Windows Active - March 2026 Issue

MARCH 2026

S E E PAG E 2 0 FOR MORE I N F O R M AT I O N

.

march 2026 | contents | 1

CONTENTS

MARCH 2026

DIRECTOR OF THE MONTH

GETTING IN CONTACT

“At Carl F Groupco, sales are never simply about just supplying products; it is about creating confidence. In today’s market, confidence is invaluable as fabricators navigate fluctuating demand, evolving regulations and increasing expectations from customers.”

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

Adrian Gale Sales Director Carl F Groupco

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

DOORS ACTIVE SPECIAL

Tel: 07919 448809 E: production@windowsactive.co.uk WINDOWS ACTIVE is published by: Active Magazines Limited PO Box 627 Rickmansworth Herts, WD3 0BQ

TWIN PEAKS OF OUTPUT

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Discovering the true benefits AI can provide is a tough task, here we look at how AI created digital twins can have a big impact in factories.

MACHINERY FEATURE

ULTRAFRAME DRAWS THE CROWDS AT TRAINING DAYS

HERITAGE FEATURE

ISSN No: 1746-6663

49

60

Mark Flanagan, MD at Ventrolla, discusses the importance of restoring heritage homes for a sustainable future while Timberlook and Greenlight Windows revive a 19th century pub, blending heritage craft with modern performance, sensitively.

www.windowsactive.com

x.com/windowsactive

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Ultraframe has concluded a four-day training roadshow that brought more than 250 fabricators and installers together across Sheffield, Edinburgh and Swindon marking a shift in how the company delivers customer education.

In our lead article to this feature we look at, as WMS launches into the fenestration market, Andy Parker outlines the company’s machinery focus, developed specifically for UK fabricators.

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

73

Our in-bound exclusive supplement focuses on the doors sector. This edition features major industry names including ODL, Apeer, ID Systems, Gerda and Winkhaus.

Donna Crockatt Publishing & Sales Executive Tel: 07919 448809 E: donna@windowsactive.co.uk PRODUCTION AND CIRCULATION

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Get in touch

W 2 | editors comment | march 2026

EDITOR’S COMMENT AVOID A COMPLACENT MARKETING MINDSET

W

hen the pandemic struck in 2020, few sectors were prepared for the scale of disruption that followed. Yet much of the UK’s fenestration industry emerged not only intact but unexpectedly buoyant. Order books held firm, consumer demand surged once restrictions eased, and fabricators adapted with striking speed. The reason was simple: in the midst of uncertainty, many companies chose not to retreat but to market.

customers could walk, so we keep marketing through every channel that matters — trade publications, roadshows, exhibitions. We never turn away a good new customer.”

At the height of the crisis, businesses prioritised visibility.

Customer outreach intensified, brands were sharpened and every available communication channel was used to maintain contact with installers and partners. Government support offered a vital buffer, but the real differentiator lay elsewhere.

Companies that doubled down on staying visible rather than hunkering down discovered that marketing could be a decisive tool for resilience.

When the pandemic forced a reckoning, businesses rediscovered the power of consistent communication. Visibility became synonymous with survival. In today’s quieter but still challenging environment, that lesson appears in danger of fading from view.

That instinct paid off. As demand returned, those businesses were well positioned to capture it, with stronger brands, clearer messaging and closer relationships with their customers. Marketing had moved, almost by necessity, from the margins of business planning to its centre.

Fast-forward to 2026 and the landscape looks very different.

The pressures are less dramatic but no less real. A prolonged cost-of-living squeeze, volatile energy prices, geopolitical uncertainty and stubbornly high input costs have eroded confidence across the supply chain. Many firms remain operationally strong, but the industry appears to be drifting away from the central lesson of the pandemic years: that marketing is not a discretionary cost but a core business function.

Across the sector, companies broadly fall into two camps. The first group comprises trade fabricators that invested heavily in automation and production capacity during the post-pandemic boom between 2021 and 2024. Today, with order levels still relatively stable among established installer networks, many have eased back on marketing activity. The second group presents a subtler variation of the same complacency.

These businesses maintain a token presence — occasional social media posts or generic, often AI-generated updates — but little that resembles a coherent strategy. The result is activity that adds noise rather than value, and visibility without genuine engagement.

Both approaches carry risks. As one leading trade fabricator observed privately: “We have six customers who account for 40% of our capacity. They’re busy for the next three months, but after that it’s guesswork. We invested heavily 18 months ago and our factory needs feeding. We know three of those

www.windowsactive.com

That perspective captures a mindset the wider industry risks losing. Marketing is not a switch to be flicked on during a crisis and off again when order books appear comfortable. It is the steady rhythm that underpins long-term demand.

The pressures facing the sector are tangible. Installers must contend with cautious consumers delaying or scaling back home improvement projects. Fabricators, meanwhile, are squeezed between rising material costs and the need to remain price competitive. In such conditions, marketing should move from the periphery of business planning to the centre of strategic discussion.

Done properly, it helps companies secure new installer relationships, reduce reliance on a handful of customers and reinforce their value proposition in a tightening market. In short, it provides insurance against uncertainty.

There is also an irony at play. The firms most likely to scale back promotion are often those with the most at stake.

Manufacturing capacity expanded rapidly during the boom years, and those investments require a steady flow of orders to remain efficient. Pulling back on marketing just as conditions tighten is akin to lowering the sails as the wind strengthens, it may feel cautious in the moment, but it risks losing momentum when the market turns.

In a mature industry such as fenestration, future growth will depend not only on better products but also on better communication. High-visibility events, including the FIT Show, alongside established trade publications such as Windows Active, continue to provide valuable face-to-face engagement with installers and decision-makers. By contrast, marketing confined to social media echo chambers risks disappearing in the endless scroll. The lesson from the pandemic years remains clear. Companies that grew through that period did so not by chance, but because they treated marketing as a strategic investment rather than an occasional campaign. The question facing the industry now is whether the rest of the sector is prepared to adopt that mindset permanently — and allow its marketing to grow up alongside it.

John Cowie - Editor

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4 | news | march 2026

Select Windows diversifies by adding Sheerline Aluminium to its portfolio

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heerline has announced Select Windows (Select) has become one of its newest fabricator partners. The longstanding PVC-U supplier has opted to diversify its existing product offering by adding Sheerline’s award-winning aluminium range. The company is re-entering the aluminium market after leaving it in 1986, which highlights how innovative products and reliable service have transformed the aluminium side of the fenestration industry.

There were several reasons Select opted for the Sheerline system. In part, it was because of the longstanding relationship between members of Select’s and Sheerline’s senior management. Roger Hartshorn and his team previously helped the company achieve consistent, sustainable growth.

This led to a relationship built on trust, aligned values, and a shared vision. This experience, coupled with a visit to FIT Show 2025, gave Select the confidence to become a Sheerline fabricator partner.

Gary Wylde, Managing Director at Select Windows, explained: “Sheerline’s products we believe are ahead of others on the market, with the internal beading, foiling,

and ease of supply all major contributing factors in our decision, but the most important is the regard we have for the people we are dealing with.”

During FIT Show 2025, the team had the opportunity to see the heritage range in-person, including the arched Classic

Heritage Door. They also learnt about Sheerline’s woodgrain foiling service, which mirrors the foils they use across their PVC-U systems.

The company decided it was time to diversify as there had been a steady increase in aluminium window enquiries. Although they had the option to buy in from other companies, fabricating in-house provides full oversight and more control.

But for Select, it isn’t simply about adding aluminium. They’re investing to futureproof the company by increasing capacity so they can meet demand for a growing sector of the market. Tony Basile, Sheerline’s National Sales Director, said: “To have Select Windows on board after previously working with them for a number of years is a testament to the experience we provide our customers – it’s not just about our innovative, forward-thinking products, but the fact we’re available when our customers need us coupled with our consistent, reliable service.”

Gary added: “We are delighted to join Sheerline and look forward to a long and successful relationship.”

Stuga Machinery appoints Domenico Policarpio as new managing director

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tuga Machinery and Stuertz GmbH have announced the appointment of Domenico Policarpio as Managing Director of Stuga and a member of the company’s Board of Directors, marking the next stage in the company’s continued development within the UK manufacturing sector. Domenico brings more than a decade of experience in business development, commercial leadership, and strategic management across the industrial machinery and advanced manufacturing sectors. Prior to joining Stuga, he held senior roles within the Voilàp Group, where he played a key role in strengthening international partnerships and supporting market development across multiple regions.

With an Executive MBA from SDA Bocconi, one of Europe’s leading business schools, Domenico combines strong commercial expertise with a practical understanding of manufacturing businesses and the challenges faced by modern production environments.

As MD, Domenico will oversee Stuga’s operational and commercial activities, with a focus on supporting customers, strengthening the company’s engineering capability and continuing to develop the product range. His appointment also reinforces the connection between Stuga’s UK manufacturing expertise and the wider resources, technology

and industrial capability of the Voilàp Group, bringing together the strengths of companies within the Voilàp Group such as Emmegi and Elumatec. Commenting on his appointment, Domenico said: “I am honoured to take on the role of Managing Director at Stuga Machinery. The company has a proud heritage and a strong position in the UK market. My priority will be to ensure continuity and to build on that legacy alongside the talented team here at Stuga, with a clear focus on customer outcomes, operational excellence and making the most of the broader capabilities and more than 400 years of collective industrial heritage within the Voilàp Group.”

The appointment follows the departure of Ed Williams, who helped guide the company through an important period of development and change. Ed’s strengths and

passion lie in business development and supporting companies through periods of transformation. During his time at Stuga, he played a key role in strengthening the organisation, stabilising the business and preparing it for its next phase within the Voilàp Group. Over the past month, Ed worked closely with Domenico to ensure a smooth and structured handover across operational, commercial and customerfacing areas.

The fenestration sector demands resilience, and the Stuga team has shown exactly that in recent years, leaving the business well positioned to move forward confidently into its next chapter.

As part of the Voilàp Group, Stuga is connected to a wider network of advanced manufacturing companies. The group also includes internationally recognised brands such as Emmegi and Elumatec, bringing together extensive expertise in machining, automation and production technology.

In addition, Wladimir Wagner, MD of Stuertz GmbH, will also join the Board of Directors of Stuga Machinery.

His appointment reflects the closer collaboration between companies within the Voilàp Group and will support the continued exchange of expertise in areas such as technology development, manufacturing know-how and international market development.

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6 | news | march 2026

Market opportunities created as fewer installers are doing more work

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s the industry looks ahead to 2026, the challenge is no longer just about winning work, but about earning trust in a more informed, more demanding and more regulated environment. Across the fenestration and home improvement industries, the past few years have been characterised less by sharp decline, and more by a prolonged plateau.

While overall installation volumes have stabilised, the structure of the industry itself is shifting.

“We’re seeing a lot of experienced installers leaving the sector through retirement,” explains Sam Davies, Technical Manager at FENSA. “But that doesn’t mean the work is disappearing. In reality, it’s being redistributed. Fewer installers are doing more work, which creates opportunity for those who are prepared.”

That opportunity, however, comes with pressure. Consumer behaviour is evolving rapidly, driven by access to online information, comparison platforms and, increasingly, AI-powered search tools.

Homeowners now arrive at the quoting stage armed with terminology, assumptions and expectations that didn’t exist a decade ago.

“An end-user may already know about energy ratings, u-values, ventilation and safety requirements before the installer even walks through the door,” says Sam. “We’re seeing the rise of the ‘overnight expert’, and whether that information is perfectly accurate or not, it shapes their expectations. Installers need to be ready for that conversation.”

This shift is expected to intensify through

2026, as a younger, more researchled generation of homeowners becomes a larger part of the home improvement market.

For installers, technical competence alone is no longer enough; credibility must be visible and provable.

At the same time, the wider construction landscape remains uncertain.

Other sectors are grappling with the withdrawal or redesign of government-backed funding schemes.

By contrast, the glazing industry remains largely driven by the able-to-pay consumer, offering a degree of stability that should not be underestimated.

“That independence gives this sector resilience,” Sam explains. “It’s not reliant on sudden policy changes in the same way others are. But it does mean installers have to work harder to stand out and justify their value.”

This is where FENSA’s role becomes increasingly important. As regulatory requirements continue to tighten and Mandatory Technical Competence (MTC) becomes embedded, installers need more than reminders that rules exist; they need practical support to meet them.

“Compliance shouldn’t feel like a moving target,” says Sam. “Our focus going into 2026 is on giving installers clear guidance, accessible tools and real people they can speak to when they need help.”

Being a FENSA installer provides that structure. From self-certification and

recognised compliance to up-todate guidance documents and direct access to technical expertise, FENSA helps installers demonstrate professionalism in a market where reassurance matters.

Just as importantly, it provides something that’s increasingly hard to win: trust at first contact.

A FENSA certificate is a familiar marker for homeowners, conveyancers and lenders alike, cutting through uncertainty and reducing friction at every stage of the customer journey.

“In a world where consumers are doing more of their own research, installers need something solid behind them,” Sam adds.

“Being FENSA registered shows that your work stands up to scrutiny and that you’re supported by a credible, independent body.”

Looking ahead, FENSA expects 2026 to be a year of consolidation rather than contraction, one where prepared installers can thrive by adapting to changing expectations rather than resisting them.

“The work is there,” says Sam. “The challenge is how you present yourself, how you evidence what you know, and how confidently you can answer the questions customers are now asking. FENSA’s role is to help installers meet that challenge headon.”

For those willing to invest in compliance, transparency and professionalism, 2026 is not be a year to fear, but one of excitement and growth.

New GDPR and PECR rules raise compliance stakes warns Insight Data

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nsight Data, the UK’s leading provider of compliant B2B marketing data for the glazing and construction sector, is warning businesses about changes to UK data protection rules that came into force on 5 February. These updates to GDPR and the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR) increase the risks for companies contacting installers, contractors and suppliers without the right processes in place.

GDPR sets out how personal data about individuals can be collected, stored and used. PECR governs electronic marketing, including email, phone and SMS. While the latest updates do not overhaul the law, they sharpen enforcement and increase penalties. PECR fines now match GDPR levels, reaching up to £17.5 million or four per cent of global turnover - a major concern

for businesses that rely on in-house sales teams and marketing lists.

The changes also affect how data can be transferred in and out of the UK. Any company using overseas systems, software or support services must now meet a new ‘data protection test’ to ensure UK standards are maintained.

Insight Data helps businesses reduce that risk. By collecting and managing data on behalf of customers, the company ensures

marketing activity complies with GDPR and PECR. Their experience allows companies to continue reaching prospects safely and effectively. Andrew Scott, CEO of Insight Data explains: “Most compliance failures happen because businesses underestimate PECR. Even routine sales activity can carry risk if data is not collected or used correctly.

With fines now so high, getting it wrong can be costly.”

In practice, Insight Data can audit your existing marketing lists, cleanse or up-todate data and implement processes that document consent and lawful basis for every contact. This means businesses can focus on growth and customer acquisition without worrying about fines or regulatory action, giving full confidence that all marketing activity meets the latest UK data protection standards.

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8 | news | march 2026

AluFold Windows implements supplyonly model in Blackburn factory

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luFold Windows has detailed the structured, supply-only operating model now embedded at its manufacturing facility in Blackburn – purpose-built to support repeat residential and commercial aluminium work at scale.

Eight months on from the acquisition of AluFold Direct by Unique Window Systems in June last year, AluFold Windows is continually refining its prominently positioned factory within one of northwest England’s most recognised manufacturing hubs. The 70,000 sq/ft space can be found at Whitebirk Industrial Estate, near the M65 corridor in Blackburn, and the scale and visibility of the site reflect the structured operation now embedded inside.

“The new factory has been a defining step for the business,” says Managing Director, Neal Addison. “Moving machinery into a facility that’s genuinely fit for purpose has allowed us to improve production flow, strengthen operational control and create an environment that has been designed for long-term scale from day one.”

AluFold Windows operates strictly as a supply-only fabricator, committed to working alongside customers rather than competing with them. The business has simplified its aluminium offer around core, repeatable systems, working more closely with partners at specification stage to

reduce complexity before orders reach the factory floor.

“Aluminium can feel complicated because of the number of systems and options available,” says Commercial Director, Rhodri John. “Our role is to simplify that – agree the right solution early and work with installers and contractors from the outset, so they move forward with the confidence of a truly expert, extended

team behind them.”

Supported by Unique Window Systems at every stage, AluFold Windows’ focus is on disciplined production, early-stage technical collaboration and dependable aluminium fabrication for customers seeking a longterm, supply-only partner.

For more information on AluFold Windows, visit: https://alufoldwindows. co.uk/

Epwin Window Systems achieves ISO 50001:2018 certification

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pwin Window Systems has further strengthened its sustainability credentials after achieving ISO 50001:2018 certification.

ISO 50001:2018 is an internationally recognised standard that provides a structured framework for improving energy performance through the development of an effective energy management system.

It enables organisations to continually improve energy efficiency, use and consumption across their operations.

Tom Langford, QHSE Manager at Epwin Window Systems, said: “Achieving ISO 50001:2018 certification reflects the strength of our commitment to sustainability throughout every part of our business. It demonstrates our determination to continuously improve how we manage energy and reduce our environmental impact.”

The certification builds on Epwin Window Systems’ comprehensive cradleto-cradle approach to sustainability and complements the wide range of accreditations and initiatives already in place.The company holds ISO 14001, the

internationally recognised standard for environmental management systems, which provides a framework for the continual improvement of environmental performance. It is also certified to BES 6001: Issue 3.0, demonstrating that its products are manufactured using responsibly sourced constituent materials that can be independently verified.

In addition, Epwin Window Systems was the first UK systems company to achieve the VinylPlus® Product Label, enabling customers and markets to easily identify high-performance PVC-U products that meet demanding sustainability criteria.

The company’s sustainability commitment is embedded in daily operations, with a zero-to-landfill policy and on-site waste segregation. All waste is collected by registered carriers for recycling, including bar offcuts that are repurposed into recycled composite material for use in thermal inserts across product ranges.

Epwin also supports a closed-loop system by recycling post-consumer PVC-U windows and doors at its UK facility. End-of-life frames are processed into high-quality

recycled compound and used in new products, while the plant’s ISO 14064-1:2018 certification ensures independently verified measurement and reporting of greenhouse gas emissions.

Tom concluded: “Taking a sustainable approach is not only the responsible thing to do, but it also makes sound commercial sense as sustainability becomes an increasing priority for businesses and consumers. We are proud of the progress we have made and look forward to continuing our journey.”

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12 | news | march 2026

Manufacturers urged to ignore market noise and focus on resilience

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he UK home improvement and building products sector is being urged to focus on operational resilience rather than short-term headlines as manufacturers contend with a mix of economic uncertainty, severe weather and persistent speculation about market slowdown.

According to Luca Muspratt, Business Director at roofing systems manufacturer Warmer Roof, the start of 2026 has brought familiar pressures for the sector, including prolonged bad weather, renewed cost-ofliving concerns and ongoing discussion about rising material costs. But he argues that the real operational impact of such factors is often less dramatic than industry commentary suggests. Writing in an opinion piece shared with Window Active, Muspratt said that while storms and heavy rainfall can disrupt installation schedules and economic caution may affect homeowner confidence, resilient manufacturers are those that concentrate on factors within their control.

“Resilient businesses aren’t built around reacting to headlines,” he said. “They’re built around controlling what’s controllable.”

In the home improvement market,

adverse weather can sometimes have the opposite effect to that predicted by pessimistic forecasts.

Problems such as leaks, poor thermal performance and condensation in older conservatories often become more obvious during harsh conditions, potentially prompting homeowners to consider upgrades sooner rather than later.

From a manufacturing perspective, Muspratt said preparation and production stability were more critical than attempting to predict external disruption. Factory-based processes such as prefabrication, structured lead times and consistent quality control can limit the impact of unpredictable conditions on delivery and installation

schedules.

Industry debate about potential downturns is also nothing new, he added, suggesting that periods of uncertainty tend to expose weaknesses in business models rather than create them.

Muspratt, who describes himself as part of a newer generation of manufacturing leadership, said many younger professionals in the sector have developed their careers during a period defined by volatility. Events including Brexit, the Covid pandemic and supply chain disruption have made adaptability a routine requirement rather than an exceptional skill.

As the solid roof and wider home improvement sectors mature, he believes businesses will increasingly move away from reactive responses to economic commentary. “Weather will change, markets will fluctuate and headlines will continue to amplify uncertainty,” he said. “The real differentiator is operational discipline and system design.”

For companies that prioritise those fundamentals, he added, external pressures are more likely to become background noise than a defining challenge.

Fentrade relocates to expanded premises to support growth strategy

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ndependent trade fabricator Fentrade has completed the purchase of a new 10,539 ft² facility, marking a significant step forward in the company’s ongoing growth journey.

The move to the new premises, with a planned completion by May, will mark an important milestone for the Newportbased fabricator, providing the space and infrastructure needed to support rising demand and the next stage of its growth strategy. With expanded production, office and space for a showroom area, the new site will ensure Fentrade can scale without compromising the service standards it is known for.

Chris Reeks, Managing Director of Fentrade, commented: “This purchase is a direct result of the progress we’ve made over recent years. Demand for our products continues to grow and the new premises gives us the capacity and flexibility to build on that success while maintaining the reliability our customers expect.”

The increased footprint allows for higher production capacity alongside improved operational flow, helping to safeguard dependable lead times as volumes increase.

Chris added: “Consistent delivery is nonnegotiable for our customers. The additional space ensures we can continue to deliver on

time, in full and without pressure on quality as the business grows.”

Alongside manufacturing improvements, the relocation also brings expanded office facilities to support more streamlined internal workflow. The enhanced working environment enables the team to remain responsive and accessible, from same-day quotations through to technical support when it matters most. Chris commented: “Our customers rely on us to make their supply chain simpler. That responsiveness and availability will always be central to how we operate.”

A dedicated showroom is also being incorporated into the new premises, extending Fentrade’s customer support offering. The space will allow visitors to view products up close, explore specification options and demonstrate finished products to their own clients. Chris said: “The showroom will create a more collaborative

environment, giving our customers the opportunity to showcase quality and innovation, helping them add value and unlock new upselling opportunities.”

The new premises at 2A Adelaide Street, Newport, are located just a few miles from Fentrade’s current site, allowing the business to retain its strategic position close to the M4 motorway. This ensures continued rapid access to the national transport network and supports the company’s fast turnaround and delivery performance.

Fentrade was acquired by Aluminium Vision in 2025, a move that unlocked investment and provided the platform for further expansion. The relocation is the latest in a series of strategic steps taken since the acquisition, reinforcing Fentrade’s position as a trusted fabricator for both commercial and residential aluminium projects.

As demand continues to build, the new premises ensure Fentrade is well positioned to support its growing customer base with the same focus on quality, service and reliability that has underpinned its success to date. At a time when much of the sector is facing uncertainty, Fentrade’s continued expansion stands as a clear indicator of the strength of its business model and longterm strategy.

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14 | news | march 2026

5 Star Windows launches recruitment drive as Telford showroom opens

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leading home improvement specialist has started its recruitment drive to create up to 20 new jobs in Telford. 5 Star Windows & Conservatories is looking to take on fitters, designers, surveyors and sales specialists to work at its new state-of-the-art showroom in St Georges, which is due to open in May. More than £750,000 is being invested in the transformation of the old C-Thru building, creating a dedicated modern space for people to visit and explore the latest windows, doors and conservatories and, on the first floor, a large range of modern living spaces.

Potential customers will be able to discuss their ambitious home projects with a team of experts, whilst gaining an insight into latest innovations like hup!, the new modular extension system that makes building conservatories, orangeries and living spaces quicker, easier and more energy efficient.

Richard Manser, Managing Director of family-run 5 Star Windows & Conservatories, commented: “Our sector

appears to be defying the growth of online shopping, with people still keen to visit a physical location to touch and feel the products - it’s almost like they want to see their vision come to life in person.

“That’s why we’re investing £750,000

into creating a dedicated Telford showroom that will be one of the most advanced in the region. We are already completing 100 installations every month across Shropshire and believe we can treble that number by having a local place people can come to.”

Dekko set for aluminium expansion following Fast Frame acquisition

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ekko Window Systems is poised to capitalise on significant new growth opportunities following Inwido’s recent acquisition of Fast Frame, strengthening its position within the UK fenestration market.

Fast Frame, a respected Nottinghambased specialist manufacturer of uPVC windows, doors and patio doors for the trade and commercial markets, joins Inwido as a bolt-on acquisition to Dekko.

While Fast Frame has an established commercial presence, it does not manufacture aluminium, creating a natural opportunity for Dekko to support and expand this offering.

Kurt Greatrex, Managing Director of Dekko, commented: “There’s real excitement around Inwido’s recent acquisition of Fast Frame. It’s a strong bolt-on for the group and one that creates immediate opportunity for Dekko.”

“Fast Frame operates successfully in the commercial market but doesn’t manufacture aluminium. That’s where Dekko is ideally placed to add value, supplying high-quality commercial aluminium systems that complement their existing offer.”

For installers, the acquisition opens the door to confidently expanding into commercial aluminium projects, supported by the combined expertise of Fast Frame,

Dekko and the wider Inwido group.

“This isn’t just a growth opportunity for us as a fabricator,” added Kurt. “It’s about giving installers a clear route into commercial aluminium, backed by trusted manufacturing, proven systems and the reassurance of a major European group.”

With Fast Frame, which has built a

strong reputation for quality and service, enhancing Inwido’s UK footprint and Dekko delivering aluminium capability, the acquisition signals the next chapter for growth for both Inwido, Europe’s leading window group, and Dekko.

Visit www.dekkowindows.com for more information or call 0161 523 1474.

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

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16 | news | march 2026

Veka strengthens testing capability with dedicated in-house facility

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eka plc has strengthened its research and development capability with the introduction of a dedicated in-house weathering rig within its workshop facility. The equipment, supplied by ift MessTec, part of ift Rosenheim, enables controlled environmental evaluation of window systems as part of Veka’s technical support service.

Supporting early-stage performance evaluation: The facility is used for indicative performance testing, allowing Veka to work collaboratively with customers to assess system behaviour under simulated wind, rain and pressure conditions before progressing to formal testing with an accredited certification body.

For fabricators, this early-stage evaluation can provide practical commercial benefits. By generating recorded performance data under defined parameters, customers are better positioned to review system configurations, consider alignment with target market requirements and prepare for projects where specific performance standards are required.

Simulating demanding weather conditions: The rig is designed to replicate demanding weather scenarios in a consistent and measurable way. A fog system visually identifies potential air leakage paths, while air permeability testing measures airflow through a product under pressure in line with recognised classification standards.

Water tightness testing simulates winddriven rain with increasing air pressure,

measured in Pascals, to assess resistance to water ingress. Wind deflection and pressure pulse testing monitor how frames and glazing respond to sustained loads and repeated gust simulations, recording structural movement and behaviour.

Together, these assessments provide insight into how a complete system performs under controlled conditions.

Internal evaluation does not replace formal third-party certification but is intended to support preparation for it.

Reducing risk before formal certification: By identifying potential areas for review earlier in the development cycle, customers may make adjustments prior to attending a UKAS-accredited test facility. This supports informed preparation for formal testing and may help reduce the likelihood of unexpected outcomes that could result in additional time or cost.

Collaborative development for specific market sectors: Veka’s Technical Team works collaboratively with customers to review hardware selection, configuration details and system combinations to suit their intended application, while maintaining focus on production efficiency and practical manufacture.

Recently, Veka worked with a longstanding fabricator to review the performance of selected hardware on a Veka window system. The assembled system was evaluated under defined environmental conditions, with air permeability, water tightness and structural response recorded throughout. The documented results provided the customer with performance data ahead of formal external certification testing. Phil Gregory, Design & Development Manager at Veka, comments: “The weathering facility enables us to collaborate closely with customers during product development. By carrying out indicative testing under controlled conditions, we can generate recorded data that supports informed technical decisions before systems move forward to accredited certification testing.”

The workshop facility forms part of Veka’s ongoing investment in technical infrastructure and customer partnership, providing controlled environmental evaluation and collaborative development expertise to support customers in preparing for formal validation routes.

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18 | news | march 2026

Joedan celebrates 40th anniversary with £3m investment drive

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leading manufacturer and installer of aluminium windows and doors is celebrating 40 years in business in style after signing off on a £3m investment drive. Joedan, which was founded by husband and wife John and Nicky Purcaro at their home in Cheltenham, is setting its sights on doubling annual revenues to £35m by 2030 as it looks to open a second manufacturing facility and increase its retail arm.

Named after their children Joseph and Daniella, the family-run business has enjoyed consistent growth over the last four decades, with more than 120 people now employed at its head office in Tewkesbury and across its design centres in Winchester and on the Isle of Wight.

Designing and producing its own ‘Lusso’ aluminium window and door range has been crucial to the firm’s longevity and complements founding values of the highest manufacturing quality, attention to detail, excellent customer service and, on the retail side, no pressure selling.

“The business was literally set-up on our kitchen table, so we’ve come a long way since we made that decision in 1985,” explained John, whose first employee - Ian Churchley - has only just retired after 39 years of service.

“Nicky gave us three rules to follow.

Firstly, there was no pressure selling and that has not changed. Secondly, we would never open on Bank Holidays or at Christmas, as we still believe people deserve to spend time with their families.

“Finally, and most importantly, the

business had to be in the names of our children…that way we knew we wouldn’t fail as I could never see us failing our children!”

He continued: “These values have stood us in good stead and remain a vital part of the business. We are also committed to moving to the next level and that’s why we’ve just signed off on a £3m investment plan in new machinery, our network of design centres and, tellingly, in a second manufacturing facility in the Isle of Wight.

“The deal has been completed on this, but it will be a perfect 40th birthday present to ourselves and our team.”

Joedan in 2026 is a designer, manufacturer and installer of its aluminium windows and doors to residential and commercial clients, including long-standing customers in education, healthcare and industry. It’s ‘Lusso’ range is produced at its 32,000 ft² site in Tewkesbury, whilst its ‘Portofino’ PVC-U window collection is supplied through its relationship with CO Manufacturing (previously known as Conservatory Outlet), a relationship that has been in place for more than ten years.

Whilst commercial counts for 60% of its current £18m turnover, the retail side of the business is also growing strong following a series of acquisitions that saw Wessex Window Systems (Winchester), Micron Windows and Doors (Orpington), Coastline Home Improvements and Topline Windows (both Isle of Wight) join the Joedan family.

Its latest venture has involved taking a stake in Eden Windows Doors & Conservatories, a trusted and wellestablished home improvement retailer

operating across Kent and Orpington in Greater London.

This move will drive the company’s further expansion into the retail market and delivers access to a new geographic customer base across the strategically important area of the South East.

“It’s great to look back at what we’ve achieved, but we are also passionate about developing the next generation of professionals in our sector. This has seen us create our own Apprenticeship Academy in 2000, which gives each apprentice specialist training and the chance to spend time in all areas of the business before deciding on the career they want to choose,” continued John.

“Over the last twenty-five years, this investment has created more than 100 members of staff for Joedan, two of whom who are now on the board of directors.”

Managing Director Joseph Purcaro, who has been working with his dad since he was 17, added his support: “There is a real family feel to our business and that flows through the way we manufacture windows and doors, the way we have created our design centres and the way we install products in people’s homes.

“It has stood the test of the time and helped us complete more than 500,000 installations over the last forty years - that is some achievement. Now the focus is on building for the next generation, and we are looking forward to putting the £3m expansion plans into action over the coming months.” www.joedan.co.uk

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SHEERLINE’S

NEW INLINE PATIO Featuring a patented single component interlock When Sheerline was launched, the intention was always to develop a full suite of matching windows and doors, giving our fabricator partners access to a complete, integrated, perfectly matched system.

SheerGlide ®, our new inline patio door, combines strength and comfort without compromise and completes our residential range of products.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the key features it offers.

COMBINED COMPONENT FOR STRENGTH AND SIMPLICITY

SAVE TIME

WARM

SECURE

Our proprietary, award-winning Thermlock® technology sits at the heart of all our products, and SheerGlide® is no exception.

In the past, homeowners f requently had to choose between security or warmth, looks or practical features. But with SheerGlide®, they can have it all. Sheerline’s patent-pending TwinLock interlock is strong yet slim, with a bi-directional thermal break that is integrated into every door.

This is how we’re able to offer high-performance U-values of 1.4 W/m²K with double glazing or 1.0 with triple glazing. The latter option is becoming increasingly popular with homeowners who want to achieve cosy, comfortable, warm spaces while also saving money on their energy bills.

Thermlock® enables homeowners to achieve this without compromising on their dream aesthetic of slim sightlines and uninterrupted views of their gardens and surrounding landscape.

Combining the sash and interlock into one unif ied prof ile, this slim, 38mm interlock provides security without compromising on the contemporary aesthetic homeowners are looking for.

Another security feature is the modular ‘quad’ hook lock design by hardware specialists, Ingenious Locks & Hardware.

Patent Pending: GB2522551.7 – Twinlock Interlock

Patent Pending: GB2516723.0– Fast Cleat

SIMPLIFIED Sheerline’s customers can order this patio as bar length or ready-to-fabricate kits in five popular colour combinations on five-day lead times to make the process as simple as possible. It also means less components and zero stockholding.

For fabricators, one of the most useful innovations is the patented Quick Connect Corner (QCC) - an evolution of Sheerline’s award-winning corner construction method.

QCC is fully tuneable, easily removeable and uses stainless steel for strength.

It’s perfect for reducing the possibility of f rame misalignment while speeding up patio production, particularly as the inclusion of a ‘bump stop’ gives fabrication staff positive feedback during assembly, making the process even more intuitive.

STYLISH With slim sightlines and a 38mm interlock, SheerGlide® maintains Sheerline’s reputation for beautiful, architecturally refined styling. It is also compatible with our colour-matched Grille Shroud, which is a more attractive solution to external trickle vent hoods.

The 80mm continuous f rame threshold completes the perimeter of SheerGlide®, however, installers also have the option to sink

AVAILABLE AS

TIME-SAVING

KITS & BAR LENGTH

the threshold to match the internal floor height, offering a near seamless look. Plus, the universal cloaking trims ensure clean aesthetics.

But it doesn’t just look good, thanks to the self-levelling rolling gear and independent bogie design, SheerGlide®’s ultra-smooth operation performs flawlessly.

CUSTOMISABLE To create a patio that is truly unique, homeowners have many different options to choose f rom including paint colours, finishes, and hardware such as handles.

When purchasing a kit, there are two handle options, a standard Hoppe handle in black, white, or a silver finish, and a premium brushed stainless steel option from the Coastal Group.

If you’re interested in finding out more about SheerGlide®, get in touch with us today

info@sheerline.com

01332 978000

22 | news | march 2026

Yale Test Centre renews FGIA AAMA 904 accreditation for 2026

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reliable performance that has been independently verified.

It also further enhances the credibility of ASSA ABLOY in the US fenestration market, underlining investment in world-class testing infrastructure and the company’s ongoing commitment to its customers and clients. Richard Gurmin, Director and Head of Export at Yale DWS, comments: “We’re extremely proud of our Centre of Excellence for Window Products in Cheltenham, which enables us to test door and window hardware to the most stringent and up-todate industry standards, providing accurate data on the product’s performance as well as offering endurance-testing, static loadtesting, and corrosion-testing.

“This renewed FGIA AAMA 904 accreditation reinforces the trust our customers place in Yale and ASSA ABLOY, and demonstrates our continued commitment to supporting the US market with independently accredited testing.”

ale Door and Window Solutions’ Cheltenham Test Centre has again been awarded the FGIA Accredited Component Laboratory Certificate for 2026, for testing to AAMA 904 – maintaining its position as the only FGIA-accredited laboratory to this standard outside the United States.

The AAMA Laboratory Accreditation Programme (AAMA), operated by the Fenestration & Glazing Industry Alliance (FGIA), identifies and accredits highly qualified testing laboratories against AAMA performance standards. The AAMA 904 accreditation covers multi-bar hinges in window applications.

The renewed certification enables Yale to continue supporting the US customer base for its Storm, Sterling, and SAT heavyduty hinges with a third-party-accredited testing facility. This provides customers with confidence that the hinges meet the most stringent American standards – delivering

John Fredericks boosts efficiency with new Haffner machine investment

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ohn Fredericks Plastics has further enhanced its manufacturing output with the installation of a new Graf Synergy Single Head CNC Cill Welder, supplied by machinery specialists Haffner. The investment follows a visit to Graf’s headquarters near Modena, Italy, last year, where the John Fredericks operations team explored advanced cill welding solutions.

During the visit, Graf demonstrated how the machine could streamline fabrication processes by delivering seamless, high-quality welds while removing several time-intensive finishing stages. The patented technology eliminates the need for corner cleaning, sanding, polishing of cills and penning in, significantly improving workflow efficiencies and reducing production time.

Mark Dicconson, MD of John Fredericks Plastics, said: “Having the team visit Graf to look at cill welding options, it quickly became clear that this was the right solution to resolve a bottleneck in our fabrication process.

Not only would the cill welder reduce production time and save on costs, but the finish quality of the end product was exceptional. From an investment point of view, it was an easy decision to make.”

Like all Graf Synergy machinery, the Cill Welder produces a precise, seamless weld free from excess sprue, enhancing

consistency and reducing the need for post-weld finishing. The result is improved productivity and a cleaner, higher-quality final product.

Since the machine has been in operation at John Fredericks’ fabrication facility in Huddersfield, customer response has been overwhelmingly positive. Mark added: “The feedback from our customers has been fantastic. They’ve particularly noticed the quality of the seamless weld, which really enhances the overall finish of the product.”

Mark also highlighted the collaborative approach taken throughout the project. He said: “Working with Haffner has been a pleasure. Both Matt Thomas and Mike Moulds have been great to work with from start to finish, and the whole process has been seamless in every sense of the word.”

John Fredericks Plastics has built up over 50 years of continuous trading, underpinned by a strong record of product innovation and a loyal customer base. The company’s management team attribute its longevity and growth to a consistent focus on quality, delivery and innovation. This latest investment reflects John Fredericks’ continued commitment to improving efficiency while maintaining the high product standards customers have come to expect. By continuing to invest in advanced fabrication solutions, the company is further strengthening its position as one of the UK’s leading trade fabricators.

march 2026 | news | 23

Modplan reports continued growth in demand for Veka Omnia range

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ndependent trade fabricator Modplan has reported continued growth in demand for its Veka Omnia range, reflecting the strong market appetite for the system’s distinctive double flush aesthetics and versatile design options.

Liam Isaac, Head of Sales and Marketing at Modplan, said: “Since introducing Omniato our product portfolio, the response from customers has been extremely positive.

Installers value the system’s clean sightlines, premium appearance and design flexibility, which makes it suitable for both contemporary projects and heritage-style properties.”

The Omnia system has quickly gained traction thanks to its refined design features. At the heart of the system is a zero sight-line mullion that delivers a clean and expansive appearance, while invisible mullion options allow installers to achieve an even more minimalist aesthetic.

Liam commented: “Omnia offers a unique combination of flush styling, advanced design and installation versatility.

It’s a flush window and door system that

helps our customers deliver the high-end look homeowners increasingly expect, without compromising on performance.”

To support growing demand, Modplan manufactures the full Omnia suite including casement windows, tilt & turn windows, French doors and residential doors at its impressive Newport fabrication facilities. All Omnia products are currently available on a reliable three-week turnaround, ensuring installers can plan projects with confidence.

Liam added: “Reliable lead times are critical for installers. By maintaining a consistent three-week turnaround across the Omnia range, we’re helping our customers keep projects moving while continuing to deliver the quality and service they associate with Modplan.”

Alongside Omnia, Modplan manufactures a comprehensive range of Veka, Profile 22 and Leka Systems products, offering installers a complete product portfolio from one trusted supplier.

Liam concluded: “Omnia continues to go from strength to strength. Its ongoing success reflects both the quality of the products and the confidence our customers have in Modplan as their reliable supply partner.”

IG Doors celebrates 25 years of membership with Secured by Design

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G Doors is marking 25 years of membership with Secured by Design, recognising a long-standing commitment to delivering secure, compliant doorsets for the new build and social housing refurbishment sectors. With more than 45 years of experience, IG Doors has established itself as a trusted supplier to housing providers, developers and contractors across the UK. The company’s success is founded on a partnership-based approach to working with clients, supported by consistent delivery performance and a clear understanding of the needs of residents in the homes where its products are installed.

IG Doors has developed a specialist range of doorsets tailored to the specific requirements of the sectors it serves. Its products are designed to remain fully compliant with evolving building regulations and industry standards, including PAS 24 and Approved Document Q, while also meeting the Police Preferred Specification requirements of the Secured by Design initiative. Guaranteed quality standards, combined with a choice of door materials such as steel-faced and glass reinforced polymer, enable IG Doors to deliver products engineered for long-term performance, safety and security.

Through its continued focus on compliance, quality and resident-focused design, IG Doors has maintained a strong and enduring relationship with Secured by Design, supporting safer homes and communities

over the past quarter of a century.

Rhys Davies, Managing Director at IG Doors, said: “Celebrating 25 years of Secured

by Design membership is a significant milestone for IG Doors and one that reflects our long-term commitment to security, compliance and product integrity.

For us, Secured by Design is not simply an accreditation - it represents a design philosophy centred on protecting residents and supporting housing providers with doorsets they can trust. Our continued investment in

product development and UK manufacturing ensures we remain aligned with evolving regulations and security standards.”

Hazel Goss, Secured by Design, said: “It was lovely to issue IG Doors with their 25 year award. On the day it was myself, a local Inspector and two of our DOCOs in attendance, to whom IG Doors gave a tour of the factory and production. They were over the moon to receive this prestigious award and it is going to take pride of place in the main foyer. Well done and well deserved.”

24 | news | march 2026

14,000 homeowners quoted via Tommy in January

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nstallers using Tommy Trinder quoted 14,000 homeowners in January, marking the platform’s busiest month to date and signalling a buoyant start to 2026.

“To quote 14,000 homeowners in one month is pretty remarkable - that’s one every three minutes, 24 hours a day!” says CEO of Tommy Trinder, Chris Brunsdon. “These record volumes certainly show that demand remains strong for professional, well-organised installation businesses.”

The number of firms using Tommy Trinder for their quoting has continued to grow too, with 247 more installation companies signing up to use the service over the last twelve months. But it’s not just new business that is fuelling the growth in quote volumes, explains Chris: “Having a full suite of materials - timber, aluminium, steel and PVC-U - available to touch, show and sell is really boosting the numbers. We’re seeing a rising incidence of installers combining multiple materials in one quote – a timber front door, an aluminium bi-fold and some PVC-U sashes on the same job is not uncommon, for example. These mixed material projects are leading to higher average quote values - typically, in the region of £7,300.”

“Premium features are a factor too; foils, dual colours, dummy vents, mechanical joints, flush casements, surface mounted bars and premium ironmongery are all trending upwards. It’s easy to show these off on the Tommy platform in a very visual way, and when it’s easy to show it’s easy to sell.”

Notably, more than a third of quotes sent to homeowners during January were accompanied by a visualisation; “The makeover tool, where installers provide a mockup to the homeowner of their new windows in situ, is definitely becoming a staple part of the quoting process,” says Chris.

“When you consider the ease with which consumers are able to model other significant purchases like cars or kitchens, it feels inevitable that offering the client a visual of windows and doors will become the norm. Customers love being able to ‘try before they buy.’”

Installers can find out more about Tommy Trinder and book a free demo at www.tommytrinder.com

26 | news | march 2026

Liniar strengthens technical compliance through enhanced calculation standards

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s regulatory scrutiny increases and project timelines tighten, window and door fabricators are under more pressure than ever to demonstrate compliance while maintaining efficiency. Structural performance, barrier and wind load calculations are complex, but fundamental to safe, compliant manufacture. Yet for many businesses, accessing accurate data quickly remains a challenge.

Following the recent release of its Energy Performance Calculator, Quanex brand Liniar continues to invest in developing tools that help customers simplify complex processes. Its upcoming Barrier and Wind Load Calculator will greatly simplify Building Regulations Part K and BS 6180 compliance – and crucially it has been underwritten by a structural engineer.

As Liniar Design Manager, Tom MacKenzie-Roberts explains, “We’re committed to raising awareness of how important it is to make barrier and wind load calculations before manufacturing.

Getting this right upfront ensures regulatory compliance, avoids potential for costly remedial work and even legal ramifications in event of structural failure. Safe buildings mean peace-of-mind across the board.”

Designed with user-friendliness in mind, “The calculator’s interface is very intuitive, while delivering impressive functionality” says Tom. “Fabricators can calculate stiffness and deflection values for a member being assessed in a window or door. It includes integrated peak velocity pressure by post code, for greater performance accuracy in any location across the UK,” he adds.

For fabricators, this means faster

decision-making and greater confidence in specifications. Being able to make calculations quickly and accurately also has the benefit of reducing the time it takes to prepare quotations, ultimately shortening lead times - a great competitive advantage!

Of course, calculations are only part of the picture. There’s a wide variety of components available on the market of varying quality - choosing only those that have been fully tested and certified is crucial to achieving finished products that deliver on performance reliably.

Tom continues, “At Liniar we adhere to stringent testing processes in developing regulatory compliant products. Our PVC-U Thermal Reinforcements range, for example, has been tested in vital areas

such as screw retention, barrier loading and security.

“By following strict testing practices for all our products, both in-house and through independent 3rd parties, we have complete confidence when advising our customers on which components will deliver to the required specifications under a wide range of conditions.”

Liniar’s Barrier and Wind Load calculator will be available to its customers free and will be supported by training during the initial roll-out phase scheduled to commence at the beginning of March. Tom concludes, “By giving fabricators the tools they need to work accurately, compliantly and efficiently, we’re supporting safer construction and stronger businesses.”

N E Fasteners and it’s online arm Screwshop.co.uk celebrating 40 years

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E Fasteners and it’s online arm Screwshop.co.uk – the home of own brands Rhino and Turboqwik screws, are proud to be celebrating 40 years in the trade.

A testament to hard work, dedication from our staff, shows loyalty and consistency in a constantly evolving sector. Our family run business provides essential components for the construction, manufacturing and DIY project and has built a strong reputation locally and nationally.

Nigel Elliott set up N E Fasteners in his garage in 1985, and his first customers and suppliers are still with us, his son Matt joined him in 2001, and the company has gone from strength to strength, now employing near 20 people in all departments including a very popular

kitting and packaging line with new automated machinery running in early 2025.

Our year of celebrations has been filled with memorabilia recognising the journey N E Fasteners has taken within the crucial industry and the immense commitment from our team. Each team member was presented with a special 40-year gift box, personalised cupcakes and a relaxed afternoon off work.

Looking to the future, N E Fasteners aims to continue delivering value and building trusted relationships with its customers and suppliers and constantly having a strong customer led focus in person or with its e-commerce presence (Screwshop) to improve customers’ buying experience on line. Here’s to fastening the future — together!

march 2026 | news | 27

Selecta Systems raise £3,550 for Acorns Children’s Hospice

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in recent years that have placed additional pressure on funding. “We have always been amazed by the level of care and support Acorns provides, not only to children and young people, but to their families as well,” he said.

Acorns Children’s Hospice delivers a wide range of services, including short breaks, emergency and end-of-life care, therapeutic and psychosocial support, sibling services and bereavement care. Its holistic approach ensures families receive tailored support during some of the most difficult times they may face. The fundraising effort was coordinated by Selecta Marketing Assistant Danielle Southam, who praised the generosity of colleagues and participants. She said the level of engagement across the business made the events a success and expressed appreciation to everyone who contributed.

The total raised will go directly towards supporting the ongoing work of Acorns Children’s Hospice and the families who rely on its services.

very December, Selecta Systems organises a series of fundraising activities in support of its chosen local charity, Acorns Children’s Hospice.

The most recent initiative, which combined a Christmas raffle with a festive jumper day, was coordinated by the company’s marketing department and raised an impressive £3,550 for the charity.

Selecta Systems has supported Acorns Children’s Hospice for several years and continues to recognise the vital role the organisation plays within the local community. Acorns provides specialist palliative care and support for babies, children and young people with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions, as well as ongoing assistance for their families. Commenting on the continued partnership, Selecta Systems Marketing Manager Mark Walker highlighted the importance of community-backed fundraising. He explained that Acorns relies heavily on donations to maintain its services, particularly following challenges

Glass Futures completes first trials campaign, advancing decarbonisation

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lass Futures has reached a significant milestone in its mission to accelerate the decarbonisation of energy intensive industries, with the successful completion of alternative fuel trial programmes testing biofuels and electric melting, and commissioning hydrogen capabilities on its 30 tonnes-per-day pilot line. The achievement comes almost exactly seven years after the organisation secured funding for its first Industrial Fuel Switching projects from the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero, marking a new phase of innovation and momentum for the global glass sector.

These complex, multi-pathway trials that started in October 2025 have delivered groundbreaking results that demonstrate the technical potential of low-carbon fuel technologies at industrially relevant scales.

Key successes include the installation and commissioning of a bespoke biofuel delivery system, fully integrated into the site’s digital control environment which has been used to successfully fire four novel, lowcost, waste-derived biofuels for sustained periods over several days. The Glass Futures team, supported by F.I.C UK Ltd, installed, commissioned, and trialled a custom electric-boost (e-boost) system. The work tested a wide range of power settings, including rapid switching, to demonstrate how a glass furnace could provide demand-side response capabilities to local electricity networks.

Glass Futures also commissioned a new hydrogen fuel delivery system on the pilot line, enabling successful firing of hydrogen supplied by Ryze Power and natural-gas blends, up to 100% hydrogen. Commissioning the world’s first multi-fuel hybrid pilot-scale glass furnace involved several technical complexities, and this achievement has already attracted strong interest across Glass Futures’ membership, government, and the wider foundation industries.

Justin Kelly, CEO of Glass Futures, said: “The successful completion of these trial programmes marks a crucial milestone not just for Glass Futures, but for the industry’s journey to net zero. We have demonstrated, at industrial scale, the technical viability of a number of alternative low-carbon fuel path-

ways that have never before been trialled in this way. It is a testament to the resilience, ingenuity, and collaboration of the entire Glass Futures team.”

Barry King, Engineering Manager at Encirc said: “Encirc is delighted to be part of Glass Futures’ groundbreaking trials in biofuels, electric, and hydrogen technologies. Collaboration and innovation are at the heart of our decarbonisation journey, and working together on these pioneering projects brings us closer to finding viable alternatives to fossil fuels.

“By exploring new energy pathways side by side with industry partners, we’re helping to shape a more sustainable future for glass manufacturing and the communities we serve.”

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

Six different hardware finishes.

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

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

Contact us today for a Technically Better sliding sash window.

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

FUSION WELD OPTION

TILT OPTION FOR CLEANING

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30 | news | march 2026

Clearview continues to see significant growth in the new build sector

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moving. That’s exactly what we’ve built the business around. The growth has also been supported by Clearview New Build’s focused approach to customer care and on-site communication, which enables smoother handovers, fewer delays, and strong collaboration with site managers.

David Maybury added: “Customer service is at the centre of what we do. With multiple fitting teams and a dedicated aftercare department, we pride ourselves on delivering a level of service and ongoing support that other installers can’t match.

“The new build sector is fast-paced and unforgiving. Our job is to help sites stay on programme, avoid unnecessary cost and deliver a high-quality finish first time. As we expand further across the region, that commitment will remain our driving force.”

With more live sites coming online and strong demand from existing clients, Clearview New Build expects further growth throughout the year as it continues to expand its operational capacity and regional footprint.

learview New Build has announced its strongest year to date, reporting a significant increase in the number of live sites it is servicing compared with this time last year.

Part of the CO Manufacturing, Clearview New Build has grown steadily, capitalising on rising demand from regional and national housebuilders that are seeking high-quality fabrication and installation partners. This expansion has been underpinned by a dedicated office function, a specialist customer care team, and highly skilled installation teams covering the north of England.

This has enabled the company to successfully scale whilst maintaining strong site relationships and dependable service levels. David Maybury, Divisional Head of Clearview New Build, said: “We’ve experienced major growth in the past year, and that reflects the trust our housebuilder partners place in us. Developers want subcontractors who turn up, deliver quality work and keep the programme

ERA strengthens sustainability pledge as part of Quanex 2035 roadmap

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K hardware brands ERA and Zoo, as part of global manufacturing leader Quanex, are helping to shape progress towards the group’s wider 2035 Sustainability Roadmap.

As part of Quanex’s Hardware Solutions division, the two brands contribute to a shared annual sustainability action plan, alongside brands Reguitti and Giesse. The plan outlines proactive measures aimed at minimising environmental impact, while supporting UK customers with innovative products and sustainability services.

The brands will contribute to the Quanex 2035 Sustainability Roadmap through three core pillars: Sustainable Products, focused on providing innovative, sustainable solutions for customers; A Healthy Planet, aimed at delivering world-class environmental performance throughout their operations; and Thriving People and Communities, supporting an inclusive and safe workplace, while positively contributing to the communities they serve.

Supporting these pillars, ERA and Zoo will action a range of initiatives over the next nine years, reflecting key customer and operational priorities. This will include the expansion of innovative and sustainable products and services for UK customers, alongside ongoing packaging and material improvements.

Wider priorities will also include the continued transition towards more environmentally responsible operations.

In addition, the brands will also maintain a strong focus on the highest safety standards, fostering an inclusive workplace culture, and positive community involvement through volunteering initiatives.

Striving to consistently exceed the expectations of their customers, ERA and Zoo will draw on Quanex’s extensive global expertise and resources to deliver on their continued commitment to sustainability, innovation and customer support, as part of the ambitious roadmap, which aligns with 11 out of the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The SDGs are objectives set out by all UN member states to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure peace and prosperity.

Already making significant progress

towards their plans, since 2022, around 45% of ERA and Zoo’s revenue has been generated from products that have positively impacted one or more of the UN’s SDGs. In addition, the brands have committed to eliminating waste to landfill and all ‘singleuse’ plastic packaging on products supplied to their customers by 2030.

ERA and Zoo, as part of Quanex Hardware Solutions division, are also working towards gaining Environmental Product Declarations for their products, offering the transparency required to drive forward sustainable change within the construction sector, allowing their customers to better understand the environmental impact of their products.

Lara Coutinho, Supply Chain Sustainability Manager, at Quanex Group, says: Sustainability at Quanex is about building long-term value through practical action, not ambition alone. With that, we’re pleased to announce our new outcomedriven 2035 roadmap. ERA and Zoo play an important role within our Hardware Solutions division, contributing to a shared approach, through an action plan that integrates sustainable product innovation, responsible operations, and positive social impact.

Combining Quanex’s global scale with ERA and Zoo’s local expertise, as a team we’re able to support our customers with solutions that meet the highest standards of performance and sustainability.”

march 2026 | news | 31

Morley Glass supports North Leeds Charity Beer Festival 2026

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orley Glass, the UK’s leading manufacturers of integral blinds, has once again been announced as the main sponsor of the 2026 North Leeds Charity Beer Festival, an increasingly important community fundraising event which takes place on 10-11th April at North Leeds Cricket Club in Roundhay.

Now into its 14th year, the annual event organised by the Rotary Club of Roundhay is expected to attract hundreds of beer, cider and gin enthusiasts from across the region. All the proceeds from the two-day event, which features live music and food in addition to a unique array of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, are used to support charities and community projects at local, national and international levels.

With over a month to go to this year’s festival, since it started, more than £100,000 has already been raised, giving valuable projects in the local area and further afield immediate support. And the event is gaining an international following too with The Rotary Club of Lausanne International, Switzerland also joining in and supporting the event.

Morley Glass has sponsored the North Leeds Charity Beer Festival for a number of years, and its continued support reflects the company’s commitment to supporting local community events and good causes across West Yorkshire. The organisers and

supporters of the event have helped it to develop into a community charity fundraiser without losing its original aim of showcasing locally produced beers from micro and independent breweries.

Ian Short, Managing Director of Morley Glass, said the business is proud to play a role in helping the festival continue to grow: “The North Leeds Charity Beer Festival

really has become a highlight in the North Leeds calendar, bringing people together while raising vital funds for fantastic causes.

Supporting our communities has always been a key part of what we do at Morley Glass, so we’re delighted to sponsor the festival this year. We hope our involvement helps the organisers continue the brilliant work they do and encourages more people to come along and enjoy the weekend.”

Festival organisers have welcomed the sponsorship, saying that support from local businesses like Morley Glass is essential in ensuring the event can raise as much money as possible for the community.

North Leeds Charity Beer Festival organiser, Richard Wharton, commented: “The North Leeds Charity Beer Festival has now been running for 14 years and raised over £100,000, all of which has been donated to charity. At the same time, it has become a much-anticipated and well attended event for the local community.

“We are grateful for the support of Morley Glass, who have been involved in the festival for many years and provide a huge amount of support and help in running the event.”

The 2026 North Leeds Charity Beer Festival will feature a wide range of Yorkshire beers and ciders, live music, food stalls and family-friendly entertainment. www.northleedscharitybeerfestival.co.uk.

Bennetts praises Endurance partnership

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door installer is acknowledging the continued contribution Endurance® Doors is making to its success. Bennetts Joinery & Glazing has been working with Endurance since 2023 installing around 150 doors from the high-end manufacturer every year.

It cites Endurance’s product offer and service, and support as being ‘amongst the best of the best’ and ‘the Rolls Royce’ of the composite door industry. Mitchell Bennett, MD at Bennett’s Joinery & Glazing, comments: “We began working with Endurance® Doors after a customer insisted we fit one of their products over a different brand we were using at the time. This marked the start of a relationship where we’ve never looked back.

It was also indicative of just how effective Endurance’s consumer-focused marketing is and we’ve since enjoyed the dividends of this ourselves.”

Endurance’s consumer-focused marketing, which includes TV advertising and extensive social media activity, generates regular leads and work for Bennett’s. The door installer also uses assets like social media templates, sales literature and online configurators from Endurance for its own marketing. In addition, Endurance has provided comprehensive support to a showroom operated by Bennett’s at its Ilkeston,

Derbyshire site. This support has included demonstration doors, colour swatches and brochures. Aside from the manufacturer’s assistance with marketing and lead generation, Bennett’s also praises Endurance’s customer service and after-sales support.

“It’s very rare that we have problems with ordering, fitting or product quality with an Endurance door” says Mitchell. “On those odd occasions where an issue has needed

resolving, however Endurance’s response has been fantastic. They deal with things quickly, efficiently and with a real sense of ownership and urgency.”

He adds: “Endurance is all about quality and as an Endurance installer partner, that reflects on you. It allows you to position your business and to operate in a way that’s a cut above. Would I recommend them as a partner to other installers? Absolutely I would.”

32 | director of the month | march 2026

DIRECTOR OF THE MONTH In this month’s director of the month feature, we talk to Adrian Gale, Sales Director of Carl F Groupco

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t Carl F Groupco, sales are never simply about just supplying products; it is about creating confidence. In today’s market, confidence is invaluable. Fabricators are navigating fluctuating demand, evolving regulations and increasing expectations from customers. In that environment, the role of a hardware partner becomes far more significant than price or product list alone. It becomes about reliability, strength of supply, independence of thinking and the technical expertise that underpins our offer.

Reliability is the quality our customers reference time and again. It is built on consistency of service, accuracy of supply and the reassurance that comes from dealing with a team that understands the pressures of fabrication schedules. When a fabricator commits to a delivery date, they are placing their reputation on the line. We recognise that our performance directly impacts theirs which is why we have structured our operations to support dependable, next-day deliveries across the UK, supported by substantial stocks and proactive internal processes.

Accuracy and completeness We measure performance against the realities of fabrication, where an order is only successful when it is delivered in full, with nothing missing. If even one hardware component is missing, it can halt an entire production run. Our focus is therefore not just on speed, but on accuracy and completeness.

Behind this reliability sits a strong and carefully managed supply chain. Our long-established relationships with global hardware manufacturers give us resilience that extends beyond transactional purchasing. We collaborate closely with our partners, share forecasts, review market trends and plan stock profiles strategically.

This proactive approach allows us to miti-

WORKING LOCATION I split my time between my home office and regular visits to Carl F Groupco’s head office and distribution hub in Peterborough. Working from home allows me to focus on strategic planning while remaining closely connected to the sales, operations and technical teams. When I’m in the office, I particularly value the face-to-face conversations and the opportunity to see firsthand what’s happening across stock, service and customer requirements. Collaboration is constant, whether that’s a quick conversation across the warehouse floor or a more structured meeting around the table. The balance between remote focus and in-person teamwork works extremely well and ensures I remain fully engaged with every part of the business.

for that application. That objectivity builds trust and trust is fundamental to long-term commercial relationships.

The breadth of our range ensures customers can consolidate their hardware requirements with a single supply partner.

From multipoint door locks and window mechanisms to handles, friction stays and ancillary components, we provide a comprehensive offer designed to streamline procurement and administration. In a competitive market, operational efficiency can be the difference between margin gained and margin lost. By making hardware sourcing straightforward and dependable, we help customers focus their energy on their own business growth. gate disruption and maintain availability. In recent years, the importance of supply chain strength has been brought sharply into focus and it has reinforced the value of partnership, planning and investment. By holding significant levels of stock and maintaining open communication with suppliers, we are able to offer customers continuity when they need it most.

Our independent status strengthens this position further. As one of the UK’s independently-owned hardware distributors, we are free to select the best hardware solutions from across the market without bias. We are not restricted to a single brand or corporate agenda. Instead, we offer a portfolio that reflects performance, compliance and suitability for UK fabrication requirements. This independence enables honest, technically driven conversations with customers. When we recommend a locking system, hinge solution or smart access product, it is because we believe it is the right fit

Growth of connected living Innovation remains central to our strategy. The growth of connected living has transformed consumer expectations and the demand for smart hardware solutions continues to grow. Through our SmartSecure range and associated motorised locking and access control solutions, we support fabricators looking to enter or expand within this space. These systems combine mechanical security with intuitive smart functionality, enabling homeowners to monitor and control access with ease. Importantly, we work closely with customers to ensure integration is seamless, from specification through to installation. Smart technology must enhance, not complicate, the fabrication process. By providing guidance and training alongside the product itself, we help customers capitalise on this expanding opportunity with confidence.

FACTS & FIGURES

First jOb: Joiner’s mate – what would now be called an apprentice window fitter!

When did you join current company: I joined Carl F Groupco in August 2025.

Most useful/favourite gadget: My smartwatch. It helps me keep track of my weekly fitness goals and keeps me disciplined.

Favourite/most useful website: The Sheffield United website – it keeps me fully up to date with everything happening at my beloved football club.

Favourite restaurant: I couldn’t narrow it down to just one. Anywhere with great food and a good atmosphere works for me.

Business person you admire: There are too many to mention and I’ve been fortunate to work with some truly inspiring people throughout my career. I also greatly admire members of my family who are self-employed. Running your own business in today’s climate takes real resilience and courage.

What lesson have you learnt about business over the last 12 months: It’s a challenging market at present, but by staying focused on product development, customer service and delivering best-inclass solutions, we can maintain our position as the number one independent hardware supplier in the fenestration industry.

Best business decision: Joining Carl F Groupco is certainly up there, but more broadly, choosing to build my career in this industry.

Other interests: Family is hugely important to me and my wife’s constant support makes everything possible. I’ve always prioritised health and fitness, although that can be a challenge when I enjoy my food! I’m a lifelong Sheffield United supporter, enjoy holidays and play the occasional round of golf but not always very well. You’ll also see me walking our two chihuahuas, brother and sister, Dime and Poppy — proof that leadership comes in many forms!

march 2026 | director of the month | 33 At the same time, aluminium continues to gain momentum across both residential and commercial sectors. The appeal of slim sightlines, larger glazed areas and contemporary aesthetics has driven significant growth and with it comes the need for specialist hardware capable of meeting higher performance demands. We have expanded our aluminium portfolio to include solutions designed for heavier sash weights, enhanced corrosion resistance and precise operation. Whether supporting tilt and turn configurations, large-format lift and slide doors or emergency exit applications, our focus is on delivering hardware that complements aluminium’s structural advantages. As this sector evolves, we remain committed to broadening our offer with next-generation products designed for premium domestic applications as well as demanding commercial projects.

However, product availability and innovation alone do not define our value. Technical support is where we truly differentiate ourselves. Hardware plays a pivotal role in achieving compliance with security, weather performance and durability standards.

Mis-specification can result in failed tests, costly rework and reputational damage. Our technical team works closely with customers to ensure the correct hardware is selected from the outset. We provide guidance on configuration, reinforcing requirements and fixing methods and we are available to support fit-ups and pre-test preparations when required. By collaborating with manufacturers’ technical specialists, we ensure best practice is shared across the supply chain. This depth of expertise reduces risk and enhances performance, giving fabricators greater assurance when bringing products to market.

Extensive product knowledge and industry insight The strength of our team underpins everything we deliver. Many of our colleagues have been with the business for decades, carrying with them extensive product knowledge and industry insight. This continuity fosters consistency for customers, who often deal with the same contacts year after year. Relationships are built on shared experience and mutual understanding of market pressures. Our regional sales managers work closely with fabricators, visiting sites, reviewing projects and identifying opportunities for improvement or innovation. They act as trusted advisers, not simply account managers, ensuring that commercial conversations are supported by practical expertise.

Professionalism extends across every department. From purchasing and warehousing to marketing and senior leadership, there is a shared commitment to delivering a service that reflects the standards our customers expect. We invest in training to ensure our knowledge remains current, particularly as regulations and product technologies evolve. We maintain transparent internal performance reporting so that service levels remain visible and measurable. This culture ensures reliability is embedded in the way we do business.

Ultimately, our approach is built on partnership. Hardware is widely available, but what truly differentiates one distributor from another is the quality of support and the consistency behind it. By combining strong stockholding, independent thinking, ongoing product development and practical technical expertise, we help our customers build their own success.

As the market continues to shift, our focus remains simple: make life easier for our customers. That means holding the right stock, giving clear and honest advice and providing the technical support needed to get things right first time. When fabricators can rely on their hardware partner, their business runs stronger. www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

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WORKING DAY

My day usually starts around 6.30am with a quick check of emails and a look at what’s ahead. It gives me a chance to get organised before the pace picks up. Once I’m in the office, I’ll spend time with the team, running through priorities, discussing any supply chain developments and making sure everything is aligned for the day ahead.

A significant part of my role involves staying close to customers and hardware partners, so most days include meetings or calls. I value these conversations because they provide genuine insight into what the market needs, particularly as interest in smart products and aluminium systems continues to grow. Throughout the day, I remain connected across the business to ensure we deliver the reliability and independence our customers expect. I usually finish by reviewing progress and setting priorities for the following day.

Compare your reinforcement prices today and lock in savings of up to 37% for the rest of 2026.

34 | news dashboard | march 2026

Carl F Groupco renews SBD membership

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ndependent hardware distributor Carl F Groupco has renewed its membership of Secured by Design (SBD), the official police security initiative, reaffirming its long-standing commitment to delivering high-quality, secure hardware solutions to the market. Carl F Groupco has been a member of Secured by Design for many years and continues to recognise the value the scheme brings to both the business and its customers. By renewing its membership, the company reinforces its focus on product performance, security standards and best practice across its extensive hardware portfolio. John King, Technical Director at Carl F Groupco, said: “Security is fundamental to everything we do. Renewing our Secured by Design membership reinforces our commitment to recognised security standards and providing reassurance to our customers that the products we supply meet the demands of today’s market.”

As an authorised supplier of Secured by Design accredited products, Carl F Groupco distributes solutions from a wide range of leading manufacturers including Cotswold, Dynamic Hardware, FUHR, GT Window Products, Hoppe, Kenrick, MACO, Roto, Siegenia and Yale. The renewal of its Secured by Design membership is one of many ways Carl F Groupco continues to add value to its customers’ businesses. The company holds substantial stock levels across its

Purplex Commercial Director to spearhead supplier and trade partnerships

P wide portfolio and offers a next-day delivery service with a target OTIF rate of 98%. Operating nationally from distribution centres in Peterborough and Cumbernauld, the company offers a UK-wide delivery service including the Scottish Highlands and offshore islands. Carl F Groupco also provides value-added consultancy, testing support and works closely with customers and hardware partners to develop and transition new product solutions. John concluded: “Our focus on product quality, service excellence and industry knowledge sets Carl F Groupco apart. Renewing our Secured by Design membership supports these principles and ensures we remain aligned with evolving security requirements and emerging crime trends.”

GGF appoints Lauren Mawford as Director

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he Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) has appointed Lauren Mawford as its Director, marking a significant step in the organisation’s continued evolution and long-term strategic development. Lauren has been with the GGF for almost four years, working across a range of functions within the Federation.

During that time, she has developed a detailed understanding of the needs of the Federation’s diverse membership.

In her new role at the helm of the GGF, Lauren will focus on strategic leadership, decision-making and long-term planning.

She will lead the Federation team and oversee all key operational areas, including membership, technical, training, consultancy and advocacy.

Working closely with the CEO and Board, she will ensure organisational alignment and delivery against the GGF’s strategic priorities. “I’m incredibly excited to step into the role of Director”, says Lauren. “A key part of this role is making sure everything we do is aligned

and delivering value to our members, while maintaining the high standards the GGF is known for.

“For members, this means a more joinedup experience, clearer communication and a continued focus on technical excellence and standards. It also allows us to think more strategically about how we grow, innovate and deliver long-term value.”

A central focus for Lauren will be ensure the GGF remain the voice of the industry, while strengthening collaboration across the wider GGF Group, ensuring closer alignment between businesses, sharing expertise and maximising value for members across the whole organisation.

Lauren is also the first woman to hold the position of Director at the GGF. “It’s something I’m really proud of”, Lauren explains. “The industry has traditionally been male-dominated, but we are seeing positive change: not just in representation, but in how we think about leadership and diversity of perspective.”

urplex Marketing, the specialist construction and building products marketing agency, has expanded its partnership-led growth strategy with Commercial Director Sam Cross taking on an enhanced role focused on developing strategic industry partnerships. Sam, who has been with Purplex for 17 years, will continue in his role as commercial director while leading the agency’s growing network of partnerships with manufacturers, trade organisations, accreditation schemes and industry bodies across the construction and glazing sectors. The move reflects increasing demand from suppliers and trade organisations seeking to support their customers with professional marketing, lead generation and business growth – without the resource or infrastructure to deliver these services in-house.

Sam commented: “Across the construction and building products sector, we’re seeing more suppliers and trade bodies being asked by their customers for help with marketing and lead generation. These organisations want to add value, but marketing isn’t their core business. My role is focused on building partnerships that allow them to support their customers’ growth in a meaningful way, while creating sustainable routes to market for Purplex.

When B2B suppliers, fabricators or trade members grow their businesses, it drives increased demand back through the supply chain, so everyone benefits.”

Purplex’s partnership model typically includes marketing support packages, educational resources and advisory services such as website health checks, providing partners with a lowpressure way to help their customers improve performance and generate more enquiries. The agency already works in partnership with a number of leading manufacturers, trade bodies and accreditation schemes, helping them increase member value, improve engagement and drive measurable commercial growth.

Andrew Scott, CEO and founder of Purplex, said: “Sam has an exceptional understanding of both our clients and the wider industry. This enhanced focus on partnerships allows us to scale our impact, support more businesses across the sector and continue delivering tangible growth for our clients and partners alike.”

march 2026 | news dashboard | 35

Jade forms two strategic new roles for growth

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fter a year of consolidation and stabilisation since moving into new 30,000 ft² premises, Jade is now gearing up for massive growth. To achieve this, the company is strengthening its core management team with the appointment of two key roles - Stephanie Tague has taken on the newly formed sales and marketing manager, and Harry Heer has stepped into the role of design engineering manager to lead the company’s existing technical and design team.

Having worked across the fenestration sector supply chain in a variety of sales and marketing roles, Stephanie brings with her extensive experience and knowledge that will help elevate Jade’s current position as a core supplier to the industry.

“Jade fulfils a key function right at the start of the supply chain, and the company’s input into improving manufacturing processes in the industry has so much potential,” said Stephanie. “I’m looking forward to opening up conversations and exploring opportunities with all existing and new customers.”

Harry Heer brings with him world-leading skills developed through his previous role as CAD engineer manager with the Polestar UK R&D team.

“Jade has an existing team of four CAD engineers who all demonstrate a remarkable

Industry webinar spurs entrepreneur success

A range of talent and knowledge,” said Harry.

“It is my job to bring them together and, through training and further investment in design tools, the potential in what we can develop is limitless. Coming from a corporate automotive background, it’s a perfect opportunity for me to instil knowledge to help take Jade to the next level of design and provide technical advice in helping our customers to continuously improve their own production efficiencies.”

Jade designs and manufactures precision tooling and specialist machinery for the production of PVC-U and aluminium systems, delivering practical solutions to complex machining challenges.

RIBA accreditation for Veka’s new CPD seminar

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eka plc has achieved RIBA accreditation for its new CPD seminar, Compliance vs Performance: Navigating Regulatory and Performance Challenges in Fenestration. Designed to help architects and specifiers confidently balance regulatory compliance, building performance and design intent when specifying PVC-U windows and doors. Developed in response to feedback from architectural practices, the CPD addresses a common industry challenge: how to select, evidence and document fenestration systems when multiple performance requirements must be satisfied simultaneously, including thermal efficiency, fire safety, security, inclusive access and aesthetics.

The session provides clarity where performance varies by configuration, clearly signposts the basis for stated values, and helps specifiers make like-for-like comparisons at tender and approval stages.

The CPD has been developed and is delivered by Tim James, National Specification Manager at Veka, drawing on his experience supporting architectural practices with compliance-led specification. Tim James, National Specification Manager at Veka, said: “What we hear most from practices is that they want clarity: what a figure is based on, which configurations it applies to, and how to record it so approvals go smoothly. This CPD turns that into a straightforward process. It supports specifiers with clear examples and practical takeaways so they can make confident, evidence-led decisions and keep projects progressing.”

Veka’s RIBA accreditation means the session counts towards architects’ mandatory CPD hours and offers a recognised professional endorsement that goes beyond standard CPD certification. To request an In-person CPD or find out more visit www.vekauk.com/specify-veka/cpds

recent webinar hosted by fenestration expert Andrew Scott has prompted a whole new business journey for one of the event’s attendees. Duncan Wright, Managing Director of London-based Lindenwood Home (UK) Limited and Timber Windows, got more than he bargained for after listening to Andrew, founder and CEO of Purplex Marketing.

Duncan commented: “I joined January’s webinar, looking forward to the advice and strategies Andrew would share with the industry. He didn’t disappoint – Andrew knows his stuff and not only gave us all some fantastic ideas and strategies, but it also really inspired me.

To be honest, any time with Andrew is incredibly inspiring, whether he’s delivering a session to a group or speaking to you on a one-to-one basis.”

Duncan also took advantage of the two-hour strategy session that Andrew offered to five business leaders that attended the webinar.

“When Andrew offered this session at the end of the webinar I jumped at it – who wouldn’t,” Duncan added. “And true to his word, we met for more than two hours and went through my business top to bottom – sales, marketing, business operations and finance. We even discussed business fundamentals and the importance of getting those right.

“One thing that really stood out to me, from our conversation, was Andrew’s experience in acquisitions. This is part of my own mindset but talking to someone, like Andrew, who’s been there and done it many times was incredibly valuable and I really appreciated his thoughts and guidance on the acquisition process.”

Andrew Scott commented: “The glass and glazing industry has faced some challenging times but there is still plenty of opportunities for growth, regardless of economic uncertainty or market conditions, and I’ve spent the last 20 years helping businesses capitalise on those opportunities.”

Following the success of the January webinar, Andrew hosted a second session on Wednesday February 25 at 11am. In this no-nonsense, one-hour session he gave an overview of the industry, highlighted where the opportunities are and provided the key strategies every business needs to adopt to buck the trend and create sustainable growth.

36 | active voices | march 2026

ACTIVE VOICES Mark High, Director at Ecoglass: As 2026 unfolds, the glass industry grapples with mounting pressures, overcoming one obstacle at a time while fresh challenges emerge to test resilience and resolve

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he glass industry faces significant challenges as we settle into 2026. It often feels as though we play ‘whack a mole’ and defeat one problem, only for five more to spring back up.

Whether it’s raw material, electricity or admin, the costs increase, the market remains at saturation, and the pressure is felt throughout the supply chain. In fact, many fellow IGU manufacturers have already been pushed into the precipice, and we all know the story too well – it was never one thing that tipped them over the edge. It was a culmination of multiple factors colliding at once.

The policies may be written in black and white, but the delivery of government strategy plays out in distinct shades of grey.

It is rarely straightforward. And so we find ourselves, mallet in hand, waiting to see which mole appears next.

The silver surcharge Let’s take the recent rise in silver. To many other industries, it’s a seemingly inconsequential market activity in daily operations. For glass, however, it has shifted from a footnote to a headline issue in just a few short years. Silver experienced a record-breaking surge in 2025, with prices rising somewhere between 130 –170% within a 12-month period.

This cost flows directly into Low-E coated glass, a product we have long recommended as the ideal standard for meeting thermal efficiency targets and regulatory compliance.

Yet the very energy-efficient glass endorsed by policy and regulation is becoming increasingly expensive to produce, precisely because of the material that makes it effective. When we factor in the more advanced double- and triple-silver coated variations, which are increasingly being specified to combat unseasonably hot UK summers, we are left grappling with the balance between cost, value, and viability.

Silver is not a luxury component in Low-E coatings; it is a physical necessity.

There is no readily available substitute. It cannot simply be engineered out without compromising the thermal performance the product is designed to deliver, but that is rarely an argument homeowners are willing to accept.

The electricity problem A weekend article published on 22 February by The Guardian reported that ‘The UK is at risk of losing its status as a major manufacturing centre after a sharp rise in energy prices that has forced about 40% of businesses to cut back investment, accord-

ing to a report by the CBI and Energy UK.’ The findings, issued by the Confederation of British Industry and Energy UK, underline the mounting strain on British industry.

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, businesses and homeowners alike have grappled with rising energy costs. And once again, the glass industry is acutely exposed.

This is not new information to anyone reading this, but when tempering, processing, and production all depend on high volumes of electricity, it is far from a discretionary overhead. Electricity is a core input cost, and one that continues to rise uncomfortably.

As such, the ambitious government Net Zero targets and investment in renewables, as necessary and forward-looking as they are, offer little immediate relief at a time when the pressure is being felt most acutely.

The cumulative impact of rising raw material costs, electricity prices, and increasing operational complexity is felt across the entire supply chain. Upstream, float glass manufacturers pass increased costs downstream. Fabricators, installers, and developers are left opening emails and calculating how much more they can absorb before their own viability is compromised.

Where we stand We do not claim to have solutions that others have somehow overlooked.

We are navigating the same environment as every other IGU manufacturer.

We face the same silver surcharge. We pay the same energy bills. We receive the same float glass price notices. And we carry the same responsibility to our people and our customers.

What is becoming increasingly clear, however, is that this cannot continue to be treated as a private problem for individual businesses to manage in isolation. The Future Homes Standard, Net Zero commitments, and the drive toward higher-performing, more energy-efficient buildings represent a genuine opportunity for our sector. But that opportunity risks being steadily undermined by a cost environment that makes producing the very products regulators are mandating increasingly difficult to sustain.

Industrial electricity pricing in the UK places domestic manufacturers at a structural disadvantage compared to competitors operating in lower-cost markets. That imbalance cannot be ignored indefinitely. If the government is serious about delivering Net Zero, implementing the Future Homes Standard, and protecting UK manufacturing jobs, then energy and industrial policy must align more closely with operational reality.

We do not have all the answers. But we can see the landscape for what it is, and we believe that naming the problem clearly and honestly is where we must begin, if we are to build a stronger, more resilient glass manufacturing sector that is fit for the future.

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38 | active voices | march 2026

ACTIVE VOICES Greg Johnson, CEO of Warwick North West : With long-standing links with the social housing sector, Greg reflects on housing momentum, local supply chains – and why fabricators are central to delivering quality social homes nationwide

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ver the past few months, it’s been hard not to feel a renewed sense of momentum around housing delivery. From regional mayors to national government, there is once again a clear acknowledgement that the UK needs to build more homes and, crucially, that social and affordable housing must be a central part of the conversation.

Closer to home, we recently welcomed the Liverpool City Region Mayor’s £2bn housing pipeline, which sets out a pathway to deliver more than 63,000 new homes across the region. As a Liverpool-based manufacturer, this wasn’t just encouraging headline news; it felt like a statement of intent that recognised both the scale of the challenge and the opportunity for local businesses to be part of the solution.

What stood out for me was the emphasis on a long-term pipeline. Housing ambitions at this level give housing associations, developers and local authorities the confidence to plan properly. They also give manufacturers like us the confidence to invest, and increased investment can mean faster delivery, better homes, and more resilient local employment. Without that visibility, the supply chain is always reacting.

With it, we can start leading.

And this momentum isn’t confined to the North West. We’re seeing similar signals elsewhere, including in London, where the Mayor has been vocal about the need to accelerate housing delivery and unlock new supply across the capital. While the challenges differ by region, the underlying message is the same – housing delivery at scale will only work if the supply chain is robust, capable and properly engaged.

For fabricators, that places us right at the heart of the discussion. Windows and doors might not always grab the headlines, but they are fundamental to delivering homes that are safe, secure, energy efficient and compliant with ever-tightening regulations.

In the social housing sector especially, performance matters. These are homes that need to stand the test of time, keep running costs down for residents, and support wider net zero ambitions. At Warwick North West, we’ve made a conscious decision over the last few years to focus on social and affordable housing where we saw genuine, sustainable demand. That decision has been backed up by action, including significant investment in our Bootle manufacturing facility and a continued focus on quality and thermal performance.

Last year we supplied windows and

doors for two social and affordable housing developments totalling 248 new homes: a new homes regeneration project in St Helens and a development in Salford. For us, those 248 homes aren’t just a number; they represent families moving into warm, secure properties and communities being strengthened as a result.

Energy efficiency is a big part of that story. Social housing providers are under increasing pressure to reduce carbon emissions while also protecting tenants from rising energy costs. Fabricators have a real role to play here, by delivering products that exceed minimum standards and support long-term sustainability goals. It’s an area where investment in manufacturing capability genuinely pays dividends The government’s wider commitment to building more homes gives me genuine optimism. More homes mean more demand across our sector, but more importantly, they mean an opportunity to do things better.

With clear leadership from city regions like Liverpool, we can create a housing delivery model that benefits residents, supports local employment, and builds resilience into the supply chain. www.warwicknorthwest.co.uk

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40 | association viewpoint | march 2026

Advocating for a fabric-first foundation

A

As Britain races toward Net Zero, the GGF insists lasting energy efficiency starts with a fabric-first focus

s the UK accelerates towards its Net Zero targets, the debate around how best to decarbonise the nation’s housing stock is intensifying. For the Glass & Glazing Federation (GGF), the message is clear: meaningful, long-term energy efficiency must begin with a fabric-first approach.

Fabric first entails prioritising improvements to the building envelope –windows and doors, walls, roofs, floors, – before installing low-carbon technologies such as heat pumps or solar panels. It is a principle grounded in building physics and practical delivery.

If a home continues to lose heat through poorly insulated walls or outdated glazing, adding renewable technologies risks addressing the symptom rather than the root cause.

The GGF has consistently argued that effective decarbonisation cannot be achieved without addressing heat loss through the building fabric. Windows and doors, in particular, play a critical role in reducing energy demand, improving comfort and ensuring heating systems operate as intended.

“Energy efficiency must start with the building fabric,” Chris Beedel, Head of Government Advocacy & Stakeholder Relations at the GGF, says. “If we electrify heat in homes that are still leaking warmth through inefficient windows and doors, we are simply making low-carbon technologies work harder than they need to. That’s not cost-effective for households or for government.”

Significant heat to escape The UK’s housing stock is among the oldest in Europe, with millions of properties built before modern energy standards were introduced. In many of these homes, ageing double glazing or poorly fitted frames allow significant heat to escape.

Upgrading to modern, high-performance double or triple glazing can substantially reduce heat loss, cut draughts and lower household energy bills.

Reducing heat demand first also makes low-carbon heating technologies more viable.

Heat pumps operate most efficiently in well-insulated homes with lower heat loads, and installing them in properties that still suffer significant fabric heat loss can lead to higher running costs and consumer dissatisfaction due to systems being oversized.

“We’re certainly not saying that solutions like heat pumps aren’t an important part of the solution,” Chris continues, “but they perform best in homes that are already thermally efficient. A fabric-

first retrofit ensures we create the right conditions for these technologies to succeed, rather than setting them up to struggle or fail.”

The importance of building fabric has been recognised elsewhere. In the Republic of Ireland, the government’s national home energy upgrade programme includes support for replacement windows and doors, reflecting an understanding of how fabric improvements reduce energy demand and emissions.

By contrast, in England, the GGF has sought greater clarity on how glazing upgrades will be supported under the Warm Homes Plan, where references to windows and doors have so far been limited.

For the GGF, this distinction matters: “Windows and doors are not cosmetic upgrades,” says Chris. “They are fundamental components of a home’s thermal envelope. Recognising their role in policy frameworks is essential if we are serious about delivering wholehouse retrofit at scale.”

Immediate and tangible benefits Beyond carbon savings, fabric-first measures deliver immediate and tangible benefits for households. Improved glazing enhances thermal comfort by eliminating cold spots and draughts. It reduces condensation and associated mould risks, contributing to healthier indoor environments. It can also improve acoustic insulation, particularly important in urban settings.

There is also a system-wide benefit. As heating becomes increasingly electrified, overall electricity demand will rise. By reducing heat loss first, fabric improvements help limit peak demand pressures on the grid, making the broader transition to Net Zero more manageable and cost-effective.

The glazing sector itself has invested heavily in product development, from glass with improved solar gain, to ultra-thin triple glazing, with these solutions readily available and supported by competent, qualified installers.

For policymakers, the conclusion should be clear. A whole-house approach – starting with the building envelope and then layering in low-carbon technologies – maximises the return on investment and protects consumers from suboptimal outcomes.

“As we move towards Net Zero, we have to get the fundamentals right,” Chris concludes. “Fabric first or Fabric Now aren’t just slogans, they are practical frameworks for delivering warmer homes, lower bills and genuine carbon reductions. If we build on strong foundations, everything else works better.”

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42 | general feature | march 2026

Ultraframe draws the crowds at training days Ultraframe’s new “roadshow” training format attracts over 250 fabricators and installers across three UK locations

U

ltraframe has concluded a four-day training roadshow that brought more than 250 fabricators and installers together across Sheffield, Edinburgh and Swindon, marking a shift in how the company delivers customer education.

Rather than relying solely on a classroom format, Ultraframe adopted a mini-exhibition model designed to give attendees greater control over their time. The events combined open product stands with a separate presentation space hosting short, practical workshops throughout the day. The structure allowed visitors to move between displays and sessions, building an agenda suited to their business priorities.

Each location featured the company’s full product portfolio alongside its hup! system, including hup! base and ground screws, hup! walling, the hup! brick slip rail system and the new brick slips range, now available to purchase direct. Glass Roof, Livinroof, Ultraroof and Flat Roof systems were also presented, alongside marketing support materials, sales tools, RPS design software and guidance on Building Regulations.

The workshop programme covered the broader customer journey, from marketing and sales conversations through to specification, surveying accuracy and installation best practice. Sessions were intentionally brief, enabling attendees to attend multiple topics while still spending time in one-to-one discussions with Ultraframe teams.

Attendance across the three cities points to sustained appetite for accessible, in-person training. Feedback from participants was positive, with many citing the flexibility of the exhibition-style format as particularly valuable. Several noted that the ability to focus on specific products and discuss individual business needs made the

experience more productive than traditional seminar-only events.

Daniel Caldwell, Ultraframe’s Sales Director, said the company deliberately tested a new approach. “We combined an exhibition-style environment with short, practical workshops running all day,” he said. “Customers told us they got a huge amount out of it, and many said this format is the best way to learn because they can focus on what matters most to their business.”

Ultraframe said details of future roadshow events will be released in due course. Customers seeking information on upcoming training opportunities are encouraged to contact the company directly via email: marketing@ultraframe.co.uk

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46 | general feature | march 2026

Quality and reliability proven by ISO 9001

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Andrew Scott, CEO of Insight Data, explains how ISO 9001 gives customers confidence in consistent, trustworthy market intelligence

or those who don’t know, ISO 9001 is a globally recognised standard for quality. At its simplest, it demonstrates that a company has clear, well-managed systems in place to deliver consistent results, keep customers satisfied and improve over time. Passing an ISO 9001 audit proves that a business does what it says it does, and reliably too.

Here at Insight Data we’ve just completed our latest external ISO 9001 audit, achieving a zero major or minor non-conformities. This is no routine box-ticking exercise. It confirms that the systems we use to collect, check, and manage data are robust, dependable, and designed to maintain high standards for our customers. It follows the October 2025 retention of our ISO9001 certification for the fourth consecutive year, reinforcing our position as a trusted partner to the construction and glazing industry.

So, what does an ISO 9001 audit involve and why is it important for our existing clients and potential customers? Auditors examine a company’s Quality Management System, looking at processes, records, and evidence of improvement. They check that what the company says it does is what it actually does. Internal audits, carried out by the company or its consultants, help prepare for this and keep standards consistent throughout the year. ISO 9001 certification is maintained over a three-year cycle, with smaller surveillance checks in years one and two, followed by a full review in year three. This cycle ensures that quality is about continuous commitment.

However, the real value of ISO 9001 goes beyond the audit itself.

The standard is widely recognised and respected because it provides a clear signal of trustworthiness and competence. For any business considering a supplier, seeing that they are ISO 9001 certified gives reassurance that their processes are well managed, risks are controlled, and service standards are consistently high.

Why ISO 9001 matters for Insight Data customers For Insight Data, ISO 9001 is particularly important because of the nature of our work. We provide market intelligence and prospect data to the glazing and construction sector, helping businesses connect with the right companies, architects and contractors.

Accuracy and reliability are essential. Our UK research team makes thousands of calls each month to verify details and maintain our databases. ISO 9001 ensures that this work is carried out according to clearly defined processes, with checks and documentation at every stage. For our clients, this means they can trust the information they receive to be accurate and up-to-date.

The standard also reinforces our commitment to continuous

improvement. ISO 9001 encourages organisations to look for ways to work better, reduce errors and enhance efficiency. At Insight Data, this culture of improvement underpins everything we do, from maintaining our databases to supporting clients through our Salestracker platform. It means that working with us is a genuine partnership built on reliability and consistent quality.

ISO 9001 certification also offers practical reassurance for customers. In a tech-focused climate where data is vital for business decisions, companies can’t afford to rely on suppliers who lack formal quality controls. By choosing an ISO 9001-certified provider, businesses reduce the risk of errors, delays and inconsistencies.

They know that processes are standardised, documented, and independently checked. In other words, certification equals a safeguard for anyone relying on the service or data provided.

For Insight Data, this certification has a direct impact on our customers. It guarantees that every report, every database and every piece of market intelligence we deliver is produced within a reliable framework. It ensures that our teams follow best practice consistently, that problems are quickly identified and corrected, and that improvement is always part of the process. For clients, the result is peace of mind: they can make decisions confidently, knowing the data they are acting on is trustworthy.

Maintaining ISO 9001 is also a mark of professionalism. Fewer than one per cent of UK businesses hold this certification, and achieving it requires effort, discipline and dedication. For Insight Data, retaining our accreditation for the fourth consecutive year demonstrates that our commitment to quality is embedded in our culture, not just in our procedures.

In a fast-moving, data-driven industry, trust matters. ISO 9001 is a clear and credible way of showing that a business has earned that trust. For Insight Data and our customers, it is a practical reassurance that every interaction, every dataset, and every insight is delivered to a high standard, day in and day out. www.insightdata.co.uk

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At Titan Aluminium we spend a lot of time making your life easier, we just aren’t great at telling you what we do.

We don’t have a big marketing budget or team to create exciting content for you and we’re sorry if you feel you see the same info on repeat.

Unlike many of our competition, we have a personal face to our company and always will, If you call our number (01256 760070) one of our internal sales team Eve or Ellis will pick up the phone, no pressing 1 for sales, 2 for accounts.

Every single order matters to us, it always has since day one and always will. We’re a small team (19 of us) but work together to achieve the very best for you.

We know that time is money on the roof when installing so we prep your roof before it goes out and do all we can in the factory to ensure ease of fitting.

We don’t sell to your customer, We are trade only and strict about it, We have a warranty and we actually honour it, You must have all had that experience where a supplier is trying to squirm out of paying for their mistakes or issues. WE DON’T. Yes we make mistakes from time to time but If we mess up we honestly do go out and fix it. If something is missing, someone will be in a car to rectify it.

A single point and time of delivery, no frames one day and glass on another.

Our owners are both salesmen, John and Tony and work closely with Craig in the office and Jonathan and Derek on the road to ensure we are on hand to support you throughout your quote to order process.

We think we’ve got a really good looking flat roof product that your customer will love and the S1 lantern with its thermal properties and slim sight lines makes this a winning combination of products for your customer.

Yes, we’re not always the cheapest but the work we do above will honestly save you money and makes us the best Value for Money rooflight manufacturer on the market.

I guess the question is....................Will you give us a chance to prove it to you ?

Written by James, General Manager

48 | general feature | march 2026

Extension design trends for 2026

T

The home extensions market is moving towards products that combine architectural design with genuine performance benefits

he home extensions sector has changed almost beyond recognition over the last two decades. Where once a single product group dominated, typically white PVCu conservatories, today’s market is far more nuanced, designled and performance-driven.

Homeowners now expect extensions to feel like permanent, integral parts of their homes, not bolt-on additions. As a result, the products being specified in 2026 are increasingly architectural in both appearance and capability.

Three connected trends are clearly shaping specification decisions, says Chris Cooke, Commercial Director of Sheerline Bespoke: the continued rise of flat roofs, the evolution of roof lanterns, and the rapid growth of high-end glazed aluminium extensions.

From compromise to centre stage Flat roofs were once regarded as a compromise solution, often avoided because of concerns around lifespan and reliability. That perception has shifted dramatically over the last few years. Modern membrane technology has transformed flat roof performance, delivering durability that simply wasn’t possible with older feltbased systems.

Just as importantly, flat roofs now align perfectly with contemporary design preferences. Their clean lines, minimal detailing and sharp edges sit comfortably alongside modern aluminium glazing systems, making them a natural choice for today’s extensions. They also offer excellent thermal performance when correctly insulated.

There is also a practical element driving their popularity. Flat roofs are typically quicker and easier to install than pitched tiled alternatives, reducing time on site and overall installation costs. For retail installers and homeowners alike, that combination of speed, value and modern aesthetics is compelling.

“Flat roofs have quietly become one of the strongest propositions in the market,” said Chris. “With today’s EPDM membranes and GRP, longevity is no longer a concern, and the contemporary look really resonates with homeowners. They’re versatile, cost-effective and design-friendly, which is why we’re seeing them specified more and more as the foundation of modern extensions.”

Refined light, refined choices While flat roofs may form the base, roof lanterns are increasingly used to elevate the design.

However, their role has matured. Rather than being added purely for decoration, lanterns are now specified as part of a considered architectural solution, delivering controlled daylight without compromising thermal efficiency.

Advances in aluminium engineering have allowed for slimmer sightlines, stronger frames and improved glazing performance. The result is lanterns that feel lighter, more refined and more integrated into the overall roof design, such as Sheerline’s award-winning S1 Roof Lantern.

The S1 can also be specified with Sheerline’s SheerVent® technology, a flush, fully thermally broken ventilation option that uses the same high-performance 28mm glazing as the rest of the roof. Designed to sit seamlessly within the rafter bars, SheerVent eliminates the need for unsightly muntin bars while removing concerns around leaks. Powered actuators, remote control operation and optional integrated rain sensors allow homeowners to benefit

from intelligent, secure airflow without disrupting the lantern’s clean architectural lines.

“This has helped fuel the popularity of flat roof and lantern combinations,” said Chris, “which many see as the benchmark for modern glazed living spaces.”

Colour has become an equally important part of the conversation.

Aluminium powder coating has opened up a far wider palette, and while black, white and anthracite grey remain staples, preferences are shifting. Homeowners are increasingly looking for subtler tones that complement both contemporary and traditional properties, such as Agate grey.

The rise of architectural systems Perhaps the most significant shift is in the extension itself.

Traditional PVC-U conservatories, once produced in their hundreds of thousands annually, are now a much smaller part of the market. In their place, full-height glazed aluminium extensions are becoming the aspirational choice.

Aluminium offers clear advantages: superior structural integrity, the ability to accommodate larger spans and projections, and a lifespan that far exceeds PVC-U alternatives. Where PVC-U profiles may discolour or degrade within a decade, a welldesigned aluminium extension can retain its colour integrity for at least 20-25 years or more.

This trend has driven the development of more advanced systems, such as Sheerline’s new S3 Architectural Roof System. Designed as a singlepitch, thermally broken aluminium roof, the S3 has been engineered to deliver high thermal performance alongside outstanding structural integrity and striking architectural aesthetics.

Features such as low-line external rafter cappings, deep internal rafters and longer unsupported spans allow installers to create genuinely high-end glazed extensions with confidence.

“Homeowners are investing in spaces they expect to last, both visually and structurally,” concluded Chris. “Aluminium glazed extensions answer that need, and systems like S3 take it a step further by combining performance, ease of installation and true architectural presence. It’s about futureproofing the extension market and giving installers products that stand out in a design-led sector.” www.sheerlinebespoke.com

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march 2026 | machinery | 49

As WMS launches into the fenestration market, Andy Parker outlines the company’s machinery focus, developed specifically for UK fabricators

A new name in reliable fabrication machinery W MS has been built on decades of hands-on industry experience. Rather than simply sourcing equipment, we have developed a machinery range shaped by what fabricators actually tell us they want - better reliability, stronger performance and long-term cost control. These machines are not based on assumptions or catalogue specifications, but on years of listening, problem-solving and understanding the pressures of real fabrication environments.

A major focus for us has been efficiency without compromise. That starts with intelligent sourcing and planning to keep initial costs competitive, but it extends far beyond purchase price. We have paid close attention to power usage, ensuring our machines are designed to operate efficiently and cost less to run over time. Energy consumption is an increasingly important consideration for fabricators and reducing operational overheads without sacrificing output is a priority we have built into our specifications.

Designed for longevity Longevity has also been designed in from the outset. Through years of servicing machinery from multiple manufacturers, I’ve seen the same wear points and repeat issues occur time and time again. With WMS, we have addressed those known flaws at the design stage. Components that are traditionally prone to failure have been strengthened or re-specified. Areas that commonly create access difficulties for engineers have been simplified. The result is machinery that is more robust, more

serviceable and better suited to the demands of busy UK fabrication environments.

Even replacement parts have been considered carefully. One of the biggest frustrations for fabricators can be the cost of unexpected breakdowns, particularly when proprietary components drive up repair bills. Our approach has been to design machines with sensibly priced, accessible parts that keep maintenance costs predictable and economic. By rectifying known weaknesses from the outset and avoiding unnecessary complexity, we help reduce the likelihood of major, unforeseen repair costs later in the machine’s life.

My background working closely with machinery OEMs for the past 30 years has provided in-depth knowledge of how machinery is developed and where compromises are sometimes made.

That experience has allowed us to take a different approach. We have signed a five-year supply agreement in Turkey for machinery designed and built to our exact specifications, exclusive to WMS with UK distribution rights. This gives us full control over the features, build quality and standards we expect. It also ensures consistency across the range and allows us to maintain competitive pricing without compromising on durability or performance.

Machinery that delivers and supports The machines we are introducing are a direct reflection of decades spent in fabrication factories, listening to operators, production managers and business owners.

Fabricators consistently want reliable machinery that performs consistently, is straightforward to operate and does not introduce unnecessary complication into the production process. They want equipment that supports efficiency rather than slowing it down, and they want confidence that common industry issues have already been addressed.

That is precisely what we have worked to deliver.

While machinery design is the primary focus of WMS, service and support naturally remain an important part of what we offer.

My career began in service engineering and that understanding of downtime pressure and production deadlines remains central to how we operate. In addition to supplying our bespoke machinery range, we also service and maintain all makes and models, regardless of age or manufacturer.

For fabricators who prefer structured, preventative support, we offer maintenance contracts designed to keep machinery running smoothly and reduce the risk of disruption. For others, reactive support is always available when required.

For me personally, WMS represents everything I’ve learned over more than three decades in machinery from working with OEMs to supporting fabricators on the factory floor. While we may be a new name in the market, the expertise behind our machinery is built on years of experience, practical knowledge and a clear commitment to designing equipment that genuinely works for UK fabricators.

If you are looking for machinery shaped by hands-on experience, designed for efficiency and longevity and supported by industry people who understand the pressures of fabrication, we would be delighted to start the conversation. Register your details to get in touch.

E: sales@windowmachinery.co.uk www.windowmachinery.co.uk

50 | machinery | march 2026

Matt Thomas, Managing Director of Haffner, highlights the importance of investing in durable, proven machinery for today’s fabricators

Fabrication driven by proven machinery F abrication never stands still. Orders continue to flow, lead times shorten and customers expect exceptional quality, every single time. In that environment, machinery is not simply part of the process but the driving force that underpins the entire fabrication operation.

Matt Thomas, Managing Director of Haffner, explains why investing in proven, builtto-last machinery has never been more important for today’s fabricators.

In fabrication, performance is measured in output. In thousands of profiles cut, welded and prepped every week. In the certainty of a machine that starts every morning and delivers exactly what it did the day before and the year before that.

Recently, SWC Trade Frames shared an ‘emotional’ farewell to their very first Haffner machining centre, a machine responsible for millions of cuts and years of dependable service. It wasn’t being replaced because it had failed. It was being retired to make way for a new generation of machinery technology from Haffner to take its place. That distinction matters. It reflects the difference between machinery that

simply operates and machinery that lasts.

In a market defined by tight margins and demanding production schedules, uncertainty on the shop floor is not an option. Fabricators need machines that delivers precision consistently, built with structural integrity and supported by partners who understand long-term business growth.

That philosophy sits at the heart of everything we do.

For more than 35 years in the UK, and for a century globally, Haffner machinery has been designed with longevity in mind.

From machining and cutting centres to advanced welding machines, our focus has always been to deliver the innovation that consistently performs for our customers.

We believe that tried and tested machinery provides the strongest foundation for growth. Machine innovation is essential, but it must be built on proven design principles. Heavy-duty construction, precision components and intelligent control systems must work together to create machines that fabricators can depend on without hesitation.

Across our Haffner range of machining and cutting centres, that philosophy is clear. These machines are designed for

continuous, high-volume production, delivering sawing, routing and drilling operations with consistency and accuracy.

They are designed to increase output and withstand the demands that sustained fabrication places on equipment.

The same principle applies to our Graf Synergy range. Seamless welding technology has transformed expectations around product finish in PVC-U fabrication.

But while the aesthetics are next-level, what truly matters is repeatability. Fabricators need to know that every seamless weld will be delivered to the same high standard every time. That consistency is only possible when the underlying machinery is designed and built for endurance.

For aluminium fabricators, our FOM range brings that same emphasis on strength and precision. Aluminium fabrication places significant demands on machinery, so structural rigidity and long-term accuracy are critical. These are machines designed to perform reliably under pressure, protecting both output and profitability.

That balance between innovation and reliability is vital. New technology should enhance production, not introduce risk. When fabricators invest, they need confidence that the machine they choose today will continue to support their business well into the future. And it’s a principle that extends across our entire machinery portfolio.

The example from SWC Trade Frames is far from unique. Across the UK and Ireland, there are fabricators still running Haffner machinery installed many years ago.

Those machines have produced countless frames, supported expansion plans and generated significant return on investment.

When upgrades take place, it is typically to increase capacity or capability, not to replace unreliability.

Economic conditions may shift.

Technology will continue to advance. But the fundamentals of successful fabrication remain constant: accuracy, strength and consistency over time.

At Haffner we remain focused on delivering machinery that combines forward-thinking automation with proven machine integrity. Because in this industry, the true measure of quality is not how a machine performs on day one — but how it performs a decade later. https://haffnerltd.com/

A lightweight that packs a punch with every cut Makes light work of Astragal Bars on-site.

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Consult | Tooling | Machinery | Bespoke

jade-eng.co.uk

52 | machinery | march 2026

Jade Engineering knows machines cannot solve every snag, so JadeBespoke optimises layouts, workflow, space and productivity

Bespoke systems for better production flow J ade Engineering knows even the best machinery doesn’t fix everything.

Which is why its JadeBespoke division focuses on the spaces between processes, helping fabricators maximise space, streamline workflow and unlock productivity In busy fabrication environments, the spotlight often falls on machinery, tooling and output. Yet for many window and door manufacturers, productivity constraints lie in the spaces between – how products are stored, moved and handled as they progress through the factory. Addressing these gaps is the focus of Jade Engineering’s JadeBespoke division, which designs and produces the often-overlooked infrastructure that keeps production moving.

“Fabricators often look at major investment when something isn’t working, but in many cases the issue isn’t the machinery,” co-Director Sean Mackey explains. “Even the most advanced set-up can struggle if the surrounding environment works against it. Profiles stack up in the wrong place, completed frames wait for space and operators spend valuable time walking the floor. These small inefficiencies don’t stay small for long.

Multiplied over the course of a working day they can significantly impact output, safety and ultimately profitability.”

Taking a practical, tailored approach At its core, JadeBespoke is a dedicated metalworking capability that produces made-to-measure industrial solutions. That can include heavy-duty racking for PVC-U or aluminium profiles, storage systems for completed frames, bespoke assembly benches, or trolley systems designed to move products safely and efficiently through each stage of manufacture.

What sets JadeBespoke apart is its grounding in real-world experience. Rather than supplying off-the-shelf equipment, each solution is designed around how a specific factory operates – down to things like its aisle widths, handling points and storage volumes.

“Every production floor is different,” says Sean. “Space constraints, product mix, staffing, order volumes – these all influence what ‘efficient’ really looks like. Our job is to understand that properly and then build something within it.”

Typically, this begins with a close assessment of existing workflows. From there, Jade’s team can map out a clearer,

more logical journey for materials and products, before designing and manufacturing the infrastructure required.

Connecting the process A key principle behind JadeBespoke is that fabrication should be treated as one connected system, not a series of isolated steps. While machinery performs the core operations, the transitions between those operations are just as critical. Poorly designed storage or handling systems can create bottlenecks that ripple through the entire line. Get it right, however, and capacity can be unlocked without significant capital spend.

“We’ve seen relatively small changes make a big difference,” Sean says. “A new racking system or a better way of moving product can transform throughput. It’s not always about doing more, but rather removing the friction that slows everything down.”

Handling and storage also have direct implications for health and safety, as well as product quality. Inadequate or improvised systems increase the likelihood of damage, manual handling risks and congestion or even injury on the shop floor.

Purpose-built racking and handling systems ensure products are stored securely, transported safely and accessed more easily by operators. They also help manufacturers to make better use of available space – something that’s becoming increasingly important as product ranges expand and

order volumes fluctuate.

“Space can be one of the biggest pressures we see,” Sean adds. “Factories rarely have the luxury of expanding, so it’s about making smarter use of what’s already there. A well-designed system can free up space you didn’t realise you had.”

From concept to installation JadeBespoke projects are typically supported by digital modelling and design work, allowing solutions to be tested and refined before manufacture. This helps ensure that once installed, the system performs as intended with minimal disruption to existing operations.

The end result is not just a piece of equipment, but a fully integrated part of the production process – supporting flow from the moment materials arrive on site through to the final dispatch of finished products.

In an industry facing ongoing pressure to increase output while controlling costs, targeted and practical improvements hold real appeal. Not every challenge requires large-scale automation or significant expenditure.

As Sean concludes: “There’s always a temptation to look for big, expensive fixes, but often the biggest gains come from relatively simple changes. If you can improve flow, reduce handling time and make life easier for operators, the impact on productivity and quality can be substantial.” https://www.jade-eng.co.uk

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

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54 | machinery | march 2026

Glideline transforms production with elumatec CNC machinery, cutting bottlenecks, streamlining workflows, and boosting fabrication efficiency

Glideline unlocks new levels of productivity G lideline, a leading aluminium fabricator based in Great Yarmouth, has taken a decisive step forward in productivity and performance with the installation of a new elumatec SBZ 145 CNC machining centre. Operating from a state-of-the-art UK manufacturing facility, the company is a long-standing elumatec customer, running a fully integrated fleet of machines, all networked through eluCad. As demand increased and project complexity continued to grow, Glideline saw an opportunity not to replace an already proven setup, but to elevate it further — enhancing throughput and streamlining workflow at scale with a dedicated highoutput CNC solution.

“The SBZ 145 has transformed our workflow by increasing throughput, improving consistency, and removing machining bottlenecks across the factory,” says David Pickering, Managing Director of Glideline.

A step-change in efficiency The impact of the SBZ 145 was immediate. Machining time per profile has been reduced by around 20%, while labour savings now exceed 25 hours per week — a figure that continues to rise as production volumes increase. Faster setups and changeovers have reduced manual intervention, minimising errors and rework, while improved accuracy has delivered greater consistency across all profiles.

The result is a smoother, more predictable workflow that allows Glideline to process higher volumes of work with the same skilled team.

“It has significantly increased capacity and efficiency while improving consistency,” explains David.

A key strength of the SBZ 145 is how naturally it integrates into Glideline’s established production environment. The machine now acts as the primary highthroughput CNC centre, handling the bulk of frame and sash processing. Existing elumatec SBZ 122/75 and SBZ 140 CNCs support the workflow by taking on overflow capacity, specialist profiles and shorter or bespoke runs.

Upstream, the DG 244 double mitre saw ensures cut profiles are consistently prepared for CNC machining, while the eluCad network allows programs to be shared seamlessly across machines.

This ensures accuracy, standardisation and consistency at every stage of production.

“The SBZ 145 has improved flow, reduced bottlenecks and increased overall factory efficiency by allowing each machine to be used where it performs best,” says David.

Faster lead times, greater capacity By reducing machining times and manual handling, the SBZ 145 has delivered a clear boost to both production capacity and lead-time performance. Glideline can now take on more work without increasing headcount, while smoother workflows and fewer bottlenecks have improved delivery predictability.

The machine has also increased confidence when machining larger or more complex components — work that previously placed greater strain on production schedules.

“It’s increased capacity, improved predictability and helped us deliver projects faster and more consistently,” notes David.

Glideline’s continued investment in elumatec technology is rooted in reliability, precision and long-term support. The machines are engineered for high-

volume aluminium fabrication, delivering consistent performance with minimal downtime. Integration across the fleet through eluCad allows processes to be standardised, accuracy maintained and production scaled efficiently. “elumatec machines support our growth by delivering consistency, efficiency and reliability at scale,” says David.

Combined with strong aftersales support, readily available parts and dependable technical backup, this gives Glideline the confidence to invest for the long term, knowing production will continue to run smoothly.

Looking ahead The SBZ 145 represents more than an additional machine on the factory floor — it is a key enabler of Glideline’s growth strategy. By increasing throughput, improving accuracy and removing bottlenecks, it allows the business to respond to rising demand while maintaining the quality and precision its customers expect.

For fabricators looking to optimise workflow and boost efficiency, Glideline’s experience demonstrates what can be achieved when high-performance CNC technology is fully integrated into a welldesigned production environment.

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56 | machinery | march 2026

UA Glass’ £1 million machinery investment with Flat Glass Solutions reflects a trusted partnership and proven operational efficiencies

Machinery investment trusted to deliver F rom Apple to Toyota, there are numerous high-profile examples of how household brands and businesses have flourished when working in partnership with a supplier or customer, especially where long term strategic alliances are formed, and when trust allows both parties to confidently invest in future capabilities.

Such partnerships often require the customer to make significant capital expenditure on technology or infrastructure, based on the supplier’s expertise and a shared long-term vision.

And the glazing industry is no different, especially when it comes to investing in new machinery for glass companies. These are organisations that know they have to invest to stay competitive, but with glass processing machinery outlay often running into the millions – technology that also requires vast amounts of energy to run – trust in suppliers is crucial if they want to do so with the confidence that it will all pay off in the long term.

Over the last two decades, Norfolk-based glass firm, UA Glass, has spent the best part of £1million on new machinery for its factory.

Currently manufacturing an average 2,000 sealed units per week, UA Glass has partnered with Flat Glass Solutions (FGS) at every stage of that investment, most recently for three Tenon vertical washing machines, but also for a Yuntong glass tempering furnace, Viprotron scanners and Hakon storage racks.

For Neil Tomlinson, founder and director of UA Glass, advances in glass processing technology and the introduction of new regulations, have meant that new

equipment is vital to maintain efficiencies, stay competitive and protect margins, but is also quick to point out that his relationship with FGS has been essential in coordinating that expenditure and central to the company’s growth.

“I first met ‘Oz’ (aka David Cahill, managing director of FGS), at a trade show more than 20 years ago, and we have built a friendship and strong working relationship ever since,” says Neil.

“With Oz’s guidance, we have been introduced to market leading solutions from all over the world, visiting plants in Los Angeles, China and Europe, in order to find the best machines for our factory and to thoroughly assess the length of time it will take to recoup any investment.

“Prior to the investment in our Yuntong glass tempering furnace, for example, FGS

conducted a comprehensive analysis on all the products we manufactured, and, estimated we would see the payback in less than four years,” he continues. “It actually paid for itself within two and half years and is still going strong today.”

And while IGU production is UA Glass’ ‘bread and butter’, it also provides a more bespoke offering for kitchen splashbacks, balustrades and wall art. It’s comparatively low volume, but thanks to input from Oz, who has helped to fine tune the specification and design of the factory, decorative glass production is an additional, valuable offer for UA Glass customers.

Outstanding service is another advantage that UA Glass enjoys from FGS. Even with machinery that is sourced from overseas, FGS relies on UK based engineers and a dedicated hub in China to facilitate smooth and efficient communication to the Far East if required.

“All glass processing companies need to think long and hard before investing in new technology, but for a family run business like UA Glass, it’s even more important to make sure that any outlay will deliver a decent ROI,” says Oz. “Ultimately, we will never risk undermining a working relationship with a ‘hard sell’ because that relationship should be built on a thorough understand of how our customers operate.

“With UA Glass, that has come from years of conversations, of working together and building trust. It’s a collaboration that has ensured the business is well positioned for sustainable growth,” he concludes.

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58 | machinery | march 2026

Jade Engineering unveils compact on-site astragal bar milling solution

C

oventry-based machine and tooling expert, Jade Engineering has developed the perfect portable mill cutter to allow the addition of astragal bars when installing windows on site.

Weighing in at just 15kg and no larger than the size of a work site radio, the Jade Astragal Bar Miller can be stored in the back of a van and taken on-site from job to job, giving installers an immediate and effective method of completing what can often be a time-consuming and fiddly install process.

“This is the perfect piece of kit for companies who frequently install heritage style PVCu windows using astragal bar profiles,” said Jade’s Adam Jones. “Consisting of four profile related jaws and diamond plated cutters for a precise and clean cut, the machine itself was developed in response to many conversations we have had with fitters frustrated with the quality of the finish they can produce when installing or carrying out remedials on-site. The on-site Astragal Bar Miller delivers a workable resolve and is the perfect addition to the fitting team toolbox”.

Designed with the realities of modern fabrication and on-site work in mind,

this compact cutting solution delivers serious capability in a remarkably small footprint. Measuring just 300mm x 240mm x 220mm and weighing 15kg, it is genuinely portable yet robust enough for demanding manufacture applications.

Alternatively, Jade’s larger Astragal Bar Miller is available for high-volume finished products.

Flexibility is built in as standard, with the miller capable of accommodating multiple designed astragal bars including, chamfered and ovolo featured sections to produce decorative, period style windows.

The millers can be adapted for either 240V or 110V portable application, opening costeffective remedial opportunities that would otherwise require off-site rework. For installers looking to improve accuracy, reduce waste and save time, this compact system offers a smart, practical upgrade to traditional cutting methods.

UKO Glass upgrades factory with new high-speed production technology

U

KO Glass is proud to announce the installation of its latest highperformance manufacturing asset, the LIVA 1-LCYM-S 25-321/6. This cutting-edge system marks a significant milestone in the company’s ongoing investment in efficiency, quality, and advanced glass production technology.

Designed to transform the way insulated glass units are manufactured, the new machine delivers production speeds up to 3x faster than previous processes. With the ability to produce up to 500 square metres per day and handle glass from 3mm to 19mm thick, manufacture triple glazed units up to 70mm thick and oversized units up to 3.2 x 2.5 metres using the built-in tilt table, this investment introduces a new era of capability for the business.

The machine incorporates an advanced press and washing system and one of the system’s key innovations is its automated gas-filling functionality. By filling units inside the press using built-in calculations, the system eliminates the need for manual gas filling, reducing labour time, and ensuring each unit is ready for sealing once exiting the press. This enhancement significantly accelerates production while maintaining consistently high quality.

In addition, the machine’s intelligent

detection technology automatically identifies whether the glass is coated and confirms correct orientation before processing. This feature dramatically reduces the risk of human error and a more streamlined workflow.

With the new line performing nearly every step except sealing, the factory can now operate with fewer standalone machines, freeing up valuable floor space.

This additional room has enabled UKO Glass to expand its dispatch area and increase daily product output, supporting the company’s long-term growth strategy.

Tony McAspurn, Production Manager at UKO Glass commented: “This machine represents a major leap forward for our production capabilities.

Its speed, precision, and automation allow us to deliver higher volumes and even better quality while improving workflow across the entire factory. Investing in technology like this helps us continue meeting the growing

demands of our customers.”

The new apparatus is now fully operational and already contributing to a faster, cleaner, and more efficient manufacturing process at UKO Glass.

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60 | heritage feature | march 2026

Mark Flanagan, Managing Director at Ventrolla, discusses the importance of restoring heritage homes for a sustainable future

Restoring heritage homes for the future T

hose living in heritage, listed and period properties understand how vital it is to retain the homes original features.

These properties are the backbone of local character across the entirety of the UK. From Georgian terraces through to Victorian townhouses, these properties tell the story of the country’s architectural heritage and evolution. Central to the identity of these properties are the timber sash and casement windows that embody the craftsmanship of previous generations. It is said that the windows are the ‘eyes of the home’, holding significant influence over the aesthetic of the property.

However, many heritage property owners face the same dilemma, how to improve comfort and energy performance in their heritage home without compromising authenticity. Increasingly the answer lies in restoration over replacement, something we at Ventrolla champion in our work.

The case for restoration in sustainability It is widely known that the UK possesses the oldest housing stock in Europe, with more than 5.9 million homes being built before 1919, and another 4.3 million before 19441. Many of these homes do not currently meet modern standards of energy efficiency and therefore places them directly at the centre of the sustainability conversation.

These heritage homes should not be seen as an obstacle to meeting the net zero challenges, they can actually be part of the solution as the most sustainable property is the one that already exists. Based on research by the likes of Historic England, repairing and retrofitting older properties can reduce carbon emissions by 30-50% when compared to demolition and rebuild. The sensitive restoration of original sash windows plays a crucial role in this approach, helping

to improve performance while retaining historic importance.

The limitations of heritage properties is something to be considered, as replacement is often complex, or impossible, due to planning restrictions designed to protect historical significance. Restoration offers a route to improved heat retention and reduced energy loss without risking the building’s character. Carefully designed and implemented improvements to windows in heritage homes, such as discreet draughtproofing combined with glazing upgrades, can dramatically improve efficiency without any real visual changes.

Preserving heritage craftsmanship Restoration is about much more than just repairing the timber and glass, it is about safeguarding centuries-old craftsmanship techniques that are becoming increasingly rare in modern construction.

Heritage work demands specialist knowledge, and an understanding of traditional joinery, historic materials and conservation restrictions, but the sector is currently facing a growing challenge around skills shortage, especially in situations where in-depth expertise is required to correctly carry out the restoration. It is absolutely vital that investment is made into these skills, or we risk losing them all together. At Ventrolla, we are leading innovation and championing standards and improvement in the industry, leading to the launch of our training academy, partnerships with the likes of the British Woodworking Federation and Knowledge Transfer Partnership project with the University of Leeds.

Aligning the industry In addition to the skills gap issues, there is a growing inconsistency in the interpretation of planning across cities and regions. While national guidance is generally clear, the way those in the industry interpret it can largely differ.

Work permitted on one property may be refused on an identical building elsewhere, creating confusion for homeowners and

delays for contractors.

To address this issue, Ventrolla have launched a series of industry roundtables, bringing together experts from across the heritage and construction industries to encourage a more aligned approach to heritage guidance and retrofit. The discussions reinforce a shared belief that conservation and modernisation are not opposing goals. With consistent interpretation and more informed decision making, heritage properties can be brought to modern standards of efficiency.

These conversations have already helped to create a clearer pathway for homeowners and professionals alike, meaning sensible improvements that support comfort and efficiency can move forward without undermining the properties heritage.

A future for heritage homes As the UK works towards its net zero 2050 target, heritage buildings must be included in the journey. This requires a balanced and pragmatic approach, one that respects heritage significance while allowing thoughtful upgrades that improve the buildings performance.

Standardised guidance, skilled craftspeople and informed owners will all play a role in achieving this. Most importantly, the sector must continue to champion restoration over replacement wherever possible.

1. https://historicengland.org.uk/content/docs/consultations/evidence-on-heating-our-homes-by-historic-england-aug23/#:~:text=6.,across%20the%20following%20policy%20areas:

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62 | heritage feature | march 2026

Timberlook and Greenlight Windows revive a 19th century pub, blending heritage craft with modern performance, sensitively

Modern windows for heritage restoration A 19th century Warwickshire pub needed sympathetic restoration after twelve years of abandonment, and heritage PVC-U range Timberlook and family-run installer Greenlight Windows and Doors joined forces to bring the community landmark back to life.

When the Great Western pub at Deppers Bridge closed its doors in 2012, it left a gap in the Warwickshire community. The beloved 19th century establishment, which had stood proudly since the mid-1800s, sat abandoned for over a decade, falling victim to vandalism and decay.

Thanks to a dedicated restoration effort and collaboration between Timberlook and family-run installer Greenlight Windows and Doors, this historic venue has been given a new lease of life.

For Dan Cummins, Director at Greenlight Windows and Doors, the restoration held personal significance. “My first job was working at this pub,” he explained.

“Returning to fit the windows and work on the renovation felt like a full circle moment.”

This personal investment reflects the dedication that Greenlight brings to every installation. Based in Leamington Spa, the family-run company’s strength lies in its close-knit team: “Everyone who works with us is an old school friend, somoene we know personally, or a relative,” noted Dan. Choosing the right solution For this heritage project, selecting appropriate windows was crucial. The owner needed products that would honour the building’s historic character whilst

providing modern performance and practicality. Timberlook’s flush fit windows in Chartwell Green proved to be the ideal solution.

“Genuine timber might have been the traditional option, but the cost and constant maintenance required made it unfeasible,” Dan noted.

“What the owner really wanted was that heritage timber aesthetic without the price tag and all the upkeep.”

Manufactured by parent company Affordable Windows Group, Timberlook’s PVC-U woodeffect windows replicate traditional timber aesthetics whilst eliminating ongoing maintenance requirements. A-rated for energy efficiency, these windows deliver authentic timber appearance at a fraction of the cost.

“Creating an authentic alternative to timber has been at the heart of everything we do with Timberlook,” said Amelia Gaughan, Head of Marketing for Affordable Windows Group. “We opted for Timberweld joins that eliminate those tell-tale diagonal welds you see on standard PVC-U and instead replicate mortise and tenon joinery you’d find on genuine timber frames.

Combined with our woodgrain finishes and period features like Monkeytail and Peardrop handles, we’ve created a product that truly honours traditional craftsmanship.”

The skilled Greenlight team installed 15 PVC-U Timberlook flush fit windows with concealed trickle vents as phase one, with phase two incorporating additional Timberlook products for the pub’s porch area. Greenlight’s sister company, Greenspace Interiors, also completed the internal fit-out.

“We hit a snag when we realised Georgian bars were needed, but Timberlook’s team were brilliant,” Dan recalled.

“They got the corrected windows out to us quickly without any hassle. That kind

of customer support is invaluable—it keeps projects moving.”

Dan discovered Timberlook through social media less than twelve months ago, and the partnership has quickly become central to Greenlight’s operations. What distinguishes Timberlook from other suppliers is the consistency and personal service. “I’ve got one or two regular contacts – dedicated account managers who know our business,” he explained.

“That continuity was a real selling point for us. Having familiar voices at the end of the phone saves so much time and hassle.”

Customer support has been at the forefront of AWG’s approach, as Amelia Gaughan explained: “Everything we do at Affordable Windows Group centres around supporting our installers. They’re out there representing our products every day, so we make sure they have the backing they need—whether that’s quick turnarounds, knowledgeable account managers, or simply being available when they need us.”

With the pub now reopened and welcoming locals once again, the project stands as a testament to what can be achieved when quality products meet a dedicated team.

For Dan, the importance of the project extends beyond just business. “Seeing the Great Western open its doors again after all these years is brilliant. We’ve given back something important to the community, and that’s what makes projects like this so rewarding.”

E: sales@timberlook.com www.greenlightwindows.co.uk

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64 | heritage feature | month 2022

Windows Active takes a closer look at Residence 9 windows that were installed as part of Grade II listed farmhouse renovation

Residence 9 elevates listed farmhouse

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remarkable rural Grade II listed farmhouse renovation project in Nuneaton, Leicestershire has been elevated with the installation of Residence 9 windows from The Residence Collection, bringing timeless charm and modern performance to a heritage property that was formerly part of Osbaston House Farm.

Working with installer Swadlincote Windows, builder Lychgate Bespoke, and HSSP Architects, the upgrade was part of a bigger project to transform a cluster of barns in the Osbaston Conservation Area into a spacious 5-bedroom detached home, covering over 5,500 square feet. The project was completed using 38 R9 windows, as well as two bespoke shaped windows, all in the colourway Clotted Cream. This colour was used both inside and out, and also came in a full-house solution along with a French door. The Residence 9 system was chosen not just for its striking timber-look aesthetic, but for its sympathetic integration with the character of the property.

When it comes to sensitively upgrading heritage projects, The Residence Collection has gained widespread approval from local

authorities in conservation areas and Grade II listed buildings throughout the UK. This approval allows for a smoother installation process for installers, eliminating a major obstacle in preserving the historical character of these heritage properties.

The windows were manufactured using a fully mechanical jointing method to faithfully replicate traditional joinery while offering the energy efficiency and low maintenance benefits of modern PVCu. Glazed with a combination of laminate and Planitherm glass, and completed with satin chrome pear drop hardware, the installation brings together elegance, performance and

security.

Tyrone Birch, Director of Swadlincote Windows explained: “The homeowner was referred to us by Lychgate Bespoke, a builder we regularly collaborate with. After visiting our showroom and seeing the R9 windows in Clotted Cream, they immediately felt the design would complement the unique architecture and heritage feel of their home - even though they weren’t originally looking for timber alternatives. The Residence Collection just ticked all the boxes for them.”

Jo Trotman, Marketing Manager at The Residence Collection, commented: “This stunning project exemplifies what The Residence Collection is all about - classic styling with cutting-edge performance.

It’s a privilege to see our products enhance heritage-style homes in a way that feels completely authentic, all while offering modern-day comfort and energy efficiency.

“This installation is another testament to the versatility of the Residence Collection and the craftsmanship of Swadlincote Windows.” www.residencecollection.co.uk/collections/r9/

SPECIALISTS IN HERITAGE STYLE ALUMINIUM

Heritage Aluminium, Made Simple.

As one of the most experienced fabricators of Smart Systems Heritage products, we’re a trusted partner for delivering heritage-style projects with ease and efficiency.

We offer the complete range of Smart Heritage aluminium products, giving you everything you need for period renovations or design-led new builds – all in one place.

Our trade-friendly approach includes clear brochures, smart hardware options, and simple quote and order forms. You can count on dependable service and timeless results, every time.

OUR HERITAGE PRODUCT RANGE: Heritage Doors

Alitherm Heritage Windows

01245 838 836 sales@bdcaluminium.co.uk bdcaluminium.co.uk

Aluspace Internal Doors & Screens

Heritage Style Visofold Bifolds

Access our simple interactive quote form & price list

66 | heritage feature | march 2026

Effortlessly heritage, Endurance sash windows pair classic looks with modern materials, smart design, advanced manufacturing benefits

Endurance® Aluminium adds new sash window

E

ndurance® Aluminium has bolstered its already comprehensive product offering. With immediate effect, the fabricator’s commitment to offering well engineered, attractively designed fenestration solutions can now be enjoyed across a new range of sash windows.

The new windows have been introduced as a direct result of Endurance’s commitment to continued product development and join a portfolio that includes not only windows but also doors and internal screens.

Russell Hensman, Group Marketing Manager at Endurance, comments: “Historically, homeowners looking for aluminium sash windows haven’t been spoilt for choice. This particular type of aluminium product hasn’t tended to be widely available and we’ve taken the decision to introduce our new range to help our installer partners maximise the opportunities presented by this gap in the market.

“In addition, the launch of the new range reflects our desire to provide homeowners

with enormous design freedom and a wide choice of fenestration solutions to suit any individual taste or property style.”

Endurance’s new sash windows combine a heritage appearance with all the benefits offered by modern materials, design innovations and manufacturing techniques.

As well as the look of traditional timber but without any of timber’s associated maintenance requirements, the new Endurance sash windows deliver impressive levels of security and are certified to PAS 24 standards.

They also offer good thermal performance and deliver a U-value that meets the requirements of Approved

Document Part L for new build projects.

From an aesthetic perspective, Endurance’s new windows benefit from slim frames and can be supplied in an almost infinite range of colours.

Gloss white, jet black, and anthracite grey frames are all available as standard with other RAL colours available on request.

In addition, to complement the period styling of the new windows, homeowners have the option to add decorative horns and mullions for a truly authentic look.

Russell adds: “Endurance Aluminium continues to launch new products and service initiatives as part of our belief in offering our installer partners a complete package. We want to give them all the tools and support they need to succeed and to reap the benefits of the growing popularity aluminium fenestration solutions. Doing so also allows us to build the mutually profitable partnerships that have become a trademark of all the Endurance group brands.” www.endurancealuminium.co.uk

Specialist Fabricators for Large-Scale Developments. www.spdbyastraseal.co.uk 01933 227 233

A New Revolutionary Window System.

Astraseal introduces the REHAU Artevo System - designed to give our partners a competitive edge. This hybrid profile combines the strength of glass fibre-reinforced PVC with optional aluminium cladding, offering the flexibility to meet a wide range of specifications.

With 72mm glazing capability, 48dB acoustic performance, and U-values as low as 0.6 W/m²K, Artevo delivers high-end performance, slim sightlines, strong thermal results, and straightforward fabrication making this range a practical upgrade for any product range.

Speak to one of our experts to find out more: Call: 01933 227 233 Email: info@astraseal.com

astraseal.co.uk

68 | artificial intelligence | march 2026

Discovering the true benefits AI can provide is a tough task, here we look at how AI created digital twins can have a big impact in factories

Twin peaks of output D igital twins are beginning to give window and door fabricators a new way to test production decisions before they affect the factory floor. By creating a live digital replica of a production line, manufacturers can simulate machine behaviour, product flow and workforce conditions, allowing engineers to anticipate problems and optimise performance before they occur.

For a sector where margins are tight and product variation is high, the approach is emerging as a practical application of Industry 4.0 technologies in day-to-day manufacturing operations.

In a fabricator’s factory, a digital twin functions as a continuously updated virtual model of the production line. Sensor data from CNC machining centres, corner cleaners, saws and handling systems feeds into the model, creating a real-time picture of how machines and processes behave.

For factories heavily reliant on CNC machining, the twin can collect information such as spindle load, vibration, temperature, axis position and tool life. When combined with order data from ERP or production planning systems, the model gradually builds a “fingerprint” of normal operation across different profile systems and tooling sets. This baseline allows engineers to test production schedules, profile changes or shift patterns digitally before implementing them on the shop floor.

One of the most immediate applications lies in predictive maintenance. Instead of relying on fixed maintenance intervals, digital-twin systems can analyse sensor patterns and estimate the remaining useful life of components such as cutting tools, spindles and drive systems.

If the model detects abnormal behaviour, for example a gradual rise in vibration on a CNC axis during specific machining operations, it can predict when a component is likely to fail. Maintenance can then be scheduled during planned production gaps, reducing unplanned downtime and preventing disruptions that cascade through cutting, welding and glazing operations.

The same approach can be extended to ancillary equipment such as corner cleaners. Monitoring cycle times, electrical current and positional accuracy allows the twin to identify subtle performance changes that may lead to quality issues or rework if left unchecked.

Because the system also has access to production orders, it can simulate the effect of temporarily removing a machine from the line and rerouting work across other equipment or shifts while maintaining delivery commitments.

Digital twins also enable manufacturers to simulate process changes in advance. An

engineer introducing a new tooling package for an aluminium CNC, for example, can load expected cutting forces and feed rates into the digital model. The twin then runs a simulated production shift using historical order data to predict spindle loads, tool wear and cycle times for different product types.

If the simulation suggests higher failure risk or excessive tool wear, parameters can be adjusted digitally before the change reaches the physical machine.

Another emerging development is the integration of AI-based machine vision with digital twins. Autonomous visual inspection systems can learn what a “good” product looks like from a small sample of reference parts and then inspect frames in real time for defects. For window manufacturing, this includes checking welded frames, corner cleaning, hardware placement and gasket fit while detecting issues such as scratches, incomplete machining or mis-cut drainage slots.

Machine performance and quality When inspection data feeds back into the digital twin, it creates a closed loop between machine performance and product quality.

Each defect can be linked to its originating machine, operator or batch of material, allowing the model to identify patterns – such as welding faults linked to equipment misalignment or temperature drift.

Over time, predictive models can incorporate these quality signals alongside sensor data, allowing systems to flag “quality degradation risk” before visible failures occur. Autonomous inspection platforms are designed to minimise integration overhead, allowing manufacturers to deploy vision systems quickly and scale them across multiple stations.

For a fenestration plant, this means inspection points can be positioned at key stages – after welding and corner cleaning, before glazing, and during final assembly – without extensive custom engineering.

Because the AI learns acceptable product

characteristics from reference samples rather than detailed programming, new profile systems or product variants can be introduced with minimal setup time.

The data-driven approach is also beginning to extend beyond machines to the workforce. Research into fatigue monitoring suggests AI systems can estimate operator fatigue levels using biometric signals such as heart rate variability and behavioural cues including blink rate, posture and gaze direction.

Trials in safety-critical environments have shown high accuracy in identifying reduced alertness and early signs of fatigue, with some systems exceeding 96% accuracy when combining wearable sensors and video inputs.

In a production environment, these fatigue scores could be fed into the digital twin alongside machine and process data.

When thresholds are exceeded, the system could recommend task rotation, microbreaks or assistance from collaborative robots to maintain productivity while reducing the risk of human error.

Together, digital twins, AI-driven inspection and workforce monitoring are forming a more comprehensive view of the modern factory. For window and door manufacturers, the combined approach offers several potential benefits: improved uptime for capital-intensive machinery, reduced scrap and rework through earlier detection of process drift, and better management of operator fatigue.

In a sector characterised by complex product mixes and increasing customisation, the ability to test production changes digitally – while linking machine health, product quality and workforce performance – could become a significant competitive advantage.

The result is a manufacturing model where problems are anticipated rather than reacted to, and where production decisions can be rehearsed in the digital world before they affect the physical factory floor.

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70 | artificial intelligence | march 2026

Dean Hodges, Sales Director, Forterro Windows and Doors discusses why he believes your factory needs a digitial twin

Your factory needs a digitial twin U ntil fairly recently, the concept of digital twins only really existed in the context of NASA - and how they used mirrored digital systems to monitor their spacecraft from the ground. However, the rapid advances in IoT, cloud computing and AI being made by the likes of Forterro mean digital twins are now accessible to most mainstream manufacturing environments – including for the first time window and door fabrication.

Essentially, a digital twin is a dynamic, virtual replica of a physical asset, process or factory. Unlike a traditional 3D model, a digital twin is continually updated using real-time data from machines and production systems. It allows manufacturers to simulate performance, monitor operations, track energy consumption and test new product introductions or process improvements in a risk-free digital environment - before they apply them to the factory floor.

For fabricators competing on efficiency, quality and sustainability, digital twins represent a powerful new tool for smarter manufacturing.

There are tangible benefits - such as the early detection of tool wear and potential quality issues in cutting and machining as a result of real-time analysis of energy consumption and vibration data.

Digital twins and AI models are trained on historical data, so any anomalies like irregular energy fluctuations or rising cycle times trigger automatic early warning systems so you can take action before there is any risk of machine down time or product rejections - and no impact on productivity.

At Forterro, we see automation and intelligent IT systems as the backbone of

the next era of industrial competitiveness.

The ability to make data driven decisions, identify inefficiencies in real time and operate with greater flexibility will deliver powerful advantages to those manufacturers who embrace the technology - and Forterro has developed a Production Intelligence solution branded Prodaso which enables them to do just that.

Forterro’s Prodaso tool can transform production environments by combining comprehensive monitoring, planning, and analytics capabilities with advanced AI. A core component of it is the Digital Twin element that mirrors machines and processes in real time. It allows manufacturers not only to visualise what is happening on the factory floor, but to predict issues, optimise performance, and create a foundation for a future ready production strategy.

From seamless machine connectivity and the precise capture of operating and

machine data to dynamic visualisation and deep-dive analytics, Prodaso provides full end to end transparency across production processes. With AI algorithms that uncover hidden patterns and inefficiencies, it delivers clear, actionable insights that enhance production reliability, increase flexibility, and optimise resource usage.

It means fabricators can potentially benefit from: • Flexible machine integration for smooth, paperless operations • A real time digital twin for continuous monitoring and optimisation • Precise analytics that lead to measurable performance improvements • AI-driven intelligence as the engine of efficient, automated production • Intuitive production planning for smooth, resilient workflows • Real-time transparency, including up to date OEE and performance metrics With Prodaso, digital twins and AI are no longer abstract future concepts: they are technologies that are already being delivered to help customers unlock new levels of efficiency and competitiveness.

Already proven in Europe, Prodaso is now available to Forterro customers in the UK. Prodaso sits comfortably alongside our Logikal MES factory monitoring system and Forterro ERP environments, adding predictive insights and optimisation features that can seamlessly extend and elevate existing workflows. www.forterro.com/en/windows-anddoors

• • • • •

72 | artificial intelligence | march 2026

Ab Initio integrates task-specific AI into AdminBase to support existing workflows, improve accuracy and reduce errors at every stage

Embedding AI into real-world workflows T he real value of AI is determined not by what it could do, but how effectively it fits into the day-to-day realities of running an installation business. So says Rhonda Ridge, Managing Director of Ab Initio and creator of AdminBase. The latest development for the CRM platform takes a notably grounded approach. Rather than introducing AI as a standalone tool, the company has focused on embedding task-specific assistants directly into existing workflows, aiming to improve accuracy, reduce errors and streamline operations without adding complexity.

At the heart of this update is the ability for users to link AI assistants – including those drawn from tools they may already be using – into defined processes such as order checking, administration and compliance.

It’s a move that reflects AdminBase’s long-standing philosophy that technology should adapt to the user, not the other way round.

“There’s a lot of noise around AI at the moment, but for installers the priority is still getting the job right first time,” Rhonda says.

“What we’ve done is introduce AI in a way that supports the checks and balances they already rely on, rather than expecting them to change how they work.”

AI where it’s needed most In practical terms, this means AI functions can be assigned to specific stages of the workflow. For example, when an order is entered into the system, an assistant can automatically validate the information in real time: checking measurements, product specifications, configurations and supporting documentation before the order is allowed to progress. In an industry where small errors can quickly escalate into costly remedial work, that level of automated verification could prove significant, says Rhonda: “An incorrect measurement or a missing detail on an order doesn’t just cause a minor hiccup, it can impact manufacturing, delay installation and ultimately affect the customer experience. By checking everything as it’s being inputted, the system helps prevent those issues before they have a chance to develop.

“And linking these AI functions into

the structured workflow installers already have in place means every member of the team is following the same guided process, supported by the same automated checks.

That’s what leads to better outcomes across the board.”

Integration backed by experience This integration of AI into existing processes builds on one of AdminBase’s defining characteristics – its ability to integrate with other software. Over the years Ab Initio has worked with a range of platforms, from industry-specific tools like Tommy Trinder, Pricepoint and Windowlink to more general applications such as WhatsApp and what3words.

“Our introduction of AI functions follows a similar logic, allowing businesses to connect tools they may already be using rather than forcing them into a closed ecosystem,” Rhonda says.

“We know that most installers don’t operate in isolation when it comes to software. They might have a preferred quoting engine, a survey tool, or even their own AI solutions. AdminBase is designed to bring those elements together so information flows properly across the business.”

This flexible approach is rooted in Rhonda’s own experience of running a window company prior to founding Ab Initio – experience which continues to shape the platform’s development some 30 years on.

“When you’ve been on the operational side, you understand how many moving parts there are,” she says. “From the first enquiry through to installation and aftercare, every stage depends on the accuracy of the previous one. If something goes wrong early on, it has a knock-on effect all the way through.”

By embedding AI into these interconnected stages, the aim is not just to save time, but to strengthen the reliability of the entire process. The wider implication is that AI in the sector may be entering a more practical phase – less about headlinegrabbing capability, and more about incremental improvements that address everyday operational challenges.

“AI doesn’t need to be disruptive to be effective,” Rhonda concludes. “If it can quietly support the processes installers rely on, helping them work more accurately and consistently, then it’s doing exactly what it should.”

doors

MARCH 2026

BUILT ON STRENGTH. BACKED BY INVESTMENT. The ODL Europe composite door offer delivers where it matters most — combining exceptional slab construction, in-house door prep, in-house paint and a depth of product range designed to help you compete with confidence.

Everything you need from one trusted supplier.

PREPPED TO PERFORM Our expanded Bootle door prep facility has been developed to deliver scale, precision and reliability. Equipped with advanced CNC machining technology and increased capacity, we ensure consistent accuracy across every slab.

You gain a composite door partner that understands prep at every stage — ensuring reliable lead times, consistent accuracy and doors ready for fabrication.

PAINTED IN-HOUSE Composite door finishing is fully controlled in-house at our dedicated new paint facility.

Using a hard-wearing polyurethane system, we deliver consistent colour accuracy across any RAL shade, a wide selection of pre-finished colours and authentic TrueGrain finishes — all supported by a 10-year colour guarantee direct from ODL Europe.

Backed by a broad portfolio of traditional and contemporary styles, exclusive designs, TriSYS® and TriSYS® Modern glazing systems, plus 25 decorative glass options, you have the range and flexibility to win more business.

Fewer Call Backs. Higher Margins.

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

STRAIGHT – WHATEVER THE WEATHER Engineered at 44mm with impactresistant GRP skins, a thermally efficient core reinforced with LVL and an integrated ABS security panel, it is built to resist bowing, twisting and distortion — even in high temperatures.

It’s structural integrity you can rely on, because every avoided callback protects your margin and your reputation.

At the heart of our offer is the ODL Capstone slab.

march 2026 | doors active | 73

Door security is evolving beyond mechanical locks, integrating comfort, accessibility and smart control across modern developments

Balancing the functions of door hardware E ntrance door hardware is no longer judged on mechanical security alone.

Across residential, social housing and mixed use developments, specifiers and housing providers are increasingly balancing physical protection with accessibility, comfort, and smart security. Responding to these converging demands, Winkhaus UK offers the blueMatic EAV and EAV4+ motor solutions, extending the capabilities of its award winning autoLock AV4 multi-point locking platform into the motorised and smart arena.

At the heart of both solutions is the autoLock AV4, a proven multi-point locking system that automatically secures the door on closing. By adding the blueMatic motor, doorset manufacturers can introduce powered opening and smart access control, without compromising the reliability or security credentials of the underlying system.

Designed for low operating force and reliable motorised performance A key advantage of the AV4 platform is its exceptionally low operating force. Designed to minimise resistance during locking and unlocking, AV4 improves accessibility for users while creating the ideal foundation for motorised operation.

As less force is required to engage and disengage the locking points, the blueMatic motor operates efficiently and consistently, even as real world conditions change.

Door leaves naturally expand and contract due to temperature variations, or building settlement, which can increase resistance in traditional locking systems.

In contrast, the combination of AV4’s low

force to operate and the controlled power delivery of the blueMatic motor allows the system to continue operating smoothly, helping to maintain reliable locking performance even when tolerances shift.

This relationship between mechanical and motor function reflects a wider Winkhaus philosophy: components engineered to work together in harmony rather than as standalone parts.

Motorised access with blueMatic EAV4+ The blueMatic EAV4+ is a 24Vdc motor that converts the autoLock AV4 into a fully motorised locking system.

Once closed and locked, unlocking can be triggered via a wide range of third-party access control systems, including fingerprint scanners, keypads, intercoms, and other smart access technologies commonly specified for communal entrances and higher end residential projects.

Internal operation remains familiar and intuitive. Occupants can open the door using the handle or cylinder as usual, supporting accessibility and ease of use. The compact motor module is discreetly integrated into the door leaf, delivering the power required to drive multiple locking points without impacting aesthetics or door design.

Smart control and cyber secure connectivity with EAV4+ Building on the same motorised platform, the blueMatic EAV4+ introduces integrated Bluetooth® connectivity, enabling direct communication with the Winkhaus doorControl app. This allows doors to be unlocked via smartphone or tablet, with users able to manage access permissions, receive notifications and activate privacy or security functions.

Crucially, EAV4+ has been independently IASME certified, providing assurance that its connected functionality has been

assessed against recognised cyber security standards. As smart locking systems become more widely adopted, digital resilience is increasingly important for specifiers, landlords and housing providers.

IASME certification helps demonstrate that connected access has been designed with cyber security in mind, supporting responsible specification in both private and social housing environments.

EAV4+ remains compatible with other access control systems, allowing smartphone operation to be combined with fingerprint readers, intercoms, or keypads rather than forcing a single access route.

Security, flexibility, and system synergy Both blueMatic EAV and EAV4+ are designed to complement the security performance of the autoLock AV4 system, designed to meet PAS24 when specified within a compliant doorset. Features such as a holiday lock out function, which disables handle operation during periods of absence, further enhance security.

The autoLock AV4 also allows existing mechanical systems to be retrofitted with a blueMatic motor, enabling doors to evolve as requirements change. By combining mechanical reliability, low force operation, motorised convenience, and IASME certified smart connectivity, the blueMatic range demonstrates how carefully engineered components can work together as a complete system.

Rather than adding complexity, the integration of mechanical, motorised, and digital elements creates a balanced solution where security, accessibility and smart functionality operate in synergy, delivering a future ready approach to modern entrance door design.

74 | doors active | march 2026

At ODL Europe, product design and operational investment together elevate propositions, extracting more value for customers

Maximising value for door fabricators C omposite doors remain a core part of a door fabricator’s portfolio.

Bryan Bultema, Managing Director at ODL Europe, assesses how combining exceptional product design with continued investment across ODL Europe’s operations can help maximise the value of your offer.

Composite doors are a product that door fabricators need to deliver with confidence.

But in a competitive market, simply offering them isn’t enough. Margins are under pressure, customer expectations are rising and differentiation matters more than ever. The strength of your composite door proposition – in both product performance and service support – can make all the difference.

At the heart of our offer is the popular ODL Capstone door slab. Manufactured by one of the world’s leading suppliers of GRP door slabs and exclusive to ODL Europe in the UK, the product pedigree is second to none. Nearly one million ODL Capstone composite doors are installed worldwide every year, tested in some of the most demanding environments. The 44mm slab is manufactured using a grained or smooth 2mm thick, high-glass-content impact-resistant GRP SMC skin. Stiles and rails are formed from water-resistant pure PVC polymer and reinforced using LVL (Laminated Veneered Lumber) timbers with a minimum density of 570 kg/m3.

Embedded within the door slab is a highperformance ABS security panel which further contributes to thermal stability.

The skins and sub-frame assembly are fully bonded using advanced urethane adhesive resin.

It’s this intelligent construction that delivers exceptional resistance to bowing, twisting and distortion, even in high temperatures. In an industry where callbacks caused by warped composite doors can quickly erode profit and reputation, that inherent structural stability provides a clear competitive advantage.

Of course, strength in the slab is only part of the equation. How that slab is prepared – and finished – can be just as critical to your margins, efficiency and reputation.

If you’re prepping doors in-house, maintaining healthy margins means investing in the right machinery and expertise. As margins tighten, outsourcing can become the smarter move. And for those already outsourcing, your partner’s reliability and capability directly impact

your performance. That’s where our inhouse door prep facility comes into its own.

Following a recent six-figure investment, our Bootle door prep facility has doubled in size, significantly increasing capacity and reinforcing our commitment to supporting customers at scale. Equipped with advanced CNC machining technology and operated by a highly skilled team, the facility is designed to deliver precision, flexibility and consistency.

Crucially, our investment extends beyond door prep. As part of our continued growth strategy, we have recently launched a new in-house paint facility, bringing all composite door painting under our direct control.

This dedicated paint plant allows us to manage the entire finishing process inhouse, ensuring consistent colour accuracy and surface quality across our GRP door range. Using a hard-wearing polyurethane paint system, we deliver a premium finish

designed for long-lasting visual appeal.

Doors are available in any RAL colour, alongside a wide choice of pre-finished shades and TrueGrain wood-effect finishes.

Each painted door carries a 10-year guarantee against fade, loss of gloss and adhesion, while stained doors benefit from a five-year warranty. Importantly, the colour warranty now comes directly from ODL Europe, strengthening accountability and customer confidence.

Together, the strength of our slab performance, expanded prep capacity and in-house paint facility creates a fully integrated solution – prepped, painted and ready to install from a single trusted source.

We offer a wide range of traditional and contemporary door styles to suit all property types, with many designs unique to us. To complement the doors, our glazing cassette collections include the market-leading TriSYS® and TriSYS® Modern systems, alongside 25 distinctive decorative glass options designed to coordinate perfectly with our styles.

Ultimately, real strength in the composite door market means more than just the product itself. It’s about consistent performance, dependable service and a supplier that continues to invest so you can grow with confidence.

If you want to put yourself in the strongest possible position in the composite door space, ODL Europe is ready to support you. www.odleurope.com

Platinum44 – Security and beauty in steel

● Combines contemporary style, durability, and minimal maintenance ● Features a composite slab with a durable steel face on both sides ● Doors are designed to resist warping and twisting

Find out more at www.hormanntruedor.co.uk

76 | doors active | march 2026

Anti-bowing guarantees should be the baseline in an industry where ‘quality’ is overused and under suspicion, says Apeer’s Asa McGillian

Getting straight about quality that lasts F ew issues highlight the difference between claimed quality and realworld performance quite like door bowing. It’s a topic that refuses to go away, regularly surfacing in installer forums, on social media and in day-to-day conversations across the trade.

“Bowing is one of those problems that exposes everything,” says Apeer Doors Managing Director Asa McGillian. “It shows up weaknesses in design, materials and manufacturing – but when it happens, it’s the installer who pays the price. It’s a drain on time, margins and reputation.”

Apeer introduced its 10-year anti-bow guarantee back in 2024, not as a headlinegrabbing extra but as a reflection of its wider approach to quality.

“It just formalised the confidence we already had in how our doors are engineered. And it’s about giving installers the same confidence, knowing that the product they fit today will still be doing its job years down the line.”

Real-world performance beats tick-box theory “We’ve never approached door design from a ‘tick-box’ perspective,” Asa explains.

“It’s not about meeting a minimum requirement on paper. It’s about how that door behaves after five or ten years in a real home, exposed to changing temperatures, weather and daily use.”

Apeer’s doors are built using reinforced cores, multi-layered fibreglass skins and tightly controlled manufacturing processes in order to maintain structural integrity over time. In the past year, its Ballymena facility has undergone a significant programme of operational change, with lean manufacturing principles introduced across the factory. The aim has been simple: improve consistency, reduce waste and eliminate the small inefficiencies that can lead to larger quality issues further down the line.

“Quality is often talked about as if it’s a feature of the product alone,” says Asa. “In reality, it’s the outcome of hundreds of decisions made every day on the factory floor.

If your processes aren’t right, your product won’t be either.”

That focus is delivering measurable gains. Apeer reports that 98.7 per cent of its orders are now

delivered and installed without issue – a figure that reflects realworld performance rather than theoretical output.

“That’s the number we pay attention to,” Asa adds. “Because it mirrors what our customers actually experience on site. Fewer issues mean fewer callbacks and stronger customer relationships, and that’s where installers really feel the benefit.”

In-house control and capability Apeer’s ability to maintain that level of consistency is closely linked to its longstanding commitment to in-house manufacturing. From fibreglass skins to foam cores and paint finishing, the majority of production processes are controlled internally. This approach dates back to the company’s origins in the mid1990s, when a supply chain challenge prompted an early move into manufacturing.

“That experience shaped how we think as a business,” Asa explains. “We learned early on that if you want to guarantee quality, you need to control as much of the process as possible.

That philosophy still guides us today.”

The result is a facility equipped with multiple CNC machines, dedicated glazing capabilities and advanced finishing lines, supporting a product range that spans from 44mm entry-level doors through to 70mm A++ rated options and 120mm quadrupleglazed systems.

Proof not promises Alongside structural integrity, thermal performance is another area where Apeer has taken a firm stance – particularly in response to questionable U-value claims seen elsewhere in the market.

“If you’re making a performance claim, it should be backed by proper testing and evidence,” Asa says.

“Products that fail to perform as advertised can create compliance

risks and reputational damage. Installers shouldn’t be left defending someone else’s claims. Our responsibility is to give them products they can stand behind with confidence, backed by data that’s transparent and verifiable.”

Transparency is increasingly important as homeowners grow more selective with their spending. With household budgets under pressure, expectations have risen for performance, aesthetics and long-term reliability.

“That shift plays into our strengths,” Asa says. “When customers are looking for proof rather than promises, genuine quality becomes easier to demonstrate.

“There’s a growing gap in our industry between what’s said and what’s delivered.

For us, quality is about closing that gap.

It’s about doing the hard work behind the scenes so that installers don’t have problems on site.

“Ultimately, quality isn’t a slogan. It’s what happens when the door goes in, and nothing goes wrong.”

Solid Core Composite Doors

GRP Composite Doors

PVC-U Panels

Q-Mark Fire Doors

COMPLETE DOOR SUPPLY

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

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

YOU’RE HOME WITH HURST

78 | doors active | march 2026

Cleaner aluminium sightlines demand slimmer hardware, with narrow backplates improving door proportions, clearance and performance

Slimmer handles for aluminium systems A s aluminium door systems move towards cleaner sightlines, traditional lever and plate hardware can start to look out of proportion and affect functionality.

Andy Matthews, Head of Sales at Hoppe (UK), explores the advantages of a narrow backplate and how it can transform the look and feel of an aluminium door.

The trend for slimmer door profiles and more refined elevations is well established.

While this design is favoured due to the use of expansive glazing, it can result in reduced tolerances when it comes to hardware.

Standard lever handles on backplates can often be too bulky for slim door profiles, particularly on bi-folding systems. Handles that protrude can impact leaf interaction, clearance and can spoil the desired aesthetics.

In busy commercial environments, that same protrusion can also affect how easily people move through high-traffic areas.

Two new narrow backplate options The response from Hoppe is a new narrow backplate option using its New York lever handle, developed with slim aluminium profiles and bi-fold applications in mind.

Available in two configurations, with protrusions of just 24mm and 62mm, the new options give fabricators and specifiers flexibility depending on system design and how the door will be used.

The ultra-low 24mm protrusion is achieved through a short-neck handle on one side, while retaining a comfortable lever on the other side for day-to-day use.

Where space is limited, reducing the projection on the critical side can make the difference between smooth movement and avoidable interference.

For bi-fold door manufacturers, reduced protrusion assists with smooth folding functionality while maintaining the clean, uninterrupted lines for which aluminium is known.

For system suppliers working with particularly slim profiles, the narrow backplate provides an option where standard hardware may not be suitable.

Handles that sit closer to the door surface can help reduce snagging, improve accessibility

and make better use of available space.

For both fabricators and installers, the narrow backplate has been designed to integrate smoothly into existing workflows.

Both variants are suitable for door thicknesses between 72mm and 77mm.

They use an 8mm solid spindle and incorporate Hoppe’s Quick-Fit connection system which is intended to support secure and efficient assembly.

Fixing is via visible internal boltthrough fixings with M6 thread screws, supported by backplate lugs to help ensure a stable fit on slim profiles.

In practice, that combination is about achieving repeatable alignment and confidence in the mounting. This is particularly relevant when hardware is being applied to increasingly narrow door sections.

In operation, the handles run on maintenance-free slide bearings, reducing the need for adjustment or servicing once installed. This is an important benefit on site and can matter on busy projects or when access for future maintenance is limited.

Modern finishes To complement the modern look of an aluminium door system, the narrow backplate New York handle is available in five different finishes: F1 silver effect, F3 gold effect, matt traffic white, matt black and matt anthracite grey – allowing full coordination with the aluminium frame colour.

The use of anodised aluminium is intended to ensure long-term performance while maintaining a contemporary appearance.

As aluminium doors push towards slimmer profiles, handle protrusion becomes more than a minor detail. A narrow backplate is a practical solution to clearance constraints on slim aluminium profiles and bi-folding doors, while helping to create a strong minimalist look.

Hoppe prides itself on its service levels and technical support. On fast-moving programmes, fabricators and installers depend on hardware that is straightforward to specify, quick to fit and backed by responsive expertise.

This narrow backplate approach is designed around that practical expectation to enable a more efficient specification. www.hoppe.co.uk

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80 | doors active | march 2026

Eurocell has unveiled a new solid timber-core composite door range aimed at premium homeowners and installers

Peak performance for premium doors E urocell has expanded its composite door portfolio with the launch of the Peak Collection, a new 48mm solid timber-core range designed to strengthen its position in the higher-end entrance door market.

Available now across the company’s network of more than 210 branches, the Peak Collection gives installers access to a premium composite door offer alongside Eurocell’s existing PVC-U and foam-core products. The company says the move enables trade customers to source a complete entrance door solution from a single supplier, supporting both upsell opportunities and streamlined ordering.

The introduction of the timber-core option means Eurocell now offers a tiered range spanning PVC-U panel doors, the foam-core Dales Collection and the new flagship Peak Collection. According to the company, this structure is intended to cater for varying homeowner requirements and budgets, while allowing installers to compete across multiple segments of the market.

Solid timber-core construction At the centre of the Peak Collection is a 48mm solid timber core, cross-laminated to enhance strength and dimensional stability.

The core is manufactured using Albasia Falcata timber, which Eurocell says has been selected for its sustainable credentials and thermal performance. The cross-laminated construction is designed to improve rigidity and reduce the risk of warping over time.

Beth Boulton, Marketing Director at Eurocell, said the launch was focused on expanding choice for installers and homeowners. “The launch of the Peak Collection is about giving our customers total choice,” she said. “Installers can now access a fully tiered entrance door offer from one supplier, whether they need a costeffective PVC-U option or a premium solid timber-core solution.

“Peak represents the top-end of our door range. It allows installers to compete confidently in the high-end composite door market, while benefiting from the convenience and support of our nationwide branch network.”

The doors incorporate a number of manufacturing features aimed at improving durability and long-term performance. Each door is wrapped in what Eurocell describes as next-generation CoolSkin technology, engineered to withstand extreme

temperature fluctuations and maintain its finish without cracking or peeling.

In addition, the range features concealed colour edge technology, which provides a seamless colour finish to the door faces.

Eurocell says this delivers up to 100 per cent moisture resistance, helping to prevent water ingress issues often associated with timber-based products.

Styles and colour options The Peak Collection is available in three style categories. The Traditional range includes designs such as the Idris and Aran, offering classic detailing and glazing options. Contemporary styles, including the Walla and Logan, focus on clean lines and bold proportions suited to modern properties. The Cottage selection, featuring the Elias and Elbert, is aimed

at homeowners seeking a more rural or heritage-inspired aesthetic.

A stable door configuration is available in the Elbert design, allowing the top half of the door to open independently of the bottom section. Eurocell says this option is designed to provide ventilation and natural light while keeping pets and young children safely indoors.

The collection is supported by inbranch expertise and dedicated marketing materials to help installers promote the premium offer. Doors are available in a wide range of colours, from White and Black to shades including Agate Grey, Duck Egg Blue and Chartwell Green.

For more information about the Peak Collection, visit: https://www.eurocell. co.uk/doors/composite-doors#peak

Made to Fit Modern Door Systems – New York Series Lever Handle When space is limited, every detail counts. The slim backplate from HOPPE, paired with the New York lever handle, is made for narrow-profile and bi-fold doors, providing full functionality without compromising the door’s movement or impacting design.

Key features • 24 mm backplate • Low projection version available (keeps clear of bi-fold door action) • Clean, minimalist aesthetic • Five colour options: aluminium silver effect, aluminium gold effect, matt anthracite grey, matt traffic white, matt black • HOPPE Quick-Fit Connection for easy installation

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HOPPE (UK) Ltd • Gailey Park • Gravelly Way • Standeford • Wolverhampton WV10 7GW • Tel. 01902 484 400 • www.hoppe.com • info.uk@hoppe.co.uk

82 | doors active | march 2026

Danny Williams, Director of Gerda Doors, says consumer marketing investment allows installers to focus on quality leads and selling

Back to basics boosts installer sales success F rom my position as director of Gerda Doors and managing director of Pioneer Trading, it’s clear that retail sales are still supressed. Despite the potential we might have in pent up demand, homeowners remain cautious to commit, even if they have the funds and have done some research into new windows and doors.

I will admit that it’s a problem, but I’m also of the opinion that the situation could be improved if installers got back to basics with their selling.

As someone who is of a generation that cut their teeth knocking on doors, I’m sure there will be some pushback to this way of thinking. ‘Times have changed, Danny…we live in a digital world now, it’s far better to invest in lead generation etc etc.’

Well, that depends on the quality of the leads. My social media feeds are full of lead generation companies promising the earth and while some of their claims to triple my sales in a month are clearly pie in the sky, I’m unwilling to spend money on them for two other obvious reasons.

Firstly, the quality of those leads will be poor, so not matter how much you work them, they are not going to convert. And secondly, the quality of the leads is fine, they just aren’t being followed up properly.

Which takes me back to my original point on how to sell.

I’m not saying that the current state of the market is the sole responsibility of installers, because suppliers should also be upping their game.

Since introducing Gerda Doors to the UK market, we’ve pushed hard to establish a foothold for a high quality entrance door range that offers premium aesthetics, performance and security, at a price point designed to tempt consumers away from composites and all the problems associated with bowing and warping.

Our retailer network is growing, and we’re seeing decent sales, especially when homeowners take the opportunity to look round a showroom.

In that environment, where they can full appreciate the difference between a steel and aluminium engineered Gerda door and a lesser composite, the opportunity for a valuable upsell is there for the taking.

We’ve even coined a term for that tangible improvement in quality. We

call it the Gerda ‘thunk’, the weighty sound that instantly conveys a message of reassuring solidity, when you open and then close the door.

In many cases, that’s enough to seal the deal, especially when homeowners realise they only have to spend a little bit more for a product that’s far superior.

Perhaps more significantly, we’ve also invested in a high-quality TV advertising campaign, which is due to be aired this Spring.

The commercials have been designed around the emotive ‘thunk’ that has been a standout feature of our marketing to date, and portray Gerda Doors as the heart of home in a variety of storylines.

In terms of building brand awareness, the TV ads are set to supercharge the appeal of

Gerda entrance doors with homeowners and will be supported by traditional marketing channels, including social media and an engaging website that will allow users to explore their options in more detail.

It’s a comprehensive strategy designed to do one thing: and that’s drive sales directly to new and existing installer partners.

By concentrating on strengthening the foundations of the Gerda brand through quality consumer marketing and by providing as much additional support as possible, we are doing everything we can to nurture the sales process.

And while we still need our installers to convert what we hope will be a significant upturn in enquiries, there’s no doubt that they now have a significant advantage over their competition, especially those that are relying on dud leads or lazy sales tactics.

84 | doors active | march 2026

Growing demand for seamless indoor outdoor living shows why door installers must get installations right first, says Edward Stobart

Why do flush tracks still go wrong?

S earch interest in “indoor outdoor living” has risen sharply in the UK, with Google Trends reporting a 51% year-on-year increase. As homeowners increasingly seek seamless transitions between interior spaces and gardens or terraces, flush door tracks have become a defining feature of contemporary residential design. Yet despite their growing popularity, installation mistakes remain common.

According to Edward Stobart, Technical Sales Manager at IDSystems, many of these problems stem from the technical precision required to achieve a truly flush finish.

While flush tracks now account for more than 70% of the company’s installations, they remain relatively uncommon in older homes or projects involving existing doors, where achieving the correct build-up and alignment can be more complex.

Having worked on more than 40,000 projects, Grand Designs Premium Partner IDSystems has seen first-hand how easily small miscalculations can lead to costly remedial work. Stobart points to several recurring issues that continue to affect installations.

Choosing the wrong door system One of the most frequent misunderstandings involves which types of doors can genuinely achieve a completely flush track.

Sliding doors and slide-and-turn systems can be designed with no upstand, allowing them to sit fully flush while maintaining an effective weather seal. Other door types, however, require at least a minimal threshold to function properly.

Bifold doors, French doors and front doors can appear visually flush but typically rely on a 14mm upstand. This small rise allows the door panels to close securely against the track, creating a seal that prevents drafts and water ingress while still complying with Building Regulations Part M for wheelchair access.

Completely flush tracks for bifold or French doors — with no upstand at all — have existed in the market, but Stobart advises against their use externally. In these systems, the base of the door panels connects to the track only via brush pile, which provides little protection against wind or rain.

“These were commonplace when folding doors first became popular,” Stobart says.

“But with only brush-pile sealing the base of the panel to the track they are incredibly prone to drafts getting in and even water

ingress.”

For most projects, the low-threshold alternative offers a compromise that preserves the visual effect while maintaining performance. The 14mm upstand is barely visible once installed but significantly improves weather resistance.

When the track sits too high Another common issue occurs when the flush track ends up sitting above the finished floor level. According to Stobart, this is typically caused by excessive build-up in the base construction.

Correcting the problem can be complicated. The base may need to be excavated and rebuilt at the correct level, which can have knock-on consequences across the entire ground floor.

“In a new build, this may be possible,” Stobart explains. “But in an extension where you are matching the floor height of the existing house, it becomes far more challenging.”

In such cases, the end result may be a track that sits slightly proud of the floor, undermining the intended flush finish.

When the track sits too low If the track is installed too low, there is sometimes scope for adjustment by packing beneath the frame to raise it to the correct height. However, the degree to which this can be done depends on the door size and the tolerances built into the system.

Raising the track effectively lifts the entire door panel, and the head of the system allows only limited movement. These tolerances are necessary to ensure smooth operation and accommodate minor struc-

tural movement in the building over time.

Once those limits are reached, further adjustment would require altering the size of the opening itself.

Precision is critical For Stobart, the underlying lesson is straightforward: precision at the planning stage is essential.

Installers must know the exact depth of the track being used and ensure it is accounted for when door dimensions are specified. Equally important is communicating the finished floor level — including the final flooring materials — to surveyors before manufacturing begins.

“Almost every manufacturer and every system has a different track depth,” he says.

“Ensuring that the base is built to the correct height to accommodate your particular door is crucial to the end result.”

Despite the additional technical demands, Stobart argues the effort is worthwhile. Flush tracks deliver a cleaner architectural line and enhance the sense of continuity between indoor and outdoor spaces — a feature increasingly associated with high-end residential design.

Contractors may occasionally hesitate to recommend them due to the extra detail required, but projects that successfully incorporate flush thresholds often benefit from a more refined final appearance.

“Installing flush or low threshold tracks doesn’t have to be a headache,” Stobart says.

“If the technical details are understood and planned properly, it’s an opportunity to demonstrate expertise — and to create the kind of finish that clients increasingly expect from luxury builds.”

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86 | doors active | march 2026

In Lyme Regis, Bill Butters Windows delivers Sheerline’s Classic Heritage Door, flawlessly fitted, elevating gym and pool space

Sheerline’s classic door transforms leisure space

B

ill Butters Windows has completed a stunning installation of Sheerline’s Classic Heritage Door at a property located in the seaside town of Lyme

Regis.

Installed to separate the swimming pool and home gym, this internal partition looks so striking, it’s won Sheerline’s Installation of the Month competition. It includes the Classic Heritage Door with side screens finished in Jet Black Textured with clear laminate glass on both panes.

This kind of textured finish is increasingly in demand, arguably because of the rise in popularity of heritage-style products, as it adds depth and makes the frames stand out.

For Sheerline, the popularity of this finish has increased 155% from 2024 to 2025.

When discussing the project with Bill Butters Windows, whom they had worked with before, the homeowners had one simple request: the product used had to be slim. The team instantly recommended the Classic system because of its slim sightlines.

As the homeowners had previously worked with Bill Butters Windows when they installed Sheerline’s Prestige Bi-fold Door in another part of the house, they trust-

ed their judgement and were happy for them to install the Classic Heritage Door.

When asked why this particular product has become their go-to Bill Butters Windows’ Aluminium Manager commented: “The product is very good, we’re pleased with it. With the heritage style products like this, it meets our client’s needs – it just works for us.”

Since switching to Sheerline around a year ago, the team at Bill Butters Windows have gained practical, hands-on experience with Sheerline’s products as they act as both the fabricator and the installer.

Based in Sherborne, the family-run company has been supplying windows and doors in the south west region for over 30 years.

Everything is fabricated on the premises, with PVC in one factory, and aluminium in another.

Martin Hepburn, Area Sales Director at Sheerline, said: “Wow! What a stunning project, congratulations to Bill Butters Windows for winning our Installation of the Month competition – it’s well deserved.”

“What I particularly love about this installation is the fact it highlights another way to utilise the Classic Heritage Door all thanks to our zero-threshold option, which makes it ideal for internal installations.

The reason this product is so popular, apart from its looks, is because of its versatility,” he added.

To find out more about the Classic Heritage Door, visit the website here: www.sheerline.com/product/classic-heritage-door-trade

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88 | doors active | march 2026

Hörmann Truedor Tremendous 10 boosts installer sales opportunities

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he Tremendous 10 promotion from Hörmann Truedor provides installers and dealers a compelling opportunity to capitalise on fast-turnaround composite doors that combine strong consumer appeal with excellent value for money.

The Tremendous 10 promotion offers a carefully curated range of 10 best-selling composite door styles, available in 10 popular colour options, all delivered in just 10 working days.

With prices starting from £450.00 plus VAT, the promotion has been designed to help trade customers win more business while protecting margins.

The door styles have been specifically selected to reflect current market demand and include designs from the Hörmann Truedor Cottage, Traditional and Contemporary collections. This focused range makes it easy for installers to offer homeowners genuine choice without unnecessary complexity, supporting faster sales decisions and smoother ordering.

All doors are supplied with standard glazing where applicable and are available with white frames or Anthracite on white frames, alongside low aluminium thresholds as standard.

Installers can also choose from three sill sizes, providing flexibility for a wide range of

installation requirements.

Hardware specification is equally strong, with every door supplied complete with a multi-point locking system, chrome lever handle and letterbox, and Hörmann Truedor has recently enhanced the package further with the addition of a chrome knocker and spy hole at no extra cost.

Colour options have been chosen to reflect what homeowners are asking for most, ranging from classic black, ever-

popular anthracite grey and Chartwell Green, through to bold statement colours such as ruby red.

The 10 working day lead time applies as standard for factory-direct deliveries, while customers receiving doors via Hörmann despatch can expect delivery within 10 days plus their next scheduled run, providing reliability and consistency that installers can plan around with confidence.

Commenting on the promotion, Colin Grey, Sales Manager at Hörmann Truedor, said: “The Tremendous 10 promotion has been developed to give our trade customers a simple, competitive and highly saleable composite door offer. By focusing on 10 door styles, 10 colours and a 10-day delivery, we’re able to offer outstanding value without compromising on quality. It also gives installers the reassurance of fast, reliable service and doors that are sustainably manufactured here in the UK. This promotion is just one of several initiatives designed to actively support our customers in growing their composite door sales.”

For information of the Tremendous 10 promotion contact the Hörmann Truedor sales team. www.hormanntruedor.co.uk

VBH expands Velocity hinge range

H

ardware expert VBH has announced that its popular greenteQ Velocity door hinge range has been further expanded with the addition of two new colour options.

The hinge is now available in RAL 7038 Agate Grey and Antique Black finishes from UK stock.

VBH advise that Velocity is a two-knuckle ‘T-Hinge’ designed for rebated doors with a sash upstand dimension between 16 – 24mm, making it ideal for PVCu single and double doors. Greater rebates can be achieved with the addition of packers beneath the frame bearing, while ample 3D adjustment is available on site to ensure that the finished door can be installed quickly and working perfectly every time.

VBH advise that Velocity is extremely quick to fit to the door, as a jig is only required to drill two holes in the frame. A recent time trial saw a hinge fully fitted in under a minute.

The two new painted colours bring the number of finishes available to 15, all of which are available from VBH stock here in the UK. Gary Gleeson, VBH’s marketing manager,

says, “Velocity is packed with features, and its colour options make it a dream product for specifiers and sales people. Due to its clever design, Velocity is well liked by door fabricators and installers too, as it is very easy to work with. You don’t have to be an experienced door fabricator to fit these hinges correctly, every time.

“Fifteen painted and plated finishes make Velocity perfect for fabricators who manufacture coloured and foiled doors, but they look great on white, too.

“Velocity has good looks and ease of fitting on its side, and it has the strength to go with them. It can carry doors weighing 100kg and has been successfully tested to PAS24:2022 as part of a PVCu doorset. It is approved by Secured by Design as a Police Preferred Specification.”

More information on greenteQ Velocity door hinges can be obtained by contacting VBH direct or visit www.vbhgb.com for a download.

march 2026 | doors active | 89

Entrance CDS doubles down on stock with major warehouse expansion

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ntrance Composite Door Solutions is expanding its Nottingham headquarters with a new 6,000 ft2 warehousing facility, bringing its total site footprint to 22,000 square feet.

The expansion will significantly increase stock holding capacity and enlarge the company’s CNC machining department, directly addressing the lead time and availability pressures that trade installers face during peak demand periods.

The investment forms part of a wider programme of site development that has already exceeded £1.6 million, with a further £1 million earmarked for continued growth.

“For trade installers, stock availability is not a nice-to-have – it is the difference between keeping a project on track and having to manage disappointed homeowners and slipping schedules,” says Entrance CDS Managing Director Gregory Kelly. “Our expansion has been planned with that reality squarely in mind.

“The increased warehousing will allow us to hold substantially higher volumes of finished and semi-finished product, meaning shorter lead times on standard orders and greater resilience when demand

spikes. Expanding our CNC machining department will also increase capacity to process bespoke specifications without creating bottlenecks.”

The expansion reflects Entrance CDS’ broader commitment to supporting the growth ambitions of its installer network. As composite door sales continue to strengthen across the UK residential market, installers need supply partners who can scale with

them rather than become a constraint.

“We’re not just adding square footage for the sake of it,” Gregory added. “This is about making room for further product development too. We want to give installers access to a wider range, backed by stock they can actually get hold of. The days of eightand ten-week lead times should be behind us, and we’re putting our money where our mouth is to make sure that’s the case.”

Reynaers MasterPatio Bi-Part door system achieves PAS 24 certification

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eynaers Aluminium has announced that its MasterPatio Bi-Part door has achieved PAS 24 (Performance Assessment Specification - PAS 24:2022).

After undergoing extensive testing to assess the resistance of the doors to forced entry, the MasterPatio bi-parting door configuration is now PAS 24 certified ensuring it can meet enhanced security requirements.

The robust testing behind this certification ensures that it is approved for use in new build projects, demonstrating that the doors can resist a level of attack from opportunist burglars. Now with enhanced security certification, the MasterPatio Bi-Part also offers high performance and design flexibility thanks to its space-saving benefits and a modern, sleek aesthetic.

John McComb, Technical Director at Reynaers Aluminium UK, said: “We understand that modern architecture demands more than a premium appearance - designing for safety, security and sustainability is crucial.

“Through responsible engineering and innovative design, the MasterPatio Bi-Part door system offers slim sightlines and long-term peace of mind thanks to

its high-performance security properties and sustainable and efficient production methods.

“The slimline design of the MasterPatio Bi-Part allows architects to specify a fourpane door in a shallow wall structure, where a standard sliding door would not normally fit. With PAS 24 certification, new build residential schemes as well as renovation projects can maximise the feeling of open space, safe in the knowledge that the technical quality of this system stands up to

stringent security certification standards.”

Approved Document Q of the Building Regulations mandates that all new build homes in England must feature appropriate security protections robust enough to resist force and stop unwanted entry. MasterPatio has been tested to and achieved PAS 24:2022 to meet this requirement.

Both the MasterPatio Bi-Part monorail and two-rail frames systems have been awarded PAS 24 certification offering refined aesthetics with security and performance for safe, beautiful homes.

MasterPatio is also robust enough to be used in commercial settings where its very strong sustainability credentials can support in meeting strict project-specific requirements for the specification of highly sustainable solutions.

“The MasterPatio Bi-Part system with PAS 24 certification represents a no-compromise approach to design and security for architects and specifiers looking for centre opening doors that meet in the middle,” John added.

“The product offer also enables fabricators and installers to meet customer desire to maximise open space from door areas with a PAS 24 compliant solution, backed by technical support and highquality engineering from Reynaers.”

90 | doors active | march 2026

Dekko’s Infinity Flush sash blends seamlessly with aluminium doors

I

nstallers looking to deliver the clean, contemporary aesthetics homeowners increasingly demand now have the perfect solution, thanks to Dekko Window Systems’ Infinity Flush sash windows.

A recent project by long-term Dekko customer Bespoke Frames has highlighted just how effortlessly Infinity flush sash blends with aluminium doors, while delivering outstanding thermal performance.

The ultra-modern property, fitted throughout with Infinity Flush sash windows supplied by Dekko, stands as a perfect example of how PVC-U can blend completely with aluminium. The homeowner opted for aluminium bi-folds to maximise glazed areas, pairing them with Infinity flush sash windows for a consistent, minimalist look across the whole property.

According to Steve Collett, Sales Director at Dekko, the project perfectly demonstrates the system’s unique appeal.

“This stunning and ultra-modern property really shows what Infinity Flush can do,” Steve said. “The windows blend in perfectly with the aluminium doors, giving that sleek, architectural look customers want, but with far better U-values. Infinity Flush is the ideal choice when homeowners love the aluminium aesthetic but don’t have the budget to go full aluminium across the whole house.”

Dekko’s Infinity Flush sash windows

come Graf or seamlessly welded as standard, ensuring clean joints that fit seamlessly with aluminium’s smooth lines.

Dekko also offers the Residence Collection fully Graf welded.

“R7 with a Graf weld is also a perfect alternative for this kind of installation,” Steve added. “Whether it’s Infinity Flush or Residence, installers can give their customers a sharp exterior look that matches aluminium bi-folds and sliding patio doors, often with better thermal performance, and at a significantly more competitive price point.”

Bespoke Frames’ recent installation showcases exactly that with the Infinity

Flush windows sitting flawlessly alongside dark aluminium doors for a high-end aesthetic that has the added advantage of the long-term durability that come as standard with Dekko’s precision manufacturing.

“The finished product looks great, and it is a great example of what installers can achieve,” Steve added. “Our Infinity Flush sash windows blend in beautifully with aluminium bi-folds and patio doors and sliders. It’s a win-win for both installers and homeowners.”

Tel: 0161 523 1474 www.dekkowindows.com

Midori Aluminium pioneers arched AluK heritage door fabrication

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idori Aluminium has become the first fabricator to produce a fully bent arched configuration of the AluK 58BD Heritage Door system, marking a significant technical milestone for heritage-style aluminium glazing.

The project saw the specialist manufacturer form aluminium profiles into a true curved arch, departing from the conventional rectangular formats typically associated with steel-look doors. The result retains the slim sightlines and refined proportions demanded in conservation-led and high-end residential schemes, while introducing a precision-engineered curve rarely achieved in this category.

According to the company, delivering the arched configuration required detailed planning, bespoke tooling and careful control of tolerances to ensure structural integrity and visual consistency across the frame and sash. The doors are now set to be powder coated in a textured black finish and paired with bespoke Coastal handles to

complete the architectural vision.

With nearly two decades of experience in aluminium glazing for residential and commercial markets, Midori Aluminium has built its reputation on technical capability and collaborative working.

Its portfolio spans windows, bifold doors, façades and curtain walling, all manufactured in the UK. The latest development underlines

a growing appetite among architects and developers for heritage aesthetics combined with modern performance standards. By extending the possibilities of the 58BD system into curved forms, Midori Aluminium is positioning itself at the forefront of specialist fabrication, demonstrating how contemporary engineering can unlock new creative freedom in period-inspired design.

march 2026 | doors active | 91

Residence Collection Door Designer refresh speeds installer digital sales

T

he UK’s growing market for digitally driven home improvement sales has taken another step forward after The Residence Collection launched an upgraded version of its online Door Designer, a tool aimed at helping installers capture qualified leads while allowing homeowners to visualise high-end entrance doors.

Developed in partnership with creative agency Harrison Carloss, the updated platform expands the configurator’s design capabilities and introduces features intended to shorten the traditional quoting process between homeowners and installers.

The Residence Collection, best known for its premium timber-alternative windows and doors, said the refreshed tool reflects a wider shift in the glazing sector towards digital pre-sales tools that allow consumers to experiment with products before speaking to a retailer.

The redesigned Door Designer introduces six new door styles alongside options for flat or raised and fielded panels, additional glazing configurations and the ability for users to save and revisit their designs.

In total, the platform now offers more than four million possible combinations,

allowing homeowners to tailor colours, hardware and glass options to match their property.

For installers, the most significant change lies in the enquiry process. Once a design is completed, the tool can generate a detailed submission that is sent directly to the installer, effectively packaging the

customer’s preferences before the first conversation takes place.

Industry suppliers increasingly view such tools as a way to reduce the back-andforth that can slow down quotes and extend sales cycles. By presenting installers with a pre-configured design, the aim is to move customers further along the buying journey before the initial consultation.

Jo Trotman, sales and marketing manager at The Residence Collection, said the company had expanded the configurator in response to strong consumer engagement with the original version.

“The Door Designer proved so popular that adding new designs and expanded glass options felt like the natural next step,” she said. “Our aim is to make the whole process easier, quicker and more streamlined for everyone involved, particularly the customer.”

As the UK glazing sector continues to invest in digital tools and visualisation technology, platforms like the Residence Door Designer are increasingly becoming a front-door sales channel in their own right—bridging the gap between online inspiration and installer enquiries. www.residencedoordesigner.co.uk

Force 8 launches PVC-U-style doors with fully concealed hinge system

F

orce 8 has launched a new door system that brings fully concealed hinge technology to the PVC-U-style sector.

At the heart of the new design is the complete removal of externally mounted hinges. Traditionally, surface-fitted hinges have been an unavoidable feature of outward-opening PVC-U doors, such as French doors, where they are often criticised for detracting from the overall appearance and creating a potential security weakness.

By concealing the hinges within the door and frame, Force 8 has delivered a clean, modern aesthetic while removing a known point of attack during forced entry.

The concealed hinge system also contributes to improved structural performance. With all hardware fixed into a fully reinforced frame incorporating a continuous internal steel core, the doors deliver greater rigidity and long-term stability. This construction ensures fixings remain secure over time and supports consistent operation throughout the product’s lifespan. They are also adjustable in two dimensions for ease of installation ensuring a perfect fit.

Security is further strengthened on

double or French doors through the use of top and bottom locking points on both door leaves, providing full-height engagement when closed. This works in conjunction with a newly developed meeting rail and a three-latch locking system, creating a strong and secure central locking zone between the two doors.

In keeping with the minimalist design approach enabled by the concealed hinges, external door handles can also be removed.

This reduces reliance on visible hardware and significantly lowers the risk of handlebased attacks, while reinforcing the system’s sleek, uncluttered appearance.

Force 8 says the new door system has been developed in response to demand from installers and homeowners seeking enhanced security and improved aesthetics without moving to full aluminium solutions. By introducing concealed hinge technology to this sector, the company is addressing long-standing compromises in traditional door design.

The launch underlines Force 8’s engineering-led approach to product development, delivering a door system that combines advanced security, durability and contemporary design in a format familiar to

the domestic market.

For further information contact sales@ force8.co.uk

92 | doors active | march 2026

CO Manufacturing reports strong growth in Forté composite door sales

C

O Manufacturing has reported a 47% year-on-year increase in sales of its Forté door range, highlighting growing demand for high-performance entrance doors and the effectiveness of its value-led network model.

The growth, measured across 2025 compared with 2024, reflects increased consumer appetite for the Forté brand and the continued success of the CO Retail Network.

Further advancements have been made to the Forté through 2025, with new hardware, colour options, glass styles and slab designs added to the range. That design flexibility, coupled with leading security and performance features, places the door range as a retail-friendly option that appeals to homeowners and installers alike.

But the product only tells half the story as this uplift has been supported by the Wakefield-based fabricator rolling out its innovative sales training process to its retail customers.

The programme combines in-depth technical product training with a structured, consultative sales framework, giving sales teams the tools to explain Forté’s features and translate them into meaningful benefits for homeowners.

Supported by free sample kits, including hardware options and colour options, the training helps consultants devise a strong

sales pitch that clearly shows the Forté’s benefits when compared to other brands.

Greg Kane, CEO of CO Manufacturing, said: “Since we rolled out our sales training process, our customers are converting door pitches at a higher percentage than ever before. This free-to-access training has made a real difference and continues to drive growth across the sector.”

The Forté range has become an increasingly important part of retailers’ product portfolios. The collection features multiple core options, PAS24 security,

improved thermal performance and, importantly for homeowners, a wide range of design choices.

It is this combination of product and structured sales enablement that has helped members of the CO Retail Network make impressive inroads and capture more market share.

Greg adds: “The performance of the Forté collection reflects the strength of our Retail Network model. We combine great products with world-class training to help our retailers understand how to sell them effectively.

“This mix of technical training, psychology-based sales coaching and practical tools like sample kits gives sales teams the confidence to have better conversations and convert more enquiries.”

This retailer-exclusive training programme forms part of CO Manufacturing’s wider commitment to learning and development, with further training initiatives planned to support retailers across new and improved product lines this year and beyond.

By aligning product development with structured sales support, CO Manufacturing is reinforcing its position as a long-term partner to independent retailers—focused not just on manufacturing high-quality products but also on enabling sustainable growth across its Retail Network.

Endurance® Doors introduces stylish satin brass hardware option

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ndurance® Doors has increased the already impressive level of design freedom it offers door installers and discerning homeowners.

As a direct result of its proactive approach to new product development, the manufacturer of high-end composite doors is now offering door hardware in a sophisticated and on-trend satin brass finish.

The new finish becomes part of Endurance’s premium range of hardware which includes handles, knockers, letter plates, knobs, pulls and escutcheons, all made from stainless steel for the ultimate in durability, weather resistance and lasting appeal.

Other finishes within the premium range currently include matte black and a natural stainless steel colour.

Russell Hensman, group marketing manager at Endurance, comments: “At Endurance® Doors, we are committed to offering our installer partners all the tools they need to maximise sales.

“Not only does this take the form of extensive support in areas such as

marketing and training but it also involves the provision of products that address everevolving market demands.

“The use of satin brass as an accent colour is very much en vogue. With its muted, slightly matt appearance, satin brass can bring a sense of warmth and sophistication to any space.

“It is also highly versatile. It works equally well whether the desired look is something contemporary or more traditional.”

The new satin brass hardware from Endurance adds to an already impressive

array of design choices available to customers.

This includes over 85 different styles of door grouped into four main collections – Classic, Country, Urban and Avantal, with the latter being the manufacturer’s ultramodern, smooth skinned range.

Homeowners can further customise these styles, by choosing their new door in one of over 19 separate colours.

They also have the option of 19 different types of glazing and a wide range of hardware in multiple colours and finishes.

Concluding, Russell adds: “The consumers who buy our doors aren’t just doing so out of necessity. They’re also looking to make an investment by choosing a product that will enhance their home and their lifestyle.

“Given this significance, we want to ensure they are able to create a door that’s uniquely tailored to their property and individual tastes.

“By continuing to expand the design options we offer, we are perfectly places to ensure this ultimate level of customer delight.”

march 2026 | doors active | 93

Heritage Trade Frames reports strong sales growth for Stellar Inline Sliding Door

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rade fabricator Heritage Trade Frames has reported a strong increase in demand for the Stellar Inline Sliding Patio Door, with sales rising by 30% since the product was introduced in early 2024. Lee Darcy, Sales and Marketing Manager at Heritage Trade Frames, said the growth reflects increasing demand for contemporary slimline aluminium doors combined with the product’s strong installer-friendly credentials.

He commented: “Since adding the Stellar Inline Sliding Patio Door to our range in early 2024, demand has grown steadily. Installers are looking for aluminium sliding doors that deliver slimline modern aesthetics, strong thermal performance and straightforward installation and the Stellar system ticks all those boxes.”

The Stellar Inline Sliding Patio Door features a slim aluminium profile and a central interlock of just 35mm. The system supports sash widths of up to 1675mm and configurations of two, three or four panes, allowing installers to offer homeowners impressive glazed openings of up to 6500mm wide.

Performance credentials are equally strong. The door achieves U-values as low as 1.4 W/m²K with double glazing and 1.0 W/m²K with triple glazing, helping installers meet the latest Part L thermal efficiency requirements, while PAS 24 security and excellent weather performance provide additional reassurance.

Lee added: “The clean, flush appearance and slim sightlines make the door extremely attractive to homeowners who want to maximise light and open-plan living spaces. For installers, it’s a product that’s easy to install while delivering a premium finish.”

Fabrication efficiency was also a key consideration in the system’s design. The direct glazed fixed light removes the need for a dummy sash, helping reduce fabrication time and streamline manufacturing processes. Pre-inserted gaskets and patented knock-in beads further simplify installation while ensuring a neat gasket line and consistent high-end finish.

Installers also benefit from Heritage Trade Frames’ reputation for service and reliability. All products are manufactured across the company’s three fabrication plants in Bolton, supported by continued investment in machinery, training and operational systems to ensure customers receive consistent quality and dependable lead times.

Lee concluded: “Installers want products that are easy to work with, perform reliably and look fantastic in the finished project.

The Stellar Inline Sliding Patio Door delivers on all three, which is why we’ve seen such strong growth since adding it to our range.”

Tel: 01204 664 700 E: info@heritagetradeframes.co.uk

Classic Craftsmanship.

Modern Design.

From timeless tradition to clean, modern lines, Coastal’s range of door furniture offers a complete solution for today’s doors.

Featuring traditional ring and doctor’s knockers alongside sleek contemporary designs, Coastal gives manufacturers and installers the freedom to specify hardware that suits every project, without compromising on performance.

Why specify Coastal’s BLU®? z Classic and contemporary designs in a range of durable finishes z Create a coordinated look with matching door furniture z Manufactured from premium stainless steel z Built for strength and reliability z Backed by Coastal’s Lifetime Guarantee

Browse and buy online

coastal-group.com

94 | general feature | march 2026

Clarity and accuracy at every stage

Leeds Glass Windows boosts efficiency and accuracy with Sternfenster’s EasyAdmin+, simplifying quoting, ordering, and daily workflow

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or Sternfenster customer Leeds Glass Windows, efficiency and accuracy are essential. With more than 40 years’ experience serving customers across the Leeds area, the family-run installer has built its reputation on dependable service and attention to detail.

In recent years, a growing workload and increasingly complex admin processes prompted the business to look for smarter ways to manage quoting and ordering – leading it to Sternfenster’s EasyAdmin+ platform.

Leeds Glass, led by Managing Director Steve Green, installs a wide range of glazing products, including windows, doors, and conservatories. While the business had long-established systems in place, Steve explains that quoting and order management had become increasingly time-consuming.

“Before we were introduced to EasyAdmin+, quoting took a lot longer,” he says. “Information wasn’t available at your fingertips.

We’d submit enquiries to suppliers and then we would have to wait for them to come back to us, so the whole timescale was much longer than it is now.”

However, that changed when Sternfenster introduced EasyAdmin+, its cloud-based quoting and order management system. According to Steve, what set the platform apart was that other suppliers didn’t offer anything comparable.

“When Sternfenster showed us EasyAdmin+, we could immediately see the benefits,” he explains. “All the job information is in one place, it’s easy to use for all our admin staff, and it delivers a better outcome for the customer.”

Getting started with the system was straightforward. Steve describes the onboarding process as professional and well-managed, with Sternfenster taking the lead on setup and training.

“The training was very friendly and very professional,” says Steve. “The system itself is easy to use, and support has always been there when we’ve needed it.”

From a day-to-day operational perspective, EasyAdmin+ has had a significant impact on speed and visibility. Quoting, in particular, has been transformed.

“It’s sped the process up immensely,” Steve explains. “You enter the job details, frame descriptions and specifications, and everything is there straight away. Glass sizes and product variations are visible immediately, with any potential issues automatically flagged. It’s all instant.”

That visibility has been particularly valuable across the wider team.

Steve notes that EasyAdmin+ allows any member of staff to pick up a job and understand its status, even if they weren’t involved initially.

“Anyone can jump onto the system, follow the notes, and see exactly what’s happening. That visibility is great for everyone.”

That sentiment is echoed by Matthew Walkin, PVC Administrator at Leeds Glass, who uses Sternfenster’s EasyAdmin+ daily to design and order windows and doors. Having worked with several systems over the years, Matthew describes EasyAdmin+ as one of the most intuitive platforms he’s used.

“It’s made the whole process a lot more efficient,” he says. “You’re not drawing things out, checking pricing books or switching between systems. With a few clicks, you’ve got the design, the price and a proposal you can send straight to the customer.”

Matthew highlights the system’s visual capabilities as a major advantage.

“You can see the full window – the colour, handles, vents, frame options – all in 3D,” he explains. “It helps you visualise what you’re doing, and it helps customers understand exactly what they’re getting. That really reduces the margin for error.”

The consistency of workflow has also helped reduce bottlenecks and mistakes.

“You’re doing one process instead of three or four different things,” Matthew adds. “That saves time, streamlines everything, and makes it easier for the whole team to work efficiently.”

Both Steve and Matthew are clear about the value EasyAdmin+ already delivers, as well as its potential as the business continues to integrate it further.

“I would highly recommend Sternfenster’s EasyAdmin+ to other installers,” Matthew concludes. “It’s highly comprehensive, very easy to use, and has all the information there when you need it.”

For Leeds Glass, Sternfenster’s EasyAdmin+ has brought clarity, speed, and confidence to quoting and ordering – reinforcing a supplier relationship bult on reliability and long-term support.

For more information about EasyAdmin+, installers are encouraged to contact their Sternfenster sales representative or the customer service team by emailing sales@sternfenster.co.uk or calling 01522 512525.

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96 | fensterbau highlights | march 2026

Forward-thinking next level hardware

An exciting new aluminium window range and a sensor front door handle are among the new products on display at Fensterbau from Siegenia

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nder the slogan “Next Level”, Siegenia will be exhibiting a number of exciting new products designed to be forward-thinking and offer added value to both fabricators and end users.

Next Level ALU: maximum production efficiency with the ALU XT: A genuine highlight for systems houses and aluminium window fabricators will be the brand-new ALU XT tilt and turn range, which sets new standards with its easy, intuitive installation and appreciable reduction of production times. Among the major strengths of the innovative hardware is its groundbreaking operating rod technology, requiring just five rods maximum irrespective of the window size. Equipped with an integrated groove, it makes the easy insertion of additional locking points or accessories possible without the operating rod having to be processed further. This is currently unique in the market. The operating rod can just be shortened by a saw cut or a straight cropper cut to the desired length.

The self-positioning, pivotable hardware components provide valuable time and cost benefits in installation. Moreover, subsequent upgrade to PAS 24 is possible without any problems thanks to the operating rod and connecting technology meaning it can be done without removing the element. Accessories such as the additional stay can also be very easily added in this way and positioned freely – without splitting up the operating rods.

Sensor door handle: innovative, intuitive, convenient: Currently one of a kind in this shape, the sensor handle has a high-quality aesthetic: The lever handle and cylinder lock have been replaced with an elegant sliding grip for conveniently opening and closing the door, which also enables the activation of intelligent additional functions like a daytime latch. The powerful proximity sensor system is also top quality. Thanks to its proactive unlocking, the door can be opened in less than a second. For easy reference end users additionally receive tactile, audible and visual feedback. This

also informs about the current state of the door. The sensor door handle is compatible with the KFV GENIUS and will be available as of Fensterbau to the first pilot customers.

BS 3704 and new bolt switch contact – selfadjusting, secure, intelligent: A further development of the BS 3700, the BS 3704 automatic multipoint locking system provides fabricators and end users with a new level of security. Now equipped with four auxiliary lock cases, it provides the highest possible degree of security.

One truly unique feature of both multi-point locking systems is their integrated self-adjustment mechanism with locking elements and hook bolts, meaning no inconvenient readjustment on site throughout the entire life cycle of the door. The new automatic multipoint locking systems also exhibit strengths in terms of flexibility because they can be freely combined with an optional A-opener and extension pieces for doors of 3 m height.

An optional equipment feature for automatic multipoint locking systems, the new bolt switch contact intelligent opening and locking monitoring system provides end users with significant added value in terms of security: As soon as the locking elements of the multipoint lock are retracted into the frame parts, the bolt switch contact emits a corresponding signal which can be paired with an alarm system, for example.

For heavy entrance doors up to 140 kg: the axxent 750 ALU concealed hinge: This innovative door hinge for aluminium front doors combines an elegant design in on-trend black with noticeable extra benefits. As well as its high load capacity of up to 140 kg, the concealed technology gives doors a decidedly highquality elegance, in a choice of jet black (RAL 9005) or white aluminium (RAL 9006). End users may also appreciate the high ease of use because thanks to the low-friction door hinge bearing the sash can turn smoothly and effortlessly to an opening angle of up to 105°. The new door hinge exhibits strengths in terms of processing efficiency and installation too. Fabricators benefits from the intuitive “click in” technology and ability to achieve PAS 24 burglar resistance without any additional components as well as its simple adjustment via the integrated 3D adjustment system.

Tel: 024 7662 2000 E: info-uk@siegenia.com

march 2026 | fensterbau highlights | 97

Coastal Group to showcase premium door and window hardware range

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oastal Group, manufacturer of premium stainless steel door and window hardware, will be exhibiting at Fensterbau Frontale 2026, taking place from 24–27 March in Nuremberg, Germany. Visitors can find Coastal Group in Hall 4, Stand 4-529, where the company will present a curated selection of its most trusted and innovative hardware ranges.

At the show, Coastal Group will showcase a comprehensive portfolio including classic lever door and window handles, modern bar pull handles, sliding door hardware, and slimline door and window handles designed specifically for aluminium fenestration.

There will also be the opportunity to get a sneak peek at upcoming products in development.

Each collection has been engineered to combine refined design with long-term durability, making them suitable for both contemporary and traditional architectural applications.

“Fensterbau Frontale is a key event for us, and we’re really looking forward to welcoming existing customers to the stand whilst also meeting new partners from across international markets,” said Loren Jenner, Managing Director of Coastal Group.

“It’s the perfect opportunity to showcase the quality, performance and longevity that define Coastal hardware, and to have meaningful conversations about upcoming projects and new products launching later this year.”

Alongside its established ranges, Coastal Group will also offer a preview of new innovations in development for 2026, giving visitors an early look at upcoming developments. “These are largely focused on enhanced ergonomics, new textures and finishes,” continued Loren Jenner, “along with expanded suited hardware collections.

We’ve listened to customers and these new products reflect demand and customer need.”

All Coastal hardware is manufactured from the company’s premium marine-grade

stainless steel, selected for its exceptional strength and corrosion resistance in demanding environments, including coastal and high-humidity locations.

With in-house design, manufacturing, assembly and product development, Coastal maintains full control over quality and performance – enabling every product to be backed by a lifetime guarantee.

Fensterbau Frontale provides an ideal platform for Coastal Group to connect with joiners, fabricators, system manufacturers, distributors and specifiers from across international markets, and to demonstrate hardware designed to be specified with confidence.

Visitors are invited to experience Coastal Group’s hardware first-hand at Fensterbau Frontale 2026, Hall 4, Stand 4-529.

Engineered door components on display

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egaLead is bringing its range of PVC-U Engineered Door Components to the continent at Fensterbau Frontale 2026 in March. At the show, RegaLead is teaming up with supply partner EWTG FCA, who specialise in supplying components for engineered doors to the European market, with a very strong customer base across Poland, Germany and The Netherlands.

RegaLead is EWTG’s sole fabrication partner for the UK and Ireland and their joint stand at the show gives visitors the opportunity to see the range of PVC-U Engineered Door Components, meet the team and see the latest developments for both the UK and European markets.

Over the last 18 months, the Engineered Door Components range from RegaLead has transformed the market, and has evolved and developed to include tongue and grooved, raised and fielded and bolection mouldings alongside flat panels. Available

in more than 70 standard and 100 special order foil finishes, this comprehensive and unique colour range presents a huge opportunity for fabricators.

Ella Brown, RegaLead Sales Manager and lead on the Engineered Door Components Range said: “Fensterbau is the ideal opportunity for UK visitors who are looking to expand into engineered doors to see the products first-hand and to benefit from

the expertise and technical advice that’s available from the EWTG team over the course of the show.

“Our PVC-U Engineered Door Components are designed to work with all major PVCu systems’ profiles. The range brings a brand new opportunity for fabricators to offer a stunning range of PVC-U engineered entrance door options for a stunning, timber-look finish with all of the security and energy-efficiency benefits of PVC-U.” At the show, both the EWTG and RegaLead teams will be on hand to talk about the technical details of the products.

They’ll also be showcasing the vast number of door design options that can be created by using the PVC-U Engineered Door Components range, in conjunction with their extensive collection of decorative glass products.

RegaLead can be found on stand 5-131 at Fensterbau from 24-27 March 2026.

98 | product innovation | march 2026

Stronghold® keeps Crystal Windows safe when scaffold isn’t an option

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ne of the largest privately owned home improvement businesses in the South East is increasingly turning to Stronghold®, a revolutionary internal safety system, to keep installations moving safely and efficiently when traditional scaffold simply isn’t an option.

The Romford-based Crystal Windows and Doors has seen Stronghold transform how it approaches complex window installations where external access is restricted or impossible.

“We first came across Stronghold when we had a window install job where scaffold couldn’t be used, but we still needed to fully comply with the Work at Height Regulations,” explained Peter Fox, Health and Safety Officer at Crystal Windows and Doors. “There was a clear risk of a fall from height, and I needed a solution that was demonstrably safe.”

Stronghold allows trained operatives to carry out window repairs and installations entirely from inside the building. The system can be assembled in under 10 minutes by two operatives, safely spans openings of up to five metres, and supports up to three engineers at once. Secure anchor points provide unrestricted movement while maintaining full harness protection.

After visiting Stronghold founder and owner Daniel Cheddie’s showroom to see the system first-hand, Peter was impressed.

“Daniel set the system up and walked me through exactly where it can be used, how it’s certified and the training required. It’s versatile, lightweight and extremely strong, and it ticked every box for us.”

Following some training, Crystal’s teams

began using Stronghold regularly. “We are now hiring the system more and more and the fitters are happy using it,” said Peter.

Crucially, Stronghold is also delivering significant commercial benefits.

“Scaffolding on small installations can cost £600 to £1,000, and in some cases we’ve even had to cancel jobs because neighbours wouldn’t allow scaffold to be erected,” added Peter. “Stronghold eliminates those issues.

It shortens lead times, it avoids upsetting customers, and we’ve had zero complaints about using it inside their homes.”

“Stronghold exists for those moments

when scaffold just isn’t viable, but safety can’t be compromised,” said Daniel Cheddie.

“Seeing companies like Crystal rely on it to keep projects moving, protect their teams and improve customer satisfaction is why I developed the system.”

Peter added: “We don’t refuse jobs anymore because there’s no safe means of working at height. Stronghold is a clear benefit to our business, and the support from Daniel has been first class.”

To hire the Stronghold-Anchor, visit https://www.stronghold-anchor.com/ or call 01992 302133.

New name for technology protecting high-performance exterior films

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enolit’s proven technology for protecting its high-performance exterior films is getting a new name.

Solar Shield Technology (SST) will now be known as SolShield (SST). While the name is changing, the technology and its performance remain exactly the same, continuing to deliver brand-leading protection as standard across all Renolit exterior films.

SST is a technology developed by Renolit to protect the film from excessive heating by solar radiation. The reflective colour pigments prevent the absorption of the sun’s heat-generating infrared radiation, reflecting it back in a targeted manner, significantly reducing the temperature build-up. The result is it slows down the aging process of the film and building

components. This means that even with dark colours being used in warmer climates, the profiles remain dimensionally stable and windows stay airtight for longer, thus improving energy efficiency. Additionally, the transparent top layer of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) protects the colours and designs from fading because of the UV radiation or other weather influences.

This technology has undergone rigorous weather exposure tests in accordance with ASTM G173 (TSR value), RAL-GZ 716 and DIN EN 410 (reflection values) demonstrate that RENOLIT EXOFOL films meet the requirements of the RAL quality standards.

Even in the most UV intensive climate, films maintain their colour quality throughout the product life due to the multilayered structure. So whether it’s desert or

coastal, SST is suitable for all climates.

Tel: 01670 718222 E: renolit.uk@renolit.com

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100 | product innovation | march 2026

PST brings order to installations with built-in job management software

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hen you’re juggling multiple conservatory, window or door installations, staying organised can be just as demanding as the work itself. Details change, conversations happen and paperwork has a habit of ending up everywhere. PST’s vsHome’s built in job management is designed to bring order to that every day chaos.

Each job entered into vsHome has its own space, starting from the first enquiry and can be built on as the job moves forward.

Customer details, site notes and surveys are all kept together so you’re not digging through emails or trying to remember what was agreed weeks ago. It also makes it easy to look back at previous jobs, whether for reference or follow ups.

Quotes and order numbers can be created automatically which helps with keeping things consistent whilst reducing time spent on admin. There’s also space to record the practical details that matter such as planning permissions, access issues or skip hire so nothing gets missed when the job is underway.

Reports can be created using the information already logged in the system, pulling in customer names, addresses and job details to produce clear, branded sales and survey reports. These can be viewed on screen or shared as PDFs, keeping

everything stored in one place and easy to find. vsHome also helps keep everyone on the same page. Quotes, reports and even 3D models can be sent directly to customers, giving them a clear picture of what’s going to be installed. For businesses where more than one person will be involved in each project, CAST allows job information to be

shared across the team so installers and office staff can access the same up to date job details whenever they need them.

By keeping everything together and easy to access, vsHome helps you focus less on chasing paperwork and more on getting the job done quickly and efficiently.

E: jen.craven@pstonline.co.uk

Timberlook launches Ulti-Matt Black finish across full profile suite

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imberlook, a heritage PVC-U brand from leading manufacturer Affordable Windows Group, has expanded its colour offering with the introduction of Ulti-Matt Black (Smooth Black).

A smooth black finish, Ulti-Matt Black is now available across the entire Timberlook product range of flush sash windows, flush single doors and flush French doors.

While Timberlook’s windows and doors are a popular choice for conservation areas and period properties, the addition of this new finish from Renolit highlights their

suitability for contemporary projects.

Unlike conventional woodgrain effects, the Ulti-Matt Black finish delivers a sleek, contemporary appearance whilst retaining the authentic proportions and detailing that define Timberlook’s heritage aesthetic.

Amelia Gaughan, Head of Marketing for Affordable Windows Group, said: “We’ve seen increasing interest from installers working on new builds where homeowners want the character of heritage-style windows without traditional colours. UltiMatt Black addresses this demand perfectly.

It brings together classic design with a

modern finish that suits contemporary architecture, giving installers more flexibility in the projects they can take on.”

The new Ulti-Matt Black (Smooth Black) finish is available across Timberlook’s complete suite, including flush casement windows, flush single doors and flush French doors. Installers can use Tommy Trinder’s Framepoint™ to generate accurate quotes and show customers realistic visualisations of their chosen products in Ulti-Matt Black.

For more information, email sales@ timberlook.com or visit timberlook.com

march 2026 | product innovation | 101

Ab Initio launches AI assistants to boost AdminBase workflow accuracy

A

b Initio has announced the launch of a new feature to enable users to link AI functions embedded into its AdminBase CRM software, designed to improve accuracy, reduce errors and increase efficiency across core workflows for installation businesses.

The development introduces the ability to connect the task-specific AI assistants that users have created into their existing AdminBase processes. Rather than operating as a standalone tool, assistants can be created by users to support a defined task, for example order checking, administration and compliance, with the purpose of removing the need for manual checking and preventing errors before they occur.

“Saving time is important, but accuracy is essential,” says Rhonda Ridge, Managing Director of Ab Initio and creator of AdminBase. “These AI assistants are designed to check the detail as the work is being done. That means users can be confident that orders and contracts are complete and correct before they move forward, reducing the risk of problems later in the process.

“By creating structured, built-in checklists aligned with real-world workflows, the system supports users through complex tasks while maintaining consistency and accuracy throughout. By integrating AI assistants across AdminBase, we’re helping our users work more consistently, accurately and efficiently across every stage of the installation process, eliminating errors that can lead to delays, rework and additional administration and costs further down the line.”

When an order is entered, for example, an AI assistant can validate all required information in real time. Measurements, product selections, specifications and supporting documentation can be checked automatically, ensuring that all data is complete and correctly reflected within the contract before it can progress. This

provides users with confidence that the information is accurate, and nothing has been overlooked.

The launch reflects the continued evolution of Ab Initio’s approach to AI, shaped by long-term customer communication and feedback. With over 30 years’ experience supporting installers, Ab Initio has focused on embedding AI in a way that supports established workflows rather than disrupting them.

Safeguarding starts at the door with FUHR compliant nursery locks

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n nursery and early years settings, door hardware plays a critical role in safeguarding. Beyond basic security, doors must prevent children from leaving unnoticed, restrict unauthorised access from outside and maintain fully compliant emergency escape at all times.

FUHR’s autosafe 833 and 835 KiGa multipoint locking systems have been developed specifically for these sensitive environments, providing a certified, application-led solution that removes the need for adapted or improvised hardware.

The multipoint locking system incorporates two interconnected lock cases linked via a drive rod, enabling independent operation of two lever handles positioned at different heights. The lower handle, set at 850mm, is accessible to children, while the upper lever at 1570mm allows staff to retain controlled access at all times.

In an emergency, the secured lower lever - or integrated GfS e-Bar® - can be activated, triggering an alarm and alerting supervisory personnel immediately. This configuration ensures compliant escape while supporting safeguarding protocols during day-to-day operation.

Suitable for aluminium, steel, timber and PVC-U doors, the 833 and 835 KiGa locks meet the requirements of EN 179 and

EN 1125 for emergency and panic escape routes, with panic function B or E options available to suit project specifications. These function types determine how the door can be accessed from the outside, allowing controlled entry for authorised adults while maintaining free and compliant escape from the inside in an emergency, which can be specified depending on the application. This balance between access management and life safety is essential in childcare buildings.

For fabricators and installers, the

system operates mechanically as standard, requiring no electrical installation. Where enhanced monitoring or access control integration is required, an autotronic motor can be fitted, enabling connection to wider building management systems.

Paul Balfe, Business Development Manager at FUHR UK, commented: “Childcare environments demand purpose-designed solutions. The FUHR solution was developed specifically to support safeguarding requirements while maintaining full regulatory compliance.

For fabricators and installers, that means confidence that the door will perform exactly as intended from day one, without relying on site adaptations or compromising on certification.”

With over 165 years of expertise in multipoint locking systems, FUHR continues to support fabricators, installers and specifiers with compliant, applicationled hardware solutions. When safeguarding is a priority, early engagement with the FUHR team ensures the correct locking system is specified from the outset.

For further information, please contact Paul Balfe, pbalfe@fuhr.co.uk Further product information: https:// www.fuhr.de/en/solutions/areas-ofapplication/kindergarten-doors/

102 | movers and shakers | march 2026

Allan Brothers has appointed Linzi Jo Watson as its first female Production Manager. In her new role, Linzi is responsible for all factory operations, from the delivery of raw timber to the operation of the machine centre, assembly, and finishing, and managing a team of over 50 operatives.

Having started her career in women’s fashion, Linzi joined Allan Brothers as a customer service assistant 17 years ago. She has worked her way up, gaining broad-based experience as Planning and Logistics Manager, Internal Sales and Planning Manager, and latterly Production Section and Planning Manager. Linzi said: “My younger self would never have dreamt that I would end up in charge of factory operations for a busy timber window and door manufacturer. I really love the hands-on nature of production, with the day-to-day challenge of juggling the logistics of tight schedules, managing stock, and maintaining strict health and safety standards, whilst making sure that our products leave the factory gate in top condition. ”

Genius PVC Trade Frames has announced the appointment of Karl Williamson as its new Sales and Marketing Director, strengthening its senior leadership team as the business targets its next phase of growth. Karl joins Genius from Profine UK, where he spent four years as Sales Director working across the Kömmerling brand. Prior to that, he held the role of Area Sales Manager at Window Ware.

Speaking about his decision to join Genius, Karl said: “Genius were a customer of mine at Profine, so I already knew the business well. They have a fantastic pedigree in the industry and a clear understanding of what works and what doesn’t. “Seeing how that experience has been channelled into the massive growth Genius has already achieved, made this a very exciting opportunity.” In his new role, Karl will be responsible for managing and developing existing customer relationships, driving new business, and overseeing Genius’ market strategy as the company continues to expand its offering across the Kömmerling and Deceuninck window and door ranges.

Glazpart has announced the appointment of Wes Ball as Managing Director of the Glazpart Group. With a formidable background in Senior Management roles across the Automotive manufacturing sector, Wes brings proven leadership skills, strategic vision and fresh business acumen to the Glazpart Group.

On his appointment Wes commented: “I’m delighted to be stepping into the role of Managing Director at Glazpart. While our industry is new to me, within my first month it’s already proving fascinating.

I’ve been hugely impressed by the commitment and expertise of our people and their constant drive to achieve high levels of customer service; this is reflected in the strength of our long-standing customer and supplier relationships.

Over many discussions with the Glazpart Group ownership ahead of joining, it became really clear that we had a very strong alignment on our desire to continue to build a strong long-term future for the Glazpart Group - I’m truly excited by the journey ahead.”

Kenrick has strengthened its sales team with the appointment of Marcus Hathaway as Regional Sales Manager.

Marcus joins Kenrick with many years of industry experience and will be responsible for customers across the Midlands, Wales and South West regions. He is well known to the business, having spent six years with hardware distributor Winlock, where he worked closely with Kenrick as a customer and developed a strong understanding of the company’s products, service and market reputation. Marcus has built a reputation within the industry for his customer-focused approach and technical understanding of hardware solutions. His move to Kenrick reflects both his confidence in the business and his enthusiasm for supporting customers with products that deliver proven performance. Marcus said: “I’m really pleased to be joining Kenrick at such an exciting time. Having worked with the company for many years as a customer, I’ve always been impressed by the quality of the products and the strength of the team behind them.”

Sternfenster has promoted Tom Beck to Northern Area Sales Manager, reinforcing its commitment to strengthening customer support and accelerating growth across the region. Tom joined Sternfenster in December 2024, bringing with him 18 years of experience in the window and door industry.

Having held roles at major names including Everest and Dempsey Dyer, he has developed extensive expertise across manufacturing, trade supply and retail environments, giving him a well-rounded understanding of the pressures and opportunities facing today’s installers. Since joining Sternfenster, Tom has worked closely with customers across the North, supporting business development and helping installers make the most of the company’s service-led model and digital tools. Tom said: “Sternfenster has built a strong reputation for combining manufacturing performance with practical digital support like EasyAdmin+ and EasySales. I’m excited to take on this role and help more customers across the North grow with confidence.”

Crittall Windows has appointed Casey Gardener as Head of Manufacturing. Casey joined the business in 2024 as Production Engineer and has since played a central role in refining the firm’s manufacturing processes. His promotion follows the retirement of Darren Joyce, a long serving member of the team whose contribution helped shape the modern production operation at Crittall. With experience gained in both the automotive and medical device sectors, Casey has led the introduction of lean manufacturing principles, reviewing workflows and supporting the adoption of new equipment to improve quality and consistency. His work over the past year has laid the foundations for a more agile manufacturing environment as demand for steel windows and doors continues to grow. Casey said: “Crittall has a proud manufacturing heritage and I am keen to build on that by ensuring our processes are fit for the future. The focus is on creating a culture of continuous improvement that supports our people and delivers dependable results for our customers.”

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