May Flipbook 2025 by Christina Shaw

Welcome TO THE MAY 2025 EDITION!

DID WE SEE YOU AT THE

FIT SHOW?

The FIT Show was a resounding success and it was so great to meet up with friends and colleagues, over the three day event. At the show, I spoke to a few of our customers to get their reaction to this year’s FIT.

Kenrick made a strong first impression, celebrating an incredibly successful debut. The response to the company’s latest innovation, the AK Touch Secure™ smart locking solution attracted a huge amount of interest and generated a high volume of new business orders and highquality leads.

FIT Show 2025 has gone down as the most successful exhibition in Haffner’s history, with its Machinery Village proving a major draw throughout the three-day event. Matt Thomas, Managing Director at Haffner, said: “The response to the Haffner Machinery Village exceeded all our expectations. It was fantastic to connect with so many new and existing customers, showcase the latest advancements in fabrication technology and reinforce why Haffner continues to lead the way in machinery innovation.”

A must read in this edition is a heart warming story brought to you by The Conservatory Outlet. Three of its staff joined forces to save the life of a colleague who had collapsed and this story highlights the importance of first aid skills in the workplace. Craig Jarvis, Andrew Wildsmith and Glyn Beaumont, who all work on the shop floor at Conservatory Outlet, came to the assistance of Maciej Kucharski last month after he suffered what paramedics described as ‘six cardiac arrests’.

Enjoy this Edition, as always

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AID’ RALLYING CRY AFTER TRIO OF STAFF SAVE COLLEAGUE’S LIFE

One of the UK’s leading fenestration manufacturers has hailed the importance of ‘First Aiders’ in the workplace and having access to a defibrillator after three of its staff joined forces to save the life of a colleague who had

Craig Jarvis, Andrew Wildsmith and Glyn Beaumont, who all work on the shop floor at Conservatory Outlet, came to the assistance of Maciej Kucharski last month after he suffered what paramedics described as ‘six cardiac

The trio immediately reacted to his condition by performing CPR and giving mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, whilst briefing the ambulance service on the situation and responding to their instructions.

PAGE 9

KEYSTONE MARKET RESEARCH

PUBLISHES SPRING 2025

CONSUMER FENESTRATION

TRENDS REPORT WITH FRESH INSIGHTS AND REGIONAL FOCUS

PAGE 13

SECURITAS ON THE UP!

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

TEL: 01302 278756

FAX: 01302 247612

EMAIL: christina@fenestrabuild.co.uk

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

PAGE 25

CONSERVATORY OUTLET CELEBRATES CONTINUED SUCCESS AT THE WEST YORKSHIRE APPRENTICESHIP AWARDS

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.

PYROGUARD UNVEILS THE TECHLIBRARY

Pyroguard, the world’s leading independent provider of fire safety glass for timber, steel and aluminium applications, is pleased to announce the launch of the Pyroguard TechLibrary – an innovative digital platform designed to make it easier for architects, specifiers and contractors to access essential technical data and test results.

This online resource offers a comprehensive and regularly updated library of technical product information, test certifications and resources, tailored to the needs of fire safety glass professionals. With its modern and intuitive interface, the TechLibrary allows users to quickly find the necessary information, saving valuable time at every stage of the specification process.

The Pyroguard TechLibrary offers advanced search capabilities, allowing users to filter results by country, application, glass type, dimensions and more, ensuring precision in the product selection process. Continuously updated, it provides access to the latest system approvals and compliance resources, so professionals can be confident they are working with the most current information. Fully optimised for mobile, it ensures essential data is always readily available, whether in the office or on the go.

Dr Vince Crook, Technical Development Director at Pyroguard, has overseen the development of the platform and is excited about its potential: “We understand that sourcing accurate technical data for projects can be challenging, particularly when compliance and safety are at stake. Every piece of test data is critical to ensuring that projects meet rigorous safety standards.

“The TechLibrary simplifies this process by putting the information at users’ fingertips. It enables them to find the correct data with confidence, whether they’re in the office or on-site.”

Now available in six languages, the Pyroguard TechLibrary is a valuable resource for architects, specifiers and contractors worldwide. It streamlines the fire safety glazing specification process, while reinforcing Pyroguard’s commitment to supporting its customers, making information accessible and offering high-quality assistance – ensuring the right products are specified with confidence every time.

For more information visit the Pyroguard TechLibrary www.pyroguard.eu/resources/techlibrary

•

• Elegant, modern flush

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• PAS 24 compliant

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KEYSTONE MARKET RESEARCH PUBLISHES SPRING 2025 CONSUMER FENESTRATION TRENDS REPORT WITH

FRESH INSIGHTS AND REGIONAL FOCUS –

Keystone Market Research is pleased to announce the release of its Spring 2025 Consumer Fenestration Trends Report – an in-depth analysis of the evolving behaviour, preferences, and frustrations of UK homeowners in the windows and doors market. Building on the momentum of previous editions, this latest report reveals subtle shifts in consumer priorities and offers an expanded regional analysis across 12 UK areas.

This edition is once again made possible through the sponsorship of Endurance Doors, Epwin Window Systems, the GGF, Liniar, and VEKA, whose support helps ensure this essential resource remains accessible throughout the fenestration industry. Customers of these companies gain free access to the series that delivers consumer-driven insights that can shape sales, marketing, and product development strategies.

Key findings from the Spring 2025 Report include:

• Sliding Patio Doors Now Firmly Lead: Sliding doors have cemented their position as the UK’s most popular patio door style, overtaking bifold doors by a significant margin. This trend is consistent across all 12 UK regions, making sliding doors an essential offering nationwide.

• Tilt & Turn Windows Gaining Momentum: While casement windows remain the dominant choice, tilt & turn styles continue to gain traction, with particularly strong interest in Northern Ireland where they ranked as the top preference. This suggests the UK market may be aligning more closely with European style trends.

• Homeowner Frustrations Are Growing: Satisfaction with current windows and doors has declined sharply—from 23% last year to just 11% today, signalling a ripe market for replacements. Find out which areas are impacting homeowners most in the report.

ASWS ASSISTS IN BREEAM EXCELLENT JOURNEY FOR ‘THE HARRISON’

The restoration and conversion of a former Victorian furniture warehouse into a modern and flexible commercial property, offers high standards of energy performance as well as contemporary facilities. Associated Steel Window Services (ASWS) is a key member of the team as the heritage window specialist tasked with the restoration of the original large-scale steel and timber frames.

The London-based company was awarded the contract by RED Construction under competitive tender, with work on all four elevations and a large lightwell due to be completed in Summer 2025. When finished, the Grade II listed structure will offer circa 40,000 sq. ft. of space for rent across five floors; and an accreditation of a BREEAM Excellent achievement and a top EPC rating of ‘A’.

In order to achieve this, both the insulation values and airtightness of the predominantly glazed elevations will have to be drastically improved. With decades of experience, ASWS has deployed window fixers, service engineers, glaziers and silicon applicators to repair and realign failed lights and replace missing ones. In total, 26 of the composite steel windows, the largest of which measure 2.5 x 5 metres, are being replaced, along with 15 timber windows. Working in coordination with sub-contractors repairing the old London stock brickwork and areas of concrete masonry, ASWS is also tasked with replacing the timber sub-frames to the steel windows; which requires the jambs and sills to be cut out piecemeal, with the carpenters fashioning mitred and overlap joints as new lengths are let in.

The Operations Director for ASWS leading the detailed work, Kris Bennell, comments: “Not only were there variations in dimensions right across the façades, reflecting the trade practices of the era, but the windows around the top floor also feature semi-headed, radiused tops. And, while we are utilising W20sections to manufacture the replacement windows, for the repairs to many of the old steel frames in the Curtain Road front façade, our engineers are having to weld in lengths of the old F7 profiles due to the extent of the corrosion.

KENRICK TEAM CELEBRATES OUTSTANDING FIT SHOW DEBUT

Kenrick made a strong first impression at FIT Show 2025, celebrating an incredibly successful debut. The response to the company’s latest innovation, the AK Touch Secure™ smart locking solution attracted a huge amount of interest and generated a high volume of new business orders and high-quality leads.

Andy Meakin, Sales and Marketing Manager at Kenrick, said: “The show was superb. The quality of footfall was excellent, and it’s clear that fabricators and installers are actively looking for easy-to-install, intuitive smart technology. The level of interest and the number of new opportunities and exciting new partnerships we’ve secured for the AK Touch Secure™ has been beyond anything we anticipated from the show.”

Kenrick officially launched the AK Touch Secure™ at the event. Andy added: “The AK Touch Secure™ attracted exactly the level of attention we expected—and more. Its combination of high-level security and cutting-edge connectivity brings huge advantages to fabricators and installers and is a real gamechanger for the industry.”

The AK TouchSecure™ is compatible with any door handle or escutcheon fitted with a Kenrick 3 Star Locking Cylinder and can be installed in minutes without any major hardware modifications, making it a practical choice for retrofit projects as well as new installations.

It works using touch-sensitive technology, a secure keypad, a key fob, or voice commands via Google Home or Alexa. There’s also a manual override option, meaning the door can always be opened with a key.

The AK Touch Secure™ app brings further functionality, including remote locking and unlocking, a status check and access logs. It can also grant temporary, timed access to a property, making it ideal for Airbnb properties or where contractors need access to a building.

To ensure data security, all data and access methods, including the key fob and the app, are encrypted end-to-end, bringing users peace of mind.

HAFFNER CELEBRATES BEST-EVER FIT SHOW WITH ITS MACHINERY VILLAGE

As in previous years, Haffner had the biggest presence at the show with the Machinery Village spanning three interconnected stands, each dedicated to one of Haffner’s machinery groups: Haffner, Graf Synergy and Fom Industrie. Together, they demonstrated their collaborative strength and the comprehensive solutions on offer from the UK’s leading machinery supplier.

Matt Thomas, Managing Director at Haffner, said: “All three machinery zones were busy throughout the show but the reaction to our Graf seamless technology stood out. Visitors were blown away by the finish quality of the V Perfect welds and the competitive advantage it delivers. It was undoubtedly one of the show’s highlights, and we secured multiple orders as a direct result.”

He continued: “From the many conversations we had with fabricators, automation was the word on everyone’s lips. It’s clear that economic pressures mean every fabricator is looking for ways to boost productivity — and automation is now at the top of the agenda.”

The Haffner Machinery Village attracted strong footfall from high-quality customers, many of whom arrived with clear machinery plans in mind. Matt said: “Sales were taken across our range of machines and numerous confirmed appointments were secured for post-show follow-up. The calibre of enquiries this year was second to none.”

SECURITAS ON THE UP!

VBH, the hardware manufacturer, has advised that sales of one of its star products for aluminium window production is ‘on the up.’

The greenteQ Securitas Offset Security Espagnolette is a specialist product for users of slim aluminium casement windows from three of what VBH describe as the ‘most popular’ aluminium systems, including Sheerline.

These slim profiles have no Eurogroove to accept the locking system. Securitas Offset’s 16mm wide U-rail stainless steel faceplate is designed to be surface fit to account for this, and its offset gearbox ensures that the glazing area is not broached when fitted.

Up to four pairs of bi-directional adjustable mushroom headed cams provide compression and security when in the locked position. The cam pairs locate into both sides of a greenteQ night vent striker plate to firmly hold the sash secure even in the face of a determined attempt at forced entry.

Nine lengths, starting at 320mm going all the way up to 1320mm, mean that even the smallest and largest casements can benefit from Securitas Offset

Gary Gleeson, marketing manager at VBH, says, “Securitas Offset is a major strand of our range of locking systems for outward opening single and double sash casements. We now offer thirteen different solutions across the greenteQ, Roto and Yale brands.

“We launched this product eighteen months ago and it proved so popular that the industry voted it Window Component of the Year last autumn. 2025 has seen sales continue to rise as we penetrate further into the aluminium sector. It really is one of our products that is “on the up.”

As well as being very quick to fit, VBH advise that Securitas Offset is approved for use on Q-secure PREMIUM installations, offering consumers the peace of mind that the popular hardware security guarantee brings.

.As with all greenteQ products, Securitas Offset is supplied with a long guarantee; ten years in this case.

To find out more about Securitas Offset, or any other hardware in the VBH range, contact the company on 01634 263263 or via email at sales@vbhgb.com.

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VEKA FEINSTRUKTUR DELIVERS ALUMINIUMINSPIRED DESIGN IN A PVCU PROFILE

VEKA plc, an innovative leader of PVCu window profile systems, is proud to introduce Feinstruktur – a premium new range of fine-textured, matt finish decorative foils to the market. Delivering aluminium-inspired aesthetic in a PVCu solution.

Responding to consumer trends and rising sustainability demands, Feinstruktur emulates the aesthetic appeal of powdercoated aluminium whilst providing exceptional durability and thermal performance of a PVCu profile.

According to the Keystone Market Research (Autumn 2024), the aluminium window market is increasingly on the rise as homeowners are looking to achieve a striking, modern aesthetic for their property. However, aluminium can prove to be costly both in the initial investment and subsequent maintenance costs, as well as the risk of corrosion and environmental wear. In recent years, aluminium prices have also been driven up by international tariffs and global supply chain pressures. PVCu provides consistent value, superior thermal performance and long-term durability without corrosion.

VEKA Feinstruktur delivers a contemporary, industrial look of aluminium with a PVCu profile. The surface effortlessly aligns with modern trends in colour and texture whilst maintaining VEKA’s signature reliability and performance, serving as a costeffective, energy-efficient alternative to aluminium window systems.

Feinstruktur is available in eight elegant trend-led colours – anthracite grey, slate grey, basalt grey, umber, black, quartz grey, silver grey and traffic white – each carefully selected to complement modern architecture. The textured matt foil is weatherresistant and scratchproof, whilst the easy-to-clean, anti-fingerprint finish, ensures the windows maintain their visual appeal with minimal effort.

Designed with sustainability and cost-efficiency in mind, Feinstruktur is fully recyclable and manufactured using sustainable raw materials to minimise environmental impact, and can be processed using standard lamination machinery, requiring no additional investment or downtime.

WINDOW WAREHOUSE SEES SOARING DEMAND FOR DOORCO COMPOSITE DOORS, OFFERING

STYLE, SECURITY, AND

SEAMLESS SERVICE

At Window Warehouse, DoorCo composite doors have been increasingly popular since their addition to their product range in 2023. This range strengthens the company’s commitment to offering high-performance, stylish, and secure entrance solutions to their trade customers across the south coast..

A big benefit for Window Warehouse during their manufacturing process is the integration of the DoorCo slabs and their bespoke frames. Any issues can be tackled quickly and efficiently, in-house, allowing their customers to streamline their experience with them as a supplier.

The DoorCo composites excel in security whilst complying with building regulations. They are tailored specifically to the UK market and are in line with Approved Document Q. These composites boast a sturdy LVL core, stiles and rails, 44mm slab thickness, as well as a slam-shut lock and laminated glass as standard.

These doors have excellent thermal efficiency as they’re filled with CFC-free polyurethane. This foam-in-place technology ensures a superior seal and complete weatherproofing. They are also extremely easy to install, and customers can complete jobs quickly. Their strength and longevity also mean fewer callouts and happy homeowners.

Homeowners can choose from a huge selection of styles and colours to complement any property. A huge standout feature for DoorCo is the option of having the doors in any RAL colour to ensure they match perfectly with every home. Window Warehouse has its door designer available on their website so homeowners can visualise their final product, and their customers can benefit from a quicker quotation process.

Backed by a ten-year guarantee, the DoorCo range meets the demand for stylish and highly secure composites. Email info@ window-warehouse.co.uk with your project details or visit their website at www.window-warehouse.co.uk to start your quote.

VELOCITY HAS COLOURS COVERED

VBH, the hardware expert behind the greenteQ range, has further expanded its range of residential door hinges with the addition of five new colour choices.

The popular greenteQ Velocity hinge for PVCu doors is now available from UK stock in thirteen painted and plated finishes. Velocity was launched originally in the standard powder coated colours of White, Black and Anthracite Grey, along with PVD Gold, Satin, Smokey, and Polished Chromes and greenteQ’s unique Enduro Steel plated finishes.

Following feedback from customers manufacturing coloured PVCu doors, VBH has now added Cream, Light Oak, Chocolate Brown, Window Grey, and Chartwell Green to Velocity’s colour palette.

VBH advise that Velocity is extremely quick to fit and carries doors weighing up to 100KG with ease. It has been successfully tested to PAS24:2022 and is recognised as a Police Preferred Specification by Secured by Design.

Its ample 3D adjustment is well received by installers.

Gary Gleeson, marketing manager at VBH says “There is a huge market for coloured PVCu residential doors. It’s not all about composites. Fabricators love the features, speed of fitting and security performance of Velocity, and now the five new colour options are available off the shelf, more fabricators of all sizes are making the switch to our flagship door hinge.”

To find out more about the greenteQ Velocity hinge range, visit www.vbhgb.com, email sales@vbhgb.com or call 01634 263263.

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Celebrity Features; Expert Articles and Advice Columns

We’ve featured TV legend Kevin McCloud, gardening gurus’ David Domoney and Huw Richards as well as a double act from George Clarke & Max McCurdo, not to mention interior designer to the stars Kelly Hoppen and master of the home makeover Georgina Burnett and Laurence Llewelyn Bowen! To mention a few!

Every Edition contains expert advice from people within the fenestration and surrounding industries, to ensure our readers are not only entertained but also kept informed of subjects such as planning permissions, building regulations and the latest trends and style.

NEW FLUSH SASH SUPPLIER FOR WINDOW WAREHOUSE…

Window Warehouse is proud to introduce the Deceuninck mechanical flush windows and doors to its product lineup, offering homeowners a fully flush solution for the entire home.

Alongside the popular VEKA flush sash, Window Warehouse now also offers Deceuninck flush sash, which mimics the look of traditional timber. With slim, aesthetic profiles, the design of these windows not only enhances the visual appeal of a property but also offers excellent sound insulation and energy efficiency.

Security is built in, with them being PAS 24 Approved, and comes with a multi-point locking system as standard for complete peace of mind. Homeowners can choose from a selection of Heritage woodgrain finishes to suit their style.

To complement the windows, the flush doors also replicate the traditional timber aesthetic while providing modern benefits. These doors are available in authentic timber and aluminium-look foil finishes, built for durability, and offered in over 30 colour options.

One standout design feature that sets the Deceuninck flush apart is the scribed bead. This finely crafted detail gives the Deceuninck windows a true timber look by creating a seamless joint between the sash and frame. It provides a clean, heritage-style finish that’s weather-resistant.

This latest expansion for Window Warehouse reinforces its ongoing commitment to customer satisfaction by fulfilling the growing demand for a fully flush home amongst its customers.

To find out more about Window Warehouse’s new range of flush sash, visit their website today www.window-warehouse. co.uk. Get in touch with the sales team at info@window-warehouse.co.uk or call 02392 327744.

FENTRADE ANNOUNCED AS DOUBLE FINALISTS AT THE NATIONAL FENESTRATION AWARDS

Aluminium fabricator Fentrade has been announced as a finalist in two categories at the National Fenestration Awards 2025: Aluminium Fabricator of the Year and Bi-Folding Door Manufacturer Of The Year.

Chris Reeks, Director of Fentrade, commented: “The National Fenestration Awards are decided completely by the participation of the industry, so it’s a real honour to be announced as finalists. Thank you to everyone who nominated us.”

The fast-growing aluminium fabricator brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the it’s customers’ needs, qualities that’s reflected in its finalist status.

Chris said: “The vision for Fentrade has always been to be a leading name in high-quality, expertly manufactured aluminium products, underpinned by an exceptional service ethos. It’s a mantra that guides everything we do, from fabricated products to customer support. Being recognised as a finalist is testament to the dedication and hard work of the Fentrade team.”

Its Newport factory manufactures a full range of fenestration products, including bi-folding doors, from respected industry names including Aluk, VBH, Kestrel and Jack Aluminium.

Customers can expect reassuring reliability, with on time in full deliveries every time. Service is similarly impressive, with quotes returned within 24 hours, phone calls that are always returned and technical assistance always available. Quality is also at the heart of everything from incoming materials to finished goods.

The National Fenestration Awards is the industry’s fastest-growing and most inclusive awards event. Now into its 12th year, the awards aim to be the fairest, most inclusive fenestration event, rewarding the very best of the sector.

Each year there is a nominations phase where people put forward the names of people and companies they believe deserve to be recognised. The industry then votes on shortlists in each category based on the nominations submitted, making it the only fenestration industry award built upon the industry itself.

Voting for this year’s awards is open now at www.fenestrationawards.co.uk/nfa25/ and closes on 19 September 2025. The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on 25 October 2025.

KENRICK ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH WINDOW WARE FOR AK TOUCH SECURE™

Kenricks has announced that Window Ware has become a national distributer of AK Touch Secure™, the new high-security Smart door locking system.

Window Ware’s decision to stock AK Touch Secure™ reinforces its commitment to staying at the forefront of smart product innovation. This strategic move opens up significant opportunities for the new and retrofit door market, offering fabricators and installers a smart, secure locking upgrade.

Rob Vaughan, Product Manager at Window Ware, said: “AK Touch Secure™ fits seamlessly into our business providing our customers with a competitive advantage in the smart home space. We were impressed by how easy the product is to install, and we see massive potential in the retrofit door sector.”

AK Touch Secure™ is compatible with any door handle fitted with a Kenrick 3-Star locking cylinder. It offers multiple access options, including intuitive touch-sensitive technology, an encrypted key fob, a secure keypad, a traditional key and voice commands via Google Home or Alexa.

Via the AK Touch Secure™ app, users can control their doors remotely—lock or unlock them from anywhere, check realtime status updates and view detailed access logs to track who has entered or exited the property. The app also enables temporary, time-restricted access for guests or service providers.

Security is impressive with AK Touch Secure™ and features end-to-end encryption to ensure that all data and access methods are fully protected.

Andy Meakin, Sales and Marketing Manager at Kenricks, said: “We are delighted to partner with Window Ware. Their proactive customer-centric approach makes them the ideal distributor to bring AK Touch Secure™ to market nationwide.” Since 1987, Window Ware has been a trusted supply partner for fabricators and installers across the UK, offering a vast range of window and door hardware, tools and consumables backed by expert service. This partnership with Kenricks builds on their reputation for delivering industry-leading solutions that are both reliable and future-proof.

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™

Conservatory

Outlet sends out ‘first aid’ rallying cry after trio of staff save colleague’s life

The trio immediately reacted to his condition by performing CPR and giving mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, whilst briefing the ambulance service on the situation and responding to their instructions.

Fortunately, their quick actions gave the paramedics time to reach The Cutting Room factory in Wakefield, and after using the defibrillator, they were able to revive him.

Maciej Kucharski, who is 63 years old, is now back home after having an implantable cardioverter defibrillator fitted and is expected to make a full recovery.

“I only completed my first aid training three weeks before, and never did I expect to have to put it to use so quickly,” said Andrew Wildsmith, Production Operative at Conservatory Outlet.

“The CPR I learned was fresh in my mind. I was able to perform it on Maciej, whilst Glyn supported me, clearing his airways and giving mouth-to-mouth. Time freezes when you’re in this moment, but we just kept going until the paramedics arrived –they were fantastic.”

Craig Jarvis, who oversaw liaison with the ambulance service, picked up the story: “Maciej is so well-liked in the factory, he’s a real gentleman. I’m just pleased that the three of us could give him the best chance of surviving, and we’re delighted that he’s now on the mend. Hopefully, we’ll see him back on the production line before too long.”

Conservatory Outlet is now urging more companies to invest in first aid training for their staff and ensure they install defibrillators on-site. Without highly trained first aiders on shift and the presence of an on-site defibrillator, the outcome of Maciej’s cardiac arrest could have been very different.

MODPLAN CELEBRATES FIT SHOW DEBUT

Leading trade fabricator Modplan is busy following up leads from its debut appearance at FIT Show 2025. Liam Isaac, Head of Sales and Marketing at Modplan, said: “Our stand was consistently busy across all three days, and the quality of the footfall was excellent. We spoke to many installers looking for a trade partner to support their business, and we’re looking forward to following up with them over the coming days.”

Liam noted that installers were keen to discuss Modplan’s wide range of products. He commented: “We manufacture a comprehensive range of PVC-U windows, doors and conservatory roofs so we can be a one-stop-shop for our customers. It was clear that visitors appreciated the value this would add to their business.” Modplan showcased its range of Profile 22 and VEKA products at the FIT Show, with two new products attracting particular interest.

The first was the new VEKA Omnia, a pioneering new suite of double flush windows and doors that satisfies the growing demand for flush windows. Liam said: “Omnia is described as a quantum leap in PVC-U fabrication, and the interest from visitors reflected this.”

The second product was the all-new VEKA FEINSTRUKTUR foil range, which brings a finish that mirrors powder-coated aluminium. Liam said: “VEKA FEINSTRUKTUR sets a new benchmark in surface technology and installers could see how it will give them a huge competitive advantage.”

Alongside interest in the product range, Liam reported that visitors were particularly interested in the stability that Modplan offers. He commented: “The industry has been particularly turbulent in recent years. But as a fabricator that’s been around for over 50 years, we’ve weathered a lot of storms, so we bring a level of reassurance that’s incredibly valuable right now.”

The show also provided an opportunity to connect with existing customers, many of whom visited the stand and offered very positive feedback. Liam added: “It was great to speak with existing customers and their comments reinforced our commitment of delivering excellence.”

He concluded: “The FIT Show is the leading trade show for the window, door, flat glass, hardware and roofing industry. We were delighted to make our debut and to see so many familiar faces and make valuable new connections.”

CONSERVATORY OUTLET CELEBRATES CONTINUED SUCCESS AT THE WEST YORKSHIRE APPRENTICESHIP AWARDS

Conservatory Outlet has again been recognised for its success in training and developing staff at the West Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards.

Held in Bradford for 2025, the annual event shines a light on those businesses and people who demonstrate excellence in vocational education. The company was singled out for the success of its apprenticeship programme, which has recently expanded to include degree-level qualifications and is also creating a manufacturing-specific course.

As well as being singled out for praise for its industry-leading apprenticeship programme and constant elevation of staff through training, it was a night of success for three staff members who were recognised as amongst the best and highestachieving learners in the region.

Those were Beth Cain (Advanced Apprentice, Level 3), Sarah Fox (Higher Apprentice, Level 4-5) and Joe Davis (Engineering & Manufacturing Apprentice)

Sarah, one of Conservatory Outlet’s key Account Managers, said: “Conservatory Outlet has been incredibly supportive. The time was right for me to progress, and I’ve been able to do that personally and professionally by studying for and obtaining a Higher National Diploma. It’s an honour to be named as one of the apprentices of the year”

These fantastic achievements underscore Conservatory Outlet’s continued investment in career development and our strong support for vocational pathways within the fenestration and manufacturing industries.

The company operates a thriving in-house apprenticeship programme that spans various departments, including finance, marketing, operations, customer service and production.

This initiative is designed to nurture the next generation of talent, offering structured development plans, professional mentoring, and opportunities for long-term career progression within the business.

As a trade-only fabricator, we can focus on giving you the products and service you need to grow your business:

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Carl F Groupco announced as NFA25 finalist

Carl F Groupco has been announced as a finalist in the Hardware Company of the Year in this year’s National Fenestration Awards. Owen Coop, CEO of Carl F Groupco, said: “The National Fenestration Awards are voted for by the industry, so being shortlisted is recognition of the hard work and dedication of our entire team.”

Carl F Groupco is one of the industry’s only independently-owned hardware distributors. The company supplies a complete range of premium quality window and door hardware from 57 brands including Roto, Siegenia, Fuhr, Maco and Yale. Its independent status means it can objectively offer the best technical hardware solutions without the constraints of prioritising commercial gain.

In addition to the strength of its hardware offer, Carl F Groupco is widely recognised for its exceptional customer support. For example, its testing service goes beyond advising on compliant hardware. The team provides end-to-end support, from hardware selection advice to onsite visits to support fit-ups and pre-test preparation, ensuring a smooth and successful process for its customers.

The company holds up to £5 million in stock at any one time and operates with a stringent ‘On Time In Full’ (OTIF) target of 98%. Notably this metric is measured by orders rather than by component part, setting a higher standard of performance. With distribution centres in Peterborough and Cumbernauld, Carl F Groupco offers daily, next-day deliveries, including to Scotland and the Scottish Highlands. This helps customers keep their stock holding low, reducing risk and improving cash flow.

Owen commented: “In a competitive market, we know it takes more than great products to earn long-term loyalty. That is why we focus on delivering exceptional service, technical expertise and reliability, giving our customers complete confidence in choosing us.”

The National Fenestration Awards are the industry’s most inclusive awards programme. Now in their 12th year, the awards are designed to celebrate excellence across the entire fenestration sector, recognising achievement through a transparent and industry-led voting process.

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