Windows Active - January 2026 Issue

JANUARY 2026

MAKE 2026 THE

YEAR OF GROWTH Designed for Deceuninck fabricators and installers, our Business Kit equips you with everything you need to accelerate growth and make 2026 your most successful year yet.

FREE Leads Dedicated Subsites on 3 Websites Installer Lead Dashboard Media Centre Product Configurator Energy Savings Calculator Award Winning Marketing Award Winning Products Brochures, Images, Videos, VR Tours NEW Colour Configurator

For More Information

Scan the QR Code

01249 816 969

deceuninck.ltd@deceuninck.com

Stanier Road, Porte Marsh, Calne, Wiltshire, SN11 9PX

Powered By

.

january 2026 | contents | 1

CONTENTS

JANUARY 2026

DIRECTOR OF THE MONTH

GETTING IN CONTACT

32

“We need to be looking ahead, identifying opportunities and supporting our customers in accessing them through new product development - even if they’re not obviously needed today.”

EDITORIAL John Cowie Editor - Head of Online Content E: john.cowie@windowsactive.co.uk Jennie Shoglen - Graphic Designer Emma McCormack - Sub-Editor

Keith White MD of Aluplast UK

ADVERTISING SALES Steve Gravestock Sales Director Tel: 07990 671901 E: steve.gravestock@windowsactive.co.uk

HARDWARE ACTIVE SPECIAL

Our first visit of the year to look at the hardware segment of the market. The supplement kicks off with the latest views from Justin Harris, Managing Director of Winkhaus in the UK.

Donna Crockatt Publishing & Sales Executive Tel: 07919 448809 E: donna@windowsactive.co.uk PRODUCTION AND CIRCULATION Tel: 07919 448809 E: production@windowsactive.co.uk WINDOWS ACTIVE is published by: Active Magazines Limited PO Box 627 Rickmansworth Herts, WD3 0BQ

VEKA CELEBRATES 40 YEARS OF UK MANUFACTURING AND SECTOR PARTNERSHIP

4

PVC-U systems manufacturer VEKA is celebrating its 40th anniversary, marking four decades of growth, practical innovation and long-standing partnerships across the fenestration industry. Key milestones in the company’s history include the launch of the Matrix system in 1995, the expansion into Fully Reversible and Vertical Sliders and Composite Door systems in 2008, and more recently, the introduction of digital tools WinDoPlan and VEKA Edge, BUILD A BETTER BUSINESS WITH MFT IN 2026

SUCCEEDING IN A HIGHLY COMPETITIVE MARKET

FENSA’S FREE RECYCLING CHANGES EVERYTHING

ISSN No: 1746-6663

44

46

For much of the sector’s history, recycling has been viewed as a necessary inconvenience. Waste is removed, skips are hired, and materials are disposed of quickly so projects can move on.

www.windowsactive.com

x.com/windowsactive

62

While demand in the window and door sector remains resilient, competition across the supply chain is intensifying.

Lee Darcy, Sales and Marketing Manager at Heritage Trade Frames, reflects on how focusing on the fundamentals can help businesses stand out and deliver long-term value to their customers.

2026 marks a pivotal time for Made for Tade as it fully launches not one, but two, flagship Korniche products set to redefine the market.

Online at: www.windowactive.com X: @windowsactive Instagram: windowsactive

81

instagram.com/windowsactive

GLIDE21

THE NEW FRAMELESS SLIDING DOOR SYSTEM

Minimal sightlines. Maximum glass. Exclusively at Arkay. sales@arkaywindows.com | 01923 803 923

Exclusively at Arkay Windows

GLIDE21 FRAMELESS ALUMINIUM SLIDING DOOR SYSTEM

A truly minimalist sliding system with a fully concealed outer frame and flushfinished sash, Glide21 disappears into the architecture - leaving nothing but the view.

Engineered for sleek, contemporary projects, the central interlock is just 21mm wide and achieves a barely-there visible frame.

Each panel can reach up to 3m x 3m, effortlessly handling expansive glazed elevations.

WHY GLIDE21?

• Non-bonded glazing system • Premium minimalist design at a commercially viable price point • Double Glazed U Values 1.30 W/m2K • Available in double and triple track • Frameless finish with hidden frame and sash • Ultra-slim 21mm interlock for the narrowest possible sightlines • 3m × 3m sash capability, perfect for panoramic sliding openings • Exclusive to Arkay Windows, not available anywhere else in the UK

sales@arkaywindows.com | 01923 803 923

www.arkaywindows.com

Get in touch

W 2 | editors comment | january 2026

EDITOR’S COMMENT YOUNG, SKILLED AND OVERLOOKED

A

s the traditional university route loses its shine for a growing number of young people, the trades are emerging as an unexpected beneficiary. In a recent article for The Times, employment editor Jane Hamilton reported that teenagers disillusioned with the cost and uncertain returns of higher education are increasingly opting to learn trades, choosing work readiness and resilience over lecture halls and student debt.

This quiet but significant cultural shift presents an opportunity for industries like fenestration, where a chronic skills shortage has become a structural weakness. With the sector crying out for fresh talent, the rise of ‘non-traditional’ career paths among school leavers could mark a pivotal moment. But the path forward is far from frictionless.

Today’s young workers are, in many ways, rewriting the narrative their parents followed. Where previous generations chased white-collar professions, their children are learning to sell, to install, to build, with a clear-eyed understanding of the financial and practical benefits of trade work. Door-to-door sales during gap years, apprenticeships in skilled sectors, and hands-on training are forming a new rite of passage into the world of work.

Yet while the interest is shifting, systemic barriers remain.

The UK’s current tax, national insurance regime and apprenticeship complexities offer little incentive to employers to bring on younger staff, limiting the scale at which this momentum can be converted into real opportunities.

For fenestration, an industry both highly specialised and in urgent need of new recruits, the battle for young workers is intensifying. Not only must it compete with other trades for attention, but it must also overcome long-standing perceptions of what the sector represents. “There have been far too many young people sold the idea of ‘uni’ only to leave in debt with a pointless degree,” one industry voice observed.

“This country desperately needs skilled tradespeople... To do this needs a reversal of the outdated class system and young people being made aware of the significant financial benefits available through trade knowledge.”

The challenge, then, is twofold: changing the image of fenestration and ensuring the infrastructure is in place to support entry-level talent. Apprenticeships remain a key route, but access to them is uneven and often insufficient to meet demand. As one commentator put it, “The availability of suitable apprenticeship schemes is limited... certainly something that needs to be looked into further.”

Even where apprenticeships exist, concerns remain about

www.windowsactive.com

quality. The erosion of once-revered training schemes such as the old HNCs and HNDs is seen by some as a dilution of standards. “Modern day apprenticeships and qualifications are not valid (in my opinion) and lack substance,” said another industry veteran.

The urgency to fill the gap is only magnified by the looming presence of automation. At CES 2026, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang warned of the arrival of the “AI immigrant”—a new wave of humanoid robots designed to take on manufacturing tasks increasingly shunned by human workers.

While AI may promise efficiency, it raises existential questions about the future of hands-on labour and the value placed on human expertise. In sectors like fenestration, where precision and adaptability remain crucial, the role of skilled labour is not so easily replaced. But the pressure to automate could reduce the incentive to invest in human talent just as a new generation begins to show interest.

Some within the industry are responding proactively. Mark Handley, from Building Our Skills, reported that last year alone, he reached nearly 4,000 students to promote fenestration careers, with close to 190 taking up apprenticeships as a result. “Throughout this year we are holding more Careers Festivals,” Handley said. “We need to continue growing the support and commitment from our industry... and offering entry-level opportunities for these amazing students that are pushing for a career and a place in fenestration.”

But outreach alone may not be enough. There are concerns that recruitment remains too insular, prioritising experience over potential. One newer entrant to the sector highlighted this tension: “There’s a massive skills gap and yet I constantly see news of people being recruited from inside the industry... How do we expect to solve the skills gap if we’re not recruiting from outside?” This perspective raises an uncomfortable question: is the sector unintentionally gatekeeping its own growth?

The fenestration industry faces a critical moment. A generation of young people is reassessing its options. Interest in skilled trades is growing. But unless the industry, supported by policymakers, can lower entry barriers, improve training schemes, and shift recruitment mindsets, this interest may never convert into impact. For fenestration, the choice is clear: modernise or miss out.

John Cowie Editor E: john.cowie@windowsactive.co.uk

x.com/windowsactive

instagram.com/windowsactive

Premium doors deserve Premium Hardware NEW Premium Bifold Door Handle Where sleek design meets uncompromising performance.

High-grade 316 stainless steel BS EN 1670 Grade 5 and BS EN 1906 Grade 2 tested 10-year finish and performance guarantee Satin Stainless Steel and Satin Black finishes Exclusive to Stellar Aluminum

Call: 0845 300 9356

stellaraluminium.co.uk A brand of Epwin Window Systems

4 | news | january 2026

Veka celebrates 40 years of UK manufacturing and sector partnership

P

VC-U systems manufacturer VEKA is celebrating its 40th anniversary, marking four decades of growth, practical innovation and long-standing partnerships across the fenestration industry. Key milestones in the company’s history include the launch of the Matrix system in 1995, the expansion into Fully Reversible and Vertical Sliders and Composite Door systems in 2008, and more recently, the introduction of digital tools WinDoPlan and VEKA Edge, which provide customers with specification data, technical content and marketing support.

In 2024, VEKA also launched OMNIA, the UK’s only a double-flush, doublerebated system available as a complete suite, while other recent innovations including Feinstruktur and Softline 82 have contributed to VEKA’s continued focus on innovation in PVC-U systems.

VEKA is using the anniversary to celebrate its long-standing partnerships with fabricators, installers and specifiers, who have supported and championed the development of VEKAs window systems, colour strategy and technical support

services. It’s this true partnership and collaboration with its partners that helps ensure VEKA’s extensive product range continues to reflect evolving expectations around design and fabrication efficiency, as well as the required product performance standards.

The company is also reflecting on its ongoing investment into people and skills, having continually invested into apprenticeships and structured development programmes to support the next generation of fenestration professionals.

Since opening its Burnley site in 1986, VEKA is now, and continues to be, a reliable, stable and reputable PVC-U systems

provider, supported by the global strength of the VEKA Group who continue to expand and develop to strengthen their global, expansive portfolio Neil Evans, Managing Director for VEKA, said: “When you look back over VEKA’s 40 years in the UK, what stands out isn’t just the milestones – it’s the people and partnerships behind them. From day one, we’ve focused on supporting customers with reliable systems, consistent service and long-term stability, because responsible progress and doing things the right way have always been at the heart of VEKA. As the industry continues to evolve, that commitment won’t change. It’s what has brought us here, and it’s what will shape the years ahead.”

Framexpress aluminium sales reach £1mn milestone in inaugural full year

F

ramexpress has reported its aluminium range has exceeded £1 million in sales in its first full year of operation, marking a significant milestone in the company’s long-term investment in Ali by Framexpress. Launched in 2024, the aluminium range has grown rapidly as more installers look to diversify their portfolios and offer higher specification products to homeowners, commercial clients and developers. The business attributes the early momentum to a combination of reliable fabrication, a higher spec as standard across the range and consistent On-Time, In-Full delivery.

Jonny Green, Principal Product Manager at Framexpress, explains: “Reaching the £1 million mark so quickly confirms what we are seeing across the industry. Installers are ready to do more with aluminium when the offer feels straightforward, well supported

and built around how they work day-today. The response to the range has been incredibly positive, and we are now focused on strengthening it even further for 2026.”

The Ali by Framexpress CLUB of products includes aluminium casement and flush windows, heritage windows and doors, entrance doors, patio doors, bifold doors, rooflights, roof lanterns and commercial

doors. The past year has also seen several additions and refinements rolled out across the range, including built-in trickle vents, heritage door options and the introduction of a triple track patio system.

Jonny added, “Installers want aluminium that arrives ready to fit, performs exactly as expected and helps them stand out on every project. That is what has driven the early success of the range. We’re seeing more existing PVC-U customers introduce aluminium for the first time, and others using it to grow their share of higher-value work.”

The business says demand for aluminium is expected to rise further in 2026, driven by homeowner appetite for slimmer sightlines, long-term durability and higher specification upgrades. Framexpress will continue expanding the aluminium collection in the year ahead.

BY NAM E AN D

BY DESIGN

Finished in Monmouth Green

Introducing our new, and highly anticipated, I CO N I K bifold door system.

Packed full of engineering innovation and contemporary design inspiration, and proudly boasting the slimmest bifold sightlines on the market.

Scan to discover more

FEATURES Ultra-slim 87mm interlock sightline 1.3 U-value (double) without foam Same outerframe creates single & double doors Shared parts for reduced stockholding QuiKClip® Bead for faster installation

6 | news | january 2026

Inwido acquires Victorian House Window Group in £60mn deal

I

nwido has acquired Victorian House Window Group, a highly profitable company known for its well reputed brands ECOSlide® and Victorian Sliders®. Entering its 20th year in the window industry, the company is the largest manufacturer and supplier of PVC-U sliding sash windows in the UK. Victorian House Window Group employs 300 people and generates sales of around GBP 33 million, with profitability above the Inwido average. The company is headquartered in Ammanford, Wales, and operates depots and sales locations across the UK and Ireland as well as a hardware manufacturing site in Foshan, China.

The production facility in Wales is vertically integrated with all manufacturing processes in-house, including extrusion, cutting, glazing, assembly, and recycling. The company is uniquely committed to the circular economy, operating its own recycling process. Sourced PVC is recycled and extruded on-site, achieving approx. 30% recycled input material in the window frames. The factory produces more than 1,750 windows every week with capacity to almost double the volume.

The sash window market in the UK is expected to grow due to pent-up demand in the installed base and relaxation of planning restrictions, allowing PVC-U windows to replace timber windows.

With its product portfolio, the company is

also well positioned to enter new market segments such as Private New Build and Housing Associations, as well as additional geographies.

“The acquisition of Victorian House Window Group fits well with Inwido’s acquisition strategy and offers attractive growth prospects and synergies”, says Fredrik Meuller, President and CEO of Inwido and continues: “I’m happy

to welcome the first facility within Inwido to have all operations under one roof, including its unique on-site PVC recycling for more sustainable products”.

Inwido acquires 100 percent of the shares in Victorian House Window Group for a purchase price of GBP 60 million on a cash- and debt-free basis. The shares are acquired from the majority owner, equity investor BGF, and other shareholders.

SRS8 expands fenestration portfolio with acquisition of BJ Waller

S

RS8, the parent company of leading fenestration hardware distributor Window Ware, is thrilled to announce a significant expansion to its portfolio with the acquisition of specialist ironmongery distributor, BJ Waller.

This strategic investment marks a pivotal moment for both companies, forging a powerful new partnership in the UK’s fenestration supply sector. The move strengthens SRS8’s commitment to expand its service capability ensuring greater stability, choice, and dedicated support for customers across the entire fenestration landscape - from PVC-U and aluminum to the rapidly expanding timber joinery market.

This acquisition is a carefully considered investment that provides BJ Waller with the infrastructure, scale and strategic backing of a larger group, while maintaining the specialist expertise customers rely on.

Crucially, BJ Waller’s commercial operations team will remain in place, guaranteeing

consistency and in-depth knowledge for the joinery sector.

Sam Nuckey, a shareholder of SRS8 and Managing Director of Window Ware, commented on the deal: “This investment

by SRS8 is a clear signal of our belief in the long-term strength of fenestration and the value that BJ Waller brings to the growing timber joinery sector. It’s about joining forces with specialist talent and invaluable market sector insight. This move allows us to further strengthen our infrastructure and provide a level of service and scale that will benefit customers and brand partners of both businesses, by significantly enhancing our collective market position and raising the standard of excellence and reliability across the whole industry.”

SRS8 is focused on bringing together established, high-quality businesses to create a resilient and forward-thinking alliance for the fenestration industry. The addition of BJ Waller aligns perfectly with this long-term vision.

40 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE.

UNLOCK WITH VEKA

With 40 years of British manufacturing and the backing of the global VEKA Group, VEKA UK supports installers with experience-led PVCu window and door systems.

The VEKA Installer Programme is free to join, giving access to marketing support, branded materials and practical tools to help gro installer businesses and build homeo ner confidence.

Unlock more with VEKA today

VEKA.CO.UK

8 | news | january 2026

Whiteline launches apprenticeship scheme to support future of workforce

A

s the fenestration industry grapples with critical skills shortages, Whiteline is expanding its investment in homegrown talent. One of Eastbourne’s largest employers since the 1980s, the company is officially launching its apprenticeship programme in January 2026 with two Level 2 Fenestration Fabricator apprentices.

The timing couldn’t be more crucial.

With 61% of manufacturing companies experiencing shortages in traditional skills such as fabrication and welding, and the post-Brexit labour market having lost over 300,000 workers, the industry faces a talent crisis, prompting today’s government to pledge £725m for 50,000 new apprenticeships. Meanwhile, young people are reconsidering their options: 25% of A-level students now plan to take apprenticeships rather than university, up from just 15% in 2022.

The financial reality is stark. University graduates leave with an average debt of £53,000, whilst apprentices earn from day one with no debt burden. Whiteline’s scheme recognises this shift, offering 18-month placements where apprentices

master every aspect of fenestration manufacturing and operation.

“From cutting profile to welding, cleaning and inspection, our apprentices will work across every element of aluminium and PVC-U production,” explains Paul Cuttell, Operations Director. Having started his

own career as an apprentice before rising to senior positions at global manufacturing companies, Paul Cuttell understands the transformative power of workplace training.

“They’ll gain hands-on experience with systems from our supply partners such as Liniar, Sheerline and ALUK, fabricating everything from bay windows to Grand Designs style lift and slide doors.”

The concept was proven in 2025 when the scheme was piloted, and Harry Hyatt completed a marketing apprenticeship, transitioning into a permanent role within the Whiteline Group marketing team.

Following this success, the company is now expanding the programme across more of its operations, demonstrating its commitment to developing talent across the business and to investing in Eastbourne’s local economy.

In an industry facing a projected £120 billion STEM skills gap by 2030, Whiteline isn’t just fabricating the south’s finest windows & doors: it’s helping build a bright future, one apprentice at a time.

Tel: 01323 723 724 E: enquiries@whiteline.co.uk

Strong fabricator backing for AluK’s newly launched Iconik bi-fold system

W

hen AluK launched its new IconiK bifold at the back end of 2025, it promised customers a new way to defend themselves from the damaging race to the bottom on price and win strong margin business in bifolds. Unsurprisingly, the response from customers to that message and the product itself has been hugely positive, with seven fabricators signing up to fabricate the new door within the first month.

Amongst those is Southend based AluTec which is busy extending its showroom to accommodate a sample of the new IconiK. Alu-Tec’s Director Phil Bates said: “We’re excited to be introducing this product to our trade customers. We are confident that having this alternative bifold option will open up their sales to homeowners, and with the easier installation features provided by AluK, it will be another tick on our customers’ lists of product musts!

“Following our own launch of the product, our sales reps have had positive feedback so far from the customers they have visited, with many particularly liking the slimmer sightlines and larger glazing areas available. We have already made our first IconiK door ready to be installed into the showroom extension, and the production team have endorsed the fabrication process as well, saying the

product is just as easy to manufacture as the current BSF70 bifold door.”

As well as Alu-Tec, AluK fabricator Rhino, which has started offering the IconiK door from its HQ in Broadstairs, Kent, is calling it a ‘Game changing product’ and Midori Aluminium, based in Leicester, is marketing it with the tagline ‘Engineered for Excellence.’

It is just the response AluK was hoping for and as the second phase of the IconiK rollout gets underway, there is another raft of customers ready to start fabricating.

Russell Yates, AluK’s MD said: “We previewed the IconiK at the FIT Show and the feedback we got was that this is exactly what customers are looking for to distance their bifold offering from the commodity end of the market and move away from

the pile ‘em high, sell ‘em cheap strategy which benefits no one. The door has all the premium design features needed to justify its price tag, but crucially it is cost effective to manufacture and fit, so it’s a win-win for both fabricators and installers. We couldn’t be happier with the launch so far.”

In fabrication terms, the IconiK minimises stockholding. The same outerframe is used for both double and single doors and just the sash changes for either the IconiK Standard or IconiK Slim, and there is just one gasket and one extendable keep and lock system for all the configurations.

For installers, the IconiK comes with AluK’s hugely popular Quik Clip™ glazing bead as standard which saves valuable time on every installation, and it features a wide range of sub-cills which make it easy to install in almost any property. It boasts impressive thermal performance – all achieved without any requirement for insulating foams and with all PVC eliminated from the product, ensuring true cradle-to-cradle recyclability. Double glazed using Ug 1.0 W/m²K glass, the IconiK achieves U-Values of 1.3W/m²K and triple glazed it achieves U-Values of just 1.0W/m²K. AluK is offering the IconiK in both open in and open out configurations and with maximum 2400 x 1200 panel sizes.

Cortizo Infinity

10 0 % R ECYC L E D POST- CONSUM ER ALUM I NI UM , MA NU FACTU RE D IN OUR OWN FOUND RIES

BUREAU VERITAS certification

OVE R 3 0 YE ARS RECYCLI NG ALUM I NI UM

OVER 40 YEARS OF QUALITY AND SERVICE The AWARD WINNING leading manufacturer Order online with KwikQuote Product & glass in 1 drop Dedicated customer service

Marketing & sales support

YOUR TRUSTED trade partner

NEW KORNICHE Roof Lantern

CORTIZO 4700 Sliding Door featuring KORNICHE TECHNOLOGY

KORN Flat G

KORNICHE Bi-fold Door

Contact us for a Kwikquote today! madefortrade.co sales@madefortrade.co 01642 610799

2022 WINNER

Best Roofing System or Product

NICHE Glass

Glass Partition Ultimate Aluminium Internal Glazing System The Korniche Glass Partition gives you more than just room separation. It’s a design feature, and a practical solution that delivers the perfect balance of beauty and functionality.

Key features: Heritage aesthetics with multiple configurations 1500 x 2000, french door, black with black hardware, glazed.

Delivered from only

£1235 +VAT*

Pre-assembled frames crafted from ultra-slim, durable 6063 T-5 aluminium and finished in RAL 9005 matt black Korniche SpeedBead technology for fast, secure fitting of glass and aluminium panels Toughened or acoustic laminated glass options or aluminium kick-plates.

Matching handles, hinge accent caps and escutcheons - available in a choice of colours and finishes.

Domestic or commercial use 10 year Manufacturer’s Warranty ISO9001 Quality Manufacture

KORNICHE FlatLiteTM

Get MORE for LESS today!

FIRST ORDER DISCOUNT! * Discount applies to all new trade customers and is applied to the first, single item purchase of a Korniche product or Cortizo 4700 Sliding Door | Uni-blind glass delivered separately | Door price based on a Trade RRP for a french door 1500 x 2000, black with black hardware, glazed | PAS:24, only when fitted with laminated glass classified under BS EN 356:2000 Class P1A | Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or discounts | Prices are correct at point of publishing and may be subject to change | Delivery restrictions apply.

12 | news | january 2026

Wigan fabricator reports growth year after full Rehau transition

A

fter over 20 years in business, Orrell Windows decided to change profile house. Over a year on, their new partnership with Rehau has produced impressive results.

Orrell’s exceptional personalised sales approach has been key to its decades-long growth, with in-showroom chats and tours helping its team identify customer aims and how their products can help – a level of attention-to-detail they saw mirrored in Rehau.

Switching profile house made sense to Chris Swift, Orrell’s Operations Manager.

“We’d worked with our previous supplier for a while, but something was missing. By contrast, our customers already know the Rehau brand’s quality and reputation – they sell themselves, which makes my life easier!

“Regardless, we were apprehensive about switching and had questions about the onboarding process,” added Chris.

“Honestly, we had excuses ready for delaying the project, including how recommissioning our machines would impact our factory setup. But then we met the Rehau team.”

Trisha Naik, North West Area Sales Manager for Rehau, spoke with Orrell Windows about what the company could offer. “Opening conversations with Orrell were very ‘open book’ – we discussed their growth goals, and what success would look like,” she explained. “This made

the onboarding process seamless – we understood their concerns and provided peace-of-mind, running the team through our process step-by-step.”

“Switching was simple,” said Chris. “Their technicians were fantastic, carrying out tooling surveys and managing the factory shutdown and changeover. It was truly a flawless transition.”

Trisha also introduced the Orrell team to Rehau’s Authorised Partner (AP) Programme. “Orrell’s listing as an AP allows customers to search for them on our database,” she said. “Consequently, they’ve seen more business leads come in.

As an AP, Orrell now also work closely with our technical team to ensure regulatory compliance, so homeowners can trust the high-quality products are being used and fitted and correctly.

“Orrell decided to stock the entire Rehau range – including accessories such as Yale hardware, trickle vents and steels – to expand product availability. They’ve moved from a multi-supplier model to solely receiving Rehau components, cutting down excessive order time.”

As Chris explains, becoming an AP and sole Rehau stockist has positively impacted Orrell’s growth targets and wider team.

“The industry is forever changing with new trends and colours emerging – you’ve got to diversify to be successful. Rehau makes the difference here – their product range keeps us competitive and simplifies ordering. With clear product lead times, I know exactly when components will be delivered.”

He added: “Since becoming an AP, we’ve also received excellent marketing support from Rehau. It’s the little things – stickers on vans, uniforms for staff – that make a big difference. It reinforces that we’re a trusted fabricator working with a reputable supplier, giving homeowners peace-of-mind.”

“I’m proud of what we do, from our quality products to our factory’s output. But in the past year, it’s like Rehau has given us an extra boost. I remember when we made our first Rehau window – I was blown away by the quality. My advice to fabricators looking to switch? Don’t hesitate. If you’re in this industry and care about product quality, make the change. You won’t regret it.”

A defining feature of Sobinco’s strategy is its unusually high level of vertical integration. All key processes are handled in-house, from product development and zinc die-casting to plastic injection moulding, surface treatment, assembly and logistics. For customers, the benefit is consistency, short lead times and flexibility – attributes that are increasingly valuable as window and door manufacturers seek to streamline supply chains while still offering differentiated products.

The company has also invested heavily in private-label solutions, allowing system houses to market hardware under their own brand without committing capital to complex production infrastructure. This approach, Sobinco argues, helps customers

strengthen their market position while focusing on sales and system development rather than manufacturing risk.

Product simplification is another priority.

Its recently launched Cosmo window hardware system reduces the number of components by around 50% compared with conventional solutions, cutting complexity in storage, logistics and installation while still covering everything from basic applications to certified security variants.

Sustainability has been built into the expanded campus. More than 3,400 photovoltaic panels, heat pumps, LED lighting and intelligent rainwater management have reduced energy consumption by over 26% since commissioning. Environmental Product Declarations add transparency around the ecological footprint of Sobinco’s hardware.

Amid cost pressures, skills shortages and tighter regulations, Sobinco is focusing on financial stability, technical expertise and close partnerships. For system suppliers seeking long-term reliability over shortterm price competition, this approach is likely to resonate.

Sobinco boosts vertical integration with Zulte campus expansion

A

fter six decades as a familyowned manufacturer, Sobinco is highlighting its long-term ambitions with a major expansion of its Zulte headquarters, emphasizing the strategic role of vertically integrated suppliers in the aluminium windows and doors market.nium windows and doors market.

The Belgian group, owned by the Van Parys family, has nearly doubled its production and administrative centre from 29,000 to 51,000 sq metres, bringing development, manufacturing, logistics and customer-facing functions onto a single campus. The move reflects a broader shift among system suppliers and manufacturers towards fewer partners, deeper collaboration and tighter control over quality and delivery.

From its base in Zulte, Sobinco has built a strong position in the Benelux and is accelerating exports across Europe and Asia.

More than 550 employees now work across the Belgian headquarters and its sister company STA in Maia, giving the group the scale to serve both high-volume and specialist customers.

TRUE BLUE

Azura and Azura+ roof glass are crafted from an authentic body-tinted blue glass substrate, offering a depth and consistency that truly set them apart.

The calming blue tones remain beautifully stable in all lighting conditions and from every angle, ensuring a premium look that enhances any conservatory, orangery or roof light - when viewed from both inside and out.

For lasting performance and customer satisfaction, choose Saint-Gobain Azura Blue glass for your roof glazing.

Contact:

uk.marketing@saint-gobain.com for brochures and samples.

saint-gobain-glass.co.uk

14 | news | january 2026

Haffner celebrates 100 years at the forefront of fabrication technology

T

he 1st January, 2026 marks the centenary of Haffner Germany, the world-leading manufacturer of PVC-U and aluminium fabrication technology. Dave Thomas, CEO and founder of Haffner Ltd, said: “Haffner machines have transformed the way windows and doors are manufactured, driving productivity, quality and efficiency for fabricators around the globe. Reaching 100 years is not only a celebration of our heritage, but a reminder of how our machinery continues to set the benchmark for the industry.”

Founded in 1926 in Pforzheim, Germany, by Gotthold Haffner, the company began producing precision woodworking machines and has since become a global leader in fenestration technology. Today it is best known for its SBA profile machining centres, with the latest SBA-4 PVC-U Profile Machining Centre combining decades of automated expertise with exceptional cutting and machining performance.

Haffner’s impact on fabrication efficiency is also demonstrated by its welding technology. The SMR-4 Four Head Welder eliminates corner-weld misalignment by automatically aligning corners and transoms, removing the need for a highly skilled operator and significantly reducing costly remakes. Alongside it, the SMR5 Five Head Welding Machine allows a single operative to weld twice as many frames compared to a standard quad welder, transforming productivity and profitability on the shop floor. Haffner’s KT

Assembly Tables further enhance workflow by bringing multiple assembly processes together in a single, efficient workstation.

Haffner Ltd has been part of the Haffner story for more than 35 of the 100 years, and the company has always continued the track record of excellence set by its German counterparts. It has won two G Awards for Machinery Supplier of the Year and secured two NFA Awards for Machinery Company of the Year. Dave said: “Our multiple awards reflect our commitment to delivering machinery, technical expertise and long-

term partnerships that help fabricators scale with confidence.”

Dave concluded: “As we celebrate this important milestone, we’re not just reflecting on the past, we’re looking firmly ahead. Haffner’s legacy is built on precision machinery design, but its future is about enabling fabricators to compete and grow in an evolving market. Celebrating 100 years is a proud moment for us all and we’re committed to ensuring the next century has just as much impact on the industry as the last.”

UAP marks a transformative year

U

AP Group Limited (UAP), the Burybased door hardware specialist, is marking a transformative year defined by strategic growth, product innovation and industry recognition, following its acquisition in August by leading global security products and solutions provider Allegion plc.

The acquisition represents a significant milestone in UAP’s journey. UAP will report into the Allegion International segment, strengthening Allegion’s presence in the region, complementing Allegion UK’s nonresidential portfolio there and expanding solutions offered to the companies’ combined customers.

Alongside this, UAP continued to invest in product innovation throughout 2025, launching several new products, including a door closer range for residential, commercial and public environments, the Bullet Door Chain, and Kinetica Freezeguard 3-star euro cylinder range, the industry’s first to achieve BSI Kitemark TS007 1:2024 certification and PAS24:2022+A1:2024 and Secured by Design accreditation.

UAP’s commitment to innovation, culture and performance was recognised

across the industry in 2025, including a double win at the National Fenestration Awards for Best Use of Video and New Product of the Year for Kinetica Freezeguard.

The business also picked up a double win at the Locksmith Awards, where the company was namedHardware Company of the Year and Marketing Director Kamila Kasperowicz received Director of the Year.

Throughout the year, UAP also strengthened its team across the board,

with a focus on strengthening its senior leadership, technical functions as well as sales team positions.

David Jennings, CEO of UAP Ltd, said: “2025 has been a defining year for UAP, thanks to our people’s dedication and expertise. Joining Allegion gives us the scale to grow, but our focus remains the same – investing in our team, developing innovative products, and driving progress for our customers and the industry.”

Solid Core Composite Doors

GRP Composite Doors

PVC-U Panels

Q-Mark Fire Doors

COMPLETE DOOR SUPPLY

Hurst Doors has delivered market leading door solutions for 30 years and is a supplier of choice for installers nationwide. As a leading UK manufacturer of solid core and GRP composite doors, PVC-U panels, and certified fire doors, we provide quality you can rely on, from one trusted partner.

For pricing and product information call us on 01482 790790 or register for a trade account at hurstlive.co.uk

YOU’RE HOME WITH HURST

16 | news | january 2026

Emplas secures £68mn tenders as lead generation strategy strengthens

T

he Commercial Window Group has delivered more than £68m of tenders to member installers in its first 12-months of operation, despite still tough new build trading conditions. Set up as a new build partnership between Emplas and regional commercial installation specialists, the Commercial Window Group is a unique proposition, combining national manufacture and supply with regional delivery.

Part of Emplas’ customer lead generation strategy, as well as delivering approaching £70m of tenders to customers, the Group is working with 9 out of 10 of the UK’s largest housebuilders, as well as smaller regional developers.

Jody Vincent, Sales Director, Emplas said: “The Commercial Window Group works with regional and smaller housebuilders.

It’s a key benefit that our installation partners bring detailed regional knowledge to installations.

Expert local installation, when combined with national supply, also resonates with

housebuilders. They can access standard specifications and supply and combine that with local delivery by a regional expert.

Taken together it’s a model which is clearly working for the new build sector - and our installer customers.”

He was speaking at Commercial Window Group partner event held at the Glass

& Glazing Federation’s London offices.

The event featured updates on the UK economy from economists from HSBC, which highlighted continuing economic headwinds, plus presentations on forecasts for the new build sector, technical and regulatory updates, and new product developments.

Why the High Street still matters for today’s installation companies

W

hile many installation companies continue to prioritise digital channels, Upminster-based installer Ken Rhodes is making the case for the continued power of the high street—especially as homeowners grow more cautious in the current economic climate.

The business, founded in 1985 by Scottish carpenter Ken Rhodes Snr, remains rooted in its original high street location. Now run by his son and namesake, the company has gradually evolved its product range and marketing approach to reflect shifting customer expectations. Despite the modest frontage, the firm operates with the same entrepreneurial drive that has long defined the UK’s independent window and door sector.

A key part of that evolution has been the introduction of the Gerda steel and aluminium entrance door range—installed as a full working sample in the showroom.

According to Ken Rhodes, the decision was driven by growing demand for demonstrable security and premium build quality: “When Pioneer introduced the Gerda door to us, we knew it was something a bit special,” he said. “Security remains a real

concern for many of our customers, so it’s reassuring to have a product that can demonstrate high levels of secure locking that the more premium householder is seeking.”

The timing is significant. Ken reports that leads are currently down by around 30%, and the typical sales cycle has extended from 28 days to 35. Homeowners, he argues, are increasingly selective: “The typical customer today is less keen to take on any significant debt and is increasingly stringent in choosing quality when making a significant purchase.”

In response, the business has adopted a more proactive marketing strategy. This

includes data reactivation work, such as a recent SMS trial on 500 existing customers that generated seven appointments—a modest but welcome return at a time when every lead counts.

Ken adds that brand recognition remains a valuable driver, praising Pioneer’s support and the upcoming TV campaign for Gerda.

He also believes the wider industry has lost some of the visibility once generated by national players: “The loss of some of the larger multinationals has probably affected the public perception of products as a whole— the millions that were once pumped into nationwide advertising is no longer there.

The onus on us being more proactive has definitely increased.”

Alongside retail installations, the company continues to service local commercial work, recently completing four Gerda door installations on a new-build development that required non-standard widths.

“Gerda fits that bill of being something a bit alternative, without compromising on aesthetics, nor whacking up the price,” Ken said. “It’s the perfect door brand to help us through the tougher months.”

flat skylight

STRIKING FROM EVERY ANGLE A NEW low profile flat skylight engineered for fast, easy installation.

Contact us today for a quote 01200 452904 orders@stratus.co.uk

18 | news | january 2026

Sheerline welcomes Marlin Windows as new aluminium fabricator partner

M

arlin Windows has become one of the latest fabricators to start supplying Sheerline’s innovative range of aluminium windows, doors and roof-related products.

The Keighley-based family-run company wanted to expand its product range to give customers more choice and greater flexibility.

Adrian Martin, Marlin’s Managing Director, said: “Marlin chose Sheerline because of the impressive range of innovative aluminium glazing products, and with the added benefit of being easier to fabricate, this ultimately makes the Sheerline system a more cost-effective solution for our customers.”

Cost-efficiency and performance This cost-efficiency is the result of Sheerline’s clever system designs.

The modular components require less machining and are easier to assemble, plus the shared profiles reduce inventory and the need for stockholding.

But these aren’t the only benefits that appealed to the team at Marlin Windows: “What we’re most excited about is the innovative up-to-date products that are fully developed to easily cope with the latest thermal, ventilation, and security compliance challenges.”

“Plus, the fact Sheerline actively works

on continued improvements to further enhance the systems and fabricating methods, and it’s a friendly, forwardthinking company that is easily accessible at all times,” he added.

Supplying the full Sheerline range The company is currently supplying the full Sheerline range including Classic, Prestige, the S1 Roof Lantern, and the latest Flat Roof System from Sheerline Bespoke.

Adrian explained: “We chose these products as they fit perfectly with the many requests we receive from customers who require cutting-edge thermal performance together with unmatched aesthetic appeal.”

Marlin Windows is committed to adding new innovations as and when they’re launched, including the S3, for which the company is an official launch partner.

Adrian said: “We are currently developing our showroom to build an S3 structure that will be approximately 6m wide with a 4m projection – it’ll be large and almost at the maximum size it can currently be made to!”

Showroom experience and customer support At its base in Keighley, West Yorkshire, Marlin Windows has a modern showroom designed to provide an immersive experience so homeowners can understand what can be realistically achieved with

aluminium glazing systems.

The company prides itself on offering tailored support to every customer as they do not employ salespeople – all visitors are looked after by an experienced technical advisor who can fully understand the project requirements.

When asked to sum up his experience of Sheerline so far, Adrian said: “Sheerline are genuinely interested in what they do, and they do it extremely well. It has been a great start and we are building on this to ultimately provide our valued customers with even more choice and also to enhance the visitor experience in our newly developed showroom.”

Howard Hirst, Sheerline Area Sales Director (North), said: “It’s great news Marlin Windows have decided to join Sheerline!

Aside from sharing the same core values, we’re impressed by the calibre of projects the team consistently work on around the whole of the UK. This collaboration will provide a real opportunity to highlight how versatile our award-winning products are.”

To speak to the Sheerline team about becoming a fabricator, call 01332 978000 or email info@sheerline.com.

Alternatively, find more information about Marlin Windows by visiting the website: https://marlinwindows.co.uk, call the team on 01535 603909, or email sales@ marlinwindows.co.uk.

However our prices aren’t inflated so you’ll save £100’s with our Insurance Backed Guarantees!

01604 654 156 sales@hip.insure

HIP’s market leading IBG’s will save your company money and give your customers fully compliant cover.

From only £7.75* per policy, the HIP scheme is the most simple and cost effective in the market.

We even do all the admin.

Free to join We do the admin Simple to use For instant cover, please visit www.hip.insure or call 01604 654 156 now! * Inclusive of IPT - Insurance Premium Tax (12%).

3 Quick and easy steps to instant cover: Get in touch

Sign up to our scheme

Customers Protected

MAKE 2026 THE

YEAR OF GROWTH Designed for Deceuninck fabricators and installers, our Business Kit equips you with everything you need to accelerate growth and make 2026 your most successful year yet.

FREE Leads

Energy Savings Calculator

Dedicated Subsites on 3 Websites

Award Winning Marketing

Installer Lead Dashboard

Award Winning Products

Media Centre

Brochures, Images, Videos, VR Tours

Product Configurator

NEW Colour Configurator

For More Information

Scan the QR Code

Get Started Today!

01249 816 969

deceuninck.ltd@deceuninck.com

Stanier Road, Porte Marsh, Calne, Wiltshire, SN11 9PX

Powered By

22 | news | january 2026

Young Fife joiners celebrate success after completing apprenticeships

N

ine young apprentices from across Fife are preparing to take their next step in the world of work after successfully completing joinery training with Dunfermline-based home improvement specialist CR Smith. The Scotland-wide company – which employs nearly 500 people from Glasgow, Inverness, and Aberdeen to Cowdenbeath – has long championed skills development for young people, and said the new recruits had shown ‘incredible dedication’ to their training, not only in the workshop and on-site, but in developing the communication and professionalism needed to work directly with customers.

The group includes seven apprentices – Kayla Peden 20, Rosyth; Kyle Sung, 21, Dunfermline; Reece Bradley 18, Kirkcaldy; Ewan McMillan, 20, Dunfermline; Matthew Siddell, 18, Aberdour; Martins Zulps, 18, Kirkcaldy; and Jamie Ross, 26, from Cardenden – who have completed a coveted City & Guilds SCQF Level 6 Diploma in Site Carpentry. Cameron McDonald, 29, and Jack Smith, 24, both from Leven have also completed a traditional four-year apprenticeship and are now fully qualified time-served joiners.

All nine will now join the CR Smith domestic and commercial installation teams across Scotland. The programmes were delivered in partnership with Fife College, combining hands-on site experience with structured technical learning and mentoring.

Crucially, however, CR Smith said its apprenticeship model placed just as much emphasis on customer service and the importance of our brand as on joinery itself.

The graduation also highlights the

long-standing commitment CR Smith has to developing talent from within – and to investing in more than just technical ability.

Kayla, who was inspired to become a joiner after a teacher introduced her to woodwork at school, said: “I’d never known joinery was an option for girls.

It’s been a lot of hard work, but I’ve learned so much about joinery, and also how to carry yourself professionally, represent the company in the right way, and make the experience as enjoyable and straightforward for customers as possible. We’ll be carrying out work in people’s homes across the country, and need to be able to explain what we’re

doing. We’re taught that interaction and communication with customers is just as important as the joinery skills we learn, and I’m proud to work for a company that holds values like that. I know it’s something I’ll carry with me throughout my career.

“There’s no reason more girls can’t get into joinery, they just need to see it as an option. I’d love it if young girls saw what I’ve been able to do, and then tried it themselves. It’s a great job.”

Ian Macfarlane, Managing Director at CR Smith, said: “Our apprentices are vital to the future of CR Smith. From day one, they’re taught that attitude, reliability, and how you communicate with customers matter just as much as joinery skills. We’re proud to see how far they’ve come – they’ve embraced our values and are already making a real impact. Our reputation is built on quality and people, and these young tradespeople are proof that our investment in both continues to deliver.”

Frazer Walker, Head of School for Engineering, Construction and Technical Skills at Fife College, added: “Our long-standing partnership with CR Smithprovides students with invaluable real-world experience while they complete their studies, ensuring they develop both the technical skills and professionalism needed in the industry.

We are incredibly proud of these students and look forward to seeing them succeed in their careers.”

The apprentices will continue to hone their craft in the CR Smith dedicated training workshop, where they’ll receive ongoing support, development, and mentoring as they progress.

ODL Europe’s new in-house paint plant puts colour quality, consistency and accuracy under one roof.

• Hard-wearing polyurethane system offering superior finish and longlasting durability.

• 10-year guarantee on painted doors; 5-year on stained finishes.

• Faster turnaround times and improved efficiency to meet demand.

• Colour warranty backed directly by ODL Europe for greater confidence.

• Any RAL colour plus premium shades and TrueGrain wood effects.

Painted. Prepped. Ready to sell.

For more information call 0151 933 0299 or visit www.odleurope.com

24 | news | january 2026

Entrance Composite Door Solutions commits to quality-led growth in 2026

L

eading composite door manufacturer Entrance Composite Door Solutions has outlined its strategic vision for 2026, emphasising quality and installer partnership over price-led competition as the sector navigates evolving regulatory demands and ongoing market uncertainty.

Despite fiscal pressures affecting the housing market, the company reports continued strong demand from homeowners investing in high-specification entrance doors that deliver energy efficiency, security and improved kerb appeal.

“The composite door sector remains resilient, but we’re seeing a clear divide emerging between manufacturers committed to genuine value and those chasing volume through price cuts,” says Gregory Kelly, Managing Director at Entrance CDS. “Our focus is unambiguous – we’re backing quality, compliance and the installer partners who depend on us to deliver consistently excellent products.”

With the Future Homes Standard driving stricter building regulations, Gregory emphasises that Part L and Part Q compliance has moved from

competitive advantage to essential baseline.

“These aren’t selling points anymore – they’re minimum standards,” he says.

“Manufacturers who’ve been treating them seriously for years will naturally separate from competitors still positioning compliance as a premium feature.”

The company’s commitment to security compliance is evidenced by its industryleading product range – Entrance CDS now offers the widest range of doors tested to Part Q and PAS24, including single doors, double doors and stable doors, giving installers comprehensive specification options across all project types.

Entrance CDS’s 2026 strategy centres on controlled expansion of its product portfolio while maintaining the manufacturing standards that have built installer confidence across its network. The company is continuing investment in design tooling, operational infrastructure and workforce development.

“Uncertain markets reward businesses that demonstrate stability and genuine partner support,” Gregory adds. “Our installer network needs to know we’ll be there with quality products, technical backing and operational consistency –

not just marketing promises. That’s what builds lasting relationships and sustainable growth.

“We’re not interested in short-term gains at the expense of long-term reputation.

Quality manufacturing, regulatory rigour and absolute reliability for our partners – that’s our commitment for 2026 and beyond.” www.entranceway.co.uk

Bamboo Façades partners with Stellar Aluminium for fabrication boost

B

amboo Façades has entered a three-year partnership with Stellar Aluminium Systems, marking a major shift in the company’s approach to commercial aluminium window and door supply.

Previously outsourcing its aluminium fenestration requirements, Bamboo Façades has pivoted to direct in-house fabrication to maintain tighter control of quality, project certainty and installation performance. The new agreement supports the company’s move into an additional 6,500 sq ft fabrication facility in Runcorn, situated near to its existing operational site.

Managing Director of Bamboo Façades, Mark Austin, who previously worked for Stellar Aluminium, said the decision was a natural evolution for the business. He commented: “We know the Stellar system inside out and it’s incredibly straightforward to fabricate and easy to install. The fully flush windows are particularly efficient as there’s no requirement to prep through the beads, which significantly speeds up fabrication and improves consistency on the shop floor. By bringing aluminium fabrication under our own roof, we’re removing variables, increasing efficiency and ensuring our commercial projects

benefit from the highest level of technical precision every single time.”

With an extensive track record in delivering complex commercial projects, Bamboo Façades selected Stellar Aluminium for the reliability of its supply chain and the responsiveness of its service. Mark added: “A major reason for choosing Stellar is the fact that their lead times and service levels are miles ahead of other aluminium system suppliers. Being able to place an order and have material delivered the following week, without delays or shortages, is a massive advantage. It means we have more time in

the design phase which is often the biggest bottleneck in a construction programme.

With other aluminium systems, materials need to be ordered months in advance, often at an early design stage, which can introduce unnecessary risk. Stellar gives us far greater flexibility and programme certainty.”

Bamboo Façades has already secured a flagship commercial new build and heritage refurbishment project where more than 200 Stellar aluminium windows and doors will be manufactured and installed over the coming months.

Mark said: “This partnership enhances our ability to collaborate seamlessly with clients, consultants and contractors.

It strengthens supply chain resilience, improves cost certainty and ultimately drives better project outcomes.”

Joe Leeming, Key Account Manager at Stellar Aluminium, commented: “We’re delighted to welcome Bamboo Façades as a fabrication partner. Their technical expertise, commercial capability and commitment to high-quality delivery make them an excellent ambassador for the Stellar brand. We look forward to supporting their continued expansion as demand for Stellar in the commercial sector grows.”

SETTING STANDARDS ONE MOMENT AT A TIME

Since opening in Burnley in 1986, VEKA’s story has been shaped by moments of investment, innovation and growth. As a UK manufacturer of PVCu window and door systems, each milestone – from new technologies to major site developments – reflects our commitment to steady, purposeful progress.

VEKA.CO.UK

40 YEARS OF DEFINING MOMENTS

When you look back over 40 years, what stands out isn’t just the milestones – it’s the people and partnerships behind them. VEKA has always been built on steady, responsible progress, and on doing things the right way for our customers and our team. As the industry continues to evolve, that approach won’t change. It’s what has brought us here, and it’s what will shape the years ahead. NEIL EVANS, VEKA MANAGING DIRECTOR

As part of the VEKA Group, with operations in over 40 countries, we draw on global expertise and long-term stability that continue to support VEKA UK’s evolution. For 40 years, these moments have strengthened our capability and deepened our partnerships across the UK and Ireland.

Matrix – 1995: The launch of Matrix marked a move toward integrated system thinking. Rather than individual profiles designed in isolation, Matrix introduced consistent components to support smoother fabrication, simpler stock management and greater design flexibility.

1986 The beginning of VEKA UK Burnley facility was opened. VEKA profile brought to UK market.

OMNIA 2024: 2019 The launch of Imagine Vertical Slider and SPECTRAL

2011: The acquisition of the Halo brand

Portfolio Expansion - 2008: The introduction of the Fully Reversible Window, Vertical Slider and Composite Door Systems broadened VEKA’s portfolio and reflected our commitment to supporting a wide range of market sectors, from heritage properties to high-rise and new-build projects.

2014: VEKA launched the next generation Imagine bi-fold door; the UK’s first Bi-fold to achieve BSI kitemark standards.

The UK’s only double flush, double rebated system offering a complete suite, OMNIA provides defined thermal and acoustic performance, with U-values as low as 0.75 W/m²K and compliance with applicable 2025 Building Regulations.

2020 – WinDoPlan:

2025: Feinstruktur

VEKA launched WinDoplan, a digital planning and tendering tool changing how their customers specify commercial projects.

Launched Feinstruktur, a durable PVCu foil designed to mirror the look of powder coated aluminium.

PARTNERSHIPS THAT HAVE SHAPED 40 YEARS – AND THE FUTURE VEKA’s evolution has always been driven by dialogue. From long-standing fabricators who have been with us since the early Burnley days, to newer partners looking for consistent supply and technical support, every relationship has helped shape our systems, services and strategic decisions.

Fabricator partners VEKA’s fabricators are central to our strength, with long-standing and new relationships helping guide system development, colour strategy and the technical support we provide.

Installers Installers remain a key part of VEKA’s network. Over the past decade, VEKA has developed structured programmes offering tools, marketing assets, technical guidance

2025: Softline 82 Passivhaus

2025: NSHEVs

and access to the VEKA Edge hub, with the 2014 Approved Installer Scheme evolving into the refreshed 2025 VEKA Installer Programme.

Independent Network, established in 1996, continues to support installers focused on quality workmanship and customer service, backed by a recognised national brand and insurance-supported guarantees.

“For over 20 years, Direct Trade and VEKA have shared a partnership built on trust, quality and shared values. Our decision to secure another 10-year agreement in 2025 shows our confidence in VEKA, their people and the future we’re creating together.

Congratulations to VEKA on 40 years - we’re proud to stand with them as a long-term partner.”

MARK POWELL, Sales Director, Direct Trade (Yorkshire) Ltd

2025: VEKA Edge Represents the next stage of our digital innovation customer portal that brings together marketing materials, technical documents, product updates, campaigns and digital assets in one place.

Designed around partner feedback, it gives our partners the tools they need to work more efficiently, promote products confidently and access up-to-date resources whenever they need them.

“We switched to System 10 over 32 years ago, impressed by its market-leading innovation, and VEKA’s seamless 2011 acquisition only strengthened the system and expectations. Being part of the VEKA family gives real confidence. OMNIA has been a major success, positioning VEKA as the UK’s leading Flush Sash supplier, and their partner events continue to strengthen industry collaboration. We look forward to building on our longstanding partnership.

Well done to the VEKA team.”

MARK CATCHPOLE, Sales Director, SWC Trade Frames Ltd

“Listers and VEKA have been working together for over 8 years, and it’s been a pleasure partnering with such a forward-thinking and proactive supplier. The new OMNIA system is a breath of fresh air and has given us a real edge with a full suite of double flush windows and doors. Keep up the great work, VEKA.” PAUL TRANTER, Sales Director, Listers “VEKA’s quality and reliability have been central to our success, but it’s their continual investment and drive to improve that truly sets them apart. VEKA works hard behind the scenes to support Precision and to push our industry forward. Their people genuinely care about our business, and that personal commitment makes this partnership unique.

We’re proud to celebrate this milestone with them.”

EWAN HUNTER, Sales Director, Precision Windows & Doors Ltd “For 25 years, Glazerite has partnered with VEKA, and the loyalty within our installer network remains strong. Their innovation, product quality and technical support have been central to our success. Congratulations to VEKA on 40 years of growth and excellence, which has helped businesses like ours succeed.”

ROBERT BREARLEY, Group Managing Director, The Glazerite Group UK Ltd

JOIN THE VEKA INSTALLER PROGRAMME It’s free, it’s packed with value, and it’s built just for installers.

PEOPLE WHO SHAPE EVERY MOMENT VEKA’s strength has always come from its people.

Many colleagues have spent decades at the Burnley site, bringing experience that underpins the product quality, operational reliability and service our partners rely on.

QUALITY & PERFORMANCE RFORMAN

IT

PE

C

D S E C UR

VE

AN

RO

CE

2 4 APP D

EN

H

Across the UK, VEKA windows and doors installed 30–40 years ago are still in service - a testament to material quality, manufacturing control, and best-practice installation.

Y

S PA

Performance metrics Across the VEKA systems, U-values as low as 0.75 W/m²K can be achieved with triple glazing. Systems undergo testing for air permeability, water tightness, wind resistance, acoustic performance and durability under recognised standards.

Certificates & Standards

E

For VEKA, quality isn’t a single action - it’s a continuous, layered process embedded into every stage of manufacturing, testing and long-term support.

GARRY POWELL VEKA Lab Technician

Recycling & sustainability Since 2007, VEKA Recycling has supported closed-loop PVCu recycling in the UK. Today: Around

95%

of PVC-U waste is recycled

Approximately

60%

re-enters the market

Recent investments in new silos and feed systems have expanded capacity to over 300 tonnes.

BE A PART OF WHAT COMES NEXT Start your journey with VEKA VEKA plc Farrington Road, Rossendale Road Ind. Est. Burnley, Lancashire BB11 5DA

VEKA.CO.UK

VEKA has been a major part of my life for four decades. I’ve taken great pride in seeing the business grow into what it is today. It’s always felt like a large family, which is why I’ve stayed so long.

Tel: 01282 716611 salesenquiry@veka.com veka.co.uk

Service consistency for 40 Years VEKA’s service model brings together the expertise of: • Technical Service Engineers across the UK & Ireland • An experienced in-house technical team • 98%+ OTIF over the last 12 months • The VEKA Edge hub for marketing and technical content • WinDoPlan for U-values, CAD files and compliance documents • Dedicated customer service teams and structured account management

january 2026 | news | 25

Coastal Group celebrates one million BLU® products sold worldwide

D

oor and window hardware manufacturer Coastal Group has surpassed a major milestone with more than one million BLU brand products sold since the range launched in 2013.

The achievement reflects over a decade of consistent growth for the company’s flagship collection of premium-quality door and window hardware.

The BLU range, which includes door handles, door furniture and window furniture, is manufactured exclusively from high quality stainless steel to ensure long-term durability, corrosion resistance and performance in even the harshest environments.

Its reputation for reliability has made BLU a preferred choice for joiners, door manufacturers, window installers and specifiers across the UK and internationally.

“Reaching one million units is a testament to the quality of the BLU brand and the trust our customers place in it,”

said Coastal Group’s Managing Director, Loren Jenner. “Our focus from day one has been to design hardware that not only looks exceptional but stands the test of time. This milestone reinforces that commitment.”

Since its introduction, the BLU range has expanded significantly from iconic pull handles to new product designs, finishes and technical enhancements including lever door handles, traditional door knockers and letter plates.

The range continues to support a wide variety of residential and commercial projects, from coastal homes to high-traffic public buildings.

The Coastal Group team came together at its annual company

meeting in Cornwall to celebrate and achievement and mark the milestone.

“This is the perfect opportunity to reflect on the part the whole company has played in BLU’s success,” continued Loren Jenner.

“Huge thanks to the teams across product development, manufacturing, distribution, sales, marketing and customer support over the past decade. Coastal Group would also like to thank its customers for their continued support and valuable feedback, which have played a vital role in shaping the BLU range and driving its success over the past decade.”

Looking ahead, Coastal Group is already working on the next phase of BLU, with several new products in development and scheduled to launch in 2026. Building on a decade of proven performance, the forthcoming additions will continue to focus on durability, corrosion resistance and design consistency, reinforcing BLU’s position as a trusted choice for demanding door and window applications.

process integration.

Dean Hodges, Sales Director at Forterro, commented: “The new brand identity sends a clear message: we are no longer operating as a standalone company, but as part of a unified organisation with shared resources and a clear vision.”

Bernd Hillbrands, founder of Orgadata and Head of the windows and doors business unit within Forterro added: “For all our customers, this means combining our deep industry expertise with Forterro’s international strength. This allows us to accelerate

investment in cloud technologies, expand support structures and develop solutions that simplify processes, grow alongside the business and ensure long-term competitiveness.”

The business unit’s strategic direction aligns with Forterro’s goal of providing comprehensive software support to small and medium-sized companies in manufacturing and skilled trades. With the successful acquisitions of both BM Group and Orgadata, Forterro has significantly strengthened its position in the windows, doors and facades segment. Under the Forterro umbrella, innovation is set to progress more rapidly, synergies will be leveraged and customers across different markets will be supported in a more targeted way. The transition to the new branding applies to BM Group’s entire product portfolio. All existing customer relationships and support structures remain in place. In this context, the Forterro brand stands for continuity and reliability, as well as a clear commitment to supporting companies in advancing their digital processes in a successful and self-directed way.

BM Group to operate as Forterro

B

M Group, the UK fenestration industry software, data and web specialist, best known for products like Evolution, Evonet and Logikal, will operate under the Forterro name going forward and present all its digital software solutions within a unified brand identity. Having become part of the international software provider Forterro at the start of 2025, this step makes the BM Group’s affiliation with Forterro clearly visible and underlines the shared strategic direction.

The BM Group switch aligns with that of Orgadata, the Germany-based developer of Logikal, which was also acquired by Forterro last year. Both the BM Group and Orgadata product portfolios are being brought together under the Forterro brand to create clarity and consolidate the company’s strengths for the benefit of customers and partners.

Established solutions such as Logikal, Evolution and Evonet, together with additional Forterro offerings, now form an integrated portfolio that supports companies digitally across their entire value chain – from planning and costing through to production and

26 | news | january 2026

Why Birmingham City Council chose the Winkhaus autoLock AV4

Fit it and forget it: Why Birmingham City Council and Shelforce chose the Winkhaus autoLock AV4 As Europe’s largest landlord, Birmingham City Council, and its manufacturing partner Shelforce began reviewing their door specifications, the focus was not just on performance or compliance, but on people.

As Business Manager of Shelforce, Howard Trotter oversees the manufacture of all doors and windows for the Council’s 58,000 properties. His ethos is grounded in ethics, inclusivity, and value over time. “Our customers are ultimately the tenants,” he explains. “Their safety, comfort, and ability to use the product easily are at the heart of every decision we make.”

An ethical approach to specification Part of Birmingham City Council since the 1950s, Shelforce is more than a manufacturing unit, social value has been the heartbeat of their 186-year history. Many of its team members are themselves tenants of social housing, giving the organisation a unique empathy for the end user. “We put ourselves in the tenant’s position,” says Howard. “If you make a fire door, you know people must be safe behind it. If you make a front door, it should be easy to operate for everyone, regardless of age or ability.”

High performance as standard That philosophy underpins Shelforce’s decision to make the Winkhaus autoLock AV4 its standard specification for composite doors. “For us, it is about integrity and doing the right thing,” Howard continues. “If there is a product that performs better, lasts longer, and makes life easier for our tenants, why wouldn’t we use it?”

Low force, high impact The AV4’s defining advantage is its exceptionally low operating force. Unlike many multipoint locking systems that can require considerable effort to engage

or release, the AV4’s design allows users to open doors smoothly and easily. This seemingly small feature has a big impact across Birmingham’s diverse housing stock.

“Many of our tenants are older people or have disabilities,” Howard explains. “If you have arthritis or limited strength, turning a key or even pushing down a stiff handle can be difficult. The AV4 lets you open the door with a much smaller amount of force, and that makes an enormous difference to daily life.”

This user-friendly performance reflects Shelforce’s broader mission of innovation through diversity, not just among people but in the products they choose. Every element of a door is assessed for how it performs across the full demographic, ensuring accessibility and independence for all residents.

Built to last, designed to reduce callbacks Ease of operation is only one part of the equation. The AV4’s robust engineering also delivers significant lifecycle advantages for housing providers. With doors facing heavy daily use from mobility scooters, prams, and environmental exposure, reliability is crucial.

“Doors take a lot of abuse,” says Howard.

“You have got warm, humid interiors, cold exteriors, and constant changes in temperature. The AV4 is more forgiving, it tolerates movement, knocks, and installation variances much better than most. That means fewer problems down the line.”

Every call-out represents a cost, both in money and tenant satisfaction. By choosing

hardware that resists jamming, sticking, or misalignment, Shelforce and Birmingham City Council are reducing not only shortterm repair costs, but also the long-term total cost of ownership.

“It is about lifecycle value,” Howard explains. “If you do not have to go back to fix or adjust, that is a saving straight away. The cheapest product is not the cheapest if you have to keep maintaining it.”

Supporting a £10 billion housing investment Over the next decade, Birmingham City Council plans to invest around £10 billion improving its housing stock and aims to ensure that every decision, represents a wise investment in quality, safety, and longevity.

For Howard, that starts with specifying the best available products, not simply the lowestcost options. “We are not in a race to the bottom,” he says.

“Our goal is to fit it and forget it.

A door that works first time and keeps working for years builds trust, and that is vital in social housing today.”

A door that reflects Shelforce’s values From its roots supporting visually impaired workers in the 19th century to its recent King’s Award for Enterprise, Shelforce has always balanced social purpose with commercial excellence. Its adoption of the autoLock AV4 is another step in that tradition, choosing innovation that improves lives, cuts costs, and upholds the ethical standards that define the organisation.

“It is simple,” concludes Howard. “If you do the right thing, for the tenant, for the installer, for the council, the results speak for themselves.”

What does your business deserve in 2026?

Everything.

We don’t just supply integral blinds...

Quotes in 60 minutes Dual sealed units Manufacturing excellence Reliable and efficient Delivered in 10-12 working days* Free delivery to the UK Professional after sales service

We deliver complete, made-to-order units with best-in-class tech, fastest lead times, and a support team that actually picks up the phone.

When you work with a team who truly knows this industry inside out, the year ahead runs smoother, faster, and with far fewer headaches.

*Delivery in 10-12 working days when you meet our order cut-off.

If you need service that works as hard as you do, we’re ready when you are.

SCAN THE QR CODE to find out more

T 0113 277 8722

E sales@morleyglass.co.uk

28 | news | january 2026

6 out of 10 windows are white in 2025

T

he 2025 Annual Colour Trends Survey, from software pioneers Tommy Trinder once again underlines the growing importance of colour; only 62% of windows are white.

Analysis of 584,000 PVC-U casements quoted by around 700 of the country’s leading installation firms in 2025, suggests that whilst smooth white continues to dominate, installers are being called upon to offer an increasingly diverse colour palette.

Grey remains the go-to alternative, but with nuance - Grey, in its many variations, continues to be the most popular alternative. Anthracite remains the standout non-white finish at 10%, reaffirming its position as the modern classic.

However, Agate Grey (4%) and a further 4% spread across other grey tones show that demand is now distributed across multiple shades rather than centred on a single option.

Together, greys account for close to one in five PVC-U windows quoted - a clear signal that contemporary, muted tones are now firmly embedded in homeowner preferences.

“Homeowners are no longer just choosing ‘grey’,” says Tommy Trinder CEO Chris Brunsdon. “They’re choosing which grey works best for their home - and that nuance is reshaping the market.”

A broader palette gains ground - Beyond grey, the data paints a picture of a market that is increasingly confident with foil finishes. White Grain (4%) continues to appeal to homeowners seeking texture without straying too far from tradition, whilst Black has edged up to 3%, reflecting its growing use in contemporary and design-led projects. Cream (2%) retains a foothold, and Chartwell Green (1%) continues to perform steadily as a heritage-inspired option.

Elsewhere, a long tail of niche colours - from subtle greens to bolder statements - each account for small volumes individually but collectively underline just how far the industry has moved beyond a limited standard range.

Woodgrains: selective rather than standard - Woodgrains are no longer the default alternative they once were, but they have not disappeared. Rosewood (4%) remains the clear leader, while oak finishes (Golden, Amaranth, English, Irish, Natural, Coriander, Cinnamon etc.) continue to tick upwards in modest but consistent volumes. The absence of once-popular options such as Mahogany reinforces how tastes have evolved towards more natural finishes.

Choice brings opportunity - and complexity - With such a wide range of colours now in play, installers face both an opportunity and a challenge. Offering choice can be a powerful differentiator, but only if customers can clearly visualise the end result. Says Chris: “Installers tell us that being able to show exactly how a window will look - in the chosen colour, in elevation and on the actual house - has become an essential part of the sales process. Photorealistic visualisation removes uncertainty, builds confidence and helps avoid costly misunderstandings later in the process.”

Stronger.

Lighter.

Smarter.

30 | news | january 2026

Frank Bruno announced as guest speaker for GGF Members Day 2026

T

he Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) has announced that British boxing legend and mental health advocate Frank Bruno MBE will be the headline guest speaker at GGF Members Day 2026, taking place on Thursday 12th March.

Returning for another year of connection, celebration, and industry insight, this year’s Members’ Day puts GGF members firmly in the spotlight recognising the achievements, progress, and collaboration that continue to drive the sector forward.

Hosted at the iconic Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, the event will bring the industry together for an afternoon packed with networking opportunities, inspiring sessions, and exclusive behind-the-scenes tours. Members can expect a lively mix of speakers and panel discussions designed to spark ideas and set businesses up for a strong start to 2026. Additional speakers and programme details will be announced over the coming weeks.

The highlight of the day will be a keynote from Frank Bruno, one of Britain’s most recognisable sporting figures. Known for his exceptional boxing career, world-class determination, and powerful advocacy work around mental health, Frank will

share stories from the ring, reflections on resilience, and practical insights into maintaining mental wellbeing in highpressure environments.

As the industry prepares for another year of change and opportunity, Frank’s message of focus, discipline, and courage is set to resonate strongly with attendees.

The celebrations continue into the evening, with a live band, dancing, and NFLstyle stadium food rounding off a perfect blend of work and play.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Frank

Bruno to Members Day 2026,” said Lauren Mawford, GGF Head of Commercial and Operations. “His incredible journey, combined with his dedication to mental health awareness, will give our members a truly memorable and uplifting experience.

“This year’s event is all about coming together as a community and setting the tone for a positive, productive year ahead.”

For more information about the GGF and how it can support your business’ growth, please visit www.ggf.org.uk or call 0207 939 9100.

Insight Data’s Salestracker logs 1.6 million page views in 2025

I

nsight Data has marked a major milestone in 2025, with its Salestracker CRM platform logging more than 1.6 million company page views over the year.

With 800 active users, this averages 2,076 company pages per user, demonstrating the growing reliance on accurate, live business intelligence across the UK construction and fenestration sectors.

Salestracker holds detailed company profiles, giving users access to verified decision-maker contacts, full business descriptions, credit information and product or sector-specific data. Insight Data’s research team maintains the records through thousands of verification calls each month, ensuring users can trust the information when targeting prospects or assessing risk.

The platform also includes an integrated view of credit scores, county court judgements and financial health, presented with a traffic-light risk system to aid prioritisation. Map-based tools allow users to plot prospects geographically, plan routes and visualise concentrations of potential customers. Lead management features enable tasks, reminders and follow-ups to be tracked, while campaign tools support

email marketing and performance reporting directly from the platform. Its responsive design ensures users can access these tools seamlessly on mobile devices.

Salestracker serves a wide spectrum of professionals. Sales and marketing staff will use it to generate leads and target the right companies efficiently. Finance teams rely on the platform to monitor credit risk, while managing directors and senior leaders use it to track market trends, competitor activity and sector developments. All users draw on the same trusted data to support growth, manage risk and make informed decisions

“This milestone highlights the value professionals place on accurate, up-to-date business intelligence,” said Alex Tremlett, Insight Data’s Commercial Director.

“Salestracker allows users across roles to act with confidence, make better decisions and focus efforts where they have the greatest impact.”

Salestracker continues to establish itself as a vital tool for UK businesses seeking insight, clarity and actionable intelligence in a fast-moving market. www.insightdata.co.uk

january 2026 | news | 31

DAWS announces £1.4m investment to power further growth in 2026

D

us what we believe is the fastest and most accurate machining centre in the country, allowing us to keep delivering the very finest quality products for our customers.”

The substantial investment package also includes additional manufacturing space and wider equipment upgrades, supporting DAWS’ continued expansion as the market shifts further toward residential aluminium products. With demand for aluminium rising and capacity increasing, DAWS is now firmly positioned for a standout year ahead.

“We have great plans for 2026,” added Cresswell. New products, enhanced marketing support, and exciting technological advancements will help our customers sell more, make more, and do it all with fewer headaches.”

This latest milestone underscores DAWS’ commitment to innovation, reliability, and world-class manufacturing — and sets the foundation for an extremely positive 2026.

AWS, one of the UK’s leading trade aluminium fabricators, has capped off 2025 with a bold statement of intent: a £1.4 million investment in new state-of-the-art machinery and expanded manufacturing space, designed to propel the business into a new era of scale, speed and capability.

At the centre of this investment is the company’s brand-new Schirmer Machining Centre, signed off in Gutersloh, Germany in November, following months of precision build work to DAWS’ exact specification.

The machine — believed to be one of the fastest and most accurate machining centres in the UK — arrived at DAWS’ Knowsley factory in December, where it is in the process of being reassembled, tested, and commissioned ahead of full production in January 2026.Sales Director Phill Cresswell commented: “Having the very latest stateof-the-art machinery on our shopfloor puts us in a place where we can continue to grow our reputation as the trade aluminium supplier you can rely on. This investment gives

Tel: 0151 374 2851 www.daws.co.uk

Burbage Custom Windows extends strategic partnership with Deceuninck

S

witching to Deceuninck at the start of 2022, Hinckley-based fabricator, Burbage Custom Windows (BCW) has never looked back. Gaining confidence in supply, price stability and steadfast support from the off, BCW’s recent decision to extend its partnership with the PVC-U systems house for another three years was not a difficult one.

“We’ve signed another three-year, fixed-term deal with Deceuninck, formalising our agreement until 2028,” says Dan Richards, Operations Manager at BCW. “It was an absolute no-brainer for us to stick with them, because we’ve seen so many positives since we’ve been working together,” he adds.

With both companies sharing a strong service ethic and forward-thinking approach, Deceuninck has been instrumental in enabling the fabricator to continue it strong growth trajectory in the e-commerce space.

Deceuninck’s expansive colour offer, consistent service, and broad product portfolio have played a key role in helping BCW scale its online sales platform to record levels, achieving an increase in annual online revenue of more than 20%. The mutually rewarding collaboration has helped BCW to forge ahead over the last three years, with 90% of its business now generated through

its online platform, www.modernupvcwindows.co.uk.

“We started talking to the team at Deceuninck during the COVID pandemic when there was a lot of uncertainty and issues with the supply of raw materials,” says Dan. “They were able to offer the stability we needed to advance the business, and we felt we could rely on them from the word ‘go’. We’re also very happy with their track record on things like sustainability, and the numerous service benefits they’ve brought to the table. Our relationship is continually evolving for the better.”

Backed by Deceuninck’s ongoing support with things like PAS 24 certification, product diversification and targeted marketing initiatives, BCW is perfectly positioned for

long-term, sustainable growth.

With a heritage spanning more than three decades, the family-run fabricator and installer manufactures the Deceuninck 2800 suite, selling energy efficient, high-performing window and door products to installers, tradespeople, and homeowners across the UK. An early adopter of Deceuninck’s British-designed and extruded Slider TT24 triple-track sliding patio door, the systems house provided full tooling, comprehensive training, and marketing support.

“The TT24 triple-track is a great addition to our range,” confirms Dan. “Deceuninck gave us a lot of assistance to get fabrication up and running, which was fantastic, and we’re really starting to reap the rewards now,” he adds.

Having more than doubled its total business revenue since the COVID period, 2025 is shaping up to be BCW’s biggest year on record, and Dan is optimistic about the future, despite wider market challenges.

“Our partnership with Deceuninck has enabled us to keep thriving at a time when industry volatility remains a concern for many window and door companies,” he says.

“Fixing our agreement for another three years provides us with the service, confidence and stability we need to build on that momentum and take BCW from strength to strength.”

32 | director of the month | january 2026

DIRECTOR OF THE MONTH In this month’s director of the month feature, we talk to Keith White, Managing Director of Aluplast UK

T

he last year [2025] was fairly challenging in anyone’s book because the market has been pretty flat. In a flat market, things are always more difficult, because it becomes more price sensitive and if you are looking to grow and the market is flat and not enabling growth, the only way you can achieve it is to take business from competitors.

In fact 2025 wasn’t such a terrible year.

Really all that’s happened is we’ve ended up back where we were in 2019, pre the covid hiatus. And for Aluplast a flatter market doesn’t create quite the same challenge as perhaps it does for some of our larger competitors.

We’ve continued to achieve far bigger growth - as we have done every year since we launched – in percentage terms than any of our competitors. We will continue to grow top and bottom line, this year [2026] That’s despite what I expect to be still challenging conditions over the next 12-months. I don’t personally believe the economy as a whole has a chance of seeing any growth in 2026.

The Government may claim to be committed to growth but it is doing nothing whatsoever to achieve that commitment and if I were real pessimist, I would say we might be heading towards recession.

I don’t think we are. I think things will be reasonably flat, just as they have in 25 over 24 and we’re in for more of the same this year.

For us [Aluplast], it’s different. I’m confident we’ll see further growth and are more focussed on achieving it than we ever have been. There’s been a lot of product development and new products that are either coming on stream or have come on stream, that we’re bringing into the marketplace that will assist our growth and that of our customers.

The people side is also important. We have great products that are manufactured

WORKING DAY I spend the largest part of my life at the office. My routine is I wake up at about six o’clock. I’m probably up by about 6.30.

Theresa and I talk about work straight away - it’s the first thing we do in the morning and the last thing we talk about at night.

We’ve worked together on and off throughout our married life, although if you visited the office, I’m not sure you’d know we were married. I work five days a week and I’m usually in for about 8.45.

Typically, my day comprises dealing with the problems that other people don’t want to deal with or can’t deal with as well as answering the phones!

to a very high-quality standard. I knew that at the outset. Our approach has really been about building a platform for high quality products that sell at sustainable and accessible price points.

But product is in a sense, a given. We’ve grown and will continue to grow because we’re a people organization. We’re small enough to be able to have a high level of senior contact with our customers, which maybe in a very big organization, is less easy to sustain.

We’ve also populated the team with people who have a lot of experience in this industry and the management team with people that either I’ve known or that I worked with in different businesses and who similarly have a lot of experience. That’s allowing us to move the market forward.

That’s our role as a systems company.

It’s our job to look forward and identify the product platforms that will generate opportunities for our fabricator and installer bases - even if they don’t know they actually need them, yet.

Colour is the perfect example. If you had told a fabricator 10-15 years ago that colour and finishes were going to be a fundamental part of their future they would have probably laughed at you. Now it’s an accepted part of their offers.

We need to be looking ahead, identifying opportunities and supporting our customers

in accessing them through new product development - even if they’re not obviously needed today.

We’ve been working to fill gaps that had existed in our product offer. Now we’ve done that it generates a really big opportunity for us because it removes a barrier to customer acquisition.

We’ve recognised what the market wants in terms of improvement and built those things into our product ranges - we haven’t just replicated what is there.

We have fabulous products that probably outperform pretty much anything else in the marketplace, and we’re creating huge demand right now, quietly and slowly, and we will build on that this year and beyond.

Tel: 01684 273401 E: info@aluplast.co.uk

WORKING LOCATION I have a separate office, but I have an open-door policy – so my door is open pretty much all of the time. People wander in, people wander out. I wander out and I wander in.

And, you know, we have a very open dialog in our office. A very, very open dialog. It’s one of our strengths.

january 2026 | director of the month | 33

FACTS & FIGURES First job: My first job was as a production engineer for a company that made beds! I did a lot of time and motion stuff. I’m not sure anyone talks about that anymore? While I didn’t enjoy it at the time, it put me in good stead for the rest of my working life because I’m good at spotting someone making themselves look busy when they aren’t being! My first job in the industry was for C&C Marshall, trade name Marshall-Tufflex, as a production engineer. They were and predominantly still are, a cable management company, but at the time they had launched their own PVC-U window system. This was right at the very beginnings of PVC-U window extrusion I the UK. In reality we had mixed success but it was a fantastic company to work for.

I then moved to a start up called Ravenscroft, which was ultimately acquired by Duraflex and I ‘got sold with it ‘as part of the joint venture, before moving to the Epwin Group and heading up its systems division.

When did you set up current company: I founded Aluplast UK in 2010, although I had had a relationship with aluplast since the 90s. It was about the timing being right. I wanted to set up my own systems business and to work with a highly innovative partner who had long term aspirations for the UK. Most useful/favourite gadget: People often say mobile phones.

I actually hate mobile phones and they’re not a gadget anymore, they’re essential for running your business. . . I don’t know - a corkscrew!

Favourite/most useful website: For my entire adult life, my hobby or interests have been focussed on cars. My favourite website is racecarsdirect.co.uk. I like to spend time looking at cars that I’d like to own but can’t afford to buy.

Favourite restaurant for business: We tend to travel to see customers, so I eat out I lots of different restaurants with lots of different customers. We always go with their recommendations so I’m not sure I can say I have a ‘favourite’.

Business person you admire: John Austin - he was the MD and then the chairman of Marshalls CNC. He had a very serene style.

There was no flap or panic about him. He seemed to glide in and around the company. He talked to everybody every day. He would spend a third of his day simply saying hello to people and having a little chat. And I hugely admired that. He was very people orientated.

He gave me a chance. He didn’t need to.

What lesson have you learnt about business over the last 12 months: I don’t think anything stands out. The challenges we faced in business over the last 12-months are not new. They’re the same sort of challenges that we have faced before, or other people before us will have faced, and we will again. What goes around, comes around.

Best business decision: To start a business and to work for myself.

I did that relatively late in life. And if I’ve got any regrets (I have very, very few regrets in life), it would be not doing what I did 15 years ago, 35 years ago.

Other interests: It’s motorsport. I won the European Classic Formula Two Atlantic Championship in Misano in October. It’s effectively a Class B Formula Two championship for classic racing cars. I’m going to step up to the top category for 2026. We’re keeping the same chassis but it will be reconfigured as the 772 with a more powerful Cosworth engine in it.

LIFETIME Guarantee

EFFORTLESS ELEGANCE: LIFT & SLIDE HANDLE Looking for a handle that adds value and style?

Coastal’s KM7 lift and slide handle delivers smooth operation and premium durability, ensuring it stands up to the demands of modern living.

Available in three sophisticated finishes

Satin Stainless Steel

PVD Stainless Satin Brass

Matt Black Lacquered

For door and window manufacturers and installers who value quality, aesthetics, and reliability, the KM7 is the ultimate choice.

Scan the QR code to learn more

www.coastal-group.com

34 | active voices | january 2026

ACTIVE VOICES Ian Clayton, Interim MD at Reynaers Aluminium UK : Ian forecasts that performance standards and technical support will be vital in 2026 as the industry starts to rebound

W

hile challenges remain in the construction industry, 2026 offers renewed optimism with a pledge from the Building Safety Regulator to speed up approvals on plans brought to a halt under the gateway system.

What we desperately need to see is movement across the whole of the construction industry, and while Government support may have been conspicuous by its absence in the Autumn Budget, the pledge to progress projects stalled by the wait for Gateway 2 approval could provide the prime pump the commercial sector needs. Glenigan is now forecasting an eight per cent rise in project starts, which is a very welcome uplift from where forecasts have been.

In addition, the cut in interest rates and easing of mortgage rates supports buyer affordability and cautious development opportunities, with smaller phased schemes and urban regeneration being the focus in the short term while the market gradually recovers.

While any real growth areas are in more niche sectors, there is a growing demand for office space as workers increasingly head back to the office with hybrid-working becoming the new post-covid normal. In addition, Labour’s pledge to build 1.5 million new homes will require a focus on high-rise living from a practical point of view.

Key aspects For Reynaers, these aspects of the commercial market are key – our curtain walling range offers the high aesthetic, high performance qualities that these projects demand, and, of course, under the Building Safety Act, performance standards with supporting test data are vital. In 2025, we launched our industry-leading Vision 7 Thermal Commercial Entrance Door which will see continued developments in 2026 enhancing its suitability for a wide range of commercial applications. Our ever-expanding range of windows, doors and sliding door ranges also provide a premium offering which complements our range for both commercial applications as well as Grand Designs-style properties.

With one of the biggest libraries of test standards for aluminium door, window and façade systems in the UK we have the foundations in place to meet and exceed the need to demonstrate performance under the Building Safety Act. Already the procurement landscape is shifting and the ability to test, and evidence data backed by competent technical support will be a driving factor for many fenestration and facade companies in the commercial

sector – with the expectation that these standards will be replicated in the residential sector.

By its nature the fenestration industry is performance driven, with requirements for air, wind, water, security and thermal efficiency targets already expected. What we will see is greater scrutiny on structural performance, installation, competency, and data.

It is in testing that Reynaers’ strengths lie.

Our products are tested repeatedly to high standards, ensuring they not only meet but exceed required performance levels. This commitment is not only in the high-performance curtain walling used in high profile tall buildings but in the windows and doors that complete family homes.

We are also in the fortunate position to have an established, and accessible digital traceability tool already integrated into our products and processes, which has allowed us to support the Golden Thread from an early point. Reynaers DigiTrace enables product information to be uploaded onto a digital passport which is accessible via a QR code which can be added to products via a label. This provides the ability to track products from our warehouse right through to installation and handover allowing each stage to be documented. With an emphasis on safety, traceability, competence and collaboration Reynaers is well placed to support stakeholders as the Building Safety Act becomes an integral part of the construction process.

Build momentum This is the foundation upon which we will be able to build momentum, our products are tested beyond required capabilities and come with full transparency of test data and traceability through digital product passports.

The call for greater collaboration at the design stage to support compliance under the Building Safety Act should see manufacturers drawn closer to the process and this is to be welcomed.

Reynaers’ technical team has an incomparable level of knowledge about our systems, and how they work in a practical setting, and it is this in-depth knowledge that the industry needs to tap into to continue to instil confidence in specifiers and principal designers working within the gateway system.

Extending design capabilities With additional, slimline curtain walling products due to arrive on the market this year we look forward to furthering our offer in the façade sector and extending the design capabilities of the Reynaers’ portfolio.

As always, sustainability will lead development in the industry as we seek solutions that are fit for the future, but we anticipate this will see a wider focus, bringing in managing biodiversity, looking at thermal efficiency through lifetime building use and resource management.

In our commitment to testing, product development, innovation and creating products and digital services to support sustainable building design, we continue to keep the needs of our customers at the heart of all that we do at Reynaers and look forward to working with our partners in the year ahead.

Composite doors – Design your own bespoke Hörmann composite door

● Available in a variety of styles and designs ● All Hörmann GRP doors can achieve Secured by Design Certification ● Large range of colours, glass patterns, and a choice of accessories

36 | active voices | january 2026

ACTIVE VOICES Andrew Scott, founder of Purplex Marketing: Andrew reveals a practical framework for sustainable, profitable growth in the glazing and construction sectors, showing how the right strategy turns leads into loyal customers and advocates

H

ave you ever wondered why some companies manage consistent, profitable growth year on year while others struggle to make headway? The answer is simpler than you might think, and you don’t need a Harvard business degree to put it into practice.

Years ago, I developed a model that could predict whether a business was likely to thrive. Since then, it has guided hundreds of companies in the glazing and construction sectors to achieve steady, sustainable growth. I call it the Business Growth Model: Attract, Convert, Fulfil - or ACF for short.

At its heart, business success comes down to three simple but essential components: Attract – This is about generating a steady flow of high-quality leads. Without them, there is no growth. And not all leads are equal; targeting the right ones makes all the difference.

Convert - Turning leads into profitable customers is the next step. Conversion is about finding the right fit and creating value for both your business and your clients.

Fulfil – Finally, you need to deliver on your promises. Meeting or exceeding customer expectations leads to repeat business and recommendations, which form the foundation of long-term growth.

The key point is this: the stronger your brand, the more effective each of these components becomes. If your business is growing steadily, all three are working. If it is not, one or more is falling short.

The ACF model shows how a business grows, but it does not replace the need for a focused marketing strategy. Too often, I see companies relying on outdated approaches that no longer cut through the noise.

At Purplex, we use a five-step model that has helped fabricators, installers, and suppliers achieve tangible results. We call it the Five A’s of Marketing: Audience: Understand your target customer and what matters to them. The better you know your audience, the more effective your marketing will be.

Attention: Grab their attention in ways that cut through the clutter. If your product or service isn’t top-of-mind, opportunities are lost.

Authority: Show your expertise and credibility. Case studies, testimonials, awards and reviews are all ways to reinforce trust and confidence.

Action: Make it easy and compelling for people to act. Whether it is making a purchase, booking a call or registering for a

service, clarity and persuasion are essential.

Advocacy: Turn customers into champions who recommend your business and come back.

One final piece often holds companies back: reactive marketing, or what I call the Marketing Wave. It works like this: sales slow down, so the business responds with a marketing push. Sales pick up, marketing is sidelined and the cycle repeats.

The most successful companies market consistently, not reactively. I often hear financial directors worry about “wasting money” when the order book is full. But that is precisely when marketing pays off.

When demand exceeds capacity, you can focus on high-value customers and let the high-maintenance, low-margin ones go.

Growth is more than branding, marketing, or lead generation. It is about applying a simple, repeatable formula with discipline and insight. For over two decades, Purplex has helped glazing and construction companies achieve this kind of sustainable, profitable growth.

Understanding and applying the ACF model alongside the 5 A’s framework can transform the way you attract the right customers, convert them into loyal clients, and deliver experiences that turn them into advocates.

If you want to explore how these models could help your business grow, why not consider joining our series of dedicated webinars we’ll be hosting throughout 2026.

N E W H-Series U P V C P A N E L S AVAILABLE NOW

H-100

H-200

H-600

Monti

H-700

H-800

DESIGN. QUOTE. ORDER 24/7

O P T I O N A L

U P G R A D E

B E T T E R I N S U L AT I ON – I M P R OV E D T H E R M A L E F F I C I E N C Y P R O

H A L L M A X

S L A B

D O U B L E S E A L – E N H A N C E D W E AT H E R R E S I S TA N C E MORE SECURE – ADDED STRENGTH AND RIGIDITY QUIETER – SUPERIOR SOUNDPROOFING PREMIUM FEEL – THICKER, STURDIER CONSTRUCTION

D O U B L E 01482 781 111

R E B A T E

7 0 M M

WWW.HALLMARKPANELS.COM

C O M P O S I T E

D O O R

ENQUIRIES@HALLMARKPANELS.COM

A BETTER VS FOR LESS The new Kömmerling vertical sliding sash window is packed with technical and practical features. These include: Wide range of single and dual colours available on a 10-day lead time.

Six different hardware finishes.

Achieves a U-value of 1.2 W/(m2K) Quick release tilt arms for speedy removal of sashes as standard.

Deep bottom rail, run-through sash horn option and SBD compliant security are other key features.

Contact us today for a Technically Better sliding sash window.

enquiries@profine-group.com | 01623 579200 | www.kommerling.co.uk

FUSION WELD OPTION

TILT OPTION FOR CLEANING

RUN THROUGH SASH HORNS

DEEP BOTTOM RAIL

PREMIUM HARDWARE OPTIONS

40 | active voices | january 2026

ACTIVE VOICES Chris Baron, Operations Director at Sheerline Bespoke: Chris takes an interesting look at why he believes aluminium-led design is reshaping the glazed roof and extension market

T

he glazed roof market is changing at pace, and from where I’m sitting, we’re entering one of the biggest shifts the sector has seen in years.

As demand for traditional PVC conservatories continues to decline, installers and fabricators are being pushed to adapt to take advantage of a fast-growing opportunity.

And increasingly, that opportunity lies in aluminium.

For me, aluminium’s rise isn’t a trend. It’s the natural next step in the evolution of our industry. Homeowners are being influenced

by Grand Designs-style architecture, and they’re looking for the clean, contemporary lines they see online and on TV. They want larger spans, big sliders, slim bi-fold doors and picture-frame glazing.

PVC still has its place of course, thermally it’s fantastic, but when it comes to the strength, aesthetics and precision required for high-end glazed roofs and extensions, aluminium is now the material of choice.

The shift to simpler, bolder structures One of the clearest signs of market change is what we’re seeing in roof design.

Over 60% of the roofs we produce today are lean-tos or simple mono-pitch structures which is a huge departure from the three-, five- and seven-facet Victorian styles that dominated in the 90s and early 2000s.

The reason is simple: homeowners want better use of space, and installers want products that are easier to fabricate and fit.

A clean rectangular footprint delivers more floor area, suits more property types, and, importantly, looks like a natural extension of the home instead of an add-on.

Modern glazed extensions are expected to blend seamlessly with an existing architecture. With today’s powder-coating technology, colour stability and finish quality, aluminium helps achieve that. Unlike PVC, aluminium doesn’t fade, warp or discolour.

It stays true to its design intent for decades, and that long-term stability matters to consumers investing serious money in a premium extension.

Aluminium is driving the comeback of glazed extensions Although the market has leaned heavily toward solid roofs in recent years, we’re now seeing renewed interest in glazed roofs and spaces, but in a very different form to the conservatories of old.

The demand for full aluminium roof kits that combine perfectly with a suite of aluminium windows and doors is rising sharply. They are easier to fabricate and easier to install, and with aluminium full kit

conservatories the glazed extension is set to become interesting again. And it is it is the aluminium is driving that.

Homeowners opening the back of the house want a seamless flow from kitchen or living room into the extension and out into the garden through large aluminium sliding patio doors or bi-fold doors.

To achieve that, the roof system above needs to match the strength and performance of the doors below.

Looking ahead: why aluminium leads the future If there’s one lesson the industry has learned over the last decade, it’s that consumers don’t want “bolt-on” conservatories anymore. They want real, usable extensions that feel like part of the home. Aluminium enables that.

Our S3 Architectural Roof System has been designed specifically for this shift to contemporary aluminium living spaces. It’s square, minimalist and engineered to meet the expectations of modern homeowners who want that high-end architectural look.

Alongside the S3, our S1 Roof Lantern continues to be a strong choice for premium single-storey extensions which can be supplied in conjunction with our flat roof system, a full kit solution saving the installers time and money on site.

As the sector continues to evolve towards cleaner lines and integrated aluminium structures, I believe we’re only at the start of what’s possible. And for fabricators and installers willing to embrace aluminium, the future of fenestration is full of opportunity.

The best, BAR none.

The ONLY snap-on Georgian Bar System Call us today to learn about the patented Geofast system from the Georgian Bar Company or visit www.geofast.co.uk to see the best solution for heritage windows & doors.

Tel: 01772 631441 Email: sales@geofast.co.uk Web: www.geofast.co.uk The Georgian Bar Company Ltd

@geofastsystem

GEO FAST

42 | news dashboard | january 2026

Delivering meaningful progress in the year ahead

C

onfidence across the UK construction supply chain remains subdued as 2026 begins, but industry leaders say the year also presents an opportunity for well-run businesses to strengthen their position. In an annual outlook, Luca Muspratt, business director of Warmer Roof, said that while market conditions remain challenging, companies with a clear strategy, disciplined operations and a long-term view can still deliver meaningful progress in the year ahead.

Muspratt said confidence across the sector was at an “all-time low”, a sentiment he attributed in part to the UK’s policy environment, which he characterised as hostile to business investment. While pessimism is widespread, he argued that 2026 would reward companies able to resist short-term pressures and maintain focus on fundamentals.

“The companies that hold their nerve, protect their margins and double down on operational discipline will be the ones still standing by the final quarter,” he said.

Warmer Roof entered 2025 forecasting cautious growth but ultimately exceeded expectations, according to Muspratt, without diluting its core values. He said some firms had sacrificed long-term positioning in pursuit of immediate order books, a strategy he suggested would prove costly as market conditions tighten.

A central theme of the outlook is the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence across construction and manufacturing businesses. Muspratt warned that while AI is being embraced enthusiastically, it risks being deployed indiscriminately, sometimes in areas where it adds little value.

He acknowledged that AI can streamline quoting, accelerate administrative tasks and improve digital presentation, but cautioned against over-reliance on automation in an industry still shaped by judgement, experience and on-site decision-making.

Crittall Windows achieves major CO₂ emissions reduction

S “AI doesn’t understand the nuance of an on-site challenge, the judgement call made early in the morning when a delivery needs rerouting, or the real-world implications of millimetre tolerances on a bespoke component,” he said. “Too many businesses will over-automate, under-communicate and place trust in systems that lack real-world context.”

According to Muspratt, this tension between technology and craftsmanship will create a sharper competitive divide during 2026. Companies that use digital tools to enhance, rather than replace, experience are likely to strengthen their market position, while others risk faster processes delivering weaker outcomes.

Against that backdrop, Warmer Roof is positioning itself to capitalise on gaps it sees emerging in the market, including shorter lead times without sacrificing quality, predictable pricing, closer alignment with partners and a stronger emphasis on trustbased branding.

Muspratt said the coming year should not be viewed as a battle for survival, but as an opportunity for strategic elevation. For businesses prepared to adapt without losing their identity, 2026 may prove to be a year of consolidation and long-term advantage rather than retrenchment.

Renewable power boost

F

reefoam Building Products has announced that its Cork manufacturing facility is now operating entirely on renewable energy. This milestone marks a significant achievement in Freefoam’s five-year Sustainability Plan, launched earlier this year, and reinforces the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

The Cork plant, which runs 24/7 producing long lasting building products, now sources its electricity from a mix of resources including some solar and wind energy.

Kevin Cronin, Chief Operating Officer, commented, “Freefoam has set clear and ambitious sustainability targets. Transition-

ing to renewable electricity is a major step toward reducing our carbon emissions and building a more sustainable future.”

This initiative is part of a broader strategy to embed sustainable business practices across Freefoam’s operations. Dedicated energy teams at each site are actively exploring ways to improve efficiency and reduce energy consumption. “This change is something all businesses can take on,” Kevin added. “We believe it’s the right choice and one that quantifiably reduces our greenhouse gas emissions. We’re on a journey,” Kevin concluded. “Our aim is to put reduce, re-use, and recycle at the heart of everything we do.”

teel window and door manufacturer Crittall Windows has announced a significant reduction in its carbon footprint, achieving a 29 per cent decrease in market-based CO₂ emissions during 2024 compared with the previous year. The independent assessment, carried out by emissions management experts Carbon Footprint Ltd, confirmed total market-based emissions fell from 786.56 tonnes to 529.11 tonnes of CO₂e.

Emissions per employee and per £M turnover also dropped by 26 per cent and 28 per cent respectively. As a result, Crittall has qualified to use the ‘Carbon Footprint Standard’ branding across its communications, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to responsible carbon management.

The reductions follow sustained investment and practical improvements across the business. Crittall has introduced a fully electric/hybrid vehicle fleet, installed solar panels at its Witham manufacturing site, upgraded to energy-efficient LED lighting throughout the offices and fabrication plant, and improved material utilisation to reduce waste. Working with Carbon Footprint Ltd, the company has set clear targets for continued progress, aiming for a 50 per cent reduction in emissions by 2030 and 90 per cent by 2045.

Russell Ager, MD of Crittall Windows, said: “This achievement reflects a company-wide effort to operate more sustainably. Reducing our carbon footprint is an ongoing commitment, embedded in the way we design, manufacture and deliver our products.

“Every department, from production to logistics, has contributed to these results, and we will continue to build on this progress as we move towards our 2030 and 2045 goals.”

Crittall’s results demonstrate that practical, well-planned actions can deliver measurable environmental impact. The company is now positioned to further influence sustainability across the steel window sector, showing that high-quality manufacturing and responsible carbon management can go hand in hand.

january 2026 | news dashboard | 43

New leadership to drive strategic growth

S

chüco UK & Ireland has announced the appointment of Benedikt Herweg as its new Managing Director, effective immediately. This strategic decision marks an exciting chapter in the company’s growth and commitment to excellence within the industry.

Benedikt brings extensive experience and a proven track record of driving success, innovation and sustainable growth. Over the past 18 years, he held several Management positions globally within Schüco in its German head office, China, and Singapore, where he demonstrated an exceptional ability to lead teams and deliver outstanding results. Benedikt will be based out of Milton Keynes and the London office, ensuring strong leadership presence and close collaboration across both key locations.

In his new role, Benedikt will oversee the company’s strategic direction, operational management and business development activities, for Schüco UK and for Kestrel Aluminium Systems and Kestrel Powder Coating. Under his leadership, Schüco will also integrate the London office into the UK business, enhancing efficiency while maintaining dedicated support for our valued partner network.

He will work closely with the executive team and all employees to build on the company’s achievements and to pursue new opportunities for growth.

The Schüco and Kestrel brands will con-

tinue to operate as separate brands, preserving their unique strengths while benefiting from shared expertise.

Benedikt commented: “I am excited to join Schüco UK and to lead an organisation with such a strong reputation and talented team. I look forward to working with everyone in both brands to further enhance our offerings and contribute to the continued success of the companies. I am especially eager to engage directly with our valued partners, including metal fabricators, main contractors, architects, consultants, and developers, to better understand their needs and ensure we deliver exceptional service, cutting-edge sustainable solutions, and tailored support that drives mutual growth and excellence in the UK and Ireland markets.”

Sheerline announces world class OTIF for 2025

T

he team at Sheerline are once again celebrating, but this time they haven’t won an award, they’ve maintained their impressive OTIF of 99.4% across the whole year. To demonstrate that this isn’t by accident, but the result of production efficiencies, strategic planning, and strong internal communications, the team have been sharing regular OTIF updates with customers, through adverts, in articles, and via social media.

While this has obviously been a great topic to talk about, it has more importantly provided tangible benefits for Sheerline’s customers. Aside from giving them the visibility to accurately plan their production schedules, they know exactly what they’re getting and when it will arrive, giving them the knowledge that they’ll deliver on their promises for their customers. Sheerline’s Technical Production Director, Ross Hartshorn, commented: “Over the past 12 months we’ve not only increased our OTIF, but we’ve maintained it – even achieving an OTIF of 100% for a period. Anyone who works in manufacturing knows what an achievement this is.”

“It’s the result of changes we’ve made to our machinery, our processes, and internal training to ensure our production teams are working as harmoniously as they possibly can be. It’s clear this approach is working, but we’re always looking for ways to improve,” he added.

When the right technical answer in glazing is no

A

s construction projects grow more complex and regulatory demands tighten, technical judgement is becoming as valuable as production capacity.

At Glass Express Midlands, that responsibility often rests with Technical Manager Kirsty Fortnam, whose role centres as much on restraint as it does on delivery.

Fortnam notes that the assumption surrounding technical management is problem-solving at speed. In practice, she says, the work frequently involves slowing projects down long enough to test whether a request should proceed at all.

Clients often arrive with a specification already in mind, sometimes prompted by third-party advice or legacy designs. The question is rarely whether a product can be made, but whether it should be.

Modern glazing decisions sit within a dense framework of requirements, from Documents Q and K to PAS24 and wider safety standards. Fortnam’s task is to interrogate the application behind the request, ensuring the glass is safe, compliant and suited to its environment. That process begins with careful questioning and, at times, uncomfortable answers.

Customers, she says, rely on technical teams not merely to supply insulated glass units or bespoke panels, but to offer clarity. That trust is tested when a specification appears viable on paper yet carries real-world risk. Early in her career, Fortnam recalls being asked to produce a large bespoke panel for a recessed fish tank. While technically manufacturable, the design carried safety concerns that outweighed the commercial opportunity.

The decision was a refusal.

Such moments, she argues, define good technical practice. Saying no is not a rejection of creativity or ambition, but a redirection toward safer alternatives. In many cases, clients respond with relief rather than resistance. Confidence, not speed, is what most project teams seek when margins for error narrow.

Across Glass Express Midlands’ commercial work, Fortnam sees a clear shift.

Clients increasingly want guidance rather than simple supply, whether adjusting specifications to meet new thermal targets, reducing embodied carbon, or navigating compliance hurdles. The value lies in informed judgement.

Glass remains a versatile material, but it is not without limits. Ignoring those limits, Fortnam believes, carries risks no project should accept. In a sector under pressure to move faster, the discipline to pause — and sometimes refuse — has become a marker of integrity. Behind every considered no sits safety, trust and long-term responsibility.

44 | company focus | january 2026

Build a better business with MFT in 2026

2026 marks a pivotal time for Made for Tade as it fully launches not one, but two, flagship Korniche products set to redefine the market

A

s the fenestration sector looks ahead to another year shaped by demand for premium performance, faster lead times and reliable supply, Made for Trade (MFT) continues to stand out as the partner of choice for fabricators, trade installers and builders across the UK. With a reputation built on engineering excellence, competitive pricing and an unwavering commitment to service, 2026 marks a pivotal time for the business as it fully launches not one, but two, flagship Korniche products set to redefine the market.

Alongside these major product introductions, MFT continues to streamline its ordering process through the advanced KwikQuote platform, designed to simplify your quote and ordering processes and give trade partners the speed and confidence they need to win more jobs, more often.

Introducing the New Korniche Roof Lantern - The multiaward-winning Korniche Roof Lantern has long been recognised as one of the most installer-friendly, rigorously engineered and aesthetically refined roof systems on the market.

For 2026, MFT pushes these standards even further: • Ultra-slim sightlines for maximum natural light and contemporary aesthetics.

• Pass24 security – as standard • Enhanced structural strength, engineered for superior load distribution and performance.

• Fast-fit installation, designed to optimise time on-site with precision.

• Thermally efficient glazing and profiles, supporting compliance and energy performance.

• Integrated LED, delivering an unrivalled addition for ambient lighting • A premium finish, with an immaculate powder-coated finish, precision manufacturing and a clean, seamless internal ‘V’ shaped rafter aesthetics.

The new evolution of the Korniche Roof Lantern reinforces why so many trade professionals trust MFT for reliability and repeatability on every job, for domestic extensions, kitchen renovations or high-value bespoke builds.

Korniche Internal Glass Partition System - The growing trend for open-plan redesign and internal zoning has fuelled demand for high-quality internal glazing systems. Answering this, MFT introduces the Korniche Internal Glass Partition, bringing Korniche engineering into the home interior market with these key features: • Slim aluminium profiles for modern, architectural styling.

• Customisable configurations, including single doors, double doors and multi-panel partitions.

• Precision-engineered components for smooth operation and long-term durability.

• High-specification glass delivering acoustic performance and clarity.

• Bespoke Hardware, Classic and contemporary styles with matching escutcheons, thumb turns and hinge caps • Ideal for renovations, home offices, open plan living and commercial fitouts.

This new product line positions trade installers perfectly for the continued surge in internal refurbishment projects throughout 2026 and beyond. You no longer need to pay a premium price for this premium product.

KwikQuote - MFT’s KwikQuote platform remains one of the most intuitive tools in the industry, allowing trade partners to quote, configure and order Korniche products with total accuracy and in a fraction of the time. For 2026, new businesses opening a KwikQuote account before 31st July 2026 will receive £200 credit automatically applied and 20% off their second singleitem purchase. Fast onboarding, instant quoting, clearer specification guidance and streamlined ordering make KwikQuote the smart choice for businesses ready to scale.

Chris Wann, Operations Director, MFT, told Windows Active: “Made for Trade enters 2026 with a sharper focus than ever. Our mission has always been to combine engineering precision with service that genuinely supports the trade. With the launch of the new Korniche Roof Lantern and our Internal Glass Partition system, we are delivering solutions that empower installers to work more efficiently, win more projects and deliver premium results for homeowners. Our continued investment in KwikQuote and customer experience ensures our partners are equipped with the tools they need to grow their businesses throughout the year ahead.”

Where to See Korniche in 2026 - Visit us at the Homebuilding & Renovating Show across all major UK locations to see the best aluminium glazed products available and how the Korniche brand works to support your sales opportunities: NEC (National) – March 19th-22nd; Glasgow – May 9th-10th; London – September 18th20th; Harrogate – October 30th-November 1st A Stronger Partnership for 2026 - With two major product innovations, a best-in-class ordering system, and a commitment to exceptional service, Made for Trade continues to raise the standard for trade partnerships.

Whether you’re an installer looking for ease and speed on-site, a fabricator seeking support and supply reliability, or a builder aiming to deliver smarter, MFT is the supplier that helps you build a better business in 2026. www.madefortrade.co.uk

CLASSIC LITE PERGOLA

✔ 6 set sizes optimised to suit the most popular furniture

The highest quality set sized louvered pergola

✔ Customisable: windproof side screens, LED louver lighting and

configurations and layouts

✔ Weatherproof roof with 150° rotating, interlocking heavy gauge double walled 23cm wide louvers

on the market, utilising all the same premium materials and features as our bespoke range.

infra-red instant heating

✔ Built for the UK weather: storm-proof, re-inforced extruded aluminium construction for longevity

Made in Britain.

10

Built to Last.

365

Enjoyed all Seasons.

✔ Marine-grade powder coated framework, in a modern Anthracite Grey (RAL 7016) with a textured finish for durability

✔ Somfy® motorised operation from either a handheld remote control or phone app for effortless convenience

✔ Streamline design with concealed drainage and no visible fixings including integrated base plates

www.cbsolarshading.co.uk/trade

0344 800 1947

trade@cbsolarshading.co.uk

www.cbsolarshading.co.uk/trade

46 | general feature | january 2026

FENSA’s free recycling changes everything

F

Sam Davies reveals how FENSA’s new recycling scheme is designed to remove one of the biggest obstacles facing installers

or much of the sector’s history, recycling has been viewed as a necessary inconvenience. Waste is removed, skips are hired, and materials are disposed of quickly so projects can move on. Sustainability, while increasingly discussed, has often been treated as something that adds costs rather than value. That narrative is now being challenged.

As environmental accountability rises across construction and home improvement, transparency of the full product life cycle is increasingly demanded of installers once a project is complete.

Homeowners are asking more questions, supply chains are tightening expectations, and sustainability has grown beyond corporate statements – it has become part of everyday business practice.

Yet, for many installers, the practical barriers to recycling have remained stubbornly familiar. Skip hire, disposal fees and complicated access to recycling services have meant that doing the responsible thing often comes with a hefty financial penalty.

For smaller business in particular, the cost of waste management quickly adds up, making recycling an optional extra rather than a standard practice.

Biggest obstacles facing installers This all led to FENSA’s new recycling scheme, designed to remove one of the biggest obstacles facing installers – the cost.

Available for free to FENSA installers, the scheme provides a streamlined process to recycling window and door waste without any additional charges.

By reducing reliance on skips and traditional disposal routes, the initiative allows installers to lower waste costs while simultaneously improving their environmental performance.

“For too long, sustainability has been treated as a luxury,” says Sam Davies, Technical Manager at FENSA. “Responsible practise shouldn’t be reserved for businesses with bigger pockets, and it definitely shouldn’t come with a price tag. This scheme shows that installers of all sizes can rminimise waste, reduce skips costs, and improve their environmental impact.”

The scheme has been designed with practicality in mind. The simple process of arranging collections through a postcode-based referral systems helps to allocate collections efficiently, while ensuring installers know exactly where their waste is going and how it will be processed.

Greater visibility of recycling activity To build on that, confirmation and reporting processes provide greater visibility of recycling activity, which in turn allows installers to evidence what has been recycled and when.

In an industry where transparency is key, that visibility is becoming just as important as the act of recycling itself.

Support for the scheme comes from specialist partners Veka and Rehau, both of which bring established expertise in PVC-U recycling, alongside May Glass Recycling, which supports the responsible processing of glass materials. Together, the partners deliver an efficient and impactful tool for FENSA installers across the UK. Additionally, this range of coverage is significant. Instead of requiring installers to navigate multiple routes for multiple materials, the scheme simplifies the process and delivers a streamlined approach to waste management.

One that is designed to naturally work alongside an installer’s average day, not disrupt it.

Beyond day-to-day operations, the scheme reflects a broader

shift in how sustainability is perceived within and around the sector. Environmental performance is increasingly influencing purchasing decisions, with homeowners paying closer attention to how products are sourced, installed, and disposed of.

Here, installers who can demonstrate responsible waste management are often perceived as more professional and reliable.

FENSA has indicated that further tools are planned to help installers communicate their sustainability efforts more clearly.

These are expected to support transparency and customer confidence, allowing businesses to showcase responsible practice alongside compliance and workmanship.

Changing the conversation entirely “Recycling shouldn’t feel like a compromise,” adds Sam. “When installers can cut waste, reduce skip costs and improve their environmental performance without increasing overheads, it changes the conversation entirely. At that point, responsible practice stops being optional and starts becoming the standard.”

As sustainability expectations continue to rise and margins remain under pressure, initiatives that align environmental responsibility with clear commercial benefits are an essential part in the shift in the sectors future.

Tel: 020 7645 3700 www.fensa.org.uk

Is your supplier working to make your business a success or are you working to make your suppliers business a success?

Midland Aluminium Limited offers an extensive range of Aluminium products with unique features that not only help make the sale but also earn valuable recommendations thanks to their superior appearance.

We also supply, free of charge, high-quality leads to our trade customers through internet and magazine advertising.

NEW ALU SLIDER door system includes concealed drainage & the flexibility of either slide-only or lift-and-slide options.

LIFT+SLIDE PATIO DOORS

FREE UPGRADE to lift-and-slide on all Alu slider patio doors INTEGRATED TRICKLE

VENTILATION

A LU MINIUM WINDOW

WEEKLY DELIVERIES TO ALL AREAS OF THE UK

Call Jason Wootton now to put Midland Aluminium to work for your business.

100MM SLIM SIGHTLINES

NO UNSIGHTLY DRAINAGE CAPS CONCEALED

FACE DRAINAGE

MIDLAND ALUMINIUM LTD, (B5405) STAFFORD RD, ST20 0JR

48 | general feature | january 2026

A level playing field for window installers

The Stronghold® Anchor is helping major contractors and smaller installers work at height safer, smarter and more profitably

F

or major contractors operating on high-rise schemes and multi-plot developments, the cost and logistical complexity of scaffolding is a constant pressure. For smaller installers, it can be a barrier to winning work altogether.

Stronghold® is rapidly changing that dynamic. The lightweight, easy to set up, mobile anchor system allows installation teams to safely remove and replace windows spanning openings of up to five metres, all from inside the property.

Finding the right method of working at height is a challenge for window installers and contractors when it comes to safety, efficiency and cost,” explained Daniel Cheddie, founder of Stronghold®.

“Scaffolding has long been the default answer, but it’s not always the right one.

Proven on major contracts For major contractors working across multiple high-rise sites, Stronghold® cuts costs and programme times, with no delay waiting for scaffold to be erected or removed.

One of the clearest demonstrations of Stronghold’s value has been at Hammond & Dickson House in Stoke-on-Trent, where MAC Site Services were tasked with replacing 250 Crittall windows across 15 storeys.

The building owner was looking for an alternative to scaffold after costs were estimated to be £160,000. MAC turned to Stronghold®, and the impact was immediate.

The Stronghold was used to remove all Crittall, single glazed windows and install the uPVC window replacements safely from inside the building without the need for scaffolding altogether, with the project completed two weeks faster than if traditional methods had been used.

“The Stronghold is an excellent safety system that helped us complete the project safely and ahead of schedule,” said M. Charters, Project Manager. “Feedback from our fitters was incredibly positive and they feel much safer being able to work from inside, rather than on a scaffold.”

Game-changing for smaller installers too While large contractors are reaping the benefits on complex, multi-storey projects, Stronghold® is equally valuable for smaller installation firms, often in even more varied and challenging environments.

For Crystal Windows and Doors, the system has been transformative. Their Health & Safety Officer, Peter Fox, first encountered Stronghold® when faced with a domestic window replacement where scaffold couldn’t be used due to site constraints.

“I needed a safe method of installation that met the Work at Height Regulations, but scaffold simply wasn’t an option,” explained Peter. “I visited Daniel, used the system, and immediately saw how versatile, lightweight and strong it was. It met every need we had.”

After training a chosen team, Crystal Windows and Doors quickly found Stronghold® becoming their go-to method.

“Over the past year, we’re hiring the system two to three times a month, often for five to ten days at a time,” added Peter. “It’s eliminated the need to decline jobs where scaffold can’t be used or isn’t allowed. The has significant savings over scaffolding especially on small installations where scaffolding can cost anything £600£1000.”

A level playing field across the industry Stronghold® is demonstrating that safety and efficiency shouldn’t be privileges reserved for large contractors with big budgets. By providing a compliant, engineered alternative to scaffold that is versatile, cost-effective and suitable for everything from high-rise blocks to tight domestic sites, it is giving every installer the tools to work smarter and safer.

“For major contractors, Stronghold® offers a scalable solution that cuts costs and time,” says Daniel. “For smaller installers, it removes the barriers that scaffolding can create. Ultimately, it levels the playing field.”

From tower blocks to terraced houses, emergency callouts to planned upgrades, Stronghold® is quietly redefining how the industry approaches work at height—and ensuring that whether you are a national contractor or a two-person installation team, you can deliver safely, professionally and profitably.

For more information on the Stronghold Anchor system, which is available to hire, visit https://www.stronghold-anchor.com/ or call 01992 302133.

Delivering the best in fabrication machinery

SL4-FF EVO RS

4 Head Rapid Speed Welding Machine

 Seamless welding of 4 pieces of profile simultaneously  Eliminates corner cleaner  Patented V-Perfect Technology  Seamless welding across both white and coloured PVC-U Profiles

HAFFNER – EXCLUSIVE UK PARTNERSHIP WITH GRAF SYNERGY

SBA-4 MACHINING CENTRE  Heavy-duty design for long-lasting reliability  10 bar loading system (max 6.5m length)  Cutting station with 3 x 550mm saw-blades for greater accuracy and output  Routing & Sawing station can be mixed and matched to precise individual requirements  15” touchscreen PC with Windows 10 operating system  Finance options available* * Subject to status

For speed and accuracy, the SBA-4 Machining Centre proves the perfect partner for consistent and accurate profile cutting for the Graf Synergy seamless welding machines.

The Graf Synergy range delivers world class seamless welding technology and patented welding techniques, increasing fabrication efficiencies and delivering superior product quality.

WINNER

To discover more about the complete range of machines from Haffner contact us today on 01785 222421

www.haffnerltd.com The Accolade Building, Common Road, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 3EQ

SLS

Single Head CNC Cill Welder  Designed for welding bay cills  Automatically removes all excess sprue from welding joint  Improved aesthetics and superior weld quality  Seamless weld finish  Dramatically reduces manufacturing time

Offering the most comprehensive range of quality PVC-U & Aluminium fabrication machinery in the industry.

SL5-FF-TV

CNC 5 Head Welding Machine  High precision manufacture  Flexible welding of transoms and corners seamlessly  Ability to weld 2 corners and 3 transoms in one single operation

january 2026 | machinery | 49

Neil Parton Managing Director of Elumatec UK reveals details of a quiet shift happening on the factory floor of the UK’s fabricators

Quiet shift is happening on the factory floor I ’ve spent a lot of time in fabrication shops across the UK. Different sizes, different specialisms, different levels of automation – but what’s struck me most over the last few months is that something is changing. Quietly. Without much noise or fanfare.

It’s not being driven by buzzwords or bold claims about the “factory of the future”.

In fact, it’s almost the opposite. What I’m seeing is a more measured, more thoughtful approach to how factories operate and how decisions are being made.

For a long time, the conversation around machinery and automation focused heavily on speed and output. Faster cycles, higher volumes, more impressive specs. Those things still matter, of course, but they’re no longer the whole story. Increasingly, fabricators are looking beyond what a machine can do on paper and focusing more on how it fits into the reality of their business.

One of the biggest drivers behind this shift is people. Skilled operators are harder to find, harder to replace and more valuable than ever. Many businesses are recognising that relying on a handful of highly experienced individuals to keep production moving is a risk. The goal now is consistency – machines and processes that allow more people to operate at a high level, with less pressure and less room for error.

That’s leading to a renewed focus on simplicity and repeatability. Clear workflows. Intuitive software. Reliable processes that behave the same way day in, day out, regardless of who’s standing at the

control panel. In other words, technology that supports people rather than demanding constant intervention from them.

Another noticeable change is how fabricators are thinking about reliability.

Downtime has always been a concern, but it’s now being viewed less as an inconvenience and more as a genuine business threat. With margins tight and lead times under scrutiny, unplanned stoppages don’t just disrupt production – they disrupt confidence, both internally and with customers.

As a result, I’m seeing far more emphasis placed on proven platforms, long-term support and equipment that’s built to last. There’s a growing appreciation that a machine isn’t just a capital purchase; it’s part of the fabric of the business for many years.

Decisions are being made with a longer horizon in mind.

This is where the idea of “smart manufacturing” becomes far more practical than theoretical. It’s not about adding layers of complexity or chasing the latest technology for its own sake. It’s about making smart choices that improve day-today operations, reduce friction and allow businesses to scale without overstretching themselves.

We’re also seeing this reflected in the types of machines fabricators are gravitating towards. Take CNC machining centres as an example. Demand is growing, but what’s

interesting is why. It’s not simply about automation; it’s about flexibility, integration and confidence in the end result.

Recently, there’s been strong interest in machines like the elumatec SBZ 145 – not because it’s new or headline-grabbing, but because it aligns with how many businesses now want to work. High accuracy, intelligent software, the ability to handle a wide range of profiles and applications, and the reassurance that it can be integrated into existing processes without upheaval. It’s a practical response to real-world challenges, and that’s exactly why it’s resonating.

What all of this points to is a broader maturity in the market. Fabricators are no longer chasing quick wins. They’re asking better questions. How will this machine perform in five or ten years? How easily can new operators be trained? How does this investment protect the business as it grows and changes?

It’s a shift from buying machines to building manufacturing systems – systems that are robust, adaptable and supported by people who understand the pressures of modern fabrication.

For me, that’s an encouraging place for the industry to be. It shows confidence, experience and a willingness to think long-term. And while it might not make headlines, it’s this quiet evolution on the factory floor that will define the next phase of successful fabrication in the UK.

50 | machinery | january 2026

One hundred years on, Haffner’s CEO champions timely investment as fabricators embrace next-generation automation with confidence

A century of smarter fabrication with Haffner A s Haffner celebrates its centenary year of machine innovation, Dave Thomas, CEO at Haffner Ltd, reflects on the company’s history and explains why now is the perfect moment for fabricators to invest in the next generation of automation.

The 1st of January 2026 marks a major milestone in our company’s journey. It is 100 years since Gotthold Haffner began building precision woodworking machines in Pforzheim, Germany. A century later, Haffner has evolved into one of the most influential machinery brands in the global fenestration industry, trusted for advanced CNC systems and fully automated fabrication lines that help fabricators stay competitive.

Although Haffner’s machinery has transformed dramatically over the past century, our approach has not. We exist to give fabricators the machines they need to improve efficiency, enhance product quality and strengthen profitability. In today’s competitive climate, that commitment has never been more important.

Fabricators are facing a perfect storm of challenges: rising operational costs, labour constraints and customers who expect exceptional quality and fast delivery.

The right automated machinery is now a strategic requirement. It drives productivity, controls costs and creates product finishes that genuinely stand out.

The Haffner SBA-4 machining and cutting centre demonstrates how we innovate with purpose. It has been developed through years of industry collaboration and specifically designed for UK fabrication. Its heavy-duty construction supports high-volume fabrication, while the Beckhoff control system ensures straightforward programming across a wide range of systems. It delivers all core processes including sawing, routing, drilling and marking, with specialist capabilities such as V-notch, Y-notch and arrowhead cutting. Ten servo-controlled axes ensure the speed and precision that manual methods simply cannot achieve.

The SBA-4 is also built for flexibility.

The programmable gripper unit provides zero-point accuracy and the 12-tool routing station supports standard and specialist tooling. Three 550 mm saw blades offer outstanding cutting accuracy and a suite of automated features including profile stacking, scrap removal and profile support help maintain

workflow and quality. With its highperformance touchscreen control system, monitoring and diagnostics are simple.

From square and mitre cuts to routing for frames, sashes, French doors, patios and bifolds, the SBA-4 consistently prepares every profile to the highest standard.

Our popular SMR-5 Multi Head Welding Machine is another strong example of how we support fabricators in increasing speed and efficiency. Its PC-controlled PID heat system ensures strong and reliable welds, while rigid linear guideways maintain accuracy. Individually controlled welding heads and fast tooling changes deliver

complete versatility, from 90° welding and transoms to complex “H” and “T” shaped PVC-U profiles. It is designed to help fabricators expand capability without compromise.

What is especially encouraging is that more fabricators recognise the need to rethink and future-proof their production output. Our most recent FIT Show was the strongest in our history, with fabricators arriving with clear investment plans and a focus on long-term performance. That momentum is reflected in a strong order pipeline from businesses determined to improve output, quality and profitability in 2026.

For more than 35 years, Haffner Ltd has taken the global Haffner legacy and focused it on the needs of UK fabricators.

We understand the pressures on modern fabrication and we know how the right machinery investment can transform performance.

This centenary year marks a new chapter.

The demands on fabrication are changing and automation is now essential for productivity, consistency and competitive strength. If you are looking to reduce labour pressures, improve output and deliver products that stand out in 2026 and beyond, we are ready to help you make that move. https://haffnerltd.com/

52 | machinery | january 2026

Forel Demo Days are back in 2026

FOREL will host an open event presenting the emerging trend for thin or ultra-thin glass while also demonstrating the technology and techniques necessary to deliver the final product

W

ith interest growing in the use of either thin or ultra-thin glass in the manufacturing process for lightweight triple glazed units, FOREL will host an open event presenting this emerging trend while demonstrating the technology and techniques necessary to deliver the final product. This exciting opportunity will allow those with interest, a first-hand experience of how the units are manufactured, the processes involved and a chance to discuss in detail the technology and machinery with our experts in Italy.

This Demo Days event will be available in the last week of February exclusive to visitors from the UK & Ireland at our headquarters near Treviso Italy at our recently extended state-ofthe-art production plant.

Unlike the customer experience at a trade show this open event aims to let visitors get close-up and personal with the machines, our manufacturing techniques, and to observe in detail production runs that demonstrates the capacity, accuracy and flexibility of the equipment while you asses overall performance prevalent to your business needs.

So, what is a thin triple unit, what will you see and what’s its relevance to the glazing industry?

There are currently two technologies capable of producing thin triple IGU’s, where the centre piece of glass can be substituted with either ultra-thin glass or thin glass, using either thermoplastic or flexible spacer systems in the manufacturing process.

The benefits associated with the final product are enhanced thermal performance, greater noise efficiency and combined dimensional and weight reduction when compared with standard triple glazing.

The manufacturing process also delivers production efficiencies too because the sealing robot can seal the single cavity created in a single pass, reducing time and increasing output when compared with standard triple IGU production.

FOREL offers various solutions, technologies and techniques for IGU production based on specific customer need, and in February we will be demonstrating a flexible spacer line that will automatically produce triple IGU’s using thin glass.

Vertical edge processing: Harmonised speed and precision Another key feature of our open event will be the live demonstration of our latest advancement in vertical edge processing unveiled this year at Vitrum 2025.

Designed for high-speed operation, this platform can easily be integrated into fully automated glass factories or as part of an insulated glass production line due to its exceptional output.

For those factories that need a fast, accurate, fully automatic glass processing machine the FG can be utilised perfectly within the productions overall processed glass requirement. The module is predisposed to sit in front of a stock sorting system that links production processes to improve manufacturing efficiency, safety and quality while reducing manual handling at the same time.

Where needed the FG can also be positioned at the head of the insulating glass line, as this next-generation machine has been developed to optimize workflow, reduce cycle times, and increase overall process efficiency. Capable of simultaneous ultra-fast arrissing (seaming) and rough edge grinding, it matches the pace of traditional machines while eliminating bottlenecks in insulating glass production.

These updates are all part of a broader company vision that allows all Forel machines to be part of a fully integrated system, where operator safety and production efficiency are paramount.

If you would like to join us on this journey and take a deeper dive into the future of Triple Glazed Units and Fast Glass Processing, then please contact us immediately to reserve your place.

E: support@uk.forelspa.com E: brian.mcdonald@uk.forelspa.com

When production stops, everything grinds to a halt.

That’s why Stuga holds a huge range of parts in stock right here in the UK – ready to be shipped when you need them most.

Our engineers are available nationwide, with support available within 24 hours, Monday to Friday.* We’re not just here to build your machines – we’re here to keep them running year after year. *For contract customers only, excluding public holidays.

Sawing & machining | Welding | Cleaning | Handling & logistics | Consultancy UK service & support | Spares & consumables | Project management 01493 742348 service@stuga.co.uk stuga.co.uk

Scan here for more information

54 | machinery | january 2026

Kombimatec DGS573 sets a new standard for precision cutting

A

s demand grows for faster, more versatile production solutions for larger sections in the aluminium fabrication industry, Kombimatec has once again raised the bar with the launch of its latest innovation – the DGS573 3-Axis Electronic Compound Double Mitre Saw. “With aluminium curtain walling and roofing projects demanding ever larger and more complex sections, fabricators need machines that have sufficient cutting capacity and can process quickly and with precision,” explains Kombimatec Director David Parsons.

Building on the proven success of its predecessor, the DGS570, the new DGS573 introduces two additional electronic axes, bringing the total to three. This delivers even greater accuracy, flexibility, and efficiency for manufacturers working with complex aluminium profiles.

Equipped with 2 x 550mm diameter saw blades that travel vertically from below the machine’s tables, the DGS573 enhances cutting precision through fully automatic 3-axis head positioning. This advancement allows operators to achieve a wider range of compound cuts with minimal setup time, ensuring that even the most intricate profiles for aluminium curtain walling and roofing can be cut with ease in a single cycle – including frame, mullion, transom, ring

beam, ridge beam, and rafter sections.

The machine’s extended cut feature continues to allow sections longer than the bed length to be processed seamlessly, while the cleat cutting function enables multiple repeat sizes to be cut automatically from a single bar length, saving both time and material.

On the technology front, the DGS573 is equipped with an intuitive overhead colour touch screen control panel, giving operators complete control over cutting lists, backups, and configurations. With Ethernet and USB connectivity, optimised cutting lists can be

transferred quickly and securely, ensuring smooth integration into modern workflows.

David Parsons added: “The DGS573 represents a significant step forward in cutting technology. By listening to our customers and understanding their production challenges, we’ve developed a machine that not only improves accuracy but also reduces waste and increases efficiency. It’s designed to help fabricators stay competitive in a demanding market.”

Tel: 01582 562218 E: sales@kombimatec.com

Stuga builds on customer focus with Danny Jones as Sales Director

S

tuga Machinery has appointed Danny Jones as Sales Director, building on its established technical consultancy and customer support capability as part of the Voilàp Group.

Danny has been a central figure at Stuga for two and a half years, helping shape a more consultative way of working with customers – one that prioritises production reliability, informed investment and long-term performance over short-term machinery decisions.

“I’ve always believed that if you do what’s right for the customer, even when it means not selling another machine, you build trust,” says Danny. “And when they’re ready to invest again, that trust matters.”

As fabricators continue to face pressure on margins, labour and output, Stuga’s role has increasingly centred on helping customers make better use of existing resources while planning future investment with confidence. Danny’s background in service engineering, maintenance and project delivery has been key in supporting customers through more complex

production challenges, particularly where automation and workflow changes are introduced.

The appointment comes as Stuga deepens its relationship with Voilàp, reinforcing the stability behind its UK operation and expanding access to a broader, more flexible machinery portfolio. Customers now benefit from greater choice – from standalone and entry-level equipment through to scalable, higher-volume systems – supported by strengthened engineering capability and long-term backing.

“We’ve come out of a very difficult period with the best possible outcome, working with Voilàp,” Danny explains. “We’re no longer constrained in what we can offer, which puts us in a much stronger position to support customers properly.”

In his new role, Danny will continue to work closely with customers and manufacturing partners to ensure machinery is specified and implemented in a way that delivers dependable, long-term operational value.

“Sales isn’t about pushing equipment,” he adds. “It’s about understanding how a factory really works, and making decisions that improve production in the long term.”

january 2026 | machinery | 55

Emmegi (UK) launches aluminium start-up machinery package

F

abricators looking to make the leap into manufacturing aluminium windows and doors can now take advantage of a start-up machinery deal from Emmegi (UK). Specifically designed to give fabricators everything they need in a cost effective, fully compatible and fully supported package, the start-up machines give fabricators access to one of the most reliable and trusted brands in the marketplace and provide an ideal platform for medium and even long term growth.

Within the Emmegi start-up package are machines including: the Phantomatic M3 CNC, Norma E twin head saw, M-S 300 single head saw, Lilliput end miller, Itaca crimper

and Nanomatic 384S copy router, as well as a selection of Acca XL tables and gasket trolleys - all supplied direct from Emmegi (UK) and installed by their highly trained, specialist team.

One of the first fabricators to take advantage of the package is Murphy Joinery based in Magherafelt, Northern Ireland, who have just added aluminium fabrication to their well-established timber joinery set up.

Murphy has already taken delivery of both of the Emmegi saws, the end miller, crimper and copy router, and plans to add the M3 CNC once volumes have increased.

Cormac Murphy, Murphy’s Managing Director said it was a big plus to be able

get all the machines from one dedicated source, rather than having to mix and match machines from different manufacturers.

He said: “As a timber specialist, we have a reputation for craftsmanship and quality, and we are determined to continue that into aluminium. By choosing a start-up package from a premium quality machinery supplier like Emmegi (UK), we feel we are giving ourselves a real head start. We have been impressed by the support they have provided on machine specification and installation, and, as we expand, we are looking forward to building a partnership which will effectively future proof our business.”

Pioneer invests in advanced seamless welder to elevate cill manufacturing

P

ioneer Trading Company has further strengthened its manufacturing capabilities with the purchase of the groundbreaking Graf SLS Single Head CNC Cill Welder from Haffner. The state-of-the-art machine is the first and only single-head CNC welder specifically designed to deliver seamless bay cills with exceptional efficiency and consistently flawless aesthetics.

After researching the market, Pioneer identified the Graf SLS as a genuine stepchange in cill fabrication. The machine produces a perfectly seamless weld with

fully automated sprue removal, eliminating the need for any post-weld cleaning or touch-ups and significantly improving fabrication efficiency. Its single-operator design further boosts productivity, while automatic measurement and recalibration of profile tolerances ensure consistent accuracy and reduced material waste.

Danny Williams, Managing Director at Pioneer Trading Company, said: “I’ve been in the industry for 36 years and during that time, manufacturing quality across most areas has improved beyond recognition, except when it comes to PVC-U cills. The same traditional methods are still being used today. The Graf SLS is an absolute gamechanger. The finish quality is exceptional, it de-skills labour and the efficiency gains are outstanding. There’s nothing like it on the market.”

He continued: “I was impressed by what I’d read about the machine, but it wasn’t until I visited the Haffner Village at FIT Show 2025 and saw the Graf SLS in action that I fully appreciated its capability.

After just one weld cycle, I was

sold and signed up there and then.”

Danny was equally impressed with the service received from Haffner during the purchasing process. He said: “Bryan Dando and the Haffner team have been exceptional; the whole process from order to installation has been seamless.”

Now fully installed and operational at Pioneer’s Essex fabrication site, the response from customers has been overwhelmingly positive. Danny added: “The feedback has been excellent, and the quality of the cills we are now delivering are superb.”

Bryan Dando, Commercial Director at Haffner, commented: “Pioneer has always been known for its commitment to quality and forward-thinking investment. Danny immediately recognised how the Graf SLS could transform cill production. The SLS delivers outstanding accuracy and efficiency and we are delighted to support Pioneer as they continue to elevate their manufacturing standards.”

Pioneer’s investment in the Graf SLS CNC Cill Welder further reinforces its position as one of the industry’s most innovative and quality-driven fabricators, ensuring every component of its window and door products meets the exceptional standards customers expect.

56 | pvc-u systems | january 2026

With sustainability, aesthetics and thermal performance, Deceuninck’s Elegant windows transform Slough’s Horlicks Quarter redevelopment

Elegant elevates former Horlicks factory W ith thermal performance, aesthetics and sustainability key specification drivers, Deceuninck’s ultra-energyefficient composite window system, Elegant, provides the perfect solution for Slough’s new Horlicks Quarter.

With its iconic red sign, landmark chimney, and poignant war memorial, Berkeley Homes’ Horlicks Quarter in Slough has sensitively reinvigorated a local institution, while preserving its heritage.

The former Horlicks factory site, purpose-built in 1908 to accommodate the manufacture of the globally famous restorative malted milk drink, has been transformed into a vibrant residential community. Featuring apartments, duplexes and affordable housing, the development also offers desirable amenities including a concierge, onsite nursery, café, co-working space, gym, cinema and rooftop terrace.

With thermal performance, aesthetics and sustainability key considerations for commercial projects, developer, Berkeley Homes, specified 773 tilt-and-turn windows in Deceuninck’s Elegant 76mm system for ‘Building J’ of the development.

Manufactured in-house by Lincoln-based Deceuninck fabricator, Sternfenster, the windows also feature Decoroc, Deceuninck’s patented colour coating system for PVC-U products.

“Sustainability, embodied carbon, end of life considerations and recycled content all affect choice when procuring windows for commercial projects like the Horlicks Quarter,” says Nick Page-Smith, Operations Director, Berkeley Homes.

“The aesthetic look of a window and its relationship to the building fabric, as well as its acoustic performance are also important factors,” he adds.

“We were looking for alternatives to our current supplier and Deceuninck stood out as a composite window manufacturer who gave us flexibility, design variation, and allowed us to build at a higher level with a composite window.

“The strength of Elegant, with regards to high-rise and the composite elements of it, including reinforcement, allowed us to select that window for a high-rise building,” continues Nick.

Achieving U-values as low as 0.7W/m2K, the ultra-energy-efficient Elegant system exceeds current building regulations to future-proof commercial projects.

Developed for the commercial sector and

ideal for medium to high rise commercial applications like the Horlicks Quarter, Elegant also requires less energy to recycle at end of life, closing the loop and reducing CO2 emissions.

Featuring a ThermoFibra glass fibre reinforced sash, Elegant can be combined with Forthex, Deceuninck’s extruded insulated thermal reinforcement. This negates the need for traditional steel reinforcement, due to the use of embedded steel wires in a low-density insulating foam core. The result is a window 30% more thermally efficient than a steel-reinforced window, but just as strong.

With slim sightlines and contemporary minimalist features, Elegant creates a strong architectural aesthetic which replicates aluminium in an advanced, low maintenance and energy efficient, composite system.

This is achieved with Deceuninck’s durable Decoroc foil, which creates the appearance of powder-coated aluminium. A popular choice in commercial applications, Decoroc is cost-effective, scratch and impact-resistant, easy-to-clean, and available in wide range of colours.

With delivery and scheduling another key consideration for Berkeley Homes’ delivery of the Horlicks Quarter, both Deceuninck and fabrication partner, Sternfenster, rose to the challenge, as Nick explains: “With regards to supply and highrise buildings, fluidity of delivery with

specification is important,” he says. “All of our concerns surrounding this aspect were met via Sternfenster and Deceunick.

Just in time scheduling has allowed us to plan accordingly, reducing the amount of material on site and minimising disruption.

“I think it’s important, with the Building Safety Act and the Golden Thread, to have interface with the manufacturer, as we have done with Sternfenster and Deceuninck.

“They’re on site to check what’s been installed, make sure the quality is up to scratch and to see it through to the end,” adds Nick.

As the Building Safety Act demands increasing accountability in construction and enforces stricter regulations, Nick highlights the importance of strong communication throughout the supply chain as a foundation for success.

“Going forward, with regards to the Building Safety Act and future schemes, it’s important we have a relationship from the early stages of specification, through to development, into the actual production itself, to the end of construction,” he says.

“Berkeley Group runs a common material strategy which allows us to pinpoint the supply chain early on and forge commitments with our suppliers.

“Sternfenster and Deceunick are a part of that, and we look forward to working with them, over years and projects to come.”

E: deceuninck.ltd@deceuninck.com

CHOOSE VERSATILE COLOURS PERFECTLY FINISHED NE W YE AR NE W COLOURS

WINDSOR 7039 GREY CHAMPAGNE SMOOTH

SCALABLE, RELIABLE SUPPLY SINGLE-SOURCE BUILDING PRODUCT SOLUTIONS SMARTER FABRICATION, BETTER MARGINS FUTURE-READY PERFORMANCE

CHOOSE WORLDCLASS EXTRUDED SOLUTIONS Premium quality foiled finishes delivered from Liniar’s cutting-edge lamination hall. Our colour options ensure you can stay ahead of design trends and easily satisfy evolving customer demands.

LINIAR.CO.UK /FIND-A-SUPPLIER

Liniar Ltd. is a subsidiary of Quanex Extruded Solutions, a Quanex Building Products company.

A PARTNER IN YOUR SUCCESS

SCAN QR TO FIND A SUPPLIER TODAY!

58 | pvc-u systems | january 2026

Cutting-edge and customer-first, Aluplast supports UK fabricators with high performance systems and expert technical backing

Innovation backed by hands on support W ith cutting-edge, customerfocused products backed by a highly experienced technical team, Aluplast has positioned itself as the trusted partner for UK fabricators seeking high-performance, ease of manufacture, and long-term value.

Boasting more than 100 years of combined fenestration industry experience, the technical team at aluplast is well-versed in the challenges facing UK window and door manufacturers.

Offering advice and hands-on support with things like setup, software, training and more, customers are assisted by an expert team that fully understands their current needs and concerns.

“The complexity of modern windows has placed a bit of a burden on fabricators because they’ve got to be even more scrupulous with the quality,” says Andy Stafford, External Technical Applications Engineer at Aluplast.

Spending much of his time out on site, helping customers get to grips with new products, tooling and machinery, Andy points out how modern window and door businesses are not just subject to stricter regulations; they must deliver on innovation – and kerb appeal too.

“It’s more than just replacing single glazing with double, nowadays. There’s so much more choice, in terms of window

finish and style,” he says.

“It can all be very confusing, so fabricators need a good supplier who can help guide them in the right direction.”

It’s an ever-changing landscape that Andy’s colleague, Graham Colls, Head of Technical and Operations at Aluplast, is also very well-placed to navigate, drawing on four decades of personal experience.

“I’ve been employed by aluplast for the last two years, but I’ve been in this industry since 1984,” says Graham.

“One of the biggest changes I’ve seen, since then, is the degree of professionalism that end users, installers and fabricators now expect. That’s in terms of certification, testing, and ultimately, the way that products are presented to the customer,” he adds.

“The whole subject can be quite complex, but we’re fully committed to providing

systems that evolve in line with modern industry and consumer demands, here in the UK.” As a global innovator that recognises the UK as a key market, aluplast has established a dedicated, UK-specific innovation programme focused on aesthetic and performance requirements, compatibility, and ease of fabrication.

With both its Ideal 70 and Ideal 4000 systems sharing the same platform, cross-compatibility offers UK fabricators significant advantages such as flexibility, efficiency, and fewer stockholding headaches.

“Ideal 70 and Ideal 4000 are fully interchangeable and integrated,” explains Graham. “So, a sash from the Ideal 4000, for instance, could fit into an Ideal 70 frame and the beading system can be used across both systems.”

Another game-changer for the UK market is Aluplast’s contemporary minimalist sliding patio door system, neo smart slide. Spanning larger apertures up to 6m in width and 2.5m in height with just two panels, it exemplifies the shift to increasingly sophisticated window and door products.

With slim sightlines, it maximises daylight as well as views, giving access to greater profit margins thanks to its lower price point against high-end aluminium alternatives.

Suitable for both domestic and commercial applications, the energeto neo window system is another stand-out innovation, available to aluplast’s UK customer base.

High spec and high-performing, energeto neo delivers advanced thermal performance combined with premium aesthetics. “energeto neo has some superb thermal advantages over other systems in that we can get down to a U-value below 0.7 quite comfortably,” says Graham. “The innovations that have gone into that system to achieve this will be cascaded into our other systems at a suitable time.”

And with a new inline sliding patio system primed for launch in January 2026, offering some “innovative performance advantages” over competing products, it’s clear the aluplast legacy of forward-thinking products backed by stand-out technical support is set to continue.

Tel: 01684 273401 www.aluplast.co.uk

60 | fabrication | january 2026

The Window Doctor grows from repairs to nationwide installations, backed by Sternfenster’s high-quality products and digital tools

The Window Doctor expands beyond repairs A s its name suggests, Yorkshirebased Sternfenster installer, The Window Doctor, is an expert in window repairs. But thanks to a strong supplier partnership, patching up existing fenestration products is not the only string to its bow.

Starting out as a window repair service almost four decades ago, Sternfenster customer, The Window Doctor, also offers installation services to clients around the country - an aspect of the business that it’s keen to expand.

“We’re trying to push the installation side of the business at the moment and Sternfenster have been really helpful with that,” says The Window Doctor’s Administration Manager, Kirstie Lawrence.

Founded in 1987 by Kirstie’s father, Phil Gledhill, the family business, currently based in Castleford West, Yorkshire, has worked with Sternfenster for almost a decade.

In addition to its repair work, the company fits windows and doors and conservatories, as well as conservatory roof replacements.

“When my dad first set up the business, there weren’t any other repair businesses around. Everybody was selling brand new windows, so we did focus on the repair side back then, but now we do a bit of both,” explains Kirstie.

“As well as domestic work we do commercial fitting jobs on buildings like hospitals, army bases, schools and colleges.

We pretty much cover everything,” she adds.

“With our name, The Window Doctor, not everybody realises that we do installations, so we’re in the process of updating our website to make our full range of services clear.

Sternfenster have been assisting us, helping us to demonstrate everything we offer with a virtual showroom to promote that side of business, which has been great.”

Switching to Lincoln-based Deceuninck fabricator, Sternfenster, nine years ago, after experiencing issues with its previous supplier, The Window Doctor team have never looked back.

As well as exceptional products, Sternfenster’s robust customer service

offering includes the unique online customer portal, SF+, and EasyAdmin+, a cloud-based quoting and delivery processing tool. Both have been game changing for The Window Doctor, as Kirstie explains.

“I like the fact that you can do pretty much everything online with Sternfenster. It makes life a lot easier,” she says.

“Once we’ve put the order in and sent it through, everything’s available to see on SF+. With live orders or quotes, we’ve got full visibility of their progress and when things are going to be delivered.

Any questions or issues are flagged it up; it’s just brilliant.

“On the unlikely occasion that a problem does arise, Sternfenster deals with it professionally, straight away. The recent updates to EasyAdmin+ have been fantastic too,” she adds.

When it comes to products, Kirstie struggles to single out a favourite, such is the exceptional quality of the Sternfenster range.

“All of the Sternfenster products are fantastic,” she enthuses. “I’ve used some of them throughout my own home, which I think says a lot!

“Composite doors, French doors, bi-folds,

flush casements; they are all high quality, high performing products that look great, manufactured to a very high standard with exceptional colour choice. They’re also easy to fit, and low maintenance, which minimises callbacks.

“Sternfenster keeps you really well informed and the lead times are very good – they’ve reduced significantly which means we don’t have to wait as long, and product delays are very rare.”

With Sternfenster’s strong service offering getting results for its customers, The Window Doctor has also benefited from good account manager relations, and sound advice.

“Sternfenster always try and help us to drive sales whenever they can,” says Kirstie.

“They’ve even given us advice on things like cashflow, which has been really beneficial. With installations, we’d always taken a 50% deposit and then didn’t get the other half until the job was completed. Our account manager suggested taking 50% and then a further 25% prior to order, and that really improved things for us.

“They’re always keen to help us, because if we’re doing well, it means that we keep giving our business to them. It’s a mutually beneficial relationship and we’re glad to be a part of it.”

Tel: 01522 512525 E: sales@sternfenster.co.uk

A Trade Supplier You Can Rely On

Steel Look Design Thermally Efficient Slim, Secure and Stylish Creates an Authentic Appearance 25mm Thermally Broken Transom

Royale Roy o ale Stepped oy

Exclusive Exclusiv i e to our Heritage Range iv

SAVE 10% TODAY!

*Offer applies to first time trade customers only

T HE B ES TS T EEL R EP L A C E MEN TW IND O WO NT HE M A R K ET! THE TH BEST ST STEEL ST TE REPLA RE PL LA AC CE EMENT NT WINDOW WI DO OW ON THE TH MARKET! MA AR RK KE

HERITAGE HERITA TAG TA AGE RANGE R NGE RA

Company of the Year Windows & Doors

MANUFACTURED IN THE UK

FAST TRACK DELIVERIES

10 YEAR PRODUCT GUARANTEE

OVER 40 YEARS TRADING EXPERIENCE

sales@duration.co.uk | 01268 681612 | www.duration.co.uk

62 | fabrication | january 2026

Heritage Trade Frames’ Lee Darcy says getting the fundamentals right helps businesses stand out and deliver lasting value

Succeeding in a highly competitive market W hile demand in the window and door sector remains resilient, competition across the supply chain is intensifying. Lee Darcy, Sales and Marketing Manager at Heritage Trade Frames, reflects on how focusing on the fundamentals can help businesses stand out and deliver long-term value to their customers.

As we move into 2026, there are still encouraging signs across the market. Many installers are reporting steady pipelines and improving order values, and that’s something we’re also seeing reflected in demand here at Heritage Trade Frames.

At the same time, it’s clear that the industry is operating in a highly competitive environment. Rising costs, increasing performance expectations and a greater choice of suppliers mean installers have to be more selective than ever about who they work with and how they position their own offer.

From my perspective, this makes the relationship between installer and fabricator even more important. In a crowded market, the businesses that succeed are those that focus on what they can control and work with partners who help them add value, protect margin and deliver consistency.

For us, that starts with getting the product offer right. Understanding where customer expectations are heading, particularly around energy efficiency and aesthetics, is crucial.

Our Safeguard Collection gives customers a single, cohesive retail proposition across PVC-U, aluminium and composite doors, supported by systems we know offer outstanding performance. Long-standing partnerships with Profile 22, our position as the UK’s largest PatioMaster supplier and our use of Stellar Aluminium all reflect our commitment to reliable, installer-friendly windows and doors that meet modern design and performance demands.

Thermal performance is a good example of how the market is evolving. Expectations around U-values continue to tighten, but installers still need products that are practical to specify and straightforward to install. That’s why we’ve introduced Regency Triple featuring Corning® Enlighten™ Glass.

It delivers triple-glazing performance with U-values as low as 0.7W/m2K in a standard 28mm unit, with only a minimal increase in weight compared to conventional double glazing.

Because it can be used within standard

70mm UK window profiles, it opens up opportunities in the replacement and refurbishment markets where triple glazing has traditionally been impractical. For installers, it means being able to offer a clear performance upgrade without changing systems, specifications or installation practices which delivers an important advantage in a competitive marketplace.

Of course, products alone aren’t enough.

The service behind them matters just as much. I was struck recently by how low employee engagement levels are across the UK more broadly. In manufacturing especially, having a motivated, experienced team makes a tangible difference to quality, reliability and customer confidence.

At Heritage Trade Frames, we place a strong emphasis on investing in our people.

The result is a stable, committed workforce with retention levels that reflect a positive culture and long-term mindset. That consistency feeds directly into the service we provide and the relationships we build with our customers.

Alongside this, we continue to invest in our infrastructure to make it as easy as possible for customers to do business with us. Recent investments in IT give installers access to 24/7 ordering, quoting and technical support, while our dedicated showroom and training centre provide a

space to explore new products, technologies and trends in a practical, hands-on way.

Focusing on these fundamentals has been central to our approach for more than 36 years. It’s taken us from a single manufacturing site to three state-of-the-art plants with an output of more than 2,800 frames weekly. We’ve doubled in size over the past five years and continue to grow our customer base, even in a highly competitive market.

As we begin 2026, we’ll continue to take the same disciplined approach. By offering the right products, backing them with dependable service and investing for the long term, working with Heritage Trade Frames puts our customers in the strongest possible position to succeed in an increasingly competitive market. www.heritagetradeframes.co.uk

A window and door system designed to authentically replicate 19th Century timber designs.

It can accommodate 28mm and 44mm glazing to create highly efficient glazed units that offer outstanding thermal and acoustic performance, with a WER rating of A++ and U-values as low as 0.74 w/m2K. Contact your local fabricator today.

Take a look at our new DOOR DESIGNER

01452 345 838 residencecollectiontrade.co.uk trade@residencecollection.co.uk

64 | fabrication | January 2026

Affordable Windows’ Amelia Gaughan highlights Timberlook’s 2025 achievements and looks ahead confidently to meet 2026 challenges

Timberlook innovation built for installers Q: What would you say is the philosophy that has driven Timberlook’s success over the past year?

Amelia: Our core philosophy is that taking the harder path always generates better results for our installer partners. For Timberlook, this meant from day one, we committed resources, time and money to develop the system completely in-house rather than settling for an easy, off-the-shelf option. That decision gave us total control over the production process and every detail of the product, allowing us to create the most authentic heritage flush sash system on the market.

Q: Can you highlight a key product development or innovation from 2025 that demonstrates this commitment to your installers?

Amelia: We’ve always adopted a considered approach when manufacturing our Timberlook range to ensure our windows and doors keep up with changing installer and homeowner demand. One of the earliest and most influential developments we made was introducing concealed trickle ventilation to our original Timberlook window. At the time, this decision not only set us apart from our competitors but also influenced wider industry standards, as others followed suit.

That same mindset led to the creation of the Timberlook door. Thanks to the ingenuity of our factory team, we developed a door that allowed installers to specify, and homeowners to choose from, a fully coordinated Timberlook suite of products.

We made further improvements with the introduction of a mechanical midrail section, which has proven particularly popular on rear French doors – where achieving an authentic timber aesthetic really matters.

In 2025, our focus has once again been on listening and responding. Following installer feedback, we re-engineered the trickle vent position to solve a common on-site challenge - keeping the external vent concealed while avoiding internal plaster lines and the need for unsightly add-on solutions. The result? A cleaner, more practical detail that makes the installation

easier and preserves the integrity of the original design.

This way of working, which is driven by real customer feedback, demonstrates our commitment to delivering products that genuinely work for our trade partners.

Q: How has AWG’s business strategy protected and supported installers this year?

Amelia: Diversification has been absolutely crucial for our company and installers this year. The successful integration of Decorio, our steel-look aluminium sister brand, was a significant investment at the end of 2024 and was wellreceived when we officially launched it at the 2025 FIT Show.

Expanding our offering to include both Timberlook and Decorio means we can now cater to virtually all heritage and contemporary projects. Not only does this mean we can better support our installer partners with a diverse range of jobs, but it has also helped build resilience within our business.

Avoiding an ‘all eggs in one basket’ approach is a strategy we’ve applied for many years as it allows us to adapt and evolve during challenging times. Supplying multiple products is not only great for us but also massively benefits our installer partners. This approach means they are well protected, especially when the market fluctuates, as they can keep up with changing consumer demands.

Q: The outlook for 2026 suggests the market will remain volatile. How is AWG positioning itself and its partners for success next year?

Amelia: As we enter 2026, we approach the year not with fear but with confidence built on preparation and continued investment. Although times are tough, we’ve weathered stormier waters in our decades of manufacturing history. We are already seeing positive indicators, such as PVC sales nudging ahead of Aluminium, confirming an appetite for the heritage aesthetics that Timberlook champions.

Regardless of the wider economic picture, we remain committed to strengthening our infrastructure next year by investing further in technology and systems that make our customers’ lives easier.

Digital advancements across the board prove the industry is, and will continue to, evolve. Plus, we’ve seen evidence consumer tastes are shifting so it’s more important than ever that installers must be willing to adapt to thrive in the year ahead.

Q: What specific support can installers working with Timberlook expect in 2026 to help them stay competitive?

Amelia: Our dedication to installer success goes beyond our product range.

We will continue to supply our free inhouse lead generation programme, which takes the burden of prospecting off our trade partners. Crucially, our strategic offer for the Planitherm One thermal upgrade will continue early into the new year, providing installers with a clear and valuable differentiator that doesn’t impact their competitive pricing. We’ve also got some exciting updates to our colour ranges in the pipeline to help our installers cater to changing trends – watch this space!

Q: What is your final message to UK window and door installers as they plan for the year ahead?

Amelia: In a fluctuating market, a reliable manufacturing partner is more important than ever. While some may respond with caution, we are approaching 2026 with confidence. Our strong performance in 2025 proves our long-term strategy works so we are ready for what the new year will bring.

Our financial stability and proactive approach to emerging consumer trends lets our installers focus on delivering highquality, competitively priced installations with confidence.

More than sash windows...

From dedicated installer support and smart quoting tools to the latest

innovations and product features, we provide more than sash windows.

We give installers the tools, support, and resources to help your business thrive.

INNOVATION Ongoing programme of new developments & enhancements

SUPPORT

FEATURES

Fully-automated updates backed up by awardwinning customer service

Wide range of features and options available, providing a competitive edge

MARKETING

ONLINE

Marketing, showroom support, sample windows, lead generation and much more

Online quoting & ordering through Tommy Trinder and BM TOUCH

01234 712657 trade@roseview.co.uk www.roseview.co.uk

WarmerRoof

RETROFIT ONTO NEW OR EXISTING BASE FOUNDATION

COMMITTED TO DELIVERING THE UK’S LEADING

TIMBER ROOF SYSTEM

FOR CONSERVATORIES, EXTENSIONS & GARDEN ROOMS

TECHNICAL SUPPORT

5-DAY TURAROUND

MARKETING SUPPORT

Our technical support team are available to guide you every step of the way. On-site assistance available to help familiarise with fitting procedures.

Our fleet of over 15 delivery vehicles provide a quality service across all of England and Wales.

Full and extensive marketing material available via our in-house marketing and content creation team.

£

UNBEATABLE PRICES

25-YEAR GUARANTEE

BUILDING CONTROL

Warmer Roof has gained the recognition for providing the highest quality systems at the most competitive prices within the industry.

Enjoy peace of mind knowing you are purchasing a tried and tested system.

25-year guarantee as standard.

We understand the process is perceived as a burden within the industry. For this reason, Warmer Roof have our very own in-house specialist, here to manage your Building Control process.

For information on any Warmer Roof products, support or if you simply have a project you’d like to discuss speak to our sales team

sales@warmerroof.com

01373 473 900

TRIED, TESTED, TRUSTED NEW YEAR, SAME PROMISE. FIXED PRICES FOR 2026

FREE

CE ISTAN S S A ITE

ON S

WarmerRoof

Tiled Roof System The ultimate timber roof system designed for conservatories and extensions.

The ‘Warm Roof’ design was conceived through the use of a unique modular system providing the most ‘fitter friendly’ roof system on the market. With so many customisable features your Warmer Roof will transform any home providing useable living space all year round.

U-Value 0.15 - Standard

U-Value 0.12 - Plus

WarmerBeam

Flat Roof System

With unrivalled looks and thermal performance, the Warmer Beam Flat Roof System combined with a glass lantern will bring stylish ambience to any home whilst maximising natural light, providing a bright and airy all year round living space.

U-Value 0.13 Standard

WarmerRoom

Garden Room Kit All Warmer Room Carcass Kits are manufactured with precision and supplied with personal assembly drawings for a quick and easy installation.

Delivered in Kit form, our modular system provides you with an insulated shell, ready to be customised to your taste and budget.

125mm Roof Insulation / 75mm Wall Insulation 52.5mm Insulated Plasterboard (optional)

WarmerAluminium

S1 Roof Lantern Secure, sustainable and stylish, the UK’s most secure roof lantern. Refined architectural appearance, allow corner and rafter end caps to run perfectly in line with the perimeter, so no unsightly angles jut out to spoil the perfect lines of this contemporary high-performance aluminium lantern.

UNBEATABLE PRICE WHEN PURCHASED WITH FLAT ROOF KIT

Integrated Fixed Units

WarmerGlaze

Our innovative design with minimal components offers a stress-free installation to all installers whilst providing truly stunning results. All of our slim aluminium capping’s are power coated in anthracite grey for a clean classic look with an internal frameless design offering increased natural light.

Single & Twin options available Optional - 28mm heated glass unit

REQUEST YOUR COMPLIMENTARY TRADE STARTER PACK

MADE-TO-MEASURE SYSTEM, PRECISION ENGINEERED IN OUR 40,000 SQ FT MANUFACTURING FACILTY BASE IN FROME

IN-HOUSE BUILDING CONTROL We understand the process can seem daunting for any first-time Building Control users. For this reason, Warmer Roof have created a dedicated in-house specialist team to process your application and guide you every step of the way. This personal touch is designed to provide a stress-freebuilding control experience

ROOF SWAP : ROOF & FRAMES : NEW BUILD EXTENSION : SAPS : STRUCTURAL ALTERATION :

£355+VAT £395+VAT £850+VAT £325+VAT £295+VAT

68 | fabrication | january 2026

Universal Trade Frames streamlines aluminium projects, arming installers with clarity, speed, and a decisive competitive edge

Reducing complexity in aluminium installations W ith aluminium’s popularity showing no sign of waning, Universal Trade Frames is giving installers a competitive edge in premium markets and reducing complexity with a comprehensive aluminium range that complements its PVC-U portfolio.

The sleek, sophisticated look of aluminium is enduringly popular in the home improvement market. From classic steel-look partitioning to contemporary bi-fold doors, the material is often the first choice for style conscious consumers looking to elevate project design in the premium sector.

This means finding a supply partner, such as Shrewsbury-based fabricator, Universal Trade Frames, with a varied product portfolio that includes but also complements aluminium, is key.

Perfect pairing Ideal for extensions, refurbishments and interiors, Universal’s extensive aluminium range features Origin’s OI-30 internal doors and the OB36+ series of slimline bi-fold, French, and single external doors.

Universal has expanded its aluminium offer further with the addition of Origin’s new OS-29+ sliding door. Combining a sleek 29mm sightline with exceptional thermal performance, the OS-29+ delivers U-values as low as 0.78 W/m2K with triple glazing and 1.2 W/m2K with double glazing, making it one of the most efficient aluminium sliding doors on the market.

It’s also PAS 24 certified and packed with premium design features, including a flush stacking option, concealed running gear, and Origin’s exclusive signature handle, all designed to deliver a seamless blend of style, security, and performance.

Benefiting from 25-year guarantees, Part L compliance, and refined aesthetics, the Origin products pair perfectly with Universal’s comprehensive selection of Residence Collection windows and doors, giving installers that all-important flexibility across mixed-material projects.

“Aluminium is an expected part of highend residential design, and our range of aluminium and compatible PVC-U products really reflects this,” explains Richard Hammond, Sales Director at Universal.

“Origin’s OI-30, OB36+, and now OS-29+ ranges offer the high quality and aesthetics our customers have become accustomed to and integrate seamlessly with the rest of

our product offering. Notably, the Residence Collection, which is known for its authentic, heritage-inspired designs like Residence 9, 7, and 2.

“As a one-stop shop for high-end window and door supply, you can get all your premium products, PVC-U or aluminium, from us, on one single order, with one invoice and one delivery.

“That’s a big plus for installers who might be looking to move into higher value jobs.

It means they don’t have to look elsewhere for their aluminium supply, significantly increasing efficiency and reducing complexity.”

“That’s all backed by our 98%+ On Time

In Full (OTIF) record and market-leading customer service model, for added peace of mind.”

Comprehensive aluminium offer Operating from a 30,000ft2 manufacturing facility, Universal’s aluminium offer also includes the Smart Aluminium range of windows and doors.

Designed for low maintenance, Smart Aluminium systems are available in a wide variety of colours, finishes and profiles to suit both contemporary and traditional aesthetics.

In addition, Universal’s comprehensive product selection also includes Solidor composite doors, Epwin’s Optima Flush and tilt and turn and vertical sliding options from Spectus.

Richard concludes: “In an increasingly competitive market, where costs are getting higher and margins are getting lower, we’re dedicated to providing our customers with high-quality, reliable products that are easy to order, receive and install in both PVC-U, and aluminium.

“Aluminium products continue to set the standard in premium home improvement and in combining those with the continual appeal of PVC-U, we’re offering a complete solution that delivers a real business advantage for installers.”

Tel: 01743 442244 E: info@utfl.co.uk

70 | fabrication | january 2026

Hurst brings European-inspired doors to UK homes, combining personalisation, style, glazing and colour to maximise kerb appeal

From afterthought to statement centrepiece W ith European influences and expanding colour and glazing options driving the growing demand for personalised entrance doors, Hurst is well placed to help installers and homeowners take advantage.

From the rise of social media to the “Grand Designs effect,” consumers increasingly crave individuality, and the entrance door has evolved to match. No longer just a functional entry point, it’s now a design statement that reflects the homeowner as much as the home itself “Twenty years ago, entrance doors were an afterthought with respect to window sales,” says Mark Atkinson, Sales Director at composite door and door panel manufacturer, Hurst.

“But today’s homeowners are selecting the door first, not last. Doors have become instrumental in creating positive first impressions, channelling personal expression and creating that all-important kerb appeal.”

As design has taken centre stage in the home, the entrance door has followed suit. Homeowners are increasingly driven by style, colour and glazing choices, with aesthetics often shaping the decision long before they consider the technical details.

“I think aesthetics are probably the primary driver for the sale of our products” explains Mark.

“Whilst security and specification understandably remain a key consideration, emphasis is on style, colour, glass and individuality. Homeowners ultimately go for what looks good, or what they think will look good on their property.”

European influence With continental trends such as bold colours, premium glazing and minimalist styles capturing the UK’s attention, demand for bespoke designs and statement entrances is greater than ever.

“I think perceptions have changed,” Mark continues. “Going back a couple of decades, it was very much glazing companies saying, ‘I’ll sell you a house full of windows, and by the way, I’ll throw in a door…’.

“But in Europe, the concept of the door as a focal point has always been more prevalent. Slowly, but surely, over the years it’s come through to the UK, and that’s what we’re really seeing here now.”

Recognising its significant impact but also acknowledging that an entrance door is “cheaper to replace than a house

full of windows”, Mark outlines how Hurst has been among those companies leading the charge on personalisation and customisation.

“Our GRP and solid core composite door ranges offer a multitude of choice,” he says.

“Homeowners can choose colours, glass, hardware and styles, delivering aesthetically unique and high performing doors at accessible price points.

“We offer genuinely bespoke products that can be tailored to your requirements, with almost infinite options available. It creates a real opportunity for homeowners to demonstrate true individuality through strong, stylish doors that enhance kerb appeal – and that’s a concept that sells.”

A solid option Combining a solid timber core with elegant designs, a durable CoolSkin finish and market-leading security, the recent introduction of the S-Class range means installers can buy both GRP and solid core composite door options from one trusted supplier.

“At the moment, the entrance door market is incredibly competitive, with lots of manufacturers offering different product types,” continues Mark.

“That’s why we’ve recently launched our S-Class solid core range in addition to our GRP composites, because we know that installers are out there selling both.

We wanted to give our customers that choice and ensure they can get everything they need from us, without having to go elsewhere.”

In a world heavily influenced by TikTok and Instagram, looks are more important than ever, and entrance doors offer a relatively cost-effective way to transform a property’s aesthetic.

“Consumers are increasingly looking to smaller, high-impact upgrades like doors to ramp up kerb appeal and add value to their homes, without the expense of more extensive home improvement work,” adds Mark. “Our design-driven range of GRP and solid core composite products provide the means for them to do this.

“Offering a unified, versatile and competitive offer for today’s style-conscious homeowner also allows installers to widen their pitch, achieve higher margins, and cover all the bases in an increasingly choicedriven market,” he concludes.

Tel: 01482 790790 E: info@hurstdoors.co.uk

Heritage Trade Frames

Trusted by installers for over 35 years

Reliable Lead Times

Extensive PVC-U, Aluminium & Composite Door Range

Proven On-Time Deliveries

Partner with a fabricator you can trust.

Talk to us today about how we can support your business.

T: 01204 664 700 E: info@heritagetradeframes.co.uk W: heritagetradeframes.co.uk

Online Ordering & Tracking

Dedicated Customer Support

72 | fabrication | january 2026

Spectral Windows expands offering with Residence Collection products

S

pectral Windows has expanded its fabrication range with the addition of The Residence Collection - the original timber-alternative window system, designed and made in the UK to combine traditional style with modern performance.

Installers across the majority of the UK, from Cheshire to Northamptonshire and across the South of England, can now source the full suite of Residence Collection windows systems from Spectral, including Residence 9, Residence 7 and Residence2, fabricated locally with a focus on craftsmanship, lead time efficiency and personalised trade support.

Originally launched in 2011, The Residence Collection has become the go-to brand for high-end PVC-U flush sash windows, designed to replicate the look and feel of traditional timber while delivering outstanding energy performance. The range is widely approved for use on listed buildings and conservation areas and has proven especially popular in heritage rural and premium residential settings.

All Residence systems offer advanced thermal efficiency, with u-values as low as 1.2W/m²K with double glazing as standard.

The multi-chambered profiles are designed to meet current Document L requirements, and trickle vent options and discreet vent covers help installers comply with Part F where necessary.

The systems are available in an extensive palette of up to 26 colours including heritage tones, dual colours and timber-

effect finishes. A variety of jointing options are available - including mechanical joints, graf welds, Timberweld®, and traditional mitre welds - depending on the desired aesthetic and project type.

R9 remains a market leader for heritage and period properties, featuring an authentic flush sash and deep traditional detailing. R7 offers a clean, flush finish inside and out for a more contemporary yet classic feel. R2 is a bold, architectural look with sharp square edges and equal sightlines - ideal for modern design-led homes and new build developments.

Nick Rudd, Director at Spectral Windows comments: “The systems are perfectly in line with what today’s homeowners want heritage design, modern performance, and a high-end finish. There’s a real appetite in the market for premium, low-maintenance timber alternatives. The Residence Collection delivers on every front – style, performance, colour, and compliance – and it gives our installer customers the edge when competing for high-value residential projects.” www.spectralwindows.co.uk

Fentrade gears up for future growth following acquisition

F

ollowing its acquisition by Aluminium Vision Limited earlier this year, independent trade fabricator Fentrade is reporting a period of continued stability, strategic investment and sustained sales growth as the business prepares for its next phase of expansion.

Since the sale of shareholdings in April 2025, it has very much been business as usual for the Newport-based fabricator, but with significant planning for the future taking place behind the scenes.

The new ownership has already brought tangible investment into the workforce, including additional estimating staff and the appointment of a new Technical Manager to further strengthen customer support. Recruitment is also underway on the shopfloor to increase manufacturing capacity.

Chris Reeks, Managing Director and co-founder of Fentrade, commented: “Whenever a business changes ownership, there can be concern that standards may slip. But with Aluminium Vision, this was never in doubt. The new team shares the same values of service, quality and reliability that have always defined Fentrade.

Retaining my position as Managing Director has ensured continuity for our staff and our customers, while giving me the opportunity to oversee the growth of the business in the way I could not previously realise.”

Despite wider economic uncertainty, Fentrade has delivered consistent sales growth throughout 2025, acquiring new trade customers and securing several large, high-profile commercial projects.

With further investment planned and relocation options being actively explored, the company is forecasting continued momentum into 2026 and beyond.

The strengthened partnership with Aluminium Vision has also reinforced Fentrade’s long-term manufacturing strategy. The business continues to operate from its modern Newport facility, fabricating an extensive aluminium product range using systems from leading industry names including Aluk, VBH, Kestrel and Jack Aluminium.

Chris added: “We’ve built a reputation as a dependable fabricator that delivers on time, in full and with exceptional attention to detail. With the backing of Aluminium Vision and the additional resources now in place, we are in a stronger position than ever to support our customers and grow our presence in both the trade and commercial sectors.”

Fentrade’s commitment to service, quality and technical expertise remains unchanged, and the company’s ongoing investment ensures it is well-positioned to support partners with both current and future project demands.

Tel: 01633 547787 E: sales@fentradealuminium.co.uk

Stand out from the crowd with police recognised doors or windows

Demonstrate your products achieve the highest level of security Join the hundreds of companies who currently enjoy the benefits of Secured by Design membership Secured by Design is the official police security initiativ Owned by the UK Police Service

Find out more at

www.securedbydesign.com

74 | fabrication | january 2026

Armstrong Industries posts 10% sales growth as 2025 revenue strengthens

D

riven by Kömmerling innovation and bespoke colour technology, Armstrong Industries, one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of PVC-U and aluminium windows and doors, is proud to announce a 10% increase in sales for 2025—a milestone driven by innovation, partnership, and a commitment to helping customers win more business in a competitive market.

This growth is closely tied to the company’s continued investment in the Kömmerling product range, including the chamfered, ovolo, and full flush casement and door systems. These profiles have allowed Armstrong’s trade partners to elevate their product offerings, expand into new design sectors, and deliver the modern aesthetics homeowners increasingly demand.

The full flush casement system, in particular, has proven to be a stand-out success. Its clean sightlines and premium finish have given installers a high-value product with broad consumer appeal.

Combined with the reliability and engineering excellence associated with Kömmerling, Armstrong customers have been able to differentiate themselves from lower-spec competitors and secure additional market share throughout the year.

In addition to profile innovation, Armstrong Industries’ in-house profile paint system has become a decisive advantage for customers looking to offer something unique. Unlike standard foil options, Armstrong’s paint technology allows installers to provide truly bespoke finishes— including contemporary matte tones, heritage shades, and custom architectural colours.

This capability has opened new opportunities for installers who want to position themselves at the premium end of the market. Homeowners increasingly seek individuality and distinctive kerb appeal; Armstrong’s colour system has helped its trade partners meet those expectations with confidence. Many customers have reported winning jobs specifically because they could offer colours and finishes not available elsewhere. The combined strength of Kömmerling profiles and Armstrong’s bespoke colour offering has directly contributed to the company’s year-on-

year growth. Installers who adopted the expanded range early in 2025 have seen noticeable uplifts in enquiry volumes, average order values, and conversion rates.

As Armstrong continues to invest in new machinery, streamlined manufacturing, and customer support, the business fully expects further growth into 2026. The company invites trade partners, installers, and industry professionals to experience the 10% difference themselves—by exploring the Kömmerling range, visiting the Armstrong factory, and discovering the full potential of its colour technologies.

Setting a new standard for PVC-U

T

rade Window Centre is proud to announce the new Ultima range, it’s latest PVC-U product range, designed to combine innovation, performance and value that lasts. Developed with homeowners and modern living in mind, the Ultima range combines precision manufacturing with premium materials and contemporary design to ensure reliable installation, lasting performance, and exceptional results. Engineered for exceptional thermal performance and security, Ultima delivers both aesthetics and functionality, making it the ultimate solution for modern properties.

“Ultima represents our commitment to innovation and quality” said Dom Francis, Managing Director, Trade Window Centre.

“We’ve listened to our customers and developed a range that not only meets but exceeds expectations in terms of performance and design, all at outstanding value.”

The Ultima range is designed and developed using the Profile 22 by Epwin Window Systems. Katrina Earl, Sales Director at Epwin commended, “We’re delighted that Trade Window Centre has chosen Profile 22 for its new Ultima range. Profile 22 is renowned for its superior thermal efficiency, security, and design flexibility, making it the perfect choice for fabricators looking to deliver exceptional performance and aesthetics. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to quality and innovation in the fenestration industry.”

With modern aesthetic options, including a range of finishes, glazing styles, and

hardware choices, Ultima products offer the ultimate finish for every project. Each unit is built for exceptional energy efficiency and low maintenance, helping homeowners reduce energy use while maintaining long-term appeal. The range has been developed with security at the forefront, all products are PAS2 compliant and Kubu Smart Security is built in as standard.

Trade Window Centre offers nationwide delivery, competitive pricing and up to a 10 year guarantee. The Ultima Range is now available exclusively through Trade Window Centre and UKO Group companies, setting a new benchmark for design, performance, and lasting value

Nationwide Deliveries

Trade T ade Prices Tr

Marketing & Showroom &Show o ro ow r om Support

Super SuperSlim pe Slim Bifo f lding fo lding Door Bifolding

Heritage Doors

Internal Doors

0116 319 0702 sales@midorialuminium.co.uk 180b Tithe street, Leicester, LE5 4BN

A NEW ERA FOR TRIPLE GLAZING CHOOSE THE WIDTH OF DOUBLE. THE POWER OF TRIPLE. ■ U-Values as low as 0.7-0.9 W/(m2K) ■ Designed to fit standard 70mm frames ■ More than 40% lighter than typical triple glazing

CONTACT

EDGETECHIG.CO.UK

E ukenquiries@edgetechig.com T +44 (0)2476 995 704

Edgetech is a subsidiary of Quanex Extruded Solutions, a Quanex Building Products company

76 | fabrication | january 2026

Sheerline appointed in sensitive restoration of historic gatehouse

T

he original gatehouse of Whinney House in Low Fell has received an upgrade thanks to an installation completed by Bison Doors.

The project has won the recent Sheerline Installation of the Month competition as it highlights what can be achieved for heritage properties.

As a listed building, a sensitive renovation that enabled the property to retain its character and charm was key. Although the existing timber windows had to be replaced like for like, permission was granted to install aluminium doors.

Adding the Prestige Bi-fold Door instead of replacing the existing window allowed Bison Doors to create a bright, airy space, flooded with natural sunlight. The existing timber French Doors also weren’t up to standard anymore. They were replaced with Sheerline’s Prestige French Doors featuring the InvisiHinge from Ingenious, which created a flush finish in keeping with the overall aesthetic of the property. It’s these aesthetic qualities that have made it the hinge of choice for the company.

Bison Doors became a Sheerline fabricator when the Classic Heritage Door was

launched as they frequently received enquiries for this style of product. Since then, they’ve added Classic windows, Prestige windows and doors including bi-folds, plus the S1 and S2 to their range.

Bryce Morgan, Bison Door’s Manager, said: “We had a discerning customer ap-

proach us with a project requiring something a little different, after visiting the property it became clear that the product needed was that of the Sheerline Prestige system and in particular the use of the new InvisiHinge.”

“The old stone-built Gatehouse benefitted from the high-performance Prestige system in both Bifold and French Door options. It was a great job to be involved with and to top it off we won installer of the month, which is something that is never in the forefront of your mind when undertaking jobs as the focus is always on customer satisfaction, but it does fill you with pride knowing Sheerline also appreciate the final turnout,” he added.

Sheerline’s Area Sales Director (North), Howard Hirst, commented: “It’s great to see Bison Doors win Installation of the Month – and with a stunning project no less!

Seeing our products used on heritage and listed properties highlights our versatility, particularly as homeowners are increasingly looking for alternatives when it’s time to replace timber frames.”

E: info@bisondoors.co.uk E: info@sheerline.com

JJ Harrison ties in with supply partner

J

J Harrison Windows has renewed its long-standing partnership with Eurocell as the business looks ahead to a new phase of investment and expansion.

From humble beginnings with just £1,000 in the bank, JJ Harrison Windows has grown from a two-person start-up into a thriving business employing more than 70 people. Established in 1998, the company specialises in bespoke PVC-U fabrication and installation, serving both the domestic and new-build markets across Leigh, Greater Manchester, and beyond The partnership between JJ Harrison and

Eurocell has developed over several years, built on shared priorities around quality, service and sustainable growth.

Nicola Harrison, Company Secretary at JJ

tel 01457 858535

Harrison Windows, said: “Our partnership with Eurocell has been instrumental to our growth. They understand our business, our challenges and our ambitions, and they’ve supported us every step of the way – from product innovation to technical expertise and on-the-ground support.”

Under a newly signed five-year agreement, JJ Harrison is carrying out a full factory audit and investing in new machinery to increase capacity. The business has also installed £80,000 worth of solar panels across its factory roof, expected to reduce energy costs by up to 80%, and introduced its first electric van for local deliveries.

www.gpackman.co.uk

sales@gpackman.co.uk

Frame Corner Protector Best ground clearance available. Universal fit.

Clip-Fit Bridge Packers

Face Drain Caps

Designed to save you time and money. Fewer glass breakages.

16 standard colours from stock.

Less spraying - permanent finish.

january 2026 | fabrication | 77

Euroglaze extends one-stop-shop offering with Liniar Alumina Bi-Fold

B

arnsley-based Euroglaze is already widely considered as the One Stop Shop for PVC-U trade frames, offering what is arguably the widest range of Rehau products of any UK fabricator, alongside Liniar chamfered, sculptured and flush windows and doors.

Now though, the company has gone one step further and added the Liniar Alumina aluminium bifold to its range – giving trade customers even fewer reasons to go anywhere else.

Martin Nettleton, Euroglaze’s Managing Director, says: “We know trade customers like to buy their PVC-U products from us because we offer a friendly personalised service backed by consistent quality and fast, reliable delivery times. Now we’re giving them the opportunity to buy their aluminium bifolds from us as well and guaranteeing the same level of quality and service.”

The Liniar Alumina bifold suites perfectly with Liniar sculptured PVC-U frames and stands out in the market because it comes with the option of woodgrain foils as well as powder coated finishes so that buyers can achieve a coherent look throughout their property.

It can span apertures up to 6m wide, with

sashes up to 2.5m high so easily matches conventional aluminium bifolds, but feels warmer to the touch because of the foiled finish and achieves impressive U-Values as low as 1.2W/m2K thanks in part to a patented thermal lock system.

Martin Nettleton, Euroglaze’s Managing Director, says it was an obvious addition to the Euroglaze range: “Liniar Alumina is

already a proven, popular product. It can be used to fabricate residential and French doors as well as bifolds for replacement, new build and commercial projects, so represents an exciting new business opportunity for Euroglaze as well as our trade customers.” www.euroglaze.co.uk/

Dekko demonstrates its quality on standout installation with installer

D

ekko Window Systems has demonstrated its quality on a standout installation with Bournemouth-based installer Precision Home Improvements Ltd following a major project that showcased the very best of The Residence Collection’s R9 windows and doors.

Featuring more than 54 beautifully crafted frames, the huge installation highlights exactly why installers across the UK are increasingly turning to Dekko as their supplier of choice. For Precision Home Improvements, this was only their second project with Dekko, but it’s one that has firmly cemented the partnership.

“We’ve been working with Dekko Window Systems for just over a year now,” explained Andrew Bell, Managing Director of Precision Home Improvements. “And once again, the quality of their products and service really stood out. We’ve already placed further orders for the Residence Collection and are quoting more.”

The property, situated within a conservation area, demanded a window and door system that delivered on heritage aesthetics without compromising modern performance. Residence 9 was the obvious choice.

“This home’s original character needed to be preserved, so R9 was the perfect fit,” An-

drew said. “It replicates traditional timber styling with its authentic flush finish and woodgrain detailing, yet it gives homeowners all the advantages of modern, low-maintenance performance. It complemented the property perfectly and met conservation requirements without any compromises at all.”

Precision Home Improvements chose Dekko because of its reputation for delivering the Residence Collection and Dekko manufactured and supplied every one of the 54-plus R9 frames, ensuring meticulous

attention to detail throughout.

For installers, product quality and precision manufacturing can make or break a project, and Andrew is clear about the difference Dekko made on site.

“From a fitter’s point of view, the quality was excellent,” he said. “Every frame was precise, consistent, and superbly packaged.

Everything fitted perfectly to our measurements, which always makes a huge difference. It made the whole installation straightforward.”

Andrew also praised the level of support provided by the Dekko team. “Communication throughout was first class. Residence Collection Sales Manager Austin O’Carroll was brilliant from ordering right through to delivery. Dekko were reliable, responsive, and professional at every stage.”

The homeowner was delighted with the finished installation. “They were impressed by how seamlessly the new Residence 9 windows matched the traditional look of the property while improving insulation and soundproofing,” added Andrew.

“Dekko’s service was excellent from start to finish, and the Residence Collection speaks for itself, with Dekko’s attention to detail something that aligns perfectly with the standards we set at Precision.”

78 | fabrication | january 2026

Kolorseal helps Modern UPVC Windows make stunning statements

M

odern UPVC Windows (the online division of Burbage Custom Windows), has recently installed a vivid, colour coated project after using Kolorseal’s services. The violet blue windows and doors in RAL5000 made a striking overall finish for the homeowners, who wanted to put their personal touch to their renovation project.

Homeowners have shown a marked interest in the new online options with the ability to select windows and doors in virtually any colour. This new level of customisation has seen more customers actively exploring the newly accessible, broad range of colours available from Kolorseal.

The ‘Kolorsealed’ options are available via www.modernupvcwindows.co.uk which provides fast and hassle-free access to the broadest colour choice. Already, homeowners are keen to make the most of the 10-Year adhesion guarantee and fast turnarounds that come with Kolorseal services. As an award-winning specialist company, Kolorseal can colour match from samples, whilst also providing dual-colour coating options that co-ordinate with interior designs. This gives Modern UPVC Windows more business scope while their customers gain greater control over the finished look of their homes.

Since the introduction of online options, the ability to select windows and doors in nearly any colour has led to a significant rise in interest for these new choices.

The ‘Kolorsealed’ options, accessible via www.modernupvcwindows.co.uk, offer

homeowners speedy and simple access to an extensive range of colours.

Modern UPVC Windows is renowned for its comprehensive, high-quality collection of made-to-measure windows, doors, aluminium bifolds, roof lanterns, and skylights. The company is committed to giving customers maximum flexibility in their customisation choices as this project demonstrates. As an award-winning specialist, Kolorseal can colour match from physical samples and also provides dual-colour coating options that align with interior design schemes. This partnership not only expands the business potential for

Modern UPVC Windows but also gives their customers greater control over the final appearance of their homes.

James Meah, Managing Director, Burbage Custom Windows Ltd commented, “Perfect customisation across our extensive range of products on projects such as this, demonstrates our commitment to providing consumers with only the best”.

Debbie Hendry, Managing Director at Kolorseal, further commented, “This project highlights the growing trend among homeowners to make very personal statements with their property investments.

Debbie emphasised “Through Kolorseal’s ongoing partnership with Modern UPVC Windows, their customers can be assured that the extensive ‘Kolorsealed’ guarantees and services that will meet their high standards, helping them create the perfect environment in which to relax and enjoy their home.”

Modern UPVC Windows offers a streamlined, user-friendly online experience, making it simple for customers to design and order their ideal products from the comfort of their own home.

Customers benefit from instant, transparent pricing and a secure checkout process, ensuring confidence and convenience at every stage. The service is completed by fast, reliable delivery, allowing homeowners to realise their vision without unnecessary delay.

Tel: 01924 454856 www.kolorseal.co.uk www.modernupvcwindows.co.uk

STS202-BR2 success fuels demand for Jack Aluminium’s TD68 system

J

ack Aluminium Systems has achieved STS202-BR2 approval for its TD68 thermal door system, confirming its capability to meet BR2-level security performance – equivalent to LPS1175 SR2.

The approval has already acted as a catalyst for increased Q4 sales, as specifiers and fabricators look for aluminium alternatives to steel in high-security projects.

Historically, STS202-BR2 approvals have been achieved mainly by steel doorsets. The standard measures a door’s ability to resist forced entry using a prescribed toolkit – typically including screwdrivers, hammers, chisels and small crowbars – to simulate the kind of opportunistic and sustained attacks a building might face in real-world conditions.

This accreditation demonstrates that the TD68 aluminium system achieves the same level of tested protection – while continuing to deliver the thermal efficiency, design flex-

ibility and fabrication simplicity that have made it a popular choice for commercial applications.

The latest test programme extends the TD68’s approved configurations, adding manual locking and remote access options across single and double door assemblies, alongside a wide range of tested glass, panel

and louvre combinations. These additions build on previous test applications, broadening the system’s certified scope for specifiers and fabricators. “We’ve shown aluminium can go head-to-head with steel on security – STS202-BR2 approval for the TD68 is now proof of that,” says Jack Aluminium’s Managing Director, Andy Short, who also highlights there are common misconceptions around the test standards.

“There’s often confusion between STS202-BR2 and LPS1175 SR2. Both assess resistance to attack at the same level and are recognised demonstrations of enhanced security performance – the difference lies in the certification body, not the criteria,” he explains.

“Whether tested to STS202 or LPS1175, BR2 and SR2 represent equivalent levels of attack resistance. The important thing is that specifiers now have a proven aluminium alternative to steel.”

Specialist Fabricators for Large-Scale Developments. www.spdbyastraseal.co.uk 01933 227 233

ARTEVO: The Revolutionary Window System.

Astraseal introduces the REHAU Artevo System - designed to give our partners a competitive edge. This hybrid profile combines the strength of glass fibrereinforced PVC with optional aluminium cladding, offering the flexibility to meet a wide range of specifications.

With 72mm glazing capability, 48dB acoustic performance, and U-values as low as 0.6 W/m²K, Artevo delivers high-end performance, slim sightlines, strong thermal results, and straightforward fabrication making this range a practical upgrade for any product range.

Speak to one of our experts to find out more: Call: 01933 227 233 Email: info@astraseal.com Visit: www.astraseal.co.uk

80 | fabrication | january 2026

FrameMaker signs three-year supply deal with Stellar Aluminium Systems

L

eicester-based FrameMaker Windows has signed a three-year supply agreement with Stellar Aluminium Systems, further strengthening its product portfolio with the award-winning aluminium window and door system.

Established in 2002, FrameMaker has grown to become one of Leicester’s leading trade manufacturers, known for its quality-led fabrication, reliable service and commitment to quality. The decision to partner with Stellar represents an important step in the company’s continued expansion into the aluminium market. After a detailed market review, FrameMaker was particularly impressed by Stellar’s flush aesthetics and installer-friendly design. Guy Kempster, Office Manager at FrameMaker Windows, said: “The look and style of the Stellar Aluminium system really stood out to us. The slim profiles, excellent sightlines and strong range of stocked colours make it a highly attractive option for our customers.”

FrameMaker has now begun manufacturing the Stellar Casement Window and the Stellar Bifold Door, with customer feedback already exceeding expectations. Guy added: “One of our biggest customers recently completed a 25-window project using the Stellar Flush Casement system and was absolutely over the moon with the result.”

The onboarding process has been equally positive, with the company praising Stellar’s smooth transition and hands-on support.

Guy commented: “The setup process was very straightforward, and Jon Foulds was always on hand to answer any questions. From start to finish, the whole switchover process

was extremely efficient.”

The reaction from FrameMaker’s fabrication team has also been overwhelmingly positive: Guy added: “The lads on the factory floor love fabricating Stellar. The profiles are well thought out, fabrication is intuitive and overall we’re very pleased with how the system performs.”

With early demand rising and further product opportunities under review, FrameMaker is confident that Stellar will play a central role in its future growth. Guy said: “We’re already seeing an uplift in enquiries and the system consistently delivers the

level of quality our customers expect. It’s a product range we trust and one we’re proud to put our name to.”

Jon Foulds, Key Account Manager at Stellar Aluminium, added: “FrameMaker Windows is a forward-thinking, quality-driven business and their values align perfectly with the Stellar brand. Their enthusiasm and commitment to the system have been fantastic and we’re delighted to support them as they continue to grow their aluminium offering. We look forward to working closely with the team and building a strong partnership in the years ahead.”

Business Support Hub to help installers go from quote to close

F

ramexpress has launched its new Business Support Hub, a digital customer portal designed to make installers’ day-to-day operations faster, simpler and more efficient. Built around customer feedback, the online portal gives Framexpress customers instant access to the tools and resources they need to manage their projects with ease, from quoting to accessing technical data, brochures and sales-ready marketing materials.

Jonny Green, Principal Product Manager at Framexpress, explains: “Installers told us they wanted a simpler way to manage their jobs and get the information they need in one place. The Business Support Hub is our way of delivering that. It saves time, reduces admin and supports customers in selling more effectively. We’ve always been known for our reliable supply, short lead times and higher spec as standard products, but we wanted to go beyond that. This portal gives

our customers even more confidence in the service they get from Framexpress, and it helps them grow their businesses too.”

The Framexpress Business Support Hub brings together everything an installer needs to stay productive and competitive, including a full library of downloadable brochures, guides and technical

specifications, marketing materials to support their sales process, access to document sharing and order information, and direct support from the Framexpress team. With over 25 years of fabrication expertise, Framexpress continues to lead the trade market with its commitment to innovation, quality and customer support.

Operating from a 77,000 ft². manufacturing facility in Telford, the business has built its reputation on delivering a complete CLUB of higher spec as standard products, including PVC-U, aluminium, composite, fire doors and patio doors, on-time, in full and accurate, every time. Jonny adds, “For us, it’s all about making our customers’ lives easier.

From enhanced support and sales tools to our ever-expanding product range, the portal is another way we’re helping installers fit more, sell more and stress less.” www.framexpress.co.uk/portal

Meet the

AK Touch Secure™

from Kenricks

T H E U LT I M AT E S M A R T I N N O VAT I O N I N D O O R LOCK SECURITY FOR FA B R I C ATO R S A N D I N S TA L L E R S

JANUARY 2026

hardware

Now compatible with the AK SecureCore™ – Kenrick’s new 3 Star highsecurity cylinder • Sold Secure Diamond Standard 2024 – highest performance rating • Designed to defeat modern attacks – including snapping, drilling, bumping, picking, gluing and freeze-based methods • Advanced ALPS technology – 11 pins, 800k+ key combinations

Backed by a £5,000 security guarantee for homeowner peace of mind

The perfect partner for AK Touch Secure™ smart locking system

Want to know more?

For more information visit www.aksecure.co.uk

Easy Set-up

Wireless

Real-time Notifications

Live Status

Geofencing

Whether you’re a fabricator, installer or property developer, this state-of-the-art lock offers a seamless blend of smart technology and high-quality security credentials that delivers peace of mind to your customer.

january 2026 | hardware active | 81

Justin Harris of Winkhaus looks ahead to 2026, building confidence through evidence, disciplined investment and innovation

Driving forward with evidence and discipline T he past year has reinforced a reality well understood across the window, door and façade sector: market conditions remain challenging, but they continue to reward businesses that plan carefully, stay close to their markets, and invest with discipline.

During 2025, pressure persisted across both residential and commercial construction. Rising operational costs driven by wage inflation, National Insurance changes, and wider input cost increases have placed sustained strain on margins. At the same time, regulatory delays and funding constraints, particularly within social housing and higher risk developments, have slowed project pipelines. While these challenges were largely anticipated, they demanded active management rather than passive acceptance.

Despite this backdrop, there were clear positives. Industry engagement remained strong, innovation pipelines continued to move forward, and recognition through national awards reinforced the importance of maintaining investment, even during more difficult trading conditions. While volumes remained inconsistent across some project types, a focus on operational efficiency and closer alignment with customers helped manage inflationary pressures and maintain stability across supply chains.

Gradual rather than rapid improvement Looking ahead to 2026, expectations across the industry remain cautious, with most anticipating gradual rather than rapid improvement. However, there are early indications of renewed movement in both residential and commercial pipelines. In particular, high-rise aluminium projects are beginning to progress, with increased specification of hybrid Tilt and Turn solutions such as aluPilot, reflecting the need to balance performance, compliance, and installation practicality.

Product development continues to move towards integrated systems rather than individual components. The forthcoming Crafted Synergy entrance door range reflects this shift, bringing mechanical and smart security together in a more consistent and compliant way. Central to this is the Polaris Smart Turner, engineered to operate in harmony with Winkhaus door locking systems, the XR6 one-star cylinder, and ArmorShield two-star security components.

Long battery life, automatic calibration during installation, and reliable real world performance have been prioritised from the outset.

Cyber security has also been embedded into the product design. At launch, Polaris will be supported by IASME recognised cyber security certification, providing independent assurance that connectivity, data handling, and system integrity have been assessed against recognised best practice standards.

Security specification remains an evolving area. While three-star cylinders may continue to be specified beyond the end of 2026 provided they meet all requirements of PAS24:2022+A1:2024 and TS007-1:2024, including the freeze test, extensive UKAS aligned testing demonstrates that achieving consistent performance across increasingly demanding regimes is becoming more complex. For this reason, the two-star handle and one-star cylinder combination continues to offer the most robust and repeatable route to compliance.

Fire safety is another area where scrutiny and responsibility continue to increase.

During 2025 alone, investment exceeding £500,000 was made in fire testing. Across

composite and timber applications, this has resulted in one of the widest evidence banks covering FD30 and FD60 entrance and communal doors, supported by an expanded portfolio of fire rated hardware including door closers, security handles, and letter plates.

Internal capability strengthened Alongside product and compliance investment, internal capability has also been strengthened. Increased use of digital platforms, continued uptake of customer portals, the implementation of a new CRM system, and the appointment of a dedicated Customer Experience Manager all form part of a broader effort to improve engagement, support, and responsiveness.

As the industry moves into 2026, the focus is not on chasing short term volume, but on building sustainable, compliant, and resilient businesses. Those that continue to invest thoughtfully, remain close to both residential and commercial markets, and support customers through increasing complexity will be best positioned as conditions gradually improve, and it is this approach that underpins confidence in the year ahead.

82 | hardware active | month 2022

FUHR UK’s Paul Balfe believes smart locking could be the glazing industry’s overlooked opportunity

Shifting the smart locking conversation S mart technology can be found in almost every part of daily life.

We unlock cars with our phones, control heating from anywhere, manage home security remotely and rely on digital banking without a second thought. Yet the glazing industry continues to debate whether homeowners truly value smart locking.

Research presented at the Glazing Summit shows that homeowners aren’t actively requesting electronic or app-based door locking. On face value, it can look like a lack of interest. But in context, it raises an important question: is the value of smart locking being communicated clearly enough for homeowners to understand what it offers?

This isn’t about pointing fingers at any part of the supply chain. Far from it.

Fabricators and installers are working in a challenging marketplace, so clarity, speed and simplicity shape every decision. If a product isn’t familiar or appears complex, it naturally takes a back seat.

The real challenge isn’t demand… it’s visibility.

Embrace with confidence Homeowners embrace smart technology with confidence. They expect convenience, automation and the ability to personalise how their home works. But when it comes to door locking, the industry hasn’t always translated those expectations into clear, relatable benefits.

That’s where progress is being made, and where FUHR’s latest development aims to shift the conversation.

With over 165 years dedicated to designing high-performance multipoint door locks, FUHR is recognised for its electromechanical locking systems and panic exit solutions. The introduction of the SmartAccess Module (SAM) builds on this heritage by focusing on the area where smart access control has struggled: simplicity.

Historically, electronic locking was reserved for high-end projects or specialist applications. It often required integration with external hardware, additional routing or third-party systems, all of which created understandable hesitation.

What’s sometimes missed in conversations about “smart locks” is that many products only control the cylinder or provide lock-status notifications. Useful features, but they don’t actively operate the locking points.

With FUHR’s electromechanical locking systems, the SmartAccess module controls the full multipoint lock, powering the hooks, latches and deadbolts to lock and unlock the door securely. It’s the door lock that’s motorised, not the cylinder. This distinction matters because it delivers a level of security, reliability and performance that aligns with modern door standards rather than smart add-ons.

Every component sits neatly inside the door sash and frame: the Bluetoothenabled SmartAccess module, transformer and wiring. Once fabricated, the complete system can be tested in the factory, and a qualified electrician connects the power on-site. There is no Wi-Fi to set up, no cloud accounts or subscriptions and no external boxes on the wall. It’s a plug-andplay solution designed for the realities of fabrication and installation.

Equally simple For homeowners, the experience is equally simple. Doors can be unlocked using the SmartAccess app or opened automatically as the user approaches with their phone in their pocket via the AutoUnlock feature.

Temporary access can be granted to visitors or tradespeople, and the system operates via secure Bluetooth encryption with no personal data sent to the cloud. For those with reduced mobility or difficulty operating a door handle, AutoUnlock can make a meaningful difference.

As more fabricators and installers look to differentiate their offer, the combination of FUHR’s electromechanical range and SmartAccess presents a valuable route forward. The FUHR multitronic 881, autotronic 834 and 836 already simplify motorised locking and access control; SmartAccess enhances that proposition

with an intuitive solution that feels familiar, modern and accessible.

For fabricators, this isn’t about moving into an unfamiliar market. It’s about unlocking additional value from the doors they already produce. Motorised locking no longer needs to be complex, and smart access no longer needs to be exclusive to premium builds.Homeowners may not be requesting smart locking yet - but that doesn’t reflect a lack of interest. It reflects a lack of visibility. FUHR continues to work closely with system houses, fabricators and installers to support the transition towards smarter, more versatile door solutions. With SmartAccess and FUHR’s electromechanical systems, the path to modern access control is simpler, clearer and more commercially accessible than ever.

E: pbalfe@fuhr.co.uk

Opening the Window

to Total Trust.

Peace of mind, guaranteed.

The Yale Lifetime Total Trust Guarantee now offers cover of up to £5,000 if your home security is ever breached.

Trusted for over 180 years, Yale protects what matters most - your home, family, and belongings.

Speak to your a Account Manager or email info@yaledws.co.uk for more information.

yaledws.co.uk

Part of ASSA ABLOY

84 | hardware active | january 2026

Ultion reveals why brand reputation is replacing technical detail as the key driver of premium hardware sales

Trust is now the strongest sales tool F or years, security sales have revolved around specification. Star ratings, accreditations and test results gave installers the evidence they needed to justify an upgrade. That still matters. But it’s no longer what closes the sale. Today, trust does.

Homeowners buy belief before they buy specification - Most homeowners do not want a deep technical breakdown. They want to feel confident that the product on their door is proven, reliable and widely trusted.

Independent reviews now do the heavy lifting. A visible Trustpilot score instantly builds reassurance in a way spec sheets never could. It shows real people having real experiences, and that carries weight at the decision point.

“Trust now closes the sale before the specification ever really enters the conversation,” says Alex Dutton, Sales Director at Brisant Secure. “When a customer already believes in the brand, installers spend less time defending their recommendation and more time winning the job.”

The conversation starts before you arrive - Homeowners are researching earlier than ever. By the time they request a quote, many have already read reviews, seen the brand online and formed a preference.

That changes the dynamic on site. The installer is no longer selling from scratch, they’re confirming what the homeowner has already started to believe. That makes the entire process faster, simpler and more likely to close at a premium price point.

Brand recognition reduces friction and protects price - Installers consistently report that recognised brands remove resistance. When a homeowner already knows the brand, the sale becomes easier.

The customer trusts the recommendation because they trust the name behind it.

This matters in an industry that has never been more competitive. Homeowners are presented with dozens of security claims and conflicting messages. The one thing they understand instinctively is reputation.

They want the brand they’ve heard of, the one their neighbours have mentioned, the one they’ve seen reviewed online.

That recognition shortens the sales process and increases acceptance of premium hardware. It removes friction at the point of decision, a critical advantage for installers working in a price-sensitive market.

Trust saves time on site and reduces callbacks - A strong public reputation is

not just a marketing benefit. It has practical value on every job.

It reduces the need for long technical explanations, allowing installers to focus on fitting rather than selling. And once the job is complete, trusted products generate fewer complaints and fewer return visits, which protects the installer’s own reputation as well as their diary.

Specification still matters, but it is now the baseline - None of this replaces the need for compliance. PAS 24, Secured

by Design and insurance requirements still underpin the product choice.

But specification is now the minimum standard, not the main selling point.

“Specification gets you approved,” says Alex. “Trust gets you chosen.”

Ultion as a real-world example - This shift is one reason Ultion is increasingly being requested by name. Its 4.7-star Trustpilot rating, built from more than 11,000 reviews, has created a level of homeowner recognition that directly supports installers at the point of sale.

“When a homeowner already knows Ultion, the conversation is easier from the first minute,” says Alex. “The installer starts with instant credibility.”

As a Brisant Secure brand, Ultion combines that trust with high technical performance. Brisant Secure is now part

of Allegion, bringing additional scale and expertise behind the Ultion range. Its ALPS cylinder holds Sold Secure Diamond accreditation and has been tested to over 750,000 cycles. But it is the public confidence around the brand that increasingly drives the final buying decision.

Trust protects margins and positions installers as premium - The race to the bottom usually starts when the customer doesn’t understand the value. If they can’t see the difference between brands, they fall back on price. Trust changes that dynamic.

A brand backed by strong public confidence allows installers to stand their ground on quality. It supports premium pricing, protects margin and positions the installer as a professional who specifies proven, trusted hardware, not just the cheapest option.

Homeowners are far more comfortable paying for what they believe is the best. A recognised brand helps reinforce that belief.

The takeaway for the trade - Trust is now one of the most powerful tools an installer can take into a sales conversation. It reduces objections, speeds up decisions and strengthens the installer’s position from the first quote to the final handover.

Specifications will always matter. But in a market where many technical claims now look the same, it is trust that turns a quote into a confirmed order.

SLIM Hardware

by for Sheerline Prestige Lift & Slide Doors

FEATURES AND BENEFITS •

250kg capacity as standard

•

Easy upgrade to 400kg

•

Retracting hook bolts

•

Ventilation position

•

Closing damper

•

Controlled opening

•

Assisted operation

•

Exceptional corrosion resistance 2000 hours neutral salt spray testing

Scan the QR code for further information

info@vbhgb.com | www.vbhgb.com | 01634 263 263

86 | hardware active | january 2026

Celebratory momentum sees Window Ware’s Regal Hardware flourish with BSW Window Solutions, energising East Anglia

‘Hide’ to ‘Highlight’ on heritage aluminium F avourite UK fenestration hardware provider, Window Ware, is celebrating the strong market success of their Regal Hardware brand with long-standing customer, BSW Window Solutions, a leading UK trade fabricator based in the East of England.

BSW has been proactively championing the Regal Hardware heritage range, particularly the new industrial-chic Knurled design, which is proving to be a genuine game-changer for fabricators of heritage aluminium systems.

The high-end aesthetic of heritage steel-look aluminium requires hardware with an equally sophisticated design intent. In the past, fabricators often had to settle for ‘standard’ handles that were simply meant to disappear so they wouldn’t detract from the frame.

The new Regal Hardware industrial-chic knurled design solves this mismatch. Engineered specifically for these profiles, the hardware now offers an aesthetic worthy of the system, ensuring the handle is finally a component fabricators actively want to showcase.

BSW Window Solutions offers the complete Regal Hardware collection to its network of installer customers, allowing them to meet every preference and precisely tailor their offering to meet client demands. However, it is the new Knurled range that has generated the most excitement, especially when paired with the Sheerline Classic (heritage) door system.

To truly drive home the hardware’s premium aesthetic, BSW has chosen to send out individual Regal Hardware handle samples to their installers presented in high-quality presentation bags, adding an extra premium touch to the specification process.

Commenting on the market reception

so far, Rob Marley, Managing Director at BSW Window Solutions, noted: “Our customers are really excited. We saw an excellent response to the soft launch of the hardware with our top installer customers and initial orders are very encouraging.”

Gary Hancock, Sales Director at BSW Window Solutions, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the shift in market demand: “Our installers are always looking for something different, and the Regal knurled design absolutely fits the bill. The full Regal Hardware range has been exceptionally well received by our customers, and we are looking forward to the official full launch very soon. We are currently adding Regal products to our brochure, alongside using the dedicated Regal Hardware retail brochure and the sample display board in our showroom.”

This demand for differentiation is reflected in the strong market-wide uptake of the Knurled range’s more unique finishes. The success of Regal’s Antique Bronze finish proves that the market is

ready for hardware that stands out, not blends in.

The knurled handle in Antique Bronze creates a desirable focal point, providing the perfect sophisticated counterpoint to the slick, minimalist lines of black heritage systems. It’s a genuine design asset, transforming the handle from a basic utility into a finishing design touch.

This commitment to Regal Hardware signifies an exciting new chapter in the long-term relationship between the two companies.

Izabela Payne, Key Accounts Manager for Window Ware, who works directly with BSW, concluded: “What BSW has done here is brilliant. They understood immediately that Regal Hardware offers a genuine competitive edge. This is not just a hardware upgrade; it’s a proactive investment in high-end specification that will help BSW and its installers stand out!”

Tel: 01234 242724 E: sales@windowware.co.uk

A hardware solutions partner you can count on.

Every time.

ww When deadlines are tight and expectations are high, you need more than just hardware - you need a hardware partner.

At Safeware, we don’t just deliver products. We deliver confidence, compliance and peace of mind.

1-to-1 technical support from people who understand your challenges FREE next-day delivery on orders over £500 98.4% OTIF – because reliability matters UKAS certified products – saving you time and money Tailored marketing support to help you win more work

Talk to our team today

0845 009 8624

info@safewarehardware.com safewarehardware.com

88 | hardware active | january 2026

Roto celebrates the twentieth edition of International Press Day, crisscrossing Europe to share innovations

Sharing innovations for a brighter future R oto Group recently held the 20th edition of its annual International Press Day, an event that over the last two decades has taken place in many different European cities.

Delegates were invited to Warsaw to find out more about Roto’s activities in Poland and to hear presentations from the group’s directors. The company has two production sites in Poland: a roof window manufacturing facility in Lubartów and the Deventer weatherseal plant in Sosnowiec.

This local angle was covered, although the main press conference, as ever, focused on the international picture.

Roto is structured with three divisional companies under one overall holding company. The three divisions are Window & Door Technology, which makes hardware, weatherseals and other accessories for the window and door industry, Roto Roof System Technology, and Roto Frank Professional Service, which carries out commercial maintenance work, mainly in Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

Dr Eckhard Keill, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, Roto Frank Holding AG, opened the proceedings by reflecting on how the group’s overall turnover has increased by over 70% in the last 20 years, with the number of production sites doubled and the product range vastly expanded and diversified. As an example, he cited how Roto Window and Door Technology (Roto

FTT) now manufactures and markets almost all of the components needed to produce modern windows and doors, apart from the glass and profile.

Much of Roto’s expansion has been due to the strategic acquisitions of companies such as Deventer, the specialist weatherseal brand that is now part of the wider Window & Door Technology portfolio. Dr Keill stressed how these companies had been integrated successfully, strengthening the

group as a result. “The processes and values put in place by Roto make strong companies even stronger”, he said. “This is why all our investments in strategic acquisitions have paid off.”

Dr Keill concluded by reflecting on how this vision and values are encapsulated in the motto, “Today. Tomorrow. Roto”.

“These three words represent Roto’s strong conviction that it will continue to be part of a value chain that is vital for the future”, he said. “They embody a responsibility to make customers’ future a little bit better every day.”

Christoph Hugenberg, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Roto Frank Holding, reported that the group expects an overall single-digit decline in global turnover for 2025 when compared to last year. He presented this as a net positive, explaining that it was the result of huge turnover losses in a small number of markets. In Europe and the USA, Roto achieved a slight increase in turnover almost everywhere.

“This isn’t quite enough to fully make up for losses in other parts of the world, but we saw this development coming and planned accordingly for 2025”, he said. “This means we didn’t have nasty surprises or need to implement huge cost-saving initiatives or make cuts.”

Roto Window and Door Technology CEO Marcus Sander used his presentation to demonstrate how the company works closely with customers, providing technological expertise to create specific solutions for hardware and seals. He cited a number of projects from around the world as examples. These included heavy-duty hardware for fibreglass profile windows in Canada, preconfigured hardware sets for sliding doors in Poland, plus a highly airtight and wind resistant balcony door solution for a customer in Germany.

Looking ahead, Marcus Sander said that the focus for next year would be to continue to be very close to customers and provide tailored support for their projects. “We look forward to taking on many exciting challenges”, he said, inviting delegates and customers to join Roto at Fensterbau Frontale in Nuremberg in March 2026, where the company stand is themed around Roto City. He promised “an inspiring environment for discussions on the question of how to produce custom windows and doors as efficiently as possible”. www.roto-more.com

Experience Exceptional Service

Door Hardware Window Hardware Ventilation Smart Security

globe carlfgroupco.co.uk

phone 01733 393 330

pallet-box

6000+ Products

lightbulb-on

Decades of Experience

clock

24/7 Ordering

bullseye-arrow

98% OTIF Target

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.

envelope sales@carlfgroupco.co.uk

90 | hardware active | january 2026

Owen Coop argues strategic hardware partnerships drive fabricators’ performance and secure a competitive edge in tough markets

Back to basics, staying ahead in fabrication N o matter what the economic climate, if fabricators are going to remain competitive in 2026, getting the supply chain right is essential. As market pressure intensifies and margins tighten, the ability to guarantee consistent product quality, efficient production and reliable delivery schedules becomes a true point of distinction. Owen Coop, CEO at Carl F Groupco, considers how choosing the right hardware partner can secure that competitive edge.

Remaining competitive is not just about chasing new opportunities. It is about ensuring that when they appear, your manufacturing operation is protected against disruption and supported by partners who underpin performance rather than constrain it. In buoyant market conditions, dependable supply frees you to accelerate growth. In tougher periods, it provides the stability required to maintain output, retain customers and navigate uncertainty without compromising standards Here at Carl F Groupco we have spent more than 70 years demonstrating that reliability. Across multiple economic cycles, we have continued to support fabricators with a consistency that protects productivity and profitability. As the industry looks ahead to another demanding year, that level of continuity and expertise is more valuable than ever.

Breadth and availability of product is a core pillar of this support. We partner with over 57 hardware manufacturers, distribute over 7 million component parts every year and hold over £5 million in stock at any one time to maximise availability. Our range covers every material type and every product style, and our logistic infrastructure enables daily or next-day deliveries throughout the UK, including Scotland and the Scottish Highlands via our Cumbernauld depot. This level of availability means our customers can operate leaner, reduce stock flow whilst reducing their risk.

Our OTIF rate is 98%, measured on complete orders, not isolated line items.

This illustrates a focus on what really matters to fabricators: finished products leaving the factory on time.

As a true independent hardware distributor, we have no obligation to promote any particular product or manufacturer. Recommendations are based solely on technical suitability and performance in the field. It means

fabricators can trust the impartial advice they receive and remain confident that every product choice has been made in their best commercial interest.

On product innovation we are also forward-thinking, helping to keep fabricators ahead of the curve. The launch of our SmartSecure brand in 2016 marked an early commitment to smart-access solutions, long before mainstream adoption.

That proactive stance continues today with products such as AK Touch Secure™, Tedee and Maco Sensors broadening the scope of upsell opportunities for our customers. Our own longstanding supplier relationships also add value in this area. For example, we have partnered with Roto for many years, a relationship which has allowed us to collaborate on product development,

helping to give UK fabricators and installers the hardware features they need. Looking ahead, we will soon be launching a nextgeneration aluminium hardware range that is ideally suited to the premium end of the domestic market and will set a new benchmark for functionality and design excellence.

Underpinning all of this is our commitment to service, treating every customer with equal priority. Many of our team have been with the company for decades which brings reassuring continuity alongside exceptional experience in the industry adding genuine value.

We commit to going above and beyond, by having dedicated internal and external technical sales support for customers. As standard, we collaborate throughout the supply chain working with manufacturers’ technical experts and attending fit-ups and test days to educate on best fitting practice.

Despite the economic backdrop, 2025 proved to be a successful year for us, and that momentum will continue throughout 2026. We know the year ahead will test resilience across the industry but whatever the market brings, Carl F Groupco will continue to provide the products, knowledge, service and support that help our customers stay competitive and ready for every opportunity. www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

autoLock AV4 The Turning Point Against Thermal Expansion Thermal expansion causes more than frustration, it leads to operational issues, costly callbacks and disappointed end-users. autoLock AV4 is the turning point. It’s precision autoLocking system delivers consistently low operating force whatever the weather.

Even as doors expand or contract, autoLock AV4 keeps working smoothly and securely where others fail. This reliability matters to everyone.

Fabricators benefit from fewer returns, installers gain a solution they can fit and forget, and homeowners enjoy a door that operates with ease season after season. AV4 is not just another lock, it is the point where performance problems stop and peace of mind begins.

For further information please visit winkhaus.co.uk or contact enquiries@winkhaus.co.uk

Door Component of the Year 2024 & 2025 SCAN HERE TO FIND OUT MORE

92 | hardware active | january 2026

From front doors to interiors and commercial projects, black hardware delivers timeless style, practicality and cohesive design

Designers back bold black hardware F rom striking exteriors to cohesive interiors, black hardware blends style with practicality for every setting. Francesca Brittain, marketing manager at HOPPE (UK), explains why black hardware is here to stay.

Each year, we see brands spotlight their new “colour of the year” intended to inspire fashion conscious customers. For 2026, Valspar has chosen “Warm Eucalyptus”, a soft sage green, while Pantone has opted for ‘Cloud Dancer’, a simple white shade.

But among these ever-changing trends, one colour remains a design constant: black. It provides a perfect contrast to many shades and can be a striking choice for door hardware.

Style starts at the front door Research from the Homeowners Alliance shows two-thirds of home buyers consider kerb appeal important and over half identified a well-maintained and attractive front door as a key factor.

The suited range from ARRONE, a HOPPE brand, makes it easier to curate a cohesive entrance by offering a selection of matching ironmongery in a range of finishes. Door and window handles, knockers, letter plates and numerals are all available in black, as well as anthracite grey if a slightly lighter shade is preferred.

Ideal for both contemporary and traditional door designs, the range supports new build and renovation projects alike.

There are also practical advantages of using darker colours such as showing up less dirt and reducing the appearance of finger smudges.

Stylish and cohesive interiors Inside the home, coordinating internal door hardware can create a consistent feel from room to room. It can also be the perfect complement to ontrend black design accents like taps and light fittings.

The Dallas handle in satin black from HOPPE is set on a mini rose and its angular appearance makes it ideal for modern, minimalist interiors. For a softer appearance, the more rounded Los Angeles brass handle in satin black is also available.

For full coordination, hinges, locks and latches are also available in black as well as the recently launched AR720 inline and AR722 cranked espagnolette window handles, which have been designed to suit the volume windows market.

Smarter commercial buildings This finish doesn’t just work in homes. In commercial settings, black hardware creates a premium feel and pairs well with modern office décor. It’s also an increasingly popular alternative to traditional stainless steel or white finishes.

Door closers are vital for fire safety and help prevent the spread of smoke and flames in the event of a fire. While it serves a practical and potentially lifesaving function, that doesn’t mean that it can’t also be aesthetically pleasing.

A black door closer will blend in with many designs and will provide a sleek and stylish look to commercial premises or office buildings. The ARRONE AR1500 slim line rack and pinion door closer is available in eight different finishes including black.

Similarly, panic and emergency exit hardware, such as the AR880 panic bolt, AR882 latch, AR883 push pad and AR886 outside access device, is available in black – helping to maintain design integrity while meeting safety requirements.

Navigating with colour and compliance Specifiers sourcing hardware for public buildings can use Nylon hardware to address accessibility requirements while creating an interesting design. It is easy to clean, warm to the touch and available in 10 colours, including black, which can be used to help building users with wayfinding.

For new buildings and relevant refurbishments, Approved Document M and BS 8300 recommend providing adequate visual contrast to assist visually impaired people. The guidance typically expects a light reflectance value (LRV) difference of at least 30 points between key elements and their background. For projecting door furniture that provides strong threedimensional contrast, an LRV difference of around 15 points is generally treated as acceptable.

While colour trends may change from year to year, black hardware will deliver a timeless appeal for secure entrances and stylish interiors. www.hoppe.co.uk

New

PRODUCT CATALOGUE OUT NOW! 500 pages. Thousands of products. Next day delivery.

The hardware and tools you need, delivered fast.

SCAN ME TO ORDER YOUR FREE COPY or view online sales@windowware.co.uk

www.windowware.co.uk

01234 242724

94 | hardware active | january 2026

Richard Gyde spotlights VBH’s products, people and service, driving collaborative momentum toward a successful, united 2026

Building on success: VBH prepares for 2026 H appy New Year to you all. For VBH (GB), 2025 was a year of consolidation. We held our own in terms of sales and, importantly, we laid the groundwork for continued success in 2026 and beyond.

VBH developed a number of excellent new products last year and expanded existing ranges. Our greenteQ Velocity door hinge answers calls from the market for hinges that are easy to install. Velocity is the quickest hinge to fit that we have ever offered and, being Secured by Design approved, provides high levels of security.

With the recent addition of more colour options to make a total of 15, Velocity has been selling fast in 2025 and will continue to do so this year.

We expanded our Lifestyle sliding patio door hardware range last autumn with the addition of the ClearLIFT Slim lift & slide system for Sheerline doors. Sales have been healthy, and the product is now being specified for high-end new build domestic and commercial projects, so I am confident of further growth this year.

Our New Product Development team is constantly bringing to life new hardware solutions, so expect to see more new products from VBH very early in 2026.

We have recently made some important additions to our team. Ryan Holmes, George Stirling, and Mark Frain joined us in key sales and technical positions, two of which are new roles. All three are vastly experienced hardware people, and I am delighted to have them at VBH. Tamara Bridgland celebrates her 15-year

VBH anniversary with a promotion to Customer Service Supervisor. This further strengthens our internal team.

We always aim to provide our customers with world-class customer service. Our monthly OTIF averaged over 99% in 2025, but that is only part of the equation.

To find out how our customers feel about VBH we conducted a Net Promotor Score survey through October-November. We asked 150 of our customers how likely they would be to recommend us to a friend or colleague, on a scale of 0-10. The scores are collected anonymously so customers could be as brutally honest as they wished.

Based on the responses, our NPS score was 75. Anything over 70 is classified as ‘Exceptional and rare – customers are very loyal’.

What pleased me most was the recurring theme of how highly rated our people are.

Comments such as ‘Very responsive and friendly staff ’, ‘Sales staff service is great’ and ‘Always helpful and knowledgeable’ were commonplace.

This is great news, but we will strive to improve further this year.

How 2026 will shape up for our industry is difficult to predict. The last few months of 2025 saw much company consolidation.

Two major aluminium systems houses were acquired by overseas concerns, and a third was bought by a UK PVCu extruder.

The German Laumann group acquired the Epwin Group, while Allegion added two UK hardware companies to their brand portfolio. As the year ended, two large UK fabricators were bought by the European Inwido group.

These are all major deals that signal confidence in the UK market. The acquisitions of multiple aluminium systems companies suggest that aluminium is set to continue to grow.

This is great news for VBH as we have always had a large range of quality hardware for aluminium windows and doors, both from our own greenteQ brand and from our supplier partners such as AGB, Roto and Yale.

In his New Year address, Kier Starmer stated that “decline will be reversed”, but that “renewal is not an overnight

job.”, which echoes the thoughts of most industry leaders. The signs are promising, but we all know that there is much work to do.

As mentioned earlier, VBH has the excellent products and product development, the best people, and the high service levels that will serve us, our suppliers, and our customers well as we work together to make 2026 a success.

TITAN does it better:

Restricts the sash. Not the possibilities.

The new TITAN 90° opening restrictor: complies with the DOEB guideline and impresses at every stage, from production to operation.

However you look at it, TITAN is one of the most successful hardware systems because every last detail is constantly being refined and improved. The fact that TITAN is now also the first system to provide an opening restrictor certified to the DOEB guideline – with a special focus on functional reliability and durability – underlines its technical edge. Easy to install, the TITAN 90° opening restrictor is the only product of its kind to provide lasting protection not only for the sash and reveal, but also for the hinge side. It does this by damping the sash, gently stopping it in the end position and safely preventing it from closing unintentionally when there is a draught. Convenience and zero-maintenance operation built in as standard: how a 90° opening width translates into 100 % customer satisfaction. www.siegenia.com

360° room comfort

96 | hardware active | january 2026

UAP’s Fullex Crimebeater Autolock Rose enhances fire door security

U

AP has announced the launch of its Fullex Autolock Rose, an innovative evolution of the popular Fullex Slam Shut Autolock, designed to deliver enhanced security and greater compatibility with modern doors.

Suitable for use with timber, composite, 44mm/54 or thicker, the Fullex Autolock is specifically engineered to meet the needs of the fire door market, offering installers and homeowners a versatile and robust solution for contemporary construction projects.

Building on the success of the Crimebeater Slam Shut Autolock, the Fullex Autolock Rose introduces a deeper 55mm gearbox, while its flexible design supports two handle spindle options either lever on backplate or lever on rose, so allowing easy integration with a range of door designs. It also boasts a new and improved hardened gearbox casing made from a stronger plate material that ensures a

higher degree of resistance to attack.

The lock continues to offer firerated protection, supporting FD30 and FD60 timber and composite doors when used with perfectly cut intumescent kits, delivering confidence and peace of mind for both installers and end users.

Reliability and long-term performance remain at the heart of the Fullex Autolock’s design. The lock has been endurance tested for 200,000 full cycles and is BSEN1670 Grade 5 corrosion-resistant certified, providing 480 hours of protection against environmental wear. It is Secured by Design accredited and PAS 24 compatible, and when combined with a Kitemarked Euro Cylinder via the Kinetica Freezeguard 3-star euro cylinder system, it offers an additional layer of security.

Supplied as a complete set with strike plate options, the Fullex Autolock Rose ensures fire-rated protection while simplifying specification and installation.

Richard Morris at UAP, said: “At UAP, we are always looking for ways to drive progress in security hardware. The Fullex Crimebeater Autolock Rose represents our latest step forward - improving on an already trusted product to deliver enhanced compatibility, flexibility, and durability for modern fire doors. It’s our commitment to making homes and buildings safer without compromising on quality or convenience.”

Tel: 0161 796 7268 E: sales@uaplimited.com

Fuhr develops bespoke locking solution for AluK’s new IconiK bi-fold

F

uhr UK has partnered with aluminium systems specialist AluK to develop a bespoke locking solution for its new IconiK bifold door system, a product that delivers the slimmest sightlines in the market alongside fast, fabricator-friendly installation.

The collaboration has resulted in a custom-designed Fuhr multisafe 856 lift-lever door lock, created exclusively to meet the design and performance objectives of the IconiK system, and only available through AluK. With two hooks, a central deadbolt and latch, the lock has been developed to align with AluK’s drive for streamlined fabrication, simplified stockholding and uncompromised security.

The Fuhr lock features a serrated design that allows shootbolt extensions to be added easily, enabling flexibility for taller doors or enhanced security performance. Locking directly into the corner delivers superior weather sealing, stability and security, critical for highperformance aluminium bi-folds. A nonhanded, one-piece keep then completes the system, suitable for both left- and right-hand doors, therefore reducing stock requirements and simplifying assembly for

fabricators. The design allows fabricators to cover a wide range of door heights with just one lock and keep, minimising inventory and ensuring compatibility across all IconiK configurations.

Finished in Fuhr Silver for maximum market competitiveness, the 856 lock is corrosion-resistant, PAS 24 capable and tested to 200,000 cycles, reinforcing Fuhr’s

reputation for reliability, security and long-term durability.

Paul Booth, Technical Director at AluK UK, said: “Working with Fuhr has been invaluable in the development of IconiK. Their technical expertise and understanding of fabrication challenges meant we were able to create a lock solution that complements the Iconik system perfectly. Simple to fit, flexible in application and aligned with AluK’s commitment to performance and design excellence.”

Paul Balfe, Business Development Manager for Fuhr UK, added: “The IconiK system is a great example of forwardthinking design that meets the needs of both homeowners and fabricators. Our partnership with AluK demonstrates how Fuhr’s innovation and product adaptability can directly support system houses in simplifying fabrication, reducing stockholding and maintaining best-in-class performance.”

With a heritage of more than 175 years in door lock design and manufacture, Fuhr continues to set the benchmark for innovation in multipoint locking solutions for residential and commercial applications.

Tel: 01952 228777 E: pbalfe@fuhr.co.uk

january 2026 | hardware active | 97

New entrance door from Inspiration Doors at Coastal Group Brand Centre

C

oastal Group has strengthened its commitment to showcasing innovation in external door and window hardware with the addition of a new feature installation at its Brand Centre in Cornwall.

Inspiration Doors has generously donated a striking entrance door finished in liquid metal oxidised iron, delivering a distinctive patina effect that highlights the growing market demand for texture and cutting edge design.

The handcrafted door provides a new focal point within the Brand Centre, giving visitors the opportunity to experience the relationship between premium front doors and high-performance door furniture.

The installation also demonstrates how even the heaviest doors can be lifted and operated with precision-engineered hardware, reinforcing the importance of pairing specialist entranceways with robust, marine-grade components.

Loren Jenner, Managing Director at Coastal Group, emphasised the increasing role of sensory experience in product selection: “People love texture – materials that invite interaction and spark curiosity.

Our industry is no longer just about performance; it’s about how products feel and how they contribute to an experience.

When customers visit the Brand Centre, they don’t just see the hardware; they touch it and feel the engineering. This new door allows us to showcase that connection in a way that is both compelling and meaningful.”

The partnership between Coastal Group and Inspiration Doors reflects a shared ambition to continuously raise standards across the door and window sector. As

design expectations rise and customers demand more, collaboration between manufacturers is increasingly important.

Bruce Dudman of Inspiration Doors highlighted this shift in homeowner expectations.

“Years ago a door handle was a door handle; it was functional. But people now want something a little bit better – more inspirational and tactile. People demand more. They want a door that makes a statement and hardware that enhances the design rather than just operating it.”

The oxidised iron finish used on the

new door is created through a highly specialised liquid metal application process that results in a varied, natural patina. This approach has grown in popularity among architects and high-end joiners seeking unique, characterful surfaces that cannot be replicated through standard coatings.

Mathew Jones, Managing Director at Inspiration Doors, noted the natural fit between the two companies’ product portfolios: “We are both at the pinnacle of our product ranges so it makes sense to work together. Our doors rely on exceptional hardware to perform at their best, and Coastal’s engineered solutions complement what we build perfectly.”

The new installation at the Cornwallbased showroom serves as a tangible example of how manufacturers can combine expertise to influence the future of the industry.

As sustainability, durability and designled thinking continue to guide development in external door and window systems, the relationship between structural components and hardware is becoming more integrated than ever.

Coastal Group expressed its appreciation.

“We want to thank Mathew, Bruce and their team for this stunning piece,” continued Loren. “The addition of the statement door supports the Brand Centre’s mission to give joiners, installers and architects a space where they can interact with products in a real-world context. It also helps home owners make informed decisions and is sure to inspire future projects.”

The new installation is available to view at the Coastal Group Brand Centre in Cornwall.

Safeware adds Yale Lockmaster® AutoEngage to its security range

H

ardware distributor Safeware has extended its impressive Yale range with the addition of the Lockmaster® AutoEngage multi-point locking system. Rob Hartill, Commercial Director of Safeware, said: “The Lockmaster® AutoEngage delivers Yale’s trademark high-performance security in a product that’s perfect for contemporary and heritage door styles.”

The Lockmaster® AutoEngage multipoint door lock features two security latches which automatically engage when the door is closed, delivering reliable security without the need for manual locking. The automatic engage function removes the requirement for a lever handle, making it ideal for heritage doors that retain the authentic look of a traditional doorknob or latch pull. It is equally well suited to contemporary and

minimalist designs, where pull bar handles are often preferred.

Suitable for timber or composite doors, the Lockmaster® AutoEngage is available with 35mm, 45mm and 55mm gearbox variants, offering a wide range of applications across different door specifications. It is supplied with a choice of 16mm or 20mm Yale-branded faceplates and is available in both 2-latch and 3-latch configurations. The lock is non-handed to simplify stockholding and is suitable for key or lever operation.

The Lockmaster® AutoEngage is tested to PAS 24:2016 and approved for use in FD30 and FD60 fire doors, providing added reassurance where fire performance is critical. It is Secured by Design compliant, corrosion resistant to BS EN 1670:2008 Grade 4 and supplied with a

10-year mechanical guarantee. Product quality is further reinforced by the Yale Lifetime Security Guarantee, which provides compensation in the event of a break-in caused by the failure of a Yale door or window security component.

Tel: 0845 009 8624 E: info@safewarehardware.com

98 | hardware active | january 2026

Maco outlines strategic priorities for 2025-26 with a Fensterbau focus 2025 was marked by significant developments at Maco that noticeably improve assembly, ease of use and digital processes. In the Maco Multi Matic IQ hardware system, the new i.S. Cam IQ self-adjusting system ensures permanently precise locking without reworking – for added safety, tightness and efficient installation. At the same time, the Maco Move HS rollers impress with load capacities of up to 500kg and extremely smooth running, and thanks to their compact height, enable slimmer lift & slide profiles. Maco also set new trends in the smart home sector: Thanks to the Matter standard, the Sense by Maco wireless sensors work independently of manufacturers and support energyefficient, safety-oriented living. In addition, the technical online catalogue, Maco eCat, makes research and planning much easier – with extensive data, drawings and application information that are available digitally at any time. All four innovations show how consistently Maco is developing its own product range and additional services and offering its partners real added value.

Moving into 2026: Maco focusses on core offerings: In 2026, Maco will focus more consistently on its core competence.

Window solutions form the heart of

the product range – supplemented by developments in the field of doors, sliding doors, sensors and services. This overall portfolio creates end-to-end processes and provides customers with efficient, economical, and reliable system solutions from a single source.

At the same time, Maco continues to drive digitalisation: from configuration tools to technical information on products and solutions, and integration into smart home ecosystems. The aim re-mains to strengthen partners along their entire value chain and to highlight future possibilities in the smart

home.

Maco at Fensterbau Frontale 2026 - From March 24 to 27, 2026, Maco will be represented in Nuremberg – in Hall 1, Booth 1-349. The trade fair offers the ideal opportunity to talk about market requirements, developments and future solutions. “For Maco, the focus is on the exchange with our business partners – it’s about new perspectives and concrete approaches on how to further expand joint successes,” says Ma-nuel Biechl, Chief Sales Officer of the Maco Group, who cordially invites all customers to Frontale 2026.

Interested parties can already secure their desired date now in order to have valuable dis-cussions with a focus on real added value and individual market needs.

Kenrick’s AK SecureCore cylinder combats advanced burglary methods

L

ongstanding hardware supplier Kenrick has announced the launch of its new AK SecureCore™ 3 Star high-security cylinder, developed to deliver exceptional protection against today’s most sophisticated break-in methods. With more than two centuries of hardware innovation behind it, Kenrick continues to build on its reputation for reliable, UK-designed products that meet the evolving security needs of fabricators and installers across the industry.

AK SecureCore™ has achieved the Sold Secure Diamond Standard 2024, the most demanding cylinder certification available and carries the Kitemark 3 Star rating. It has been designed to resist every major form of attack, including picking, bumping, drilling, snapping, gluing and freezing. Featuring 11 pins and more than 800,000 key combinations alongside patented ALPS antimanipulation technology, it offers a level of resilience far beyond that of conventional cylinders. Its reinforced anti-snap design and excess-discharge vents further enhance its defence against destructive or substancebased attacks, ensuring dependable performance in the most challenging

conditions.

Andy Meakin, Sales and Marketing Manager at Kenrick, said: “AK SecureCore™ represents a significant step in our commitment to delivering reliable, high-performance security hardware solutions. The response from early users has been extremely positive and we believe AK SecureCore™ will quickly establish itself as a go-to cylinder for fabricators, installers and locksmiths who value security, ease of installation and long-term reliability.”

Homeowners who choose AK SecureCore™ can also activate the £5,000 security guarantee by registering their lock, demonstrating the confidence the company places in its testing processes and product durability. AK SecureCore™ has undergone rigorous assessment both in specialist laboratories and through hands-on locksmith evaluation to ensure it performs consistently across all scenarios.

Importantly, AK SecureCore™ integrates

seamlessly with Kenrick’s AK Touch Secure™ smart door lock, allowing homeowners to combine advanced mechanical strength with the latest connected technology.

Andy commented: The AK Touch Secure™, which has achieved Secured by Design accreditation and IASME IoT Cyber Assurance Level Two, can be fitted to any door handle equipped with a Kenrick 3 Star cylinder, making AK SecureCore™ the ideal pairing for installers wanting to offer both physical and digital security in a single package.”

He added: “Kenrick has always stood for quality, dependability and practical hardware innovation and AK SecureCore™ builds on that foundation and gives our customers a cylinder they can trust.

Whether used as a standalone high-security solution or as part of a fully connected smart locking system, it has been developed to deliver outstanding protection and complete peace of mind.”

E: sales@kenricks.co.uk

january 2026 | hardware active | 99

Yale expands Lifetime Total Trust Guarantee with £5,000 protection

Y

ale has unveiled its expanded Lifetime Total Trust Guarantee – delivering one of the most comprehensive security guarantees on the market and giving fabricators, installers and homeowners a powerful new level of reassurance.

The enhanced guarantee applies to all complete PAS24-accredited windows and doors, including patio sliding doors, bi-fold doors, and tilt-and-turn hardware.

In the event of a break-in, end users can benefit from up to £5,000 in support and compensation, including: • £2,000 towards repairs/replacements • £1,500 towards home insurance excess • £1,000 compensation • £500 towards call-out fees • 10% discount at yalehome.co.uk “The new Yale Lifetime Total Trust Guarantee demonstrates just how confident we are in the security of our products,” comments Paul Gravell, Sales Director at Yale. “With significantly increased compensation levels, it provides our customers with an even stronger product, and end-users with greater peace of mind

than ever before.”

Having evolved from a leader in mechanical lock engineering to innovating connected smart locks and homes, Yale today offers a complete range of security solutions. All of these are designed, developed, and rigorously tested to meet the most stringent industry requirements.

The company’s wide portfolio of Secured

by Design-approved hardware includes

high-security multipoint door locks, cylinders that meet the latest TS007-1:2024 standards, and TS008:2022 letterplates.

As part of the ASSA ABLOY Group, Yale also provides an unbeatable range of complementary security products, including from Mila, providing fabricators and installers with a fully integrated solution.

Paul continues: “For over 180 years, Yale has been trusted by millions of people to protect their homes, families and belongings. We were there for your grandparents, and probably theirs – and we’ll be there for your children, today and every day to come.

“With the Yale Lifetime Total Trust Guarantee, our customers benefit from an association with a leading, historical brand trusted by millions of people every day to keep what’s important to them safe.

This makes Yale the ultimate choice for fabricators and installers looking for the competitive edge that will enhance their sales.”

To qualify for the Yale Lifetime Total Trust Guarantee, doors and windows must be PAS24-compliant and fitted with a full suite of Yale security hardware.

Significant expansion plans for Vanquish Hardware Protection

V

anquish Hardware Protection, the UK’s leading manufacturer of precision-engineered intumescent kits for rebated hardware in timber fire door assemblies, has announced significant expansion plans for the first quarter of 2026.

The Salisbury-based business has acquired a new warehouse unit just a few doors from its main headquarters, its third unit on the site, which will provide essential production capacity to support growing demand.

The additional space will allow Vanquish to relocate its warehousing and packing operations, freeing up valuable room within the main facility for a planned fourth extrusion line scheduled for delivery early next year.

This extra capacity is central to enabling Vanquish to introduce several new product lines, all of which are currently undergoing rigorous testing and certification, which will be unveiled next year and are designed to meet evolving market requirements across a broader range of fire-protection applications.

David Sutcliffe, Managing Director at Vanquish Hardware Protection, said the investment marks a major milestone in the company’s long-term growth strategy.

“This upgrade directly addresses our cur-

rent space constraints and gives us the platform we need to support an expanding product range. It’s a clear signal of our continued longterm investment in UK manufacturing and a commitment to the future of the business.”

The newly acquired unit requires a full fit out, before it’s fully operational. Completion of the works is expected by the end of February, at which point the business will begin repositioning its warehouse ahead of the installation of the new extrusion line.

“While we’ve built a reputation as specialists in hardware protection for fire doors, our manufacturing expertise extends far beyond that,” explained David. “Our proficiency in extrusion technology and deep understanding of intumescent materials allow us to respond to shifting market demands and provide solutions for a broader range of requirements.”

Vanquish’s expanded infrastructure will also support further diversification, allowing the company to develop bespoke solutions.

Its service offering continues to include full technical support, from concept to implementation, alongside custom product development, general extrusion capabilities, and specialist cutting facilities for tailored sizing and shapes.

“With more than 30 years of passive fire-protection expertise, this is an exciting new chapter for Vanquish,” added Mike Sutcliffe, Sales Director. “The expansion will allow us to build new partnerships, enter new markets and enhance our offer to existing customers.”

Tel: 01725 578020 www.vanquish-hp.co.uk

100 | market data | january 2026

A view of sustained financial pressure

New year clarity arrives as insolvency data exposes persistent strain, 2,949 administrations, margins thin, confidence fragile

A

s we enter the new year and reflect on 2025, Insight Data’s tracking of insolvencies across the five core sectors we monitor provides a clear view of sustained financial pressure. Between January and November 2025 a total of 2,949 firms entered administration across architects, builders’ merchants, fenestration, main contractors and local builders. The figures reveal an industry still grappling with tight margins, fragile confidence, increased taxes and uneven demand.

What the numbers tell us Local builders experienced the highest level of failures, with 1,308 insolvencies recorded across the year to November. Monthly results averaged 118.9, with May the peak at 165. June and November marked the joint low point at 85. These swings highlight the sensitivity of small firms to any shift in costs or work flow.

Fenestration followed with 1,116 failures, averaging 101.5 a month. February was the sector’s most difficult month with 130 firms going under, while April’s figure of 74 was the lowest recorded.

The sharp rises after both low points show how quickly pressure can return in a sector heavily reliant on household spending and seasonal activity.

Architectural practices recorded 331 failures. The sector averaged around 30 insolvencies a month, with January the high at 36 and June the low at 21. Builders’ merchants saw 159 failures, averaging 14.5 a month, with a notable peak of 22 in March and a low of 8 in June. Main contractors showed the smallest absolute volume but still experienced volatility, recording 35 failures at an average of three a month. October, with six insolvencies, represented a clear break from the mid-year stability.

How 2025 compares with 2024 Insight Data’s 2024 figures showed a year that began with a sharp shock. January recorded 302 insolvencies across the tracked sectors, followed by 382 in March. Local builders and main contractors saw monthly failures regularly exceeding 100, while fenestration ranged between roughly 55 and 115 closures month to month. Architectural practices also experienced a steady flow of failures.

By comparison, 2025 is characterised less by abrupt surges and more by sustained pressure. Rather than the early-year spike seen in 2024, 2025 delivered repeated stress points, especially for local builders and fenestration firms. The absence of a strong mid-year recovery suggests that firms have had little opportunity to rebuild reserves or stabilise cash flow. Although 2025 may appear marginally smoother on the surface, the consistency of the failures paints a picture of an industry under continued strain.

What 2026 might bring Economic forecasts for this year point towards a subdued backdrop for the construction supply chain. KPMG expects UK growth to slow to around 1.0 per cent as the labour market softens and household spending weakens. The OECD expects marginally higher growth of around 1.2 per cent but warns that fiscal measures, including frozen tax thresholds, will continue to weigh on disposable income. Rising unemployment and slower wage growth are also expected to restrict domestic demand.

For sectors reliant on consumer confidence, such as local builders and fenestration, such conditions could extend the pressures experienced in 2025. Even modest dips in orders can threaten firms already operating on narrow margins. For architects, builders merchants and main contractors, tight project finance and uncertainty in commercial development will remain important risk factors.

However, pockets of investment in digital infrastructure and energy transition projects may offer some opportunities for firms positioned to benefit.

While 2025 was not been defined by dramatic collapse, there has been persistent and widespread financial strain. Each insolvency figure represents lost jobs and disrupted projects, and the steady nature of the failures shows how difficult trading conditions have been across the construction supply chain. As we head into 2026, disciplined cash management, careful forecasting and fast responses to changing demand will be essential.

This is also a moment when clear, current and sector-specific data becomes critical. Insight Data tracks these markets daily and provides verified intelligence on thousands of architects, installers, fabricators, builders merchants and construction firms. Our datasets help suppliers assess risk, target active buyers and focus commercial effort where it is most likely to succeed. www.insightdata.co.uk

25

UNLOCK EVERY INCH OF YOUR STORAGE SPACE! ENHANCE THE SAFETY, STORAGE & EFFICIENCY OF YOUR LOGISTICS WITH COMBILIFT Combilift’s range of multidirectional forklifts, pedestrian reach trucks, straddle carriers and container loaders will allow you to maximize the capacity, improve efficiency and enhance the safety of your facility.

Contact Us Today

To find out how Combilift can help you unlock every inch of your storage space.

combilift.com

THE INSTALLER HOMEOWNERS RECOMMEND .

c oo e Cert tr i Re

tfor c

ter t

rd certific tion

tomer re ie n

i din

of homeowners recommend their Certass installer

Contro

eviews collected after certificate download

Get Certified. Get Recommended.

info@certass.co.uk | 0191 249 6434

verified homeowner ratings

102 | product innovation | january 2026

An IconiK new bifold from AluK

IconiK is AluK’s new minimalist bifold, helping fabricators and installers secure profitable, high-margin business

E

legantly minimalist with a premium look and feel, IconiK is the latest addition to AluK’s already ‘iconic’ doors range and showcases all the company’s trademark engineering quality and design innovation.

Technical Director Paul Booth, who was responsible for much of the design says the new door represents the culmination of a true ‘less is more’ approach.

He said: “What makes IconiK stand out in design terms is the fact that there is less frame than other bifolds, with sightlines of just 87mm on the IconiK Slim.

“In fabrication terms, what AluK customers will value just as much is that there is less profile stockholding required because they can create double and single doors from the same outerframe and just change the sash for either the IconiK Standard or the IconiK Slim. And there are less parts to be ordered and managed because all configurations of the door use just one gasket and one extendable lock and keep system.

“That adds up to less money tied up in stock and ultimately less time spent fabricating because we have also included dual alignment corner cleats for both sash and frame throughout.

“Our less is more approach extends to installation of the IconiK as well. The bifold comes with our hugely popular Quik Clip™ glazing bead as standard which saves fitting teams valuable time on every

installation, as well as a full range of sub-cills which make it easy to install in almost any property.”

With IconiK, AluK proudly boasts that it has achieved the minimalist design that retail buyers want alongside a raft of fabricator and fitter friendly features, but without any compromises being made on performance, functionality or sustainability.

In terms of thermal performance, for instance, the new door easily meets the requirements of Part L, with fully accredited test results and transparent performance figures all calculated to the EN14351 and BFRC sizes. Double glazed using Ug 1.0 W/m2K glass, the IconiK achieves U-Values of 1.3W/m2K and triple glazed it achieves U-Values of just 1.0W/m2K. Crucially, these figures are achieved without any requirement for fabricators to fit insulating foams and with all PVC eliminated from the product, ensuring that IconiK delivers true cradle-to-cradle recyclability.

When it comes to functionality, updated compact rollers mean the door opens smoothly and slides effortlessly with panels up to 130kg, and there is even a new half roller available which eliminates the need for a floating mullion. There is also multi-point locking as standard with optional shoot bolts for full PAS24/SBD accreditation.

AluK is offering the IconiK in both open in and open out configurations and with maximum 2400 by 1200 panel sizes, and with the option to configure it as a French door for maximum sales opportunities.

AluK’s Managing Director Russell Yates commented: “Aluminium bifolds are still on lots of buyers’ wish lists and our BSF70 remains one of our best-selling products, but the market has been consistently undermined over recent years by suppliers underselling their own products. With IconiK, we’ve tackled that head on and created a brand-new system which is cost effective to fabricate and install, but easily justifies its price tag with slimmer frames, larger glass to frame ratios, effortless opening and minimal visible hardware. We think that’s a winning combination for our customers.”

All the details on the new bifold are at: https://www.alukgb. com/iconik

THE ART OF

MARKETING

Partner with Purplex to build your brand, drive customers to your door and create sustainable growth.

T: 01934 808 132 | E:grow@purplexmarketing.com www.purplexmarketing.com

104 | product innovation | january 2026

Cortizo launches Design 35 industrialstyle screen and interior Door

P

adrón (A Coruña) – Cortizo expands its interior division range with the launch of Design 35, a slim 35 mm profile system that combines fixed panels and doors with an industrial aesthetic. Designed to divide spaces while maximizing natural light, the system adapts to any gap through a versatile combination of fixed lights and openings.

In terms of design, Design 35 stands out for the minimalism of its profiles, whose 32 mm sightlines make it possible to create large glazed surfaces crossed by vertical and horizontal lines, an effect that is reinforced thanks to the possibility of incorporating astragal bars.

The openings in this system are designed for single or double-sash framed doors up to 1.2 m wide, 2.6 m high, and weighing up to 90 kg. Their design allows for the installation of a special 93 mm door bottom profile with an integrated automatic dropdown seal. For complete aesthetic flexibility, Design 35 is compatible with Cortizo’s Stylish range, as well as the new Line and Deco handles, available in titanium black,

titanium gold, and satin stainless steel finishes.

Regarding opening and closing, Design 35 offers mechanical or magnetic locking mechanisms. A magnetic door catch, compatible with the Art Infinity handle,

has also been developed for the system.

Additionally, this new interior division from Cortizo, whose glazing capacity reaches 12 mm, allows for faster production times through the incorporation of pre-assembled gaskets in the profiles.

ScreenLine® Wave provides novel ‘industrial look’ integral blind

S

creenLine® Wave, the latest addition to the Uni-Blinds® integral blinds range from Morley Glass, represents a major innovation in shading and privacy technology because it provides an alternative Venetian or pleated blind styles for the first time.

Developed over a 10-year R&D programme by ScreenLine® systems manufacturer Pellini S.p.A., Wave is a motorised shading system equipped with an ultra-thin polyester film encapsulated between the panes of glass of an IGU. Two versions are available – a white ‘dim out’ option designed to provide subtle shading and a degree of privacy or a blackout blind, which is black on the inside and grey externally.

Exclusively available from Morley Glass, ScreenLine® Wave has a unique horizontal wave geometry that provides an interesting aesthetic dimension unlike any other integral blind. Its minimalist design aligns beautifully with contemporary décor based around an industrial, urban look, particularly the blackout version given its black finish internally, which has an appearance similar to a micro-perforated steel roller shutter from a distance.

Wave’s original visual appeal is backed by effective performance in respect of optimising the window or door’s thermal insulation and managing levels of solar

gain. This makes the integral blind an excellent choice for windows and doors that contribute to creating more comfortable living spaces, reducing the risk of summertime overheating and helping to cut heating costs during cooler periods of the year.

A powerful motor takes care of raising and lowering the blind, controlled using a wall-mounted switch or remote control.

As the blind is totally encapsulated within the IGU, it will never attract dirt, meaning it does not require cleaning and will retain its pristine appearance throughout its lifetime.

Ian Short, Managing Director of Morley Glass, commented: “ScreenLine® Wave’s appeal comes with its kookiness – it is something a bit different and that’s going

to catch the attention of homeowners and developers who want to make their own original design statement. As with all our Uni-Blinds®, it is a system that provides the perfect combination of aesthetics, functionality and performance, with a five-year warranty for peace of mind.”

Excellent thermal performance is achieved through a combination of factors. The reflective properties of the blind’s film, which features a PVD coating, coupled with the IGU’s patented spacer bar design, maximise the integral blind’s insulating properties when combined with the high performance glass options provided by Morley Glass.

ScreenLine® Wave is suitable for double and triple glazed IGUs with a cavity of 20mm or 22mm. Morley Glass can manufacture these units to a specification with a very low U-Value by using Planitherm One and, for applications where the goal is to provide a high level of solar control, such as for elevations facing strong sunlight regularly, Saint-Gobain COOL-LITE SKN 176 II. Morley Glass delivers Uni-Blinds® integral blinds in just 10–12 working days when ordered by 10am on Thursdays, and all orders are supplied with complimentary delivery.

Find out more at www.morleyglass. co.uk

january 2026 | product innovation | 105

Freefoam launches shorter fascia lengths to simplify roofline box ends

F

reefoam Building Products is pleased to announce an exciting product update for 2026. The popular Woodgrain FMS Magnum Square Leg Fascia (405mm) is now available in a shorter length of 1.25 metres.

This new addition to the comprehensive roofline range has been introduced following customer feedback to make installations easier, reduce waste, and lower costs for customers.

The new 1.25 metre box end board is available in Woodgrain Black Ash and Woodgrain Anthracite Grey.

This new product has been designed with installers in mind. The shorter lengths are particularly suitable for the creation of the ‘box end’ of a roofline installation – where the fascia meets the bargeboard at the corner of a roof.

Benefits for Installers • Perfect for the quick and easy creation of box ends.

• Reduces material wastage.

• Lowers overall cost.

• Easier to store and transport.

Richard Jackson, UK Sales Director, explains “Our customers have been asking for a more convenient solution for creating box ends, and this new product delivers exactly that. It’s a simple change that will make a big difference in reducing waste and improving efficiency on site.”

Freefoam Building Products are committed to developing and improving product ranges to meet market needs.

“Innovation for us is about listening to

installers and PVC stockists and responding with practical, cost-effective products,” added Louise Sanderson, Group Marketing Manager at Freefoam. “This update is another example of how we’re making life easier for our customers.”

A smarter flat skylight solution

U

ltraframe has launched the new Stratus Flat Skylight, a sleek new addition to its market-leading roof systems. Designed to instantly enhance any home extension project by flooding interiors with natural light while offering a rapid, hassle-free installation at a competitive price.

Developed by Ultraframe’s R&D team, the Stratus Flat Skylight delivers the ideal balance of style, performance, practicality and price, making it a go-to choice for installers and homeowners alike. Its clean, contemporary profile and lowsightline frame creates a refined finish that complements any modern kitchen or dining extension.

The fitter friendly design ensures a rapid two-piece installation process, saving both time and effort on-site. Installation is straightforward — simply fix the frame in place and then click in the glass. This streamlined approach makes fitting quicker,

cleaner, and more efficient, reducing labour time without compromising on quality or finish.

Commenting on the launch, Andrew Thomson, Ultraframe Research and Development Director, said: “We wanted to design a flat skylight that not only looks beautiful but truly works for fitters on-site. The Stratus Flat Skylight achieves that with its innovative two-piece design – simply fix the frame, then click in the glass.

It’s that easy.”

The Stratus Flat Skylight has been tested to BSI 6375 standards for superior weather performance and peace of mind. Its advanced 5-seal system provides outstanding weather protection, while an integrated drip profile directs water away from the kerb, extending product life and maintaining performance.

The system incorporates an exceptional sealing design, featuring five highperformance seals engineered to deliver superior weather protection and longterm durability. This multi-seal configuration effectively eliminates common issues associated with other flat skylights. By replacing the single-seal approach with a robust, layered sealing solution, the design ensures enhanced resistance to the elements and consistent performance across varying environmental conditions.

“Why settle for one seal when you can have five?” adds Andrew. “Every detail of Stratus has been engineered for long-term reliability and installer confidence.”

Combining aluminium externals for strength and durability with a PVC inner frame for optimal thermal performance, Ultraframe have value engineered the new Stratus Flat Skylight to be price competitive, with a 30% lower profile vs other lanterns, clean lines, and hidden fixings for a flawless, modern aesthetic.

Available made-to-measure in a range of square or rectangular configurations from 500mm x 500mm up to 1500mm x 2750mm, and finished in Grey (RAL7016), Black (RAL9005) or White (RAL9003), it is as versatile as it is stylish. With noisereducing glass, thermally broken design, and full Building Regulations compliance, the Stratus Flat Skylight is the perfect finishing touch for any contemporary kitchen or dining extension.

To find out more about the Stratus Flat Skylight, email marketing@ultraframe. co.uk.

106 | movers and shakers | january 2026

Aluplast has appointed Leigh Greenwood as Head of Sales for the UK and Ireland.

With more than two-decades experience in the window and door industry, Leigh brings an in-depth knowledge of PVC-U and aluminium systems supply and fabrication to the top Aluplast sales role. This includes senior sales roles with Made for Trade; Masco UK Window Group, and John Fredericks, as well as operational roles with trade counter, Sevenday Windows. He said: “aluplast has seen incredible growth based on a flexible product offer, great quality and exceptionally reliable service. We have some very exciting innovations coming down the line, which will challenge the status quo, and deliver real change to the systems market, and with it, big opportunities for forward thinking fabricators. I’m genuinely excited to have the opportunity to be part of that change, and to work in partnership with aluplast customers to support them in maximising the opportunities that innovation and our plans for growth are going to deliver.” Aluplast boasts a rapidly expanding product offer.

Hardware supplier Carl F Groupco has announced the appointment of Dave Walker as Sales Manager. Dave will be a familiar name to many within the industry, having built a strong reputation through senior sales roles with leading international hardware manufacturers. Dave joins Carl F Groupco following over eight years with Roto Frank Holding AG and prior to this, he spent more than two years at MACO Door & Window Hardware (UK) Limited.

Across these roles, Dave has developed extensive experience working with fabricators, delivering hardware solutions and supporting long-term customer partnerships. Adrian Gale, Sales Director at Carl F Groupco, said: “Dave is extremely well known and highly respected across the hardware and fenestration sector. His technical understanding, strong customer relationships and proven sales performance make him an excellent fit for Carl F Groupco.

We are delighted to welcome him to the team as we continue to strengthen our sales operation and support our customers’ growth.”

ERA’s new Customer Service and Internal Sales Director has stressed the importance of taking a customer first approach into 2026 as she moves into the role. Sheena Kotecha, who brings more than 15 years of experience across commercial operations and customer success, working across UK, UAE and global markets, has taken on the position following the brand’s acquisition by Quanex. As part of the Hardware Solutions division, ERA, alongside Zoo, Giesse and Reguitti, unites globally recognised brands within the Quanex group. Sheena’s career has seen her lead large operational and customerfacing teams, specialising in transforming customer operations while optimising service processes and improving efficiency, retention and customer satisfaction.

Her focus for the ERA product brand will be on ensuring the highest levels of customer satisfaction across the board, based on reviewing processes and implementing wider business plans to the benefit of customers.

Trade fabricator Modplan has further strengthened its national sales team with the appointment of Calum Williams as Business Development Manager (Midlands).

Calum is an experienced Area Sales Manager with a strong background in the Building Plastics and Fenestration industry.

His skill set spans negotiation, sales, Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and account management, supported by an impressive track record of delivering results.

Calum said: “I’m delighted to be joining Modplan at such an exciting time in its growth journey. Having worked in the fenestration sector for a number of years, I know Modplan’s reputation for quality and service is second to none. The company’s focus on long-term partnerships and customer success really aligns with my own approach and I look forward to helping customers across the Midlands grow their businesses.” As Business Development Manager (Midlands), Calum will focus on supporting Modplan’s existing customer base while identifying and developing new opportunities across the region.

Warwick North West has appointed two new sales executives as part of its continued growth. The Liverpool window and door manufacturer welcomes Shay Johnson and James Parker to its sales team.

Shay Johnson joins Warwick North West following a successful work experience placement with the company last summer.

Shay is a first-class honours graduate from the University of Liverpool with a degree in business and economics.

James Parker comes to Warwick with significant experience from his previous position as Engagement Manager at Liverpool Chamber of Commerce, a company with close ties to Warwick. James holds a master’s degree and is already well-known across the city’s business community.

Managing Director Greg Johnson said, “I’m proud of the incredibly strong team we’ve created. One of my favourite parts of running a company is nurturing talent and giving people the best environment to reach their potential. Both Shay and James bring outstanding qualities to our sales team.”

Since their acquisition by Rocal Group in early 2024, BDC Aluminium has already seen significant growth. The Essex-based business, founded in 2008 and specialising in the fabrication of aluminium windows and doors for both commercial and domestic markets, recently welcomed two new additions to its expanding team in Witham. Part of Rocal Group’s plans to build on the existing success of BDC Aluminium and capitalise on the exciting market position they occupy, their two new hires bring a wealth of industry experience.

Joe Stewart joined BDC as a Technical Support Lead. With over 20 years of experience in the window industry, he brings a wealth of knowledge and handson expertise to the team. In his role, he supports both our internal teams and clients by ensuring that every product we deliver meets BDC’s high standards of quality and performance. He said on his new role: “My main aim is to ensure the factory staff are trained to the highest standard and everything goes out to the client at the highest quality.”

ALUMINIUM LANTERNS

CORNER PROTECTORS

Multi-Award Winning

sales@madefortrade.co Call: 01642 610799 www.korniche.co.uk

ALUMINIUM WINDOWS

CANOPIES

Aluminium Roof Lantern

90x40cm Advert_Layout 1 17/12/2013 11:45 Page 1

GEORGIAN BAR

Head Office (Unit 1), Warehouse & Distribution (Unit 8), Clifton Business Park, Preston New Road, West Preston. PR4 0XQ Tel: 01772 631441 Fax: 01772 679886

The Georgian Bar Company Ltd Email: sales@geofast.co.uk Web: www.geofast.co.uk

ANTI-GLARE FILM MARKETING

HARDWARE

Leading the way in window and door hardware.

FLYSCREENS

Yale Door and Window Solutions School Street, Willenhall West Midlands WV13 3PW 01902 366800 www.yaledws.co.uk

PROFILE BENDING

The Full Service Digital, Creative And PR Agency • Marketing Consultancy • Digital, Content & Social • PR & Communications • Design & Branding • Web Design & E-Commerce • Filming & Video Production

T: 01934 808 132 www.purplexmarketing.com

PLANNING CONSULTANTS DO YOU NEED PLANNING PERMISSION?

BI-FOLDING DOORS

0800 292 2240

We specialize in obtaining Planning approval for SAVE HOURS ON SITE

bi-folding door sales@madefortrade.co Call: 01642 610799 www.korniche.co.uk

FIT FASTER CLIP BEAD

• Conservatories x x • Orangeries Studios x • Garden Storey Extensions • Single x • Porches x Windows x • Replacement We’ll submit your application Within 5 working days!!

We

have

the

UK

covered

www.myconservatorydesign.com Email info@myconservatorydesign.com

January 2026 - 107

SLIDERS / HERITAGE

CONSUMABLES/TOOLS

Just £13.99 each or 2 for only £24.99

SCREWS AND FIXINGS

FOR ALL YOUR FASTENER AND SCREW REQUIREMENTS

A PRACTICAL SOLUTION TO FITTING WINDOWS AND DOORS. To try KÖMABAG® for yourself, call us on 01623 579200. www.kommerling.co.uk

WINDOW MACHINERY

sales@screwshop.co.uk 0121 559 8866

SECURITY INITIATIVES

VENETIAN BLIND SYSTEMS

Secured by Design (SBD) works to improve the security of buildings and their surroundings by working closely with architects, builders, developers, local authorities and registered housing associations to incorporate crime prevention standards from concept to completion.

SBD is the only way for companies to obtain police recognition for securityrelated products in the UK www.securedbydesign.com

YOUR NO.1

CHOICE FOR INTEGRAL BLINDS

T 0113 277 8722 • E sales@morleyglass.co.uk

SPACER BARS

For Sales Information please call Donna on

The science behind 44x65 Classified Ad_WA.indd 1 warm edge technology

T: 02476 995843

108 - January 2026 Jan 2018 (Et) Classified Advert.indd 1

13/12/2017 15:33

11/05/2024 14:34

07919 448809

WINDOW OPENERS

RIGHT ON

TARGET EVERY SINGLE TI

ME

Why watch your marketing budget miss the mark?

With Insight Data’s precision-targeted database, you’ll throw a bullseye with every campaign.

We maintain the UK’s most accurate construction and glazing industry database. We help you win more sales and profit by providing prospect data not available anywhere else.

IN THREE:

INCREASE REVENUE

Ready to throw a perfect marketing 9 dart leg?

Contact Insight Data today for a FREE consultation. CALL 01934 808 293

CHECKOUT & WIN NEW CUSTOMERS

SAVE TIME & MONEY

SCAN ME

@insightdataltd

www.insightdata.co.uk

FULLY FABRICATED AND READY TO FIT

Alitherm 400 The Alitherm 400 range is suitable for residential and light commercial applications.

STANDARD & FLUSH FRAME - FLAT & STEPPED SASH - 1.4 U-VALUE

Featuring integrated gaskets and Quick-Glaze beads for faster installation.

As well as casements, Garrard Windows offers Tilt and Turns, Single and Double Doors to match the Alitherm 400 casement window.

This window is high quality, has excellent thermal performance and security. It is available in a huge range of colours to give your customers exactly what they want.

Call us now for enquiries : Tel : 01296 668899 Or email : sales@garrardwindows.co.uk Visit our website :

www.garrardwindows.co.uk

We pride ourselves on our reliability