 2023 as the scaffolding went up, all the areas of concern highlighted in the lengthy report were proved to have resulted from serious water ingress; both through the Portland Stone façades and other weaknesses such as failed asphalt.

With up to 50 personnel on site at any one time, ASWS deployed all of its tradecraft on the project, including the skilled team of carpenters, glaziers, fitters and painters directly involved up on Level 5 of the building which will now be let as highspec offices. And, although there was a level of decay due to the weather and poor maintenance down the years, ASWS was confident from early on that the mix of side hung casements set within fixed lights could be given a new lease of life. In the worst cases the carpenters were forced to splice in new timber sections where the old hardwood had become badly rotted. Many of the sills also needed replacing where they had sat in water for years.

FENTRADE’S EXPERTISE SHINES IN PREMIUM HOME INSTALLATION

Leading independent trade fabricator Fentrade has supplied a suite of Reynaers CP 130 Aluminium Lift & Slide doors including a striking open-corner configuration for a technically demanding home extension in Southampton. The project, delivered by longstanding Fentrade customer SAJE UPVC Ltd, required precision, performance and a flawless finish to meet the premium brief.

Kevin Stallard, Chairman at SAJE, said: “We’ve worked with Fentrade since 2022 and had no hesitation in turning to the team for support with this project. As always, we worked in close collaboration throughout the process, and their professionalism was evident from the outset – as it always is.”

Fentrade Director Chris Reeks led the consultancy side, specifying the CP 130-LS system for its balance of affordability and high performance. He commented: “The Reynaers CP 130-LS was perfect for this project. It offers exceptional versatility, including the revolutionary open-corner option that removes the need for a corner post creating a dramatic architectural feature.

For this project, Fentrade supplied two lift & slide doors and one set of floating corner lift & slides, all with sliding panes. All the doors were finished in RAL 7037 Dusty Grey to create an elegant and understated aesthetic that perfectly complemented the light-coloured brick of the property.

Thanks to Fentrade’s customer service excellence, the doors were delivered on time, in excellent condition and ready for installation. Following meticulous installation by the SAJE team, the homeowner is delighted with the result. Kevin noted: “The doors are delivering a seamless integration of design and functionality, with the CP130 system performing exactly as intended. It’s an installation to be proud of.”

Founded in 1989, SAJE has been a trusted provider of windows, doors and conservatories across the South of England. It’s a family-run company dedicated to enhancing homes with superior installations tailored to each client’s unique needs and style preferences.

HAFFNER NAMED AS FINALIST IN THE G25 AWARDS

Haffner has been named a finalist in the Machinery Innovation category at the prestigious G25 Awards, the fourth consecutive year the company has been recognised for its contribution to fabrication machinery excellence.

Matt Thomas, Haffner’s Managing Director, said: “We work hard to develop machinery that helps fabricators enhance quality, increase productivity and reduce costs. Award recognition such as this is a welcome endorsement of our approach, and we’re proud to have achieved four consecutive shortlists.”

This year, Haffner has been nominated for its SL8-FF-TR 8 Head CNC Welding Machine, the only machine in the world capable of seamlessly welding all four corners of a PVC-U frame, along with two seamless timber-effect transoms, simultaneously in a single cycle. The process eliminates the need for cleaning or retouching, allowing fabricators to deliver consistently high-quality windows with improved efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

The SL8-FF-TR is the result of a multi-million-pound investment by Haffner and Graf Synergy and has already been well received by fabricators across the market.

As the UK’s leading supplier of fabrication machinery, Haffner works with fabricators of every size to deliver advanced solutions that support growth and long-term competitiveness. Its portfolio includes new machinery from Haffner, Fom Industrie and Graf Synergy.

With four consecutive G Award nominations and two previous wins, Haffner’s consistent recognition underlines its position as a trusted partner and a driving force in the future of machinery design for the fenestration industry.

Now in its 21st year, the G Awards remain one of the most respected events in the UK glass and glazing industry, celebrating innovation and achievement across the sector. Winners will be announced on Friday 28 November 2025 at the London Hilton on Park Lane.

CO MANUFACTURING MARKS 20 YEARS IN STYLE WITH A SPECTACULAR GALA DINNER IN ATHENS

CO Manufacturing, the new name for Conservatory Outlet, and its Network of Premium Retailers raised a toast to their ongoing success at the fabricator’s annual Gala Dinner weekend.

Held this year in the historic city of Athens, key stakeholders and their partners enjoyed a weekend in the Greek capital, culminating in the now-traditional black-tie awards ceremony.

With the sun setting over the Athenian Riviera, guests were recognised for their individual and collective achievements over the past twelve months, whilst also having the opportunity to learn about the Wakefield-based fabricator’s plans for the coming year.

The year’s ceremony was held at Ploes, a unique floating venue that provided attendees with breathtaking panoramas across the Saronic Gulf, with the iconic Acropolis visible in the distance.

After soaking in the sunset from the top deck, guests went below deck to enjoy a gourmet four-course dinner, keynote speech, awards ceremony and a private after-party.

There was certainly no sinking feeling amongst the group, as CO Manufacturing’s CEO, Greg Kane, used his opening speech to reflect on the CO Network’s growth from a small regional collective to a nationally recognised group featuring leading retailers from across the United Kingdom.

The evening combined a look back at that remarkable progress. But there was also an eye firmly on the present and future of the company. Guests learned about the wildly successful roll-out of the manufacturer’s Ultimate Sales Pitch training programme for its Forté composite door collection – backed by a six-figure marketing campaign – and how it will evolve to include other exclusive product ranges.

During the main speech, attendees also learned of the fabricator’s continued investment in product development and that its flagship Extreme collection of UPVC windows and doors will be undergoing a substantial re-launch in early 2026, complete with brand-new and exclusive security features.

RENOLIT EXOFOL TRUGRAIN

Now you can achieve a sophisticated wood grain appearance combined with the appeal of two new recently matched RAL grey tones, thanks to the unique RENOLIT EXOFOL TruGrain textured surface, designed for exterior windows.

The TruGrain woodgrain texture is exclusive to RENOLIT and replicates the genuine feel and visual depth of natural wood grain. It contains fine linear woodgrain pores cleverly interspersed by none planking cathedrals giving movement and variety which accumulate into a low gloss soft touch surface finish. There is no better way to display the impact of this new appearance than with Silk Grey and Stone Grey.

Silk Grey TruGrain (RAL 7044) is a pearl grey that has an understated elegance to add a layer of luxury to your space without being too overwhelming. The tones and textured finish help to create a shade that is cool enough to refresh a space yet warm enough to ensure it is still inviting. This shade evokes feelings of tranquillity and modernity and provides an ideal neutral foundation, allowing you to create spaces that are serene and effortlessly stylish.

Stone Grey TruGrain (RAL 7030) is infused with silvery-white to brighten the otherwise darker shade of grey to create both texture and depth to help your space feel more expansive and inviting. The colour is reminiscent of river stones and natural formations and the quiet strength of rock faces smoothed by centuries, blending organic beauty with modern elegance. This shade brings about feelings of stability, calm and connection to the earth and can anchor your space in nature’s enduring beauty while offering a refined, contemporary finish.

Both colours are produced in the RENOLIT EXOFOL PX grade of exterior films and have a warranty of up to 15 years, depending on the global geographic, climatic region.

For further information please contact RENOLIT UK Ltd (renolit.uk@renolit.com) or call 01670 718222.

WINDOW WAREHOUSE SEES STRONG DEMAND FOR VEKA’S FEINSTRUKTUR SMOOTH PROFILE

The recent introduction of VEKA’s Feinstruktur profile has proved popular with Window Warehouse’s trade customers, a stylish and practical alternative to aluminium that perfectly aligns with the growing demand for modern, energy-efficient home designs.

As industry research highlights the continued growth in the aluminium window market, homeowners are increasingly drawn to sleek, contemporary finishes that elevate their properties’ visual appeal. VEKA’s Feinstruktur offers that premium look without the price of aluminium, combining outstanding durability, energy efficiency, and low maintenance.

The Feinstruktur profile replicates the elegant, powder-coated aluminium finish while remaining fully recyclable, allowing installers to promote both style and sustainability in every project. Its surface is scratch-proof, UV-resistant, and engineered to withstand extreme temperatures and exposure to common cleaning agents, ensuring lasting performance in any environment.

Available in eight on-trend colours, the collection reflects the latest in modern home design. Popular colours, Black and Anthracite Grey, are both stock colours, allowing for a rapid turnaround and helping installers keep projects on schedule. Despite its enhanced aesthetic and performance, the Feinstruktur upgrade comes at no additional cost.

“As demand for modern design continues to grow, Feinstruktur gives our customers a product that meets today’s trends whilst maintaining competitive pricing,” said Remi Cake, Managing Director at Window Warehouse. “We’re pleased to deliver this premium look without raising prices to our customers, especially having two of the most sought-after colours as stock profile.”

Backed by VEKA’s proven quality and supported by Window Warehouse’s trusted trade service, Feinstruktur offers the perfect blend of innovation, value, and visual appeal.

For more information or to request a quote, visit www.window-warehouse.co.uk or contact the Window Warehouse sales team at info@window-warehouse.co.uk or 02392 327744.

6000+ Products

24/7 Ordering

EXPAND YOUR POWER TOOL KIT AND CLAIM A FREE MAKITA BATTERY

Makita has launched an exciting new redemption promotion on selected power tools. Between 1st October and 31st December 2025, customers can claim a free XGT® 2.5Ah battery (BL4025) when purchasing a DK0176G205 XGT® Twin Kit, and a free LXT® 5.0Ah battery (BL1850B) when buying a DLX2549TJ LXT® Twin Kit. Both kits come packed inside a convenient and practical 821551-8 Makpac Type 3 Carry Case.

The new DK0176G205 40V Max XGT® Twin Kit includes the TD003G Impact Driver and HP001G Combi Drill, as well as two BL4025 2.5Ah 40V Max XGT® Batteries and a DC40RA Fast Charger. With a brushless motor, the impact driver offers low power consumption and ensures improved dust and water resistance for use in challenging construction site conditions. The combi drill is also ideal for continuous heavy-duty applications with variable speed control and active feedback sensing technology, designed to protect its user.

Alternatively, the DLX2549TJ 18V LXT® Brushless Twin Kit comes equipped with a DHP492 Combi Drill and DTD173 Impact Driver. With a maximum torque of 141Nm and a compact and robust design, the combi drill is suitable for demanding drilling and fastening applications, while the impact driver has four impact modes with up to 180Nm fastening torque for precise control. The kit is also supplied with two 5.0Ah BL1850B batteries and a DC18RC fast charger.

Finally, the two batteries included in the redemption are high performance options. The BL4025 is part of Makita’s XGT® 40V Max battery system and when paired with a rapid charger, the battery can be fully charged in just 28 minutes. The BL1850B is also ideal for demanding tools and tasks, and has a higher capacity compared to other batteries, making it better suited for extended work periods where uninterrupted run time is critical.

Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita UK said: “For the first time, end users have the chance to claim a free Makita battery with a relevant power tool purchase. The high- quality batteries themselves are ideal options for tools with a highpower consumption. We are really proud of this promotion as it allows end users to expand their kit even further and benefit from excellent value for money.”

FENTRADE SECURES CONTRACT FOR NATIONAL LIBRARY OF WALES REFURBISHMENT

Independent specialist manufacturer Fentrade has been awarded the window manufacture and supply contract as part of an extensive refurbishment of the iconic National Library of Wales in Aberystwyth.

Fentrade Director Chris Reeks said: “As a company proud to be based in Wales, we’re honoured to be playing a role in the refurbishment of one of the country’s most iconic buildings.”

Fentrade has worked closely with the main contractor, LEB Construction Ltd of Aberystwyth, and the architects, DB3 Architecture, to ensure the products will meet all requirements in terms of design and functionality.

This has included manufacturing and installing pilot windows for approval by DB3 Architecture and the National Library of Wales. Chris commented: “On a project this prestigious, it’s vital to get every detail right. Manufacturing and installing pilot windows was a valuable exercise for everyone involved.”

In total Fentrade will manufacture 283 casement and tilt and turn windows as part of the contract, which will be delivered in stages in line with LEB’s installation schedule. The contract is expected to be complete by Spring 2026.

The contract is part of a wider decarbonisation project that will support the Welsh government’s aim to achieve net zero emissions in the public sector by 2030. The window replacement is part of a package of works that will enhance the building’s fabric and thermal insulation. Other works involve replacing the library’s existing gas-fired boilers with reversible air source and ground source heat pumps, and integrating solar panels on the building’s roof.

ADSA CHARITY GOLF DAY RAISES THOUSANDS

DESPITE STORM

DRAMA

The Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA) marked its 40th anniversary year with another hugely successful charity golf day at Branston Golf & Country Club – despite a storm threatening to derail the event just days before.

Thirty-one teams – 124 golfers in total – teed off, while a further 35 delegates joined the daytime conference and 180 guests attended the evening dinner.

This year, the sporting fixture was combined with CPD sessions for non-players, which included an HR briefing from Sue Hatton, of Pickerings Solicitors, alongside industry-focused updates.

Despite wild weather earlier in the week, the resilience of the Branston greenkeeping team enabled the day to go ahead as planned. A tree had been brought down on the 18th green and damage to the course’s water pumping system meant emergency remedial action was required to save the day.

“It was touch and go for a while,” said Ken Price, ADSA Managing Director, “but storm clouds had a silver lining. The club reimbursed a proportion of our fees and we felt it was only right to share that good fortune by adding a twist to our charity donations.

“Over the years, the bid to win the ADSA Cup has become increasingly competitive but people showing up in numbers and taking part is ultimately what makes the day so successful. That’s why we decided that the team finishing last should also be winners, with an extra donation to their chosen charity,” he explained.

In total the 2025 event has raised £8,500 for a range of deserving charities.

All Round Securities, from Bolton, took first place and nominated the Royal British Legion, which will receive £2,000.

RTR Services, of Wakes Colne, Essex, finished last but walked away as the ‘losing’ winners, with £500 for the Huntington’s Disease Association.

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

KENRICKS UNLOCKS NATIONWIDE AVAILABILITY OF AK TOUCH SECURE™ WITH SEVENDAY WINDOWS

Kenricks has extended the reach of its popular AK Touch Secure™ smart door lock, which is now available nationwide through Sevenday Windows’ trusted trade depot network.

Commenting on the new product introduction, Sevenday Windows, said: “We are pleased to make the AK Touch Secure™ available through our depots nationwide. Installers are increasingly looking for smart, secure and easy-to-fit solutions, and this product ticks every box. It’s a perfect addition to our door range from Universal Composite Doors and reflects our ongoing commitment to bringing the latest innovation to the trade.”

AK Touch Secure™ delivers advanced security with effortless convenience. With Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, realtime in-app notifications and seamless integration with Alexa and Google Assistant, the popular smart door lock has been designed to meet the demands of today’s homeowners. The smart lock fits virtually any door handle and can be installed in minutes, making it a fast and practical solution for both new and retrofit projects.

Andy Meakin, National Sales and Marketing Manager at Kenricks, said: “Sevenday has built a strong reputation as the firstchoice supplier for trade installers, combining the benefits of a nationwide network with local expertise. Partnering with them ensures that AK Touch Secure™ is available to installers right on their doorstep, supported by the service and technical advice Sevenday is known for.”

Sevenday has been supplying the trade since 1995, offering complete window, door and conservatory supply together with expert local service, storage, scrappage and marketing support. By adding AK Touch Secure™ to its product portfolio, Sevenday is giving installers across the UK access to the very latest in smart door security with the confidence of a trusted, local supplier.

With multiple access options including fingerprint touchpad, encrypted key fob, secure keypad, app control and a traditional key override, AK Touch Secure™ gives end users total flexibility and a modern, connected way to manage entry to their homes. Through the dedicated app, they can lock or unlock remotely, view real-time access logs and set temporary or scheduled permissions, making it ideal for family living, holiday lets or service access.

New Sales Manager at VBH

Hardware supplier VBH has announced that Ryan Holmes has joined the company in the role of Regional Sales Manager – South East.

Ryan will be well known to many fabricators in southern England. He is very experienced, having represented prominent and respected hardware companies for the past 10 years.

VBH offers a large portfolio of products from its own highly respected greenteQ brand, as well as those from longstanding supply partners including AGB, Cotswold, Roto, Securistyle and Yale.

VBH advise that Ryan is already achieving success with new and existing customers as he builds the company’s presence in its ‘home’ region.

Richard Gyde, MD at VBH says, “I have known Ryan for many years, and I am delighted that he has decided to join VBH at this exciting time for us. Ryan has extensive product knowledge, which is hugely beneficial both to VBH and to our customers. “Equally importantly, Ryan is very much a people person and has seamlessly slotted into the team since joining in September.”

MODPLAN INVESTS TO FURTHER EXPAND PRODUCTION CAPACITY.

Leading trade fabricator Modplanhas announced the purchase of a new Supercut 6 Machining Centrefrom Avantek Machinery, marking the latest in a series of strategic investments designed to support the company’s continued growth and expand its production capacity.

The new Supercut 6 provides fully automated, high-precision cutting and machining, enabling Modplan to increase efficiency, consistency and output across its fabrication plants. This latest investment underpins Modplan’s long-term strategy of combining advanced manufacturing technology with its strong partnership ethos.

Heidi Sachs, Managing Director at Modplan, said: “Investment in the latest manufacturing technology is central to maintaining the high standards our customers expect from us. The Supercut 6 will further streamline our production processes, helping us to deliver volume premium-quality products more efficiently and with even greater precision. It’s another example of our ongoing commitment to future-proofing our business and supporting our growing network of trade partners.”

The Supercut 6, supplied by Avantek Machinery, represents the next generation in automated cutting and machining. Its advanced features include intelligent control systems and rapid changeover capabilities, making it ideal for high-volume, multi-profile production environments such as Modplan’s.

With over 50 years at the forefront of the trade fenestration sector, Modplan continues to invest in its people, processes and technology to ensure it remains a trusted partner for trade installers across the UK. This latest investment further strengthens the company’s ability to deliver outstanding quality, service and reliability.

Heidi concluded: “At Modplan, we believe that growth is built on continuous improvement. Every investment we make is about enhancing the value we deliver to our customers, both today and for the future.”