Windows Active - October 2025 Issue

OCTOBER 2025

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october 2025 | contents | 1

CONTENTS

OCTOBER 2025

DIRECTOR OF THE MONTH

GETTING IN CONTACT

“What I value most is the way Heritage has expanded while staying true to the principles we were founded on. In the past five years we have doubled in size, which speaks to the strength of our team, the quality of our products and the loyalty of our customers.”

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

Paul Culshaw MD of Heritage Trade Frames

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

HARDWARE 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

STUGA ENHANCES GLOBAL STRENGTH FOLLOWING STÜRTZ ACQUISITION BY VOILÀP

4

Stuga Machinery has confirmed an exciting new chapter as its parent company, Stürtz Group, becomes part of Voilàp Group. The move unites three wellestablished machinery names – Stuga, Stürtz and Voilàp and marks a significant step forward for UK fabricators. Customers can expect continuity from Stuga’s trusted UK team, combined with the additional strength, innovation and resources of a strategic global partner.

PORTICO DOORS TARGETS GROWTH AND INNOVATION

A CUSTOMER-FOCUSED APPROACH FUELS GROWTH AT UKO GROUP

ENERGY EFFICIENCY SEARCHES DOMINATE

ISSN No: 1746-6663

42

48

The UK’s fenestration industry is navigating a phase of cautious consumer spending, with recent Google Trends data over the last three months revealing a market adjusting to persistent economic headwinds. The fenestration sector sees ‘flight to quality’ writes John Cowie

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Natasha Erskine, Marketing Director, UKO Group: “In today’s competitive landscape, businesses must do more than deliver quality products, there has to be a bigger focus on building and maintaining meaningful relationships with their customers. Our growth story is rooted in the simple but powerful principle of putting the customer at the heart of everything we do.”

In his latest Podcast, Guy Hubble MD of RegaLead, sat down with the Managing Director of Portico Doors Tony Craggs.

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

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Our popular in-bound supplements are a must read. This month we bring you the Hardware Active edition - a look at all the locking and movement mechanisms for windows and doors.

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

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W 2 | editors comment | october 2025

EDITOR’S COMMENT A SHIFT IN MINDSET AND MARKET CONDITIONS

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he atmosphere at the recent Glazing Summit was, at times, difficult to shake. In a room where the prevailing tone leaned toward economic pessimism, it was hard not to be drawn into the wider narrative of slowdown, stagnation, and strain. With the UK economy faltering, the prospect of further tax rises in the autumn budget, and the looming burden of new employment legislation, the outlook for many sectors, fenestration included, appears fraught. Yet to remain mired in this downbeat trajectory is to miss the opportunity that remains present within the market.

Yes, sales leads are falling. Yes, costs are rising. And yes, regulatory changes continue to add complexity. But beyond the headlines, there are encouraging signals, if the industry is prepared to pay attention to them.

One such signal emerged from the Summit itself: the notable absence of installers in the audience. Rather than suggesting disengagement, this absence could well reflect strong activity on the ground. Conversations with those in the field support this, with many installers reporting steady pipelines and rising order values, a reassuring counterpoint to the gloom that dominated the conference room.

What’s particularly striking is the profile of today’s customer.

While the number of enquiries may be lower, the value of those that convert is increasing. Much of this spending is being driven by younger homeowners, aged 25 to 35, who are demonstrating a growing appetite for high-value installations. This shift in consumer behaviour hints at a broader cultural trend: the home as an investment, not just a place to live.

For an industry often geared toward traditional sales models and demographics, this represents both a challenge and an opportunity. Younger consumers are more informed, more discerning, and more technologically inclined. Their expectations differ and so must the industry’s response.

Among the most under-leveraged opportunities is smart technology. Despite growing consumer interest in connected home solutions, the UK fenestration sector has been slow to embrace products such as smart locks, sensors, and integrated home security systems. Anecdotal resistance, often framed around mistrust of smart locks, persists, yet feels increasingly out of step with broader consumer behaviour.

It is difficult to reconcile the widespread acceptance of digital

www.windowsactive.com

locks on cars and hotel rooms with the hesitancy around residential installations. The real issue may lie less with the consumer and more with how the trade is selling, or not selling , the benefits of smart technology.

In markets such as France, smart functionality is often integrated as standard, enhancing the value proposition and sustaining premium pricing. With the global smart windows market forecast to grow from $6.45bn in 2025 to $9.54bn by 2029, the UK risks falling behind if it continues to treat smart products as optional addons rather than essentials.

Another area ripe for re-evaluation is marketing. Too often, the industry leans heavily on pay-per-click and Google Ads, overlooking the value of brand-building at a local level.

Homeowners trust names they recognise, a truth evident in sectors like kitchens and bathrooms. Fenestration should be no different. A strong local brand can rival and, in some cases, surpass a national competitors in securing consumer confidence. Visibility, reputation, and consistent messaging are vital. And with manufacturers investing heavily in innovation, from thermal performance to design aesthetics, the challenge is not a lack of compelling product, but a failure to communicate its value effectively.

As one speaker at the Summit put it: “What’s in your toolbox?”

The answer, it seems, is more than many realise. From smart technology to advanced materials, from local brand equity to rising consumer demand, the industry has tools at its disposal. But using them requires clarity of purpose. Rather than diversifying into adjacent home improvement sectors, the fenestration industry might do better to focus on what it does best and do it better. Retrofit solutions, smart integration, and consumer-led product development should form the core of a renewed growth strategy.

In a sector often prone to introspection, it’s time to shift focus from problems to potential. The fundamentals are changing not collapsing. And those prepared to engage with the emerging demands of a younger, savvier, and more qualityconscious homeowner may yet find that the glass is, in fact, half full.

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

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Stuga enhances global strength following Stürtz acquisition by Voilàp

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tuga Machinery has confirmed an exciting new chapter as its parent company, Stürtz Group, becomes part of Voilàp Group – the Italian-based global leader in automation and digitalisation. The move unites three well-established machinery names – Stuga, Stürtz and Voilàp – and marks a significant step forward for UK fabricators. Customers can expect continuity from Stuga’s trusted UK team, combined with the additional strength, innovation and resources of a strategic global partner. With Voilàp’s backing, our customers can now plan with confidence, knowing that Stuga and Stürtz have a stable, long-term foundation.

For more than 40 years, Stuga has designed and built its own range of sawing and machining centres in the UK, supported by a full in-house engineering, production and aftersales service operation.

That specialism has made Stuga a trusted partner to fabricators of all sizes, helping them automate uPVC window and door production with reliable, UK-supported machinery. Since joining the Stürtz Group in 2022, Stuga customers have benefitted from a wider portfolio of welding and cleaning systems, giving them the ability to scale automation across the factory floor.

Now, with Voilàp’s backing, Stuga is able to continue investing in service, innovation and long-term support – combining the stability of a trusted UK brand with Voilàp’s long-term vision, industry knowledge, technology expertise, and financial strength.

For UK fabricators, the message is clear: Stuga continues to operate with the same experienced management, engineering and service team in Great Yarmouth, but

now on a stronger foundation thanks to the scale and resources of Voilàp.

The respected British brand retains its home-grown expertise while gaining the capabilities of a global industrial group, giving customers access to a wider range of automation solutions. Alongside Stuga’s UK-built machinery, fabricators can benefit from Stürtz’s proven product range and Voilàp’s advanced automation and digital innovation. Existing Stürtz users in the UK can remain confident in the local support they receive, now underpinned by enhanced global resources. Reinforced supply chains, ongoing investment in parts and product development, and a commitment to long-term reliability all add up to greater resilience for the future.

“By bringing Stürtz and Stuga into the Voilàp family, we combine proven machinery and customer focus with our global scale and vision for innovation,” says Valter Caiumi, President & CEO of Voilàp Group. “Together, we can deliver intelligent, connected production systems that make the factory of the future a reality.”

“Our customers know they can rely on Stuga’s UK team, and that hasn’t changed.

They now benefit from the best of three worlds: Stuga’s local expertise, Stürtz’s proven technology, and Voilàp as a strategic partner,” adds Stuga’s Managing Director, Ed Williams. “This means we can invest in more service, innovation, and long-term support – helping our customers feel confident today and secure for the future.”

Regal Group acquires business and assets of Frame Trade UK in rescue deal

N

ottingham-based window and door manufacturer Frame Trade UK Limited has entered liquidation after a turbulent period marked by the pandemic, operational setbacks, and severe factory flooding.

Richard Pinder and Sean Williams of Leonard Curtis were appointed Joint Liquidators on 10 July 2025, following the sale of the business and assets to Frame Trade Windows Ltd — a newly established subsidiary of the Regal Group.

Founded in 2003, Frame Trade UK specialised in PVC-U and aluminium manufacturing of double-glazed windows, doors, and conservatories, supplying customers across the East Midlands. The company employed 19 staff.

A series of challenges over recent years

led to its decline. “The business suffered a significant drop in trade due to the pandemic,” said a spokesperson familiar with the matter. “This was compounded by the costly replacement of critical machinery and major flooding at its Nottingham facility in 2023, which severely disrupted production.”

Ahead of liquidation, the company’s business and assets were sold to Frame Trade Windows Ltd. The transaction included the TUPE transfer of 17 employees, safeguarding the majority of jobs. Two directors were made redundant.

Richard Pinder, Joint Liquidator at Leonard Curtis, said: “After reviewing the circumstances of the sale, and obtaining valuation advice, the Joint Liquidators confirmed that the sale of the business and

assets was the best outcome for creditors. It maximised asset realisations and minimised preferential creditor claims as a result of the TUPE transfer.”

Jason Bamford, Managing Director of the Regal Group, expressed confidence in the acquisition: “We had worked with Frame Trade UK for years and felt it was a natural fit with our existing group of companies.

“With the current customer base and demand from within the group, I am confident the business can return to profitability and provide job security for years to come.”

The Regal Group, which operates a number of companies in the fenestration sector, has indicated it will invest in restoring and expanding the production capacity of the newly acquired operation.

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6 | news | october 2025

Excellence to be honoured at 21st anniversary of leading glazing awards

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rganisers of the prestigious G25 Awards have unveiled this year’s shortlist, recognising standout achievements across the UK’s glazing and fenestration sector. The winners will be announced at a gala dinner on Friday 28 November, hosted at the London Hilton on Park Lane — marking the event’s 21st anniversary.

In a statement, event organiser Tony Higgin praised the calibre of this year’s submissions: “Congratulations to all those shortlisted. The judging panel had an incredibly difficult task given the volume and quality of entries. The innovation and passion on show has been remarkable — we look forward to celebrating together in November.”

The shortlist spans 14 categories, reflecting the sector’s breadth — from technical innovation and sustainability, to customer care and unsung contributions.

UAP, Glazpart and Sternfenster are among the most shortlisted, with nominations across multiple categories including Training & Development Initiative, Promotional Campaign, and Component Supplier of the Year.

Emerging talent is also spotlighted in the Rising Star category, with nominations for professionals across the supply chain, such as Craig Hopper (Ecoglass), Ella Glover (UKO Group) and Lara Coutinho (ERA).

Meanwhile, the Unsung Heroshortlist pays tribute to dedicated individuals making quiet yet critical contributions, including Ken Boak (SWC Trade Frames) and Paul Ramsey (Shelforce).

Project-based excellence also features strongly. 30 Duke Street by Saint-Gobain Glass and Thames Valley Windows’ Cholbury Place development in Ascot lead the Commercial Project of the Year nominations, while sustainability commitments are acknowledged with entries from Pilkington UK, Saint-Gobain, and Glazpart.

As the sector continues to adapt to new regulatory pressures and shifting market demands, the G25 Awards serve as a timely barometer of resilience, creativity and leadership within the UK’s £4.6bn glazing industry.

Tickets for the black-tie dinner are now available via the official website www.gawards.com, with industry leaders expected to gather in force to honour peers and push for continued excellence in 2026.

Training & Development Initiative of the Year: •FDM by UAP •Glass and Glazing Federation •Sternfenster •Tyneside Home Improvements •UKO Group Promotional Campaign of the Year: •AluK GB

•Glazpart •Hurst Doors •Safeware Hardware •Sternfenster •Window Systems •The Residence Collection •Tyneside Home Improvements •Window Ware Unsung Hero: •Ecoglass, Colin Sturdy •UKO Group, Chris Bennett •Epwin Window Systems, Lawson Price •Forel UK, Pasquale Di Lello •Glass Express Midlands, Kirsty Fortnam •Go Glass. Clive Sparkes •Shelforce, Paul Ramsey •SWC Trade Frames, Ken Boak Customer Care Initiative of the Year: •Glaze Style •ICAAL •Glazpart •The Window Company (Contracts) •TWC Home Improvements Component Supplier of the Year: •Kenrick & Sons •ERA •Glazpart •Safeware Hardware •Thermoseal Group •UAP Rising Star: •Craig Hopper, Ecoglass •Ella Glover, UKO Group •Jason Gostling, Direct Trade (Yorkshire) •Josh Forrester-Rodway, Window Widgets •Lara Coutinho, ERA •Lee Brett, Emerald Windows and Doors •Samuel Johnson, Liniar •Sarah Whitaker, UKO Group Commercial Project of the Year: •Saint-Gobain Glass Bespoke •Glazing Solution •Thames Valley Windows

•Fenestration Solutions •The Residence Collection Sustainability Initiative of the Year: •Glazpart •Pilkington UK •Saint-Gobain Glass Machinery Innovation: •Forel UK & Ireland •Haffner •Pilkington UK New Product of the Year: •AluK •Crittall Windows •Deceuninck •Residence Collection •UAP •Ultraframe •Universal Trade Frames Best Business Initiative of the Year: •Crittall Windows •Glazepoint •Sternfenster •Supply2trade •UK Doors Online •Universal Trade Frames Installer of the Year: •Emerald Windows and Doors •The Window Hub •TWC Home Improvements •Tyneside Home Improvements Glass Company of the Year: •Ecoglass •Glass Express (Midlands) Fabricator of the Year: •Conservatory Outlet •Direct Trade (Yorkshire) •Emplas •Hurst Doors •Roseview Windows •Sternfenster •Victorian Sliders

the future of triple glazing © Glaston 2025

8 | news | october 2025

CR Smith appoints senior executives to bolster strategic leadership capacity

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R Smith, the window and door specialist, has recruited two highly experienced figures from Scotland’s construction and manufacturing industries to its leadership team, reflecting the firm’s commitment to expanding its public sector operations alongside its long-established domestic customer base.

Danny McArthur, formerly managing partner at Hardies Property & Construction Consultants, joins CR Smith as Director of Commercial to lead the firm’s social housing and commercial activities. A qualified quantity surveyor, CDM principal designer, and project manager, Danny brings a wealth of expertise, having delivered major social housing development projects across Scotland.

Alistair Mercer has been appointed Director of Manufacturing, bringing over a decade of leadership experience in manufacturing operations management.

Skilled in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and project management, Alistair will oversee the CR Smith state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Fife. He will drive process innovation and workforce development, ensuring the facility continues to meet the complex demands of made-to-order and made-to-measure production.

CR Smith, which designs, manufactures, and installs high-quality windows, doors, and home extensions, reported a 30% increase in revenues during Q1 2025, following several major contracts to upgrade social housing stock. As local authorities and housing associations implement ambitious plans to meet new sustainability standards, the firm is increasingly being

chosen as a trusted partner, building on more than 50 years of success in the private housing, commercial house builder and public sector markets.

The addition of Danny and Alistair to the CR Smith management team follows the recent appointments of Sharon Glass as Director of Finance and Michael Leggiero as Director of IT. Gerard Eadie, Chairman of CR Smith, commented: “The appointments of Danny and Alistair mark a significant step in our growth strategy. Both bring exceptional expertise and proven track records in their respective fields, which will be instrumental as we scale our operations to meet growing demand from both the public and private sectors. Their leadership will strengthen our ability to deliver high-quality, energyefficient solutions for our customers across Scotland.”

CR Smith, which has offices in Glasgow, Inverness, and Aberdeen, as well as its head office and manufacturing plant in Fife, has been a cornerstone of Scottish business since Gerard Eadie CBE took over in 1974, consistently investing in its people and innovation. The firm became one of Scotland’s most recognised brands in 1984 when it simultaneously sponsored both Rangers and Celtic.

Topline Glass raises the delivery bar

W

ith delivery reliability now one of the biggest issues facing glass buyers, Topline Glass in Somerset is stepping up to highlight how its unique approach is setting new standards for customer service in the sector. As reports grow of fabricators and installers struggling with inconsistent dropoffs and driver shortages, Topline has doubled down on the three elements it believes make the difference - professional drivers who customers actually like having on site, safer and more flexible van-based deliveries, and intelligent route optimisation software that makes every mile count.

MD Jeremy Bartlett said: “Our customers tell us time and again that deliveries are one of the biggest factors in choosing a supplier.

Too many still experience a ‘drop and go’ culture, where drivers see their job as simply getting glass off the lorry. At Topline, we see it differently - our drivers are part of the customer’s team on site. From their professionalism to our safer ground-level van drops and our investment in MaxOptra technology, every decision we make is designed to make deliveries easier, smarter, and more reliable.”

Dave Barter, who has been part of the Topline team for more than five years, said: “As a driver, I pride myself on the communication I have with all my customers and the relationships we build to

make sure I’m delivering a great service for them and their customers. It’s about more than just dropping off glass - it’s about trust and making sure every job runs smoothly.

And of course, there’s always time for a quick chat about Chelsea!”

Unlike traditional large trucks, Topline’s Sprinter vans allow glass to be unloaded safely at ground level, improving turnaround times on site and avoiding the access issues that can derail tight schedules.

The adoption of MaxOptra software adds further efficiency, with timed delivery slots, dynamic routing, and a fully paperless proof-of-delivery system that reduces both emissions and admin. Jeremy added: “Ultimately, we want to be the supplier that customers trust not just for quality glass, but for the peace of mind that comes with knowing the delivery will be on time, handled safely, and backed up by the right technology.”

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12 | news | october 2025

Insight Data reveals shifting trends and tougher trading at Glazing Summit

A

ndrew Scott, Managing Director of Purplex Marketing and Insight Data, delivered a compelling address at this year’s Glazing Summit highlighting the key challenges and opportunities shaping the future of the UK fenestration industry.

Speaking to a packed audience of business leaders and industry professionals at the Coventry Building Society Arena, Andrew shared exclusive data and analysis drawn from Insight Data’s market intelligence platform Salestracker, which now tracks around 50,000 companies and 80,000 industry contacts across the glazing supply chain. According to Insight Data’s latest findings, there are currently 13,479 companies active across the sector. The number of PVC fabricators has fallen sharply from around 4,000 two decades ago to about 1,100 today while aluminium continues to rise as the material of choice.

For this year’s Glazing Summit, Insight Data also conducted an industry survey to over 2,000 installers to understand how they feel about current market conditions. A key finding revealed that while order values look positive on the surface, with 33 per cent reporting an increase in the last year, a third of installers (31 per cent) admitted they are fighting harder to win new business as competition within the industry has grown year-on-year. Andrew also warned that the sector’s growing reliance on Google Ads is unsustainable with around £100 million now being spent annually within the glazing

sector on digital advertising. “During COVID, many installers who had never used Google Ads before turned to it as their traditional sales routes closed,” he explained. “That demand doubled the cost per click and now only Google is winning.”

Instead, Andrew urged companies to “return to the art of marketing” emphasising that long-term success depends on brand building, customer trust and diversification.

“Too many installers depend entirely on Google Ads or cheap lead generation services,” he said. “The industry must focus on creating genuine desire and reputation,

while suppliers must support installers in learning how to market themselves rather than just feeding them leads. That is the only sustainable way forward.”

He also pointed to diversification as a key strategy for resilience. Installers, he said, should explore related sectors such as renewables and energy-efficient home technologies while trade suppliers could pursue commercial and retail opportunities.

“Those who adapt, evolve and invest in true marketing will thrive,” Andrew added. “The future still offers opportunity but only for those willing to change.”

Hayley Windows celebrates 12-year partnership with CWG Choices

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est Midlands installer Hayley Windows is marking more than a decade of success with long-term supply partner CWG Choices, praising the fabricator’s premium products, dependable logistics, and unrivalled customer support.

Directors Laura Molineux and Kelly Easthope say the relationship has become an essential part of their business: “We’ve worked with CWG for 12 years now and they feel like an extension of our team,” says Laura. “From day one they’ve invested in our success, not just processed our orders.”

The partnership spans CWG’s Kömmerling PVC-U systems and The Residence Collection, product ranges that have helped Hayley Windows stand out in a competitive Midlands market.

Reliable service and streamlined logistics are key. “As soon as we place an order, we receive a delivery date

within hours – and everything runs like clockwork,” Kelly explains. “That reliability means our installers and customers can plan with confidence.”

Hayley Windows also credits CWG with exceptional aftercare. “If an issue arises, CWG’s technicians get involved until it’s resolved. They never just ship a spare part and walk away,” says Kelly.

Beyond products and service, CWG has supported Hayley Windows with marketing and lead generation, including website development that continues to generate enquiries.

CWG Choices Sales Director Dean Hague adds: “Hayley Windows is a fantastic example of a business making the most of what we offer. From our premium products to ongoing marketing support, it’s a genuine partnership built on trust and collaboration.”

For Hayley Windows, that partnership continues to be a key advantage.

“CWG isn’t just a supplier,” Laura concludes. “They’re part of our team and a vital part of our growth.” www.hayleywindows.co.uk

14 | news | october 2025

Glass Express Midlands boss reflects on two years of industry change

T

wo years after stepping into the role of Managing Director at Glass Express Midlands, Arun Photay is keen to emphasise just how complex – and collaborative – the glass industry really is.

Speaking candidly about his journey, Photay describes his entry into the Birmingham-based IGU (insulated glass units) manufacturer as “something of an accident”, spurred by a conversation with a retiring friend over a curry. But what began as a career detour has become a mission to support and strengthen an industry he’s grown to admire.

“This is not ‘just a pane of glass’,” says Photay. “It’s an ecosystem of research, investment and precision – a sector that blends technical challenge with innovation.”

Over the past two years, Glass Express Midlands has ramped up investment in machinery, vehicles, and staff to meet rising

demand. But Photay insists that financial investment alone isn’t enough. The industry, he argues, needs to attract fresh talent if it’s to sustain its momentum.

“Succession is our biggest challenge,” he says. “We must do more to show

young people that this is a sector full of opportunity – not just in manufacturing, but in design, engineering, and leadership.”

Photay praises the culture of openness he’s encountered across the supply chain – from competitors offering advice to suppliers acting as true partners. Yet he is clear-eyed about the road ahead. He urges greater collaboration to raise standards in performance, sustainability, and safety, and to engage government on the regulatory frameworks required for long-term success.

“We all have a duty to leave this industry stronger than we found it,” he says. “That means investing not just in equipment, but in people, values, and shared knowledge.”

As he looks to the next two years, Photay’s vision is one of steady evolution: “driving quality, strengthening relationships, and ensuring that the glass sector is recognised for both its products and its principles.”

5 Star invest £250,000 in its Worcester city centre showroom

O

ne of Worcestershire’s leading home improvement specialists has pledged its commitment to the city and surrounding areas by investing £250,000 into its showroom. 5 Star Windows & Conservatories, which celebrates a decade of being open in Carden Street this month, has extended its lease for another ten years and, to mark this milestone, has channelled fresh spending into new customer service technology and installing new demonstrations for consumers.

This has seen the launch of the latest forte door collection and the opening of a comprehensive ‘hup!’ display that showcases the latest modular build technology promising to make building conservatories, orangeries and living spaces quicker, easier and more energy efficient.

Several new jobs have also been created in Worcester in the last twelve months as the company sets course for its best year. Richard Manser, MD of 5 Star Windows & Conservatories, commented: “We wanted to celebrate 10 years of our showroom being open in Worcester and what better way to do that than by giving it a facelift, adding exciting new ranges and, importantly, reinforcing our commitment by extending our lease until 2035. Worcestershire is a fantastic place for home improvements, with an eclectic mix of housing and consumers who are keen to try new styles, whilst marrying traditional features. Customers are very loyal - once they receive a high-quality service and the trust is in place then they will keep coming back and back. Our sales tend to be 65% repeat business. Our 5000

ft² Carden Street showroom showcases bifolding doors, French doors, Juliet balconies, a comprehensive range of windows, six fully furnished living spaces and the entire ‘Ultraframe’ collection of roofs. There’s also lots of design technology in place to make the buying and selection process as easier and enjoyable as possible.”

5 Star Windows & Conservatories has established a strong reputation across its showrooms in Worcester and Kidderminster, having completed more than 40,000 successful installations during the last twenty-three years.

The company, which offers an industryleading 20-year guarantee, provides a complete end-to-end service for clients, from initial consultation and support with designs to installations being completed by one of its dedicated fitting teams and access to an extensive aftercare package.

A dedicated training centre ensures all its 80-strong team keep up to date with the latest legislation and construction techniques, whilst the firm continues to leverage its involvement as one of the most successful retailers in the Conservatory Outlet Network.

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16 | news | october 2025

Made for Trade becomes newest member of aluminium trade body

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orth-East-based aluminium fabrication business, Made For Trade, has become the latest new member to join the Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB). Set up in 1979, Made for Trade is a leading UK manufacturer and supplier of innovative aluminium fenestration products, delivering multi-award-winning solutions to the trade.

From the pioneering Korniche Roof Lantern to its high-performance bi-folding doors, patio doors and rooflights, MFT combines precision engineering with exceptional service, helping installers and resellers grow their businesses with confidence.

Gavin Herdman, Head of Engineering, Made for Trade, said that CAB membership offered Made for Trade access to increased technical support as well as opportunities to work in partnership with colleagues in the industry on key issues impacting the sector. “Made for Trade is committed to being an active member of the aluminium building products industry and supporting our customers by giving them a voice on key issues. CAB membership opens up a wealth of networking opportunities and supports us in staying on top of regulatory change so that our offer to our customers is ready for all current and future changes.”

CAB membership offers a host of benefits including access to technical

support and CAB Technical Committees, regulatory updates, government advocacy, plus networking and an active events programme.

In the last 12-months it’s pushed its Closed-Loop Recycling Scheme which supports industry sustainability by isolating waste streams so that higher value aluminium alloys used in construction are ring-fenced. This also means that manufacturers can command a higher price, from recycling specialists.

Its new U-Value Charter which brings in new standard methodologies for u-value calculations, generating a unique

opportunity for qualifying CAB members to evidence transparency and win more business through compliance.

It also offers an extensive training programme including the CAB Apprenticeship Toolbox. Developed in partnership with training provider GFTS, it’s been designed to help members recruit and encourage students and school leavers to join the industry as well as providing guidance on training and how to access funding. Nigel Headford, Chief Executive, CAB, said: “Made for Trade are an exciting and innovative business. Their decision to join CAB reflects the growing recognition that our technical, regulatory and legislative work is crucial for companies operating in today’s market. Membership gives them a seat at the table on issues shaping the future of the industry from regulatory frameworks to product performance standards.By joining CAB, companies gain more than a badge - they gain access to technical committees, working groups, and opportunities to shape the industry response to regulation”, Nigel continued.

“It’s also a chance to network with peers and competitors on shared challenges. For a company with Made for Trade’s profile, this is a strategic move that will ensure they remain ahead of the curve.”

E: enquiries@c-a-b.org.uk

Residence Collection sets benchmark ahead of 2025 green building rules

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s the UK’s window and door industry braces for the sweeping regulatory changes under the Future Homes Standard (FHS), one manufacturer is already delivering products that exceed forthcoming requirements. The Residence Collection, known for its heritage-inspired PVC-U window and door systems, is positioning itself as a frontrunner in the race to meet the government’s ambitious carbon targets.

Set for full implementation by 2025, the FHS will mandate new homes to reduce carbon emissions by 75–80% compared with 2013 standards. A key element of this push involves more stringent building fabric requirements, particularly for windows and doors, which must now achieve u-values of 1.2 W/m²K or lower alongside improved airtightness and sustainability credentials.

Launched in 2011 with its flagship Residence 9 (R9) system, The Residence Collection has steadily expanded its offering to include the Residence 7 (R7) and Residence² (R²) ranges. Each combines traditional aesthetics with modern engineering, delivering u-values as low as

0.74 W/m²K with triple glazing and A++ energy ratings as standard.

“Our systems are already exceeding the performance targets,” said Sarah Hitchings, Sales and Marketing Director at The Residence Collection. “We see the Future Homes Standard not just as a regulatory milestone but as a chance to push

the boundaries of what our industry can achieve.”

Beyond windows, the brand recently introduced a new open-in entrance door compatible across its entire product suite.

Available in multiple configurations, including French doors, the system mirrors the visual appeal of timber while delivering on performance. It supports both double and triple glazing, meets PAS 24 and Secured

by Design standards, and includes features such as low thresholds for accessibility and a patent-pending timber-look panel trim.

With full compliance to Part L and Part F of Building Regulations and solutions designed for both new builds and conservation projects, The Residence Collection is positioning itself not only as FHS-ready but as a benchmark for the future of fenestration in the UK. As industry players adapt to the new standards, The Residence Collection’s approach underscores a growing consensus: energy efficiency and design excellence are no longer mutually exclusive—they are essential partners in building homes for the future.

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18 | news | october 2025

UK commercial project enquiries surge as Rehau resists sector slowdown

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olymer solutions manufacturer Rehau has reported that UK commercial new-build project enquiries have more than doubled year-on-year for the first six months of 2025, defying wider construction industry pressures and revised-down forecasts. From January to June 2025, Rehau saw double the number of active projects that the company’s commercial team is currently engaging with and progressing compared to 2024. The growth is underpinned by an 85% conversion rate on commercial project enquiries to eventual completion, demonstrating an ability to deliver at scale even as demand has increased.

The company’s performance comes at a time when the wider construction sector has faced significant headwinds. These challenges include rising inflation, delays in the planning process and weakened investor confidence, which were all highlighted by the Construction Products Association as reasons for downgrading their earlier H1 2025 forecasts. “Many in the industry have reported a cautious market in the first half of 2025,” says Barry Gilligan, Sales Director at Rehau UK. “But demand for technically robust solutions hasn’t disappeared. Instead, specifiers are becoming more selective in what they want, particularly in areas such as windows and doors. The introduction of legislation such as the Building Safety Act means that businesses are increasingly looking to reliable and responsible suppliers that can demonstrate technical support and a proven track record of professionalism.

“These stakeholders expect suppliers to deliver exceptional service alongside quality products, especially as they look to identify solutions that align with specific project goals such as thermal performance.

This isn’t only limited to housing either, as we’re also seeing a spending uptick in other

sectors, including school construction.”

Following a turbulent first half of the year, the outlook for the second half of 2025 is more optimistic, with the Government pledging £39 billion to construct social and affordable housing in England alone. The uplift in funding is expected to stimulate new projects and accelerate planning activity across the housing sector, placing further pressure on building fabric and component manufacturers to meet rising demand levels.

According to Barry, this pressure also opens up interesting opportunities for developers and the wider supply chain, provided that all relevant project stakeholders prioritise greater collaboration.

He is confident Rehau’s H1 uplift can continue into the second half of the year, as the business continues to work to secure long-term projects in sectors buoyed by

further financial support.

“As funding commitments begin to translate into real-world projects, the challenge for the industry will be to deliver at pace without compromising on quality,” Barry concludes. “That means closer collaboration between developers, specifiers and suppliers, and a renewed focus on longterm value, not just short-term cost.

“The need for these closer working relationships isn’t just limited to housing projects either. We’re also seeing a construction spending uptick in multiple other areas, including for hotels and schools. For the latter, we believe it is likely due to funding allocated by the School Rebuilding Programme starting to come through, and underlines why it is vital the supply chain collaborates to meet growing, policy-driven demand in this instance and beyond.”

Sheerline named WIRED Trailblazer

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heerline can reveal it has been named a 2025 WIRED Trailblazer. The awards, which were launched by HSBC UK and WIRED Consulting, recognise midsized scale-ups that are growing quickly and using innovation to tackle social, economic, and environmental challenges.

Receiving this award highlights what Sheerline has achieved in a relatively short space of time thanks to the right strategy, investment, people, and products. The result has been a range of perfectly matched, fullysuited products, an OTIF consistently above 99%, and multiple award wins.

A special event was held at Cleaver & Wake in Nottingham to celebrate the East Midlands-based recipients of this year’s awards. It provided an opportunity to meet with likeminded business leaders from the region who share the same values and growth mindset.

Ross Hartshorn, Sheerline’s Technical Production Director, attended the event and said: “It was fantastic to meet so many likeminded and inspiring business professionals from across the East Midlands who are driving real change in multiple industries.”

“Being named a 2025 Trailblazer is rewarding for everyone at Sheerline – it reflects our commitment to innovation,

continuous improvement, and strategic, sustainable development. Thank you to WIRED Consulting and HSBC UK,” he added.

Now in its fourth year, the WIRED Trailblazer awards have built a community comprising of inspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders. This year, a total of 17 companies in the East Midlands region were recognised for their commitment to innovation.

2025 is shaping up to be a fantastic award-winning year for Sheerline, having received Best Technical Innovation for the third time at the GGP Installer Awards earlier in the year and a King’s Award for Innovation 2025, which recognises unique benefits of the Sheerline system.

To find out what makes Sheerline standout, visit the website: www.sheerline. com, call 01332 978 000, or email info@ sheerline.com.

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22 | news | october 2025

Midori Aluminium delivers advanced architectural aluminium systems

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n today’s-built environment, aluminium has become the material of choice for forward-thinking architects and contractors who demand a balance of design freedom, technical performance, and sustainability. At Midori Aluminium, we have built our reputation on delivering advanced aluminium systems that support both striking aesthetics and robust functionality — whether for commercial, residential, or bespoke architectural projects.

Architects are increasingly looking for systems that offer slim sightlines, versatile configurations, and modern finishes without compromising performance.

Midori’s product range has been developed to meet these exacting standards, offering window, door, and curtain walling solutions that can adapt seamlessly to contemporary and traditional projects alike. From minimalistic frameless styles to bold, structural designs, our aluminium systems provide the flexibility needed to transform architectural concepts into reality.

For contractors, performance is more than a design aspiration — it’s a practical necessity. Ease of fabrication, installation efficiency, and reliability all play a crucial role in project delivery. Midori Aluminium understands these pressures, which is why our systems are engineered to ensure smooth assembly and consistent quality across every application. The result is a product that not only meets specifications but also saves valuable time and reduces risk on-site.

Durability and performance are at the heart of every Midori system. Aluminium is naturally strong and corrosion-resistant,

demands.

What sets Midori Aluminium apart is not just our products but our partnership approach. We work closely with customers from design through to completion, offering technical support and tailored solutions for projects of any scale. Our team’s deep industry knowledge ensures that clients can rely on us not just as a supplier, but as a long-term partner invested in their success.

The demands of today’s construction industry are evolving rapidly, with aesthetics, performance, and sustainability at the core of every project. Midori Aluminium is proud to provide solutions that meet these challenges head-on, helping architects to design with freedom, contractors to build with confidence, and trade customers to deliver buildings that stand the test of time. and our designs incorporate advanced thermal break technology to maximise energy efficiency. In a climate where building regulations are becoming more stringent, Midori products help customers achieve compliance without compromising on design.

Sustainability is no longer an optional extra; it’s a requirement of modern construction. Aluminium is infinitely recyclable, and at Midori, we are committed to reducing the environmental footprint of our products. By working with trade customers, contractors and architects, we aim to support the transition towards more sustainable building practices while still delivering the high performance the market

www.midorialuminium.co.uk

Strong door offering from Heritage

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eritage Trade Frames continues to reinforce its position as one of the UK’s leading trade fabricators with a composite door offer that combines style, strength and smart innovation.

Producing an average of 450 composite doors per week, Heritage offers one of the most comprehensive door collections in the market, including standard GRP composite doors, stable doors and double/French door options. The range features the full Distinction Signature, Contemporary and Nxt-Gen collections, with an impressive 92 styles and 33 colour options, plus the flexibility to colour-match to any RAL or BS number.

While Anthracite Grey (7016) continues to lead in popularity, Heritage has seen a significant rise in demand for Agate Grey and Pebble Grey since adding the colours across its PVC-U window and door collections.

Every composite door from Heritage comes fitted as standard with the new Ultion 3-Star ALPS (Always Locked Protection

System) cylinder, reinforcing the company’s long-standing commitment to high-security products, a standard it has maintained for over nine years. Heritage also offers the Yale SensCheck™ Smart Lock, providing seamless integration with its PVC-U window and door range.

Responding to customer feedback, Heritage has also launched a new range of marine-grade hardware for enhanced durability in coastal locations.

Lee Darcy, Sales and Marketing Manager at Heritage Trade Frames, said: “Our composite door offer has grown into one of the strongest in the trade. We’ve combined design versatility, colour choice, security and smart technology to give installers a door range that’s easy to sell, easy to fit and designed to last.”

Established in 1989, Heritage Trade Frames continues to deliver proven quality with a forward-thinking approach offering installers a complete composite door solution.

Lee, concluded: “Composite doors continue to be one of our most successful product lines and we’ve manufactured and supplied more than 100,000 in the past five years, and demand just keeps growing.

Customers value the range for its choice, quality and reliability, and it remains a key part of our commitment to delivering products that help our customers stay competitive in the market.”

E: info@heritagetradeframes.co.uk

october 2025 | news | 23

Council engagement sees fabricator deliver upgrade despite planning hurdles

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larity Doors & Windows, one of the North West’s fastest-growing glazing suppliers, has highlighted the power of persistence and client support in a recent project featuring Resurgence Flush PVC-U windows in an Anteak finish.

The installation, which revitalises a dated residential building, demonstrates the company’s commitment to service-led growth in a competitive sector.

Head of Trade Sales, Barry Stanton, shared details of the project on social media, describing it as “an installation we’re truly proud of” following delays caused by a protracted council approval process. Though the contract had been secured months prior, developers faced setbacks in securing permission for replacement windows — a familiar challenge in sensitive planning zones.

Rather than wait out the delays, Clarity took a hands-on role, liaising directly with local authority planners, submitting a suite of technical documents, and making repeated site visits alongside the developer.

The result was a green light for the project and a successful installation that balances modern energy efficiency with a sympathetic, timber-look aesthetic.

“This wasn’t just about supplying windows,” Stanton wrote. “We worked alongside

strong regional presence with a reputation for reliability and proactive service.

Flush PVC-U systems, such as those used in the project, continue to gain popularity for their blend of heritage style and low-maintenance performance. With growing demand for energy-efficient retrofits, particularly in older housing stock, Clarity’s latest project underlines the value of technical expertise and responsive client service in navigating regulatory complexity.

the client and the council to make sure every detail was right. That’s the kind of partnership we believe in.”

Clarity’s collaborative approach reflects its wider strategy: 100% of the company’s growth to date has been organic, built on repeat business and referrals. Serving both trade and retail customers — from schools and care homes to homeowners and managing agents — the firm has carved out a

Eurocell helps shape the future of low-carbon homes at Energy House 2.0

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anufacturer and recycler of PVC-U windows and doors, Eurocell, is playing a central role in Energy House 2.0, one of the world’s most advanced building performance research facilities at the University of Salford, that is reshaping how the industry tests and improves homes for net-zero.

The £16m Energy House 2.0 facility is the only climate-controlled research chamber of its kind in the world. Here, homes are tested in real-world weather conditions ranging from snowstorms at –23°C to extreme heatwaves of +51.5°C, providing vital insights into how construction products perform under the pressures of climate change and future energy demands.

As part of the project’s latest phase, Eurocell’s Modus triple-glazed window system has replaced the original double-glazing in the concept research homes. This upgrade is set to raise the bar for energy efficiency, thermal comfort, and sustainability.

Ian Kernaghan, Head of Product, Design and Development at Eurocell said: “Triple glazing is a key step in futureproofing homes. Being part of Energy House 2.0 lets us show just how much impact design-led, high-performance products like Modus can

have. We’re not just testing windows, we’re demonstrating solutions that can help deliver lower carbon homes at scale.”

Energy House 2.0 is designed to help the construction industry and its supply chain prepare for zero carbon housing. The integration of Eurocell’s Modus system into the Energy House 2.0 homes complements pioneering research already being carried

out within the project. In earlier phases, testing demonstrated that innovative low-carbon construction methods could deliver significant reductions in embodied carbon emissions and maintain comfortable indoor temperatures for less than £2 per day in winter conditions.

By adding high-performance triple glazing to the test homes, Eurocell is helping the test homes meet very high levels of thermal efficiency, providing valuable real-world data for housebuilders, policymakers, and homeowners alike.

Ian added: “Energy House 2.0 is about more than research; it’s about reimagining the way we build homes. Eurocell is proud to be contributing solutions that help reduce environmental impact while delivering comfort and affordability for the people who live in them.”

Eurocell’s involvement in Energy House 2.0 underlines its ongoing commitment to sustainability and innovation across the construction sector. As the industry faces the dual challenges of climate change and the demand for large-scale housing growth, partnerships like this are crucial in proving that low-carbon, high-performance homes are not only possible but achievable at scale.

24 | news | october 2025

UK Glaze storms ahead as premium Gerda doors set new quality standard

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K Glaze has opened its doors on a new glass production unit with a showroom in Royston, featuring a premium Gerda door alongside its range of decorative glazing products such as splashbacks, mirrors, balustrading and wall panels. Director Mohammad Kaboutari has invested £400,000 in setting up the unit.

When Mohammad Kaboutari arrived in the UK he had just £27 in his pocket. But he also had something else more valuable – his skills and knowledge as a master glazier, learned alongside his father back in Iran.

This allowed him to eventually open up his first business – MK Glass on the Caledonian Road in London, which grew into Empire of Glass 18 months later as his reputation for quality workmanship and as a master glazier spread among property owners in the neighbourhood and beyond.

As the business name grew, so did requests for related products, and Mohammad soon started supplying windows and doors.

And it was whilst running Empire Glass that Mohammad first came across the Gerda front door, which Pioneer Trading Company’s Managing Director Danny Williams had recently brought across to the UK from Poland back in 2023.

Mohammad quickly became one of Pioneer’s top sellers of the Gerda door.

“My client base was becoming more demanding in their expectations around performance, safety and added value, and my existing door supplier just wasn’t delivering that level of quality that we wanted to sell,” said Mohammad.

“Even though the Gerda doors were coming in at a slightly more expensive rate, my customers were loving them – the aesthetics, the enhanced security features,

the lower U-values – and definitely the ‘thunk’.”

But more than that, the Gerda door appealed to the demographic of Mohammad’s core customer base – looking for premium decorative glazing products at the higher end of the market. This realisation came at a time when Mohammad and his brother were keen to concentrate their business on this more niche sector, leading to the decision to sell Empire of Glass as a going concern, and open a brand new business venture – UK Glaze.

“We reinvested everything we had in setting up this new unit,” continued Mohammad. “The glass factory has every

piece of kit we need to cut, process and transport the glass. And the showroom is evolving into a living, breathing example of what we can offer through our glass cutting services – from staircases and wall panels to bespoke furniture. The Gerda door sits proudly in the showroom as a focal point.”

The support Mohammad has received from Gerda has been instrumental in the transition out of central London to Royston, and Mohammad is consistently grateful for (and surprised by) the level of personal service he receives from Gerda.

“There are always going to be issues with suppliers no matter how brilliant they are, but it is by the quality of the response that we judge them,” continued Mohammad.

“With previous door suppliers we have had problems on site which had evolved into weeks of going round in circles and leaving jobs half finished. On the rare occasion we have had an issue with a Gerda door, all it took was a phone call to Keith Arm (Gerda’s sales manager), and the missing piece was in a taxi en route to the installation site. It is for this reason that we feel completely confident in Gerda’s commitment to partnering with us in building UK Glaze into a premium home decoratives supplier to high end homes.”

“Gerda’s values always align with quality above all else, and when it meets an installation business with similar values everything just seems to slot into place – just as it did with UK Glaze,” added Pioneer’s managing director Danny Williams.

“Mohammad is starting this new venture at the most challenging time economically, but in truth it is probably the best time in terms of building growth in the coming weeks and months. Pioneer values are based on a deep seated commitment to those who work hard, and we will be there to support Mohammad at every stage”.

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26 | news | october 2025

Home security tops homeowner concerns as front door break-ins surge

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ilka says homeowners are rethinking their priorities and budgets after the latest ADT Burglary Report revealed 245,284 break-ins were recorded across England and Wales in the year up to March 2025 – the equivalent of more than 670 per day. Published in mid-September, the report confirms the front entrance door was the most common point of forced entry, with 67% happening this way.

“When a household name like ADT confirms that two-thirds of break-ins are forced through the front door, it qualifies the urgency we’re hearing from homeowners, and that security is driving their decisions,” says Managing Director at Silka, Asa McGillian.

“But if they decide to upgrade, they don’t want to settle for a purely functional product. They want an entrance door that looks exceptional and performs for the longterm, and it’s this customer we had front of mind when we created the Silka Kärben Collection.”

The Kärben Collection is Silka’s ultimate entrance door, with its carbon fibrereinforced Thermafill® core and bonded Italian porcelain panels in four textured tones (Corten Rust, Ghost Grey, Dark Shadow and Ivory Coast). Select styles like Angelo and Canova have the option to include slimline LED panels that light up

on approach, while smart features such as fingerprint recognition, keypad entry and smartphone app control are fully integrated at the factory. It’s a door built to deliver strength, security and standout design.

SILKA says the newly-released burglary figures highlight a major sales opportunity for installers, with higher-end homeowners actively putting more of their budget towards entrance doors that go beyond the standard.

“For installers, this report should be a clear signal,” Asa adds. “Kärben combines strength, design and technology in a way that helps secure premium projects and build lasting trust – and that’s exactly where the money is in today’s tougher economy.”

Available to customise through Silka’s online Doorbuilder tool, the Kärben Collection comes complete with matching sidelights and handle options, making it even simpler to specify and quote.

Russell Yates named new president of Council for Aluminium in Building

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luK’s MD Russell Yates has been appointed as President for the Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB). Having been a long-time supporter and advocate of the CAB, Russell is now working alongside the rest of the dynamic board and the professional team to help the CAB become an even more powerful voice for aluminium.Russell explained his objectives: “The CAB already has an impressive track record when it comes to advancing the cause of aluminium in construction – from ensuring that aluminium was A-rated in the BRE Green Guide back in the ‘90s, to formulating the new Closed Loop Recycling scheme.

“It has even more ambitious plans now and the current team are doing some really impressive work in key areas such as training, technical consultancy and lobbying. I want to use my position as President to support that work and raise the profile of the CAB even further in the places that matter most. We want to be talking to government and regulators to help shape upcoming and future legislation and engaging with other groups within the industry to ensure that aluminium

becomes the undisputed material of choice.

We’re already seeing plenty of evidence of success particularly on material sourcing and recycling, where the CAB’s Closed Loop Recycling scheme looks set to shift the focus from cradle-to-gate to a cradle-to-

cradle approach and reinforce aluminium’s sustainability credentials. I’m passionate about this sector and will do all I can during my tenure to support the CAB’s mission.

I am looking forward to a challenging but ultimately very rewarding year ahead.”

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30 | news | october 2025

Improvement firm marks 20 years with bold £100mn expansion strategy

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ne of the UK’s leading home improvement specialists is marking its 20th birthday in style by setting out a four-year growth plan to achieve £100m in sales.

Conservatory Outlet, which is headed up by CEO Greg Kane and Managing Director Mick Giscombe, has unveiled an exciting strategy that will see it invest heavily in diversifying its manufacturing operations and further expansion of its hugely successful home improvement offering.

The Wakefield-based company is also marking the major anniversary by introducing a new corporate structure that will involve the introduction of Conservatory Outlet Group as the holding business, with CO Manufacturing and CO Home Improvements reflecting its two main areas of operation.

New websites and branding have been introduced to support the name change, kickstarting a £1m investment drive that will involve the installation of state-of-theart CNC machining at its Cutting Room facility, a fleet of commercial vehicles, new IT infrastructure and the creation of 20 new apprenticeships.

“We’ve had a fantastic two decades in business, enjoying significant growth across both our manufacturing and retail arms - so much so that we are now generating £62m of annual revenues and employing more than 400 people,” explained Greg Kane, CEO of Conservatory Outlet Group.

“This is just the start. You can’t stand still in our world, and we want to continue to meet customer expectations when it comes to new home improvement products and improving their experience.”

He continued: “That’s why we’ve outlined a new four-year growth plan that will look to accelerate us towards £100m and, to do this, we required a clear business structure that clearly celebrated our history but also paved

the way for the future.

“Our group will now comprise CO Home Improvements (covering the six retail businesses we own – Clearview, Orion, Planet, Trent Valley Windows, West Yorkshire Windows and Yorkshire Windows) and CO Manufacturing.

“The latter reflects our commitment to delivering the highest quality windows, doors and living spaces to our vitally important Premium retailers, but also the growth opportunities we see in other markets.”

CO Manufacturing has identified strong expansion possibilities in its fledgling trade products business in the North West and Yorkshire, as well as with housing companies through its dedicated new build offer.

The firm has developed a specialist collection of windows and doors for both

areas and is investing £1m in 4-axis CNC machines to give it greater capacity and repeatable quality across its production facility.

Similar levels of investment are being channelled into boosting the skills of its workforce, with 10 apprentices currently being recruited and the launch of its tailored Manufacturing Degree pathway that aims to create the production leaders of the future.

Greg went on to add: “We’re currently generating over £30m of revenues across manufacturing and we believe, with the right backing and diversification, we can take this figure up to £50m.

“The market is changing and we’re helping push the boundaries of innovation when it comes to thermally efficient products and utilising new materials for achieving different aesthetics.”

CO Home Improvements will work closely with the company’s network of 22 independently owned retailers, which span all of England and Scotland.

These firms have worked with the business for many years and share its values of excellent customer service and trust, with an appetite to embrace the latest technology to improve the client journey.

The network complements the firm’s six retail brands that operate predominantly in the East Midlands, North West and Yorkshire.

Greg concluded: “We are expecting similar growth in retail as we are in manufacturing and, together, we’ll hopefully hit the £100m target by 2029.

“Our aim is to enhance the support we give to our network even further so they can collectively achieve great things, as well as looking at the opening of four new showrooms in Derbyshire, South Yorkshire, the Lakes and one in either Liverpool or Manchester.” www.comanufacturing.co.uk

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32 | news | october 2025

Listers invests in FourJaw to enhance efficiency and meet green goals

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anufacturer of windows and doors Listers has achieved significant productivity and sustainability improvements in its manufacturing operations following the adoption of machine monitoring technology from FourJaw Manufacturing Analytics.

Listers, which produces more than 3,000 windows a week, decided to install FourJaw’s plug-and-play machine monitoring system on six production lines in its factory in Staffordshire to gain real-time data on machine utilisation, downtime and energy consumption. Since going live, the data has helped Listers improve productivity by 10% and increase machine utilisation by 12%, enabling it to produce more than 250 additional windows each week using its existing assets and workforce.

For customers, this translates into more reliable delivery times, consistent quality, and the assurance that their supply chain partner is actively reducing its carbon footprint. Listers has already achieved a 10% reduction in wasted energy by using FourJaw to identify opportunities to run its machines more sustainably. These improvements strengthen Listers’ operational resilience and support customers’ own sustainability commitments, making Listers a partner of choice in a competitive marketplace.

FourJaw’s technology has also become a key component of Listers’ sustainability initiatives, providing machine-level energy data to support its ISO 14001 and ISO 50001 certifications and highlight machines and production processes where energy is potentially wasted. FourJaw has already helped Listers reduce its carbon emissions and save thousands of pounds a month in energy expenditure by identifying a compressor that was using more power than

it should due to air leaks.

Listers plans to expand its use of FourJaw to gather data from other critical pieces of equipment in its factory and to integrate FourJaw with its maintenance management system, using real-time data to trigger automated maintenance requests the moment a machine goes down.

The system also empowers Listers’ workforce, giving operators real-time data that helps them quickly diagnose issues, reduce downtime, and develop new digital skills. By integrating technology with teamwork, Listers is building a culture of continuous improvement that benefits both people and processes. Stuart Pickersgill, Director of Manufacturing and Operations at Listers, comments: “FourJaw has been a breath of fresh air for Listers. It has become the heartbeat of the business, enabling us

to take a proactive and targeted approach to continuous improvement that benefits our people, customers and bottom line. In just a few short months, FourJaw has changed the way decisions are made at Listers and delivered productivity and sustainability gains that are already saving us thousands of pounds a week.”

Chris Iveson, CEO at FourJaw Manufacturing Analytics, comments: “Our work with Listers perfectly illustrates the tangible and immediate impact that smart technologies like FourJaw can have on manufacturing businesses. We are turning machine data into actionable insight fast and making it simple for manufacturers of all sizes to understand their operations, unlock significant productivity gains, reduce energy costs, and accelerate their journey toward a more sustainable future.”

Senior advances closed-loop recycling

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enior Architectural Systems is set to introduce a new waste reduction initiative as part of its commitment to circularity and working towards a fully closed-loop recycling process. The new initiative will see all polyurethane foam waste generated during the manufacture of the patented thermal break in Senior’s low U-value PURe® aluminium windows and doors collected and reused.

Each year, approximately 80 tonnes of polyurethane foam waste is produced as part of the PURe® manufacturing process. This occurs when extra polyols and isocyanate chemicals are injected into the thermal breaks to prevent cold spots during curing.

The result is a unique thermal barrier that delivers lower U-values and improved energy performance compared to traditional systems.

However, the process also creates excess cured foam and although this waste has

always had the potential to be reused, it has previously been difficult to manage at scale.

Senior is now working with a specialist waste partner to chemically break down the expanded and cured polyurethane foam into its original raw components—polyols and isocyanates. These recovered materials will be reintroduced into Senior’s own manufacturing processes, creating a circular

system that eliminates landfill disposal.

The initiative is scheduled to be fully operational by the end of the year and once implemented, the recovered materials from the manufacture of Senior’s PURe® windows and doors will be reused internally.

This approach is expected to reduce carbon emissions, cut waste, and lessen demand for virgin raw materials.

Available in a variety of configurations, including aluminium casement windows, tilt and turn windows, and both commercial and domestic style doors, the patented PURe® system has been used across the sectors, specifically in the education and residential markets.

Senior’s investment in advanced recycling initiatives builds on the company’s ongoing commitment to reducing the environmental impact of its operations and supporting customers to make more informed choices.

october 2025 | news | 33

Triple-glazed timber Aluclad delivers Passive House-certified upgrade

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self-build project near Coldstream in the Scottish Borders has become the latest to benefit from Passive House-certified glazing, following the installation of high-performance windows and doors by Glasgow-based Accent Doors and Windows.

The family-run firm supplied and fitted its Euro94 Timber Aluclad Triple-Glazed Windows and Doors – a product certified to meet the stringent demands of the Passive House standard and fully PAS 24 security tested. The installation forms part of a growing shift towards ultra-low energy homes in rural areas, where heat retention and durability are increasingly vital.

Available in pine, meranti, or oak finishes, the Euro94 range combines thermal efficiency with robust design, targeting the needs of self-builders and architects seeking both sustainability and aesthetic quality. Accent’s glazing products are known for achieving low U-values, and can be supplied either with full Passive House certification or engineered to meet its standards without formal accreditation.

“This project reflects a clear direction of travel in the UK’s building landscape – homeowners want future-proofed properties that deliver on comfort, energy

performance and security,” said Graham Ferguson, director of Accent Doors and Windows. “We’re proud to support that goal with tailored, certified solutions.”

With demand rising across Scotland and beyond, Accent continues to expand its footprint among trade professionals and self-build clients seeking reliable, highperformance joinery and glazing products at competitive prices – a market increasingly shaped by energy standards and climateconscious design. www.accentdoor.co.uk

Hurst deepens green credentials through strategic machinery upgrade

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s part of its ongoing programme of continuous improvement, Hurst Doors has installed two new high-efficiency glue application machines at its manufacturing facility, supporting its long-term commitment to sustainable operations and continued investment in plant and machinery.

The new equipment delivers a more precise and consistent glue bead, significantly reducing adhesive waste and the release of harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds) into the atmosphere. The upgrade has also enhanced production line efficiency, improving bonding quality while reducing manual handling on the shop floor.

“This investment is another step forward in our drive to improve manufacturing performance while reducing our environmental footprint,” said Kevin Wheatman, Director and General Manager at Hurst Doors. “By using adhesive more efficiently, we’re not only cutting waste, but

also creating a safer and cleaner working environment for our team.”

The installation follows a series of upgrades across Hurst’s operations over the last two years, including the rollout of new machinery, enhancements to material storage and handling, and significant investment in a new paint plant and supporting infrastructure. Together, these improvements support a more streamlined, responsive manufacturing process, helping to reduce downtime, improve throughput,

and deliver consistent quality at scale.

“We’re focused on making practical, measurable improvements that support both our sustainability goals and the performance expectations of our customers,” Kevin added. “This includes how we manufacture, how we reduce waste, and how we continue to design products like the Securicore™ PAS24 panel with recyclability and efficiency in mind.”

In addition to improving production processes, Hurst maintains closed-loop recycling partnerships for materials such as glass, MDF, polystyrene, and PVC-U, ensuring waste is diverted from landfill wherever possible. The company also invests in the energy performance of its door panels, contributing to lower carbon emissions and reduced heating bills for homeowners. Kevin concluded: “We’re committed to building a manufacturing environment that reflects the standards we set for our products - efficient, responsible, and built for the future.”

34 | news | october 2025

700 firms now using Tommy Trinder!

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oftware pioneers Tommy Trinder are celebrating as the total number of window companies using the sales platform passes 700.

“Making a decent return is getting tougher for installers,” says Chris Brunsdon, founder and CEO of Tommy Trinder. “Firms who are thinking smart and not just working harder, are the ones who are pulling ahead, and Tommy is helping to power that shift.”

From one-man bands to nationals and from the highlands to the Channel Islands, Tommy Trinder has established itself as go to app for installers looking to energise their sales process.

At the heart of the platform is its unique Framepoint Technology®. This patented system lets users free draw PVC-U, aluminium, and timber windows and doors with all the ease of sketching on a pad. Switching colours, ironmongery, bars and finishes is a doddle, and in a couple of taps installers can give homeowners a lifelike preview of how the products will look on their home. Says Chris: “Even if you’re not exactly tech-savvy, Tommy makes it easy to wow clients,” says Chris. “In a competitive market, you have to stand out; you have to give homeowners something that makes them sit up and take notice.”

The value of work quoted by installers on Tommy Trinder is on the rise too. Every month an eye-watering £300 million pounds worth of work is quoted to homeowners via the platform. High average quote values are also a feature with quote values climbing towards £7900 over the last six months. According to Chris, premium products are playing a key role in that uplift; “Aluminium and timber now represent nearly half of all quotes generated through the platform,” says Chris. “For PVC-U, our users are seeing a bump in job value by making it easy to showcase premium features - foils, dual colour options, flush casements, peg-stays and decorative bars - all brought to life in a visual and compelling way for the homeowner.”

The firm reports that more than 14,000 homeowners receive a quote generated by Tommy Trinder every month and, notably, around half of them are provided with visualisations to accompany their quote; “We’re seeing a shift in expectations,” says Chris. “Homeowners want more than just a number - they want a complete experience. The makeover feature, where installers drop new windows onto a photo of the property, is fast becoming a must-have part of the sales pitch.”

“Homeowners expect more. They want to see exactly what they are getting; they want to try before they buy. And Tommy Trinder is proving to be the tool for the job.”

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

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36 | director of the month | october 2025

DIRECTOR OF THE MONTH In this month’s director of the month feature, we talk to Paul Culshaw, Managing Director of Heritage Trade Frames

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t the heart of Heritage Trade Frames lies a set of values shaped by our family roots. Since joining the business more than 33 years ago, I have believed that true success rests on three things: trust, quality and innovation. This philosophy has guided us from our beginnings producing 300 frames a week at a single site, to today’s operation spanning three fabrication plants with a weekly output of more than 3,000 frames.

In the process, we have become one of the North West’s leading fabricators.

Milestones that define our growth What I value most is the way Heritage has expanded while staying true to the principles we were founded on. In the past five years we have doubled in size, which speaks to the strength of our team, the quality of our products and the loyalty of our customers.

Strategic decisions have played a big part in this journey. The creation of the Safeguard Collection gave installers a strong and unified retail identity across PVC-U, aluminium and composite doors.

It has helped them present a consistent, premium image to homeowners, reinforcing their reputation.

Equally, our ability to build long-term relationships has been central to our progress. One clear example is our ongoing position as the UK’s largest PatioMaster supplier. PatioMaster is one of the country’s leading PVC-U sliding patio door brands, and our leadership in this market reflects the confidence customers place in us to deliver high-quality products and dependable service at scale.

These milestones matter even more when considered against the backdrop of today’s market. Rising costs, higher

WORKING DAY I usually start my day in the office at 8 a.m.

No two days are ever quite the same and although I plan ahead, priorities often shift as the day unfolds. I begin by catching up on emails, which often sets the tone for the next few hours. I remain heavily involved in our key supply partnerships, attending regular product updates and service-level meetings throughout the week.

Lunchtime provides a welcome pause, and I often step out of the office to clear my head and reset for the afternoon. Most afternoons are spent reviewing performance levels across the business—whether that’s the order book, production levels, staffing, or financials and taking whatever action is needed to keep things on track.

homeowner expectations and tighter regulations have created intense pressures across the sector. Yet by continuing to invest in people, products and technology, Heritage has been able to grow stronger where many have found conditions more challenging.

A partner for installers Success in today’s market is about far more than “just making windows and doors”. Installers need supply partners who understand the pressures they face and can deliver products that combine premium design, exceptional quality and reliable performance. At Heritage, we have built our reputation on being that partner.

Our customers consistently highlight the stability we provide as one of our greatest strengths. In an industry where many companies come and go, more than three and a half decades of continuous operation is a reassuring sign of our reliability.

Equally important is the strength of our supply chain. Our partnership with Profile 22, which has now lasted for more than 28 years, reflects the long-term relationships we build and the confidence that others in the industry place in us.

Customers also appreciate the breadth and depth of our product portfolio, which allows us to act as a one-stop shop, streamlining their operations from start to finish. Recent investments in technology mean they now benefit from round-theclock ordering, quoting and technical support, while our dedicated showroom and training centre help them stay ahead of

FACTS & FIGURES

First job: At 16, while still at school, I began working part-time at Tesco. After leaving school, I secured my first full-time role with Bowater Halo and I’ve now built a career spanning over 40 years in the window industry.

When did you join or set up current company: I joined the company in 1992, when we were a small fabricator producing around 300 windows per week. Over the next few years, I became increasingly involved in the strategic side of the business and in 1996 I joined the board, helping to drive growth and help shape the company’s future.

Most useful/favourite gadget: My Garmin golf watch, not that it has helped improve my handicap!

Favourite/most useful website: The Bolton News - it’s my go-to for keeping up to date with what’s happening in the local community.

Favourite restaurant for business: A small local family-run restaurant called Bisteca. Their steaks from the Josper grill are second to none.

Business person you admire: Alan Sugar – his success since the 1980s and his ability to remain relevant and inspiring to young entrepreneurs today is something I truly admire.

What lesson have you learnt about business over the last 12 months: The business has faced the same pressures as the wider industry with rising costs, evolving regulations and increasing customer expectations. What has stood out is that our long-term approach of investing in people, products and technology continues to pay dividends. We’ve learned that stability and reliability matter more than ever to our customers, and that our ability to act as a trusted supply partner gives us a real edge.

Best business decision: Relocating to our current premises has been one of the most important decisions we’ve made. The move gave us the space and facilities to support our growth, and the good news is we’re now in the position where we need to do it all over again to keep up with demand!

Other interests: Outside of work, I enjoy golf, although my handicap seems to be heading in the wrong direction! I’m a long-time Bolton Wanderers supporter and while the club has had its ups and downs in recent years, I remain hopeful for better times ahead. I also enjoy cycling in Portugal with my wife, who makes sure I don’t get an easy ride, as well as a passion for sports cars and Formula 1.

october 2025 | director of the month | 37 the latest trends and innovations.

Innovation shaping the future Looking forward, I remain confident about the opportunities ahead. There are glimmers of positivity in the wider market, but more importantly we continue to invest and innovate in ways that give our customers a competitive advantage.

The refurbishment market, for example, is seeing strong demand for heritage-style PVC-U flush casements. In this sector, the quality of the finish is crucial, and our combination of experience and investment in advanced machine technology enables us to deliver the results installers need.

In new build, the upcoming Future Homes Standard will inevitably drive demand for higher-performing products, particularly triple glazing. Here too we are ready to lead the way.

We will be among the first fabricators to bring the revolutionary Regency Triple featuring Corning® Enlighten™️ Glass to market.

This ground-breaking product achieves a U-value as low as 0.7W/ m²K on a standard 28mm unit with only a five per cent increase in weight compared to double glazing. The key lies in its ultra-thin 0.5mm centre pane, which overcomes the traditional challenges associated with triple glazing. It is broadly equivalent in weight to standard double glazing, avoids the need for specialist hinges or reinforcements and can be used in standard 70mm UK window profiles. The potential this opens ups in both the domestic replacement and social housing sectors is immense.

Aluminium is another area where we see strong growth. Our fabrication of the Stellar Aluminium range means customers benefit from the slim sightlines that modern homeowners demand, while enjoying the installer-friendly features such as pre-gasketed knock in beads. Sliding doors continue to capture the imagination of homeowners who want panoramic views and expanses of glass, and PatioMaster remains the natural choice here. Composite doors, meanwhile, have been a standout success in recent years, with Heritage supplying more than 100,000 doors in the past five years. Offering a combination of style, low maintenance and high security, they remain a product line with enduring appeal.

Meeting today’s challenges These areas of growth highlight an important shift in the market. With price pressures continuing to bite, the companies that succeed will be those who focus on delivering premium products and outstanding service, rather than simply cutting prices. Installers who invest in training, digital tools and customer relationships will create businesses that stand out from the crowd, and the reliability of the supply chain will be more important than ever. For us, the greatest challenge will be to maintain the family ethos that has always defined us as we continue to expand. Our long-term ambition is to remain the most trusted trade fabricator in the region, recognised for our reliability and admired for our commitment to innovation. That balance of tradition and forwardthinking are the key to sustaining our growth.

Guided by our values Markets will always change, shaped by regulation, consumer expectations and economic pressures. But while the environment may evolve, the values that guide Heritage Trade Frames will remain constant. When installers want a partner who can help them grow, adapt and succeed, Heritage Trade Frames is the answer.

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WORKING LOCATION We moved to sunny Lostock in Bolton in May 2000, next to what was then the Reebok Stadium. The site quickly became a great base for our operations, but by 2015 we had outgrown it and expanded into a second unit, followed by a third in 2021. All three facilities are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to manage and coordinate production.

Our location is ideal, with excellent local amenities nearby, and today it also features a state-of-the-art showroom and meeting centre, providing a professional space for customer visits, training sessions and business meetings.

Contact Coastal Group today to order or request a sample.

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www.coastal-group.com

38 | active voices | october 2026

ACTIVE VOICES David Dwyer, Low-Carbon Technical Specification Advisor for NorDan UK: While it’s true windows may be just one element of the building envelope, they play a vital role in determining a home’s environmental footprint, running costs, and long-term durability

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s the drive toward Net-Zero intensifies, housebuilders face two major challenges. On the one hand, they must reduce the environmental impact of new homes, which account for around a fifth of UK emissions. At the same time, they must ensure homes remain affordable, cost-efficient, and comfortable for residents.

In England, the upcoming Future Homes Standard (FHS), due to take effect at the end of 2025, is adding momentum. With a 75–80% carbon reduction target on the horizon, attention has shifted to how new homes can reduce their carbon footprints.

In Wales, progress is being driven by Tai ar y Cyd, a collaborative roadmap uniting 23 social landlords to deliver 20,000 low-carbon, durable, affordable homes over the next five years.

Both approaches signal a shift away from piecemeal solutions toward a fabric-first mindset — recognising that elements such as windows and doors not only reduce a home’s carbon footprint but also underpin its long-term performance, comfort, and resilience.

Accounting for around a third of all domestic heat loss, windows and doors are critical to the thermal performance of the building envelope. When specified correctly, they can be the cornerstone of energy-efficient design, improving both thermal efficiency and airtightness.

However, poorly specified, designed, or installed windows can undermine performance from the outset, driving up heat loss, energy demand, and household bills.

Through NorDan’s work on some of the UK’s most sustainable housing projects, I’ve seen how the right windows can make all the difference in building low-carbon,

long-lasting homes.

One of the best examples of this is at Gwynfaen, a new-build development of 144 homes near Swansea led by Pobl Group.

Designed as an ultra-low carbon community, Gwynfaen prioritised the long-term well-being of residents and the environment.

Central to its vision was reducing both operational carbon and embodied carbon – not just day-to-day living but also emissions from production, transport, construction, and disposal of materials.

Just as important was the longevity of the development. It was essential that Gwynfaen could stand the test of time and serve homeowners for generations to come.

This strong emphasis on whole-life carbon and durable, time-tested systems led Pobl to NorDan’s high-performance, timber alu-clad windows. With triple glazing, these deliver U-values as low as 0.8 W/m²K and can reach 0.7 W/m²K when specified to Passive standards – while offering a lifespan of over 60 years.

As a natural fit, they supported Gwynfaen’s sustainability goals as well as its long-term commitment to residents – that homes are built to last, even in the face of increasing weather extremes.

Crucially, Pobl recognised that investing in high-performance, long-last-

ing windows over cheaper alternatives made both financial and environmental sense. For example, UPVC frames typically need to be replaced every 15–20 years, whereas NorDan’s windows at Gwynfaen are designed to operate at peak performance three times longer.

This not only eliminated the need for frequent replacements, delivering long-term savings, but also enabled Pobl to fulfil its commitment to lowering household bills through the use of quality materials.

When combined with other high-spec, low-carbon systems such as solar panels, battery storage, heat pumps, and properly insulated walls and roofs, Gwynfaen residents typically spend just £50 a month on energy, less than half the national average.

What’s more, they live in warm, comfortable EPC ‘A’-rated homes.

While it’s true windows may be just one element of the building envelope, they play a vital role in determining a home’s environmental footprint, running costs, and long-term durability.

For housing developers preparing for the next wave of low-carbon standards, whether the FHS in England or Tai ar y Cyd in Wales, the message is clear: sustainable homes are not the result of bolt-on technologies or last-minute design tweaks. They begin with thoughtful, evidence-led specification.

By making smart choices at the design stage, decisions grounded in expertise and whole-life value, developers and housebuilders can accelerate progress toward Net Zero while ensuring homes remain affordable and resilient for decades to come.

We need only look to Gwynfaen to see what’s possible.

TITAN does it better:

Restricts the sash. Not the possibilities.

The new TITAN 90° opening restrictor: complies with the DOEB guideline and impresses at every stage, from production to operation.

However you look at it, TITAN is one of the most successful hardware systems because every last detail is constantly being refined and improved. The fact that TITAN is now also the first system to provide an opening restrictor certified to the DOEB guideline – with a special focus on functional reliability and durability – underlines its technical edge. Easy to install, the TITAN 90° opening ­restrictor is the only product of its kind to provide lasting protection not only for the sash and reveal, but also for the hinge side. It does this by damping the sash, gently stopping it in the end position and safely preventing it from closing unintentionally when there is a draught. Convenience and zero-maintenance operation built in as standard: how a 90° opening width translates into 100 % customer satisfaction. www.siegenia.com

360° room comfort

40 | active voices | october 2025

ACTIVE VOICES Natasha Erskine, Co-Founder & Marketing Director, UKO Group: Customer obsession becomes UKO Group’s quiet engine, translating listening into loyalty, efficiencies, and consistent, sustainable growth

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n today’s competitive landscape, businesses must do more than deliver quality products, there has to be a bigger focus on building and maintaining meaningful relationships with their customers. At UKO Group, our growth story is rooted in the simple but powerful principle of putting the customer at the heart of everything we do.

From our early days, we recognised that sustainable success would come not just from innovation and operational excellence, but from listening to our customers, understanding their evolving needs, and delivering solutions that genuinely make a difference. This customer-first mindset has shaped every decision, every investment, and every interaction across our group of companies.

Strengthening teams to deliver value One of the most tangible ways we’ve embedded customer focus into our culture is through our people. We’ve invested heavily in talent, welcoming new team members across departments, expanding our production capabilities, and nurturing future talent through our apprenticeship programme. The recent graduation of Celia Brook, once a business administration apprentice, now a full-time member of the customer service team, is a testament to our commitment to developing individuals who understand and champion customer needs.

To meet growing demand and improve service delivery, we’ve scaled operations at UK Doors Online. By transitioning to a double-shift system, we’ve unlocked significant increased capacity, enabling faster turnaround times and greater flexibility for our customers. This is something we are actively working towards adapting across the whole group. These changes weren’t just operational decisions,

they were strategic moves to ensure we continue exceeding expectations in a fastpaced market.

Strategic growth with customer insight Our growth isn’t just about size, it’s about relevance, ensuring that every step forward aligns with the evolving needs of our customers, the dynamics of our industry, and the values that define our brand. The appointment of Sam Weber as Group Sales Director reflects our dedication to strategic leadership that understands the glazing industry and prioritises customer relationships. His experience and vision align perfectly with our mission to evolve and innovate while keeping customer needs front and centre.

Marketing that connects As Marketing Director, I’ve seen first hand how a customerfocused approach transforms brand engagement. Our marketing strategies are built on data-driven

insights, real conversations, and a deep awareness of what matters most to our customers. Product promotion is only part of the picture, we focus on creating relevance through insight, innovation, and customer-focused messaging. This approach has strengthened our brand presence and deepened trust across our customer base.

Looking ahead At UKO Group, we believe that consistent growth is a journey powered by people, purpose, and partnership. By staying close to our customers, adapting to their needs, and delivering with integrity, we’re advancing with confidence, driven by clarity and connection. This approach enables us to remain agile, build lasting relationships, and respond to market shifts with confidence, ensuring our growth is both meaningful and sustainable.

As we look to the future, our commitment remains clear: to empower our teams, evolve our services, and continue exceeding expectations because a customerfirst mindset doesn’t just enable growth, it sustains it.

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42 | news dashboard | october 2025

Eurocell trade branches expand into aluminium

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urocell has expanded its aluminium window and door offering to its national network of over 200 trade branches, making it easier than ever for jobbing-builders and installers to quote and order aluminium products for smallscale residential projects.

Following the acquisition of Alunet Systems, Eurocell has introduced the Aluna range of aluminium windows, entrance doors, sliders and bi-fold doors into its branch network, to provide a simple and efficient route to order for installers and jobbing-builders working on projects that only require in the region of 30 frames perweek or less.

To support the rollout, all branch teams have received product training, meaning a dedicated in-house team is now in place in more than 200 trade communities across the UK to handle aluminium quoting – enabling faster, more accurate pricing direct to installers. Competitive network-wide pricing has also been introduced.

Speaking on the expanded offering to smaller trade professional businesses, Stuart Livingstone, Chief Operating Officer at Eurocell, said: “We know that more and more of our installer and jobbing-builder trade customers are taking on a wider range of projects and aiming to offer broader services to homeowners to grow their businesses – from roofing jobs, to installing PVC-U and aluminium windows and doors, to fitting decking and fencing and completing small home improvements.

“So this move makes it easy for them to access high-quality aluminium products locally, for those smaller or solo property jobs.

Alongside our fabricator partner network for larger and significant orders for aluminum and PVC-U window and door orders, we have the trade, housebuilders and installers covered.”

Eurocell is the only systems house in the UK with a national network of trade branches, meaning installers can source everything they need – from trims and cladding to aluminium doors – all in one place.

As the leading UK manufacturer, distributor, and recycler of PVC-U windows, doors and building products, Eurocell serves 40,000 trade professionals across its over 200 branches. It also offers a wide range of products for home renovations and new build projects under a single brand. This includes more than 10,000 products across garden rooms, extensions, decking, fencing, roofing, rainwater, interior and exterior cladding and much more. Trade professionals are encouraged to sign up for a Eurocell Trade Account for consistent pricing and credit options nationwide.

Jeld-Wen UK prepares for Sheffield relocation

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eld-Wen UK is preparing for the relocation of its Sheffield operations to a new, purpose-built facility at Bessemer Park. The move, which affects only the Sheffield site (with Penrith operations continuing as normal), forms part of Jeld-Wen’s long-term strategy to maintain operational strength, ensure reliable service, and support sustainable growth in the UK market.

Chris Miller, Sales Director at Jeld-Wen UK, said, “Our customers depend on us for consistent quality and reliability, and that remains our priority throughout this transition. The same teams will continue to work with our customers during the move, and the new facility provides us with the resilience and flexibility we need to plan for the future with confidence.”

Bessemer Park site, a modern industrial development that will allow Jeld-Wen UK to create a state of the art manufacturing and distribution centre and will provide Jeld-Wen with the environment to sustain operational excellence while aligning with

its sustainability goals and broader European strategy.

Dom Gaffey, Vice President and General Manager UK, France & Export, Jeld-Wen UK, added, “Relocating to Bessemer Park is an important milestone for Jeld-Wen UK. Our focus is on continuity, ensuring we meet the needs of customers while operating responsibly as a business and community partner.”

Kelly Hibbert joins Distinction Doors as commercial director

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istinction Doors is delighted to announce the appointment of Kelly Hibbert as its new Commercial Director, a move that reinforces the company’s commitment to delivering exceptional value and service to its customers.

With over 18 years of experience in the fenestration and construction industries, Kelly brings a customer-first mindset and a proven ability to drive commercial growth through strategic partnerships and market insight. Her career has been defined by helping businesses unlock new opportunities, streamline product offerings, and deliver solutions that resonate with clients’ evolving needs.

Andrew Fowlds, CEO of Distinction Doors, shared his enthusiasm: “Kelly’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for us. As we continue to invest in customer satisfaction and deepen our relationships across the sector, her leadership will be instrumental. Kelly understands what matters most to our clients: reliability, innovation, and service, and she’s here to make sure we deliver on all fronts.”

Kelly’s approach is rooted in listening to customers, understanding their challenges, and crafting strategies that deliver real-world results. “My goal is simple,” Kelly said. “To ensure every customer feels supported, understood, and confident in the solutions we provide. Distinction Doors already has a strong reputation for quality and service.

I’m here to build on that and take it to the next level.”

Kelly added: “I’m passionate about building meaningful relationships and creating strategic partnerships that support our customers’ success. Whether it’s through smarter product integration, tailored support, or educational resources, everything we do will be designed to make life easier and better for our clients.”

Her appointment marks a new chapter in Distinction Doors’ journey - one that puts customers firmly at the centre of every decision.

october 2025 | news dashboard | 43

Aluk backs CAB’s closed loop recycling scheme

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luK has joined the CAB’s Closed Loop Recycling Scheme, giving powerful backing to the CAB’s mission to embed closed loop recycling at the heart of the aluminium supply chain.

AluK’s Managing Director Russell Yates and Health & Safety Manager Sophie Bragg received the company’s membership certificate from the CAB’s Chief Executive Nigel Headford. Russell commented: “Aluminium’s 100% recyclability* has always been one of its key strengths, and that inherent sustainability is becoming ever more important for both retail and commercial buyers.

“Specifiers are already examining levels of ‘embodied carbon’ in construction materials, and we could easily see limits placed on that in the future, so this CAB initiative to bring the aluminium sector together on recycling is the perfect response.

Sophie Bragg added: “What is so important about the scheme is that it’s not just about increasing the quantity of recovered aluminium scrap available in the UK, it’s about increasing the quality as well.

“Closed loop means we separate out all the aluminium components from alloy groups with compatible alloys at the recycling stage – including the 6 series alloys used for aluminium window and door extru-

Forterro strengthens AI strategy with key new appointment

sions – and ensure that only these are mixed together during remelting. That means extrusions are recycled into extrusions - and together we maximise the efficiency of the whole process.”

In his role as President of the CAB, Russell is keen to expand the reach of the scheme as widely as possible. He said: “The CAB scheme is open to everyone in the aluminium supply chain, and we would like to see fabricators and installers signing up as well as systems companies. It is a powerful way to demonstrate the sector’s commitment to sustainability and means we can all share our data to help shape the closed loop recycling value chain and circular economy of the future so that the focus shifts from cradle-to-gate to cradle-to-cradle.”

Specilaist role for Quanex sustainability apprentice

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enestration and building components provider Quanex UK & Ireland – which now includes hardware brand ERA - has permanently appointed a sustainability focused apprentice to the role of Corporate Sustainability Specialist. Ryan Hammond joined Tyman UK & Ireland - now Quanex following an acquisition last year in October 2023 as part of the company’s apprenticeship programme.

Undertaking a Level Four Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability apprenticeship, Ryan’s remit was to develop his skills while supporting the wider team in aligning sustainability activity with the latest developments relating to certifications, product development, packaging and more. Quanex UK & Ireland offers apprenticeships as part of its commitment to providing learning opportunities for young talent within the local community, while helping to strengthen the fenestration industry’s pipeline of young talent.

In order to nurture their development, each apprentice is given the opportunity to undertake training and spend time with colleagues across other areas of the business, including senior management, to gain a better understanding of company-wide operations and broaden their skill sets. As Ryan’s apprenticeship comes to an end, he has been given the opportunity of a full-time role as a Sustainability Specialist for the UK. Here, Ryan will use the training and skills acquired so far and continue to build on the success of the past 18 months. Alongside this new role, Ryan will complete the Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership course on Sustainable Real Estate, further expanding his knowledge. Ryan has been heavily involved in several ERA sustainability projects, including aligning its work with UN Sustainable Development Goals; ensuring compliance with Sustainability UK targets; Extended Producer Responsibility and Plastic Packaging Tax. Ryan, whose development has come under the guidance of Lara Coutinho, Supply Chain Sustainability Manager at Quanex UK & Ireland, will now be taking more of a leading role on projects relating to Quanex UK & Ireland and its sustainability ambitions in the UK. Lara Coutinho, Supply Chain Sustainability Manager, at Quanex, said: “Ryan has been such a great asset to the team since joining Quanex as an apprentice.”

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oftware provider Forterro has appointed Marco Metzlaff to the newly created role of AI Transformation Leader, strengthening the company-wide commitment to artificial intelligence (AI). The appointment develops Forterro’s strategy to embed AI as a driver of customer-centric innovation. Metzlaff, who joins the company from IBM and has previously worked for Accenture and Novartis, will oversee the development and implementation of Forterro’s AI strategy, ensuring it delivers long-term benefits for customers and the business. With more than 20 years of experience in transformation processes – particularly in ERP and technology consulting – Metzlaff has recently specialised in the practical application of AI. In his new role, he will coordinate operational measures, strengthen existing initiatives and ensure AI capabilities are embedded across Forterro’s industrial portfolio.

The hire builds on Forterro’s successful cloud transformation and reflects the growing importance of AI in manufacturing and industry. By integrating solutions such as Prodaso and other AI microservices into the MyForterro platform, customers are using AI-driven insights to provide transparency across business and production processes, identifying optimisation opportunities early and supporting informed, real-time decision-making.

This helps manufacturers reduce downtime, improve quality and increase their productivity and competitiveness in the long term. Marco Metzlaff, said: “At Forterro, we want to take the next logical step in artificial intelligence – professionalising our expertise and focusing it on measurable customer impact. We have decades of experience working with industrial midmarket companies and our goal is to deliver industry-specific AI solutions that make a sustainable difference to those customers’ daily operations, from shop floor efficiency to strategic decision-making.”

Marcus Pannier, President, Lines of Business, at Forterro, added: “AI transformation is integral to our long-term strategy. By embedding AI at the highest organisational level, we are making it easier for our customers to advance their own digital development and AI capabilities.”

44 | business interview | october 2025

Portico Doors targets growth and innovation

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In his latest Podcast, Guy Hubble MD of RegaLead, sat down with the Managing Director of Portico Doors Tony Craggs

ony Craggs, Managing Director of Portico Doors, is betting that expertise, innovation, and operational discipline can carve out market share in a challenging UK door manufacturing sector. Launched in October 2022, Portico has quickly positioned itself as one of the country’s leading composite door fabricators, a feat achieved in a market that has seen both contraction and rapid change over the past three years.

Craggs, 39, entered the industry straight from school, foregoing university to join his father’s WB Group. The experience, he says, was formative. “It was tough, my dad was a hard taskmaster, but I learned every part of the business: production, finance, sales, marketing. Knowing the business inside out has been invaluable,” he reflects. WB Group, which evolved from a small builder into a significant PVC door and window manufacturer, gave him early exposure to composite doors, decorative glass, and in-house panel fabrication—skills that now underpin Portico’s strategy.

Central to the UK doors industry The composite door market, Craggs notes, is a 25-year-old sector that has matured but remains central to the UK doors industry.

Portico’s initial focus was on building capacity and flexibility. From day one, the company invested in an in-house paint facility, allowing bespoke colour combinations and rapid response to evolving design trends. Decorative glass is similarly handled internally, a move designed to offer trade customers distinctive products without sacrificing operational efficiency. “Having that capability in-house was critical,” says Craggs. “It’s one of the things that sets us apart in a competitive market.”

Portico now employs around 40 staff and operates from a purpose-built facility that Craggs describes as a model of cleanliness and precision. Visitors note the meticulous attention to detail, from the spray booth to quality boards on the production floor—a reflection of a broader philosophy that links operational excellence to product quality.

Door panels and engineered doors Innovation is central to Portico’s growth strategy. In addition to its core composite range, the company is expanding into door panels and engineered doors, including aluminium and timber options. A new facility for door panel production opened earlier this year, allowing Portico to address both legacy panel markets and

modern demand for sleek, contemporary designs. Craggs sees this diversification as essential. “Composite doors will remain our core, but we want to provide multiple solutions for the market,” he says.

The company has also responded to changing consumer tastes and market trends by integrating new glass designs and colour options, ensuring its offerings remain attractive to trade customers.

Craggs emphasises the importance of evolution: “If you’re standing still, you’re going backwards. Innovation in both style and materials is key to maintaining market relevance.”

Despite a turbulent market, including Brexit-related supply pressures, inflationary cost pressures, and post-pandemic volatility, Portico has achieved consistent growth. Craggs attributes this to a combination of clear strategy, strong supplier partnerships, and a focus on quality. “One of the most important things is people backing you. Our suppliers bought into our plan from day one, which gave us the footing to build the business,” he says.

Looking ahead, Craggs sees opportunities across multiple segments of the UK door market. While composite doors remain the core offering, he anticipates a resurgence in panel doors and steady growth for engineered solutions. For him, a diversified portfolio is critical to resilience. “Not everyone wants a composite door. Having a range of solutions ensures we can serve the market today and adapt to future trends,” he explains.

Broader lesson for UK manufacturers Portico Doors’ trajectory under Craggs underscores a broader lesson for UK manufacturers: resilience, operational discipline, and responsiveness to changing market trends are critical in an industry prone to cyclical pressures. The company’s rapid growth, investment in infrastructure, and focus on innovation illustrate how a combination of heritage experience and forward-looking strategy can deliver competitive advantage.

As the sector navigates uncertainty, Portico’s approach offers a template for success. By combining product innovation with operational excellence and strategic diversification, Craggs is positioning Portico not just as a composite door manufacturer but as a multi-solution provider ready to adapt to evolving consumer tastes and market conditions. In a market defined by volatility, that adaptability may prove to be the company’s greatest asset.

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46 | general feature | october 2025

Why young workers shun building trades

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Britain’s construction workforce is ageing fast and young recruits are scarce leaving the industry warning of crisis ahead

obert Salmon has been on building sites for more than three decades. He has weathered recessions, red tape and housing booms. But today, what worries him most isn’t the cost of materials or planning delays – it’s the empty space where apprentices should be.

“Why are young people not coming into building anymore?” he asked in a Facebook post that quickly struck a nerve. Dozens of tradespeople – bricklayers, joiners, engineers, installers – piled in with their own stories, painting a picture of an industry at risk of stalling.

For Salmon, the answer lies in a toxic mix: wages that have failed to keep pace with living costs, endless bureaucracy, unrealistic demands on site and a cultural shift that prizes university over manual skills. “Half the job now is box-ticking instead of actually building,” he wrote. “I was earning more in the ’90s in real terms than I am today.”

It’s a lament echoed across the sector. Britain faces a housing shortage, an ageing construction workforce and an ambitious net zero retrofit agenda. Yet those charged with building homes and upgrading them say the pipeline of labour is drying up.

Andrew, 39, remembers how competitive the industry once was.

“When I left school in 2002 there were 400 applicants per job,” he recalled. “I wish I’d gone to college and done plumbing and heating.

I lost patience. I’d still love to do it now, but getting someone to help me learn is impossible.” His eventual move into engineering took years – “support is lacking and trust,” he said.

College traning failure That sense of abandonment is widespread. “There’s nobody capable of training them at the colleges – just textbook lecturers,” Salmon added. “Gone are the days when you had people from the trade teaching.”

Victor, another respondent, put it bluntly: “Trades are needed and taught the right way by the old school. Seems youngsters now only interested in computers, phones and anything that will help that career. What’s happened to the woodwork teacher at school?”

The disappearance of practical education is a recurring grievance.

At the same time, construction’s image has suffered: dirty, insecure, physically demanding, while jobs in tech are presented as clean and creative. As Salmon put it: “Schools push uni over tools every time.”

Jamie, who has worked across the sector since leaving school, worries that the trade’s reputation has been undermined not just by educators but by its own fragmentation. “The construction industry is used as a dumping ground by educators in the belief that anyone can do it,” he said. “Too much ‘changing rooms’ mentality and not enough respect for the skill and knowledge required.”

He recalls a time when a decent day rate or a price job offered good money and satisfaction. But the shift towards top-down management by those “who had never been on the tools” combined with suffocating bureaucracy has changed the dynamic. “We have an image problem that needs addressing,” he said.

Yet for all the frustration, some see glimmers of resilience. Barry had just returned from California, where driverless taxis and robots in hotels are already common. His observation was striking: “AI is already impacting so many tech, finance, office and retail jobs, but one of the least impacted areas for the foreseeable future is construction, plumbing, sparks. If AI is impacting jobs in California now, it won’t be long before it is the same in the UK.” In other words, trades offer a kind of future-proofing that many white-collar careers may not. Alan, another commenter, made a

similar point: “AI will eventually replace most white-collar jobs.

Skilled trades offer something different – the opportunity to be involved with physical infrastructure projects. Whether that be brickwork, joinery, plumbing, glazing or electrical. All essential skills needed to build the future.”

But Alan also flagged a looming structural problem. The government recently announced that Skills England, which oversees apprenticeships and adult training, will be shifted from the Department for Education to the Department for Work and Pensions. “So the question now is – what is the future of apprenticeships?” he asked. For many tradespeople, the current system fails both employers and trainees.

Heading towards a crunch point Behind the Facebook thread lies a wider anxiety: that Britain’s construction industry is heading towards a crunch point. Fewer young people are entering, thousands are leaving due to burnout, and expectations for output are higher than ever. Salmon warns: “It’s not just that young people aren’t joining – people are also leaving in droves. That’s a double hit that could be catastrophic for the industry.”

The irony is that construction still offers what many crave: tangible skills, job security and pride in creating something that lasts. “Building is still one of the best careers out there,” Salmon insisted. “Pride, legacy, real skills, solid graft, opportunity.”

Whether Britain can convince its next generation of schoolleavers to see it that way remains uncertain. But if it fails, the consequences will be felt not just on building sites but across the country’s ability to house its people and meet its climate commitments. And, as Salmon’s viral post shows, those already on the tools fear the clock is ticking.

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48 | consumer trends | october 2025

Energy efficiency searches dominate

Fenestration sector sees ‘flight to quality’ as efficiency searches dominate amid economic headwinds writes John Cowie

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he UK’s fenestration industry is navigating a phase of cautious consumer spending, with recent Google Trends data over the last three months revealing a market adjusting to persistent economic headwinds.

Analysis of key search terms suggests that while demand remains, homeowners are prioritising investments that offer demonstrable returns on energy efficiency and aesthetic value, rather than large, discretionary structural expansions.

Searches for “double-glazing” (Index 100) have served as the anchor for the sector, maintaining robust volumes that underscore the enduring consumer preoccupation with thermal performance.

This consistent interest, which sets the benchmark at 100 for the category’s peak popularity, reflects the sustained impact of elevated energy prices, compelling householders to view window upgrades less as a luxury and more as a necessary utility cost mitigation strategy ahead of the winter months. The search data suggests a ‘Flight to Efficiency,’ where consumers are focused on fundamental fabric improvements that deliver immediate financial savings.

Evolution in the extension market The analysis also points to a continuing evolution in the extension market. Search interest for traditional “conservatories” (Index 20-30) is exhibiting a gradual decline across the period. In contrast, the more contemporary term, “glazed extensions,” shows relatively stable interest at a lower Index of 12-18. This shift indicates a market preference for structurally superior, thermally efficient, and architecturally integrated glass living spaces, aligning with higher-value projects that appeal to those less affected by the cost-of-living squeeze.

The battle of materials remains sharply defined. “PVC-U windows” continue to generate the highest search volume at an Index of 70-80, confirming its position as the high-volume, accessible solution for budget-conscious homeowners. This represents 70-80% of the sector’s peak search interest. However, while smaller in volume, searches for “aluminium windows” (Index 15-25) have remained stable, supporting the narrative of a bifurcated market. Aluminium appeals to the premium segment, where the focus is on achieving

slim sightlines, modern aesthetics, and superior durability, confirming that pockets of high-value discretionary spend persist.

Crucially, “entrance doors” have shown resilient, steady search activity at an Index of 45-55. This product category represents a high-impact, lower-outlay investment compared to full window replacements or extensions. The strong interest here suggests homeowners are opting for impactful, relatively affordable upgrades that enhance curb appeal, security, and immediate thermal benefits without committing to the multi-decade debt of a major renovation.

Sharpen messaging For fenestration businesses, the data suggests a need to sharpen messaging around Return on Investment (ROI) and immediate thermal benefits. The companies that successfully pivot to high-performance, energy-rated products and provide compelling financial arguments for essential upgrades, particularly in the premium and security-focused entrance door markets, are best positioned to thrive as the industry adjusts to a more discerning and economically cautious consumer base.

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50 | business feature | october 2025

Exciting new chapter for Regency Glass

Regency Glass welcomes investment from business acquisition compounder CorpAcq and announces relocation to 420,000 ft² Warrington Site

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egency Glass, one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of insulated glass units (IGUs), is embarking on an exciting new chapter in its history following a significant strategic investment from business acquisition compounder CorpAcq, alongside a landmark relocation to a new 420,000 ft² facility at Omega Business Park, Warrington.

CorpAcq, the investment group specialising in investments in well-established, stable, and cash-generative SMEs in the UK, has acquired a majority stake in Regency Glass. This investment will provide long-term stability and will underpin Regency’s ambitious expansion plans over the coming years. The acquisition also rekindles a strong and trusted relationship. CorpAcq has previously partnered successfully with Regency Glass and is excited to support the company’s growth journey once again.

Wayne Fitzmartin, Chief Operating Officer, Regency Glass, commented, “CorpAcq has been a trusted partner in Regency’s journey before, and we’re proud to be back in business with them once again. Their investment is more than financial; it’s a vote of confidence in our people, our products, and our future. With their support, we are in the strongest position yet to deliver on our vision for the UK glazing market.”

“Regency Glass is a high-quality business with an experienced management team that we believe has great potential. We are looking forward to supporting the team through its next phase of growth.” Said David Martin, CEO, CorpAcq. With CorpAcq’s support, Regency Glass is pressing ahead with a major relocation of the business to Warrington. The move from its existing 110,000 ft² site in Leigh, Greater Manchester, to a brandnew 420,000 ft² facility at Omega Business Park, designed to EPC A standards and awarded a BREEAM Excellent rating, currently stands as the largest single-site lease completed in the North West of England this year.

Larger, consolidated facility Initially, plans were in place to relocate to c.125,000 ft² of industrial and logistics space across two newly developed units at Indurent Park Trident in Warrington. However, with demand for Regency’s newest product, Regency Triple featuring Corning® Enlighten™ Glass, continuing to surge, it became clear that a larger, consolidated facility was the right solution.

What sets the Regency Triple apart is its leap forward in insulated-glass unit (IGU) technology, developed in collaboration with Corning Incorporated, a world-leading innovator in glass, ceramics, and materials science. This ultra-thin glass triple-glazed unit delivers real-world benefits across fabrication, installation, and performance. Its ultra-thin profile fits seamlessly into a 28mm cavity, making it ideal for the replacement window market.

Meanwhile, its lightweight design reduces weight by 30% compared to conventional triple-glazed units, and it is only 5% heavier than standard double-glazed units, making it easier to handle on site.

The Regency Triple also offers enhanced thermal performance, improving energy efficiency without the need for costly or bulky frame modifications. With design flexibility through custom cavity widths using Thermo Plastic Spacer bar (TPS®) and the exceptional thermal durability of Corning® Enlighten™ Glass protecting against field thermal breakage, the Regency Triple sets a new benchmark in

both quality and performance.

Indurent, a leading developer, owner, and operator of industrial and logistics space across the UK, have worked closely with Regency Glass to make this ambitious move a reality, ensuring the new site delivers the scale and infrastructure required for the company’s next phase of growth.

“We are incredibly excited for this next chapter in Regency’s story. Although we’re leaving our longstanding home in Leigh, we carry our roots with us. This move represents an opportunity the business truly deserves. It’s a chance for our entire team to be part of something extraordinary, scaling up in a way that will change the UK glazing market,” said Darren Beazant, CEO, Regency Glass.

The new Warrington site will future-proof operations, expand production capacity on an unprecedented scale, and create a platform for enhanced innovation, efficiency, and sustainability.

Once fully operational, Regency Glass will be the largest singlesite IGU manufacturer in the UK, and one of the most advanced worldwide.

Working in partnership with customers Hannah Bryan-Williams, Senior Customer & Leasing Manager at Indurent, commented: “This relocation and significant upsize is a great example of how Indurent works in partnership with its customers to support their growth. By understanding Regency Glass’ evolving needs, we were able to provide a flexible solution that offers the scale, sustainability, and quality required for their next phase of expansion at Omega West.”

The Warrington facility also offers excellent transport links, enhancing Regency’s distribution capabilities and enabling faster, more efficient service to customers across the UK. Together, the acquisition and relocation mark a milestone not just for Regency Glass but for the wider UK glazing industry, setting new benchmarks in scale, capability, and ambition. With CorpAcq’s backing and a state-of-the-art new home, Regency Glass is poised for a future defined by growth, innovation, and leadership. For sales enquiries or to find out more about Regency Triple featuring Corning® Enlighten™ Glass, please contact Regency Glass: Tel: 01942 262 162 E: sales@regencyglass.co.uk

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54 | general feature | october 2025

Selling smarter with energy saving design Energy efficiency drives sales, says Selecta’s Cliff Prosser, as Advance 70 system surpasses industry criteria, convincingly

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s energy costs continue to burden households and commercial developments alike, Selecta Systems are seeing a surge in demand for its Advance 70 PVC-U Window & Door System. With energy efficiency growing to be the number one priority for both retail customers and commercial specifiers, the Advance 70 is proving itself to be the benchmark that meets stringent thermal performance, security and sustainability criteria – while delivering lower energy bills and longterm value.

Across the UK, rising heating costs—alongside regulatory changes in Building Regulations Document L and the incoming Future Homes Standard—are pushing homeowners, architects, social housing providers, and commercial developers to look for building materials that offer more than just aesthetics. Thermal performance is at the heart of decision making, with U-values, energy ratings and whole-life costs dominating specification sheets and sales conversations.

For retail customers – homeowners seeking to lower their energy bills while improving comfort and kerb appeal – Advance 70 provides a compelling package: attractive aesthetics (in a wide palette of up to 18 colours, including wood grain finishes and modern matt tones), high security (PAS 24 and Secured by Design), plus strong thermal ratings.

On the commercial side – new build projects, social housing, or commercial specifications – the system’s performance in thermal efficiency is key. The multichambered systems design delivers excellent U-values and energy ratings that align with or exceed the requirements of Building Regulations L and the anticipated Future Homes Standard.

Selecta Systems’ ADVANCE 70 System has a range of highquality PVCu window and door

solutions designed specifically to respond to this demand. Profiles are multi-chambered with improved weather seals that reduce heat loss, trapping warmth in and keeping cold out. Where fitted with standard 28mm double-glazed units, Advance 70 can achieve a U-value of 1.1 W/m2K, delivering strong thermal performance without immediately moving to triple glazing. With premium 40mm triple glazing, even lower U-values of o.8 W/m2K can be achieved, further enhancing insulation and comfort.

Advance 70 is not only strong on insulation – it also delivers in sustainability and security. The system is lead-free, aligning with best environmental practice. Security standards are high: PAS 24, Secured by Design, with robustness in hardware and weather performance, offering peace of mind for homeowners, installers and fabricators.

For commercial developers and specifiers, better energy efficiency also means improved EPC ratings, enhanced marketability of properties, fewer risk factors over lifecycle operation, and potential incentive or compliance advantages under evolving building regulation frameworks.

With energy prices forecast to remain volatile, and regulatory pressure increasing, the window and door sector is shifting decisively toward profiles and systems that deliver measurable energy savings. The Advance 70 System is uniquely positioned to answer this shift: offering strong thermal efficiency, regulatory compliance, design flexibility, and real cost savings for both retailers and commercial clients.

As Selecta Systems continues to share technical data, case studies, and performance reports, we expect Advance 70’s role in both renovation of existing buildings and specification in new?build and commercial work to continue to grow significantly.

We firmly believe that by partnering with Selecta and our Advance 70 system, our excellent thermal performance ratings present fabricators and installers with greater sales and marketing opportunities. The future proofed Advance 70 window and door system, combined with our first-class marketing and technical support package certainly provides you with the tools to generate new sales leads and win new business across all industry sectors.

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56 | general feature | october 2025

Transforming safer working at height

Smart, decisive and industry-shaping, Stronghold® makes height work safer, faster, more affordable, transforming fenestration installations today

A

game-changing safety system for the fenestration industry, Stronghold® offers business owners of installation companies a safer, faster, and more cost-effective alternative to scaffolding for many projects. It’s time to rethink working at height...

For many installation business owners, scaffolding has long been the default solution for working at height. But what happens when you need to replace a single window on the 20th floor, or when your project site backs onto a river where logistics are complicated and scaffolding simply isn’t feasible?

There is a smarter, safer alternative in the form of Stronghold, a completely tool-free safety barrier and harness system with no external fixings that can be set up in under 10 minutes, all from the inside of the building.

And the word ‘alternative’ is important to stress according to Daniel Cheddie, founder of and the designer and owner of the system.

“It’s not a case of Stronghold or scaffolding, because there will be situations when scaffolding will be the right option,” he explained.

“It’s about having a professional and smarter alternative solution for when scaffolding doesn’t make sense.”

The right choice For jobs where scaffolding is overkill, impractical, or simply not allowed, Stronghold is the answer.

Think of high-rise window replacements; if you need to replace a few windows scaffolding could cost tens of thousands and take days to erect. Think about challenging urban projects; properties backing onto waterways, train lines or public roads often come with planning headaches, permits, or impossible access for scaffolders.

Think about emergency call outs, when a damaged window is compromised in a busy hotel or school, posing an immediate safety risk to fitters and the public. Scaffolding procurement and installation could take days, time that simply isn’t available.

“Stronghold removes these barriers in scenarios where scaffolding becomes impractical or impossibly expensive,” said

Daniel. “There’s no waiting for scaffolding permits.

With Stronghold, your team can be set up and working safely and securely within minutes.”

Stronghold will also help provide more budgetfriendly projects for installation companies too.

When access costs exceed the value of the actual installation work itself, the economics of the job do not add up.

“If you’re spending more on scaffolding than on the actual job, you’re losing margin,” added Daniel. “Stronghold addresses this imbalance by potentially saving you thousands while maintaining the highest safety standards. If you have to replace one or two windows on the 50th floor, you’re not going to want to spend thousands on scaffolding just to get up there.”

The cost of compromise Of course, when scaffolding costs more than the actual window replacement job, difficult decisions follow for business owners of installation companies, with some resorting to unsafe practices to get the job done quickly and cheaply. These shortcuts don’t just put lives at risk but expose businesses to serious health and safety violations.

The Stronghold concept was born from a comment made to Daniel by the project director of a large façade company who had used the multi-award winning Sashmate®, another safety solution designed by Daniel.

“The company had purchased a Sashmate tool whilst constructing a new wing at a hospital and when I met the team on site they explained that their real major issue was installing windows at height when there was no scaffold and no way to anchor their fitters,” he recalled.

“Being made aware of that necessity for something that made safe working not just possible, but easy and cost-effective is exactly why I designed Stronghold.”

Engineering simplicity Requiring no drilling or fixings, and meaning zero damage to property, the fully adjustable system accommodates openings up to five metres wide and provides anchor points for three fitters simultaneously, allowing unrestricted movement while maintaining safety. The tool-free setup and the system’s mobility directly improves project efficiency.

The safety benefits are equally significant. By providing secure anchor points and barrier protection from inside the building, Stronghold eliminates many risks associated with traditional height access methods.

As installation companies juggle tight deadlines, rising costs, and client expectations, safety can’t afford to be compromised.

Stronghold keeps teams safe, reduces job times and cuts overheads, while also enabling businesses to tackle projects that might otherwise be unviable while maintaining the highest safety standards.

“There are times when scaffolding is the right tool,” said Daniel.

“But Stronghold gives you a reliable alternative for all those other times when it’s just not practical. Why wouldn’t you explore a safer, quicker way to get the job done?”

Tel: 01992 302133 www.stronghold-anchor.com

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october 2025 | machinery | 57

Alunet’s development director sought a radical Aluna+ punch tool, entrusting JadeConsult’s Adam Jones and Sean Mackey

The A-Team behind aluminium innovation W

Problem? Solved Over the years, Jade has developed machine tools for almost every PVC-U and aluminium profile in the UK and it is that intimate knowledge and understanding of frame making that led Chris Armes, product development director for Alunet, to JadeConsult for a new line of punch tools for the recently launched Aluna+ system.

Billed as a ‘revolution in aluminium window design’, Aluna+ offers class leading performance and aesthetics but crucially, was also designed to be one of the most fabricator friendly systems on the market.

“With Aluna+, we wanted to bring

simplicity, flexibility and agility to aluminium system manufacturers,” said Chris.

“After 20 years of working in the PVC-U sector, I’ve collaborated on numerous projects with Adam and Sean, so I knew I could trust them to develop the punch tools we needed to deliver our revolutionary new aluminium system.”

The time scale was tight, with JadeConsult given four weeks for the initial design process, plus six weeks to produce a prototype.

However, despite unforeseen supply chain delays that were out of Alunet and Jade’s control, a solution was delivered on schedule and exactly as ordered.

“There were some demanding deadlines with the Aluna+ punch tool project, but actually we don’t mind a bit of pressure as that additional focus can often help to unleash additional engineering creativity,” said Adam Jones.

“In fact, when we initially met with Chris, we already had a pretty good idea of what he was after, so we were able to act on the technical brief quite quickly, with a minimalist design that was easy to use, maintain and could help to ensure low stock holding.

“Another benefit of working with us, is that we’re UK based, so our machines and replacement parts are easily accessible,” continued Adam.

“That’s a massive advantage over suppliers that rely on parts that need to be shipped from overseas, which can get lost or delayed, creating knock-on effects with manufacturers.

“In contrast, we now have a healthy stock of new punch tools for Alunet fabricators and replacement punches that can be delivered to them within 24 hours – and when they arrive, our unique design means changing a tool is quick and easy. There’s no need to dismantle anything, you just pop the lid off, change the tool, and you’re back in action.”

Chris Armes concludes: “For us, it’s

With Aluna+, we “wanted to bring simplicity,

flexibility and agility to aluminium system manufacturers – and JadeConsult delivered exactly what was needed to make that possible.

“

hen Alunet needed a revolutionary new punch tool for its Aluna+ line, the company’s product development director turned to the one team he knew could deliver; Adam Jones and Sean Mackey at JadeConsult.

“If you’ve got a problem, and no-one else can help”…part of the famous opening monologue to the iconic eighties TV series ‘A Team’ is a phrase that many will still instantly recognise today and it’s also one that perfectly resonates with two of the fenestration industry’s most respected ‘problem solvers’, Adam Jones and Sean Mackey.

As the driving force behind engineering specialist, Jade, Adam and Sean have accrued a wealth of experience over the decades, to the extent that their distinctive green brand can be found in factories the length and breadth of the UK. Typically, you will find Jade’s tooling and machinery installed at crucial points in the production process, the vital element that ensures a line will work as smoothly as possible and proof that the company is now firmly established as part of the industry’s DNA. And while Jade continues to grow at its new and improved 30,000ft2 Coventry HQ, under the guidance of MD Gareth Davies, the introduction of JadeConsult – a specialist service designed to introduce manufacturing efficiencies – has given Adam and Sean a new focus for their meticulous engineering creativity.

It is available to window and door fabricators, where potential issues and production bottlenecks can be identified and rectified, but also to support system companies in the development and roll out of new product lines.

the Rolls Royce of punch tools and just another example of the genius of Jade – they instinctively understand what is required and in this case, they’ve successfully helped us to deliver a next generation product line that has been engineered to raise the bar in aluminium system supply.”

58 | machinery | october 2025

Premium windows soar in demand, automation accelerates, Haffner and Graf Synergy set a new industry benchmark

Shaping the future of window fabrication M achine automation has long driven progress in fabrication, and as demand for premium quality windows continues to rise, innovation is more important than ever. The latest machine development from Haffner and Graf Synergy is designed to meet that demand and set a new benchmark for the industry. Matt Thomas, Managing Director of Haffner, explains.

At Haffner, we’ve spent decades helping fabricators embed automation into their businesses because it is the single biggest step you can take to improve productivity, reduce costs and stay competitive. But as the industry evolves, so too do the demands placed on fabricators. Increasingly, the challenge is not only about producing more windows efficiently but also about producing them better. This is where our latest machine, the new Graf Synergy SL8FF-TR, comes in.

The SL8-FF-TR represents a step change in fabrication. It takes all the traditional benefits of automation, speed, efficiency, accuracy and labour savings and combines them with something much more powerful: the ability to consistently deliver a premium quality finish. That unique combination opens the door to exciting new opportunities for fabricators, particularly in the growing high-end window market.

We spend a lot of time talking to fabricators and one theme that comes up again and again is the rising demand for

heritage-style and flush casement windows.

Homeowners want windows that replicate the refined look of timber while still offering the performance of PVC-U. They also want those products delivered quickly and at a price point that makes sense. Traditionally, achieving that balance has been difficult.

The processes involved in creating a traditional-looking product have often been labour intensive, space heavy and expensive to run.

The SL8-FF-TR changes all that. It is the only machine in the world capable of seamlessly welding all four corners of a PVC-U frame, plus two timber-effect transoms, in a single automated cycle.

Even more impressively, it does this without any manual cleaning or finishing. The result is a perfect seamless weld that delivers a finish so clean and refined it looks like a traditional mechanical joint.

And because it is achieved through full automation, it is fast, consistent and repeatable every single time.

The efficiency gains are just as compelling. A fully welded and finished frame can be produced in under 150 seconds with just one operator. Compared with a traditional welding and cleaning line, the SL8-FF-TR can increase throughput by at least 50%, cut labour requirements by up to 75% and reduce ongoing operating costs by around 30%.

It also has a much smaller footprint. In one recent new installation, a single SL8FF-TR replaced a line that occupied 120 square metres of factory space, freeing up 95 square metres for other highvalue operations. For fabricators under pressure to maximise output without costly factory expansions, that space saving is invaluable.

But while productivity and efficiency are vital, what excites me most about the SL8-FF-TR is the competitive advantage it creates.

The seamless, timber-like finish it delivers gives fabricators the ability to move into high-margin product lines with confidence. Whether it’s flush sash or other heritage-inspired windows, the SL8-FF-TR provides the premium aesthetic

that the market demands. And because it eliminates the need for sprue removal, sanding, polishing or penning in, it ensures that the quality is consistent, while also saving valuable production time.

This is the next stage in automation: machinery that doesn’t just protect the bottom line but actively drives growth by opening new markets. That’s why early adopters of the SL8-FF-TR are already reporting remarkable results. They are not only producing more frames more quickly and with fewer people, but they are able to position themselves as suppliers of premium, high-value products that give them a real edge in a competitive landscape.

At Haffner, we have been a trusted machinery partner to the fenestration industry for over three decades. Over the years, we’ve seen how automation has evolved and how fabricators of all sizes have benefitted from the gains it brings. The SL8FF-TR is the latest example of how the right investment in machinery can transform a business.

In times of economic pressure, productivity will always matter. But quality is increasingly the differentiator that allows fabricators to stand out and grow. The SL8FF-TR delivers both, which is why we believe it represents the future of fabrication. https://haffnerltd.com/

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60 | machinery | october 2025

Seamless efficiency, scalable capacity, and premium craftsmanship help Warmer Roof and Elumatec UK shape the future of aluminium fabrication

Future-proofing roofs with precision W hen Somerset-based Warmer Roof made the decision to bring aluminium fabrication in-house, it marked more than a shift in manufacturing—it redefined the company’s operational DNA. Known for its high-performance roof systems, Warmer Roof’s £350,000+ investment in a new aluminium facility, underpinned by machinery from Elumatec UK, signals a bold expansion and a clear commitment to quality and control.

“It’s not just Warmer Roof anymore – this is Warmer Aluminium,” says Luca Muspratt, the company’s Business Director. The remark underscores a wider transformation: the business is no longer reliant on thirdparty suppliers, but now offers a fullspectrum, vertically integrated solution.

Fully integrated aluminium offering At the centre of this evolution is a new aluminium product lineup featuring systems such as the Sheerline S1 Roof Lantern and the Smart Architectural Aluminium Visofold 1000 Slim Bi-Fold.

Housed under one roof, these offerings allow Warmer Roof to function as a true one-stop shop for its trade customers— delivering greater flexibility, speed and reliability.

The machinery behind the scenes plays a pivotal role. The Elumatec DG 244 double mitre saw, linked to a label printer, begins a traceable production chain by generating barcodes for each cut. These barcodes are scanned on the SBZ 118 CNC machining centre, automatically loading the correct machining programme. Supporting this is the TS 161/21 bead saw with full DigiStop and precision assembly tables— all integrated into a streamlined and connected workflow. “We’ve seen increased productivity and workflow efficiency.

Without this setup, manufacturing at our scale simply wouldn’t be feasible,” says Muspratt.

Precision, accountability, and pace The strategic decision to internalise aluminium production has done more than accelerate turnaround times. It has given Warmer Roof full control over quality, cost and delivery. “We wanted full control of the process, from assembly to quality to delivery.

This allows us to ensure every part of the customer experience reflects the standards we stand for,” Muspratt explains.

The company can now offer a five to

seven working day turnaround on unglazed aluminium products in stock colours, and has the flexibility to scale up output rapidly in response to demand. For trade customers placing orders well in advance, the consistency and reliability of supply are significant advantages. “We’re more efficient, but we also know we can turn the dial up instantly. That gives us a real competitive edge.”

The elumatec advantage For Warmer Roof, partnering with Elumatec UK was a deliberate choice driven by a desire for best-in-class performance.

“Elumatec is the industry leader in CNC machinery. If you’re striving for the best, you have to buy the best—and in our opinion, elumatec has no equal,” says Muspratt.

The collaboration extended beyond

machinery. With hands-on support from elumatec UK throughout the implementation phase, Warmer Roof was able to establish a fully functioning, scalable aluminium production line with minimal friction. Kenney Prunty, Regional Sales Manager at Elumatec UK, praised the company’s methodical approach.

“For anyone looking to set up aluminium profile production for the first time, you could learn so much from the way this team implemented their plans and ideas. A great success story that they should be proud of.”

Future-proofed operations Warmer Roof’s investment is more than a capacity upgrade—it is a strategic move that positions the business for long-term growth.

By controlling its aluminium fabrication, the company has secured operational resilience, enhanced customer service, and ensured alignment between its production capabilities and quality standards.

With elumatec UK as a technology partner, Warmer Roof has not just expanded—it has evolved, offering a model of how SMEs in the fabrication sector can future-proof their operations through thoughtful investment and strategic autonomy. Warmer Roof’s shift to in-house aluminium fabrication has delivered control, speed and consistency—setting a new standard in customer experience and operational excellence.

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62 | machinery | october 2025

Emmegi targets PVC-U fabricators with heavy-duty handling equipment

T

he Emmegi name might be synonymous with aluminium fabrication, but the UK based business is keen to remind PVC-U fabricators that they can also tap into the quality, and service that characterises Emmegi via its range of heavy duty trolleys, tables and handling equipment.

Managing Director Ian Latimer says that Emmegi’s range of logistics and handling equipment is renowned for its outstanding quality, durability and practicality. He explains: “Aluminium fabricators love our ancillary range – especially the Acca XL assembly benches, which we normally have in stock to meet the continual demand.

“PVC-U fabricators probably don’t even know that we offer these, but most of our range is just as suitable for PVC-U as it is for aluminium. As well as the Acca XL tables, we also offer the Five CS vertical tilting assembly rig, and a wide range of trolleys including the Stack and Taglio models for transporting cut profiles and finished frames around the factory.

“The Five CS glazing rig is suitable for both ali and PVC frames and has pneumatic tilt and clamping functions controlled with a footswitch so that fabricators can clamp the frame into position, fit the glass and then tilt into position single handedly if they need to.

“The heavy duty Stack and Taglio trolleys are all about making the storage and flow of materials around the factory as efficient as possible and they come with swivelling castors which, we know from experience, will last for decades.

“A stand out product for PVC-U is probably our Spin 4 gasket trolley, which includes 4 adjustable and extendable reel holders with locking clutch and a gasketguide for trouble free unwinding. It even has a clever quick gasket roll change system.”

As well as the fact that they so well

engineered and available on short lead times, one of the other reasons why Emmegi’s handling products are so popular is that they are fully supported

by Emmegi (UK)’s service and spare parts team.

Replaceable items are held in stock at the company’s Coventry HQ, and extension and repair kits are available for many of the products.

Ian Latimer adds: “Emmegi products are built to last and that means they can be serviced and repaired to extend their useful life as long as possible. It’s obviously always been true of our machine range but it’s true of our logistics products as well.

“We offer bulk buy discounts, and we can deliver across the whole of the UK and Ireland.”

Details of the full Emmegi range of ancillaries are at: https://www.emmegi. com/en/applications-type

Faster, cleaner, smarter: Haffner’s SL8-FF-TR redefines PVC-U welding

A

new machine collaboration between Haffner and Graf Synergy has delivered a machine that fundamentally reshapes the way fabrication is carried out, and gives fabricators the ability to increase efficiency, reduce costs and deliver products with a premium finish.

The new SL8-FF-TR 8 Head CNC Welding Machine is the only machine in the world capable of seamlessly welding all four corners of a PVC-U frame, along with two timber-effect transoms, in a single automated cycle and all without any manual cleaning or retouching.

Matt Thomas, Managing Director at Haffner, said: “Traditional welding and cleaning lines have served the industry well for years, but they come with inherent inefficiencies. They’re large, require significant factory space, involve multiple operators and extra time to manually clean and touch up finished corner and transom welds. The SL8-FF-TR changes all of that.”

By condensing what was previously a complex, multi-step operation into a single, compact machine, the SL8-FF-TR streamlines production dramatically, delivering huge time and labour savings. A

fully welded and finished frame is ready in under 150 seconds, with just one operator required. Furthermore, because it’s a single machine, it frees up valuable factory space, allowing fabricators to increase output without the need for costly expansions or additional equipment.

Quality of finish is also dramatically enhanced. The seamless welds and mechanical-jointing effect give frames a clean, refined appearance that closely replicates the aesthetics of traditional timber joints. For fabricators competing in the growing flush sash and heritage-style markets, this premium aesthetic provides a clear competitive advantage. Plus, by removing the need for sprue removal and other post-weld finishing processes, the machine reduces consumable use and lowers ongoing operating costs too.

The SL8-FF-TR is already delivering for Haffner customers. Early adopters of the machine have reported throughput increases of at least 50%, reductions in labour requirements of up to 75% and operating expense savings of around 30%.

In one installation, a single SL8-FF-TR replaced a traditional line that occupied 120m2 of space, freeing up 95m2 for other

high-value operations.

Matt concluded: “What excites me most about this machine is the new opportunities it creates. It allows fabricators to scale up production, move into high-margin product lines and differentiate themselves in an increasingly competitive market. It’s not just a step forward in welding technology, but a reinvention of the entire process.”

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64 | heritage feature | october 2025

Ventrolla blends traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation to restore and enhance heritage window performance

Restoring heritage, redefining performance I f your customers live in a heritage, listed or period property, you’ll know how important it is for them to retain the home’s original features. From Georgian terrace homes to Victorian townhouses and more, timber sash and casement windows are a central part of the building’s characteristics. Despite the importance, decades of weathering, neglect or inappropriate repairs can leave the windows rattling, draughty or decaying. The challenge is finding an approach that can retain authentic detail while also meeting the modern standards of comfort and efficiency.

At Ventrolla, we take a restoration-first approach, with replacement being a last resort. That approach has been fine-tuned over our 40 years in the industry, with over a million windows restored across the UK. Craftsmanship backed by quality materials The first consideration when working on heritage windows is the choice of materials being used. We take the time to carefully source the finest timbers best suited to each project, including sapele, redwood and sustainable Accoya. By selecting wood of this quality, we ensure that the new sections blend seamlessly into the existing frame, standing the test of time and remaining

visually pleasing. Our VR90 wood repair system is designed to revitalise and reinforce timber windows. The powerful two-part epoxy resin strengthens wooden joints and fills gaps, preserving the original features.

We also lead the way with our technological enhancements for timber sash and casement windows. Our innovative draught proofing technology, the Ventrolla Perimeter Sealing System (VPSS) creates an effective barrier against cold air and draughts entering your property, while preventing heat from escaping.

VPSS is typically fitted as standard to all renovated existing windows, as well as all replacement sash and casement windows or doors. This draught proofing technology delivers measurable performance benefits, helping with rattle and draught prevention, protection against water and dust ingress, whilst also providing superior soundproofing - with noise reduction levels of up to 6-10 dB(A), offering smoother window operation and improving the Window Energy Rating (WER) by up to 30%.

Due to its unobtrusiveness and availability in any colour, the VPSS is recognised by planning authorities and conservation officers. It conforms to BS 7386:1997, BS EN 12207:2000 and BS 63751:2009 Class 3.

Smart design for easier maintenance During VPSS installation, we also fit our signature patented Sash Removal System (SRS), designed to make ongoing maintenance safer, easier, and less disruptive. The SRS eliminates frustrations like lost sash cords and the need for scaffolding during routine maintenance, whether for existing or newly crafted windows. Its unique ‘brake’ mechanism secures sash cords firmly in place and allows for effortless removal of upper and lower sashes, providing unrestricted access to the box frame for easy maintenance.

It is also discreetly mounted inside the sash, meaning it is hidden internally and externally during normal use.

Preserving heritage, restoring function The results speak for themselves. At St Marie’s Cathedral House in Sheffield, it was not possible to replace the windows due to restrictions put in place by the council’s conservation office. Although years of re-

painting had sealed them shut, Ventrolla were able to carefully renovate and restore each one to full use.

In London, we restored over 300 sash windows at Kensington Hotel, ensuring the existing windows were restored and those that needed replacing matched the original woodwork. Moving to Wales, we surveyed 66 sash windows on the Grade II Listed ‘The Bank’, and sympathetically restoring the windows to match the high-end finish of the wider project.

Our work goes further than restoration projects. We have been leading conversations with industry experts around how we can improve the industry, create more consistent guidance and tackle the skills gap. We want to champion windows in heritage properties, as once that history is lost, it can never be recovered.

Heritage windows are key functional elements of a home, providing light and fresh air. However, for many, they are more than that, they embody the craftsmanship of previous generations. Restoring these windows is more than just saving the timber frames and glass panes, it’s about preserving the history of the building whilst also ensuring the windows are fit for purpose for years to come.

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

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

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

66 | heritage feature | october 2025

At Ikea’s new Oxford Street store, ASWS revitalises hardwood windows, championing sustainability, longevity, and craftsmanship

Hardwood windows reborn above Ikea A s arguably the best-known retailer of timber furniture across Europe and beyond, Ikea takes its environmental responsibilities — including the sustainable sourcing of materials — very seriously. It is fitting, therefore, that the creation of the company’s latest store in the UK has featured the conservation of 14 large hardwood windows which had been exposed to the worst of the weather for more than a century.

The Swedish chain’s ESG commitments focus on three key areas - Health & Sustainable Living, Climate, Nature & Circularity. It follows that the carefully considered in-situ repair of these mansard frames by fenestration repair specialist, Associated Steel Window Association (ASWS), offers a respectful resonance. As the London-based contractor has proved on previous projects, such as the conversion of the nearby County Hall, avoiding replacement often delivers the lowest impacts.

In the case of 214 Oxford Street, the north-east segment of the famous four Oxford Circus landmark buildings, ASWS was initially called in

by Avison Young, the client’s representative, to carry out a full condition survey of the steel, timber and street level bronze windows which surround the structure. Then when it began work for

main contractor McLaren Construction in early 2023 as the scaffolding went up, all the areas of concern highlighted in the lengthy report were proved to have resulted from serious water ingress; both through the Portland Stone façades and other weaknesses such as failed asphalt.

With up to 50 personnel on site at any one time, ASWS deployed all of its tradecraft on the project, including the skilled team of carpenters, glaziers, fitters and painters directly involved up on Level 5 of the building which will now be let as high-spec offices. And, although there was a level of decay due to the weather and poor maintenance down the years, ASWS was confident from early on that the mix of side hung casements set within fixed lights could be given a new lease of life. In the worst cases the carpenters were forced to splice in new timber sections where the old hardwood had become badly rotted. Many of the sills also needed replacing where they had sat in water for years.

Mainly measuring 1.6m wide by 2.7m high, though some were 3.7m long, the ageing wooden windows were also close to floor level and reached up into the eaves. While the actual frames remained in place, ASWS demounted the sashes so that they could be stripped and repaired in its compact workshop set up on site.

This stage of the work included routing in new weather seals as a straightforward but significant energy saving measure. Once the conservation work was complete, any broken glass was replaced along with a switch to safety glass along all the lower sections. The reglazing was carried out using security tape and then a silicone top cap bead applied externally. Internally the original solid timber beads were refitted. In addition, all of the hinges were replaced while the rest of the ironmongery was buffed and polished before being reinstalled.

Impressively, the client and its project team have targeted a BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ for this ambitious retail refurbishment: requiring every aspect of its environmental performance to be evaluated. So, while 214

Oxford Street benefits from being located on three Tube lines as well as multiple bus routes, and air source heat pumps have replaced conventional gas boilers, attaining the highest environmental standard requites many small wins to raise performance.

Accordingly, working to conserve and upgrade the energy performance of existing fenestration, rather than installing new, earns valuable points.

Peter Jelkeby, CEO and chief sustainability officer for Ikea UK, said: “We have worked carefully to ensure we maintain the character of this historic building whilst creating a modern retail environment for customers to explore and be inspired.

Ikea Oxford Street’s location complements our network of stores in London – and beyond – and allows us to be closer to where our customers live, work and shop, while importantly being easily accessible by foot or public transport.” www.asws.co.uk

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68 | heritage feature | october 2025

Ian Short of Morley Glass highlights how new integral blind colours enhance shading, energy efficiency, and style in heritage homes

Slimline shading for tomorrow’s homes A n expanded range of colours for Morley Glass’s exclusive slimline SL16 integral blind system adds a new dimension to the appeal of this thoroughly modern shading and privacy solution for the upgrade of heritage properties. Ian Short, the company’s managing director explains why.

Two current home improvement trends are driving increased interest in integral blinds for the windows and doors of heritage properties.

Firstly, many homeowners are currently opting to ‘improve rather than move’ in response to the short term economic outlook. This is illustrated in a survey commissioned by Compare the Market earlier this year, which found that 52% of homeowners said they are staying put and making improvements to their property rather than moving.

Another trend is homeowners looking to take steps to improve the energy efficiency of their homes, whilst at the same time giving their property an aesthetic makeover.

This is driven by a growing realisation amongst the wider public that one of the most effective ways to reduce energy bills is to invest in the fabric of their homes, taking steps to boost insulation and reduce heat loss rather than hoping in vain for gas and electricity costs to fall.

Both trends mean interest is relatively strong amongst homeowners in replacing windows and doors or even just the IGUs with the latest generation of products, particularly in the middle to high end of the market.

The importance of slim integral blinds for retrofitting Integral blinds have not always been regarded as compatible with the IGUs we usually find in the windows and doors of older properties. This is because many of the older generation frames will not accommodate the 28mm IGUs which is the minimum width required for standard integral blinds and the norm for many new windows and doors today.

Hence why we introduced a slimmer Venetian integral blind system into the UK in 2018 called the ScreenLine® SL16. This is designed to be fitted into 24mm IGUs, the width that is common in new PVCu vertically sliding sash windows today as well as many older casements.

So, whether a homeowner is interested in replacing complete window and door

units or just the IGU, the SL16 will provide a solution where standard systems cannot.

New colours boost the slim system’s visual appeal An expanded choice of colours for SL16 makes it possible for installers to offer integral blinds that tick the box for the vast majority of customers from an aesthetic perspective.

The narrower slats of the SL16 have always made it a popular choice for heritage properties. However, until now, the limited choice of three colours – White (S102), Cream (S149) and Silver (S157) – was

fairly restrictive compared to the other ScreenLine® integral blinds, and there was a growing realisation that this had to be increased to meet ever changing and more divergent customer tastes and décor.

This is why ScreenLine® systems manufacturer Pellini S.p.A. has responded by developing a further six slat colours which have the potential to take the system’s appeal to a whole new level. Nine colours are now available, including contemporary Agate Grey (S120) and Black (B160), along with more traditional colours such as Beige (S125) and Light Grey (S155).

Not just about an aesthetic upgrade Integral blinds give windows and doors the wow factor and the SL16 can now provide that in more heritage properties than ever before given the new colours. But the appeal of integral blinds is enhanced further given that the glass can be upgraded to a product with a very low U-value or a glass with enhanced solar control.

Both these performance characteristics can contribute to a reduction in energy consumption and increased year-round comfort within the home. Choosing a slimline SL16 integral blind unit made with Planitherm One, for example, allows a homeowner to insulate their property to an even higher standard and add a shading solution that will help to reduce overheating and glare at the height of summer. www.morleyglass.co.uk

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70 | heritage feature | october 2025

Can I get sash windows that look like timber? Quickslide to the rescue!

Q

uickslide trade partner Timber Windows Southern recently completed a standout installation for returning customers Mr and Mrs Crosthwaite. The couple had previously purchased a timber front door from the firm and were now seeking to replace ageing PVC-U casement windows with something more in keeping with the character of their home, asking the common question “Can I get sash windows that look like timber?” The solution: Quickslide’s Legacy sash windows.

“Quickslide’s Legacy offered the traditional aesthetic our clients were after, without compromising on performance,” says Jack Devaney of Timber Windows Southern. “And we like the consistency of the finish of Legacy: the windows always arrive in great condition, and they look fantastic when installed.”

In total, 25 white woodgrain vertical sliders were specified for the project, each featuring run-through sash horns, mechanical outer frames and welded sashes.

A number of the windows were coupled together using Quickslide’s slim coupler system to maintain the clean lines of the installation, while extended 210mm cills added to the authentic appearance and weather protection.

Timber Windows Southern has partnered with Quickslide since 2018, after the company was looking for a new supplier, says Jack. “I did a fair bit of research, found Quickslide online and got in touch. After

speaking with Ray from the sales team, we trialled a showroom window and have been working with them ever since.”

“We use Quickslide because they provide a quality product at a good cost, their service is great, and delivery is always on time.

That level of reliability is crucial for our business as it ensures that we do not let out customers down.”

“Any installer looking for a reliable sash window supplier should get in touch with Quickslide and chat about how they can help your business. Quickslide are always there to support you, they recently

helped with some promotion, creating and supplying some bespoke leaflets for us. We gained orders off the back of this, which shows how even simple tools can make an impact – and why choosing the right supplier really does make a difference.”

Timber Windows Southern is a familyrun firm delivering high-quality timber and timber-alternative installations across the south coast. Consistency and reliability are key. Based in Hampshire, the business has built a loyal customer base through quality craftsmanship, product expertise and service.

Roseview releases new Emperor horn, offering installers more choice

R

oseview Windows has released its latest seamless run-through sash window horn, the Emperor. As an optional upgrade on their Ultimate Rose timber-alternative sash window, Emperor offers Roseview’s customers more options than ever before. It joins Dolphin and Seahorse as one of Roseview’s suite of three fully seamless mechanically jointed run-through sash horns.

Richard Burrells, managing director at Roseview, explains: “It is exciting to be able to offer our customers more choice than ever before. The Emperor horn is inspired by one of the most traditional and commonly found timber sash horn styles. The bold and defined design offers authentic heritage character and classic styling. This makes the Emperor perfect for period projects, conservation areas, or traditional homes.’’

With over 40 years of developing and manufacturing uPVC sash windows, Roseview has continuously innovated

new features, options and details, having launched the Dolphin horn in 2011 and the Seahorse horn in 2022. The Emperor horn was launched at this year’s FIT Show and received positive feedback from customers.

Richard continues: ‘Historically it has been difficult for different horn designs to be replicated in uPVC. However, with our unique technology and constant innovation, we can offer a range of design options on the Ultimate Rose. It’s the only timber alternative sash window to be able to do so.’’

“Not only does this further enhance the heritage accuracy and authenticity of our class-leading sash windows,” Richard concludes: “it gives installers more options.

In turn that means our customers are in a better position to win more high-value, high-end sash window jobs.”

To find out more about the Emperor horn, visit www.roseview.co.uk/emperor or call Roseview on 01234 712657.

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72 | fabrication | october 2025

Amelia Gaughan takes a closer look at how Affordable Windows Group’s in-house operation powers the success of Timberlook

Inside Timberlook’s craft and culture B ehind every successful installation lies a manufacturing operation that most customers never see.

While homeowners admire the authentic timber appearance of our heritage uPVC range, behind the scenes there are production processes, quality controls, and customer support systems working to make each project possible.

As Head of Marketing for Affordable Windows Group, I’ve watched our Timberlook operation evolve from a modest corner of our factory into production lines that now occupy almost half our facility. But the real transformation isn’t in the increase in factory floor space – it’s in the deliberate operational choices we’ve made to support installers who choose our systems.

Developing solutions in-house When we recognised a boom in the heritage uPVC market, we knew we wanted to be at the forefront of this trend.

After experimenting with buying in flush windows, we knew that the only way to do our installers justice was to develop our own flush wood-effect window system in-house.

From the beginning, this approach has been fundamental to our operations behind the scenes. Developing Timberlook as our own in-house system taught us the value of having full control over the design and manufacturing process. Unlike other heritage systems which can be manufactured by third parties, we are the only manufacturer making our Timberlook range – and that’s exactly how we like it.

The result is consistency that’s difficult to achieve with bought-in systems. Whether you’re ordering Timberlook products for a Victorian terrace restoration or a new-build development, our in-house manufacturing processes ensure consistent quality every time.

While we developed our Timberlook window and door range ourselves, our longstanding partnership with Aluplast makes our in-house development capabilities possible.

This relationship gives us the flexibility to identify emerging trends, implement modifications where possible, and engage Aluplast’s expertise for more complex innovations. The development of our Timberlook flush door system demonstrates this perfectly. When we identified an opportunity to improve our flush French door by introducing a mechanical midrail section, we worked with Aluplast

collaboratively to find a solution that would provide our installers with the authenticity their customers are looking for.

Our work with Aluplast has also provided us with extensive technical knowledge of the Timberlook range, enabling us to address installer queries with complete understanding of the system. If a trade customer reports an issue, we have all of the information we needed to implement solutions immediately and effectively.

Investing in efficiency Efficiency is the backbone of any manufacturing operation, and behind the scenes at Timberlook we’ve been investing in the efficiency of our operations to ensure we can continue to meet our customers’ needs.

Currently, we have three dedicated SuperCut saws specifically for flush window production (alongside another three for our standard window production). The investment in efficient machinery means we can maintain production flow even during peak periods, but more importantly, it ensures every profile meets the exacting standards required.

Our logistics investment tells a similar story. Rather than relying on third-party distribution, we’ve built our own delivery network spanning the UK. When our trade customers book a delivery slot for a project, that window needs to arrive on time and in perfect condition – there is no room for delays. Our logistics are supported by our investment in a holding and distribution centre, which allows us to offer timely delivery to our installer partners across the UK.

Real people, real support As important as it is to have efficient machinery, technology, and automated systems to keep things running smoothly, I’ll always advocate for the importance of genuine customer service, practical support and a personal touch.

At Timberlook, we’ve deliberately structured our customer service around dedicated account management. Every customer works with a specific account manager who understands their business, knows their typical specifications, and recognises their project challenges.

This personal approach to customer service has allowed many relationships to flourish over the years, developing into partnerships that extend far beyond business transactions. Together with our longstanding trade partners, we’ve grown alongside each other, celebrating births and birthdays, marriages and milestones – creating connections that reflect the genuine relationships at the heart of our operation.

The transformation of Timberlook from a corner operation to the popular heritage uPVC range it is today demonstrates what happens when you build operations around supporting trade professionals rather than simply processing orders.

As we continue expanding our operations, our core principles remain centred around doing what we do best: providing products that are a cut above the rest, efficiency that exceeds expectations, and customer service that treats every installer as a valued business partner.

E: sales@timberlook.com

A GREAT SASH WINDOW IS MORE THAN A SUM OF ITS PARTS True authenticity comes from a blend of heritage styling and modern performance.

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

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

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

Only Roseview’s Ultimate Rose sash window delivers all this.

Because it’s more than a sum of its parts.

01234 712657 trade@roseview.co.uk www.roseview.co.uk #TraditionRedefined

74 | fabrication | october 2025

Rising competition is sharpening ambition, argues Sternfenster’s Mike Parczuk, transforming pressure into purposeful progress for installers

Why competition can drive business success C reating a strategy to stay ahead of the competition in times of economic uncertainty, escalating costs, and persistent inflation can be makeor-break for businesses. This environment challenges and encourages companies to streamline operations and to explore new ways to stay competitive.

“Ultimately, choice is a good thing for installers,” says Mike Parczuk, Managing Director of Sternfenster. “It means fabricators must invest to make sure they’re giving a better product in the most efficient way possible to stay relevant alongside competitors.”

For both suppliers and installers in the fenestration industry, this is a time of careful decisions and smart choices to help businesses both attract new customers and retain loyal ones, to succeed against the competition. This increases the pressure for suppliers to clearly establish themselves to installers as partners with a reliable reputation.

“We want to be kept on our toes because we want to be one of the best,” Mike continues. “We work very hard to deliver everything in the most efficient way possible.”

That commitment to continuous improvement shows through Sternfenster’s ongoing training, upskilling and utilising the latest tech to deliver the quality customers expect. A key result of these

investments is shown by Sternfenster’s record COTIF score in July, demonstrating the fabricator’s reliability and quality service that its customers can rely on.

“We’re only human. We don’t always get it right,” Mike explains. “But, making sure you really focus on what the customer wants is the key to getting there.”

As such, Sternfenster continues to listen and adapt to customer needs. Digital innovations such as the EasyAdmin+, SF+, and their continuously evolving product range set them apart from competitors.

EasyAdmin+ is Sternfenster’s cloudbased quoting system that lets installers simply create quotes for PVC-U, aluminium, and glass products at any time, 24/7. The tool automatically pulls in customer pricing and, once an order is won, transfers it straight to production - reducing manual errors and smoothing the process from sales to manufacturing.

According to Mike, investing in Sternfensters product range and digital tools, despite challenging economic conditions, strengthens the market and supports customers.

“We treat competition as motivation,” says Mike. “That’s why we listen closely to customers and launch products such as the Alitherm 400 and our new handle hardware range. All so our customers can have a clear edge to stay ahead of the game and win as many sales as they can.”

“Ultimately, while the customer won’t say to me ‘Mike, I need a new glass line, or a new welder’, we recognise that that investment portrays us as a reliable supplier from our customers’ point of view,” he adds.

“We’ll continue to invest in the future because that builds a sustainable business for everyone that relies on us.”

Tel: 01522 512525.

E: sales@sternfenster.co.uk

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And the personable service that comes from dealing with a business that remains proudly family owned.

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E: sales@uws.co.uk | T: 0116 236 4656 | W: uws.co.uk

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76 | fabrication | october 2025

Four decades strong, Belfast’s Dessian Products marks its milestone with craftsmanship, innovation and unwavering customer trust

Forty years framing the future of fenestration B elfast-based window fabricator Dessian Products Ltd is celebrating 40 years of trading. Dessian was first established in 1985 by two leading entrepreneurs, Des Longmore from FM Windows, and Ian Beattie from Discount Window Systems (DWS) – hence Des & Ian, or Dessian. Employing around 15 people to begin with, Dessian started its journey with two large customers – FM Windows and DWS, initially using prefabricated Virgin frames.

Operating in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland at this early stage, Dessian operated with one delivery lorry, a paper-based administration system, and a largely manual manufacturing process.

Their Apollo Rd site was previously occupied

by DeLorean to manufacture seatbelts for its cars. Despite these early limitations, in 1986 Dessian switched to Rehau profile and began its journey to becoming one of Rehau’s largest and longest standing customers in Europe.

Throughout the late 1980s, Dessian expanded from 100 frames per week (FPW) to 300 FPW, before reaching its first 1000 FPW week in 1990 – resulting in a celebratory staff trip to Mallorca. Around this time, Dessian began to foster a British customer base, corresponding with the creation of Dessian Scotland and a move to increase the company’s commercial presence in Scotland. Following this, Gaffer Group, owned by Stephen Sproule acquired Dessian in December 2005.

“As we celebrate 40 years in the market, we reflect on a journey marked by both challenges and change”, says Stephen, Chairman of Dessian Products Ltd. “The world has evolved dramatically, and the industry has seen its fair share of ups and downs. Through it all, Dessian has remained steadfast in our belief that quality and service will always prevail. Our longevity and success are a direct result of the strong, lasting relationships we’ve built with our valued customers and trusted suppliers.

We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together — and excited for what lies ahead.”

Fast-forward to March 2020 and the height of COVID, Dessian was forced to close for six weeks and then to build back business over what was a very difficult period. However, October 2020 brought its highest ever weekly order take of 3,986 frames coupled with its highest ever week’s production – 3,029 frames.

This success has enabled Dessian to give back to local communities, donating thousands of pounds to local charities.

They have also been able to progress their commitment to reducing carbon emissions, installing 185 solar panels in 2024.

Today, Dessian employs 160 people, including Belfast locals - Maxine Maginess, Ann Vincent, Marty Bell, Alison Banford, and Mandy Riddle. These staff are part of the original team, having worked at Dessian since its inception in 1985.

Marty Bell, Assistant Production Manager at Dessian Products, said: “Dessian has been a big part of my working life for almost 40 years – it’s not just been a job. I’ve worked with some great people and have made some lifelong friendships along the way. I’m proud to have played a part over the years in helping build the company to where it is now, and I look forward to continuing in my role as the company moves forward.”

Rehau and Dessian’s partnership has played a key role in the success of both companies, and over the years the respective teams have developed strong relationships.

Declan Coulter, Ireland and Scotland Divisional Sales Manager at Rehau UK, added: “Dessian and Rehau have grown

alongside one another in the PVC-U window and door sector, enhancing each other’s reputations with the quality of products they manufacture and the service they provide.

Approaching 40 years, the partnership is stronger than ever and Dessian remains one of our leading trade fabricators, manufacturing a comprehensive range of products in Rehau profile.”

Dessian is also focusing on investing in the future with its vehicle fleet currently being replaced through NI Trucks, another Gaffer Group company and a major investment programme has been commenced for the replacement of saws, welders and corner cleaners.

Alongside this, investing in employees has been a priority with the provision of continuous training to increase efficiency and to develop staff capabilities. Currently, Dessian offers 17 different training modules in various languages covering a range of key skills including side-loader, first aid and health and safety training. To celebrate the anniversary, the team will enjoy a staff barbecue in August, with each member receiving an anniversary polo-shirt. www.dessian.co.uk

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78 | fabrication | october 2025

Local supply chains cut carbon, bolster resilience, elevate glazing’s sustainability, says Frame Fast UK’s Nigel Leivers

Sustainable glazing starts with local supply S

ustainability is no longer a buzzword in construction it’s a requirement.

Whether you’re working on a new-build housing scheme or replacing windows in a period property, energy efficiency, carbon impact and responsible sourcing are now central to specification decisions.

Glazing plays a huge role in that conversation. Windows and doors are key contributors to heat loss in a building, and upgrading to high-performance glazing can cut household CO2 emissions by up to 4 tonnes a year. But to achieve truly sustainable results, it’s not just the product performance that matters - it’s how, and where, those products are made.

That’s where local fabrication comes in. Choosing a local glazing manufacturer doesn’t just make logistical sense - it’s an environmentally responsible decision that supports a more circular, accountable and transparent supply chain. At Frame Fast, we’ve been championing local, high-quality manufacturing in the East Midlands for nearly 30 years, and we believe its importance has never been clearer.

The carbon cost of distance Transport is one of the biggest contributors to carbon emissions in construction. Moving heavy, fragile products like windows and doors across the country - or even internationally - increases the carbon footprint of a project significantly.

Choosing a local fabricator like Frame Fast, based in Derby, cuts down those transport miles considerably, reducing emissions before a product even reaches site.

It also means faster lead times, fewer delays, and a better service experience overall. But the environmental benefit is the headline act: sourcing closer to home is a simple yet highly effective way to bring down embodied carbon in glazing.

Local means traceable With sustainability comes the need for accountability. More and more homeowners, developers and contractors want to know where their products come from, how they’re made, and whether the claims being made stack up.

When you buy from a local, established

fabricator, you’re not just getting a finished product - you’re getting full visibility of the supply chain behind it. At Frame Fast, we manufacture all our PVCu and aluminium products in-house at our Derby facility, as well as DGUs, with strict quality control and traceability built into every stage. Our materials are sourced from reputable UKbased suppliers, and we recycle aluminium, PVCu and glass waste wherever possible.

It’s a model that minimises waste, maximises resource efficiency, and gives our customers confidence that what they’re installing genuinely supports sustainable construction goals.

High performance starts with high standards As the industry moves towards stricter energy regulations - including the upcoming Future Homes Standard - the pressure is on to achieve ever-lower U-values. That puts even more importance on the quality of the glazing products themselves. A poorly fabricated window or door, even if made from premium components, will struggle to perform to spec.

Local fabrication isn’t just about geography - it’s about standards. At Frame Fast, we don’t outsource or batch jobs to

distant hubs. Everything is made to order, with a focus on precision and reliability.

We’ve invested in a dedicated aluminium department and two on-site showrooms one for aluminium, one for PVCu - where customers can see first-hand the quality and performance of what we produce.

That local control means consistency, compliance and confidence - not just in meeting today’s sustainability requirements, but in being ready for tomorrow’s.

Sustainability isn’t a trend. It’s a commitment.

For us, being local is part of a wider belief in doing things properly. We don’t take shortcuts, we don’t mass-produce, and we don’t compromise on materials or manufacturing. That ethos has always served us well - but it’s especially relevant now, as more people recognise the environmental and economic value of buying closer to home.

If sustainability is a priority on your next project - and it should be - choosing a trusted, local fabricator should be top of your list. It’s a straightforward decision that reduces carbon, increases quality, and strengthens the supply chain from start to finish.

80 | fabrication | october 2025

Darren Rhodes, MD of Glazerite North, on how Glazerite UK Group invests in its operations to better support installers long-term

Driving operational excellence for installers E

corner cleaning equipment. Meanwhile, the additions to our fleet of delivery vehicles and service engineer vans this year continues to strengthen customer support and delivery reliability.

Our Bolton operations have also been recently transformed to incorporate aluminium manufacturing, with a sixfigure investment in new people and new machinery from Haffner.

The addition of aluminium is pivotal for installers looking to benefit from a onestop-shop fabricator who can deliver an exceptional and broader choice of systems.

In-house fabrication rather than a buy-in approach enables us to reduce lead times and offer more flexibility. Our installers, meanwhile, continue to receive the same high level of service they have come to expect from Glazerite, whether they are buying aluminium, uPVC, or both.

The size of our Bolton site made it the perfect base for us to incorporate aluminium, and we are now fully operational, with fabrication of AluK and Cortizo products running seamlessly alongside our longstanding VEKA lines.

Dedicated work teams ensure expertise across both systems, and regular upskilling as part of our Fabricator Flexible and Agile Training Strategy ensures we can flex our

“

We know that it is a particularly competitive time for our installers, and if we can help them stand out in their markets by giving them an edge, we do it.

“

nsuring operational excellence is key to producing high-quality windows and doors for our installers, which, in turn, helps them maintain a positive reputation. It is a company-wide approach that sees us embrace lean principles, continuous improvement, and ongoing investment across each of our sites.

This includes the two Divisions I oversee: Glazerite North Division in Barnsley – the Deceuninck-dedicated facility which opened at the beginning of 2024 – and Glazerite North West in Bolton, which is now home to aluminium fabrication of Cortizo and AluK, alongside our existing VEKA uPVC offering.

We know that it is a particularly competitive time for our installers, and if we can help them stand out in their markets by giving them an edge, we do it. That includes enhancing our portfolio with the addition of Deceuninck, backed by a brand new, purpose-built site, and the implementation of in-house aluminium fabrication at Bolton to open up commercial opportunities. We’ve also underpinned this strategic shift with the expansion of our vehicle fleet to improve delivery and reach.

Our operations and people are the beating heart of Glazerite, and key to our absolute commitment to delivering quality products to our customers, when they need them, and wherever they are.

To deliver this takes regular investment.

Core production capability at our Barnsley site has recently been improved with a £150,000 investment in new welding and

teams in line with demand.

The commitment of our teams and the embedding of operational excellence for the benefit of our installers is clear. OnTime-In-Full (OTIF) performance across the North Divisions remains consistently above 98 percent, underpinned by lean operational tools and PDCA (Plan-Do-CheckAct) principles. Continuous improvement is embedded in daily routines, reinforcing our focus on quality and service.

Over the next 12 months, we’re planning for more than 40 percent growth across the Barnsley and Bolton sites. With investment, training, and lean discipline aligned, Glazerite is set to deliver even greater value to installers nationwide. www.glazerite.co.uk

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82 | fabrication | october 2025

SupaLite provides installers with a lightweight, easy-to-install solid roof which seamlessly fits onto the existing conservatory window frame

Providing stylish roofs for all-year comfort S upalite’s market-leading products are designed to withstand any weather, creating a versatile conservatory space that can be enjoyed 365 days of the year. With the SupaLite Tiled Roof System, installers can transform conservatories, extensions, or new build applications into comfortable and energy efficient living spaces. SupaLite recently partnered with one of their valued Premium Installers, Tyneside Home Improvements, transforming an outdated conservatory into a stunning, vibrant new heart of the home.

Struggles of an old conservatory The homeowners were struggling with a common issue: their outdated conservatory was unbearably hot in the summer and freezing cold in the winter, making it impossible to enjoy for most of the year.

After thorough research and exploring their options, they discovered the SupaLite Roof, an exceptional insulated solution. It offered everything they were looking for – perfectly addressing their comfort and design needs.

Tyneside Home Improvements expertly replaced their old conservatory roof with a new SupaLite Tiled Roof System, finished beautifully with ExtraLight Tiles in charcoal.

The result? A transformed conservatory that has made the homeowners fall in love with their home all over again!

To further enhance the conservatory, they chose two SkyVista Glass Panels, allowing natural light to flood the room, creating an inviting space they enjoy every day The homeowners are delighted with their SupaLite roof: “We had a top hat fitting replacing an old plastic roof and old windows and doors where the conservatory was too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter. We also had tiles put onto the roof and argon glass to make the room cooler in summer and warmer in winter. We

can definitely feel the difference so far, and it looks amazing!”

Supporting installer’s bespoke installs After receiving detailed plans and drawings, SupaLite’s primary focus was to ensure the new roof integrated flawlessly with the existing structure of the property.

Once finalised, the roof design was sent into production, where SupaLite’s expert manufacturing team meticulously crafted the SupaLite roof. Their team also went the extra mile to coordinate transportation, ensuring the roof kits, including two SkyVista Glass Panels, were delivered to the site on time and in full – within just seven working days.

SkyVista: One of the best glazing solutions on the market The innovative SkyVista design features a high-performance glass panel that lets in an abundance of natural light, whilst also insulating homes against heat loss and noise pollution. Unlike traditional conservatory

roofs, the technology behind the SkyVista means the conservatory will be cool and comfortable on hot sunny days and warm and cosy on cold winter days.

With a 60% solar heat reflection that still allows 47% of natural light into the building, it’s one of the best glazing solutions.

Supplied in cassette form, installers benefit from a quicker and easier installation process. With both tile and slate finishing options for panels, the SkyVista can be configured to numerous conservatory styles, including Edwardian, Victorian and Lean-to.

Delivering exceptional service SupaLite’s unwavering commitment to going the extra mile for their trade partners has been key to their success. They remain dedicated to developing solutions that exceed the demands and expectations of installers, helping you deliver superior results to your customers.

Partner with SupaLite and elevate your projects with industry-leading roofing solutions.

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84 | fabrication | october 2025

Distinctive and boldly refined, Unique’s UniFold next-generation bifolds promise smoother operation, slimmer sightlines and brighter living

Next-gen UniFold bi-folds from Unique U nique Window Systems is building on the success of one of its most popular product lines. In keeping with its commitment to continuous improvement, the respected, multi-awardwinning fabricator of PVC-U and aluminium fenestration solutions has launched a next generation version of its UniFold bifold door.

Mir Patel, Aluminium Operations Manager, at Unique, explains: “The introduction of our new and improved UniFold bifold door is significant and especially given its launch comes in our 20th anniversary year. It demonstrates both the strength and unrelenting nature of our belief in ongoing product development.”

He continues: “Unique may have seen considerable success over the last two decades, but we do not view that as a cause for complacency. Instead, we continue to invest into the evolution of our products to ensure they deliver optimum levels of performance, innovation and customer satisfaction.”

Reflecting this, Unique’s latest UniFold door offers a number of new and exciting benefits.

This includes super slim profiles with sightlines of just 107mm. Combined with generously sized sashes, which measure an impressive 1200mm by 3000mm, this helps to maximise uninterrupted exterior views as

well as levels of interior daylight.

The new version of UniFold also offers higher levels of energy efficiency. It delivers U-values of 1.4 W/m²K when combined with double glazing and of 1.1 W/m²K when fitted with triple glazing. This meets or exceeds the requirements of Approved Document Part L for both new build and refurbishment

projects To make installation even quicker and easier, Unique’s next generation UniFold doors also benefit from a new beading system where beads simply clip into place without the need for tools or time-consuming wedge gaskets.

Installation is further simplified by a new Toe & Heel device. This enables glass adjustment after fitting without the need to deglaze the sash.

Additional features include an integrated cill for increased protection from the elements as well as a choice of different sized universal aluminium cills which are compatible with most systems.

The new version of UniFold also includes the option of a floating corner post. This enables right-angled doors, including the return, to open out fully with the opportunity to include a fixed corner for the ultimate ‘wow’ factor.

Summing up, Mir adds: “We are genuinely excited about the upgrades and enhancements we’ve made to our UniFold doors.

The previous system was highly regarded by installers and property owners / occupiers alike and had become a Unique signature product.

“This latest generation builds on those achievements. In essence, we’ve taken one of the best and made it even better.”

Tel: 0116 236 4656 E: sales@uws.co.uk

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86 | fabrication | october 2025

Warwick North West’s Greg Johnson promotes change for women in a male-dominated fenestration industry

Opening doors for women in fenestration G 24-Award Fabricator of the Year Warwick North West’s Managing Director, Greg Johnson, shares his thoughts on increasing female representation in the fenestration industry and the company’s efforts to create more opportunities for women in this traditionally male-dominated sector.

When I look at my two young daughters, I wonder what career paths they’ll choose as they grow up. I’d love for them to follow mine and my father’s route, and move into the family business, but will they feel that our industry is open to them? Will they feel inspired if women continue to be absent from leadership and skilled positions across all sectors?

These questions drive my determination to change the fenestration industry from one traditionally dominated by men into a field where women can see themselves building successful, rewarding careers.

When I took over as Managing Director at Warwick North West in 2021, increasing the diversity within our team was a top priority for me. The fenestration industry has long been male-dominated. We’ve been working hard to change that, but there is still more that we all need to do.

Growing female representation I’m proud that since 2016, we’ve increased the number of women working at Warwick by 200%. This required deliberate changes to our recruitment practices, workplace culture, and how we present ourselves as an employer. We now have talented, award-winning women in key positions who are integral to our success.

However, I’m also aware that we still have work to do. Currently, most of our female workforce is concentrated in office-based roles like administration and marketing.

While these positions are vital to our operation, my ambition is to see similar representation in our manufacturing areas.

Across the UK, women make up just 14% of construction industry professionals, and the numbers are even lower in trades and on factory floors. I want to build the strongest possible team, one that is effective, passionate, and brings fresh ideas to the table. When an industry like ours unintentionally excludes women, we’re cutting ourselves off from skilled people who could help us grow and innovate.

If we’re only recruiting from half the population, we’re missing out on a huge talent pool.

Working with schools and colleges To address this challenge, we’ve developed partnerships with local schools and colleges to introduce young women to the opportunities available in fenestration.

We regularly visit and showcase our company culture, which is a huge part of attracting talented staff.

We work closely with Hugh Baird College, one of only three ‘Outstanding’ colleges in the North West, to develop apprenticeship pathways specifically designed to attract young people into manufacturing roles.

Apprenticeships provide a supportive environment for developing technical skills while earning a wage.

Youth leadership scheme One of my favourite things that we have implemented is a junior management program that acts as a second layer of management. The initiative pairs a selection of our young employees with senior managers who act as mentors, providing guidance and development opportunities.

It creates a clear progression path for young talent, showing them exactly where they can get to in the business.

The wider industry challenge While we’re making progress internally, transforming the wider industry requires a collective effort. Fenestration has

traditionally projected a very male image, from marketing materials to trade shows and recruitment practices. The issue is that women don’t see themselves represented and therefore simply wouldn’t consider a career in our sector.

The benefits of a more diverse workforce are clear. Research consistently shows that diverse teams are more innovative, make better decisions, and ultimately deliver better results. From a purely business perspective, when an industry like ours unintentionally excludes women, we’re cutting ourselves off from skilled people who could help us grow and innovate.

While we’ve made progress that I’m proud of, I’d like to do more to promote talented women in the sector. One of my end goals is to achieve what we have with female representation in our office on our factory floor and manufacturing.

As a father of two young daughters, I’d love nothing more than for them to be inspired to progress into this industry, not be put off by it.

As we continue to grow as a business, increasing diversity will remain a core part of ‘The Warwick Way’ – our approach to doing business that puts people and community alongside profit.

Tel: 0151 933 3030 www.warwicknorthwest.co.uk

88 | fabrication | october 2025

Sternfenster elevates Nathan Court to Chief Sales Officer role

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ternfenster has promoted Nathan Court to Chief Sales Officer (CSO), recognising his pivotal role in driving the company’s strategy and delivering consistent sales growth over the past eight years. Since he joined the business in 2017, Nathan has overseen the evolution of the company’s sales strategy, supported the introduction of new innovative systems, and worked closely with customers to strengthen long-term relationships.

Under his leadership, Sternfenster’s customer base has expanded significantly.

In 2024 alone, the company recorded a 22% increase in new customers, the largest annual growth in its history. This was supported by initiatives such as the launch of EasyAdmin+, an online quoting and order-processing tool, and the continued development of SF+, the customer portal designed to help installers manage their businesses more efficiently As part of his progression, Nathan has actively engaged with Sternfenster’s leadership development programme, which is aligned with the Investors in People (IIP) framework. This training has supported his development as a senior leader and is part of the company’s wider approach of combining internal development with high standards of performance.

“I’m delighted to step into the role of Chief Sales Officer,” says Nathan.

“Sternfenster has always encouraged its people to grow and excel, and I’m proud to be part of a business that puts its customers at the heart of everything.

“My focus will be on continuing to build on our strong foundations, ensuring we deliver even more value and remain the supplier of choice for high-quality window and door systems.”

Sternfenster CEO, Mike Parczuk, comments: “Nathan has made a huge impact since joining us eight years ago,

consistently raising the bar in terms of customer engagement and sales performance. His promotion is a reflection of both his ability and our belief in investing in our people. Nathan’s leadership will be central as we continue to expand our reach and deliver the very best service to our customers.”

Nathan’s appointment underlines Sternfenster’s commitment to developing talent, achieving excellence, and ensuring long-term stability and growth.

Training centre to tackle skills gap

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hepley has joined forces with Rehau and industry initiative Building Our Skills – Making Fenestration a Career of Choice – to help strengthen the skills pipeline for the glazing industry. As part of the collaboration, Shepley supplied a fully glazed Rehau window, single door and double door set for Building Our Skills’ new Milton Keynes training centre. The facility offers hands-on installation training for both newcomers to the trade and experienced fitters looking to enhance their skills.

Ian Griffiths, MD at Shepley, said: “The more we can do as an industry to raise installation standards and attract new talent, the stronger we all become.

Supporting the Milton Keynes centre with real products means trainees can work in conditions that reflect real-life installations.”

Building Our Skills is a not-for-profit organisation aiming to bridge the fenestration skills gap through careers outreach, partnerships with training bodies such as GQA Qualifications, and specialist schemes for veterans and offender rehabilitation. The Milton Keynes site is one of several nationwide centres where trainees fit windows and doors into purpose-built training walls. All courses are GQA-accredited, providing a recognised

qualification.

Stephen Beresford, Head of Marketing at Rehau, said: “From our first meetings with Building Our Skills, it was clear that they shared our position on the growing industry skills gap, and the challenge of attracting the next generation of workers to the fenestration industry.

“One of the major issues the industry faces is the lack of awareness surrounding the variety of careers available beyond fabrication, installation, and the factory floor. Increasing understanding of the sector

among young people and dispelling wider misconceptions is a primary objective of our partnership and is something that we hope will in turn attract new recruits to the industry.”

Mark Handley, Partnerships Manager at Building Our Skills, added: “We’re pleased to welcome Rehau as a National Partner and grateful for Shepley’s practical support.

Having genuine, fully glazed products at the training centre helps create realistic learning experiences for trainees, which is crucial to building a skilled workforce.”

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90 | fabrication | october 2025

Universal builds a customer-first future with a supercharged sales team

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abricator Universal Trade Frames has strengthened its sales force with a series of key appointments, including the arrival of well-known industry expert John Samuels as Head of External Sales. With a long-standing background as product expert at Masterframe and exceptional expertise in the timber alternative PVC-U market, John brings decades of product knowledge, technical insight, and industry connections to the business.

His appointment marks a major step in cementing Universal’s position in the South East, reinforcing the fabricator’s commitment to full regional coverage and installer support.

“John’s a fantastic addition to the team,” said Richard Hammond, Sales Director at Universal Trade Frames. “He knows the Residence Collection inside out, has incredible knowledge of the timber-style sector, and genuinely understands what matters to our customers. Building a strong sales team isn’t just about hiring people; it’s about hiring the right people who align with your culture and customer-first values.”

Joining John in the field sales team is Henry Dowd, a dynamic new external sales prospect whose energy and enthusiasm have already made an impact. Henry has 4 years of retail window experience so connects with our customers on a different level. Together, they represent a powerful one-two in the field, combining proven expertise with fresh thinking.

Behind the scenes, the appointment of Charmaign Anderson completes the loop in internal sales and admin support, ensuring that customer enquiries, order updates and service communications run smoothly from end to end.

“This is all part of our customer centric strategy,” Richard added. “We’re investing in people who can give our customers the attention, product knowledge, and local support they deserve, from first enquiry to final delivery. With John, Henry and Charmaign in place, we’re now in a fantastic position to grow, respond faster, and keep doing what we do best: helping installers win work and

stay ahead.”

The build of a “supercharged” sales team follows on from Universal’s recent manufacturing investments, including the launch of HeritageWeld, its exclusive solution for Residence Collection fabrication with a 0.1mm tolerance and its 98% OTIF service rate.

With a complete premium product suite and now a full-service sales team in place, Universal Trade Frames continues to build for the future, with its installer customers front and centre.

Tel: 01743 442244 E: info@utfl.co.uk

Crittall strengthens leadership with Level 5 management training initiative

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rittall Windows is proud to announce that two of its senior team members have recently achieved the prestigious CMI Level 5 Diploma in Management and Leadership.

Diane Gilchrist (Estimating Manager) and Miles Tinker (Head of Operations) have successfully completed the qualification, which develops practical leadership skills and strategic insight for managers.

The diploma covers core areas including managing teams, planning resources and driving performance. These are skills that are vital to Crittall’s continued commitment to excellence in customer service, delivery and project management.

MD at Crittall Windows, Russell Ager, commented: “We are always looking ahead and investing in our people is central to that. This achievement reflects the strength of our leadership team and ensures we continue to build a culture of professionalism and accountability across every part of the business.

“Our customers benefit directly from this through better communication, smoother project delivery and a team that is equipped to lead with confidence.”

The Chartered Management Institute (CMI) qualification is widely recognised as the benchmark for effective leadership.

It provides a direct route to full CMI membership and, with experience, Chartered Manager status which is the highest accolade in management.

Both Crittall colleagues completed the diploma while continuing in full-time roles. This reflects their dedication and the company’s culture of continuous improvement.The investment is part of a wider programme of professional development at Crittall. It ensures the company remains at the forefront of the steel window and door industry, with the skills and capabilities to meet the needs of architects, contractors and end clients. www.crittall-windows.co.uk

october 2025 | fabrication | 91

Heritage Trade Frames introduces next generation triple glazing

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eritage Trade Frames is set to become one of the first UK trade fabricators to introduce the next generation of glazing with the revolutionary Regency Triple featuring Corning® Enlighten™ Glass. Lee Darcy, Head of Sales and Marketing at Heritage Trade Frames, said: “We’re proud to be leading the way in bringing this innovation from Regency Glass and Corning Incorporated to our customers. Regency Triple offers all the advantages of triple glazing without the traditional limitations. It has the potential to transform glazing in the UK and unlock major opportunities for our customers, particularly in the domestic replacement and social housing refurbishment sectors.”

Unlike conventional triple glazing, which typically requires 44mm or more to achieve the best thermal values, the revolutionary Regency Triple featuring Corning® Enlighten™ Glass can achieve a 0.9W/m² overall frame U-value in a 36mm unit.

Remarkably, it is just 5% heavier than a conventional double-glazed unit, removing the transport, handling, installation and hardware challenges that have historically held back triple glazing. Because it can be specified in both 28mm and 36mm units, it works with standard 70mm profiles, making it a viable option for a far wider range of projects including domestic refurbishment, social housing and commercial new build without the need for new specifications elsewhere in the window contract.

Lee commented: “Thermal efficiency remains in the spotlight across the industry.

Triple glazing has always been the best solution to increasing the thermal efficiency of glazing, but it has never been a realistic option – until now.”

Developed by Regency Glass, a UK leader in glass manufacturing and supply, in collaboration with Corning Incorporated, Regency Triple uses a centre pane made from Corning® Enlighten™ Glass. At just 0.5mm thick, it delivers exceptional strength and performance while keeping the overall weight of the unit to a minimum.

Established in 1989 and now one of the North West’s leading trade fabricators, Heritage Trade Frames has built its reputation on reassuring longevity combined with a commitment to keeping its customers at the cutting edge. By being one of the first fabricators to introduce triple glazing using Regency Triple featuring Corning® Enlighten™️ Glass, it’s taking its reputation for being at the forefront of the industry to the next level.

Tel: 01204 664 700 E: info@heritagetradeframes.co.uk

Shepley expands vehicle fleet under continued investment programme

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rade fabricator Shepley Windows has expanded its transport fleet with the addition of several new vehicles as part of its ongoing investment strategy to enhance service, efficiency, and delivery for its installer customers across the UK. The newest vehicles have been add to the already extensive fleet introduced last year, which included three articulated truck trailers, two trailers, two lorries, and two vans, all of which are now on the road and featuring Shepley’s striking livery. The modernised fleet is designed to support Shepley’s growing customer base, enabling more frequent and flexible deliveries.

This development forms part of Shepley’s wider business investment across the company’s operations, including continuing factory improvements and IT infrastructure.

The investment programme is aimed at optimising every stage of the customer journey — from order to delivery. Ian Griffiths, MD at Shepley Windows, said: “The investment in our transport fleet is a critical part of our commitment to delivering better

service to our customers. With new, specially fitted vehicles, we can ensure products are loaded directly from final quality check and delivered in perfect condition, without unnecessary handling or delays. This helps installers stay on schedule and deliver a great customer experience.”

He added: “Our goal is to give installers a

real competitive edge. Whether it’s through improved product quality, greater choice, or better delivery logistics, everything we do is focused on supporting their success.”

The new fleet will further enhance Shepley’s reputation for reliability and responsiveness, helping trade customers stay competitive in a fast-moving industry.

92 | general feature | october 2025

Partnership and automation at work

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Automation and a partnership that delivers lasting value has been the catalyst for success for Twinseal

n 2025, Twinseal Limited is marking a series of major milestones. Celebrating its 50th year in business, 40 years of IGU manufacturing, and 25 years of producing its own toughened glass, the company is also marking another crucial anniversary – 20 years of partnership with Edgetech, a Quanex company.

What began as a bold step into the world of automation has evolved into a trusted collaboration that continues to shape Twinseal’s success. And at the heart of this long-standing partnership is a shared commitment to quality, consistency, and innovation.

“We’ve always been early adopters of high-performance materials and machinery,” explained Managing Director Billy Cowen, who took over the reins from his father Allan, the company’s founder.

“It’s 25 years since we installed our first toughening plant which made us one of the first independent companies in the UK to do so.

Then only a few years later, we began using soft coat low e glass from Saint-Gobain.”

The leading IGU manufacturer’s investment in automated unit production using Edgetech’s Super Spacer® 20 years ago was a game-changer, and a move that Billy says transformed Twinseal’s capabilities and took the business to another level.

Automation adoption Working closely with Edgetech, and machinery partner Forel, Twinseal’s decision to turn to automation came at a time when few independent IGU manufacturers were taking such a leap, and it’s a move that has paid dividends.

“The driving force behind going down the automation route was always about improving quality and consistency, but also about achieving volume,” explained Lee Cowen, Billy’s son and now Operations Director at Twinseal.

“Twenty years later, we’ve surpassed all our expectations. We’re able to produce high-quality units in consistent volumes efficiently, day in, day out. The process is so reliable that we don’t even have to think about it.”

Edgetech: More than a supplier Both Billy and Lee are quick to credit Edgetech’s long-standing support as integral to Twinseal’s journey. “Edgetech have been invaluable and a fantastic partner from day one,” said Billy. “They helped us get up and running, provided guidance on certifications and production processes, and have supported us every step of the way as we’ve grown and evolved. They’re always on the end of the phone to help out if needed.

Lee agrees: “The quality and reliability of Edgetech’s products are impeccable; the product turns up on time, it goes through the machine without any issue, and it helps us get products out the door efficiently. In 20 years of using Super Spacer®, I honestly can’t remember a major issue. That kind of reliability and consistency is invaluable in this industry.”

Tony Palmer, Head of Sales at Edgetech, echoes the sentiment: “Twinseal are a fantastic example of what happens when a forward-thinking manufacturer embraces automation. Their commitment to quality and long-term strategic partnerships has helped position them as a leader in the market.

“Over the last 20 years, we’ve worked closely with the Billy and Lee to support their move to automation and beyond. What sets Twinseal apart is their belief in building lasting relationships, both with their suppliers and customers. It’s a model that works.”

A future built on automation and partnership Twinseal are nicely positioned to push the business forward using automation and, with recent investment in a further IGU line for Super Spacer®, see the relationship with Edgetech continuing for many years to come.

“We’ve heavily invested in automation again in the past few years, which is not just a commitment to our future, but a commitment to Edgetech too,” added Lee. “They’re a key part of where we’re going as a business. Their product quality, technical support and insight into the market make them an invaluable supplier.”

And Billy has one piece of advice for other glass unit manufacturers considering a similar move: “If you’re thinking about automation, do it. We’ve never looked back and switching to Super Spacer® was one of the best decisions Twinseal ever made. Quality efficiency, consistency and the ability to scale are key ingredients to any successful business.

Automation helps to achieve all of them.”

With its third generation now firmly involved in the business, Twinseal’s legacy looks set to continue. And Edgetech will be there every step of the way.

E: ukenquiries@edgetechig.com

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94 | product feature | october 2025

Crafting high performance entrances

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Konic Doors builds robust entranceways with Medite Tricoya Extreme, delivering consistency, weather resistance, and lasting reliability

ince its founding in 1997, Crafted by Kells, the brand behind Konic Doors , has built a reputation for precision joinery, heritage-informed design, and materials that perform under pressure. From sash windows and casement systems to its flagship timber doors, the company’s bespoke joinery offering serves a demanding market of homeowners, architects and developers working on premium residential properties throughout Ireland and the UK. Founded by P&M Grimes & Sons, Kells has been producing high-quality timber windows and doors for over 25 years. Its Konic Doors brand specialises in energy-efficient, high-spec entranceways designed for the Irish and British markets. With a team of 28 based in County Meath, the company combines traditional joinery with state-of-the-art machinery to deliver custom-made joinery solutions tailored to each project.

At the heart of its success lies an ongoing commitment to materials innovation and a decade-long partnership with Medite Smartply.

Konic Doors was among the earliest adopters of Medite Tricoya Extreme (MTX), an advanced wood panel renowned for its durability, moisture resistance and stability. The company was involved in some of the first-ever R&D trials at Medite’s Clonmel plant, helping pioneer the development of acetylated wood panels for exterior applications. “We’ve used MTX since its inception,” says Declan Grimes, Director at Konic Doors. “In fact, the world’s first Tricoya shopfront was one of ours. We manufactured it in 2011, and, to this day, it is still looking perfect.”

Konic Doors uses MTX across its external joinery range, particularly in high-performance entrance doors where raised and fielded panels, decorative mouldings and bespoke profiles are essential.

Designed to withstand the rigours of the Irish climate, where rain and variable temperatures can quickly take a toll, the MTX panel has proven itself an ideal substitute for marine ply or traditional hardwood. Its dimensional stability ensures components retain their shape and finish long term, while its inherent moisture resistance means doors don’t warp, swell or degrade over time.

“It gives us incredible peace of mind,” adds Matthew Grimes, codirector. “With MTX, we get durability, workability and a beautifully clean paint finish. That’s critical when you’re delivering a premium product.”

MTX offers more than just performance, particularly as the market becomes increasingly environmentally conscious.

Manufactured from FSC certified timber with no added formaldehyde, the panel is engineered through a patented acetylation process that gives it a 50-year above-ground service life and resistance to rot — all without the environmental impact of chemically treated materials. This aligns with Konic’s broader commitment to responsible manufacturing and providing customers with products that exceed expectations. Declan adds: “Customers are expecting products that deliver more than just good aesthetics. They’re looking for long-term value, energy performance and sustainability. MTX helps us tick all those boxes.”

By embedding MTX into its core offering, Konic Doors has been able to deliver on its promise of bespoke craftsmanship backed by materials that won’t let clients down. Whether it’s an elegant Georgian entranceway or a contemporary front door with concealed hardware and acoustic glazing, MTX has helped Konic combine timeless design with 21st-century performance.

“At this stage, it’s not a material we just use — it’s one we rely on,” says Matthew. “When you’re in the business of building things to last, that matters.” www.kellswindows.com www.konicdoors.com

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96 | general feature | october 2025

Bigger views, smarter performance

Architecturally assured and profit-savvy, neo smart-slide delivers lower U-values, lower costs, higher margins for fabricators and installers

W

hen it comes to windows and doors, the ‘bigger is better’ mentality continues to dominate high-end home improvements and the wider built environment.

Fuelled, in part, by the ‘Grand Designs’ effect, the desire for expansive glazed areas that boost wellbeing by allowing more daylight into a property, better connecting the indoors and outdoors and maximising views, remains strong.

With sliding doors spanning large apertures increasingly specified to reflect this trend, aluplast’s neo smart-slide is, as its name suggests, a smart option, especially for top-end residential projects that require more than just good looks.

Aluplast neo smart-slide is capable of meeting Passive House standards. It can also accommodate units of up to 54mm, with U-values as low as 0.57W/m2K; a big draw for the architectural space.

“Advances in PVC-U system technology mean that aluplast neo smart-slide offers next-level thermal performance for large spans,” explains aluplast’s Ian Cocken.

“Combine that with contemporary, minimalist design; slim sightlines that maximise the glazed area; premium finish options; and top-class hardware for added appeal, and you’ve got highly desirable product, that looks as good as it performs.

“These things give PVC-U fabricators and installers a credible and cost-effective proposition for architecturally driven spaces that, traditionally, would have been the remit of the aluminium sector, and this translates to valuable profit margin for them,” he adds.

Capable of achieving heights up to 2.5m and spans of 6m with just two panels in total, one fixed and one sliding, neo smart-slide can be specified in a range of 40 colours. This includes aluplast’s popular range of life-like woodec and aludec foils, for stylish, high-end aesthetics that match those delivered by true timber or aluminium products.

“Our aludec foil, for example, is available textured or smooth to the touch, in a range of classic aluminium colours including the ever-popular Anthracite Grey,” explains Ian. “These things combine to replicate the appearance and physical feel of aluminium so closely, it actually beggars belief,” he adds.

“In fact, end-users will be hard pushed to tell the difference

between a sliding door finished with aludec, and a genuine aluminium sliding door. But one thing that does set it apart is the price point, which is significantly lower,” he adds.

Another stand-out feature of the neo smart-slide is its highsecurity benefits. Incorporating top-tier hardware from either MACO or Siegenia, the smart-slide meets the stringent demands of BS6375 for weather tightness and PAS24 for security.

Its robust performance is achieved with a locking mechanism that pulls the sliding sash onto the frame and secures it on all four sides, when in the ‘fully locked’ position. When ‘fully open’, neo smart-slide lifts away from the gaskets and weather seals for effortless operation via its rollers, simultaneously accommodating individual sash weights of up to 250kg.

For added flexibility and design appeal, neo smartslide can be suited with aluplast’s Ideal 70 and Ideal 4000 systems, as well the system company’s flush window and door products, creating even more opportunities for customers to capitalise on the lucrative trend for all things high-end.

“With super-low U-values for outstanding energy efficiency, great functionality and aesthetics, neo smartslide is helping our customers compete with premium aluminium products, in a market that is still keen to realise ‘Grand Designs’type aspirations,” continues Ian. “It’s ability to effortlessly accommodate large spans, while maintaining class-leading performance, makes it a cost-effective option for the architectural space.

“The fact it can be suited with our other PVC-U products – all colour-matched with our next-generation woodec or aludec foils – means it can offer clean, modern lines or heritage detailing that looks like wood, or aluminium, without the expense of the real thing.

“This helps specifiers deliver high-end projects within budget and crucially, increases margin for our fabricator and installer partners in a challenging economic climate, and that’s what really matters to us,” he concludes.

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

hardware OCTOBER 2025

Meet the Market.

Move with Confidence.

With sliding doors now leading homeowner preference nationwide, Winkhaus primePort offers three powerful ways to stay ahead.

WINKHAUS.CO.UK/ PRIMEPORT

primePort HS: Lift-and-Slide Without Limits When it comes to large openings and panoramic glazing, primePort HS leads the way. Capable of handling sash weights up to 440kg, it offers effortless operation and exceptional weather resistance, perfect for luxury homes and contemporary extensions.

Its ergonomic handle and smooth lift-glide action make even the heaviest panes easy to move. Available with hook or bolt locking drives and low-threshold options that support inclusive design, HS exemplifies how performance and accessibility can coexist.

Across all variants, primePort systems share common design DNA: modular components, and consistent faster assembly, fewer unique parts, and streamlined production.. aluPilot: Strength and Simplicity for Aluminium Fabricators Winkhaus’ aluPilot platform continues to redefine performance for aluminium windows. Engineered for speed, strength, and versatility, aluPilot delivers up to 10 minutes of time saving per sash during assembly compared to conventional systems, a major advantage for fabricators facing tight schedules and rising labour costs.

Available in multiple configurations, aluPilot variants enable window sashes up to between 130kg and 300kg with smooth, precise movement, offering modularity options by supporting surfacemounted and concealed hinge applications, giving aesthetic flexibility while maintaining the same hardware base.

Safety, security and compliance remain central, now further expanded with Child Safety OBALKS, the 89mm safety restriction solution

incorporating two turn modes and tested to EN 13126-5.

The aluPilot system is PAS24 certified, delivering robust resistance against forced entry.

Ease of installation is another hallmark. Adjustments can be made quickly with standard tools, and the intelligent design allows preassembly on the sash or frame for optimal production efficiency.

autoLock AV4 The award winning autoLock AV4 solution tackles one of the industry’s biggest challenges, thermal expansion, which causes doors to expand, contract, and warp over time, affecting their fit and operation.

The AV4 adapts to natural door misalignment and requires up to 70% less operational force than other locking systems, ensuring smooth performance even under changing environmental conditions, minimizing the need for unnecessary service calls to

adjust locks, keeps, and hinges, delivering savings of time and money while enhancing customer satisfaction.

Extensively tested under real-world scenarios, the AV4 consistently outperformed competitor products. Its lowforce mechanism not only improves accessibility for all users, including those with limited grip strength, but also reduces maintenance costs and boosts installer profitability.

Hardware Designed for Real-World Demands Winkhaus’ broader range continues this ethos, from the autoLock AV4 automatic multi-point locking system to the XR6 high-security cylinder with anti-bump and anti-drill features. Across the portfolio, the company’s focus is on integration: hardware families that share footprints, tooling, and compatibility to simplify fabrication and installation.

For more information about our products and solutions, visit www.winkhaus.co.uk or contact the Winkhaus UK team at enquiries@winkhaus.co.uk | 01536 316 000.

SCAN HERE TO FIND OUT MORE

autoLock AV4 The Turning Point Against Thermal Expansion Thermal expansion causes more than frustration, it leads to operational issues, costly callbacks and disappointed end-users. autoLock AV4 is the turning point. It’s precision autoLocking system delivers consistently low operating force whatever the weather.

Even as doors expand or contract, autoLock AV4 keeps working smoothly and securely where others fail. This reliability matters to everyone.

Fabricators benefit from fewer returns, installers gain a solution they can fit and forget, and homeowners enjoy a door that operates with ease season after season. AV4 is not just another lock, it is the point where performance problems stop and peace of mind begins.

For further information please visit winkhaus.co.uk or contact enquiries@winkhaus.co.uk

Door Component of the Year & Digital Marketing Campaign of the Year SCAN HERE TO FIND OUT MORE

Innovation in Motion for Modern Doors and Windows With performance, reliability, and usability now topping homeowner priorities, door and window hardware has become a decisive factor in how the market evolves. According to the latest Keystone Consumer Trends Report, customers are demanding not only attractive fittings, but intelligent, durable hardware that enhances everyday life.

For fabricators and installers, this means products must perform under pressure: resisting wear, handling frame movement, and maintaining airtightness and smooth operation long after installation.

It’s a tough brief, and one that Winkhaus continues to meet with precision-engineered solutions designed to make modern fenestration both effortless and future-proof.

Among Winkhaus’ standout innovations, are autoLock AV4, primePort and aluPilot,

solutions that combine technical mastery with practical benefits for fabricators, installers, and homeowners alike. primePort: Meeting the Sliding Door Surge In just a few short years, sliding doors have overtaken bifold systems as the preferred patio door style across the UK. Homeowners are embracing wide glazed openings, slim sightlines, and seamless transitions between inside and out, with this trend, Winkhaus developed primePort, a family of sliding systems that covers every major style: Tilt-and-Slide (SK), Retract-Slide (AS), and Lift-and-Slide (HS). Together, they form a modular, crosscompatible range engineered for smooth operation, reliability, and versatility across UPVC, aluminium, and timber solutions.

Each version is built around intuitive usability and proven activPilot technology delivering

the secure, precise movement Winkhaus is known for.

Importantly, all primePort systems are designed to meet enhanced security standards, ensuring full compliance with UK security specifications. primePort SK: Smart Tilt-andSlide Functionality Compact, flexible, and efficient, the primePort SK system provides a scalable solution for tilt-and-slide windows and patio entryways that is already proving popular with seven of Europe’s leading profile manufactures already laying down profiles. With sash weights of up to 220kg and operation that requires just a 180° turn of the handle, SK delivers smooth ventilation and operation while offering improved efficiency through shared components from activPilot and compatibility with existing turn-tilt profiles simplify production. primePort AS: Compact Versatility for Urban Living For high-rise apartments and tighter interior layouts, PrimePort AS brings innovation in space-saving design. It’s retract-slide mechanism keeps the sash flush to the frame when open, maximizing light and airflow without encroaching on interior space.

Supporting sash weights up to 250kg, AS combines durability and refined operation with a clean aesthetic. Concealed components, soft-close options, and safety with the activPilot central locking system ensure reliable sealing, security, and quiet comfort.

Door Component of the Year & Digital Marketing Campaign of the Year

october 2025 | hardware active | 97

With a vast hardware portfolio, Safeware expands beyond Epwin, supporting fabricators nationwide, as Rob Hartill explains

Hardware that works for every system T hroughout my career I’ve seen how much the right hardware partner can shape a fabricator’s success. In a market where choice, compliance and delivery are critical, uncertainty isn’t an option. Fabricators and installers need absolute confidence that the hardware they fit is tried, tested and available exactly when they need it. That is what we have built Safeware around for more than three decades and why we are now the hardware partner behind every system.

Our story began as the dedicated inhouse hardware division for Epwin Window Systems fabricators. That allowed us to refine our portfolio, our processes and our service culture to meet the needs of some of the UK’s most respected PVC-U and aluminium fabricators.

More recently, we have taken the natural next step by making our portfolio and knowledge available to the wider industry.

Today, whether you work in PVC-U or aluminium, and whatever system you fabricate, you can access the same Safeware service and hardware solutions that have supported Epwin fabricators for decades.

Our portfolio spans more than 2,500 products from over 70 of the industry’s most respected hardware brands. It covers the full range of PVC-U and aluminium systems, from multi-point locking mechanisms and cylinders through to hinges, handles, letterplates and advanced smart solutions.

This breadth means that no matter what system a fabricator is working with, we have the right hardware to match. This removes the need to juggle multiple suppliers and gives reassurance that performance and compliance are always covered. For

installers, it translates into seamless compatibility on site and the confidence to deliver quality outcomes to their own customers.

Hardware choice is only one part of the picture. What sets Safeware apart is the reassurance behind every product.

Every item we supply is tested rigorously in our in-house facility at Telford before being independently verified by a UKASaccredited laboratory. That double layer of scrutiny gives our customers total confidence that the products they are fitting meet the latest standards without the time or cost of arranging separate testing themselves.

Reliability in delivery is just as important. We know how disruptive a delayed or incomplete order can be to a production schedule. That is why we have built our supply chain on dependability, achieving more than 98% on-time-in-full performance. Orders over £500 benefit from free next-day delivery, giving fabricators the certainty that the right hardware will be there exactly when required. It is one of the ways we help keep their businesses moving.

Of course, we also recognise that service goes beyond logistics. Our team works closely with fabricators to provide the right technical advice, whether that is supporting compliance queries, helping with specifications or assisting on site.

This consultative approach has been part of our DNA from the very beginning and is something we are particularly proud of. We aim to act as an extension of our customers’ teams, sharing our knowledge and making sure they have the support they need to succeed.

Product innovation is another area where we continue to invest. Over the years we have been behind some of the most recognised hardware developments in the sector, including our own Safeware 7 and 8 multi-point locks, the SFS Dynamic 2D hinge and the Yale SensCheck™ smart lock.

More recently, we introduced the Safeware 3* Cylinder featuring patented ALPS technology, which not only meets existing standards but goes further by delivering new levels of resistance against forced entry. It has passed the Sold Secure Diamond test, the toughest in the industry and comes backed with an anti-break-in guarantee.

These kinds of advancements underline our commitment to offering products that don’t just meet the market’s needs but anticipate them.

The strength of Safeware also lies in our people. From the warehouse to technical support and commercial guidance, our team brings decades of experience and a shared commitment to customer service.

Our belief is simple: whatever the system, Safeware has the solution. With the right products, tested and compliant, delivered on time and backed by experienced support, we give our customers the confidence they need to compete and win in a demanding marketplace. That is what we stand for and why we are proud to describe Safeware as the hardware house for every system.

E: info@safewarehardware.com

98 | hardware active | october 2025

Smartly engineered and fabricator-focused, Maco’s stable door lock opens new opportunities — boosting performance and profitability

Maco stable door lock opens doors to growth I

standards.

Jemma Brookes, Head of Product Management at Maco, explains: “We developed the Maco Protect Bull Nose Stable Door Lock to meet the growing demand for traditional aesthetics without compromising on modern performance.

The bull nose faceplate not only enhances the visual appeal of stable doors, the interlocking centre mechanism also reduces complexity of timber and composite door fabrication.”

n a competitive market where innovation and differentiation drive growth, door fabricators and installers are constantly seeking ways to expand their product offering. One area that presents a compelling opportunity is the stable door segment—still a niche within the broader door market, but gaining visibility through consumer guides, product launches, and home improvement blogs.

Stable doors, with their distinctive split-leaf design, offer homeowners a unique combination of ventilation, safety, and style. Their appeal spans both traditional and contemporary homes, making them a versatile addition to any product portfolio. With the right hardware, fabricators can confidently offer stable doors that meet modern performance expectations while delivering timeless aesthetics.

Interlocking bull nose lock The Maco Protect Bull Nose Stable Door Lock is a purpose-built solution designed to support fabricators and installers working with timber and composite stable doors. It combines traditional styling with advanced engineering, offering a range of features that simplify fabrication, enhance installation, and elevate the end-user experience.

The new system has been designed with both homeowners and fabricators in mind. At its core are interlocking centre locks, which remove the need for an additional locking element and in turn streamline the mechanism while reducing fabrication complexity.

Homeowners benefit from a 360-degree key rotation, making the lock more intuitive and easier to use.

Fabricators are likely to welcome the non-handed configuration, which cuts down on stock complexity and simplifies logistics.

Meanwhile, practical features such as a silent latch and extended hook clearance ensure the lock operates smoothly and avoids bottoming out during installation.

Even the details have been considered, with radius ends included to accommodate routing door leaf preparation.

These features make the Maco Protect Bull Nose Stable Door Lock not only a highperformance solution but also a practical choice for fabricators looking to expand

Strategic addition to your portfolio For fabricators and installers, stable doors offer a way to diversify and respond to evolving homeowner preferences. With Maco’s Bull Nose Stable Door Lock, entering this segment becomes a straightforward and rewarding proposition. The lock’s design and functionality support efficient production and reliable performance, making it an ideal choice for businesses looking to offer something distinctive.

Whether you’re expanding your range or refining your current offering, Maco’s Bull Nose Stable Door Lock provides the hardware foundation for success in the stable door market. To learn more, request a brochure, or arrange a demonstration, contact Maco today.

Tel: 01795 433900 E: enquiry@macouk.net

their offering with minimal disruption to existing workflows.

Designed for fabricators and installers The lock’s bull nose faceplate enhances the visual appeal of stable doors, integrating seamlessly with both timber and composite systems. It’s PAS24 capable, cycle tested to 50,000 operations, and corrosion-resistant to 600 hours of salt spray—backed by MACO’s 10year warranty and manufactured to ISO:14001 environmental

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100 | hardware active | october 2025

For Finstral, window and door hardware items are more than just mechanisms - they are experiences in themselves

Hardware that makes a house a home W e often judge a window by the clarity of its glass or the slimness of its frame. Yet the true measure of quality lies in the detail we touch every day: the hardware. Handles, hinges, and fittings are the handshake between you and your home, and for Finstral, they are more than just mechanisms - they are experiences in themselves.

Designed to be touched When you open a window or close a door, it’s the hardware that gives the first impression of quality. For decades, European window and door specialist Finstral has been perfecting this detail, designing hardware that is as beautiful as it is functional. Now, with the launch of Finstral UK, architects, designers and homeowners alike can experience this craftsmanship first-hand. Hardware is more than mechanics: it’s the point of contact between you and your living space, and Finstral’s unique approach turns every touch into a statement of security and design.

Finstral stands apart by engineering and producing all of its own hardware, avoiding generic offtheshelf solutions to ensure every detail is perfectly matched to its systems. This means handles and fittings are designed as part of the complete system, ensuring a seamless look, flawless ergonomics, and long-lasting performance.

Colour, craft, and cristal One of Finstral’s most distinctive innovations is choice. Unlike the standard hardware finishes you’ll find with most brands, Finstral hardware is available in the full range of the company’s colour palette - over 230 different shades. Whether you prefer your handles to blend in with

minimalist frames, or to stand out as bold accents, Finstral makes it possible to treat hardware as an integral part of every interior design scheme.

Then there are the handles themselves.

Every Finstral handle is designed in-house, with a focus on timeless form and intuitive feel. These handles don’t just look elegant; they are built to be comfortable in your hand, reassuringly solid and smooth to operate - day after day, year after year.

Perhaps most striking of all is the option of the Cristal window. In this design, handles pass directly through the glass, creating a sleek, uninterrupted surface where the handle seems to grow seamlessly from the pane itself. The result is a striking architectural feature: a window that is as much a piece of design as it is a functional element of the home.

Experience Finstral Finstral UK is opening its Borehamwood studio, offering architects, designers and homeowners the chance to explore its entrance systems first-hand. From mix-andmatch finishes to the striking door handles, visitors can see and feel what sets Finstral apart.

For over 55 years, Finstral has led European window and door

innovation. As a family-owned company, it controls every stage of production- profiles, glass, and hardware to guarantee consistent quality. Now in the UK, Finstral sets a new benchmark where security and design come together in every detail.

E: borehamwood@finstral.com www.finstral.com/borehamwood

Introducing the

AK Safe Secure Smart Lock Box The AK Safe Secure Smart Lock Box combines IoT technology with uncompromising strength.

Perfect for property managers, rental businesses and shared access environments.

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Large Capacity Holds up to 6 keys, 2 cards and 1 car key.

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Discover more.

Visit www.aksecure.co.uk Call +44 (0)121 500 3266 Email sales@kenricks.co.uk

102 | hardware active | october 2025

Andy Meakin, Sales and Marketing Manager, reveals how Kenrick’s innovation and trusted expertise lead the way in smart security

Setting new standards in smart security T he Kenrick AK Touch Secure™ has rapidly become one of the industry’s most in-demand smart door locks.

Now, with the launch of the AK Safe Secure Smart Lock Box, Kenrick has added another powerful smart solution to its portfolio.

When we first set out to develop the Kenrick AK Touch Secure™, our goal was clear: to deliver a smart door lock that could set the standard in reliability, security and user experience. We knew the market didn’t just need another ‘smart gadget’, it needed a reliable solution that combined cuttingedge technology with the strength and trust that homeowners and businesses expect from a smart door lock.

Our success in achieving our aim is reflected in the fact it’s become widely adopted by some of the biggest names in the door and hardware sector. In the UK, names from Universal Composite Doors, one of the country’s leading composite door specialists, to leading hardware distributor Carl F Groupco, have chosen to offer the Kenrick AK Touch Secure™ because they see it offers the combination of style, substance and security that the market needs right now.

And its appeal has gone global as we’re now seeing real interest from the USA too.

One of the reasons it’s proving so popular is down to its simplicity of design.

Installers can retrofit it in minutes with no major hardware modifications, as long as the door has a 3 Star Locking Cylinder.

For homeowners, it’s just as easy to use.

Whether by touch-sensitive panel, keypad, encrypted fob, voice command via Alexa or Google Home, or a traditional key, the AK Touch Secure™ puts security at the fingertips of every user.

The app takes it further. With remote locking and unlocking, status checks, access logs, and the option to provide temporary codes, it’s particularly valuable for rental properties, short lets and anyone who needs flexible access management.

But we know smart technology is only as strong as its security credentials. The smart lock comes with the reassurance of some of the most robust physical and cybersecurity credentials in today’s market, providing reassurance for suppliers and end users.

It holds the Police Preferred Specification from Secured by Design, which provides a recognised standard for all security products that can deter and reduce crime.

It means it has been tested to relevant security standards and is fully certified by an

independent third-party certification body.

It also carries the Secure Connected Device accreditation from Secured by Design and IASME IoT Cyber Assurance Level Two, the highest level available within the scheme. These certifications confirm that the AK Touch Secure™ significantly exceeds the government’s recommended standards for IoT security, giving consumers complete confidence in its resilience.

Building on that success, we’ve now introduced the AK Safe Secure Smart Lock Box. Designed for locksmiths, property

managers, rental businesses and anyone managing shared access, it makes secure key management easier than ever. With capacity for six keys, two cards and a car key, it outperforms other lock boxes on the market.

Like the AK Touch Secure™, the AK Safe Secure Smart Lock Box is fully appconnected, with real-time notifications and compatibility with Alexa and Google Home. Available in both wall-mounted and portable versions, it’s built for resilience with a zinc die-cast body that is weatherproof to IP55, while the advanced digital keypad is designed to withstand up to 150 lbs of force and 250 lbs of pulling pressure. Together, these features give users flexibility, strength and reliability in equal measure.

For us, smart security isn’t about keeping up with technology, it’s about setting the benchmark. For nearly 250 years Kenrick has built its reputation on reliability and trust, and today we’re carrying that legacy into the digital age. With our smart solutions, we’re giving customers the confidence to secure homes and businesses with the perfect balance of trusted heritage and innovation. www.aksecure.co.uk

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104 | hardware active | october 2025

UAP’s Adam Dixon explores evolving standards and expectations, reimagining the humble door chain’s role in home security

Rethinking door chains for modern homes I n the UK, research shows 73% of intruders gain entry through the door, serving as a stark reminder that the part of the home meant to protect us is often the most at risk. As standards such as PAS 24 and TS003 evolve to address new techniques used in forced entry, manufacturers are being forced to reconsider the principles and performance thresholds of modern door security.

Long overlooked when it comes to home security, the door chain plays a more critical role than it’s often given credit for. As standards evolve and customer expectations rise, even the smallest components can be reengineered to deliver greater strength, safety, and style.

The standards driving change PAS 24 ensures that doorsets can withstand commonly used forced entry methods. Its most recent updates introduced methods of testing products against increasingly sophisticated break-in techniques. This has made testing tougher and more representative of modern threats.

TS003 focuses on door chains and

limiters. It requires products to pass two key tests: an “abuse mode,” where the chain must withstand a repeated force 200 times under a 100N load, and an “attack mode,” which subjects a product to heavy impacts using a 30kg sandbag to simulate a determined intruder.

Passing these tests demonstrates that a chain can handle both everyday wear and tear and more aggressive attempts at forced entry.

They’re an essential measure of whether security products can truly keep us safe.

Customer needs, designing for real life Standards matter, but customer insights drive real innovation.

Traditional door chains often rattle, look bulky, and can be difficult to install — frustrations that undermine the user experience. The fact is, people want security hardware that works seamlessly in their daily lives, without compromising on safety or aesthetics. True innovation is not just passing tests but solving the everyday problems that customers face.

Engineering innovation in practice UAP’s bullet door chain is one example of driving progress in door security hardware.

It was designed to surpass the highest standards of modern security.

The bullet door chain is slimmer and smaller than traditional models with fewer links, yet it is stronger overall. Its compact design reflects changes in modern housing, where added thermal plaster boards and insulation, introduced to meet Approved Document L enegery-efficiency standards, have reduced the space available around the door frames. The smaller footprint ensures the chain fits these tighter spaces without compromising performance.

Its receiver plate is thicker and slightly larger, with a smaller gap for added strength, while an extra piece of metal on the wall plate makes it harder to pull away under force. Combined with thicker chain links, this ensures greater durability without unnecessary bulk.

The chain’s bullet-shaped end distributes force evenly across the bracket, eliminating the weak points associated with ring-shaped designs. This smart engineering allows the chain to withstand everyday use and

sudden high-impact stress, reflected in its performance which meets the TS003 attack and abuse tests.

Smaller details improve user experience.

A magnetic park system also keeps the chain neatly in place when not in use, preventing any rattling. A pre-attached wall plate speeds up installation for tradespeople, while a range of finishes, from chrome and stainless to brass, antique, and black, ensures the chain blends into modern interiors as a design feature, not an afterthought.

Lessons for the industry The evolution of the door chain highlights a wider truth: even the simplest security features play a critical role. Security standards provide an important baseline, but customers increasingly want more.

True leadership in this space is not about reacting once regulations change.

Leaders must anticipate needs, challenge assumptions, and set higher expectations for every component. By looking ahead, manufacturers can ensure that homes are compliant as well as being safer and more resilient against growing threats.

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106 | hardware active | october 2025

Under intense market pressure, a consistent and reliable hardware partner is invaluable, says Carl F Groupco CEO Owen Coop

Consistency drives fabricator confidence T he window and door sector has always been defined by change.

From evolving building regulations to shifting consumer expectations, fabricators are continually adapting to new demands. This creates not only challenges but also opportunities, provided they have supply partners who can help them respond with confidence.

Choosing the right hardware supplier is no longer just about sourcing hardware components. It’s about securing stability, expertise and long-term support. At Carl F Groupco, we see our role as more than supplying hardware, we are a partner who can bring consistency, innovation and reassurance to our customers’ businesses.

Every fabricator knows the cost of disruption. A missing lock, hinge or handle isn’t just an inconvenience, it can halt production and jeopardise order fulfilment.

That’s why reliability is central to our offer.

We maintain stock of over 57 leading hardware brands, holding up to £5 million at any one time, with a 98% On Time In Full delivery rate measured at order level. Put simply, when a customer places an order, they can expect the complete consignment to arrive on time, every time. It’s this operational consistency that allows fabricators to plan with confidence, reduce downtime and focus on their own customers.

But stability doesn’t mean standing still.

A true hardware partner must constantly evolve its offer, ensuring fabricators have access to the latest solutions that help them stay competitive. At Carl F Groupco, we work closely with our manufacturer partners and customers to shape product development.

This has included introducing several new smart locking systems, supporting demand for electronic and automatic door solutions across a broad range of applications. It also means proactively identifying new opportunities, from sustainable solutions to enhanced security hardware, so that our customers’ portfolios remain future-ready.

Hardware supply today is also about ensuring the complete window or door system achieves the required performance.

That’s why our support extends into testing and compliance. We regularly work alongside fabricators during fitups, pre-test preparations and weather, durability and security testing. We also help assess reinforcement requirements, screw selection and installation methods to optimise the chance of first-time pass.

We also bring in manufacturer experts where needed, ensuring the solution is right not just on paper but in practice. This collaborative approach helps fabricators meet evolving legislative requirements, reduces the risk of costly retests and strengthens their ability to compete in a market where compliance is nonnegotiable.

Behind every delivery, test day or product launch is a team with decades of collective experience. Two-thirds of Carl F Groupco employees have been with us for more than 10 years. This stability mirrors the commitment we make to our customers, offering continuity, expertise and relationships built on trust. It’s also why so many of our customers have been with us for decades themselves. Six of our top ten fabricator customers have sourced from us for over 20 years. Longevity on both sides of the relationship is a testament to the value of a hardware partner that prioritises service, consistency and shared success.

One of the best illustrations of this is our 25-year relationship with trade fabricator Glazerite. Over that time, we have supported the business through product transitions, supply challenges and operational developments, ensuring seamless continuity for their customers. Reflecting on the collaboration, Phil Taylor, Head of Group Procurement at Glazerite, said: “The strength of the testing, specification and communication means product switchovers are totally seamless for us and, more importantly, for our customers. As a result, Carl F Groupco now supplies hardware into all our sites, including Wellingborough, Peterborough, Bolton and more recently Barnsley.”

In an industry that never stands still, the strongest hardware partners are those that balance consistency with innovation. As new standards, technologies and customer expectations continue to shape the market, fabricators who choose a stable and experienced partner will be best positioned to stay ahead and seize every opportunity. www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

SLIM Hardware

by for Sheerline Prestige Lift & Slide Doors

FEATURES AND BENEFITS •

250kg capacity as standard

•

Easy upgrade to 400kg

•

Retracting hook bolts

•

Ventilation position

•

Closing damper

•

Controlled opening

•

Assisted operation

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Exceptional corrosion resistance 2000 hours neutral salt spray testing

Scan the QR code for further information

info@vbhgb.com | www.vbhgb.com | 01634 263 263

108 | hardware active | october 2025

Heritage is the new classic, blending authenticity with innovation, elevating fenestration market aesthetics, value and demand

Heritage style meets modern innovation R ob Vaughan, Technical and Product Manager at Window Ware, discusses the surging heritage trend and how Window Ware’s Regal Hardware range – including the latest Knurled finish – is helping fabricators stay ahead of the curve.

Across the fenestration industry, heritage-style windows and doors have become a must-have, rather than a niche product. Whether it’s period renovations, new builds with a classical flair, or modern homes with a retro feel, homeowners are seeking the charm and character of traditional aesthetics but with one key difference – they want timeless looks backed by modern performance.

At FIT Show earlier this year, the sheer number of displays showcasing heritagestyle doors and windows made it clear that the heritage trend isn’t just back in fashion, it’s booming.

Search interest in flush sash windows has grown by a remarkable 540% year-on-year, according to recent Google data and it’s an upsurge we’re seeing at Window Ware. The market is hungry for authentic heritage detailing that doesn’t compromise on functionality or durability.

Built for the heritage revival That’s where our Regal Hardware range really shines. As a premium collection of door and window handles, stays and pegs, Regal Hardware is a mark of distinction for your doors and windows, offering a heritage hardware collection that ticks every box in terms of style, substance, and supply. The range includes our original, much-loved monkey tail and pear drop designs, as well as the latest addition, the knurled range.

Regal Hardware replicates the timeless aesthetics of 19th-century ironmongery with its authentic pear drop and monkey tail designs. While originally designed to complement flush sash doors and windows, its versatile style works just as well on a wide range of installations including engineered PVCu doors, which are becoming increasingly popular. The impressive versatility of the range was clear at the FIT Show, where Regal Hardware was

featured on everything from elegant French doors and stunning period composite doors to sleek heritage steel-look aluminium doors But while the look is traditional, the performance is thoroughly modern, featuring key-lockable handles, precise operation, and a robust 10-year mechanical guarantee. The pear drop and monkey tail designs come in nine distinctive finishes, including heritage favourites like black and pewter patina, giving fabricators and installers the flexibility to meet even the most bespoke customer brief.

For the last seven years, our fabricator partners have told us they love the quality and solid feel of Regal. They value how our premium hardware perfectly complements their heritage-inspired windows, helping to make them a truly top-tier offering.

Industrial heritage for a new generation As the heritage trend continues to evolve, hardware must do the same.

That’s why we created the latest addition to the Regal family, the knurled range, which we launched earlier this year.

The knurled design was developed in direct response to the growing appetite for steel-look heritage aluminium doors and windows. These industrial-inspired systems are becoming increasingly popular in both residential and commercial projects, offering a sleek, minimalist aesthetic that still pays homage to vintage styling. But finding hardware that’s both eye-catching and built to last has been a challenge.

Our knurled window and door handles solve that problem.

Available in four striking finishes – PVD Black, Antique Bronze, Smooth Satin Silver, and Gun Metal – they provide the perfect finishing touch for luxury heritage aluminium systems.

Their design echoes the rugged simplicity of classic industrial style, while the knurled texture adds a unique grip element

that enhances both form and function.

For fabricators, these handles represent a valuable opportunity to differentiate. They can meet modern heritage tastes, add visual flair to their installations, and reassure customers with hardware that’s been rigorously tested for corrosion resistance and durability.

A continuing trend At FIT Show, we were proud to see Regal Hardware displayed on numerous stands across the exhibition, adorning everything from elegant French doors and stunning period composite doors to classic timber alternative flush sash windows and sleek heritage steel-look aluminium doors. It was a great endorsement not just for the product, but for our strategy of supporting this trend from the ground up.

At Window Ware, we’re committed to helping our customers stay one step ahead of emerging trends, and with the combined strength of the monkey tail, pear drop and knurled designs in the Regal Hardware range, we believe we’re offering a heritage hardware collection that honours the past but looks firmly to the future.

Tel: 01234 242724 E: sales@windowware.co.uk

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110 | hardware active | october 2025

ERA partners with Veka on hinge for flush fit Omnia door range

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ome security and fenestration component provider ERA have launched a new fully adjustable Fab&Fix hinge exclusively for Veka’s Omnia profile. Working closely with Veka, ERA’s team of experts developed the new hinge to support the double flush door system.

The range is part of Veka’s award winning double flush suite of extrusions for PVC-U windows and doors. Omnia was launched in 2024 as an industry first innovation marking a pioneering leap in PVC-U fabrication, designed in collaboration with customers and partners. The development of the new hinge is the latest addition to ERA’s portfolio of products suitable for the Omnia range, which offers a unified flush appearance for casement windows, residential doors, and French doors.

ERA’s wider portfolio of products, suitable for Omnia, includes multi-point door locks, door cylinders, window shootbolt locking systems and much more.

With a slim sightline, full adjustability and fabrication support, the Fab&Fix Lift Off Hinge perfectly supports ease-of-fabrication, function and style. It is also one of the first products designed for the Omnia profile to achieve the latest PAS 24: 2022 standard, which sets out requirements for enhanced security performance of doors.

The hinge has also been tested to over 200,000 cycles, ensuring a reliable perfor-

been a really positive collaborative experience - we’re excited to be launching a new hinge designed to seamlessly support products across the Omnia range. Our commitment to quality, innovation and reliability is evident in the final product, which is easy to install, fully 3D adjustable and meets the highest security standards.”

Jack Scullion, Product Innovation Manager at Veka, said: “It’s all in the detail and thanks to ERA, homeowners choosing Omnia will benefit from windows and doors that are both stylish and secure right down to the hinges.” www.eraeverywhere.com

mance and corrosion resistance.

Suitable for inward and outward closing doors, the hinge is supplied in two halves, allowing its sash and frame parts to be fabricated separately and then lifted into position on site, while the handed design removes timely re-handing changes and allows for easy installation. Aesthetically, the Fab&Fix Hinge can be finished with a choice of painted and Hardex cover caps to suite with over 200 door and window furniture options in the Fab&Fix range.

Paul Benn, Key Account Manager at ERA, said: “Working alongside Veka on this has

Stylish espagnolette handles launched, tailored to evolving market

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wo new espagnolette window handles have been launched that have been designed specifically with the demands of today’s volume window market in mind. The new AR720 inline and AR722 cranked locking handles from ARRONE, a Hoppe Group brand, are available in eight different finishes – polished brass, polished chrome, anthracite grey, jet black, traffic white, satin chrome, silver enamel and graphite.

Each features a positive stop at both closed and 90-degree positions and are supplied with all necessary fixings allowing straightforward installation, with the AR722 available in both left- and right-hand handles. The models are equipped with a standard 7mm spindle, with spindle lengths available in 8mm, 15mm, 30mm and 40mm enabling a perfect fit for a wide variety of side hung windows.

The new espagnolette handles have been designed to complement the wider Arrone Kerb Appeal range including door handles, knockers and numerals offering highquality ironmongery for both contemporary

and traditional designs.

Ged Ryan, CEO at Hoppe (UK), said: “We’re pleased to launch our new espagnolette range, offering an ideal solution for the volume windows market while retaining the longevity and quality customers have come to know and expect from the Arrone brand. The two models complement our Kerb Appeal range and

have been developed with customer feedback to meet a range of requirements.”

Responding to market feedback, the Arrone handles are sold in coloured packaging allowing customers to identify inline, left-hand and right-hand variants more easily. www.hoppe.co.uk

Kerb Appeal Made Easy with ARRONE ARRONE espagnolette handles are designed with co-ordinated door furniture in mind.

Both inline and cranked locking window handles are available in left and right configurations. Designed to complement a comprehensive range of door hardware and accessories, including handle sets, numerals, door knockers, and a TS 008-tested letterplate.

With ARRONE, finding the perfect match for your door and window hardware couldn’t be easier.

HOPPE (UK) • Ltd Gailey Park • Gravelly Way • Standeford • Wolverhampton WV10 7GW • Tel. 01902 484 400 • www.hoppe.com • info.uk@hoppe.co.uk

112 | hardware active | october 2025

Fuhr strengthens security with a new automatic door locking solution

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n expert in designing and manufacturing innovative door lock solutions, Fuhr, is proud to announce the launch of the autosafe 837 automatic multipoint locking system for buildings that require automatic locking and access controls for additional security and monitoring purposes.

Paul Balfe, Business Development Manager for Fuhr UK, explains: “As smart buildings become more prevalent and the need to protect onsite data and networks becomes more urgent, there is an increasing demand for additional security within specific areas of a building. The autosafe 837 automatic door lock is the perfect solution to keep these spaces safe with electronically activated lever handles via access controls.

“Whether it is data centres that need to be protected and monitored, or secure rooms in banks where confidential documents or valuable items need to be kept safe, access control is a critical component of keeping a building, its occupants, and the data, systems and networks within it, safe.

Allowing only authorised personnel to enter and possibly exit a space and being able to closely monitor this information minimises any potential security risk.

“The autosafe 837 guarantees automatic door locking thanks to FUHR’s DuoSecure technology which features a latch and hook bolt combination,” continues Paul. “This reliably and securely engages automatically every time the door is closed. The system ensures that only authorised personnel can gain access to a room because the outside lever handle (or both outside and inside if required) is activated only by using access

control or the cylinder key.”

As well as managing physical access, Fuhr’s new autosafe 837 automatic multipoint locking system, allows the status of the door and whether it is locked or unlocked, to be monitored remotely at any time.

The system is fail-secure as standard, the door remains locked in the event of a power cut to ensure the room’s security is not compromised. But for full flexibility, the door lock can be switched to quiescent mode or overridden to fail-safe, for example, in the case of an emergency such as a fire in the building. Meanwhile, the autosafe 837P has an integrated panic function ensuring safe escape from a room if needed, while allowing fire services to enter the building

freely.

Paul concludes: “As you would expect from Fuhr, the autosafe 837 is capable of meeting the highest security standards for additional peace of mind, including PAS 24. The autosafe 837P is also certified in accordance with EN 179 and EN 1125 for emergency and panic exit doors. With 165 years of expertise in designing and manufacturing innovative multipoint door locks, FUHR understands what it takes to develop the perfect solution for specific building requirements. The launch of the autosafe 837 and 837P series is just further evidence of this expertise in action.”

E: pbalfe@fuhr.co.uk

Kenricks extends smart locking range

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enricks has expanded its smart locking range with the launch of the new AK Safe Secure Smart Lock Box. The new smart box offers a robust and intelligent solution designed to keep keys and access cards safe, secure and always within control.

The new lock box combines Kenricks’ renowned strength and reliability with cutting-edge smart technology, making it an ideal choice for locksmiths, property managers, rental operators and commercial businesses that need to manage access securely and efficiently.

Andy Meakin, Sales and Marketing Manager at Kenricks, said: “The AK Safe Secure Smart Lock Box provides a simple and secure way to manage shared access. Whether you’re a locksmith supplying customers, a facilities manager overseeing multiple buildings, or a commercial operator needing secure key storage, this product delivers unmatched convenience and peace of mind.”

The AK Safe Secure Smart Lock Box has been designed to offer significantly greater

storage than standard lock boxes, holding at least six keys, two cards and one car key.

It can be managed and monitored remotely through the AK Secure™ smartphone app, which provides real-time notifications and integrates seamlessly with Google Home and Alexa for easy, hands-free control.

Designed to withstand the toughest conditions, the lock box features a zinc die-cast

body that is weatherproof to IP55, while the advanced digital keypad has been rigorously tested to resist up to 150 lbs of force and 250 lbs of pulling pressure. Available in both wall-mounted and portable versions, it provides the flexibility needed across residential, commercial and industrial settings.

Installation is straightforward, making the lock box a strong retrofit option as well as a valuable upsell opportunity for locksmiths and trade professionals. It joins the acclaimed Kenrick AK Touch Secure™ smart locking system, which has already earned praise for its ability to be fitted quickly without major hardware modifications.

Like the AK Touch Secure™, the AK Safe Secure Smart Lock Box reflects Kenricks’ intelligent application of smart technologies.

With its combination of innovative design and uncompromising durability, it delivers everything expected from a company with Kenricks’ extraordinary history and exceptional track record.

E: sales@kenricks.co.uk

october 2025 | hardware active | 113

Coastal Group opens new dedicated London brand centre

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oastal Group, a leading manufacturer and supplier of high-performance external door and window hardware, has announced the opening of its dedicated Brand Centre in London.

The new space offers architects, joiners, door and window manufacturers, and construction professionals a unique opportunity to experience Coastal’s full product range first-hand – including its renowned BLU and Duratique hardware collections, all crafted from durable 316 marine-grade stainless steel.

Located in the heart of London’s design and build community, the Brand Centre provides a premium environment for visitors to explore products, gain technical insight, and collaborate with the Coastal team on projects. “The Brand Centre brings our products to life in a way that brochures and samples simply can’t,” says Loren Jenner, Managing Director at Coastal Group.

“Customers can now see and feel the quality, design and finish of our hardware, while getting advice from our experts. It’s a space for ideas, inspiration and interaction.”

The London Brand Centre invites trade professionals across the South East to book a visit and enjoy product demonstrations,

one-on-one technical discussions and early access to upcoming innovations. Coastal Group customer Nandu Varsani from Busy Bee Builders Merchants was one of the first to visit the showroom in the opening weeks: “Visiting the new London showroom was a real game-changer for us. Being able to see the full Coastal range on working doors and

windows made it so much easier to compare options and choose the right hardware for our projects.” He explained.

The centre is located at: Coastal Group Brand Centre, 273 Abbeydale Road, Wembley, London, HA0 1TW. To book a visit, contact sales@coastal-group.com or call 01726 871 025.

Safeware adds Yale’s Lockmaster Panic Exit Device to its portfolio

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ardware distributor Safeware has further strengthened its product range with the addition of the Yale Lockmaster® Panic Exit Device, providing customers with a high-performance solution for commercial projects.

Rob Hartill, Safeware’s Commercial Director, said: “The Yale Lockmaster® Panic Exit Device gives our customers a reliable, high-performance product that combines strength, safety and flexibility. Its unique external access system and patented double-door option make it ideal for demanding commercial projects where both security and ease of exit are critical.”

Designed to work with Lockmaster® multi-point door locks with one-piece keeps, the Lockmaster® Panic Exit Device combines high-performance security, compression and fast emergency exit capability in one solution. Suitable for use with outward opening single and double exit doors up to 200kg, it can be used across PVC-U, composite, timber or metal systems.

As a ‘Type A’ push bar panic device, it is suitable for public buildings where quick and reliable escape is essential. It has been endurance tested to 200,000 cycles and corrosion tested to 240 hours salt spray. In terms of security, it is capable of withstanding 1,000 Newtons of side force. The device

is fully compliant with EN 1125 (for panic exit devices) and is ICIM-accredited for performance.

Safeware has a longstanding relationship with Yale, distributing its comprehensive range of hardware and collaborating with the brand to develop unique market-led product solutions. Notably, Safeware played a key role in the creation of the Yale SensCheck™ smart window and door lock, highlighting its commitment to continued innovation and market-driven design.

This product development capability is just one facet of the company’s valuable consultative approach. It believes in working closely with fabricators and partners to

understand their challenges, tailor solutions and deliver measurable improvements.

Rob concluded: “As a hardware supplier, it’s our job to keep our finger on the pulse by making sure we stock the value-added products our customers need. By combining the right solutions with collaborative support, we help fabricators strengthen their businesses and secure long-term success.”

With the addition of the Yale Lockmaster® Panic Exit Device, Safeware continues to enhance its reputation as a trusted hardware partner for the trade.

Tel: 0845 009 8624 E: info@safewarehardware.com

114 | hardware active | october 2025

Mila expands premium range with 220mm Supa and SupaSecure handles

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ila has expanded its premium door hardware offering with two exciting new 220mm handles across its Supa™ and SupaSecure™ ranges, providing a sleek design and enhanced security. Responding to the growing demand for shorter backplate handles that fit modern door profiles without compromising on security, Mila’s new 220mm models deliver both performance and style.

Designed to achieve PAS24:2022, Secured

by Design approved, and featuring the TS007 2 Star Kitemark, the 220mm SupaSecure™ handle features an integrated cylinder guard. This, combined with an anti-drill disc that spins if attacked, provides complete protection of the cylinder. Chamfered backplate shoulders further resist mole-grip attacks, reinforcing its security credentials.

The 220mm version complements the existing 240mm model and offers increased compatibility with timber, aluminium, composite, and PVC-U doors.

Both the Supa™ and SupaSecure™ 220mm door handles feature a modern, minimalist design crafted from premi-

um-grade 304 stainless steel. Engineered for exceptional durability, they exceed industry standards with proven resistance to over 1,000 hours of salt spray testing—

significantly outperforming the BS EN 1670 Grade 5 (480-hour) corrosion standard. Fully weather-tight (BS EN 6375) and extremely durable (BS EN 1906), these handles are suitable for both left- and right-handed doors and compatible with most popular lock sizes. Ergonomically designed, their sprung levers ensure smooth operation and consistently return to 90 degrees, effectively eliminating handle sag.

Paul Pearson, Product Design Director at Mila, comments: “We’re thrilled to be expanding our Supa™ and SupaSecure™ ranges with these stunning new 220mm door handles. They combine sleek, contemporary designs with first-class security – meeting the growing demand for both that we are seeing today.”

The new handles come in a range of finishes including Brushed Stainless, Polished Stainless, and Polished Gold, to suit any aesthetic.

The new 220mm Supa™ and SupaSecure™ door handles from Mila join the extremely durable, strong, corrosion-resistant, and fully suited Supa™ Range.

Carl F Groupco sells one millionth Roto Espagnolette Window Lock

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ndependent hardware supplier Carl F Groupco has sold its one millionth Roto Espagnolette Window Lock, underlining both the popularity of the product and the strength of its partnership with Roto.

Julie Warner, Roto Product Manager at Carl F Groupco, said: “Our customers consistently value the combination of quality, reliability and functionality that Roto delivers. Reaching the one million milestone is clear evidence of this.”

The Roto Twin-Cam Security Lock Espagnolette has been designed to provide a high level of security for outward opening windows.

The espagnolette features up to four pairs of dual reverse locking points. When the handle is operated, it drives the double-sided strikers from opposite directions, ensuring maximum burglary protection.

The Roto SSL Espagnolette is suited for both top and side hung outward opening casement windows, accommodating sash rebates between 240mm and 1,800mm.

Profile-related keeps are available and the espagnolette is compatible with all leading profile extruders.

Both espagnolette options feature RotoSil surface protection, providing a Grade 5 finish that is particularly important for coastal applications.

Carl F Groupco is a longstanding Roto partner and one of the UK’s largest stockists of its hardware. Its portfolio includes

espagnolettes, hinges, sliding door systems, tilt & slide hardware and reversible gearing.

The company holds around £5.5 million of stock across all product ranges, enabling it to fulfil over 98% of orders within 24 hours.

Julie commented: “The strength of our partnership with Roto supports the service reliability that customers expect from us.

The one millionth sale demonstrates not only the quality of Roto’s products, but also the trust fabricators place in Carl F Groupco

to deliver consistently.”

Reaching one million sales is a clear endorsement of both the product and the partnership behind it. For fabricators, it underlines why Carl F Groupco is trusted as a leading hardware supply partner: proven product quality, reliable availability and service levels that ensure orders are delivered on time, every time.

E: sales@carlfgroupco.co.uk

october 2025 | hardware active | 115

New tasks and roles for well-known representatives of the Roto Group

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r Eckhard Keill (72) has stepped down from his position as Sole Director of Roto Frank Holding AG on the best of terms with the supervisory boards and family shareholders of the Roto Group. He has been succeeded

by Christoph Hugenberg (59). Hugenberg was CEO of Roto Frank Dachsystem-Technologie GmbH (Roto DST). His position at Roto DST will be taken over by Dipl.-Ing. Jochen Frieß (54). Dr Keill will be a member of the supervisory boards of the three divisions of the Roto Group as well as a member of the supervisory board of Roto Frank Holding.

Customers and employees alike value the Roto Group for its reliability and resilience, even in challenging times. The basis for both is, among other things, the development of the organisation with a focus on continuity. The majority of managers have been with the Group for many years. The family shareholders and supervisory board members have now decided to appoint Dr Keill to the supervisory board of Roto Frank Holding AG. He is very happy to accept, explains Dr Keill and emphasises, “almost exactly 20 years after my first day at Roto, I feel a special connection to this company.

I value the work of the supervisory boards and look forward to continuing to accompany the Group’s development. I would like to thank my colleagues on the supervisory board and the shareholders for their trust.”

Dr Keill joined the Roto Group as Chairman of the Board of Directors on 01/08/2005 and at the same time took over as CEO of Roto Frank Fenster- und Türtechnologie GmbH (Roto FTT).

His successor in the position in the board of directors of Roto Frank Holding AG, Christoph Hugenberg, currently manages Roto Frank Dachsystem-Technologie GmbH (Roto DST). Previously, since 2007, he held a management position at Roto FTT. His appointment as Dr Keill’s successor in the holding company once again confirms the shareholders’ desire to ensure continuity in

the Roto Group. The outgoing CEO welcomes their decision: “I’m delighted that Christoph Hugenberg, a successful, well-established and well-connected executive within the Group, has been appointed as the new CEO of the holding company. The Roto brand stands for reliability. And reliability requires continuity in leadership.”

Hugenberg will be succeeded by Dipl.Ing. Jochen Frieß as the new CEO of Roto DST. His professional life is also characterised by continuity and loyalty. Frieß began his career at the ebm-papst Group in 1998 as a sales engineer, where he took on steadily increasing responsibilities in Sales, Product Management and Management. In 2022, he was appointed to the Group’s Board of Directors.

“Jochen Frieß has acquired over two decades of experience and knowledge at a company whose values are similar to those of the Roto Group,” emphasises Hugenberg.

He was therefore able to quickly develop a clear understanding of Roto DST’s unique profile. Moreover, Dr Keill is certain that

Frieß will lead Roto DST as a reliable partner for retailers and tradespeople. “Christoph Hugenberg and I got to know Jochen Frieß as an authoritative and highly customer-orientated decision-maker.”

When Dr Keill was appointed as CEO of Roto Frank Holding AG in May 2019, Marcus Sander took over his duties as CEO of Roto FTT. Sander sees exciting potential areas of discussion with Jochen Frieß: “Roto FTT has been developing its business globally for decades and Jochen Frieß has a wealth of experience, including internationally. That’s why I’m looking forward to exchanging ideas with him.”

Dr Christian Faden, Managing Director of Roto Frank Professional Services GmbH (RPS) since 2019, addresses an important measure for securing the company’s future, “Dr Keill and Christoph Hugenberg represent stability, which is also particularly important to the Roto Group’s customers in the current times. I’m delighted to be able to continue working with both of them in the future.”

Profile related catalogues from VBH

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ardware supplier VBH has introduced a range of profile related catalogues to help their customers quickly find products from the vast VBH range. The selection covers what VBH describes as the most popular PVC-U and aluminium systems currently in use in the UK. Each catalogue is tailored to the individual system, meaning that everything listed is suitable to the reader’s needs.

As well as products from VBH’s own hardware and furniture brand, greenteQ, each catalogue also includes relevant hardware from VBH’s key supply partners including AGB, Cotswold, Roto, Securistyle, Weiss-Chemie and Yale amongst others.

Gary Gleeson from VBH says: “We ini-

tially produced a profile related catalogue to suit Deceuninck’s PVC-U systems to support our joint customers.

“The catalogue proved so popular that it made sense to roll out the idea further to other widely used PVC-U and aluminium systems. We basically strip out all the irrelevant products and variants and add more detail on the profile related parts, making it easier to navigate. Who wants a catalogue showing window handles with 11 different spindle lengths when you’re only going to use one length? Nobody!”

The very latest VBH catalogues are available to view and download from the company’s website at www.vbhgb.com and Customer Portal at www.vbhgb24.com.

116 | marketing feature | october 2025

Marketing begins with industry insight Andrew Scott of Purplex Marketing explains how sector expertise and a full-service team deliver marketing that works for fenestration companies

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very industry has its own ways of doing business. In fenestration, decisions are shaped by technical performance, supply chains, legislation and even the weather. For many years I worked inside this world, running companies and experiencing its pressures first hand. That experience convinced me that too much marketing was missing the mark because it failed to reflect how our sector really works. I wanted to build an agency that could bridge that gap, combining the creativity of a full-service marketing company with the insight of people who understood glazing from the inside out. That is why I launched Purplex.

Two decades later that same principle remains at the heart of what we do. We are now close to 100 people strong, each with their own area of expertise, yet united by a focus on fenestration, construction and the wider built environment. We are a full-service agency with every specialist under one roof, from PR, branding and design through to digital, video, SEO and paid media. This structure means our clients benefit from coherent, joined-up campaigns rather than fragmented strands pulled together from different agencies. It also means we can move quickly when market conditions change. And how they change – regularly!

We live and breathe this world In sectors like glazing and construction, detail is everything. A generalist agency can produce a website or a glossy brochure, but unless they understand the complexities of building regulations, the nuances of installer sales or the way architects specify products, they can never deliver strategies that truly work. At Purplex, we live and breathe this world. We anticipate shifts, spot opportunities and help our clients prepare for the future rather than simply reacting to it.

Of course, specialist knowledge alone is not enough. Over the years we’ve invested heavily in people and in technology. Every member of our team has access to training and development, ensuring they are not just marketing professionals but marketing professionals at the top of their game. On the technology side we have committed significant investment, including more than £450,000 last year, into analytics platforms, automation systems and integration tools usually found inside global corporations.

Technology is only as effective as the people who use it. The real value comes from how our specialists collaborate. A strong PR campaign only works if it aligns with digital advertising. Social media activity must feed into SEO, while design and branding must reinforce every message. Because our team operates under one roof, they work together seamlessly. That makes campaigns sharper,

more consistent and more effective. And while we have specialists in every area of marketing, they’re all coordinated through one experienced account manager, giving clients expert support with a single point of contact.

We also draw strength from being part of the wider Construction Marketing Group, alongside our sister companies Insight Data and TradePal. This gives our clients access to unrivalled industry intelligence and connections while allowing us to broaden the scope of what we offer without losing the specialist focus that sets us apart.

One pattern I have seen many times is companies arriving at Purplex after outgrowing their local or non-specialist agency.

Often they have reached a stage where they need more than just creative work. They need a partner who understands their market, who can help them build brand equity, attract customers and grow their business in a sustainable way. Many have tried the generalist approach and found it lacking. Some come to us after attempts to bring marketing in-house, only to realise that it is not a cost saving measure at all but a limiting one. When they join Purplex, they immediately see the difference.

Understanding the sector It comes back to the observation I made when I launched the business. The best marketing starts with understanding the sector. You cannot shortcut knowledge or claim to know how the glazing market works if you have never sold a window, managed an installation team or dealt with the realities of product lead times.

That understanding shapes everything we do and it is why we have built long-term partnerships with so many of the leading names in the industry.

As I look back over more than twenty years, the essence of Purplex has remained the same. We are here to help businesses in our sector grow. We achieve that by combining unmatched industry knowledge with the skills of a full-service marketing agency and the power of advanced technology. Most importantly, we do it by listening to our clients and understanding what success looks like for them. Marketing is sometimes seen as a cost. I see it as an investment; one that pays back many times over when it is rooted in the realities of the industry it serves. That is the Purplex difference and it is why we remain the trusted partner for ambitious companies across glazing and construction.

“Freefoam is the perfect partner”

Matt Epps, MD, Principality Plastics Warehouse

Helping you grow is our priority As an independent business we don’t

compete with customers. We help PVC stockists, merchants, and installers

grow, because it helps us grow. Our highquality cladding, roofline, rainwater,

window trim, and interior panel ranges

come in a variety of colours/finishes (plus accessories), with many RAL-matched to windows and doors for upselling.

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#HelpingCustomersGrow

118 | product innovation | october 2025

New generation Classic Lite Pod bridges the gap in pergola market

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aribbean Blinds has unveiled a new generation of its Classic Lite Outdoor Living Pod™, now offered in six prefabricated sizes. Designed to deliver the perfect balance between affordability and premium performance, the latest model has been comprehensively upgraded, with every component from cross beams to louvres and posts re-engineered.

The Classic Lite Pod is based on the company’s best-selling Classic Pod™ but supplied in pre-defined dimensions to suit the most popular furniture layouts.

This streamlined approach means shorter lead times, with delivery and installation in as little as two to three weeks, while ensuring the product remains the best value aluminium louvred pergola on the market.

This great value pod uses all the same high quality materials and features you previously would only find on bespoke premium pergolas, but at a reduced price.

The new size range has been carefully chosen to suit a variety of spaces and typical garden layouts. The Mini (3m x 3m) fits snugly into compact terraces or

courtyards, ideal for a cosy sofa and coffee table arrangement. The Small (4.05m x 3.5m) and Medium (5.10m x 3.5m) offer space for medium dining sets or modular lounge arrangements, while the Medium XL (5.10m x 4.5m) and Large XL (5.94m x 4.5m) accommodate more generous layouts with large dining tables, lounge areas, or multiple seating zones. The Large (5.94m x 3.5m) sits between Medium and XL options, giving flexibility for longer narrow terraces.

Each size has been designed to match the dimensions of popular outdoor furniture, allowing homeowners to plan their outdoor living area with confidence and ease.

Managing Director Stuart Dantzic commented: “The introduction of these new sizes bridges a gap in the market. Customers now have a choice that sits between budget pergolas and high-end bespoke models without compromising on design or performance.”

With rotating louvres that create a weatherproof roof when closed and the option to add motorised side screens, integrated LED lighting and heating, the

Classic Lite Pod offers year-round comfort and style for any terrace.

For more information about the Classic Lite Pod visit: https://www. cbsolarshading.co.uk/louvered-roofs/ classic-lite/

4600 Plus Lift & Slide, Cortizo’s new minimalist system for cold climates

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ortizo presents the 4600 Plus Lift & Slide system, designed with an interlock of only 50 mm and achieving a Uw transmittance value of 0.65 W/m²K, making it one of the best thermal performing sliding doors on the market.

Its 80 mm deep sashes, equipped with a thermal break of 42 mm and a glazing capacity of up to 65 mm, make it a perfect choice for colder climates. In order to enhance insulation, this system incorporates special foams in both the sash and the frame, as well as sliding polyamides that prevent the bimetallic effect, produced when there is a

significant temperature difference between the interior and exterior of a building, potentially causing slight bending of the profiles that could end up affecting the proper functioning of the sliding system.

Cortizo’s new series follows the current minimalist trend with perimeter sightlines of only 120 mm, reducing the dimensions of its predecessor, the 4600 HI Lift & Slide, by 20 mm. The goal is to increase the glazed surface and prioritise the entry of natural light into the rooms. For this reason, it has been designed with an interlock of only 50 mm.

The system enables configurations of up to eight sashes, each 3.3 metres long and wide in its four rail option, thus allowing for the closing of spans over 26 metres. The opening option of 90º corner sash without mullion is also available.

To enhance the sliding of the sashes,

the 4600 Plus Lift & Slide features a hardware mechanism that slightly elevates them when the handle is operated, thus facilitating the movement of sashes weighing up to 400 kilograms. The opening and closing manoeuvre can be performed through three kinds of handles: the traditional Stylish, (characterised by the elegance and simplicity of its lines), and the Slim Minimalist, a more slender version without a escutcheon whose design achieves sleeker aesthetics.

To facilitate movement for people with reduced mobility, the system includes the option to install a threshold of only 20 mm.

It also features hidden track solutions and a drainage grid for water outlet in exposed areas.

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120 | product innovation | october 2025

Keylite introduces installer-friendly Select Flat Glass Rooflight

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eylite Roof Windows (Keylite) has introduced its new Select Flat Glass Rooflight (SFRG), designed to tackle common installer challenges such as water pooling, complex kerb construction, and compliance issues.

Flat roof glazing systems are commonly used in flat roof extensions at the rear of residential properties but are also frequently specified in education and healthcare applications.

While commercial settings require flat roofing systems to achieve impact resistance to protect against accidental falls, residential properties do not, due to the infrequency of roof access for installation or maintenance.

In addition, flat roofs require a minimum of a 5° slope to prevent pooling rainwater, which can cause algae staining, reduced light transmission and, in some cases, leaks. Creating an accurate slope on site usually means cutting and assembling a timber kerb, which can be time-consuming, especially across multiple openings.

Even for an experienced carpenter, calculating the correct geometry on bespoke roof extensions takes valuable time and delays progress on other critical tasks.

This is why Keylite has introduced a new

Select Flat Glass Rooflight (SFRG) aimed at residential properties, available with a pre-built timber sloping kerb with a 5° built-in pitch and uPVC kerb to prevent lingering rainwater. The kerbs are factorymade, removing the requirement for on-site measuring or cutting and ensuring consistent installation quality.

The proprietary kerbs fully comply with Part L and Part B of the Building Regulations and are compatible with Keylite’s Select & Premium ranges of rooflights, offering fast, hassle-free installation along with improved thermal efficiency.

Created with a laminated inner pane to prevent the glass from shattering upon impact, the SFRG safety glazing holds the broken glass together and comes as standard on all Keylite glazing products.

Consisting of a thermally broken aluminium frame, the SFRG ensures the rooflight has excellent thermal and acoustic performance, delivering an impressive 1.3 W/m2.K Ud-Value to ensure the window is Part L compliant.

Along with a one-stop solution for water drainage and thermal efficiency, the SFRG offers a lightweight design and compact packaging, making handling and transportation easier and safer on site.

Available in 21 standard stocked sizes as well as a range of made-to-order options, the SFRG can be supplied as a glazed frame only or with Keylite’s timber sloping and uPVC kerbs.

Shane Kerlin, Keylite Managing Director, comments: “Our new Select Flat Glass Rooflight with integrated sloping kerb gives installers a quick, compliant, and thermally efficient flat roof solution.”

Keylite’s Flat Roof range also includes the Premium Flat Glass Rooflight, Flat Glass Rooflight, Polycarbonate Dome, and Flat Roof Lantern, which are available with a variety of glazing and operation options, including fixed, manual and electric openings.

Keylite offers a standard delivery time of five working days for standard stocked sizes and up to five weeks for made-to-order sizes.

E: info@keyliteuk.com

Upselling security with PVC-U panels

W

ith security and cost consistently high priorities for developers, social housing providers and homeowners, Hurst Doors explains how Securicore™ is transforming the humble panel door into a higher-spec PAS24-accredited product that’s fit for the future.

According to the Crime Survey for England and Wales 2022/23, 76% of domestic burglaries involve gaining entry to a property via a door. With front doors the most common target, typically accounting for around 59 – 62% of all burglaries, back doors account for 26 – 33%, and side doors 7–10%.

Against this concerning statistical backdrop, Hurst’s new Securicore™ PVC-U panel offers enhanced security as standard, plus the option to manufacture and supply a fully PAS24 accredited door that maximises opportunity with minimum disruption.

With 85% of PVC-U panel doors fitted for replacement applications, primarily rear entrances where security is often weaker, PAS24 accreditation has become a critical differentiator for fabricators and installers.

“Securicore™ is the first and only PAS24 accredited PVC-U panel on the market at 28mm thickness, with no compromise on

cost, weight, manufacturing or installation complexity,” says Mark Atkinson, Sales Director, Hurst Doors.

“It positions PVC-U panel doors as a viable option for new builds and social housing, and it aligns with likely revisions to Part Q that could extend PAS24 compliance to the home improvement market.”

“The fact this can be achieved without increasing panel thickness from 28mm – although other door thickness options are

available – is a significant advantage for manufacturers and installers, working with any standard frame size,” he adds.

Securicore™ features a specially developed PVC-compound, which means it meets all requirements under PAS24 as part of a complete door set, including cutthrough and soft and hard impact testing.

Its unique glazing clip system also means the product is available as a glazed option, enhancing its suitability for use as a front or back door.

As a strong alternative to composites, Securicore™ lets fabricators and installers upsell security at a more competitive price.

It comes in traditional and contemporary styles with popular colours including Pebble Grey, Agate Grey and Anthracite Grey.

U-values are as low as 1.4W/m²K for glazed panels and even lower for solid versions.

“Delivering a PAS24-compliant panel door with high thermal performance and a price below that of composites is a real achievement,” adds Mark. “Securicore™ is easy to manufacture, easy to fit, and offers the flexibility and aesthetics today’s market demands.

Tel: 1482 790790 E: info@hurstdoors.co.uk

october 2025 | product innovation | 121

Aluprof introduces next-generation aluminium casement window

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perfect aluminium window system seamlessly combines high-performance engineering with elegant design. Extruded aluminium frames, thermally broken with polyamide or polyurethane insulators, ensure exceptional thermal efficiency and minimise heat transfer, reducing energy consumption and preventing condensation.

Slim sightlines maximise glass area for optimal natural light, whilst precisionengineered mullions and transoms provide structural rigidity, even in large-format units. High-quality double or triple glazed units with low-E coatings and inert-gas fills, offer acoustic insulation and solar control, creating a comfortable, quiet interior environment without compromising on transparency or views.

Durability, security and customisation are equally vital.

Marine-grade finishes resist corrosion, and multi-point locking systems enhance safety.

A wide palette of powder-coated or anodised colours—from matte black to metallics—allows complete aesthetic flexibility, while modular design and integrated drainage simplify installation and maintenance.

Enter the newly launched MB-79N CSF aluminium window system from Aluprof, a slim-profile, outward-opening aluminium window system combining minimalist

styling with robust performance. With sightlines as slim as 35.2mm on fixed frames and operable casement profiles from 60.5mm, the system maximises natural light while maintaining excellent rigidity. Its three-chamber, thermally broken aluminium profiles are available in two insulation variants: the ST (Standard) for cost-effective performance and the SI (Super Insulated) for enhanced energy efficiency.

Using advanced polyamide thermal breaks and insulating inserts, the ST variant achieves U-values of 1.42 W/m²K (double glazing) and 0.97 W/m²K (triple glazing), while the SI variant improves this to 1.37 W/ m²K and 0.93 W/m²K, respectively.

Designers can select a flush or extended sash aesthetic, with configurations including fixed, side-hung and tophung casements. A hybrid hinge supports up to 80kg per sash, ensuring large, smooth-operating windows. Fabricators benefit from streamlined tooling and assembly, while end users enjoy hurricaneimpact-tested durability, RC1–RC3 burglary resistance, and marinegrade protection.

The MB-79N CSF window forms part of ‘Aluprof Living’ which delivers high-performance aluminium systems that blend panoramic glass with outstanding energy efficiency. With advanced thermal-break technology, slim sightlines and extensive RAL or wood-grain

finishes, these systems combine style with low-maintenance performance.

With nearly 20 years in the UK and Ireland, Aluprof provides advanced aluminium systems, including windows, doors, and facades, supported by local fabricators and installers for surveys, cost analysis, and specification advice. More information is available at aluprof.co.uk, aluprofliving.com, or via the UK head office at +44 (0) 161 941 4005.

Rehau expands Artevo range with new outward-opening doors

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ehau has expanded its leading Artevo window and door system suite with the launch of a residential outward opening single and French

door.

These new door systems have passed comprehensive technical assessments for air permeability, water tightness, exposure resistance and PAS24 security. As the demand for visually appealing, energyefficient frames increases, this rigorous testing provides assurances that the performance of these crucial components have been independently verified.

“We wanted to expand the Artevo product portfolio to meet the growing need for systems that can provide an eyecatching design and smooth lines, while also meeting stringent performance and sustainability targets.,” says Russell Hand, Head of Product & Technical at Rehau UK. “With Artevo, we now have an extensive suite of tested solutions – including tilt/ turn windows, residential outward opening single and French door – that gives specifiers

confidence of best possible performance across a range of applications.”

The system’s Rau-Fipro X composite core and integrated force zones allow Artevo to support larger sashes, and also includes locks and hinges from hardware manufacturer Roto Frank designed to further improve long-term performance. It is available in a range of finishes, including timber-effect foils, aluminium-look

cladding and a new Alux surface, offering design flexibility for any project.

Artevo also meets Passivhaus standards, with U Values as low as 0.81 W/m2K achieved through Rehau’s recyclable LowE foil insert.

Combined with sound insulation up to RW 48dB, the system supports energyefficient, acoustically sensitive design.

Up to 75% recycled content is used in the system’s main profile and glazing beads while integration with Rehau’s Window.ID technology enables full traceability of frame materials, further enhancing the Artevo’s sustainability credentials.

“From design flexibility to installation efficiency and long-term performance, Artevo has been developed to address the real-world challenges that fenestration professionals face every day,” adds Russell.

“We’re looking forward to working with our customers on those challenges and seeing Artevo doors as well as windows used across a variety of projects and remain committed to keeping the system at the forefront of polymer-based window and door design.”

122 | movers and shakers | october 2025

Following a recent restructure of the Kömmerling sales team that saw both Gareth Parton and Karl Williamson take their positions as Sales Directors, the company has now welcomed industry veteran Andy Laird, to the team. Andy joins Kömmerling as Area Sales Manager for the South of the UK and brings with him a wealth of experience in the fenestration industry. He said:“I have worked in the sector for almost 30 years, including positions with some leading brands such as Carl F GroupCo, Fab & Fix and Fuhr UK. I was therefore very aware of Kömmerling and the quality of its products so when I saw the position come up, I was keen to apply.

The firm has an impressive extrusion factory and showroom that clearly demonstrate the benefits of the top-quality products it makes including the Kömmerling C70, C70 flush window and door system, O70, Greenline, Kömmerling 76 and WarmCore Aluminium.

It’s exciting to have a sales role that includes PVC-U and Aluminium but also some interesting products that I wasn’t aware of prior to joining the team.”

Jade has made an important strategic appointment - Tony West has joined the company in the role of manufacturing manager. After five years as operations manager with precision tool maker Cogsdill, and further years spent as an application engineer, Tony’s knowledge and experience will allow him to oversee production operations, drive efficiency and support Jade’s continued growth.

“Jade has an excellent reputation in engineering circles, and I am very pleased to be able to join the company and contribute towards the continuing growth of the business,” said Tony. “Our aim is to strengthen the already robust manufacturing foundations to bring greater reassurance to Jade customers in the delivery of their window and door fabrication solutions.”

“Tony is an excellent addition to our management team, bringing with him much needed expertise in workflows and processes to help us better manage our overall manufacturing output,” said Jade managing director Gareth Davies

Glazerite has appointed a new Area Sales Manager, with the welcome addition of Billy Hawes. Billy, who has worked in fenestration for nearly two decades, is stepping into Matt Dove’s shoes as Area Sales Manager for the North region, with Matt moving into the position of Commercial Sales Manager.Jeff Dunn, Group Sales and Commercial Director, explains: “Glazerite has reshaped its strategic sales approach to improve service for installers. Matt’s appointment creates a dedicated focus on the specific requirements of commercial installers, while Billy’s arrival ensures continuity for our customers in the north region.” Billy added: “I have experience that spans the full construction lifecycle, including onsite installation. This foundation has given me a deep understanding of the technical and logistical challenges facing installers involved in both residential and commercial projects. I am looking forward to working with Glazerite’s extensive customer base to add value across every aspect.”

Sustainability Programme Manager Lara Coutinho has a new role as Supply Chain Sustainability Manager for the Quanex group. Following Quanex’s acquisition of Tyman in August 2024, Lara, who has more than 12 years’ experience in leading sustainability strategies, will play a key role in advancing Quanex’s corporate sustainability strategy across its global supply chain. Key immediate focuses for Lara in her new role include reducing Scope 3 emissions – indirect emissions from a company’s entire value chain - in line with the Greenhouse Gas Protocol.

She will also be focusing on embedding leading sustainable practices and policies into waste management, related activities.

In the longer term, she will support Quanex sites worldwide in developing robust frameworks to guide sustainability-focused initiatives.

This will see Lara working closely with the global procurement team, with responsibility for developing, implementing, and managing initiatives that align with the Group’s overall sustainability goals.

Alunet Systems, has announced three strategic appointments to support its continued growth and drive its ambitious commercial objectives. These new roles are designed to reinforce Alunet’s customerfirst approach and help deliver on its long-term strategic vision - backed by parent company Eurocell.

Steve Miller (pictured), currently also Head of Sales of Eurocell Profiles, has now been appointed to lead the Alunet Systems sales team. With over 30 years of experience in the building products industry, Steve brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership expertise to this expanded role.

Also joining the business is Lee Summerfield, who takes on the role of National Business Development Manager.

Lee brings with him over a decade of experience in the fenestration industry, having held senior roles at several national fabricators and systems houses.

The third new addition is Alex Holbrook, who takes up the role of Area Sales Manager covering the Midlands and Northeast regions.

EndtoEnd, creator of the specialist integrate software solution for window and door companies, has strengthened its team again by appointing Tracey Ferry as Sales Support Assistant. Tracey brings an excellent mix of technical and customer support experience to the role.

After beginning her career as an industrial chemist, she moved into the specialist flooring sector. With extensive experience in technical support and client-facing roles, she has developed a reputation for problemsolving, building strong relationships, and delivering practical solutions.

“I love fixing issues and making products better so they do what people need them to,” Tracey said.

“Joining EndtoEnd is a great fit for me.

It’s an opportunity to bring together my technical background and problem-solving skills in a new and exciting environment – one that’s shaping the industry. I’m particularly excited about working closely with clients, understanding their challenges, and supporting them to get the best out of the software.”

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