10 Regulation is not slowing down: helping the aluminium sector stay ahead
54 Reynaers Aluminium UK appoints new Managing Director
116 Industry backs Women in Fenestration Network
You can now receive your industry news in a range of formats: Newscast, Website, Social Media, and a magazine. So whatever your preference is for catching up with the latest innovations and news in the industry, there is a Window News format to suit everyone.
We aim to keep readers up-to-date with the latest industry news, trends, technical innovations and suppliers. Our web format means that we can be in the right place at the right time – wherever that may be.
The contents of Window News are provided for general use only and do not constitute general advice and should not be relied upon.
Views/opinions, replies and specific advice expressed by external persons are not necessarily those of Window News and are not subscribed to by Window News. To see the full terms and conditions please visit: http://www.windownews.co.uk/window-news-disclaimer/ Privacy Policy: http://www.windownews.co.uk/window-news-privacy-policy/
Redefining installer support for integral blinds, read more on page 88
Three questions every installer should be asking their suppliers
The way construction products are evidenced, documented and tracked through the supply chain is changing. As expectations around product compliance continue to grow, installers are being encouraged to take a more active role in understanding the products they use and the information that supports them.
While many businesses already have strong relationships with their suppliers, simply assuming the right documentation is available may no longer be enough. Knowing what questions to ask and where to find the answers could become increasingly important in the years ahead.
According to John Mannell, technical officer and training
manager at the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF), installers should start getting into the habit of asking more questions.
So what should installers be asking?
1. Do You Have a Declaration of Performance?
For products covered by designated standards, a Declaration of Performance provides important information about how a product performs against specific criteria.
As expectations around compliance continue to grow, having access to this information will become increasingly important.
John explains: “You need to make sure that the products that are under a designated standard have the Declaration of Performance and the initial type testing.”
By understanding what documentation exists and where it can be accessed, businesses can be better prepared to demonstrate compliance when required.
2. What Evidence Supports the Product’s Performance?
Product claims should always be supported by evidence.
Whether it relates to thermal performance, safety, durability or another characteristic, businesses should be confident that the necessary testing and supporting information exists.
“If you are marketing a product that has a particular safety requirement or performance requirement, you’ve got to have the evidence that can demonstrate that is what the product is doing,” says John.
While this information has often been available in the past, there is likely to be greater scrutiny around how it is accessed, retained and
used throughout the supply chain.
3. What Information Can Be Passed Through the Supply Chain?
One of the key themes emerging from ongoing regulatory reform is the movement of product information through the supply chain.
Manufacturers produce testing data, certifications and performance information, but that information is increasingly expected to follow the product all the way through to installation.
For installers, this means having confidence that the products they use meet the standards and performance levels being claimed.
John believes businesses should not be afraid to ask for information if it is not readily available.
“If you can’t access the information, you should be asking for it,” he says.
Preparing for Change
The good news is that much of this information already exists.
The challenge is ensuring businesses know where to find it, understand it and retain it.
As regulations continue to evolve, asking the right questions today could help businesses avoid problems tomorrow.
For John, the message is straightforward. Installers should start engaging more closely with their supply chain, understand the products they use and ensure they have access to the evidence that supports them.
It is a simple step, but one that could become an increasingly important part of demonstrating compliance in the years ahead.
www.ggf.org.uk
AI planning decisions could halve approval times for home extensions
The Government has announced trials of a new AI-powered planning tool that could halve decision times for routine applications such as loft conversions, kitchen extensions and bedroom conversions [in England], reducing average wait times from eight weeks to four.
While the technology has been welcomed as a way to tackle planning backlogs and free up resources, questions remain over how much influence AI should have on decisions that can significantly affect homeowners and local communities.
Simon Rix, planning expert for the Homebuilding & Renovating Show, has shared his reaction:
“Reducing delays in planning decisions is a great objective, but we must avoid a new system that doesn’t involve human input. ‘The computer says no’ is not a new frustration, but overusing AI risks this problem getting much worse. Of course, humans can make mistakes, but I’ve seen far worse ones made by AI systems. Yes, get AI to do the basic admin quicker, but real
human judgement must remain at the heart of decision making.
“It is reassuring to see that the trials emphasise humans retaining final sign-off. If the AI is strictly limited to triaging applications and making initial recommendations, it could certainly help pull back those frustrating delays. However, my main concern remains a practical one. With councils so overstretched, there is a real risk of ‘automation bias’ where busy planning officers simply rubber-stamp whatever the AI suggests just to meet that fourweek target. Planning policy is rarely entirely black and white, and local nuances require genuine human judgement.
“That said, the ‘Extract’ software sounds like an excellent use of the technology. Digitising decades of handwritten records and old maps to eliminate a quarter of a million hours of manual admin is exactly where AI can add massive value. It handles the drudgery so that planners can focus on the actual decisionmaking.”
Mandatory Technical Competence: why the smartest installers are already ahead of the game
The glazing industry is changing, and the bar for what a professional installer looks like, and what they can demonstrate, has never been higher.
Across the UK, homeowners are starting conversations with installers better informed than ever before. They have researched products, compared specifications, read reviews and, increasingly, consulted AI tools that make regulatory guidance more accessible than at any point in history.
It is against this backdrop that Mandatory Technical Competence (MTC) should be understood. Not as a burden imposed from above, but as a framework that gives installers the tools to meet a market that is already moving in this direction.
“The conversation around MTC has changed,” says Sam Davies,
technical manager at FENSA.
“Early on, a lot of installers heard ‘mandatory’ and assumed it meant more pressure, more paperwork, more cost. But what we’re actually seeing is that the installers who have got ahead of it are the ones winning more work, building stronger reputations, and standing out in a market where
homeowners are more discerning than ever.”
The shift from Minimum to Mandatory Technical Competence – introduced under the Building Safety Regulator – represents one of the most significant regulatory developments in the glazing sector for more than a decade.
At its core, the updated framework requires every surveyor and installer responsible for building regulation compliance to hold current, verifiable evidence of their technical knowledge and professional competence.
That evidence is assessed against four key factors, known collectively as SKEB: Skills, Knowledge, Experience, and Behaviours.
Skills refers to the practical ability to carry out installations correctly and to the required standard. Knowledge covers a current understanding of building
regulations, product standards, and technical requirements. Experience reflects the real-world application of that knowledge across a range of situations and challenges. Behaviours speaks to the professionalism and mindset an installer brings to the role – a consistent commitment to quality, safety, and doing the right thing.
These are not abstract categories. They are practical, assessable criteria designed to reflect what a genuinely capable installer looks like in the real world.
“MTC isn’t just about ticking a box,” explains Sam. “The four factors are designed to reflect what a genuine competence looks like in practice. And, when you break it down like that, most experienced installers realise they’re already doing the right things. MTC gives them a way to prove it.”
Nowadays, that proof matters more than ever.
Today’s homeowners are not simply comparing quotes – they are comparing credentials.
They are asking whether a FENSA certificate will be issued, checking installer profiles online, and seeking reassurance that the work carried out on their property meets industry standards and compliance.
“Homeowners are doing their research before they even pick up the phone,” says Sam. “An installer who can demonstrate current, verifiable competence isn’t just ticking a regulatory box, they’re ahead of the game.”
Installers who cannot clearly demonstrate compliance risk losing work before they have a chance to quote. Not because they lack the skill, but because they lack documentation.
Conversely, those who hold a current MTC are immediately positioned as lower risk, more
professional, and more trustworthy in the eyes of a homeowner making what is often a significant financial decision.
There are two established routes to achieving MTC compliance.
The FENSA Skills Card offers a straightforward path for experienced installers, verified through on-site assessment by an independent assessor, typically within a two-week period.
For those seeking a more formal academic pathway, an NVQ qualification in Fenestration Installation or Surveying often completed over 12 to 18 months.
Under the updated rules, qualifications must have been achieved or renewed within the last five years – historical credentials, however credible at the time, no longer satisfy the current requirements.
“FENSA’s job isn’t to make compliance harder – it’s to make it achievable,” says Sam. “We’ve worked hard to make sure both routes are accessible, practical, and straightforward for installers at every stage of their career. There’s no reason this should feel like a barrier.”
The commercial case is equally compelling.
Installers who hold current MTC certification are better placed to win work, easier for homeowners to recommend and stronger in a market where reputation is increasingly the deciding factor.
“Compliance has always been good practice,” Sam concludes. “What’s changed is that it’s now clearly good business too. That’s not a burden – that’s an advantage.”
For more information visit www. forms.fensa.org.uk/about-fensaskills-card
GAP Hits 114 nationwidedepots with double opening іn Gloucester and Chelmsford
GAP (General All-Purpose Plastics) has expanded its national network to 114 depots with the opening of two new southern branches in Gloucester and Chelmsford, strengthening its presence in the region.
Both depots are fully stocked with a comprehensive range of PVC-U building products, including HomeLine roofline systems, cladding, trims, drainage, FloPlast rainwater systems and Soudal sealants. They also act as order hubs for bespoke PVC-U windows, HomeFrame GRP composite doors, HomeView bi-fold and sliding doors, and Rockdoor products.
Jordan Hutchinson, depot manager at Gloucester, said the new branch was already receiving a positive response from local installers, while Brad Austin, depot manager at Chelmsford, said the depot would provide Essex tradespeople with competitive prices and strong stock availability.
Installers and builders are invited to visit either depot to take advantage of introductory offers and open trade accounts.
www.gap.uk.com
CR Smith creates 150 new jobs as business expands to deliver social housing projects across Scotland
One of Scotland’s most established and recognised home improvement brands, CR Smith, has reinforced its commitment to Scotland’s social housing sector following a sustained growth in orders from local authorities and housing associations over the past four years.
The Fife-based company, widely recognised for its long-standing reputation for supplying highquality windows and doors to private homeowners, has successfully broadened its focus to include public sector projects. Building on its established trade and commercial operations, CR
Smith has taken a strategic and carefully phased approach to entering the social housing market.
Leveraging its extensive industry expertise and high standards in both operational delivery and customer service, the company has significantly scaled up its capabilities. This expansion has led to the creation of 150 new roles across the business, strengthening its capacity to meet the complex and evolving demands of the sector.
CR Smith is now delivering replacement window programmes for a wide range of public sector
clients. These include Fife Council, the City of Edinburgh Council, East Lothian Council, West Lothian Council and Dundee City Council, in addition to partnerships with more than a dozen housing associations.
Earlier this year, the company sponsored the CIH Scotland Housing Festival at the SEC to highlight the importance of advanced window design, precision manufacturing and efficient on-site delivery in helping the sector meet increasing expectations around quality, sustainability and professional standards.
With continued investment in people, processes and innovation, CR Smith is positioning itself as a key delivery partner in Scotland’s ongoing drive to improve and modernise its social housing stock.
Gerard Eadie CBE, chairman of CR Smith said: “It has been a carefully considered journey to ensure that we bring the same exceptional standards we are well known for in the private sector to the social housing sector. We have invested heavily to ensure that we can deliver the quality, scale and reliability Councils and Housing Associations require. It is important to us to exceed expectations, and we do this by focusing on the details – doing things right – while upholding the values of customer service that have defined our brand for more than 50 years.”
Danny McArthur, director of commercial at CR Smith, said: “Our focus has been to bring the full strength of CR Smith into social housing – our people, our products and our service culture. Central to that is the customer experience, ensuring every householder receives professional care and respect. Equally important are the working relationships we build with our clients. Our growing client list shows the demand for a supplier committed to both.” crsmith.co.uk
Gerard Eadie CBE (left) on site at one of CR Smith’s projects in Edinburgh
Regulation is not slowing down: helping the aluminium sector stay ahead
As the pace and complexity of regulatory change affecting the aluminium in building sector steps up a gear, CAB explains why businesses need to remain proactive rather than reactive, and how it is helping them to do so.
From radical safety reforms and Gateway 2 scrutiny to net zero targets and rising performance expectations, the UK construction industry is undergoing a period of significant regulatory and technical change.
With the industry under increasing pressure to deliver buildings that are not only safe but also environmentally responsible and high-performing, sustainability, competence and
compliance are more important than ever.
“In a post-Grenfell world that is now dominated by the Building Safety Act and the Building Safety Regulator, the whole construction supply chain is evolving,” says Nigel Headford, CEO at the Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB).
“And with energy efficiency and sustainability standards also
tightening, there are an awful lot of balls to keep in the air.
“It is our job, here at CAB, to demystify these new requirements, unpick any complexities and help our members stay ahead of the curve.”
For CAB, this role is a very important one, because failure to keep pace with the rapidly shifting landscape is likely to come at a price.
From project delays to failed approvals, costly rework and reputational damage that reverberates throughout the supply chain, companies unable to demonstrate compliance and competence could put themselves – and their partners – at a growing commercial disadvantage.
“With such a far-reaching overhaul of regulations, every construction product and process is affected,” Nigel explains. “The challenge for many businesses is not just understanding that change is happening but understanding how to implement it.
“The regulations themselves can be highly technical and open to interpretation, so there is a real need for clear guidance on what needs to be done, who needs to do it, and when.”
Helping its members interpret regulatory developments and understand how they impact everything from system design to fabrication, specification, installation and overall building performance, CAB offers technical updates, guidance notes, committees, consultations and training opportunities.
Its recent Technical Conference at Loughborough University is a case in point. Bringing together industry experts and members, the event explored
what competence in the built environment means in practice, from workforce skills through to product specification, and how businesses can respond to increasing scrutiny and accountability.
“The speaker lineup included Daniel Barrowcliffe, industry competence policy lead at the BSR, Richard Jekiel of Schüco, John Mannell of the Glass and Glazing Federation and Carl Woodwiss of Element Materials Technology, who all provided some really valuable insights for our members,” adds Nigel.
“With key themes covering safety, competency frameworks, the Gateway process, product testing, installation best practice and evidence of compliance, it was a really great way for our members to reinforce their knowledge and understanding of these issues, to better prepare for what is ahead.”
It is this proactive engagement that helps businesses to stay informed, improve compliance confidence and remain competitive in an environment where standards and expectations are continuing to rise.
CAB provides a collective, authoritative voice and technical resource to help members make informed decisions, reduce risk and remain competitive.
“Helping our members keep up with new developments as the industry continues to change is vital for the future success and prosperity of the aluminium in building sector,” adds Nigel.
“Communicating what is required and supporting our members through these changes is integral to our purpose as an industry champion and a responsibility that we take very seriously.”
www.c-a-b.org.uk
Sean Cardwell Windows Commends Long-Term Partnership with Framexpress
Trade fabricator Framexpress has received high praise from Sean Cardwell Windows. The local installation company, based in Western-Super-Mare, specialises in all manner of home improvements and has a long-standing relationship with Framexpress, purchasing PVCu windows and doors, composite doors and aluminium products from the Telford-based manufacturer.
In our fast-paced industry, the difference between a smooth project and a frustrated homeowner can often come down to the reliability of the supply chain. Sean Cardwell understands that while perfection is the goal, the true test of a manufacturer is how they handle the unpredictable.
Sean says: “In the real world, nothing is perfect, but when there is an issue, what really matters is how it is dealt with.
If I ever have a problem, I know that I can just call Sarah in customer care and it will be rectified within a couple of days.
“It’s being kept in the picture that really matters to me. Delays can happen, and it
might not be ideal, but if it is going to happen, Framexpress always keeps me in the loop and tells me as soon as they can, which makes a huge difference for me and my customers.
“My rep, Dave [Stearman] is perfect and always around if I need to talk to him, but these days I mostly deal directly with the people in the office. They’re always polite and efficient and get quotes sent over quickly.
“The delivery guys couldn’t be more helpful and they’re flexible too. If I’m up the road when they come for a drop-off, it’s no bother, they’ll wait for me or meet me there – it’s those little touches that really make the difference for me.
“Business is good – I’ve just taken on a new fitter, which means we’ll be moving faster through projects this year and I know that Framexpress can keep up!
“Pricing is competitive, pointof-sale and back-up support is spot-on, the products are great – honestly, I can’t praise you enough!”
framexpress.co.uk
Quick & Easy Installation
PAS24: 2022 Security
Triple Weather Seals – Provides superior weather protection
Available in Set Sizes: From 400x700mm to 1000x2700mm
28mm double or 44mm triple glazed options
Engineered for Affordability
UK Manufactured & UK Warranty
Free site delivery*
Supplier price increases hit merchants hard
MRA Building Market Reports (MRA Reports) latest update on the general builders’ merchant market, which includes a quarterly Pulse survey of builders’ merchant confidence, sales expectations and issues, shows that merchants’ single biggest problem in Q2 2026 – by some margin – was supplier price rises, mentioned by 55% of respondents.
Supplier price rises were seen as a problem by as many as 84% of merchants in Q2 2026, while 64% found squeezed margins to be
an issue as merchants struggle to pass on price rises to their customers. It has also increased competitive pressures, including competition from DIY retail and online channels as customers switch to lower cost products.
Availability is becoming a problem for some products: 66% of merchant branches had struggled with lead times, while 58% had found product availability a problem. Over a quarter of respondents also saw online competition (37%), supplier service & support (30%)
and poor demand (28%) as problems.
MRA Reports tracks problems & issues that affect merchants’ trading over time. In Q2 2026, more merchants mentioned that supplier price rises were affecting them negatively than in the previous two quarters.
The economic situation and fuel and energy costs were high on the list of challenges for the building materials sector. Merchants’ responses have moved from issues like skills shortages, regulation and the weather to more acute concerns such as staying competitive, which can mean having to absorb material price increases or fuel surcharges.
It is telling that Survival and Product & Service Quality were introduced as key challenges for the industry for the first time in the Q2 survey. Some merchants report that quality of some
materials, such as timber, has been variable.
ceived a large number of unprompted comments from merchants on the topic.
“I’d say it’s the rising cost. Tradesmen like to be locked in on prices and there’s now fluctuation two to three times a month, and some of them up by 30%, it’s really hard to justify. It’s killing the trade in the sense that even if we are only more expensive than other merchants for a 30-day period then that customer will still go elsewhere.”
“Everything is on price at the moment, everyone is looking to get 50p off here and there, shopping around on the internet and not necessarily going for best quality just to save money.”
“Supplier price increases are costing builders. You’re adding 15% onto their jobs and they’re not going to get work.”
“The problem we’ve got as merchants is that prices are going up, but customers don’t want to hear it. In a market where we are trying to get a small piece of the pie, that is now a very small pie, it’s every man for themselves. I’ve been in the merchant industry about 18 years and it’s awful, we’re on bare minimum staff and are struggling to give customers better service.”
“Issues with supply. For example, we do a lot of landscaping here, at the moment there is real lack of stuff from India and it’s not going to get any better.”
“Fuel surcharges. We are getting a £100 fuel surcharge each time we have delivery of sand, and the customer doesn’t want to hear about it.”
“At the moment I’d actually say the biggest challenge is just survival, survival of the business, that’s the main thing, and also rising costs such insurance rises,
tax rises and business rate rises.”
Speaking by telephone each quarter, each Pulse survey is a nationally representative sample of 100 branch directors and managers of UK builders’ merchants. MRA Reports’ Pulse surveys track merchants’ views of sales, sales expectations, confidence in the market, and in their own business and, in their own words, the problems they face. The overall report includes a market update and a revised 2026-2030 market forecast.
The UK Builders’ Merchants Q2 Update: Pulse & Forecasts report is available at www. mra-reports.co.uk as a oneoff purchase or as an annual subscription. Alongside a market review, updated forecasts and survey results, the report contains candid comments and insights from merchant branch managers, providing valuable depth and perspective on today’s merchant market.
How to increase retail conversion rates with Sternfenster’s EasyAdmin+
From generating accurate quotes to improving conversion rates and reducing administration, Sternfenster’s EasyAdmin+ platform is helping installers streamline their operations and unlock new opportunities for growth, says the company.
In today’s competitive home improvement market, installers face increasing pressure to maximise efficiency while continuing to deliver excellent customer service.
Rising costs, changing customer expectations and growing competition mean that every enquiry, every quotation and every sale matters more than ever. As a result, businesses are increasingly
turning to technology to help them save time, improve accuracy and create a smoother customer journey.
For Sternfenster, that technology comes in the form of EasyAdmin+, a comprehensive business management platform developed specifically to support installers.
Designed to simplify day-today operations, EasyAdmin+ brings together quoting, order processing, customer management and sales support tools within a single platform, helping installers manage their businesses more effectively.
“Installers need solutions that genuinely make life easier,” says
Nathan Court, chief sales officer at Sternfenster. “EasyAdmin+ has been developed to remove unnecessary administration, improve efficiency and help our customers focus on what they do best, which is winning and delivering great projects.”
One of the platform’s biggest advantages is its ability to streamline the quotation process.
Installers can create professional, accurate quotes quickly, with automated pricing helping to reduce errors and improve consistency. Once an order is secured, information moves seamlessly through to production, creating a smooth transition from sale to manufacture. By reducing duplicated administration and manual data entry, installers can save valuable time while maintaining confidence in the accuracy of every order, according to the company.
“Time is one of the most valuable resources any business has,” Nathan explains. “The more
efficiently installers can manage quotations and orders, the more time they have available to focus on customers and generating new opportunities.”
EasyAdmin+ also supports installers long after a quote has been sent.
Its integrated Quote Follow Up Tool automatically sends professionally written follow-up emails to homeowners at key stages after a quotation has been issued. This helps installers remain front of mind throughout the decision-making process while maintaining consistent communication without increasing their workload.
Early results from Sternfenster’s own retail operation have shown that structured follow-up activity can increase conversion rates by up to 36%, highlighting the significant impact that effective customer communication can
have on sales performance, says the company.
“Following up quotations consistently can be challenging when teams are busy,” says Nathan. “The Quote Follow Up Tool helps installers maintain momentum with every opportunity, ensuring enquiries receive the attention they deserve.”
The platform’s cloud-based functionality also gives users the flexibility to work wherever business takes them.
Whether meeting homeowners, managing enquiries remotely or reviewing sales activity in the office, installers can access the information they need quickly and easily. This flexibility supports faster response times and helps create a more professional experience for customers.
Alongside its operational
Emplas becomes a member of the GGF
Emplas has become the latest major manufacturer to join the Glass & Glazing Federation (GGF).
Founded in 1979 and still family owned, the G25 Fabricator of the Year is one of the UK's leading window and door manufacturers, supplying the trade, home improvement and commercial sectors. The company has built its reputation through continued investment in automation, digital systems, sustainability and product innovation.
Craig Johnson, director at Emplas, said: “While we have always recognised that the GGF plays an important part within the industry, there was perhaps a slight misalignment, which
meant the time was never quite right for us to join.
“Having access to the latest technical updates and Government guidance is invaluable in supporting us and our customers in navigating some fairly turbulent regulatory waters, not to mention wider economic pressures within the market.”
Operating from its Wellingborough headquarters and a dedicated
benefits, EasyAdmin+ provides valuable visibility into business performance. Reporting tools help installers monitor activity, track progress and identify opportunities for improvement, allowing them to make informed decisions based on real-time information.
As the industry continues to evolve, Sternfenster believes technology will play an increasingly important role in helping installers remain competitive and profitable.
“What we’re focused on is giving our customers practical tools that deliver measurable benefits,” Nathan concludes. “EasyAdmin+ helps installers save time, improve accuracy, communicate more effectively and convert more opportunities into orders. It’s about helping businesses work smarter and achieve sustainable growth.”
www.sternfenster.com
door manufacturing facility opened in 2024, Emplas also runs its own IGU production facility. Recent investment includes a recycling initiative with Polypure alongside solar generation, energy reduction and waste-saving measures, helping it achieve a reported carbon footprint of 3.73kg CO₂ per window frame.
Craig added: “Joining the GGF is part of that commitment. It aligns with where we are as a business and where the industry is heading – higher standards, better evidence, stronger technical understanding and a more sustainable future.”
Lauren Mawford, director at the GGF, welcomed the appointment, saying Emplas' membership strengthens the federation's collective voice and reflects its commitment to supporting businesses across every part of the glazing industry. www.ggf.org.uk
Silka urges installers to target the twenty-somethings driving renovation demand
Silka is encouraging installers to take a closer look at younger homeowners after new research revealed a significant shift in renovation behaviour. MyBuilder’s latest Renovation Nation Report found that 18 to 34-year-olds are nearly five times more likely to upgrade their current home than those aged over 55. More
than half (53%) say the current financial climate makes them more likely to invest in their existing property rather than move, compared to just 11% of over-55s.
“Younger homeowners are becoming an increasingly important part of the renovation
market, but many businesses are still communicating in the same way they always have,” explains Asa McGillian, managing director at Silka Aluminium Windows & Doors.
“They’re investing in extensions, upgrading existing spaces and taking on ambitious renovation projects much earlier than previous generations. The opportunity is there, but it’s important to recognise that this audience often researches products differently, and has different expectations.”
Silka says younger homeowners are more likely to compare products online, get excited by inspiration-led content, and scrutinise specification details before making purchasing decisions.
“This type of customer often arrives at an appointment with a clear idea of what they want their project to look like. What they’re often less familiar with is the specification behind it, and why one solution costs more than another,” Asa adds.
“That creates a real opportunity for installers who can clearly communicate value. Whether it’s smart technology, premium materials, security features or long-term performance, this age bracket are looking to the experts for assurance they’re making the right investment.”
According to the company, the findings also reinforce the importance of providing installers with the right tools to support those conversations. Through the Silkaselect Trade Partner Portal, Silka provides approved partners with access to magazine-style brochures, datasheets, videos, imagery, social media content and marketing assets designed to bring their aluminium products to life, and support sales activity.
silkawindows.com
Asa McGillian, managing director of Silka Windows & Doors
Garnalex and Sheerline renew commitment to sustainability
Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) have been achieved to the requirements of EN 15804:2012+A2:2019 and published online for both Garnalex and Sheerline.
This reflects the growing need for sustainable products and transparency around the manufacturing processes, which aligns with Sheerline’s core values. With the Future Homes Standard (FHS) updates coming into effect next year and the UK working towards its Net Zero Strategy, EPDs are expected to become more important in the near future.
Both EPDs have been externally assessed and independently verified by the Building Research Establishment (BRE), which adds legitimacy, giving customers confidence in both the brand and products they’re choosing. It will also enable them to win more business through competitive
tenders and with specifiers that demand proof of sustainable practices, says the company.
Several factors contributed to the low GWP number; all operations are completed in-house at a single manufacturing site, giving full oversight over the processes required to take the raw materials and turn them into the end product. Additionally, the raw material (aluminium) is sourced in the UK, reducing the carbon footprint.
To ensure they’re as broad as possible, both EPD types are Cradle to Gate with modules C and D. The Garnalex EPD has been calculated using 1 kg of trade aluminium extrusions, while the Sheerline EPD utilises 1 kg of profile used across the entire range of window, door, and roof products.
View the EPDs online for Garnalex and Sheerline
Senior Architectural Systems celebrates of investment and
Senior Architectural Systems is marking its 35th anniversary, celebrating more than three decades of growth, investment and product development within the UK aluminium fenestration industry.
Established in 1991, the company has grown to become one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of aluminium windows, doors, curtain walling and ancillary systems. Over this period, Senior has expanded its operational footprint and product portfolio, with a commitment to developing future-proof and energy-efficient solutions to meet the evolving needs of the construction industry.
Architectural celebrates 35 years and innovation
In March 2025, Senior entered a new phase of growth following its acquisition by Assa Abloy, supporting further expansion of its manufacturing capabilities and strengthening its position in the UK market, says the company.
Over the last 35 years, Senior has invested significaantly in its manufacturing and distribution facilities in South Yorkshire, including the opening of a dedicated Thermal Improvement Centre in Rotherham. The company continues to operate from its headquarters in Denaby, where recent upgrades to the in-house powder coating facility have continued to support greater
efficiency and quality control.
A major highlight for the company came in 2015 with the launch of Senior’s patented Pure thermal break technology. The system secured a UK patent the following year and went on to receive a King’s Award for Enterprise in Innovation. Senior’s Pure range of aluminium windows and doors has supported a wide range of projects across the education, healthcare and residential sectors and remains a core part of Senior’s product offering.
Since 2019, Senior has also been the proud host of Aluminium Day, a dedicated awareness day for the aluminium industry which provides an annual platform to celebrate innovation and success across the supply chain.
Mark Wadsworth, Senior’s managing director commented:
“Reaching our 35th anniversary is a proud moment for the business. Our progress has been driven by continuous investment and by the strong relationships we have built across the industry. As we look to the future, our focus remains on supporting customers with more sustainable products, transparent data and ongoing improvements to our manufacturing capabilities.”
Reducing the environmental impact of its business operations and providing customers with sustainable and efficient aluminium fenestration products remains a core part of Senior’s future plans. Most recently, the manufacturer launched its suite of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) which, based around the promise of ‘what you see is what you spec’, have raised the bar in terms of the level of clarity and accuracy available for aluminium fenestration products, claims the company.
www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk
Mark Wadsworth, managing director, Senior Architectural Systems
Made For Trade announces major investment in new Northampton facility
Made for Trade has announced a major expansion of its UK operations with the addition of Dimensions House, a 110,496 sq ft facility in Northampton that will become a key production, distribution and showroom site for the business. The site investment is complemented by another significant investment in Schirmer machinery to improve the quality of already industry leading production.
The new premises will support Made for Trade’s continued growth by increasing production capacity,
improving distribution efficiency and strengthening service levels for customers across the UK.
Dimensions House has been selected as a strategically important location for the business. With a significant proportion of Made for Trade’s customer base located outside its North East manufacturing base, the Northampton site will allow the company to operate a more efficient national distribution model, with larger trunking runs into the hub and smaller, more frequent delivery routes from the
site.
This hub-and-spoke approach will improve delivery efficiency, reduce pressure on existing operations and support a faster, more responsive service for trade customers, says the company.
Midlands Showroom
The facility will also include a dedicated showroom, which will be used to onboard new accounts and introduce customers to the company’s expanding product range. The showroom will also be available for Made for Trade customers to use when presenting Korniche products to their own end users, giving trade partners a professional environment in which to demonstrate the quality, design and performance of the range.
Dimensions House, Northampton.
Expanded Aluminium Range
Dimensions House will play a central role in Made for Trade’s future product strategy. The site is planned to become the production facility for the upcoming Korniche Window, an all-aluminium product designed to redefine the UK aluminium window sector through innovation, installation simplicity, strong thermal performance, competitive pricing, high stock availability and short lead times.
The Korniche Window will further expand the Made for Trade product range and support the company’s ambition to offer trade customers a one-supplier solution across aluminium glazing products. By broadening the range, Made for Trade aims to help customers simplify purchasing, improve consistency and access more of the products they need from a single trusted supplier.
The investment follows a series of recent additions to the Korniche range. The company’s Internal Glass Partition system is now available in custom colours at highly competitive prices. A new entry door based around the award winning Korniche bi-folding door system will be launching in August. Aluminium finishing trims are now available as perfect colour matches to ensure the best finish for installations. Textured Black is also now available from stock for sliders and bi-folding doors, offering customers a premium finish with short lead times and without premium pricing.
Continued Product Development
Once the fit-out is complete, Made for Trade’s Flat Glass and Flatlite production lines will also move to the Northampton facility, freeing up much-needed space across the company’s North East sites
for further product launches as the business continues to invest in its products and manufacturing capability – Watch this Space.
Chris Wann, director at Made for Trade, said: “Dimensions House is a major step forward for Made for Trade. It gives us the space, location and operational flexibility we need to improve capacity and service levels for our customers, while also supporting the next stage of growth for the Korniche product range.
“Our customer base is national, and this site helps us serve that market more efficiently. By using Northampton as a distribution hub, we can improve how we move products around the country and support customers with more frequent, responsive delivery routes.
Continued on page 24
Continued from page 23
“The upcoming Korniche Window is another key part of our strategy. It expands our range and takes us closer to a one-supplier model, giving customers access to more of the aluminium glazing products
they need from one manufacturer, backed by strong stockholding, short lead times and the service levels they expect from Made for Trade.”
Korniche Brand Growth
The expansion also reflects the continued growth of the Korniche brand, which has become increasingly recognised by homeowners as a premium aluminium glazing name. Through sustained brand promotion, consumer marketing and national exhibition activity, Made for Trade is helping to create demand that directly supports its trade customers.
Mike Robinson, head of sales at Made for Trade, said: “The promotion of the Korniche brand is delivering real value for our customers. We are building a premium brand that homeowners recognise and ask for, but we are doing it at a price point that allows our trade customers to remain competitive and win work.
“That balance is very important to us. Korniche is not just about product innovation; it is about giving customers a stronger brand, better sales tools and a more compelling offer for their own end users.”
Customers can experience the latest Korniche innovations first-hand at the remaining 2026 Homebuilding & Renovating Shows
Made for Trade will be exhibiting at:
● London eXcel, 18–20 September 2026
● Harrogate Convention Centre, 30 October–1 November 2026
Full event details are available via the Made for Trade website: www.madefortrade.co and across Made for Trade’s social media channels.
Beyond Bifolds
Uni-Blinds ® Offers You Endless Possibilities
Uni-Blinds® aren’t just for bifold doors.
Sealed safely inside double or triple glazing, they’re the perfect shading solution for windows, French doors, patio doors, sliding doors, rooflights and vertical sliding sash windows.
With various control operations, effortless light control and a dust-free, maintenance-free design, Uni-Blinds® offer a stylish, practical upgrade for almost any glazed opening.
Delivered in 10-12 working days*
5 operating systems from manual to motorised
Fire-rated glass options
Ideal for bifold doors, French doors, sliders, windows and more
Retrofit-friendly solutions
Trusted ScreenLine® technology inside every unit
Backed by expert support and full marketing assets
Colours to match any home
Choose from our range of stunning colours
GGF launches search for next Vice-President
The Glass & Glazing Federation (GGF) is inviting applications for the role of Vice-President, offering an experienced industry leader the opportunity to help shape the future of the Federation before progressing to the Presidency.
The successful candidate will work alongside the current Federation President during a planned transition before assuming the role of President at the end of the two-year VicePresident term.
The highly visible, nonexecutive position plays a key ambassadorial role, representing GGF members across the industry while supporting the Federation’s strategic objectives and championing the highest standards of professionalism, governance and collaboration.
The Vice-President will represent the Federation at industry events, awards and stakeholder meetings, attend Federation Advisory Board meetings, and work closely with the Federation
Chair, Group CEO and Director to make sure members’ priorities help shape the organisation’s future direction.
Lauren Mawford, director at the GGF, said: “The Federation President is an important voice for our industry. We’re looking for someone who can unite members, champion the issues that matter most to businesses across the sector and inspire confidence in the value of working together.”
She continued: “This is a unique opportunity for someone with the experience, credibility and passion to help influence the future of both the Federation and the wider glass and glazing industry. We encourage applications from individuals who share our commitment to raising standards, supporting members and driving positive change.”
Applications are open to current GGF members who are respected industry leaders with a strong track record of engagement, collaboration and advocacy. Candidates should be ethical, inclusive and committed to representing the interests of the Federation’s diverse membership.
The honorary role requires a minimum commitment of 15 days per year, with travel to key events across the UK. While the position is unpaid, all reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.
“The Vice-President and President are ambassadors for everything the GGF stands for. If you’re passionate about giving something back to the industry and helping shape its future, we’d love to hear from you.”
To apply, candidates should submit a CV and covering letter to Lauren Mawford, director, GGF, at lmawford@ggf.org.uk. Closing date for applications is Monday August 31st. www.ggf.org.uk
Industry invited to set the agenda as The Glazing Hub launches to make AI reliable
Glazing businesses are being invited to name the day-today problems they most want solved, as thinkivity launches The Glazing Hub, a new platform built to make AI genuinely reliable for the window, door and glazing industry.
The invitation follows two years of AI training and consultancy work across the sector, during which thinkivity has watched as glazing businesses attempt to solve everyday challenges with general-purpose AI tools. The results, the company says, have been decidedly mixed.
“We’ve seen brilliant wins and we’ve seen real frustration, often in the same business,” said Elton Boocock, founder of thinkivity. “People ask AI to do a job, get an answer that looks confident, and then discover it’s wrong in a way that matters. Do that twice and you stop trusting it altogether. The problem usually isn’t AI itself. It’s asking a general tool to do a specialist job with no guardrails around it.”
That frustration is not unique to the UK. When the National Glass Association surveyed delegates ahead of its inaugural GFAB event in Chicago, where Elton delivered the keynote on AI earlier this year, the question they most wanted answered was how AI could be made reliable and accurate.
The Glazing Hub is thinkivity’s answer. Rather than another standalone tool, it is an ecosystem: a single platform where multiple AI-driven solutions live together, work
from the same shared data, and operate inside guardrails built specifically for glazing. Each tool understands the industry’s products, documents and terminology, and each output is validated against configurable rules rather than left to chance.
The platform already houses DocChecker, which checks quotes, contracts and order confirmations for costly inconsistencies, SurveyPal, which turns site surveys into structured, accurate records and Notes2Quotes, which takes messy notes via WhatsApp and gets them quote ready.
Because the tools share one ecosystem, information flows between them without re-entry, and every solution added makes the others more capable. The whole platform runs on one subscription with no user limits, priced on usage rather than per seat, so a whole team can use it without the costs stacking up.
Now thinkivity wants the industry to decide what The Glazing Hub solves next.
“We have a few products we are already building, but the people who know the real problems are the ones living with them every day,” said Elton. “The job that eats your Friday afternoon. The mistake that keeps sneaking through. The information that never quite makes it from the van to the office. If AI with proper guardrails could take one recurring headache off your desk, we want to know what it is.”
Installers, fabricators and suppliers are all invited to submit ideas, however big or small, and no technical knowledge is needed — a plain description of the problem is enough. Submissions will directly shape The Glazing Hub’s development roadmap, and businesses whose challenges are taken forward will be invited to help steer and test the solutions built to solve them.
“Reliability was the industry’s number one question at GFAB, and it’s the question we hear in every training session at home. The answer isn’t a generic chatbot or LLM (ChatGPT/ Claude CoWork, CoPilot), It’s AI that lives inside a system, knows the industry, shares the right data and checks its own work. That’s what we’ve built. Now we’re asking the industry to point it at the problems that matter most.”
Ideas can be submitted at theglazinghub.com
Elton Boocock, founder of thinkivity
Bold design choices earn Ventana Installations Ltd second
FENSA Installation of the Month win
A striking installation combining bold design choices, careful hardware selection, and a touch of country charm has earned Ventana Installations Ltd FENSA’s May Installation of the Month title – marking the company’s second win of the year.
Ventana Installations Ltd has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality window and door installations with a clear focus on design, finish, and customer satisfaction.
FENSA’s Installation of the Month initiative recognises projects that highlight the technical standards and professionalism delivered by its approved network of installers across the UK.
According to FENSA, May’s winning project stood out for its considerate approach to design,
successfully blending modern technology with a touch of country charm to create a result that is both visually striking and sympathetic to the character of the property.
Assessors were particularly impressed by the boldness of the colour choices, which complement the look of the property without overpowering it.
Careful hardware selection ensured the installation stood out for all the right reasons, with every detail working together to deliver a cohesive and impactful finish.
The transformation in kerb appeal speaks for itself.
“This is a project that demonstrates just how much impact the right design choices can have,” said Sam Davies,
technical manager at FENSA. “Ventana Installations Ltd have once again shown a real eye for detail here, balancing modern aesthetics with the character of the property in a way that feels considered and confident.”
“To see Ventana Installations Ltd recognised for the second time this year is a testament to the consistency of their work,” continued Sam. “This is exactly the standard of installation that FENSA’s Installation of the month exists to celebrate projects where the quality of workmanship and the quality of thinking behind it are equally evident.
As the May winner, Ventana Installations Ltd will be entered into the FENSA Installation of the Year competition, as well as receiving £50 in Amazon vouchers alongside professional social media assets to celebrate their success.
Installers wishing to enter future Installation of the Month competitions can submit projects directly via the FENSA application page here. www.fensa.org.uk
Spaces
GARDEN ROOMS FEATURING Alumina
More light, more space, less barriers!
Open an entire wall with a premium aluminium bi-fold door.
VERSATILE
Fully customisable and now with four bi-fold configurations
SECURE
Multi-point locking on windows & doors as standard
INSTALLER-FRIENDLY
Flat-packed kits with patented, easy-assemble fixtures
COMFORTABLE
Thermally efficient components for year-round comfort
Installer sales increasingly shaped by
homeowner trust, says Shepley
Shepley Windows says rising customer expectations are making confidence and presentation a critical part of the installer sales process, as more people research companies and compare products online before committing to projects.
The fabricator says installers are increasingly having to build trust earlier in the customer
journey, particularly as buyers arrive more informed and with higher expectations around professionalism, branding and product presentation.
For Shepley, that shift has reinforced the importance of Visage within its wider installer support offer.
“Homeowners are far more
informed than they were a few years ago. They are researching products, styles and companies long before an installer arrives at the property, and that naturally changes the sales process,” says Managing Director, Ian Griffiths.
“Installers are no longer just selling windows and doors. They are also building confidence and trust from the very first conversation, and that has become a much bigger part of winning work.”
Ian says this is one of the reasons Visage continues to play an important role in helping installers present products as lifestyle choices and create
stronger customer reassurance, alongside the manufacturing quality and reliability Shepley is known for across the trade.
“It gives installers a stronger consumer-facing platform that homeowners believe in and reinforces the quality behind the products themselves,” he continues.
“The manufacturing expertise, service and reliability all come from Shepley, but Visage helps present that in a way customers can relate to, recognise, and really get on board with.”
For more information visit www.shepley.com
Assa Abloy strengthens UK testing offer with expanded accredited facility
Assa Abloy has expanded its UKAS-accredited UK Test Centre, increasing testing capacity and streamlining workflows to deliver faster results for customers.
Now spanning 691m², the independently operated facility offers a comprehensive range of testing services for external customers, including PAS 24 enhanced security testing for doorsets, BS EN 1670 corrosion resistance and BS 6375-1 weathertightness. The company says all test reports and certificates are issued within two weeks of a successful test.
Based in Daventry, Northamptonshire, the centre provides UK manufacturers with a local testing facility, reducing reliance on overseas laboratories and helping to shorten lead times. Customers can also observe
testing in dedicated viewing areas, while on-site training facilities and technical support are available to assist with compliance and product development.
Staff Cooke, technical director at Assa Abloy, said: “We’re thrilled to be opening our expanded Test Centre, now with UKAS accreditation to give our customers absolute assurance that our testing meets strict, nationally recognised standards. “What the Assa Abloy Test Centre really offers is an independent, first-class testing facility that combines accredited processes with real product know-how, giving UK manufacturers everything they need to innovate and produce compliant security and safety products.”
To find out more, visit assaabloy.com/test-centre.
Astra Windows achieves AluK approved fabricator status
Astra Windows has been recognised as an official AluK approved fabricator, marking another milestone in a partnership that has helped support trade installers across the UK for two decades.
Having fabricated AluK systems since 2006, Astra Windows has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality aluminium solutions backed by dependable service, technical expertise and
consistently high fabrication standards. Their new approved fabricator status formally recognises that long-standing commitment and provides additional reassurance for installers choosing Astra Windows as their aluminium supply partner.
For Astra Windows, however, the recognition is about more than an accreditation. It reflects the values that have underpinned the business since it was established
(from left to right) Simon Moore, AluK area sales manager and Dave Jackson, Astra Windows director
in 1989; quality manufacturing, strong supplier relationships and a relentless focus on helping installers deliver successful projects.
David Jackson, managing director of Astra Windows, said: “We’ve worked with AluK for twenty years, so achieving approved fabricator status is something we’re incredibly proud of. It reflects the strength of the relationship we’ve built and the consistency we’ve maintained throughout that time.”
“More importantly, it gives our customers additional confidence that they’re partnering with a fabricator recognised for its knowledge, longevity, expertise and commitment to quality.”
As demand for aluminium continues to grow across both residential and commercial sectors, installers are increasingly looking for suppliers capable of delivering not only market-leading products, but also dependable service and technical support.
Alongside its AluK portfolio, Astra also fabricates Bifolding doors from Aluna, Internal doors and fixed glazed screening systems from Jack Aluminium, and Signature entrance doors providing installers with access to a complete whole-project aluminium solution through a single fabrication partner.
“Everything we do is centred around supporting the trade,” David concluded, “This recognition reinforces the standards we’ve always worked to and gives installers even greater confidence when choosing Astra Windows as their aluminium partner.”
For more information, email info@astrawindows.co.uk
thinkivity founder Elton Boocock urges glass fabricators to resist the rush as AI fever grips North America
Speaking at the National Glazing Association’s inaugural GFAB event in Chicago, thinkivity founder Elton Boocock delivered a message that cut against the grain of much of the AI conversation currently circulating in glass fabrication. Slow down. Think clearly. Build for business value rather than headline moments.
Boocock was invited to address the event, which brought together glass fabricators from across North America for the first time under the GFAB banner, on the topic of the future of AI for glass fabrication. Before the event, delegates were asked what they most wanted to hear about. The results were telling. 62% cited the reliability and accuracy of AI as their primary concern. A further 29% flagged data security. For an industry
increasingly hearing about smart factories and fully automated fabrication plants, those numbers said something important: the audience wasn’t asking how to move faster. They were asking how to move wisely.
Boocock took that as his starting point and went back to basics. Drawing a parallel with autonomous driving, he walked delegates through the incremental steps that have taken the automotive industry from early driver-assistance features to where self-driving technology sits today. It wasn’t a single leap. It was a series of tested, trusted advances, each one building on the last before the next was attempted. His argument: AI for glass fabrication is on the exact same road and understanding where we actually
are on that journey matters far more than fixating on where we might one day arrive.
“AI is the new cocaine,” Boocock told the room. “People are either scared of it or getting high on it. Both are the wrong response. A planned approach grounded in real business needs is how we get the most from it without burning out or being left behind.”
That theme ran through the entire session. Despite the volume of conversation around smart factories and fully automated plants, Boocock took a deliberately measured position, pushing back against what he described as a ‘we must use AI’ mentality. His case was straightforward: AI is a tool, and like every tool that has come before it, it should be chosen because it solves a problem, not because it’s the conversation everyone is having.
“I’m not here to put the brakes on ambition,” he said. “But the businesses that will benefit most from AI aren’t the ones chasing the most impressive demos. They’re
Elton Boocock
the ones who’ve identified a genuine challenge and asked whether AI is the right fix. Start with the business need. Let the technology follow from that.”
To bring the point to life, Boocock revealed something that resonated clearly with the audience. He hadn’t walked into the event alone. Four colleagues had been working alongside him throughout the day, all of them AI agents operating in the background on tasks he’d defined in advance as genuine business priorities.
“The future is already here,” he said. “But those agents weren’t in the room to show off. They were working on specific challenges that needed solving, tasks defined as business problems first, not as opportunities to try something clever. That’s the distinction that matters. Not can AI do this, but should it, and does it make the business better?”
For delegates navigating significant technology investment decisions, the session offered a practical anchor in a conversation that can quickly become
Epwin Window Systems renews VinylPlus sustainability certification
Epwin Window Systems has renewed its VinylPlus Product Label certification, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability across its Profile 22, Spectus and PatioMaster PVC-U system brands.
The certification helps customers and specifiers identify PVC-U products that meet stringent standards for responsible manufacturing, transparency and continuous improvement.
David Watts, group SHEQ development manager at Epwin Window Systems, said: “We are delighted to have
renewed our VinylPlus Product Label certification. It provides independent recognition of our sustainability credentials and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to responsible manufacturing. Sustainability is increasingly important throughout the supply chain, making certification like this a valuable differentiator for our customers.”
The certificate was presented to David at the VinylPlus Sustainability Forum 2026 in Genval, Belgium. Epwin Window Systems was among the first companies to achieve the certification in 2018 and has retained it ever since.
overwhelming. In a sector where pressure to adopt AI is growing fast, Boocock’s message gave fabricators something less commonly heard at industry events: permission to think before they act, and confidence that a measured approach isn’t falling behind. It’s getting it right.
thinkivity works with glazing and glass businesses on practical, planned AI adoption. The Chicago appearance marks a step into the North American market.
http://thinkivity.co.uk/
Sustainability is embedded throughout the business, with a cradle-to-cradle approach that includes a zero-to-landfill policy and the recycling of waste PVC-U into composite thermal inserts for frames, sashes, transoms and mullions.
The company also supports a circular economy through group company Poly-Pure, where end-of-life PVC-U products are recycled and reprocessed into new building products manufactured across the Epwin Group.
In addition, Epwin Window Systems designs its products to deliver high levels of thermal efficiency, helping fabricators, installers and specifiers meet environmental targets while providing homeowners with durable, low-maintenance solutions.
David added: “Our sustainability journey is well advanced, but we remain focused on continuous improvement. Sustainability sits at the heart of our decision-making because, as a responsible business, we have a duty to minimise our environmental impact and help build a greener tomorrow.”
A night to remember as Nationwide marks 40-year milestone
John Whalley and Daryl Cashmore
400 guests came together on Friday 5th June to celebrate 40 years of Nationwide Windows and Doors at The Vox at the NEC.
The evening was an opportunity to bring together all of the people who have supported Nationwide’s forty year journey, including key partners, long-standing suppliers and industry friends, for a night to really enjoy and remember.
Described by many as a truly unforgettable occasion, the celebrations began in style with a champagne reception before guests were welcomed into an evening of exceptional entertainment. A mesmerising performance by electric string quartet Siren, accompanied by an impressive light show and pyrotechnics display, a welcome
film capturing guests’ arrival and a montage of memories celebrating the company’s 40-year journey, created a phenomenal opening to the event.
Hosted by Jason Manford, the evening featured a surprise appearance from George Whalley, son of managing director John Whalley, who travelled from Australia especially to mark the milestone occasion. John and operations director Daryl Cashmore also took to the stage to reflect on the company’s 40-year journey and thank the employees, customers, suppliers, friends and family who have been part of that journey over the past four decades, receiving a standing ovation from guests.
Later in the evening, Jason
Manford returned to the stage with a comedy set before leading renditions of ‘Sweet Caroline’ and ‘Delilah’, which had guests on their feet singing along.
A spectacular fireworks display over the lake provided one of the evening’s most memorable highlights, before ten-piece party band ‘The In Thing’ took to the stage, keeping the dance floor full until the very end, providing a fitting finale to the evening.
Nationwide was established on 5th June 1986, 40 years to the day of the celebration, and has gone from strength to strength over four decades. Today, the company operates from a 150,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility on its seven acre site in Rugby, where they fabricate more than 2,500 windows and doors for installation across the UK, every week.
“It was an absolute pleasure to bring together the people who have supported our journey,” says John Whalley, managing director at Nationwide. “We wanted to give our guests a night to remember and I’d like to extend a huge thank you to all of our event partners who worked tirelessly to bring this vision to life. The feedback I have received confirms that we delivered an evening worthy of the team, suppliers and industry friends who make Nationwide what it is today.”
The celebration served as a powerful thank you to those who have helped the company demonstrate such strong resilience and innovation since 1986. Looking ahead, the company is poised for a bright future, ready to build on its legacy and continue leading the industry with the same commitment to quality and innovation that has defined its first forty years.
To see the photos and videos from the evening, head to nwd40.co.uk
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 Business Pilot Barometer offers a monthly analysis of the key trends defining window and door retail. It draws on real industry data collated by Business Pilot, the cloud-based business management tool.To find out more see www.businesspilot.co.uk/barometer
The Business Pilot Barometer
Demand rebounds as project values normalise
By Neil Cooper-Smith, Senior Analyst, Business Pilot
June’s data paints a picture of a market that has regained momentum, with stronger enquiry and sales activity signalling renewed confidence among homeowners entering the summer months. While average order values returned to more typical
levels following May’s unusually high peak, the overall balance of the data suggests demand has broadened across the market, supporting healthy sales volumes and continued stability in conversion rates.
This represents a shift from the trend highlighted in May’s Barometer, where softer enquiry volumes were offset by higher-value projects. June’s figures suggest the balance has moved once again, with a broader spread of opportunities supporting growth across the market.
Conversion rates remained broadly stable in June, easing only marginally from 39.9% in May to 39.8%. Having held close to the 40% mark throughout the second quarter of the year, this consistency continues to demonstrate that installers are maintaining effective sales processes, even as market conditions evolve.
Lead volumes recorded the strongest movement in this month’s data. Average leads increased from 99.8 in May to 116.1 in June, representing a rise of more than 16% and reversing the gradual slowdown seen over the previous two months. This suggests consumer engagement strengthened as the summer period began, providing installers with a healthier pipeline of new opportunities.
Sales activity also moved higher, increasing from 48.2 in May to 54.4 in June. The improvement closely mirrors the uplift in lead generation and indicates that businesses were able to convert the increase in enquiries into additional confirmed work. Together with stable conversion rates, this points towards a market where demand has strengthened without placing additional pressure on sales performance.
Average order values told a different story. Following May’s exceptionally strong figure of £4,473, average order values fell to £3,666 in June. While this represents an 18% month-on-month reduction, the figure sits comfortably within the range seen across much of the year and suggests a return to a more balanced mix of project values following May’s concentration of higher-value installations.
Lead times remained largely unchanged, edging up from 24.0 days in May to 24.1 days in June. This stability indicates that installers continue to manage workloads effectively, even as enquiry and sales volumes increase.
Taken together, June’s figures paint a picture of a market that is becoming more balanced. Rather than relying on a smaller number of larger projects, activity appears to have broadened, with stronger enquiry levels supporting sales growth across a wider range of installation values.
This aligns with the wider economic picture.
Inflation continues to ease gradually, while expectations of further interest rate reductions have helped improve confidence among homeowners considering significant purchases. Although household budgets remain under pressure, consumers appear increasingly prepared to move forward with planned home improvements where confidence and affordability allow.
For installers, the latest data reinforces the importance of maintaining visibility across every stage of the sales journey. As enquiry volumes fluctuate and project values continue to evolve, businesses that closely monitor performance, respond quickly to opportunities and maintain efficient sales processes will be best placed to sustain growth.
This is where Business Pilot continues to provide a valuable advantage. By giving installers real-time insight into leads, conversions, order values and operational performance, it enables businesses to adapt quickly to changing market conditions and make informed decisions that support long-term success.
As we move further into the summer, June’s data suggests confidence within the market remains steady. With enquiry volumes strengthening and conversion rates holding firm, the outlook points towards continued resilience for businesses that remain data-led and responsive.
www.businesspilot.co.uk
Why you can’t afford to ignore construction product reform
While many businesses are focused on day-to-day operations, a significant shift is taking place behind the scenes that will impact systems companies, fabricators, glass processors, installers and the wider supply chain for years to come.
The Construction Products Reform White Paper, published earlier this year, sets out the government’s direction of travel for improving product safety, strengthening oversight and increasing accountability across the construction sector. The message and goal however is a simple one, “safe products used safely”.
For John Mannell, technical officer and training manager at the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF), the changes represent far more than a regulatory update.
“This has massive ramifications for our sector and will really impact not only how products are tested, but how information relating to those products moves throughout the supply chain,” he explains.
While product compliance has long been a requirement, there is now a greater focus on ensuring information follows products from manufacture through to installation and beyond.
This means businesses will increasingly be expected to demonstrate that products meet the relevant standards and that evidence is readily available when required.
According to John, one of the biggest changes is the growing emphasis on product-specific competence.
“In recent years, we have often viewed competence through job roles and functions,” he says.
“I think that is beginning to change. There is now much greater emphasis on understanding the products being used, how they should be installed and what evidence exists to support their performance.”
The reforms also introduce a greater focus on products that sit outside designated standards through the proposed General Safety Requirement.
While this may sound technical, the practical impact is simple. Risk associated to products will need to be assessed, and businesses will increasingly need to understand the products they use and are suitable for their application.
For installers, this could represent a significant shift.
“Personally, I think there is a massive onus on installers,” says John.
“If you are supplying a product to the market, you need to ensure that it conforms with the relevant standards.”
While responsibility has always existed, John believes the difference is the introduction of the Single Construction
Continued on page 42
Continued from page 40
Regulator. This will reduce the fragmented system we have seen in the past, and allow for greater oversight on compliance and ability for enforcement where necessary.
“The liability has always been there,” he explains.
“What is changing is the framework around it and the ability to ensure safe products are being specified, supplied and installed correctly.”
One of the key messages for businesses is not to wait for new legislation before acting.
Instead, organisations should begin reviewing the information they already hold and ensuring product claims are supported by evidence. With around 94% of the UK construction product manufactures being small or micro businesses, this represents a significant challenge and as a result This is something businesses should be looking at now.”Review your website, your brochures and the products you supply. Make sure that any performance claims are supported by the evidence required.”
As the industry prepares for future reform, businesses that take a proactive approach today will be best placed to navigate the changes ahead.
The direction of travel is clear. Greater transparency, stronger evidence and improved accountability are becoming increasingly important across the construction products sector.
For businesses across glass and glazing, preparing now could make all the difference.
How smarter design is creating new opportunities in aluminium
As competition intensifies and customers become increasingly value-conscious, Sternfenster is helping installers strengthen their position in the aluminium market with Visoglide Premium, an aluminium patio door proposition that delivers value, performance and flexibility for installers and homeowners alike.
maintain healthy margins.
Against this backdrop, value has become more important than ever.
www.ggf.org.uk
Homeowners are drawn to the clean lines, slim sightlines and contemporary aesthetics that aluminium products offer, making them a popular choice across both refurbishment and new-build projects. As demand has grown, competition has intensified, creating fresh challenges for installers looking to win work and
Customers remain willing to invest in high-quality home improvements, but purchasing decisions are being scrutinised more carefully. Installers therefore need products that combine competitive pricing with quality, reliability and service.
Recognising this shift in the market, Sternfenster has undertaken a comprehensive review of its aluminium patio door offering, resulting in Visoglide Premium.
Visoglide Premium has been introduced with a clear objective: to create a stronger overall proposition for installers by improving efficiency, simplifying installation and delivering greater value throughout the supply chain.
“We wanted to take a fresh look at what installers really need from a patio door system,” says Nathan Court, chief sales officer at Sternfenster. “The market has evolved significantly over recent years, and our customers need products that support competitiveness, customer satisfaction and long-term business growth.”
By refining the system design and introducing improved manufacturing efficiencies, the company has been able to create meaningful commercial benefits, improved value and a more competitive patio door proposition.
“The real gains have come from improving efficiency behind the scenes,” Nathan explains. “We’ve
looked carefully at how the product is manufactured and how we can create a stronger proposition for installers. That work has allowed us to improve the overall offer and achieve a significantly more competitive price point.”
For installers, this creates opportunities in a market where every quotation matters.
Patio doors have historically presented challenges when it comes to balancing performance, aesthetics and affordability. In many cases, installers have found themselves having to navigate difficult conversations around price while trying to protect their own profitability.
Visoglide Premium has been developed to help address that challenge.
The system combines the aesthetics homeowners are looking for with the flexibility and performance installers need. An 83mm interlock comes as standard, with an optional 35mm slim interlock available for projects where maximising glass area and creating expansive panoramic views is a priority. A standard U-value of 1.6 W/m²K and 1.2 centre pane U-value also supports growing demand for energyefficient home improvements.
Flexibility has also been a key consideration. Available in both double and triple track configurations, Visoglide Premium can accommodate two, three, four, five or six sliding sashes, while also supporting larger and heavier sash weights. This allows installers to specify solutions for a broad range of property styles and project requirements, whether for contemporary homes or more traditional properties.
Security is another important part of the Visoglide Premium proposition. PAS 24 options are available alongside enhanced locking specifications that allow
doors to conform to Document Q requirements where required. Features including a flush upstand outer frame and internally beaded co-extruded sash and bead design contribute to a high-quality finished product, while colour-matched handles are available on request to create a coordinated appearance.
The system has also been designed with consistency in mind, helping installers achieve reliable results on site and ensuring projects run smoothly from order through to installation.
“We know that our customers value simplicity, reliability and flexibility,” says Nathan. “They want products that adapt to different project requirements and deliver the quality, and performance homeowners expect.”
Build quality, manufacturing expertise and trade-focused support remain central to the Sternfenster offering.
Customers continue to benefit from the build quality, manufacturing expertise and trade support that have helped establish Sternfenster as a trusted supply partner across the industry. Reliable lead times and responsive customer service continue to underpin the company’s approach.
As market pressures continue to shape buying decisions, Sternfenster believes installers will seek products that help them remain competitive and deliver value to homeowners.
For the company, Visoglide Premium represents exactly that opportunity.
“Installers should have access to solutions that help them win work, operate efficiently and grow their business,” Nathan concludes. “Visoglide Premium brings together quality, flexibility, performance and value in a way that works for today’s market.”
www.sternfenster.com
Merchant grows with Freefoam Building Products: ‘stock in every branch’
Freefoam Building Products’ long-standing relationship with LBS Group demonstrates how the roofline manufacturer supports builders’ merchants by establishing strong partnerships based on trust, service, and shared values.
Established in 1931 in Llandilo the business is run today by Rachel and Ben Davies – great
grandchildren of the original owner. From small beginnings at just one location the company has grown and now operates with 52 branches over 29 sites.
As the largest independent builders’ merchant in South Wales LBS has grown significantly over the years, and its partnership with Freefoam is an example of how a supplier
relationship can contribute to long-term success.
The partnership is featured in a new video release from Freefoam, filmed at LBS branches in South Wales and at the company’s head office in Ammanford. The video highlights how Freefoam works closely with merchant partners such as LBS to provide consistent product availability, trusted support, and a relationship-led approach that helps merchants serve their customers with confidence.
Rachel Davies says the company’s focus on people and partnerships has been central to its growth. “Cultivating long-
standing relationships with customers, staff, and suppliers such as Freefoam Building Products has given our business the grounding it needs to succeed. Our relationship with Freefoam has gone from strength to strength over the years. As we have grown the business and
added merchant branches, every single one of those has been stocked with Freefoam products. It’s a sign of success.
That same commitment to longterm relationships is reflected in the way Freefoam works with LBS. “We’ve been working with
Freefoam for 15 years. Freefoam shares our values and works well with management and our branch staff — the feedback is always positive,” says Ben.
Freefoam soffit and fascia roofline products are kept in stock at all 19 builders merchant branches, with White a traditional big seller. Woodgrains and anthracite grey are also popular. “It’s the depth of our stock and the fact it’s always available that keeps customers coming back,” explains Ben.
Aidan Harte, CEO Freefoam Building Products, concluded “We are proud of the relationship we have with LBS. It’s the perfect example of how Freefoam manage and support large multibranch merchants. We make sure they get the same high level of service and integrated support as a single site independent customer and we’re committed to being part of their ongoing growth and development.” See Freefoam’s full range at www.freefoam.com
Rachel and Ben Davies
Senior calls for greater clarity over low carbon aluminium claims
As part of its What You See Is What You Spec campaign, Senior Architectural Systems is reinforcing the clarity of its environmental information and calling on the wider fenestration industry to move beyond top-line figures and also adopt the same transparent, evidence-based approach.
The call to action follows Senior’s publication of a suite of product-specific Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for its aluminium doors, windows and curtain wall systems which challenge the traditional format to provide more accurate data to specifiers.
As part of this unprecedented move, Senior’s EPDs include the environmental impact of all system components, including thermal breaks, gaskets, and fixings, as well as fabrication and delivery to site via Senior’s fabricator network. The energy-intensive extrusion process is also accounted for, but importantly the glazing has been omitted. This is because glazing, which is not typically supplied by system houses, can
artificially lower the carbon figure for the aluminium system. Senior argues that for complete accuracy, glazing should always be reported separately through its own EPD.
Senior’s campaign is focused on the belief that specifiers should only be given accurate and useful information and is being headed up by the manufacturer’s dedicated UK sustainability lead Luke Osborne.
Under Luke’s stewardship, Senior is reframing the way it communicates information about its low carbon aluminium to provide more detail and context so that specifiers are empowered to challenge some of the bolder claims that are often made. A key part of this is Senior’s desire to see the industry move away from the over reliance of quoting carbon figures relating to aluminium billets in isolation as this doesn’t account for the extrusion and profiling process and therefore doesn’t reflect the products that are actually installed on site.
For its part, Senior is keen to
provide greater clarity around its own aluminium extrusion processes and how that affects the billet figure that is so often quoted. Senior currently offers two options – its standard aluminium, known as ReAl 4.0 and its lower carbon option which is available on request, ReAl 2.0.
Senior’s standard ReAl 4.0 aluminium has a billet figure of 3.5 kg CO₂e/kg and an extrusion figure of 0.75 kg CO₂e/kg to give an overall carbon footprint of 4.25 kg CO₂e/kg for mill finish aluminium profiles. ReAl 2.0 has a billet carbon footprint of 1.61 kg CO₂e/ kg, which when added to the 0.75 kg CO₂e/kg figure for extrusion process, gives an overall figure of 2.36 kg CO₂e/kg for mill finish aluminium profiles.
Commenting, Senior Architectural Systems’ UK sustainability lead Luke Osborne said: “As carbon figures relating to aluminium billets alone don’t give an accurate picture of the products installed on site, the extrusion process must be factored in to any carbon calculations as well as all the individual components that make up the specific system. Otherwise, there are significant discrepancies in terms of what has been claimed, and what is true in reality. With many public sector projects now engaging with carbon auditors to check for this very issue, the need for full transparency is not only an ethical matter but also a commercial one.
“We have developed our EPDs specifically to address this widespread problem and to hopefully buck the trend to create a more accurate benchmark for how the environmental performance of aluminium fenestration systems is positioned and communicated. I firmly believe that EPDs should be open to interrogation, audit, and robust scrutiny, making them a useful resource for specifiers rather than simply a marketing or sales tool.”
Luke Osborne, UK sustainability lead, Senior Architectural Systems
Why price volatility in new build is the real challenge
The latest CPA forecast points to another difficult year for new build, with housing starts and completions both set to fall. But while lower demand presents obvious challenges, price volatility poses an even greater threat to installer profitability.
The latest Construction Products Association forecast makes for difficult reading. Private housing
output is forecast to fall by 7% in 2026, with housing starts down 10% and completions falling by 6%, as higher borrowing costs, weaker buyer confidence and ongoing planning challenges continue to weigh on the market.
The CPA rather unreassuringly describing it as a “perfect storm” for housebuilders, with recovery not expected until 2027 at the
earliest.
But while lower demand presents obvious challenges, the bigger threat facing installers and commercial contractors may be something else entirely – price volatility.
“I’m not dismissing the obvious concern that there are fewer houses being built and therefore
fewer windows and doors required”, says Mike Parczuk, CEO of Sternfenster.
“That’s clearly a challenge for the industry, and we’re not pretending otherwise.
“The thing is to an extent you can manage that out of your business, you can cut overheads, streamline processes and adjust your growth strategies.
“Volatility on price is much more damaging, because you’re making a commitment, often against very long lead times. When raw material prices are changing almost by the minute – and normally upwards –that can leave you exposed.”
Even if the current ceasefire and peace deal holds, the conflict in the Middle East will continue to create uncertainty across global energy and logistics markets for months to come.
Higher oil prices, shipping disruption and increased manufacturing costs are feeding through the supply chain, creating an environment where material costs can change significantly during the lifespan of a project.
“Historically, fixed-price agreements worked because costs were relatively stable”, Mike continues.
“Today, that’s no longer the case. We’ve seen surcharges and price increases applied across multiple product categories in a relatively short period of time.
“We’re absorbing as many of those costs as we can, in common with every fabricator we have to pass some of those price increases on to our customers. If installers don’t adjust their price increases accordingly, they’re going to be exposed.”
Mike argues winning business at
Continued on page 50
Continued from page 49
any cost is more damaging than not wining it at all, and he urged installers to reflect the realities of their supply chain in their tenders.
“Winning work is one thing. Delivering it profitably is something else entirely”, he says. “I’m not suggesting building in stacks of extra margin ‘just in case’ your overheads suddenly rise.
“The entire supply chain should, however, be adopting an agile approach to pricing, which accurately reflects your costs as a business.
“We’ve been encouraging customers to shorten quotation validity periods, review pricing throughout longer projects and have open conversations with contractors and developers from the outset.
“Nobody likes surprises, but equally nobody benefits when suppliers absorb unsustainable increases and put their own businesses under pressure.”
This segways into another key point for Mike – reliability – which
he argues becomes increasingly important in a volatile market.
As programmes tighten and margins come under pressure, he points out that delays in the supply of windows and doors can have consequences across multiple trades and stages of construction.
This is one reason why Sternfenster continues to invest heavily in manufacturing, logistics and customer support.
Earlier this year, the Lincolnbased fabricator recorded its highest ever Complete On Time In Full performance, including transport performance of 99.58%, glass production performance of 98.03% and customer service performance of 99.57%.
This has been founded on a raft of recent investments include a £1.2m Forel automated glass line, a £1.4m PVC welding and cleaning line, a £400,000 sustainability programme centred on solar energy generation, and approximately £400,000 in IT development projects designed to improve efficiency and customer service.
“Reliability isn’t something you suddenly decide to do when conditions become difficult”, Mike continues.
“It’s the result of years of investment in people, systems and infrastructure. When projects are under pressure, installers need confidence that their supplier will deliver what they say they’re going to deliver.
“The investments that we have made have driven better quality and better service, ultimately making us a more flexible supply partner for our customers.
“We’ve been able to invest because we’re profitable. We need to stop thinking of profitability as a dirty word. Profitability allows you to invest, to run your business sustainability and to deliver better quality and service to customers.
“’Buying work’ in the commercial space or rigidly holding your prices when they mean you lose money runs against that entirely.”
www.sternfenster.com
Unpacking foiled profiles
Homeowners want more choice in colour and finish than ever before. For fabricators, delivering that choice efficiently can be the difference between winning profitable work and walking away from it. That’s why Deceuninck’s single bar length supply model is proving such a powerful advantage.
From flush sash heritage installations to contemporary smooth matt finishes, foiled products have given fabricators and installers a platform to sell at a premium, increase margins
and give homeowners greater freedom of choice.
It’s defined the market, with Deceuninck’s own homeowner research consistently reinforcing the importance of aesthetics in residential sales, with 75% of homeowners saying colour influences their purchasing decisions for windows and doors.
The challenge for fabricators has traditionally been balancing that demand for choice against the operational realities of stocking foiled profile.
Ordering specialist colours often meant committing to full pack quantities, sometimes 36m or 72m per profile depending on the foil. That tied up cash, consumed warehouse space and created pressure to recover costs on relatively small orders.
“We don’t believe in forcing the hand of our customers or holding a gun against their head so that they have to buy complete packs.
“We want to offer them access to as flexible a service as possible –including offering them single bar length options.
“No one wants unused packs tying up their cash. Especially in the current climate.
“Supplying single bar length gives our customers complete flexibility and keeps their cash working for them”, says Darren Woodcock, General Manager, Deceuninck.
Instead of committing to bulk stockholding, Deceuninck’s offer allows fabricators to order exactly what they need for a specific project, including specialist colours and premium finishes, all on rapid lead times.
“We know that the market is tough. Lead times are really important in retail in helping installers get orders across the line”, continues Darren. “That in turn is putting pressure on fabricators to turn round product quickly.
“The flexibility to order product with no minimum order quantities is important in getting those jobs won, without having to commit to hold large volumes of product in your yard and with it, cash.”
A broader colour offer, without the risk
Deceuninck currently offers more than 30 colourways from stock, with additional colours available on fast turnaround times.
Its growing premium range now also includes the Continental Conti Mattex collection, featuring finishes including Beige Grey, Shine Beige, Shine Dark Graphite, Green Grey and Turner Malt Oak.
The ultra-matt appearance of Conti Mattex closely replicates powder-coated aluminium, creating opportunities for fabricators to offer more architectural and design-led products while retaining the fabrication advantages of PVC-U.
Critically, fabricators can access those finishes without minimum order quantities. That means they can confidently offer a much broader palette of colours, including niche and specialist finishes, without carrying excess stock or building unnecessary complexity into their operation.
Case in point: Rapid Windows
North-East fabricator Rapid Windows is one company already seeing the benefits of the model in practice.
It switched to Deceuninck after finding traditional bulk ordering on foiled profile restrictive and commercially frustrating.
“We’ve always been stung with having to order between 36m and 72m pack quantities, depending on the foil,” explained Sam Hewitt, Operations Director at Rapid Windows.
“Someone might want just one door and a window in a particular colour, but we would have to order 36m of each individual profile, meaning we’ve then got a load of stock sitting on the shelves.”
By moving to Deceuninck’s single bar length supply, Rapid transformed how it approached colour sales.
“It’s enabled us to cost-effectively manufacture the more obscure window and door colours that we’ve never been able to before,” adds Sam.
Watch the video here
Supporting a more agile fabrication model
Ordering profile specifically against confirmed contracts improves stock control, reduces waste and allows fabricators to operate more efficiently. Warehouse space can be used more effectively, while purchasing becomes more closely aligned to live production requirements.
That operational agility is especially valuable in a market where homeowner tastes continue to evolve quickly.
“We’re already seeing growing demand for softer greys, creams,
heritage-inspired finishes and smooth matt foils as homeowners move away from more traditional colour choices”, continues Darren.
“That colour moves through our warehouse because we get the volume. For fabricators it could sit on their shelves indefinitely.
“If you throw in ancillaries, the loss of cash from your business in dead stock, can be staggering.”
Investment
paying off
Flip this on its head and the advantages of partnering with Deceuninck are clear. In addition to operating one of the UK’s most advanced extrusion and foiling operations, it’s made significant investment in stockholding to hold more than 4,000 product lines in stock. This includes profiles, trims and ancillaries, across 140,000ft² of warehousing space.
A fully integrated online ordering platform gives fabricators live visibility of stock levels, lead times and order status in real time, with orders digitally picked and scanned on and off vehicles, helping to improve accuracy and traceability.
This investment in stockholding, manufacturing capability and digital infrastructure has also helped Deceuninck maintain an exceptionally strong OTIF sitting consistently above 98%.
“We want to give fabricators the confidence that we’ll get what they need to them when they need it. That’s fundamental to our wider offer.
“Our customers are in control of what they order and when, including individual lengths of foil. We won’t ever dictate what they have to buy.”
www.deceuninck.co.uk
Reynaers Aluminium UK appoints new Managing Director
Leading aluminium systems manufacturer Reynaers Aluminium UK has appointed Jim Smith as its new Managing Director.
With more than 30 years’ experience in the building products industry, Jim will lead the company’s growth, strengthen its commercial capability and further expand Reynaers’ presence within the architecture and specification markets.
Jim is said to bring extensive leadership experience across the flooring, lighting, and fit-out sectors, with a proven track record in specification-led sales, strategic commercial management and the delivery of large-scale projects.
Commenting on his appointment, Jim said: “The emphasis Reynaers places on its people and customers was a real draw for me.
I am looking forward to working alongside our talented team and valued customers and partners. Collaboration has always been central to my approach, and Reynaers has an exceptional network of commercial, trade and fabrication partners that will help drive our continued success.”
Having worked across commercial, industrial, retail, education and healthcare sectors, Jim will focus on accelerating growth while ensuring Reynaers continues to deliver marketleading support to architects, specifiers, fabricators and contractors.
Sustainability will remain a core priority under Jim’s leadership. Reynaers’ strategy is guided by its Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) goals, including reducing its carbon footprint by 50% by 2030.
Jim Smith
The company says it takes a holistic approach to sustainable building design, developing aluminium window, door and façade systems that balance energy efficiency, resilience to climate change, durability, affordability, recyclability, circularity, eco-design and compliance with regulation at the design stage of all construction projects.
Jim added: “Sustainability has been a defining focus throughout my career, so Reynaers’ commitment to creating a more sustainable built environment immediately resonated with me. Sustainability credentials are now fundamental to specification decisions, and Reynaers is recognised for its innovative product portfolio, rigorous testing and technical expertise. I’m excited to build on these strengths, helping customers overcome increasingly complex design challenges while keeping their needs at the heart of everything we do.”
Find new customers here
The PROSPECTManager data portal provides access to a family of prospecting databases spanning building materials, building, home improvement and construction markets.
PROSPECTManager was created to make it easier for businesses to plan and grow.
Plan (geographically) where to grow Find hard-to-reach customer audiences
Identify more of the right sort of customers - who have the money to buy
Ratings by
@prospectmanager prospectmanager.co.uk
More investment in customer care at the Window Company (Contracts)
Charlotte Rutt has joined the administration team at The Window Company (Contracts), as the award winning commercial installer continues to invest in resident liaison and customer care.
Charlotte’s role is to liaise with social housing residents, whose windows and doors are being replaced as part of The Window Company (Contracts)’ ongoing partnerships with the likes of Moat Housing and Ashford Borough Council, to book in their surveys and installations.
Alongside Katie Thornton, director of compliance and administration and administration assistant Ezgi Byram, Charlotte ensures residents are kept fully informed about every stage of their installation and that any concerns or questions they
might have are answered promptly and efficiently.
A key aspect of the service they provide is a ‘phone popping’ tool
ERA boosts compliance support with new certification manager
ERA has strengthened its commitment to providing industry-leading testing and certification support with the addition of a new team member as part of Quanex Hardware Solutions.
Dan Knight joins Quanex Hardware Solutions as Certification Manager and will play a key role in advancing ERA’s independent Test Laboratory in the West Midlands. His appointment supports the company’s continued commitment to ensuring its product portfolio meets both UK and international compliance, certification, and testing standards.
With a decade of experience in
the hardware sector, Dan has developed extensive expertise in new product development, regulatory compliance and product testing. In his role at Quanex Hardware Solutions, he leads the management of the company’s UKAS-accredited UK testing laboratory.
Operating from ERA’s advanced i54 facility, Dan is responsible for the independent testing and verification of products for both ERA and Zoo Hardware, as well as providing broader compliance support and fenestration solutions to customers across the industry.
Dan’s appointment follows Quanex’s purchase of the Tyman group in August 2024, which
linked to The Window Company (Contracts)’ 58,000 record property database, which means they can greet residents by name when they call and instantly access all the details of their property.
This also means Charlotte and the team can easily track and record all the feedback they get from residents on their window and door replacements and generate project and KPI status reports for clients quickly and easily.
Charlotte is enjoying being part of the close knit team and says: “There is a real culture of customer service here and that is underpinned by processes and technologies which make sure we can deliver what we promise. As a business, we’re routinely achieving customer satisfaction scores of 98.4% and we’re all focused on maintaining and even improving on that.”
http://thewinco.co.uk/
includes the brands ERA and Zoo Hardware. The two UK brands now sit alongside Giesse and Reguitti under Quanex Hardware Solutions.
www.eraeverywhere.com
Charlotte Rutt
GGF appoints Kevin Jones as Technical Director
The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) has strengthened its senior leadership team with the appointment of Kevin Jones as technical director, recognising his significant contribution to the Federation and the development of its technical services.
Kevin has been a key member of the GGF team for a number of years and has played an instrumental role in the development of the Federation’s technical offering. During that time, he has become a trusted voice across the industry, providing guidance and support on technical standards, regulations, compliance and industry best practice.
In his new role, Kevin will continue to lead the GGF’s technical team, overseeing the delivery of technical support, guidance, training and industry engagement. He will continue to report directly to GGF director Lauren Mawford and remain a member of the Federation senior management team.
Lauren Mawford, director of the GGF, said: “Kevin’s promotion is a reflection of the outstanding
contribution he has made to the Federation and our members over a number of years.
“His technical expertise, leadership and commitment to supporting the industry have been instrumental in strengthening the services we provide and ensuring members have access to the guidance and support they need during a period of significant change.
“Kevin is highly respected both within the Federation and across the wider industry. I am delighted to appoint him as technical director and look forward to continuing to work closely with him as we build on the excellent work of our technical team and continue supporting our members.”
Kevin’s appointment comes at a time when businesses across the glass and glazing industry are navigating major regulatory and technical change, including the Future Homes Standard, construction product reform and evolving compliance requirements.
www.ggf.org.uk
Mila UK promotes Julie Holmes to Director & General Manager
Mila UK has announced the appointment of Julie Holmes to the role of director & general manager, strengthening the company’s ongoing long-term strategic growth, says the company.
The newly created role will benefit Mila customers by leading to faster decision-making, enhanced coordination across sales and operations, and a more responsive service aligned to their specific needs, according to the company.
Julie has worked in the fenestration industry for 20 years and has extensive customer and market experience. She joined Mila in 2013 and has progressed through the roles of area sales manager, national sales manager, and sales director, making this latest step a natural progression.
She comments: “Our mission at Mila is to become the most customer-centric and trusted partner in the fenestration industry, delivering reliable products and industry leading service to our customers – and that’s exactly what I want to achieve in my new role. I can’t wait to get started.”
www.milasecure.com/uk/en
Liniar strengthens new
build and social housing team with appointment of two key team members
Quanex company Liniar, a UK leading PVCu systems company, has announced the appointment of Martin Benn as sales director New Build & Social Housing, and Stuart Nelson as commercial manager New Build & Social Housing, both joined the business on 13th July 2026.
Martin and Stuart bring with them an exceptional level of experience, having collectively spent more than 50 years within the industry, where they have played pivotal roles in establishing and developing one of the most successful new build sales operations in the UK fenestration sector, says the company.
Throughout their careers, Martin and Stuart have worked at the forefront of the new build market, building long-standing relationships with national and regional housebuilders, driving specification success, and helping to secure significant market share across the sector.
Their decision to join Liniar reflects both the strength of the company’s growth ambitions and the significant opportunities that exist within the new build and social housing markets.
Commenting on the appointments, Nigel Bishop, vice president of sales at Liniar, said:“We are absolutely delighted to welcome Martin and Stuart to the Liniar team. Their reputation within the industry speaks for itself. Over the past two decades they have consistently demonstrated an unrivalled understanding of the new build sector and have been instrumental in shaping one of the strongest market propositions in the industry.
“As we continue to invest in our future growth strategy, particularly within new build, social housing and green retrofit markets, the addition of Martin and Stuart significantly strengthens our capability. Their experience, customer relationships and market
(left to right): Pete Grundy, Liniar Vice President of Operations, Stuart Nelson, Liniar Commercial Manager New Build & Social Housing, Martin Benn, Liniar Sales Director New Build & Social Housing, Nigel Bishop, Liniar Vice President Sales
knowledge will be invaluable as we continue to expand our presence and support customers across the UK.”
Martin Benn added:“After 25 fantastic years with Eurocell, the decision to move on was not taken lightly. However, the opportunity to join Liniar at such an exciting stage of its development was one that Stuart and I felt we simply couldn’t ignore.
“Liniar has established itself as one of the most innovative and ambitious businesses in the sector. The investment being made in products, people and future growth plans presents a tremendous opportunity, and I am excited to be part of the next chapter.”
Stuart Nelson commented: “Liniar’s vision for growth within the new build and social housing sectors is incredibly compelling. The business has a clear strategy, a strong leadership team and a reputation for innovation that is recognised throughout the industry.
“I am looking forward to working alongside Martin and the wider Liniar team to help customers unlock new opportunities and support the company’s continued expansion.”
The appointments form part of Liniar’s wider growth strategy and reinforce the company’s commitment to investing in marketleading talent, strengthening customer partnerships, and increasing its presence across key sectors of the UK construction industry.
www.liniar.co.uk
Hörmann Appoints new trade door sales manager
Hörmann has strengthened its sales team with the appointment of Andrew Vodden as Trade Door Sales Manager for its Hörmann Truedor composite door range. Covering the Southern Counties and Wales, Andrew joins the business at a significant time as Hörmann continues to drive forward its ambitious growth plans within the UK composite door market.
With more than 30 years’ experience across the construction and fenestration industries, Andrew brings extensive expertise in trade sales, customer relationship management and business development. Having held senior sales roles within the door and window sector, he has developed a strong understanding of both the exterior and interior door markets, alongside
a reputation for delivering outstanding customer support.
Throughout his career, Andrew has worked closely with installers, fabricators, trade counters and merchant customers, helping to build long-term partnerships
Glazerite strengthens sales team with Dale Watson appointment
Glazerite has strengthened its sales team with the appointment of Dale Watson as area sales manager for the Southwest.
Reporting to National Sales Manager Billy Hawes, Dale will support Glazerite’s trade customers across the region, providing day-to-day sales support and helping installers make the most of the company’s PVC-U and aluminium product offering.
Dale joins Glazerite with almost 20 years’ experience across the construction and fenestration sectors. Most recently, he spent five years with a major Veka/Halo fabricator, giving him extensive knowledge of
Glazerite’s core product range and the needs of trade installers.
Billy said: “We’re pleased to welcome Dale to the team.
“His experience across both PVC-U and aluminium, combined with his understanding of the trade market, makes him a great fit for the business and our customers.
“He has already completed his induction across the Group and is now looking forward to getting out to meet customers throughout the Southwest.”
As part of his induction, Dale spent two weeks visiting Glazerite’s operations across the Group, giving him a detailed
and deliver sustainable sales growth. In his new role, Andrew will focus on expanding Hörmann Truedor’s trade presence across the South of England and Wales, supporting existing customers while identifying new opportunities within the installer and fabricator sectors.
Speaking about his appointment, Andrew said, “I’m delighted to be joining Hörmann Truedor at such an exciting time. The strength of the Hörmann brand, combined with Hörmann Truedor’s extensive UK manufactured composite door range, provides a fantastic platform to support trade customers and help grow their door sales.
I’m looking forward to meeting customers, building strong relationships and helping develop the business across the region.”
For further information on Hörmann Truedor visit Composite Front Doors – Hörmann Truedor
understanding of the company’s manufacturing capabilities, product portfolio and customer support teams before taking responsibility for the Southwest region.
www.glazeritewindows.co.uk
Andrew Vodden
Caribbean managing director Stuart Dantzic elected Vice President of the BBSA
Solar shading specialist Caribbean has announced that Managing Director Stuart Dantzic has been elected Vice President of the British Blind and Shutter Association (BBSA), following formal ratification by members at the association’s recent AGM.
Stuart has been involved with the BBSA for almost two decades and, after stepping back from the managing committee when he took over the family business, returned to play an active role in supporting the sector. He is
currently chair of the Promotions Working Group, which has recently helped guide the BBSA through a major rebrand.
Stuart also serves on the Technical Working Group, which carries out research to demonstrate the performance of the industry’s products in realworld conditions, and on the Training Working Group, which supports skills development and higher standards across the sector. In addition, he represents the BBSA in wider European
discussions through ES-SO, the European Solar Shading Organisation.
Commenting on his election, Stuart said: “The BBSA plays an incredibly important role in representing the UK shading industry. It brings together manufacturers, retailers and installers with a clear collective voice, while helping to drive standards, technical guidance, consumer awareness and wider industry recognition.
“With overheating and energy efficiency now major subjects of discussion, the association’s work feels more relevant than ever. It is a real honour to have been asked to take on this role and to have the confidence and support of my industry peers.”
Andrew Chalk, director of the BBSA, said: “Stuart has been a valued contributor to the BBSA for many years and his election as Vice President reflects both his commitment to the industry and the respect he commands among his peers. His experience and enthusiasm will be a great asset to the BBSA as we continue to champion the benefits of shading across the UK.”
As Vice President, Stuart will help support the strategic direction of the BBSA, champion greater awareness of shading and its benefits, support member engagement and help position the association as an authoritative voice for UK shading.
He added: “Having worked in the shading industry for more than 20 years, and within a family business focused entirely on external shading, this appointment means a great deal to me personally. It is an exciting time for the sector and I am proud to take on this responsibility.”
www.cbsolarshading.co.uk
The culture behind continuous improvement at Glazerite
Digital systems, lean manufacturing and operational excellence all have an important role to play in modern window and door fabrication. But according to Glazerite’s leadership team, sustainable improvement starts and ends with people.
It is a simple statement, but one that says a great deal about
how Darren Rhodes, managing director North at Glazerite, views leadership.
For Darren and Rob Brearley, group managing director at Glazerite, building a successful manufacturing business has never been solely about machinery, systems or production targets. It is about creating a culture where
people take ownership, understand what good looks like and feel part of the business they are helping to build.
That philosophy sits behind much of Glazerite’s approach to continuous improvement.
The phrase “continuous improvement” is often associated with systems, processes and technology. In manufacturing environments, it can bring to mind dashboards, production metrics and automation. Yet speak to Rob and Darren, and a different picture emerges.
For them, continuous improvement has always been about culture first.
It is a philosophy built on
empowering people, creating accountability and giving teams the confidence to make better decisions every day.
The systems support that culture. They do not replace it.
“Where we come from in our history is manufacturing operational excellence and lean manufacturing,” explains Rob.
“Both me and Darren, over the 31 years we’ve known each other, have gone on separate journeys, but both journeys have been around the same processes. Lean manufacturing, best practice, no fault forward and culturally putting that into teams.
“When we joined a window
business that didn’t have many of the practices we’d seen in pharmaceutical, electronics, food and wire manufacturing, it was quite exciting because we knew those processes worked.
“That’s what we’ve been putting in place. But we don’t sit on our laurels. We keep pushing because continuous improvement is continually improving. It never really ends.”
Culture first, systems second
That principle underpins much of Glazerite’s operational strategy.
Over recent years, the fabricator has invested in systems and digital infrastructure, including its EVO25 ordering platform and Positive Release initiative. These investments have helped streamline ordering, improve workflow and create greater visibility throughout the manufacturing process.
Yet Rob argues that technology only creates value when the right culture exists around it.
That philosophy is perhaps best demonstrated by Glazerite’s commitment to no fault forward manufacturing.
While the term has its roots in lean manufacturing, its application at Glazerite is as much about culture as process.
In simple terms, no fault forward means responsibility for quality sits at every stage of production. Instead of allowing an issue to move through the factory and relying on final inspection to identify it, teams are empowered to stop, investigate and resolve problems immediately.
For Glazerite, that creates a different mindset.
Quality ceases to be the responsibility of one department and instead becomes everyone’s
responsibility.
The benefit for customers is significant.
In a market where installers are operating with tight margins and demanding project schedules, every remake, service call or rejected frame creates additional cost and disruption.
By identifying and resolving issues at the earliest possible stage, no fault forward reduces the likelihood of defects reaching despatch in the first place. That improves consistency, protects lead times and helps installers spend less time dealing with problems and more time focusing on their own customers.
Creating space to get it right
Glazerite has reinforced this people-led approach through investment in digital systems.
Its Positive Release initiative combines the principles of no fault forward with the capabilities of its EVO25 online ordering platform. Orders are checked, verified and released into production earlier, creating additional time before despatch for inspection and quality assurance.
Instead of products being pushed through the factory under pressure at the final stage, Positive Release creates breathing space. If an issue is identified, teams have time to resolve it before it reaches the customer.
The technology enables the process.
The people make it work.
As Rob has explained elsewhere, Positive Release was designed to create more headroom in production, introducing additional
Continued on page 64
Continued from page 63
time for reinspection and allowing issues to be picked up without impacting installation schedules.
The result is a manufacturing environment where digital tools, operational processes and people all work towards the same objective: delivering a right-firsttime product experience.
Small improvements every day
That connection between systems and culture is something Darren believes many businesses overlook.
“The idea behind the mystique of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement is just doing something better tomorrow than you’ve done today,” he says.
“It’s not that difficult.
“If you can explain to your teams that it’s not a revolution and it’s not massive step change, it’s just tiny little improvements every day. That’s all you need to do.”
The challenge, he says, is not implementing systems. It is creating an environment where people want to improve.
“Once you start that process and you get the culture right, it becomes self-generating,” Darren continues.
“The teams know when we bring a new employee in who’s going to fit and who’s not. They’ll actually manage part of that process for you.
“They’ll point out when employees aren’t quite the right fit or aren’t operating at the level they want them to.
“And once you get to that stage, it’s quite enlightening because you know the people are on the journey with you.”
Ownership throughout the business
That idea of ownership runs throughout Glazerite.
For many manufacturers, management can become heavily involved in directing day-to-day activity. At Glazerite, the aim is to create an environment where teams increasingly manage quality, standards and performance themselves.
As Rob explains: “Self-sustaining. Making decisions for themselves. Looking after their values and their quality for themselves.
“You don’t have to be that big brother as much.
“All you’re really doing is touching the fringes. Making sure culturally, they’re fine. Speaking to each other correctly. Keeping customer focus at the heart of everything they do.
“The structure of how we manufacture a product is pretty ingrained and slick at the moment.”
For customers, this culture has direct benefits.
In today’s market, every remake, missed delivery and service issue carries a greater cost than it once did. Rising material prices, labour costs and operational pressures mean there is less room for error than ever before.
Digital tools help support that objective.
Glazerite’s EVO25 platform has simplified ordering, reduced administration and accelerated production workflows. Reporting systems provide greater operational visibility, allowing issues to be identified quickly and acted on before they become bigger problems.
But Darren is clear that
systems alone do not create performance.
“We’re fair, we’re consistent and we’re target driven,” he says.
“The teams like that.
“As long as you’re fair and consistent, they’ll chase their own targets. You don’t need to encourage them to do that once you’ve set those targets, explained them and given them the tools to achieve them.”
Leadership beyond the office
The tools matter, but only when people are equipped, trusted and supported to use them effectively.
It is why both leaders spend significant time walking the factory floor, speaking directly with teams and maintaining visibility throughout the business.
The objective is not supervision. It is connection.
“We walk the shop floor regularly,” says Rob. “You get a great sense of the atmosphere and the environment. You know if things are going right or wrong. You can sense it with the team.”
For Darren, creating the right culture ultimately comes back to trust, ownership and giving people the confidence to contribute.
“We are open and honest,” he says. “You get what you see. It’s very simple. It’s not very complicated.
“They actually appreciate that we’re not ivory tower directors. We’re actually just down-to-earth people, just like everybody else.
“We all work for Glazerite. They don’t work for us.”
www.glazeritewindows.co.uk
FLAWLESS IN APPEARANCE AND PERFORMANCE
Resurgence is about to raise the bar for flush systems again!
FIND OUT MORE
Visibility delivers control for fabricators
Deceuninck is giving fabricators greater visibility of deliveries through a new transport planning system. Backed by digital ordering, major stockholding, investment in manufacturing and one of the UK’s largest colour offers, the company says it’s helping to bring more control to fabrication at a time when certainty counts.
Fabricators face multiple challenges. A difficult market, rising costs and pressure on their supply chains because of things far outside of their control.
Against that backdrop, running a fabrication business can according to Darren Woodcock,
Darren Woodcock, general manager of Deceuninck
general manager of Deceuninck, feel a little like ‘being a passenger’.
He explains: “The market is tough right now. We had expected things to pick up this spring and that hasn’t happened for reasons far beyond our control.
“There are a couple of things we need to recognise, however. The first is that the market is still there. There are some very strong areas of activity in new build, where housebuilders are cashing in and converting landbanks. That’s a very
different story to the one we’re reading about housebuilders profit warnings.
“Social landlords and housing associations are also still developing sites because their spend is ring fenced, so new build is perhaps flatter than we expected but it’s not lifeless.
“It’s the home improvement sector which is probably a little in the doldrums. Inflation has rocked consumer confidence.
“Even so, there is still a market if you have the right tools. For example, the energy efficiency sell against the backdrop of increasing pressure on household energy bills is the obvious one.
“If you can access the tools to do that, for example the Deceuninck Energy Calculator and can support end-users with a finance option, there are some big opportunities.
“But none of it right now is easy and we need to work to win business.
“That’s why we’re continuing to invest in our service and product offer to support our customers in doing that as effectively as possible.”
This analysis has underpinned Deceuninck’s service strategy, giving customers clearer information on when orders will arrive, while backing that up with stockholding, production planning and investment in UK manufacturing.
While it has offered digital ordering and real time digital stockholding for approaching a decade, it has extended the reach of its digital programme beyond the factory gates to include deliveries.
This supports better planning before product arrives at the
factory as part of a wider shift towards more joined-up communication between order, warehouse, transport and customer.
“The point of delivery visibility is very simple,” Darren continues: “It gives customers time back. If you know when a delivery is coming in, you can plan your goods-in, your labour and your production schedule around it.
“If you don’t know, you’re reacting. And when you’re reacting, you’re losing efficiency.”
Deceuninck’s transport planning system gives customers improved visibility of scheduled deliveries, supporting better planning before product arrives at the factory. It is part of a wider shift towards more joined-up communication between order, warehouse, transport and customer.
This includes digital order tracking, with orders picked, scanned and loaded through Deceuninck’s warehouse and logistics process, reducing the risk of error and improving traceability.
Levering digital tools to give full transparency on orders to customers
The move builds on Deceuninck’s long-standing investment in digital systems. Through Deceuninck Online, customers already have 24/7 access to online ordering, order tracking, brochures, and specification guides.
“It’s a little bit like Amazon,” Darren explains. “The order comes in, it’s picked from the warehouse and an order for Continued on page
Continued on page 67
replacement stock goes into the production schedule.
“That visibility is incredibly important. It means we can see what is moving in real time, our customers can order when it suits them, and we can plan production around actual demand.”
This is underpinned by Deceuninck’s decision to hold stock rather than rely on a pure just-in-time model.
Its state-of-the-art warehouse in Calne extends to 140,000sq ft and holds more than 4,000 products in stock, including profiles, trims and ancillaries. Orders are digitally picked and scanned on and off lorries, helping to maintain accuracy throughout the process.
“In a sense it’s a traditional model because we hold stock,” Darren says. “But what we’ve done is bring that model into a digital environment.
“We know what we have, what is moving, what needs replacing and where demand is going. That gives us and our customers a lot more control.
“Just-in-time works if everything lines up. But if anything slips in the supply chain, it’s the customer who feels it. We don’t want to operate like that. The customer comes first.”
The result is an On-Time-InFull performance which has consistently remained at 98% or above.
That performance is even more significant given the complexity of Deceuninck’s offer. The systems house has led the market on colour for more than
a decade, supplying more than 30 colourways from stock, with a further 20 available in just 15 working days.
It has also recently expanded its premium foil offer with the addition of five new colours from Continental’s Conti mattex range: Beige Grey, Shine Beige, Shine Dark Graphite, Green Grey and Turner Malt Oak on white.
Available on a promotional 14day lead time, with matching trickle vents and end caps, the new range gives fabricators access to ultra-matt finishes which closely resemble powdercoated aluminium.
“One in four UK windows and doors are colour and demand is still rising,” Darren continues. “Colour sells because homeowners want choice, but for fabricators the real advantage is being able to deliver that choice quickly.
“The new Conti mattex finishes give our customers something different. They sit in that softer, more premium colour space, with a finish that looks very close to aluminium. And because we can supply them quickly, it gives fabricators a commercial advantage.”
Deceuninck’s broader colour offer now includes more than 200 special foils and 350 different colourways, including single and dual colour options.
Investment in productivity and quality
Deceuninck’s industry-leading OTIF is founded on the investment it has made within its manufacturing capability and a continuous improvement programme to increase productivity.
This has recently included cutting average extrusion line
set-up times by 14-minutes per set compared to 2025, reducing average set-up time to 75 minutes.
Line speed has also increased to 15.9, up 0.4 year-on-year, supported by the development of new motorised gasket inserters, which allow lines to run faster and more consistently.
Productivity, measured as metres produced against man hours, has increased by four points to 94, underlining a more efficient and streamlined manufacturing operation.
It also includes continuing investment in extrusion.
Deceuninck installed a new exelliq Manufacturing 4.0 DIGI.LINE automated digital extrusion line at its Calne facility in 2024. The six-figure investment gives the UK operation one of Europe’s most advanced co-extrusion lines, increasing capacity while improving precision through real-time digital monitoring of material flow, water tanks, vacuum settings and cutting.
The investment follows a wider multi-million-pound programme, including two new extrusion lines and a Luna R automatic profile lamination machine.
“That investment matters because it gives us flexibility,” Darren says. “We are reducing set-up times, improving line speeds and improving consistency.
“It means we can respond more quickly to demand, but also manufacture to a higher level of accuracy. For fabricators, that means better product, less waste and fewer issues downstream.”
The small things: four ways to elevate exterior style with hinge choice
From kempt gardens and clean facades to colour choice, homeowners are increasingly looking for exterior features that will add personality, boost kerb appeal, and create long-term value. In fact, according to Wickes, 93% of homebuyers are more likely to attend a viewing if the home’s exterior is well maintained. Thankfully, it’s the small touches that can add the most value.
When it comes to exterior styling, it is the finer details that shape the overall impression of quality. However, it’s common for homeowners to overlook subtle
additions, like aesthetic hinges, as their attention may be drawn to bigger style statement choices, like handles, letters, and numerals. While these choices matter, greater
consistency is achieved when paying close attention to smaller hardware components too.
Fabricators and door manufacturers can support homeowners in creating a cohesive exterior aesthetic by specifying quality statements pieces, like the furniture available in the Fab&Fix range, but also by offering highperformance hinges that work with these key items for a more pleasing and intentional finished product.
Available in a range of perfectly matching finishes to complement the wider Fab&Fix offering, the Fab&Fix Classic door hinge from ERA is a great example of a small
detail that makes a big difference to the overall appearance of a property.
Ensuring colour continuity across hardware projects
These days, entrance doors provide the ultimate exterior statement. From blues, greens, and greys, to yellows, reds, and pinks, homeowners are keen to introduce difference with various colourways, boosting their property’s appeal.
With this shift, homeowners have come to expect greater visual consistency from their hardware components and colours too. So, while black, white, and chrome
remain popular, a diverse portfolio should be made available to suit a variety of customer preferences.
Although, colour continuity across all visible components is what forms a refined aesthetic. Therefore, it’s important that fabricators and door manufacturers support homeowners looking for seamless styling with colour rich hinges too.
The fast-to-fit, Fab&Fix Classic door hinge makes an ideal option for homeowners looking to personalise their frontage. Offering a breadth of variety, the hinge is available in Hardex finish styles, including:
• Chrome
• Graphite
• Gold
• Bronze
• Pewter
With classic options available in:
• Blacks
• White
• Premium Satin
• Anthracite Grey
Alternatively, the hinge is available in RAL-matched shades, including:
• Agate Grey
• Cream
• Light and Dark Brown
• Chartwell Green
Achieving visual consistency with hardware
Hardware specification plays a significant role in achieving an uncluttered aesthetic. While furniture plays an integral part of the exterior story, it is vital that other key components, like hinges, don’t interrupt the intended look. For fabricators and door manufacturers, this means specifying highperformance options that reduce visual interruption and support understated design preferences.
The Fab&Fix Classic door hinge is a great addition for homeowners
looking for streamlined style. Available in a range of finishes that complement over 200 Fab&Fix door and window hardware furniture pieces, the hinge can also be produced in a range of RALmatched shades. This supports fabricators and manufacturers in providing solutions that seamlessly blend in with the homeowner’s door profile for a quiet yet premium look.
Guaranteeing Hardware Performance for Longevity
Specifying stylish hardware is only a part of the job. From handles and letterplates, to hinges, a job well done depends on all components looking the part and performing well for years to come. That is why offering warranty-backed, endurance-tested, and corrosionresistant hardware, such as Fab&Fix, across all elements of a project is key to achieving an elevated exterior aesthetic that lasts.
The Fab&Fix Classic door hinge is tested to PAS 24: 2022 security standards. Durable and reliable, the hinge is cycle tested in excess of 300,000 cycles to ensure endurance for prolonged use. While its BS EN 1670 rating means the hinge can resist up to 480 hours of exposure to salt-spray, which is essential for resilience in demanding environments.
While looking out for these benchmarks is crucial, it is important for fabricators and door manufacturers to know that highperformance hinges shouldn’t create complexity upon installation. With all the performance characteristics expected of the ERA brand, the Fab&Fix Classic Door Hinge comes fully assembled and can be installed in just 60 seconds for a straightforward installation and guaranteed homeowner satisfaction.
For further information on ERA’s diverse hardware portfolio, please visit: www.eraeverywhere.com
Staying one step ahead on steel
New tariffs on imported steel, set to be introduced on 1 July 2026, are threatening to erode fabricator margins in an already challenging market place. Anglo Metal’s managing director, Paul Sullivan, highlights the advantages of sourcing steel reinforcement from an independent supplier.
Since the start of the Iranian conflict earlier this year, the industry has had to adjust to the impact of increased energy costs, a reduction in consumer
confidence, downgraded forecasts from housebuilders and in many cases, a sudden uplift in raw material costs.
Paul Sullivan
That includes the bulk of material used in the manufacture of windows, doors and conservatories.
And from July 2026, new trade measures on steel are now threatening to put further pressure on manufacturers.
What is changing?
In an effort to shore up domestic UK steelmaking, which the government feels is under threat from low-cost imports, a 60% reduction in tariff-free steel import quotas will come into effect from 1 July, with a 50% tariff increase on imports that exceed those quotas, doubling the previous 25% rate.
Good news for British steelmakers, who should benefit from reduced competition, but less so for those UK manufacturers – including window and door fabricators who need steel reinforcement – who are focusing on ways to reduce production costs, not add to them.
“These new trade measures present a significant additional problem for the industry, and at a time when many manufacturers are already being squeezed from all directions,” says Paul Sullivan, managing director of Anglo Metals.
“A 50% tariff on imported steel has clear cost implications, but
fabricators could also be impacted by a reduction in availability and longer lead times. When you factor in the broader economic challenges, energy prices and increased competition in the market place, it couldn’t come at a worse time.
“Fortunately, there are still ways that fabricators can trim operational costs, including for steel reinforcement,” he continues.
As an independent supplier, one that is backed by the considerable might of the Amari Metals Engineering Group, Anglo boasts large-scale purchasing power, extensive stockholding and wellestablished supplier relationships.
This means it is positioned to offer much greater stability on steel even when the markets are disrupted by global events or, as in the case of these latest trade tariffs, when prices are influenced by government measures.
“We’ve known about the changes to import tariffs for some time, and by being one step ahead, we’ve introduced safeguards that are designed to help protect our customers as much as possible,” says Paul.
“For fabricators, these new tariffs really underline the importance of fully scrutinising procurement
practices, because many are still buying steel from their system supplier, and will be exposing themselves to the additional margin that syscos apply.
“I know why it’s tempting for fabricators to overlook this, because there is some value to the convenience of getting your steel and profile all together, but if you’re operating at scale, then those costs start to add up – can it really be justified as best practice when profit margins are being so heavily eroded?”
Paul adds that Anglo can help customers in other ways, beyond managing the cost of steel reinforcement.
Anglo’s established cut-to-size service means that fabricators no longer have to worry about cutting bar length to size on site or investing in and maintaining machinery that is required to do it.
They simply confirm the dimensions that are required with Anglo and the lengths are delivered, quickly and efficiently, vastly improving manufacturing efficiencies, and eradicating the need to deal with waste, off-cuts or re-cuts.
“Buying in steel reinforcement from Anglo will save you money, but our cut-to-size service is even better because you’re not tying up cash in excess stock, and you don’t have to handle or store it.
“It’s always been important for fabricators to look at ways to maximise profit margins, and these new tariffs on steel will be another factor that needs to be absorbed into operational costs,” concludes Paul. “At Anglo, we are already helping hundreds of customers to trim costs and remain competitive, and we are here to help many more who want to put themselves in a stronger position going forward.”
https://anglometal.co.uk/
Alunet and JD Door Systems launch Aluna+ entrance door range for UK installers
Alunet Systems and JD Door Systems, part of the Eurocell Group, have launched a new Aluna+ Entrance Door range to the UK market, introducing a brand-new collection of luxury aluminium and steel entrance doors designed to help installers nationwide to elevate their front entrance door offering.
The new Aluna+ range combines premium aesthetics, advanced security and impressive thermal performance – giving installers a new opportunity in the growing high-end entrance door sector.
The collection is structured across three defined ranges: Core, Nova and Prime enabling installers to offer a tiered solution to suit different budgets and project requirements.
• Aluna+ Core doors are classed as the ‘quality’ range – delivers durability, thermal insulation from 1.1 W/m²K and come with anti-burglary security and a 2-year warranty as standard.
• Aluna+ Nova doors, labelled the ‘superior’ range, enhances thermal performance further
with U-values as low as 0.87 W/ m²K, have a 5-year warranty and sound reduction.
• Aluna+ Prime doors, the fully aluminium ‘supreme’ range achieves thermal performance from 0.8 W/m²K, Class 6A watertightness, sound reduction, have a 10-year warranty, and RC2/RC3 security options available.
Across the entire new Aluna+ range, installers benefit from over 100 panel design options, approximately 200 colours and finishes, aluminium sidelights with thermal breaks, and extensive hardware choices.
With demand for premium aluminium entrance doors continuing to rise, Alunet and JDUK says they are providing
installers with a high-impact, design-led product that delivers security, performance and kerb appeal in equally impressive measures.
Alunet and JDUK fully supports the launch of their new range with a powerful easy-to-use online door builder, making quoting and ordering fast, simple and accurate. The companies say Installers can easily configure designs, select finishes and hardware, and generate validated orders within minutes – reducing errors, speeding up turnaround times and making it easier than ever to win and process new business.
alunetsystems.co.uk.
jdukltd.co.uk
New smart door option from Euroglaze
Barnsley based trade fabricator Euroglaze is now offering its complete range of composite doors with a new Smart Door option using ABS’ simple and secure Black Xlock keyless cylinder system. Euroglaze says this is a truly flexible system which can be fitted on doors with a lever handle, escutcheon or pull bar and is available in six different finishes including black, white, brass, chrome and nickel to suit the style and colour of any panel.
The ABS Black Xlock uses advanced keyless technology to allow users to lock, unlock and monitor the status of their door using either their phone, an xKey fob, XPad keybad, Wi-Fi bridge or NFC tag.
Said to be user-friendly, the Black Xlock is ideal for both homeowners and landlords because it allows users to either share the app directly with family, friends and trusted
visitors, create temporary or limited access codes for anyone who needs to enter their property, or lock and unlock remotely.
Users get notifications about who has unlocked the door and, when they pair the app with a Wi-Fi bridge, they can control the Black Xlock from anywhere in the world.
Nicky Park, Euroglaze’s senior business development associate, commented: “The Black Xlock is a simple and cost effective upgrade for our trade customers and gives them lots of opportunities to upsell their installations and increase their margins. It has all the physical and digital security protections required, with both facial and fingerprint recognition and full 128-bit AES encryption. And, for complete reassurance, it even comes with two traditional cut keys which can be used in an emergency.” euroglaze.co.uk/
Modplan expands product portfolio with launch of new composite door range
Independent trade fabricator Modplan has expanded its product portfolio with the launch of its new composite door range.
Liam Isaac, head of sales and marketing at Modplan, said: “As a business, we’ve built our reputation on supplying products that our customers can install with complete confidence. When we decided to add composite doors to our portfolio, it was important that the product reflected the same levels of quality, performance and reliability that customers have come to expect from Modplan.”
The new range is manufactured from DoorCo’s composite door slabs, selected for their quality, design options and market reputation. Combined with VEKA outerframes, highsecurity cylinders and premium hardware throughout, the result is a composite door range designed to deliver outstanding aesthetics, security and long-term
performance, claims the company.
Liam commented: “We carefully assessed the market before making our decision. DoorCo has an excellent reputation for quality and innovation, making it the ideal partner for our composite door range. By combining DoorCo slabs with premium specification components and our own manufacturing expertise, we’re offering a product we’re proud to put the Modplan name behind.”
Security was a key consideration throughout the specification process. As standard, the doors feature the Winkhaus autoLock AV4 automatic multi-point locking system, which secures the door automatically when closed. The lock meets the requirements of PAS 24 and is approved by the Secured by Design initiative, delivering peace of mind for both installers and homeowners, says the company.
www.modplan.co.uk
With many retail installers lacking showroom facilities, Hurst customers can offer homeowners an up-close-and-personal interaction with the door of their dreams, from the comfort of their own sofa – all as part of the sales process. We report.
For Hurst Doors, the UK supplier of PVC-U door panels, composite doors and fire doors, investment in marketing correlates directly with its customers’ success.
Fully acknowledging this reality, Hurst has invested heavily in an integrated marketing package. Making use of the latest technology, whilst retaining simplicity, the package is designed to help retail installers sell more doors, more effectively.
“Investment in marketing is critical for Hurst because it’s critical for our customers,” says Hayley Barker, head of marketing at Hurst Doors.
“The brochures, augmented reality (AR) tool, and video content that we’ve created have all been designed to support the sales process for our retail customers.”
With around 80% of those customers operating a smallerscale business model, Hurst’s marketing plan was centred around recognition that many installers don’t have access to dedicated showrooms.
Hayley Barker, head of marketing at Hurst Doors
From sofa to sale
“This means going into their customers’ homes with a brochure full of 2D images, which often doesn’t do the products justice enough to sell them,” explains Hayley.
“Our task was to give our customers the tools to bring those doors to life – in the comfort of the homeowner’s own living room.”
The result is a suite of marketing tools designed to create an immersive showroom experience, whatever the location.
‘A showroom in your pocket’
Central to the package, Hurst’s AR sales tool enables installers and homeowners to visualise doors in 3D and in-situ, directly on the intended property.
With CGI imagery used throughout Hurst’s brochures, homeowners can access their chosen door style instantly on their smartphone through a simple QR code. The technology also allows users to rotate the door 360º, zoom-in to see woodgrain effects and glass styles up close,
and walk around the visualised door using AR.
“It’s like having a showroom in your pocket,” Hayley explains. “From a sales perspective, the fact that you can walk around the door, see the grain effect, see the glass style – those elements go far beyond ‘what does it look like on your front door, Mrs Smith?’ It’s far more than that.
“It also makes it much easier for installers to sell to those homeowners who may be housebound or live too far from a physical showroom to make a visit.”
In addition to the AR tool, installers also have free access to high-quality CGI renders for websites and social media, customisable social graphics and video content to support digital marketing.
With all this available, free of charge, to all Hurst customers, the marketing package also helps smaller installers to compete against larger companies, with access to greater resources, on a level playing field.
“All of these tools are absolutely free to use for our customers,” Hayley confirms. “Along with any of the imagery from the brochures, they can have the QR codes – even for their invoices and emails – which link to the 3D imagery.”
By equipping installers with tools that genuinely bring products to life, Hurst is helping them convert more leads, increase customer confidence and differentiate themselves from the competition.
“When manufacturers invest in marketing that helps installers sell, they’re investing in everyone’s success,” says Hayley. “That’s our marketing mission, here at Hurst.”
For more information, visit www.hurstdoors.co.uk
20 years fitting Apeer doors in Didcot homes
20 years and more than 1200 doors later, Didcot Windows continues to turn to Apeer as its sole supplier of composite doors. The first order from managing director Jodie Jefferson was placed in the spring of 2006 – and those orders are still being regularly logged with the Ballymena manufacturer with no issues, and excellent service, says the company.
Established in 1988, Didcot Windows evolved as a company that valued the people who worked for it, that committed to the quality
of the products it installed, and that put loyalty above all else. Apeer immediately resonated with these principles when it first started working with Jodie and her team back in 2006 – principles that continue to form the foundation of their working relationship, according to the company.
“I first joined Didcot Windows at the age of 18 and quickly understood that the success of the business was founded on the strength of its people,” said Jodie Jefferson. “While the Apeer doors are definitely superior in terms of
looks and functionality, the fact that the company itself subscribes to the same principles of people first is why the relationship is so strong.”
Didcot is a relatively affluent area, so trade has remained buoyant for the installation company, which runs three teams of fitters. Jodie, who bought out the company in 2020 when the original owner Trevor Jones took retirement, is driven by the desire to create a good working environment for everyone involved in the business.
“We are powered by trust, both among ourselves, and with our suppliers too,” continued Jodie. “That trust filters throughout the chain – right through to our customers. We’re even replacing windows today for customers that we had more than thirty years ago. That is the power of longevity in our industry.”
“Despite being in the digital age – and social media is something we do embrace – the showroom remains a crucial element of our marketing,” said Jodie. “From unexpected drop-ins to weekend open days, local homeowners prefer to visit to see and feel the quality of the Apeer doors, and get a tangible experience of their performance. The conversion rate once someone has visited the showroom is significantly higher.”
“Jodie and her team at Didcot Windows make the challenge of manufacturing so worthwhile,” added Asa McGillian, managing director of Apeer. “The care and attention they pour into creating a welcoming and stable trading environment for both employees and customers alike must be met by providing them with quality product that performs over and above market comparables. 20 years is a significant milestone in a working relationship, and we will continue to pull all stops out to guarantee another 20 years of problem-free door supply!”
Jodie Jefferson, Director, Didcot Windows
Unique Door Panels launches Defendor
Working with composite door manufacturer, DoorCo, Unique Door Panels has recently launched the Defendor range, engineered with BritDor, DoorCo’s solid core offering.
Andy Jones MD of Unique Door Panels tells us why Unique chose to add BritDor to their range and shares the positive benefits the new range is bringing to their customers: ”At Unique Door Panels, we are always focused on delivering products that combine exceptional aesthetics with longterm performance, which is why using BritDor has brought clear benefits to our door ranges.
“One of the standout advantages is the finish quality. With BritDor, foils such as rosewood, oak, and Irish oak are not simply stained to achieve a similar tone, they are manufactured as a precise match to the door profile. This creates a seamless, consistent appearance across the entire door set, significantly enhancing the overall
visual impact. The result is not a “close enough” finish, but a true, perfect match that elevates the standard of the finished product.
“In addition to these popular finishes, BritDor offers a wide range of leading foils to matching profiles. This ensures continuity across every element of the door, so the slab, frame, and detailing work together perfectly rather than appearing as separate components. It’s a level of integration that our customers immediately recognise and value.
“Durability is another key benefit. The foil finish provides a robust alternative to traditional sprayed products, offering improved resistance to wear, weathering, and day-to-day use. This not only enhances the lifespan of the door but also reduces maintenance concerns for the end user.
“Finally, BritDor has expanded our manufacturing flexibility. Compared with conventional GRP
slabs, we are now able to produce both smaller and larger door sizes, giving us greater scope to meet bespoke design requirements without compromising on quality or finish.
“Overall, adopting BritDor, which we have launched as Defendor, has allowed us to deliver doors that are more visually consistent, more durable, and more versatile – benefits that directly translate into better outcomes for our customers.”
Amanda Shelley, DoorCo sales Manager, comments: “Sales are flying for our solid timber core option BritDor, with a massive 55% growth as more and more customers add the versatile range to their composite door offering.
“It has been a pleasure working with Andy and the team at Unique Door Panels to launch their Defendor range. As an existing DoorCo customer fabricating Original doors, it was simply a case of supporting them to onboard and integrate BritDor into their existing set up through our ready-made processes. The systems are all set up and ready to go, with orders placed online through the One portal, and our technology team worked with Unique to make sure the upgrade was seamless.
“We also worked with Andy and the team to create a range of marketing materials to support the launch, including a bespoke brochure from scratch, designed to specifically show the new Defendor brand they had created. This included creating a bespoke selection of 4K images to showcase the new range of doors and the perfect colour matching capabilities available, which they are also using to support their social media launch campaign.”
To view the Defendor brochure, visit: http://bit.ly/3SPPU8S
For more information on BritDor, visit: https://trade.door-co.com
Choice without compromise
With the composite door market split between GRP and solid core preferences, the introduction of Hurst’s new S-Class allows it to successfully service both sides, without compromising existing GRP sales or operational stability.
When it comes to composite doors, there have always been “two very distinct camps”, according to Mark Atkinson, sales director at Hurst.
“There are those that prefer a
solid core option with a PVC skin that clearly matches the outer frame with foils and colour availability – and those that prefer the thermal efficiency of a fibre glass skin and a foam core,” says Mark.
“We’ve always dominated with the foam side, but we found, when visiting customers, that they’ll either have one or the other or both. We thought we might be missing an opportunity.
Adding a solid core option to its portfolio would allow Hurst customers to source both technologies from one supplier, simplifying procurement and providing consumers with more choice. But it was imperative that the company’s existing GRP product wasn’t undermined in the process.
Mark Atkinson, sales director at Hurst
“Giving consumers greater choice can generate more sales opportunities for installers,” added Mark. “We wanted to diversify, but without cannibalising our current offer, and that’s how the S-Class solid core door came about.”
Product parallels
Instead of replacing one product with another, the S-Class runs in parallel to Hurst’s GRP offer, allowing the company to additionally service customers with a preference for solid core, without eclipsing its existing offering.
With solid core products typically sitting slightly above GRP in the
perceived market hierarchy, the introduction of the S-Class gives Hurst installers access to highervalue projects in the premium bespoke sector.
“The S-Class gives us flexibility to manufacture smaller-width doors because of the nature of a solid core. And because it’s a PVC skin, with the same foils as the outer frame, there are also colour advantages,” adds Mark.
Available in 32 styles and 18 colours, in addition to extensive glazing and hardware options – including Hurst’s Harmony Collection, as well as its Bee and Butterfly range – the S-Class offers comparable personalisation
opportunities to its GRP stablemate, ensuring consistency of choice across both product types.
Two products, one source
GRP customers continue to receive the same focus, innovation and support from Hurst, but are now also able to offer a solid core option in addition. The ability to deliver both products from the same supplier considerably cuts down on admin, simplifies logistics and reinforces the relationship between Hurst and its customers.
Utilising existing skills and equipment to bring the S-Class to market meant that no major capital investment was required, maintaining production stability for existing Hurst customers.
“From an operational point of view, it was quite simple to bring the S-Class in alongside our existing GRP product,” adds Mark.
“We could use our existing skills and existing equipment, and it was basically maximising the potential of that provision.”
Strengthening Hurst’s overall offer, the introduction of the S-Class successfully provides installers with a broader commercial opportunity that doesn’t devalue the company’s GRP heritage offer.
“In a market where diversification is often key to survival, S-Class allows us to cater to the full spectrum of entrance door demand, from cost-effective PVC-U panel doors to high-end, premium composites,” adds Mark.
“It’s allowed our installer customers to cast the net wider in terms of product choice and the interest this may attract, and we’re confident this will translate into additional sales,” he concludes.
www.hurstdoors.co.uk
Triple glazing: evolution, not revolution!
promise improved performance without the historic drawbacks of weight, thickness and system compatibility.
For many in the industry, this represents a significant opportunity. For others, particularly smaller glass processors and fabricators, it raises important questions about investment, demand and the direction of travel.
According to David ‘Oz’ Cahill, managing director of Flat Glass Solutions (FGS), lightweight triple glazing is an important technical development and a topic that continues to generate considerable and often confusing discussions across the industry.
“There’s no doubt that thin triple glazing is solving some very real challenges,” says Oz. “For years, the industry has talked about the difficulties associated with traditional triple glazing, and the latest generation of products addresses many of those concerns. So, it is worth considering whether market momentum reflects regulatory necessity, changing customer expectations, or a combination of both.”
That distinction matters. While regulatory changes continue to drive demand for better thermal performance, there remains no blanket requirement for triple glazing. With the Future Homes Standard due to come into force next March, the GGF has said the ‘standard calculation window’ is effectively over for new builds, and that some developers may be forced into triple-glazed specifications to comply. But that is not the same as saying “all windows must be triple glazed”.
Few topics are generating as much discussion in the glass and glazing sector right now as next-generation triple glazing. Driven by tightening energy efficiency requirements and growing pressure to achieve lower U-values, the conversation has shifted away from traditional heavyweight triple-glazed units towards thinner, lighter alternatives that
There are still multiple routes to achieving compliance. Some projects may benefit from triple glazing, while others may still achieve the required performance through high-specification
As lightweight triple glazing gains momentum, is the market responding to genuine demand or an increasingly influential narrative?
double-glazed units, improved frame systems or even alternative technologies. Oz believes this nuance can sometimes be lost when new products gain momentum.
“Our industry has always evolved through successive waves of innovation,” he says. “When new technologies emerge, businesses naturally assess how they fit within their future plans. Triple glazing and especially thin triple glazing undoubtedly has an important role to play, but investment decisions should be based on individual business requirements, market demand and long-term strategy.”
The challenge facing SMEs
That challenge is particularly relevant for smaller and mediumsized IGU manufacturers. Introducing new unit configurations can involve significant investment in machinery, handling systems, testing, training and quality control, often before long-term demand is fully established.
“Businesses approach investment decisions from different starting points,” says Oz. “Those with greater resources may be able to adopt new technologies earlier,
while others often take a more cautious, phased approach to ensure investments align with market opportunities and business objectives.”
At the same time, few would argue against the industry’s longterm direction. The drive towards lower U-values is unlikely to disappear, and manufacturers will continue searching for ways to improve thermal performance without adding excessive weight, complexity or cost. For Oz, however, discussions should not just be about any single glazing solution, but also about production flexibility.
“Whether it’s lightweight triple glazing, enhanced double glazing, vacuum glazing or something else that emerges in the next few years, manufacturers need production capability that gives them options,” he says. “Making a major investment that only supports one route can be risky. Investing in flexible, scalable production is often the smarter long-term decision.
“We’re seeing more customers asking how they can future-proof their business. The conversation isn’t really about triple glazing itself. It’s about being ready for whatever specifications,
regulations or customer demands come next. If demand for lightweight triple glazing grows, manufacturers need the ability to respond. Equally, if other technologies gain traction, they need to be able to adapt again without starting from scratch. It’s about being flexible. If your production line can adapt, you’re in a much stronger position regardless of which technology ultimately gains the most traction.”
As discussion around nextgeneration triple glazing continues, Oz believes the industry will benefit from a balanced and inclusive approach that recognises the differing priorities, capabilities and market requirements of the UK’s nearly 300 IGU manufacturers.
“Innovation is essential, and lightweight triple glazing is an important development,” he concludes. “But every business must assess what works for its customers, markets and longterm goals – it’s not one solution fits all. The manufacturers that succeed won’t necessarily be those first to adopt every new technology; they’ll be the ones agile enough to respond as the market evolves.”
www.flatglasssolutions.com/
External shading must be part of the UK’s response to overheating
By Stuart Dantzic, Managing Director, Caribbean Blinds
The Weather-Ready Homes Report published recently by Westminster City Council is a timely reminder that overheating is no longer a future concern for UK homes. It is here now, and it is affecting people in houses, flats and office spaces in a way that is becoming harder to ignore. For those of us working in the shading sector, the report is welcome because it does not treat heat as a narrow comfort issue. In fact, it examines it as part of a wider task: making homes safer,
healthier and more resilient.
One of the report’s strongest messages is simple: if we want to keep homes cooler, we should stop heat getting in at the first point of contact. That means dealing with solar gain at the window, not after it has already entered the room. Too often, the default response is to close curtains, buy a fan or install air conditioning. Those steps may have their place, but they are not
the starting point. They use more energy, cost more to run and do not tackle the cause of the problem.
This is where external blinds make total sense. By shading the glass from the outside, they can block much of the sun’s heat before it enters the building. That makes them a practical, low-energy and
Stuart Dantzic
low-carbon answer to summer overheating. They also work quietly in the background, which is often the mark of a good building solution.
The report is also helpful in the way it frames the wider retrofit debate. It acknowledges that homes vary, that flats and houses face different risks and that heritage buildings need careful, thoughtful solutions. In our experience external shading should not be seen as an afterthought or a compromise. In most cases it is the right answer precisely because it is discreet, effective and can be designed to suit the building. Done well, it sits comfortably alongside good glazing, ventilation and sensible fabric upgrades.
External blinds and awnings are not a new idea. They were once a familiar part of British streets,
especially on shopfronts in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, long before air conditioning and cheap energy changed the way we thought about cooling. We have, in a sense, already known this for generations. The task now is to bring that practical thinking back into modern homes and modern design.
At Caribbean, we see this not as a sales point but as a design point. We produced our White Paper last year because we felt the public debate around overheating was missing something important: a clear understanding of how much difference external shading can make. The record hot summer of 2025 only underlined that need. People are worried about overheating, yet many do not yet realise how much of the problem starts with the lack of shading. That awareness gap matters,
because it means homes are being cooled the hard way, and often too late.
If the Weather-Ready Homes report helps to shift that thinking, then it will have done a valuable service. It encourages a more measured response to a growing problem, reminding us that resilience is about making better choices before the heat arrives. External blinds are part of that choice. They are sensible, durable, economical to run and far kinder to the environment than a heavier reliance on mechanical cooling.
As summers grow hotter, we should be totally realistic about the role of external solar shading. It is not a luxury and it is not a niche product. It is a straightforward way to help homes stay cooler, more comfortable and better prepared for the years ahead.
Glass specification is key to year -round comfort
By Jenni Young, Sector Market Manager, Saint-Gobain Glass UK
The conservatory and glazed extension market remains buoyant, with homeowners
increasingly favouring large, light-filled additions that blur the lines between inside and out. For
window fabricators and installers, this trend towards conservatories, orangeries, and garden rooms presents a fantastic opportunity - but also a critical challenge: preventing overheating.
As an industry, we must now view overheating not as a rare occurrence, but as a common issue. South and west-facing extensions, in particular, are extremely vulnerable to solar gain, which can turn an inviting space into one that’s too hot to use for large parts of the day. The issue of unwanted solar gain has been formally recognised in Building Regulations. The introduction of Approved Document O in England specifically addresses the need to limit solar gain in new homes and extensions.
This puts the onus firmly on fabricators and installers to ensure that the glass specified for these large, glazed areas isn’t just selected for its appearance or thermal U-value, but also, critically, for its ability to control solar heat. In highglazing projects, the right glass choice is the single most important factor in delivering a comfortable, compliant, and usable space. With this in mind, Saint-Gobain Glass has created its “Your Extended Home” brochure, designed to help trade professionals understand and specify the right glass products for year-round performance.
Solar control: The installerfriendly solution
One of the most effective and simplest ways to prevent overheating is through the use of solar control glass. Modern solar control coatings, like those used in Saint-Gobain Glass’s Planitherm ONE T and Cool-Lite SKN 176, are applied during the manufacturing process.
These advanced coatings work by reflecting a proportion of the
sun’s heat back outside while still allowing high levels of natural daylight to pass through. This means your customers get the desired light-filled spaces without the intense, oppressive heat that can render an extension unusable in summer.
Crucially, modern highperformance glass is a true all-seasons solution. As well as limiting solar gain in the summer, these coatings also provide excellent low-emissivity thermal insulation in winter. The indoor warmth is reflected back into the room, helping to maintain a stable, comfortable environment all year round while significantly reducing reliance on heating systems.
Understanding the importance of g-values
When discussing glass options with homeowners, one of the most important specifications you need to understand and communicate is the g-value.
The g-value measures the total solar energy entering a space through the glass - combining both transmitted solar energy and heat re-radiated indoors. A lower g-value indicates reduced overall solar heat gain and improved solar control.
For instance, Cool-Lite SKN 176 offers a g-value of 0.37. This means only 37% of the sun’s heat passes through the glassmaking it particularly suitable for large, south-facing extensions or garden rooms that receive a lot of direct sun. Planitherm ONE T, with a g-value of 0.49, also delivers strong solar performance while maintaining a highly neutral appearance.
Selecting the right g-value for the specific orientation of the extension ensures that the space remains usable and
Continued on page 88
SOLAR GLASS & SHADING
Continued from page 87
comfortable even during peak summer temperatures. Specifying a glass that offers inadequate solar control is a recipe for postinstallation complaints.
A full suite of benefits
High-performance glazing offers advantages that extend well beyond temperature control. With glass often making up around 70% of a window unit, and even more in large sliding doors or fully glazed extensions, the glass specification is the defining element in how a room performs.
By reducing the need for cooling in the summer and heating in the winter, modern glass contributes significantly to overall energy efficiency and can help lower energy bills. Incorporating an acoustic laminate interlayer can enhance sound insulation, providing a quieter and more peaceful indoor environment, especially vital near busy roads. Laminate glass can also filter out harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, protecting expensive flooring, soft furnishings, and furniture from fading over time. Finally, options like toughened or laminated glass increase resistance to impact, making entry points more secure and ensuring compliance with current safety standards.
The choice of glass dictates thermal comfort, usability, energy consumption, and overall customer satisfaction. By confidently specifying advanced solar control solutions, fabricators and installers can ensure the glazed extensions they build are not just beautiful, but truly highperforming, comfortable, and compliant year-round spaces.
Download a copy of the “Your Extended Home” brochure here: https://www.saint-gobainglass.co.uk/wp-content/ uploads/2024/05/Your-ExtendedHome.pdf
Redefining installer support for integral blinds
The success of Morley Glass’s Registered Installer Scheme reflects the value that an ever increasing number of window and door installers place on being able to access specialist end-to-end support, as and when they need it, to help them grow their integral blind sales. Managing director, Ian Short, explains more about the benefits of the scheme.
If you are not currently offering integral blinds to your customers, you could be missing out on the opportunity to create a new revenue stream for your business. That’s because in the UK, despite the systems being available for more than two decades, it is still the case that relatively few window and door projects are delivered with integral blinds –meaning there is a significant market opportunity.
The key to success is two-fold. Firstly, it is really important to partner with a supplier who can provide high quality integral blind
units for which homeowners will be prepared to pay a premium. This is crucially important because of the wide variation in design, performance and quality of integral blinds across the market. Secondly, you need the right support from your integral blinds supplier from the outset.
With this in mind, we’ve built our business that ticks all the boxes through only ever manufacturing made-to-measure integral blinds using world-leading ScreenLine systems and providing installers with a complete package of tools and assistance.
A partnership approach to service and support
By providing a service that helps installers do everything right with integral blinds, we are much more than a product manufacturer. We can play an active role in helping our customers generate extra sales revenue through the addition of integral blinds to window and door orders.
Our installer support strategy, however, is constantly evolving to ensure installers can stay ahead of the curve and respond in the best possible way to changing marketing demands and trends.
This is why, in 2025, we brought all our services together in a single package that installers can take advantage of in our Registered Installer Scheme. Installers who sign up become a Morley Glass Trade Partner and it gives access to a comprehensive package of services.
Sales and marketing support
Over more than 20 years, we have built the Uni Blinds brand in partnership with ScreenLine integral blind systems manufacturer Pellini S.p.A. and today it occupies a position in the market as the premium choice. The quality of the systems is reflected in our range of professional marketing materials which Trade Partners can use to support the sales process.
These include brochures, point of sale resources, colour swatches and other tools designed to help installers generate customer interest and convert enquiries into orders. There are online resources too that installers can benefit from, including our consumer focused Direct Integral Blinds website, which allows homeowners to research Uni Blinds independently and arrive better informed.
Quotations to delivery, fast!
As a Trade Partner, you also benefit from rapid, responsive service. We aim to provide quotations typically in less than 60 minutes, and our manufacturing lead times are industry-leading – as short as 10–12 working days when ordered by our weekly cut-off time of 10:00am on Thursdays. This speed enables installers to respond quickly to customer enquiries and maintain momentum through to installation, reducing the risk of delays affecting sales conversion.
To ensure reliability and minimise disruption, we operate our own
delivery fleet, meaning we are best placed to deliver on time at no additional cost.
Unrivalled training and technical support
Any product that is unfamiliar can seem daunting at first, but Uni Blinds integral blinds are easy to install for an accomplished window and door installer. We are here to help, however, with access to in person or online training for Trade Partners, supported by installation guides and step by step videos, ensuring installations can be completed correctly and efficiently.
Market-leading aftersales care and warranties
One of the stand-out aspects of our service is aftersales care. Installers who chose Uni-Blinds benefit from comprehensive aftersales support, including access to an experienced, knowledgeable customer service team and practical troubleshooting resources, plus the support of a team of nationwide service engineers who can visit end-users where required to address issues. In addition, all Uni Blinds are supplied with a manufacturerbacked five year warranty on the main integral blind system that installers can depend on the unlikely event of issues arising.
Post-consumer IGUs collected and recycled
A final dimension to being a Trade Partner is our service to collect and recycle the IGUs that are removed during new window and door installations. As a Trade Partner, you can take advantage of our pioneering IGU recycling service at no cost, helping to reduce waste disposal costs and contributing to improved sustainability in your business.
Find out more a morleyglass.co.uk/trade-partners
Yale launches new Lockmaster 24 multipoint lock
Yale is launching its new Lockmaster 24 multipoint lock, combining proven mechanical security with smart capability while supporting complete doorsets designed to meet PAS 24:2022+A1:2024 requirements, says the company.
The latest evolution of Yale’s multipoint locking platform, Lockmaster 24 brings SensCheck compatible innovation to a product built on robust mechanical performance. At its core is a 20mm
deep throw centre hook, designed to deliver strong engagement and consistent security every time the door is locked. An enhanced security centre case adds strength where it matters most, while Lockmaster’s signature hook and pin configuration helps improve resistance to attack. Together, these features provide dependable protection across a wide range of door applications, claims the company.
Lockmaster 24’s SensCheck
compatibility is enabled through the keep solution, removing the need for additional routing and making adoption straightforward for fabricators and installers. Through the Yale Smart Home Alarm app, SensCheck Sensors
also provides real-time door status updates, allowing users to check whether their door is open, closed, locked or unlocked from anywhere.
Designed, developed and manufactured in Britain, Lockmaster 24 reflects Yale’s commitment to innovation in response to evolving standards and changing market demands.
It offers continuity and reliability across PVCu, aluminium, composite and timber door applications. Crucially, Lockmaster 24 supports complete doorsets designed to meet the latest PAS 24:2022+A1:2024 requirements, which supersede PAS 24:2022 and PAS 24:2016. This helps customers stay aligned with evolving specification demands aimed at addressing modern burglary attack methods, according to the company.
The lock is backed by the Yale Lifetime Total Trust Guarantee, worth up to £5,000 in support and compensation in the event of a break-in, and is Secured by Design (SBD) approved, highlighting its role in safeguarding homes and helping to prevent crime.
Brett Evans, technical director for ASSA ABLOY Residential, comments: “Lockmaster 24 is built on the proven mechanical security Yale is trusted for, while delivering the added value of smart compatibility. Because SensCheck™ is driven by the keep, every deadbolt-centre Lockmaster 24 is smart compatible as standard, giving fabricators and installers a smarter, future-ready solution without compromising on trusted security performance.
“By supporting compliance with PAS 24:2022+A1:2024, it gives customers confidence that they are specifying a solution engineered to meet the latest security expectations and regulatory requirements.”
Smart Architectural Aluminium selects Fuhr for modern door security
Fuhr UK continues its longstanding relationship with Smart Architectural Aluminium, one of the UK’s leading aluminium systems suppliers, with Fuhr multipoint locking solutions specified across Smart’s Designer and Signature Door ranges.
With over forty years of product development, Smart Architectural Aluminium is recognised for its technical expertise and design-led approach. Fuhr’s locking systems have remained a trusted choice within its door portfolio, supporting fabricators and installers with proven performance, specification flexibility and consistent security compliance, claims the company.
Scott Garner, national sales manager at Smart Architectural
Aluminium, commented: “Fuhr’s locking range gives us the flexibility to support multiple door styles and user requirements without compromising on security performance. Their proven durability and technical support make them a strong fit for our Designer Doors and Signature ranges.”
Fuhr locks are designed for longterm durability and demanding residential use. Systems specified within Smart’s door ranges are PAS 24 compliant and cycle tested to 200,000 operations. Corrosion-resistant finishes and robust component design ensure reliable performance, even in challenging external environments, says the company.
www.fuhr.de/en
Mila launches ProCore range of door and window handles
Mila has unveiled its new ProCore range of contemporary door and window handles – a versatile and competitive collection engineered to suit a wide range of profiles and applications, says the company.
Featuring an ergonomic lever design, the ProCore door and window hardware range are available in a wide choice of finishes to complement modern doors and windows
For enhanced durability, the door handle features separate internal and external spring cassettes, ensuring a reliable return to 90° and helping to prevent ‘handle sag’ over time, claims the company.
Suitable for uPVC, aluminium and composite doors, and designed for both left- and right-handed applications, the handles are available with 92mm fixing centres (PZ) or split 92/62mm options to suit a wide range of multipoint locking systems.
Fabricators and installers can
choose from lever/lever, lever/ offset lever and lever/offset pad configurations, helping to achieve the right balance of accessibility for each project. Blank and blind backplate options are also available for non-locking doors. The range is further enhanced by a choice of standard and slimline backset options, ensuring suitability across a wide variety of profiles.
Designed for compatibility with both uPVC and aluminium profiles, the handles are available in inline options for standard applications, offset versions for restricted spaces, and egress variants to support quick and safe exit when required.
Each handle is supplied with screw and spindle packs, along with slide-on screw covers that create a clean, concealed fixing.
With a wide choice of spindle lengths from 9mm to 55mm, ProCore handles offer easy selection and installation, ensuring compatibility across a broad
range of window types, claims the company.
Both the ProCore door and window handles are tested to meet demanding industry standards. Door handles comply with BS EN 1906:2012, achieving 100,000 operating cycles and withstanding an 80kg lever pull, while window handles meet the same standard with 25,000 operating cycles and 6,250 lock barrel cycles, according to there company.
The ProCore range is tested to BS EN 1670 for corrosion resistance, achieving up to Grade 5 performance, including 480 hours of salt spray testing, depending on finish. In addition, ProCore window handles also comply with BS EN 13126-3:2011 at 50kg, further demonstrating their robust construction and reliability, claims the company.
All hardware in the ProCore range comes with Mila’s 10-year mechanical guarantee, as well as a surface finish guarantee that covers painted finishes for 10 years and decorative finishes for 5 years,.
www.mila.co.uk
Fuhr launches pivot door solution
Door lock manufacturer, Fuhr, has introduced a new automatic locking solution for pivot doors, designed to secure both the wide and narrow sides of the door leaf. The locking system supports the growing demand for large-format entrance doors in premium residential and commercial projects, where scale and design impact must be matched by security, seal tightness and reliable operation.
Pivot doors are increasingly specified for their clean lines and architectural presence, but their size and opening action can make locking more complex.
Fuhr’s solution addresses this with automatic multipoint locking on both sides of the leaf, helping to support the stability, weather performance and security required for larger door designs, says the company.
The system combines the autosafe 835Pivot on the wide side of the door with the standard autosafe 835 automatic locking system on the narrow side. Both are supplemented by an autotronic motor drive, enabling synchronised motorised opening and secure automatic locking across the door.
Fuhr’s DuoSecure locking technology features strong hook bolts to lock the door securely, while additional latching bolts help create a tight seal. This is particularly important for large pivot doors, where movement, stability and weather performance need to be considered together.
The autosafe 835Pivot also incorporates switching contacts, allowing the motor drives on both sides of the door leaf to operate in synchronisation. Opening can be activated using an access control system, push button, lever handle or cylinder, providing flexibility across different project requirements. An optional permanently open function is also available without the need for an additional control unit.
Paul Balfe, business development manager at Fuhr UK, said: “Pivot doors are often specified for their visual impact, but the locking system has to support the way the door actually performs. Locking on both the wide and narrow sides of the leaf helps provide the security, sealing and stability these larger doors require, while motorised opening keeps operation convenient for the user.”
The system uses standard components across a wide range of requirements, with extensions available for taller doors and solutions suitable for different door materials. Access control systems and SmartAccess can also be integrated where keyless or automated entry is required.
The West Midlands records the highest rate of heat-related mortality per million population, while London and the South East account for the highest absolute numbers of heat-associated deaths.² Schools, offices and public facilities across England are increasingly turning into heat stores as days grow hotter and buildings fail to cool overnight.
Natural cooling instead of artificial air conditioning
night flushing as a natural response to the
Heatwaves in the UK are becoming more frequent and more severe. According to the Met Office, the number of days exceeding 28°C has more than doubled since the 1961-1990 baseline, and very hot days above 30°C have more than trebled.¹ The South East of England now averages over 12 such days per year.
As buildings heat up during the day and fail to cool overnight, schools, offices and public buildings are turning into heat stores.
To mitigate this problem, WindowMaster is harnessing its expertise as a leading hybrid-ventilation specialist to advocate natural night flushing as a simple, passive solution to cool down city centre and vulnerably-located buildings overnight.
UK heatwave
Its suggested solution? Automated windows that use the cool nighttime hours to regulate indoor temperatures, without the need to engage expensive and resourcedepleting air conditioning.
Passively tackling rising temperatures
The UK’s heat problem is worsening. The summer of 2022 saw an estimated 2,985 heat-associated excess deaths in England alone, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).² The Office for National Statistics (ONS) recorded 3,271 excess deaths across England and Wales during the same period.³
The UK’s statutory mandated independent adviser, the Climate Change Committee (CCC) warns that without adaptation, heatrelated deaths could triple to exceed 10,000 per year by 2050.⁴
Night flushing is a straightforward, sustainable approach to refreshing a building’s ambient temperature, and one that WindowMaster advocates over energy-intensive air conditioning. The principle is simple: it draws on the temperature difference between hot days and cooler nights. In the evening, fresh outdoor air flows in through automatically controlled windows, carrying accumulated heat away with it. The heat stored in walls, ceilings and furniture during the day escapes overnight. By morning, the building is already cooler, before anyone has arrived.
Mainstream hybrid systems, including those from WindowMaster, manage this process automatically. Sensors monitor temperature, CO₂ levels, humidity and weather conditions. When conditions are right, the windows open on their own and close again as soon as wind or rain picks up. Window openings stay within burglar-proof gap widths throughout.
A refreshingly efficient
solution
WindowMaster says night flushing works differently to air conditioning. It operates passively, using natural air currents, it saves electricity and is kinder to the environment.
A peer-reviewed study from
London South Bank University found that natural ventilation can reduce building cooling energy use by between 13% and 40% compared to mechanical systems.⁵ Reducing reliance on the use of energy-intensive cooling equipment lowers operating costs, while comfort and wellbeing improve at the same time.
The technology works in both new builds and existing buildings: easy to retrofit motorised window actuators fit directly onto existing windows, so there’s no need for complex duct installation. Fitting typically takes just a few days, making it well suited to school refurbishments during the holidays.
For example, the urgency for schools is real. DfE-funded research from the University of Southampton found that the average English school currently exceeds 26°C for approximately 59 days per academic year.⁶
The Department for Education’s Building Bulletin 101 (2018) sets the ventilation and thermal comfort standard for all new and refurbished school buildings in England,⁷ yet many existing schools still lack adequate passive cooling. Night flushing offers a low-cost, low-disruption route to compliance and comfort.
A regulatory tailwind
Regulation is moving in the same direction. Part O of the Building Regulations, which came into force in June 2022, now requires all new residential buildings to limit solar gain and provide passive means of heat removal.⁸ Pure-play mechanical cooling is only permitted as a last resort.
The FutureBuildings Standard sets out the path to net-zeroready new homes, with passive cooling at its core.⁹ According to WindowMaster, for existing buildings, night flushing is a practical, cost-effective way to meet the spirit of these requirements today.
Ikon expands scope of ikl50 louvre with new PAS 24 test pass
Ikon Aluminium Systems says installers and contractors can now specify larger sized louvres with confidence, following a successful PAS 24 test result for the IKL50 louvre. Responding directly to growing customer demand, the company proactively invested in a brand new physical test of an oversized IKL50 unit, ensuring full compliance and peace of mind.
The test sample, an aluminium fixed louvre panel with channel measuring 1550 x 2250mm, was subjected to testing in accordance with the Standard PAS 24:2022+A1:2024 Enhanced security performance requirements for doorsets and windows in the UK and complies with the performance requirements of PAS 24:2022+A1:2024 Annex A & B; achieving the requirements for a classification of D for doorsets.
The test regime was conducted by global leader in testing and compliance, Element Materials Technology and included a climate test in the laboratory for at least 12 hours, before a rigorous enhanced security test.
Entry was not achieved
The IKL50 PAS 24 1550 x 2250mm aluminium louvre withstood a vigorous manual attack using a 25mm chisel to try levering between the frame and the louvre. The same tool was then used for the manual cutting test: to try levering behind and under the louvre blades, to try snapping the welds, and to try splitting
the meshing in an attempt to make an opening big enough to fit the failure criteria. Again, the attack time was exceeded, and this part of the attack test was unsuccessful, entry was not achieved.
The louvre was also subjected to load and impact testing. All loads were held and the sample withstood three soft body impacts and five hard body impacts with no visible damage, overall, no entry was achieved. The IKL50 PAS 24 fully welded aluminium security louvre can be used as a standalone product and can be glazedin or fixed between structures or, alternatively, as a top or side screen to complement PAS 24 door systems.
Suite of PAS 24 louvre products
The IKL50 PAS 24 fully welded aluminium security louvre can be used as a stand-alone product and can be glazed-in or fixed between structures or, alternatively, as a top or side screen to complement PAS 24 door systems. According to the company, the Ikon Aluminium PAS 24 suite of louvre products is the most adaptable and visually pleasing on the market and is available in any standard RAL or BS coloured powder coated finish.
The test specimen featured 50mm horizontal aluminium blades, 20mm vertical steel security bars at 50mm centres max. and reinforcing diamond mesh running the full length of the rear, with a 28mm glazing channel (other size channels are available). It was mounted in a timber sub-frame and fitted flush with the exterior face, in accordance with Ikon’s fitting recommendations.
.ikonaluminium.com
Sheerline’s inline patio glides through enhanced security testing
SheerGlide, the new inline patio from Sheerline, is now available with an enhanced security upgrade. The patio has achieved PAS 24 accreditation, which is offered as standard on all Sheerline products, however, homeowners can now request a Secured by Design (SBD) upgrade.
The rigorous testing process saw the inline patio subjected to physical security testing, a manual attack to check for weak spots, and mechanical load testing. The aim is to assess the product as a whole while also focusing on
specific component parts.
Sheerline says clever in-built innovations ensure SheerGlide is secure. This includes TwinLock, which is the first single component interlock, combining both security and thermal efficiency. It’s strong and fully thermally broken, and at 38mm, it maintains the slim aesthetic homeowners expect.
Additionally, it’s non-bonded to make it easier to manufacture, transport, and install. Other security features including the modular ‘quad’ hooklock provided
by Ingenious Locks & Hardware. This true PAS 24 lock delivers exceptional levels of reliable security and operation.
Security is a key feature of all Sheerline products, and the new inline patio is no different. According to Sheerline, given the poor reputation inline sliders have had in terms of both security and thermal performance, it was key the in-house R&D team overcame these issues.
This doesn’t just reflect homeowner demand or the fact that standards have increased across the industry. Sheerline says It reflects its approach and commitment to having a 100% fully matched range in terms of refined aesthetics, high-performance U-values, and enhanced security, across its windows, doors, and roof-related products.
Ben Hartshorn, Sheerline’s technical and design director, said: “When people see SheerGlide, they see a stylish sliding patio door. But what they don’t see is the months of development and refinement that went into it. Being able to offer enhanced security as standard alongside an optional upgrade is a testament to our commitment to security.”
“We’re really proud of what we’ve achieved and we’re already working on the next stage of development – watch this space for updates,” he added.
Sheerline says it hasn’t just renewed its commitment to security and continuous development, but also the goal of making life easier for fabricators and installers. “This is why SheerGlide is available in bar length or as a time-saving kit requiring just three decisions.”
For more information on SheerGlide contact the team email info@sheerline.com
Stellar success for Fabframes drives dedicated aluminium expansion
Less than twelve months after entering aluminium fabrication with Stellar Aluminium, Fabframes has expanded its operation with the opening of a dedicated aluminium manufacturing facility as demand continues to grow.
The Devon-based fabricator initially added Stellar Aluminium to its portfolio in August 2025, attracted by the system’s combination of premium aesthetics, fabrication efficiency and installer-friendly design. Since then, the business has gone from strength to strength, with continued customer demand driving the investment and expansion.
Mike Taylor, managing director at Fabframes, said: “When we first invested in Stellar Aluminium, we were confident it would be a strong addition to our business. What we’ve experienced over
the last 12 months has exceeded our expectations. Demand has continued to grow, our customer base has expanded and we quickly reached the point where a dedicated aluminium manufacturing facility was the natural next step.”
A key factor behind the company’s success has been the response from installers. Mike said: “The feedback we receive from customers is consistently positive. One of the biggest benefits they highlight is how easy Stellar products are to install. The pre-gasketed knock-in beads save valuable time on site and make installations quicker and more efficient. In today’s market, anything that helps installers save time while maintaining quality is a major advantage.”
As demand has increased, Fabframes has also expanded
its Stellar offering and now manufactures the complete portfolio, including casement windows, flush windows, residential doors, heritage windows, bifold doors, inline sliding doors and lift-and-slide doors.
Mike added: “Being able to offer the full Stellar range means our customers can source all their aluminium requirements from one trusted supplier. The consistency of the system, the quality of the products and the support from the Stellar team have all contributed to our growth.”
Jon Foulds, key account manager at Stellar Aluminium, said: “Fabframes’ progress over the past 12 months has been exceptional. They recognised the potential of Stellar early and have invested to maximise the opportunity. Their decision to open a dedicated aluminium manufacturing facility demonstrates the confidence they have in the system and reflects the growing demand for premium aluminium products in the market.”
He continued: “The installer feedback they are receiving mirrors what we’re hearing across the country. Stellar was designed to save time at every stage, from fabrication through to installation, and features such as the pre-gasketed knock-in beads have proved particularly valuable for installers looking to improve efficiency on site.”
With its dedicated aluminium facility now operational and the full Stellar Aluminium range in production, Fabframes believes it is well positioned to continue its growth trajectory while supporting installers across the South West with a complete aluminium window and door solution. www.stellaraluminium.co.uk
Presenting designs with VisiRoom
By Neil Travers, Managing Director, Production Software Technology Ltd (PST)
When a customer is considering making a change to their home, choosing the right design can be difficult. Drawings, samples and showroom displays can be useful but they do not always make it easy to picture how the finished product would look at home. Wouldn’t it be useful if you could show them the proposed design in the setting that matters most.
VisiRoom is an augmented reality app that allows retailers to do exactly that. A retailer creates the customer’s design in vsHome and
can then either present it directly during an appointment or share it by text message, email or QR code. The customer or retailer can then open the design in the free VisiRoom app on a compatible iOS or Android device and view the model in their own environment. The visualisation is based on the design created in vsHome, carrying across key details such as dimensions and materials.
VisiRoom includes three viewing modes which are designed to allow for different ways of
Neil Travers
interacting with the model.
In Real Scale mode, customers can preview their design at full scale, accurately placed against their property. The app detects horizontal and vertical surfaces to help position the model. Once placed, users can walk around it, view it from different angles and also step inside to understand the space better.
Tabletop mode is designed for
situations where the user is away from home. It allows the same designed to be viewed on a flat surface such as a table, making it easy to move, rotate and zoom in on details whilst on the go or in the showroom.
Virtual Reality mode is available for use with a compatible VR headset. It provides an immersive way to explore the design, although it is typically used less frequently than the mobile and tablet modes due to the need for the headset.
VisiRoom is free to download for both retailers and customers, with no specialised equipment required for the mobile or tablet experience. By allowing designs to be viewed in context before any work begins, VisiRoom helps customers better understand the proposed project and gives retailers a more effective way to present and communicate their designs.
https://pstonline.co.uk/
Insight Data celebrates 1,000 active Salestracker users
The first quarter of 2026 marked a significant milestone for Insight Data as more than 1,000 active users signed up to Salestracker, the company’s growth platform for the fenestration and construction sectors, says the company.
The landmark reflects increasing demand from suppliers looking for a simpler and more effective way to find new customers, manage opportunities and drive sales.
Kirsty Winter, head of sales at Insight Data, said: “More suppliers are choosing Salestracker because it helps them start generating opportunities quickly. Users can log in from a desktop, laptop or mobile device and begin identifying and managing prospects within minutes.
“Many businesses tell us that traditional CRM systems can be expensive, complex and timeconsuming to set up. Salestracker is different. It’s designed specifically for our industry and
includes access to thousands of potential customers from day one.
“Companies are replacing spreadsheets and disconnected systems with a single platform that helps them organise leads, manage follow-ups and keep sales activity on track. Because the data is continuously updated, users can make informed decisions based on what’s happening in the market right now.”
Salestracker combines Insight Data’s market intelligence with practical sales management tools, enabling users to build prospect lists, track opportunities, schedule follow-ups and monitor sales pipelines from one platform.
The system can be used alongside an existing CRM or as a standalone solution, giving suppliers the flexibility to work in a way that suits their business.
www.insightdata.co.uk
Software support from an expert
There’s a brand new name in the software sector – but with a trusted and familiar name behind it.
The Fenestration Software Consultancy (FSC) is the new venture from Nick Bailey, who spent many years in both installations and sales at Business Micros, first as a senior technician and then as head of the sales team. Nick has set up his new company to offer independent, practical support to fenestration manufacturers and their customers and help them get more from their software, systems and processes.
He is focused primarily on the Evolution, EvoNET and Evo Satellite systems which are used so extensively across the industry, and brings the kind of expert knowledge and experience which can only come from being immersed in the software for almost 20 years.
Nick explained: “I have seen first-hand the issues and frustrations that fabricators go through with their IT packages and know all the pinch points
that can cause them problems. More importantly, I know how to fix them. I also know how just many fabricators could be getting better value from their software if they utilised it more effectively, and I will be looking to demonstrate that.
He added: “FSC is not about sales or upselling – it’s about helping fabricators and installers make the most of what they already have. My approach is straightforward – listen, understand the problem, provide honest recommendations and help put practical improvements in place. I can help with user training, data maintenance, process improvement, and system configuration.
“Since I announced the launch of The Fenestration Software Consultancy, I’ve had several calls from fabricators who want me to come in and provide project support and problem solving and that will cover everything from reviewing how systems are being used and tidying up data, to improving workflows and simply helping untangle something that is not working as well as it should.
“I can deliver support remotely, on-site or through a mix of both, and I am flexible in terms of a quick conversation, a day of consultancy or ongoing help. I can also advise on wider software and IT tools that support day-to-day operations for fabricators and installers and help them optimise their systems.”
www.thefsc.uk
Wooden Windows, a leading name in high-performance timber joinery, has officially announced the launch of its innovative online door builder. Specifically engineered for trade professionals and installers, Wooden Windows says the tool is set to redefine how you order bespoke external timber doors by offering instant visuals, real-time pricing, and an industry-leading 2-4 week delivery time.
In a sector where bespoke timber products often command lead times of 8–16 weeks, Wooden
Wooden Windows
launches new online door builder
Windows’ new digital platform slashes the wait to just one month. The company claims this is the fastest in the UK for bespoke, fully finished timber doors and enables installers to move from enquiry to installation at a pace previously only seen in the uPVC and composite window and door markets.
Mark Winter, director at Wooden Windows & StairBox says, “Our goal was to introduce the same logic that StairBox has for making staircases as easy as possible and bringing the traditional craft
of timber windows and doors into the digital age. We launched the new window builder back in March and knew the next project was to upgrade the door builder.”
He continued, “Trade professionals are under more pressure than ever to provide instant answers. With this tool, an installer can design a bespoke made-to-measure timber door, and hand a customer a quote in minutes.”
The door builder tool is built to solve the daily struggles that
window and door installers are facing today; including slow quote turnarounds and specification uncertainty. According to Wooden Windows, key features include:
• 3D visuals & instant pricing: Generate high-definition 3D renders and accurate quotes either in front of the customer or on the job site, eliminating the 48hour wait for back-office pricing.
• Made-to-measure: Bespoke sizing to the millimetre, ensuring a perfect fit and reducing on-site adjustments and returns.
• Factory-controlled painted finish: Users can now select from a revamped range of factory-applied finishes, including contemporary colours and heritage tones, delivered site-ready.
• Simple & quick ordering: A streamlined interface that captures every technical detail, from ironmongery to glazing options, ensuring “right-first-time” manufacturing. You can now order directly online.
Setting a New Benchmark for Speed
By integrating the online door builder directly with the advanced 95,000 sqft Staffordshire manufacturing facility, Wooden Windows says it has removed the administrative bottlenecks that typically plague bespoke joinery. The 4-week lead time covers the entire process, including the application of high-durability, factory-controlled spray paint finishes.
With its own UK-wide delivery fleet, Wooden Windows also guarantees dedicated delivery slots and vehicles suited to both domestic and construction site visits.
For more information and to experience the tool, visit https:// woodenwindows.com/blog/howto-order-replacement-woodenentrance-doors-easily
J&K reduces routing time by 50% with Kombimatec, leading to second investment
Kombimatec is continuing to demonstrate how the right machinery investment, backed by practical support and expertise, can help fabricators improve efficiency, accuracy and profitability, following a successful partnership with Norfolk-based fabricator J&K Glass & Glazing. The familyrun business first partnered with Kombimatec through the
installation of a CR5650 Trickle Vent Router, which reduced routing times by 50%, says the company.
The success of that investment, coupled with the hands-on support provided by Kombimatec Managing Director David Parsons, led J&K to return to the machinery specialist when it came time to upgrade its mitre
saw capability.
“Accessibility to David and his knowledge is second to none,” said Andrew Chilvers, general manager. “So when we identified the need to update our mitre saw a year after the installation of the vent router, we went straight back to see what Kombimatec could offer in comparison to some of the other machinery suppliers.
David Parsons presented them with his DGS500 Electronic Double Mitre Saw.
“I admit that when we spoke about it over the phone, it sounded quite complicated,” continued Andrew. “But travelling down to view the machine at Kombimatec’s Leighton Buzzard HQ, I could appreciate the
Continued on page 104
Continued on page 102
inherent simplicity of the machine and its ease of use. It was clear that it would give us great accuracy and efficiency. Add to that the price tag – coming in at a significantly more sensible price than its closest competitor – and Kombimatec’s proven customer service – the decision was a fait accompli before I had even arrived back in Norfolk.”
Since its installation earlier this year, the DGS500 has gained a real fan club across the J&K’s production team, many of whom are family members.
“Not only is the machine more accurate, but its ease of use is a hit across all the operatives no matter how experienced they are, or not”, added Andrew. “There’s a flow to the way it carries out each process – accommodating the different ways each operator handles the profile to create a consistent and uniformed result.”
Established in the early 1980s by John Engledow, the company has been producing a consistent 100 frames per week (on average), serving the local community, both retail and trade, with products which are manufactured with care and craftsmanship. Having lived through the rise and fall of the super-fabricators, the over confidence in mass automation, and the market being flooded with cheap, substandard components, the company has remained steadfast in its desire to make windows which are a ‘little bit special’, says the company.
Lauren Chilvers, director of J&K and daughter of founder John (who to this day is happiest in the company’s glazing department), commented:
“Bending with the market is crucial to our evolution and survival, but not at the expense of
our core values – that of focusing on the true craft of making a window or door. A major part of this is having that trust in our suppliers, most of whom have been with us over the decades. Our hinge supplier, for example, has been supplying us for over 20 years. We would rather have the confidence and trust, which is then communicated in the same way to our customers.”
That doesn’t mean to say that the company doesn’t explore new opportunities with new suppliers – and if it likes what it sees, it applies the same values of trust and loyalty.
So when Kombimatec installed a CR5650 Trickle Vent Router, enabling J&K production to reduce its routing process by 50 per cent, all with a pragmatic, hands on support by Kombimatec managing director David Parsons, J&K knew it had found a likeminded supplier for its business.
The market is changing, but that does not mean J&K will compromise on its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Most recently the company has noticed that it is getting more and more enquiries coming through from general builders, rather than specialised window fitters, who are retiring without being replaced. Volumes may be reducing, but the orders that are coming in have higher premiums with more bespoke requirements, according to the company.
“Business is as a result remaining relatively steady, and giving us the space to focus on that quality and craftsmanship,” said Lauren Chilvers. “Kombimatec gives us that sense of confidence to create product which is that little bit special, that elevates the finished look of an installation job, and that will carry J&K through to the next generation of family making windows and doors for this corner of the country.”
3D Aluminium’s 22,000 sq ft factory in Oxfordshire has long been a showcase for Emmegi’s advanced machinery solutions, but it has had a significant boost recently with the installation of a brand new Emmegi Phantomatic X4 4-axis CNC machining centre.
The Eynsham-based commercial aluminium fabricator has trusted Emmegi’s proven performance for decades, so when it was looking to increase capacity and invest in more advanced CNC technology, the Emmegi brand was very much first choice, according to the company.
The team at Emmegi (UK) understood 3D’s strategic growth plans and recommended the Phantomatic X4 to 3D as the ideal machine to support those. The X4 is a proven and popular solution, with a 7kW S1 high torque electrospindle and 8-piece tool magazine for heavy duty
Emmegi (UK) strengthens partnership with 3D Aluminium
machining on curtain walling sections. The 4-axis technology means the electrospindle can rotate around 180° and machine on the top and sides of the profile without having to be repositioned and, with an overlength feature, it has capacity for up to 8m bar lengths, says the company.
Integrated software controls the automatic positioning of the vice units depending on the length of the workpiece, so the machine is easy to operate, and there is a user-friendly interface displayed on a suspended, movable 15in touch screen.
For 3D, the new machine further enhances its efficiency and gives commercial clients absolute confidence that the company is focused on innovation, claims the company.
Paul Batts, 3D’s operations director commented : “This significant investment with Emmegi (UK) marks a new chapter in our commitment to precision engineering, efficiency and excellence in the fabrication of aluminium curtain walling, doors and windows.
“By integrating further advanced CNC technology into our production processes, we can ensure both the accuracy and consistency of our output, whilst also reducing lead times and increasing overall productivity.”
One of the lead operators of the machine from 3D also commented: “As the main operator of the Emmegi Phantomatic X4 4-axis CNC, I’ve found the machine to be exceptionally user-friendly and highly reliable in day to day operation.
“Its intuitive interface and straightforward programming make set up efficient, even for the most complex machining tasks, allowing for a smooth workflow with minimal downtime. The precision and consistency of the machining performance are outstanding, delivering high quality finishes and tight tolerances across a wide range of profiles.
“Overall, the Phantomatic X4 combines ease of use with excellent operational performance, making it a valuable asset in maintaining both productivity and quality standards.”
Ian Latimer, Emmegi (UK)’s managing director added: “The supply of the Phantomatic X4 really demonstrates the value of a long term partnership with your machinery supplier. 3D told us they wanted to reduce material waste and optimise energy usage, as well as achieving performance improvements, and we were able to recommend a machining centre we knew would deliver all of that, and also dovetail perfectly with their existing Emmegi machining set up.
Window Widgets products installed at prestigious Welborne Garden
Industry leader in window ancillaries, Window Widgets, will see a selection of its products installed on the illustrious Welborne Garden Village project.
Sash window specialists, Roseview Windows, will install more than 800 sash windows in phase one of the project, which
Village project
will include a number of Window Widgets products, including trickle vent covers, Jacks, a VS variable aluminium baypole, as well as VS bay pole cover trims – all manufactured by Window Widgets.
Having already chosen Roseview’s Ultimate Rose
sash window for the project, Welborne’s design team specified the trickle vent covers to complement the aesthetic. The challenge was to provide Future Home Standards Part F-compliant ventilation without compromising the project’s focus on heritage styles.
Most trickle vent options on the market are very visible, and while concealed variants are available for sash windows, typically, they require reductions to frame heights or glass areas to make space for vent channels. The Window Widgets trickle vent covers keeps external sightlines
slim and preserves full-height window proportions.
The trickle vent covers were foiled in white woodgrain to match the finish of the windows, to give a more discreet overall look.
Jo Trotman, sales and marketing manager at Window Widgets, said: “We are delighted that four of our Window Widgets products are being used on this unique development, which perfectly blends heritage aesthetic with modern performance.
“The Welborne development is a very exciting project to be a part
of, and we are very proud that our products have been selected for the project, which is an exciting mix of properties that have a heritage look and feel, with all the benefits of modern homes’ performance.”
Roseview’s Managing Director Richard Burrells comments: “Ultimate Rose is a fully authentic modern sash window, and on a project like Welborne, the combination of performance and aesthetics is everything. That’s exactly why we chose Window Widgets products for this project, giving us that perfect balance and crucially, meeting Part F
ventilation standards.
“The fantastic benefit of working with Window Widgets is that they offer everything you could possibly need for the installation.
“We’re excited to continue working with the project design team and developers as the remaining 5,000+ plots come together. It’s rare to see a development this large keep such a close eye on the heritage details that matter, proving you can deliver modern housing on a huge scale without compromising style and quality.”
www.windowwidgets.co.uk
Profile 22 helps deliver premium coastal living on Anglesey
Profile 22 windows and PatioMaster doors have been installed in a new coastal development, combining contemporary aesthetics with high-performance weather protection in one of the UK’s most demanding environments.
Tai Porth Llechog is an exclusive £4.5 million development by AH2 Developments, positioned overlooking Bull Bay on the Isle of Anglesey. Built on the site of the former Bull Bay Hotel, the scheme has transformed a derelict structure into a prestigious residential destination comprising 13 high-specification
properties, including apartments, detached homes, a dormer bungalow and a mews house.
Designed to maximise uninterrupted sea views, expansive glazed elements were central to the architectural vision, placing window and door performance firmly at the heart of the specification. Main contractor DU Construction Ltd selected Profile 22 and PatioMaster, with all products manufactured by approved commercial partner Heritage Trade Frames.
The exposed cliff-top location presented significant
environmental challenges, including high wind loads, driving rain and constant coastal exposure. To meet the demanding specification requirements, the products were required to achieve severe weather ratings in line with BS6375, including air permeability and water tightness of 600Pa, alongside wind resistance of 2400Pa.
At the same time, the project required a flush casement aesthetic that would deliver a modern heritage appearance in keeping with the development’s architectural styling. Profile 22’s Flush Casement Window provided the ideal solution, combining an authentic timberstyle appearance with the thermal efficiency, low maintenance and weather performance benefits of a modern PVC-U system. PatioMaster sliding doors complemented the installation, delivering a seamless visual finish and consistent
performance throughout the scheme.
Across the development, Heritage Trade Frames manufactured 80 Profile 22 Flush Casement windows and seven Profile 22 French doors, alongside multiple PatioMaster sliding door configurations and composite entrance doors.
All products were finished in anthracite grey externally with white internally, creating a contemporary appearance that complements the surrounding coastal landscape.
The completed development is already proving successful within Anglesey’s growing tourism market, with properties operating as high-end short-stay accommodation and attracting strong interest from buyers and investors alike.
www.profile22.co.uk
www.heritagetradeframes.co.uk
Oxford college invests in ISO Chemie’s load bearing bracket support system
Iso Chemie’s thermal insulating and load bearing bracket support system has been specified for a new sustainable residential development at an Oxford college.
The move sees Iso-Top Winframer ‘Type 1’ units being fitted to support and insulate the triple glazed aluminium windows and doors installed at Wolfson College’s new three-storey residential development. When completed in spring next year, the Garden Building will provide 50 high-quality student bedrooms, supported by communal kitchens, shared study areas, and a thoughtful design that prioritises community, wellbeing and sustainability, says the company.
Located on the site of a former car park, the development comes as the College, which specialises in graduate studies in global health, environmental studies, economics, and humanities, is looking to move away from fossil fuels – the building’s design honours the College’s original Grade II-listed architecture while introducing a modern and environmentally responsible new space.
Passivhaus certified and fire rated to up to 30 minutes, IsoTop Winframer ‘Type 1 1’ is a prefabricated installation frame, manufactured to accommodate cavities up to 250mm that allows windows to be supported independently from the face of the wall regardless of any external cladding being in place, according to the company.
Quick and easy to install, the product’s application is seen as part of a solution to meet the College’s ambitions to reduce carbon levels across its property estate, particularly residential accommodation that has a reputation for leaking considerable amounts of energy, heat and sound.
The composite Iso-Top Winframer ‘Type 1 1’ brackets can bear heavy window loads, including bifold doors, to provide a reliable, strong and high-performance support frame. Installation is quick with windows attached directly and secured mechanically using either standard fixing screws or fixing lugs in the usual manner, claims the company.
A hinged insulation core combines with the composite structural bracket to become an integral part of the overall wall structure, providing compliance with Building Energy Act requirements and the RAL quality assurance association, says the company.
Perkins&Will are the architect and lead designer for the Garden Building project at Wolfson College.
www.iso-chemie.eu/en-GB
New customer video highlights expansion, family values and the success of Freefoam’s Helping Customers Grow campaign
Freefoam Building Products has released a new customer video featuring Bury Plastics, highlighting the company’s recent expansion and celebrating its continued success as part of Freefoam’s Helping Customers Grow campaign.
Filmed at Bury Plastics’ newly expanded unit, the video captures the scale of the business and the day-to-day activity that underpins its reputation for service and reliability. Footage from across the warehouse and yard includes Freefoam product racking, merchandising displays and delivery vehicles leaving
site, reflecting how the business has grown year on year while remaining focused on customer service.
Owner and Managing Director
Paul Herrick shares the story of Bury Plastics’ development and future ambitions in the film. The video also shines a spotlight on the people behind the business, from its close-knit team and support for apprentices to the family story at its heart, with Paul’s son Will recently joining the company while completing his degree.
A central theme of the video is
the long-standing partnership between Bury Plastics and Freefoam. As part of the Helping Customers Grow campaign, the film demonstrates how Freefoam supports customers beyond product supply, from providing leads and market insight through Area Sales Manager Matt O’Leary to helping businesses broaden their product offering. Scenes filmed in the warehouse include displays of Freefoam fascia, soffit, cladding and Geopanel, as well as deliveries arriving on site.
Louise Sanderson, group marketing manager at Freefoam Building Products, said: “We are really pleased with this new video. Bury Plastics is a well-respected, vibrant business that we are proud to work with. The video reflects a company that has grown in size and confidence, while also perfectly illustrating the spirit of our Helping Customers Grow campaign.”
https://freefoam.com/professional
Heritage Trade Frames launches new retail brochures
Heritage Trade Frames has further strengthened the marketing support available to its customers with the launch of two new retail brochures for its Safeguard consumer brand.
The contemporary designed brochures showcase the company’s comprehensive PVC-U and aluminium window and door collections, giving installers high-quality sales literature that helps homeowners understand the style, performance and benefits of the products available, says the company.
Lee Darcy, sales and marketing manager at Heritage Trade Frames, said: “The
new brochures have been designed to support our customers throughout the sales process. With striking lifestyle photography, inspirational design ideas and easy-to-understand product information, they provide installers with a professional marketing asset they can use in showrooms, during home consultations or as leave-behind literature.”
The Safeguard PVC-U Collection brochure highlights Heritage’s extensive range of windows and doors. Alongside showcasing the breadth of the range, it explains the benefits of modern PVC-U, including thermal efficiency, enhanced security, low maintenance and extensive
SFS invests in Salestracker training to drive UK sales growth
SFS, a market leader in highperformance hinge solutions for PVC-U, composite and aluminium systems are the latest company to train its sales teams on Salestracker, Insight Data’s growth platform.
The company has been an Insight customer for over 10 years and is one of a growing number of companies who are re-thinking their approach to sales.
Nigel Wood, director of sales –hinge and fastener technology for SFS explained; “SFS is part of an international group, and we operate a global CRM platform, and only ever relied on Insight Data to supply market information.
“But technology is moving fast, and we want to give our sales teams the best tools to deliver
Stuart Dantzic
maximum results. Salestracker gives our team deep market intelligence, but it also has the tools and features to really drive growth, and it made sense to have a team training day.”
Insight Data has dedicated training
colour and hardware options. It also highlights advanced features including Yale SensCheck, Yale locking systems, Ultion 3-Star cylinders and high-performance glazing.
Complementing this is the Safeguard Aluminium Collection brochure, which presents Heritage’s premium aluminium range.
Both brochures also highlight the Regency Triple featuring Corning Enlighten Glass.
www.heritagetradeframes.co.uk
facilities at its 7,500 sq ft offices near Bristol, with a team onhand to provide expert training and configuration. Many Insight customers already use the facilities for regional meetings and training.
Rob Sheppard, technical support executive commented: “While Salestracker gives users access to in-depth information on fabricators and installers, as well as the wider building and construction sectors, it is much more than just a database of prospects.
“It’s a growth platform designed for sales and marketing teams. It can work alongside existing CRM software or replace it completely. Since SFS uses a group-wide CRM for their global business, we were able to customise Salestracker to give their UK team agile tools and features to move fast, while working alongside their existing CRM.”
www.insightdata.co.uk
Hörmann Truedor opens the door to homeowners with new ‘Hörmann Street’ campaign
Hörmann UK has been busy creating and filming an ambitious and engaging new social media campaign designed to bring its Hörmann Truedor composite door range directly to the end consumer.
Filmed over two days, the campaign titled ‘Hörmann Street’, is humorous, distinctly British and intentionally familiar – inspired by soap style storytelling and recognisable street characters. The series captures the daily lives, relationships and emotional
conflicts of a recurring cast of characters. Featuring moments of romance, family drama, betrayal and suspenseful cliffhangers, each episode cleverly weaves in the key features and benefits of Hörmann’s Truedor composite doors.
A total of five, 30 second episodes have been created and will appear across Hörmann Truedor’s Facebook, Instagram and YouTube channels. The campaign launched at the beginning of July and is aimed squarely at building
homeowners’ awareness of the Hörmann Truedor door range, and ultimately generating highquality, live enquiries for Hörmann Truedor’s growing network of installers.
As part of the campaign journey, viewers will be encouraged to locate their nearest installer using the new Hörmann Truedor installer finder on the company’s website. From there, they can either contact installers directly by phone or submit a simple online enquiry form.
David O’Mara, marketing manager at Hörmann UK, comments: “This latest endconsumer social media promotion follows on from the success of our ‘Door Secure’ campaign, which promoted our RollMatic roller garage doors. From that initiative, we learnt that homeowners respond particularly well to humorous, well-produced video content that combines engaging storylines with relatable characters. The results were exceptional, with sales of our RollMatic range increasing by 35%.
“Hörmann Street’ builds on that success. It’s designed not only to entertain but also to create a strong pipeline of enquiries for our composite door installers. Importantly, no other entrance door supplier in the UK market is currently taking such an innovative and creative approach to engaging with homeowners.
“Attendees at our recent Hörmann Truedor roadshows were given an exclusive preview of the campaign, and the reaction was overwhelmingly positive, with everyone being impressed by the concept and execution. This campaign forms a key part of our wider strategy to generate additional sales while continuing to expand and support our installer network across the UK.”
Click to watch the new campaign
Leads 2 Trade unlocks more sales opportunities from existing enquiry volumes
Leads 2 Trade, provider of doublequalified sales leads to installers, has introduced new in-house AI-driven process improvements to identify more genuine sales opportunities and help members secure more appointments from existing enquiry volumes, says the company.
The technology is being used primarily to help re-engage with homeowners who may still be looking for quotes after initial contact attempts via the contact centre were unsuccessful.
The new systems are designed to support the company’s experienced contact centre team, helping them focus on consumers who are most likely to convert.
Andy Royle, co-founder and managing director of Leads 2 Trade, which celebrates 20 years this year, said: “The adoption of AI is helping us take some of the heavy lifting out of the qualification process, but it is by no means replacing the human element. We still speak to every consumer individually because that’s a key part of what makes our leads so valuable to installers, particularly as we are booking appointments and surveys in for over 75% of our members.
“What AI allows us to do is work in conjunction with our lead management systems that work off algorithm’s that determine the maximum number of calls by a call centre operative before the systems decide that their resource time is better spent on calling fresher enquiries.
“Consumers are guided through a more intelligent enquiry process that adapts according to their
Andy Royle, Co-Founder & Managing Director, Leads 2 Trade
responses, helping us identify genuine intent before our team even picks up the phone.”
The new approach reflects changing consumer preferences, particularly among homeowners who are more comfortable initially engaging online before requesting to speak to a member of the team directly.
As part of the process, consumers can choose to request a call back at their convenience to agree and arrange a time to book the appointment or survey with our approved Trusted Local Suppliers in their area.
Andy added: “Using traditional methods, we were effectively qualifying and appointing around 25 to 35 per cent of raw enquiries which still left a large amount of un-utilised data.
“AI is helping us re-engage with those homeowners days later to ask if they are still looking for quotes which is creating more opportunities for our members without compromising lead quality.”
With the ‘big retail names’ still a force to be Camel Glass explains how Emplas’ Snug credibility and reach of a national consumer local expertise and service – while generating business.
With strong brand awareness and a nationwide presence boosted by high-profile advertising campaigns, the UK’s largest window and door installation companies have grown to become household names.
While their dominance of the market may be waning, with several giants falling by the wayside in recent years, decades of publicity, often featuring celebrity brand ambassadors, has kept the big names firmly in the public eye.
a
good fit
Camel Glass
be reckoned with, window and door retailer lead generation initiative is combining the consumer brand with the advantage of trusted generating welcome additional leads for the We report.
has recently launched a highprofile retail lead-generation initiative designed to deliver high quality and qualified retail leads to participating Emplas installers.
With the Wellingborough-based window and door manufacturer fully invested in the long-term success of its retail partners, Snug is quickly establishing itself as a leading brand with a trusted network of Snug approved installers ready to cover the country.
Snug is marketed through a dedicated website, targeted social media advertising campaigns, influencer collaborations, and regular giveaways and competitions – tapping into online home improvement channels and engaging consumers across multiple digital platforms.
This has given capable and reputable businesses across the South West, including Camel Glass and its network of branches, the opportunity to unlock new demand and strengthen credibility, without losing the local identity that customers value, as Kayleigh Duckett, sales director, explains:
“We decided to partner with Emplas on their consumer-facing brand, Snug, because we could see the benefits it would bring.”
“We’re a local company, but we sometimes find ourselves in competition with the large national retailers, and the Snug brand gives us the backing of an industry leading fabricator. Combining that, and the benefits it brings, with our expertise and local knowledge, we can really enhance our offering to the customer.”
now providing a full supply-andfit service across multiple product categories.
According to Kayleigh, Snug represents a natural next step in Camel Glass’s growth strategy, allowing the business to increase visibility, cast its net wider and gain more opportunities.
“Camel has been around a long time, and we do already generate a lot of good leads within our area,” explains Kayleigh.
“We’re already well-known, but this just gives us that extra reach, and hopefully, it will help us to provide windows for a wider audience.”
Crucially, Snug is now delivering welcome additional enquiries into the business – connecting Camel Glass with homeowners who may not have otherwise discovered the company through traditional local channels.
For homeowners, the reassurance factor is significant. While Snug is presented as a standalone consumer brand, it is supported behind the scenes by Emplas, giving installers access to the resources, scale and manufacturing strength of a major UK fabricator.
“Being part of that bigger, wider network of the Get Snug brand really helps to instil trust and reduce the perceived risks for the customer,” says Kayleigh.
“Although we’re here, and we’re local, which is reassuring in itself, our customers also know they’re dealing with an established brand, which gives them that extra bit of confidence.
With smaller, local retailers often lacking the same exposure and left feeling outgunned, Emplas
Trading in the South West for more than 43 years, Camel Glass started out as a timber specialist, later expanding its offering to include PVC-U and
“We’re finding that goes a really long way in standing up against the nationals and ultimately, winning more work.”
For more information on Emplas visit www.emplas.co.uk
Kayleigh Duckett is the sales director at Camel Glass
Industry backs Women in Fenestration Network
The Women in Fenestration Network (WFN) has launched with overwhelming support from across the fenestration industry following its inaugural Professional Development Day, held in Bristol on 25 June, says the organisation.
More than 75 women from every corner of the country, representing every part of the fenestration supply chain, came together for a day of learning, networking and honest
conversations, hearing from an inspiring line-up of speakers, including keynote speaker and former England Rugby Captain, Catherine Spencer.
While the event marked the official launch of WFN, it also confirmed something much bigger. Women across the industry are looking for opportunities to connect, develop professionally and support one another throughout their careers.
Ahead of the event WFN carried out its first Women in Fenestration Industry Survey to better understand the experiences, challenges and opportunities facing women working across the sector. The findings helped shape the programme for the day and highlighted confidence, imposter syndrome, mentoring and career development as some of the key areas women wanted WFN to focus on.
Sarah Ball, founder of the Women in Fenestration Network, said: “When I first shared the idea for WFN, I hoped it would resonate. I never imagined quite how many people would share the same passion for creating
something that genuinely supports women across our industry. Seeing that vision become a reality has been incredibly special.”
“None of this would have happened without the support of our fantastic sponsors: Access Marketing, Aluminium Fire Systems, DoBetter Businesses, Emplas, FIT Show, Glass & Glazing Federation, Glass News and Fire Door Journal, REHAU, The Residence Collection and Yale, speakers and everyone who believed in what we’re trying to achieve.”
“What made the day so special wasn’t just the quality of the speakers. It was seeing women openly sharing their experiences, making new connections and leaving with greater confidence. It reinforced exactly why WFN was created.”
“This was never about delivering one successful event. It’s about creating a community that supports women throughout their careers through professional development, mentoring, networking and shared experiences, while helping to build a stronger industry together.”
Sioned Yates, who is working in partnership with Sarah Ball to develop the long-term vision and growth of the Women in Fenestration Network, added:
“One of the biggest highlights for me was seeing the conversations continue throughout the day. Despite falling on one of the hottest days of the year, people weren’t rushing home. They were introducing each other, discussing future collaborations, talking about mentoring and already planning how they could stay involved.”
“We’ve also been overwhelmed by the support we’ve received from across the wider industry.
Businesses have already signed up as Founding Corporate Members, individuals are joining as Founding Members and we’ve received so many messages asking how they can get involved.”
“What excites me most is where WFN goes next. The Professional Development Day was just the beginning. Together, we’re building a community that will continue to support women through mentoring, networking, professional development and shared experiences, while working with our partners to help build a stronger fenestration industry for the future”
The event also saw the official launch of the WFN Mentoring Programme, led by former Epwin Window Systems Managing Director Clare Bailey. With decades of industry experience and a passion for developing future talent, Clare will lead the mentoring programme as it supports women throughout their careers. The day also marked the launch of Founding Membership for both individuals and businesses.
Looking ahead, WFN has already confirmed an exciting programme of activity for the remainder of 2026, including the launch of the WFN Podcast, a Building Our Skills training day, a Lunch & Learn networking event in London focusing on confidence and imposter syndrome, further networking events across the UK and the continued rollout of the mentoring programme.
Sarah Ball added “This is only the beginning. Our ambition is to create a community where women can develop their careers, businesses can invest in their people and, together, we can help build a stronger fenestration industry for the future.”
www.womeninfenestration.co.uk
Left to right: Sioned Yates and Sarah Ball.
EDGE attendees to get first look at major new developments for Salestracker
Insight Data has confirmed that EDGE by Insight Data will be the stage for some of the most significant product announcements in the company’s 20-year history.
The details remain under wraps for now, but attendees at the one-day business growth event on September 17 will be first to see a series of major new developments for Salestracker, Insight Data’s powerful sales and marketing platform used by businesses across the fenestration, construction and home improvement sectors.
The exclusive launches will take place live at EDGE, giving delegates an opportunity to see the technology in action and hear directly from the team behind its development.
Andrew Scott, founder and CEO of Insight Data, said: “We’ve been working on some exciting new developments for a long time and EDGE felt like the right place to unveil them. The businesses attending are the ones investing in their future, so it’s only right that they get to see what’s coming first.
“I don’t want to give too much away just yet, but I can say that these announcements will be worth the wait.”
Already trusted by hundreds of businesses, Salestracker combines market intelligence, prospect data, sales pipeline management, email marketing and unique customer monitoring functionality. The forthcoming announcements are expected to enhance its capabilities even further.
For existing customers, EDGE offers a chance to see what’s next before anyone else and discover new ways to get even more from the growth platform. For ambitious business owners who are not yet using Salestracker, Insight Data says the event provides an opportunity to see first-hand why so many companies rely on Insight Data to drive growth.
The announcements may still be a secret, but one thing is clear: EDGE attendees will hear them first!
Places are limited. To secure tickets, visit www.insightedge.co.uk
GGF Southeast Networking attracts strongest attendance in
The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) welcomed members from across the region to Lingfield Park Hotel and Golf Resort, Surrey, for its Southeast Networking Event on Thursday 9 July.
With 40 members attending across the golf tournament and Afternoon Tea, the event achieved its highest attendance for several years, bringing together businesses from across the glass and glazing industry for a day of networking, collaboration and friendly competition.
Andrew Scott
Southeast Networking Event strongest
recent years
Held during one of the hottest weeks of the year, temperatures reached an incredible 36°C. Despite the conditions, members embraced the day, demonstrating the strong support for GGF networking events and the opportunity they provide to build relationships across the industry.
Networking remains an important part of GGF membership, giving businesses the opportunity to share experiences, discuss common challenges and strengthen professional
connections in an informal setting.
Lauren Mawford, director of the Glass and Glazing Federation, said: “It was fantastic to see so many members come together for our Southeast Networking Event. The attendance reflects the value our members place on building relationships and sharing knowledge with others across the industry.
“Events like these are an important part of the support we provide. They create opportunities for members to connect, exchange ideas and strengthen the relationships that help our industry continue to grow.”
The extreme weather made hydration a priority throughout the day, with Darrell Williams and Paul Miller spending much of the afternoon driving around the course in a golf buggy, distributing bottles of water to players and helping everyone stay safe in the heat.
The determination shown by everyone taking part was equally impressive, with golfers
completing the course despite the soaring temperatures. Particular praise was given to Kevin Jones’ team, who walked the entire course throughout the day.
The afternoon concluded with a prize presentation, recognising some excellent performances and ending another successful GGF member event.
The Federation would also like to recognise the contribution of Ann-marie, whose planning and organisation were instrumental in delivering such a successful day. Her hard work behind the scenes ensured the event ran smoothly from start to finish and helped make it one of the GGF’s most successful Southeast networking events in recent years.
As the GGF continues to support members through technical guidance, training, industry representation and networking opportunities, it says regional events remain an important way of bringing businesses together and strengthening the voice of the industry.
www.ggf.org.uk
GAP honoured with ‘Outstanding Contribution’ award
GAP (General All-Purpose Plastics), a UK independent trade manufacturer and specialist іn low-maintenance PVC-U building products, has been awarded ‘Outstanding Contribution’ Award by Taylor Wimpey, one оf the UK’s largest housebuilders.
The accolade was presented tо the GAP team during Taylor Wimpey’s annual supplier conference, hosted at the Belfry Golf Course.
The industry award celebrates the long-standing partnership between the two companies, which has seen GAP reliably supply BBAcertified, sustainable building products tо construction sites nationwide. Crucially, іt highlights the continuous, collaborative efforts оf GAP’s internal scheduling, manufacturing, and trade counter teams who ensure seamless, day-to-day fulfilment across the country.
Amidst a historically turbulent construction market, GAP’s capacity tо deliver has been sustained by its massive infrastructure footprint, consisting оf a nationwide network оf over 110 trade depots, vast stock levels, and an agile, companyowned distribution fleet. This framework enables GAP to react instantly to localised developer demands, maintaining a consistent supply chain for national housebuilders and independent regional contractors alike, says the company.
Dave Tingle, national sales director at GAP, expressed his immense
pride іn the achievement:
“Receiving the Outstanding Contribution award from Taylor Wimpey іs an incredible achievement that we are deeply proud of. This recognition does not just belong tо the National team; іt belongs entirely tо the hardworking teams across the whole оf GAP.
“From our factory floors and scheduling rooms tо the depot teams loading vehicles every morning, every single employee plays a critical role іn supporting Taylor Wimpey developments nationwide. We look forward tо building оn this fantastic partnership for many more years tо come.
“This national recognition further reinforces GAP’s position as a specialist supplier to the housebuilding sector, combining manufacturer-direct pricing and a huge depot network, with stock availability to support efficient project delivery.”
www.gap.uk.com
British Woodworking Federation calls builds
on record-breaking
Entries are now officially open for the British Woodworking Federation (BWF) Awards 2026, the flagship annual celebration
Woodworking for
entries as it
record-breaking awards year
of the individuals, skills, projects and manufacturing excellence that have propelled the woodworking and joinery sector
forward over the past 12 months.
Marking its 18th year and building on the success of last year’s awards, which drew a record number of entries and an exceptional calibre of individuals and shortlisted projects, the BWF is expecting even stronger participation from across the UK this year.
The 2026 BWF Awards will return to the prestigious Kimpton Fitzroy London Hotel on Friday, 20th November 2026, bringing the industry together in the heart of Bloomsbury to recognise outstanding craftsmanship, technical innovation and business performance across the woodworking and joinery professions.
Helen Hewitt, chief executive of the BWF, said: “Our awards recognise excellence within the talented woodworking and joinery profession that sits at the heart of UK manufacturing. We are acutely aware that this excellence is being delivered in challenging conditions, with
many businesses navigating economic pressures, changing regulations and ongoing skills and supply chain constraints. The quality, expertise and commitment demonstrated in last year’s entries were a powerful reminder of the resilience and determination that define our industry. The 2025 awards were our best year yet for entries, and we expect 2026 to build on that success.
“We know from conversations with our members that new technologies, regulatory shifts and ambitious sustainability efforts are reshaping how businesses operate on the ground. This year’s awards are not only a celebration, but an opportunity to shine a welldeserved spotlight on those who are adapting and leading the charge – from apprentices at the earliest stages of their careers, to established manufacturers redefining what’s possible with timber as a high-performance, inherently sustainable material. It’s a chance for our community to come together, recognise that conditions remain tough and celebrate the innovation, grit and collaborative spirit that keeps our sector moving forward.”
“Our thanks, as always, to our wonderful sponsors for their support. We look forward to returning to the Kimpton Fitzroy for another fantastic evening of recognition and celebration, and we encourage businesses of all sizes and specialisms to put themselves forward.”
Entries for the 2026 BWF Awards will close on 7th August 2026 at 5 pm.
Further information about the BWF Awards, including entry forms and the full, detailed criteria for each category, can be found on the BWF website:
bwf.org.uk/bwf-awards-2026
Encouraging inclusivity. Some of the members of the Endurance Doors team involved in the manufacturer’s support of the WiME Raising Aspirations Programme.
Endurance Doors inspires future female talent
Endurance Doors has demonstrated its commitment to nurturing future talent by supporting the WiME Raising Aspirations Programme in partnership with Women into Manufacturing and Engineering (WiME) and The Vale Academy.
The initiative is designed to encourage more young women to consider careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), showcase the breadth of opportunities available within modern manufacturing and engineering, and provide practical insight into modern industry, helping to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world careers. Confidence building is another key aim of the programme.
The programme reflects Endurance Doors’ wider focus on investing in local communities, developing the workforce of tomorrow and helping to promote greater diversity across the manufacturing sector.
Students were inspired by female industry professionals, including Endurance team members, Emma Sloan and Jessie Meakin who led a series of workshops designed to help participants identify their strengths, develop confidence and think about their future ambitions.
Other speakers included Sarah Cook from Wood and Lisa Carter from Munich Re who shared their own career journeys and experiences and highlighted the value of determination, resilience and self-belief.
The second phase of the programme included a visit to the Endurance Doors manufacturing facility where students were given a guided tour of the extrusion department by Ryan Clarkson.
The visit offered valuable firsthand insight into a modern manufacturing environment, allowing students to observe production processes, ask
questions and gain a deeper understanding of the diverse range of roles available across the sector, including engineering, manufacturing, operations, quality, logistics and business functions.
Russell Hensman, brand engagement anager at Endurance Doors, said: “As one of the UK’s leading composite door manufacturers, we are passionate about supporting the next generation and helping young people understand the exciting opportunities available within modern manufacturing and engineering. Programmes such as WiME play a vital role in raising aspirations, building confidence and challenging perceptions about careers in STEM and we are proud to champion and be a part of the initiative.”
“It was fantastic to see the enthusiasm and engagement from the students throughout the programme. By opening our doors and sharing real-world experiences, we hope we have helped inspire some of the future talent that our industry will rely on for years to come.”
Manufacturing and engineering continue to face a significant gender imbalance, with women remaining underrepresented across many technical and leadership roles. Initiatives such as the WiME Raising Aspirations Programme help address this challenge by increasing awareness of career opportunities and encouraging more young women to consider STEM-related pathways.
By supporting programmes such as WiME, Endurance Doors is helping to invest in future skills and local talent development, strengthening links with local education providers, and contributing towards building a more diverse and inclusive workforce for the future.
endurancedoors.co.uk
Qualicoat UK & Ireland welcomes over 50 delegates to laboratory training event
Qualicoat UK & Ireland recently hosted over 50 laboratory technicians at its annual member training event.
Held over two days in early June at Bragborough Hall Business Centre in Daventry, the event directly supports the global Qualicoat Specification which mandates that laboratory technicians at all licensed coating facilities must attend a training session at
least every two years, says the association.
The hands-on event targeted both new and experienced technicians responsible for vital coating and pre-treatment quality control processes.
To facilitate practical learning, a temporary laboratory was constructed at the venue, fully equipped with specialist
equipment and technical expertise supplied by industry partners Q-Lab, Industrial Physics, Wagner and Almetron.
Day one focused on basic technician training, offering individuals who had not previously attended a training day essential experience with product testing using recommended equipment and record keeping. The second day shifted focus to experienced laboratory technicians, concentrating on more advanced testing techniques and complex management issues.
Alongside practical sessions, delegates gained insights from a series of technical seminars led by industry experts, including Lee Hathaway (AkzoNobel Powder Coating), Oliver Bögler and Dieter Meinhard (IFO Institute for Surface Technology) and Jan Lukaszweski (ALFED).
Feedback from delegates has been very positive, with Tristan Pope, technical and quality manager for Vertik-Al, noting that the event “…was a valuable opportunity to network with a group of people who face similar challenges and to learn from industry experts.”
Chair of Qualicoat UK & Ireland, Chris Mansfield, comments: “Maintaining the globally recognised Qualicoat certification requires dedication and accuracy. By training technicians to correctly perform rigorous tests, such as adhesion, gloss, colour uniformity and resistance to corrosion or weathering, ensures deviations or any potential issues are caught early. This continuous professional development minimises human error, guarantees consistent, reproducible results and prevents substandard products ever reaching the market. The role of well-trained lab personnel is fundamental to upholding the Qualicoat standard.”
qualicoatuki.org
Fourth ‘Emplas Open’ tees off
The fourth annual ‘Emplas Open’ took place on 11 June at Hanbury Manor, Hertfordshire, raising £13,534 for Niamh’s Next Step CIO (NNS), a Wellingboroughbased childhood cancer charity.
The golf day, which is fast becoming a highlight of the window and door industry social calendar, saw 78 golfers take to the fairway, with close to 100 people present for dinner afterwards.
Special guest, trick shot artist and former European Tour professional, David Edwards, joined players on the course, recording them in action to create an amusing film, complete with commentary, which was shown in the evening.
Both team and individual awards were presented at the post-golf dinner event, where Stuart Biden from Exact Windows was crowned Champion Golfer, with 74 shots.
This was followed by a charity auction – where prizes included an original canvas painting of golfing superstar Tiger Woods by respected British artist Paul Oz – and comedy from the highly acclaimed stand-up Keith Farnan.
“We’d like to say a big thank you to all our amazing customers and suppliers who joined us for the event and pledged their support for the very worthy cause that is NNS,” said Ryan Johnson, group managing director, Emplas.
“As well as the charity auction, we also held a game of ‘Heads or Tails’ in the evening, which raised a lot of money, as did our ‘Club Clean’ service and ‘Beat the Pro’ competition during the day. All the money raised will be used by NNS to fund groundbreaking neuroblastoma research and help young children fight cancer.
“We’d like to give a special mention to our event sponsors,
AluK; Arkay Windows; Avocet; Cotswold; DoorCo; Elsby; Epwin; EVA CRM; Fab&Fix; We Are Gateway; Georgian Bar Company; Hurst; JST Forklifts; Kubu; MDS; NW Metal Sections; Pilkington; Rapier Star; Rotox Winmac; Stuga; Subframes UK; WAIB; and Window Widgets, who raised £6,250 between them for NNS.
“We really appreciate the business and loyalty of our customers, and getting together, in the stunning surroundings of Hanbury Manor for a day of golf, is a great way to thank them. Raising valuable funds for our local charity partner, NNS, in the process is the icing on the cake.”
Chris Curry, founder of NNS, added: “Thanks to our long-standing partnerships with businesses such as Emplas, NNS is able to fund vital research that may otherwise struggle to secure the attention and resources it urgently needs.
“As a charity, we are fully committed to giving children with neuroblastoma a better chance of a brighter future, and that is being made possible through the success of fantastic fundraising events like the Emplas Open.”
www.emplas.co.uk
Insight Data provides the UK’s No. 1 prospect database for the fenestration and construction sectors. 50,000+ potential trade, commercial and new-build customers. In-depth information not available anywhere else. All in one industry-specific sales & marketing platform we call Salestracker ™ .
Stop getting lost in the maze of out-of-date directories, poor data, and cobbled-together lists that waste time. Get instant access to true market intelligence and start targeting real decision-makers today. To book a FREE DEMO scan the
