Issuu

The competition cuts corners Graf is V-Perfect

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• Superior transom welding quality

• V-Perfect ® transom welding technology

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Discover more of the benefits of Graf Synergy machines from Haffner

WINNER

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

CONSERVATORY OUTLET RAISES OVER £50,000 FOR UK CAUSES

Conservatory Outlet has reached a major fundraising milestone, surpassing £50,000 raised for charitable causes through a series of events, initiatives, and team challenges. The latest effort – a successful completion of the Welsh 3000s by members of the Conservatory Outlet team and its Network of Premium Retailers – pushed the total beyond the landmark figure.

After completing the National Three Peaks in 2023 and the ‘24 in 24 in 2024’, this year’s charitable challenge saw the group tackle all 15 mountains in Wales over 3,000ft in what is considered one of the most difficult walking routes in the UK.

In total, 16 participants (and one dog) completed the challenge. And it wasn’t easy. Whilst the rest of the UK bathed in the early summer sun, the peaks of Eryri National Park were buffeted with 50mph winds and, in some instances, horizontal rain. Despite the conditions, the ground ploughed on and completed the 24-mile stretch.

PAGE 16

CARL F GROUPCO SELLS ONE MILLIONTH ROTO ESPAGNOLETTE WINDOW LOCK

Fenestra Build™ is a registered Trademark.

PAGE 21 A CHANGED LANDSCAPE

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

TOUCH!”

TEL: 01302 278756

FAX: 01302 247612

EMAIL: christina@fenestrabuild.co.uk

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

PAGE 24

CONSERVATORY OUTLET LAUNCHES EXCLUSIVE RETAIL SALES PROCESS IN SIX-FIGURE INVESTMENT

PAGE 26

CONSERVATORY OUTLET’S DEGREE APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMME SEES FURTHER SUCCESS

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.

Meet the from Kenricks AK Touch Secure™

This state-of-the-art lock offers a seamless blend of smart technology and high-quality security credentials.

Key features at a glance

• Retrofit Ready Fits any door handle with the Kenrick 3-Star Cylinder

• Invisible Design Internal fit, no external signs of the lock

• Multiple Entry Options Touch, keypad, fob, key or voice activated

• Smart App Control Manage remotely with ease

• Versatile Use Perfect for homes, offices and residential complexes

• Smart Security End-to-end encryption for peace of mind

• Access Control Set timed or temporary access

• Quiet Operation Smooth, quiet operation

• Fast Locking Secure in under 2 seconds

App-controlled Manage the lock remotely via the dedicated app. Check the door status from your smartphone.

CONSERVATORY OUTLET ACHIEVES RECORDBREAKING SERVICE SATISFACTION SCORES IN ITS CUSTOMER

JOURNEY SURVEY

Retail specialist fabricator, Conservatory Outlet, has achieved its highest-ever Customer Journey Survey score in the latest round of feedback from its Premium Retail Network.

The Customer Journey Survey is a quarterly survey designed to capture, in a structured way, how customers think and feel about the performance of Conservatory Outlet as a supplier. Feedback is sought from all 28 Conservatory Outlet Premium Retailers, including Directors and senior department heads.

This unique and in-depth survey provides an opportunity for businesses to share detailed feedback on service and quality across all the manufacturer’s front-facing departments. The scores and comments are then reviewed by all the fabricators’ Directors and Heads of Department, where an action plan is developed and shared with the Network, emphasising the steps that will be taken to address specific feedback.

Greg Kane, CEO at Conservatory Outlet, said: “We believe this survey is one of the most thorough in our sector – nobody else drills down to this level of detail across every part of the customer journey. Our internal measures may show we’re doing a great job, but if our customers have a different opinion, then we need to know about it.

“An 90.9% score is a huge achievement for the entire team, and a reflection of our relentless focus on improvement. The insight we gain here is priceless, and it’s what allows us to keep evolving in ways that genuinely make a difference for our retailers.”

Broken down into six core categories, the 34-point survey is one of the most comprehensive of its kind in the fenestration sector. First launched in 2017, it captures honest, actionable insight that shapes Conservatory Outlet’s business aims and objectives, while enabling the team to quickly address any issues flagged.

• Elegant, modern flush aesthetics

• Available in any RAL colour

• Complemented with a choice of contemporary glass designs

• Suites with the TriSYS® Modern framing system

• PAS 24 compliant

• 10 year warranty

UK & IRELAND COLOUR TRENDS FOR 2025 SO FAR

The latest industry data in the UK and Ireland has shown some interesting insights into the colour landscape for 2025.

RENOLIT have supplied 93 different colours into the market year-to-date 2025, marking a slight increase from the 90 colours sold at this stage last year. While this variety in colours would typically indicate a highly segmented market, it is in fact the opposite. The top 10 colours now account for 90% of total market demand, underscoring the continued dominance of a select group of foils.

Within the top 10 finishes only two woodgrains appear, highlighting a continuing shift toward clean, uniform finishes. Overall, solid colours now account for over 80% of the market demand.

Agate Grey is a standout story in 2025. Once a mid-tier contender, it has increased in popularity to become the sixth most popular colour, surpassing long-time favourites such as Golden Oak. Its rise aligns with broader industry preferences toward neutral, contemporary aesthetics.

But there are signs of changes in demand for colour and surface texture to indicate shifts are beginning to occur, when typically demand has been dominated by the same colour palette for extended periods of time.

RENOLIT EXOFOL PX Ulti-Matt has seen a 39% year-on-year increase with Black and Sage particularly strong performers. Meanwhile RENOLIT EXOFOL PFX Super-Matt woodgrains has recorded a remarkable +234% growth. This rise of nextgeneration finishes suggests consumer appetite for improved aesthetics is stronger than ever.

Should demand continue to become increasingly design-driven, industry stakeholders will need to keep a close eye on emerging favourites and invest in flexibility and speed-to-market to stay competitive.

RENOLIT’s ability to respond to changing demands positions the company, and the industry, well for continued success in the second half of 2025 and beyond.

This trend suggests growing consumer appetite for contemporary, modern tones with minimalist appeal.

6000+ Products

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WEST LEIGH’S EXPERTISE AT LEN HOUSE LEADS TO A WIN FOR COMMERCIAL PROJECT OF THE YEAR AT SWA AWARDS 2025

West Leigh has won the Commercial Project category at the Steel Window Association (SWA) Awards 2025 for its work on the Len House project in Maidstone, Kent.

The project

West Leigh was tasked with the like-for-like replacement of the existing steel framed windows and doors, matching the originals as closely as possible, along with the replacement of the existing box mullion wind posts to the windows to the rear elevation, and the refurbishment of the existing box mullion wind posts to the River Len Elevation.

Drawings of two proposed W20 windows were issued to the planning department and the architect and a sample window was manufactured and installed on site alongside the existing windows to show the planning department and the architect how closely they could replicate the original windows.

West Leigh installed approximately 130 W20 section steel windows in total, including numerous curved on plan frames and glazing units, utilising single glazed units, Low E double glazed units, and louvre panels, along with numerous steel door sets with W20 fixed frame inserts, to match the sightline sizes of the glazing bars to the adjacent windows. To aid in the replacement of the large wind posts, a structural engineer was engaged by West Leigh to determine the correct sizes required for each post, to suit the correct design wind pressures and structural requirements of the building. The existing box mullion wind posts to the River Len Elevation were refurbished by needle gunning each post to remove surface rust, primed and painted with a rust inhibitor and overclad with channel pressings, polyester powder coated to match the new W20 window frames. Many of the W20 windows to the first floor, known as “The Winter Garden”, provide an enclosed balcony space for the residential units, providing views out over the River Len. The large W20 windows to the ground floor, along the River Len Elevation, provide a light and airy avenue for the retail area, where numerous retail units, bars and restaurants will be located. The upper top hung casements to the windows to this elevation are fitted with mechanical window actuators to allow ventilation to the public spaces.

Total Hardware

• Bi-directional locking cams

• Available in 8mm, 9m and 10.5mm cam variations

• One piece zinc centre keep to enhance compression and security

• Suitable for Standard Casements, French Casements, Flush Casement and French Flush Casements

• Seamless integration option with Yale Senscheck™

A WINDOW ONTO SWA ASSOCIATED AWARD WINNER 2025, STEEL WINDOW FITTINGS

At the 2025 Steel Window Association awards, the Associated Award winner went to Steel Window Fittings for work on the winning commercial and domestic winning projects.

James Barrett, MD of Steel Window Fittings, shares his insights into the company.

How long has Steel Window Fittings been in business?

Dating as far back as 1884, steel window and doors have always been adorned, and secured, with clever ironmongery. As the industry has developed in synergy with manufacturing technology, Steel Window Fittings, founded in 2011, is a pioneer in the advancement of design and technical expertise in the hardware and fittings sphere and is continually focused on modern solutions for steel windows and doors.

What is your core business?

Steel Window Fittings specialises in the design and supply of hardware for steel windows and doors for both heritage and modern applications. We supply to new build, replacement and refurbishment projects, through many different channels.

What are the target markets for Steel Window Fittings – architect, designer, property owner, managing agent and others?

Actually, we work with a very broad and diverse customer base that includes all of the above. Over the past 150 years, steel windows and doors have become part of the fabric of buildings all over the world.

We work closely with many stakeholders, but specifically window and door manufacturers in developing a range of furniture that is not only functional and durable; it is also suited to various styles of architecture. We supply our hardware to all of the Steel Window Association members.

NEW LIFT & SLIDE HARDWARE SYSTEM FROM VBH

Hardware supplier VBH has introduced an exciting new hardware system to suit Sheerline Prestige aluminium lift and slide patio doors.

greenteQ ClearLIFT Slim has been developed with Italian hardware expert AGB and is described by VBH as ‘the ideal hardware for slimline lift and slide patio doors.’

It accommodates sliding sashes weighing up to 250kg as standard, with the option to increase capacity to 400kg with the addition of just one item.

ClearLIFT Slim allows the creation of sliding panels measuring up to 3.6m wide and 2.75m high, designed to flood any room with natural light.

Security is provided by two sturdy hook bolts, with the option to add additional hooks in the middle and at the top of the door if required

The hooks retract into the sash when the door is open, and the striker plates are flush to the frame. This provides a neat finish to the door and eliminates the risk of items snagging on any projections into the opening.

Further optional extras include a ventilation position, the Auto-Brake Closing Damper that gently slows the sliding sash down as it approaches the frame and the Opening Damper that provides a controlled opening of the door. Optional Assisted Operation Kits make both the lifting and dropping operations even easier for the user.

Marketing Manager at VBH, Gary Gleeson, says “We’re very excited about the development of ClearLIFT Slim. It’s easy to use and is built to last, as demonstrated by successful testing to 25,000 opening cycles and a top grade 5 under BS EN1670 for corrosion protection.

“In fact, many components are protected by AGB’s excellent Activeage surface protection treatment, which has achieved 2000 hours in a neutral salt spray test.”

A NEW CHAPTER IN FLUSH SASH DESIGN: WINDOW WAREHOUSE WELCOMES DECEUNINCK

Earlier in 2025, Window Warehouses broadened its product range with the addition of Deceuninck mechanical flush windows and doors – joining its established VEKA flush sash offering. This expansion reflects a commitment to customers seeking the timeless charm of traditional timber aesthetics paired with high-performance modern features. The Deceuninck flush sash windows bring elegant, slimline profiles that replicate the appearance of timber. Beyond visual appeal, they deliver excellent thermal and acoustic installation, topped with PAS 24-approved security and multi point locking for enhanced peace of mind..

Customization is a standout benefit of this range. Homeowners can choose from a rich selection of Heritage woodgrain finishes crafted to mirror natural timber, and they, along with the doors, come in 30 colour options. A signature detail is the scribed bead design. This feature creates a seamless, refined joint between sash and frame, perfecting the flush, heritagestyle aesthetic.

By adding Deceuninck alongside VEKA, Window Warehouse now offers installers and homeowners greater choice in achieving a fully flush home design – without compromising on energy efficiency, durability, or visual appeal.

This expansion for Window Warehouse allows for the growing demand for a fully flush home amongst its customers. All their technical downloads are available on their website along with their app, which is available to download for both IOS and Android users. Brochures, images, installation guides, and more are all readily available for installers.

To view the full range of UPVC and Aluminium by Window Warehouse, visit their website at www.window-warehouse.co.uk. The site also offers a convenient way of starting your quote. However, if you would like to speak directly to our sales team, call 02392 327744 or email info@window-warehouse.co.uk to discuss your requirements.

CARL F GROUPCO SELLS ONE MILLIONTH ROTO

ESPAGNOLETTE

WINDOW LOCK

Independent hardware supplier Carl F Groupco has sold its one millionth Roto Espagnolette Window Lock, underlining both the popularity of the product and the strength of its partnership with Roto.

Julie Warner, Roto Product Manager at Carl F Groupco, said: “Our customers consistently value the combination of quality, reliability and functionality that Roto delivers. Reaching the one million milestone is clear evidence of this.”

The Roto Twin-Cam Security Lock Espagnolette has been designed to provide a high level of security for outward opening windows.

The espagnolette features up to four pairs of dual reverse locking points. When the handle is operated, it drives the doublesided strikers from opposite directions, ensuring maximum burglary protection.

The Roto SSL Espagnolette is suited for both top and side hung outward opening casement windows, accommodating sash rebates between 240mm and 1,800mm. Profile-related keeps are available and the espagnolette is compatible with all leading profile extruders.

Both espagnolette options feature RotoSil surface protection, providing a Grade 5 finish that is particularly important for coastal applications.

Carl F Groupco is a longstanding Roto partner and one of the UK’s largest stockists of its hardware. Its portfolio includes espagnolettes, hinges, sliding door systems, tilt & slide hardware and reversible gearing. The company holds around £5.5 million of stock across all product ranges, enabling it to fulfil over 98% of orders within 24 hours.

FENTRADE REPORTS ONGOING DEMAND FOR ID30 INTERNAL GLAZING SYSTEM

Independent trade aluminium fabricator Fentrade is continuing to see strong demand for its ID30 Internal Door and Screening System, reflecting the ongoing appeal of internal glazing across both residential and commercial projects. In response, the company is expanding the system’s accessories and design options to meet emerging trends and open up new opportunities for its customers.

Chris Reeks, Director at Fentrade, said: “The ID30 system delivers internal glazing with exceptional style and versatility. The new additions make it even more adaptable, bringing its benefits to a wider range of projects.”

The ID30 system is designed for creating bespoke glazed interior partitions, room dividers and full walls of glass. Suitable for both residential and commercial environments, it supports a variety of inset door styles including single, double, sliding, pivot and bifold options.

Chris commented: “In residential projects, we’re seeing our customers use the ID30 system to create elegant room dividers including bathrooms and shower areas. The bifold door option is especially effective for connecting living spaces to conservatories and offers both practicality and aesthetic appeal. In commercial projects, the system delivers sleek, private meeting rooms and open-plan zones with a premium finish.”

To enhance its design appeal, Fentrade has introduced a new lockbox and solid transom options, ideal for achieving the heritage-style aesthetic which is so popular. These updates join a growing list of accessories including the introduction of pull and lever bar handles designed to give projects a modern, architecturally-inspired finish.

Furthermore, the expanded range also includes astragal bars, glazing options such as obscure, toughened and laminated glass and a full choice of RAL colours and textured finishes.

“Internal glazing adds style to every space,” Chris added. “With these new additions, we’re helping customers elevate that style even further.”

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

COUNTRY-WIDE COVERAGE

Hardware supplier VBH has highlighted the importance of having local stock provision across Great Britain to help provide the best possible service.

The company, whose head office is in Gillingham, Kent, also has sites in East Kilbride and Swansea.

The importance of having local stocks across the country was first recognised back in 1990, when VBH opened its first satellite depot in Dundee. VBH advise that driving factors at the time included a recognition of the importance of the Scottish market and its potential for further growth. Local authority fabricators in particular were extremely busy at the time, and having local stock ensured continuity of supply and smoothed out any spikes in demand when additional hardware was required as a matter of extreme urgency.

In time, the volume of business soon outstripped the capacity of the Dundee site, so VBH relocated to larger premises in East Kilbride, with its excellent transport links to major towns and cities. VBH East Kilbride also looks after VBH’s customers in Northern Ireland.

Fabricators in Wales and southwest England are served by VBH’s Swansea depot, and the rest of England is covered by the main warehouse and head office in Gillingham.

Richard Gyde, managing director at VBH says, “The teams in each site, and the Sales Managers working out of them, understand the requirements of the local area and are best placed to effectively manage them.

“The stock mix within each depot is tailored to the demands of the customers that it serves. For example, the demand for tilt & turn windows has always been higher in Scotland and Northern Ireland than it is in England and Wales, due to differing building regulations and housing stocks in those countries. Consequently, the percentage of TBT hardware from our partners AGB and Roto has always been higher in VBH East Kilbride than in the other warehouses.”

All three sites operate their own delivery vehicles, so customers on the local delivery routes benefit from door-to-door delivery direct from VBH.

Richard concludes, “A number of our largest customers are served by the East Kilbride and Swansea depots, and having a local presence and stockholding ensures that we can deliver world class customer service to them all.

CONSERVATORY OUTLET RAISES OVER £50,000 FOR UK CAUSES

Conservatory Outlet has reached a major fundraising milestone, surpassing £50,000 raised for charitable causes through a series of events, initiatives, and team challenges. The latest effort –a successful completion of the Welsh 3000s by members of the Conservatory Outlet team and its Network of Premium Retailers – pushed the total beyond the landmark figure.

“We wanted to repeat the success of our previous charity walks,” explains Conservatory Outlet’s CEO, Greg Kane.

“The Welsh 3000s were undoubtedly our toughest and most rewarding yet. The route was tricky as it included several sections that required us to scramble. The conditions weren’t the best, but the pretty horrendous conditions made it that bit sweeter when we crossed the finishing line after hours on our feet.”

“Together, we dug deep and completed it as a group. Events such as this really do showcase what sets us apart and what makes the Network incredibly special.”

The money raised during the hike was donated to Age UK, which follows similar donations to Macmillan Cancer Support and Mind after previous hiking challenges.

In addition to significant, Network-wide events such as the Welsh 3000s, Conservatory Outlet has also been incredibly proactive in the Wakefield and broader West Yorkshire communities

This year alone, the fabricator has made substantial donations to local food banks, and has invested in several grassroots sports teams in the region.

A CHANGED LANDSCAPE

In a period of industry transition, Matt Thomas, Managing Director of Haffner Ltd, explains why the business is positioned to provide continuity, investment and customer focus.

The sector has been undergoing a period of considerable change, with consolidation, acquisitions and restructuring shaping the competitive landscape. Against this backdrop, the recent news that Stürtz, parent company of the UK brand Stuga, has entered insolvency proceedings in Germany is another significant development, highlighting how quickly circumstances can shift even for established names in the industry.

Moments like this inevitably create questions for customers and the wider supply chain.

At Haffner, I want to take the opportunity to provide clarity and reassurance about our own position. Haffner Ltd is a solely owned UK entity. We are not part of a wider group structure and operate independently under our own management. Whilst we work closely with our three core suppliers – Haffner, Graf Synergy and Fom Industrie – our business is financially secure, operationally strong and fully focused on supporting our customers.

But let me be clear, the demand for automation in our sector remains extremely strong. We have a buoyant order book, a strong pipeline and we continue to invest across our machinery portfolio, service infrastructure and people. This strategy ensures our customers benefit from the latest machine automated technologies whilst having the complete confidence of continuity of supply, service and support, which is absolutely business-critical particularly in times of market changes.

While we remain aware of wider industry developments, our attention is firmly on our customers, not our competitors. Our focus is to provide the stability, expertise and machine innovation that fabricators of all sizes need to remain competitive. It is this customer-first approach that defines our business and underpins our long-term success.

The insolvency at Stürtz is a reminder of how quickly circumstances can change, even for established industry players. But it does not change the fundamentals of our market. The drive towards automation continues to accelerate at pace as fabricators seek efficiency, resilience and growth. At Haffner, we are well placed to meet that demand and we will continue to invest to make sure our customers are future-ready.

Heritage Door

This exciting new addition has all the industrial style nods of the steel original, but in a more durable, energy efficient and affordable aluminium.

Slim sightlines

Available in several configurations

Outstanding thermal performance

Classic matt black finish

Fentrade launches new website to strengthen trade

Independent trade fabricator Fentrade has launched its new website designed to give trade installers, contractors and architects an improved online experience and streamlined access to

Chris Reeks, Director at Fentrade, said: “The new site has been developed with the needs of installers, contractors and architects in mind. With intuitive navigation and a clean, modern layout, it allows visitors to quickly explore our full range of aluminium products, including windows, doors, bi-folds, inline sliders, curtain walling and internal screens. Brochures and technical details can also be downloaded instantly, making it easier for our trade partners to prepare quotes and plan

The new website reflects Fentrade’s core values of reliability, service and quality. Customers benefit from quotes returned within 24 hours, technical support delivered by an experienced team and a commitment to delivering every order on time and in full. By streamlining access to information, the website reinforces Fentrade’s commitment to making it easier for trade

The new website comes during a period of growth for the award-winning business. Earlier this year, Fentrade was acquired by Aluminium Vision Limited, a move that further strengthens its market position and manufacturing capacity. The Newportbased fabricator continues to invest in products, people and production to meet rising demand for its high-performance

With over 30 years of inhouse fenestration expertise and membership of the Council for Aluminium in Building, Fentrade has established itself as a trusted independent fabricator in both the trade and commercial sectors. Its new website brings together the company’s product portfolio, technical expertise and service offering in one easily accessible

CONSERVATORY OUTLET LAUNCHES EXCLUSIVE RETAIL SALES PROCESS IN SIX-FIGURE INVESTMENT

Conservatory Outlet has pioneered an exclusive new retail sales process for its Network of Premium Retailers, launched as part of a substantial six-figure investment into training and development.

Kicking off the long-term programme with its Forté Door collection, the first in a series of national roadshow events, the sessions combine an elite consultative sales process with digital assets and comprehensive sample kits designed to offer a more immersive experience for the homeowner.

Developed and delivered collaboratively by Conservatory Outlet’s in-house team alongside a renowned sales coach from the industry, the sessions combine technical product training with structured, psychology-based sales coaching.

The goal is simple: to arm sales consultants with the knowledge, confidence and tools they need to position Forté doors effectively, overcome objections, and ultimately convert more customer enquiries into confirmed orders.

The combination of tools and techniques really brings to life the features and benefits of its products and helps the homeowner to understand how they could enrich their home.

The coaching programme, along with a range of physical samples and digital assets, is being offered free of charge to Conservatory Outlet’s customers as part of a long-term investment. This significant commitment will upskill sales professionals from across the UK and accompanies the release of new materials, tailored one-to-one sessions, and physical sample kits to support the sales process.

The rollout began with a launch event for its retail partners in Yorkshire before heading over the Pennines for further sessions in Lancashire and Cumbria.

Half a century of service at Carl F

Groupco

Carl F Groupco is proud to celebrate a combined half a century of commitment as two longstanding employees, Jason Hart and Richard Booth, mark milestone anniversaries with the company.

Jason Hart, Warehouse Operative at the Peterborough depot, has reached an impressive 30 years of service. Since joining the company in 1995, Jason has become a well-respected and dependable member of the team, renowned for his accuracy, reliability and attention to detail in ensuring customer orders are fulfilled correctly. His consistency and dedication have made him a trusted figure within the warehouse and a key contributor to Carl F Groupco’s reputation for service excellence.

Richard Booth, Warehouse Supervisor in the Peterborough depot, is celebrating 20 years with the business. Joining in 2005, Richard’s strong work ethic and commitment to the team saw him progress to Supervisor in 2016. In this role, he continues to lead by example, supporting colleagues and overseeing the smooth operation of the depot to deliver the high standards that customers expect.

Owen Coop, CEO of Carl F Groupco, commented: “Jason and Richard’s service to the business is a fantastic achievement and something we are incredibly proud of. They exemplify the loyalty, dedication and teamwork that defines the company. Their combined 50 years of service highlight not only their personal commitment but also the supportive culture and strong working practices we maintain as a business. Here’s to many more years of their valuable contributions.”

Carl F Groupco is one of the UK’s only independently-owned hardware distributors, supplying an extensive range of premium quality window and door hardware to the fenestration industry. With over 63% of its employees having been with the company for more 10 years, Carl F Groupco demonstrates an exceptional level of staff loyalty, reflecting a culture of stability, professional development and job satisfaction.

In a market of change, staff longevity is always worthy of recognition, and milestones like Jason and Richard’s demonstrate the stability and commitment that set Carl F Groupco apart.

CONSERVATORY OUTLET’S DEGREE

APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMME SEES FURTHER

SUCCESS

Conservatory Outlet’s apprenticeship programme continues to go from strength to strength, with Warehouse Manager Adeoye Adedayo becoming the latest employee to complete a Level 5 Apprenticeship in Operations Management.

Adeoye, who has been with the Wakefield-based fabricator for four years, successfully concluded the course – equivalent to a foundation degree – after building an extensive portfolio of on-the-job and off-the-job projects. Alongside practical and academic work, Adeoye also received one-to-one mentoring from his tutor and support from the company itself.

“The apprenticeship has equipped me with the skills and knowledge to lead and motivate my team,” Adeoye said.

“I’ve gained new insight into teambuilding, conflict resolution and strategic planning. It’s had a positive effect on everything, and I can’t believe that I’ve achieved a foundation degree. This qualification gives me a strong platform for the future, and I’m committed to taking on new challenges and opportunities for growth within the organisation.”

As part of his final project, he had to propose and implement new warehouse processes, which were then measured by and discussed by a panel of independent assessors.

These changes, including the adoption of 5S principles, have already delivered operational improvements, with Conservatory Outlet’s transport and warehousing departments achieving their highest-ever scores in the company’s quarterly Customer Journey Survey – a key metric the manufacturer uses to monitor performance.

Reflecting on Adeoye’s achievements, Greg Kane, Conservatory Outlet’s CEO, said:

“I’m incredibly proud of Adeoye. He has worked very hard to reach this point and has grown both personally and professionally throughout his apprenticeship. His development has been a joy to see as he’s progressed through the company to his current position in our management team.”