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I N N O V A T I N G E L E V A T I N G

T O D A Y T O M O R R O W

December 2024

Timothy Taylor | Commercial Director

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Leading Through Continuous Improvement At VEKA, we take pride in being industry

this approach led to their first Tour de France

leaders in the fenestration sector. However,

victory, surpassing their five-year goal. Over the

our success is not a reason to stand

following decade, the team went on to win 178 world

still — quite the opposite. The fenestration

championships, 66 Olympic and Paralympic gold

industry is constantly evolving, and so are we.

medals, and five more Tour de France titles.

We understand that to maintain our leadership position,

we

must

continuously

adapt,

innovate, and improve in every aspect of our business.

At VEKA, we embrace a similar approach. We focus on refining and enhancing every detail—whether it’s the quality of our products or the excellence of our customer service—knowing that these incremental gains lead to substantial overall improvements. Our

This relentless pursuit of excellence is central to our

commitment to innovation ensures we stay ahead of

philosophy at VEKA. We believe that even the smallest

industry trends, always adapting to the changing needs

enhancements can make a significant impact, and

of our partners.

this belief drives our commitment to continuous improvement in both our products and services.

Backed by the strength of our global group, with 25 production facilities worldwide, we are equipped

This mindset echoes the story of the British Cycling

with the best practices and cutting-edge processes

Team under Sir Dave Brailsford’s leadership. His

from across the globe. This global backing allows us

strategy was based on the idea that by improving

to continuously push the boundaries of what we can

every aspect of cycling by just 1%, the cumulative

achieve, delivering superior products and services that

effect would be extraordinary. Within three years,

add value for you and your customers.

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Strengthening Our Future / 06-09 Understanding BSI / 10-13 Elevating Our Impact In The Commercial Market / 14-17 WinDoPlan / 18-19 The Glenigan Construction Review / 20-21 Product Innovations / 22-23 VEKA Recycling / 24-25 Key Contacts / 26-27

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I N

F O C U S

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S T R E N G T H E N I N G O U R

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F U T U R E

Meet the Team Driving Continuous Improvement As part of our ongoing commitment to continuous

the biggest impact. The way VEKA quickly adapts to

improvement, we are excited to introduce two new

industry trends and changes is impressive, and this

members of the VEKA team: Sam Ferguson, Head

flexibility is a key advantage for our partners.”

of Operational Excellence, and Richard Brunning, Continuous Improvement Manager.

Richard Brunning comes to VEKA with extensive international experience, having worked in the UK,

Sam Ferguson brings 17 years of experience in

Germany, France, and Argentina. His background in

engineering leadership roles within the manufacturing

project management focuses on optimising operations

industry, making him an invaluable addition to our

and process flows, always with an eye on delivering

team. Sam was drawn to VEKA because of our

maximum value to our partners.

reputation for producing quality products, our strong commitment to our people, and our ambitious vision for the future.

Richard’s mission at VEKA is to enhance our capacity for analysing and improving processes, building on our already successful operations. He will also be driving

He has been impressed by the reliability of our

continuous improvement in our internal processes and

operational data, which is readily accessible and

services, fostering greater collaboration across the

used to make informed decisions that benefit our

business.

partners. Sam’s role is to help us build on our existing strengths, and as he puts it, “VEKA is already a leader in our industry, but there’s always room to be better. Operational Excellence is about making those incremental, logical changes that can have

Richard and Sam will be working closely on several exciting projects, ensuring that our operations and services align with VEKA’s vision of becoming an even stronger industry leader.

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Building on Our Core Values At VEKA, our commitment to continuous improvement is deeply rooted in our core values of quality, innovation, and sustainability. Everything we do, from enhancing our products to refining our services, is driven by these principles.

QUALITY

INNOVATION

SUSTAINABILITY

Our systems undergo over

By collaborating we can create

Together with VEKA Recycling,

100 quality checks from start

products like OMNIA that deliver

we can offer sustainable

to finish, far exceeding

tangible benefits and keep you

solutions that not only meet

industry standards.

at the leading edge

current environmental

of the industry.

standards but also anticipate future regulatory and market demands.

As we continue to evolve, we remain steadfast in our dedication to these values. Together, we’re not just improving— we’re building a stronger, more sustainable future for VEKA and our partners in the fenestration industry.

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U N D E R S T A N D I N G

B S I :

T H E

O F

I N

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B E N C H M A R K

M A N U F A C T U R I N G

E X C E L L E N C E

In the manufacturing sector, maintaining high

ISO 14001: Sustainability is at the core of VEKA’s

standards of quality and sustainability is essential. The

operations. ISO 14001 certification highlights our

British Standards Institution (BSI) plays a crucial role in

dedication to effective environmental management,

helping companies achieve these standards. BSI is the

ensuring that we minimise our environmental impact

UK’s national standards body, and it creates rigorous

while maximising resource efficiency.

guidelines that ensure products and services are safe, reliable, and meet the highest quality benchmarks. For manufacturers like VEKA, adhering to BSI standards is a testament to our commitment to excellence, sustainability, and continuous improvement.

Our Accreditations

ISO 50001: Energy efficiency is a key component of sustainability. ISO 50001 certification demonstrates our systematic approach to energy management, reducing our carbon footprint and promoting energysaving practices across our operations.

ISO 9001: Quality is a fundamental value at VEKA. ISO

At VEKA, our dedication to quality and sustainability

9001 certification affirms that our quality management

is reflected in the numerous accreditations we

systems meet international standards, ensuring

hold. These certifications are not just symbols; they

consistency, reliability, and a focus on continuous

represent our ongoing commitment to upholding the

improvement in all our processes.

highest standards in the industry.

Window and Door Energy Rating: This accreditation

BSEN 12608: This European Standard outlines the

indicates that our windows and doors achieve top

requirements for PVCu profiles used in the fabrication

energy efficiency ratings. By optimising thermal

of windows and doors. VEKA’s adherence to this

performance, we help our customers reduce

standard ensures that our profiles are manufactured

energy costs and contribute to a more sustainable

with the highest levels of safety, durability, and quality.

environment.

BSEN 12608/PAS 24: This combines the PVCu profile standards with PAS 24, which sets enhanced security performance requirements for windows and doors.

This accreditation underscores our commitment to producing secure, reliable, and high-quality products.

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At VEKA, quality and sustainability are two of the pillars that support our entire operation. Each accreditation we hold is a reflection of our steadfast commitment to these core values. Our focus on quality ensures that we consistently deliver products that meet and exceed industry standards, providing exceptional value to our partners.

Sustainability is equally critical, driving us to adopt environmentally responsible practices that protect the planet for future generations.

Continuous Improvement: The VEKA Way Our dedication to continuous improvement is what drives us to achieve and maintain these rigorous standards. At VEKA, we see each accreditation not just as a mark of current excellence but as a foundation for future progress. By adhering to BSI standards and continually enhancing our practices, we ensure that VEKA remains at the forefront of the fenestration industry. Our commitment to continuous improvement means that we are always striving to refine our processes, improve our products, and reduce our environmental impact.

Martin White Quality Engineering Lab Team Leader

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T H E

O U R

I M P A C T

C O M M E R C I A L

M A R K E T

In today’s evolving construction landscape, where

One of the cornerstones of our success in the

compliance, precision, and innovation are paramount,

commercial market is our unrivalled technical support.

VEKA continues to set the standard in delivering high-

Our dedicated technical team offers in-depth design

quality PVCu solutions tailored to meet the specific

and specification support, ensuring that every project

needs of commercial projects.

is meticulously planned and executed to meet all

At VEKA, we understand the unique demands of commercial projects. Whether it’s meeting stringent regulatory standards, optimising energy efficiency,

necessary standards. From the initial design phase to the final installation, our experts are on hand to provide guidance and solutions that drive project success.

or enhancing the aesthetic appeal of a building, our

A standout tool in our arsenal is the WinDoPlan

comprehensive range of PVCu products is designed

software—an exclusive resource that empowers

to perform under the most demanding conditions. Our

our customers with 24/7 access to comprehensive

leading product solutions are not just about providing

planning and tendering support. WinDoPlan covers

materials; they are about delivering value through

every aspect of window and door specification, from

innovation, quality, and reliability.

thermal calculations to compliance with fire and safety regulations. This unique software not only streamlines the planning process but also enhances accuracy and efficiency, making it an indispensable tool for architects, specifiers, and contractors alike.

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To further strengthen our support in the commercial

mind for those involved in major construction projects.

sector, we are delighted to introduce Anna Crossley,

This strategic approach is not only enhancing our

our in-house dedicated Project Sales Co-Ordinator.

visibility in the market but is also creating new

Anna’s role is solely focused on bridging the gap between VEKA customers and live commercial projects, providing seamless support from the early planning stages right through to project completion.

Her expertise and dedication are invaluable in

sector. As we continue to navigate the complexities of the current construction environment, it is more important than ever for our partners to stay informed about the latest market trends and developments.

facilitating connections that drive success in the

We encourage you to explore the industry summary

commercial market.

that follows, which provides insights into the UK

Anna is also instrumental in increasing awareness of VEKA’s capabilities among architects, specifiers and contractors. By proactively engaging with key stakeholders in the commercial sector, we are ensuring that VEKA’s innovative solutions are front of

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opportunities for our partners who are active in the

construction market as of July 2024 (The Glenigan Construction Review). At VEKA, we remain committed to supporting your growth and success, and we look forward to continuing our partnership in delivering excellence to the commercial market.

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Being able to send detailed cross sections to our customers, showing exactly what we are proposing, is a game-changer. It allows them to drop the details into their project plans and see if everything fits. This functionality is especially useful in the commercial sector, where every detail counts.

Martin Smith Commercial Director Scotia Windows and Doors

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Case Study: Scotia Windows and Doors

Scotia Windows and Doors, a VEKA partner for the last 27

WinDoPlan has become an indispensable tool for Scotia

years, has been utilising the unique WinDoPlan software to

Windows and Doors, helping them maintain a competitive

streamline their processes, enhance communication with

edge. By simplifying complex tasks and enhancing

customers, and save valuable time.

collaboration with customers, the software ensures Scotia

User-Friendly and Efficient: According to Scotia, one of the key advantages of WinDoPlan is its user-friendly interface. “The software

can deliver high-quality, precision-engineered window and door solutions.

WinDoPlan Features

is incredibly straightforward to use,” says Martin Smith,

Breakdown of entire windows into centre pane, frame,

Commercial Director at Scotia Windows and Doors. “It

and solar gain values for thermal calculations.

saves us a lot of time, especially when we need to quickly

Calculations tailored to project: postcode, building height

calculate u-values. It’s a tool that allows us to be more efficient in our daily operations.”

Precise Visuals for Commercial Projects:

& coast distance.

Generate customizable cross-sections and 3D images instantly with a click, allowing you to choose colours and

WinDoPlan’s ability to generate cross-sectional drawings

cut as desired. Easily save and share with customers.

of windows has proven to be a significant asset,

Offers detailed profiles with images, dimensions, and

particularly in Scotia’s commercial projects. With changing requirements for insulation, plasterboard, and

accessory lists for each.

external cladding, being able to see how these elements integrate into the overall design is crucial.

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The Glenigan Construction Review – Reflecting activity to the end of July 2024

Sector-Specific Insights Housing

The UK construction market faced mixed trends during the first half of 2024. Although there was a notable

Private Housing: The private housing sector saw a slight

increase in project starts, significant declines were observed in both detailed planning approvals and main

decline in new work. Detailed planning approvals were

contract awards. These fluctuations reflect the ongoing economic uncertainties impacting the sector, making

down by 15% compared to the same period last year,

the relationship building more important than ever.

reflecting a cautious approach from developers amid rising interest rates and inflationary pressures. However, project starts in the higher-value segment remained resilient, with a 5% increase in starts valued at over £100 million.

Public Housing: New public housing work faced more

Project Starts: There was a 13% increase in project

Detailed Planning Approvals: Approvals

starts compared to the same period in 2023.

experienced a 21% decrease compared to last year.

Major projects, particularly those valued at over

This downward trend suggests potential challenges

starts. This decline was driven by budgetary constraints

£100 million, saw a 91% increase year-on-year,

in the project pipeline, which could affect future

and funding issues, which have limited the capacity

although there was a slight decline compared to the

construction activities.

for new developments. The outlook for public housing

preceding three months.

substantial challenges, with a 10.3% decrease in project

remains uncertain as local authorities grapple with tight budgets.

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Main Contract Awards: A significant 34% decrease

Construction Output: According to the latest ONS

was observed in main contract awards compared to

data, construction output fell by 1.4% in April, with

the previous three months, marking a 32% decline

a broader decrease of 2.2% over the three months

year-on-year. This reduction highlights a cautious

to April 2024. Repair and maintenance work saw

approach from investors and developers amid

a slight decline, though private housing repairs

economic uncertainties.

increased by 3.3%.

Industrial

Hotel and Leisure

Community

The industrial sector continued to show strength, driven

The hotel and leisure sector saw a 4% increase in project

Community projects saw a modest 3% increase in

by demand for logistics and warehousing facilities.

starts, driven by a rebound in tourism and domestic

project starts, driven by local initiatives to improve

Project starts increased by 7% compared to the

travel. However, the sector remains vulnerable to

public spaces and community facilities. Detailed

previous year, supported by the ongoing expansion of

economic fluctuations, and detailed planning approvals

planning approvals, however, dropped by 11%, reflecting

e-commerce. However, the sector also saw a 9% decline

were down by 14%, suggesting a cautious approach to

tighter budgets and longer approval processes.

in detailed planning approvals, indicating that future

new investments. The focus is increasingly on upgrading

The sector is likely to see gradual growth as local

growth may slow unless new projects enter the pipeline.

existing facilities rather than expanding capacity.

governments prioritize essential community projects.

Offices

Healthcare

The UK construction market is experiencing a

The office market faced significant headwinds, with

The healthcare sector remained a priority, with a 6%

period of transition, with mixed performance across

a 12% decrease in project starts and a 25% drop

increase in project starts as the government continued

various sectors. While some areas, like industrial and

in detailed planning approvals. The shift towards

to invest in new hospitals and health facilities.

healthcare, continue to see growth, others, such as

hybrid working models has reduced the demand for

Despite this, detailed planning approvals fell by 10%,

offices and retail, face significant challenges. Staying

traditional office spaces, leading to a slowdown in new

reflecting delays in the planning process and budgetary

informed about these trends is crucial for navigating the

developments. Investors are increasingly focusing

constraints. The sector is expected to remain stable,

current market landscape.

on refurbishing existing buildings to meet modern

with ongoing demand for modern, efficient healthcare

standards rather than pursuing new projects.

infrastructure.

Retail

Education

The retail sector continued to struggle, reflecting

The education sector experienced a 9% decline in

broader challenges in the high street and retail park

project starts, largely due to budgetary pressures and

markets. Project starts were down by 8% year-on-year,

delays in funding approvals. Detailed planning approvals

and detailed planning approvals dropped by 18%.

were down by 13%, indicating challenges in the pipeline

The sector is undergoing a transformation as

for new schools and university buildings. However, there

developers shift focus towards mixed-use developments

is ongoing demand for refurbishment and expansion

that integrate retail with residential and leisure

of existing facilities to meet the needs of a growing

components.

population.

#JustTheFacts

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1 VENTINGS SOLUTIONS A range of venting solutions compatible with any of our 70mm systems.

The overhead vent, allowing for free flowing ventilation, so no need to route through the frame. Typically used in new build applications and newly build extensions.

The snap on vent, VEKA’s option to hiding unsightly external trickle vents, creating an aesthetically pleasing seamless finish. Most often you’ll see snap on vents used for replacement applications.

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As we reflect on the developments and innovations at VEKA throughout 2024, it’s clear that our commitment to continuous improvement remains

THERMALLY BROKEN COUPLER

strong. From product updates to innovations introduced so far, we have made significant strides in enhancing the quality and performance of our offerings. Yet, we recognise that innovation is an ongoing journey, and we are excited to share that there is still much more to come before

New modification to our thermally broken coupler making it compatible with all our 70mm systems.

the year ends. Our relentless pursuit of excellence drives us to keep

Improved thermal performance, increased durability, reduced

pushing the boundaries, ensuring that VEKA continues to lead the way

condensation.

in product innovation and industry advancement.

Available now from stock, with the mating cover fully stocked in all ex-stock colours.

Jack Scullion Product & Innovation Manager 22

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NEW BUILD CILLS

M70 & OMNIA THERMAL INSERTS

Four new cills, designed for new build applications through the

Increased screw retention allows window hardware to be held in place

compatibility with the window board in new build properties.

better, and improved thermal efficiency reduces energy costs for owner.

The cills can also be used in replacement buildings too, using the back

Made with lightweight and durable PVCu that is 100% recycled, they are

plate detail to remove the window board detail.

easier to cut and handle compared to steel.

Available in 125mm, 150mm, 180mm and 225mm to accommodate all

Fitting both M70 and OMNIA, they reduce heat transfer with up to 7%

building designs and requirements.

improvement on u-values.’

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OMNIA

150MM RECORE CILL

A pioneering new suite of extrusions for double flush double rebated

The 150mm ReCore Cill incorporates recycled PVCu within its core, with

windows and doors.

no visual change to the homeowner

Full compliance with 2025 building regulations and beyond.

Co-extrusion technology combines the recycled core with a virgin white

OMNIA frames are also compatible with a wide range of precision engineered fixtures and fittings for quality windows and doors set to last the test of time.

PVCu exterior, making it a sustainable choice with no compromise on quality or aesthetics.

Lighter variants will still be available with original white core, so welded applications such as bay windows are unaffected.

7 SOFTLINE 82 & PASSIVHAUS See enclosed information

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At VEKA, our sustainability efforts are setting new

40 Million Windows with Recycled Core

standards for PVCu recycling across the globe. We’re

One of our proudest accomplishments is reaching 40

excited to share with you the strides we’ve made in building a more sustainable, circular economy through innovation and environmental responsibility.

Here are some key highlights of our global recycling

our global operations. This success is driven by our commitment to the “Design for Recycling” concept, which ensures that:

efforts:

Our profiles are designed to incorporate recycled

100,000 Tons of PVCu Recycled Annually

material

Across our operations in Germany, the UK, and France,

New profiles are fully recyclable, ensuring they can be

VEKA Recycling processes 100,000 tons of PVCu

returned to the production cycle

every year. Through our cutting-edge technology and

All products meet the highest standards of quality,

commitment to resource reuse, we are transforming old PVCu windows and doors into new profiles—without any loss of quality. This not only reduces waste but also helps

demanded by both our customers and end users A Vision for the Future: The Circular Economy

close the material cycle, turning discarded materials into

The foundation of VEKA Recycling’s success lies in our

valuable resources.

circular economy approach. We see waste as opportunity,

25 Million PVCu Windows Recycled & 780,000 Tons of CO2 Saved Our efforts extend far beyond just recycling numbers.

By recycling 25 million PVCu windows, we have saved an astounding 780,000 tons of CO2, significantly reducing our carbon footprint. This achievement exemplifies our belief that discarded PVCu windows and doors are not waste but valuable materials that can contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.

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million windows produced with a recycled core across

designing products that can be recycled over and over again, ensuring that valuable resources are never lost.

Our journey started in 1993 with VEKA Umwelttechnik in Germany, and since 2006, we’ve expanded this effort across Europe to our state-of-the-art recycling facilities in England and France.

At VEKA, we are not only recycling PVCu but rethinking how we use and value resources, building a world where sustainability and quality go hand in hand.

V E K A A

R E C Y C L I N G :

G L O B A L

L E A D E R

I N

S U S T A I N A B I L I T Y

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K E Y

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C O N T A C T S

Andrew Costall | Business Development Manager t: 07385 948 873 e: acostall@veka.com Loredana Emmerson | Customer Marketing Manager t: 07824 590234 e: lemmerson@veka.com Amy Steven | Divisional Sales Director t: 07739 217941 e: asteven@veka.com Matthew Adaway | Divisional Sales Director t: 07867 158 028 e: madaway@veka.com Louise Scholey | Sales Support Advisor t: 01282 725322 e: lscholey@veka.com

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NORTH Chris Smith TSE - North East England, Scotland, Ireland & Northern Ireland

t: 07880 065912 | e: chsmith@veka.com John O’Neill TSE - North & North West England t: 07798 747150 | e: joneill@veka.com SOUTH Stefan Sorah TSE - Central & East t: 07702 551342 | e: ssorah@veka.com Ian McNiffe TSE - West, South West & South East England t: 07798 747156 | e: imcniffe@veka.com

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T E C H N I C A L

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S E R V I C E S E N G I N E E R S

ROI

TC

GY JE

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QUALI T Y

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I NNOVATI ON

SUSTA IN A B ILIT Y

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Leading the global development of PVC-U systems for over 50 years, through quality, innovation and sustainability