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Cover picture: Rehau launches new Artevo residential single and French door, read more on page 96
Endurance Doors unveils game-changing investment
Endurance Doors has unveiled a new investment with the ability to deliver transformative benefits for its business.
The manufacturer of highend composite doors for quality-minded installers and homeowners officially opened a remodelled and significantly upgraded assembly hall at its Brigg production site on Wednesday 17th September 2025.
To mark the occasion, a commemorative ribbon was cut by Stephen Nadin, CEO of the Endurance group, and Dawn Huntrod, regional director (North)
from Made UK – the not-for-profit organisation which champions UK manufacturing and engineering.
Commenting, Tom Stephens, operations manager at the Endurance group, said: “The launch of our new assembly hall marks a significant milestone in Endurance’s relentless pursuit of production excellence.
“It has been developed following an investment of over £200,000 and as part of our ongoing journey towards truly lean manufacturing, where our entire operation is geared around minimising waste, maximising productivity and delivering the greatest value for
our customers.”
Drawing on inspiration and experience from the automotive industry where lean manufacturing is the sector norm, Endurance’s new assembly hall employs a single piece flow system as opposed to the more commonplace batch production method.
This innovative approach optimises production speed and volumes whilst simultaneously ensuring better quality control.
New Endurance doors now pass along a line of carefully planned workstations with conveyors, tilting tables and other specialist technology being employed to reduce physical handling.
This reduced handling minimises the risk of damage to the door and the amount of exertion required by production operatives, enhancing their welfare and protecting them from potential injuries.
Each workstation is also
dedicated to a specific part of the door production process and sees operatives working to a well thought out and thoroughly defined set of standard operating procedures. This helps to ensure consistently high standards of quality and workmanship as well as minimal scope for human error.
Production accuracy and efficiency are further enhanced by a new MES (Manufacturing Execution System). Making full use of digitalisation, this system uses barcoding to allocate the correct components to a specific door. It also provides operatives with easy to follow guidance, including instruction videos, on best practice component fitting.
In addition, a new and dedicated packing cell has been developed. This supplies both the
workstations in the assembly hall with components and collates and packs ancillaries, such as handles, cylinders and escutcheons, which are supplied separately with the door for fitting by the installer.
This packing cell uses QR code scanning to identify what items are needed on each order and to ensure the correct parts are picked and packed with exceptional accuracy and reliability.
Tom concludes: “There are four core principles to lean manufacturing, which range from striving for continuous improvement through to understanding the customer and their perception of value. These maxims are becoming increasingly embedded within the fabric of Endurance Doors and the wider Endurance group.
£18,000 payment dispute settled by Qure Group
A family-run construction company hit a roadblock when a payment dispute with a homeowner stalled after a renovation project. With tensions rising, both sides believed the only way forward would be an expensive and drawn-out legal battle, something that no party wanted. That was until they turned to Qure Group, experts in resolving disputes for the home improvement sector.
“In this particular case, the homeowner was refusing to pay the outstanding balance of £18,000 for a renovation project completed on their fivebedroom home, stating the installer had not demonstrated due care and attention during the renovation,” explains Tracy Dilworth, dispute service controller at Qure Group. “In turn, the builder was refusing
to complete any remedial works feeling unfairly criticised and that the money being withheld was disproportionate to the points that were being disputed.
Paving the way forward through mediation
“It was agreed that mediation was the best way forward, to avoid any further cost or distress to both parties. Our skilled mediators help to initiate the discussion providing a platform for open communication and understanding, in a neutral and impartial space. This helps to give both sides of the dispute the chance to express their concerns and present their evidence.
“In this case, a few open and constructive sessions with the mediator helped both the builder
“As a business we have already accomplished much and adopting lean manufacturing will help us to take those achievements to new levels.
“Our new assembly line will be a catalyst in that. It will enable us to offer doors on shorter lead times and with even greater quality assurances, meaning fewer issues and potential callbacks for our installer partners as well as increased homeowner satisfaction.
“We are understandably proud of the investment into our new assembly hall.
“So much so in fact, that we welcome customers to visit us and to experience the many benefits it can offer for themselves.”
www.endurancedoors.co.uk
and the homeowner step back, pinpoint the real issues, and concentrate on practical solutions. With guidance, they were able to recognise each other’s perspectives and the part each had played. Most importantly, they reached a fair agreement, completing the works and securing a financial settlement that both sides were satisfied with.
“At Qure Group we understand the impact an ongoing dispute can have on both parties, which is why we offer a clear and fair route to resolution for all involved. We work independently to ensure a fair and impartial route to resolution, helping businesses and homeowners avoid those hefty legal costs and exhausting court delays.
If you have an ongoing dispute you’d like our help with, call us on 0800 211 8000 to arrange a FREE 30-minute consultation, or make an inquiry through our website: www.quregroup.co.uk
Cornwall Group invests a further £1m in new equipment at St Austell
Cornwall Group has taken another major step in its multi-millionpound investment programme with the installation of new cutting-edge equipment – including a state-ofthe-art Glaston furnace – at its St Austell manufacturing site.
The installation is part of the Group’s wider £4 million investment across its UK operations over the past two years. The St Austell upgrade alone represents almost £1 million of new machinery, which also includes a new Turomas cutting table, a Skill Glass vertical arrisser, and a Skill Glass vertical washer.
Together, these additions significantly enhance capacity,
efficiency and quality, ensuring Cornwall Group can continue to deliver ‘outstanding service’ to its trade, retail and commercial customers.
“Our customers want reliability, speed, and quality above all else”, explained Mark Mitchell, chairman of Cornwall Group. “This investment gives us the tools to deliver exactly that – faster turnaround times, consistently high standards, and greater flexibility across a wide range of glass products.”
The new Glaston furnace is capable of processing glass sizes up to 2400mm x 4800mm, toughening glass from 4mm
to 19mm thickness, and heat strengthening 4mm–8mm glass to EN1863 standards.
It delivers high output of up to 24 loads per hour while maintaining efficiency across a wide range of glass types, including soft-coated Low-E. For customers, this means not only access to a broader choice of high-performance products, but also greater consistency in quality and shorter lead times.
Its energy-efficient design also helps to stabilise operating costs, which ultimately protects customers from unexpected price pressures linked to rising energy markets.
Supporting the furnace, the new Turomas cutting line will bring advanced automation and precision to glass cutting, improving accuracy and reducing waste.
The Skill Glass arrisser provides nine-axis numerical control for
simultaneous arrissing, grinding and polishing of flat glass, while the new washer will ensure highperformance cleaning and drying, combining multiple brushes, highpressure blowers and inspection lighting to guarantee flawlessly finished glass, according to the company.
“Despite ongoing market challenges, we believe now is the time to invest”, Mark added. “It underlines our long-term commitment to the market and to our customers, ensuring we are in the strongest possible position for the future.”
This installation follows successful simultaneous furnace upgrades at Cornwall Group’s Birmingham and Bristol sites earlier this year, completing a trio of major investments in 2025 and reinforcing the Group’s commitment to delivering high quality glass products for decades to come.
www.cornwallglass.co.uk
Glass MidlandsExpress sees 15% year-on-year growth
Glass Express Midlands has reported a 15% increase in sales in the first half of 2025, compared to the same period in 2024 – fuelled by its expanding delivery capabilities, operational efficiency, and new commercial contracts.
Serving both the residential and commercial markets, Glass Express Midlands currently produces an average of 3,000 IGUs per week, as well as processed glass, cut-to-size panels, and bespoke decorative and leaded glass.
“We have a clear growth strategy, underpinned by a rigorous investment plan”, explains Glass Express Midlands’ managing director, Arun Photay. “In the last year, our priorities were to invest in new machinery; shorten our lead times; and expand our delivery capabilities.
“Despite a challenging economic landscape and a competitive market, we have managed to achieve these goals, and it is a reflection of the hard work of our entire team that these improvements have translated into such healthy growth.”
To meet the increased demand for its products, the Birmingham-based business
expanded its delivery fleet to accommodate a two-slot daily delivery service that reaches across the UK, with multiple weekly drops into London and Wales.
This upgraded transport infrastructure has improved reliability, enhanced customer service, and created a platform for growth in both residential and commercial markets.
Meanwhile, a brand-new £350k CMS Aura arrisser was installed to enhance quality and efficiency, and the achievement of Made in Britain certification has reduced the IGU manufacturer’s embodied carbon through the use of solely UK-sourced materials.
As a member of the prestigious Guardian Select scheme, Glass Express Midlands is also subject to regular quality audits and benefits from specialist technical support which has helped the business to gain a number of significant new commercial contracts.
“Growth is encouraging, but it’s only valuable if it is sustainable,” Arun concludes. “Our focus now is to build on these results with further investment, responsible practices, and a commitment to quality, customer service and flexibility that will carry us forward.”
“It is by bringing all of these strands together that we can continue to grow while staying true to our values.”
Hurst strengthens sustainability drive with latest machinery investment
As part of its ongoing programme of continuous improvement, Hurst Doors has installed two new high-efficiency glue application machines at its manufacturing facility, supporting its long-term commitment to sustainable operations and continued investment in plant and machinery.
The new equipment delivers a more precise and consistent glue bead, significantly reducing adhesive waste and the release of harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds) into the atmosphere. The upgrade has also enhanced production line efficiency, improving bonding quality while reducing manual handling on the shop floor.
“This investment is another step forward in our drive to improve
manufacturing performance while reducing our environmental footprint,” said Kevin Wheatman, director and general manager at Hurst Doors. “By using adhesive more efficiently, we’re not only cutting waste, but also creating a safer and cleaner working environment for our team.”
The installation follows a series of upgrades across Hurst’s operations over the last two years, including the rollout of new machinery, enhancements to material storage and handling, and significant investment in a new paint plant and supporting infrastructure. Together, these improvements support a more streamlined, responsive manufacturing process, helping to reduce downtime, improve throughput, and deliver consistent quality at scale, says Hurst.
“We’re focused on making practical, measurable improvements that support both our sustainability goals and the performance expectations of our customers,” Kevin added. “This includes how we manufacture, how we reduce waste, and how we continue to design products like the Securicore PAS24 panel with recyclability and efficiency in mind.”
In addition to improving production processes, Hurst maintains closed-loop recycling partnerships for materials such as glass, MDF, polystyrene, and PVC-U, ensuring waste is diverted from landfill wherever possible.
The company also invests in the energy performance of its door panels, contributing to lower carbon emissions and reduced heating bills for homeowners.
Kevin concluded: “We’re committed to building a manufacturing environment that reflects the standards we set for our products – efficient, responsible, and built for the future.”
www.hurstdoors.co.uk
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Forterro accelerates cloud strategy with acquisition
Deal adds expense management tool Tickelia to Forterro’s industrial offering and significantly expands its presence in southern Europe, with acquisition of Spanish business management software company Inology.
European industrial software provider Forterro has acquired Inology, a growing Barcelonabased provider of expense management, time and attendance, and ERP solutions serving the southern European SME and upper mid-market.
Inology is best known for Tickelia, a cloud-based expense management solution, with more than 250,000 users across Spain and Portugal. Its products also include Nubhora, a cloud-based
time and attendance management tool, and Marino ERP, an ERP solution for discrete and process manufacturers.
“Inology is known for the quality of its solutions and Tickelia is an outstanding AI-automated expense management solution that delivers clear operational and cost benefits to projectdriven and customer-service intensive manufacturers,” said Dean Forbes, CEO, Forterro.
“This acquisition aligns perfectly
with our mid-market focus, accelerating our cloud strategy, extending our reach in southern Europe, and enabling us to offer customers even more of the tools they need to compete and thrive in their local markets.”
The acquisition creates new opportunities to integrate expense management and time and attendance tools into its ERP customer base. Inology’s solutions will also be delivered through Forterro’s unified cloud platform, MyForterro, giving industrial businesses purpose-built software to strengthen operations and accelerate growth, according to the company.
Inology will continue to operate from its offices in Barcelona, Madrid, Mexico, Columbia and Portugal, with its 170+ employees joining Forterro. Founder Jaume Llonch will step away after a transition period, while current CEO Oscar Llonch will continue to lead the new line of business as managing director.
“Joining Forterro is the perfect next step for Inology,” said Oscar
Llonch, CEO, Inology. “We share a passion for innovation, service and customer success. With Forterro’s backing, we can scale faster, deliver our solutions to more customers across Europe, and continue to invest in the products that have made us a trusted partner for more than three decades.
“This includes leveraging Forterro’s expertise in AI technologies such as Machine Learning to further enhance our
solutions with smarter expense categorisation and analysis, fraud and anomaly detection and predictive insights and forecasting. “
The deal expands Forterro’s customer base with an additional 1,500 SME and upper mid-market customers. It is Forterro’s fifth acquisition of 2025 following Danish business intelligence firm Target, Orgadata and BM Group, provider of fenestration software, and Griesser EDV, a longstanding
Delivery performance under the spotlight as Topline Glass raises the bar
With delivery reliability now one of the biggest issues facing glass buyers, Topline Glass in Somerset is stepping up to highlight how its unique approach is setting new standards for customer service in the sector.
As reports grow of fabricators and installers struggling with inconsistent drop-offs and driver shortages, Topline has doubled down on the three elements it believes make the difference – professional drivers who customers actually like having on site, safer and more flexible van-based deliveries, and intelligent route optimisation software that makes every mile count.
“Our customers tell us time and again that deliveries are one of the biggest factors in choosing a supplier,” explained Jeremy Bartlett, managing director at Topline Glass. “Too many still experience a ‘drop and go’ culture, where drivers see their job as simply getting glass off the lorry.
“At Topline, we see it differently – our drivers are part of the customer’s team on site. From their professionalism to our safer ground-level van drops and our investment in MaxOptra technology, every decision we make is designed to make deliveries easier, smarter, and more reliable.”
Dave Barter, who has been part
partner for Myfactory in Austria.
Inology was advised by Arcano Partners along with Baker McKenzie and Tramuns & Torra Abogados acting as legal advisors. Forterro was supported by EY Tax, Alvarez and Marsal’s financial diligence team and Garrigues acted as legal advisors in Spain, Columbia and Mexico.
www.forterro.com
inology.com
of the Topline team for more than five years, said: “As a driver, I pride myself on the communication I have with all my customers and the relationships we build to make sure I’m delivering a great service for them and their customers. It’s about more than just dropping off glass – it’s about trust and making sure every job runs smoothly. And of course, there’s always time for a quick chat about Chelsea!”
The company says unlike traditional large trucks, Topline’s Sprinter vans allow glass to be unloaded safely at ground level, improving turnaround times on site and avoiding the access issues that can derail tight schedules. The adoption of MaxOptra software adds further efficiency, with timed delivery slots, dynamic routing, and a fully paperless proof-of-delivery system that reduces both emissions and admin.
Jeremy added: “Ultimately, we want to be the supplier that customers trust not just for quality glass, but for the peace of mind that comes with knowing the delivery will be on time, handled safely, and backed up by the right technology.”
Shrewsbury-based fabricator Universal Trade Frames has reinforced its reputation for putting installers first, with the launch of a bold new guarantee: ‘If It’s Faulty, It’s Free’.
The guarantee exclusive to UTFL covers fully manufactured upvc windows and doors, including the Residence Collection. The initiative is a clear sign of the company’s
confidence in its quality standards, and a major win for installers looking for reliability on-site.
Under the new guarantee, if a product arrives with a recognised manufacturing fault that renders it unfit for installation, Universal Trade Frames won’t just replace it. Installers will also receive a full credit for the faulty item, applied to their next order.
“Installers rely on us to deliver products that are right first time,” said Richard Hammond, sales director at Universal Trade Frames.
“We’ve invested heavily in our manufacturing processes and quality control, so we’re backing that up with a no-nonsense guarantee. If there’s a genuine fault that stops the job, we’ll fix it and cover the cost.”
The “If It’s Faulty, It’s Free” guarantee applies to all of their manufactured UPVc products and covers issues such as:
Irreparable surface finish defects
Dimensional inaccuracies, including out-of-tolerance sizes or transom/mullion splits
Any other confirmed manufacturing issue that prevents installation
To qualify, faults must be reported within 2 working days of delivery and identified before installation begins. All issues will be assessed by Universal Trade Frames’ quality control team, with a simple, transparent process in place to support installers from start to finish.
“This isn’t a gimmick,” Richard added. “It’s about giving our customers peace of mind. When you’re on-site and on schedule, the last thing you want is to be left out of pocket due to a product issue. This guarantee is our way of saying: if we get it wrong, which is rare, we’ll put it right, and we will support you too.”
For full terms, visit http://bit.ly/4nF7Spq
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The hup! Base: Transforming the way we build bases
In construction, the base stage often causes the most disruption and uncertainty. From difficult ground conditions and buried obstructions to unforeseen costs, waste removal, and the sheer mess, traditional foundation methods are notoriously unpredictable – particularly on smaller sites. Ultraframe marketing director, Alex Hewitt, explains why bases are such a common pain point, and how the newly developed hup! Base system provides an efficient, modern solution.
“Conventional base construction still revolves around digging deep trenches, filling them with concrete, and removing vast
amounts of soil,” Alex explained. “Not only does this cause mud and disruption, but it also makes life harder when machinery can’t access the site. Homeowners are then left with the added cost of repairing and landscaping their garden once the project is complete.”
As house extensions have become more sophisticated, these problems have only increased. A growing number of projects must now comply with Building Regulations, and fewer fall into the category of exempt conservatories. This often means deeper foundations, sometimes over a metre, pushing costs higher and creating additional health
and safety challenges, says the company.
To overcome these long-standing challenges, Ultraframe has launched the hup! Base – a faster, cleaner, and more predictable system created in direct response to installer feedback. Instead of relying on full-depth concrete foundations, the hup! Base uses ground screws or concrete pads. This streamlined approach is not only quicker and tidier but also better for the environment. This is because, unlike concrete, which is difficult to recycle, ground screws can be removed, reused, or repurposed, offering homeowners and installers a genuinely sustainable option.
hup! Base benefits:
Cost certainty – predictable pricing regardless of ground conditions, and highly competitive compared to piling or deep foundations.
• Minimal equipment – no diggers are skips are rarely needed or eliminated.
• Reduced excavation – only a shallow layer of topsoil (70–150mm) is removed.
• Less reliance on concrete –avoiding delays from drying times and bad weather.
• Clean and simple – far less mess and disruption, and no specialist bricklayers required.
• Flexible options – compatible with both ground screws and concrete pads.
• Fully compliant – achieves a U-Value of 0.18 W/m²K and carries pre-approval from Stroma and MFA for smoother regulatory approval.
• Fixed pricing – for builds under Alex Hewitt
30m², guaranteed costs are available through Ultraframe’s partner, Great British Ground Screw (GBGS).
To deliver the system, Ultraframe has partnered with GBGS, the UK’s largest ground screw supplier with over a decade of experience in both commercial and residential projects. Offering national coverage, GBGS provides galvanised screws with a 25-year guarantee, accredited to the Construction Line Gold Standard, says the company.
Alex added: “Our partnership with GBGS gives installers complete confidence. One site visit is all that’s required for survey and installation, and with fixed prices for projects under 30m², both installers and homeowners know exactly what to expect.”
Perhaps the most significant benefit is speed. With efficient scheduling, ground screws can be installed in the morning, with the hup! Base completed by early afternoon, and walls in place by the end of the day – dramatically reducing disruption to the
homeowner.
By applying ground screw technology, previously used for structures like garden rooms, to full home extensions, the hup! Base represents a real step forward for the sector. For both homeowners and installers, it offers a base solution that is quicker, cleaner, more sustainable, and far more predictable than traditional methods, according to the company.
Concluding, Alex said: “We know that once installers experience the benefits of the hup! Base, they see the real value in the product, so we’re giving an extra incentive to try it in the form of an exclusive introductory offer. With immediate effect, all hup! Base components – including the skirt, base and lintels – will be available with a 20% discount. The promotion runs until the end of 2025 and is automatically applied within Udesign, ensuring installers can see the savings clearly in their price breakdowns.”
www.hup-home.co.uk
Vanquish Hardware Protection becomes
Vanquish Hardware Protection has joined Made in Britain to champion UK manufacturing and fire safety innovation.
The Salisbury-based firm, which has over 30 years of expertise in passive fire protection, specialises in bespoke intumescent hardware protection solutions, manufacturing exclusively in the UK at its state-of-the-art facility.
David Sutcliffe, managing director of Vanquish, commented: “Made in Britain represents the best of British manufacturing and joining is a proud milestone for Vanquish. We’ve always believed in the power of British manufacturing — in its quality, its consistency, and its ability to lead on innovation.
“This membership reinforces our commitment to delivering highperformance, fully accredited fire safety solutions made right here in the UK.”
Vanquish’s flagship product, FlexiFire, a graphite-based intumescent sheet, is engineered to provide robust expansion and insulation around rebated hardware such as locks and latches. Available in large rolls or precision-cut kits, FlexiFire ensures the integrity of fire door assemblies is maintained, even under extreme heat. www.vanquish-hp.co.uk/
Sternfenster sees weekend quoting soar with EasyAdmin+
Sternfenster’s digital quoting system, EasyAdmin+, has reported a rise in weekend requests with 10% of all quotes now submitted outside of standard Monday to Friday working hours.
EasyAdmin+ enables installer partners to generate quotes for PVC-U, aluminium, and glass products at any time, 24/7, throughout the year. Combined with SF+ and EasySales, the platform strengthens collaborations, delivers flexibility in quoting, and offers time saving solutions to Sternfensters’ customers.
“Installers are under increasing pressure to deliver quotes both quickly and accurately”, said
Nathan Court, Sternfenster’s sales and marketing director. “Thanks to the cloud-based function, EasyAdmin+ gives them the freedom to work whenever and wherever suits them best. It’s about eliminating time as a barrier to a successful project.”
EasyAdmin+ automatically pulls in customer’s pricing, and if the order is won, seamlessly transfers the order straight to production, reducing the risk of manual errors and efficiently transferring information from sales to manufacturing. Customers can access live dashboards showing quotes, conversion rates, and profitability to support business decision-making for installers and greater transparency within the industry.
“EasyAdmin+ goes beyond convenience”, Nathan continued. “It’s about improving accuracy, streamlining turnaround times, and supplying our customers the best tools to win more business. Supported by over 50 years of manufacturing expertise, and together with our in-house capabilities, EasyAdmin+ demonstrates that we can deliver a consistently reliable service from idea to installation.”
www.sternfenster.com
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Eurocell simplifies aluminium windows and doors supply
Eurocell has expanded its aluminium window and door offering to its national network of over 200 trade branches, making it easier for jobbing-builders and installers to quote and order aluminium products for smallscale residential projects.
Following the acquisition of Alunet Systems, Eurocell has introduced the Aluna range of aluminium windows, entrance
doors, sliders and bi-fold doors into its branch network, to provide a simple and efficient route to order for installers and jobbing-builders working on projects that only require in the region of 30 frames per-week or less.
To support the rollout, all branch teams have received product training, meaning a dedicated in-house team is
now in place in more than 200 trade communities across the UK to handle aluminium quoting – enabling faster, more accurate pricing direct to installers. Competitive networkwide pricing has also been introduced.
Speaking on the expanded offering to smaller trade professional businesses, Stuart Livingstone, chief operating officer at Eurocell, said: “We know that more and more of our installer and jobbing-builder trade customers are taking on a wider range of projects and aiming to offer broader services to homeowners to grow their businesses – from roofing jobs, to installing PVC-U and aluminium windows and doors, to fitting decking and fencing and completing small home
improvements.
“So this move makes it easy for them to access high-quality aluminium products locally, for those smaller or solo property jobs. Alongside our fabricator partner network for larger and significant orders for aluminum and PVC-U window and door orders, we have the trade, housebuilders and installers covered.”
Eurocell says that as it is the only systems house in the UK with a national network of trade branches, it means installers can source everything they need – from trims and cladding to aluminium doors – all in one place.
For more information, visit: https://bit.ly/3VUYkKF
Heritage Trade Frames introduces next generation triple glazing
Heritage Trade Frames is set to become one of the first UK trade fabricators to introduce the next generation of glazing with the revolutionary Regency Triple featuring Corning Enlighten Glass. Lee Darcy, head of sales and marketing at Heritage Trade Frames, said: “We’re proud to be leading the way in bringing this innovation from Regency Glass and Corning Incorporated to our customers. Regency Triple offers all the advantages of triple glazing without the traditional limitations. It has the potential to transform glazing in the UK and unlock major opportunities for our customers, particularly in the domestic replacement and social housing refurbishment sectors.”
According to Heritage Trade Frames, unlike conventional triple glazing, which typically requires 44mm or more to achieve the best thermal values, the Regency Triple featuring Corning Enlighten Glass can achieve a 0.9W/m² overall frame U-value in a 36mm unit.
Remarkably, it is just 5% heavier than a conventional doubleglazed unit, removing the transport, handling, installation
and hardware challenges that have historically held back triple glazing. Because it can be specified in both 28mm and 36mm units, it works with standard 70mm profiles, making it a viable option for a far wider range of projects including domestic refurbishment, social housing and commercial new build without the need for new specifications elsewhere in the window contract.
Lee commented: “Thermal efficiency remains in the spotlight across the industry. Triple glazing has always been the best solution to increasing the thermal efficiency of glazing, but it has never been a realistic option – until now.”
Developed by Regency Glass, a UK leader in glass manufacturing and supply, in collaboration with Corning Incorporated, Regency Triple uses a centre pane made from Corning Enlighten Glass. At just 0.5mm thick, it is said to deliver exceptional strength and performance while keeping the overall weight of the unit to a minimum.
Builders’ Merchant value sales virtually
flat in July (+0.1%) year-on-year but volumes up +0.6%
The latest Builders Merchant Building Index (BMBI) report, published in September, shows builders’ merchants’ total value sales in July 2025 were virtually flat (+0.1%) compared to July 2024. Year-on-year volumes increased +0.6% while prices fell -0.6%. There was no difference in trading days.
Eight of the twelve categories sold more in terms of value compared to July last year. Renewables & Water Saving (+3.7%), Timber & Joinery Products (+2.6%), Kitchens & Bathrooms (+1.8%) and Services (+1.7%) were the best performing categories.
Heavy Building Materials (-1.1%) Decorating (-3.9%) and Workwear & Safetywear (-5.3%) were the weakest.
Value sales in July were +5.8% higher than in June. Monthon-month, volume sales were up +5.4% and prices were up +0.4%. All categories’ value sales increased with Miscellaneous (+11.3%), Services (+9.0%), Tools (+8.9%), Decorating (+7.4%), Timber & Joinery Products (+6.9%), Heavy Building Materials (+6.3%) and Ironmongery (+6.0%) ahead the most. Landscaping (+0.6%) grew more slowly. With two extra trading days in July, like-for-like
value sales (which take trading day differences into account) were -3.4% lower.
Total value sales in the 12 months from August 2024 – July 2025 were flat (0.0%) compared to the previous 12-month period (August 2023 – July 2024). Volume sales increased +1.7% but prices decreased -1.7%. Seven categories sold more by value, with Services (+3.7%), Tools (+3.3%) and Landscaping (+2.6%) doing best. Of the two biggest categories, Heavy Building Materials’ (0.0%) performance was on a par with Total Builders Merchants, while Timber & Joinery Products (-1.1%) fell behind. Renewables & Water Saving (-3.9%) was the weakest category. With one less trading day this year, like-for-like value sales were +0.4% higher.
Total value sales year-to-date (January to July 2025) were up +1.6% compared to the first seven months of 2024.
Mike Rigby, Managing Director of MRA Research which produces the BMBI report says:
“Summer 2025 might have been the hottest on record, but good weather did not translate into additional value sales for Britain’s builders’ merchants, with only marginal sales value growth reported for July compared to the previous year. Volumes did increase +0.6% but prices fell -0.6%, cancelling out the improvement.
“The latest ONS construction output statistics are also relatively flat, with output for July estimated to have grown by just +0.2%. This came from an increase in new work (+0.3%) as repair and maintenance was flat (0.0%). In the three months to July 2025, however, private housing repair and maintenance (+3.8%) was the main contributor to total growth of +0.6%, providing more positive news for merchants.
“With a less than convincing first half performance, many of us will be looking to see whether consumer confidence can help gee up the economy in the latter half of the year and boost RMI and new build sales. The long-running Consumer Confidence index from GfK showed a +2-point increase in the overall index to -17 in August, with positive sentiments about personal finances over the past 12 months (+3 points to -4) and over the coming year (+3 points to 5). The major purchase index also climbed 2 points to -13. Whether that optimism can survive regular talkdowns in the consumer media is another matter.
“A low growth economy that feels flat, the abrupt loss of a deputy prime minister and sacking of Britian’s ambassador
to the US, a bigger than expected cabinet reshuffle, civil unrest, strikes, expectations of an autumn tax-raising budget, and outspoken Labour backbenchers asking is their Prime Minister up to it, are unsettling both business and consumers. Unsettled and worried consumers tend to hold fire on major purchases and spend less wherever they can.
“From an industry perspective, we hope that as leadership contenders position themselves to replace Starmer, the Government remembers to prioritise growth and holds to its promise to build 1.5million homes and knows how to achieve both.”
July’s BMBI report is available to download at www.bmbi.co.uk
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North-East-based aluminium fabrication business, Made For Trade, has become the latest new member to join the Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB).
Set up in 1979, Made for Trade is a leading UK manufacturer and supplier of innovative aluminium fenestration products, delivering multiaward-winning solutions to the trade.
From the pioneering Korniche Roof Lantern to its highperformance bi-folding doors, patio doors and rooflights, MFT combines precision engineering with exceptional service, helping installers and resellers
grow their businesses with confidence, says the company.
Gavin Herdman, head of engineering, Made for Trade, said that CAB membership offered Made for Trade access to increased technical support as well as opportunities to work in partnership with colleagues in the industry on key issues impacting the sector.
“Made for Trade is committed to being an active member of the aluminium building products industry and supporting our customers by giving them a voice on key issues”, he said.
“CAB membership opens
up a wealth of networking opportunities and supports us in staying on top of regulatory change so that our offer to our customers is ready for all current and future changes.”
CAB membership offers a host of benefits including access to technical support and CAB technical committees, regulatory updates, government advocacy, plus networking and an active events programme.
According to the association, in the last 12-months it’s pushed its Closed-Loop Recycling Scheme which supports industry sustainability by isolating waste streams so that higher value aluminium alloys used in construction are ring-fenced. This also means that manufacturers can command a higher price, from recycling specialists.
Chris Wann & Gavin Herdman
Its new U-Value Charter which brings in new standard methodologies for u-value calculations, generating a unique opportunity for qualifying CAB members to evidence transparency and win more business through compliance.
It also offers an extensive training programme including the CAB Apprenticeship Toolbox. Developed in partnership with training provider GFTS, it’s been designed to help members recruit and encourage students and school leavers to join the industry as well as providing guidance on training and how to access funding.
Nigel Headford, chief executive, CAB, said: “Made for Trade are an exciting and innovative business.
“Their decision to join CAB reflects the growing recognition that our technical, regulatory and legislative work is crucial for companies operating in today’s market.
“Membership gives them a seat at the table on issues shaping the future of the industry from regulatory frameworks to product performance standards.”
“By joining CAB, companies gain more than a badge –they gain access to technical committees, working groups, and opportunities to shape the industry response to regulation”, Nigel continued.
“It’s also a chance to network with peers and competitors on shared challenges. For a company with Made for Trade’s profile, this is a strategic move that will ensure they remain ahead of the curve.”
www.c-a-b.org.uk
Carl F Groupco sells one millionth Roto
Espagnolette Window Lock
Independent hardware supplier Carl F Groupco has sold its one millionth Roto Espagnolette Window Lock, underlining both the popularity of the product and the strength of its partnership with Roto, according to the company.
Julie Warner, Roto product manager at Carl F Groupco, said: “Our customers consistently value the combination of quality, reliability and functionality that Roto delivers. Reaching the one million milestone is clear evidence of this.”
The Roto Twin-Cam Security Lock Espagnolette has been designed to provide a high level of security for outward opening windows.
The espagnolette features up to four pairs of dual reverse locking points. When the handle is operated, it drives the doublesided strikers from opposite directions, ensuring maximum burglary protection, claims the company.
The Roto SSL Espagnolette is suited for both top and side hung outward opening casement windows, accommodating sash rebates between 240mm and 1,800mm.
Profile-related keeps are available and the espagnolette is compatible with all leading profile extruders.
Both espagnolette options feature RotoSil surface protection, providing a Grade 5 finish that is particularly important for coastal applications.
Carl F Groupco is a longstanding Roto partner and one of the UK’s largest stockists of its hardware. Its portfolio includes espagnolettes, hinges, sliding door systems, tilt & slide hardware and reversible gearing. The company holds around £5.5 million of stock across all product ranges, enabling it to fulfil over 98% of orders within 24 hours.
Julie commented: “The strength of our partnership with Roto supports the service reliability that customers expect from us. The one millionth sale demonstrates not only the quality of Roto’s products, but also the trust fabricators place in Carl F Groupco to deliver consistently.”
Reaching one million sales is a clear endorsement of both the product and the partnership behind it. For fabricators, it underlines why Carl F Groupco is trusted as a leading hardware supply partner: proven product quality, reliable availability and service levels that ensure orders are delivered on time, every time. www.carlfgroupco.co.uk
AluK backs CAB’s closed loop recycling scheme
AluK has joined the CAB’s closed loop recycling scheme, giving powerful backing to CAB’s mission to embed closed loop recycling at the heart of the aluminium supply chain.
AluK’s managing director Russell Yates and health & safety manager Sophie Bragg received the company’s membership certificate from CAB’s chief executive Nigel Headford. Russell commented: “Aluminium’s 100% recyclability* has always been one of its key strengths, and that inherent sustainability is becoming ever more important for both retail and commercial buyers.
“Specifiers are already examining levels of ‘embodied
carbon’ in construction materials, and we could easily see limits placed on that in the future, so this CAB initiative to bring the aluminium sector together on recycling is the perfect response.
Sophie Bragg added: “What is so important about the scheme is that it’s not just about increasing the quantity of recovered aluminium scrap available in the UK, it’s about increasing the quality as well.
“Closed loop means we separate out all the aluminium components from alloy groups with compatible alloys at the recycling stage – including the 6 series alloys used for aluminium window and door extrusions – and ensure that
only these are mixed together during remelting. That means extrusions are recycled into extrusions – and together we maximise the efficiency of the whole process.”
In his role as president of CAB, Russell is keen to expand the reach of the scheme as widely as possible. He said: “The CAB scheme is open to everyone in the aluminium supply chain, and we would like to see fabricators and installers signing up as well as systems companies. It is a powerful way to demonstrate the sector’s commitment to sustainability and means we can all share our data to help shape the closed loop recycling value chain and circular economy of the future so that the focus shifts from cradle-to-gate to cradle-to-cradle.”
https://uk.aluk.com/
Russell Yates and Sophie Bragg pictured outside AluK’s Chepstow HQ
Senior Architectural Systems new circularity recycling scheme takes shape
Senior Architectural Systems, manufacturers of aluminium fenestration solutions, is set to introduce a new waste reduction initiative as part of its commitment to circularity and working towards a fully closedloop recycling process.
The new initiative will see all polyurethane foam
waste generated during the manufacture of the patented thermal break in Senior’s low U-value Pure aluminium windows and doors collected and reused.
Each year, approximately 80 tonnes of polyurethane foam waste is produced as part of the Pure manufacturing process. This occurs when extra polyols and
isocyanate chemicals are injected into the thermal breaks to prevent cold spots during curing. The result is a unique thermal barrier that delivers lower U-values and improved energy performance compared to traditional systems, claims the company.
However, the process also creates excess cured foam and although this waste has always had the potential to be reused, it has previously been difficult to manage at scale. Senior is now working with a specialist waste partner to chemically break down the expanded and cured polyurethane foam into its original raw components—polyols and isocyanates. These recovered materials will be reintroduced
Mark Nobel, Senior’s production manager and Luke Osborne, UK sustainability lead at the company’s Thermal Improvement Centre in Rotherham
into Senior’s own manufacturing processes, creating a circular system that eliminates landfill disposal, says the company.
The initiative is scheduled to be fully operational by the end of the year and once implemented, the recovered materials from the manufacture of Senior’s Pure windows and doors will be reused internally. This approach is expected to reduce carbon emissions, cut waste, and lessen demand for virgin raw materials.
Senior’s investment in advanced recycling initiatives builds on the company’s ongoing commitment to reducing the environmental impact of its operations and supporting customers to make more informed choices. Recent projects completed under the guidance of Senior’s dedicated UK sustainability lead Luke Osborne, include the wider use of UK sourced recycled aluminium through the company’s ReAL 2.0 product line and, most recently, the publication of a new generation of Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) documents.
Developed in line with the latest Product Category Rules, these EPDs go beyond the industry norm by providing projectrelevant data across the full system, supported by scaling tables for accuracy. Unlike some comparable EPDs, which include elements outside of a system house’s supply and risk distorting results when divided down, Senior’s approach ensures complete transparency by focusing solely on the products it supplies, according to the company.
The first of these detailed, product-specific EPDs covers Senior’s popular SF52 aluminium curtain wall system and is available now on request or via NBS Source. www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk
Coastal Group opens new brand centre in London
Coastal Group, manufacturer and supplier of highperformance external door and window hardware, has announced the opening of its dedicated Brand Centre in London.
The new space offers architects, joiners, door and window manufacturers, and construction professionals a unique opportunity to experience Coastal’s full product range first-hand –including its renowned Blu and Duratique hardware collections, all crafted from durable 316 marine-grade stainless steel.
Located in the heart of London’s design and build community, the Brand Centre provides a premium environment for visitors to explore products, gain technical insight, and collaborate with the Coastal team on projects.
“The Brand Centre brings our products to life in a way that brochures and samples simply can’t,” says Loren
Jenner, managing director at Coastal Group. “Customers can now see and feel the quality, design and finish of our hardware, while getting advice from our experts. It’s a space for ideas, inspiration and interaction.”
The London Brand Centre invites trade professionals across the South East to book a visit and enjoy product demonstrations, oneon-one technical discussions and early access to upcoming innovations.
Coastal Group customer Nandu Varsani from Busy Bee Builders Merchants was one of the first to visit the showroom in the opening weeks: “Visiting the new London showroom was a real game-changer for us. Being able to see the full Coastal range on working doors and windows made it so much easier to compare options and choose the right hardware for our projects.” He explained.
www.coastal-group.com
DoorCo streamlines service
DoorCo’s online manufacturing ordering system has always been comprehensive, but now the composite door supplier says it has made it even better, with new features that are designed to make accessing information about orders even easier.
Siôn Buckley, DoorCo’s technology manager, explains: “DoorCo’s One Self Service Portal brings all order related systems into one place where customers can order, track, communicate and find out answers to their questions faster. From the new One dashboard, customers can easily access functions like Manufacturing Live Orders and their delivery schedule and order history. There is also a Knowledge Hub and access to marketing tools and materials.
“Using real time data, Manufacturing Live Orders enables customers to track their manufacturing orders. More than
just “in progress”, the system reports exactly which stage each door is at in the DoorCo manufacturing process. This links up to their Manufacturing Delivery Schedule, so customers can understand exactly when they can expect their order. They can also access their manufacturing order history and raise queries with the customer service team.
Frequently Asked Questions
“Created by DoorCo’s customer service team, the Knowledge Hub shares the answers to the team’s most frequently asked questions. It’s designed to be a place to help customers access information about our products and services at their convenience, so they can get answers to their questions without having to ask the question via phone or email. It’s pretty comprehensive, with around 40 questions from technical specifications to
service parameters and contact information.
“We’ve also linked our Customer Guide, a 48-page guide to working with DoorCo. From our values and service proposition to photos and names of the team, each one of our doors along with the key designs and styles they can achieve, and details of our other components like Flip, Paint and Glazing. We have also detailed our supply chain, and our specialist technology and marketing support services.
Marketing support
“To ensure customers have all the information to hand, we’ve aligned our marketing portal with the ordering system. The Web To Print portal is a one stop marketing shop where you can access all our marketing materials, download them in standard format or editable for customisation, and send them for print – customised or standard –directly from the platform.
“Using the regular ordering portal login, customers can access the One Self Service Portal and explore features. If you need a hand logging in for the first time or finding your way round, our Sales Team can give you the tour – sales@door-co.com
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AluK supports contractors applying for BSR approval
Aluminium systems company AluK has come up with an innovative way to support architects and main contractors applying for Building Safety Regulator (BSR) approval – even at PCSA stage.
The aluminium systems company is offering comprehensive, offthe-shelf technical submission packs for its glazed facades which architects and main contractors can add to their
BSR applications and then, if required, use to competitively tender the project from AluK’s network of authorised commercial installers after approval has been received.
The packs include full NBS specifications for AluK’s window, door and curtain walling systems, product data sheets and sectional details in .DWG, structural and thermal calculations, full interface details and the mandatory competency statement. The details are tailored for each individual project, and include all the necessary test data from AluK’s in-house test facility.
Jordan Kingman, AluK’s head of commercial projects, says the packs have been developed in close collaboration with main contractors who have been applying for BSR approval earlier in the process to try to circumvent the current delays, while still fulfilling all the requirements of the Building Safety Act (BSA).
He explained: “We wholeheartedly support the aims of the BSA, but the backlog in BSR approvals – and the number of submissions being rejected, withdrawn or classed as invalid, means contractors need more support than ever.
“Both AluK’s managing director Russell Yates and I are MSc qualified in façade engineering so technical knowledge and competence are at the very heart of this business. We understand the risk that contractors face and the kind of support which is most valuable to them, and we’ve already had very positive feedback from the main contractors we’ve worked with on this latest initiative.
“Because we have such significant in-house resource in our technical, design and testing teams, we can be as flexible as contractors and their design teams need in terms of pack content and provide as much guidance as contractors need on preparing and issuing the tenders to our customers. Working with AluK as a systems house for BSR submissions ensures contractors are not placing all their eggs in one basket and they can still competitively tender to our approved installers once approval has been granted.”
Jordan added: “It’s very encouraging to see the efforts the Ministry of Housing Community and Local
Jordan Kingman, Head of Architectural Projects, AluK
Government (MHCLG) is taking to reduce the backlog in BSR approvals – specifically the creation of a new independent board to take over the functions of the BSR from the HSE. But, even if this new board is able to standardise decision making and speed up approvals in the way that we hope, there will always be the potential for costly delays if contractors’ submissions are
rejected because of a lack of information from suppliers.
“Of the 193 new-build high risk applications lodged since the system was launched for instance, just 15 (8%) have successfully navigated the approval gateway, with 17 being rejected and 32 judged invalid or withdrawn, so it’s obvious that anything that suppliers like AluK
Stuga Machinery has confirmed an exciting new chapter as its parent company, Stürtz Group, becomes part of Voilàp Group – the Italian-based global leader in automation and digitalisation.
Stuga gains global strength as Stürtz joins Voilàp Group
The move unites three wellestablished machinery names – Stuga, Stürtz and Voilàp. Stuga UK says customers can expect continuity from Stuga’s UK team, combined with the additional strength, innovation and resources of a strategic global partner. “With Voilàp’s backing, our customers can now plan with confidence, knowing that Stuga and Stürtz have a stable, long-term foundation,” said a representative.
From UK engineering to international strength
For more than 40 years, Stuga has designed and built its own range of sawing and machining centres in the UK, supported by a full in-house engineering, production and aftersales service operation. That specialism has made Stuga a trusted partner to fabricators of all sizes, helping them automate uPVC window and door production with reliable, UKsupported machinery.
Since joining the Stürtz Group in 2022, Stuga customers have benefitted from a wider portfolio of welding and cleaning
can do to smooth the process will be welcome.
“We will obviously continue to collaborate with architects, contractors, fabricators and installers to ensure our support keeps pace with any changes imposed by the new independent board.”
www.alukgb.com/commercial
systems, giving them the ability to scale automation across the factory floor. Now, with Voilàp’s backing, Stuga says it is able to continue investing in service, innovation and longterm support – combining the stability of a trusted UK brand with Voilàp’s long-term vision, industry knowledge, technology expertise, and financial strength.
Backed for the future
“By bringing Stürtz and Stuga into the Voilàp family, we combine proven machinery and customer focus with our global scale and vision for innovation,” says Valter Caiumi, president & CEO of Voilàp Group. “Together, we can deliver intelligent, connected production systems that make the factory of the future a reality.”
“Our customers know they can rely on Stuga’s UK team, and that hasn’t changed. They now benefit from the best of three worlds: Stuga’s local expertise, Stürtz’s proven technology, and Voilàp as a strategic partner,” adds Stuga’s managing director, Ed Williams. “This means we can invest in more service, innovation, and long-term support – helping our customers feel confident today and secure for the future.”
For more information, contact Stuga on 01493 742 348 or email
machinesales@stuga.co.uk
Glazerite joins Glazpartners
Glazpart has announced that Glazerite have become Glazpartners.
With over 25 years in the window and door fabrication industry, Glazerite has grown through a steadfast commitment to quality, innovation, and strong partnerships.
Glazerite’s success is built on the dedication of their experienced team, the trust of their customers, and close collaboration with their suppliers – all working together to deliver UK-wide product solutions for windows, doors and conservatories.
From their humble beginnings to becoming one of the UK’s leading trade fabricators, their journey is marked by growth and adaptability to meet their customers’ evolving needs.
On becoming a Glazpartner, Jeff Dunn, Glazerite sales and commercial director commented: “We’ve worked with Glazpart for over 20 years and more recently we’ve used their Link Vents to meet the compliance requirements for background ventilation for our windows.
We’re therefore delighted to be Glazpartners which fits perfectly with our own mission and ethos. Glazerite is more than just a fabricator and like Glazpart, we’re a partner for success. From expert technical expertise and dedicated account management to tailored marketing support and installer tools, we offer our customers everything they need to grow their business. We look forward to further strengthening our great working relationship with Glazpart.”
Already a customer of Glazpart for several years and now a Glazpartner, Glazerite believed they had already found the best solution for trickle ventilation in Glazpart’s Link Vent, before the Building Regulations (Approved Document F – ventilation) interim changes in June 2022.
Glazpart’s ‘Link Vent’ range sizes include 5000, 4000 and 2500 EQA. The vents are designed to fully comply with Building Regulations, Approved Document F1 (means of ventilation).
Glazpart says the Link Vent follows a clever design that is simple and user-friendly for both opening and closing –the innovative closing action allows the closure plate to be positioned so that it is easy to control and reduces draughts by directing air away from occupants.
Dean Bradley, Glazpart sales director adds: “It’s great to have Glazerite join the Glazpartners initiative. They are a company with an outstanding reputation for delivering a large range of high quality products manufactured to the highest industry standards. Their collaborative and inclusive approach with installers, partners, customers and suppliers mirror images Glazpart’s approach. We are looking forward to continuing our
strong partnership.”
Launched at FIT Show 2023, Glazpartners is a unique initiative with 65 companies joining since May 2023 and all being promoted at FIT Show 2025. The initiative has enjoyed record PR coverage,
numerous award nominations with ultimate recognition at The Installer Awards in March 2024, when Glazpartners won “Best Customer Support Programme”.
If you are interested in becoming a Glazpartner, please contact
Dean Bradley – Glazpart sales director dbradley@glazpart.co.uk or visit the Glazpart web page: https://bit.ly/3VYbEOp
To find out more about Glazerite please visit https://bit.ly/4gX3C1K
Jeff Dunn, Glazerite sales and commercial director
Dean Bradley, sales director of Glazpart
Eurocell’s Modus windows help shape the future of low-carbon homes at Energy House 2.0
Eurocell is playing a central role in Energy House 2.0, one of the world’s most advanced building performance research facilities at the University of Salford, that is reshaping how the industry tests and improves homes for net-zero.
The £16m Energy House 2.0 facility is said to be the only climate-controlled research chamber of its kind in the world.
Here, homes are tested in realworld weather conditions ranging from snowstorms at –23°C to extreme heatwaves of +51.5°C, providing vital insights into how construction products perform under the pressures of climate change and future energy demands.
As part of the project’s latest phase, Eurocell’s Modus tripleglazed window system has
replaced the original doubleglazing in the concept research homes. This upgrade is set to raise the bar for energy efficiency, thermal comfort, and sustainability.
Ian Kernaghan, head of product, design and development at Eurocell said: “Triple glazing is a key step in futureproofing homes. Being part of Energy House 2.0 lets us show just how much impact design-led, high-performance products like Modus can have. We’re not just testing windows, we’re demonstrating solutions that can help deliver lower carbon homes at scale.”
Energy House 2.0 is designed to help the construction industry and its supply chain prepare for zero carbon housing.
The Modus triple-glazed system directly supports these ambitions by:
• Delivering significantly improved thermal performance compared to traditional double glazing.
• Contributing to reduced operational energy use and lower household energy bills.
• Demonstrating how design-led innovation can be applied at scale across UK housing stock.
The integration of Eurocell’s Modus system into the Energy House 2.0 homes complements pioneering research already being carried out within the project. In earlier phases, testing demonstrated that innovative low-carbon construction methods could deliver significant reductions in embodied carbon emissions and maintain comfortable indoor temperatures for less than £2 per day in winter conditions.
By adding high-performance triple glazing to the test homes, Eurocell is helping the test homes meet very high levels of thermal efficiency, providing valuable real-world data for housebuilders, policymakers, and homeowners alike.
Ian added: “Energy House 2.0 is about more than research; it’s about reimagining the way we build homes. Eurocell is proud to be contributing solutions that help reduce environmental impact while delivering comfort and affordability for the people who live in them.”
Eurocell’s involvement in Energy House 2.0 underlines its ongoing commitment to sustainability and innovation across the construction sector. As the industry faces the dual challenges of climate change and the demand for large-scale housing growth, partnerships like this are crucial in proving that low-carbon, high-performance homes are not only possible but achievable at scale.
Learn more about the Energy House 2.0 project and Eurocell’s role in shaping the homes of the future: https://bit.ly/4o91qGX
Shepley Windows expands fleet
Shepley Windows has expanded its transport fleet with the addition of several new vehicles as part of its ongoing investment strategy to enhance service, efficiency, and delivery for its installer customers across the UK.
The newest vehicles have been added to the already extensive fleet introduced last year, which included three articulated truck trailers, two trailers, two lorries, and two vans, all of which are now on the road and featuring Shepley’s striking livery. The modernised fleet is designed to support Shepley’s growing customer base, enabling more frequent and flexible deliveries.
This development forms part of Shepley’s wider business investment across the company’s operations, including continuing factory improvements and IT infrastructure. The investment
programme is aimed at optimising every stage of the customer journey — from order to delivery.
Ian Griffiths, managing director at Shepley Windows, said: “The investment in our transport fleet is a critical part of our commitment to delivering better service to our customers. With new, specially fitted vehicles, we can ensure products are loaded directly from final quality check and delivered in perfect condition, without unnecessary handling or delays. This helps installers stay on schedule and deliver a great customer experience.”
He added: “Our goal is to give installers a real competitive edge. Whether it’s through improved product quality, greater choice, or better delivery logistics, everything we do is focused on supporting their success.”
www.shepley.com
Kolorseal advises on right colours for senior
living developers
Kolorseal has been advising developers recently on the best colour options for senior living developers. When it comes to elderly care colour is more than a simple visual aspect –as we age it becomes part of the language. In fact, the term ‘Dementia Friendly’ options are now being offered by a number of paint brands.
When it comes to using colour to the best advantage, many senior living environments use different shades of colour for navigation, with floors denoted by a specific colour, but a wide variety of hues in that colour will be needed for occupants’ individual doors.
Debbie Hendry, managing director of Kolorseal Ltd
comments: “Colour psychology
studies show that certain shades can trigger distinct emotional responses. Frequently blue is associated as a calming influence while green provides a sense of harmony.
“In respect of senior living environments, the right colour choice is vital for creating a feeling of comfort and safety.”
It is recognised that as people age, their colour concept alters as sensitivity to certain shades generally declines.
Understanding the physiological changes when creating new senior living spaces is critical, Debbie believes.
As time progresses, warmer tones such as lemons and amber hues can bring comfort,
helping to compensate for the yellowing of the lens which happens as we age. Exceedingly bright or contrasting colours should be avoided as these can be disconcerting and upsetting for some residents, says Debbie.
When choosing a colour scheme for senior living homes it is important to remember how this will impact the residents’ moods, their cognitive function and their overall wellbeing.
Navigation is another crucial aspect to consider as the right colours are used to create familiarity of surroundings, and these will minimise feelings of anxiety or confusion, particularly for those residents with dementia.
Kolorseal’s list of things to consider when planning or design senior living environments:
Well-being:
Different emotional responses will be triggered depending on the shades used – cooler
colours such as blues, lilacs and greens will help to create relaxing, safe and calm environments.
2. Cognitive Function:
With age it becomes more difficult to distinguish colours and contrasts.
High-contrast colour schemes, differentiating walls, floors, and furniture, greatly help residents navigate spaces easily and maintain their independence.
For those residents with dementia, specific shades can aid in memory recall and reduce confusion.
3. Navigation:
Colour-coded communal areas will assist in identifying particular spaces within a facility.
Using the right colour for highlighting key features, such as exits, can greatly reduce disorientation and the risk of falling.
4. Creates a Welcoming Atmosphere:
Planners and designers can create a welcoming environment which feels like home to residents. The Kolorseal team has experience in advising which shades will work best in respect of inducing positive memories.
5. Minimising Anxiety:
Certain colours will help to soothe residents, particularly those with dementia. Providing a predictable environment using the right colours can help with
improved sleep and comfort.
Debbie concludes: “Thoughtful colour consideration is the key to enhancing residents’ quality of life. Being able to understand colour psychology ensures that any builder, developer, planner or architect is supporting the emotional and cognitive needs of elderly residents.
“The right shades in the right places will ensure that this consideration will demonstrate an appreciation to the needs of the elderly that ultimately will offer nurturing and lifeenhancing spaces.”
Kolorseal Ltd is an awardwinning colour coating specialist with over 20 years experience in the fenestration and construction sectors. Call the team for more information or advice on 01924 454 856
Window fabricator Dessian celebrates 40 years of manufacturing
Belfast-based window fabricator Dessian Products Ltd is celebrating 40 years of trading.
Dessian was first established in 1985 by two leading entrepreneurs, Des Longmore from FM Windows, and Ian Beattie from Discount Window Systems (DWS) – hence Des & Ian, or Dessian. Employing around 15 people to begin with, Dessian started its journey with two large customers – FM Windows and DWS, initially using prefabricated Virgin frames.
Operating in Northern Ireland and
the Republic of Ireland at this early stage, Dessian operated with one delivery lorry, a paperbased administration system, and a largely manual manufacturing process. Their Apollo Rd site was previously occupied by DeLorean to manufacture seatbelts for its cars. Despite these early limitations, in 1986 Dessian switched to Rehau profile and began its journey to becoming one of Rehau’s largest and longest standing customers in Europe.
Throughout the late 1980s, Dessian expanded from 100
Stephen Sproule
frames per week (FPW) to 300 FPW, before reaching its first 1000 FPW week in 1990 –resulting in a celebratory staff trip to Mallorca. Around this time, Dessian began to foster a British customer base, corresponding
with the creation of Dessian Scotland and a move to increase the company’s commercial presence in Scotland. Following this, Gaffer Group, owned by Stephen Sproule acquired Dessian in December 2005.
“As we celebrate 40 years in the
market, we reflect on a journey marked by both challenges and change”, says Stephen, chairman of Dessian Products Ltd. “The world has evolved dramatically, and the industry has seen its fair share of ups and downs. Through it all, Dessian has remained steadfast in our belief that quality and service will always prevail. Our longevity and success are a direct result of the strong, lasting relationships we’ve built with our valued customers and trusted suppliers. We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together — and excited for what lies ahead.”
Fast-forward to March 2020 and the height of COVID, Dessian was forced to close for six weeks and then to build back business over what was a very difficult period. However, October 2020 brought its highest ever weekly order take of 3,986 frames coupled with its highest ever week’s production –3,029 frames.
This success has enabled Dessian to give back to local communities, donating thousands of pounds to local charities. They have also been able to progress their commitment to reducing carbon emissions, installing 185 solar panels in 2024.
Today, Dessian employs 160 people, including Belfast locals Maxine Maginess, Ann Vincent, Marty Bell, Alison Banford, and Mandy Riddle. These staff are part of the original team, having worked at Dessian since its inception in 1985.
Marty Bell, assistant production manager at Dessian Products Ltd, said: “Dessian has been a big part of my working life for almost 40 years – it’s not just been a job. I’ve worked with some great people and have made some lifelong friendships along the way. I’m proud to have played a part over the years in helping build the company to where it is now, and I look
forward to continuing in my role as the company moves forward.”
Rehau and Dessian’s partnership has played a key role in the success of both companies, and over the years the respective teams have developed strong relationships.
Declan Coulter, Ireland and Scotland divisional sales manager at Rehau UK, added: “Dessian and Rehau have grown alongside one another in the PVCu window and door sector, enhancing each other’s reputations with the quality of products they manufacture and the service they provide. Approaching 40 years, the partnership is stronger than ever and Dessian remains one of our leading trade fabricators, manufacturing a comprehensive range of products in Rehau profile.”
Dessian is also focusing on investing in the future with its vehicle fleet currently being replaced through NI Trucks, another Gaffer Group company and a major investment programme has been commenced for the replacement of saws, welders and corner cleaners.
Alongside this, investing in employees has been a priority with the provision of continuous training to increase efficiency and to develop staff capabilities. Currently, Dessian offers 17 different training modules in various languages covering a range of key skills including side-loader, first aid and health and safety training. To celebrate the anniversary, the team will enjoy a staff barbecue in August, with each member receiving an anniversary polo-shirt.
For more information on Dessian, https://www.dessian.co.uk
For more information on Rehau, click here. https://bit.ly/4gYtytW
Freefoam celebrates with Ram Plastics – 25 years young!
Freefoam Building Products has celebrated its customer RAM Plastics’ 25th anniversary, having supported the stockist for 15 years. “In an industry that’s had significant ups and downs it’s worth highlighting longterm success stories such as RAM Plastics,” explains Louise Sanderson, group marketing manager of Freefoam, with the most recent collaboration resulting in a new video of the company’s inspiring story on Youtube.
Founded in the late 1990s, RAM
Plastics began as a modest operation in Haverfordwest, set up by Roger Payne and Malcolm (‘Mal’) Clark. Over the years, it has grown into a trusted supplier across Pembrokeshire, with branches in both Haverfordwest and Pembroke Dock. The film tells the story of the company’s journey—from humble beginnings to becoming a vital partner for local builders, councils, and even the NHS.
“As an independent stockist Freefoam’s support over the years
has helped us grow,” says Roger, owner and director. “We’ve always believed in doing things the right way—serving our customers with honesty, speed, and respect. This new film is a tribute to our team, our loyal customers, our main supplier Freefoam and the community that’s supported us for 25 years.”
RAM Plastics’ long-standing 15year partnership with Freefoam illustrates the support from both the local sales manager and the central customer support team. As Mal confirms: “Freefoam products are top quality, and the support we get—from Steve Shaw and the team—is second to none. It’s a real partnership.”
Louise Sanderson added: “Over the years two local tradesmen have turned a shared vision into a thriving, communityrooted business, which is now a cornerstone of the building plastics industry in West Wales. Long term relationships, like this one with RAM Plastics, are common within our customer base and the video is a fantastic way to illustrate and celebrate this partnership.”
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
Signs of resilience amid more cautious decision-making
By Neil Cooper-Smith, Senior Analyst, Business Pilot
September’s data shows a mixed but cautiously encouraging picture for the retail window and door sector, with improvements in leads and sales compared to August, but pressures emerging in conversion rates and the speed of customer decision-making.
Headline activity picked up after a sluggish August. Average leads rose from 95.3 to 105.6, a strong 10.8%, a strong increase that brings volumes closer to July’s benchmark of 110.3. This rebound suggests that consumer appetite has not disappeared, even in the face of economic uncertainty. Sales followed suit, rising from 44.6 in August to 49.3 in September, an impressive 10.5% increase and clear evidence that homeowners remain willing to commit to projects when confidence returns.
That said, conversion rates continued to ease back, slipping from 40.8% in August to 39.8% in September. While this is only a 1 percentage point decline, it marks the second month of softening and indicates that installers are having to work harder to secure orders despite the uplift in enquiries.
Average order values held broadly steady, shifting from £3,767 in August to £3,736 in September – a minimal £31 decrease, indicating that spending patterns remain consistent.
Perhaps the most notable shift in the September’s data is in lead times. This figure stretched from 23 days in August to 27.3 days in September – an 18.7% increase – demonstrating that customers are taking longer to commit. This reflects a more cautious consumer mindset, with homeowners weighing up financial commitments carefully before signing off on home improvements.
Broader macroeconomic conditions remain a backdrop to these shifts. Inflation, which spiked mid-summer, is expected to remain above target into the autumn, keeping pressure on household budgets. Meanwhile, although interest rates were held steady in September, prices are still rising at nearly twice the Bank of England’s target rate.
Despite this, and the uncertainty preceding the Chancellor’s Autumn Budget, September’s uplift in leads and sales suggests that the market is tired of waiting. We’re seeing modest growth in some of our key indicators, demonstrating that homeowners are still investing in their homes –albeit cautiously.
For installers, the message is clear: volumes are still there, but efficiency, pipeline management, and margin discipline are key. With homeowners taking longer to decide, strong follow-up and engagement processes, supported by Business Pilot, will ensure that no opportunities are lost along the way.
About Business Pilot
Business Pilot is a powerful CRM, which mobilises the power of cloud-based technologies, to give installers complete visibility of each and every element of their operation from leads and conversions to job scheduling, cost of installation, service calls, and financial reporting.
Accessible across all devices, from desktop to phone, it supports installers in running their businesses more profitably.
For more information visit www.businesspilot.co.uk
How a customer-focused approach is fuelling consistent growth at UKO Group
By Natasha Erskine, Co-Founder & Marketing Director, UKO Group
In today’s competitive landscape, businesses must do more than deliver quality products, and there must be a bigger focus on building and maintaining meaningful relationships with their customers. At UKO Group, our growth story is rooted in the simple but powerful principle of
putting the customer at the heart of everything we do.
From our early days, we recognised that sustainable success would come not just from innovation and operational excellence, but from listening to
our customers, understanding their evolving needs, and delivering solutions that genuinely make a difference. This customer-first mindset has shaped every decision, every investment, and every interaction across our group of companies.
Strengthening Teams to Deliver Value
One of the most tangible ways we’ve embedded customer focus into our culture is through our people. We’ve invested heavily in talent, welcoming new team members across departments, expanding our production capabilities, and nurturing future talent through our apprenticeship programme. The recent graduation of Celia Brook, once a business administration apprentice, now a full-time member of the customer service team, is a testament to our commitment to developing individuals who understand and champion customer needs.
To meet growing demand and improve service delivery, we’ve scaled operations at UK Doors Online. By transitioning to a double-shift system, we’ve unlocked significant increased capacity, enabling faster turnaround times and greater flexibility for our customers. This is something we are actively working towards adapting across the whole group. These changes weren’t just operational decisions, they were strategic moves to ensure we continue exceeding expectations in a fastpaced market.
Strategic Growth with Customer Insight
Our growth isn’t just about size, it’s about relevance, ensuring that every step forward aligns with the evolving needs of our customers, the dynamics of our industry, and the values that define our brand.
The appointment of Sam Weber as Group Sales Director reflects our dedication to strategic leadership that understands the glazing industry and prioritises customer
relationships. His experience and vision align perfectly with our mission to evolve and innovate while keeping customer needs front and centre.
Marketing That Connects
As Marketing Director, I’ve seen first-hand how a customerfocused approach transforms brand engagement. Our marketing strategies are built on data-driven insights, real conversations, and a deep awareness of what matters most to our customers. Product promotion is only part of the picture, we focus on creating relevance through insight, innovation, and customerfocused messaging. This approach has strengthened our brand presence and deepened trust across our customer base.
Looking Ahead
At UKO Group, we believe that consistent growth is a journey powered by people, purpose, and partnership. By staying close to our customers, adapting to their needs, and delivering with integrity, we’re advancing with confidence, driven by clarity and connection. This approach enables us to remain agile, build lasting relationships, and respond to market shifts with confidence, ensuring our growth is both meaningful and sustainable.
As we look to the future, our commitment remains clear: to empower our teams, evolve our services, and continue exceeding expectations because a customer-first mindset doesn’t just enable growth, it sustains it
https://www.ukogroup.co.uk/
Natasha Erskine
U-Value compliance
– where are we now?
By Russell Yates, Managing Director, AluK and CAB President
This time last year, I warned about the number of aluminium systems companies who I felt were either deliberately or inadvertently misleading customers on their products’ U-Values. As far as AluK were concerned, the claims being made by some were simply not achievable with the level of thermal enhancements which we could see being made to the products.
With fabricators and installers required to demonstrate compliance with Part L after the changes to Building Regs, I made it clear that I felt suppliers had a fundamental responsibility to
deliver products that actually do what they say they do.
12 months on, I’m pleased to say there has been some positive progress on the issue – but perhaps not quite as much as I had hoped.
The biggest change has been the advent of the CAB’s U-Value Charter, launched at the FIT Show in May, which all the systems companies who are members of the CAB have now signed up to. This effectively states that we will all use standard methodology to calculate the U-Values of our
windows and doors based on the EN14351 and BFRC sizes (1230 x 1480mm for windows, 1230 x 2180 for doors below 3.6m2 and 2000 x 2180 for doors above 3.6m2) and be completely transparent about the results. Only then can customers make side by side comparisons between products and be 100% sure that what they are fabricating and fitting are fully compliant.
AluK was obviously one of the driving forces behind the charter because we wanted to see greater transparency around U-Values for fabricators and installers, and ultimately create a more level playing field amongst suppliers.
We were using standard methodology figures long before we signed up, but it’s good to see the same level of commitment now coming from elsewhere – even if we haven’t yet seen a wholesale updating of figures from every one of the member signatories.
It’s important to note here though that there are still some very wellknown names in the aluminium industry who are not members
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of the CAB, and they haven’t given anything like the same undertaking to be consistent and transparent with their figures.
I would certainly urge fabricators to check the CAB website to see who has signed up – and who hasn’t – and ask to see evidence from every supplier of their testing methodology, along with clarification of the glass being used and updates on their calculations.
Having just been elected President of the CAB, this is exactly the kind of area where I think the CAB can drive positive change in the industry. The CAB exists to ‘promote and protect’ the use of aluminium in both the commercial and domestic sectors, and raising standards on testing and compliance has to be an integral part of that.
The CAB’s leadership team and board are committed to giving the aluminium sector a stronger voice with government and legislators and making aluminium, with all its inherent sustainability benefits and long term value, the material of choice in construction.
We recognise that this will only be achieved though if we come from a position of strength and unity, and the CAB charter is a great example of that unity in action.
I had hoped that a year after I voiced my concerns, I would be able to say that the problem of misreporting U-Values had been resolved. In reality though, it does still exist, but only in pockets and a bit less blatantly than previously – largely I believe because of the light that AluK and the CAB continues to shine on the issue.
Why developershigh-end are quietly returning to timber joinery
By Joe Trueman, Director, Glyngary Joinery
In recent months, I’ve noticed a subtle yet compelling shift among high-end property developers – a quiet pivot back to timber joinery. It’s a trend not loudly announced in marketing brochures, but unmistakably present.
As someone who’s at the heart of timber craftsmanship, I’d like to share what’s really driving this resurgence – and why it matters to premium development today.
Joe Trueman
Heritage and authenticity at the core
When you’re working on a property with architectural pedigree – whether it’s a Grade II*-listed Georgian townhouse or a carved oak entrance in a new-build luxury home – replicating the genuine material quality matters. Timber delivers that authenticity in a way aluminium or uPVC simply cannot. It brings a tactile warmth, characterful grain, and timeless refinement that resonates with customers looking for substance, not just style.
This isn’t hypothetical. Bespoke joinery firms like Stuart Interiors report commissions for periodinspired grand staircases, oak-panelled libraries, even restoring furniture for Historic Royal Palaces – often combining centuries-old joinery techniques with modern functionality. It’s proof that heritage craftsmanship still remains a differentiator.
Longevity: Built to last, not replace
Premium developers understand that quality backs prestige. Timber joinery from Glyngary, crafted with Accoya, offers lifespans of 60+ years –far longer than the 15–20 years typical of uPVC frames. That longevity delivers real value, avoiding repeated replacement and enhancing lifecycle cost efficiency.
Moreover, timber stores carbon throughout its long life – an embedded sustainability benefit often overlooked in traditional joinery. Unlike synthetic alternatives, it becomes more than an aesthetic choice, it becomes an investment in the building’s environmental legacy.
ESG: From buzzword to boardroom principle
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) themes have found their way from corporate presentations right into developers’ material specifications. Timber’s low embodied carbon, renewability, and recyclability make it an obvious front-runner – especially when carbon efficiency is as important as upfront cost in development forecasts.
Government policy is offering further tailwind. The UK’s Timber in Construction Roadmap 2025 positions sustainable timber use as essential for achieving netzero targets – supporting both housing delivery and green jobs.
Similarly, more than 30 percent of top UK homebuilders now operate timber frame factories, signifying a systemic shift towards timber-based systems.
Projects like London’s Paradise SE11 – the UK’s lowestcarbon mass-timber office –demonstrate timber’s appeal among developers committed to ESG, delivering both aesthetic distinction and CO₂ savings equivalent to building 24 homes.
Design flexibility, thermal performance, and value
High-end developments demand both beauty and performance. Modern engineered timber frames –especially when paired with double or triple glazing –achieve stunning U-values. Glyngary’s double-glazed Accoya frames hit 1.2 W/m²K, while triple glazed drop to 0.68
W/m²K, outperforming building regulations by 50 percent or more.
Timber is also bespoke by nature. Whether it’s slender flush casements or ornate panelled doors, developers value the ability to customise – minimising compromises between design integrity and thermal efficiency. High-performance timber effortlessly crosses the bridge between visual excellence and energy performance.
Quiet momentum turning into mainstream
Timber isn’t yet universal – but among top-tier developers, it’s gaining momentum. Historical data shows that even as far back as 2014, the timber window market in housing outpaced the overall sector – with growth in both unit volume and installed value.
Now, with ESG, heritage, and regulation converging, the premium joinery niche is expanding. Those who invest early position themselves ahead of both market demand and regulatory shifts.
Final thoughts from the workshop
From where I sit, this isn’t nostalgia – it’s evolution. Highend developers are quietly returning to timber joinery not because it’s old-fashioned, but because it delivers on every tier – authentic craftsmanship, long-term value, environmental performance, and unmistakable elegance. At Glyngary, that’s where our passion lies – making timber not just beautiful, but compellingly sensible.
To find out more, go to www.glyngaryjoinery.co.uk and drop us a line.
Over five years of business growth with Rehau: Ashmore Glass & Mirrors Ltd
Nestled away in a humble industrial estate on the rural edge of Wolverhampton, sits Ashmore Glass & Mirrors Ltd – a fabrication business with family at its heart. The showroom is full to the brim with Rehau windows in all styles and sizes set against a backdrop of rolling farm fields that welcome customers.
Established in 1997 and founded by life-long friends Craig Edwards and Michael, Ashmore Glass & Mirrors Ltd is a family run business that is proud of its Wolverhampton roots. Starting out life as a
double-glazing unit, the company soon progressed into the uPVC windows fabrication market.
Craig began his career in the 1970’s and has been passionate about hiring hard working people ever since. Now, both his son-inlaw and daughter work with him at Ashmore, alongside a mother and daughter duo. People, products, and passion sit pride of place in the Ashmore showroom, and these priorities make up part of the reason why the company decided to switch to Rehau profiles half a decade ago.
Taking the plunge
There were various reasons that led Ashmore Glass & Mirrors Ltd to switch window profile house to Rehau five years ago, as Craig explains: “Rehau has always been a prestigious brand within our industry, and we decided to make the move after having problems with our previous supplier.
“The previous company that we were working with were not fulfilling their commitments to us and we knew we deserved a better service.
“It was a very nerve-racking decision because customers were used to buying our previous products from us and we didn’t know how they would take the change. We were also aware of how challenging switching profile house can sometimes be for fabricators. But the transition was easy. The onboarding process was straight forward, and with the
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help of Rehau’s technical team, we started making windows within three days of switching. The tooling, setup and education was all done quickly; it was seamless. In fact, we had no issues at all.”
Sean Ward, general manager at Ashmore, also shared this initial
nervousness about how long it would take to switch over to a new setup. “We thought we’d probably have to shut the factory down for two to three weeks during the switch,” says Sean, “but to be making windows again after three days was incredible!”
Rehau understands how difficult the decision to switch can be
for fabricators which is why every effort is made to make the onboarding process as seamless and simple as possible. Gareth Thomas, sales representative at Rehau says: “I’ve been working with Ashmore for three years now after taking over from my colleague Luke Boban who initially set them up. Rehau helped Ashmore through the onboarding process in a variety of ways, providing engineering, tooling, and marketing support. In one-to-one meetings with Luke, Ashmore were given the skills to pitch their new products to both existing and future customers.”
Thanks to a successful onboarding process, Ashmore has gone from strength to strength as a family-first fabricator, reinforcing its position as a glazing specialist with people at its core.
Business growth and customer satisfaction
Ashmore’s apprehension about switching window profile house soon faded after they began producing Rehau products to the delight of their customers. “We
were worried that our customers wouldn’t get on board with the change, but they’ve really embraced it,” says Craig.
When Ashmore first joined the Rehau group, the business was producing casement windows and doors. Now, welded flush fit windows and mechanically jointed flush face windows fill the showroom. This expansion in product range has allowed the business to meet the appetite of customers who were searching for more varied window solutions while broadening its audience further afield.
“Business has grown dramatically since switching to Rehau,” says Sean. “It seems everybody wants something new, which is what Rehau offers us. We can pass on the latest technologies and advancements to our customers which in turn brings them and their end-users’ benefits.”
And it’s not just customer satisfaction that has been on the up since the company joined Rehau but leads and sales as well. “In the last five years we’ve
had better leads through local authorities and from architects,” says Craig. “We’ve grown a strong customer base who are looking for a specific, prestigious product. In fact, we’re now seeing local authorities specifying Rehau window profile which is testament to the equity we’ve been able to build in the surrounding area.”
“The level of technical support we’ve had over the past five years from Rehau has also been exceptional. If we have any issues at all we can get on the phone to anybody from the office. But having said that, we don’t get many problems at all!”
Walking the technical tightrope
For fabricators, walking the technical tightrope is one of the trickiest parts of the job. As legislations change and goalposts move, it can seem like a neverending road to achieving technical success. That’s why the Rehau technical support team are always readily available to help, as Ashmore found to be the case.
“From a technical point of view,
we have a team in Ross on Wye, as well as technical engineers on the road who can deal with any incoming inquiries that Ashmore, our other fabricators, or their endusers may have,” says Gareth.
Speaking about his own experience with the technical team, Sean says, “Rehau offer tremendous technical support. There is always someone at the other end of the phone who will answer our technical questions, no matter how big or small.”
Reflecting on the past, present and future
After half a decade of working together, the team at Ashmore have welcomed Rehau into their business and their family (quite literally) with open arms. The seamless transition throughout the onboarding process and beyond has made way for many years of success.
Reflecting on his apprehension at the beginning of Ashmore’s Rehau journey, Craig says: “I understand it’s daunting if you are a fabricator thinking about moving to Rehau because you’re used to the products and the ways in which you’re working at the minute. But our experience is that once you move across, it’s a totally different playing field. The professionalism of the company and the stock they provide is second to none, so if you can, just make the move.”
And the story so far has not only been a success for Ashmore, but for Rehau as well. Gareth says: “the partnership with Ashmore is so successful because it is exactly that – a partnership. We can rely on each other, and we have a good line of communication. We also share the same mutual goal in that we both want to see success for the Rehau brand. I guess you could say we are becoming part of the Ashmore family!”
http://bit.ly/3WrD9Qy
A two-year reflection
Glass Express Midlands’ managing director, Arun Photay, shares his reflections after two years at the helm of the Birmingham-based IGU manufacturer.
When I look back on my first two years in the glass industry, the overwhelming feeling is one of gratitude. I have been welcomed into what I can only describe as a fantastic community – one built on trust, collaboration, and a real passion for what we do.
My route into glass was, truthfully, something of an accident. A good friend who owned Glass Express was preparing to retire just as I was looking to return to the West Midlands. Over a curry, the idea of stepping into the role was floated, and before long I found myself asking: how complicated can glass be?
The answer, I quickly learned, is very. This is an industry that combines technical complexity with creativity and innovation. It is not “just a pane of glass” – it’s research, investment, and precision at every stage. Discovering that
depth has been both humbling and exciting.
One of the great privileges of my role has been the people I have met. This is an industry where relationships still matter deeply. Competitors will answer the phone to share insights, suppliers are genuine partners, and colleagues bring decades of expertise that they are willing to pass on.
In an age when trust in business is too often in short supply, I have found the glass community to be refreshingly open.
That said, we cannot stand still. The biggest challenge we face is succession – bringing in fresh talent to sustain and evolve our industry. While there are promising signs, more must be done to show young people the opportunities and rewards of working in glass. This is not only about addressing
skills shortages, but about ensuring that knowledge, standards, and innovation continue to advance.
At Glass Express Midlands, we have invested in new machinery, vehicles, and staff to meet growing demand. But investment must be matched with responsibility.
We all share a duty to raise standards, whether in product performance, sustainability, or safety. Collaboration across the supply chain is key: manufacturers, contractors, and trade bodies working together to share best practice, support one another, and engage with government on the frameworks we need to succeed.
The next two years will be about building on this foundation –driving quality, strengthening relationships, and ensuring that the glass industry continues to be recognised not only for what it produces, but for the values of trust and partnership that underpin it.
I am grateful to have been welcomed into this community, and I am determined to play my part in ensuring that together, we leave it stronger than we found it.
For more information, please visit www.glassexpressmidlands.co.uk
Arun Photay
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Why competition is an opportunity not a threat
Rising costs, inflation and a slowing housing market are pressuring UK businesses, intensifying competition and raising the stakes for winning customer loyalty. Mike Parczuk, managing director of Sternfenster, gives us his take on why rising competition in the industry is a valuable challenge.
Creating a strategy to stay ahead of the competition in times of economic uncertainty, escalating costs, and persistent inflation can be make-or-break for businesses. This environment challenges and encourages companies to streamline operations and to explore new ways to stay competitive.
“Ultimately, choice is a good thing for installers,” says Mike Parczuk, managing director of Sternfenster. “It means fabricators must invest to make sure they’re giving a better product in the most efficient way possible to stay relevant alongside competitors.”
For both suppliers and installers in the fenestration industry, this
is a time of careful decisions and smart choices to help businesses both attract new customers and retain loyal ones, to succeed against the competition. This increases the pressure for suppliers to clearly establish themselves to installers as partners with a reliable reputation.
“We want to be kept on our toes because we want to be one of the best,” Mike continues. “We work very hard to deliver everything in the most efficient way possible.”
That commitment to continuous improvement shows through Sternfenster’s ongoing training, upskilling and utilising the latest tech to deliver the quality customers expect. A key result
of these investments is shown by Sternfenster’s record COTIF score in July, demonstrating the fabricator’s reliability and quality service that its customers can rely on.
“We’re only human. We don’t always get it right,” Mike explains. “But, making sure you really focus on what the customer wants is the key to getting there.”
As such, Sternfenster continues to listen and adapt to customer needs. Digital innovations such as the EasyAdmin+, SF+, and
Mike Parczuk
their continuously evolving product range set them apart from competitors.
EasyAdmin+ is Sternfenster’s cloud-based quoting system that lets installers simply create quotes for PVC-U, aluminium, and glass products at any time, 24/7. The tool automatically pulls in customer pricing and, once an order is won, transfers it straight to production – reducing manual errors and smoothing the process from sales to manufacturing.
According to Mike, investing in Sternfensters product range and digital tools, despite challenging economic conditions, strengthens the market and supports customers.
“We treat competition as motivation,” says Mike. “That’s why we listen closely to customers and launch products such as the Alitherm 400 and our new handle hardware range. All so our customers can have a clear edge to stay ahead of the game and win as many sales as they can.”
“Ultimately, while the customer won’t say to me ‘Mike, I need a new glass line, or a new welder’, we recognise that that investment portrays us as a reliable supplier from our customers’ point of view,” he adds.
“We’ll continue to invest in the future because that builds a sustainable business for everyone that relies on us.”
www.sternfenster.com
Aluprof eases Gateway 2 Compliance
By Tom Cherowbrier – Major Projects Manager at Aluprof UK
Gateway 2 Compliance, introduced under the Building Safety Act 2022, is creating significant disruption across the Construction Industry. At this stage of the approval process, a complete and fully coordinated design must be submitted and approved before any building work can begin. This requirement represents a major shift from established practices where design and construction traditionally overlapped, allowing issues to be resolved on-site. The result has been widespread project delays, increased costs and logistical difficulties as developers and contractors adjust to the stricter regulatory environment.
Much of the challenge lies in the scale of information now required. Gateway 2 places a strong emphasis on detailed documentation and maintaining the ‘golden thread’ of information, ensuring that design intent, safety measures, and materials are all fully recorded. Many organisations, particularly smaller firms, are struggling with the resources and digital systems needed to meet these demands,
Glassprof display
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added to this is a lack of clarity in how regulators will assess submissions, which has created uncertainty and hesitancy in moving projects forward. For an industry already under pressure to deliver more housing quickly, these bottlenecks are proving difficult to manage.However, despite the frustrations, Gateway 2 is an essential step towards raising safety and quality standards in construction. The system was introduced to prevent unsafe compromises and poor record-keeping, lessons tragically underscored by the Grenfell Tower fire. By ensuring that critical safety measures are embedded in the design before work begins, Gateway 2 helps protect residents and provides greater accountability throughout the building’s lifecycle. Over time, the requirement for earlier collaboration, better coordination, and improved transparency has the potential to transform industry culture, leading to fewer defects, safer buildings, and stronger public confidence. Whilst the transition is undoubtedly challenging, Gateway 2 should be seen as an investment in a safer, more professional built environment.
Aluprof UK has demonstrated a strong commitment to aligning with the Building Safety Act 2022requirements, particularly regarding Gateway 2 approvals. Their broad range of high-performance façade solutions, all 3rd party tested to relevant standards, with over 1,500 third party certificates of compliance, makes Aluprof the ideal partner. Their major projects team collaborates closely with specialist façade contractors to ensure that all
necessary supporting documentation and compliance measures are meticulously prepared for submission to the Building Safety Regulator (BSR). This proactive approach is crucial, especially considering recent challenges faced by the BSR, such as delays in processing Gateway 2 applications due to an outsourced delivery model and a shortage of in-house technical expertise.
Choosing Aluprof fire-resistant screens together with Glassprof glass provides a reliable and fully tested solution for safeguarding buildings while maintaining design flexibility. Aluprof’s systems are engineered to deliver high levels of fire resistance, compartmentation, and smoke control without compromising on aesthetics, while Glassprof glass complements these systems with certified fire-rated glazing that ensures transparency, natural light, and architectural freedom. Together, they offer architects, contractors, sub-contractors and building owners a trusted combination of safety, compliance, and performance for allconstruction projects.Aluprof’s vertical integration benefits specifiers by ensuring consistent product quality, streamlined supply chains, and enhanced technical support. With in-house system design, manufacturing, and testing, Aluprof delivers high-performance aluminium systems that meet stringent UK and EU building regulations, including Gateway 2 requirements under the Building Safety Act 2022. This integrated approach allows for greater customisation, faster lead times and improved cost efficiency, giving specifiers confidence in project timelines and compliance. Additionally, direct collaboration with Aluprof’s experts ensures tailored
Tom Cherowbrier
MB-78 EI60 fire door
Glassprof EI90
solutions that align with architectural intent whilst enhancing sustainability and energy efficiency.
Current statistics show that Gateway 2 compliance remains a major challenge for the Construction Industry. Approval rates are very low, with only around 10–14% of applications being approved. For example, as of mid-2025, just 20 out of 187 new higher-risk building applications had received approval. Across all new build and remedial submissions between late 2023 and 2024, the success rate was similar at 146 approvals from 1,018 applications. The vast majority of applications—up to 75%—are being rejected due to incomplete or poor-quality submissions, while a further 20% are ruled invalid because they fail to meet statutory requirements or lack essential documentation.
Delays are also a serious issue, with the average approval taking around 22 weeks, far exceeding the statutory 8–12 week timeframe. In some cases, projects have been delayed by 40 weeks or more waiting for Gateway 2 clearance. Freedom of Information data shows that by early 2025, over 700 applications were still pending, adding to a significant backlog. These statistics highlight both the complexity of the new regime and the ongoing difficulties applicants face in providing the detailed fire and structural safety information required by the Building Safety Regulator.Speeding up Gateway 2 approvals requires both improved application quality from Industry and greater efficiency within the BSR. Many delays stem from incomplete or poorly prepared submissions, so design teams must ensure that all structural and fire safety details are fully coordinated and documented before applying. Investing in specialist consultants, carrying out thorough pre-application checks, and engaging earlier with the regulator can reduce the risk of rejection. Better training for architects, contractors, and consultants on Gateway 2 requirements would also help raise standards and cut down on the high percentage of invalid or incomplete applications currently being submitted.
On the regulator’s side, resourcing and process improvements are key. The BSR could speed up approvals by expanding its review teams, streamlining the multi-disciplinary assessment process, and introducing clearer guidance on what constitutes a compliant application. Phased or staged approvals, already being trialled in some cases, may also help by allowing work to progress whilst certain technical details are finalised. Ultimately, a combination of betterprepared applications and more efficient regulatory handling will be needed to reduce backlogs, shorten determination times, and give the construction sector greater confidence in navigating Gateway 2. aluprof.co.uk aluprofliving.com
The Perfect Handle for Slim Aluminium Doors
Give your customers the upgrade they’ve been looking for with Coastal Group’s new slimline lever door handles, the AML096 and EGC096.
Key Features:
y 26mm width backplate – perfect for narrow profiles
y Solid 316 marine grade stainless steel –maximum corrosion resistance, and durability
y Spring cassette – smooth, solid operation
y Lifetime guarantee
y Single plate system – no cover plates, just a clean, seamless finish
y Designed & assembled in the UK
Contact Coastal Group today to order or request a sample.
Email sales@coastal-group.com or call 01726 871 025 www.coastal-group.com
AML096 Angled Mitre
Why is my Powder Coating Failing?
By Chris Mansfield – Qualicoat Chair
Beware of cheap powder coating! It may seem obvious to most, but can you name your powder coater, for all your products? Buying powder coated products from your aluminium systems supplier will guarantee powder coat quality, but what about those ancillary
items, pressed cills, or additional profiles that are required quickly to meet an unexpected size change or an error in cutting? These profiles need to be coated to the very same quality if you are to minimise site problems. There are many powder coaters across the UK, but few carry the
necessary heavy investment of suitable pre-treatment facilities required for powder coatings to withstand the UK’s harsh climate.
So why do failures occur in residential applications?
Poor surface prep is the number one culprit, the lack of good pretreatment of the aluminium. Powder coatings only adhere to perfectly clean metal, and aluminium window and door systems must be degreased/etched so no traces of oil, dirt or oxide remains. Any contamination left on the frame will cause failures “by lack of adhesion, blistering or peeling”. In practice, this means a fingerprint, oil smear or even salt spray on the aluminium will block bonding. During curing any trapped moisture or grease can vaporise and form blisters under the finish. Those hidden defects show up quickly as peeling edges or bubbling patches right where the metal wasn’t really
clean or pre-treated.
Powder coating application errors make things worse. Even if the frame is clean, the powder coat still must be applied and oven cured correctly. If the coating is sprayed on too heavily (or unevenly), it may sag or crack as it hardens. Equally important is the oven temperature profile. If the powder isn’t cured at the correct temperature, or for long enough, the coating will not fully harden. A partially cured coating will not adhere to the aluminium and will flake, chip or peel off under stress. In plain terms, any shortcut
in the powder application or oven curing process creates a weakness that will soon show up as chips, bubbles or peeling of the coating.
Outdoor exposure will expose a weak finish. Strong sun and weather will slowly degrade any powder coat over time. UV rays break down the paint’s resin, causing the finish to fade and chalk (a white, powdery residue). Likewise, moisture and salt air can infiltrate tiny cracks and as the coating is porous moisture and air will get through the coating. Salts or soluble deposits on the metal will in fact pull in water through the powder
coating and create surface blisters (an “osmotic blistering” effect). In practice, this means a poorly applied coating in a humid or coastal climate will show chalking, peeling and bubbling in a short space of time.
The key is quality and consistency of quality in the production of powder coated aluminium profiles, assemblies and sheet products. The industry knows why failures occur by cutting corners to save cost, but a poor coating can take up to a year or so on site to begin to show a failure, so many poor quality finishes are rarely repaired giving powder coating a dubious reputation.
BS EN 12206-1:2021, ‘Paints and varnishes. Coating of aluminium and aluminium alloys for architectural purposes Coatings prepared from thermosetting coating powder’ details the minimum requirements for quality architectural powder coating including a robust pre-treatment system. Meeting the standard can be claimed by a powder coater, but there are no third party inspections to protect the customer.
The Qualicoat Specification, formed back in 1986, now has a global following and is the only licensed specification which is third party accredited. There are now thirty powder coaters across the UK and Ireland who are licensed coaters. All the major aluminium systems companies now use the Specification and if additional profiles or pressings are required a Qualicoat licensed coater is not far away. If you keep to specifying Qualicoat for all your aluminium coatings you are offering your customers the best quality finishes that are available in the industry.
qualicoatuki.org
Are we at the cliff edge?
Inflation, interest rate cuts, tax hikes and project backlogs. Ryan Johnson, group manging director of the Emplas Group asks will Q3 be any better?
Running a business is always challenging. The last nine-months have been particularly tough.
The consensus is that by the end of this year, the UK economy will have grown by around 1.2%, a downgrade on previous growth forecasts.
At the same time, inflation remains stubbornly high at 3.8%. This makes it more likely that the Bank of England, which cut interest rates to 4% in August, will exercise increased caution when it reviews rates through to the end of this year.
The labour market is also becoming tougher. Unemployment is currently at 4.7% as businesses adjust to increased employment costs – something which may negatively impact consumer confidence in the coming months.
This has been the backdrop to construction growth this year of around 1.9%. It’s a positive figure but certainly not the boom that we expected to see.
That’s attributable in part to continuing delays at Gateway 2. Averaging 25 and up to 36 weeks to get scheme approval, the Building Safety Regulator has been in a state of meltdown for months.
The new Fast-Track approvals route, which should come online this autumn may provide a glimmer of hope – but the backlog is going to take time to clear, which pushes
growth further down the line into 2026.
The housing market is also subdued, with house price inflation sitting at around 1% – again, we’re in positive figures but still no boom, with some analysts predicting that growth will be pushed back to 2027.
Combined with still fragile consumer confidence, it’s pushed rebound in the home improvement sector back, with pressure on household budgets impacting discretionary spend.
This makes the autumn budget in either late October or November critical. Will it be painful? That will largely be down to the Chancellor but with spiking borrowing costs and a fiscal shortfall of as much as £41bn to bridge, if I was going to lay a bet, I’d say we need to brace for more increases.
It’s worth taking time to reflect on these issues, because if we do, we can prepare for them. Hoping that things may get better, isn’t a strategy.
This has informed our approach. We do believe that things will improve but we are approaching the run into the end of this year as we started it – and that’s with a dose of reality.
Our assessment at the start of 2025, that while improving, things were going to remain tough, has driven our strategy this year. It’s
Ryan Johnson
included major investment in the launch of our new retail lead generation initiative, Snug, which delivers homeowner leads direct to qualifying customers.
We’ve also launched The Commercial Window Group to do the same in the commercial space, generating more than £60milion of tenders – delivering millions of pounds of new business for network members.
We’re continuing to invest in our product offer. We added Britdor and Gripcore composite door composites to our pre-existing Original Door Collection, as well as the imminent launch of a new and fully accredited Fire Door.
We’ve invested in our manufacturing facility, increasing efficiencies and lowering our carbon footprint through the installation of 1558 new solar panels; and in digital tools to support our customers in managing their businesses more effectively, including EVA CRM.
In short, we recognised that innovation and investment would be the drivers of growth rather than a release of demand in home improvement, new build or commercial sectors – and its worked.
We’ve continued to grow, and we will continue to invest, so that when things do pick up, which they will, we and our customers will be positioned for growth. www.emplas.co.uk
Podcasts
GREG JOHNSON WARWICK DEVELOPMENT NW
In this episode I talk with Greg Johnson - CEO at Warwick Development NW about his fenestration journey. You can watch the video or listen to the podcast here.
JADE ENGINEERING’S £4 MILLION INVESTMENT
In this episode Richard talks with Adam Jones Co-Owner of Jade Engineeringcture.
You can watch the video or listen to the podcast here
JADE ENGINEERING’S £4 MILLION INVESTMENT
Jade Engineering has announced a £4 million investment into new machinery and infrastructure.
You can watch the video or listen to the podcast here
GREG KELLY
AMK HARDWARE & ENTRANCE COMPOSITE DOOR SOLUTIONS
Greg Kelly shares his remarkable journey in the fenestration industry.
You can watch the video or listen to the podcast here
NICKIE WEST UNPACKS FIT SHOW
Nicky West, the event director of the Fit Show, discussed the success of the 2025 edition.
You can watch the video or listen to the podcast here
APEER DOORS ASA MCGILLIAN
Asa McGillian talks to Richard Lannen of Glazing Insider concerning a serious issue.
You can watch the video or listen to the podcast here
John Warburton ER Certification Ltd
John Warburton joins Richard Lannen to share his remarkable journey in the fenestration industry.
You can watch the video or listen to the podcast here
AluK’s managing director appointed president of CAB
AluK’s managing director Russell Yates has been appointed as president for the Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB).
Having been a long-time supporter and advocate of the CAB, Russell is now working alongside the rest of the dynamic board and the professional team to help the CAB become an even more powerful voice for aluminium.
Russell explained his objectives: “The CAB already has an impressive track record when it comes to advancing the cause of
aluminium in construction – from ensuring that aluminium was A-rated in the BRE Green Guide back in the ‘90s, to formulating the new closed loop recycling scheme.
“It has even more ambitious plans now and the current team are doing some really impressive work in key areas such as training, technical consultancy and lobbying.
“I want to use my position as president to support that work and raise the profile of the CAB even further in the places that
matter most. We want to be talking to government and regulators to help shape upcoming and future legislation and engaging with other groups within the industry to ensure that aluminium becomes the undisputed material of choice.
“We’re already seeing plenty of evidence of success particularly on material sourcing and recycling, where the CAB’s closed loop recycling scheme looks set to shift the focus from cradle-to-gate to a cradle-to-cradle approach and reinforce aluminium’s sustainability credentials.
“I’m passionate about this sector and will do all I can during my tenure as president to support the CAB’s mission. I am looking forward to a challenging but ultimately very rewarding year ahead.”
https://uk.aluk.com/
Russell Yates
National
Processing,
Quality
In-house technical team
Partner
CAB and GGF memberships
Full accreditation
Sustainability
Cornwall Glass apprentice rises through ranks to become team leader
Former Cornwall Glass apprentice, Keiran James, has been promoted to team leader at Cornwall Glass Manufacturing, highlighting the success of the company’s apprenticeship scheme in developing and retaining talent.
Keiran joined the St Austell branch in 2019 at 18 years old. After completing a Level 2 Glass Processing apprenticeship in 2021, he went on to achieve a Level 3 NVQ in the same field.
“Starting out as an apprentice gave me a foot in the door to a great industry,” said Keiran. “I’ve gained qualifications, practical skills and valuable experience working alongside knowledgeable colleagues. I’m now keen to pass that on to new apprentices.”
He added: “Apprenticeships are a great choice because you earn while you learn. I’d recommend one with Cornwall Glass to anyone.”
Mark Knight, managing director at Cornwall Glass, said: “Supporting apprentices is vital for the long-term success of both our business and the wider industry. It’s rewarding to see home-grown talent like Keiran progress into leadership roles — he has the right attitude, knowledge and skills to succeed.”
www.cornwallglass.co.uk
Kelly Hibbert joins Distinction Doors as Commercial Director
Distinction Doors has announced the appointment of Kelly Hibbert as its new commercial director, a move that the company says reinforces its commitment to delivering exceptional value and service to its customers.
With over 18 years of experience in the fenestration and construction industries, Kelly brings a customerfirst mindset and a proven ability to drive commercial growth through strategic partnerships and market insight. Her career has been defined by helping businesses unlock new opportunities, streamline product offerings, and deliver solutions that resonate with clients’ evolving needs.
Andrew Fowlds, CEO of Distinction Doors, shared his enthusiasm: “Kelly’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for us. As we continue to invest in customer satisfaction and deepen our relationships across the sector, her leadership will be instrumental. Kelly understands what matters most to
our clients: reliability, innovation, and service, and she’s here to make sure we deliver on all fronts.”
Kelly’s approach is rooted in listening to customers, understanding their challenges, and crafting strategies that deliver real-world results. “My goal is simple,” Kelly said. “To ensure every customer feels supported, understood, and confident in the solutions we provide. Distinction Doors already has a strong reputation for quality and service. I’m here to build on that and take it to the next level.”
Kelly added: “I’m passionate about building meaningful relationships and creating strategic partnerships that support our customers’ success. Whether it’s through smarter product integration, tailored support, or educational resources, everything we do will be designed to make life easier and better for our clients.”
www.distinctiondoors.co.uk
Nix Collective strengthens team with appointment of Lauren Doyle
Nix Collective has just turned three, and the best birthday present? Welcoming Lauren Doyle to the team! But Lauren isn’t new to them… she’s worked alongside founder Nikki Dunbar and Simon Owen before, but now she’s officially part of the crew – along with Cassie Yardley-Horne.
“With heaps of experience, sharp industry know-how, and
a reputation for getting things done, she’s the perfect fit for us,” said Nikki. “Her addition strengthens the team and positions us perfectly for the future.
“Nix Collective is known for doing things differently. We’re small by design, meaning we don’t play ‘pass the client’, always giving them our full attention with
Sustainability manager takes on global role following Quanex takeover
Sustainability programme manager Lara Coutinho has a new role as supply chain sustainability manager for the Quanex group. A group that now includes the hardware brand ERA, here in the UK.
Following Quanex’s acquisition of Tyman in August 2024, Lara, who has more than 12 years’ experience in leading sustainability strategies, will play a key role in advancing Quanex’s corporate sustainability strategy across its global supply chain.
Key immediate focuses for Lara in her new role include reducing Scope 3 emissions – indirect emissions from a company’s entire value chain – in line with the
Greenhouse Gas Protocol.
She will also be focusing on embedding leading sustainable practices and policies into waste management, related activities.
quick thinking and unique ideas. We blend strategy, creativity, personality, and a down-to-earth approach that makes working with us feel effortlessly simple –and, of course, fun.”
Taking on the role of Client Strategy Manager, Lauren is looking forward to getting her teeth into the new challenge. She commented: “It’s great to be back agency-side! I’ve watched Nix Collective go from strength to strength over the last couple of years and it’s so refreshing to see an agency that is so focussed on their client’s success.
“Having worked with two-thirds of the Collective in a previous life, this is the obvious next step for me. I’m looking forward to helping the team to continue to deliver impressive strategies and campaigns to support our client’s business growth.”
For more information about Nix Collective and the team, visit nixcollective.co.uk.
In the longer term, she will support Quanex sites worldwide in developing robust frameworks to guide sustainability-focused initiatives.
This will see Lara working closely with the global procurement team, with responsibility for developing, implementing, and managing initiatives that align with the Group’s overall sustainability goals.
In her previous role, Lara acted as a mentor to Ryan Hammond, who joined as a corporate responsibility and sustainability apprentice.
Following Lara’s professional guidance and comprehensive training, Ryan will now progress into the role of sustainability specialist – UK, taking more of a leading role on projects relating to Quanex’s sustainability ambitions across its UK sites.
The Nix Collective lineup (from L-R) – Nikki Dunbar, Simon Owen, Cassie Yardley-Horne and Lauren Doyle
John Agnew retires from the GGF
John Agnew, CEO at the GGF Group has retired from the role.
John joined the GGF as president in 2017, becoming its managing director in early 2020 before stepping into his current position as CEO, in July last year.
His appointment to the GGF followed a distinguished career in the glass industry spanning more than four decades. This encompassed a series of senior management and accountancy roles including general management and directorships at Toughglass and Independent Glass.
Commenting, John said he had full confidence in the GGF Group board and EMG to move the GGF Group forward into an exciting new phase of delivery.
He said: “It has been an honour and a privilege to lead the GGF Group over the past six years. Working alongside so many
dedicated colleagues, members and partners has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career.
“I am very proud of what we have achieved together the role the Group continues to play in supporting and advancing the glazing industry.
“As I step back, I do so with full confidence in the Board, the EMG, and the talented people across the Group to carry forward our strategy and build on a very strong foundation.”
The GGF Group board and EMG are actively engaged in a recruitment process, with an expectation to make an announcement on a new appointment shortly.
Corey Smalley, group chair at the GGF Group said that John had made an important contribution to shaping [and] to laying the foundations for a new phase in the GGF’s strategy.
He said: “John has served the GGF Group with great dedication and commitment for over eight years, leading us through significant phases of change and growth.
“With over 40 years of service to the glazing industry, John’s contribution cannot be understated and I know his industry colleagues and friends, will want to join me in thanking him sincerely for his passion, service and leadership across these years. He will be greatly missed.”
For more information about the GGF and how it can support business growth, please visit www.ggf.org.uk
New face in the Window Company (Contracts) finance team
Award winning commercial installer
The Window Company (Contracts) has expanded its finance team with the appointment of Donatella Pavia as financial controller.
Donatella is working alongside director of finance Rachel Petre, to manage the company’s accounting systems and support clients with finance related queries.
Having worked in accountancy
practices for the past eight years, this is Donatella’s first corporate role, and she has ambitious plans to grow her own career here at the fast growing commercial installation business.
She is already AAT qualified, and is studying to become a chartered accountant with the ACCA so brings significant knowledge and experience to her new role. thewinco.co.uk
Alunet Systems strengthens sales team with three key appointments
Alunet Systems has announced three strategic appointments to support its continued growth and drive its ambitious commercial objectives.
Steve Miller, currently also head of sales of Eurocell Profiles, has now been appointed to lead the Alunet Systems sales team. With over 30 years experience in the building products industry, Steve brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership expertise to this expanded role.
Steve joined Eurocell in 2019 and has been instrumental in a number of high-profile commercial initiatives, including the successful launch of Eurocell’s Garden Room range. His deep understanding of the market and ability to lead high-performing sales teams makes him ideally positioned to accelerate Alunet’s growth in the aluminium systems sector, according to the company.
“I’m proud to be taking on this new challenge and to work alongside the talented team at Alunet,” said Steve. “Together, we’ll build on our shared
strengths and continue to deliver outstanding value to our customers.”
In his new role, Steve will oversee the integration and development of the Alunet sales team, ensuring a seamless alignment with Eurocell’s values and customerfocused approach.
Also joining the business is Lee Summerfield, who takes on the role of national business development manager. Lee brings with him over a decade of experience in the fenestration industry, having held senior roles at several national fabricators and systems houses.
Lee commented: “I’m thrilled to join Alunet Systems at such a pivotal moment. Our ‘out-ofthe-box compliant’ systems are already making a huge impact, and with the added strength of Eurocell behind us, there’s so much more to come. I’m looking forward to working closely with our customers to help them unlock that potential.”
The third new addition is Alex
Holbrook, who takes up the role of area sales manager covering the Midlands and Northeast regions.
Alex brings over 18 years of experience in the fenestration sector, including a strong engineering and manufacturing background, complemented by sales roles with hardware manufacturers, systems houses, and fabricators.
“I am excited to be joining Alunet Systems at such an exciting time,” said Alex. “With the business growing at pace and the strategic backing of Eurocell, I look forward to contributing to its continued success and working closely with customers across my region.”
“These appointments come at a critical and exciting time for Alunet Systems,” said Steve Kendrick, director at Alunet. “As we continue to expand our product range and strengthen our commercial offering, having the right people in place is vital. Steve, Lee, and Alex each bring outstanding experience and customer focus to our team, and their leadership will play a key role in helping us deliver on our commitment to make fabrication easier, faster, and more profitable for our customers.”
https://www.alunetsystems.co.uk/
Steve Miller
Lee Summerfield
Alex Holbrook
UAP welcomes Simon Monks as new group sales & marketing director
UAP Ltd, the Manchester-based door hardware specialist, is welcoming industry expert Simon Monks as its new group sales & marketing director.
Monks joins UAP with almost two decades’ experience in the door and fenestration industry, including spearheading sales and marketing strategies. He has previously risen through the ranks at different hardware companies, moving from sales to the C-suite. He has spent ten years in directorship positions — seven as managing director — with experience in fenestration markets both in the UK and overseas.
On his appointment, Simon Monks said: “I was drawn to UAP because of its ambition, growth plans, and reputation for innovation, with products like the Armasmart and Kinetica ranges driving progress in the industry. In such an exciting time for the
business group, I can’t wait to get stuck into shaping its future alongside the stellar team.”
UAP Limited, established in 1996, has become a leading UK door hardware supplier. Its products range from fire-rated hardware to locking systems and door and window security that drives progress in the hardware industry. The company designs door hardware solutions around customer needs, equipping them to navigate the ever-changing fire and security landscape. Monks’ appointment comes amid UAP’s recent acquisition by Allegion plc, a leading global security products and solutions provider, through one of its subsidiaries.
Steve Cox, managing director of UAP, said: “Simon has joined us at an integral stage of our growth journey. His market knowledge and industry standing are exceptional, and his leadership and customer
Kömmerling welcomes Andy Laird to the sales team
Following a recent restructure of the Kömmerling sales team that saw both Gareth Parton and Karl Williamson take their positions as sales directors, the company has now welcomed industry veteran Andy Laird, to the team.
Andy joins Kömmerling as area sales manager for the south of the UK and brings with him a wealth of experience in the fenestration industry. “I have worked in the sector for almost 30 years,” says Andy, “including positions with some leading brands such as Carl F GroupCo, Fab & Fix and Fuhr UK. I was therefore very aware of Kömmerling and the quality of its products so when I saw the
position of area sales manager come up, I was keen to apply.
“The company has an impressive extrusion factory and showroom
skills are key additions to our team.
“Simon’s insights will be fundamental as we consolidate our UK plans, including targeting repair markets, and expand into international markets that are new to us.”
http://uaplimited.com/
that clearly demonstrate the benefits of the top-quality products it makes including the Kömmerling C70, C70 flush window and door system, O70, Greenline, Kömmerling 76 and WarmCore Aluminium. It’s exciting to have a sales role that includes PVC-U and Aluminium but also some interesting products that I wasn’t aware of prior to joining the team, including KömaDek, KömaPan and KömaFence.
“It is also great to work for a company that is bucking the trend and looking to expand into new markets in 2025 and while I have only been with the company for a few months, I’m enjoying the ‘let’s get it done’ attitude that exists across the entire business. I can honestly say that everyone I have met within the company has been welcoming and made me feel part of the team.”
Simon Monks
Universal Trade Frames builds a customer-first future with a supercharged sales team
Shropshire-based fabricator Universal Trade Frames has strengthened its sales force with a series of key appointments, including the arrival of well-known industry expert John Samuels as head of external sales.
With a long-standing background as product expert at Masterframe and expertise in the timber alternative UPVC market, John brings decades of product knowledge, technical insight, and industry connections to the business.
His appointment marks a major step in cementing Universal’s position in the South East, reinforcing the fabricator’s commitment to full regional coverage and installer support.
“John’s a fantastic addition to the team,” said Richard Hammond, sales director at Universal Trade Frames. “He knows the
Residence Collection inside out, has incredible knowledge of the timber-style sector, and genuinely understands what matters to our customers.
“Building a strong sales team isn’t just about hiring people; it’s about hiring the right people who align with your culture and customerfirst values.”
Joining John in the field sales team is Henry Dowd, a new external sales prospect whose energy and enthusiasm have already made an impact. Henry has 4 years of retail window experience so connects with our customers on a different level. Together, they represent a powerful one-two in the field, combining proven expertise with fresh thinking.
Behind the scenes, the appointment of Charmaign Anderson completes the loop in internal sales and admin support,
ensuring that customer enquiries, order updates and service communications run smoothly from end to end.
“This is all part of our customer centric strategy,” Richard added. “We’re investing in people who can give our customers the attention, product knowledge, and local support they deserve, from first enquiry to final delivery.
“With John, Henry and Charmaign in place, we’re now in a fantastic position to grow, respond faster, and keep doing what we do best: helping installers win work and stay ahead.”
The build of a “supercharged” sales team follows on from Universal’s recent manufacturing investments, including the launch of HeritageWeld, its exclusive solution for Residence Collection fabrication with a 0.1mm tolerance and its 98% OTIF service rate.
With a complete premium product suite and now a full-service sales team in place, Universal Trade Frames continues to build for the future, with its installer customers front and centre, says the company.
www.utfl.co.uk
Next generation locking system from Fuhr offers security and modularity
Launched earlier this year, Fuhr’s autosafe 835 multipoint door lock is meeting market demand and has already been incorporated by some of the industry’s leading system houses, thanks to its innovative DuoSecure technology, smooth operation and modularity.
“Choosing the right lock for any project is of course important for the security of a building, but locks are now about so much more,” explains Paul Balfe, business development manager for Fuhr UK. “Specifiers need to consider the intended application and the accompanying checklist of requirements, i.e. whether the lock is for an external or internal door; the need for fire safety and accessibility; the relevant building regulations; and how durable the lock is for the wear and tear it will
be subjected to.
“The autosafe 835 multipoint locking system is a great option for a wide variety of projects because not only does it offer premium levels of security with its innovative DuoSecure technology, but its modularity also offers excellent flexibility.”
The DuoSecure technology utilised in the autosafe 835 automatic door lock means that on closing it is always locked with two latching bolts and two hook bolts. The strike plate is perfectly matched, so the solid hook bolts locate into the keep without contact, every time. “This technology offers increased security and convenience,” continues Paul, “but it also delivers a robust design for long-lasting effectiveness. In fact,
Fuhr locks are tested to 200,000 cycles which is classed as high commercial use. This feature also makes it much easier to open the door with a key from the outside, which is a common problem with multipoint locking systems. A tightly sealed door also contributes to improved energy efficiency and can prevent door warping.
“The lock’s modularity meanwhile means it can be upgraded for use on a panic door or emergency exit, or have a motor added for motorised opening to integrate access control. Adding a motor to a lock is a simple operation at door fabrication stage. Fuhr provides recommended routing preparations for fabricators, making it easy to interchange different lock types depending on the end user needs.
“Further options are available within the panic range, the autosafe 835P, to ensure its suitability for a wide range of applications. For example, recent innovations mean that one lock can be used where outside access is a requirement. The lock also features a unique method of coupling or decoupling the outside lever which means fabricators only
need to stock one non-handed lock, and the end user can manage access into the building in one simple operation.
“Fuhr has over 165 years of expertise in designing and manufacturing innovative door locks, so we understand the need
for design flexibility to ensure the perfect solution for specific applications. We also have an experienced technical team on hand to answer questions at any stage of a project. The success of our autosafe 835 and 835P, as well as our complete range of lock solutions, is testament
Mila launches new Advance French Casement Kit
ila has launched the new Advance French Casement Kit, enabling fabricators to convert the Advance C Track Twin Cam Espagnolette into a French casement shootbolt configuration – without the need for a separate shootbolt espag, according to the company.
Comprising Grade 304 stainless steel adjustable shootbolts, profilespecific end guides, and a striker plate, the new kit consolidates multiple configurations into a single espagnolette. This makes fabrication simpler, reduces stock requirements, and meets the growing demand for French casement windows, says the company, while offering the
following benefits:
• Simple conversion – the kit transforms the Advance Twin Cam Espagnolette into a French casement shootbolt solution with no additional hardware required
• Advance French Casement Kit – currently available for Smarts Alitherm 400, offering fabricators an easy upgrade path. Broader compatibility – four tailored mushroom strikers expand the Advance Twin Cam C Track Espagnolette to work seamlessly with Garnalex Classic, Smarts Alitherm 400, Smarts Alitherm Heritage/300, and Reynaers aluminium systems.
to this knowledge and ongoing support.”
For further information please contact Paul Balfe, pbalfe@fuhr. co.uk
Product information: http://bit.ly/4nLBC3P
• Easy to install – its threaded bar with adjustable shootbolt projection plus quick-fit components and profile-specific mullion end guides save time in fabrication
• Highest standards – the kit maintains PAS 24:2022 security and achieves BS EN 1670:2007 Grade 5 corrosion resistance, ensuring durability even in demanding environments
• Long-term performance – it is constructed from Grade 304 stainless steel
Paul Pearson, product design director at Mila, comments: “With French casements increasingly specified across both residential and commercial projects, our new Advance French Casement Kit gives fabricators a simple, cost-effective way to answer this growing call. It’s a simple solution that makes fabrication easier and stock requirements smaller – so it’s a real no-brainer for window fabricators.”
http://bit.ly/4n3kTYtt
Kenricks extends Smart Locking Range with AK Safe Secure Smart Lock Box
Kenricks has expanded its smart locking range with the launch of the new AK Safe Secure Smart Lock Box. The new smart box offers a robust and intelligent solution designed to keep keys and access cards safe, secure and always within control.
The new lock box combines Kenricks’ strength and reliability with cutting-edge smart technology, which Kenricks says makes it an ideal choice for locksmiths, property managers, rental operators and commercial businesses that need to manage access
securely and efficiently.
Andy Meakin, sales and marketing manager at Kenricks, said: “The AK Safe Secure Smart Lock Box provides a simple and secure way to manage shared access. Whether you’re a locksmith supplying customers, a facilities manager overseeing multiple buildings, or a commercial operator needing secure key storage, this product delivers unmatched convenience and peace of mind.”
The AK Safe Secure Smart Lock Box has been designed to offer significantly greater storage than standard lock boxes, holding at least six keys, two cards and one car key. It can be managed and monitored remotely through the AK Secure smartphone app, which provides real-time notifications and integrates seamlessly with Google Home and Alexa for easy, hands-free control.
Designed to withstand the toughest conditions, the lock box features a zinc die-cast body that is weatherproof to IP55, while the advanced digital keypad has been rigorously tested to resist up to 150 lbs of force and 250 lbs of pulling pressure. Available in both wallmounted and portable versions, it provides the flexibility needed across residential, commercial and industrial settings.
Installation is straightforward, making the lock box a strong retrofit option as well as a valuable upsell opportunity for locksmiths and trade professionals. It joins the Kenrick AK Touch Secure smart locking system, which has already earned praise for its ability to be fitted quickly without major hardware modifications.
www.kenricks.co.uk
ADAPT FASTER STOC SMARTER
Safeware adds Yale’s Lockmaster Panic Exit Device to its portfolio
Hardware distributor Safeware has strengthened its product range with the addition of the Yale Lockmaster Panic Exit Device, providing customers with a high-performance solution for commercial projects.
Rob Hartill, Safeware’s commercial director, said: “The Yale Lockmaster Panic Exit Device gives our customers a reliable, high-performance product that combines strength, safety and flexibility. Its unique external
access system and patented double-door option make it ideal for demanding commercial projects where both security and ease of exit are critical.”
Designed to work with Lockmaster multi-point door locks with onepiece keeps, the Lockmaster Panic Exit Device combines highperformance security, compression and fast emergency exit capability in one solution. Suitable for use with outward opening single and double exit doors up to 200kg, it can be used across PVC-U,
composite, timber or metal systems.
As a ‘Type A’ push bar panic device, it is suitable for public buildings where quick and reliable escape is essential. It has been endurance tested to 200,000 cycles and corrosion tested to 240 hours salt spray. In terms of security, it is capable of withstanding 1,000 Newtons of side force. The device is fully compliant with EN 1125 (for panic exit devices) and is ICIMaccredited for performance.
Safeware has a longstanding relationship with Yale, distributing its comprehensive range of hardware and collaborating with the brand to develop unique market-led product solutions. Notably, Safeware played a key role in the creation of the Yale SensCheck smart window
and door lock, highlighting its commitment to continued innovation and market-driven design.
This product development capability is just one facet of the company’s consultative approach. It believes in working closely with fabricators and partners to understand their challenges, tailor solutions and deliver measurable improvements.
Rob concluded: “As a hardware supplier, it’s our job to keep our finger on the pulse by making sure we stock the value-added products our customers need. By combining the right solutions with collaborative support, we help fabricators strengthen their businesses and secure long-term success.”
www.safewarehardware.com
Cooke Brothers launches a heavy-duty upgrade to loadmaster hinge
Hinge maker Cooke Brothers has introduced Loadmaster Plus, a new range of architectural hinges that are specifically engineered for high-performance doors that need hinges with additional strength, durability, and load-bearing capacity up to 200kg.
Developed in response to demand from specifiers working on larger, heavier doors in high-traffic environments, Loadmaster Plus retains the core features of the original Loadmaster but steps up the performance with a 4mm-thick hinge leaf, stainless steel washer, and a beefed-up barrel design. The result is an even more robust hinge that offers superior load-bearing capacity and enhanced stability for doors weighing up to 200kg, claims the company.
Like the original Loadmaster range, Loadmaster Plus is tested to EN1935:2002 Grade 14 with independent testing up to 200kg,
is Certifire approved, and comes with Cooke Brothers’ 25-year guarantee. It is available in both fixed pin and lift-off options, with a wide choice of finishes and types, including reduced-ligature, dog bolt, and conductor hinge models as special options.
“Loadmaster has been a mainstay of our hinge range for years, but some projects simply demand more,” says Tim Cooke, managing director at Cooke Brothers.
“Loadmaster Plus gives specifiers the extra strength and stability they need for bigger, heavier doors while maintaining full compliance.”
According to the company, Loadmaster Plus is available now and is already attracting interest from architects, OEMs, and architectural ironmongers working on demanding projects in healthcare, education, commercial, and public sector buildings. www.cookebrothers.co.uk
Security is driving homeowner choice more than ever, says Silka
Silka says homeowners are rethinking their priorities and budgets after the latest ADT Burglary Report revealed 245,284 break-ins were recorded across England and
Wales in the year up to March 2025 – the equivalent of more than 670 per day. Published in mid-September, the report confirms the front entrance door was the most common
point of forced entry, with 67% happening this way.
“When a household name like ADT confirms that two-thirds of break-ins are forced through the front door, it qualifies the urgency we’re hearing from homeowners, and that security is driving their decisions,” says managing director at Silka, Asa McGillian.
“But if they decide to upgrade, they don’t want to settle for a purely functional product. They want an entrance door that
looks exceptional and performs for the long-term, and it’s this customer we had front of mind when we created the Silka Kärben Collection.”
The Kärben Collection is Silka’s ultimate entrance door, with its carbon fibre-reinforced Thermafill core and bonded Italian porcelain panels in four textured tones (corten rust, ghost grey, dark shadow and Ivory Coast). Select styles like Angelo and Canova have the option to include slimline LED panels that light up on approach, while smart features such as fingerprint recognition, keypad entry and smartphone app control are fully integrated at the factory. It’s a door built to deliver strength, security and standout design.
Silka says the newly released
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Discover service that goes beyond hardware supply. Our team of experts are on hand to advise, source and deliver the hardware you need, when you need it.
burglary figures highlight a major sales opportunity for installers, with higher-end homeowners actively putting more of their budget towards entrance doors that go beyond the standard.
“For installers, this report should be a clear signal,” Asa adds. “Kärben combines strength, design and technology in a way that helps secure premium projects and build lasting trust – and that’s exactly where the money is in today’s tougher economy.”
Available to customise through Silka’s online doorbuilder tool, the Kärben Collection comes complete with matching sidelights and handle options.
http://bit.ly/48ZgaDT
Silka managing director, Asa McGillian
Upselling security
With security and cost consistently high priorities for developers, social housing providers and homeowners, Hurst Doors explains how Securicore is transforming the humble panel door into a higher-spec PAS24-accredited product that’s fit for the future.
According to the Crime Survey for England and Wales 2022/23, 76% of domestic burglaries involve gaining entry to a property via a door. With front doors the
most common target, typically accounting for around 59 – 62% of all burglaries, back doors account for 26 – 33%, and side doors 7–10%.
Against this concerning statistical backdrop, Hurst’s new Securicore PVC-U panel offers enhanced security as standard, plus the option to manufacture and supply a fully PAS24 accredited door that maximises opportunity with minimum disruption.
With 85% of PVC-U panel doors fitted for replacement applications, primarily rear entrances where security is often weaker, PAS24 accreditation has become a critical differentiator for fabricators and installers.
“Securicore is the first and only PAS24 accredited PVC-U panel on the market at 28mm thickness, with no compromise on cost, weight, manufacturing or installation complexity,” says Mark Atkinson, sales director at
“It took us two years to research and develop, and the result is a game-changer because it positions PVC-U panel doors as a viable option for new builds and the social housing sector. Crucially, it also aligns with potential revisions to Part Q, which are expected to extend PAS24 compliance requirements to the home improvement and replacement markets.
“The fact this can be achieved without increasing panel thickness from 28mm –although other door thickness options are available – is a significant advantage for manufacturers and installers, working with any standard frame size,” he adds.
Securicore features a specially developed PVC-compound, which means it meets all requirements under PAS24 as part of a complete door set, including cut-through and soft and hard impact testing. Its unique glazing clip system also means the product is available as a glazed option, enhancing its suitability for use as a front or back door.
Offering a viable alternative to composites in new build, social housing, and premium replacement, Securicore enables fabricators and installers to upsell on security at a more competitive price point, extending market reach.
Available in a choice of traditional or contemporary designs reflecting composite aesthetics, pebble grey, agate grey and anthracite grey are popular colour choices. With U-values as low as 1.4W/m2K with large, glazed panels, and even lower with solid panels, Securicore is also supported by strong energy performance.
“Delivering a PAS24-compliant panel door, with a core that can’t be cut through, high thermal performance and a price point below that of a composite door is no mean feat,” adds Mark. “But we achieved it, and the result is transformative for fabricators and installers looking to upsell on security and enter higherspec markets, while also futureproofing for changes to building regs and Document Q.
“It’s also easy to manufacture and easy to fit, with an aesthetic and design flexibility that appeals to consumers. All in all, Securicore is a true disruptor that’s revitalised the PVC-U panel door sector, shifting the narrative from mature market to a thoroughly modern solution to today’s security requirements,” he concludes.
www.hurstdoors.co.uk
Hurst Doors.
Mark Atkinson, sales director at Hurst Doors
BDC Aluminium expands heritage style offering with vertical sliding windows
With heritage inspired design becoming a major trend in commercial and public sector refurbishments, BDC Aluminium is expanding its portfolio with a new focus on traditional vertical
sliding sash windows.
Developed by Smart Architectural Aluminium and now available through BDC Aluminium, the VS 600 system
gives commercial fabricators access to this fast-growing market.
Said to be suitable for heritage developments, as well as schools, hospitals, office buildings and more, BDC aluminium says the VS 600 fills a gap in the UK aluminium window sector, allowing periodstyle aesthetics to be delivered with modern day specifications.
Driven by the wider move towards character rich “new heritage” and traditional styling, demand for sash-style products has surged among designers and specifiers, particularly on commercial refurbishments where modern alternatives lack architectural charm.
Building on BDC Aluminium’s expanding product portfolio, the VS 600 captures the classic appearance of a traditional sash window in a robust and compliant aluminium system.
Its slim sightlines and authentic styling reflect those found on Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian buildings, making it ideal for sensitive refurbishment projects and conservation areas, according to BDC aluminium.
“More and more commercial projects are looking to capture a heritage look without compromising on modern performance,” comments Scott Foster, marketing director at BDC Aluminium.
“The VS 600 enables fabricators to meet that demand with an aluminium sash system that’s both authentic in design and engineered for long-term commercial use.”
The VS 600 is claimed to offer exceptional durability and minimal maintenance, thanks to its high-performance aluminium
Continued on page 88
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construction.
According to BDC Aluminium, few fabricators currently offer a thermally broken aluminium vertical slider, making the VS 600 one of the only commercially focused sash systems of its kind in the UK.
By pairing traditional architectural detailing with the strength, lifespan and regulatory performance of aluminium, it provides a valuable proposition for specifiers.
Engineered for real-world commercial use, the VS 600 features polyamide thermal breaks, concealed drainage and coupling, flush operation and tilt-in sashes for easy cleaning. The system is tested to BS 6375-1 for weather resistance and finished in a marine-grade powder-coat available in over 200 RAL colours, all backed by a 25-year warranty.
Decorative sash horns, mullions and glazing bars can be specified to mirror original timber window designs and deliver true period authenticity where required.
Scott adds: “These products reflect everything we stand for at BDC Aluminium – quality-led design, engineering excellence and a commitment to staying ahead of the market.
“We push ourselves to offer our customers the very best products available, combining technical performance with proven commercial appeal.
“As demand grows for heritagestyle solutions which don’t compromise on compliance or longevity, we’re proud to deliver a system that truly raises the bar.” www.bdcaluminium.co.uk/
Roseview Windows has released its latest seamless run through sash window horn, the Emperor.
As an optional upgrade on their Ultimate Rose timber-alternative sash window, Emperor offers Roseview’s customers more options than ever before. It joins Dolphin and Seahorse as one of Roseview’s suite of three fully seamless mechanically jointed runthrough sash horns.
Richard Burrells, managing director at Roseview, explains: “It is exciting to be able to offer our customers more choice than ever before. The Emperor horn is inspired by one of the most traditional and commonly found timber sash horn styles. The bold and defined design offers authentic heritage character and classic styling. This makes the Emperor perfect for period projects, conservation areas, or traditional homes.’’
With over 40 years of developing and manufacturing uPVC sash windows, Roseview has
continuously innovated new features, options and details, having launched the Dolphin horn in 2011 and the Seahorse horn in 2022. The Emperor horn was launched at this year’s FIT Show and received positive feedback from customers.
Richard continues: “Historically it has been difficult for different horn designs to be replicated in uPVC. However, with our unique technology and constant innovation, we can offer a range of design options on the Ultimate Rose. It’s the only timber alternative sash window to be able to do so.’’
“Not only does this further enhance the heritage accuracy and authenticity of our classleading sash windows,” Richard concludes, “it gives installers more options. In turn that means our customers are in a better position to win more high-value, high-end sash window jobs.”
www.roseview.co.uk/emperor
Comp Door’s
SleekSkin: the ‘smooth look’ composite door finish
In today’s highly competitive market, UK door installers are constantly seeking innovative ways to differentiate their offering and deliver premium value to homeowners.
Composite door manufacturer Comp Door says it has answered the call with the company’s launch of SleekSkin, claiming it to be the industry’s first ‘smooth look’ composite door finish.
Designed to meet the growing homeowner demand for modern, timber-alternative aesthetics, SleekSkin offers a refined, fine-grain surface and
super-silky touch.
“SleekSkin is a true categoryfirst,” says Richard Diliberto, sales director at Comp Door. “We’re constantly investing in innovation to give our installers the edge, and this new finish elevates our range to another level. It’s already helping our customers attract new business and exceed expectations.”
Comp Door says SleekSkin is available in 17 contemporary colour options that appeal to modern design tastes and is available across multiple popular Comp Door styles
including Whitmore, Aston, Middleton, and many more.
SleekSkin joins Comp Door’s expanding suite of premium innovations, including:
• 48mm solid timber core
• Kubu smart technology built into their standard door range, as standard
• TriSeal outerframe for triplelayer protection
• Marine-grade hardware options
The company says it’s part of the brand’s ongoing mission to give installers more choice, more style, and more selling power.
Click the link to explore the full collection, download a brochure, or request showroom samples: http://bit.ly/3KM1IFd
Hurst launches S-Class:
A new solid timber core
composite door range for installers
With growing homeowner demand for choice, personalisation, and a premium look and feel, Hurst Doors has expanded its composite door range with the launch of S-Class. This new solid timber core collection provides installers with even more choice when it comes to style, specification, and customer budget.
Designed to sit above Hurst’s existing GRP composite door offering, the S-Class collection brings a wide choice of door
styles, specifications and price points to market. Combining the feel of a traditional timber core with the lowmaintenance benefits of a robust Thermoplastic CoolSkin PVC-U heat reflective skin – engineered to maintain its finish, colour and definition over time, according to the company.
“The introduction of the S-Class gives our installer network a complete composite door offer,” says Mark Atkinson, sales director at Hurst. “It means more flexibility when quoting – whether customers are driven by cost, aesthetic or added features, there’s now a Hurst Composite door to match.”
The S-Class range includes 32 different door styles, from
period-inspired and rustic designs to sleek, minimalist options suited to modern homes. There are 18 colours to choose from, including woodgrain textures and solid tones, plus a full suite of hardware in a range of finishes.
Glazing options are just as extensive. Installers can select from Hurst’s exclusive Harmony Collection – a 3D-effect, double-sandblasted glass range – as well as bee and butterfly designs and the ability to personalise the door using direct digital glass printing.
All S-Class doors are manufactured at Hurst’s dedicated facility in Yorkshire and made to order to suit project specifications. There are no width size restrictions, and every door includes a
high-security multi-point locking system as standard compatible with Kubu Smart technology.
Ordering is straightforward via Hurst Live, the company’s customer portal offering realtime pricing, quoting and order placement. A full S-Class brochure is also available to order via the Hurst website.
“Ultimately, the S-Class makes it easier for installers to meet a wide range of customer preferences – whether they want the benefits of a GRP composite door or those of a solid timber core composite door,” Mark adds. “It’s a flexible, versatile addition to the Hurst Composite Doors range, all backed by the service and reliability our customers already know us for.”
www.hurstdoors.co.uk
• Bespoke sizes up to 3.2m x 2m
• Wide variety of stock sizes available now
• Stock colours of black or grey –bespoke colours on request
• Free site delivery*
Rhino’s partnership with AluK helps
boost sales of new aluminium door
The Rhino Aluminium Door range has been one of the aluminium market’s stand out success stories of 2025. Launched in January and showcased on the AluK stand at the FIT Show in May, sales are so far above target that Rhino has already invested in a new, additional state-of-the-art bonding press to keep pace with demand from trade customers across the UK.
The Rhino Door is a 95mm deep, structurally panelled door in the AluK 77ID system, available in sizes up to 1200mm wide x 2400mm high. It was designed to give both fabricators and installers an exciting new option for targeting the lucrative aluminium entrance door market, and the response so far has been phenomenal, says the company.
According to Rhino, what sets the Rhino door apart from most of the other aluminium doors available in the UK is that it features a bonded rather than glazed in panel, so it has a much more premium weight and feel.
There are 12 bonded panel designs available, a range of different glass and hardware options and a choice of any RAL colour combination inside and out, with matt, textured, metallic and even premium ceramic finishes. Fabricators and installers can buy finished doors manufactured entirely in-house by Rhino, and take advantage of short lead times and competitive prices, while AluK fabricators can buy just the bonded panels from Rhino to manufacture and supply their own doors in the 77ID system.
Paul King, Rhino Aluminium’s managing director, commented: “We’ve been blown away by the response to the door. Customers love the quality, the availability, and our ‘Made in Britain’ message, which is resonating really well with retail buyers at the moment.
“The new bonding press installed at our Broadstairs, Kent HQ increases our capacity, and means we can continue to offer market leading lead times on any of our contemporary and traditional flush panel designs.”
Rhino’s partnership with AluK was a key factor in the launch of the door and has been integral to its continuing success. AluK’s technical team worked closely with Rhino on the development of the
door, the R&D team helped with the testing and compliance, and the marketing team supported the launch and helped showcase the door at FIT.
Paul King added: “We’ve been one of AluK’s largest and most loyal fabricators for more than a decade and during that time, we’ve benefited from the quality and reliability of the products, the power of the AluK brand and the support from the whole team.
“The launch of our new door has enabled us to align our brand more closely than ever with AluK, because of course their systems are also ‘Made in Britain’ and come with all the same guarantees that we offer on stock availability and competitive pricing.
“Our sales and marketing messaging now communicates clearly that customers who choose the Rhino door don’t just get all the benefits of dealing with an experienced, dynamic fabricator, they also indirectly get the backing of AluK, and all its UK-based manufacturing, resources and expertise.”
Alongside the 77ID system used in the Rhino Door, Rhino Aluminium also fabricates a wide range of trade and residential and commercial AluK products. That includes the 58BW and BD window and door suite, the high end Infinium sliding door, the BSC94 and SC156 sliders and the BSF70 bifold and pivot door system, alongside the SL52 curtain walling, C70S window
system and GT55 commercial door and ground floor treatment system.
Paul Greenaway, AluK’s head of trade and residential sales, says Rhino is a great example of a business making the most of the upgraded package of product and support available from AluK: “There’s no doubt that our partnership with Rhino has benefits all the way down the supply chain. We support Rhino and in turn they support their trade customers. It’s definitely a case of us all being stronger and ultimately more successful together.”
More details at: https://uk.aluk.com/ and https://rhinodoor.co.uk/
Astra Windows launches new Signature aluminium doors
For more than 35 years, Greater Manchester–based Astra Windows has supplied aluminium products to trade installers across the UK. The family-run fabricator has now added the new Signature aluminium entrance door range to its portfolio, expanding its offering to trade professionals.
Astra’s model has always been about delivering tangible value to the trade. Every product is fabricated in-house using highperformance systems from trusted names like ALUK, Jack Aluminium, and Aluna by Alunet Systems. That control allows Astra to maintain high levels of consistency, keep lead times short, and deliver responsive service with accuracy at every step, says the company.
Their new Signature door range is designed as a robust aluminium entrance solution, which offers a 60mm-thick door slab for enhanced durability, advanced weather sealing, and PAS24rated system security., says the company. Available in both contemporary and traditional panel designs, their new Signature Doors include a variety of stainless steel
or chrome hardware options, satin or clear glazing configurations, and dual-colour powder-coating finishes.
“We’ve always seen our role as providing the trade with tools they can trust,” explains David Jackson, managing director at Astra Windows. “That means not just reliable supply and fabrication quality, but product ranges that make sense for their day-to-day work. Our new Signature Doors have been created from the ground up with the installer in mind –solid, secure, easy to install, and designed to fit seamlessly into our wider aluminium offer.”
While some aluminium fabricators are narrowing their product focus or struggling to meet demand, Astra Windows has quietly continued to invest in breadth and infrastructure. With a team that genuinely understands the demands of the trade, not just from a product perspective but from the challenges faced on-site, Astra’s commitment to its trade customers extends well beyond the workshop floor, says the company.
www.astra-windows.co.uk
Business Pilot launches SMS feature
Business Pilot has introduced a new SMS feature within its CRM system, giving installers a faster, more reliable way to keep in touch with their customers.
Business Pilot says the update offers integrated tools that help installers reduce missed appointments, maintain professional communication,
and deliver a smoother customer journey. From automated reminders for sales visits, surveys and service calls, to personalised templates that draw directly on project data, the feature is designed to make customer contact more efficient and consistent.
“All too often, communication
gaps lead to unnecessary callbacks or wasted appointments,” said Elton Boocock, managing director of Business Pilot. “By embedding SMS into Business Pilot, we’re giving installers a way to communicate instantly, without adding extra admin. It’s a simple but powerful addition that can have a big impact on day-to-day operations.”
Every SMS sent is automatically logged in the system, creating a full traceable record of customer interactions. Installers can also build SMS into status progressions, ensuring customers are kept updated at key stages of their project.
“SMS messages can be set to trigger automatically at key project milestones – for example, sending a personalised message to confirm when a survey has been booked, when an installation date is approaching, or even when works are completed”, explained Elton.
“By combining templates with status-driven SMS triggers, installers can ensure consistent, timely communication that keeps customers fully informed without adding extra admin.”
Dedicated business numbers are provided for each company, with full compliance measures in place. Flexible message bundles are available, starting at 250 messages, allowing installers to scale their use of SMS according to business demand.
Elton concluded: “Our goal is always to make life easier for installers. With SMS, they can spend less time chasing customers and more time delivering great service. It’s about giving them practical tools that improve efficiency and build stronger relationships.”
To find out more visit www.businesspilot.co.uk
Rehau launches new Artevo residential single and French door
Rehau has expanded its leading Artevo window and door system suite with the launch of a residential outward opening
single and French door. These new door systems have passed comprehensive technical
assessments for air permeability, water tightness, exposure resistance and PAS24 security. As the demand for visually appealing, energy-efficient frames increases, this rigorous testing provides assurances that the performance of these crucial components have been independently verified.
“We wanted to expand the Artevo product portfolio to meet the growing need for systems that can provide an eye-catching design and smooth lines, while also meeting stringent performance and sustainability targets.,” says Russell Hand, head of product & technical at Rehau UK. “With Artevo, we now have
an extensive suite of tested solutions – including tilt/turn windows, residential outward opening single and French door – that gives specifiers confidence of best possible performance across a range of applications.”
The system’s Rau-Fipro X composite core and integrated force zones allow Artevo to support larger sashes and also includes locks and hinges from hardware manufacturer Roto Frank designed to further improve long-term performance. It is available in a range of finishes, including timber-effect foils, aluminium-look cladding and a new Alux surface, giving specifiers flexibility to meet
a variety of project design requirements.
Artevo also meets Passivhaus standards, with U Values as low as 0.81 W/m²K achieved through Rehau’s recyclable LowE foil insert. Combined with sound insulation up to RW 48dB, the system supports energy-efficient, acoustically sensitive design. Up to 75% recycled content is used in the system’s main profile and glazing beads while integration with Rehau’s Window. ID technology enables full traceability of frame materials, further enhancing the Artevo’s sustainability credentials.
“From design flexibility to
installation efficiency and longterm performance, Artevo has been developed to address the real-world challenges that fenestration professionals face every day,” adds Russell. “We’re looking forward to working with our customers on those challenges and seeing Artevo doors as well as windows used across a variety of projects. Our aim is to keep Artevo at the forefront of what’s possible with polymer-based door and window frames, and we’re confident we can continue to achieve this aim.”
For more information on ARTEVO and its technical performance, click here: http://bit.ly/48kxVxg
Slimline integral blinds now available in nine colours
Slim Uni-Blinds integral blinds designed to fit within the 16mm cavity of a double or triple glazed unit are available in more colours than ever after the introduction of six new colours by Morley Glass, including black and agate grey.
The ScreenLine SL16 venetian integral blind system, which is exclusively available in the UK from Morley Glass, differs from standard integral blinds because it features slightly narrower slats with a width of 10mm rather than 12mm. This enables integral blinds to be fitted into the 16mm cavity of 24mm IGUs (insulating glass units), unlike standard integral blinds which are normally only compatible with a 20mm cavity.
The SL16 colour range was boosted recently to offer a level of choice that customers have come to expect with other Uni-Blinds integral blind systems. That means these versatile slimline integral blinds are now available in agate grey (S120), black (B160), white (S102), anthracite (S159), silver (S157), beige (S125), light grey (S155), metallic silver (S156) and cream (S149).
With more colours to choose from in this slimline system, the greater the appeal to homeowners who are considering a renovation project for their home and wish to coordinate the integral blinds with
their décor. According to Morley Glass, here lies one of the biggest sales opportunities for the SL16. Homeowners can retain their existing frames, because they are in good condition, and upgrade them by replacing the IGU with an integral blind unit.
In addition to 24mm IGUs with a 4-16-4mm configuration, the SL16 is also ideal for use in enhanced security, Part Q compliant 28mm IGUs. As these units typically require a 6.8mm laminated outer pane, the cavity is reduced compared to using a 4mm pane, but this is still compatible with the SL16 integral blind, giving customers the benefit of higher security and a shading and privacy solution in one product.
Ian Short, managing director of Morley Glass, said: “The appeal of coloured window and door frames, particularly more neutral tones, has really sparked the imagination of homeowners and developers in recent years. We see this through the wider spectrum of sales across the industry compared to, say, ten years ago, with agate grey and black currently trending.
“What’s fantastic about the expanded colour range for the SL16 is that installers can respond to those customers looking to match their décor in retrofit projects, as well as those wanting to incorporate integral blinds into windows and doors where our standard systems cannot meet their needs.”
As with all Uni-Blinds integral blinds, the SL16 is made to order by Morley Glass in Yorkshire and supplied with complementary nationwide delivery to customers in as little as 10-12 working days.
http://bit.ly/3KJf8C1
Unique Window Systems is building on the success of one of its most popular product lines.
In keeping with its commitment to continuous improvement, fabricator of UPVC and aluminium fenestration solutions has launched a next generation version of its UniFold bifold door.
Mir Patel, aluminium operations manager, at Unique, explains: “The introduction of our new and improved UniFold bifold door is significant and especially given its launch comes in our 20th anniversary year. It demonstrates both the strength and unrelenting nature of our belief in ongoing product development.”
He continues: “Unique may have seen considerable success over the last two decades, but we do not view that as a cause for complacency. Instead, we continue to invest into the evolution of our products to ensure they deliver optimum levels of performance, innovation and
Unique launches next generation UniFold bifold doors
customer satisfaction.”
Reflecting this, Unique’s latest UniFold door offers a number of new and exciting benefits.
This includes super slim profiles with sightlines of just 107mm. Combined with generously sized sashes, which measure an impressive 1200mm x 3000mm, this helps to maximise uninterrupted exterior views as well as levels of interior daylight.
The new version of UniFold also offers higher levels of energy efficiency. It delivers U-values of 1.4 W/m2K when combined with
double glazing and of 1.1 W/m2K when fitted with triple glazing,. This meets or exceeds the requirements of Approved Document Part L for both new build and refurbishment projects, claims the company.
To make installation even quicker and easier, Unique’s next generation UniFold doors also benefit from a new beading system where beads simply clip into place without the need for tools or timeconsuming wedge gaskets.
Installation is further simplified by a new Toe & Heel device. This enables glass adjustment after fitting without the need to deglaze
the sash.
Additional features include an integrated cill for increased protection from the elements as well as a choice of different sized universal aluminium cills which are compatible with most systems.
The new version of UniFold also includes the option of a floating corner post. This enables rightangled doors, including the return, to open out fully with the opportunity to include a fixed corner for the ultimate ‘wow’ factor.
Summing up, Mir adds: “We are genuinely excited about the upgrades and enhancements we’ve made to our UniFold doors. The previous system was highly regarded by installers and property owners / occupiers alike and had become a Unique signature product.
“This latest generation builds on those achievements. In essence, we’ve taken one of the best and made it even better.” uws.co.uk
New generation Classic Lite Pod bridges the gap in pergola market
Caribbean Blinds has unveiled a new generation of its Classic Lite Outdoor Living Pod, now offered in six pre-fabricated sizes. Designed to deliver the perfect balance between affordability and premium performance, the latest model has been comprehensively upgraded, with every component from cross beams to louvres and posts reengineered.
The Classic Lite Pod is based on the company’s best-selling
Classic Pod but supplied in predefined dimensions to suit the most popular furniture layouts. This streamlined approach means shorter lead times, with delivery and installation in as little as two to three weeks, while ensuring the product remains the best value aluminium louvred pergola on the market, claims the company.
This great value pod uses all the same high quality materials and features you previously would
only find on bespoke premium pergolas, but at a reduced price, says the company.
The new size range has been carefully chosen to suit a variety of spaces and typical garden layouts. The Mini (3m x 3m) fits snugly into compact terraces or courtyards, ideal for a cosy sofa and coffee table arrangement. The Small (4.05m x 3.5m) and Medium (5.10m x 3.5m) offer space for medium dining sets or modular lounge arrangements, while the Medium XL (5.10m x 4.5m) and Large XL (5.94m x 4.5m) accommodate more generous layouts with large dining tables, lounge areas, or multiple seating zones. The Large (5.94m x 3.5m) sits between Medium and XL options, giving flexibility for longer narrow terraces.
Each size has been designed to match the dimensions of popular outdoor furniture, allowing homeowners to plan their outdoor living area with confidence and ease.
Managing director Stuart Dantzic commented: “The introduction of these new sizes bridges a gap in the market. Customers now have a choice that sits between budget pergolas and high-end bespoke models without compromising on design or performance.”
With rotating louvres that create a weatherproof roof when closed and the option to add motorised side screens, integrated LED lighting and heating, the Classic Lite Pod offers year-round comfort and style for any terrace.
http://bit.ly/471Q9Br
Xpert Tools launches new 32mm nylon glazing hammer
Xpert Tools has announced the official launch of its highly anticipated 32mm nylon glazing hammer.
This versatile new tool, which received an overwhelmingly positive pre-launch exclusive at this year’s FIT Show, is now available to enhance the work of professional fitters and fabricators.
The nylon glazing hammer is a controlled striking tool ideal for any task requiring non-marking precision. Its robust chromeplated zinc head is fitted with two interchangeable screw-in faces – a white plastic one for general use and a blue soft option for delicate jobs. The hammer is particularly useful in the glazing industry and a must-have for installing and replacing glazing beads on double glazed windows and doors.
The hammer “went down a storm” with visitors who experienced it firsthand on the Xpert stand in the Installer Marketplace at FIT Show earlier this year. Demand was incredibly high, and the team did well to hold onto the limited number of samples available because everyone wanted one.
Visitors consistently highlighted the hammer’s comfortable weight and ergonomic design. The soft rubber grip extends up the handle, ensuring superior comfort and enhanced control, which is vital for precise bead installation and removal. Its well-balanced proportions make it a reliable companion on any job site, reducing fatigue during prolonged use.
“We were thrilled by the reception the new glazing hammer received at the FIT Show,” says Sarah Parker, business development manager for Xpert Tools. “Installers praised its comfortable feel and extended grip which allows for a more versatile hold. Combined with the practical benefits of the dual faces, it truly embodies our commitment to developing tools that enhance precision, efficiency, and comfort for the trade professional.”
The versatility and long-term value of the Xpert 32mm Nylon Glazing Hammer are further enhanced by the availability of individual replacement faces.
To find your nearest Xpert Tools stockist, visit xperttools.co.uk/find-a-stockist/
AdminBase Campaign achieves 98.2% delivery rates
The AdminBase Campaigns feature within the AdminBase CRM system from Ab Initio has been designed specifically to help its window company customers maximise highly targeted, low cost email marketing campaigns without the need to import and export data from a third party software. With delivery rates at 98.2 per cent, and open rates averaging at nearly 24 per cent, AdminBase users are experiencing much higher returns from a much lower cost.
The accuracy of AdminBase Campaigns is due to it being part of a fully integrated management
system designed specifically for the fenestration industry, rather than a third party platform. It can handle bulk emails without the need to import or export any data – an action that can lead to loss of data detail, and eliminate mistakes made during that process. Data can be segmented down, and the results are readily available across all departments, eliminating the need for any time-heavy and costly manual interventions.
“Emails remain a powerful source of marketing, particularly to existing customers who will already recognise your company name and are more likely to respond
positively,” commented Ab Initio’s managing director Rhonda Ridge. “Whether it is upselling a residential door to an existing window client, or offering a voucher for a recommendation, you can create a promotion and email sequence crafted for a specific niche for maximum effect”.
While there are many third party software platforms available, delivery and open rates can be temperamental. A good open rate is generally considered to be anything above 17 percent – though many prove to be significantly less than this.
“Our customers have a wealth of potential new business already sitting in their databases. We can help them extract that potential quickly and cost effectively in such a simple way,” said Rhonda. “As the economy bites systems such as AdminBase come into their own, working on behalf of window companies to ensure the are maximising efficiencies in every area of their businesses.”
www.abinitiosoftware.co.uk
DoorCo launches edition 2 of colour swatch booklet
DoorCo has relaunched their colour swatch booklet following a round of customer research to improve the usage of one of their most popular marketing tools.
Originally launched in 2023, the slimline paint booklet, which is folded in a concertina, was one of the first of its kind in the industry. Bucking the usual A4 sized brochures used within fenestration, instead following the approach taken by household paint brands.
The original booklet featured smaller, smooth, painted chips, ordered alphabetically, which after a round of feedback from
the customer network, has been reworked to fit the needs of not just fabricators but installers and homeowners too.
The ‘Edition 2’ Paint booklet, first showcased at this year’s FIT Show, features painted chips double the size of the original, with a horizontal woodgrain effect and grouped by colour.
DoorCo’s marketing manager, Ellie Pool, said: “We pride ourselves on listening to customer feedback, so when we reached out for our networks’ thoughts on our Paint booklet and they let us know about three key areas for improvement, we
got to work on implementing the changes for the next batch.
“One of the main changes has been the size of the painted chips, which are now double the width they were previously. This has provided a much larger sample of each colour which should better support homeowners in making their final choice.
“We have also added a woodgrain effect to the chips to replicate the texture found on our range of composite doors. We received a lot of feedback on how texture can change a colour, so we hope that adding this to the swatch chips provides a more accurate representation of how the finished product looks.
“The final ‘big’ change has been to the order of the colours. The previous alphabetical listing made sense for fabricators who are familiar with the colour names, but homeowners found this difficult to navigate. Having the different shades grouped by colour is far more logical for them to choose the perfect shade, especially when the DoorCo colour collection comprises 55 colours including stains and Patina – and we have, for example, 11 shades of blue to choose from!
“Working with our customers to provide them with the products, services and supporting materials they need is central to how we operate and what has driven us to become the [number] one composite door supplier in the UK market. We really appreciate the time customers take to provide us with feedback and strive to meet as many expectations as possible.
“We hope the changes to our Edition 2 Paint booklet satisfy the needs of our network and their customers, but we remain open to hearing how we can further improve this swatch option.”
www.door-co.com
Reshaping fabrication with the SL8-FF-TR 8 Head CNC welding machine from Haffner
A new machine collaboration between Haffner and Graf Synergy has delivered a machine that is said to fundamentally reshape the way fabrication is carried out, and gives fabricators the ability to increase efficiency, reduce costs and deliver products with a premium finish.
The new SL8-FF-TR 8 Head CNC welding machine is claimed to be the only machine in the world capable of seamlessly welding all four corners of a PVC-U frame, along with two timber-effect transoms, in a single automated cycle and all without any manual cleaning or retouching.
Matt Thomas, managing director at Haffner, said: “Traditional welding and cleaning lines have served the industry well for years, but they come with inherent inefficiencies. They’re large, require significant factory space, involve multiple operators and extra time to manually clean and touch
up finished corner and transom welds. The SL8-FF-TR changes all of that.”
By condensing what was previously a complex, multistep operation into a single, compact machine, the SL8FF-TR streamlines production dramatically, delivering what Haffner says are huge time and labour savings. According to Haffner, a fully welded and finished frame is ready in under 150 seconds, with just one operator required. Furthermore, because it’s a single machine, it frees up valuable factory space, allowing fabricators to increase output without the need for costly expansions or additional equipment.
Quality of finish is also said to be dramatically enhanced. The seamless welds and mechanicaljointing effect give frames a clean, refined appearance that closely replicates the aesthetics
of traditional timber joints, says Haffner. For fabricators competing in the growing flush sash and heritage-style markets, this premium aesthetic provides a clear competitive advantage. Plus, by removing the need for sprue removal and other post-weld finishing processes, the machine reduces consumable use and lowers ongoing operating costs too.
The SL8-FF-TR is already delivering for Haffner customers. Early adopters of the machine have reported throughput increases of at least 50%, reductions in labour requirements of up to 75% and operating expense savings of around 30%. In one installation, a single SL8-FF-TR replaced a traditional line that occupied 120m² of space, freeing up 95m² for other high-value operations.
Matt concluded: “What excites me most about this machine is the new opportunities it creates. It allows fabricators to scale up production, move into high-margin product lines and differentiate themselves in an increasingly competitive market. It’s not just a step forward in welding technology, but a reinvention of the entire process.”
www.haffnerltd.com
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
Sheerline
specified by Rhino Aluminium for heritage renovation in Eastry, Kent
A property in Eastry, Kent, has undergone a sensitive upgrade thanks to the addition of Sheerline’s Classic Heritage Door. The project is the result of a collaboration between fabricators Rhino Aluminium and installers DirectFix Glazing Contractors.
Due to the age and location of the property, authentic heritage styling was a must. The homeowners opted for the doors to be finished in Brun 2650 Sable – Metallic Texture to compliment the zinc cladding. This consistency creates an architecturally refined aesthetic
in keeping with the area.
Steven Elliott, director at DirectFix Glazing Contractors, said: “I’ve worked with Sheerline products a lot – they’re engineered so well, and I can see the thought that goes into them.”
When asked about the project, Jordan King, Rhino Aluminium’s order processing manager, production controller, and CAD designer, said: “The Classic Heritage Door has been our standout product. Customers love its slim sightlines, traditional styling, and modern performance. It’s the perfect blend of heritage and innovation.”
Since becoming a Sheerline fabricator three years ago, the partnership between Sheerline and Rhino Aluminium has flourished. This is said to be in part because both company’s values align, placing an emphasis on innovation, sustainability, UK manufacturing, and high-quality products.
Jordan continued: “Working with Sheerline has been a great experience from day one. Their products are innovative, wellengineered, and they’re supported by a team that understands what fabricators need – it’s a partnership that makes a real difference to our business.”
As a system designed with fabricators and installers in mind, working with Sheerline has provided Rhino Aluminium with tangible benefits. Jordan explained: “Our customers get premium, installer-friendly products with outstanding thermal efficiency and modern styling.”
For Rhino Aluminium, the core Sheerline products the company supplies alongside the Classic Heritage Door are the S1 Roof Lantern, the Prestige Lift & Slide Patio Door, and the Prestige window system. The latter was recently specified for a commercial project in Ramsgate.
Jordan said: “We recently supplied the Prestige system for two blocks of flats on the former gas works site local to us in Ramsgate. The system’s strength, thermal performance, and design flexibility made it the perfect choice for this largescale development.”
For more about Sheerline, call the team directly on 01332 978 000
For more information about Rhino Aluminium, visit: https://rhinoaluminium.co.uk DirectFix can be contacted by emailing: info@dirextfixgc.co.uk
Fentrade’s expertise shines in premium home installation
Independent trade fabricator Fentrade has supplied a suite of Reynaers CP 130 Aluminium Lift & Slide doors including a striking open-corner configuration for a technically demanding home extension in Southampton. The project, delivered by longstanding Fentrade customer Saje uPVC Ltd, required precision, performance and a flawless finish to meet the premium brief.
Kevin Stallard, chairman at
Saje, said: “We’ve worked with Fentrade since 2022 and had no hesitation in turning to the team for support with this project. As always, we worked in close collaboration throughout the process, and their professionalism was evident from the outset – as it always is.”
Fentrade director Chris Reeks led the consultancy side, specifying the CP 130-LS system for its balance of affordability and high performance. He commented:
“The Reynaers CP 130-LS was perfect for this project. It offers exceptional versatility, including the revolutionary open-corner option that removes the need for a corner post creating a dramatic architectural feature.
For this project, Fentrade supplied two lift & slide doors and one set of floating corner lift & slides, all with sliding panes. All the doors were finished in RAL 7037 Dusty Grey to create an elegant and understated aesthetic that perfectly complemented the lightcoloured brick of the property.
Thanks to Fentrade’s customer service excellence, the doors were delivered on time, in excellent condition and ready for installation, says the company. Following meticulous installation by the Saje team, the homeowner is delighted with the result. Kevin noted: “The doors are delivering
a seamless integration of design and functionality, with the CP130 system performing exactly as intended. It’s an installation to be proud of.”
The two companies met at the FIT Show in 2022, where Kevin won a Fentrade competition to win an overnight stay plus a round of golf for two people at Celtic Manor Resort in Newport.
The partnership got off to a winning start, and it’s a track record that has continued ever since. Kevin concluded: “Fentrade’s attention to detail, clear communication and commitment to quality matches our own. Over the past three years our partnership has helped us elevate even the most challenging of installations. We’re proud to partner with them.”
www.fentradealuminium.co.uk
EYG Commercial proves top of the class with installations of new windows and doors
Hull-based glazing specialists EYG Commercial proved to be top of the class over the recent summer holidays as its teams fitted hundreds of new windows and doors in schools across Yorkshire.
Whilst the six-week school holiday period can see a slow down in activity for many businesses, for EYG it now traditionally brings a number of contracts in the education sector, with classrooms empty and ideal for quick turnaround installations.
This summer was no different, with seven contracts totalling well in excess of £500,000 of orders – and EYG’s teams passed the test with flying colours installing aluminium and UPVC windows, entrance screens and doors.
“It was another very busy summer for us with our contracts in the education sector,” said sales and estimating director Richard Saunders.
“Over the past few years our work in schools has continued to grow, and obviously the holiday periods are the ideal time for our teams to
be on site.
“As a business we have to plan for the summer holiday demand well in advance, from scheduling our manufacturing on site in June and July, to then having the fitting teams ready to install throughout August.
“This year we worked on seven different school sites, working for a number of contractors, and I’m pleased to say all jobs went smoothly, ensuring works were complete ready for staff and pupils to return to class in improved, upgraded facilities.”
“We’ve stripped out hundreds of old windows, the majority of which were old steel windows which have very poor levels of performance in terms of energy and heat retention,” said Mr Saunders.
“They have now been replaced with leading systems from our suppliers including Senior PURe aluminium windows and doors and Eurocell UPVC windows, including products which offer the very best levels of thermal performance and long-life cycles.”
New rooflight for Salford Museum &
A new aluminium rooflight from Howells Patent Glazing (Howells) has transformed a learning space inside Salford Museum & Art Gallery, creating a bright, dry and comfortable environment for learning, creativity and recreation.
The patent glazing specialist was appointed by Manchester-based contractor, Schofield & Sons to design, supply and install a new rooflight. The existing rooflight — domed polycarbonate in an aluminium frame — had reached the end of its service life; it leaked
Art Gallery
and no longer admitted sufficient natural light. The works qualified for the Arts Council England Museum Estate and Development Fund (MEND).
Rooflight specification
Howells recommended a standard hip-ended self-supporting rooflight following an extensive site survey. This system is more robust than the original rooflight and works well with Class 2 glass which was a requirement of the specification.
Class 2 glass is not designed to be walked upon but is non-fragile. While a rooftop barrier surrounds the new rooflight, the glass adds another level of safety in the event of a fall, preventing a person from falling through.
For additional strength and lasting performance, Howells fabricated the rooflight using double glazed units comprising 9.5mm heat strengthened laminated inner pane and a 6mm toughened self-clean outer pane. The laminated inner pane also provides significant UV protection, blocking up to 99% of harmful UV rays.
Comfortable indoor environment
Creating an inviting space was an important consideration in the specification process as Jo Byrne,
operations manager for Salford Museum & Art Gallery explains:
“The room is used as a learning space — we hold workshops in there; schools use it for lunch; and we have clubs, such as Salford Art Club, who rent it from us, so it needs to be a welcoming environment with plenty of natural light.”
New research commissioned by The Rooflight Association has revealed that natural light is extremely beneficial to building occupants, in addition to the everyday running of the building. It has a positive long-term impact on human health and wellbeing, including boosting alertness and the concentration of occupants.
The provision of natural light, therefore, is a real advantage for
the museum and art gallery when engaging with schools, colleges, and other education providers as well as community groups and those seeking venue hire.
Thermally broken system
All Howells’ rooflights are made from recyclable aluminium and use a fully thermally broken bar system which reduces heat transfer, prevents heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. It also reduces draughts and cold spots and prevents condensation. This superior thermal performance contributes to a more pleasant indoor environment and lower energy bills.
The aluminium frame is powder coated in RAL 7016 (anthracite grey) both inside and out. This protective and decorative layer
offers exceptional resistance to weathering, corrosion and wear, ensuring longevity and minimal maintenance.
Overcoming challenges
Access proved the greatest challenge during the two-month project. The rooflight could not be reached from above due to restricted access at roof level. Instead, materials and components had to be carried through the Grade II listed building with the team navigating a Victorian staircase and elaborate early 20th century entrance with double doors. The majority of works were carried out from a scaffold platform built at eaves level inside the learning room.
The old polycarbonate domed rooflight
The new rooflight
Senior delivers full aluminium fenestration package for new Sheffield residential scheme
Senior Architectural Systems has supplied a full aluminium fenestration package to the new Soho Yard residential development which forms part of the major West Bar regeneration scheme in Sheffield.
The new build-to-rent development has been delivered by main contractor Bowmer and
Kirkland for Legal & General and comprises 368 apartments across two buildings. Designed by 5plus architects, the scheme brings together contemporary urban design with references to the site’s industrial heritage, arranged around landscaped gardens to create a vibrant residential community in the city centre. The development takes its name from the ‘Soho Wheel’ that once powered the cutlery grinding machines in the local area.
To meet the project’s aesthetic and performance goals, Senior’s Pure aluminium windows and doors were fabricated and installed throughout by HKL Specialists Ltd. The manufacturer’s Pure tilt and turn aluminium window system combines clean sightlines, high thermal performance and ease of maintenance, claims the company, making it ideally suited to the demands of multioccupancy residential buildings. Senior’s robust Pure aluminium commercial doors were also used at key access points, offering durability, security and design consistency with the window package.
Senior’s SF52 aluminium curtain wall system was used to deliver the glazed elevations that maximise natural light and reinforce the architectural intent of the scheme. The system’s slim sightlines and structural performance allow it to integrate perfectly with Senior’s low U-value Pure range, ensuring an efficient installation process and a seamless façade design.
Chosen for its whole-package capability, Senior worked closely with the main contractor, architect and specialist installer throughout the design and build phases, providing technical support with low U-value targets and Part L compliance.
www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk
Vicarage Lane development showcases the Residence 9 Collection in timeless Painswick
A striking new-build development by Lister Carter Homes has been brought to life with the installation of over 100 Residence 9 windows and French doors in the elegant Painswick exterior and chalk white interior. This carefully considered design choice delivers a perfect blend of heritage charm and contemporary performance.
Installed by Bespoke Frames of Cheshire and fabricated by Dekko Window Systems, the development features flush sash windows with single astragal bars, complemented by 10 sets of French doors. Each window and door is finished with satin pear drop handles, adding a subtle nod to traditional craftsmanship, while A-rated glazing with duplex
bars ensures exceptional energy efficiency and visual authenticity. Manufactured using welded joints, the windows feature 6.4 laminated Planitherm glazing with argon – a specification selected for energy efficiency, acoustic control and enhanced security.
The developer’s decision to use the Residence 9 system was driven by its ability to replicate the timeless appearance of timber, coupled with a refined internal finish that elevates the interior spaces.
“The timber-look design perfectly met our vision for Vicarage Lane. We wanted something with heritage charm that didn’t compromise on quality or performance, and the Residence
9 system delivered exactly that,” commented Ken Roscoe for Lister Carter Homes.
Frazer Edis of Bespoke Frames of Cheshire explained: “Working with Lister Carter Homes and The Residence Collection on this project was a pleasure. They have a keen eye for detail, and the Residence 9 system brought their vision to life perfectly. It’s a fantastic example of how flush sash windows can give a newbuild development a sense of heritage and place.”
Jo Trotman, marketing manager at The Residence Collection, added: “The Vicarage Lane development demonstrates the versatility of the Residence 9 system – bringing traditional detailing, authentic proportions and high-performance benefits to new-build properties. It’s a project that will stand the test of time, both aesthetically and practically, so we’re thrilled to see it come to life.”
To find out more about The Residence Collection’s R9 collection, please visit: http://bit.ly/3LdgzZt
Marketing
shouldn’t be the first casualty: why businesses should keep investing in brand visibility.
With the industry facing economic pressure, marketing budgets are often first on the chopping block. But according to Claire Rotheram, founder of Out-Do Marketing, that’s the opposite of what should be done. Here’s her take on how fenestration firms can make their marketing work harder, and grow, even in toughest of times.
“In challenging climates, we see a pattern,” says Claire, “Businesses start looking for quick savings through cost control, and marketing often gets hit. That can have serious longterm consequences, because the minute you go quiet, your competitors get louder.”
Claire has worked with leading names across several construction sectors, manufacturing, fabricator, merchanting, and home
improvement spaces, helping them re-energise their brands, sharpen strategy, and reach customers through smarter campaigns, driving dramatic commercial results.
“In the last 12 months alone, we’ve helped several clients increase market share, double enquiry rates, and in some cases, scale revenue and profit positioning themselves for acquisition. Investing in the right kind of marketing – not
Claire Rotheram
necessarily more marketing, at the right time is a strategic choice and one that can prove very lucrative for the businesses involved.”
Marketing in a downturn: cost or catalyst?
There are no doubts that trading conditions have become tougher. Installers are feeling the squeeze, and fabricators are competing harder for attention. But as Claire points out, that makes marketing more critical than ever, not less.
“Buyers are still out there, but they’re more selective,” she explains. “They’re looking for reassurance – who can they trust, who’s still innovating, who’s visible and active? If your brand disappears during tough times, people assume the worst. Staying front-of-mind gives you an ongoing competitive edge.”
A whole-market approach
A strategic marketing agency specialising in the fenestration sector, Out-Do Marketing offers full-service support across strategy, content, digital, creative, and events, an approach that’s proven especially effective in the fenestration space.
“Most agencies offer generic packages,” Claire says, “but no two business are the same or have the same objectives. At Out-Do we know the buying cycles, the language, and the platforms that matter. We’ve built a team that understands this market from the inside out. We don’t just churn clients and broad brush; we actively listen and work collaboratively on service packages so that every client gets exactly what they want.”
Claire reflects: “It’s incredibly rewarding to help businesses not just defend what they have, but to thrive. When we
align marketing with business growth goals, the results can be transformational. Simply put, Out-Do will make marketing work for you. We are a cost effective, proactive and results driven firm, who will unlock your potential by focusing on delivering the right messages to your target audience in line with your business objectives”
What Can Fenestration Businesses Do Right Now?
So, what practical steps can businesses take if budgets are tight, but visibility still matters?
Claire offers five clear tips:
1. Audit your current marketing – “Look at what’s really working for you. Don’t just cut across the board – be very strategic.”
2. Focus on consistency – “Even if you can’t post every week, regularity builds trust.”
3. Nurture existing customers – “They’re your warmest leads. Upselling and referrals are huge, missed opportunities.”
4. Plan ahead for events – “The best visibility doesn’t happen by accident. Get a 6–12 month calendar and a firm plan in place.”
5. Tell your story – “People buy from people. Testimonials, behindthe-scenes content, case studies, these all humanise your brand.”
Final word: marketing, done correctly, is a growth engine
“Marketing isn’t just about logos or LinkedIn,” Claire concludes. “It’s about reputation, positioning, and growth. At a time when many are scaling back, those who stay visible will be the ones who come out stronger and will continue to lead their market.”
For more information about Out-Do Marketing and its services, visit: www.out-do.co.uk
Stellar Aluminium launches new retail brochure
Stellar Aluminium has launched its new 44-page retail brochure, designed to inspire homeowners and support fabricators and installers in presenting the benefits of the Stellar range to the consumer.
Commenting on the introduction of the new brochure, Gerald Allen, head of marketing at Epwin Window Systems, said: “This brochure showcases the unique benefits of Stellar Aluminium from its slim sightlines and contemporary designs to the ability to maximise natural light and connect inside and outside spaces. With aspirational lifestyle imagery throughout and clear, practical information, it helps consumers visualise what’s possible whilst giving our customers a stronger resource to help win business.”
The complete Stellar Aluminium range covers everything from heritage and flush casement windows to panoramic sliding, lift-and-slide and slimline bifold doors. Alongside award-winning aesthetics, Stellar delivers proven performance, with thermal ratings of up to A++, U-values as low as 1.0 W/m²K and Yale locking systems supplied as standard.
The brochure also emphasises premium finishing details that the company says differentiate the Stellar offer. These include durable Qualicoat Seaside specification marine-grade powder coatings with guarantees of up to 25 years, stylish handles and hardware selected for lasting quality. Lowthreshold designs further enhance practicality while maintaining a refined finish.
In addition to the product range, the brochure provides guidance on planning and building regulations, helping homeowners move forward with confidence when working with Stellar-approved partners.
Gerald added: “The demand for domestic aluminium products has grown rapidly in recent years as homeowners look for aspirational home improvements. By focusing on strong imagery and lifestyle appeal, our new retail brochure reflects how Stellar can transform a property.”
Copies of the new Stellar retail brochure are now available on request or can be downloaded via the Connect digital resource platform.
stellaraluminium.co.uk
Window Ware launches new product catalogue
Door and window hardware distributor Window Ware has announced the launch of its brand-new product catalogue.
Designed as a comprehensive and user-friendly reference tool, this latest edition was created with customer feedback at its core, offering a streamlined way for fabricators and trade professionals to find the right hardware solutions quickly and efficiently.
The new catalogue, which runs to nearly 500 pages, moves beyond a simple product listing, presenting an “applicationfirst” layout that groups related
solutions together to simplify sourcing and save time.
The catalogue includes bestsellers, most-requested items, and the latest product launches, all supported by detailed specifications, high-quality images, and technical tips. With over 5,000 products in stock and UK next-day delivery as standard on orders placed by 3:30 pm, Window Ware says it offers an unbeatable combination of unrivalled product choice and rapid service.
Sarah Binns, Window Ware’s customer operations and marketing director, commented on the launch: “We believe this is our
most comprehensive and useful catalogue yet, a testament to our commitment to providing hardware solutions built around how our customers actually work.”
The catalogue also highlights the key benefits of partnering with Window Ware, including expert technical support, quick response times, and a highly reliable delivery service. According to the company, it maintains a 98.5% on-time, infull delivery record and over 99% pick accuracy, helping to keep projects on schedule.
Window Ware’s area sales managers will be hand-delivering new brochures to customers over the coming weeks. In the meantime, there are multiple ways to get a copy to suit your preference. You can download a digital version instantly from the Window Ware website, add a single hard copy to any online order, or request one by post. For additional copies, please contact your dedicated area sales manager.
www.windowware.co.uk
Profile related catalogues from VBH
Hardware supplier VBH has introduced a range of profile related catalogues to help their customers quickly find products from the vast VBH range.
The selection covers what VBH describes as the most popular PVCu and aluminium systems currently in use in the UK.
Each catalogue is tailored to the individual system, meaning that everything listed is suitable to the reader’s needs.
As well as products from VBH’s own hardware and furniture brand, greenteQ, each catalogue also includes relevant hardware from VBH’s key supply partners
including AGB, Cotswold, Roto, Securistyle, Weiss-Chemie and Yale amongst others.
Gary Gleeson from VBH says: “We initially produced a profile related catalogue to suit Deceuninck’s PVCu systems to support our joint customers.
“The catalogue proved so popular that it made sense to roll out the idea further to other widely used PVCu and aluminium systems. We basically strip out all the irrelevant products and variants and add more detail on the profile related parts, making it easier to navigate. Who wants a catalogue showing window handles with 11 different spindle lengths when you’re only
Business Pilot scores grassroots football sponsorship
Business Pilot, the specialist CRM platform built for installers by installers, has announced its sponsorship of Stanground Cardea Sports FC’s U14 Purples – the team of business development manager, Matthew Gaskin’s son.
The partnership kicked off in emphatic style, with the Purples securing a 5-0 away win against G4G in their first fixture of the Peterborough District Junior Alliance League, U14 Division 2. Goals flowed freely, with the team three ahead at half time before sealing the match with two more after the break.
For Business Pilot, the sponsorship represents more than a logo on a shirt – it reflects the company’s ethos of growth, teamwork, and supporting future success.
“Grassroots sport plays such an important role in teaching young people the value of hard work, communication and teamwork –qualities that resonate strongly with us at Business Pilot”, explained managing director, Elton Boocock.
“By sponsoring the U14 Purples, we’re not just supporting a local football team, we’re investing in a community initiative that builds
going to use one length? Nobody!”
The very latest VBH catalogues are available to view and download from the company’s website at www.vbhgb.com and Customer Portal at www.vbhgb24.com.
Gary adds “The benefit of having our catalogues online is that we can always ensure that they are 100% up to date. Our range is constantly evolving, therefore so is our literature.”
confidence and encourages young people to reach their full potential. Just as we help installers achieve their business goals, we’re committed to helping this team hit theirs – both on and off the pitch.”
Stanground Cardea Sports FC is at the heart of its community, giving young players the chance to develop their skills and confidence both on and off the pitch. With Business Pilot’s support, the club can continue to invest in coaching, kit, and facilities for the season ahead.
Matthew Gaskin, business development manager at Business Pilot, added: “It means a great deal to me and my family that Business Pilot is supporting my son’s team. The company has always backed causes close to the hearts of its people, and this sponsorship is a perfect example of that.
“The qualities nurtured in these young players – determination, teamwork, and the drive to keep improving – are the very same values that underpin Business Pilot. To see those worlds come together through this sponsorship is really special.” www.businesspilot.co.uk
hup! shortlisted twice for G25
New Product of the Year
The hup! building system from Ultraframe has been shortlisted twice for New Product of the Year at the prestigious G25 Awards, for its Base solution and Brick Slip Rails System.
The hup! Base is an innovative base solution that transforms the way installers approach this crucial stage of a project and has been designed to bring new levels of predictability, speed, and simplicity to a site. The Brick Slips Rails system was developed by
Ultraframe to be the fastest, most durable and easiest way to install brick slips on the market.
Commenting about the recently launched enhancements to the hup! system and the double shortlisting, Ultraframe marketing director, Alex Hewitt, said: “We are absolutely delighted that the hup! Base and Brick Slip Rails Systems have been shortlisted at the G Awards. The awards are a key date in the industry calendar, and they provide a
wonderful opportunity to shine a spotlight on the innovation that drives our industry forward. The hup! Base was developed to overcome the many issues that can occur during the base aspect of a project – difficult ground conditions, awkward obstructions underground, unforeseen costs, waste disposal and the sheer mess all play a part in making traditional foundations one of the most unpredictable aspects of a build, especially on small sites. For installers and homeowners alike, the hup! Base represents a step change in how bases are approached: faster, cleaner, more sustainable, and more predictable than ever before.
“The hup! Brick Slips Rails system was also developed to solve issues that installers have had to put up with for many years. Other rail solutions were very pricey
and matching the bricks to the existing house can be impossible. There were also other drawbacks with existing domestic board solutions – the cost, the weight of the boards and the fact they are prone to damage during transit. Brick mesh solutions appear thinner than real bricks and often have rounded (unrealistic) corners, while other systems which require fixing of the slips on site need adhesive, which is time consuming and fraught with the risk of adhesive failing. hup! brick slips are incredibly simple to affix and once pointed, the finished appearance is indistinguishable from a traditional brick wall.”
Concluding, Alex said: “From all of us at Ultraframe, congratulations and best of luck to all of the G25 finalists – here’s to an unforgettable evening.” www.hup-home.co.uk
Sternfenster finalists in four G25 categories
Sternfenster MD, Mike Pacrzuk
Sternfenster has been named a finalist in four categories in this year’s G-Awards, recognising the company’s ongoing drive for quality, digital innovation and investment in people.
The four categories are as follows: Best Business Initiative of the Year, Fabricator of the Year, Promotional Campaign of the Year, and Training & Development Initiative of the Year.
“Being shortlisted for four awards is huge,” said Mike Pacrzuk, Sternfenster’s managing director. “It is a fantastic recognition of all the hard work that every team member pours into Sternfenster.”
Sternfenster’s cloud-based EasyAdmin+ and EasySales platforms are behind its nomination for Best Business Initiative. They have worked to transform how trade installers quote, sell, and manage their
projects in an age of digital innovation.
“We innovated these tools from scratch with the sole aim of making our customer’s lives easier,” explained Mike. “We want our customers to quote, win orders and manage their admin seamlessly, thriving in a digitalfirst market, while continuing to benefit from the quality and performance of our products.”
Meanwhile, the Fabricator of the Year Award reflects Sternfenster’s industry-leading COTIF, sustainability drives, and over £3m investment into their machinery, systems, and people.
Backed by its Investors in People framework and its Pursuit for Platinum, Sternfenster has provided more than 1,000 hours of company-wide training this year alone.
“Our goal goes beyond developing individuals, it’s about transforming how we lead, support and grow,” said Mike. “Our framework delivers excellence today while building sustainable capability for tomorrow.”
“It’s been an excellent year of growth and innovation here at Sternfenster, and we are looking forward to once again celebrating the industry’s success and achievements at the G25 Awards.”
This year’s G-Awards are due to be held at the London Hilton on Park Lane on Friday 28th November 2025.
For more information visit www.sternfenster.com
Hurst Doors shortlisted for hat-trick of G-Awards
Hurst Doors has been shortlisted as a finalist in three categories at this year’s G-Awards.
Making the final cut in the Fabricator of the Year, New Product of the Year and Promotional Campaign of the Year groups, Mark Atkinson, sales director at Hurst Doors acknowledged the achievement.
“The G-Awards represent the
brightest and best that the UK glass and glazing industry has to offer, so just to be shortlisted is an honour in itself,” he said.
“The fact that we’ve made the final in each of the three categories we entered also reflects the hard work of our team, and our consistent dedication to industry excellence, in everything that we do.”
The past 12 months has
seen a sustained programme of investment, product development and customer service at the Yorkshire-based door manufacturer, including the launch of Securicore, which has contributed to the UK’s first PAS24-accredited 28mm glazed PVC-U panel doorset.
The result of a rigorous two-year R&D programme, Securicore offers enhanced security, high thermal performance and recyclability in a cost-effective format. Rewriting expectations in the panel door sector, this ground-breaking innovation has earned Hurst its New Product of the Year nomination.
In addition, Hurst’s latest promotional campaign, which marks a step-change in how composite doors are marketed and sold, has made the Promotional Campaign of the Year shortlist. Mixing Augmented Reality (AR) tools with a cohesive suite of customer-facing resources, Hurst has given every installer ‘a mobile showroom in their back pocket’.
“We are up for these accolades, as well as the coveted Fabricator of the Year, because Hurst is more than just a manufacturer,” added Mark.
“We are a business that invests, innovates and supports our valued customers and our staff, many of whom have been with us for more than 20 years.
“Fully committed to people and progress, our aim is to redefine the standard for door manufacturing in the UK and set a blueprint for the future. We’re very proud that our efforts have been recognised by the G-Awards with these three award shortlistings.
“It’s great to be part of such a creative, professional and forwardthinking industry and we’d like to wish our fellow finalists the best of luck.”
www.hurstdoors.co.uk
Mark Atkinson, sales director at Hurst Doors
AluK’s award success continues
AluK’s record breaking awards season continues! Already the winner of the FIT Show Marketing Award and a finalist at the upcoming Façade Awards and Made in Wales Awards, the aluminium systems company has now been shortlisted for two G-Awards as well.
AluK’s hugely successful S67 sliding door, which the company says can be fabricated by one person in 90 minutes and installed by a two man team in just 15, has been shortlisted in the new product of the year category, while the memorable Upgrade Your System campaign has been shortlisted for promotional campaign of the year.
For AluK, this level of recognition is testament to the dedication and innovation of everyone in the team. Managing director Russell Yates commented: “AluK is clearly getting a lot right at the moment and it’s fantastic to see that being recognised across so many areas.
“Our commercial team were behind the nomination at the Façade Awards, our operations team are the ones being recognised at the Made in Wales Awards and it’s obviously product development, sales and marketing in the spotlight at the G-Awards.
“We’ve got an exciting few months ahead – and plenty of excuses for everyone to get their glad rags on!”
Thermoseal Group earns G25 finalist spot
Thermoseal Group has been announced as a finalist in the Component Supplier of the Year category at the 2025 G-Awards, underlining its reputation as one of the UK’s most advanced insulated glass component manufacturers.
“This year’s nomination is testament to the scale of our investment in people, products and processes,” said sales and marketing director Mark Hickox. “We are proud to now manufacture over three quarters of our product portfolio in-house, giving us unrivalled control over quality
and performance, and enabling us to bring genuine innovation to market.”
Over the past year, Thermoseal has installed additional extrusion and lamination lines, invested in an automated packing facility, and launched a zero-waste Thermobar recycling plant – all designed to boost capacity while cutting energy use and waste.
New tooling developments have also advanced production efficiency, with 28 twin-strand tools created to support fresh
The G-25 Awards take place at Hilton Park Lane on Friday 28 November. https://uk.aluk.com/
Thermoflex designs and reduce material consumption.
Thermoflex, Thermoseal’s flagship flexible spacer bar, continues to be a market leader and has been independently verified as the best performing product of its kind by both IFT Rosenheim and the BFRC. In parallel, the company has expanded its in-house laboratory facilities, with state-of-the-art testing equipment ensuring product compliance and performance far beyond British Standards.
Thermoseal’s acquisition by the Fenzi Group in 2024 has also created fresh opportunities across Europe and beyond, positioning the company at the heart of one of the most comprehensive IG component portfolios in the world.
“This shortlisting reflects not only what we’ve achieved, but also where we’re heading,” Mark added. “With the backing of Fenzi, and thanks to the commitment of our team, Thermoseal is ready to lead the way in the next generation of sustainable, high-performance glazing solutions.”
Elegant by Deceuninck short-listed at G25 finals
Elegant, Deceuninck’s ultra energy-efficient tilt-and-turn window, has been short-listed in the G-Awards New Product of the Year category 2025.
Achieving U-values as low as 0.7W/m2K, Elegant has been developed specifically for the commercial sector and medium to high rise applications.
It’s also been designed to require less energy to recycle at end of life. This forms part of Deceuninck’s closed loop approach, as part of its commitment to the Science Based Targets (SBTi) carbon reduction scheme.
Darren Woodcock, general manager of Deceuninck, said he was delighted that Elegant had been short-listed, arguing that Elegant was part of a new generation of composite products which were redefining the commercial systems market.
He said: “The commercial sector is looking for products which deliver better value and better performance. With a
u-value of as low as 0.7W/m2K, Elegant redefines standards of performance in window and door system technology and is already having a significant impact in the commercial space.
“It’s part of our strategy to drive innovation forward and make sure that Deceuninck customers can not only meet expectations of product performance today, but also tomorrow.
“To have that recognised with a short-listing in the New Product of the Year category at this year’s G-Awards is a fantastic achievement.”
It’s the latest short-listing for Deceuninck, which last year made a finalist spot in the Sustainability initiative of the Year category, having previously won the highprofile award in 2022.
Darren added: “We’d like to wish the best of luck to the other finalists and look forward to catching up with colleagues and friends from the industry in November.”
www.deceuninck.co.uk
UKO Group has been named as a finalist in five categories at this year’s G Awards, an annual event for the glass and glazing industry. The shortlist highlights both company-led initiatives and the contributions of individuals within the business.
The nominations include UK Doors Online for Best Business Initiative of the Year, Ella Glover and Sarah Whittaker for Rising Star of the Year, UKO Group for Training and Development Initiative of the Year, and Chris Bennett for Unsung Hero.
UK Doors’ innovative trade portal is what got them shortlisted for Best Business Initiative of the Year. The digital platform was designed and developed inhouse and allows users to design, quote and purchase products online 24/7, reducing the reliance on traditional sales channels and giving customers complete flexibility and efficiency, according to the company.
UKO Group has been recognised for its training and development programme, a successful dualpronged initiative focussed on
UKO Group lands five finalist nominations at
apprenticeship development and management training, both of which delivered a 100% completion rate, with every participant progressing into more advanced roles. This achievement highlights commitment to nurturing talent and building future leaders from within, says the company.
Andrew Glover, managing director and Co-Founder of UKO Group said: “We are so proud to be shortlisted for not one but five finalist spots at the G awards. All our team work tirelessly to ensure we offer the best products and service to all our customers and being recognised at such prestigious awards as the G awards is a great honour.”
the G
Awards
Marketing director and CoFounder, Natasha Erskine, added that the recognition of individuals was particularly special: “I am particularly proud of our individual team members who have been shortlisted because our people are the backbone of our organisation and we wouldn’t be where we are without them. We are a small organisation and many of our team members have been with us since our origin so it is great to see some of them recognised in this way.”
The awards take place on Friday 28th November at London Hilton, Park Lane, where the UKO Group team will join industry peers to celebrate excellence in glazing and hopefully pick up some awards! www.ukogroup.co.uk
Window Ware named finalist in G-Awards 2025 Promotional Campaign of the Year
Window Ware, supplier of hardware solutions to the fenestration industry, has announced it has been named a finalist in the G-Awards 2025 Promotional Campaign of the Year category.
The nomination is in recognition of the integrated marketing campaign executed for the launch of the new Regal Hardware Knurled range of door and window handles.
The G-Awards recognise achievements within the glazing industry, with the Promotional Campaign of the Year category highlighting notable marketing initiatives. Window Ware is among eight companies shortlisted in this category.
Sarah Binns, Window Ware’s sales & marketing director, commented on the nomination: “We are incredibly proud to have our work recognised by the G-Awards judging panel. Being named a finalist is a wonderful validation of our team’s efforts and the innovative approach we took to launch the Regal Hardware Knurled Collection. We aimed to create maximum impact and support our trade customers effectively, and this recognition suggests we hit the mark.”
Window Ware extends its sincere congratulations to all the finalists across every category and wishes them the best of luck.
Glass Express Midlands has been shortlisted for two accolades at the 2025 G-Awards; for the second year running, it is a finalist in the Glass Company of the Year category, while its technical manager, Kirsty Fortnam, has been nominated for the Unsung Hero Award which recognises her outstanding community involvement.
“These nominations reflect our team’s dedication to industry excellence and community engagement,” said Arun Photay, managing director. “Any opportunity to celebrate the hard work we put into the business, especially at the G-Awards, is one we look forward to every year.”
Arun added, “We’re especially proud of Kirsty. The outreach projects she leads make a real difference in our local community
and inspire everyone around her.”
Kirsty fosters local educational partnerships, going into schools to promote the glass industry to the next generation of leaders. Along with this, she is an active volunteer with Outreach Angels, giving her time to support the homeless in Birmingham.
“Our team loves to get involved in projects which give back to the local community and help spark interest in the next generation of glass professionals,” explains Arun Photay. “We’re passionate about what we do and are always looking for new ways to grow our people and business.”
Glass Express Midlands continues to focus on responsible, highquality manufacturing, backed by its Made in Britain accreditation and active participation in glass
recycling schemes. Using its strategic positioning in the heart of the country, the IGU manufacturer delivers 3,000 units across the UK every week, serving both residential and commercial markets, according to the company.
The 2025 G Awards will take place at the London Hilton on Park Lane on Friday 28 November, bringing together key figures across the UK glass sector to celebrate innovation and growth.
glassexpressmidlands.uk
Arun Photay
Kenricks celebrates finalist status at G25 Awards
Kenricks has been named as a finalist in the Component Supplier of the Year category at the prestigious G25 Awards.
Andy Meakin, sales and marketing manager at Kenrick, said: “The G Awards recognise exceptional performance from the best companies in the industry. To be
named a finalist at our very first entry is a fantastic achievement and testament to the strength of our team, our products and the customers who continue to put their trust in us.”
Established in 1791, Kenricks is one of the oldest hardware businesses in the industry. Known
Saint-Gobain Glass in the running for two G25 Awards
Saint-Gobain Glass has been shortlisted in two categories of the prestigious G25 Awards, recognising its commitment to sustainability and circularity in flat glass manufacturing and recovery.
The company’s flagship Glass Forever programme is celebrating a landmark achievement of
recovering one million tonnes of end-of-life flat glass and is a finalist for Sustainability Initiative of the Year. The programme ensures that pre- and post-consumer glass is recovered and remanufactured into high-performance flat glass, significantly reducing carbon emissions and the demand for virgin raw materials, says the company.
for iconic products including the Excalibur shootbolt, the company continues to shape the market with innovations such as the Maximus Inline espagnolette, which is designed for fabrication speed and versatility with dual reverse-action cams and a no-crop design, and the AK Touch Secure smart lock, a retrofit-ready solution offering app, fingerprint, keypad, fob and voice control that is already being adopted by major fabricators and hardware distributors, claims the company.
According to the company, these product launches, combined with a refreshed commercial strategy, new digital platforms and partnerships with leading names have put Kenrick at the forefront of both traditional and smart hardware supply. www.kenricks.co.uk
In addition, the transformative refurbishment of 30 Duke Street in London, which utilised the Glass Forever framework, has been shortlisted for Commercial Project of the Year. The project is the UK’s first commercial building renovation using a circular economy approach to flat glass recycling, according to the company – an initiative led by developer Great Portland Estates (GPE) and main contractor Mace.
Launched in 2001, Glass Forever is Saint-Gobain Glass’ long-term circular economy programme, designed to recover and recycle flat glass from both processing waste and end-of-life buildings and refurbishment projects. This year, the programme reached a major milestone with the recovery of one million tonnes of waste flat glass. This volume of recycled material potentially avoids the extraction of 1.2 million tonnes of virgin raw materials and prevents around 700,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions, says the company.
saint-gobain-glass.co.uk
Four G25 nominations for Glazpart
Glazpart was thrilled to hear the recent announcement that the company has been shortlisted as finalists in four different categories at this year’s G-Awards.
The nominations reflect Glazpart’s unprecedented success in 2025 which is extra special as the company celebrates its 40th anniversary, says the company.
Dean Bradley, Glazpart sales director commented, “It is a landmark year for Glazpart and it’s been made even more special with these four nominations for the prestigious G Awards. We believe we have received the most nominations for any company in the industry at this year’s awards which clearly shows our progress across our marketing, sales and customers service initiatives, whilst being
development in 2025.”
The four nominations highlight Glazpart’s work across several different areas of activity.
The Customer Care Initiative is for the progress of the Glazpartners programme which has seen 65 companies from across the glazing supply chain, subscribe to the marketing initiative in just over 2 years, according to the company.
For the Promotional Campaign of the Year, Glazpart’s FIT Show marketing was recognised. The marketing activity around FIT Show was comprehensive and innovative with, new stand layout and HD lightbox graphics, new product launches and on-stand demonstrations, promotion of Glazpartners and celebration of Glazpart’s 40th anniversary.
In the Component Supplier of the Year category, Glazpart has shown how investment in people, research and development and state of the art machinery has ensured customers receive on time delivery of high quality products manufactured in England, claims the company.
Being shortlisted for the Sustainability Initiative of the Year is new territory for Glazpart. Their stand at FIT Show was awarded Gold (the highest standard) award for sustainability of the company’s stand. The award was confirmed by Better Stands, the independent organisation that collaborates across the events and exhibition industry to promote and ensure the use of sustainable materials for reusable stands.
nominated for the Component Supplier of the Year, underlines our smooth operations, logistics and high levels of customer service, including dynamic new product
Dean Bradley summarises, “The G25 awards is the most prestigious in our sector, we are delighted to be nominated and recognised for our work and to be part of such a great event. We very much look forward to the Gala Dinner evening at the end of November and best of luck to all the finalists.”
https://glazpart.com/glazpartners/
Dean Bradley
Haffner named as finalist in the G25 Awards
Haffner has been named a finalist in the Machinery Innovation category at the prestigious G25 Awards, the fourth consecutive year the company has been recognised for its contribution to fabrication machinery excellence.
Matt Thomas, Haffner’s managing director, said: “We work hard to develop machinery that helps fabricators enhance quality, increase productivity and reduce costs. Award recognition such as this is a welcome endorsement of our approach, and we’re proud to have achieved four consecutive shortlists.”
This year, Haffner has been nominated for its SL8-FF-TR 8 Head CNC Welding Machine, the only machine in the world capable of seamlessly welding all four corners of a PVC-U frame, along with two seamless
timber-effect transoms, simultaneously in a single cycle. The process eliminates the need for cleaning or retouching, allowing fabricators to deliver consistently high-quality windows with improved efficiency and costeffectiveness. according to the company.
The SL8-FF-TR is the result of a multi-million-pound investment by Haffner and Graf Synergy and has already been well received by fabricators across the market, says the company.
Haffner works with fabricators of every size to deliver advanced solutions that support growth and long-term competitiveness. Its portfolio includes new machinery from Haffner, Fom Industrie and Graf Synergy.
With four consecutive G Award nominations and two previous wins, Haffner’s consistent recognition underlines its position as a trusted partner and a driving force in the future of machinery design for the fenestration industry, says the company.
Matt concluded: “The G Awards is always a highlight of the year and an opportunity to celebrate achievement and connect with colleagues and friends across the industry. It’s inspiring to see the sector continuing to innovate and drive standards forward. We wish all this year’s finalists the very best of luck.
Winners will be announced on Friday 28 November 2025 at the London Hilton on Park Lane.
www.haffnerltd.com
Shelforce’s Paul Ramsey named finalist for G-Awards Unsung Hero honour
Shelforce technical specialist Paul Ramsey has been shortlisted for the Unsung Hero Award at this year’s G-Awards.
Paul, who has been a dedicated member of the Shelforce team for more than 39 years, is one of eight finalists recognised for their contributions to their respective employers and the industry. The winner will be announced at a glittering black-tie ceremony at the London Hilton on Park Lane on Friday, 28 November 2025.
Living with cerebral palsy, Paul has spent nearly four decades overcoming significant physical challenges to play a vital role on the factory floor, fitting hinges and handles into PVCu window sashes to ensure the safety and performance of products installed in social housing and local authority projects.
He also undergoes regular physiotherapy because he is determined to stay physically capable to be able to come to work and remain an active contributor to the team.
www.shelforce.com
Safeware secures finalist status in two categories in the G25 Awards
Hardware distributor Safeware has been announced as a finalist in two categories at this year’s G Awards: Component Supplier of the Year and Promotional Campaign of the Year.
Rob Hartill, commercial director at Safeware, said: “Being shortlisted in two categories is a real endorsement of the journey Safeware is on. We’ve worked hard to expand our offer to the wider industry while keeping service excellence at the heart of what we do. To see that effort recognised on a national stage is hugely rewarding.”
For more than 35 years, Safeware has been trusted as the hardware brand within the Epwin Group,
delivering a comprehensive range of solutions with a proven track record of reliability. In 2025, the brand built on that heritage to reposition itself as a supplier to the wider fenestration industry. Today, whether or not customers work with Epwin Window Systems, they benefit from the same expertise, service and commitment that have defined Safeware for decades, says the company.
Safeware’s collaborative approach involves listening, understanding customer priorities, and delivering strategic hardware solutions that drive success. This is underpinned by a commitment to operational excellence, claims the company, from its extensive product range to free next-day delivery on qualifying
orders and independent testing and accreditation across the portfolio.
The company is also shortlisted for Promotional Campaign of the Year for the launch of its brand to the wider industry. The multi-channel campaign built strong visibility, firmly established Safeware’s market presence and delivered impressive results including a 527% increase in website traffic between April and June 2025, according to the company.
Now in their 21st year, the G Awards celebrate excellence in the glass and glazing industry. This year’s winners will be announced on Friday 28 November 2025 at the London Hilton on Park Lane.
Rob added: “The G Awards are a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the very best in our industry while reconnecting with colleagues and friends across the sector. We wish all the finalists the very best of luck on the night.”
www.safewarehardware.com
Emplas short-listed for Fabricator of the Year
Emplas has been short-listed in the Fabricator of the Year category at the G-Awards 2025.
Having won the Fabricator of the Year title in 2015 and 2021, it represents the fourth year in succession that Emplas has made the short-listing.
Ryan Johnson, managing director, Emplas Group, said that the shortlisting was testimony to the hard work of the entire Emplas team and a reflection of the success of its customers.
“We invest a lot – in our manufacturing facility, in green energy, in IT and software innovations, and in product quality – but ultimately it’s the investment hat we make in our people and our partnerships with our customers and suppliers, that makes the real difference”, he said.
“The G-Awards for me are a celebration of our people, our customers and our supply partners. It’s their collective contribution to Emplas that makes us what we are today, and which
will continue to shape our future.
“To be short-listed this year in the Fabricator of the Year category, alongside some other very good businesses, is a real achievement – but most importantly a collective one.”
Emplas has continued its investment-led strategy this year.
In its latest effort to reduce its carbon footprint, 1558 new solar panels have been installed on the roof of its 57,000ft2 Wellingborough manufacturing hub, bringing total solar capacity to 701.1kW and saving 159 tonnes of CO2 per annum, claims the company.
This is on top of the launch of a unique closed-loop recycling service in partnership with the Epwin Group and Saint-Gobain Glass, with projections to divert more than 300 tonnes of postconsumer PVC-U and 1,000 tonnes of glass per annum from the waste stream, says the company.
Emplas restructured its manufacturing facility at the start of this year, opened a second dedicated door facility and brought new products online including three new composite doors and a new fire door range.
Emplas has also continued the development of its own customer CRM and digital business management tool, EVA CRM, and launched new customer lead generation campaigns including its consumer platform, Snug, and the Commercial Window Group.
Ryan continued: “The G-Awards is unique in providing a platform to recognise the innovation and the contribution that our industry brings to the bult environment.
“We’re very proud to be back again this year as a finalist. I’d like to wish the very best of luck to all of the other finalists!” emplas.co.uk
The Window Company (Contracts) recognised for outstanding customer care
The whole team at The Window Company (Contracts) are celebrating after the commercial installer was shortlisted for the Customer Care Initiative of the Year trophy at the upcoming G25 Awards.
For the Chelmsford based social housing specialist, it is welcome recognition for consistently outstanding work in an unsung sector of the market, so often overlooked at glamorous awards events.
The Window Company (Contracts) carries out around 40 installations in social housing properties every week for the likes of Moat Homes, Dacorum Council and Basildon Council, and resident satisfaction levels across all contracts are
David Thornton, The Window Company (Contracts)’ chairman is understandably delighted: “Our systems and processes, staff training, and company culture are all focused around delivering outstanding customer care. The residents whose homes we work in might not own their property, and they don’t directly pay our bill, but they all receive the same level of
Window Widgets announced as a finalist in the G25 Awards
Window Widgets has been announced as a finalist for the 2025 G Awards in the ‘Rising Star Award’ category, which will be held in London on 28th November.
This year, Window Widgets has been announced as a finalist in the rising star category -celebrating employee Josh Forrester-Rodway’s outstanding efforts as a customer services team leader. This award specifically recognises ongoing growth, and increasing levels of responsibility, which Josh has demonstrated already despite being in the early stages of his career.
Comment from Jade Nelson: “Josh started his career as a customer service apprentice, From the outset, Josh demonstrated maturity beyond his years. With a background in window fitting, he brought with him hands-on, transferable knowledge which he quickly expanded through a proactive approach to learning. From working in multiple departments of the business, to mentoring other team members and even assisting the warehouse when they are at capacity, Josh has really displayed that he is conscientious and committed and
care from our team – from the first call to book their survey to the post installation call to check they are happy.
“We get lots of unsolicited comments from very happy residents, and there are a few consistent themes – our teams are polite and friendly, they work incredibly hard, and they invariably clear up after themselves and leave the properties we work in clean and tidy – and we are immensely proud of that.
“We’re really looking forward to the big night at the Hilton Park Lane in November and celebrating with all the other outstanding businesses who do such excellent work and help make this such a great industry to be part of.”
thewinco.co.uk
shows great leadership potential. His exceptional customer service is regularly praised by customers and clients have said that he is a credit to the company.”
Josh commented, “I am thrilled to have been shortlisted for this Award, and to have received such positive feedback from my team at Window Widgets and customers. I am excited to see what the future continues to hold in my role, and look forward to celebrate with all the finalists in November.
www.windowwidgets.co.uk
currently running at 99%+.
FDM – Training & Development named Fire Solution of the Year
FDM – Training & Development (FDM), a leading fire door training provider, has won the Fire Solution of the Year award at the 2025 London Construction Awards.
This is the latest in a series of achievements for FDM this year, which also won Training Provider of the Year at the 2025 Fire & Security Matters Awards and Training Company of the Year at the 2024 National Fenestration Awards. The company also recently hosted national industry roundtable to explore ongoing fire safety challenges, with the
discussion informing its “Raising Standards in the Fire Door Industry” report; in the report’s foreword, Dame Judith Hackitt, who chaired the roundtable, endorsed FDM as “an exemplar of good practice”.
FDM was founded to meet the growing need for high-quality fire door training in the wake of the Grenfell tragedy, ensuring professionals across the sector have the skills and confidence to meet the evolving fire safety regulations. FDM has trained 1,200 professionals since opening in February 2024, forging
partnerships with 60 leading industry bodies.
The London Construction Awards celebrate achievements, developments and innovation across the UK’s booming construction industry. The award win underlines FDM’s dedication to raising safety standards in the industry, focusing on providing holistic courses and qualifications that bridge knowledge gaps in fire door safety best practice.
Nicola John, managing director at FDM – Training & Development, said: “Winning Fire Solution of the Year at the London Construction Awards proves that our work is profoundly impacting the built environment on a national scale. We’re always working to raise competency and make the industry safer for everyone, and we’re proud to have been recognised by construction experts as deserving of this prestigious award.”
Sheerline
Named WIRED Trailblazer 2025
Sheerline has revealed it has been named a 2025 WIRED Trailblazer. The awards, which were launched by HSBC UK and WIRED Consulting, recognise mid-sized scale-ups that are growing quickly and using innovation to tackle social, economic, and environmental challenges.
Receiving this award highlights what Sheerline has achieved in a relatively short space of time thanks to the right strategy, investment, people, and products. The result has been a range of perfectly matched, fully-suited products, an OTIF consistently above 99%, and multiple award wins.
A special event was held at Cleaver & Wake in Nottingham to celebrate the East Midlandsbased recipients of this year’s awards. It provided an opportunity to meet with likeminded business leaders from the region who share the same values and growth mindset.
Ross Hartshorn, Sheerline’s technical production director, attended the event and said: “It was fantastic to meet so many likeminded and inspiring business professionals from across the East Midlands who are driving real change in multiple industries.”
“Being named a 2025 Trailblazer
is rewarding for everyone at Sheerline – it reflects our commitment to innovation, continuous improvement, and strategic, sustainable development. Thank you to WIRED Consulting and HSBC UK,” he added.
Now in its fourth year, the WIRED Trailblazer awards have built a community comprising of inspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders. This year, a total of 17 companies in the East Midlands region were recognised for their commitment to innovation.
2025 is shaping up to be a fantastic award-winning year for Sheerline, having received Best Technical Innovation for the third time at the GGP Installer Awards earlier in the year and a King’s Award for Innovation 2025, which recognises unique benefits of the Sheerline system.
www.sheerline.com
Shepley backs new installer training centre to tackle skills gap
Trade fabricator Shepley has joined forces with Rehau and industry initiative Building Our Skills – Making Fenestration a Career of Choice – to help strengthen the skills pipeline for the glazing industry.
As part of the collaboration, Shepley supplied a fully glazed Rehau window, single door and double door set for Building
attract new talent, the stronger we all become. Supporting the Milton Keynes centre with real products means trainees can work in conditions that reflect real-life installations.”
Building Our Skills is a not-forprofit organisation aiming to bridge the fenestration skills gap through careers outreach, partnerships with training bodies such as GQA Qualifications, and specialist schemes for veterans and offender rehabilitation.
The Milton Keynes site is one of several nationwide centres where trainees fit windows and doors into purpose-built training walls. All courses are GQA-accredited, providing a recognised qualification.
Stephen Beresford, head of marketing at Rehau, said: “From our first meetings with Building Our Skills, it was clear that they shared our position on the growing industry skills gap, and the challenge of attracting the next generation of workers to the fenestration industry.
“One of the major issues the industry faces is the lack of awareness surrounding the variety of careers available beyond fabrication, installation, and the factory floor. Increasing understanding of the sector among young people and dispelling wider misconceptions is a primary objective of our partnership and is something that we hope will in turn attract new recruits to the industry.”
Our Skills’ new Milton Keynes training centre. The facility offers hands-on installation training for both newcomers to the trade and experienced fitters looking to enhance their skills.
Ian Griffiths, managing director at Shepley, said: “The more we can do as an industry to raise installation standards and
Mark Handley, partnerships manager at Building Our Skills, added: “We’re pleased to welcome Rehau as a National Partner and grateful for Shepley’s practical support. Having genuine, fully glazed products at the training centre helps create realistic learning experiences for trainees, which is crucial to building a skilled workforce.”
L-R: Ian Griffiths (Shepley), Tony Ball (Shepley), Mark Handley (Building Our Skills), Trisha Naik (Rehau), Stephen Beresford (Rehau)
Crittall invests in leadership development with Level 5 qualifications success
Crittall Windows has announced that two of its senior team members have recently achieved CMI Level 5 Diploma in Management and Leadership.
Diane Gilchrist (estimating manager) and Miles Tinker (head of operations) have successfully completed the qualification, which develops practical leadership skills and strategic insight for managers.
The diploma covers core areas including managing teams, planning resources and driving performance. These are skills that are said by Crittall to be vital to the company’s continued commitment to excellence in
customer service, delivery and project management.
Managing director at Crittall Windows, Russell Ager, commented: “We are always looking ahead and investing in our people is central to that. This achievement reflects the strength of our leadership team and ensures we continue to build a culture of professionalism and accountability across every part of the business.
“Our customers benefit directly from this through better communication, smoother project delivery and a team that is equipped to lead with confidence.”
The Chartered Management Institute (CMI) qualification is widely recognised as the benchmark for effective leadership. It provides a direct route to full CMI membership and, with experience, Chartered Manager status which is the highest accolade in management.
Both Crittall colleagues completed the diploma while continuing in full-time roles. This, says Crittall, reflects their dedication and the company’s culture of continuous improvement.
The investment is part of a wider programme of professional development at Crittall. It ensures the company remains at the forefront of the steel window and door industry, with the skills and capabilities to meet the needs of architects, contractors and end clients.
www.crittall-windows.co.uk/
Diane Gilchrist (Estimating Manager) and Miles Tinker (Head of Operations)
FDM – Training & Development launches GQA Level 3 Diploma in Installation of fire resistant doorsets
FDM – Training & Development (FDM), a leading fire door training provider, has launched its GQA Level 3 Diploma in Installation of Fire Resistant Doorsets. This vocational qualification certifies individuals as having the necessary skills and knowledge to install fire resistant doorsets safely and competently.
The 73-credit diploma has been developed with awarding body GQA Qualifications and construction training provider National Skills Centre. It comprises 11 core units, four optional units, and 226 guided learning hours — 159 more guided learning hours and up to 12 additional units than its closest competitor. It is the second of FDM’s “super series” qualifications, after it launched its Level 3 Diploma in Inspection of Fire Resistant Doorsets earlier this year.
The Fire Door Installation Diploma focuses on the required practical skills, knowledge, experience, and
behaviours (SKEB) needed for competent fire door installation, as well as guidance on ensuring installation meets legislative standards. Assessment content includes the processes to plan and carry out fire door installation, guidance for completing fire door installation checks and records, and the importance of Continuing Professional Development for fire door installers.
Candidates gain experience by installing six different fire-resistant door types, made of multiple materials including timber, composite, and steel; this is unique to this qualification, says the company. Learners are then assessed onsite to demonstrate practical implementation of this training, their SKEB, and their ongoing competence in a workplace environment.
Since launching in February 2024, FDM has educated more than 1,200 industry professionals from across the supply chain about fire door safety best practices,
bridging industry knowledge gaps. It has been recognised as a leader throughout the industry, says the company, winning Training Provider of the Year at the 2025 Fire & Security Matters Awards and Training Company of the Year at the 2024 National Fenestration Awards.
Nicola John, managing director of FDM – Training & Development, said: “We’re driving change with our robust and holistic training and assessments. Our ‘super series’ of Level 3 qualifications has been created by and for the construction industry, meeting their unique fire door safety needs by helping them become more competent and compliant. By bridging knowledge gaps for fire door installers, we’re raising safety standards for everyone.”
Martin Sadler, qualifications and product development manager at GQA Qualifications, said:”We’re continuing to shape the industry with the Level 3 Diploma in Fire Door Installation, providing a modernised approach to qualification delivery and assessment. We’re working to ensure the next generation of fire door installers are qualified, developing their ongoing competence journey, and demonstrating how they are meeting the requirements of the 2022 Building Safety Act: this qualification is a major step in that mission.”
Debra Green, business owner of National Skills Centre, noted: “With this qualification, we’re changing industry standards for installer competence. By being comprehensive and exploring both practical and legislative requirements of fire door installation, we are creating a safer, more knowledgeable construction workforce.” Register for the Level 3 Diploma in Installation of Fire Resistant Doorsets and FDM’s other accredited qualifications and courses here.
Nationwide proud to support Harrow’s Heroes event
Nationwide Windows & Doors says it is proud to confirm its support for Harrow’s Heroes 2025, a flagship community awards event organised by the London Borough of Harrow Council to honour the incredible individuals who go above and beyond to make a difference in the local area.
This year’s event will be especially meaningful as it coincides with the 60th anniversary of the borough, making it a milestone celebration of civic pride and community spirit.
As part of its ongoing commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility, Nationwide is pleased to contribute funding in support
of the event. This sponsorship will help the London Borough of Harrow Council deliver an evening that recognises and celebrates the outstanding efforts of local volunteers and community champions.
“We’re delighted to support Harrow’s Heroes 2025,” said Kevin Caveney, director of commercial sales at Nationwide Windows. “This initiative reflects the very best of community spirit, and it’s a privilege to be able to give something back to individuals who selflessly contribute to the wellbeing of others. Supporting this event aligns perfectly with our values and our commitment to
social responsibility.”
Organised annually by the London Borough of Harrow Council, Harrow’s Heroes recognises the work of volunteers, community champions, and unsung heroes from across the borough. The evening includes a drinks reception, dinner, and an awards presentation, serving as a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to the volunteers who make Harrow a better place to live.
The event is attended by residents, local volunteers, the mayor of Harrow, local politicians, and senior community figures such as the borough commander, ensuring the contributions of award winners are acknowledged at the highest levels.
Kevin added: “We commend the London Borough of Harrow Council for organising such an impactful event, and we offer our congratulations to all those being recognised this year. We’re proud to play a small part in helping honour those who help build stronger communities.”
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