Windows Active - June 2025 Issue

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CONTENTS JUNE 2025

GETTING IN CONTACT

EDITORIAL

John Cowie

Editor - Head of Online Content

Tel: 07474 123287

E: john.cowie@windowsactive.co.uk

Jennie Shoglen - Graphic Designer

Emma McCormack - Sub-Editor

ADVERTISING SALES

Steve Gravestock

Sales Director

Tel: 07990 671901

E: steve.gravestock@windowsactive.co.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

GENERAL ITEMS

FEATURES REGULARS

004 - NEWS Glaston receives order for ultrathin IG production from Regency Glass; Apeer hosts Blinds in Glass for UK expansion strategy discussions; Manufacturers urged to review certifications under revised BS 7412; Specifiers call for transparency as embodied carbon data remains elusive; Reynaers reports uplift in window sales amid refurb trend; Allan Brothers opens new showroom to expand reach in the south.

038 - DIRECTOR FOCUS

In this month’s director of the month feature, we talk to Emma Arrell, Group Finance Director of Garnalex.

042 - BUSINESS INTRVIEW

In his latest Podcast, Guy Hubble MD of RegaLead, sat down with the Managing Director of Entrance Composite Solutions Gregory Kelly.

044 - SPECIAL FEATURE

From graduate to strategy setting for the UK: Meet Amy Steven, Fenestration Sales Director at Veka. Aluminium.

046 - SUSTAINABILITY

Big promises, little data— sustainability stalls as specifiers demand green clarity manufacturers aren’t yet prepared to deliver.

056 - FABRICATION

Twenty years strong, still evolving — Unique Window Systems blends legacy with innovation to define the future of fenestration.

073 - MACHINERY

Designed to revolutionise production insight, Stuga’s new dashboard delivers precision control, sharper visibility, and operational finesse.

084 - ECOMS & IT

Smart, seamless, and futurefocused—3E’s 3E-LOOK redefines window production with elegant automation and flawless connectivity.

100 - PVC-U SYSTEMS

A comprehensive round-up from some of the leading names in the PVC-U systems sector. Includes features from Veka, Rehau, Eurocell and Vinyl Plus.

048 - GLASSTEC INSIGHTS

AI is no longer optional—it’s revolutionising glass, from mass producers to glaziers, elevating efficiency, precision, and possibility.

052 - GENERAL FEATURE

Ged Ryan, CEO, Hoppe (UK), explores the history of Hoppe and how the hardware manufacturer still holds on to its family values.

054 - MARKETING SPECIAL

Marketing expert Komaldeep Kaur Dhir sees AI and marketing as creative chemistry — one side brings the data, the other brings the soul.

110 - PRODUCT INNOVATION

Boldly reimagined and effortlessly expansive, Eurocell’s roof lantern redefines flat roof elegance with unmatched scale and simplicity.

118 - MOVERS AND SHAKERS

The latest appointments and promotions from the human resources arena of some of the leading firms in the sector.

The Futureof Triple Glazing:

RegencyGlassand CorningIncorporated

LaunchingaNewTriple GlazingSolution, RevolutionisingtheUK Market...

•0.5mmglasscentrepane

•onlya5%increasein weightonconventional double-glazedunits

•uvalue=0.7to0.9 W/m²/K forastandard 28mmunit

•withstandthermalstressand reducebreakagewithoutthe needfortempering

The Future of Triple Glazing:

Regency Glass and Corning Incorporated Will Launch a New Triple Glazing Solution, Revolutionising the UK Market

Regency Glass, in collaboration with Corning Incorporated, a world leader in glass and materials science, will soon launch a triple glazing solution that incorporates Corning’s ultra-thin architectural glass, thus defining the future of the UK glazing market.

Over the past two years, Regency Glass has made substantial investments in personnel, processes, and technology to enhance the quality of its glazing solutions. These investments include internal training programmes, expanded marketing resources, and a brand-new website with bespoke features designed to benefit end users—focusing on the theme: “Glass for Your Home.”

At Regency, the difference is clear. This guiding ethos is embedded in every aspect of the company’s operations, from recruitment and training to product innovation and service delivery. This commitment to excellence has positioned Regency at the forefront of industry advancements.

Industry-Leading Innovation

Today’s triple glazing performance hinges on several key factors: glass thickness, toughening processes, thermal efficiency, and overall durability. Through extensive research and development and a strategic collaboration with Corning, Regency achieved groundbreaking advancements across all these areas and will deliver a more cost-effective, energy-efficient, and advanced triple glazing solution for the UK market.

Manufactured on Corning’s fusion forming platform, Corning‘s architectural glass is a revolutionary 0.5 mm centre pane of glass designed to be a drop-in solution that can withstand thermal stress and reduce breakage without the need for tempering in triple-glazed units. This breakthrough not only maximises argon gas volume for superior thermal efficiency but also surpasses the reliability and cost-effectiveness of any current triple-glazed solution available in the UK.

A Lighter and More Efficient Solution

Corning’s architectural glass is set to transform the UK windows industry, delivering an unparalleled triple glazing solution that is up to 9 kg lighter per square metre. This reduced weight equates to a 30% decrease from conventional triple-glazed units and only a 5% increase on conventional double-glazed units, making installation easier and safer while maintaining superior durability and performance.

Through ongoing testing and regulatory reviews, Regency Glass anticipates center-of-glass U-values for triple-glazed units incorporating Corning’s architectural glass in the range of 0.7 to 0.9 W/m²/K for a standard 28 mm unit, ensuring enhanced energy efficiency for consumers by up to 35% compared to current 28 mm offerings. Full testing results and compliance updates will be shared in due course.

Availability and Future Expansion

So, when will Regency Performance Glazing with Corning’s thin glass be available? Regency Glass CEO, Darren Beazant, shares:

“Wearethrilledtoleadtheintroductionofthisproductto theUKmarketbyQ12026.Ourdevelopmentand planningareinadvancedstages,andouragreement withCorning,oneoftheworldleadersinthinglass development,marksamajormilestoneinourcompany’s historyandasignificantleapforwardfortheUKglazing industry.”

“CollaboratingwithcompanieslikeRegency,whichshare Corning’sstrongcommitmenttoinnovation,enables residentsandbusinessownersintheUKtoenjoya higherqualityoflifewithmorecomfortableandenergy efficientspacesathomeandwork,”

said Ron Verkleeren, Senior Vice President, Emerging Innovations Group, Corning Incorporated.

As Regency Glass prepares for the launch of products enabled by Corning’s architectural glass, the company will continue its expansion throughout 2025. For more information on this revolutionary technology and how you can be among the first to experience its benefits, get in touch today.

Contact: T: 01942 262162 E: stevemassey@regencyglass.co.uk

EDITOR’S COMMENT

WINDOW MARKET

FACES TWO FUTURES

As the UK window installation industry reaches the midpoint of 2025, a stark divide is emerging. While the higher end of the market continues to report stable sales and resilient demand, a mounting crisis is unfolding further down the chain. For mid- and lower-tier installers, the market has become increasingly defined by aggressive pricing, unrealistic customer expectations, and an alarming erosion of standards. The result is a race to the bottom, in which price rather than quality has become the overriding concern—and the consequences are reverberating across the supply chain.

At the heart of the problem lies a growing mismatch between what consumers expect to pay and the actual cost of delivering a compliant, high-quality installation. On industry forums, installers share stories of customers hoping to secure full-house window replacements for as little as £3,000 to £5,000—price points that may have been achievable a decade ago but are now far below the cost of materials, insurance, labour, and regulatory compliance. “I can’t even price in proper trims and sealants at what they expect me to quote,” one installer noted, pointing to the increasingly difficult decisions facing tradespeople.

Fuelled by persistent inflation and supply chain disruption, input costs have climbed steadily. But consumers, often unaware of the true cost of quality, continue to anchor their expectations on outdated benchmarks. This problem is exacerbated by the pricing tactics of some national brands, where quotes can start at £20,000 before being slashed to £7,000 under pressure to close. While such strategies may drive short-term sales, they also reinforce the belief that initial quotes are artificially inflated and open to deep negotiation. In turn, this breeds mistrust—before the first frame is even measured.

For local and independent installers, the pressure to compete has pushed many to strip their offerings to the bare minimum. To win work, some are omitting features such as trickle vents, switching to cheaper hardware, or cutting the time allocated for installation—measures that ultimately compromise quality. The implications are all too familiar: botched finishes, increased callbacks, remedial work, and customer complaints. In the process, the reputation of the entire trade is undermined.

Doing the job properly now often means pricing oneself out of contention. Installers committed to regulatory compliance—such as FENSA registration and insurancebacked guarantees—are finding it harder to justify their quotes in an environment where undercutting is rife. For some, the

only viable route forward is to pivot away from domestic jobs altogether and seek more structured commercial contracts, where pricing expectations, though still competitive, are more grounded in reality. Others are leaving the sector entirely, deepening an already acute shortage of skilled labour.

That skills crisis is casting a long shadow over the industry’s future. An ageing workforce, limited apprenticeship uptake, and the reduction in overseas labour post-Brexit have combined to restrict the flow of new talent. Installers increasingly report struggling to find qualified fitters, and delays or substandard workmanship due to inexperience are becoming more common. Training provision remains uneven, and younger workers are often drawn to more lucrative or higher-profile trades. Without coordinated investment in workforce development, the sector faces a long-term decline in capacity and capability.

The pressure is also being felt in the retail environment. Sales staff—often working under commission models that reward volume over value—face constant pressure to close deals quickly. In this context, the temptation to discount heavily or promise more than can be delivered becomes hard to resist. But short-term wins can carry long-term costs: confused consumers, overburdened installers, and a slow erosion of trust in the sector’s integrity.

Still, some firms are charting a more optimistic course. Businesses investing in recruitment, skills training, and clear communication are reporting more stable outcomes. By focusing on professionalism and setting clear expectations from the outset, they are not only securing work but building long-term customer loyalty. These efforts suggest a path forward—but only if the industry is willing to follow suit.

If the sector is to escape this spiral, it will require a collective reset. Transparency around pricing is vital. Educating consumers about what their money buys—durability, compliance, skilled labour—can help shift the narrative away from bargain-basement quotes. But that effort must be matched by a commitment within the industry to hold the line on quality, even in the face of competitive pressure.

There is little doubt that saying no to unviable jobs during tough economic times is difficult. But the alternative—a sector characterised by mistrust, poor standards, and a shrinking talent pool—is far worse. Low prices may win work today. But only professionalism, trust and quality will sustain the industry tomorrow.

John Cowie - Editor

Missing items on orders?

Poor paint quality?

Elusive technical support?

Long lead-times?

Products that don’t conform?

Glaston receives order for ultra-thin IG production from Regency Glass

Glaston has received technology and equipment orders from Regency Glass, a well-known producer of high-quality insulating glass units (IGU) in the UK. The orders are booked in Glaston’s Q1 2025 order book. They include an ULTRA TPS® line for manufacturing insulating glass units with ultra-thin center glass, MULTI’ARRISSER machines for edge processing, and an FC Series X machine for glass tempering. The orders will be delivered in the second half of 2025.

Regency Glass has a long experience in providing insulated glass units for the replacement and new build market in the UK. Relying on Glaston’s technology, the company is now expanding its production capabilities, specifically designed to produce ultra-thin triple-glazed insulating glass units.

The triple IG unit with ultra-thin center glass down to 0.5 mm is significantly lighter than conventional triple IG units, and it offers high-performance glazing in a slimmer, more efficient package. These units offer up to 35% better U-values than conventional double glazing, while

also addressing the issues of thickness and weight. Regency Glass’s new triple glazed offering is only 5% heavier than a conventional double IG unit.

Regency Glass has a quality and efficiency-driven operating model. Glaston was the only vendor capable of providing the needed technology to meet their production

quality and efficiency requirements. The customer has already automated its glass tempering process with Glaston’s Autopilot and will continue utilizing those capabilities in the future, too.

“Building on top of the automation capabilities, Regency Glass had the opportunity to plan their new offering around the production process of new ultrathin IGUs. The production design makes the most of the proven TPS® technology and a patented processing method created specifically for ultra-thin glass,” says Sasu Koivumäki, Chief Sales Officer at Glaston.

“We focus on investments that will meet the future requirements of the glazing industry. To address the market’s growing need for energy efficiency, we see a potential for ultra-thin insulating glass units with a better U-value that fit the existing window frame width. With Glaston’s technology and process know-how support, we are confident we will maintain our established production quality and reliability when stepping into a new production field,” says Wayne Fitzmartin, Chief Operating Officer, Regency Glass.

Apeer hosts Blinds in Glass for UK expansion strategy discussions

Door manufacturer Apeer Doors recently welcomed Blinds in Glass Group to its Ballymena based factory site for in-depth product training and strategy talks concerning the growing distribution of Apeer doors across the UK. As part of the partnership deal between the two companies, BIGG will help drive sales through its own network of window companies and facilitate the delivery of the product to areas within England and Wales which are still undeveloped by Apeer.

Since establishing the partnership, BIGG managing director, Ian Woolley, along with son Ben, have worked closely with Apeer to ensure the positioning and marketing of the Apeer range of doors meets their mutual high standards in terms of performance and service. Their visit to Apeer’s factory highlighted how dedicated and committed the company and its workforce are, on a daily basis, to those very concepts.

“The market is tough at the moment, but that only gives companies such as BIGG, and Apeer, the opportunity to truly showcase a ‘best in class’ type approach,” commented BIGG’s Ian Woolley. “I was bowled over by what Apeer has achieved over the last 30 years, and as a relatively new kid on the block, we have set ourselves some BIGG targets. Apeer is the level of partnership we are constantly seeking to help us achieve

those targets.”

“The BIGG mindset and approach to doing business is what we are constantly seeking to instil across our trade installer network, and we are already seeing the energy levels increasing across the market,” added Apeer’s CEO Asa McGillian. “In tougher economic conditions it is the strength of the supply chain that will help any business overcome adversity. Working with BIGG gives us confidence that the

foundation we are building today will bear even more prosperous fruit in the future.”

Ian Woolley established BIGG during the height of covid in 2020, and has grown it into a solid £1.6m turnover business focusing primarily on integral blinds and composite doors. The company has created a solid operational framework for growth, and sees this partnership as a primary focus for growth, continuing high levels of service with minimal investment.

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Manufacturers urged to review certifications under revised BS 7412

In light of recent regulatory changes to BS 7412 and PAS 24 requirements,

Element Materials Technology is urging manufacturers to make sure their products meet the latest standards to maintain certification. Compliance with BS 7412 (general performance requirements) is a prerequisite of PAS 24 (enhanced security requirements) for PVC-U windows and doors.

The updates to BS 7412 enforce that each item of hardware on a window product complies with the EN 13126 series of standards. This means all window hardware must be tested and classified to demonstrate compliance with the relevant part of the test and classification standard as part of the requirement for certification to BS 7412:2024.

In addition to the hardware updates above, there have also been updates that relate to updated Factory Production Control (FPC) requirements such as the inclusion of partially welded corners, the removal of infill panel references and the use of thermal inserts.

The classification, requirements and test methods standard for PVC-U profiles has also been updated. Profiles that have no surface covering must be marked in accordance with EN 12608-1:2016+A1:2020 to declare that they meet the updated requirements for PVC-U extrusions. This marking indicates that the profiles have undergone the required testing to confirm

and classify their quality, consistency and durability e.g. impact testing and heat reversion tests.

Andrew Sumner Certification Schemes Manager at Element Materials Technology, said: “These new requirements are significant for manufacturers, as they must ensure that each individual piece of hardware for windows is tested and classified before they can achieve BS 7412:2024 certification.”

Manufacturers have until January 2027

to ensure their Q-Mark certified products comply with the latest requirements of BS 7412:2024. Element has testing capabilities for to the EN 13126 series of standards to help meet the updated requirement. Andrew added: “Every PVC-U window manufacturer should be contacting their hardware suppliers to ensure that the components they wish to use under their certification has the appropriate test and classification evidence in good time to meet the deadline of January 2027.”

Specifiers call for transparency as embodied carbon data remains elusive

Agrowing rift between specifiers and product manufacturers is threatening progress on the UK construction industry’s net-zero ambitions, according to the latest Sustainability Report from NBS, released on 27 May.

The report reveals that 92% of specifiers feel constrained by the lack of robust sustainability performance data— particularly embodied carbon metrics— when making early design decisions. This comes despite increasing pressure from regulations such as the Future Homes Standard and The London Plan, which are pushing developers to prioritise low-carbon building strategies.

Nearly half of specifiers (46%) and over half of architects (52%) now say they only consider manufacturers with above-average sustainability credentials. Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs)—which offer lifecycle carbon analysis—are becoming a key factor in this procurement shift.

Yet many manufacturers are still falling short. Despite environmental performance and embodied carbon ranking as the

top priorities for specifiers, the report shows these are absent from the five most commonly provided data types. Instead, basic information such as product origin dominates—undermining efforts to accurately measure environmental impact during the specification stage.

Lee Jones, Head of Sustainability at NBS, said: “There is a real appetite among specifiers for meaningful, actionable sustainability data. But if environmental data is vague or incomplete, it doesn’t

support decision-making at pace.”

He added that achieving low-carbon outcomes must start with consistent and transparent data sharing: “If we want sustainable choices to become the default, we have to make those choices easier to identify and compare.”

Fewer than half of projects are currently meeting rigorous sustainability standards, according to the report. Major barriers include inconsistent supply chain data, limited access to credible certification schemes, and a fragmented approach to carbon reporting.

NBS’s digital platforms, Chorus and Source, aim to bridge these gaps by integrating sustainability data into the specification process. By streamlining access to EPDs, carbon metrics, and compliance tools, the platform is helping specifiers make lower-carbon choices without sacrificing performance or speed.

As net-zero targets edge closer, manufacturers may find themselves sidelined unless they can deliver on data as well as design.

Reynaers reports uplift in window sales amid refurb trend

Reynaers Aluminium UK has reported a notable uplift in sales of its residential aluminium windows in the past 12 months as homeowners look to align windows with slimline aluminium doors in refurb projects.

The increase in sales has been led by a trend for homeowners to match external aesthetics by investing in upgrades to the exterior of their home.

With Reynaers’ high performance SlimLine 68 (SL 68) seeing a 12 per cent increase in sales and SlimLine 38 (SL 38) achieving almost a 40 per cent lift, the company believes this has been driven by a trend in homeowners looking to upgrade to a slimline architectural look, to replace previously pvc-window frames, that in most cases have a much heavier, bulkier sightline.

Available in a range of contemporary or heritage finishes, SL 68 and SL 38 window systems are ideal for a wide range of refurbishment projects and upgrades.

Terry Ledwith, Head of Sales – Trade and Retail at Reynaers Aluminium UK, said: “Our range of SL68 and SL38 aluminium windows has seen exceptionally strong growth,

particularly given tough market conditions.

“In the face of the cost-of-living crisis and rising inflationary pressures, homeowners are keen on improving the appearance of their homes. This is a continuation of a trend that started during Covid when we

saw a rise in homeowners opening up their homes to the outside using large scale, slim sightline doors.

“The quality of these windows – and the slimline aesthetic they deliver - make them an ideal choice to echo that stylish finish across the rest of the property. This is something we are seeing more and more frequently as people choose to make changes that they know will last the test of time and enhance the finish of their home.”

Designed to fit into a standard 68mm window frame, Reynaers’ SL 68 is a highperformance aluminium casement window that boasts industry-leading thermal insulation and can achieve a U-value as low as 1.1 W/m²K.

Both SL 38 and SL 68 are available in double and triple glazing options up to 43mm thick, which makes them future ready in terms of accommodating high standards in thermally-efficient triple glazing.

Awarded Secured by Design accreditation, both windows systems reach the PAS24 security standard, to demonstrate resilience to break-in attempts.

Allan Brothers opens new showroom to expand reach in southern England

Allan Brothers, the UK’s oldest timber window and door manufacturer, has opened a new showroom to serve Oxfordshire, the Cotswolds and the Home Counties regions. Blenheim Palace Sawmills, a nineteenth-century barn conversion on the Blenheim Palace Estate near Woodstock, is now showcasing the company’s solid timber and Alu Clad windows and doors, including traditional sash windows, flush casement windows, entrance doors, and a variety of patio door solutions.

“The new showroom is the latest in a series of exciting developments at Allan Brothers, which started with a £2.6 million factory upgrade last year, including the installation of state-of-the-art CNC machinery, followed by the introduction of our new upgraded Crafted Range of timber windows,” said Managing Director Morten Bach Valsted. “At a time when the industry is experiencing a 20% downturn, and many companies are pulling back, we are continuing to push forward by investing in our products, our employees and our premises.”

As part of its expansion south, Allan Brothers has strengthened its sales and marketing team with three new appointments.

Heading up the southern operation is Commercial Director Charlotte Whelan, who is responsible for the company’s

business growth and brings a wealth of experience from her previous role as Managing Director of Oxfordshire window installer Jack Brunsdon. Working alongside Charlotte is newly appointed Hannah Wardle as Marketing Assistant and Account Manager, and Christopher Seymour, who will be identifying new opportunities and delivering tailored solutions to trade and residential customers in the south.

“With a new experienced team in place

and well-located new premises, I am confident that we will continue to build on our growing customer base in the south of England,” said Morten.

The new Allan Brothers showroom is open to homeowners, architects and trade professionals. Opening hours are Monday to Friday, 9 am to 4 pm and visits can be arranged by appointment by calling 01289 334600 or emailing enquiries@ allanbrothers.co.uk

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Residential sector drives optimism amid UK construction uncertainty

The UK construction industry is showing encouraging signs of recovery, with the latest Glenigan Construction Index for June 2025 revealing a significant uptick in projects starting on site. The report, covering the three months to the end of May, paints an increasingly optimistic picture for a sector that has endured years of economic uncertainty. This renewed vigour is largely attributed to a robust performance in the residential market, which has defied broader challenges.

Overall, projects starting on site increased by a quarter (25%) over the preceding three months, also posting a 10% year-on-year increase compared to 2024 figures. This growth signals a potential turning point for the industry, which has been closely watched for indicators of broader economic health.

The standout performer remains the residential construction market, which “rocketed 39%” on the preceding three months, finishing an impressive 45% higher than last year. Within this sector, private housing construction starts surged by 55% against the preceding three months and experienced a substantial

56% increase year-on-year. Social housing also saw considerable growth, up 29% and 13% respectively over the same periods.

Geographically, the South West, North West, North East, and West Midlands all reported strong performances in residential starts, while the South East and London saw mixed but generally positive results.

While the non-residential sector experienced an 18% decline compared to 2024, it managed to break even against the preceding three months, holding its ground in challenging socioeconomic conditions. The long-troubled civils sector, despite a third (-33%) drop year-on-year, showed signs of softening decline, down by a modest 2% during the core measurement period.

Allan Wilen, Glenigan’s Economic Director, welcomed the results, stating, “The industry will welcome these results as, despite the downturn in major projects recently shown in the May Review, the underlying market, which represents the majority of work across the sector, appears to be on the up.” He suggested that a perceived increase in “relatively good news business stories coming from Downing Street” might be boosting investor confidence. With the residential vertical showing such strong figures, Wilen anticipates the upward trend will continue into the latter half of 2025, adding that the upcoming Spending Review and Glenigan’s own Spring/Summer Forecast will offer crucial insights into the future direction of UK construction activity.

Crittall forges a new strategic collaboration with Secco Sistemi

Crittall Windows has announced a new strategic collaboration with Secco Sistemi, the renowned Italian manufacturer of high-performance steel windows and doors systems. The partnership represents a further commitment by Crittall to expand its product portfolio and maintain its leadership in the premium market segment. This new relationship will see Crittall working alongside Secco Sistemi and Barclay Mathieson Architectural (BMA), the sole importer of Secco systems into the United Kingdom. Through this collaboration, Crittall will fabricate Secco’s thermally broken steel systems for both the UK and North American markets. The partnership builds on shared values of quality, innovation and technical excellence.

Secco Sistemi, based near Venice, has been a driving force in steel window and door innovation since its founding in 1947 by Aldo Secco. Known for its use of architectural metals such as brass, corten steel, stainless steel and galvanised steel, the company has consistently produced awardwinning systems that combine technical performance with refined aesthetics. Its products have been specified in landmark projects across Europe and beyond, including the James Simon Galerie in Berlin by David Chipperfield Architects. With more than seven decades of

experience, Secco has evolved from its industrial origins to become a highly regarded partner to contemporary architects. Crittall will source Secco profiles and accessories through BMA, ensuring full control over specification and supply. The partnership enables Crittall to bring Secco systems to market with the same attention to detail and project-led service that has defined the Essex-based company for 175 years.

Crittall’s decision to invest in this new product line reflects the business’s long-term strategy of growth through

innovation. It complements its in-house range by offering new solutions for high-end residential and commercial projects where thermal performance, material quality and design integrity are essential.

Russell Ager, Crittall Windows’ MD, said: “This partnership allows us to offer a broader range of high-performance steel solutions while staying true to the principles that define Crittall: precision, quality and a clear understanding of architectural intent. It reflects our commitment to evolve with our clients’ needs and to bring new, design-led systems to market without compromise.”

Glideline welcomes research showing sliding doors top UK patio market

Nationwide aluminium manufacturer, Glideline, has welcomed new findings from the latest Keystone Market Research report, which confirms that sliding doors have overtaken bifold doors as the UK’s most popular patio door style.

The Spring 2025 Consumer Fenestration Trends Report released by Keystone Market Research analysed the evolution of behaviours, demands, and frustrations of UK homeowners in the window and door market. Surveying more than 5,000 homeowners, it shows that as well as adjustments in priorities, the shift towards sliding doors across all 12 UK regions has reinforced Glideline’s dedication to sliding door fabrication.

Long-time advocates, the Great Yarmouth-based manufacturer has spent nearly a decade perfecting its ultra-slim aluminium sliding doors – delivering unmatched minimalism, performance and innovation.

From U-values as low as 1.2 W/m2K; slim sightlines – with its GS15 Sliding Door offering 15mm sightlines, the slimmest available on the market – to integrated flooring and noise reduction of up to 40dB, Glideline has future-proofed the demands for its trade partners, who now have a range of the highest performing sliding doors available.

“We’ve always recognised the real value and appeal sliding doors bring to

the market, so for us, this research only confirms what we already know. In an age where minimalism is a must-have, you need to have the products to deliver all of that and more, and bifold doors are a long way from hitting the mark,” says David Pickering, Glideline’s Managing Director.

David continues, saying: “The latest insight, coupled with the continuous demand we see from our customers, not only confirms our belief in sliding doors as a superior product, but re-affirms that they are no longer just a niche product, but an essential offering.

“Slim sightlines, uninterrupted views and natural light are some of the most consistent trends we’re seeing, alongside growing interest around security and energy efficiency.

“The GS20 is an example of that, and is among our most popular sliding doors,” David adds. “The integrated flooring option we introduced along with the door has proven to demonstrate further innovation from us too, creating a whole new level of functionality and seamlessness.”

www.glideline.com

Extension market remains strong amid surge in conservatory enquiries

Despite reports of fluctuating consumer confidence, the latest figures from Leads 2 Trade show that extensions are still high on the homeowner wish list.

Andy Royle, Director and co-founder of the UK’s leading provider of double-qualified sales leads in the home improvement sector, reveals a 10% increase in conservatory enquiries over April and May compared to the start of 2025 – and that, far from falling out of favour, the upward trend suggests that homeowner appetite for conservatories and home extensions remains robust.

“Consumer interest only seems to be gaining momentum in 2025,” explained Andy. “Not only are we seeing increased demand for new conservatories, but there’s been consistent interest in orangeries and extensions, despite wider market concerns.

“These are strong indicators that homeowners are still investing in ways to add space and value to their homes.”

Encouragingly for installers, the figures are holding steady year-on-year. “When we

compare this year’s numbers to 2024, they are virtually identical,” said Andy. “There’s no sign of a slowdown, which is welcome news for the industry.”

The upward trend isn’t limited to new builds either. Leads 2 Trade is also seeing continued demand from homeowners upgrading existing conservatories with new roofs, aiming to improve insulation and usability.

“We’ve recorded a steady 5% increase in

conservatory roof replacement enquiries since January,” Andy added. “That figure has grown with the warmer months, showing that homeowners are keen to make better use of their existing space.”

Leads 2 Trade is urging installers to capitalise on the demand by joining its Trusted Installer Network and receiving double-qualified leads in postcodes of their choice through the company’s appointment booking and hot key telephone transfer services to convert more enquiries into sales.

“Installers looking to grow their pipeline can tap into strong consumer demand by partnering with us,” added Andy. “It’s a golden opportunity to get in front of ready-to-buy homeowners and secure highquality conservatory, roof replacement and orangery leads.”

For more information on how the discount app, and to become an accredited installer, telephone 0800 124 4308 or visit

https://leads2trade.co.uk/discountoffer-supplier/

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As supplier collapses increase across the UK fenestration sector, Made For Trade reaffirms its position as the reliable constant for aluminium glazed products, service, and supply.

The UK fenestration industry continues to navigate one of its most turbulent periods. With an alarming rise in pre-packs, liquidations, and supplier failures, many trade professionals are facing unexpected project delays, broken supply chains, and growing uncertainty.

At a time when trust in the market is being tested, Made For Trade (MFT) stands firm, offering an unshakable commitment to quality, stability, and long-term partnership. “The UK fenestration industry is currently facing significant challenges, with well-established and once household names collapsing at an alarming rate,” said Bradley Gaunt, Managing Director at Made For Trade.

“Economic pressures, rising material costs, shifting consumer demand, and post-pandemic operational strain have created a volatile environment where even the most recognisable brands are facing daily challenges to compete and perform. This instability has left many installers exposed to disruption, uncertainty, and

loss of supply chains they once relied upon. In contrast, Made For Trade stands as a beacon of reliability. With over 40 years of trading history and a flawless record, having never gone bust or restructured, we have weathered industry storms and emerged stronger each time. Our Korniche-branded products have become synonymous with innovation, quality, and service excellence, and are backed by a business model built

Made For Trade offers lifeline amid growing industry instability Element urges PAS 24 compliance

on resilience and long-term commitment to our customers. As the industry reshapes and consolidates, it has never been more important to align with a partner that offers not just market-leading products but stability, continuity, and trust. Made For Trade is that partner: - tried, tested, and here for the long term”

Backed by its flagship Korniche Roof Lantern and Bifold Door, MFT continues to lead the trade sector in both product design and customer service. Installers benefit from:

• Multi-award-winning products, engineered for performance and ease of installation

• Fair, consistent pricing

• Free direct-to-site delivery, streamlining logistics and reducing project disruption

• KwikQuote, a proprietary instant quoting platform for effortless onboarding and fast ordering

• Dedicated UK-based support from people who understand the trade

In line with its latest “lifebuoy” campaign, MFT is calling on installers, builders and fabricators affected by the ripples from supplier uncertainty to reach out and regain control with a partner that has the history, reputation, and strength to weather the storms.

to address new attack methods

Updates have been made to the PAS 24 enhanced security standard for windows and doors. Element Materials Technology is encouraging manufacturers to prepare for these changes sooner rather than later. PAS 24:2022+A1:2024 details methods to evaluate the security performance of doorsets and windows. This includes testing for updated attack methods to simulate typical burglary techniques. Adherence to PAS 24 is often necessary for obtaining insurance cover and may assist with Building Control compliance for both residential and commercial properties.

The updates to the standard require lock cylinders to pass a new test that simulates modern attack methods, which is beneficial to the property owner. The change also follows on from recently released Office for National Statistics metrics, which show that for the year ending December 2024 there were an estimated 422,000 domestic burglary offences across England and Wales. The attack methods often used by burglars target the cylinder functionality, specifically aiming to disable the security mechanism. Manufacturers must now demonstrate that their products can

withstand the latest attack methods to maintain compliance with the PAS 24:2022+A1:2024 standard. Andrew Sumner, Certification Schemes Manager at Element Materials Technology, said: “As opportunistic individuals continually devise new methods to breach doors and windows, it’s crucial that our certification and testing processes evolve accordingly. These updated requirements will ensure that windows and doorsets are able to meet the latest test methods, helping to safeguard the property

owner against break-ins.”

There will be a transitional period for the new requirements, during which the previous version will remain in effect until January 2027. After this date, all doorsets seeking PAS 24 certification must pass the newly developed cylinder test. Alternatively, cylinders can comply with the latest requirements of TS 007-1:2024 standard or alternative compliance such as being Sold Secure Diamond rated (SS312:2024). It should be highlighted that there are other options available to meet the enhanced security requirements, such as additional cylinder protection.

Element is encouraging manufacturers to update their products and processes to align with the updated standard before the deadline. Element Materials Technology has state of the art facilities that are equipped and able to test to the requirements of the recently updated standards. Element offers full PAS 24 testing alongside a host of other cylinder, lock and hardware testing services at its laboratory in Wednesbury. For more information, please visit: www.element. com/construction/building-products/ doors-and-windows-testing/physicalsecurity-testing

Veka and Saint-Gobain partnership redefines glass recycling in the UK

This major collaboration – which incorporates Saint-Gobain’s innovative glass recycling technology into Veka Recycling’s capabilities – is a significant step towards creating a circular economy in the UK fenestration industry.

In a step change for the fenestration industry, Veka Recycling, a pioneer in PVC-U recycling since 1993, has announced a groundbreaking partnership with global sustainable construction leader, SaintGobain. This will bring Veka Recycling closer to realising its mission of creating a closed-loop recycling system within the UK.

Due to the lack of infrastructure for effective collection and recycling, a huge amount of post-consumer glass cullet is currently lost to landfill. By developing cutting-edge solutions and combining their expertise, the two companies are setting a new benchmark for post-consumer recycling and resource recovery.

The collaboration allows Wellingborough-based Veka Recycling to take fully glazed frames, eliminating the need to deglaze on-site and offering a cost-effective, environmentally friendly solution for glass waste disposal. With regular, reliable collection schedules within 100 miles of Veka Recycling.

Central to this is the deployment of Saint-Gobain’s patented ICG Recycling Machine, which efficiently separates annealed and toughened glass from spacer bars. The glass can then be processed and reintroduced directly into float glass production, offering a higher recovery rate and improving the

sustainability of the supply chain.

This innovative process enhances resource recovery rates while reducing the need for raw material extraction, lowering energy consumption by 30% and cutting CO2 emissions across the supply chain.

Tim Taylor, Commercial Director at Veka plc, said: “This marks a monumental step on our journey towards creating a circular economy within the UK. For the fenestration industry, ensuring that materials can be collected, recycled and then manufactured into new products without needing to leave the country is instrumental in meeting sustainability goals.

“By combining our infrastructure with Saint-Gobain’s innovative glass recycling technology, we are confident that we can overcome current challenges to significantly increase the rate of post-consumer glass recovery in the UK.”

Michael Butterick, Marketing Director at Saint-Gobain Glass, said: “We are thrilled to

G25

The organisers of the G-Awards are pleased to confirm that the G24 Awards will take place on Friday 28 November 2025, returning to the London Hilton Park Lane.

After a record-breaking number of entries last year, the glass and glazing industry will be invited to enter their innovative products, services and solutions as soon as possible. Entries for the G25 Awards are free of charge and will be judged by a selected group of industry experts.

Here is the full list of awards up for grabs.

• Best Business Initiative of the Year

• Commercial Project of the Year

• Component Supplier of the Year

• Customer Care Initiative of the Year

• Fabricator of the Year

• Glass Company of the Year

• Installer of the Year

• Machinery Innovation

• New Product of the Year

• Promotional Campaign of the Year

• Rising Star

• Sustainability Initiative of the Year

• Training & Development Initiative

• Unsung Hero

Entries are now open, and companies can enter online at www.g-awards.com – the entry deadline is Thursday 31 July 2025

The organisers are thrilled to welcome back some fantastic event sponsors including BM Data, Deceuninck, Emplas, Epwin Group, FENSA, FIT Show, Forel, GGF and Thermoseal.

The gala dinner is one of the biggest nights in the calendar and companies will be invited to join in with the event’s 21st anniversary of celebrating the best in the UK glass & glazing industry.

be partnering with Veka Recycling to offer a solution for post-consumer glass recycling. The potential of this initiative is vast — by addressing the current gap in infrastructure and leveraging key partnerships, we can achieve our sustainability goals.”

Post-consumer glass recycling is central to Saint-Gobain’s journey to Net Zero CO2 emissions by 2050. While Veka Recycling is pushing to create a closed-loop system and circular domestic supply chain for the UK fenestration industry.

To support Veka’s mission to ensure that sustainability is at the core of the industry, Veka’s Recycling’s facility in Wellingborough has had a £15m investment, enhancing its capacity and efficiency. In 2024, Veka Recycling and Veka plc were brought under one Board, aligning the two businesses under this shared goal.

Tim Taylor added: “This significant partnership marks another crucial step toward building a greener future — reducing the use of raw materials, lowering energy consumption, and significantly cutting CO2 emissions across the supply chain.”

Full details for entries, booking your table or being involved as a sponsor can be found on the event website www.g-awards.com

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MP for Stroud visits Atlas Aluminium to champion UK manufacturing

Atlas Aluminium is one of the UK’s largest fabricators of aluminium windows, bifold and sliding doors and is the creator of the Atlas Roof product range. We were proud to welcome Dr Simon Opher, Member of Parliament for Stroud, to our manufacturing facility in Stonehouse, Gloucestershire last week.

The visit provided an opportunity to showcase our operations, meet our uniquely experienced and hardworking team, and discuss the importance of supporting local manufacturing and sustainable innovation in the aluminium fenestration sector.

During the visit, Dr Opher toured our production floor and met with team members across various departments, gaining first-hand insight into day-today operations and the realities facing manufacturers in the current economic climate.

A follow-up discussion with staff offered the chance to reflect on broader sector challenges and share perspectives from the shop floor. This included a discussion on the recent rise in Employers’ National Insurance contributions and its disproportionate impact on UK-based companies, which are likely to suffer more than multinationals that can shift profits offshore and are often quicker to reduce staff.

Dr Opher was very positive throughout

his visit and particularly praised the attitude and commitment of all the staff he met and noted the ‘happy’ atmosphere. The visit was a strong reminder of the importance of conversations between industry and government and that each sector, not least fenestration, has its unique issues.

“We were delighted to host Dr Simon Opher and share the work we’re doing to deliver high-quality aluminium window, door and glazed roof products to our customers across the UK,” said Jamie Newall,

CEO at Atlas Aluminium.

“We are very proud of our experienced workforce and the work we have done since December to give them the support they need to flourish. It’s encouraging to see local leaders take an active interest in our industry, workforce, and future growth.”

Atlas Aluminium remains committed to investing in people, technology, and environmentally responsible practices as we continue to serve our valued customers with pride and precision.

ODL Europe doubles its in-house door prep facility to meet growing demand

ODL Europe has completed a sixfigure investment in its in-house door prep facility, doubling its footprint and significantly increasing its prepping capacity. Suzanne Nicholl, Head of Sales and Marketing at ODL Europe, said: “The investment significantly increases our capacity and will allow us to meet growing demand for our door prep service.”

The expansion involved knocking through into an adjacent building to extend production space, alongside investing in new equipment including a state-of-theart CNC machining centre that will build on the quality and efficiency for which the company is known.

ODL Europe’s door prep service is a flexible offer that allows fabricators to outsource as much or as little as they need. The service includes everything from basic door sizing to full door prep, customised to specific configurations and hardware requirements.

Suzanne commented: “A composite door slab requires precise preparation and getting it right takes real expertise. Our skilled in-house team can prep for any lock, any

hinge, open in or open out, with or without edge banding. As demand for our door prep service has grown, we’ve continued to invest in the technology and expertise needed to support our customers with accuracy, flexibility and efficiency.”

ODL Europe is the exclusive UK partner of Capstone Engineering Ltd, one of the world’s leading suppliers of composite door slabs. This partnership means fabricators choosing ODL’s door prep service benefit from premium-quality composite doors that have been rigorously tested in the most

demanding environments and prepared to their exact specifications.

ODL’s high-performance composite doors are designed for long-term durability. They are manufactured to resist bowing or twisting over time, ensuring a consistently accurate fit and reliable performance from day one.

Over 750,000 Capstone doors are installed worldwide each year. ODL Europe offers over 30 door styles, both glazed and unglazed, including many that are unique to the company. There is also the Guardsman Fire Door, which offers impressive, consistent fire resistance and won New Product of the Year at the G Awards.

Alongside its door offer, ODL Europe also offers a comprehensive cassette range that includes the market-leading TriSYS® glazing cassette.

Suzanne concluded: “We continue to grow as a business because our aim is to secure long-term partnerships with our customers by delivering excellence at every interaction. This includes investing in our business to ensure we can continue to deliver exceptional quality to every customer.”

Low-carbon glass gains traction despite ongoing barriers to widespread use

Low-carbon glass is expected to become a mainstream specification choice over the next five years, but concerns around its performance, cost and limited awareness are still preventing wider adoption today, according to new research from Pilkington UK.

The study, conducted with 100 UK-based architects and specifiers, found that only 54% expect to frequently specify low-carbon glass within the next five years. This reflects a growing ambition across the industry, but also highlights that current uptake remains lower than needed to meet broader decarbonisation targets.

The findings were unveiled during Pilkington UK’s recent webinar, ‘Specifying glass – circularity, performance and practicalities’, which explored the key benefits of low-carbon glass for architects and suppliers.

When asked about the main barriers, 42% of respondents cited concerns about performance or durability, while 41% pointed to cost compared with standard products. A third (33%) said that a lack of information or awareness about sustainable glass options was a barrier, while the same proportion reported resistance from clients. Limited availability was noted by 31%, and 28% said the lack of industry standards or guidance played a role.

Despite these challenges, there is optimism about the direction of travel. More than half (51%) of architects and specifiers said that the quality and aesthetics of low-carbon glass match standard alternatives, while 34% believe low-carbon options actually outperform them in this regard.

Only 14% thought they performed worse.

Respondents also recognised a range of benefits beyond reducing embodied carbon. A total of 44% said specifying low-carbon glass improves brand reputation and supports alignment with ESG goals. The same proportion said it helps them to meet corporate or project-specific sustainability commitments. In addition, 43% said it enhanced appeal to tenants, buyers or investors who prioritise sustainability, and 34% felt it helped future-proof projects against stricter regulations.

The research also explored the role of circular design in specification. Four in

five (80%) respondents said circularity is currently important when specifying glass, and 74% expect that influence to increase in the next five years. Arne De Ceapog, Specification Manager at Pilkington UK, said: “We’re seeing growing ambition in the industry to cut embodied carbon, but that’s not yet translating into widespread specification of low-carbon glass. To change that, we need to build trust in the performance of sustainable products and address common misconceptions. At Pilkington UK, we’re working closely with specifiers to support low-carbon choices with real-world insight and technical clarity.”

VBH reports rising sales of leading aluminium window component

VBH, the hardware manufacturer, has advised that sales of one of its star products for aluminium window production is ‘on the up.’

The greenteQ Securitas Offset Security Espagnolette is a specialist product for users of slim aluminium casement windows from three of what VBH describe as the ‘most popular’ aluminium systems, including Sheerline.

These slim profiles have no Eurogroove to accept the locking system. Securitas Offset’s 16mm wide U-rail stainless steel faceplate is designed to be surface fit to account for this, and its offset gearbox ensures that the glazing area is not broached when fitted.

Up to four pairs of bi-directional adjustable mushroom headed cams provide compression and security when in the locked position. The cam pairs locate into both sides of a greenteQ night vent striker plate to firmly hold the sash secure even in

the face of a determined attempt at forced entry.

Nine lengths, starting at 320mm going all the way up to 1320mm, mean that even the smallest and largest casements can benefit from Securitas Offset

Gary Gleeson, marketing manager at VBH, says, “Securitas Offset is a major strand of our range of locking systems for outward opening single and double sash casements. We now offer thirteen different solutions across the greenteQ, Roto and Yale brands.

“We launched this product eighteen months ago and it proved so popular that the industry voted it Window Component of the Year last autumn. 2025 has seen sales continue to rise as we penetrate further into the aluminium sector. It really is one of our products that is “on the up.”

As well as being very quick to fit, VBH advise that Securitas Offset is approved for use on Q-secure PREMIUM installations, offering consumers the peace of mind that the popular hardware security guarantee brings.

.As with all greenteQ products, Securitas Offset is supplied with a long guarantee; ten years in this case.

Surge in hygiene concerns accelerates demand for antibacterial glass products

The global market for antibacterial glass is set for substantial growth, projected to nearly double from $289.54m in 2024 to an impressive $588.34m by 2034, marking a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.36 per cent. This surge reflects a burgeoning demand for materials that actively inhibit the spread of harmful microorganisms.

Antibacterial glass, which integrates agents such as silver ions, copper compounds, or titanium dioxide coatings, is engineered to prevent the proliferation of bacteria, a stark contrast to conventional glass surfaces that can readily harbour germs. Crucially, it maintains the transparency, durability, and aesthetic appeal of standard glass, making it a versatile solution for a hygiene-focused world.A heightened global awareness of health and hygiene, amplified by recent health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, is a primary driver. This is particularly evident in healthcare facilities, where antibacterial glass is being adopted to minimise bacterial transmission on frequently touched surfaces. Beyond clinical settings, businesses and consumers are increasingly prioritising environments that promote health safety.

Technological innovation is also a key propeller. Continuous advancements in antimicrobial coatings, including nanotechnology for ultrathin yet powerful effects, are rendering antibacterial glass

more effective and durable. Manufacturers are also exploring multifunctional glass, combining antibacterial properties with features like UV protection, scratch resistance, and self-cleaning capabilities. Regulatory support further bolsters market expansion, with governments worldwide encouraging the adoption of antimicrobial materials in public infrastructure. Looking ahead, emerging

trends include “smart” surfaces that visually signal contamination and a shift towards sustainable, eco-friendly coatings, exploring biodegradable or less toxic materials. Customised solutions tailored to specific industries, such as pharmaceutical manufacturing and hospitality, are also on the rise, cementing antibacterial glass as a critical material in safeguarding public health.

Dekko appoints Steve Collett to lead strategic sales expansion efforts

Leading trade fabricator Dekko Window Systems has announced the appointment of Steve Collett as its new Sales Director.

Bringing over 25 years of industry expertise to the role, Steve joins Dekko with an impressive track record, having previously held senior positions at several major names, including Sales Director at Cotswold Trade Aluminium, Commercial Director at Epwin Group Plc, National Sales Manager at Customade Group, and Sales and Marketing Director at Britdoors Group.

The appointment comes at an exciting time for Dekko, having recently expanded its product portfolio with new door offerings as it targets the commercial sector, with plans to introduce more innovative products including timber, garage doors,

and pergolas. Managing Director Kurt Greatrex said: “It’s great to welcome Steve on board and his vast experience and industry

knowledge make him the perfect fit.

“It’s an appointment that represents a significant investment in Dekko’s future and we’re looking to tap into Steve’s proven ability to drive sales and continue the strong customer relationships we already have.”

A delighted Steve Collett said: “I’m delighted to be joining Dekko at such a pivotal time. The Dekko name is synonymous with quality and sustained growth and I’m looking forward to helping that to continue.

“Dekko has built an excellent reputation, so my focus will be on strengthening our position within existing markets while driving growth in new sectors, and I’m looking forward to working with the team to deliver exceptional value to customers.”

Selecta Systems nominated in seven categories at Fenestration Awards

Birmingham based PVC-U Window and Door Systems Company, Selecta Systems, are revelling in the achievement of being nominated finalists in seven categories at the 2025 National Fenestration Awards. Managing Director Maximilian Weihe opens up about being NFA finalists and the Selecta success story so far.

“We’re very proud of what we have and continue to achieve here at Selecta. Over the years, we have seen the demise of so many profile systems and systems companies’, whereas Selecta have remained consistently strong and well placed within the market. There have been many factors that have contributed to other systems companies’ downfall. However, Selecta’s ability to remain successful for over 43 years shows our resilience and ability to adapt to market conditions and our customer’s needs.”

“At Selecta, we believe that the two biggest assets in any company are its staff and customers. Without either, there is no company. For context, we have approximately 300 fabrication customers on our books and a number of those have been long-term Selecta partners. Just over 47% of our customers have been Selecta partners for 10 years or more, with just over 10% accounting for 20 plus years. We’re very proud of the loyal customer base that we have established at Selecta.”

“This loyalty and commitment also

extends to our staff. Our success has been built around a knowledgeable, dedicated and experienced team over the years. What this shows is the businesses’ ability to create stability, continuity and solidarity, not only amongst our customers but also our team.”

“This is why we are extremely proud to again be recognised by our industry peers at this years NFA’s. To receive seven category nominations is testament to the teams outstanding work here at Selecta. I also believe that the individual staff nominations demonstrates our ability to build a strong, talented and competent team here at Selecta.”

“To have individual recognition for your ongoing contributions to your customers, the business and the industry brings a sense of immense personal pride that should be celebrated. Therefore, I would like to extend my gratitude and congratulations to all that have been nominated and also to the team that has contributed to our continued success.”

“We have successfully and continuously consolidated our place in the market. Our objective

has and will always be to provide a range of quality window and door profile systems, backed up by a flexible and personal support package and service.”

“The aim is to build on the 43 years of success and ensure that Selecta and the ADVANCE 70 System are the go-to brands for fabricators, installers, specifiers and homeowners. The introduction of two new products, an improved flush sash window and a new flush sash door, reinforce that commitment. Whilst the upcoming lead generation, sales and fabrication management package on offer from our Connect Portal Mode further strengthens that promise to our fabricators and installers.”

“Taking all of the above into account and managing the business with transparency, trust and honesty, we believe will breed loyalty and success. You can then only hope that this philosophy is acknowledged by your industry peers and all who become ‘part of the family’. I consider being nominated finalists in seven categories at the National Fenestration Awards 2025 as part of that acknowledgement and recognition.”

Sheerline aluminium window systems

added to NBS

Sheerline’s award-winning products can now be viewed on NBS Source.

The purpose of the specialist platform is two-fold; first, to enable specifiers to confidently select the best products for their projects based on specific requirements such as sustainability, or a particular building material such as aluminium.

Second, it provides a unique opportunity for manufacturers to showcase their products alongside the certifications and literature most important to them. One of the features available allows specifiers, architects, designers, and engineers to easily find and compare products side-by-side, ensuring they choose the best fit for their project requirements.

To showcase how broad its awardwinning product range is, Sheerline has added everything from the increasingly popular Prestige Tilt & Turn Windows to the Classic Heritage Door, and the S1 Roof Lantern. It has illustrated its versatility by including its arched frame service and Prestige Reverse Butt Joint, which won best Technical Innovation at the GGP Installer

Source platform listings

Awards 2025.

For Sheerline, joining NBS Source was a natural progression after launching its Specification Guide at the end of 2024. These actions collectively further the organisation’s commitment to supporting fabricators to win more commercial work. It also reflects the increase in demand for support for commercial projects.

One example in close proximity to Sheerline’s HQ is the Pepper Pots building in Derby, which has undergone a significant renovation. Every apartment surrounding the building has been fitted with

Sheerline’s Prestige Tilt & Turn windows in collaboration with BSW Window Solutions. New build projects and renovations are all set to increase.

Particularly if the government is to meet – or even get close to – its self-imposed housing targets. The need for easy access to compliant products that offer a stylish, yet practical solution will grow exponentially over the coming years.

Dave Wigley, Sheerline’s Head of Marketing, said: “As a data-driven company, we understand the need for specifiers to be able to access reliable data quickly, so they can make informed decisions when looking for products.”

“Having a profile on NBS Source will make it easier than ever for specifiers to find everything they need to know about Sheerline – from our award-winning products to industry accreditations, and technical data. This aligns with our ethos of making life easier for our partners,” he added.

Sheerline’s NBS profile can be at: https:// tinyurl.com/4ps4dwm9

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GGF shares training and competency insights at industry round table

GGF training and technical manager John Mannell recently attended the UAP and FDM industry round table on behalf of the Glass and Glazing Federation group of companies. John’s attendance forms part of the GGF’s overall drive to represent proactively the interests of its members across the industry in all matters relating to compliancy and competency, particularly in the wake of Grenfell.

Dame Judith Hackitt, former Chair of the Health & Safety Executive and author of the Building a Safer Future report, was joined at the round table by representatives from fire door manufacturers, awarding bodies, trade associations, tier 1 contractors, JCI, government and training providers. Conversations focused on the current challenges facing the fire door industry and celebrated the efforts of FDM – Training & Development in driving forward with training for fire doors, not just for installers, but all the way from specifiers to maintenance.

Nicola John, Managing Director at FDM – Training & Development said: “The Grenfell Inquiry and Building Safety Act have triggered real change – but the conversations we’re having across the industry show there’s still a long way to go. At our recent roundtable, it was clear: people want clarity, accountability, and better training when it comes to fire door safety. These are critical safety systems that must be procured, installed, inspected and maintained with precision. We’ve got the legislation – now we need consistent action on the ground, and that’s exactly what FDM – Training & Development is providing.”

Dame Judith Hackitt, Author of the Building a Safer Future report, said: “FDM is a shining example of what this industry should aspire to. They’ve taken the principles of the Building a Safer Future report and embedded them into their day-

to-day operations—not because they were forced to, but because they recognised it was the right thing to do. That’s the kind of leadership we need more of. Too many organisations are still waiting for regulators to drive the agenda before they act. FDM proves that real cultural change is possible now if we stop making excuses and start taking responsibility. The rest of the sector should take note and follow their lead.”

“It is only by having so many interested parties sitting round a table and participating in open and transparent conversations that we can truly identify the discrepancies across the supply chain with regards to regulations and consistency in standards,” said John Mannell. “Our active participation in these talks is essential to not only offer our own knowledge and expertise, but to also implement ideas and expertise into our own services across the range of GGF companies.

“There was a lot of stress on the importance of maintaining practical,

face to face training as well as online” continued John. “Purpose and outcomes in training encourages companies to think beyond compliance, and beyond yet again competence, to truly understand what it means to create a safe environment for people to live in. Such conversations are crucial to the evolution of our GGF training platform as we move towards the post grandfather rights era, with the new generation of trades who recognise the impact of the work they do.”

With training centres like this run by Fire Door Maintenance – Training & Development, an integration of the GGF training platform was launched six months ago and is already proving to be a vital tool in ensuring companies have access to the very latest industry training. By creating the right mix of online training assessments and more practical face to face training courses, the GGF is dedicated to helping members lead the way in terms of driving regulatory compliance across the industry.

Yale achieves new EPDs on hardware

Yale is pleased to announce the successful release of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for five of its leading domestic window hardware products, Vertex Decorative Furniture, Defender Hinge range, the Expede Window Bracket, Quartus Espag handle, and the Revolution Window Hinge.

Developed and independently verified, the EPDs provide comprehensive, third-party environmental data, representing a significant step forward in Yale’s ongoing sustainability journey. They expand upon Yale’s existing portfolio of EPDs for commercial window hardware, further underscoring the company’s commitment to transparency, responsible

manufacturing, and sustainable innovation. Each EPD delivers in-depth insights into key environmental impacts, including energy consumption, carbon footprint, emissions, resource use, and waste generation. This transparency empowers architects, specifiers, and procurement professionals to make more informed, sustainability-driven decisions. Increasing trust and comparability across markets to encourage informed decision-making, they testify that the products are compliant with ISO 14025 and EN 15804 for construction products, ideal for green building projects and sustainable development goals. Fully compliant with ISO 14025 and EN 15804 standards for construction

products, these declarations support green building initiatives and align seamlessly with sustainability frameworks such as LEED and BREEAM. By offering verifiable environmental data, Yale enables its customers to earn certification credits and meet the growing environmental expectations of the construction industry Grant Stratford, Yale’s Senior Fenestration Technical Director – ASSA ABLOY, Residential, comments: “With EPDs already in place for our commercial products, these new EPDs position Yale as a frontrunner in responsible manufacturing and transparent product reporting across the UK window hardware market. We’ll continue to roll out EPDs for all new product launches, helping customers meet modern sustainability expectations with confidence.”

Schüco UK unveils new homeowner website to support partner network

As part of its commitment to support its partner network, Schüco UK has launched a brand-new homeowner website schuecohome.co.uk. Designed to make it easier for homeowners to connect with Schüco partners, the site is set to drive more qualified leads and create valuable new business opportunities.

The new website serves as a user-friendly digital hub, providing homeowners with project inspiration, product overviews and practical guidance. Crucially, it also enables users to easily identify and contact their local Schüco partner, simplifying and accelerating the sales process. Homeowners can find their local Schüco partner and contact them through the website.

A newly developed bespoke system on the back end of the platform makes it easy for fabricators to connect with potential customers, respond to quote requests and track the progress of projects – creating a more efficient and transparent workflow from first contact to final delivery.

The website also lists all Schüco partner showrooms across the UK and Ireland, detailing which Schüco products are available at each site, along with contact details and directions, to encourage more, quality leads.

Dan Gleeson, Sales Director for Schüco UK and Ireland, commented: “At Schüco, our partners are at the heart of everything we do. The new website is a key tool to support them, not only by educating and inspiring homeowners, but by actively streamlining the connection between customer and fabricator. It’s designed to generate high-quality leads, simplify project

communication and ultimately help our partners win more business.”

The launch of the new website marks a significant step in the long-term strategy of Schüco UK to support its partner network. By creating a user-centric, content-rich platform, Schüco is helping to create more opportunities for successful, high-quality projects.

Beta View installs Golden Oak R9 windows in countryside cottage

The Residence Collection enhances a stunning countryside cottage with new Residence 9windows in the special colour option, Golden Oak. Collaborating with fabricator HS Trade, Beta View Windows and Doors Limited completed their very first Residence Collection installation in the exclusive Golden Oak colourway, a special colour option that beautifully replicates traditional timber aesthetics. For a high quality, wood-look finish, the Timberweld joint® manufacturing method was used on the R9 windows.

The windows feature Regal Black pear drop handles, Cassini glass with 28mm double glazing, and The Residence Collection’s trickle vent cover. Due to the depth of the R9 system, the team skilfully cut back the linings and used expertly scribed trims to ensure seamless symmetry throughout the property. The cottage sits in close proximity to a conversation area, making the Residence 9 windows the ideal choice for preserving period charm, all whilst delivering modern performance, efficiency and security.

The selected windows exceed British Building Regulation standards with a

u-value of 1.2W/m²K with double glazing, and offer A++ energy ratings, as well as meeting Passivhaus standards with triple glazing. The R9 collection, available in 20 colours, provides optimal insulation and energy savings.

Daniel Sloan, Director of Beta View Windows & Doors, commented: “We

are proud to be officially recognised as a recommended installer for The Residence Collection. The onboarding process has been smooth and efficient, with the team visiting us several times to ensure we meet their high standards.

“Their support, from marketing materials to professional guidance, has been invaluable. We are thrilled to offer such high-quality products and are proud to represent The Residence Collection. Their products align perfectly with our commitment to delivering exceptional craftsmanship and customer satisfaction.”

Jo Trotman, Marketing Manager at The Residence Collection, added: “We are so glad to have Beta View Windows and Doors Limited join our installer network. Their commitment to quality and craftsmanship is evident in this fantastic project, which perfectly showcases the beauty and performance of Residence 9. Seeing the Golden Oak finish executed so well is a testament to their expertise, and we are confident that this is just the beginning of a successful partnership. We look forward to seeing more exceptional projects from them in the future.”

Finance access crucial to boosting green product sales says Deceuninck

Research from Deceuninck shows that the availability of finance is key in driving sales of energy efficient home improvement products.

Despite easing inflation, newly-released research from Deceuninck found that almost a third of homeowners have delayed home improvement spend due to concerns over the cost of living; a concept which is at odds with the need to improve energy efficiency in many homes.

“Utility bills remain high,” says Darren Woodcock, General Manager, Deceuninck UK. “Upgrading your property, with energy efficient windows and doors for example, has the potential to bring those bills down significantly.

“Investing in these measures could save homeowners thousands of pounds over the years, but times are still tough for many households, and there isn’t always the cash available to pay for these things up-front,” he adds.

According to the research, carried out by YouGov on Decuninck’s behalf, the availability of finance is a key driver for sales of energy efficient home improvements. This is particularly significant amongst under-35s, where around 40% of homeowners in this age group stated that they would be more likely to invest with access to a low-interest finance package.

“Low-interest finance options, perhaps offering payment via monthly instalments, make the purchase of big-ticket items much more manageable,” says Darren. “This is particularly significant for younger people, who may be lower earners, and have less time behind them to accumulate savings.”

But it’s not just the young who are tempted by finance packages. Close to one third (33%) of the 35-55 age group and 19% of over-55s said they would also be more

likely to invest in energy efficient home improvements if they had access to a lowinterest finance package.

In addition, around half of respondents in every age group said they would be incentivised to upgrade their home with the help of an energy efficiency grant scheme, such as the government’s Green Deal, and 25% said they would be swayed to spend if VAT on energy efficient products was cut.

Contrasting with the continual financial pressures on households, is the increasing popularity of high-end products and premium finishes. Despite the continuing cost of living crisis, close to 80% of respondents to the survey said that quality was more important than price when purchasing home improvements, and around 50% favoured foil finishes on their windows and doors.

“Both flush and ‘timber alternative’ PVC-U products, combining high performance and great aesthetics with relative affordability, are well-suited to both

contemporary and period properties,” says Darren.

“Quality products such as Deceuninck’s Heritage Flush Sash present an ideal opportunity to increase margin, especially when combined with modern foils and finishes, so providing a means to facilitate these purchases is key to driving sales.”

Perfectly matching with Deceuninck’s Heritage 2800 system as well as its open-out flush door, the Heritage Flush Sash offers outstanding aesthetics, thermal efficiency and security performance. With a WER as high as A** and U-values as low as 0.90W/ m2k, the PAS24-tested, Part Q-approved window achieves Class 4 airtightness, Class E900 water tightness and AE2400 for wind resistance. Colour-matching ensures that exactly the same finish can be achieved across the windows and the door, as an added bonus.

With the majority of flush products sold with a foiled finish, Darren highlights how Deceuninck’s strong colour offer is helping to boost the volume of flush windows and doors manufactured by its partners.

“Deceuninck holds more than 30 colourways in stock, with 20 more colours available on a 15 working-day lead time,” he says. “Our foiling facilities include cuttingedge lamination technology following a multi-million-pound investment, and as a result, when it comes to colour, we’re hard to beat.

“With this in mind, it’s no surprise that our customers sell twice as much colour as their competitors, and with flush products still very much in demand, it’s a recipe for success that we can only see continuing.

“Our research shows that consumers are still interested in high-quality products and premium foil finishes, despite the financial pressures on many households. Low-interest finance options could be key in driving these purchases, when the money is not available up-front.”

Duration Windows marks 40 years with tributes to staff and future vision

This year marks a proud milestone for Duration Windows —40 years of delivering outstanding customer service, reliability and high quality innovative products within the fenestration industry. To commemorate the occasion, the company recently hosted a very special event dedicated to the people who have helped build and sustain its success over four decades: its long-serving team members.

More than 40 employees have been with Duration Windows for 10 years or more—a remarkable show of loyalty and consistency in a constantly evolving sector. Among them is one exceptional individual who

has been with Duration Windows since the day it opened its doors, a symbol of the lasting values and team spirit that define the company culture.

During the celebration, Managing Director Grant Chelton delivered a heartfelt speech, recognising the journey Duration Windows has taken and the unwavering commitment of the team. “This 40-year milestone is not just a number—it’s a reflection of the incredible people who’ve made it possible,” he said. “Their dedication and hard work have been central to everything we’ve achieved.”

Each long-serving team member was honoured with a personalised trophy and voucher, acknowledging their loyalty and contribution to the Duration Windows growth. The day had a relaxed and festive feel, with an ice cream van, personalised cupcakes, and a wide variety of snacks for everyone to enjoy.

The celebrations continue this summer as the company prepares to welcome customers to its 40th Anniversary Open Day on Wednesday 9th July. This will also mark the grand unveiling of its brand-new showroom—a space designed to showcase the future of its product range and service offering.

Guests can look forward to:

• A ribbon cutting by our town Mayor

• Live demonstrations of our latest products

• Unveiling of our new showroom

• New product launches

• Factory tours showcasing our operations

• A magician and live music to entertain

• Opportunity to meet the team and see behind the scenes

This open day is both a celebration of the past and a bold step into the future, where the company aims to continue delivering value and building trusted relationships with its customers and partners. As Duration looks ahead to the next chapter, they do so with immense pride and gratitude. Here’s to the next chapter Duration’s story- powered by innovation, guided by experience, and driven by the people who make it all possible.

Knock-in

Pre-gasketed

Multiple sash options

Glazerite celebrates strong FIT Show presence with focus on 2027 plans

2025 has been a milestone year for the Glazerite UK Group, with the fabricator celebrating 25 years in business and a successful FIT Show. Now it’s all eyes on FIT Show 2027, with Glazerite returning as an exhibitor and VIP Lounge sponsor.

This year’s event attracted thousands of visitors; many of whom stopped by Glazerite’s stand to find out what the fabricator has on offer for installers. Michelle Wright, Glazerite’s Head of Group Marketing, says: “This year’s event was our best yet. There was a real energy around the halls, and it was great to see so many familiar and new faces. We were inundated with interest in the exciting and innovative products we showcased on our stand and the adjacent VIP Lounge.”

Collaborative

effort

The products on display were the result of collaborative efforts from the fabricator’s employees and its suppliers, with highlights including Veka OMNIA Tilt & Turn windows and an OMNIA engineered door, all fabricated with a Timberweld joint. Meanwhile Glazerite also showcased an M70 finished in the new Feinstruktur foil and a Vertical Slider with run through horns, deep bottom rail and mechanical joints.

Glazerite’s fully kitemarked Flood Door collaboration was also on show and was well received by installers interested to know more about the support and expertise available from Glazerite’s partners and flood technology specialists, M3 Floodtec.

Just across from Glazerite’s stand, the VIP Lounge proved the perfect location to

showcase two of Glazerite’s Deceuninck Triple Track Sliders, with one door glazed in satin glass and the other finished with Morley integral blinds. Michelle says: “We’d like to give a special mention to Guy Hubble from Regalead who supported us heavily in the run up to the show, giving us a stunning original glass design and panel for our new engineered door, and an accompanying brochure, with the product drawing a lot of compliments. Visitors were also keen to see the Veka OMNIA Tilt & Turn in action, while our commercially-focused installers were interested in our commercial spec casement Deceuninck 2500 window and the ALUK casement.”

Several door samples

Glazerite also worked with DoorCo to provide several door samples for their nearby stand, where the full range of outerframes available were on show, including Halo Rustique and System 10, M70, FS70, Deceuninck 2500 and Deceuninck 2800 plus Glazerite’s Ultion ALPs and Ultion Sweet offering and smart technology from KUBU and Ultion NUKI.

DoorCo’s Managing Director, Dan Sullivan, says: “When it comes to preparing for shows of this scale, it really is a matter of teamwork. We were incredibly grateful for the support offered by Glazerite to fabricate and finish our doors for the stand. The time they took out of their usual workflow to support us was a massive help. We were thrilled with the finished doorsets and enjoyed a lot of compliments from visitors on the products.”

Matt Keight, M3 Global Flood

Technologies’ Managing Director, adds: “We have worked closely with Glazerite on the development of our Flood Door product, with FIT Show the perfect opportunity for us to showcase it to a broader audience as part of our ongoing partnership.”

With Glazerite celebrating 25 years in business, the team also welcomed a host of suppliers, installers and other industry stakeholders to a celebratory party in the VIP Lounge. Michelle adds: “FIT Show 2025 was the perfect place for us to mark a significant year. Thanks to Nickie West and the entire FIT Show team for another brilliant and rewarding experience. We can’t wait for 2027!”

Real energy to the show floor

Nickie West, FIT Show Event Director concludes: “We were delighted to welcome Glazerite back as our VIP Lounge sponsor at FIT Show 2025, which was a special edition for them as they celebrated their 25th anniversary. Glazerite’s presence brought real energy to the show floor, and their commitment to creating a dedicated space for networking and collaboration was invaluable for our visitors. The buzz in the VIP Lounge reflected both the strength of Glazerite’s relationships and their ongoing investment in the industry – the use of products on the lounge really elevated their presence. We’re grateful for their continued support and look forward to seeing how their campaign and innovations will shape the future of our sector and can’t wait to welcome them back for FIT Show 2027.” www.glazerite.co.uk

DIRECTOR OF THE MONTH

In this month’s director of the month feature, we talk to Emma Arrell,

Group Finance Director of Garnalex

Here at Sheerline we are feeling positive. Our trading over the last 12 months has really gained momentum, with our existing customers seeing volume growth as well as some fantastic new customers joining the Sheerline journey.

Like all businesses, our cost base continues to increase; the increased minimum wage and employers’ National Insurance contributions both having a large impact, then seeing a knock-on effect through the supply chain as most suppliers then have to increase prices accordingly. Energy costs are still too high. However, all these factors just keep us focused on continuing to look for more efficient ways to manufacture and work together as a team to keep costs down so that we can hold prices for our customers.

Positive outlook: Our expectation over the next 12 months continues to be positive, regardless of what further challenges may come at us from the outside world! We remain focused on what we are doing and will keep doing what we are good at, and should we need to adapt we will. The benefit of being part of a smaller leadership team is that we are great at being agile and proactive when it comes to tackling any challenges that lie ahead. Our sector has had a slow couple of years following the bounce-back after Covid – however, I believe that there is growth ahead. The UK housing shortage and the further reduction of interest rates have got to be good for fenestration. Operationally, we are ready for this growth and excited about what the next 12 months hold for Sheerline. Our

original British-made aluminium window, door and roof products, certified by our recent King’s Award for Innovation 2025, are not only beautifully designed but also meet and exceed all the current building regulation standards. Together with our fully integrated manufacturing operation being able to offer these quality products in short lead times (5 days from ordering) we have a lot to be positive about.

I do feel that the aluminium market

generally is changing, and we are at the forefront of this change. Aluminium customers have long deserved improvements to customer service in this sector, alongside great products. Our customers’ feedback so far is excellent and it’s great to hear that the goals we set out to achieve are benefiting fabricators and

First job: Administrator at a Sheet Metal Work Fabrication company. I joined at 16 years old and was thrown in at the deep end, having been trained to complete the weekly wages during my interview to then being in the driving seat on Day 1!

Joined Current Company: I have worked with Roger Hartshorn since 2010 (then HL Plastics, now Liniar) following him to join Garner Aluminium Extrusions / Sheerline from the beginning.

Most useful/favourite Gadget: Anyone that knows me well knows I really do not like gadgets that much! My go-to most useful item would therefore have to be my notebook as I love working with a list!

Most useful website: It’s a very Accountant-y thing to say but I use Companies House a lot for work. Outside of work I’m more likely to browse ASOS or Ticketmaster.

Favourite restaurant for business: We are very lucky to have some wonderful country restaurants and pubs near to our site and one of these would always be my first choice.

Business person you admire: I really admire Steven Bartlett - his techniques are refreshing and his book ‘The Diary of a CEO’ is a fantastic read. Going back in history, Barbe Nicole Clicquot is an inspiration. She was a trailblazer for women, taking on her husband’s business when widowed at 27. Under her ownership, she fought to keep the company, as it was illegal for a woman to be the head of a business in 1805 unless widowed. She developed early Champagne using a novel technique and the business remains today as the renowned Veuve Clicquot. Lessons learnt over the last 12 months: Plan to be agile, nothing ever stays the same!

Best Business Decision: I think for our company the best business decision was to choose to invest in Aluminium at the time we did. As a team we have a huge amount of experience across the various industries but especially within PVCu. Taking this business model and applying it to Aluminium makes us a real force to be reckoned with. I’m proud to be part of the Garnalex/Sheerline team.

Other Interests: Family and friends mean everything to me. I have a husband and two adult daughters who I am extremely proud of, especially for their individuality, kindness and determination. I love nothing more than taking long walks with my husband and our dog Rocket (especially if it involves a stop off at a country pub!) I exercise regularly as I believe that good health and wellbeing are the foundation for everything in life. I’m also a massive music fan and love seeing live music gigs. I’m most excited this year to be at the long-awaited Oasis reunion, having seen them in the 90s (including at Knebworth). It will be extra-special this time as I will be with both my daughters, who have become big Oasis fans growing up too.

FACTS & FIGURES

WORKING DAY WORKING LOCATION

I try to start each day with 15 minutes of yoga. I find this sets a positive tone for my day, promoting mental clarity whilst cultivating a sense of calm. I’m sure it enhances my productivity and wellbeing throughout the day.

A typical workday can be very varied. I oversee many activities from ordering to cashflow within the business. We have a clear strategy; it’s important to us to have simple systems and processes that both our colleagues and our customers can benefit from. I have been closely involved at Garner Aluminium / Sheerline from the very beginning, ensuring these processes and controls are well designed. As a Director, I’m involved in the strategic planning of the business, however, in an ever-changing environment we must adapt to what the world throws at us, which has certainly been a lot for all businesses in the last few years!

installers.

Advice to fabricators and installers: As Group Finance Director, one of my main areas of focus is cash flow, and I can’t stress the importance of this highly enough to any business owner. Positive cash flow is the lifeblood of any successful business. It ensures that you have enough money on hand to cover your day-to-day expenses (payroll, rent, stock etc) whilst

giving you the flexibility to invest in growth opportunities when they arise. Without a healthy cash flow, even profitable businesses can struggle. I’ve seen many companies able to generate strong sales on paper, but which run into trouble because they can’t collect payments quickly enough to keep up with their outgoings. Monitoring cash flow regularly allows you to spot potential shortfalls before they become critical, enabling smarter decisionmaking and better financial resilience.

Maintaining positive cash flow means being proactive – tightening up credit control, managing inventory efficiently, and planning for seasonal fluctuations or unexpected costs. It’s also about understanding your numbers – knowing when your income is due, what your fixed and variable costs look like, and where your cash is being tied up. Many business owners focus heavily on profit and loss statements but neglect their cash flow forecast. A shift in mindset to treat cash flow as a priority can make a significant difference to companies large and small – not just to survival, but to long-term success.

Sheerline can help customers with inventory reduction; our short lead times mean fabricators no longer need to hold more than 25% of their annual usage in stock – they can order what they need when they need it, often receiving payment from their customers before the systems company bill is due for payment – that’s

SMALL COMPONENT

BIG IMPACT

FLEXIBLE WARM EDGE TECHNOLOGY

Improves window U-values

Enhances noise reduction

Increases manufacturing efficiency

Our offices are based at a beautiful countryside location in Nether Heage, Derbyshire - just outside of Belper. The majority of the site was built in the 1950s, but the offices were built to extend the site in the 1970s/80s, by the original LB Plastics business, the hugely respected company that first developed its own PVC-U window system in the UK. Some of our staff worked at this company back in its heyday and the offices have a distinct history about them. I’m lucky enough to have one of the original desks from that time – a very cool-looking 1960s desk and cabinet. The cabinet even has a space for a wine rack (those were the days!). Today, the cabinet is largely empty as we try and work in a paperless environment, but it looks great. Our plan is to expand into a new purpose-built site in Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, enabling us to further grow capacity and become even more streamlined to meet our growth plans.

great for cash flow!

Personal goals: Having worked with Roger to successfully navigate the challenges of a start-up and seeing Garnalex achieve unprecedented growth within the first 5 years of its existence, my next goal is to continue developing my role and to help steer Sheerline through the next phase of growth as we expand into our new purpose-built site and into the future.

Jade punchers streamline

Alunet fabrication

Jade and Alunet Systems have worked together on a project consisting of the design, manufacure and supply of 25 punch tools machines to be rolled out to Alunet’s growing fabricator network. It was critical that the introduction of the new line of punch tools complemented Alunet’s leading edge Aluna+ system. Alunet was looking for elements that reflected the company’s own values – a lean, minimalist design, easy and quick to maintain, simple functionality, low stock holding but easily accessible (both in terms of new machines and replacement parts). “When we first approached Jade we gave them a definitive time scale – four weeks for the initial design process, and a further six weeks to produce a prototype,” said Alunet’s product de velopment director Chris Armes. “The Jade team rose to the challenge, achieving the first goalpost with a design which looked and felt exactly as specified. Despite sup ply chain delays along the way which were out of Alunet and Jade’s control, leading to even tighter deadlines – Adam and Sean were still able to pull the prototype out of the bag on time and bang on quality.”

to say we already had in our minds exactly what he was looking for, we were simply looking for the right opportunity to implement it ourselves. The tight parameters suited us – they focused the mind and allowed us to unleash that industry engineering creativity that responds to the needs of the user, rather than fitting in with the existing boundaries of the supply chain.”

Jade director Adam Jones added: “When Chris came to us with his requirements, we had no doubt at all that we could accommodate what he wanted. I would go so far as

“We have created a classic on-shoring supply and maintenance partnership which illustrates the best in terms of British engineering and service,” continued Jade’s Sean Mackey proudly. “Reliance on European products significantly slows down responsiveness to production issues. If you need to order a new part, it immediately gets trapped in logistics, with -placements sitting on a pallet 1000s of kilometres away waiting for the next shipment. The knock-on effect on manufacturing efficiencies can end up costing a fabricator a chunk of its bottom line. At Jade, not only are we keeping a healthy consignment of new punch tool machines ready and available for the next company to start fabricating the Alunet profile – we also have the ready supply of replacement punches that can be popped into an envelope and with the fabricator within 24 hours.”

Cornwall and Saint-Gobain

celebrate

collaboration

Cornwall Group is celebrating a significant milestone in its longstanding relationship with Saint-Gobain Glass – a 25-year partnership defined by shared values of quality, innovation, and resilience in a changing market. As one of the UK’s leading independent glass processing groups, Cornwall Group has worked with Saint-Gobain since the late 1990s, building a partnership rooted in mutual trust, loyalty, and long-term commitment.

“This isn’t just a supply relationship –it’s a strategic alliance that has helped us to weather industry turbulence and drive forward together,” said Mark Mitchell, Chairman of Cornwall Group.

“Over the past four decades, Cornwall Group has navigated a constantly evolving market, with each decade presenting its own unique challenges and opportunities. While we are proud to enjoy strong relationships with a wide range of partners, it is our enduring partnership with Saint-Gobain that has been instrumental in supporting our sustained, organic growth.”

“Our customers continue to benefit from the confidence that comes with our supply

chain, and it’s relationships like this one that allow us to protect and prioritise them when the market becomes turbulent.”

Over the years, the relationship has extended beyond day-to-day operations.

Saint-Gobain Glass has supported Cornwall Group’s industry events – including golf days and race days – reflecting a shared commitment to industry engagement and community. “Celebrating 25 years is a testament to the power of long-term thinking,” added Mark. “And as we move into the next chapter, it’s exactly this kind of partnership that will shape a more stable and sustainable future for the glass industry.”

Freefoam bulding products retains Ecovadis Silver Medal

Freefoam has announced that it has successfully retained its Ecovadis Silver Medal for 2025, placing it in the 94th percentile of all companies assessed globally. This recognition reaffirms its unwavering commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices.

Ecovadis is a globally recognised sustainability ratings platform that evaluates companies on their environmental, ethical, labour and human rights practices, as well as sustainable procurement. Freefoam’s achievement places us among the top 6% of all companies assessed, reflecting significant progress since our first evaluation in 2023, when we ranked in the 78th percentile.

“We’re thrilled with our performance this year,” said Kevin Cronin Chief Operating Officer. “Achieving a 75/100 overall score – a six-point improvement from last year – and increasing our scores across all four assessment themes is a testament to our team’s hard work and dedication to continuous improvement.”

Highlights of Freefoam’s 2025 Ecovadis results include:

• Increased scores in Environment, Ethics, Labour & Human Rights, and Sustainable Procurement

• A 6-point overall score increase, reaching 75/100

• Above-average performance in both general manufacturing and plastic product manufacturing sectors

With the gold medal threshold just one percentile away, Freefoam remains committed to further enhancing our sustainability efforts and advancing toward even higher standards in the years ahead.

“We would like to thank everyone across the organisation for their contributions to this achievement,” added Kevin Cronin. “Sustainability is a collective effort, and this recognition is something we can all be proud of.”

Rehau CEO Martin Hitchin

elected as BPF President

At its recent Annual General Meeting members of the British Plastic Federation’s council unanimously elected the Chief Executive of Rehau UK, Ireland, and Scandinavia, Martin Hitchin, as the new president of the trade association. He follows the outgoing president, Nigel Flowers, from Sumitomo Demag, who has served for the past two years. BPF Director General Philip Law thanked Nigel Flowers for his valuable contribution during his tenure, especially his contribution to the work done on improving productivity within the UK plastics industry.

Law stated: “Nigel has been a strong sup porter of the BPF and a fountain of knowledge, especially in the area of productivity, where he has done an outstanding job. His advice and insights have been very helpful to us, and I am also grateful for the time he has taken to chair several of our events in fields related to his expertise.”

Flowers stated: “I have enjoyed my time as president of the BPF, but I happily welcome Martin Hitchin into the role. He has experience in several areas of plastic processing as well as a background working with windows, pipes, the automotive sector - and also for recyclers. His diverse background means he brings a wealth

of knowledge that reflects the breadth of the BPF itself.”

Martin Hitchin has worked in the manufacturing and construction sector for 35 years. He joined Rehau in 1988 and worked his way up, being appointed CEO in 2007. He is also the vice Chair of New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering (NMITE), a start-up engineering university in Hereford.

Law added: “I am extremely pleased to have Martin Hitchin as the new president of the British Plastics Federation. He has had a distinguished career and is an invaluable member of the BPF Council. I am sure that he will play a key role in ensuring the BPF continues to provide value to its members while supporting the wider industry.”

Newly elected BPF President Martin Hitchin states: “I have been involved with the BPF many years and am aware of the numerous strands of work it does to support our industry. Input from the BPF Council helps to shape priorities of the organisation and ensure they reflect the various requirements of the wider industry. I am honoured to have been voted in as president and look forward to working with the BPF to deliver more successes as we face the challenges ahead.”

Driving forward customer service excellence

Endurance® Doors is building on its commitment to delivering an industry-leading customer experience. Following its appointment of James Hayes as its new Head of Customer Experience in September 2024, the business has now increased the size of its Customer Experience team by 20%.

Stephen Nadin, Chief Executive Officer at the Endurance® group, explains: “Historically, the customer experience we have offered our installer partners and the homeowners who choose our products hasn’t fully reflected our aspirations as a market-leading, consumer orientated brand. James was recruited to address this and part of his brief has been to define customer experience excellence before driving the necessary actions to achieve it. The addition of the new team members to our Customer Experience team reflects this. It fills an identified gap in resources and will help us to fulfil a strategy to deliver a truly world-class customer experience within the next two years.

Endurance’s ongoing investment into ensuring the ultimate customer experience stems from a commitment to creating further differentiation for its offer and to meeting its customers’ needs with a complete package, which includes more than simply premium quality products. The Customer Experience team is active across every touchpoint homeowners and installer partners have with the business. It can assist with everything from order enquiries and technical advice through to after sales support. The team aims to resolve any requests within 24 hours and after being contacted just once.

Glass Express Midlands scores a brace with football sponsorships

Glass Express Midlands has announced its sponsorship of two local youth football teams as part of a wider commitment to supporting both its employees and the local community. The initiative, which provides funding for Cradley Under-10s West and Netherton Colts Under-9s team kits and resources, directly benefits the families of Glass Express Midlands staff. Logistics Manager Sukhi Gill’s grandson plays for Netherton Colts Under-9s, while Technical Manager Kirsty Fortnam’s nephew plays for Cradley Under-10s West.

“This sponsorship isn’t just about football - it’s about recognising the people who make our business what it is,” said Managing Director Arun Photay. “When the opportunity came up to support teams connected to our own staff, it made perfect sense. We’re proud to be able to back the community and reward our team at the same time.”

Sukhi Gill commented, “It means a lot to see the company I have worked for for 11 years support something so close to home. Watching my grandson run onto the pitch in a kit with our logo on it was a proud moment - for both of us.”

Kirsty Fortnam added, “Seeing my nephew and his teammates kitted out thanks to Glass Express was a real joy. It’s great to know the business recognises how important these grassroots activities are for families like ours. The kids absolutely love it.”

And for Arun, the sponsorship has the potential to provide the children with additional life skills. “Grassroots sport plays a valuable role in children’s development”, he said. “It teaches them resilience, teamwork, and confidence. By supporting these teams, we’re investing not only in the future of young players but also in the wellbeing of our staff and their families.” This sponsorship complements Glass Express Midlands’ wider outreach efforts, which include education-focused initiatives, including school careers fairs, student mentoring, and governance roles.

From hardware to high-end doors

In his latest Podcast,

Guy Hubble MD of RegaLead, sat down with the Managing Director of Entrance Composite Solutions Gregory Kelly

The narrative of British manufacturing is often framed by tales of decline and reinvention. For Entrance Composite Solutions, a family business rooted in Northern Ireland, its journey from distributing door hardware to crafting high-end composite door sets stands as a testament to strategic adaptation and an unwavering commitment to quality. What began in 1980 as a general hardware business in Northern Ireland, founded by Gregory Kelly’s father, has transformed into a specialist in composite door manufacturing, serving the UK mainland with a distinct focus on bespoke solutions.

Gregory Kelly, the Managing Director, recalls the evolution, noting how the business initially specialised in door and window hardware, distributing major brands. A pivotal moment came with the recognition that PVC door panels, once a significant part of their offering, had a limited shelf life. “We did recognise that it was going to die off,” Kelly states, prompting a proactive search for new avenues as early as 2005-2006. This foresight led them into importing composite doors, a challenging period exacerbated by the 2008 financial crisis. The response was a decisive pivot: the UK mainland operation transitioned entirely into a composite door business.

Initially, the strategy involved supplying pre-prepped slabs, adding value with hardware and glass — aiming for a “one-stop shop for small fabricators”. However, this quickly evolved into full door set manufacturing, a path less travelled by competitors who typically emerged from a window manufacturing background. Kelly believes their hardware heritage provided a unique competitive edge. “That was probably our first USP,” he explains, highlighting the ability to offer not just standard doors but complex solutions like slam locks, double doors, stable doors, and heritage styles, all underpinned by deep hardware knowledge. This expertise meant they could assist customers in assembling products, expanding their own ranges.

Meticulous approach to componentry

The company’s dedication to quality is evident in its meticulous approach to componentry. Every locking system, for instance, is sourced from Winkhaus, ensuring consistency and performance across their product range, from standard to contemporary double doors. A recent upgrade to the AV4 slam lock as standard on all heritage and normal doors underscores their focus on enhancing the homeowner’s experience, ultimately benefiting their customers and driving business growth.

Significant investments have been made to support this commitment to quality and expansion. From an initial CNC machine in 2017, the company moved to new premises in 2019, adding a second CNC machine and improving facilities. A major strategic move in 2021 was bringing their paint shop in-house. With 80% of their volume going through painting, outsourcing proved cumbersome and prone to damage. The in-house paint shop, developed in close collaboration with their paint suppliers, has given them unparalleled control, enabling the development of new finishes and pushing creative boundaries in colour offerings.

Colour, indeed, is a crucial differentiator. While anthracite grey remains popular, Kelly notes a “wash of different colours” — from bright orange to sunshine yellow — moving through their factory, reflecting a consumer desire for individuality. This bespoke approach extends to decorative glass, where partnerships have led to popular new designs like New Orleans and Manhattan, catering to diverse aesthetic preferences.

Beyond current offerings, Entrance Composite Solutions is actively innovating. They were a launch partner for the Highline

product, a minimalist door system, which, while not a volume seller, acts as a “talking point” in showrooms and surprisingly finds application as an internal divider. Their unique recessed Inox system, taking five years from concept to launch, exemplifies their commitment to perfecting products before release.

Looking ahead, Kelly outlines ambitious plans. Despite industry discussions around U-values, the company is reigniting a 2018 concept for a heavier sash with additional seals, initially eyeing an aluminium frame offering. This new composite door aims to compete in the aluminium door market with high-gloss and polished finishes, featuring “very definitive grooves and cut lines”. While this will initially be a contemporary offering, the company also sees significant scope within the existing 44mm door market.

Range of smooth skin composite doors

Upcoming launches include an expanded range of smooth skin composite doors, both traditional and contemporary, expected in the third quarter. A particularly novel offering is the “Dinky Door” — a range of smaller doors, down to 1740mm in height and very narrow widths, addressing a growing niche demand. Furthermore, a “significant expansion” of their stable door range is planned, moving beyond the traditional cottage design to include four-panel options and a “proper half” opening, aiming to capture more of the back and side door market typically dominated by cheaper PVC alternatives.

Underpinning this innovation and growth is a strong team culture. Kelly acknowledges that building a skilled team from scratch, without a pre-existing manufacturing background, has been their “biggest challenge”. Yet, the “one-man build” initiative, where a single individual is responsible for hanging, glazing, and fitting all hardware on a door post-paint, has fostered ownership and significantly improved quality. This personal connection to the product is palpable, with team members showing genuine interest and pride in their work. Kelly praises his team’s commitment, noting their proactive improvements to the factory and showroom, reflecting a collective “buy-in” that makes the business uplifting for him as the managing director. In an industry often driven by volume, Entrance Composite Solutions distinguishes itself by putting quality, craftsmanship, and a passionate team at its very core.

From graduate to strategy setting for the UK: Meet Amy Steven, Fenestration Sales Director at Veka

Graduate to UK strategy leader at Veka

With nearly two decades at Veka under her belt, Amy Steven has become one of the most recognisable faces in fenestration. As Veka’s National Sales Director for Fenestration, she leads with a people-first mindset and a sharp eye on market dynamics.

Windows Active caught up with Amy to learn more about her journey, leadership ethos and what’s next for Veka and its customers.

How did you start your journey in fenestration?

I graduated from Lancaster University with an English Language degree and, like many grads, wasn’t entirely sure what to do next. I applied for Veka’s first graduate sales programme - something I almost skipped, because it had nothing to do with my degree! But Veka was a key local employer, so I gave it a go. And I’m glad I did.

I started by helping grow the Independent Network installer base, and what I thought might be a short stint in sales has turned into a rewarding 18-year (and counting) career with Veka.

What has your progression within Veka looked like over the years?

It’s been a rewarding climb. I started in the graduate scheme, then quickly moved into a Business Development Manager role covering the North West. From there, I was asked to lead the accredited installer scheme - my first opportunity to manage a team. Later, I became Head of Sales, which broadened my scope across fabricators and installers. I was then made Sales Director for the North before taking on my current national role. Today, I lead the fenestration sales team, customer services, and have a hand in shaping our wider sales strategy across the UK.

What’s your leadership style and where do you draw inspiration from?

Stephen Covey’s ‘7 Habits of Highly Effective People’ have been a great influence and has been a key part of my approach to leading the sales division – integrating the habits into the team to encourage outcomedriven thinking and deeper customer understanding. As a leader, I focus on empowering people. I want my team to have the autonomy to make decisions and to be respected by their customers. That only

happens when they’re supported and encouraged to take the lead.

What can the fenestration industry learn from other sectors when it comes to sales?

I think we’re already doing it. Our industry has historically been made up of highly experienced business owners who’ve built long-standing, relationshipbased businesses. But as new people enter the industry - and with consolidation, retirements and M&A activity increasing –the industry has evolved from, relationshipbased selling to a more consultative, customer-focused approach.

That’s where Veka shines, because we’re marrying deep-rooted experience with progressive, consultative selling.

What does a typical week look like in your role?

No two days are the same, and that’s what I love. One day I’m coaching Business Development Managers in the field, the next I’m in strategy meetings or working with customer services to improve how we support our clients.

There’s definitely more we can now do remotely, but face-to-face contact remains critical. Whether visible or not, much of my time is spent empowering the team behind the scenes - helping them problem-solve and make decisions that earn trust and

deliver value to our customers.

How would you describe the current mood of the market from Veka’s perspective?

The market remains steady, though it’s fair to say it’s not experiencing the rapid growth seen in previous years. However, Veka entered 2024 from a position of strength, having secured significant new business towards the end of 2023. This momentum, combined with our focus on customer partnerships and product innovation positions us well for the months ahead.

We’re confident that our latest developments - such as the OMNIA flush suite and the exclusive Feinstruktur foil - equip our customers with the tools they need to stand out in a competitive landscape. While the broader market may be stable, we see clear opportunities to gain ground by giving our fabricators the tools they need to best support installers.

How is Veka supporting its customers through market difficulties?

We’re helping our customers differentiate. Many of them have unused capacity and face aggressive competition, so we’re providing exclusive products like Feinstruktur and OMNIA to give them a real competitive edge.

Speaking of, we’ve also launched

‘VekaEdge’, our new marketing portal that gives fabricators the tools to create fully personalised brochures and marketing materials to attract and retain installers.

It’s all about equipping our partners with advantages they can’t get elsewhere.

What makes a great long-term sales partnership in this industry?

It’s always about the simple things - Listening. Really understanding your customer’s needs, ambitions and goals is everything. You have to be consistent, honest and reliable. If something goes wrong, own it - and bring a solution. At Veka, we don’t make unrealistic promises or compete with our customers. We focus on building solutions for their whole business, not just selling profile. That’s why we enjoy so many long-term partnerships of 20 years+, with a recent example of a key client committing to Veka for another 10 years on a single source basis. This makes me proud and reflects that we strive to do things right.

Are there noticeable regional differences across the UK market?

We do see differences. For example, flush sash has historically had little traction in Scotland. But now with OMNIA - offering a double-rebated, high performance flush product - we’ve seen immediate interest from key Scottish fabricators. That’s a huge win.

In the south of England, especially along the coast, flush has always been popular, but we’re now seeing it adopted in entirely new

regions and tapping into a market that is usually not suited for flush designs, which is indicative of OMNIA’s quality.

What opportunities and areas of optimism do you see over the next 12–18 months?

There’s real optimism from our customers. Sales forecasts are looking strong, helped by the tools and products we’ve introduced. We’ve also made big investments, including a new commercial specification team, to expand our reach into social housing and refurb markets. It’s less about waiting for market confidence to return, and more about driving it ourselves with unique products, dependable service

and trusted partnerships.

What would you say to potential partners considering Veka?

Talk to us! There are plenty of systems companies out there, all with something to offer; Veka is the sum of all parts - quality, reliability, innovation, sustainability and support.

We’re invested in the UK market for the long term, being owned by our original founding family. We don’t compete with our customers. We grow together. We’re open, honest, and have a proven track record in doing what we say we’ll do. It might sound simple, but that’s why Veka works - and why our customers choose to partner with Veka.

TIMELESS ELEGANCE IN DEEP BLACK

Dark, darker, Conti® mattex jet black. The high-quality exterior film from Continental sets modern accents on windows and doors with its deep black tone.

The look is similar to powder-coated aluminum – a classic in the design of the building envelope.

Would you like to find out more about our diverse product range including the Conti® mattex Shine variant? Then get in touch with our UK contact for Continental Exterior Films Mike Dean from LAMEXT Limited.

The built environment’s carbon conundrum

Big promises, little data—sustainability stalls as specifiers demand green clarity manufacturers aren’t yet prepared to deliver

The architectural and construction sectors, significant contributors to global CO2 emissions, are facing a critical challenge: a gaping hole in the readily available, transparent sustainability data needed to genuinely drive down the environmental impact of new builds. A new report from NBS (powered by Hubexo) lays bare this disconnect, revealing that while specifiers are increasingly prioritising green credentials, manufacturers are still falling short on providing the crucial information required for truly sustainable outcomes.

The report, drawing on insights from hundreds of industry professionals, paints a stark picture. Less than half of all construction projects are currently achieving stringent sustainability benchmarks. The culprits? A trifecta of issues: inconsistent supply chain data, a worrying lack of transparency around embodied carbon – the CO2 emissions associated with a product’s entire lifecycle – and limited access to reliable certification schemes.

Sharp end of design decisions

This data deficit is particularly acute for those at the sharp end of design decisions. A staggering 92% of specifiers report that the absence of detailed, reliable sustainability performance data from manufacturers actively hinders the process of integrating sustainable choices into early-stage design – precisely where the greatest environmental impact can be made. It seems the ambition for net-zero construction is being stymied by a frustrating lack of fundamental information.

What’s more, the market is clearly signalling its preference. Nearly half of all specifiers (46%) and an even higher proportion of architects (52%) are now exclusively selecting manufacturers with demonstrably above-average sustainability credentials. This strong preference is amplified when supported by Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) – the gold standard of third-party certifications, offering a comprehensive assessment of a product’s full lifecycle impact.

Yet, despite this clear demand and the accessibility of these

mainstream protocols, many manufacturers continue to prioritise only basic origin information. This fundamental misalignment between what the market demands and what manufacturers provide is a significant roadblock in the industry’s accelerated push towards net-zero targets. Given that the construction sector still accounts for a substantial 39% of global CO2 emissions, this oversight is more than just an inconvenience; it’s a critical impediment to climate goals.

Lee Jones, Head of Sustainability at NBS, articulates the growing frustration within the industry. “The results of the sustainable futures report reflect something we’re seeing more and more in practice; a real appetite among specifiers for meaningful, actionable sustainability data,” he notes. “But the stats are clear, if environmental data is vague or incomplete that doesn’t support decision-making at pace. If we want sustainable choices to become the default, we have to make those choices easier to identify and compare.”

A clearer focus on the metrics

Jones’s observation cuts to the heart of the matter: without standardised, transparent, and comprehensive data, sustainable choices remain a niche, difficult pursuit rather than an ingrained practice. He advocates for a clearer focus on the metrics that will truly move the needle in the coming years.

With robust policy frameworks like The Future Homes Standard and The London Plan raising the bar for environmental performance, the message to the construction industry is unequivocal. The challenge now is to bridge the chasm between grand ambition and the tangible realities of data transparency. The onus is on manufacturers to step up, providing the granular, certified sustainability information that empowers specifiers to turn green promises into concrete, low-impact realities. Platforms like NBS Chorus and NBS Source, by embedding vital sustainability data directly into the workflow, offer a glimpse of how this crucial shift can be achieved, making low-impact choices the default, not the exception.

Experience Exceptional Service

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Glass industry embraces AI’s cutting edge

AI is no longer optional—it’s revolutionising glass, from mass producers to glaziers, elevating efficiency, precision, and possibility

The glass industry is at a pivotal moment, with Artificial Intelligence increasingly shaping its future. While major flat glass producers have already embraced AI to optimise production, reduce emissions, and boost competitiveness, the adoption within glass processing and the glazier trade has been more nascent. However, a closer look reveals that AI is beginning to trickle down, offering tangible benefits even for smaller outfits.

For over two decades, Marc Everling, a communications and marketing specialist within the glass sector, has keenly observed these shifts. Tasked by glasstec, the world-leading trade fair for the industry, Everling delved into the relevance of AI for glass processors and glaziers, finding a promising landscape of nascent applications. While machine technology and manufacturing processes have seen intensive AI-driven development, the administrative side, despite its vast potential, has lagged.

In industrial flat glass production, AI’s presence is already well-established. Machine producers are integrating AI into automation platforms for dynamic adaptation of production flows, employing adaptive process control and material flow optimisation. AI-assisted image processing is now standard for high-precision defect detection and dimension control. Furthermore, digital twins, powered by AI, are being utilised for predictive maintenance and intelligent control of sizing and warehousing processes.

Adopting AI less systematically

The glazier trade and smaller glass processing firms, by contrast, appear to be adopting AI less systematically. Nevertheless, initial practical applications are emerging. Karsten Sommer (pictured) of the Hamburg Glaziers’ Guild notes a growing curiosity within the sector: “Many outfits are starting to look at this topic. This is especially easy to achieve when AI becomes part of the systems already used such as AI-based office and communication tools like Microsoft Copilot, Google Workspace AI or ChatGPT. These can easily help with text-based proposal, calculations or appointment organisation.” Beyond textual assistance, imaging AI tools such as Canva AI, Midjourney, or DALL·E 3 are proving invaluable for visualising workpieces, products, or construction plans. These tools can provide initial impressions and inspiration, significantly reducing the need for days of high-performance computer

rendering, at least for initial designs.

One particularly impactful concrete application is in order entry. This process, often complex and manual outside of traditional electronic data interchange systems, consumes significant time due to data transfer, queries, and error corrections. Few enquiries are initially complete or precisely formulated, and the sheer variety of configurations offered by glass producers—up to ten thousand for IGUs—compounds the challenge.

Georg Katzlinger-Söllradl, CEO and co-founder of the startup “Lumeso,” introduced his AI solutions at glasstec 2024, demonstrating how AI can noticeably simplify order data entry. “Our software analyses incoming e-mails, automatically identifies all relevant order data and compiles them in a structured manner,” Katzlinger-Söllradl explained. “Missing data is completed automatically by smart queries. After release by the case handler, the data is transferred directly to the order data capturing system via an interface.” He emphasised that this solution was only made possible by the availability of high-performance AI systems. “AI in administration markedly increases the speed of order data capture, significantly reduces errors and considerably minimises the throughput time from order entry to confirmation.”

Shortage of relevant staff

Beyond the attractive efficiency gains, Lumeso’s solution resonated deeply with customers struggling with a shortage of relevant staff, or even the inability to find personnel to manage existing processes. Katzlinger-Söllradl concluded, “We soon realised we can also help combat skilled labour shortages with our AI. Experienced employees can reduce their workload and focus on control and decision-making tasks while younger staff can be drawn into the exciting flat glass working environment by modern, attractive AI solutions.”

The current state of AI in the glass industry offers considerable hope. The increasing availability of modular AI tools and the development of hands-on, sector-specific solutions promise to enhance efficiency, foster positive developments in daily operations, and concurrently make employers more attractive. As the industry looks ahead, AI & Digital Technologies are set to be “Hot Topics” at glasstec 2026, alongside circularity and decarbonisation, signalling a future where intelligence and innovation illuminate the path forward for glass.

Maco’s Sense drives smart evolution

Smart, sleek, and built for tomorrow — Sense by Maco redefines home living with intuitive, intelligent, effortless control

Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the benefits of smart home technology—such as the convenience of automation, advanced energy management, and enhanced safety and security. With 25% of potential home movers considering smart technology a “must have” and sharing that they would pay an average of 7.7% more (up from 6.5% in 2023) for a fully equipped smart home, we should be looking at ways we can assist this when it comes to building and renovating homes. One of those ways is with smart window and door sensors. In the past smart window and door sensors have been complex and difficult to set up, providing little benefit to the homeowner, but all that is about to change.

Imagine coming in from a long day at work, on a cold, dark winter evening, you open your front door and in an instant your hallway light comes on, the smart speaker greets you with your favourite songs, and the heating is boosted for 30 minutes to get the chill out of your bones. Convenience, automated. Alternatively, your child arrives home from school, hot and flustered from their walk home, opens the window in their bedroom and the radiator automatically stops heating the room. Energy saving, automated. Or maybe you are a carer for a venerable person, wouldn’t it be great if you could set up a routine that alerts you if a door is unexpectedly opened during the night, meaning you can check on things before a real emergency occurs. Safety, automated.

A restricting factor on the uptake and implementation of smart products to enable this sort of automation was the requirement to have an additional gateway hub to allow products to work in harmony within the network of the building. Anyone who wanted to create a fully integrated smart home with multiple smart devices, from a variety of brands would need several gateway hubs which then becomes costly, confusing and inconvenient. Thankfully the powers that be at corporations such as Apple, Amazon, Google, Samsung and others have come together to bring us the Matter Protocol.

The Matter Protocol is a mutual language that all devices can understand, that will simplify and streamline our experience, making the benefits of a Smart Home accessible to all. Before Matter, each smart home device had its own “language,” but with Matter, all these devices can now “speak” the same language, making it much easier to set up, control, and integrate smart home devices. This means you can mix and match devices from different brands without worrying about compatibility issues, leading to a more

seamless and integrated smart home experience. It also removes the requirement for the additional gateway hub, and now this technology is available to you.

Introducing, ‘Sense by Maco’, the first integrated smart window and door sensors available in the UK to utilise the Matter Protocol. Available from Maco Door & Window Hardware (U.K.) and their network of suppliers, they can not only be fitted to new windows and doors during the manufacturing process, they can also be retrofitted seamlessly to existing Maco window and door hardware. ‘Sense by Maco’ removes the barriers of complexity and enables the benefits of smart security systems that can automate family life, enhance standards of living, and offer additional safety measures, to be adopted by everyone.

It’s no longer about simply knowing if your doors and windows are open or closed, it’s about what this technology can enable in the challenging and stressful environments of the modern world. Technology, when implemented correctly, really does make Sense. The only ‘matter’ now is what you will do with it.

Family values anchor Hoppe’s legacy

Ged Ryan, CEO, Hoppe (UK), explores the history of Hoppe and how the hardware manufacturer still holds on to its family values

HOPPE (UK) has been established in the UK since 1988 but its history spans more than 70 years thanks to its German roots. The HOPPE Group was founded in Germany by Friedrich Hoppe in 1952. The company grew rapidly during the post-war building boom, developing and manufacturing door and window hardware.

The family-run company is now led by the third generation, Christian Hoppe, who became Group CEO at the end of 2024. Friedrich’s sons Wolf and Christoph Hoppe – Vice President and President of the Board respectively – have now stepped back from day-to-day leadership. Christian is set to succeed his uncle Christophe Hoppe as Chair of the UK Board.

The business was founded on strong values: trust; responsibility; understanding; credibility; honesty; loyalty; integrity and decency. These values are engrained in all HOPPE subsidiaries across the globe, including its manufacturing and distribution centres in Germany, Italy, North America and the UK.

HOPPE (UK) was originally set up to distribute HOPPE handles, but after the acquisition of Charter Hardware in 1997, the offering was extended to include a wider range of associated door hardware, such as complementary letter plates, numerals and knockers. That’s when the ARRONE brand was born.

HOPPE (UK) moved to its current 90,000 sq ft distribution warehouse and sales centre in Wolverhampton, in 1999. The business was reorganised to focus on two areas: architectural sales and meeting the needs of door and window fabricators.

Enhancing skills through training

HOPPE Group always pursues long-term, workable relationships with employees, customers and suppliers that are based on mutual trust — and it’s no different in the UK.

The company wants all its employees to be able to help their customers. This includes huge investment in training to make sure staff are multiskilled, including helping staff achieve the widely respected qualifications from the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI) and continuously updating their knowledge via CPD.

HOPPE (UK) has bespoke door certification training for staff to ensure they’re complying with and giving advice in line with the latest regulations.

Clause 148 of the Building Safety Act 2022 outlines the liability relating to construction products and came into force on 28 June 2022. As part of Condition A of this clause, if a person who markets or supplies a construction product makes a misleading statement in relation to it, alongside the three other conditions, they can be held liable to pay damages.

As part of an ongoing internal initiative to ensure compliance with the Building Safety Act, Karen Nelson, business development manager at HOPPE (UK), and Rob Mottram, technical manager for ARRONE, deliver door certification training to all customer-facing team members. They also hold separate sessions on the same topic for some customers.

To understand what customers are looking for, meet legal requirements and then advise the customer accordingly, it’s important to know the terminology associated with testing and certification.

As a construction product manufacturer, we have responsibilities under the Building Safety Act 2022 that should not be taken lightly –and certainly isn’t at HOPPE (UK) and ARRONE.

The company provides training, including an in-depth look at the full testing process for doors, the associated paperwork, and thirdparty certification, and is being used as part of the team’s ongoing professional development.

Ensuring a high level of current industry knowledge, HOPPE (UK) has five staff members who are Registered Architectural Ironmongers (RegAI), five who are Registered Door Systems (RegDS), and two Registered Hardware and Access Control (RegAC), with two currently studying diplomas.

Quality matters

HOPPE (UK) and ARRONE have dedicated teams who look at the needs of the market and develop product offerings in line with demand.

The team works closely with door manufacturers to identify and meet their needs, helping to find the right door hardware by offering specifications and technical support.

The aim is to add value to the supply chain by ensuring a comprehensive package of useful products at an appropriate range of price points, complete with the right technical attributes and testing.

ODL Europe’s in-house

Door Prep Service delivers precision-prepared composite doors with a 7-day turnaround on standard colours and 10 days on any RAL colour.

• Fast turnaround.

• Consistent reliability.

• Precision prepped to your requirements.

The marketing power couple

Marketing expert Komaldeep Kaur Dhir sees AI and marketing as creative chemistry — one side brings the data, the other brings the soul

Artificial intelligence has crashed into the marketing world, not with a quiet whisper, but the full force of a freight train. Its impact is undeniable: automating tedious tasks, crunching vast datasets in mere seconds, and scaling campaigns that once demanded an army of professionals. Yet, for all its impressive speed and reach, something fundamental remains elusive for AI: the human touch. It cannot feel, it cannot truly judge, and it struggles to grasp the ‘why’ behind the ‘what’. This isn’t a battle for supremacy; it’s a blueprint for a powerful partnership where human intuition elevates machine efficiency.

AI excels at the drudgery. It can segment audiences by behaviour, generate fifty headline variations in a blink, and predict future trends from millions of data points. Tools are already streamlining content operations, allowing brands to produce scalable material and free up creative minds for higherlevel strategic thinking. Marketers are reclaiming precious hours, as machines handle the mundane tasks of format-shifting and metadata tagging. While the World Economic Forum forecasts the displacement of 85 million jobs by AI, it simultaneously predicts the creation of 97 million new ones, many within marketing. This is because the need for human-led strategy, machine oversight, and the interpretation of complex data remains paramount. The true victors in this evolving landscape are not the brands blindly embracing full automation, but those who understand where to draw the line.

Human eyes to glaze over

AI’s strengths lie in tasks that typically cause human eyes to glaze over. These include granular audience segmentation, real-time A/B testing, early identification of consumer behaviour shifts, hyper-personalisation of content, and the creation of thousands of tailored, bite-sized content blocks. Industry giants like Netflix, Amazon, and Coca-Cola leverage AI extensively, but crucially, they don’t operate on autopilot. Human teams are constantly fine-tuning the tone, scrutinising data, and steering the creative direction. AI can get you 90 per cent of the way there; that crucial final 10 per cent is undeniably human.

The human element in marketing remains non-negotiable. While AI can draft copy, it struggles to capture the nuanced context that makes marketing truly impactful. Great marketing resonates deeply, conveying a sense of understanding and empathy. AI, simply put, isn’t fluent in emotion. Human marketers remain the custodians of storytelling, weaving narratives that carry meaning and align with cultural sensibilities. A machine might suggest a campaign idea, but only a human can discern if it’s a tone-deaf misstep or a stroke of genius. Nike’s “You Can’t Stop Us” campaign, for instance, spoke to a collective global exhaustion – a sentiment a machine could never have truly grasped. Humans bring gut instinct, emotional depth, social awareness, and creative judgment to the table. Until machines can genuinely comprehend heartbreak, humour, sarcasm, and timing, they will always be playing catch-up. Therefore, the narrative of AI replacing human creativity is misplaced. Instead, it’s redefining the creative role. The optimal approach is an “AI-human collaboration model.” In this synergy, humans brainstorm ideas, with AI providing iterative riffs. AI handles the scheduling and formatting of execution, under

human supervision. AI crunches the numbers for analysis, while humans read between the lines. Finally, AI suggests refinements, with humans making the ultimate decisions. Brand marketing, which thrives on emotional depth and intuition, remains a human domain. Performance marketing, with its real-time bids and optimisation, is AI’s natural playground. Understanding these distinct lanes is crucial for success. The strongest brands will be those that integrate technology without sacrificing their inherent humanity.

Unchecked AI deployment

However, risks lurk in unchecked AI deployment. Automated content can emerge flat, lifeless, or even offensive, particularly if it’s trained on biased data. In sensitive sectors like healthcare or finance, this isn’t merely poor marketing; it’s potentially dangerous. Marketers must establish clear boundaries: is targeting always ethical? Does this copy inadvertently reinforce harmful stereotypes? Is this message truly aligned with our brand values? AI will not answer these questions; that responsibility rests squarely with us. Over-reliance on automation risks deskilling teams, stifling creative instinct, and fostering blind trust in systems that are not fully understood. AI feels no accountability; humans do.

Ultimately, the future of marketing isn’t one where AI takes over, but one where it liberates us from the mundane, allowing us to focus on what truly matters: forging connections, building trust, and crafting compelling stories. The brands that triumph will not be those that automate the most, but those that feel the most human – because they intelligently wield AI as a powerful tool, not a debilitating crutch.

Sense by MACO Sensors for a smart home

With Sense by MACO wireless sensors you install the future. Make your windows and doors intelligent and smart home-capable in no time at all. The sensors reliably recognise the status – open or closed – and transmit it in the new, multi-sector Matter standard for smart home solutions. This makes them the basis for the automated control of other smart home products. For more convenience, more security and a bright future: Sense by MACO wireless sensors

Talk to your MACO sales partner and find out more directly at www.maco.eu/sense

Twenty years strong, still evolving — Unique Window Systems blends legacy with innovation to define the future

of fenestration

The unique secret to ongoing success

Over the last two decades, Unique Window Systems has continued to go from strength to strength. Windows Active catches up with the business as it celebrates its 20th anniversary and learns more about the secret to its ongoing success.

Since 2025, the fenestration industry has seen many challenges, opportunities and changes. In this dynamic, ever-evolving proving ground, Unique Window Systems has continued to show its mettle.

The business was formed by brothers and current joint-MDs Sunil and Atul Patel and began life fabricating PVC-U windows from a 45,000 ft² premises in Leicester.

Since then, it has grown and developed exponentially with the last few years in particular seeing a remarkable growth trajectory. In fact, in the last four years, Unique’s turnover has surged from £20.8m to over £45m whilst its headcount has grown by 50% - from 200 to 300 employees.

So, what is it that underpins Unique’s longevity and considerable achievements?

A name that speaks volumes

“In 2005, the market for PVC-U fenestration solutions was already mature, well established and well populated” comments Sunil Patel.

“As such, being a ‘me too’ company was simply not an option. To succeed, we had to stand apart. It was essential, we were unique not just in name, but also in nature.”

To create this differentiation, which still

serves the company well to this day, Unique adopted a multi-faceted strategy.

“Entrepreneurialism is central to our approach” explains Sunil. “As a company, we have a can-do attitude that manifests itself in many ways – from our pricing policies to our order turnaround times.

“Quality is also at the heart of everything we do. We have never accepted the belief that you can have speed, value and quality but never all three at the same time. This ability to deliver on all three aspects has enabled us to build lasting relationships with a large customer base and we are proud of the level of repeat business we enjoy.”

Carefully selected systems

To deliver on its commitment to quality, Unique has continued to expand its product offer over the last two decades and now fabricates fenestration solutions from some of the industry’s best known systems houses.

This includes Eurocell, AluK, WarmCore and Cortizo. It also manufactures own brand products such as its Unifold range of bifold doors.

Thanks to this comprehensive choice, Unique is able to cater for the widest range of needs.

“Whether you’re looking for PVC-U, aluminium or even hybrid products that give you the best of both worlds, Unique has you covered” says Sunil. “Our portfolio includes windows, patio, French, sliding and bifold doors, composite doors, rooflights and much more.

“In short, we are a total solution provider, able to answer our customers’ needs from one source and with everything fabricated to one consistently high standard which has become something of a Unique trademark.

Focused on the future

Unique’s success and growth over the last 20 years is certainly impressive but the company isn’t seeing that as a cause for complacency.

Instead, it remains focused on ensuring its capabilities continue to evolve and to this end, it pursues a highly active programme of inward investment.

In the last twelve months alone, it has completed the largest capital expenditure project in its two decade history and moved the fabrication of its PVC-U products into a new and state-of-the-art 65,000 ft². factory.

It has also made major enhancements to the factory where it fabricates its aluminium products.

“We’ve every intention of shaping a future that’s as remarkable as our past” concludes Sunil.

“Our twentieth anniversary marks a major milestone but it’s not where our story ends by any means. As we enter our third decade, we are already looking at how we can build on our achievements to date and deliver even greater value and benefits for our customers.”

Tel: 0116 236 4656

E: sales@uws.co.uk

True authenticity comes from a blend of heritage styling and modern performance.

Single features may grab attention, but a true heritage sash window is designed to ensure the seamless integration of all its parts.

Everything has to work together: slim overlapping putty-line profiles, a 35mm midrail, heritage chalk finishes, seamless ornate sash horns, true mechanical joints, deep cills and innovative balance chamber covers, to name but a few.

Add to that a 1.2 W/m2k u-value without specialist glass, and you have a true conservation-grade sash window with outstanding modern performance.

Only Roseview’s Ultimate Rose sash window delivers all this. Because it’s more than a sum of its parts.

trade@roseview.co.uk

www.roseview.co.uk

Ben Weber explains why Quickslide is holding prices despite pressure on businesses across the UK

Costs are up but we’re not passing the buck

Price rises can be an inevitable part of doing business, and can be triggered by a multitude of di erent factors. In ation, supply chain disruptions and changes in global trade dynamics can all have a big impact on the bottom line of business – just look at the chaos caused by Covid, the sharp upturn in the cost of energy following the war in Ukraine and the knockon e ect to trade when the Suez Canal was blocked by the Ever Given container ship.

Politics can also play its part.

The increase to National Insurance contributions and minimum wages from April this year, will mean some businesses in the UK will be having to work even harder just to cover their additional wage bill. For organisations with lots of mouths to feed, the additional expense will run into the millions.

Should that be absorbed, or is it inevitable that it will be paid for by price increases? It’s a decision that many businesses in the UK fenestration sector – if not all – will be looking long and hard at.

For business leaders, managing situations such as this can be like walking a tight rope. If price increases are to be brought in, then when and how much? How will our customers respond?

Will we lose those customers or will we retain them? And what will be the knockon e ect further down the supply chain, if those customers decide – in turn – to pass on the costs?

in the UK fenestration industry.

trading conditions that have become more

and that means absorbing costs wherever possible so that our customers don’t have to.

Our wage bill has increased and like everyone else we are operating under trading conditions that have become more challenging.

handling of international trade example,

Managing expectations and customer relationships is vital. President Trump’s handling of international trade tari s, for example, is the perfect demonstration of how sudden and violent price increases can throw supply chains into absolute chaos!

In fact, we have taken the decision not to implement any price rises at all.

How can we do that? Well, we are certainly not immune to the pressures currently facing many businesses

Whether the stance taken by the US on tari s pays o in the long run will remain to be seen, but here at Quickslide, we are determined to take a much more considered and customer friendly approach to price rises.

Whether the stance taken by the US

organisations, we are privately

That means we can still o er a sash window for £250, and we can do so without compromising the quality of product, service or marketing support that makes us a leader in the industry.

is on a solid nancial footing and

However, unlike some organisations, we are privately owned so we are not burdened by outside investment, the business is on a solid nancial footing and – more importantly – we have a long-term outlook.

machinery, in product the latest software systems and also in our

This has allowed us to invest millions in state-of-the-art machinery, in product development and the latest software systems and also in our customer service.

long-term view, and cient

Because of our long-term view, and the fact that we have worked so hard to become as e cient as possible in our operations, we can be more strategic when it comes to pricing

We can see how easy it is for companies to have a knee jerk reaction to rising costs, but at Quickslide we believe that if our customers have stability on pricing, then it puts them in the best possible position to stay competitive, win work and get those all-important sales over the line.

Our decision to hold rm on prices comes with the promise that we will not add hidden fees or surcharges. It’s a policy designed to promote honesty and transparency at all times.

Ultimately, we’re committed to supporting our trade partners in any way that we can and we’re prepared to ‘double down’ on that support with our rst-class service and marketing initiatives – working together, so that we can all continue to grow in the long term.

www.quickslide.co.uk

THE NEW RESIDENCE COLLECTION DOOR IS HERE!

New open-in door sash chamfered to perfectly suite with our openout door sash and window sash. Featuring a new deep bottom rail, mid-rail and patented* panel surround trim.

Sash sizes up to 900mm x 2300mm, available in both 28mm double and 44mm triple glazing, with u-values as low as 0.9.

e perfect solution for timber alternative doors for your customers.

Louis Nuttall of Glazerite shares how the fabricator’s aluminium range is developing to provide installers with greater choice

Aluminium edge for Glazerite installers

It’s been a busy few months at our Glazerite North West Division as we integrate the fabrication of aluminium products at the site. The remodelling of our showroom and operational expansion has enabled us to dedicate a space for aluminium alongside our existing, highquality Veka offering.

The site, which is based in Bolton, employs more than 60 people, and has been the subject of a series of investments over the last two decades. In 2021, we doubled the size of the facility and added a range of cutting edge machinery and a showroom as part of our strategy to grow capacity, improve performance and deliver exceptional service for our installers.

Now, with the latest renovations and sitewide improvements well underway, we are excited to be adding an aluminium fabrication arm to our offering, with the welcome addition of ALUK and Cortizo windows and doors. First up is the Cortizo Bifold Plus Door and Cortizo 4900 Sliding HI, which offer installers a straightforward install, and homeowners the perfect and competitively priced balance of aesthetics and efficiencies. Later on in the year, we’ll be adding ALUK windows, doors and the heritage collection to our in-house

fabricated offering.

This will enable us to give our installers greater choice and the ability to bid for more projects. By continually reviewing and adding to our profile systems offering, we can support customers to win new business, from largescale commercial projects to oneoff residential installations.

Introducing aluminium fabrication to Glazerite is part of our customer-first

approach to deliver what our installers and their end customers want, whether that is uPVC or aluminium, alongside accessories like innovation in hardware or smart technology.

Like our existing PVC-U employees, our skilled aluminium team will focus on producing high quality windows and doors, underpinned by high performance across our operations, from receipt of profile to despatch and delivery.

Over the next few weeks we will be finalising the space with a five figure investment into equipment and machinery, including a new Haffner TT 405 double mitre saw. Optimum workflow and operational excellence in aluminium fabrication capability will be further strengthened by our approach to lean manufacturing, which is firmly embedded Group-wide. From workplace organisation and traceability to improved communication, lean manufacturing principles are key to our output and delivery of high-quality products.

Creating a bespoke aluminium fabrication facility within the Group forms part of our strategic intention to widen our offering for our huge customer base and comes off the back of a recent £1 million+ investment across our operations. This has seen us shore up our IT infrastructure and online ordering system as well as our manufacturing facilities in Bolton, Barnsley, Wellingborough and Peterborough so that we can continue to service installers in full nationwide.

From PVC-U to aluminium, giving installers access to a broad range of portfolio systems opens up opportunities and the ability to compete while delivering choice for customers, whatever their demands.

What’s more, working with Glazerite, which this year celebrates 25 years in fenestration, gives installers’ confidence they can deliver fault-free installs backed by high-quality products that meet today’s trends - all from a reliable, futureproofed fabricator.

Providing choice for our customers so that they can deliver high-quality installations is what drives us as a fabricator. To achieve that, we are continually expanding and flexing our portfolio and underpinning our offering with regular investment in our people, machinery and fleet.

According to Joe Trueman, Director, Glyngary Joinery

‘Made in Britain’ matters more than ever

The lasting value of British-made goods

Six months into my new partnership with Glyngary Joinery, I’ve quickly come to appreciate the intricacies - and the pride - that come with working in the world of timber windows and doors. I’ve also discovered something that continues to surprise me - how many companies promoting themselves as UKbased suppliers are actually outsourcing their manufacturing overseas.

From slick websites and UK domain names to brochures written in the King’s English, it’s easy to assume a product is made on British soil. But scratch the surface and the truth is often quite di erent. Many so-called UK timber window and door suppliers are importing products from other parts of Europe, where labour costs are lower and delivery lead times - long as they may be - are manageable within the wider installation cycle.

At Glyngary Joinery, we do things di erently. Everything we produce is designed, manufactured, and nished right here in the UK. And we believe that makes all the di erence - not just for us, but for the installers and homeowners who choose to work with us.

Experience that builds confidence

Having a manufacturing facility here in the UK allows us to do something a lot of companies can’t - invite people in. Installers can send their customers to our workshop before they place an order.

It’s an opportunity to look, touch, and experience the product rst-hand - to see our team at work, crafting each frame and sash with care. That visit alone often seals the deal. There’s something powerful about standing where the product is made and knowing exactly who is making it.

Tested, trusted, compliant

UK building regulations are constantly evolving, and rightly so. From U-values to PAS24 security standards, our windows and doors are manufactured to meet - and exceed - what the UK market demands.

When homeowners buy British, they’re not just investing in a product that looks good - they’re investing in performance, durability, and peace of mind.

Investing in people, not just products

When you buy from a UK manufacturer like Glyngary, you’re supporting more than just a business. You’re contributing to a skills-based economy. Every year we take on

apprentices and young people eager to learn the trade.

We invest in their development, teaching them lifelong skills in joinery, machining, nishing and craftsmanship - trades that are vital to the future of UK manufacturing.

Buying British helps ensure those opportunities continue to exist. It keeps knowledge in the country and fosters innovation where it’s most needed - on the factory oor.

Sustainable by design

Sustainability isn’t just about what your windows are made from - it’s about how far they’ve travelled, and how they were made. By choosing products that are manufactured locally, you reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance freight.

Timber is already one of the most environmentally responsible materials in construction, and sourcing it through a UKbased manufacturer keeps its sustainability credentials intact.

Ethical, transparent, responsible

When you buy from a British manufacturer, you can be con dent that the product you’re receiving was made under fair working conditions and with ethical employment practices.

That transparency matters - especially for homeowners who want to know where their investment is going and for trade partners who care about accountability and longterm service.

Customer service you can count on

Sometimes, despite our best e orts, things don’t go exactly to plan. Maybe

there’s a speci cation change, or an issue onsite.

When that happens, being able to speak to someone directly - in your time zone, with shared language and cultural understanding - makes a huge di erence. UK-based customer service isn’t just convenient - it’s e ective, relatable, and reliable.

Pride in every product

At the heart of it, there’s pride. Pride in our team. Pride in our craft. Pride in knowing that what we make here in the UK stands shoulder to shoulder with anything produced overseas - and in many cases, exceeds it.

on our windows and doors -

We don’t just put our name on our windows and doorswe stand behind every single one.

So if, like us, you believe in supporting UK manufacturing, I encourage you to do your homework before choosing a supplier. Ask where the products are made. Visit the workshop. Meet the people behind the process.

So if, like us, you manufacturing, I encourage Meet the people behind the process.

You might just nd that buying British isn’t just the better option - it’s the best one.

British isn’t option - it’s the best one.

Switching to single bar lengths from Deceuninck has helped Rapid Windows expand its colour range and take on niche orders profitably

Harnessing colour for lasting impact

Sam Hewitt, Operations Director at PVC-U window and door manufacturer Rapid Windows, explains that “we’re all salesmen at heart because there’s no business without sales.” He adds, “I think that’s why we’ve always done so well.”

Founded more than 30 years ago by Sam’s father, Paul, the company operates throughout the North-East, covering Sunderland, Newcastle, Durham, North Yorkshire, Northumberland and Teeside.

“He went from selling windows and doors to saying, ‘Hey, I actually think I can make a go of this’,” continues Sam, explaining Paul’s path into fabricating, back in the ‘90s.

“He’s been very successful,” adds Sam. “We’re firmly established in the industry and it’s always been a family-run business.”

The company formed its partnership with Deceuninck around 18-months ago, after previously ordering coloured profile in bulk from another supplier, with a negative impact on profitability and stockholding.

“The main reason we switched to Deceuninck was predominantly the availability of colours that Deceuninck offers,” explains Sam.

“We’ve always been stung with having to order between 36m and 72m pack quantities, depending on the foil, which priced us out of the market quite a lot as a result.

“Sometimes, we’d get an order for a

colour and think, ‘how can we make this competitive?’ The conversion rate was really low.

“Someone might want just one door and a window in a particular colour, but we would have to order 36m of each individual profile, meaning we’ve then got a load of stock sitting on the shelves. So what do you do?” he continues.

“You either price it how you normally would, or you charge them the surcharge, which would then price you out of the market. In turn, you’re left with a job that you’re making no profit on. It has actually cost you to take the order through the door so you’re better off just not taking the order at all.

“Or you take the rough with a smooth and hope you’re going to get another order in a couple of weeks to use up the excess stock that you’re now left with.”

Deceuninck offers more than 30 different colourways ex-stock, with a further 20 available in only a few days.

As part of its continued effort to help fabricators succeed in today’s challenging market, it is now also offering single bar length ordering on a fast turnaround, enabling manufacturers like Rapid to expand their colour range and take on niche orders profitably.

“It was something that I thought we could really benefit from as a business,” adds Sam, on taking up Deceuninck’s offer. “It’s

enabled us to cost-effectively manufacture the more obscure window and door colours that we’ve never been able to before.”

In addition, Sam explains how Deceuninck’s “super-smooth” online ordering portal has simplified operations for Rapid, improving communication with customers and reducing margin for error, as well as costly delays?.

“For me, the online portal’s made ordering so much easier,” he says. “It actually shows us how much of the profile is in stock and allows us to notify customers of delivery timescales at the point of sale. That prevents a lot of issues down the line.”

Despite initial concerns, Sam reports that onboarding with Deceuninck was seamless, thanks to hands-on technical support and minimal disruption.

“I knew Deceuninck was definitely the way forward,” he says, “but it’s a bit of a daunting process to bring on another supplier.

“You’ve got twice as much ordering, twice as much logistics, twice as much to go wrong. You’ve got to make sure you’re pricing it right based on what you’re manufacturing. But Deceuninck have been really supportive and filled me with confidence from day one.

“The technical guys are always there, and they’ll come down whenever we need them. I was worried about the setup and all the upheaval, but Deceuninck took those concerns away from me.

“The whole process was a breeze and its customer support like that, that really sets Deceuninck apart from the rest.”

Tel: 01249 816 969

E: deceuninck.ltd@deceuninck.com

Warwick North West’s MD, Greg Johnson, discusses the industry’s role in reaching net zero and how Warwick is playing its part

Building a sustainable future towards net zero

With the UK committed to reaching net zero by 2050, the fenestration industry faces a serious challenge to clean up our sector. But we must also see it as a unique opportunity. The products we produce have a direct impact on lowering energy consumption across the country.

At Warwick North West, we are embracing this challenge by manufacturing energy-efficient products and transforming our business practices. We supply thousands of windows and doors to installers across the country, so I’m conscious of the position we are in, and we want to do our bit to help hit this target.

Energy efficient products

The most significant way a fabricator can be more eco-conscious is by looking at the products they make, which is why we strive to offer systems that deliver exceptional thermal performance.

An example of this is the Eurocell Modus window system that we manufacture and supply. The system achieves U-values as low as 0.7, exceeding Passivhaus Standards, making it one of the most thermally efficient windows available in the UK. It is made using Neovyn resin, which is produced using hydrogen power, and has a carbon footprint 37% lower than average.

Through Eurocell’s closed-loop recycling, old uPVC windows are diverted from landfill and recycled into new products. The Modus system itself contains 50% recycled material.

I love this circular approach to manufacturing. It reduces the need for new plastic, further cutting the environmental impact of each window we produce, and it’s what makes us proud to supply these types of products to installers across the North West and beyond. Making environmentally friendly products is one of the most important things we do and must continue to do.

Transforming our operations

I’ve learned recently that making sustainable products isn’t enough, and I’ve started to look at our manufacturing process too. In fact, that’s why we’re overhauling operations at our 100,000-square-foot facility.

We’re changing our delivery fleet to hybrid and electric vehicles. With our drivers covering thousands of miles each year, this change alone will make

a substantial difference to our carbon footprint.

We’re also planning to install solar panels across our manufacturing facility. It’ll be a major investment that demonstrates our commitment to carbon reduction and will help us be energy independent.

Our production requires significant power, so if we could generate our own clean electricity, it would massively reduce our environmental impact.

Partnering with Carbon Happy World

To make sure we’re tackling our emissions properly, we’re also partnering with carbon reduction specialists Carbon Happy World. The team of experts will complete a comprehensive CO2 audit of our entire business, examining everything we do.

From the small details like paper usage, to the energy consumption in our offices and factory, we’ll get a clear picture of where our emissions are coming from. We’re integrating this data with Social Value Portal. This ensures all our progress is transparent and measurable, keeping us accountable!

We (and I imagine most fabricators) have never properly addressed our carbon footprint, so I’m excited about this. I don’t see the task as a burden, or something we are pressured to do, it’s a genuine chance to modernise how we work and show that manufacturing doesn’t have to come at the expense of the environment.

Supporting local innovation

As a Liverpool business, we’re always ready to toot the horn for any big local initiatives. One that I’m particularly interested in is the Mersey Tidal Power project that is being championed by Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram. The project focuses

on harnessing the power of the River Mersey so that clean electricity can be generated for homes and businesses across our region.

Projects like this are good for the environment and for our local economy too, creating jobs and helping to put Liverpool on the map as a green, environmentally conscious city.

At Warwick, we’re exploring how we can support this project, whether through direct involvement or by being a vocal advocate. I believe this kind of bold thinking is exactly what the UK needs if we’re serious about reaching net zero, and I’m proud that it’s happening right here in Liverpool.

Working together toward net zero

The fenestration industry has an enormous opportunity to contribute to the UK’s net zero goals. With around 29 million homes in the UK, and many still fitted with inefficient windows and doors, our potential impact is massive.

I’d like to see our industry work closely with the government to develop practical, long-term solutions that help homeowners upgrade their homes. We’re already seeing encouraging plans, including the Labour government’s commitment to insulating homes. This shows that they understand the importance of building efficiency, and as an industry, we should be offering our expertise to help shape policy like this.

Ultimately, I see the net zero challenge as a chance for our industry to innovate and grow. At Warwick North West, we’re committed to proving that sustainability is good for both the planet and business. I’m excited to collaborate more with installers and fabricators to share knowledge and raise industry standards.

Tel: 0151 933 3030

www.warwicknorthwest.co.uk

Made in Britain

National coverage

Processing, toughening, cut-to-size, IGUs and oversize units

Quality as standard

In-house technical team

Partner with leading European glass manufacturers

CAB and GGF memberships

Full accreditation

Sustainability at our heart

Astra Windows draws on decades of expertise to champion trade success with its high-performance, installer-friendly ALUK range

Astra’s aluminium edge wins trade confidence

In an evolving fenestration market increasingly favouring modern aluminium solutions, Astra Windows is making a concerted effort to solidify its standing as a reliable partner for trade professionals. The company is championing the ALUK 58BW HI Casement window range, a system lauded for its high performance, ease of installation, and blend of aesthetic versatility with premium functionality.

With more than 35 years of dedicated experience serving the trade, Astra Windows has carved out a reputation for fabricating top-tier aluminium windows and doors. Crucially, all products are manufactured in-house at their Northwestbased facility, utilising premium systems from industry leaders such as ALUK, Aluna by Alunet Systems, and Jack Aluminium. This commitment to in-house production underscores a rigorous quality control process, ensuring each order adheres to Astra’s exacting ‘fitter-friendly, walk-awaywith-confidence’ standard.

The 58BW HI Casement system is emerging as a preferred choice for installers seeking a product that offers both reliability and design flexibility, alongside impressive energy efficiency. Available in an extensive array of configurations, including Flush, Bay, Chamfered, Heritage, Ovolo, and contemporary aesthetics, these windows cater to diverse residential styles and homeowner preferences. Further enhancing their appeal, the windows are offered in single or dual colour options, as well as anodised finishes.

David Jackson, Managing Director at Astra Windows, articulated the company’s ethos: “We pride ourselves on delivering more than just windows. We’re offering our trade customers a robust, aesthetic, and efficient solution that empowers them to win work and install with complete confidence.”

The system’s trade-centric performance features speak volumes about its practicality and competitive edge. Installation is designed to be effortless, with frame depths ranging from 58mm to 70mm, and options for internal or external glazing, as well as project-in or project-out applications. Energy performance is outstanding, boasting U-values as low as 1.2 for double glazing and 1.4 for triple, achieving B-C Window Energy Ratings and BRE Green Guide A-rated certification. Security is also a paramount consideration, with PAS24 certification and Secured by Design approval

providing added peace of mind for both installers and homeowners. Furthermore, smart fabrication details, such as deep head profiles for seamless trickle vent integration, polyamide thermal breaks, and reverse rebate internal glazing, are all meticulously designed to accelerate and simplify on-site operations.

Astra Windows’ unwavering focus

on trade installers is evident across its operations. From providing pressurefree consultations to ensuring fast, nationwide delivery, the company extends comprehensive support to projects of all scales. This dedication to customer service and technical advice has cultivated a loyal client base and garnered glowing testimonials. Lozer Heimann of Clarity Manchester affirmed, “Clarity have been buying aluminium products from Astra for the past 5 years and have always been impressed with the quality. Exceptional customer care every time.”

Backed by decades of manufacturing excellence and a robust, responsive service culture, Astra Windows is not merely observing the growing aluminium trend; it is actively shaping it. With the 58BW HI Casement system, trade professionals are gaining access to a solution that embodies contemporary performance benchmarks, aesthetic adaptability, and sustainable design principles, positioning them for continued success in a dynamic market.

Tel: 01204 793333 E: info@astrawindows.co.uk

THE UNCERTAINTY

Emplas endorses ERA’s commitment to an excellent customer experience

Emplas, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of PVCu and composite doors, has confirmed a new hardware partnership with ERA, the home security and fenestration specialist, as it rolls out enhanced product ranges.

The Northamptonshire-based fabricator, which has served the trade for over 45 years, selected ERA’s Fab&Fix Classic suite to be fitted as standard across a selection of its doors. Emplas cited the range’s performance, aesthetic flexibility, and a 10-year guarantee against mechanical and weather degradation as decisive factors.

The collaboration follows years of intermittent bespoke development work between the two companies, but marks the most extensive integration to date. Emplas opted for seven colour variants across key hardware components – including Nu Mail letterplates, Balmoral handles, knockers and numerals – to align with rising consumer demand for personalisation and durable

finish options.

Sales Director Jody Vincent noted that installer feedback has already been “hugely positive,” highlighting the quality and choice of the ERA products as well as the strength of the manufacturer’s support package. “This was a huge project involving cross-department collaboration,” Vincent said. “ERA’s customer service and technical

responsiveness have ensured a smooth transition.”

The partnership extends well beyond product supply. ERA has also provided Emplas with a bespoke marketing suite including branded showroom materials, digital assets, and colour swatches – all designed to help installers promote the new range with confidence.

David Clewlow, Technical Sales Manager at ERA, said the collaboration exemplified the benefits of early and open partnership. “We’ve built an honest, hands-on relationship with Emplas, which has allowed us to respond quickly and deliver results that benefit both installers and end-users.”

The move underlines Emplas’ ongoing investment in product quality and its responsiveness to installer and homeowner expectations – as competition in the fenestration sector intensifies around service, sustainability and system performance.

Future Products join forces with Veka to enhance product portfolio

VEKA plc is proud to announce the start of a new partnership with Future Products Ltd, the Mansfield-based manufacturer and trade supplier of PVC-U windows, doors, composite doors, and conservatories. With over 30 years’ experience delivering quality home improvement products to the trade, Future Products has made the exciting decision to enhance its portfolio by adopting Veka’s industry-leading M70 system and the innovative OMNIA suite.

This development signals a significant leap forward in Future Products’ product offering, enabling them to meet growing market demand for advanced thermal efficiency, modern aesthetics, and versatility across both new build and replacement sectors.

The Veka M70 system, recognised for its superior thermal performance and energy efficiency, is widely considered one of the top-performing PVC-U systems in the market. Its clean bevelled design and impressive multi-chamber profile make it ideal for fabricators looking to deliver sustainability without compromising on style.

Meanwhile, OMNIA, the award-winning innovation from Veka, stands as the industry’s first full suite of double flush windows and doors. Built on the M70 core, OMNIA combines contemporary double flush aesthetics with robust weather performance and exceptional build qualityproviding Future Products with an improved product offering for their future plans.

Chris Thompson, sales director at Future Products Ltd, commented on the partnership: “Choosing Veka as one of our systems partners was a strategic decision based on product performance, innovation, and the outstanding level of support they provide. The M70 and OMNIA systems give us access to some of the most advanced profiles in the industry - enabling us to offer even greater value to our customers.

We’ve been thoroughly impressed not just by the quality of the systems, but by the true partnership Veka brings to the table. From technical support and product development to marketing collaboration and commercial alignment, Veka delivers a complete package. We’re also excited to be working closely with them on a range of bespoke solutions, which we look forward to

unveiling in the near future.”

Tim Taylor, commercial director at Veka, shared his enthusiasm for the new collaboration: “We’re thrilled to welcome Future Products into the Veka family. Their reputation for quality and reliability aligns perfectly with our own values, and we are excited they’ve chosen to place their trust in our systems. We look forward to supporting them every step of the way. The partnership reaffirms Veka’s commitment to long-term collaboration with UK fabricators, unlocking new opportunities with high-performance, future-proof systems.”

As Future Products prepares to launch their Veka-based product range, customers can expect even greater choice, performance, and design flexibility in the months ahead.

Dudley’s Aluminium powers towards net zero with major solar installation

Fabricator Dudley’s Aluminium has taken a significant step towards net zero at its Cardiff site. The firm partnered with Inspire Green, a renewable energy company serving south Wales and south-west England, to install 192 high-efficiency solar panels on its production facility, as well as solar electric vehicle charging technology.

The system will help Dudley’s Aluminium decarbonise their operations, reducing emissions from electricity generation by 77% and will supply approximately 60% of the site’s electricity going forward. The installation supports the fabricator’s net zero aspirations by saving 17.15 tonnes of CO2 annually.

This latest move follows the introduction of hybrid company cars in 2024 as part of the fabricator’s corporate carbon reduction policy.

Pablo Shorney, Finance Director of Dudley’s Aluminium, said: “As part of a carbon intensive sector, it is vital that we take steps to reduce our emissions and manufacture our solutions sustainably. In addition to complying with green requirements within the supply chain and working on projects targeting excellent sustainability standards, we are proactively decarbonising our operations through a range of measures.

“It has been great to work with Inspire Green on the successful solar installation on site which will make a significant impact on

our journey to net zero.”

Josh Powell, Founder of Inspire Green, said: “We’re incredibly proud to support a local business like Dudley’s Aluminium on their net zero journey and to play our part in building a more sustainable future.”

Since 1993, Dudley’s Aluminium has offered clients full in-house design and production facilities, completing many successful and prestigious projects within

the education, health, commercial, retail, residential and defence sectors throughout the UK and Channel Islands.

Dudley’s reputation for quality has been recognised with several industry-related accreditations. The company is CHAS accredited, Constructionline registered, and BM Trada certified to manufacture enhanced security products to align with PAS24:2016 and BS 4873.

Window Supply Company achieves Living Wage accreditation

Leading West Lothian based window and door manufacturers Window Supply Company (WSC) has demonstrated its commitment to employees by becoming Living Wage accredited. With over 190 members of staff throughout the business’s head office, manufacturing, and trade counter operations, WSC joins over 15,000 businesses across the UK paying the real Living Wage.

The real Living Wage is a voluntary wage rate independently calculated by economists at the Resolution Foundation on behalf of the Living Wage Foundation. The real Living Wage is based solely on the cost of living to account for essentials like housing, food, and travel but also small discretionary expenses that allow for a decent standard of living. The real Living wage is paid by employers who voluntarily commit to go further than the government national living wage to make sure all staff can earn enough to live on.

The real Living Wage is paid to all employees over 18 and currently stands at £12.60 per hour across the UK and £13.85 per hour in London to reflect the city’s higher living costs. It is paid by over 15,000 employers who want to ensure their staff can live with dignity and security.

Duncan Murray, CEO WSC says “As a responsible employer, we want to demonstrate our commitment to our excellent team who are the driving force behind this business. This commitment applies not only to directly employed staff, but also our third party contracted staff. By becoming a member of the National Living

Wage Foundation, our team can earn a wage that they can live on - because their wages are kept at pace with the cost of living. It is extremely important to us to achieve this accreditation, not only showing our support for the initiative, but perhaps encourage others in our sector to follow suit’

WSC employee benefits package also includes life insurance, pension contribution, shopping perks, Health and wellness and access to 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.

NW Rooftech’s Aluna sliders lead the charge in next-gen fenestration

NW Rooftech is reinforcing its reputation as a key player in the UK’s fenestration market with the continued success of its Aluna Sliding Doors — an aluminium system that combines contemporary design with technical sophistication to meet evolving residential and commercial demands.

Aluna Sliders exemplify a shift in architectural glazing, where performance, aesthetics and functionality converge. With ultra-slim 25mm interlocks and sash sizes up to 2.5m wide by 2.7m high, the system delivers expansive views, enhanced natural light, and seamless transitions between interior and exterior spaces. It’s a product designed for modern living, where visual impact must coexist with energy efficiency and security.

“The market has moved on from clunky, outdated patio doors,” says Andy Ingman, CEO of NW Rooftech. “Homeowners and developers now expect high-end, low-maintenance solutions that don’t compromise on design or performance. Aluna delivers on all fronts.”

Built with marine-grade aluminium, the system is engineered to withstand coastal and high-exposure conditions, while thermally broken frames and highperformance glazing push U-values down to 1.4 W/m2K. Acoustic insulation and PAS24-

rated security add to its residential and commercial appeal, particularly in noisesensitive or urban environments.

NW Rooftech offers the doors in a range of configurations — including monorail, inline, and lift-and-slide — with soft-close technology and robust weatherproofing as standard. This adaptability has made Aluna a go-to for architects and installers seeking flexibility without compromising durability.

The product’s strong performance credentials reflect broader market trends.

According to industry analysts, the UK’s aluminium doors and windows sector is

expected to grow steadily through 2025, driven by rising energy standards, demand for low-carbon materials, and consumer preference for minimalist design.

With Aluna, NW Rooftech is not just responding to these trends — it is helping define them. “We’re proud to offer sliding systems that meet the highest standards,” Ingman adds. “Our aim is simple: to lead the market with fenestration that’s built for the future.”

Tel: 01704 222 707

E: info@nwrooftech.co.uk

Warwick North West MD shares leadership insights at the FIT Show

Greg Johnson, MD of G-Award Fabricator of the Year Warwick North West, participated in a thought-provoking panel discussion on entrepreneurship and leadership at the 2025 FIT Show.

The discussion examined business management in the fenestration industry and had a particular focus on taking the reins of family businesses, an experience Greg, Ryan, and Stuart all shared.

Greg spoke openly about his personal journey, which saw him starting on Warwick’s factory floor and progressing through the company until he eventually stepped into the director’s role in 2021. He recounted the challenges he faced introducing new ways of working to help modernise the business.

During the 45-minute panel, Greg highlighted Warwick’s innovative approach to the industry-wide skills shortage by focusing on company culture, which has helped boost staff retention to over 90%.

He also shared an anecdote about how his vision for the business differed from his father’s: “My father used to ask our employees what they did at Warwick. New

starters would always say ‘windows’, which isn’t wrong, but this isn’t what he meant. He wanted to show them that their role contributed to the success of the business, so he would say that, yes, they make windows, but importantly, they were there to make a profit.

When I took over as MD, I wanted to take that messaging a step further. I wanted to show the team that we make windows, we make profit, and we make a real difference to our local community.

This philosophy has guided everything we do. As a business owner, I’m passionate about making real change in our community, which is why we’ve donated £25,000 to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, partnered with organisations that create employment opportunities for ex-offenders and disadvantaged young people, and appointed our own dedicated Social Value Manager.’’

is something he would like to see more of, helping to showcase the good in the industry.

Greg continued to state that this kind of charitable, community-led leadership

A key message from Greg was encouraging leaders to have courage with the choices they make for their business. “You should be brave and bold in your decisions. Even if there is some doubt or you feel cautious, taking that leap is what makes an entrepreneur.’’

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Designed to revolutionise production insight, Stuga’s new dashboard delivers precision control, sharper visibility, and operational finesse

Smarter data tools boost factory efficiency

Stuga Machinery is finalising a new dual-platform dashboard system, developed to give fabricators unprecedented visibility over production performance. Technical Director, Gareth Green, explains why this is a gamechanger for operational efficiency

Over the last 12 months, we’ve made some major changes at Stuga – not just in how we support our machines, but in how we support our customers. But what we are about to launch is one of the most exciting projects we’ve ever undertaken: a new dual-platform dashboard system designed to give fabricators better visibility, insight and control over their operations than ever before.

And I don’t say that lightly. At FIT Show this year, the reaction from visitors who really understand manufacturing data was one of genuine enthusiasm. We heard a lot of “no one else is doing this” – which is exactly where we want to be.

Two platforms, one purpose

We’re developing two interlinked systems. The first, StugaConnect, is a customer portal created by Stuga that provides asset-specific information and support for every Stuga and Stürtz machine on site. Users can access technical documentation, track parts orders, monitor service issues, and view upcoming maintenance visits – all in one place.

The second system is where things really get interesting. It’s called StürtzCloud – a production dashboard that gives realtime feedback from across the factory floor, whether that’s from our machinery or another supplier. Already widely used in Europe and the US, this will be its first introduction to the UK window industry.

What makes the system different?

StürtzCloud isn’t just another dashboard. It’s a full operational efficiency tracking system built specifically for fenestration. It captures real-time data from machines, measuring performance against throughput targets and factoring in shift patterns, break times and cycle times. You don’t need to be a data analyst to understand it – green means you’re ahead, red means you’re behind. It’s visual, instant and actionable.

Crucially, this system helps fabricators measure their Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) and identify faults or downtime events that are impacting performance. It’s not just about knowing

What we are about to launch is one of the most exciting projects we’ve ever undertaken. “ “

something’s gone wrong – it’s about knowing why, how often and what to do about it.

For example, if a gripper fault is flagged three times a day, that’s potentially an hour of lost output. That’s time you can reclaim with the right data at your fingertips. Since the information comes straight from the machines, it removes the guesswork and subjectivity that can creep in when issues are reported manually – you’re working with facts.

Designed for manufacturers, not IT teams

Other dashboard tools exist, but they’re generic and not built for this industry. In most cases, you’d need a specialised team to configure them and hook up the right data points. What we’re offering is a readymade solution built around fenestration workflows – backed by our UK-based support team.

It’s also simple to use. Whether you’re a production manager reviewing performance or an operator checking a single machine’s status, everything is intuitive and up to the second. No more walking the shop floor to manually log data – just real-time insight that drives smarter decisions.

What does this mean for the industry?

In a word: efficiency. Fabricators are under pressure to do more with less – less labour, less downtime, less waste. By giving them visibility over their production line in a way that’s never been done before, we’re helping them focus their efforts where it matters most.

There’s also a long-term gain. As more customers use the system, we’ll have aggregated data that helps us – and Stürtz – spot patterns, refine machine design and make improvements that benefit everyone. At Stuga, we’ve always believed that machinery is just the beginning. True value comes from how well equipment is supported, serviced and optimised over time. These new systems are the next step in that journey. They won’t just help fabricators run a tighter ship – they’ll help the entire industry raise its game.

Tel: 01493 742 348 www.stuga.co.uk

Neil Parton, Managing Director of Elumatec UK, explains

why the best fabricators think like system designers

System thinking shapes fabrication success

In today’s competitive market, the most successful fabricators aren’t just investing in great machines — they’re designing entire systems. They think beyond specs and price points. They think in terms of work ow, data ow, serviceability, and scalability. And increasingly, they expect their machinery partners to think that way too.

It’s a mindset shift that we at elumatec have been championing for years — and perhaps one reason why we’ve been fortunate enough to be shortlisted once again in the National Fenestration Awards, including a nod for Best Machinery Company and our new SBZ 145 CNC being recognised in the Best New Product category.

But this piece isn’t about awards. It’s about how manufacturers can get the most from their capital investments — and how system thinking is fast becoming a competitive edge.

Beyond the machine: The fabrication ecosystem

When we visit customers — whether they’re replacing a single piece of equipment or planning a full factory upgrade — the rst conversation is never about the machine itself. It’s about what they’re trying to achieve. Are they looking to cut lead times? Reduce errors? Create capacity for growth without growing headcount? Add exibility to respond to new products or pro les?

The reality is, no machine lives in isolation. It touches operators, software, upstream and downstream processes, and often, legacy equipment. The bestperforming businesses understand that every investment has a ripple e ect across the factory.

This is where system thinking comes in. Instead of slotting new equipment into an old setup, these rms zoom out. They treat machinery as part of a bigger ecosystem — and they bring in partners who can help design that ecosystem to perform.

Designing for e ciency, not just output

Take work ow, for example. We’ve worked with customers who realised that recon guring the layout of just two machines reduced handling time by over 20%. Not because the machines ran faster, but because people moved less. Similarly, integrating transport solutions like bar coding or conveyor handling — often seen as “add-ons” — can transform a bottleneck

into a high-throughput zone.

Then there’s serviceability. A cheaper machine might save money on day one, but if it’s hard to maintain or needs regular manual calibration, it can bleed time and pro t over years. System-minded fabricators weigh these factors. They ask: how easy is it to keep running? How fast is the support response? What’s the cost of downtime? They understand that the true ROI of a machine isn’t in a brochure — it’s in the uptime over ve, ten, or fteen years.

The role of data and integration

Another major shift we’re seeing is the growing importance of connectivity. Even small- to mid-size fabricators are starting to demand machines that can integrate seamlessly with software platforms, ERP systems, and other production technologies.

doesn’t end when a crate is delivered and unwrapped. It begins much earlier — in those early design conversations — and it extends well beyond installation, into optimisation, training, and continuous improvement.

The fabricators who get the best longterm value from their investments are the ones who demand this kind of partnership. They expect challenge, collaboration, and commitment. They want a machinery provider who brings ideas, not just brochures.

And that suits us perfectly.

Final thoughts

The demands on fenestration fabricators in 2025 are higher than ever — faster turnarounds, tighter margins, more complex product specs, and fewer people to get it all done.

This isn’t just about automation — it’s about insight. Fabricators want to know which stations are underperforming, when tools need replacing, how e ciently raw materials are being used. And crucially, they want that data in real time. Machines that are “data-silent” are fast becoming liabilities.

A partner, not a pusher

There’s no silver bullet. But there is a better approach.

With this in mind, we’ve engineered our CNC solutions with connectivity and future integration in mind. It’s not just about what it can do today, but what it will be ready for tomorrow.

raw materials are being used. And what it will be ready for tomorrow. “supplier.” Yes, we build world-

At elumatec, we’ve always resisted the label of being just a “supplier.” Yes, we build worldclass machines. But our role

— and working with partners who share that mindset — forwardthinking fabricators are creating

By thinking like system designers — and working with partners who share that mindset — forwardthinking fabricators are creating smarter, leaner, and more resilient operations. They’re not just buying machines. They’re building platforms for future success.

machines. They’re building success.

And if the past few years have shown us anything, it’s that those who plan holistically are the ones who come out ahead — awards or no awards.

And if the past few who plan holistically are the ones who come out

Our growth means we’ve accelerated our ability to help our customers take on tough frame manufacturing challenges, and find the solutions that work. Consult | Tooling | Machinery | Bespoke

jade-eng.co.uk

Automation isn’t optional — it’s the power move. Ha ner’s insight proves smart investments redefine productivity for future fabrication

Smarter fabrication starts with automation

Boosting productivity is a key target for many fabricators. And, as Matt Thomas, Managing Director at Ha ner, explains, automation is always the solution. Plus, when you make the right investment, improved productivity isn’t the only bene t you secure.

The conversations we were having at the FIT Show proved beyond doubt something we’d been noticing for some time. Current economic and workforce pressures mean that investing in productivity gains is increasingly seen as an essential step, not an optional extra.

It’s why the Ha ner Machinery Village at this year’s FIT Show was busier than ever.

Because as the fabricators who came to our stand already knew, automation is the single biggest step you take towards achieving productivity gains. They were arriving with clear machinery plans in mind, and we had more fabricators place orders at the show than ever before. Others were keen to have an initial conversation and book a follow-up consultation appointment.

The Ha ner Machinery Village had three areas, one for each of our machinery groups: Ha ner, Fom Industrie and Graf Synergy. Together, they demonstrated our collective machinery solutions and the power of our collaborative strength.

All three areas were busy, but one in particular stood out: the Graf Synergy area. The name is synonymous with the V Perfect seamless weld. Visitors were impressed by the nish quality it delivers, and we secured multiple orders as a direct result.

The reason Graf Synergy is so popular at the moment is because it delivers the next generation of automation.

Automation solutions have existed for many years, and they deliver consistently outstanding quality, productivity and e ciency gains that help protect the bottom line. Continuous development in the technology means they’re getting better all the time, too.

Advanced automation solutions deliver all those bene ts, but it’s the quality where they really impress. As a result, they don’t just protect the bottom line. The di erence in nish they deliver means they also drive a competitive advantage by taking quality to a whole new level.

Graf’s seamless welds lift feature-rich products by perfecting the weld and truly giving the appearance of a traditional mechanical joint. They also lift mass market products, giving you a way to di erentiate your o ering in a crowded market.

The di erence that Graf Synergy machinery can bring is something that leading trade fabricator John Fredericks Plastics understands very well. The team recently chose to invest in a Graf Synergy SLS Single Head CNC Cill Welder because it would help them boost output, save time and increase the quality for which they are renowned.

The compact machine has a small footprint that saves space on the factory oor. It’s versatile and can be used on pro les coated with any lm or foil, including painted PVC.

Productivity is boosted because only one operator is needed. Plus, all pro le tolerances are automatically measured and recalibrated before welding, further boosting e ciency and reducing wastage.

Then there’s next-level quality. Like all Graf Synergy machines, the Cill Welder produces a perfect seamless weld that delivers an outstanding visual nish. It’s also free of excess sprue, which eliminates the need for sanding and polishing plain white cills and removes the need for penning in, further saving production time and improving fabrication e ciencies.

Alan Barnard, Factory Director for John Fredericks, summed up the di erence the machine will bring when he said: “The Graf Synergy Cill Welder will signi cantly increase our production output and consistently deliver a seamless, high-quality weld that will complement our Ultimate Collection™ product range.”

Ha ner has been a trusted machinery supplier to the fenestration industry since 1990. In our time, we’ve seen more and more advances in what automation can deliver, and embedded automated solutions in fabrication set-ups of all shapes and sizes to help drive productivity and e ciency. Right now, we see there are huge opportunities for fabricators who invest in the next generation of machinery that Graf Synergy o ers because it brings all the traditional bene ts of automation and so much more.  www.ha

THE MACHINE IS JUST THE START

It’s the service that keeps things moving

A Stuga service contract gives you the following key benefits:

• Stuga & Stürtz specialists

• Priority access, callouts & technical support

• UK-wide support

• Preventative maintenance

• Remote diagnostics

– all resulting in increased lifespan of the machine and reduced downtime.

Join our customers across the UK and ROI who are spending less and benefitting more from Stuga aftersales support.

Sawing & machining | Welding | Cleaning | Handling & logistics

Project management | Consultancy | UK service & support | Spares & consumables

01493 742348

service@stuga.co.uk

stuga.co.uk Scan here for more information

Noise reduction and soundproofing have emerged as key machinery trends, according to Emmegi UK’s Wayne Hunter

Setting new standards in noise reduction

One of the biggest trends to emerge in machinery over the last couple of years is noise reduction and soundproo ng. We’re seeing an increasing number of machines being speci ed with roofs or sound proofed cabins, and we’re getting requests for retro tting as well as new machine orders.

It’s obviously a positive indicator of how seriously the industry takes the welfare of its fabrication teams, and an example of the steps responsible employers have to take in order to recruit and retain valuable sta . However, we’re also hearing reports of an increased focus by HSE inspectors on noise levels and a growing willingness to penalise companies who are failing.

Anyone who works in a production environment knows they can be noisy places – but the Control of Noise at Work Regulations that have been in place for two decades have gone a long way to protect sta .

The rules now state that where prolonged noise levels are 80dB or above – equivalent to the sound of a vacuum cleaner – hearing protection must be provided on request. For 85dB – which is more like the sound of a food blender – hearing protection must be worn at all times, and the maximum legal limit for prolonged exposure is 87dB – which is similar to a noisy power drill.

Factory acoustics obviously vary massively depending on the characteristics of the environment, other noise sources,

the number of machines in use and other adjacent work processes. There is a correlation between emission and exposure levels which has to be used to determine whether further precautions are required. As a general guide though, if you need to shout to someone who is 2 metres away for them to be able to hear you, then you probably need to take action and, if you need to shout to someone who is 1 metre away, then you’re probably above the legal noise limit.

There are no particular noise concerns around any of the machines in the Emmegi (UK) range, but fabricators are still increasingly appreciating the bene ts in both personnel and productivity terms that come from reducing any machinery noise to

the absolute minimum.

One of the most obvious things you can do to keep noise levels down is to keep machines well maintained and regularly serviced. Replacing router cutters and saw blades regularly will certainly have some impact.

Over and above that though, you can invest in acoustic hoods and soundproofed cabinets for our range of double mitre saws and CNC machining centres, which will contain the noise.

In recent months, we have seen a notable rise in customer orders. For example, we have supplied a fully enclosed Precision T2 double mitre saw to commercial specialists Avdon in Bristol and, at the same time, added an acoustic roof to their existing T3A CNC machine.

And All Glass Systems in Telford also ordered an acoustic roof for their existing Phantomatic T3A CNC when they ordered their new Phantomatic M4L and Classic E double mitre saw.

There are lots of other recent examples of new machines supplied recently which included sound proof cabinets as well. For instance, AMS ordered two Phantomatic T3As with hoods, NGS ordered one T3A, Britplas ordered a Comet X6 HP and a Comet X4 with cabinets and Precision Windows ordered a Comet X4.

Tel: 02476 676192

E: whunter@emmegi.com

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Smart, strategic, and quietly powerful — maintenance mastery cuts downtime, lowers costs, and keeps your factory floor running smoothly

Broken machines break profit margins

Regular maintenance and tooling checks are a quiet superpower on the factory floor. Keeping on top of repairs can save you time and money, lessening the chance of a catastrophic breakdown. Having a proper procedure in place also ensures compliance with safety and legal obligations.

The quiet before the storm

That pleasant white noise of everything ticking along just nicely; the sound as the machines hum and parts move in motion, the chatter of skilled hands and the obligatory factory floor banter. Behind the sound is something quieter and often goes unnoticed – neglected maintenance.

The ‘old adage’- if it’s not broke don’t fix it - is not always true. At first any changes will be subtle, picked up by quality control or, even worse, by customers in complaints and product recalls. Leading to eventual machine downtime that nobody planned for and, subsequent missed deadlines, escalating costs and unhappy customers. It’s only natural to think about fixing things when something breaks, but this mindset costs businesses thousands in lost time and output. Machines require regular maintenance to keep them performing at their best. When maintenance slips everything else suffers - product quality, throughput, team morale, and your bottom line.

Telltale tool tipoffs

What are your tools trying to tell you before everything goes wrong? Look out for telltale signs of tooling wear – the ultimate tipoff. When a tooling light flashes and it’s overridden (‘not that again’), then you

are at risk of rerunning batches, missing tolerances, or worse, creating costly damage to the machine itself. Tooling wear is comparable to tyre tread, if you ignore it for too long things will come apart when you least expect it, leading to a bigger repair bill – bearings, belts, motors and overtime to catchup on missed deliveries.

Poor product quality is the first casualty Products might pass the ‘eye test’ but fail quality assurance later, as tolerances slip, surfaces degrade, and customers start complaining. Then, production inefficiencies lead to slower cycle times, more scrap and extra energy use, affecting unit costs and therefore profit margins.

More than a watchful eye

Machine maintenance is more than just a watchful eye looking out for warning lights. Pay attention when:

• Cycle times start dragging

• The machine sounds louder or rougher than usual

• Surface finishes start to look inconsistent

• You’re getting more reruns than usual

• There’s unexpected heat where it shouldn’t be

It’s easy to dismiss these signs as ‘normal’ when the change is subtle, but short-term ignorance leads to long-term expense. Replacing tooling at the right moment can save you money later-on, replacing a seized spindle versus scrapping 10 orders.

Jade Consult: The Maintenance Whisperers

This is where experts like Adam Jones and Sean Mackey from Jade Consult come in, who spent years walking factory floors, speaking with operators, and discovering what’s really going on behind the control

panels. Their expertise? Spotting the patterns that others often miss and building maintenance strategies that work in the real world.

“We’re not here to sell you a one-sizefits-all approach,” says Sean. “Every factory has different machines, pressures, and pain points. We aim to build protocols around how you work, individually, not what a textbook says.”

“In reality, maintenance may take 30 minutes to a full day, but it prevents costly unplanned breakdowns that can halt production for days. It’s fact that manufacturers can lose up to 20% of production time annually due to avoidable downtime.”

Whether it’s helping a business move from reactive to preventative maintenance or determining the right moment to retire a worn-out tool before it takes something else down with it, Jade Consult’s approach is all about what is practical, predictable, and the long-term associated savings.

Their work goes beyond the machines too. They’ll look at training gaps, production data, safety and even how your team reports any faults. And with ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) standards rising, it’s a priority for manufacturers of all sizes to stay ahead on sustainability too. Wellmaintained machines use less energy, produce less waste, and last longer lessening their overall carbon footprint.

A planned maintenance schedule should also include a safety and risk assessment by implementing processes like Lockout/ Tagout (LOTO), which prevent machines from starting during repairs, thereby protecting workers and equipment. Though LOTO adds a few minutes, it’s vital for safety and legal compliance.

Make maintenance a strategy

Too often, maintenance is treated like an overhead instead of an investment. But in competitive manufacturing environments, ‘being reliable’ is a clear advantage. A clean, consistent maintenance plan helps you hit deadlines, maintain quality, and keep costs predictable. It also boosts morale because no one likes working on equipment that feels like failure is imminent.

So next time your tooling light blinks, don’t ignore it. Take it as the tap on the shoulder that it’s meant to be. Because your machines are crying out for help and, with the right support, like that from Jade Consult, you’ll know exactly when to act.

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Yale Expands Smart Security with SensCheck™ Compatible

Door and Window Locks.

Introducing the next generation of Yale SensCheck™. We’ve expanded our smart security solutions to cover multiple entry points around the home. Whether it’s a front door, bifold doors, PVCu windows, or an aluminium window our sensors ensure that homes stay connected, updated, and protected.

Yale now offers SensCheck™ sensors that work with our compatible range of Yale AutoEngage, Lockmaster, and Mantis door locks, and Yale Shootbolt, Rapide, and Mustang window locks - keeping every corner of the home secure. Monitoring the status of doors and windows from anywhere at any time via the Yale Smart Living Alarm app.

Stay Connected, Stay Updated, Stay Protected.

For more information contact us at marketing@yaledws.co.uk

Tradeglaze enhances production with advanced welding technology, reinforcing growth strategy in its 30th year of trading

New welders form part of strategic growth plan

East Midlands glazing specialist Tradeglaze has expanded its manufacturing capabilities with the installation of three advanced welding machines, marking a new chapter in its ongoing investment strategy. The move reinforces the company’s commitment to efficiency, precision and customer service as it celebrates its 30th anniversary this year.

The latest acquisition—comprising the WSA1E-L Wegoma Single Head Reverse Butt Welder, the WSA4UNI Wegoma 4 Head Inline Turret Welder, and the WSA4LVE Wegoma Quad Welder—represents a significant six-figure investment. Supplied by Avantek Machinery, a Quanex company, the new equipment is expected to reduce production times and enhance output quality, enabling Tradeglaze to meet growing demand across bespoke and large-scale projects with greater flexibility and consistency. The welders also offer advanced automation features, helping to streamline operations and improve the durability of finished products.

This expansion follows more than £500,000 invested over the past two years into PVC-U, aluminium and glass production at the company’s 13,000 ft² manufacturing facility in Lincoln. “We are always looking ahead, anticipating customer needs, and equipping our teams with the best tools and training to exceed customer expectations,” said Jeremy Wetherall, Managing Director. “The latest investment in our welding process elevates our standards to yet another

level, meaning even stronger, flawless corner joints for our customers’ projects.”

The company’s robust start to 2025 has not been limited to machinery. Tradeglaze has also invested in people and premises, appointing five new staff members to bolster its customer support function. Training and professional development remain central to the business’s operations, with all employees participating in continuous upskilling and mentoring programmes. This approach reflects a long-standing belief that innovation must be matched by a skilled, motivated workforce to deliver sustainable results.

In a further show of confidence in its product range, the firm recently unveiled a newly remodelled showroom, offering full-scale displays of its award-winning windows, doors and architectural glazing. Designed to surpass current building regulations, the products emphasise thermal performance, security and aesthetic appeal. Customers visiting the showroom can now interact with fully functioning installations, helping them to visualise end results and make more informed decisions.

“The UK window and door industry is navigating one of its most challenging trading periods in a generation,” said Wetherall. “We continue to invest in technology, product innovation, systems, and our people. No matter what challenges arise in our industry or in the UK economy, we are always here, with quality and service our customers can

rely on.”

As Tradeglaze celebrtes its 30th year of trading, the latest investment signals a clear intent: to build on its legacy through sustained innovation, operational excellence and customer-focused growth. With strategic planning, targeted investment and a firm emphasis on quality, the company is well-positioned to navigate industry headwinds and maintain its leading role in the regional construction and home improvement sectors.

www.tradeglaze.co.uk

Smart, seamless, and future-focused—3E’s 3E-LOOK redefines window production with elegant automation and flawless connectivity

End-to-end processes with maximum efficiency

The southern German software provider 3E Datentechnik GmbH is setting standards in digital window production with its 3E-LOOK platform. The flexible solution enables end-to-end digitalisation and automation of processes - from quotation, planning, production to delivery and installation. Connectivity, interfaces and seamless connection to third-party systems ensure greater efficiency, lower costs and a futureproof IT landscape for the customer.

More efficient processes thanks to integrated web configurators

An impressive example of the networking of processes and the resulting benefits is the ability to call up web configurators or online ordering platforms directly from the 3E-LOOK window design software. This means that various elements such as infills, aluminium shells, safety barriers, roller shutter boxes and shading elements can be conveniently configured during window order entry.

When entering an item in 3E-LOOK, users call up the manufacturer’s configurator online and enter the required element in the external system. The texts, graphics and prices of the element are then transferred to the 3E-LOOK item. These can be output on quotations, order confirmations, reports and documents. The configured elements can be ordered directly from 3E-LOOK. The entire process enables more efficient order processing for both the customer

and the manufacturer and is further proof of how everyone involved benefits from digitalisation through cooperation.

These are the configurators currently available in 3E-LOOK (in alphabetical order):

Shading: ALUKON - BECK & HEUNGROWE / ROLTEX - HELLA - ROMA - STEMESEDER - WAREMA

Infills: ADECO - OBUK - RODENBERG

Safety barriers: GUTMANN

The integration of the online ordering platforms of the companies Duotherm and Schlotterer is currently in progress.

Stay future-proof with end-to-end digital solutions

Digital transformation brings many benefits through networking, as demonstrated by the integration of web configurators for accessories, which makes

data entry easier and saves valuable time. Integrated materials management significantly improves the procurement process by partially automating processes with suppliers. Digital document exchange offers full transparency, thereby reducing the workload for the purchasing department. Furthermore, material resources can be planned and controlled in the best possible way, throughput times and stock levels can be reduced.

Mobile solutions allow processes on the construction site or at the customer’s premises to be fully integrated. Field staff can access and collect information on site without having to check back with the office and can transfer it to the system without paperwork or loss of time. Information is thus transferred quickly and, above all, reliably to the ERP system. A sophisticated status management system ensures that upto-date information is available throughout the system.

Setting the course for the future with 3E-LOOK

End-to-end digital, automated processes and networking ensure smooth data flow and reduce manual effort. The technologically leading window design software 3E-LOOK not only ensures greater efficiency in window construction but also creates the basis for sustainable success and long-term competitiveness.

www.3e-it.com

Strategic growth and customer-led innovation unite as Forterro powers the next chapter in BM Group’s future-focused journey

Backing the businesses building tomorrow

When Forterro acquired the BM Group at the start of the year, it was a new name to many in this industry. However, Forterro, whose stated mission is ‘powering the businesses powering the future’, is a significant player in the European software market. It is focused entirely on the industrial midmarket, providing support and software for more than 25,000 industrial businesses. In fact, Forterro has just been named Tech Company of the Year at the prestigious National Technology Awards.

Forterro in figures:

• 40+ office locations throughout Europe

• More than 20 industrial software solutions

• 2500 people in total – 700 in fenestration

• €330m in revenues in 2024

• Five strategic acquisitions in 2024, including BM Group, Orgadata and AI start-up Prodaso

It is Forterro’s focus on specialised, future-proof software solutions for local markets that make it a perfect fit for BM. Like BM, Forterro products are designed to strengthen and accelerate customers’ ability to operate efficiently and compete effectively.

Prior to the acquisition of BM, Forterro also acquired Orgadata, the company behind BM Aluminium’s LogiKal software, and together they are now part of a new line of business within Forterro focused on windows, doors and facades.

Nick Bailey, Team Leader for Sales at BM, has been quick to reassure customers

in the UK that both the acquisition and the creation of a new line of business within Forterro are wholly positive. He said: “As we reported at the FIT Show, Forterro’s strength in R&D and tighter integration within the teams means product development for the UK market will be quicker and at a scale not seen before.

“That’s good news for customers using LogiKal and particularly for users of our ground breaking TOUCH platform. We certainly expect to be able to speed up the roll out of TOUCH to even more UK fabricators, as well as making it an even more comprehensive offering.

“As you’d expect, a huge amount of work is happening behind the scenes to determine our future product strategy and development, but it will certainly enhance our existing offering and help support our customers’ growth alongside ours.”

As an example, BM Aluminium is already rolling out the LogiKal MES (Manufacturing Execution System), allowing fabricators to digitise their factories and move to fully paperless operations. LogiKal MES displays real-time order status, errors and solutions on an integrated dashboardgiving fabricators full visibility of their production so that they can respond quickly to deviations and optimise their efficiency. Details of the first LogiKal MES installations in the UK will be released soon.

Nick added: “We’ll be making more announcements about new products and features in the coming months, as well as identifying further opportunities for cross selling products which we can see have applications in this market.”

Forterro is accelerating its focus on cloud solutions in response to the growing adoption of cloud technology amongst its industrial midmarket customers. In 2024, sales of Forterro’s cloud-based products increased by 177%. The company recently announced a strategic partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS), enabling customers to rapidly deploy Forterro applications through a cloud platform that leverages the reliability, security and scalability of AWS.

Forterro’s ERP solutions, warehouse management systems (WMS) and material requirement planning (MRP) applications, could also have applications in this industry.

Nick added: “Forterro has already stated that its focus is on driving digitalisation and automation within the doors and windows market, and it certainly has the expertise and the product range to be able to deliver that. BM and Orgadata are strong and trusted brands in this sector and the acquisition by Forterro only strengthens our offering.” https://www.thebmgroup.co.uk/

Lynx is the ultimate AI-powered CRM designed to help installation businesses and trade counters work smarter, not harder

The smartest way to manage your business

In today’s competitive market, businesses need more than just hard work—they need smart solutions that streamline operations, enhance customer engagement, and drive revenue growth. Lynx is the ultimate AI-powered CRM designed to help installation businesses and trade counters work smarter, not harder. From lead conversion to invoicing, Lynx simplifies every step of the process, allowing businesses to focus on what truly matters: delivering exceptional service and growing their bottom line.

Convert more leads, increase revenue

Speed is everything when securing new customers. Lynx’s AI-enhanced CRM enables businesses to quote faster than competitors, ensuring prospects receive timely and professional proposals. With instant access to customer details, notes, and tasks, sales teams can nurture leads effectively and close deals with confidence. Managing customer interactions, job documents, and schedules can be overwhelming. Lynx centralises all essential business functions into one intuitive platform, reducing administrative workload and eliminating costly errors. Whether tracking customer inquiries or managing fitting schedules, Lynx keeps everything organized and accessible.

Engage customers with two-way SMS and extranet

Communication is a cornerstone of customer satisfaction, yet many businesses overlook simple yet powerful tools that enhance engagement. Lynx’s two-way SMS messaging allows businesses to instantly connect with customers, providing quick updates, confirmations, and reminders— all without the friction of email delays or missed calls. This direct approach fosters trust and improves response times.

The Extranet feature adds another layer of convenience, giving customers access to proposal documents, invoices, and schedules via a secure portal. Rather than chasing updates or searching for lost paperwork, customers can log in at their convenience, creating a seamless and professional experience. These features are often underutilized, yet they offer a unique opportunity to differentiate your business with efficient, transparent communication.

Time-consuming tasks like invoicing, job costing, and document filing can drain productivity. Lynx’s AI-driven automation reduces data entry by up to 95%, allowing

businesses to focus on growth rather than paperwork. From tracking purchase costs to syncing invoices with accounting systems, Lynx ensures financial accuracy with minimal effort.

AI-powered efficiency

Artificial intelligence is reshaping business operations, and Lynx integrates cutting-edge AI features to make daily workflows smoother. Invoice data extraction automates financial tracking by instantly capturing purchase costs and applying them to job records—eliminating the need for manual input. Lead email processing ensures businesses never miss an opportunity, intelligently sorting inquiries and prioritis-

ing the most promising leads.Additionally, AI-driven spam removal keeps inboxes clean, ensuring that businesses focus only on genuine customer interactions instead of wasting time on irrelevant or fraudulent messages. By leveraging AI, Lynx helps businesses run with precision and efficiency, eliminating frustration from routine administrative tasks. Happy customers lead to repeat business. Lynx helps businesses stay on top of service requests, urgent repairs, and job snags, ensuring that small issues don’t impact cash flow or customer trust. The platform also provides customers with access to proposal documents, invoices, and appointments, fostering transparency and engagement.

Insights with advanced reporting

Understanding what drives sales is key to making informed business decisions. Lynx’s reporting system delivers real-time insights into performance metrics, helping businesses identify trends, optimize strategies, and maximize profitability.

Fast, secure electronic filing: Lost documents and cluttered filing systems are a thing of the past. Lynx’s smart filing system ensures that every upload is automatically sorted into the correct job file, making it easy to locate essential documents instantly.

With tools designed to make every part of your business more efficient, Lynx is the solution for companies looking to streamline operations and increase profitability. Get started with a 90-day free trial and experience the power of AI-driven business management.

Tel: 07722 623134

E: steve@lynx.cloud

book a demo - www.tommytrinder.com

Chris Nelson West Cornwall Plastics

Rhonda Ridge, Director of Ab Initio,

explains how suppliers can back installers through lasting partnerships and smart collaboration

Long term success is a two-way street

Long term relationships are better for business. They’re better for the suppliers that can get to know their customers and tailor their products accordingly, which in turn increases revenue; and they’re better for the customers that get access to new innovations, excellent service, easy communication, and the products they need. It’s a sensible approach for the bottom line too. According to a study conducted by the McKinsey Global Institute, the average revenue growth of companies focused on the long-term is 47% higher than those focused on more short-term objectives.

Growing together

As we celebrate our 30th year in business, we know that much of our success and the success of our customers is down to building a strong foundation of long-term relationships. Coming from an installation background myself, I knew how hectic life in an installation business could be, which allowed me to deliver a strong opening gambit with the first version of AdminBase 30 years ago. But I also wasn’t arrogant enough to think I knew it all and actively sought feedback from customers about how we could further improve the system. By building this back-and-forth dialogue with customers, and of course acting on the feedback we received, AdminBase has continuously delivered what our customers

need, which has not only supported our own growth, but that of our customers too.

As well as working closely with our customers to develop new features, we have also sought to collaborate with like-minded software providers that supplement our offering.

On point collaborations

Our first collaboration was with PricePoint in 2022, and it was so successful we decided to continue the strategy. We have since launched a ground-breaking collaboration with WhatsApp which allows full integration of the app into AdminBase.

We knew that consumers were increasingly expecting to communicate with suppliers via WhatsApp, but it is difficult having messages sitting on individual devices. The integration means AdminBase users can use the app with confidence because all messages sent and received are centralised within the system for any relevant user to retrieve when needed.

Similarly, we could see the growing popularity of industry quotation software, Tommy Trinder, and so established another collaboration to make our customers’ lives easier. Rather than managing data in Tommy Trinder and then having to input the necessary details into AdminBase, the two pieces of software can talk to each other and quote documents can automatically be attached to leads held in AdminBase.

The same applies to Windowlink, another well-established software expert in the fenestration industry. Windowlink offers installation companies a one stop solution for 3D design, quoting, ordering and automated pricing and once again we wanted our customers to be able to enjoy the benefits of this software without having to jump between Windowlink and AdminBase. Full integration allows our users to benefit from both sets of software with no compromise.

The latest game-changing addition

And most recently we have just announced another collaboration with What3words, the app that can accurately pin point your location using 3 words to describe every 3 X 3 metre square. Each square is assigned a combination of three random words and is said to be more accurate than a postal address or postcode. Coordinates from the app can now be entered and stored for every job held in AdminBase and can be used to help installation teams navigate to those more obscure jobs via the My AdminBase Diary feature.

For the last 30 years our priority has been making life easier for our customers by removing wasteful processes and improving efficiencies, whether that’s through listening and acting on their feedback, innovating new features, or collaborating with other market leading software providers. This approach has not only seen our own business grow but has propelled the installation businesses we work with ahead of the competition and supported their own growth trajectory. Here’s to the next 30 years of innovation and collaboration.

Sleek design, smart features, and big ambitions — Altegra’s new website signals bold growth and renewed digital dominance ahead

Altegra unveils bold, beautiful digital future

Exciting news from the South-West as Altegra Windows and Doors have created a brand-new website with new features and a vision for market expansion. Running with the theme #MoreThanAWebsite, the new site will provide their customers with the ability to create their own designs and quotations with instant pricing turnarounds. The technology is pioneering within the aluminium fabrication industry. The site will also feature a virtual showroom and workshop walkthrough, giving customers the chance to see the engineers in action and the step-by-step build process of their frames.

Newly appointed General Manager Billy Hawes had this to say, “we’re incredibly excited to announce the upcoming launch of our brand new website — a major milestone that marks more than just a visual refresh. This launch represents a strategic step forward for our business, designed to signi cantly enhance user experience, drive engagement, and ultimately boost sales.

With improved navigation, faster load times, and mobile-friendly design, customers can now nd what they need more easily and make purchasing decisions with greater con dence. The site also features integrated tools for lead generation and enhanced product visibility — each carefully crafted to support increased conversions and customer satisfaction.

We anticipate this upgrade will not only strengthen our online presence but also open new opportunities for growth by attracting a wider audience, retaining loyal customers, and providing a scalable platform for future innovations. It’s more than a website — it’s the foundation for our next chapter of success.”

Altegra Windows and Doors has always been part of a wider group alongside Altegra Material Handling Equipment, but now the business is creating its own noise in the South-West. Altegra is a well-respected aluminium fabricator, manufacturing systems by Cortizo such as the bi-fold plus, sliding door and various casements. Partnering with some of the best rated installers across the south of the UK, their systems have been upgrading homes with a modern new look.

Altegra Window and Door’s Business Development Director Paul Lindsay described the changes as “This exciting website will be a step change taking Altegra to the next level. I’ve worked on

many websites over the years within the fenestration industry, however the features in our website o ers clear options and services for all our customers.”

Altegra’s Marketing Specialist William Haughton described the new website as “an exciting and fundamental step in a new direction. Not only will we be continuing to grow our trade partnerships across the UK, we’ll also be opening up to homeowners. This gives us the opportunity to speak with customers directly and give them a better understanding of our products and how we can enhance their property. We’ve got plenty more exciting news on the way so watch this space!”

The website will also feature products from their sister brand, Altegra Access and Security. This commercial side of Altegra

works on properties such as apartment blocks, schools and hospitals, providing new industrial doors, security systems to name a few. Sarah Tricker, their Commercial Sales Manager commented, “the wide range of products we o er – from industrial doors and barriers to security systems and PPM (planned preventative maintenance) contracts – will now be proudly showcased on our brand-new Altegra website! The site has been designed to be clear, easy to navigate, and full of helpful information, making it simple for businesses to see how we can support them.

Whether its enhancing site security, keeping operations running smoothly with reliable doors, or delivering peace of mind through our maintenance contracts, the website re ects the high standards and professionalism we bring to every project. We’ve also included some fantastic testimonials from our clients, which really highlight the strong, long-term relationships we’ve built and the value we provide across a wide range of industries. It’s the perfect place for both new and existing customers to explore what Altegra has to o er.”

The website will be launching this month and Altegra also welcomes visitors to visit their showroom in Somerset to nd out more about their systems.

Where speed meets precision, integrateCONNECT unites design and quoting into one seamless system

Framing the future with digital innovation

For businesses in the window and door sector, where bespoke design, speed of service, and customer clarity are paramount, the traditional patchwork of quoting, design, and communication tools is fast becoming unsustainable. In response to this challenge, EndtoEnd IT’s ‘integrateCONNECT’ is emerging as a strategic solution, offering a cloud-based platform that consolidates design, pricing, and enquiry management into one seamless digital workflow.

Designed specifically for window and door suppliers and manufacturers, integrateCONNECT allows users to configure products, generate instant branded quotes, manage customer enquiries, and access all job details remotely. This all-in-one approach promises not just convenience but measurable efficiency gains, as businesses move away from manual processes and disconnected software systems.

At the heart of integrateCONNECT is its professional-grade design and quoting functionality. The software’s intuitive drawing board allows users to create complex window and door configurations, visualising changes in real-time and customising specifications with precision. Quotes are automatically calculated as designs evolve, reducing the risk of human error and enabling sales teams to produce detailed, professional documentation in minutes.

These quotes can be fully branded and tailored to the customer, incorporating

visual designs, pricing options, and terms in a format that not only looks impressive but also builds trust. In a market where presentation often makes the difference between winning or losing a job, such features can offer a significant competitive edge.

The platform’s mobility is another key strength. As a fully cloud-based system, integrateCONNECT enables teams to work from anywhere with an internet connection — whether they are visiting clients, working from home, or stationed in the showroom. The ability to access quotes, surveys, and project updates on demand means staff are empowered to respond more quickly and accurately, enhancing the overall customer experience.

Visual communication is also significantly improved. A built-in photo upload feature allows users to store unlimited site images directly within quotes. These can be used to confirm site details, illustrate specific challenges, and facilitate remote discussions. With integrated Google Maps functionality, users can also verify addresses, check access routes, and assess installation conditions — all before setting foot on site. This saves time, reduces misunderstandings, and improves the accuracy of both quoting and project planning.

legacy systems, businesses are increasingly seeking tools that centralise processes and support growth without adding complexity.

For businesses looking to strengthen customer engagement, the addition of *integrateCRM* brings powerful enquiry and order management tools. Every interaction is tracked, follow-ups can be scheduled, and the status of ongoing projects is visible at a glance. This ensures no opportunity is missed and that communication remains consistent throughout the customer journey.

Manufacturers, meanwhile, benefit from the optional *integrateBUILD* module. This provides production-ready outputs including cutting lists, bills of materials, glass dimensions, and order sheets. As quotes evolve, these outputs are automatically updated, ensuring that production and sales remain perfectly aligned.

The platform’s end-to-end integration reflects a broader trend towards connected software ecosystems in trade industries. Rather than relying on siloed applications or

According to Jeremy Murphy of KingsRock Joinery, the transformation is already having a tangible impact. “Our customers have mentioned that our quotes look better than those from other companies. In the past month alone, we’ve priced £750,000 worth of enquiries using EndtoEnd’s integrate.”

Such testimonials highlight the growing importance of digital professionalism in industries traditionally dominated by manual quoting and fragmented communication. As customer expectations rise, the ability to deliver fast, accurate, and visually polished proposals can be a crucial differentiator.

In summary, integrateCONNECT offers more than just a set of digital tools. It provides a comprehensive platform for modernising operations, reducing errors, and enhancing client engagement — from first enquiry through to final installation. For window and door businesses looking to adapt, scale, and thrive in a competitive market, the software represents both a practical solution and a forward-looking investment in smarter ways of working.

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

Sleek, scalable, and cloud-smart — Windowmaker’s next-gen platform redefines fabrication, marrying precision tech with evolving integration

Scalable software solution for fabricators

Windowmaker Software has unveiled a new generation of cloud-based platforms aimed squarely at transforming how window and door fabricators operate — from quoting and ordering to production and integration. The launch, which took place at the FIT Show 2025, reflects a wider industry pivot: as pressures intensify across the supply chain, businesses are actively seeking tools that reduce complexity, boost visibility, and streamline production.

The company’s direction is clear. With rising customer expectations and the growing need for operational agility, many fabricators are finding that legacy systems — or worse, fragmented spreadsheets — can no longer keep pace. Windowmaker’s latest offerings position the firm not simply as a software provider, but as a long-term digital partner for businesses looking to modernise.

A Platform built to scale

At the centre of this transition is Windowmaker Cloud, a browser-based software platform built for fabricators of every size — from small-scale operations to complex, multi-site enterprises. It offers quoting, ordering and production management within a single, fully integrated environment. Crucially, there is no need for local installation, on-premise servers, or internal IT support. Instead, users can access the system from any device, anywhere, at any time.

This cloud-native architecture makes it particularly attractive to businesses with hybrid teams or multiple production sites. At £99 per user per month, it also lowers the cost of entry for smaller firms, while providing the scale and configurability needed by

larger manufacturers.

The flexibility built into Windowmaker Cloud is one of its defining strengths. It supports manufacturing across PVC-U, aluminium, steel, timber and composite systems, while maintaining compatibility with a wide array of profile systems. An advanced configurator handles everything from bespoke shapes to complex, rules-based product logic.

In another league

“The integration options and configurability are in another league,” said one visitor at the product launch, highlighting the ease with which the system adapts to existing workflows. The inclusion of APIs and webhooks ensures smooth integration with CRMs, ERPs, and external production systems — a critical need for fabricators looking to connect their shopfloor to their back office in real time.

Alongside its

core platform, the company also introduced Windowmaker Web, a modern, lightweight application designed specifically for dealers, installers and sales teams. Unlike traditional desktop software, Windowmaker Web runs entirely in the browser, requiring no downloads, updates or IT maintenance.

The user interface is clean and intuitive, enabling sales professionals to manage quotes and orders on the go. Whether for sole traders or teams within larger networks, the system brings consistency and speed to customer-facing interactions.

Real-time data access allows for faster quoting, more accurate pricing, and immediate order entry — all within a responsive, mobile-friendly environment. It’s a solution designed not just for efficiency, but for usability across a range of technical skill levels.

Investing in local capability

This product evolution is backed by a strategic shift within the company itself. Over the past year, Windowmaker has significantly expanded its UK-based team, with new hires across software development, customer support, marketing, and sales. The move signals a long-term investment in serving UK and European fabricators more closely and responsively.

“The growth of our UK team reflects our long-term commitment to the UK and European market,” said Gorim Jones, Director at Windowmaker. “We’re building for the future — and our customers are already seeing the benefits.”

For customers, this expansion translates into faster implementation times, more responsive support, and greater alignment with local market requirements — from compliance standards to pricing models and integration needs.

As the fenestration industry continues to evolve, software that can adapt and grow with a business is increasingly seen as a strategic asset rather than a back-office tool. Windowmaker’s cloud-based platforms respond to that shift with a blend of scalability, integration and user-focused design.

For fabricators, the message is increasingly clear: digital transformation is not a distant goal but a present-day necessity. With its latest offerings, Windowmaker aims to be the infrastructure behind that transformation — helping businesses move faster, work smarter, and grow more sustainably.

Tel: 020 8390 4931

E: sales@windowmaker.com

Xladeco Aluminium internal doors and partitions

Xladeco stands out for its innovative Quickfit manufacturing concept that allows for a quick and easy fabrication, avoiding CNC complex operations and punching tools.

Its ultra-slim sightlines of only 30 mm and its stepped profile design make Xladeco the ideal choice for any heritage replacement or contemporary steel-inspired project.

hinged pivoting sliding

Compatible with: Laminated glass 5+5 / 4+4 / 3+3 Monolithic glass 12 / 10 / 8 / 6

Quickfit fabrication system based on straight cuts and mechanical connections, eliminates complex CNC and punching tool operations

Over 650 firms now using Tommy Trinder

Software pioneers Tommy Trinder are celebrating another milestone as the total number of window companies using the sales platform passes 650…

“We are on a mission to take the hassle out of selling windows,” says founder and CEO, Chris Brunsdon, “getting to 650 subscribers is a sign we’re making progress!

From one-man bands to nationals and from the highlands to the Channel Islands, Tommy Trinder has established itself as go to app for installers looking to add zip to their sales process. The firm’s patented Framepoint Technology® allows users to free draw PVC-U, aluminium and timber windows and doors with your finger or mouse, just like sketching on a pad. It’s easy to chop-and-change ironmongery, colour, and bar options until the homeowner is happy and the price is right. And in a tap installers can show clients how their new windows and doors will look in situ. Says Chris:

“Tommy makes it super simple to wow customers, even if you’re a dinosaur with computers. And in a demanding market it’s ever more important to have an edge, something to impress clients and keep those conversion rates up.”

The value of work quoted by installers on Tommy Trinder is on the rise too. Every month an eye-watering £270 million pounds worth of work is quoted to homeowners via the platform. High average quote values are also a feature with quote values climbing towards £7400 over the last six months, says Chris; “We are seeing premium materials making significant market gains; aluminium and timber combined now account for around half of everything quoted by installers. And when it comes to PVC-U, Tommy subscribers are managing to get a bit more on every job by routinely showing off value-added features such as foils, dual colours, dummy vents, mechanical joints, flush casements, dummy peg-stays and surface mounted bars in a visual and compelling way.”

The firm reports that more than 13,000 homeowners receive a quote generated by Tommy Trinder every month and, notably, around half of them are provided with visualisations to accompany their quote; “Homeowners are expecting a more complete buying experience and the makeover tool, where installers provide a mockup to the homeowner of their new windows in situ, is becoming a standard part of the quoting process,” says Chris.

“Homeowners expect more. They want to see exactly what they are getting; they want to try before they buy. And Tommy Trinder is proving to be the tool for the job.”

Installers can find out more about Tommy Trinder and book a free demo at www.tommytrinder.com

For eye-catching façades that demand a second look. Our innovative curtain wall systems are ideal for a wide range of projects, from where slim sightlines and high thermal-efficiency are required, to those where structural movement may be a challenge.

We catch up with Robert Thiroff, Managing Director of Profine and Kömmerling and the new Sales Directors, Gareth Parton and Karl Williamson, for an update on the new sales structure at the company

Profine strengthens sales team strategy

As Kömmerling and Profine continue to implement their 2025 UK Vision with more investment in the UK market, the company has also been managing a change in its established management team.

Robert Thiroff explains: “A few months ago we bid a fond farewell to Kevin Warner for his retirement, and I said at the time that while Kevin will be missed both personally and professionally, we had carefully considered how our sales team would be managed in his absence. Gareth Parton was promptly promoted to Sales Director North and Karl Williamson to Sales Director South. And the new structure is working brilliantly, in part thanks to the pair’s shared experience.”

Gareth says: “I have worked for Profine for 12 years now, but I had also worked with Robert years before in another business. Starting out in sales support for another extrusion company, and progressing to Area Sales Manager, I then held positions in a few other machinery and systems companies in senior sales positions before circling back to Robert at Profine in 2013. Since then, I have worked on the commercial side of the business, spent some time in the US as Vice President for Sales for our North American extrusion plant, and was heavily involved in supporting customers when Profine acquired Aperture in 2020.

“I have known Karl for about 15 years as

a customer and as a colleague and we have always worked well together, so we were confident we could share the Sales Director role well. And sure enough we’re bouncing ideas off of each other regularly and reach decisions quickly for the team.”

A smooth transition

Karl agrees the transition is going smoothly: “We knew we had big shoes to fill following in Kevin’s footsteps, but he was a great role model, and Gareth and I have always been on the same wavelength, so it’s been easy to work alongside him. We talk every day, so we always know what’s happening across the board. And like Gareth, I have decades of experience to bring to the role.

“I started my career in fenestration working in the family business of tools and consumables straight from school. We later diversified into fabrication and installation allowing me to learn about more aspects of the window industry, which in turn led me and a few others to head up our own fabrication and tools and consumables business which grew to be a great success. In 2022 I joined Profine as Business Development Manager for the South East and then the South, before being promoted to Sales Director.”

Gareth and Karl both have a team of four

to manage in their individual areas and have an Area Sales Manager to help with day-to-day management responsibilities. “In an ideal world we’d like to add 2 junior salespeople to the team at some point in the future,” explains Gareth, “to work more closely with our customers to support their sales. It would also be good to nurture new talent in the industry.”

Customers come first

Karl adds: “The biggest goal for us is to continue to look after our customers whether with more sales support, or more great products. While PVC-U systems remain our bread and butter, including our Flush Sash window which in my opinion is the best on the market, we now also offer aluminium, hybrid systems, and a growing range of building products which opens up different markets for us and our customers.”

Gareth concludes: “It hasn’t been difficult settling into the new role at Profine and Kömmerling because Karl and I work so well together, but also because it’s just one of those companies that people want to work for. The management team is open to new ideas and it’s genuinely a lovely place to work. We are both looking forward to continuing to build on the company’s ongoing success.”

Design-led, energy-wise and built to last — Veka’s latest innovations deliver versatility, sustainability and next-gen appeal effortlessly

Leading PVC-U design, efficiency and innovation

There are many factors driving today’s window systems market as homeowners and developers look for products that combine performance, sustainability and style. In response to demand, Veka has recently released a portfolio of new products that marry cutting-edge design, energy efficiency and long-term sustainability – together they create a highly flexible and future-ready offering for both new-build and retrofit markets.

From the refined elegance of the OMNIA double-flush window and door system to the tactile sophistication of Feinstruktur finishes, and the excellent thermal performance of the Softline 82 – Passivhaus certified window, Veka’s has engineered its portfolio specifically for architects, specifiers and fabricators who demand more from their glazing systems.

As one of the world’s most trusted suppliers of PVC-U window and door systems, Veka has a long-standing reputation for precision engineering and technical support that empowers its partners to create better buildings. The Veka difference lies not only in its product innovations but also in its consultative approach, working alongside customers to meet complex specification needs, achieve regulatory compliance and deliver on ambitious design visions.

Let’s look in detail at the latest products in Veka’s portfolio and the benefits.

OMNIA: Where flush aesthetics meet sustainable performance

OMNIA is Veka’s new-generation double-flush window and door system, developed to offer unparalleled design versatility. With minimalist sightlines and flush aesthetics inside and out, OMNIA gives specifiers the freedom to create clean façades that meet both contemporary architectural trends and demand for traditional heritage styling.

But OMNIA goes beyond pure aesthetics. It has been developed with sustainability and performance at its core. The system’s intelligent multi-chambered design enables high levels of thermal efficiency, with U-values comfortably exceeding current regulations and well-prepared for future tightening under the Future Homes Standard. Paired with Veka’s sustainable closed-loop recycling process, OMNIA enables architects to hit low-carbon targets without design compromise. In fact, OMNIA has already been adopted in a variety of residential and commercial settings, with great feedback,

where its balance of form and function helps to future-proof developments while ensuring they remain visually striking.

OMNIA’s key benefits include:

• 70mm frame depth for greater flexibility and convenience

• Fully flush internal and external finish

• Compatible with VEKA’s full suite of ancillaries

• Double rebates for superior weather resistance and durability

• Outstanding thermal insulation, with U-values as low as 0.79 W/m²K

Feinstruktur: Elevating texture and tactility

With both colour and variety being key factors in window decisions, textures are on the rise. Veka’s Feinstruktur foil offers a high-end tactile alternative to traditional foils and smooth surfaces. This finely textured surface gives an aluminium aesthetic to window and door profiles, while also enhancing scratch resistance and durability.

Feinstruktur is available across Veka’s chamfered ranges, including OMNIA and Softline 82, providing a seamless design language across project types and performance requirements. Available in a curated palette of popular and contemporary greys, charcoals and black, Feinstruktur appeals to both residential and commercial markets that are moving toward modern finishes.

The stylish finish also reflects Veka’s commitment to quality and resilience. Feinstruktur surfaces are easy to maintain, UV stable and highly resistant to environmental wear, making them ideal for high-traffic settings or exposed elevations.

Softline 82 - Passivhaus: Certified excellence in energy efficiency

Completing the trio of Veka’s standout innovations is the Softline 82 – Passivhaus system, fully certified to Passivhaus standards, the gold benchmark in thermal perfor-

mance and building envelope integrity. This triple-glazed system is designed for ultra-low energy buildings, offering U-values as low as 0.79 W/m²K. With its balanced aesthetic, subtle chamfers and a choice of finishes including Feinstruktur, Softline 82 – Passivhaus proves that cutting-edge performance needn’t come at the expense of visual appeal. The Softline 82 - Passivhaus system is particularly relevant as the construction industry accelerates toward net-zero targets. Whether being specified for a new eco-conscious residential or commercial development, this window system plays a crucial role in reducing operational carbon and improving occupant comfort.

Softline 82 – Passivhaus’ key benefits:

• Passivhaus-certified performance, ideal for ultra-low-energy buildings

• Multi-chambered profile with triple gasket sealing reducing thermal bridges and heat loss

• Outstanding acoustic insulation properties, with centre seal to deliver maximum airtightness

• Compatible with Veka’s comprehensive accessory and reinforcement ranges

• Available in a wide range of colours and Feinstruktur finishes

Veka delivers one vision with many possibilities

What unites OMNIA, Feinstruktur and Softline 82 is Veka’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what a window system can achieve – technically, aesthetically and environmentally. Together, they form a portfolio that meets the needs of today’s most demanding projects while being fully aligned with tomorrow’s regulations and design expectations. Whether the priority is low-carbon credentials, seamless design integration, or future-ready performance, Veka has a solution to match.

www.veka.co.uk

Rehau UK chief Martin Hitchin outlines how energy-efficient frames can transform the future of social

housing

Framing the future of social housing

Asobering statistic – the UK’s residential sector is responsible for 18% of the country’s carbon emissions.1

Approximately 17% of these emissions come from social housing, meaning this sector is responsible for roughly 3% of the nation’s overall carbon footprint.

This would be alarming enough in itself, even before considering the 2050 net zero target. Yet combined with legislation from 2021 mandating a 78% reduction in emissions by 2035,2 it is clear these properties require upgrading as a matter of urgency.

This challenge is particularly pressing for the social housing sector. Local authorities, as custodians of publicly owned buildings, face additional pressure to lead the way. Yet of the UK’s social housing footprint of 4.4 million homes, the majority were built between 1945 and 1980, without modern energy efficiency standards in mind. The situation is further exacerbated by the Clean Growth Strategy, which requires social housing providers to achieve Energy Performance Certificate C for rented properties by 2035, or 2030 for ‘fuel poor’ households.

Prospering through partnerships

Local authorities and housing associations need to ensure that the public funding they receive through various grants and schemes is used effectively. Thermal performance upgrades must deliver tangible results but increasing workloads and staff shortages mean they may be unable to best deploy the relevant expertise to fully address this challenge. With this in mind, installers and fabricators with commercial project and retrofitting experience may find themselves well-placed to help in this situation, working together with public bodies to specify costeffective solutions that deliver targeted energy efficiency improvements for existing building stock.

Window of opportunity

Rehau’s whitepaper, Retrofit Right – Making Social Housing More EnergyEfficient, focuses on fenestration’s role in improving the thermal performance of social properties. It argues that windows

and door systems, as major sources of heat loss, significantly influence a property’s energy efficiency. This latest report says that medium retrofits, such as fitting high-spec glazing frames, can markedly reduce these losses.

However, local authorities and housing associations may not be aware of quality fenestration components, or the role of window and door frames in reducing heat loss. This presents an opportunity for fabricators and professionals to encourage relevant stakeholders to engage with the supply chain about the performance criteria, standards and metrics that constitute energy-efficient frames.

Fabricators and installers in frame manufacturers’ networks have an advantage in these circumstances. These networks provide another affirmation of quality, allowing fenestration professionals to more clearly demonstrate their credentials to social housing decisionmakers.

Rehau, for instance, partners with certified fabricators, providing assessments, layout assistance, material ordering, and onsite training. This assures local authorities that projects will meet specifications and standards, be completed on time, stay within budget, and achieve the highest quality.

Beyond the pane

Retrofit Right goes on to underline why evaluating existing supply chains is crucial for decisionmakers at local authorities and housing associations. It encourages these stakeholders to consider the other quality benchmarks or credentials that installers and fabricators may have beyond thermal performance, including security and acoustic considerations. Social housing decisionmakers face any number of concerns when considering building components, and knowledgeable fenestration professionals will have ample opportunities to establish themselves a supportive, consultative partner as the retrofitting boom gathers pace.

Material matters

Retrofit Right shows that polymer frames may appeal to social housing specifiers due

to their durability, energy efficiency, and low maintenance requirements. Indeed, advancements in frame design over the past 20 years have made PVC-U frames more energy efficient. For example, polymer frames can now achieve the Building Research Establishment’s ‘A’ rating under the Green Guide to Specification.3

With an average lifespan of 35 years, and the support of appropriate recycling infrastructure such as Rehau UK’s Rehau Recycling plant, polymer is a sustainable, long-lasting material. Fenestration professionals with a detailed understanding of these credentials may be better placed to educate social housing stakeholders and generate more business leads.

Framing the future

Improving the energy efficiency of the UK’s social housing is crucial, especially with net zero targets approaching. As set out in Retrofit Right, the fenestration sector is key to this, and fabricators and installers who update their products and services can benefit from the demand for retrofitting in this sector.

Showing how polymer window and door frames cost-effectively improve thermal performance in social homes can help fenestration professionals go beyond supplying frames, instead becoming trusted partners of local authorities and housing associations.

1 https://www.thfcorp.com/insight/retrofitting-social-housing-what-you-need-to-know/#:~:text=The%20UK%20buildings%20sector%20accounts,of%20the%20UK%20housing%20stock

2 https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-enshrines-new-target-in-law-to-slash-emissions-by78-by-2035

3 https://tools.bregroup.com/greenguide/podpage.jsp?id=2126

Fortex ® Naturale: the future of cladding

Fortex® Naturale cladding is manufactured with cutting-edge digital printing technology, so it’s virtually indistinguishable from wood:

• Non-repeating timber patterns that look like natural woods

• Low maintenance, long-lasting & fully recyclable

• Install horizontally, vertically, or diagonally

Paired with aluminium trims with RAL references to colour-match windows & doors, Fortex® Naturale opens up opportunities for installers renovating period or modern homes.

Call 0800 002 9903 to find a stockist and grow your business with premium cladding.

The PVC industry grapples with competitiveness and circularity, seeking to align environmental goals with economic realities

The green shift driving Europe’s PVC sector

The usually staid world of industrial materials was abuzz last month as Paris played host to the 13th VinylPlus Sustainability Forum (VSF2025). Far from a mere industry talking shop, the event emerged as a crucible of ideas, where the European PVC sector grappled with its existential challenges: how to marry ambitious circularity goals with the pressing need for economic competitiveness, all while serving a broader societal purpose.

Against a backdrop of rising energy costs, global competition, and ever-tightening regulatory scrutiny, the theme “For a Future-Proof Value Chain” resonated deeply with the more than 200 delegates from 23 countries. These included an eclectic mix of politicians, recyclers, retailers, and public agency representatives, all converging to dissect the complex ecosystem of PVC.

Charlotte Röber, Managing Director of VinylPlus®, wasted no time in setting the tone, stressing the imperative for “resilience, responsibility, and renewal.” Her opening remarks underscored a strategic pivot for VinylPlus, advocating for a stronger science-based approach, deeper stakeholder engagement, and more robust national networks. The ambition, she made clear, is not just a “green” transition, but a “just” one – an inclusive journey that brings together workers, communities, governments, and businesses to avoid polarisation and forge a truly resilient society. This mid-term review of their 2030 Commitment, currently underway, aims to recalibrate targets in light of industry performance and evolving regulations, with external input deemed “vital.”

Dr. Karl-Martin Schellerer, Chairman of VinylPlus, elaborated on the forum’s deliberately chosen nomenclature: “future-proof.” This term, he explained, acknowledges the rapid shifts in regulations, economic pressures, and societal expectations that demand an industry both resilient and agile. The three guiding pillars – circularity, competitiveness, and societal purpose – are not, he insisted, mere buzzwords. Circularity, crucial for carbon neutrality and resource efficiency, champions smart design, effective collection systems, and both mechanical and advanced recycling. Competitiveness, in turn, is seen as the engine of innovation and value creation, enabling the industry to thrive in a fast-moving global market. Societal purpose ensures a vital alignment with

real-world needs, from affordable housing to healthcare solutions.

The discussions on circularity highlighted France’s pioneering role with its effective public agencies and ecoorganisations in promoting eco-design and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes. These initiatives are proving instrumental in establishing structured systems for waste collection and recycling, particularly from the building sector, a major consumer of PVC. However, a note of caution was sounded: new EPR schemes must complement, rather than undermine, established voluntary circularity models like VinylPlus, ensuring that hard-won progress is not jeopardised.

Ingrid Verschueren of Recovinyl®, the organisation tasked with tracking recycled PVC, offered a tangible measure of progress. The VinylPlus 2025 Progress Report revealed that 724,638 tonnes of PVC waste were recycled within the VinylPlus framework in 2024, representing approximately 35% of the PVC waste generated across the EU27, Norway, Switzerland, and the UK. This achievement, she noted, is a testament to continuous efforts in enhancing existing schemes and supporting innovative sorting and recycling technologies.

Yet, the path to a future-proof PVC industry is not without its significant hurdles. Market analysts at the forum painted a stark picture of declining competitiveness within the European PVC sector. High energy, ethylene, and labour costs, coupled with the burden of carbon pricing and administrative requirements, have taken their toll. Demand remains weak, particularly in the critical building and construction sector. Calls for EU and national initiatives, such as the Clean

Industry Deal, were heard as potential lifelines to stimulate demand and attract investment in innovation, research and development, and sustainability certification.

The perceived tension between economic competitiveness and environmental sustainability was a recurring motif. However, a consensus emerged: aligning these seemingly disparate goals is not merely desirable, but essential for a resilient European future. As Johan Van Overtveldt, MEP and Chair of the Committee on Budgets, succinctly put it, “If we want our industry to remain viable, we need both a regulatory framework and an investment framework that reward innovation and growth.”

The forum concluded with a forwardlooking panel on societal needs, showcasing how the PVC industry can contribute to tangible solutions in climate adaptation, affordable housing, and healthcare.

Antoine Guillou, Deputy Mayor of Paris, offered inspiring insights into sustainable social housing, innovation, and recycling technologies, underscoring the vital role of cross-sector collaboration in Europe’s sustainable transition.

Carsten Heuer, Vice-Chairman of VinylPlus, brought the forum to a close with a robust affirmation of the industry’s commitment. He stressed the duty to enhance competitiveness, foster a level playing field, and reinforce transparent cooperation with all stakeholders. The message was clear: the PVC industry, facing its challenges head-on, aims to be a significant factor in Europe’s economic recovery and a crucial component of its Clean Industry Deal transition. The journey to a truly future-proof PVC value chain, it seems, has just begun.

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Fenestration shifts to dynamic models amid demand volatility concerns

In today’s unpredictable market, especially with the construction sector slowing down, window manufacturers are facing increasing pressure from fluctuating demand. Orders are less consistent, customer expectations are rising, and maintaining production efficiency has become more complex. But with the right strategies and tools, these challenges can become opportunities for growth.

Modern customers demand more than just functionality—they want style, energy efficiency, and fast delivery. This shift has led to a rise in small-batch, custom orders that disrupt traditional mass production workflows. At the same time, supply chain partners are minimizing inventory, relying on just-in-time deliveries, which adds further pressure on manufacturers. Key challenges include:

• Frequent small orders that reduce production efficiency

• Shorter delivery times

• Labour shortages

• Cost pressures on customized production

To stay ahead, manufacturers must embrace flexibility. This means adopting production systems that can quickly adapt to varying order sizes and specifications without sacrificing efficiency. Flexible

production systems allow for:

• Quick changeovers between profiles and finishes

• Efficient handling of small batches or single bars

• Reduced lead times and improved responsiveness

• Scalable capacity to match demand fluctuations

To meet these evolving needs, WPR developed the FLEXI profile wrapping machine—a compact, high-performance solution designed for flexibility. Ideal for handling small batches, urgent jobs, and rework, FLEXI allows manufacturers to process custom orders without disrupting main production lines. Key benefits of FLEXI include:

• Fast profile changes (around 10 minutes)

• Operation by a single person

• Compatibility with PVC and aluminium profiles

• Efficient use of foil remnants, reducing waste

• Compact footprint with side-loading/ unloading

FLEXI is not just a machine—it’s a strategic investment. It boosts capacity during peak periods and ensures costeffective operation during slowdowns. By enabling faster turnaround times, it enhances customer satisfaction and positions your business as a responsive, reliable partner.

In a market where agility is key, FLEXI empowers manufacturers to thrive despite uncertainty. Whether you’re a system house, window producer, or trade laminator, FLEXI helps you deliver quality, speed, and flexibility—on your terms.

Last but not least: FLEXI isn’t just efficient—it’s also a responsible choice because it allows to reuse decorative foil remnants that would otherwise go to waste. This not only cuts material costs but also reduces environmental impact, making this machine a smart investment for both your business and the planet.

Eurocell launches grey profile range to strengthen fabricator offering

Eurocell has teamed up with Renolit UK once again to offer its fabricator partners a limited time only offer on its exclusive Silk and Stone Grey profile colour options - with no premium pricing from now until July 10.

Consumer demand for greys, especially soft-toned shades, is at an all-time high - with Eurocell’s own data showing over 50 per cent of sales for window and door profiles are for shades of Grey.

Exclusive to Eurocell’s fabricator partners, Silk Grey and Stone Grey can only be ordered from Eurocell and no other system house. These warm neutral shades seamlessly complement any architectural style while offering a premium TruGrain woodgrain texture, adding depth and elegance to any window or door installation.

Speaking on the offer, Beth Boulton, Marketing Director at Eurocell said: “This summer will be grey and for once that’s a good thing! We know from our own data just how popular greys, especially soft tones have become with homeowners. A quick look on Google Trends and you can see there are spikes for home improvement searches every year around June - so our offer comes at the perfect time to help fabricators kick start their summer of sales for PVC-U window and door profiles.”

Eurocell has made a significant investment to offer an extensive range of

stocked colours and finishes for its PVC-U window and door profiles, this includes a full palette of foiled options. It also has over 30 shades available for special order in industry-leading lead times.

The promotion will be running until July 10th. Eurocell’s PVC-U range of windows and doors includes its Modus and Logik systems.

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Build your reputation, earn customer confidence and engage with a trusted community of industry leaders.

Scan the QR Code to start your GGF Membership journey or visit www.ggf.org.uk/why-join-ggf/ to learn more. Not sure if GGF is right for you? Speak to one of our membership advisors today.

Bold vision elevates roof design

Boldly reimagined and effortlessly expansive, Eurocell’s roof lantern redefines flat roof elegance with unmatched scale and simplicity

Home improvement specialists, Eurocell, has brought to the market a premium aluminium roof lantern that is a complete game changer for how fast and easy it is to fit on a flat roof - with size options spanning larger than any other roof lantern in UK home improvements.

Iconiq from Eurocell sets a new standard for roof lantern installation with its cutting-edge, patent-pending, Q-lok system. Designed with installers in mind, the innovative horse-shoe locking mechanism allows the lantern’s frame to be effortlessly pushed together - with fewer fixings and no drilling, just a quick and secure push-and-fit assembly through simple slide and lock connections in a matter of moments.

The entire installation process takes under an hour, making it faster and simpler than every other lantern in the market.

Sean Bunyan, Roof Lantern Specialist at Eurocell, believes Iconiq is the future of roof lanterns in the UK. He said; “Iconiq is something special. We know the demand for aluminium roof lanterns continues to grow and adding Iconiq to our offering means customers now have a complete choice to finish flat roof extensions and garden rooms in style.

“But it was key to us to bring to the market a premium aluminium roof lantern that is going to help fabricators and installers grow their share of their markets beyond what they can achieve with what’s already out there. That’s what has fueled the innovation behind Iconiq. It offers a new innovative installation method that really speeds up time on site with its simple push-and-fit mechanism, increasing the capacity of projects the trade can deliver.

“Alongside this, there’s a huge range of size options, going from 1.75m by 1.75m and over 4m by 8m, making it the largest roof lantern currently available on the market.”

With an innovative GRP (glass-reinforced plastic) Eaves beam, it creates an insulating barrier to protect against heat loss - making it the most thermally-efficient lantern on the market. The GRP ring beam is also the strongest of any roof lantern to date, giving it unmatched strength to weight ratio. Bespoke glazing clips secure the glass firmly in place, with an anti-tamper edge frame too, ensuring safety and security.

Iconiq is supplied in kit and bar length form to fabricator partners. While installers, including roofers, builders and window fitters, can also order online or in person from one of over 200 Eurocell trade branches in the UK. There’s four common sizes available online in Anthracite Grey, Black and White, and all with self-cleaning glass as standard. All orders are made to order - with tinted glass options available too in Bronze, Blue, Aqua and Neutral.

With slim sightlines, integrated LED lighting tray, self-cleaning glass and availability in any RAL colour, Iconiq has all the features homeowners need – complete with a 10-year guarantee.

Eurocell has a rich history of innovation in the roof lantern market, stemming from it being the first to launch a slimline, pitched solution in 2013 with the Skypod.

Since then roof lanterns and the wider architectural lighting market has gone from strength to strength. The architectural lighting market generated a revenue of £322.7 million in 2024 and is expected to reach £463 million by 2030 as homeowners and property owners seek the latest products to bring more light into their homes. The benefits of which have been researched by Eurocell looking at the impact of natural light on productivity, with many people now working from home, it emphasises the need for natural light.

Sean adds; “When the Skypod first launched, it really set the standard for the roof lantern market. Since then, we have seen this area of the market grow significantly and we’ve seen newer contemporary lanterns come to the market to help push that innovation forward.

“We believe we have once again raised the bar with Iconiq through its revolutionary design. It is going to shape the next era of demand for roof lanterns. It is so easy to fit and has all the custom options savvy homeowners want to match their taste and personality.”

To find out more about Iconiq visit https://www.eurocell. co.uk/profile-systems/iconiq

• Bi-directional locking cams

• Available in 8mm, 9m and 10.5mm cam variations

• One piece zinc centre keep to enhance compression and security

• Suitable for Standard Casements, French Casements, Flush Casement and French Flush Casements

• Seamless integration option with Yale Senscheck™

ERA introduces Georgian-inspired Doctors Knocker to Fab&Fix range

The premium Fab&Fix range of suited hardware from leading manufacturer of fenestration solutions, ERA, has been strengthened with the addition of a new Doctors Knocker.

Inspired by the Georgian period design used originally to identify the front door of a doctor’s practice, the Doctors Knocker is a popular option on larger, heritage style external doors.

Compatible with timber, composite and PVCu doors, the Doctors Knocker is a statement piece of door furniture with a

luxurious heavyweight feel to suit those special traditional door styles. Ensuring homeowners across a variety of properties can enjoy its elegant aesthetic.

Fab&Fix hardware offers unrivalled aesthetic consistency, providing perfectly matching furniture in a range of Hardex finishes for windows and doors, with over 200 items available across the window and door portfolio.

The addition of the new Doctors Knocker expands the range of Fab&Fix knockers to more than 15, ranging from contemporary styles to the more traditional Victorian Urns and a variety of heritage designs.

Sarah Knight, Technical Product Manager said: “The Doctors Knocker is a distinctive, elegant style choice that has endured across centuries.

“This addition to our Fab&Fix range delivers a premium aesthetic and is an ideal complement to our Heritage Door Handle and Letterplate. It’s easy to install and works with a huge range of door sets.”

The new Doctors Knocker is available in two fixing options – concealed and through fix – in six finishes, including Hardex Chrome, Hardex Bronze and Hardex Gold. With a colour matched internal bolt for through fix applications – for that final perfectly matching touch.

The knocker has been tested to meet

the requirements of BS EN 1670 Grade 5 for Corrosion Resistance demonstrating weather resistance for 480 hours and enduring 25,000 cycles.

For more information, visit eraeverywhere.com or email info@ eraeverywhere.com

Stellar Aluminium launches its new premium bi-fold door handle

Stellar Aluminium has launched its new Premium Bifold Door Handle, combining sleek aesthetics with exceptional performance. Paul Hinds, Head of Sales at Safeware Hardware, a division within Epwin Window Systems, said: “Our new Premium Bifold Door Handle combines the perfect blend of form and function. It offers a smooth operation and has been designed to further elevate the high-end aesthetics of the Stellar Bifold Door.”

Manufactured from high-grade 316 stainless steel, the handle offers outstanding corrosion resistance and long-term durability. A spring-assisted 360-degree lever action ensures effortless operation. The handle has been tested to both BS EN 1670 Grade 5 (480 hours) and BS EN 1906: Grade 2 (100,000 cycles), giving the reassurance of a long lifespan

For added peace of mind, the handle is backed by a 10-year mechanical and surface finish warranty, reflecting the product’s high-quality construction and performance.

The Premium Bifold Door Handle features a lever handle on an oval rose

for a sleek, understated appearance. Concealed fixings with clip-on covers provide a seamless finish. Available in Satin Stainless Steel and Satin Black, the handle complements the popular Stellar frame finishes. Matching Euro-profile cylinder escutcheons are also available to extend the stylish appearance.

The Premium Bifold Door Handle was on display on the Safeware stand at this year’s FIT Show, where it received strong interest from existing and potential new customers. Paul said: “The feedback from visitors confirmed our belief that this handle is set to become a favourite among customers and style-conscious homeowners. The response was overwhelmingly positive.”

The new handle joins an impressive suite of Stellar Aluminium hardware products, all carefully selected for their reliability, ease of use and durability. The range includes styles and finishes to suit all projects, and every item has undergone rigorous inhouse and external testing.

Paul commented: “The Stellar Aluminium hardware range has been chosen to offer outstanding functionality

and to extend the exceptional visual appeal of the system. The Premium Bifold Door Handle is no exception.”

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Ventilation meets style in Sheerline’s full-width Prestige Grille Shroud

Sheerline’s Prestige Grille Shroud offers a host of benefits for fabricators and homeowners. It’s the ideal alternative to unsightly exterior plastic trickle vents that can warp over time and fade in the sun.

The Prestige Grille Shroud differs from traditional trickle vents as it runs the full width of the window, enabling its integral head drip to protect the edge of the sash that sits below. It also means they’re less likely to be damaged or cause damage to other frames whilst in transit.

As well as being less obtrusive, Sheerline’s Prestige Grille Shroud is more aesthetically pleasing than standard options. It provides an architecturally refined yet practical solution, hiding the flat aluminium grille that sits under the shroud. Perfectly colour matched with the frames, it blends in seamlessly with the rest of the window. It’s available in the full Sheerline colour range.

Jon Crohill, Sheerline’s Design Project Manager, said: “We’ve developed a discreet

solution to a divisive topic within the industry. Regardless of how you feel about trickle vents, many properties need them for Part F compliance, so why not choose the

most stylish one.”

Tel: 01332 978 000

E: info@sheerline.com

Yale launches its Dual Lock system for smart and secure window locking

Yale has officially launched the Yale Dual Lock – a next-generation window locking solution that combines superior mechanical strength, streamlined installation, and full smart home integration. Developed with fabricators, installers, and homeowners in mind, the Dual Lock range delivers high-performance security with modern convenience.

Offering compatibility with PVC, aluminium, and timber window systems and designed for efficiency on the factory floor and on-site, the Dual Lock system features minimal routing preparation, reducing both installation time and complexity with its comprehensive range:

• Three backsets: 20mm, 22mm, 26mm

• Three cam heights: 7.7mm, 9.0mm, 10.5mm

• Eleven standard lengths and nine lowhandle-height lengths

• Croppable and extendable Shootbolt options covering sash sizes from 312mm to 1,572mm

Fully compatible with Yale SensCheck™ smart sensors, the Dual Lock range enables real-time monitoring through the Yale Smart Living Alarm App. Homeowners receive instant alerts if a window is left unlocked or tampered with, integrating seamlessly into smart home ecosystems and

providing reassurance wherever they are.

The bi-directional twin cam operation increases resistance to intruders by engaging locking points in opposite directions simultaneously, making it significantly harder to manipulate compared to traditional single-direction systems. Adjustable cams allow for precise compression adjustment, improving weather sealing and maintaining a consistent, secure fit over time.

The upcoming Flush Fit variants will be specifically tailored for modern flush window systems, ensuring a clean, seamless aesthetic without compromising strength or security.

The Twin Cam Espagnolette is available with a durable Quadcoat finish. Tested to BS EN 1670 Grade 5 (480 hours) and independently verified to withstand 1000 hours of neutral salt spray (NSS), it offers exceptional corrosion resistance and longlasting performance, even in the harshest environments.

The entire range has been rigorously tested to PAS24:2022, withstanding 50,000 operational cycles, and is backed by a 10year mechanical guarantee. All products in the range are Secured by Design accredited and are covered by the Yale Lifetime SecurityGrant Stratford, Yale’s Senior Fenestration Technical Director – ASSA ABLOY, Residential, commented, “With the Yale Dual Lock, we set out to redefine what fabricators and installers can expect from a modern window locking system. By combining advanced mechanical security with seamless smart home integration and simplified installation, we’ve created a solution that meets the needs of today’s market – without compromise.”

To learn more about the Yale Dual Lock range, visit https://www.yaledws.co.uk/ uk/en/products/window-hinges/ duallock-window-lock

Senior Architectural Systems unveils its new SPD150 commercial door

Senior Architectural Systems, one of the UK’s largest aluminium fenestration solutions manufacturers, is opening up new opportunities in the commercial market thanks to the launch of its new SPD150 aluminium door system.

Complementing Senior’s established commercial product range, the SPD150 commercial door system has been specifically developed to meet the demands of high-traffic commercial environments where accessibility, performance, and durability are key.

Developed as a non-rebated door and framing system, the SPD150 can be fabricated as single or double doors, with various configuration options such as emergency exit versions and anti-finger trap stiles. One of its key advantages is its low threshold design which provides easier access for wheelchair users and reduces the risk of trips, helping to create a more inclusive design in communal spaces.

The use of low thresholds can also contribute to a more streamlined interior design, providing a seamless transition to outdoor spaces and making the new

SPD150 commercial door suitable for use across a variety of sectors including healthcare, education, office schemes, and other public use buildings. For architects and specifiers seeking a clean, modern aesthetic, the SPD150 system also supports the integration of concealed closers and hardware. These discreet design options ensure a minimalist appearance without compromising on performance or ease of use.

Fabricators and installers will also benefit from smarter fabrication and optimisation thanks to the SDD150’s prefabricated top and bottom rail plates, which can help to reduce fabrication time on-site, and the use of universal top and bottom door rails. In addition, the SPD150 features square-cut components mechanically jointed using self-tapping screws and shear blocks to simplify the construction process and improve build consistency.

(CEN standard) and 1.6 W/m2K when double-glazed. The system is also fully tested to meet the latest industry standards, including PAS24 for enhanced security and BS6375 parts 1 and 2 for weather tightness and durability.

Fully recyclable and offering enhanced thermal performance, the SPD150 door system achieves U-values as low as 1.3 W/ m2K when triple-glazed

As part of Senior’s popular commercial range, the SPD150 system offers greater design flexibility and further complements the manufacturer’s existing portfolio, which includes the robust SD, SPW501 and SPW600e door systems as well as the company’s patented PURe® Commercial Door.

For more information on the new SPD150 aluminium door, please visit www. seniorarchitectural.co.uk

UAP sets new industry standard with Kinetica Freezeguard lock range

UAP Ltd, a leading Greater Manchester-based door and window hardware specialist, has launched its groundbreaking Kinetica Freezeguard range for commercial availability.

UAP is the first manufacturer in the industry to achieve the BSI KITEMARK TS007-1:2024 certification for the range’s 3* euro cylinders, developed in its in-house research and development hub.

The new range is certified according to the newest PAS24:2022+A1:2024 security test standard and accredited by Secured by Design. These updated standards ensure locks can withstand extreme tampering, protecting against increasingly sophisticated break-in techniques including freezing, gluing, snapping, drilling, picking, and bumping.

While the industry continues to adjust to new requirements, UAP has already delivered fully compliant products that fabricators and installers can rely on.

Adam Dixon, Senior Technical Manager at UAP Ltd, said: “Our status as the first in the industry to achieve the new BSI Kitemark is testament to our team, who work tirelessly to develop products that meet and exceed security standards. The new Kinetica Freezeguard range shows our commitment to leading the way with proactive security innovation, giving our clients a competitive edge.”

Hörmann Truedor’s Draig 30 - fire door protection without compromise

The range of Draig 30 composite fire doors from Hörmann Truedor provide uncompromising protection against fire and smoke for both external and internal installations. Designed to meet the highest standards and certification, the range offers a robust solution that is built to last without compromising on style and performance.

Proven to keep fire at bay for more than 30 minutes, the Draig range of doors have been bi-directionally tested in accordance with EN1634-1 for fire and EN1643-3 for smoke control. Constructed from premium materials the doors are built for durability and are tested to PAS 24:2022 for impact resistance. They offer outstanding performance with exceptional weather resistance, sound insulation, and thermal efficiency. Security is a key feature, with advanced multi-point locking systems and ‘Secured by Design’ accreditation provided as standard. Additionally, each door unit holds third-party accreditation under the BM Trada Q-Mark scheme.

Draig fire doors are available in four external and two internal styles, with the external doors being offered in both solid and glazed options, with or without a fixed fanlight. A comprehensive range of hardware and accessories is also offered, alongside the choice of six popular colours.

David O’Mara, Marketing Manager at Hörmann Truedor, comments. ‘Our Draig fire door has been developed to provide installers with a focused range of fire doors that will fulfil the majority of installations where protection against fire and smoke is required. The range sits alongside the other

specialist products offered by Hörmann Truedor - Clima63 a high-performance thermal door and Platinum44, a high quality, cost-effective steel door, all developed to provide installers with added sales opportunities.”

All Hörmann Truedor composite doors are CO2 neutral as standard and are manufactured in the UK at IG Doors’ state of the art, sustainable manufacturing facility. To find out more about Hörmann Truedor composite doors visit Door CollectionsHörmann Composite Doors or call 01530 516868.

Cortizo Cor Vision leads the way in minimalist sliding door design

Since its introduction to the British market, Cortizo’s Cor Vision sliding system has become one the most in-demand systems of the Spanish multinational in the United Kingdom thanks to its minimalist design. This high demand has driven the company, which has offices in Croydon and Leeds, to develop innovative solutions that further enhance the cutting-edge aesthetic of this patio door. In addition to the system’s original features, such as its 20 mm interlock and the possibility of perimeter embedded frames, new alternatives have been incorporated to maximise the entry of natural light.

Among these innovations, the possibility of an interlock with embedded lock stands out, allowing the sashes to be completely concealed behind the frame viewed from the front, thus blurring the limits between

interior and exterior spaces. To further enhance this sense of continuity, Cortizo has also developed a hidden track solution, concealed behind a trim profile, which enables seamless indoor-outdoor transition and contributes to refined aesthetics.

The opening possibilities of the Cor Vision have also been conceived to enhance the elegance of the spaces. Notably, the system offers a pocket door solution, that allows for the sashes to fully retract into the wall. Additionally, the sliding system features a 90° opening solution without a mullion and with a hidden track, enabling the entire opening to be cleared of any visual barriers.

Alongside its standout design, the system offers a high level of protection, backed by PAS 24, that guarantees compliance with the highest security standards against burglary.

Safeware unveils new 3-star Cylinder to meet toughest security standards

Hardware supplier Safeware has just launched its new 3* Cylinder, designed to deliver exceptional protection and meet the most rigorous security standards.

Rob Hartill, Safeware’s Commercial Director, said: “The Safeware 3* Cylinder meets all the latest industry standards and provides unparalleled security by protecting against drilling, picking, bumping and snapping. Uniquely, it also defends against emerging threats such as twisting and thermal attacks setting a new standard in door lock security.”

The Safeware 3* Cylinder features patented ALPS (Always Locked Protection System) technology, which locks a pin to secure the operating cam as soon as the key is removed, providing unmatched protection, even if the cylinder is attacked.

The cylinder passes the Sold Secure Diamond 2024, the toughest lock test and to reflect Safeware’s confidence in the cylinder,

there is a bespoke £5,000 guarantee against break-ins. Users simply scan a QR code or visit safeware.secure-locks.co.uk to activate the guarantee.

As well as a wealth of outstanding security benefits, the cylinder features numerous practical benefits for fabricators and installers. These include a dual-colour design, which halves stock holding require ments and reduces inventory. There is also a bespoke key cutting service, with additional keys available on next-day delivery.

Rob said: “We first introduced the cylinder to the market at the FIT Show. Seeing attendees’ reactions as they ex amined the cylinder and understood everything it had to offer was incredibly satisfying. They could see the competitive advantage it would offer.”

With a portfolio of over 2,500 products from more than 70 leading hardware brands, Safeware has long been at the forefront of hardware

innovation. The new Safeware 3* Cylinder builds on this legacy. Developed to meet the demands of today’s security landscape, it reflects the company’s commitment to de

Market’s most thermally efficient aluminium sliding door from Origin

Renowned for its commitment to quality and innovation, Origin, the UK’s premier manufacturer of aluminium windows and doors, has launched the market-leading OS-29+ Sliding Door. The unique design offers superior performance with unbeatable thermal efficiency alongside an eye-catching, sleek aesthetic.

Unbeatable thermal efficiency: Able to achieve U-Values as low as 0.78 W/m²K, the new OS-29+ offers the best thermal efficiency of any aluminium sliding door on the market. This means it can achieve the same thermal rating as the company’s Soho and Contemporary OB-36+bi-fold door system, so Trade Partners can capitalise on the growing demand for high-performance statement glazing.

Trend-led aesthetics: The OS-29+ is part of the Contemporary Collection and features a flush stacking option, concealed tracks and running gear, and colour coded interlock caps. This gives the system a sleek, refined and aesthetically stunning finish.

The 29mm sightline further makes this sliding door ideal for modern homes as it maximises glazing, so homeowners benefit from expansive views out of their property and the utmost amount of natural light inside.

“Anticipation has been high for the OS29+ and we’re thrilled to finally be able to share it with the market,” comments Daniel Baker, Managing Director at Origin. “We’re so proud of the system we have created. To be able to offer our Trade Partners a prod-

uct with the best thermal efficiency on the market and the sleek design that homeowners want is a huge achievement for our R&D team. We can’t wait to see the business opportunities this new product brings to our Trade Partners.”

Key features and benefits:

• Superior thermal performance: U-Values as low as 0.78 W/m2K, which exceeds building regulations to ensure energy efficiency and reduced utility bills

• Unrivalled versatility: Available in a wide range of configurations and sizes, it can be specified in over 150 RAL colours including textured finishes, and is backed by an industry-leading guarantee of up to 20-years

• Unique hardware designs: Origin’s range of signature knurled handles offer a high-quality and tactile experience for users

• Unbeatable quality: Made bespoke using the highest-grade aluminium and powder coated to Qualicoat’s rigorous standard at Origin’s UK factories

• Seamless integration: Complements Origin’s existing Contemporary Collection, allowing Trade Partners to offer a complete and cohesive solution to homeowners Available to order online now: The OS-29+ Sliding Door is now available to order on Origin’s online quoting and ordering system, providing Origin Partners with easy access to pricing, specifications, and ordering information.

Deceuninck has announced the appointment of Peter Dyer as Head of Commercial, a strategic move aimed at accelerating customer growth in the commercial sector. Formerly MD at commercial fabrication specialist Dempsey Dyer, he brings a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the commercial window and door sector. “Commercial fabrication can be complex and uncertain, but it doesn’t have to be. I’ve been there, from making windows, to delivering them, to running businesses. That experience helps me understand what fabricators need - consistency, transparency, and support.” Darren Woodcock, General Manager Deceuninck said: “Peter has a unique understanding of the commercial market, the opportunities it presents for fabricators, as well as the challenges. As a former manufacturer he knows how to navigate the commercial space and where we can adapt and enhance our offer to improve the levels of support that we offer to our customers. It’s about collaboration and moving forward together.”

Titon has appointed Vesa Nenye as Sales Director for its Window & Door Hardware business unit. Vesa brings over two decades of international sales leadership and business development experience across the building materials, construction, and manufacturing sectors. In his new role, Vesa will lead the strategic growth of Titon’s hardware portfolio, focusing on expanding market share, strengthening customer relationships, and building a high-performing sales team. Tom Carpenter, Titon’s CEOsaid: “We are delighted to welcome Vesa to Titon. His global perspective, customer-first mindset, and proven ability to drive sales performance make him the ideal leader to take our hardware division to the next level.” Vesa added: “I’m excited to join Titon at such a pivotal time. I’ve always valued quality, innovation, and sustainability, which is why Titon feels like such a natural fit for me. I look forward to working with the team to build on this strong foundation and accelerate our growth in both established and emerging markets.”

Trade fabricator Fentrade has further strengthened its management team with the appointment of Nigel Davies as its new Technical Manager. Chris Reeks, Director of Fentrade, said: “We are delighted to welcome Nigel to the team. His wideranging experience and understanding of every facet of the industry will be invaluable to both our company and our customers.”

Nigel said: “I’m excited to have joined Fentrade. Their ambitious growth plans immediately struck a chord with me. It was clear we shared the same values and a strong commitment to doing things the right way.” In his new role, Nigel will be focused on keeping Fentrade at the forefront of regulatory change, ensuring its customers are supported in meeting their compliance obligations. His technical expertise and background also complement Fentrade’s growth in the commercial sector, and will allow the company to tender for larger more complex projects. Nigel brings over 30 years of experience in the fenestration industry, having held key roles with well-known fabricators and façade contractors.

Warwick North West has further cemented its commitment to social responsibility with the appointment of Louisa Wanless as Social Value Manager. This pioneering role underscores the Liverpool-based manufacturer’s ongoing efforts to create positive impact within the fenestration sector and its local community. MDGreg Johnson explains: “With her wealth of experience and passion for creating positive change, Louisa is bringing tremendous value to our community initiatives. Her appointment is a natural progression of ‘The Warwick Way’our unique approach that combines manufacturing excellence with a strong commitment to social responsibility.”

Louisa will oversee Warwick’s existing partnerships, including collaborations with Nobody Left Behind and Inside Connections, which create employment opportunities for young people and ex-offenders in the manufacturing sector. She will also spearhead new initiatives, such as the firms’s work with Carbon Happy World to measure and reduce their carbon footprint.

Total Hardware has appointed Stephen Faulkner as Operations Manager, marking a significant step forward in the company’s continued growth and future strategy. A familiar face to many in the industry, Stephen brings a wealth of experience from his previous industry roles, including former MD at Indigo Products. With a deep knowledge of the window and door hardware sector and a clear understanding and empathy of what fabricators need from a trusted hardware provider, Stephen is ideally placed to support Total Hardware’s expanding customer base. Since joining the business in April, Stephen has taken charge of operations and logistics at the company’s impressive new distribution centre in Leeds, ensuring streamlined delivery and service as demand continues to grow. Director Chris Pell said: “It’s great to have someone with Stephen’s experience and talent on board. His industry insight and particular fabricator understanding along with his operational expertise make him a valuable addition to the team.”

Window Supply Company (WSC) has announced the appointment of Bret Park as Head of Business Improvement. With extensive experience in IT infrastructure and digital transformation, Bret will play a pivotal role in leading several new IT projects to facilitate the company’s next phase of growth. With over 25 years’ experience within IT roles and software development, Bret brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for digital transformation to the WSC team. Previously with Business Micros – the UK’s leading provider of fenestration software, Bret has an in-depth understanding of IT solutions for UK fenestration businesses. With expertise in project management and optimising IT platforms to enhance performance, Bret will focus on streamlining the company’s existing IT systems to support new growth initiatives for WSC. Barry Duncan, MD says “Bret brings an invaluable amount of knowledge and expertise to our team with an exceptional track record in delivering complex IT projects.

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