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
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PRESERVING STEEL: ASWS DELIVERS EXCELLENCE AT NORTHCLIFFE
PAGE 11
KOMBIMATEC CREATES UNIQUE FACTORY SET UP FOR DIAL 1ST CONSTRUCTION
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
THE SPOTLIGHT
PROTEQ10 GUARANTEE IS SIMPLIFIED
VBH, the specialist behind the greenteQ hardware range, has made improvements to the registration process for its proteQ10 profile cylinder anti snap guarantee.
Under the guarantee, which covers the popular greenteQ Orion TS007 3 star profile cylinder, consumers can expect a payment of £2000 should an Orion snap to allow a successful
VBH has launched a completely new registration process to make it ‘even easier’ for the end customer to register their
The information card that comes with each cylinder has now been updated to include a QR code that takes the customer directly to the registration page of a new website.
The easy-to-use site takes the visitor through the simple registration process in just a few clicks. Once registered, the cylinder’s 10-year anti-snap and function guarantees are activated. In addition, by setting a Key Security Password during registration, the user activates the free Key Security Scheme, which prevents additional keys from being ordered via the key number unless the password is provided.
WHAT’S IN THIS ISSUE?
PAGE 7
KEYSTONE CELEBRATES TWO YEARS OF CONSUMER INSIGHTS WITH FREE AUTUMN FENESTRATION REPORT
PAGE 19
WINDOW WAREHOUSE BRING ON TWO NEW PRODUCTS FOR 2026
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 IN TOUCH!”
TEL: 01302 278756
FAX: 01302 247612
EMAIL: christina@fenestrabuild.co.uk
WRITE TO US: 19 Heather Close, Tickhill, Doncaster, DN11 9UU
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PROTEQ10 GUARANTEE IS SIMPLIFIED
PAGE 23
FENTRADE GEARS UP FOR FUTURE GROWTH FOLLOWING ACQUISITION
Fenestra Build™ is a registered Trademark. 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.
KEYSTONE CELEBRATES TWO YEARS OF CONSUMER INSIGHTS WITH FREE AUTUMN FENESTRATION REPORT
Keystone Market Research is pleased to announce the publication of its Autumn 2025 Consumer Fenestration Trends Report, marking two years of continuous insight into UK homeowner attitudes, preferences and spending behaviour across the fenestration market.
Drawing on feedback from more than 5,300 homeowners throughout 2025, this report consolidates findings from all four quarterly surveys, providing the most complete view yet of how consumer choices around materials, glazing types and investment intentions have evolved over the past year – and how they compare to trends first identified in 2024.
This edition was made possible through the continued support of our sponsors: Endurance Doors, Epwin Window Systems, the GGF, Liniar and VEKA; whose backing has helped Keystone deliver independent, high-quality consumer research to the fenestration industry.
Charlotte Hawkes, Director of Keystone Market Research, commented: “We’re proud to celebrate two full years of publishing the Consumer Fenestration Trends Report and thanks to the support of our sponsors, we’re able to share this report for free, allowing more fabricators, installers and system companies than ever to access this important resource.”
Charlotte also joined an expert panel at this year’s Glazing Summit, where she shared highlights from the Autumn report – including key insights into shifting material preferences, consumer priorities and long-term spending confidence. The discussion drew attention to how young homeowners are set to be the largest market for home improvement projects next year and they are setting aside higher budgets to meet their requirements for superior quality, aesthetics and efficiency.
Now in its second year, the Consumer Fenestration Trends series has established itself as a trusted benchmark for the industry, helping businesses anticipate demand and tailor their strategies accordingly.
ODL EUROPE OPENS NEW IN-HOUSE PAINT FACILITY TO ENHANCE QUALITY AND COLOUR CHOICE
ODL Europe has announced the opening of a new in-house paint facility as part of its continued investment strategy. The dedicated paint plant will now handle all composite door painting in-house, ensuring the highest levels of quality, consistency and colour accuracy across the company’s GRP door range.
Suzanne Nicholl, Head of Sales and Marketing at ODL Europe, said: “This latest investment reflects our commitment to delivering exceptional product quality and choice for our customers. By bringing painting in-house, we have complete control over every stage of the process, ensuring every door that leaves our factory meets our exacting standards.”
The new facility uses a hard-wearing polyurethane paint system, similar to that used in the yacht industry, to provide a superior finish that combines durability with long-lasting visual appeal. Each painted door has a 10-year guarantee against fade, loss of gloss and adhesion, while stained doors carry a 5-year warranty, giving customers lasting confidence in the product’s finish.
Doors are available in any RAL colour, as well as a wide selection of pre-finished colour options and TrueGrain wood-effect finishes. The range includes popular standard colours including White, Green, Red, Blue, Black and Anthracite Grey, along with foil-matched finishes, woodgrain colours and premium shades including Duck Egg and Bastille Blue.
Suzanne added: “This new paint facility gives us complete flexibility to meet the growing demand for bespoke and premium colour door options. It means our customers can offer more choice, faster turnaround times and the same high level of quality ODL Europe is known for.”
She continued: “Paint is an essential part of our fully prepped process, and we know our customers appreciate the quality of our painted products. By increasing the efficiency of our paint offer, we can meet customer demands more effectively and deliver a complete prepped, painted and glazed solution from a single source.”
TRADE WINDOW CENTRE INVESTS IN NEW HAFFNER MACHINERY TO SUPPORT CONTINUED GROWTH
Trade Window Centre has further strengthened its manufacturing capabilities with the purchase of a new SMR-5 Five Head Welder from Haffner.
Earlier this year, the Yorkshire-based trade fabricator purchased an SBA Machining Centre from Haffner, which has allowed them to scale up production to around 700 frames per week. The new SMR-5 will further enhance their capacity as they continue to experience exceptional year-on-year growth.
Founded by window fitters Dominic Francis and Ryan Arnold, Trade Window Centre was established in 2022 following a partnership with UK Doors Online. What began as a small local fabricator operating from a 2,500 sqft facility has since evolved into a national manufacturer based in a 50,000 sqft facility with 25,000 sqft dedicated to window and door fabrication. This impressive expansion marks an exceptional growth trajectory in just three years.
The company manufactures a wide range of PVC-U windows and doors, as well as aluminium products for the trade market. Their focus on quality, supported by hands-on industry experience, has been instrumental to their success. As former fitters, Dominic and Ryan understand first-hand the value of supplying high-quality manufactured products to the trade.
Dominic said: “We’ve built Trade Window Centre by continually investing in the best machinery and people. The SMR-5 is another big step forward for us and gives us the precision, speed and consistency we need to keep up with demand while maintaining the high standards our customers expect.”
The SMR-5 Five Head Welding Machine from Haffner is a next-level solution that perfectly demonstrates the power of automation. Using an SMR-5, an operative can weld twice as many frames in the same time compared to a standard quad welder. The advanced machine delivers outstanding accuracy, flexibility and performance, making it a valuable addition to Trade Window Centre’s expanding operation.
Dominic added: “Our journey has always been about delivering the highest quality products to our customers. Every investment we make is with that goal in mind. The SBA
PRESERVING STEEL HERITAGE: ASWS DELIVERS EXCELLENCE AT THE NORTHCLIFFE
The Steel Window Association (SWA) represents the UK’s leading specialists in the preservation and refurbishment of steel windows and doors – particularly in listed buildings, heritage properties, and conservation areas. Its members, including London-based Associated Steel Window Services (ASWS), are trusted custodians of architectural legacy, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern performance standards.
A standout example of ASWS’ expertise is its work on The Northcliffe – the Grade II listed former Daily Mail headquarters in London’s Whitefriars Conservation Area. Working alongside John Robertson Architects (JRA), ASWS was selected for its proven track record in delivering high-quality restoration on heritage projects.
At the outset, ASWS conducted a full condition survey across the building’s complex elevations, internal doors, and screens – covering steel, aluminium, and curtain walling. This detailed report formed a key part of the tender process and set the foundation for the restoration strategy.
ASWS Operations Director, Kris Bennell, described the scope: “For the steel windows, we carried out full servicing and detailed cleaning of the original copper light glazing, along with redecoration and overhaul of all ironmongery. On-site, we completed extensive mastic work and redecoration across the remaining windows which included timber sashes.”
JRA Associate Andy Thomas highlighted the architectural significance of the copperlight windows, which were retained as a key interior feature. He praised ASWS’ role in restoring these elements and managing the sequencing of works with precision.
ASWS’ contribution was instrumental in helping the project team meet its sustainability goals. By restoring and reusing original components wherever possible, The Northcliffe is now on track to achieve a BREEAM Outstanding rating – placing it among the top 1% of commercial refurbishments in the UK.
For further information on the Steel Window Association or if you’re interested in becoming a member, please visit www. steel-window-association.co.uk
KOMBIMATEC CREATES
UNIQUE FACTORY
SET UP FOR DIAL 1ST CONSTRUCTION
Kombimatec has supplied and installed a suite of machines to design and build experts Dial 1st Construction, to establish a dedicated 1800 square foot window manufacturing factory for bespoke private projects. This investment gives Dial 1st Construction full control over the supply and quality of uPVC windows and doors destined for its own construction and renovation projects.
This was not a normal factory fit out, and Kombimatec worked closely with director Kannan Vivekananthan to better understand the needs of manufacturing for private projects, rather than supplying direct to the trade.
“After having worked with too many unreliable windows suppliers and being left unsatisfied with waiting times and quality of product, we began looking into developing our own factory and sourcing the best possible machinery to support rapid growth and consistent quality,” commented Kannan Vivekananthan, director at Dial 1st Construction Ltd. “It was important we had faith in the windows we were producing – and therefore, the machinery we would be relying on to fabricate each window from start to finish.
It was clear that Kombimatec could be relied upon to provide a high standard of customer support throughout, including the process of selection, purchase and installation,” continued Kannan.
Dial 1st Construction works exclusively in London – a demanding market that, in Kannan’s own words, “requires grit, tenacity and thoughtful consideration.” Combining longevity and affordability with efficiency is crucial if the company is to maintain competitive edge. Having forged strong relationships with housing associations in and around London, it was crucial to find a solution to the supply of windows that fulfilled the company’s ethos of providing consistent, exceptional service and not cutting corners.
• 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
MAKITA NAILS IT AGAIN WITH NEW 18V LXT BRUSHLESS FINISHING NAILERS
Makita has expanded its powerful cordless tool selection with the launch of two new 18V LXT Brushless Finishing Nailers: the DBN610 and DBN601. These high-performance tools have been engineered for precision, power, and ease of use, delivering impressive, consistent results across a wide range of finishing applications including both hard and soft woods.
The DBN601 is a straight 16-gauge nailer, whilst the DBN610 features an angled design, which makes it especially wellsuited for work in tight spaces and on intricate trim. Both tools feature Makita’s innovative pneumatic spring drive system, to deliver smooth, powerful, and consistent nailing and significantly reduce recoil for greater user comfort. They are also fitted with brushless motors that make the tools highly efficient due to the minimised friction, which enhances firing speed and maintains performance during continuous use.
Designed with professionals in mind, both nailers include a tool-less jam clearing mechanism that allows for quick and simple removal of stuck brad nails, helping to maintain workflow and reduce downtime. A built-in viewing window makes it easy to check the remaining nail quantity without interrupting the task at hand. For added safety and durability, the nailers also incorporate an anti-dry fire mechanism to prevent damage to the tool and work surface when nails run low.
Accuracy is further enhanced by the slim nose design, which improves line of sight and minimises obstruction. The integrated work light ensures visibility in dim or confined spaces. Each nailer is supplied with three no-mark tips – which can be stored on the tool at all times for easy access – and offer added protection to surfaces during finishing tasks.
The DBN601 weighs just 2.6kg without the battery and is compatible with 16-gauge nails ranging from 19mm to 64mm, making it a versatile choice for daily finishing work. The DBN610, which weighs 2.7kg, accepts 16-gauge nails from 32mm to 64mm and is ideal for angled applications. Both models allow users to switch between sequential and bump-fire modes, providing flexibility for various tasks and working styles.
“These new finish nailers represent Makita’s commitment to delivering cordless solutions that don’t compromise on power or precision,” said Kevin Brannigan (Marketing Manager) at Makita. “Powered purely by the 18v LXT battery, no gas cartridges are required. With both angled and straight options, professionals can tackle any finishing job with confidence, knowing they have reliable performance, ease of use, and clean results every time.”
6000+ Products
24/7 Ordering
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FUTURE PRODUCTS INVESTS IN HAFFNER SBA-4 PROFILE MACHINING CENTRE
Trade fabricator Future Products has further strengthened its manufacturing output with the purchase of a new SBA-4 Profile Machining Centre from Haffner.
Stuart Bower, Managing Director at Future Products, said: “The SBA-4 represents the latest step in our ongoing commitment to manufacturing advancement. This cutting-edge machine will allow us to expand our capabilities and further improve efficiency, enabling us to produce an additional 25–30 door frames per hour.”
Impressively, the machine was installed at Future Products’ 67,000 sq. ft state-of-the-art Nottinghamshire facility in less than six weeks. Stuart added: “The service from Haffner was excellent from start to finish. The whole process from order to installation was quick and efficient and the machine is already delivering on our investment.”
The SBA-4 has evolved through many years of working experience and is the ideal solution for cutting and machining PVC-U profiles. Its heavy-duty design and top-quality construction ensure years of trouble-free processing, while the robust Beckhoff control system offers intuitive programming and seamless operation.
Matt Thomas, Managing Director at Haffner, commented: “The SBA-4 Profile Machining Centre is a powerhouse of a machine that gives the Future Products team what they need to boost productivity and enhance their manufacturing output.”
With over 40 years of experience, Future Products manufactures composite doors alongside PVC-U windows, doors, patios and conservatories for the trade. The company has built a strong reputation for exceptional product quality and outstanding customer service, supporting trade customers, builders and installers nationwide. The addition of the SBA-4 to its manufacturing set-up equips the team to continue to maintain its consistently high standards and service.
Stuart concluded: “We take great pride in our heritage, our skilled team and our dedication to embracing innovation. The SBA-4 is a perfect example of how we continue to invest in advanced machine technology to deliver excellence for our customers.”
CARL F GROUPCO EXPANDS SMART LOCKING PORTFOLIO WITH TEDEE SOLUTIONS
Leading independent hardware supplier Carl F Groupco has further strengthened its smart product offering with the addition of Tedee smart locking solutions, giving customers more ways to meet growing demand for keyless security.
Owen Coop, CEO of Carl F Groupco, said: “Our aim is always to ensure our range reflects current market trends in this dynamic industry. Smart locking solutions are a major growth area at the moment, and by adding Tedee products to our portfolio we are giving customers more opportunities to capitalise on this demand.”
The Tedee PRO Smart Lock Bundle with Modular Cylinder offers seamless keyless entry and complete control over door access. The bundle includes the Tedee PRO Smart Lock, an elegant solution that offers ultra-quiet operation, fast locking, auto-lock/unlock and full app control all with bank-level security encryption. It also includes the Modular Cylinder, an adjustable, high-security cylinder that is compatible with most European door types and ensures perfect alignment and smooth smart lock performance.
Owen commented: “The Tedee PRO Bundle offers effortless smart access and strong security all in one elegant package. It’s perfect for a wide range of applications including modern homes, commercial properties and Airbnbs.”
The Tedee GO2 provides an impressive retrofit smart lock solution, sliding over an existing European cylinder and securing with just three screws. Installation takes only minutes, bringing keyless convenience within easy reach.
Owen added: “The Tedee GO2 is an exceptionally simple yet effective smart locking solution for anyone wanting to experience the benefits of keyless operation.”
The Tedee products join other leading smart locking solutions in the Carl F Groupco range, including options from Yale, FUHR and Kenrick.
MODPLAN INCREASES OMNIA PRODUCTION CAPACITY TO MEET GROWING DEMAND
Leading trade fabricator Modplan has announced a significant increase in production capacity for its VEKA OMNIA range, moving from a three-day to a five-day shift pattern in response to surging customer demand.
Liam Isaac, Head of Sales and Marketing at Modplan, said:“Since launching OMNIA earlier this year, the response from our customers has been exceptional. The system’s versatility, aesthetics and performance have truly struck a chord in the market. To ensure we continue meeting this growing demand, we’ve increased our OMNIA production to a five-day operation. This investment reinforces our commitment to delivering the quality and service our customers expect from Modplan.”
The OMNIA suite of double flush windows and doors has quickly established itself in the market. At the heart of its design is a zero sight-line mullion, creating a clean and expansive appearance. For consumers seeking an even more refined aesthetic, windows can also be manufactured with invisible mullions, preserving the pure simplicity of the profile.
Liam said: “Combining sleek sightlines, exceptional design flexibility and outstanding thermal performance, OMNIA has become a standout choice for our customers across both contemporary developments and heritage restoration projects”.
By expanding to a five-day shift, Modplan is enhancing manufacturing efficiency, shortening lead times and strengthening its ability to support installers with reliable supply. The change is part of Modplan’s wider growth strategy, which continues to focus on investing in people, technology and product innovation.
Liam added: “The increased shift pattern reflects not only the strength and success of OMNIA, but also the confidence our customers place in Modplan as their trusted supply partner. This development follows a series of significant investments, including the purchase of a new Supercut 6 Machining Centre from Avantek, to further support our growth and ongoing manufacturing expansion.”
Modplan manufactures the full OMNIA suite including casement windows, tilt & turn windows, French doors and residential doors from its state-of-the-art Newport fabrication facilities. The company also offers a comprehensive range of VEKA, Profile 22 and LEKA Systems products, making it a comprehensive trade supplier for installers across the UK.
KENRICK ACHIEVES IASME IOT CYBER
CERTIFICATION FOR AK
SAFE SECURE
Kenrick has further strengthened its commitment to security excellence with the AK Safe Secure smart lock box achieving IASME IoT Cyber certification, confirming its compliance with recognised cybersecurity and data protection standards.
Cybersecurity is becoming increasingly important in the smart technology space, driven by new UK legislation and rising customer expectations. All consumer connectable products sold in the UK must now meet essential IoT security requirements, placing greater responsibility on manufacturers to demonstrate the safety and integrity of their devices.
Andy Meakin, Sales and Marketing Manager at Kenrick, said: “Cybersecurity is now a crucial part of any smart product and it was important for AK Safe Secure to achieve this accreditation. Meeting IASME IoT Cyber standards shows that AK Safe Secure has been designed to the level of protection that today’s market expects, and it reinforces our commitment to delivering secure and dependable smart access solutions.”
IASME plays a key role in helping manufacturers meet these requirements and works closely with Secured by Design, the UK Police Service’s official crime prevention initiative. Secured by Design recently introduced the Secure Connected Device accreditation for connected security products such as alarm systems and video technology. The IASME IoT Cyber Assurance scheme is one of the recognised routes manufacturers can follow to demonstrate that their products meet the highest level of cybersecurity requirements.
For AK Safe Secure, achieving IASME IoT Cyber certification confirms that the smart lock box has been independently assessed against essential cybersecurity controls. A certification badge can now be displayed on its packaging, enabling purchasers to easily verify the security credentials of the device and make informed decisions.
The certification confirms that AK Safe Secure incorporates measures to protect user information, secure digital communication and maintain resilient data-handling practices. It also reinforces that its smart features including remote management, permissions control and real-time monitoring are supported by independently verified cybersecurity standards.
Window Warehouse brings on two new products for 2025
Window Warehouse entered 2025 with significant momentum, unveiling two major additions to its product portfolio: the AluK Heritage Aluminium Door and the Deceuninck Flush Sash range, in particular, the flush door. Both these introductions marked an expansion that empowers their trade customers to offer homeowners fully suited home solutions in both flush and heritage styles.
The Deceuninck Flush Sash range brings a level of design consistency and premium performance to Window Warehouse’s portfolio. Most notably, the new flush door means the company now offers its installers the ability to complete a wholehouse flush solution for the first time. The flush system recreates the appearance of traditional timber joinery while providing all the benefits of modern UPVC technology, providing exceptional thermal efficiency, security, and design versatility. This range improves kerb appeal and ensures cohesive design from every angle.
The AluK Heritage Door is designed for those seeking traditional charm with modern functionality. It pairs perfectly with the heritage window system; the door offers slim sightlines, a timeless aesthetic, and is extremely robust. Manufactured using high-quality aluminium, the door delivers superior strength, security, and thermal performance, meeting the demands of today’s energy-conscious market. With a range of configuration options, it’s a versatile choice for both residential and commercial applications.
Trade partners benefit from consistent quality and the convenience of sourcing entire style ranges from a single supplier. Homeowners, in turn, gain access to beautifully matched window and door combinations tailored to either modern flush or classic heritage.
For more information on both the Deceuninck Flush Range and the Heritage Door, visit www.window-warehouse.co.uk or call 02392327744 to speak to a member of their sales team.
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
PROTEQ10 GUARANTEE IS SIMPLIFIED
VBH, the specialist behind the greenteQ hardware range, has made improvements to the registration process for its proteQ10 profile cylinder anti snap guarantee.
Under the guarantee, which covers the popular greenteQ Orion TS007 3 star profile cylinder, consumers can expect a payment of £2000 should an Orion snap to allow a successful break in.
VBH has launched a completely new registration process to make it ‘even easier’ for the end customer to register their cylinder.
The information card that comes with each cylinder has now been updated to include a QR code that takes the customer directly to the registration page of a new website.
The easy-to-use site takes the visitor through the simple registration process in just a few clicks. Once registered, the cylinder’s 10-year anti-snap and function guarantees are activated. In addition, by setting a Key Security Password during registration, the user activates the free Key Security Scheme, which prevents additional keys from being ordered via the key number unless the password is provided.
Gary Gleeson, Marketing Manager at VBH, says, “We have had over 18,000 individual registrations since launching the proteQ10 guarantee and security scheme.
“These improvements to the key card and website make product registration easier than ever. greenteQ Orion is the obvious choice for installers and lock replacement specialists, as it is easy to explain the benefits of the cylinder and the process of registering for proteQ10 to potential customers.
“Once the cylinder is registered, VBH takes over responsibility for all dealings with the end user in the unlikely event of an issue, saving our customers the potential headaches and costs of call outs and providing replacement products.”
VBH can be contacted on 01634 263263 or by email at info@vbhgb.com.
HAFFNER CELEBRATES SUCCESS OF GRAF
SYNERGY
OPEN DAYS
The Haffner team has returned from a week-long series of open days for customers and partners at Graf Synergy’s headquarters in Nonantola, Italy, with a host of new orders to fulfil.
Matt Thomas, Managing Director at Haffner Ltd, said: “The open days were attended by more than 950 customers and industry operators from around the world. As Graf Synergy’s exclusive UK partner, we were delighted to have hosted so many UK businesses. The value we were able to demonstrate led to most attendees placing orders for Graf machinery.”
The open days were an opportunity to showcase the advanced technological solutions developed by Graf Synergy to improve quality, aesthetics and production efficiency.
Matt commented: “The open days allowed us to show how Graf machinery transforms production processes and creates value for customers, not least through its patented V-Perfect® seamless weld technology.”
During the open days, visitors were able to see a fully automated production line layout, from the renowned welders with the V-Perfect® technology to the latest generation cutting centres and the integrated Fast Forward Plant logistics system. The machinery on display showcased the latest in precision and efficiency, including V-Perfect welding machineswith 2-4-6 and 8-head configurations. These offered welding without the need for post-corner cleaning, as well as crossbar welding with or without aluminium covers, and threshold welding. Also featured were systems designed for V-cut crossbar welding and inverted frame welding for both internal and external openings, along with high-speed welders capable of completing one or two frames in under 50 seconds. Completing the display was a traditional production line, incorporating doublehead cutting machines, controlled-axis cleaning systems and an automated centre for glazing beads.
The open days also featured live demonstrations of innovations and systems designed to speed up production and increase the quality of the final product, as well as presentations from Graf Synergy technicians.
Alongside the learning, attendees were able to network with fellow professionals and make valuable industry connections.
FENTRADE GEARS UP FOR FUTURE GROWTH FOLLOWING ACQUISITION
Following its acquisition by Aluminium Vision Limited earlier this year, independent trade fabricator Fentrade is reporting a period of continued stability, strategic investment and sustained sales growth as the business prepares for its next phase of expansion.
Since the sale of shareholdings in April 2025, it has very much been business as usual for the Newport-based fabricator, but with significant planning for the future taking place behind the scenes. The new ownership has already brought tangible investment into the workforce, including additional estimating staff and the appointment of a new Technical Manager to further strengthen customer support. Recruitment is also underway on the shopfloor to increase manufacturing capacity.
Chris Reeks, Managing Director and co-founder of Fentrade, commented: “Whenever a business changes ownership, there can be concern that standards may slip. But with Aluminium Vision, this was never in doubt. The new team shares the same values of service, quality and reliability that have always defined Fentrade. Retaining my position as Managing Director has ensured continuity for our staff and our customers, while giving me the opportunity to oversee the growth of the business in the way I could not previously realise.”
Despite wider economic uncertainty, Fentrade has delivered consistent sales growth throughout 2025, acquiring new trade customers and securing several large, high-profile commercial projects. With further investment planned and relocation options being actively explored, the company is forecasting continued momentum into 2026 and beyond.
The strengthened partnership with Aluminium Vision has also reinforced Fentrade’s long-term manufacturing strategy. The business continues to operate from its modern Newport facility, fabricating an extensive aluminium product range using systems from leading industry names including Aluk, VBH, Kestrel and Jack Aluminium.
Chris added: “We’ve built a reputation as a dependable fabricator that delivers on time, in full and with exceptional attention to detail. With the backing of Aluminium Vision and the additional resources now in place, we are in a stronger position than ever to support our customers and grow our presence in both the trade and commercial sectors.”
