Glass News May 2020 by Christina Shaw

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The GGF has been in correspondence with Government since the start of the lockdown and has been careful to convey an accurate and credible position based on the information received from Government. In addition, the GGF has also been careful not to get embroiled in speculation and interpretations, which have led to unfounded rumours and misinformation causing the reported confusion within the industry. These are serious issues and poor advice could in the worst case lead to loss of life and companies potentially facing very difficult legal positions.

23/03/2020 12:20

THE RIGHT PEOPLE READ GLASS NEWS Issue 110 | May 2020

DIGITAL EDITION

IS !! TH NTH MO

Throughout the COVD-19 crisis the GGF has always been strictly aligned to the Government Guidance and Public Health England (PHE) Guidelines. These guidelines were published on the GGF website on 8 April and cited in numerous subsequent GGF articles which included a direct link through to the Government web page on Social Distancing Guidance.

FITTED IN MINUTES

IS !! TH NTH MO

GREATER CLARITY ON COVID-19 GUIDANCE Following reported confusion in the Glass & Glazing industry last week around the issue of whether or not companies can work in domestic properties, it was incumbent on the GGF as the industry’s leading trade body to contact Government with some of the key questions raised by GGF Members.

NHS!

SEE PAGE 4

The GGF position remains, as it has been since the outbreak of COVID-19 and that is; that companies must follow Government and Public Health England (PHE) Guidance on working in construction and in people’s homes and if working in Scotland, Northern Ireland or Wales to follow devolved Governments’ guidance, before taking any decision to carry out installation, repair or maintenance work.

TRADE NEWS

SEE PAGE 65

WHICH DOOR?

Since 30 April, the GGF has sought and gained further clarity from the Government Department of Business Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and reiterates that companies must follow the latest Government guidance. Following the discussion with BEIS, the GGF is now in a position to further clarify as follows: • In unoccupied properties; the Government advises that work can continue, only if it is safe to do so but companies must adhere to the Government Social Distancing guidance on their website. • In occupied properties, the Government guidance emphasizes that only essential repair or maintenance work should be carried out and, only if it is safe to do so and is carried out strictly in line with the Government Social Distancing guidance. It is worth noting that the term “essential” can be defined as; work required on a building where the occupants’ health and safety could be at risk. For example, this could be a damaged window or door, or a window or door that may be beyond repair and require replacement. READ THE FULL STORY HERE To see all the COVID-19 updates on the GGF website please visit: https://www.ggf. org.uk/category/covid-19/

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MAY 2020

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NO GUESSES AS TO THE TOPIC OF CONVERSATION THIS MONTH… It can’t come as any surprise that Covid-19 is the main topic of my Page 3 piece this month. Indeed, one must suspect that it will be high on everyone’s agenda for some considerable time to come and that will still be true after a lockdown has been removed and the normal working life resumes. However, it is doubtful that ‘normal’ will resemble what we knew prior to the pandemic taking hold. Undoubtedly, we shall all feel the effects for a very long time, both in our personal and business lives. Can we envisage how our industry and our businesses will look a year hence? One must hope that demand for fenestration products will return. New build will restart and no one can doubt that there will be a demand for refurbishment, as before. What is in doubt is the length of time it may take for confidence to return to the marketplace and how soon, particularly with the homeowner. Will they feel able to spend money on home improvements? For many, both homeowners and businesses, it is now a matter of survival. The employee has been protected by the government and although they may see slightly less in their pay cheque at least they are very much better off than the self-employed, the partnerships, the small limited companies paying the directors dividends and those made redundant. It’s certainly not a level playing field, and that will be become even more evident as we come out of this crisis and see which companies and organisations have survived and those that have not. Of course, with our economy virtually shut down, companies are looking at every way to survive until they can start manufacturing and trading yet again. Regrettably it seems to be a case of looking after number one and we are seeing the people and companies that are fair and reasonable and those are just in it for themselves. Those who aren’t paying what they owe to those in their supply chain may be feeling very clever at the moment but, when business starts to operate again, I suspect that we shall all have long memories… Looking through the advice handed out by the big accountancy firms it is clear where this don’t pay syndrome is coming from. While they don’t actually advocate not paying their suppliers they do clearly talk of saving your cash wherever possible. We have even heard of a

nationally known company in our sector who have announced that December invoices will be paid in July! The corollary to that being companies who are doing all they can to pay their debts on time and in full and we, amongst other small companies, thank them for realising just how important it is in the fight to keep our heads above water. There have been many who have highlighted this issue on social media with Andrew Scott from Purplex and Mike Bygrave from Roseview Windows, amongst others, who have highlighted this issue and the importance of keeping the cash flowing through the supply chain. There has also been plenty of talk about when and how we shall return to work with Roseview Windows acting as a clearing house for information from companies through an ongoing survey, with a view to co-ordinating a return to work, such that the supply chain is complete. While some companies are already looking to return to work, a haphazard return may throw up a variety of problems. Without the supply of raw materials a manufacturing line will very quickly come to a stop and, at the other end, if product is fabricated and the downstream chain is not active, space for holding product that is ready for despatch will quickly fill. Naturally, every company has its own pressures and will need to make their own decision as to when work recommences, always respecting the safety of their own staff and government guidelines, and although it is very doubtful that everyone will start back at exactly the same time, it does need the complete supply chain to be in action: and that includes the end user and whether they can afford to purchase goods. Many people are thinking about the problems we face and are making sensible suggestions. You only have to look at LinkedIn to see this, and Clayton Glass’ Ryan Green has, in a similar way to Roseview Windows, pulled together a number of companies to discuss how and when we should be returning to work. However, the picture is changing on a daily basis and there is now talk of social distancing going for a year or more and certainly until either a drug to treat Coronavirus or a vaccination, is found. We have to face the fact that our way or working has probably changed for the foreseeable future but we, as individuals, companies, industries and indeed the whole country has to find a way to rekindle the economy.

April 2020 crossword solution:

CONTENTS 4

Trade News

45 Time Out!

60 Windows

64 Software & IT

‘TIME OUT’ WINNERS – APRIL!

65 Which Door?

Sudoku: Mr S Higgins, Bristol

69 Conservatories & Orangeries

Eye Spy: Patricia Webster, Redcar, North Yorkshire Spot the Difference: Alan Button, Wakefield, W.Yorks

68 BMBI

Emma Champion Advertising Manager M: 07508 263262 E: emma@glassnews.co.uk

70 Time Out!!

Justin Lazenby Finance Director / Press Release Enquiries M: 07711 828710 E: justin@glassnews.co.uk

71 Installer Focus 72 Hardware & Security

Crossword: Mrs K Haith, Belfast

74 Letters

Congratulations to all our winners! Good luck in this months Time Out pages!

75 Cold Calling

75 Charity News

Chris Champion Editor / Editorial Enquiries M: 07850 267223 E: chris@glassnews.co.uk

76 Time Out! 77 Find A Supplier

@GlassnewsMag

Christina Shaw

/GlassNews

glassnews™ is a registered Trademark. The views contained herein are not necessarily those of glassnews™ and whilst every effort is made to ensure information throughout is correct, glassnews™ does not accept liability for errors. The views expressed by contributors and the content of letters, are not necessarily those of glassnews™ and therefore cannot take responsibility.

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We wish everyone well at this difficult time. Stay safe.

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MILA SHARES SAFE WORKING GUIDELINES Mila has just announced a partial reopening of its warehouse to provide a limited delivery service to customers working on commercial contracts. This has only been made possible because the Mila operations team has reviewed every aspect of its working environment and implemented new safe working procedures based around what it says is a gold standard protocol nicknamed ERIC. As much of the industry looks for a way to return to work which safeguards the health and welfare of staff, suppliers and, of course, customers and the general public, Mila is sharing the ERIC protocol to try to help others. Before adopting ERIC, Mila’s NEBOSH certified Health and Safety Manager, Joe Montague researched all of the best practice guidelines which have emerged both in the UK and in China during the current pandemic. He believes that ERIC provides the safest and most comprehensive toolkit currently available to manufacturers and distributors, as long as it implemented rigorously and consistently alongside comprehensive staff training and, of course, adequate provision of PPE. The four key aspects of the protocol are: Elimination • Eliminate any nonessential tasks from the site so that only essential product handling is taking place. Any work that can be done from home should continue • Eliminate any nonessential contractors and visitors from the site so that only cleaning, servicing and waste management visits are allowed Reduction • Reduce the level of goods-in to the minimum necessary • Reduce staffing levels so that only the minimum

engaged/vacant signage in use • Breaktimes should be staggered • All equipment should be allocated for use by one person only and labelled accordingly – including computers, tape guns and tools. Where multiple use is required, they should be disinfected between use number of staff are on site at any one time – matching individual skillsets with the tasks required • Reduce working hours to match the workload • Reduce the number of inbound and outbound drivers allowed onto the site Isolation • Strictly enforce the 2-metre social distancing rule • Anyone with a high temperature or persistent cough, anyone who is classed as vulnerable to Covid-19 and anyone who lives with a vulnerable person or someone who is in self-isolation should not come to work • Staff should avoid public transport to travel to work and only car share with members of their own household • On arrival, 2m distancing should apply while waiting to enter and leave the building, and one person should be tasked with signing everyone in and out • Everyone entering should be asked if they have any symptoms and be reminded of the Health and Safety Rules • Hand sanitizer should be used on entering the building • During working hours, the 2m distance needs to be observed at all times, with no one working face to face • Offices and toilets should be used by one person at a time with

• If first aid is required, disposable gloves and face masks must be worn Control • Covid-19 signage needs to be in place throughout the site • All staff should be instructed on regular hand washing and facilities and hand sanitizer provided • 2m markers to be placed on floors throughout walkways and working areas • Twice daily cleaning to be implemented on personal workstations and equipment, as well as all common touch points such as door handles, taps, and printers Alongside ERIC, Mila is also stressing the importance of allocating adequate PPE to everyone on site so that items such as goggles and face masks are never shared. Mila’s Managing Director Richard Gyde commented: “Our priority will always be the safety and wellbeing of our team but, with these new protocols in place, we feel confident that we can start to consider some kind of resumption of work.

COVID-19: HOW GLAZERITE IS RESPONDING TO THE PANDEMIC Trade fabricator the Glazerite UK Group has outlined how it is working with employees, suppliers and customers during the Covid-19 pandemic. Following the UK-wide lockdown announced last month, Glazerite furloughed the vast majority of its 270 staff across its Wellingborough, Bolton, Peterborough and Bristol sites, at 100% of their wages. John Hewitt, Group Chairman, says: “This decision did not come lightly; in 20 years of business we have never had to lay off staff and we were disappointed to be doing it now. But as is the case for many other businesses, this is completely out of our control. Our staff are always our priority and we were conscious of minimising any financial impact as far as possible across our workforce. With this in mind, we have committed to paying all staff 100% of their normal wages until the end of April, should the

lockdown continue to be extended until then.

help support those on the frontline,” says Jason.

“The appreciative response from our staff has been quite overwhelming. We have a fantastic team of people who are truly dedicated to the business and who will do all they can to get us through this crisis, and out the other side. As directors, we too are fully committed to doing our best by them and resuming normal operations as soon as it’s safe and viable to do so.”

Throughout the lockdown, Glazerite has been actively promoting the Government’s advice via its social media channels, and a small number of employees have continued to work remotely, including the board of directors. Jason says: “It’s important we keep what we can ticking over and continue to work with our installer partners on any areas they need support with.

During the furlough period, a number of Glazerite’s employees have signed up as NHS Volunteer Responders, while others have been using the time to catch up on further education via online portals set up by their training providers.

“Many have adapted to the circumstances and are quoting homeowners for work remotely. We have an online system, which around one in 10 of our installers have been using during the pandemic, and we do have a team on hand to create the quote for them if they need us to.

Group Managing Director, Jason Thompson, has also been in touch with Glazerite supplier, Window Widgets, to suggest using their 3D printing facilities to create plastic straps for surgical masks. Since then, Window Widgets has been able to send a number of the straps for use in NHS Trusts in London and Bristol. “This is a huge crisis, which is affecting everyone, and where we can, we want to

“Part of our offering to installers is marketing support, so most of them have websites and digital brochures, as well as a social media presence. During this time when their customers are at home and perhaps making plans for future home renovations, digital platforms are a good way to showcase their product offering and the services they can offer.”

“Obviously, none of us wants to jeopardise the gains which have been made in the battle against the Coronavirus by going back to work too soon, but equally we don’t want to risk long term damage to individual businesses or to the wider industry by remaining closed for any longer than is necessary.” Tel: 01327 312400 www.mila.co.uk

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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SHOULD UK CONSTRUCTION BE

RETURNING TO WORK?

CONFUSED ABOUT WHETHER YOU SHOULD OR COULD RETURN TO WORK?

We’re now in the third week of shutdown. It’s been a difficult time for us, our customers and our suppliers, personally and professionally. Closing our doors on the 24th March was something I could never have imagined doing. We never want to let our customers down - but neither do we want to put them or our people at risk. And this has been the challenge that every systems company, fabricator and installer is currently having to contend with. Deliver for our customers and get paid (let’s not make any bones about it, cashflow is a big issue for everyone right now), but in doing so risk something more important the welfare of our people or our customers? The response of Government to COVID19 has been for the large part been on the money. We would all be feeling significantly less optimistic about the future, had it not stepped up with funding to support job retention.

THE GOVERNMENT POSITION ON WORKING It hasn’t, however, been quite so clear on rules on work. On April 8th it issue new instructions ordering the shut down of construction sites only to withdraw them the following day. The Construction Leadership Council, a joint industry and government body, issued a notice that hardened the previous advice to companies. The new guidelines insisted that ‘where it is not possible or safe for workers to distance themselves from each other by two metres, work should not be carried out’. But the council withdrew the notice hours later after uproar from the industry, which complained the rules were impossible to follow. We need to be safe. There is no question about it. Where it is safe to do so, however, – and where no alternative exists Government advice is that we can, and we should, return to work. It has said: ‘With the exception of some non-essential shops and public venues, we are not asking any other businesses to close – indeed it is important for business to carry on’.

THE CHALLENGE FOR THE WINDOW AND DOOR INDUSTRY So why aren’t we (at least yet)? The first point is, that we’re still at the beginning of what is a sizeable shift in the commercial landscape. We needed time as an industry to make an assessment. From a practical perspective, we have also been focussed on supporting our customers and our staff. And – in the interests of full transparency - we didn’t have the answers. We couldn’t say anything meaningful because in common with everyone else, we were in a period of adjustment and focussed on the challenges that it has brought. Now, however, I believe we’re in a slightly different space.

WORKING IN AN EXTENDED ‘LOCKDOWN’ At the time of writing it seems likely that controls on movement will be extended. This was always on the cards, so we shouldn’t be panicked by it. The question is now, and given Government advice, should we remain closed for it in its entirety, or are there ways to manage some form of return to work without increasing risk?

This is a twofold question, maybe even threefold. First, construction. The challenges of working in and around someone’s home are infinitely greater than on a construction site. That is why many building sites remain open and large construction companies are currently reopening sites, putting in additional controls to reduce risk. This creates a demand for windows and doors. We have a choice of going back to work and fulfilling those orders or not? The home improvement market is more complex. Many homeowners may not want strangers in their homes for a wide variety of reasons from pre-existing health conditions to simple concern about the risks. Others, however, will, as long as we can evidence that controls are in place to ensure their safety - and that of employees. This means putting in process as much as PPE. Confirming in advance that household and installation teams are fit and well in the period before arrival on site. Agreeing a working schedule in advance to minimise contact between homeowner and fitters, in addition to proper cleaning of product before departure. Marketing, lead generation, sales calls these are things which can, and arguably

should, be done remotely. There is no reason to go to site until the final survey. We’re working with our customers to develop these processes and tools to safeguard their teams and the homeowner. Working in the window and door industry is changed, medium term, not only the short. We need to change how we do things.

WHEN WILL WE RESTART MANUFACTURE? The answer is simple. We will restart fabrication when we have the processes and systems in place so that it is safe for our people and our customers – and as long as government guidance says that we can. We are talking to our customers about what they need from us and building understanding internally as to how we need to adapt our processes to minimise risk and maximise the safety of all. This is being reviewed not only daily but by the hour. It is only when we are confident that these systems are in place, and that it is safe to do so - we will return to work. For more information on Emplas visit www.emplas.co.uk, email info@emplas. co.uk or call 01933 674880.

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

The UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

www.glassnews.co.uk | May 2020

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ALMOST A THIRD OF BUSINESSES IN NORTHERN ENGLAND AT HIGH RISK DUE TO COVID-19 Almost a third of businesses in the Midlands and the North of England are at high risk of collapse due to COVID-19 impacting on their supply chain, according to a recent report from Durham University Business School.

like, complexity of supply chains in the region, supply chain configuration, internal and external resilience characteristics of companies, agility in managerial decisionmaking capability and the adoption and use of technologies.

The report reviewed over 1.7 million businesses in these geographical areas, spread across 99 different sectors, and found that 29% of these are at high risk due to how their supply chains operate. The report also shows that around 35% of the firms are either at low or medium risk due to the potential impact of Covid19.

This study reports findings on the potential impact of COVID-19 to supply chains in the North of England and mitigation and resilience strategies that can be adopted by companies to overcome impact of COVID19.

This report, ‘Covid19 and Supply Chains in the United Kingdom: Impact & Mitigation’, was co-authored by Professor Kiran Fernandes and Drs Atanu Chaudhuri and Manish Shukla alongside other professors from the business school’s Centre for Technology and Innovation Management (CITM). The researchers analysed data of over 1,739,669 companies in 28 different regions across the Midlands and North of England to calculate the potential impact of the COVID-19 on the supply chains. While, many of these companies operate through global supply chains, the impact of such an external shock is felt at a local level. This was due to a number of factors

The report also provides insight into the specific sectors that are most likely to be impacted on due to COVID-19. The researchers found that industries that were at the highest risk included, real estate, food & beverage, personal services and the construction sector. Whilst companies who were less likely to be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic included, computer programming companies, management consulting, architectural and parts of the retail food sector (e.g. production and distribution of baked produce). Professor Kiran Fernandes, Professor of Operations Management at Durham University Business School , says, “Most companies in our region had never experienced such an external shock and

therefore were not prepared with mitigation strategies for their complex global supply chains. Analysing a large number of companies using a big data approach has allowed us to better understand supply chain configurations and more importantly allowed us to identify and suggest mitigation strategies that can be adopted by supply chains across all a large number of sectors”. Experts from the business school also reviewed a number of supply chain mitigation and resilience strategies that companies could utilise to overcome this negative impact too. In the report, six separate mitigation strategies were reviewed by professors who then identified and assigned a specific, tailored strategy for each of the 99 different sectors, in order to provide advice on how managers and business owners can navigate their company in this time of crisis. Durham University Business School are now offering free or charge consultations for businesses with key international experts from the business school’s Centre for Technology and Innovation Management (CITM). These experts all have vast, global experience in consulting organisations in the area of operations, innovation and supply chain management.

Professor Kiran Fernandes also says, “The Durham University Business School is part of our region’s ecosystem. It is critical and timely that we work with our regional businesses and ecosystems to ensure that our expertise can be used to make them develop both short term and long term resilience strategies that can help them not only survive but compete in the post Covid19 environment.” If you’re interested in being put in contact with an expert from Durham University Business School for personal, tailored advice on mitigation strategies for your company, please contact the email address: Business.externalrelations@durham.ac.uk - where you will be put in touch with an expert for a free consultation. The full ‘Covid19 and Supply Chains in the United Kingdom: Impact & Mitigation’, is available to download on request. If you would like further comment from Kiran Fernandes on the impact of COVID-19 on business in England, please do get in touch with Peter Remon at BlueSky PR peter@bluesky-pr.com.

LINIAR MOVES SWIFTLY TO HELP FRONT LINE WORKERS Innovative PVCu systems company Liniar has developed a new supply chain whilst its extrusion facility is temporarily closed – producing protective face visors for front line workers during the COVID19 crisis. Whilst most of the workforce was furloughed, with a skeleton team working from home, discussions turned to ways in which we could help. Social media had told us NHS staff, care workers, nursing homes and many others were in desperate need of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) which was in short supply… and Liniar had a 3D printer sitting in a now-empty office in Derbyshire. Liniar’s Design team, led by Design & Development Director Chris Armes, began to trial designs for a 3D printed visor, made up of a medical-grade headband and a simple A4 acetate sheet which would be slotted in. The final design chosen was ergonomic, comfortable for the user to wear, and would allow a full range of movement whilst fitting over the top of masks and glasses. The Design team volunteered to take turns working in 4-hour shifts, day and night, to man the printer whilst it slowly churned out the visors. In the meantime, discussions were taking place about procuring an injection moulding tool, which would enable the team to mass-produce the visors for as long as they were needed.

Once costed, Liniar immediately authorised the £20k investment, the tool was ordered and a production, packing and logistics process was put into place to distribute the visors to those contacting Liniar. Furloughed employees volunteered to come into a carefully planned, socially distanced environment at Liniar House in order to make this happen. Liniar’s protective visors are being provided free of charge to front line and key workers. Customers or others wishing to purchase visors for their own operations will be charged cost price, plus a small donation equivalent to Liniar’s donation to enable the company to continue to supply FOC to our

amazing front line services. This way we are all effectively supporting and joining in. Chris comments, “Once we saw the need out there, we immediately started looking for ways we could help our key workers. With a workforce of more than 500, many of our employees have relatives working for the NHS, in care homes and on the front line, and we wanted to support them in the first instance. “It feels great to be part of such a proactive company – as soon as I highlighted the fact we could massively increase production by ordering a new tool, the expenditure was authorised. Our flat structure and constant communication meant we could put

Chris Armes, Design & Development Director

everything in place as swiftly as possible in order to be up and running with minimal delays. “I’d also like to thank everyone who’s giving up their time to make such a positive difference to those who need it most at this critical time – we’re all proud of you!” Full production of up to 3,000 visors per day should commence on 27th April. Anyone who needs protective visors or those wishing to help with distribution should email us at info@liniar.co.uk.

Design Apprentice Oliver Marriott modelling the Liniar visors

The first batch of visors is delivered to care homes local to Liniar HQ

Liniar is also helping the NHS through a JustGiving page – the company has donated a raffle prize of £1,000-worth of products, which you can win by donating a minimum of £10. The more you donate, the more chances you have to win. Read more at www.liniar.co.uk/raffle-to-support-nhs.

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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• •• •• •• •• • •

Domestic window and door installations Domesticregulation window and door installations Building compliance inspections Building regulation compliance inspections British Standard 8213-4 British Standard 8213-4 Specification disputes Domestic window and door installations Specification disputes Building regulation compliance inspections British Standard 8213-4 Specification disputes

www.glassnews.co.uk | May 2020

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GGF UNDERLINES POSITIONS ON COVID-19 ISSUES The GGF has underlined its positions on several issues around the developing COVID-19 crisis and its impact on the glass and glazing industry. In a statement to GGF Members and the Industry, John Agnew GGF, Managing Director clarified the GGF’s position with regard to the issue on whether companies should choose to close temporarily or to continue operating safely. The statement also addressed the cash flow crisis and the economic situation ahead. STATEMENT FROM JOHN AGNEW, GGF MANAGING DIRECTOR Since the outbreak of this terrible virus and the impact on our industry, the GGF has maintained a consistent and responsible position to help primarily our Member companies and also the wider industry. During the crisis, the GGF has aligned itself with Government advice and guidelines which have admittedly changed as the crisis has developed. There is no doubt, that some of the Government’s messages for our industry have caused confusion and misinterpretation. The GGF can’t answer for the Government but can only interpret and relay the information as and when we receive it. To date, the GGF has been extremely active during the COVID-19 pandemic. To highlight this, a summary of all of our activity has now been published on our website. Our regular communications to GGF Members and the wider industry as well as our engagement with government and related construction trade bodies have been welcome from the feedback we have received. In addition, throughout these extraordinary times, the GGF has also maintained its core services to underline our leading and proactive role as the industry’s main trade body. In the past few weeks, some in the industry have questioned our position on various Government messages and none more so than the specific issue around installers continuing

With thousands of companies in our industry, I respect that every company’s situation may differ and that is why the GGF can’t offer individual or specific advice, but instead encourages employers to follow the Government guidelines and to make their own responsible decisions for the health and benefit of all concerned. Other than health concerns, the issue facing most companies is the cash flow crisis. The GGF has published online advice articles and issued Government guidance on how companies can cope with cash flow problems. As well as the immediate financial needs, many businesses are also now preparing for the financial issues ahead with the inevitable recession on the horizon and lengthy economic recovery. We are in unprecedented trading landscape and the GGF advice to all companies is to make a plan if you haven’t already done so to help you get through this situation. to work in domestic premises. On this point of whether or not window and door installers and glaziers should be considered essential or non-essential workers, the GGF sought and received clarification from Government which stated that there was no distinction between essential and inessential workers in construction. The Government is keen for the construction industry to continue, as long as it is safe to do so under Public Health England Guidelines and in line with the Government’s Social Distancing guidelines. Following this clarification and the GGF’s distribution of the Government health and safety information, we have still received some queries regarding the issue from companies who are unsure. For further clarity, the GGF position on this issue, is in line with the Government’s advice and Public Health England Guidance, and as such we therefore urge employers to do the following: • Only continue to work if it is safe to do so within the health and safety guidelines as published on the Government website • Conduct a thorough health and safety risk assessment • Check with your insurers that you covered for Public Health and Health and Safety Employer liability The GGF has also recently published the Government guidance for manufacturers and processors should they choose to continue to work.

The GGF has internally adjusted its resources and refocused its strategies to ensure Members get greater and more specific support. We have published and promoted all of the relevant Government financial packages, which have been significant and comprehensive. I have no doubt that the responsible businesses in our industry, will use this Government support, take help them plan their future accordingly. The new Government Business Support Hub has many options available should you require to apply for financial support. The GGF has worked tirelessly throughout this crisis for the benefit of our Members and the wider industry and we will continue to do so. We are constantly monitoring and reviewing the Government updates, communicating key information and news to Members and the industry as well as relaying our Members’ concerns to Government. In addition, we are also continuing to provide the high level of technical services that are a core part of the GGF membership benefits. These times though extremely difficult will undoubtedly pass. For now, it is all about following Government guidance, staying safe and making the right decisions to ensure we emerge ready for when business and life returns to normal. For further information go to: http://www.ggf.org.uk or for consumer information generated by the GGF please visit www.MyGlazing.com.

VEKA COMPOUNDS OPENS ITS GATES TO ENSURE SUPPLY OF VITAL CABLE TRUNKING FOR EMERGENCY NIGHTINGALE HOSPITALS Wellingborough-based VEKA Compounds came out of lockdown temporarily after a customer expressed a need for a large volume of premium grade, white recycled polymer that it needed to supply a special order of PVC-U cable trunking for the construction of six emergency Nightingale Hospitals throughout the UK.

Compounds was contacted by regular customer Marshall-Tufflex Ltd when the specialist trunking and cable management manufacturer was asked by the NHS to provide a large quantity of its trunking to be used in the construction of the hospitals, which have been commissioned as part of the fight against the COVID-19 outbreak. The order included a special antimicrobial version.

Compounds explained: “We closed our Wellingborough site in line with many others when it became clear that we could not continue to function effectively and safely during the coronavirus lockdown. However, aware that Marshall-Tufflex was being considered as a supplier for the Nightingale Hospitals we gave a commitment that we would reopen specially if they required the additional product.

A division of VEKA Recycling Ltd, VEKA

Simon Scholes, Managing Director of VEKA

“We are delighted to be have been able to respond swiftly

and positively, with 24 tonnes of our highest-grade product shipped within an hour of the transport arriving at our plant.” A long-standing customer of VEKA Compounds, Marshall-Tufflex uses a silver ion solution in the manufacture its antimicrobial trunking systems, which ensures that 99.9% of harmful bacteria will not survive on the surface. With the solution used throughout the trunking, even if it

becomes damaged, the active ingredients will continue to help prevent the spread of healthcare associated infections, making it ideal for use in environments such as the

Nightingale Hospitals. Using high-quality recycled PVC-U material reclaimed from end of life PVC-U windows, also reduces the environmental impact of the product.

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

AN INDUSTRY SURVEY TO CO-ORDINATE THE RETURN TO WORK ROSEVIEW WINDOWS ACTS AS A CLEARING HOUSE FOR INFORMATION FROM INDIVIDUAL COMPANIES ON THEIR INTENTIONS AND THOUGHTS ON THE TIMING OF BEING ABLE TO RECOMMENCE WORKING SURVEY INDUSTRY RE-OPENING

ROSEVIEW WINDOWS #2

It is not just a case of when we get back to very least we hope it acts as a trigger for an The big question which will work but also how this will be done. Mike open, industry-wide discussion. It’s a rolling KEY FINDINGS be onismost is resultsBygrave Roseview Windowsrehas posted survey, so you can complete it more than This the people secondminds set of fromat our industry his thoughts on the subject on LinkedIn, once. You may not know when to re-open opening survey. direct comparison with the first Friday 24th April DATE: around the issueItofshows when awe saying: “In response to COVID-19 most of yet, and that's fine. But, in a few weeks, set of results gathered one week earlier. the glazing industry closed down together. things may change. Come back and do the Mike Bygrave at Roseview Windows can get back to work? 354 RESPONSES: At Roseview we believe that it’s in everyone’s survey again, and we'll track the changes in It shows a small but clear move towards setting a re-opening interests – suppliers, fabricators and regular updates. The UKPreviously economy needsonly a resumption 259 (76%) INSTALLERS: date. 3% orofresponders had set a date; this installers - to re-open together as well. work as does our industry as a whole and, “The results will be freely available to has now risen to 11%. STAFF: of course, our individual companies. We are “However, coordinating that return may CLOSED/SKELETON everyone. We’ll publish them 310 on our(87%) seeingmore companies going into administration For details, please visit: prove to be tricky. Therefore, we're asking website, on LinkedIn and through our social 39 (11%) RE-OPEN DATE SET? and redundancies being made across the for your thoughts in a short survey. It’s open media channels. This is not a marketing www.roseview.co.uk/covid-survey board with the country sliding further and further into debt.

to the whole industry and aims to allow all of us to make an informed decision. At the

WHAT DOES YOUR COMPANY DO?

exercise – we’re not collecting contact details. It’s simply our way of trying to help

SURVEY #1

76%

259

73%

Fabricator ............................................................................................................... 64

34%

111

31%

Systems house ...................................................................................................... 10

Component supplier ........................................................................................... 16

Glass supplier ........................................................................................................ 26

14%

Other ........................................................................................................................ 13

WHAT MARKETS ARE YOU ACTIVE IN?

SURVEY #1

SURVEY #2

Retail ........................................................................................................................ 170

89%

312

88%

New build ................................................................................................................ 129

68%

232

66%

Commercial ............................................................................................................ 100

52%

182

51%

Social ........................................................................................................................ 82

43%

142

40%

HAVE YOU CLOSED DOWN?

SURVEY #1

SURVEY #2

CHANGE

No - still operating normally ............................................................................. 4

Partial shutdown - limited manufacturing/installing ............................... 20

10%

Not manufacturing/installing but skeleton office staff still working .. 50

26%

Yes - full shutdown .............................................................................................. 117

61%

218

62%

+1%

DO YOU KNOW WHEN YOU WILL RE-OPEN?

SURVEY #1

SURVEY #2

“If you have any questions or comments, we’d love to hear them. And please spread the word – the more people that get involved the more informative the results will be. Stay safe.” This is an initiative that has merit. It is a time when our industry needs to pull together and by running this survey it will give everyone an insight into the intentions of others and the industry as a whole. Mike has emphasised that this not a marketing exercise on behalf of Roseview and he is simply taking it upon himself to collate the data and keep everyone informed through a variety of media so that everyone can see the intentions of others and how their thoughts change as news regarding the lockdown changes over time.

SURVEY #2

Installer .................................................................................................................... 145

the industry get back to work in an efficient way, when it’s safe to do so.

CHANGE

We have already re-opened ............................................................................. 6

+2%

We have set a date (see below) ...................................................................... 5

11%

+8%

When enough suppliers/customers have re-opened .............................. 67

35%

116

33%

-2%

Don’t know yet - we’ll open when it’s safe to do so ................................. 98

51%

165

47%

-4%

Other ........................................................................................................................ 15

-3%

WHEN ARE YOU RE-OPENING?

Will it be instantly illuminating? Probably not as Mike expects that the first reaction to the survey will be a resounding ‘Don’t know’. However, this will change with time and the important part of this survey is revisiting it on a regular basis with the hope that the statistics will show everyone gearing up to start work again and our industry will be able to co-ordinate an industry wide recommencing of business.

Glass News is very happy to support Roseview Windows’ initiative and we hope the industry will support the survey that will give a visible and meaningful showing of the intentions of individual companies. This should, over time, help us all co-ordinate our return to normal working. SURVEY

20th April .................................... 1

4th May ........................................ 10

11th May ........................................ 15

https://bit.ly/RoseviewCV19

22nd April ................................... 2

5th May ........................................ 2

13th May ....................................... 1

27th April .................................... 6

6th May ........................................ 1

RESULTS PAGE

ROSEVIEW WINDOWS 35 Stilebrook Road, Olney, Bucks, MK46 5EA

https://www.roseview.co.uk/covid-survey/

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper COMPA N Y TYPE Component supplier

Glass supplier

Other

Glass supplier

Other

Glass supplier

Other

Glass supplier

Other

COMPA N Y TYPE Fabricator

Systems house

Component supplier

COMPA N Y TYPE

Commercial

New build

Commercial

49 (14%)

Retail

24 (7%)

New build

MA R KET SECTOR

New build

Commercial

Social

182 (51%)

232 (66%)

Retail

182 (51%) 182 (51%)

MA R KET SECTOR

142 (40%)

Social

142 (40%) 142 (40%)

182 (51%)

MA R KET SECTOR Retail

142 (40%)

No - still operating normally

Partial shutdown - limited manufacturing/installing HAVE YOU TEMPOR A R I LY CL OSED DOWN ? 218 (62%)

Not manufacturing/installing, but skeleton office staff still working No - still operating normally Yes - full shutdown Partial shutdown - limited manufacturing/installing

HAVE YOU TEMPOR A R I LY CL OSED DOWN ? 218 (62%) 218 (62%)

Not manufacturing/installing, but skeleton office staff still working No - still operating normally Yes - full shutdown Partial shutdown - limited manufacturing/installing 92 (26%)

HAVE YOU TEMPOR A R I LY CL OSED DOWN ? 37 (10%)

Not manufacturing/installing, but skeleton office staff still working No - still operating normally Yes - full shutdown Partial shutdown - limited manufacturing/installing 218 (62%)

92 (26%)

7 (2%)

37 (10%)

7 (2%)

Not manufacturing/installing, but skeleton office staff still working Yes - full shutdown

92 (26%)

37 (10%)

7 (2%)

DO YOU KN OW WHEN YOU ' L L R E-OPEN ? We have already re-opened 37 (10%)

have set a date DO YOUWeKN OW WHEN YOU ' L L R E-OPEN ? When enough suppliers/customers have re-opened We have already re-opened Don't know yet - we'll open when it's safe to do so We have set a date Other When enough suppliers/customers have re-opened We have already re-opened Don't know yet - we'll open when it's safe to do so We have set a date Other When enough suppliers/customers have re-opened We have already re-opened Don't know yet - we'll open when it's safe to do so We have set a date Other When enough suppliers/customers have re-opened

Josh Morrison | Managing Director JR Roofing Lancs Ltd

24 (7%)

49 (14%)

29 (8%) 29 (8%)

Social

16 (5%)

New build

Social

Commercial

232 (66%) 16 (5%)

Retail

24 (7%)

49 (14%)

29 (8%)

16 (5%) 16 (5%)

MA R KET SECTOR

HAVE YOU TEMPOR A R I LY CL OSED DOWN ?

7 (2%)

“We switched to Freefoam because the product guarantees are the best on the market. Quality and colour range are also second-to-none”

24 (7%)

49 (14%)

Component supplier 29 (8%)

Systems house

232 (66%) 232 (66%)

312 (88%) 312 (88%) 312 (88%) 312 (88%)

Component supplier

COMPA N Y TYPE

111 (31%) 111 (31%)

Fabricator

Systems house 111 (31%)

Fabricator

259 (73%)

Installer

Systems house

111 (31%)

Installer

259 (73%) 259 (73%)

Installer

Fabricator 259 (73%)

Installer

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165 (47%)

116 (33%)

DO YOU KN OW WHEN YOU ' L L R E-OPEN ?

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BUILDING PARTNERSHIPS

19 (5%)

116 (33%)

39 (11%)

Other

19 (5%)

165 (47%) 165 (47%)

165 (47%)

116 (33%) 116 (33%)

39 (11%) 39 (11%)

Don't know yet - we'll open when it's safe to do so

39 (11%)

17 (5%)

DO YOU KN OW WHEN YOU ' L L R E-OPEN ?

TRADE NEWS

The UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

The UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

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TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

When Jason Thompson, group managing director of Glazerite UK Group, asked for some product assistance to support a family member operating on the frontline at St Helier Hospital, London, Window Widgets were quick off the mark to provide the much-needed support for the NHS. The straps on the face masks used by the London hospital had proven to be uncomfortable over long periods of time and so the request was made to design and manufacture a better solution that would help relieve pressure on the face and ears. The first prototype was design validated, produced and sent directly within 24 hours for immediate approval. Despite the current lockdown at Window Widgets, directors Mike Hart and Sarah Hitchings have worked in shifts, including the Easter weekend, to produce the new straps using their 3D printer and there are now daily deliveries going out to St Helier Hospital and now also to Southmead Hospital in Bristol. While the 3D printing is a relative slow process, over the course of days and weeks the production volumes have slowly increased. Sarah Hitchings, sales and marketing director of Window Widgets commented:

GLASS AND COVID-19 GLAZING TRADING COVID-19 UPDATE MEETING OUTCOMES

GEORGE BARNSDALE

WIDGETS AND GLAZERITE PROVIDE NHS PRODUCT SUPPORT

‘The request from Jason was certainly something we were very keen to do, despite the lockdown circumstances. Thanks to the original design from Thingiverse and subsequent validation of product and process from Mike, we were able to start producing and distributing the new straps within 48 hours. We’ve also heard many other stories of businesses and even schools using 3D printers to manufacture components for frontline NHS staff. She continued: ‘We’ll be looking to make these as long as is necessary and we’ve also designed them so that they will last for the longer-term. Let’s face it, we all have a duty amidst this crisis to help others and it’s a time for this country to unite and support where we can.’

Today (20th April), we reopened our factory on a much reduced operational basis.

We have spent the last three weeks of shutdown putting extensive measures in place to ensure the safety of our staff and to enable them to maintain the 2 metre social distancing widely recommended to prevent the spread of the Covid 19 infection. In the first instance, we will be starting with a very small team who will be tasked with focusing on those projects customers have informed us are most urgent. Many of these are part way through production already and we are hoping to be able to complete these in the next 2-3 weeks and ultimately bring new projects into production after that.

For further information visit windowwidgets.co.uk, e-mail Adrian Clare at e-mail adrian@windowwidgets.co.uk or by calling 01452 300912 for free brochures and wall charts. You can also add to their following on Twitter @Windowwidgets.

The survey, which questioned over 100 SME recruitment firms found that only 7% had successfully applied and received a loan. Almost a third (31%) had spoken to their lender and had still found the criteria prohibitive: “We were told that we did not pass eligibility for the CBIL even though we have grown over 30% year on year in all areas including turnover/ gross profit and client base. We invested back in the business for growth and infrastructure

and were told that we did not retain enough cash in the business – we have been with our bank for five years – no overdraft, no loans – this is a complete farce”, said one respondent. “This example is typical of some of the problems that our members are reporting,” said Ann Swain, Chief Executive of APSCo. “The whole point of this loan is to – and I quote from The British Business Bank website – ‘support UK businesses that are losing revenue and seeing their cashflow disrupted as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak.’ The website also states that businesses must ‘have a borrowing proposal which the lender would consider viable, were it not for the current pandemic’. The banks need clear and unambiguous lending criteria to be issued from Government otherwise hundreds – if not thousands of

SMEs are going to go under.” Almost two thirds (62%) of respondents had not applied with firms citing a lack of response and a slow process in getting as far as application as the main reasons: “It is a very slow process and some companies will go to the wall because of this log jam. I can only see the pace improving if the Government removes the 20% loan that is unguaranteed. Obviously, banks have to go through loan governance for each application which has caused an enormous backlog. We have a great banking record with our bank, but still are getting absolutely nowhere”, said one respondent. “Some weeks ago, we did write to the Chancellor and John Glen, Chief Secretary to the Treasury, to alert them to the fact that some banks were asking for personal guarantees and offering alternative

The objective of the new group is to bring concerns around COVID-19 from the industry for constructive discussion and look at ways to help get back to work and recover quickly, when lockdown measures are lifted. The first meeting highlighted the high levels of interdependence within the industry. To achieve a successful and efficient return for us all, it was agreed that we should keep talking and sharing experiences. Some good ideas on how this could be achieved were brought forward and the industry will look to develop practical initiatives to make it happen.

HUNDREDS OF SMES UNDER THREAT OF COLLAPSE DUE TO CBIL INFLEXIBILITY The Association of Professional Staffing Companies is calling on the Government to intervene further to ensure that businesses are able to access much-needed finance through the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan, as a survey of its membership painted a picture of unreasonable criteria and lack of response.

The inaugural Glass and Glazing COVID-19 meeting took place on Thursday 16 April. Facilitated by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) and chaired by Ryan Green of Clayton Glass, it brought together business leaders representing the glazing industry supply chain.

products to the CBIL at higher interest rates”, added Ann Swain. “The Chancellor did intervene to stop this practice but it seems there is still work to do to get this scheme up and running in the way that the Government intended. We have been supportive of the Government’s actions so far but it is important that our members have access to finance as quickly as possible and we will keep up the pressure by continuing to survey recruitment firms on the impact of the crisis – and their ability to access the initiatives that the Government has put in place. That way we can continue to feed live data into Government departments. The recruitment sector is a bellwether of the economy and the sooner it is putting people back into jobs the better for everyone.”

Chair of the meeting, Ryan Green says: “I found this first conversation very useful and balanced, and think a few good initiatives came out of it that have the potential to come to fruition in terms of a guidance document on the approach to install. It also stressed the amount of work and constructive discussions needed from the entire supply chain.” Further meetings are planned over the coming weeks, to develop ideas and start putting these into practice. The group comprises of fifty business leaders and aims to be open and inclusive, so will be reporting results of discussions to the industry and welcomes feedback, ideas and questions. Tel: 01332 559406

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

The UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

www.glassnews.co.uk | May 2020

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

QUICKSLIDE OFFERS QUICK SURVIVING UNDER THE LOCKDOWN TIPS FOR ITS TRADE PARTNERS Despite the coronavirus having a devastating effect on every aspect of life, there are signs that people and businesses are adjusting to life under lockdown. And, whilst it may be some time before any sort of normality is resumed, a number of companies are offering advice that will allow preparations to be made for that eventuality.

Quickslide Trade Partners, offers extensive resources that allow companies not only to ensure their brand awareness is maintained but that leads may be actually generated in

preparation for when life returns to some sort of normality. In fact, the Quickslide guide shows how quotes can still be prepared from a few photographs sent in

by homeowners. Installers can guide their prospective customers over the telephone or even via video links, following which Quickslide may prepare accurate estimates that may be confirmed when it is safe to complete a survey. “Although we cannot ignore the terrible toll that the coronavirus outbreak is wreaking on society, we will emerge from this and it is essential that business returns to normal as quickly as possible, for all of our sakes,” said Quickslide’s Adrian Barraclough. “Having ensured the safety of their families homeowners have a great deal of time on their hands and will be making plans and reviving aspirations for improving their homes with the addition of new windows and doors, especially those that open their homes to their gardens.

Brighouse, Yorkshire-based window and door fabricator Quickslide is one such firm that has turned its expertise and resources towards producing advice that its trade partners may use to prepare themselves for an end to the lockdown and actually, to show how they may open up discussions with potential customers even whilst the restrictions apply. Offered in the form of a blog on the company’s website at www.quickslide.co.uk/ blog/guides/quick-tips-for-trade-partnersduring-the-covid-19-outbreak/ Quickslide’s Surviving the Virus tips include guides on Government finance, grants and other key support schemes in a series of simple, no-nonsense guidelines that include links to the right departments and organisations. Others offer effective tips on how installers used to being out and about during their working day, can adapt to home working, a concept that in itself can provide difficulties when put into practice.

“It is important for installers that lockdown time is used positively. Our guide shows how installers can not only prepare for a return to work but to actually hit the ground running with healthy leads to firm up, having secured their businesses with all of the financial support that is being made available to them. And we have a team of people ready to help with all sorts of advice,” added Adrian. The guide ‘Quick Tips for Trade Partners during the COVID-19 Outbreak,’ together with a range of other useful information, can be found on the Quickslide website at: www.quickslide.co.uk.

Marketing is another key function that can and should be continued, says Quickslide. Its Marketing Portal, available for all

CERTASS TA – DIRECT LINE TO GOVERNMENT Certass Trade Association is supporting members through the COVID-19 situation via its new Certass Members Forum on Facebook. Set up to give members the latest advice and information on how any Government announcements affect them, it is proving popular as a place for discussion between installers, as well as giving members a direct line to Government via its Chair, Jon Vanstone. Jon explains: “A forum like this is the most practical way to get immediate information to our members. And with the ever-changing situation at the moment, that is crucial. Updates I receive daily from

Government can be posted in real-time and it gives members the opportunity to ask myself and the Certass team questions direct. “It also means that I can feedback our industry’s concerns to Government, which is essential for their decision making.

“The forum is a busy hub of activity and we would encourage all members to join so they can receive the latest updates as they happen. We are expecting more announcements over the coming days in terms of how the lockdown rules will affect installation companies going forward. We have already issued guides on the self-

employment income support scheme and practical guidance for employers. Any questions we can’t answer straight away are asked of Government direct, so that we have as much clarity as possible for members during this difficult time. “For any trade association at the moment, the focus should be on delivering good, clear information to keep its members and their customers safe. This means avoiding any misinterpretation of Government guidance which could put installers and homeowners at risk. “Currently, we are seeking clarification between ‘construction’ workers and installers carrying out home improvements – they are very different working environments and as such, the guidance should be very different too. “To ensure that members are setting the agenda, we’re running a poll every week to ask members what they need from us and the Certass team is available to answer questions direct.” Certass members can join the group here: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/2823812634321231/

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

GLAZPART IT’S BUSINESS AS... UN-USUAL!! Thanks to the dedication, commitment and flexibility of our team in Banbury the Glazpart factory is still operational. Our team are committed to supporting our customers especially those serving the NHS, medical and food markets. Today, we are still accepting orders from all our customers alongside these key market customers in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Indeed, we are actively looking to support medical device customers and their injection moulding supply chain. If we can

assist as a full-service moulding company in any way from contract moulding, complete tool room services, machining or assembly contact us. This is despite introducing recommended measures to ensure the safety of our team • The factory is operating additional cleaning and PPE control measures. • Some of our team are working remotely where possible. • We are working closely with our delivery contractors ensure we can continue to deliver although signed POD’s currently may not be available. • We are working closely with our supply chain and we are ensuring we have the right stock. • We have postponed any non-essential meetings on or off-site, your account managers are available as usual.

• Full product support by email and phone. We are monitoring the Government’s advice closely and operations may change depending on this advice. According to Dean Bradley, Sales and Marketing Manager “There have been a huge amount of work and planning to achieve our current position to safely continue to be able to supply product. We

wish all our customers the very best in this unprecedented time and we wish you all to stay safe. If you are still operating send your orders through and we will manage these with our best abilities.” Please contact us if you require any advice or further information on the detail on the news feed at: www.glazpart.com.

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www.glassnews.co.uk | May 2020

28/01/2020 14:13

TRADE NEWS

EIGHT STEPS TO PROTECT YOUR BUSINESS FINANCES

The return to work comes with significant opportunities and risks for business, according to Anglo European Finance Director and ex-restructuring advisor at multi-national professional services giant, Ernst & Young.

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

David Evans, who heads up steel reinforcement specialist’s finance team, says that going into recovery, fabricators must be focussed more than ever on cash and management of working capital. He warns that no business is too big to fail and that even the industry’s ‘biggest names’ are ‘not immune from the threat of running out of cash’. This he says makes effective scenario planning and strict control of working capital key.

“It’s not about being the one to forecast the way that this plays out with 100% accuracy or being exactly right”, he says. “It’s about having the visibility of your finances and being able to react quickly enough and to adapt your strategy so that you preserve cash. It’s about the ‘what if?’ scenarios.”

8 STEPS TO PROTECT YOUR FINANCES DURING RECOVERY • Cash conservation Businesses should be doing everything they can to control costs and manage spending. Not only during lockdown and the start of recovery – but also beyond it, in order to rebuild cash reserves and ensure adequate working capital levels post-recovery. • Scenario planning When and how are you going to return to business and at what scale, and running multiple scenarios: ‘worst case’, ‘medium case’ and ‘best case’. What resource do you need in place and when, against those scenarios as part of a phased return to work. • Communicate Talk to your suppliers. Do they have capacity to supply you in the timeframes you need when you return? Delay on components could have a critical impact on your cashflow. Make sure your supply chain is aligned to your plans to come back to work. • Timing Monitor the macro economic situation. What are your key customers doing? Maintain dialogue with them so you understand their plans, rather than being reactive to events. • Track recovery against your forecasts and react accordingly If you forecasted a return at 40% of business are you on track, or are you running at 30% or maybe 50%? And how should you be phasing the return to work? Do you need to tweak those scenarios, staffing and inventory accordingly?

“It’s not about being the one to forecast the way that this plays out with 100% accuracy or being exactly right.” 20

• Use available support programmes There are various financial assistance programmes in place to support business through the COVID-19 outbreak. These range from government-backed loans offered by banks to tax deferral agreements with HMRC. These can help ensure that you have adequate working capital as you return to work. • Build-up reserves Companies are going to be coming back with very little ‘left in the tank’. This makes it critically important that they build-up reserves, reviewing ongoing costs and maximising profit margin. • Review your capital expenditure plans You may choose to pause plans for capital expenditure in the short-term. Can you justify the capex? Do you defer, postpone or cancel because the capacity requirement isn’t there? Or do you continue to spend? There is an argument that investing in a downturn puts you in a position to capitalise on recovery. • Chase payments Collecting receivables is one of the most important aspects of working capital management that companies can overlook during a period of disruption. It’s something they may be losing sight of simply because they have closed the doors, or their accounts departments have been furloughed. The best companies will continue to pursue their debtors and their receivables throughout the crisis. That cash coming in is still the lifeblood of your business. With cost control a key priority for those businesses now coming back to work, David points out that buying reinforcement direct from source e.g. Anglo, can support fabricators in keeping control on their overheads. This includes average savings of 30-40% on steels a year. “After a serious shock to the economy and to your business, and when you’re trying to rebuild your operations and your cash reserves, it makes sense to also lower your raw material costs. We have customers saving as much as £240,000 a year by buying direct. “Those savings go straight to your bottom line, supporting you in your management of working capital at a time when it has never been more critical to your business and its recovery.” For more information about Anglo European visit www.angloeuropeangroup.co.uk email enquiries@angloeuropean.net or call 0161 231 2354.

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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BENEFITS OF BEING A STEEL WINDOW ASSOCIATION MEMBER TODAY If ever there was a time when the membership of a leading professional association in any industry is invaluable, it’s now. They are the source of independent, comprehensive advice when members are busy trying to optimise and amend operations during challenging times. There are always good reasons why a manufacturer or associate should become a member of The Steel Window Association (SWA), a group of people who are busier than ever now. As well as having access to the latest product developments within the industry, members also receive information from organisations such as The Glass & Glazing Federation (GGF) and the Construction Products Association (CPA). During the current COVID-19 crisis, SWA members are being kept up to date with information from top sources. The GGF issues daily updates giving members guidance within the housing, construction and building maintenance industries – including the job retention scheme, small business grants, deferred VAT payments and business rates holidays. The SWA receives these updates and immediately forwards them to members. The CPA has set up a dedicated Coronavirus web page for members to access directly and issues weekly updates with industry news, industry responses to the crisis; along with the latest housing and economic statistics as they are changing on a daily basis. From everyone at the Steel Window Association and all of its members, we hope everyone stays safe and well during this tough time. For further information on the Steel Window Association, please visit www.steel-window-association.co.uk.

VISTA DONATE PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT TO NHS

GEOCEL LAUNCHES NEW MS POLYMER RANGE Geocel has launched THE WORKS PRO sealant and adhesive THE WORKS PRO X high grab adhesive, formulated to ensure trade professionals achieve the best quality results, without the risk of callbacks. THE WORKS PRO is a multi-use sealant and adhesive that can seal, fill, and bond virtually any surface, wet or dry – inside or out. For the perfect finish, THE WORKS PRO is available in a ‘whiter’ white and an improved clear formulation that can be over-painted. Fast curing, it achieves results that last. THE WORKS PRO X is a high grab adhesive, offering instant grab and bond. It can be used on virtually any wet or dry surface and in both interior and exterior applications. Due to its superior adhesion and fast curing, the formula is ideal for projects that require a strong lasting bond quickly. Andrew Cummins, Senior Product Manager from Geocel said: “Geocel was a pioneer of MS Polymer Chemistry and THE WORKS PRO and THE WORKS PRO X are the latest in a long line of high-quality solutions.

A leading composite door manufacturer and PVCu panel supplier has been keeping the community spirit alive during the fight against coronavirus by donating personal protective equipment (PPE) to frontline NHS workers. Staff from Vista collected up goggles, masks, protective suits and gloves from its factory in the Wirral and delivered the much-needed equipment to the NHS. The NHS has seen a shortage of PPE across the country, with some doctors and nurses not always able to get the equipment needed to keep them safe from infection. Vista’s Managing Director Keith Sadler said: “Our NHS is doing a wonderful job and we all appreciate the work it’s doing to look after people in need. “Like so many other businesses, our factory is currently closed so it was important for us to provide the equipment to those on the frontline who need it more as they deserve to be as protected as possible. “Vista is determined to do whatever it can to help the country through the difficult weeks ahead and we are pleased that we can help in this small way.” Vista is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, and scooped Manufacturer of the Year at the National Fenestration Awards at the end of 2019. For more information, call 0151 608 1423 or visit www.vistapanels.co.uk.

GGF URGES CHANCELLOR TO IMPROVE FINANCIAL SUPPORT Following an internal review of the Government’s financial support packages, the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) has formally written to The Chancellor of the Exchequer highlighting the current cash flow crisis in the glass and glazing industry, caused by the COVID-19 outbreak. In the communication, the GGF also stressed to the Chancellor that the length of time the claim to payment process is taking will mean money under the new Government schemes might not reach companies in time, with an anticipated 6-8 weeks process period. The GGF letter also proposed three ways the Government could improve the current financial situation for many small to medium sized companies during the COVID-19 crisis. The three proposals include: 1. That glass and glazing companies be made eligible for the Cash Grant Scheme (that is currently open only for companies in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors) 2. That glass and glazing companies are made eligible to apply for the current Business Rates Holiday (currently only open to companies in retail, hospitality and leisure sectors) 3. To increase the maximum amount that can be claimed under the Small Business Grant Funding scheme from £10,000 to £30,000 The GGF has asked the Chancellor to treat these proposals as a priority to prevent many small to medium sized companies potentially going out of business and causing greater problems throughout the supply chain and to the wider economy. For further information go to: http://www.ggf.org.uk or for consumer information generated by the GGF please visit www.MyGlazing.com

“MS Polymers offer excellent workability and strong final bond strength, with excellent UV resistance and no shrinkage over time. For those in the trade who demand a superior formulation that won’t let them down, THE WORKS PRO and THE WORKS PRO X are ideal.” For more information, please visit: https://www.geocel.co.uk.

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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WINDOWS PLUS STEPS UP TO SUPPORT THE NHS

GGF GETS GOVERNMENT CLARIFICATION ON ESSENTIAL WORKERS

Profile 22 fabricator Windows Plus is fitting infection control doors and privacy screens in Warwick Hospital to support the efforts of the NHS in caring for Covid-19 patients. The doors and screens will enable staff to safely put on and take off protective clothing before entering or leaving wards. Gary Hampton, Managing Director of Windows Plus, said: “Like everyone, we have been in awe of the amazing work NHS staff are doing in caring for patients with Coronavirus. Having previously carried out work at Warwick Hospital, I got in touch to find out if there was anything we could do to protect and support staff in the hospital at this critical time. When they confirmed the need for infection control doors and privacy screens, we were more than happy to support them.” Clare O’Hara, Managing Director of Epwin Window Systems, said: “I know everyone at Epwin Window Systems will be proud to know our systems are being used in such a positive way and delighted that Gary and the team at Windows Plus were able to support Warwick hospital. Undoubtedly, NHS staff are the heroes of this crisis and we owe them a debt of gratitude.” The doors and privacy screens are being manufactured using the Optima QS70 system from Profile 22. So far, Windows Plus has installed screens and doorsets in the Covid-19 ward and the baby care ward

As the COVID-19 crisis and the subsequent lockdown has intensified the Glass and Glazing Federation has been asked by many Member companies for clarification on whether they should or should not remain open for business. of Warwick Hospital. The next phase will be the hospital’s canteen, with work continuing across the hospital thereafter. Installers are using PPE to protect themselves and others. They are also taking all possible hygiene precautions. Windows Plus is a leading manufacturer and installer based in Coventry. It’s a family run company and a longstanding Profile 22 fabricator. As well as a reputation for quality and service, the company is also renowned locally for its commitment to charity and it carries out numerous fundraising initiatives every year. Its estimators are working from home so if customers require a quote for any future works or items for their local NHS, the company can be contacted on 024 7623 0222 or at info@windows-plus.co.uk.

Having collated many differing views and interpretations of the Government guidelines from the membership, internal staff and industry experts, the GGF contacted the Government for clarification on the crucial matter of essential workers in construction. Writing directly to the Ministers at the Department of Business Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS), the GGF received an immediate and unequivocal reply from the Directorate of Construction who clarified the situation with the follow quote:

Gary concluded: “It has been a privilege to provide practical help at this critical time and give something back to the NHS for everything they’re doing.”

“There is currently no distinction between essential and inessential construction work in England. The Government’s position is that construction work can continue, provided the worker is not displaying symptoms of Covid19 (coronavirus), does not need to self-isolate for another reason, and that the work can be done in a manner consistent with the guidelines published by Public Health England (PHE).”

Tel: 0845 340 3968 www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

The GGF immediately relayed the Government’s response to its Member

companies as well publishing on the GGF. org.uk website, the very latest (9th April) Government guidance on social distancing in the workplace and the more detailed guidance from Public Health England. In addition, the GGF has also published the “Site Operating Procedures” produced by the Construction Leadership Council. To further help Member companies decide on whether they should continue to operate or close temporarily during this crisis, the GGF has advised that business owners conduct a thorough health and safety risk assessment of the workplace and contact their Insurance Provider to ensure that Employer’s Liability & Public Liability insurance policies, are unaffected during this period, as long as all the Government and Public Health guidelines are adhered to. John Agnew, GGF Managing Director commented, “Though we are pleased the Government responded in a swift and clear manner to clarify this important matter, this a fast-moving and changing situation. I would therefore advise all Members to be responsible and if they choose to operate, then they should do so within the Government’s Health and Safety guidelines and social distancing guidance. In the meantime, to help companies cope the GGF will closely monitor the situation and continue our correspondence with Government during this extraordinary time.” For further information go to: http://www.ggf.org.uk or for consumer information generated by the GGF please visit www.MyGlazing.com.

GQA TO SPONSOR NATIONAL FENESTRATION AWARDS 2020 GQA Qualifications, the fenestration industry’s leading awarding body, has announced its sponsorship of the National Fenestration Awards (NFA) for the fifth year running. The 2020 NFA is the industry’s fastestgrowing independent awards event. Launched in 2013 and now into its eighth campaign, the NFA aims to be the fenestration industry’s fairest, most all-inclusive awards event, rewarding the best it has to offer. The NFAs are run and decided completely by the participation of the industry. GQA is to take an ‘ambassador sponsorship’ role. These are the most exclusive sponsorships made available by the NFA and there are only three offered at any one time. This role will see GQA working with the NFA actively to spread the positive message of the awards throughout the year.

www.glassnews.co.uk | May 2020

GQA’s Chief Executive Officer, Mick Clayton, comments: “We are delighted to be a part of the NFA’s for the fifth consecutive year. As an organisation that supports the growth and development of people, it is only right that GQA Qualifications Limited involves itself in the recognition of people’s achievements as well, and this is an ideal platform.” With a heritage that includes over twenty-five years of writing industryrelevant vocational qualifications, GQA is recognised for its commitment to raising standards. The awarding body has developed a network of over 100 approved training centres. GQA is the sole provider of CSCS cards for the fenestration and glazing industries, and provides nearly fifty fenestration industry relevant qualifications across the UK. The organisation is also a major promoter

of practical training for the industry to underpin the many hands-on roles that employees undertake. In addition, GQA is actively involved in the Building Our Skills – Making Fenestration a Career of Choice campaign.

The 2019 National Fenestration Awards was a record year for the awards. Over 350 nominations were made and over 5,600 votes cast, which makes it the biggest awards event in the fenestration industry in terms of participation. The NFAs in 2019 had 25 categories with two hand-picked ‘Heart of the Industry’ awards. For the 2020 awards new categories are to be announced that will address new and growing parts of the market, and which identify key areas for the fenestration industry in the coming years. The organisers now have over 11,000 subscribers/voters using the awards, and are expecting another record-breaking year in 2020. More informaton on GQA is available at www.gqaqualifications.com.

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The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

5 TIPS FOR LEADING TEAMS FROM HOME DURING THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC Employees working from home face an uncertain future where leadership is more important than ever. Donatella De Paoli, Associate Professor from the Department of Leadership and Organisational Behaviour at BI Norwegian Business School, considers the current changing work environment a social experiment we can all learn from. We are all increasingly working from home, and adapting our working habits and businesses with screens means they have become a necessary part of communication and connection. Professor De Paoli has outlined five tips for how leaders can effectively lead their teams when working remotely during this global pandemic: 1. Focus on Relationships – The current situation requires leadership which places importance on good relationships and is based on trust. The focus should be on how the team can get along: good dialogue is vital as well as understanding how people are coping mentally. 2. Adapt the Level of Control – Leaders need to use the right levels of control with remote team members. There are two main approaches for leaders working digitally: one more controlling and the other more accepting of autonomy. The most appropriate approach depends on the work; short deadlines might require more control, while work with more

relaxed deadlines show better results with less control and greater autonomy. 3. Be Present – Computer screens create distance and hamper two-way communication in meetings. The quality of communication also declines as we cannot read body language through a computer screen. Turning on your video camera can ensure you are more present and focused in virtual meetings. 4. Vary the Means of Communication – One-way communication through email works for keeping the organisation upto-date, but leadership aimed at building relationships requires two-way dialogue. Use digital platforms which enable informal social interaction, experiment with new ways to communicate and do not be afraid to be personal. 5. Co-create Leadership – De Paoli states leadership is co-created: effective leadership includes making it clear that every person is responsible for ensuring tasks are completed. When we are physically isolated from each other, team member must engage in greater self-management. If companies are to succeed during and after the pandemic, traditional and centralised views of leadership must be replaced. The coronavirus pandemic will affect how leadership is understood and practised, now and in the future. This advice will help leaders coordinate effective teams while working from home and maximise productivity.

PADIHAM GLASS REOPENS AS PART OF A SAFE AND PHASED RETURN TO WORK IGU specialist, Padiham Glass has restarted manufacture after temporarily suspending its operations in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

to be with us for the foreseeable future, so it is vital that we adapt to new ways of working, efficiently, effectively and above all – safely.

Padiham was among the vast majority of industry manufacturers to have closed its doors at the end of March, after the Government announced its plans to implement ‘lockdown’.

“We came back to work with a small team on April 20th, putting in place new employee training and controls. We will now build our capacity in line with customer demand, through a safe and phased restart and expansion of our operations.

In response to the Government’s subsequent clarification of its position and employee training and the introduction of strict controls, the trade IGU manufacturer began limited manufacture of units on April 20. John Spiby, CEO, Padiham Glass, said the company was now increasing its manufacturing capability as part of a highly structured and phased return to work. He said: “We’ve followed Government guidance throughout and will continue to do so in order to everything we can to safeguard the welfare of our employees and our customers. “What is clear, however, is that COVID-19 is going

“This approach has allowed us to develop a series of new processes and safeguards, trial them and to be in a position to move forward in a controlled and safe manner and meet demand for IGU supply.” This includes the introduction of a dedicated employee training programme and assessment, which all staff must take and pass, before being allowed back to work. This includes developing an understanding of how COVID-19 spreads, its symptoms, and how to mitigate the risk of catching it through the use of PPE,

social distancing and hand and respiratory hygiene. Padiham Glass, which was acquired by Emplas in May 2018, has capacity to supply more than 15,000 IGU units per week from its 45,000 sq ft Lancashire manufacturing facility. This includes Saint Gobain’s highly popular Planitherm range. “We currently have a handful of the team back on site in what at 45,000 sq ft is a very large manufacturing site. Many of our processes are automated , so we’re fortunate in that we have space and we can comfortably comply with social distancing requirements”, John said. “The challenge, as it is for every business, is how we manage those requirements as more of our team come back. We believe doing so in a phased manner is important, giving our staff and our customers critical time to adjust to a new working routine, minimising risk and maximising safety.” For more on Padiham visit www.padihamglass.co.uk email info@padihamglass. co.uk or call 01282 774124.

REDEFINING WINDOW AND DOOR SUPPLY IN THE COVID-19 ERA (INCLUDING VIDEO) With the Government expected to announce its plans for the return to work this week [w/c 4/5/20], Emplas hosted a second virtual roundtable event.

Managing Director, KJM Group; and representatives of industry media.

Held on Thursday 30th April, it was attended by Ryan Johnson, Managing Director, Emplas; Clare O’Hara, Managing Director, Epwin Window Systems; Thom Emerson, Sales and Marketing Director, Ideal Window Solutions; Mark Pearce,

Watch the ‘abridged’ event in under 10-minutes, here.

With a wide range of issues discussed, from the challenges of working in people’s homes to the ‘unfurloughing’ of employees and payments, the panel highlighted many of the key challenges facing the window and door industry as it gets back to work.

For more information on Emplas visit www.emplas.co.uk , email info@emplas.co.uk or call 01933 674880.

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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Local Authority Building Standards Scotland

Steps to minimise TRADE NEWS spread of virus the workplace LETTER FROMatROB MCGLENNON, DECEUNINCK MD The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

constructing the infrastructure society The GGF issued sensible guidance last Over the past two weeks, with needs to function or ensuring that people week (28 April) stressing that in accordance This is intended a guide helpinstallers Government encouragement, have safe leaflet and healthy homes to live in, you aswith governmentto guidelines, are delivering for our Nation through this can continue to work in homeowners’ Deceuninck manufacturers and installers get the construction industry difficult time,” he said. properties provided they take relevant back to work safely. precautions. GGF Managing Director John has started to return safely to The return to work will not be business as Agnew said: “It can’t be any clearer; if it is usual. We need sensible precautions like work. A survey by Build UK safe to work to the Government and Public regular handwashing, cleaning and social We have also developed a series Health Health Englandof guidance, then tradespeople (29 April) of major contractors distancing and safe working methods to can work in domestic homes.” protect and customers. As we’re and workers Safety posters for use in your offices and reported close to 70% of sites all doing when we shop in Tesco or collect A number of Deceuninck fabricators factories toadapting helpto ayour employees withprecautions simplehave a prescription, we’re ‘new who are taking sensible were back at work. Most major normal’ . resumed operations to fulfil existing instructions to keep them safe. housebuilders, plumbers’ and contracts and new enquiries. Some have builders’ merchants and DIY and hardware stores have either re-opened or have announced plans to reopenPlease use hand WELCOME Please use hand sanitiser provided soon. sanitiser provided before entering Let’s stop the spread of

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before entering the factory floor When the Government put the UK into lockdown on 23 March, it had no intention of shutting down construction, but a week or so later it was alarmed to discover that most of it had closed down. It was a COVID-19 confusing and chaotic time. Government COVID-19 communications were unclear so when people saw others close down, they closed too. Asked to make Government intentions clear, Alok Sharma, Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy wrote to reassure the construction industry All employees must Clean keyboards, that it was essential, and that those unable maintain a social telephones and to work from home could continue toother work, equipment distance of at least operating safely with industry site operating 2 metres apart regularly procedures guidance. “Whether by at and all times building temporary hospital wards… Let’s stop the spread of

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fabricated and installed windows for the new Nightingale Hospitals. Wash your hands We will be supplying PPE kit to Deceuninck when you arrive at fabricators and we’ve issued practical advice work and regularly and guidelines to fabricators and installers throughout the day in a leaflet and series of posters to help customers work safely in factories, offices and customer homes. The posters can be obtained free at shorturl.at/klvKU

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We are unlikely to return to the oldCOVID-19 normal anytime soon, and window fabricators and installers are having to learn how to operate safely in the new normal, the world as it is. They’ll play a critical part in getting the economy safely back on its Wash your hands feet.

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May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk COVID-19 COVID-19

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The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

GLAZING INDUSTRY APEER/LUMI/ WEBINAR VIDEO ISOLATE PLANS NOW AVAILABLE PHASED RETURN

TO WORK

1st May 2020: Following careful review of the ongoing Covid-19 situation New World Developments Ltd, which includes Apeer Doors, Lumi Windows and Isolate Fire Doors, has announced its decision to reopen on Monday 4th May with a small skeleton staff.

The ‘Marketing in Uncertain Times’ webinar presented by Andrew Scott, founder of Purplex Marketing and Insight Data, has now been published online for the industry. 300 business owners, directors and marketing professionals registered for the live webinar, which was followed by a short Questions and Answers session. Andrew commented; “The pandemic has thrown the world into disarray and many business leaders have been left with conflicting thoughts; on one hand doing the right thing to protect employees, customers and the community while on the other hand the need to have a viable business going forward to serve customers and provide a livelihood for those same employees.” “The Webinar provides the industry with some guidance; both during the lock-down and presenting a strategy for the ‘recovery’ period as we get back to work.” “Our top priority right now is for our family and communities to be safe and well, but in a few weeks, we will be back to work and the industry will face some very tough challenges for the foreseeable future. The webinar provides some of the key strategies companies should adopt in order to rebuild and move forward.” The webinar encourages business leaders to use this time during lock-down to review their business and assess marketing plans and strategy. Over the last 30 years, Andrew Scott has worked with and advised hundreds of companies in the building products and home improvement industries, during both good times and bad times, from small local installers to international manufacturers. He has also acquired, built and sold several companies in the industry. To catch-up on the webinar, visit www.purplexmarketing.com/purplex-tv.

www.glassnews.co.uk | May 2020

This is the first step in a comprehensive strategy devised to create a phased return that ensures the protection, safety and well-being of all of the company’s staff and customers, says the firm. This includes the provision of full PPE equipment and hand sanitizer cleaning stations, regular temperature checks, deep cleaning of all work areas and strict social distancing regulations, which will be carefully monitored and enforced by the company’s management. Orders in hand will be managed first with production increased steadily during the next few weeks, whilst all processes are monitored to ensure that new working practices maintain the effective safety and wellbeing of the company’s staff, says the company. However, new orders for each of its brands will be taken as usual and delivery will be advised by the company’s staff, subject to ongoing restrictions that may remain in place “We have spent the past few weeks developing plans in preparation for when the Government and its advisors advise on a safe return to work,” said Managing Director Asa McGillian. “As there are early indications that this may be happening in the coming weeks, we have begun to restart our business. However, we will only continue in line with the Government’s advice and if we are confident that our staff and customers’ welfare is secure. “None of us knows what the near or longterm future holds but we believe that we are now in a position to respond appropriately and positively to the advice received and across the next few weeks and months, to our customers’ needs,” added Asa. www.apeer.co.uk

ANGLO RE-OPENS POST-COVID19 CLOSURE Steel reinforcement specialist, Anglo European has opened its doors as part of a safe and structured return to work. It follows a decision by its directors to temporarily ‘pause’ operations at the end of March in response to government guidance. Paul Sullivan, Managing Director, Anglo European, said with the position now clarified on working and with growing customer demand, the company had taken the decision to reopen its doors as part of a phased return to work. He said: “We’ve seen demand from our customers, many of whom work in the commercial sector, start to return over the past few days, to the point that it is not only feasible for us to return on a reduced capacity – but also important for supply of reinforcement into the market. “We have introduced wide ranging safeguards to minimize the threat of infection to our team and our customers in line with current government guidance. “We will continue to monitor the situation as we move forward and adapt to any future requirements to ensure that we are doing everything we can to support a continued safe return to work.” With cost control a key priority for those businesses now coming back to work, Paul said that buying reinforcement direct, allowed fabricators to cut the price they paid for steel reinforcement by 30-40%. The figures, which are based on buying-in cut-to-size reinforcement, represent the culmination of labour and employment costs, reduced wastage and the lower unit price achieved through direct supply. Modelling by Anglo reveals significant savings for even smaller fabricators, with those manufacturing only 100 units a week

achieving average savings of £235 a week or £12,220 a year. The potential savings for those manufacturers producing around 1,000 fpw runs as high as £2,354 a week or £122,408 a year. Savings for larger fabricators are, according to Anglo, even more impressive - up to £184,000 per year for manufacturers doing 1,500 fpw and £240,000 a year or more for those making 2,000 fpw. “We’re coming back, but to a radically changed operational context”, Paul said: “It is going to be tough – there are no two ways about it. If, however, you can keep a control on your costs, get cash back into your business quickly, change is going to deliver some big opportunities. “It’s about getting to that point. If you could get back £60,000, £120,000, £180,000 a year, simply by going direct to source and buying in cut-to-size steels, why wouldn’t you. And if you don’t, are you really going to be able to afford not to?” For more information about Anglo European visit www.angloeuropeangroup. co.uk email enquiries@angloeuropean.net or call 0161 231 2354.

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THE MOST COMMON CORONAVIRUS SCAMS AND

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF

Amid the fear and confusion of the current Coronavirus pandemic, scammers are out taking full advantage of scared and vulnerable people. Over £800,000 has been lost to Coronavirus scams since February 2020, according to reports made to the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau. The NCSC has also removed over 2,000 online scams related to COVID-19 in the last month. PHISHING EMAILS

In a time where most of us are heavily relying on technology to work or to stay in contact with family and friends, scammers are using this to their advantage and cyber security is more important than ever. Most of these scams are online and are coming in the form of phishing emails, malicious social media adverts, fake online sellers and hacking of video conferencing websites.

You’ve probably received many emails related to COVID-19 from businesses, your children’s school, your employer and other well-known companies. This makes it even easier for phishing emails to slip through the net.

This article will outline the details of some of the Coronavirus scams that have been reported so far so you can keep your money safe.

In this phishing attempt, scammers are posing as representatives from the World Health Organisation

NAMES OF PATIENTS REVEALED

(WHO) or the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and offering to release names of those infected with COVID-19 in your area in exchange for payment. They may ask you to perform a bank transfer or ask for a payment in Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies. The email will contain a link which you are urged to click on so you can make the payment. You will be asked for your bank details as well as personal information such as your name, address and date of birth.

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper HMRC TAX REFUND Some scammers are posing as HMRC and saying that tax refunds are part of the government’s action plan to help people cope with income shortages amid the crisis. This is not part of the government’s plan and HMRC will never, under any circumstances, contact you via email, text or phone call to offer you a tax refund. This is an attempt to steal your personal information and bank details.

DONATE TO THE CAUSE This scam involves fake donation pages set up by scammers. You will be urged to click on a link in the email which will take you to a fake website where you’ll be asked to make a donation to help find a cure to the Coronavirus. This website has actually been set up to steal your money as well as capture your personal information and bank details. There has only been one fund set by The World Health Organisation and that can be found on their official website – they will not email you asking for donations.

HOW TO AVOID CORONAVIRUS PHISHING SCAMS •The World Health Organisation (WHO) have stated on their website that they will never ask for your personal details or password via email, they will never send email attachments that you didn’t ask for and they will never ask you to go on to a website outside of www.who.int. WHO say that you can verify whether a form of communication is legitimate by contacting them directly using the contact details on their website. • Verify the sender by checking their email address. If they’re claiming to be from WHO and the email address ends in anything other than ‘@who.int’, it is a scam so do not click on any links in the email.

GET THE LATEST STATISTICS This is another phishing email where the scammers pose as The World Health Organisation (WHO) but this time they are offering you up-to-date Coronavirus statistics and all you have to do is follow a link. However, the link will infect your device with malicious malware of viruses that could lock you out of your computer, take control of your computer, or access your personal and financial details in order to commit identity theft.

CORONAVIRUS SAFETY MEASURES Scammers are sending out phishing emails where they’re offering medical advice and various ‘safety measures’ you can take in order to protect yourself from Coronavirus. Again, they ask you to follow a link or to download a PDF file which will infect your devise with viruses or malware.

• Never give personal information to someone you don’t know, or to someone you haven’t initiated the contact with. Use some common sense and decide whether it’s an appropriate reason for this person to be asking for your details. You shouldn’t have to give anything to access public information. • If you see a scam, report it. This is essential in helping you and others.

VIDEO CONFERENCING SCAMS Many people are taking to videoconferencing in order to work from home or to stay in touch with family friends during the UK lockdown. And some are doing this for the first time, so it’s very important to be aware of how to stay safe. Scammers are creating their own fake versions of well-known apps and websites in order to steal peoples’ personal and banking information. They are also hacking into public video calls in order to try and obtain sensitive data about individuals.

“There are two possible bad outcomes for clicking on a malicious advert. Number one, it could download viruses and malware onto your device or, number two, they may allow you to purchase one of these fake products, but nothing will turn up and the fraudsters disappear with your money and personal details.” HOW TO AVOID CORONAVIRUS VIDEO CONFERENCING SCAMS • Make sure you only download apps and software from trusted sources like your app store or from the provider’s official website. Never click on links which have been sent to you in the form of unsolicited emails, SMS messages or on social media messaging platforms or adverts. • Use a strong and unique password so scammers who are trying to hack into your account can’t guess it easily or find it out from your social media profiles. You should also set up twofactor authentication if this is an option as it adds an extra layer of security and stops people from being able to access your account even if they know your password. • Do not make your calls public meaning anyone can join. Only connect with your colleagues, friends, or family directly from their information in your address book. Some video conferencing services allow you to set up a password which people must enter before they can join the call which adds an extra layer of security. Never share this password publicly.

FAKE SOCIAL MEDIA ADVERTS A lot of online scammers are taking to social media to post malicious adverts. Most of these promote miracle cures and treatments for the Coronavirus and try to create a sense of urgency by saying things like ‘Buy now, very limited stock’. There are two possible bad outcomes for clicking on a malicious advert. Number one, it could download viruses and malware onto your device or, number two, they may allow you to purchase one of these fake products, but nothing will turn up and the fraudsters disappear with your money and personal details. Avoid anything on social media that advertises things like this and is clearly trying to profit out of the crisis. Only go to trusted sources like the NHS or government websites for information.

IN-PERSON SCAMS OFFER TO DO SHOPPING Recent reports have revealed that some particularly nasty fraudsters are attempting to steal money from elderly and vulnerable people by offering to do their shopping for them. These criminals are posting on social media community pages offering anyone who can’t get themselves to the shops to go for them. They ask for the cash upfront in order to pay for the shopping but disappear with the money and never return. They will usually post the messages on social media under a fake name so they can’t be traced or arrested. If you are in a vulnerable position and you are having to stay at home in isolation, only trust people you know - neighbours, friends, and family – and ask them for help. Don’t turn to somebody you don’t know. Some people do genuinely want to help and will offer genuine services like this, but it’s not worth the risk.

DOOR-TO-DOOR TESTING Some scammers have been knocking on people’s doors claiming to be from the NHS and offering Coronavirus tests for a small fee. These tests are not real, and the scammers are targeting vulnerable and elderly people. You should call the police if someone knocks on your door and offers you a COVID-19 test.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE FALLEN VICTIM TO A CORONAVIRUS SCAM The NCSC and the City of London Police have recently launched a new suspicious email reporting service which can be used if you receive anything that looks fraudulent. You must forward any dubious emails to report@phishing.gov. uk so the NCSC can look into it and remove any fraudulent websites. More information about this can be found on the NCSC website.

“If you are in a vulnerable position and you are having to stay at home in isolation, only trust people you know neighbours, friends, and family – and ask them for help.”

If you have lost money because of a Coronavirus scam, you must report it to your bank and to Action Fraud UK. www.glassnews.co.uk | May 2020

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ALUK HELPING CUSTOMERS

GET FIT FOR A RESTART

AluK has begun a partial reopening of its Chepstow manufacturing plant, as it looks to meet demand from all those customers striving to fulfil commercial contracts. Having created and implemented a new Covid-19 Safe Working policy, Managing Director Russell Yates says he is confident that AluK can support those customers, while at the same time ensuring the safety of its own employees. He says: “Much of the industry is starting to recognise that, until there is an effective treatment for the virus or even a vaccine, we have to identify safe routes back to work which are in line with the government’s restrictions. According to government officials speaking at the daily briefings, these are likely to be with us in some form for quite some time yet, and possibly until the end of the year. “Public Health England has however already confirmed that construction sites can continue to operate with adequate PPE and strict social distancing and, while only essential maintenance work is currently allowed in people’s homes, it is possible that we will see some relaxation of those rules in the coming weeks when the current three week lockdown is reviewed again. “For us, and I think for many of our customers, we are looking now at a safe

and phased return for our staff which may be costly in the short term, but will allow the business to adapt and test the new safe working procedures as we ramp up production in line with the future demand. “Businesses will also have other pressures that they need to consider when restarting, on top of the safety of their staff, demand levels and cashflow status. The decision for the business to close was as simple as a ‘lights off ’ situation, and it would be naïve to think that it is a simple ‘lights on’ return to production. Other challenges will be to adapt to the mix of product that will be demanded. For an industry built on high volume, standard product production, I think it’s likely that there will be a shift to low volume, high mix (non-standard) product once the market starts to move again. “For us, a phased return is a way to manage and service this change in the best way possible and I think fabricators who can

“A phased restart will give businesses the chance to rearrange their factories and train their staff so that new safe working practices become firmly embedded in the way that they are now in supermarkets and even in some DIY stores.”

also adapt to that will be the ones that succeed quicker. “AluK is looking to play a key role in supporting our customers with all of the challenges they face, which is why we’re starting to share our operational experience with customers now and offering support and advice on everything from business operations to marketing to finance.” AluK currently has a skeleton team working in its plant as it embeds its new Covid-19 policy, which includes new routine protocols, mandatory PPE and full compliance with social distancing guidelines throughout the factory and communal spaces. Graeme Bainbridge, AluK’s Operations Director, says that it will be a long time until factories can return to normal but that creating a controlled and disciplined ‘new normal’ is the first key step. He explains: “A phased restart will give businesses the chance to rearrange their factories and train their staff so that new safe working practices become firmly embedded in the way that they are now in supermarkets and even in some DIY stores. There is no room for error in any of this though, which is why we think sharing the knowledge and experience we have acquired with our customers at this point will be so important for them in the future.” As well as advising on Covid-19 Safe Working policies, AluK is going as far as providing downloadable workplace posters and social distancing floor stickers for customers to give them some tools ready for when they can restart safely.

This is part of a whole package of support materials contained within a new customer website which the company has created during lockdown. AluK’s Marketing Director Sioned Roberts, says her team has looked at what practical steps it can take to help customers once the restrictions are eased. She says: “Our production and distribution operations may have been shut down for the past few weeks, but all of AluK’s customer support departments have remained open and working from home. A huge amount is being done focused on helping customers get through this crisis, and the new Marketing Academy website is an important part of that. It’s a marketing toolkit with downloadable guides to everything from Google Ads to writing a press release, and it’s all things which we can help customers do for themselves for free, even during lockdown.” Alongside this, AluK’s finance team are also offering vital support to customers to help them navigate the financial implications of the crisis. Finance Director Marc Thomas adds: “There is so much government support available that it can feel a bit overwhelming. We’re signposting our customers to the most relevant schemes for them – whether that is furloughing staff, accessing business loans and local authority grants, or deferring VAT payments. “Just as importantly, we’re also advising them on how to manage cash flow moving forward and any steps they can take to make sure that their businesses and not just their workforces remain fit and well.” Russell Yates adds: “We want to see a coordinated and collective effort to return to work as soon as it is safe and responsible to do so, and obviously that has to start with the systems houses in order to get the supply chain moving again. AluK is putting its considerable resources behind these efforts, helping our customers and we hope the wider industry as well.” Tel: 07717 448036/01291639739 Email: alex.gallop@aluk.com

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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simple simple simple simple

to to to to

survey order install sell

secondary glazing

made simple. Secondary glazing is one of the fastest growing sectors in the glazing industry, and offers simple sales with great profits. Should you be offering it to your customers?

The decision is simple. www.glassnews.co.uk | May 2020

phone: 01234 240404 web: incarnationwindows.co.uk

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ALUK CREATES MARKETING SUPPORT WEBSITE TO SUPPORT CUSTOMERS ALUK has created a package of marketing support for its customers to help them help themselves out of the Coronavirus crisis. Fabricators buying from AluK now have access to a brand-new website packed with practical tips and advice on all aspects of marketing from social media to photography. The emphasis throughout is on things which fabricators can do for free and includes step by step guides and free content which can be used by anyone within the business, regardless of whether they have any previous marketing experience. Sioned Roberts, AluK’s Marketing Director, says the website had been planned for some time but has been fast forwarded so that it is useful to customers at the time when they need it most. She said: “In any kind of economic downturn, all the advice is to continue investing in marketing. It’s important to maintain awareness of your business and to promote your competitive advantage. These are extraordinary times of course and unlike any downturn we’ve seen before, but customers who focus on their marketing now will undoubtedly do better

when the restrictions are lifted than those who do not. “It doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. It’s more about investing time and acquiring valuable skills and knowledge which can be applied cost effectively to make the most of the opportunities which will exist when the current lockdown comes to an end.” The new AluK website includes a mix of downloadable guides to social media, PR, email marketing and photography, as well as infographics, blogs and video guides on improving websites, creating case studies and establishing brand guidelines. It can be used by customers in the trade, retail and commercial sectors and has elements within it suitable for any size of business. Sioned adds: “There are beginners’ guides here for fabricators who have never used social media before and also more advanced guides on creating graphic based content to use online and advice on advertising on a range of social media platforms. We cover everything from using Google Ads to learning basic photo editing software and even the do’s and don’ts of writing a press release. “It’s a marketing toolkit exclusively for AluK customers which we hope will go some way towards helping them through this crisis.” AluK customers will receive an email giving them their own personalised log in to the website and they will be able to contact the AluK marketing team direct for additional help and advice on returning to work after the lockdown, with tools for implementing safe working and social distancing. More details are available via: Evelin.toth@aluk.com.

MILA JOINS THE LIGHT IT BLUE CAMPAIGN Mila’s iconic red logo has been turned blue to honour all of the NHS heroes who are doing such incredible work on the frontline in the fight against Coronavirus. The company says it’s a small token of appreciation for the superhuman efforts being made by the NHS and healthcare staff. Several Mila staff have joined the army of volunteers who have signed up to help support the NHS during the current crisis, and many have loved ones who are working around the clock in hospitals and care homes.

Mila’s Managing Director Richard Gyde said: “As well as clapping from our doorsteps every Thursday evening, we’ve joined the Light it Blue campaign to show how much we appreciate them all. The rest of us may be doing our bit by staying home, but they are putting their lives on the line and we salute them.” Mila’s website at www.mila.co.uk will retain its blue logo until the company restarts normal operations at the end of the current lockdown.

ASSA ABLOY OPENING SOLUTIONS UK & IRELAND COVID-19 UPDATE: 20TH APRIL Following the UK government’s announcement to extend the Lockdown for a further 3 weeks and in the interests of both supporting the national fight against COVID-19 and the welfare of our employees, we have taken the decision to continue with the closure of our operational facilities for a further 3 weeks, until at least 11th May 2020. Please be aware that this excludes Traka and Assa Abloy EMEA Head Office. Our operations throughout the UK will continue to support critical safety, security and other essential projects, including health, government and infrastructure, utilising a skeleton staff. Those operational staff will be working within safe environments which conform to government, and our own, stringent safety guidelines and practices. If we require products or services from you to support these exceptions, we will contact you under separate cover. We continue with previous arrangements by having provision for the receipt of goods in transit into our Merlin Park warehousing facility. We will also continue to review

our open purchase orders and contact you should we need to re-schedule our order delivery dates. There are procurement and planning colleagues operating from home, and they are available to discuss any queries you may have. During this emergency period please be reassured that we will continue to support the processing of invoices and payments. We are monitoring the evolving situation closely in order to review and adapt our contingency plans and operations in a proactive and positive way. We will continue to keep in touch with you in order to prepare and plan for a strong post COVID-19 recovery and future business partnership together. We wish you, your families and your colleagues safety and good health and we will keep you informed as the situation changes.

SAINT-GOBAIN GLASS OFFERS EXPERT-LED WEBINARS Saint-Gobain Glass is delivering online training to architects, façade fabricators and specifiers during the government lockdown with a range of free glass and façade focused webinars. Created in response to a significant volume of requests for glass specification and technical training, Saint-Gobain Glass’ online seminars and training sessions will be accompanied by unique weekly interviews with some of the construction industry’s leading experts to discuss all things glass and much more. Saint-Gobain Glass’ current webinar schedule includes CPDs every Tuesday at 1pm, glass surgeries every Tuesday at 4pm and ‘Live@5’ on Thursdays at 5pm.

Saint-Gobain Glass head of major projects, David Entwistle, will be joined by a different Saint-Gobain technical expert every week to answer any building glass questions for the glass surgeries, while the more informal ‘Live@5’ interviews will feature special guests from the world of construction. The business will be announcing new webinar topics and guests weekly. Next week’s CPD will cover the aesthetics of facades, the topic for the glass surgery will be fire glass with Gavin Jackson, technical support manager at Vetrotech, and appearing on the Live@5 interview will be Arup’s global materials leader, Graham Dodd.

Lauren Whittaker, Market Manager for the commercial sector at SaintGobain Glass said: “When the government lockdown was announced, we were approached by a number of people looking for a way to maintain and build connections and knowledge during this time. “We’re pleased to be able to provide support and training particularly regarding glazing and façade specification, and it’s been great to see the fantastic support we quickly gained following the launch of the initiative earlier this month, with hundreds of attendees joining the webinars so far. There is something for everyone, from architects and specifiers to façade fabricators and glass processors and everyone in-between.” To attend a webinar, please register at: https:// www.subscribepage.com/ n3m8p7 Follow Saint-Gobain Glass UK and Ireland on LinkedIn or Twitter @SG_GlassExperts.

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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EPWIN WINDOW SYSTEMS MANUFACTURING PPE FOR NHS FRONTLINE WORKERS Epwin Window Systems is using its 3D printing capabilities to produce two types of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to support NHS frontline workers. Clare O’Hara, Managing Director at Epwin Window Systems, said: “NHS staff are doing an amazing job and we all owe them so much. Two members of our Epwin team, Alan Humphries, Systems Developer, and Steve Coxill, Engineering Service Manager, saw how they could use our equipment to give something back.”

raw and just using the device for one shift had freed her of so much pain and her ears can start to heal now. They are easy for her to sterilise and keep in her pocket without getting in the way till needed. It was amazing to hear we are able to do something to help.”

Working in line with social distancing advice, Alan and Steve are producing two types of PPE. The first is “ear savers”, which are worn behind the head with face masks to stop the elastic rubbing the wearer’s ears. These are being distributed to healthcare settings near Epwin Window Systems’ headquarters in Telford, Shropshire. Feedback so far has been exceptionally positive. Steve Coxill commented: “I heard from one wearer that she had used the ear savers on her last shift and she couldn’t explain how great it was. She said behind her ears were red

The second item is the headbands and chin supports that make up face shields. This is being done as part of a much larger coordinated group, 3DCrowd UK. Ranging from hobbyists to professional 3D printers, 3DCrowd UK coordinates a community response, printing, collecting and distributing the face shield parts made by volunteers up and down the UK. Steve commented: “Each set takes around three hours 15 minutes to print and there is a strict set of procedures to follow, such as wiping down the work area to sanitise, wearing disposable non-latex gloves to handle any parts and putting each batch into a ziplock bag, which is then dated to ensure it is enclosed for at least three days to avoid any contamination risks.” Examples such as this one from Epwin Window Systems show how the industry is offering its capabilities and expertise to support frontline NHS workers in the fight against COVID-19. Tel: 0845 340 3968 - www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

EMPLAS SETS OUT ITS STRATEGY FOR A SAFE AND PHASED RETURN TO WORK Emplas has highlighted its strategy to protect employees and customers, after beginning a phased return to work with effect from April 20th.

a restructure of its factory floor and offices, as well as the introduction of new deep cleaning schedules. All employees are also subject to daily temperature checks.

The trade specialist has been amongst a vanguard of window industry companies to restart its operations following temporary closure in response to COVID-19, at the end of March.

Emplas’ focus, has, however, been as much on driving a new culture of awareness amongst employees as to how to stay safe at work in the ‘Covid-era’.

Ryan Johnson, Managing Director, Emplas, said demand from the commercial sector, combined with that from its Australian retail business, Ecostar, which has remained open throughout the global pandemic, made getting back to work imperative. “The demand for us didn’t ever stop. The day after we shutdown we had calls from leading commercial contractors and housebuilders, asking us what our plans were to get back. “That and the continuing demand from our Australian business, got us thinking about the return to work very early on. “We’ve not just ‘come back’, we’ve been planning the safe and phased restart of our operations for weeks - and I believe that that’s something which will benefit us and our customers going forward.” This includes major investment in PPE, new signage, hand sanitizer cleansing stations,

www.glassnews.co.uk | May 2020

This includes a dedicated training programme and assessment, which all employees must take and pass, before being allowed back to work. This includes developing an understanding of how COVID-19 spreads, its symptoms, and how to mitigate the risk of catching it through the use of PPE, social distancing and hand and respiratory hygiene. Ryan continued: “We’ve come back initially with 12 fabricators. That’s 12 people in an 80,000sq ft factory. Each and every person on site has also gone through a full training and assessment before being allowed to start work. “They have manufactured 275 windows in our first week back. It’s a fraction of what we normally produce but it’s not about volume at this point - it’s about safety. Starting now – and phasing our return – gives us control, the ability to check and refine our processes, and to make sure that we are

doing everything we can to minimise risk to our people and our customers.” Emplas has also launched a series of guides to support installers in getting back to work based on its direct experience of retail through T&K Home Improvements and Ecostar – both of which are already at work suppling customers. This includes the launch of a new Retail Support Guide, which offers installers advice on how to adapt their offers, win business and guidelines for working; plus, Safe Operating Procedures. Designed to be sent out to homeowners the over-printable guide sets out new guidance for working in the home safely. “It’s been transformative”, Ryan said. “We had had push-back from homeowners but once we set out new procedures and processes for safe working, the market has completely opened up.” Social restrictions in some form are expected to stay in place in the UK until the end of the year. On April 22, the Government’s Chief Medical Advisor, Chris Whitty, said it was ‘wholly unrealistic’ to expect life to suddenly return to ‘normal’. Direct advice from Government to the GGF at the beginning of the month has made it clear that the industry should return to

work where it is safe to do so. A reply to the GGF from the Department of Business Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) stated: “There is currently no distinction between essential and inessential construction work in England. The Government’s position is that construction work can continue, provided the worker is not displaying symptoms of Covid19 (coronavirus), does not need to self-isolate for another reason, and that the work can be done in a manner consistent with the guidelines published by Public Health England (PHE).” “We can’t ‘sit-out the storm’. COVID-19 isn’t like that. It’s going to be with us for some time. So, we need to adapt the way that we work, so that we can get back to some sort of new normality as soon as possible”, continued Ryan. “That means putting in place new processes, new equipment – but above all, building understanding – so that we can get back to work safely. We’re on that journey and we’re putting in place measures and guidance to support our customers in doing the same, where they aren’t already doing so”, he concluded. For more information on Emplas visit www.emplas.co.uk , email info@emplas.co.uk or call 01933 674880.

THE COVID-19 CRISIS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

HERE’S WHAT THE INDUSTRY IS DOING DURING

THE COVID-19 CRISIS

STATEMENT – GQA GQA Qualifications, the fenestration industry’s leading awarding body, has reacted quickly to the virus crisis, ensuring its staff follow government guidance and work from home. The organisation has made sure that all staff have what they need so that they can do so. Right from the start of the crisis, GQA has communicated with training providers to reiterate the government's social distancing and self-isolation guidance and requirements and has also sent out communications on alternative methods of assessment that can be utilised. Plenty of people are still working even though they are self-isolating, and GQA points out that there are still lots of opportunities to collect valid learning evidence. To this end, they are encouraging fenestration industry employees to continue to pursue qualifications during the virus crisis so that they are fully workplace proficient when things return to normal. There is really nothing to stop training centres continuing their work, because they can offer much of what is required online. www.gqaqualifications.com

STATEMENT – ODL

STATEMENT – FREEFOAM

In line with Government guidance and to protect all our staff, we have suspended our manufacturing and all external activities, including deliveries. Like the rest of the industry, we will be reviewing the situation and will only reopen when the government advises that it is safe to do so.

Like the rest of the industry, Freefoam has seen significant disruption as the Coronavirus crisis unfolded, and we’ve tried to strike the balance between respecting the needs of our customer and protecting the wellbeing of our staff, customers and suppliers. The last few weeks have been unprecedented.

We continue to fully support our staff, suppliers and customers during this time. We have adjusted payment terms for customers and ensured all our suppliers are paid up to date to safeguard everyone’s cashflow. And we are currently revising all our working practices for the safety of our employees for when we return. Our online door and blind portals are available if customers need to price any jobs up during the closedown. We are in a strong position that we have healthy stocks across our door, blinds, glass and glazing cassette ranges, so when it’s safe to come back, we will be able to move swiftly to get our customers moving again. During this time, we are planning new products to help customers add further value to every sale which will be launched when appropriate to do so. We are also in regular communication with our existing and potential customers and continue to develop our marketing strategies for a strong return. We wish everyone in the industry the best during this challenging period. And most importantly, please stay safe.

However, some customers will need to continue trading, and to support and supply them we are operating in a smart working mode. Details of our smart working mode are available on www.freefoam.com. Freefoam will resume normal operations as soon as it’s responsible to do so. In the meantime, we’d like to thank everybody for their custom, support and understanding during these difficult times and look forward to a speedy return to normality.

STATEMENT – GARNALEX Our foremost concern is with the health and wellbeing of staff, customers and suppliers, so for the duration of the coronavirus pandemic Garnalex has shut both factories, with a skeleton crew fulfilling outstanding orders. We’ve since taken the decision to temporarily close all operations, while retaining all employees under the government Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme. The launch of the Sheerline range has been postponed, but Sheerline Classic is ready and primed for launch when the market reopens. We will return as soon as possible and look forward to being part of British manufacturing’s return to full strength.

STATEMENT – MORLEY GLASS & GLAZING Following government guidelines, to protect staff, and to do its part in limiting the spread of the disease, Morley Glass temporarily closed its offices and factory on Thursday 26th March 2020. The business hopes that this will be a very short-term measure and is looking forward to being back at full strength ready to continue to supply customers with its trademark quality and service. Up until the recommended closure, and despite their Italian supplier being based in the heart of a COVID-19 hit region, Morley Glass & Glazing was proud to not only be able to stay operational, but was also offer all its ScreenLine Uni-Blind Systems on its normal industrybeating delivery schedules. Morley Glass would like to thank all its customers and suppliers for their support and understanding, as well as all its amazing staff who went above and beyond to ensure that no customers were let down. Emails are still being monitored so please forward requests for quotations and prices as normal. Email: info@morleyglass.co.uk.

In response to recent government advice and in the best interests of our staff, customers and suppliers, Freefoam has implemented a controlled shutdown of our operating sites in the UK, Ireland and continental Europe.

Please visit https://sheerline.com/ and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn to stay up to date with announcements. Fabricators and installers who want to be among the first in their area to sell Sheerline can still register their interest on the site or contact us directly on 01332 883960 or email info@sheerline.com.

STATEMENT – DECEUNINCK Deceuninck’s priority is the health of our employees, customers and suppliers. We’re taking comprehensive measures to address the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19), provide business continuity where possible and protect the health and safety of our workforce. We remain committed to serving our customers and honouring all obligations, and we’ve been working closely with customers to monitor the ever-developing situation. However, the Coronavirus pandemic has now affected our supply chain, so from 1st April 2020 Deceuninck will be operating with a reduced workforce. During this time, a dedicated team of staff will provide close support and regular updates to customers and suppliers. Deceuninck will be assessing the situation on a regular basis and working hard to resume normal business as soon as it is safe to do so. Visit www.deceuninck.co.uk and follow @DeceuninckUK to learn more about our #BestInClass product and colour range. For enquiries contact Louise Currell on 01249 810427, email louise.currell@deceuninck.com.

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

STATEMENT – HAFFNER MURAT To safeguard our staff and their families, we have temporarily closed our business and furloughed our workers. We will only reopen the business when the Government advice changes and it is safe to do so. All machinery orders have also been put on hold until we know it is safe to deliver and install them. We have advised every customer who is affected by this and we thank them for understanding and support. During the shutdown period, I am the key point of contact for any existing or potential customers who are looking for some help and advice. I am personally committed to helping fabricators through this time and I can be contacted on my mobile or email. April 2020 is the 30th anniversary of Haffner in the industry. Needless to say, the anniversary won’t be quite what we planned. On the other hand, the business was formed during the 1990 recession and survived the 2008 recession too. So, for our 30th anniversary to fall at the start of the most challenging period in our industry’s history is somewhat ironic. It means that whatever happens, we know the industry always comes back stronger and more determined than ever. With that in mind, keep safe and well. We’ll get through this together. Telephone: 07850 560429 Email: Dave.thomas@haffnermurat.com

STATEMENT – TOMMY TRINDER “I’ve always believed in face-to-face selling. As an installer, I loved closing on the day - our Framepoint app was made for personal presentations. We had to adapt it quickly under the lockdown so installers could continue to use it to quote and sell, via video conferencing and screen-sharing apps. “Our sales team had to adapt to remote selling too - but after a sharp drop when the lockdown started, enquiries and conversions are back on track. And we’ve heard positive news from customers who are determined to make the best of it, building a pipeline of orders for later. “With showrooms shut, many installers are using social media, taking advantage of a spike in searches for home improvements. Some are asking homeowners to email property photos for a virtual makeover and quote. “Others are offering ‘drive-by’ quotations, where reps take the picture. A few are quoting ‘live’ on their websites using chat pop-ups. “This isn’t business as usual, but it is business. It could become the new normal.” Tel: 0117 3637370 - Email: hello@tommytrinder.com www.tommytrinder.com

EPWIN WINDOW SYSTEMS BEGINS PHASED REOPENING Epwin Window Systems has announced a phased and controlled reopening of their Telford operation from Monday 4th May, 2020. The phased reopening will commence with a small team of Customer Service personnel who will be available to discuss customers’ order requirements from 4th May. During that week, the production plant will fire up with a view to reopening the manufacturing facilities from Monday 11th May, 2020. All safety protocols have been meticulously implemented throughout the business to avoid the spread of Covid-19. Clare O’Hara, Managing Director of Epwin Window Systems, said: “The safety and welfare of our employees, customers and suppliers remains paramount and we have conducted extensive risk assessments throughout the business to allow this safe and phased return to work.”

The initial reopening will operate with a limited workforce in place to support the immediate needs of the business. This will be closely monitored on a week-by-week basis and scaled up as and when business levels dictate. There is little doubt that the Covid-19 pandemic has affected lives and businesses in an unprecedented way. All companies will have to adapt to different ways of doing business in the ‘new normal’ that allows for social distancing of some degree. With that in mind, the Epwin Window Systems’ marketing team have produced a series of ‘safe-working posters’ which are available for customers to download and use around their premises. The posters are available by emailing Gerald Allen, Epwin Window Systems’ Marketing Manager, at gallen@epwin.co.uk. Clare concludes: “Like all businesses, in preparation for our phased reopening we have needed to

implement workplace safety protocols throughout all business areas and I would like to personally thank all Epwin personnel who have made this happen. I would also like to thank our valued customers for their patience, support and understanding at this time as we look to regenerate a solid platform as the fenestration industry returns.” Tel: 0845 340 3968 www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

IRONMONGERYDIRECT RECOGNISED AS

ONE OF THE UK’S BEST WORKPLACES

IronmongeryDirect has been named as one of the UK’s Best Workplaces™ 2020, in a report compiled by Great Place to Work®. IronmongeryDirect was listed amongst 162 companies shortlisted for this award – a decision based on positive employee experience and HR and leadership practices that the company upholds. The Best WorkplacesTM Award celebrates the companies that promote a healthy workplace culture through a combination of factors including employee trust, pride and camaraderie. Overall, 162 small, medium, large and super large companies were shortlisted - IronmongeryDirect ranked 59th out of all of the medium companies. To achieve the award, the assessors examined IronmongeryDirect’s HR and leadership practices, policies and culture as well as responses to a Trust Index© survey shared with all its employees, completed anonymously to encourage honest responses. Overall, 86% of IronmongeryDirect employees said that the company “is a great place to work”. The Trust Index© survey covers aspects including the credibility and

fairness of management, whether employees feel that they are respected and if employees report a sense of pride in their work. Results from the survey account for ¾ of the final result. IronmongeryDirect also provided detail of its policies that contribute towards the employee experience. This includes factors such as numerous employee benefits, how it inspires those that work for the company and transparent internal communications practices. This was part of The Culture Index©, accounting for the remaining ¼ of the final result. Marco Verdonkschot, Managing Director at IronmongeryDirect said: “We are delighted to rank amongst a list of esteemed brands. To be recognised as one of the UK’s Best Workplaces is a huge achievement and is testament to our dedication to create a healthy workplace culture where our employees feel trusted, valued and loyal to achieving organisational goals. We are committed to driving our business performance through our biggest asset: our people, and I believe that the value and pride our employees place on working at

IronmongeryDirect will ultimately be reflected in the customer experience.” IronmongeryDirect is the UK’s largest specialist ironmongery supplier, with over 18,000 products, all with a minimum five year guarantee so customers can be sure of quality. The monitoring of competitor prices means customers always get the best deal. If customers need any advice or technical support, IronmongeryDirect’s skilled and highly knowledgeable team of GAI (Guild of Architectural Ironmongers) qualified specialists are available 7 days a week. To find out more about IronmongeryDirect please visit: www.ironmongerydirect.co.uk.

www.glassnews.co.uk | May 2020

QUARANTINE QUIPS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

A month’s worth of reflections as we all suffer the lockdown. We hope they make you smile as you recognise the situations and thoughts! DAY 1

DAY 6

DAY 10

For entertainment, my hubby bought a world map and some darts, and said: “Throw the dart and wherever it lands is where I’ll take you on holiday when this pandemic is over.” Turns out we’re spending two weeks behind the fridge.

Bored, and looking out the window, I’ve just seen two young lovers in jogging gear running down the road clearly pretending to be doing their exercise for the day so they could steal a moment together. Not ashamed to say that I had a slight catch in my throat as I called the police.

Just thinking. Now the police have powers to split up groups, could they start with Coldplay?

DAY 2 Already tired of babysitting my mum’s grand kids!

DAY 3 The bloody cat just asked if we wanted the radio leaving on while he went out.

DAY 4 Funny isn’t it? Back in the day the only time we started panic buying was when the bartender yelled "last call”.

DAY 5 I sneezed today. It was the most attention I have received from the family in the last 10 years.

DAY 7 I’ve washed my hands so much due to Covid-19 that my exam notes from 1965 reappeared.

DAY 8 Found a young lady sitting on my couch yesterday. Apparently, she’s my wife. Seems nice.

DAY 9 My Covid-19 test came back positive. That can’t be correct. I have over 300 rolls of toilet paper.

APPLAUD

FOR OUR

The Coronavirus has achieved what no female has ever been able to achieve. It has cancelled sports, closed all bars and kept all guys at home!

DAY 12 I asked, “What day is it again?” My wife said “It doesn’t matter. Just have some more wine.”

DAY 13 It’s not all bad news. My body has absorbed so much soap and disinfectant lately, now when I pee I clean the toilet.

DAY 14 At home and the dog is looking at me, like: “See? This is why I chew furniture.”

DAY 15 Does anyone know if we can take showers yet or should we just keep washing our hands?

DAY 16 Here’s a thought. If you keep a glass of wine in each hand, you can’t accidentally touch your face!

DAY 17 Had to get some food. Embarrassing. They said that a mask and gloves was enough to go to the supermarket. They lied. Everyone else had clothes on.

DAY 18

DAY 19

EVERY THURSDAY AT 8PM 36

NHS!

DAY 11

Does anyone else feel like they’re in a giant, life-sized game of Pac-Man while out supermarket shopping?

HEROES

THANK YOU

It should have occurred to me earlier: empty your glass bottles into the recycling bin at 8pm on a Thursday so the clapping for the NHS drowns out the sound of your household’s descent into alcoholism.

DAY 20

DAY 22 I think Covid-19 has got into my petrol tank. I’m getting 12 weeks to the gallon since it got infected.

DAY 23 I’m really bored. Just ‘phoned someone in India to see if they’ve had an accident in the last 3 years.

DAY 24 My neighbour told me her husband spotted a cockroach in the kitchen. Apparently, he sprayed all over with disinfectant and cleaned everything down thoroughly. She’s putting the cockroach in the bathroom next!

DAY 25 I’ve found staying 6 feet away from the wife during isolation is fine. After all it’s 94 foot closer than the restraining order says.

DAY 26 It’s been a real blessing being at home with the wife for the past three weeks. We’ve caught up with everything I‘ve done wrong in the last fifteen years.

DAY 27 I can’t help feeling the petrol price cut during this lockdown is a bit like a bald man winning a hairbrush.

DAY 28 The weather has been glorious during the lockdown and I have started taking Viagra for my sunburn. It doesn’t cure it, but it keeps the sheets off my legs.

DAY 29 Just a thought…can anyone recommend a good breakfast wine?

DAY 30

Here’s my recipe for Sanity Pie. Take your adult beverage of choice, sipped alone in a closet for 15 minutes.

In 8 weeks 88% of blondes will disappear from the earth. Just a thought.

DAY 21

DAY 31

Last Thursday evening, took the bin out, got a round of applause! That’s never happened before!

Is it too late to change who you’re quarantined with? I’m asking on behalf of a friend, of course!

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

#weareinthistogether

Supporting our industry

at this time. If you need our help, please contact: dave.thomas@haffnermurat.com

Tel 07850 560429 | www.haffnermurat.com

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

FIRST PAST THE POST

Established just before the start of a new millennium, Pearl Windows has become one of the most widely renowned PVCu window and door fabricators in the industry. This exceptional reputation is all thanks to its forward-thinking nature, high-quality products and its commitment to go above and beyond for customers. One of the early adopters of the Liniar system, Pearl Windows has always been on the front foot for fabricating the new products emerging from Liniar’s Design and Development department.

During the first quarter of 2019, Liniar surprised the industry by launching yet another UK-first product. This time it was Resurgence – the UK’s first PVCu doublerebated flush sash system – and Pearl Windows was one of the first fabricators to grab the opportunity to manufacture this revolutionary product. “Resurgence is a beautifully designed product. With the additional superb manufacturing finish which is provided by our Timberweld® machinery, it’s easily the most attractive window available on the market today,” comments Pearl Windows’ Managing Director Jeff Walsh.

EXCELLENCE IN MANUFACTURING Liniar’s Resurgence window arrives with four fabrication options - and for Jeff, going forward with new Timberweld® machinery to produce a top of the line ‘timber alternative’ window was a no brainer. With an efficient manufacturing process set up and in place, Pearl Windows wanted to be

the first to have Resurgence fully tested by a third party and to achieve Secured by Design status. “We’re proud to say that we believe we’re the first Liniar fabricator to achieve Secured by Design accreditation for Resurgence,” Jeff states. “We followed the same stringent testing as we did with the original Liniar casement window, which has given us a pass first time. This was all possible because of Liniar’s high-quality design, enabling us to manufacture a full-size window for testing using the high specification recommended by Liniar’s Design and Development team. “It’s thanks to the stringent processes put in place at Liniar that Pearl Windows was able to become the first Liniar fabricator to achieve this accreditation outside of Liniar’s own Secured by Design accreditation on Resurgence.”

RELIABLE, HIGH-QUALITY PRODUCTS Pearl Windows boasts the capacity to produce circa 5,000 frames per week in

its cutting-edge facility in Westhoughton, Bolton, delivering products to trade outlets, building sites and businesses throughout the country.

regular basis through the Liniar Approved fabricator programme, of which Pearl Windows is a member.

“We offer the full range of Liniar windows, doors and conservatory roofs, and for us, Liniar’s products are the best there are on the market. They tick all the boxes when it comes to quality, energy efficiency and security. On top of that, Liniar is a company which is both socially and environmentally conscious, something that is close to our hearts,” comments Jeff.

ACHIEVING QUALITY RESULTS

“Everyone here at Pearl Windows has Liniar products installed in our homes and it’s what we recommend to our families and friends when they are looking to replace one of their fenestration products.” Liniar ensures all its products meet the exacting standards of the BBA, BSI and Secured by Design by testing its products well before they reach the hands of fabricators. Once the manufacturing process starts, it also has strict measures in place to ensure all products are fabricated to the exacting specifications they were designed and tested at by auditing customers on a

Resurgence, the 2019 National Fenestration Awards Product of the Year, is available in a wide range of solid colour and woodgrain foiled finishes. With four fabrication options, including the highly recommended Timberweld® solution, this product fits well within both modern and character properties. If your customers are looking to replace old wooden windows with a ‘timber alternative’ product with a unique double-rebated coextruded seal, resulting in unrivalled energy efficiency, find out more about Resurgence visiting www.liniar.co.uk/resurgence/. For installation companies looking for reliable supply of the new Resurgence system, backed up by exceptional customer service, Pearl Windows is an excellent choice. Learn more about the products and services the company offers by visiting https://www.pearlwindows.co.uk/.

READER ENQUIRY NO: 0520/0000

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

TRADE NEWS

“Are you a Trade Counter looking to supercharge your loyal installers?”

The Signature Collection A front door speaks volumes about a property. Now you can make even

Now you can with...

more of a statement with our range of Signature furniture suites that can transform your door into a real property feature.

Choose from the Long Bar suite, the ultra-modern Square suite, the elegant

Bow Handle suite, our Handleless option, or the timeless Classic suite.

THE PEARL “TRADE COUNTER SUPER USER”

These hardware choices are undeniably elegant, but also incredibly hard wearing. Crafted from stainless steel, they will endure the demands of the

INSTALLATION SCHEME

British weather and everyday use season after season. See Page 64 for the full Signature furniture guide.

Provide your installers with extra credence in this challenging market • As a Trade Counter, you become “Signature approved Super Users” offering the 1st and only self-certification scheme for installers in the UK • From one platform you can register your customers’ installations within minutes via PC, iPhone, iPad or Android • Signature extendable warranty options can be opted in or out at the point of registration • Homeowners are given documents electronically

• All products are now fully QR coded allowing instant access for: • Installation certification • Warranty documents • CE certificates • Energy ratings • Glass sizes • Full product codes and descriptions of components on each window

• As an approved Trade Counter you will be CORGI Fenestration registered • You will be able to offer the full Signature Collection range of products • Each of your installers will be registered individually with CORGI Fenestration and Building Regulation provider • Each installer receives support from CORGI Fenestration with the assessment process

01942 843586 sales@pearlwindows.co.uk www.pearlwindows.co.uk Unit 14, Great Bank Road, Wingates Industrial Park, Westhoughton, Bolton BL5 3XU

Help with: • Social media development packages • Targeted advertising advice with proven lead generation • Website development packages

www.glassnews.co.uk | May 2020

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

NEW RIO WINDOWS

LEAVE HOME LOOKING FLUSH Life is now much sweeter for a Norfolk couple who are the first people to have REHAU’s Rio flush fit windows installed in their home, fabricated by Climatec. Tim Whipps Windows worked wonders to replace the tired old windows in Mr and Mrs Farrell’s cottage, resulting in less maintenance and a more valuable-looking property. When Tim was first approached by homeowners Mr and Mrs Farrell, they were originally looking to replace their old externally beaded uPVC windows with a like-for-like replacement. However, after looking at the options for the standard casement windows, both Tim and the Farrells’ decided that actually this was not the best option. As a customer of Climatec for 10 years, Tim Whipps Windows exclusively installs REHAU window products due to their ease of installation and high quality. Tim took the couple through the new range of REHAU Rio flush fit windows, as showcased in his Climatec brochure, which they agreed suited their property style better and didn’t compromise the quaint appearance of the cottage. The Rio flush fit window range is REHAU’s latest design of uPVC windows. It offers an alternative to traditional timber windows, with a realistic timber look and feel that blends in with the exterior structure. The sleek flush finish and authentic wood effect means that Rio flush fit not only retains the traditional looking windows that the homeowners wanted, but also offers the added benefits of durability, security, and energy efficiency of a uPVC window.

There were 12 windows in total to install, all pearl grey on white, and took approximately four to five weeks from the initial conversation to install. Tim used the fully welded jointing option, although Climatec also offer a mechanical joint and an External Timber Look (ETL) weld option. Despite it being the first time he had installed Rio windows, Tim was thrilled at how easy the installation process was. He said: “It’s just like any other REHAU casement window installation I’ve done, I was very impressed.” John Banks, Product Manager at Climatec added: “Tim isn’t the first installer to praise the new Rio window and how it makes their lives easier by being based on the TOTAL 70 profile. It’s well known to be installer friendly and our customers have shown an encouraging interest in Rio.” In response, the homeowners, Mr and Mrs Farrell, were delighted with their new modern windows, Mr Farrell said: “It’s the best decision we’ve ever made; the windows look really good and, more importantly, expensive. They’ve added huge value to our home in so many ways.” Upon reflection, Tim added: “I was very pleased with the outcome of the job and the way the windows looked in this property. Definitely one for my portfolio.” He has since gone on to fit more of REHAU’s Rio Flush Fit windows and went on to say: “I have fitted more Rio windows since the Farrells’ and find them very easy to install. I would definitely recommend them, and this style of window suits a lot of properties found in Norfolk.’ Rio is continuing to gain traction across the UK as fabricators report that many REHAU installers are claiming it to be a muchanticipated addition to their offering. Clare Higgins, Product Manager at REHAU, commented: “Gone are the days

when people had to rely on traditional and expensive materials for older, quaint properties like the Farrells' cottage. Nor do they have to compromise on appearance if opting for more efficient and modern uPVC solutions. We’ve listened to what people want, and need, for the challenges of modern life and designed a product that not only makes properties look amazing, but also eases the lives of our loyal customer base through manufacture and installation. We can’t wait to share details of more projects.” For more information about Rio flush fit windows by REHAU and jointing options available, visit www.rehau.uk/rio

Mr and Mrs Farrell’s decision was further solidified by the colour options that Rio had to offer. Where previously they had been restricted to just the white uPVC, being situated close to the road, the option for Pearl Grey would be easier to maintain compared to their older white windows. Tim stated that the initial feedback was positive, as the Farrells were looking forward to replacing their old white windows with REHAU’s modern yet traditional looking Rio windows.

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

The UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

TRADE NEWS

Style & elegance with Rio flush fit windows Your home is the heart of your family, creating moments you will treasure forever. Our stylish and elegant Rio flush fit window is a realistic alternative to traditional timber windows. Turner Oak makes a real impact and adds a quality finish to your home. Windows. Reinvented for modern life. www.rehau.uk/rio

www.glassnews.co.uk | May 2020

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

METAL TECHNOLOGY Since 1985, Metal Technology has been defining spaces through its architectural glazing solutions and has grown to become one of the UK and Ireland’s leading designers and suppliers of bespoke aluminium window, door, curtain wall and solar shading systems for commercial and residential applications. Committed to excellence in all aspects of sustainable product design, customer service and technical support, the company has become a trusted partner of fabricators, developers, contractors and architects.

PRODUCT RANGE Metal Technology’s product portfolio encompasses over 30 window, door, curtain walling, brise soleil and louvre systems. Its Thermally Enhanced (Hi+) portfolio offers the designer a wide and diverse choice of profiles that provide structural integrity, weather performance, thermal enhancement and security.

TECHNICAL SUPPORT Metal Technology offers a comprehensive design and specification service to architects, developers and main contractors through a team of architectural advisors. Tailored specifications can be provided online with NBS standards, supported with CAD details and performance data as well as BIM family models for integration into construction drawings.

SECTORS EDUCATION: Metal Technology has vast experience of providing fenestration solutions for over a 1000 universities, colleges and schools throughout the UK. The recently opened Bertha Park High School in Perth, Scotland, showcases Metal Technology’s striking full height System 17 curtain walling façade, as well as a range of other specialist products.

Grand Central Hotel, Belfast

Horizon Heights, Liverpool

In recent years, student housing developments have advanced greatly, both aesthetically and functionally. Metal Technology’s products have proved beneficial for these applications where lifecycle, strength and durability are key. This, combined with a wide choice of window and door configurations, including locking and security options, offers a complete design solution. The striking Horizon Heights development in Liverpool and the new 123 York St student accommodation in Belfast are just a few key projects where Metal Technology’s wide range of architectural systems come to the fore.

Victoria Gate, Woking

RETAIL: From leading supermarkets and shopping centres to high spec showrooms, Metal Technology’s products have provided designers with the flexibility to combine aesthetic architectural statements with value engineered practicality, performance and durability. Projects such as Wallace Well Retail Park and brands such as Porcelanosa, Asda and Tesco demonstrate the company’s track record in delivering solutions in this competitive and diversified sector. LEISURE: With substantial experience in the hotel sector across mainland UK, Metal Technology has been in a prime position to bring its design solutions and highperformance product to major new hotels in Belfast and across the UK and Ireland with involvement in the Grand Central Hotel, AC Hotel by Marriott, the Maldron and Hampton by Hilton as well as Jurys. The company has also completed major leisure projects such as Aintree Racecourse and the British Golf Museum in St. Andrews. HEALTHCARE: From Glasgow’s Victoria and Southern General Hospitals to its Maryhill Health Centre which showcase the latest technology and healthcare provision in a way that is inspiring and inviting to the public, Metal Technology has applied its expertise in close collaboration with designers to deliver financially economic yet technically robust solutions. COMMERCIAL: Metal Technology’s architectural glazing systems continue to be utilised in many of the new commercial schemes being constructed and developed

throughout the UK. The recently completed award winning centre of excellence headquarters in Cookstown for CDE Global is a high spec showcase building that will see clients visit from all over the world. Metal Technology’s products offered design solutions that were a perfect fit for this prestigious, high quality office development. The prestigious 64,000 sq ft Victoria Gate commercial office building in Woking was awarded the BCO UK Regional Award in the Refurbished / Recycled Category for the South of England / South Wales and the Aurora building in Bristol achieved an outstanding BREEAM award. Both these high-quality office spaces feature Metal Technology’s high performance system 17 curtain walling glazing products. RESIDENTIAL: Signature apartment blocks in London, Belfast and Manchester are excellent examples of how Metal Technology’s windows, curtain walling, sliding and bifold doors meet the aesthetic, security and thermal performance requirements of any building. Finishes can vary internally and externally, adding to the design possibilities, while the intrinsic qualities of aluminium – infinite recyclability, durability, strength and lightness mean it is one of the most sustainable building materials in use today. For more information on Metal Technology’s range of architectural glazing systems email: sales@metaltechnology.com or visit: www.metaltechnology.com.

CDE Global, Cookstown

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

The UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Defining spaces in architectural aluminium

Windows Doors Curtain Walling Brise Soleil Louvres

metaltechnology.com

Clockwise from top left: Horizon Heights Student Accommodation, Liverpool

www.glassnews.co.uk | May 2020

|| Burlington House Luxury Apartments, Manchester || Bailey Point Student Accommodation, Bournemouth || Belaton House Student Accommodation, Bournemouth

TRADE NEWS

LINIAR GOES FOR ‘BACK TO BACK’ AWARD WINS We are living in uncertain times, with more still to come as our industry, and British manufacturing and construction in general, deal with navigating the disruption caused by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Liniar’s impressive facility in Derbyshire

BRINGING PRIDE TO OUR COMMUNITY

CULTURE IS PARAMOUNT

“Being considered for awards always brings a sense of pride that our 500+ workforce are delighted to share,” comments Group MD Martin Thurley. “In these unprecedented times, it’s even more important than usual to be able to share these nuggets of much-needed good news to all those who work within our business, whilst most of them are furloughed and waiting to return.”

“We’re all very proud of the positive culture we have here at Liniar,” explains Martin. “It’s really come to the fore of late in the proactive way the team have dealt with the temporary closure of our site, as well as keeping all our communication channels open. We’ve also had a raft of willing volunteers to help with our initiative to produce protective face visors for key workers to help get through this crisis – everyone really does want to help where they can.

“If we were chosen to win Made in the Midlands Manufacturer of the Year, it would once again demonstrate to our employees and our community that we belong amongst the hub of powerhouse manufacturers in the region – even with such stiff competition!”

COMPREHENSIVE INVESTMENT Winning an award of this calibre takes quite some work. Entries include information about every aspect of a manufacturing facility – from its financial performance to manufacturing efficiencies and quality, from infrastructure and investment in people to its impact on the local environment. With Liniar’s comprehensive investment programme, all these crucial areas of scrutiny are covered but the entry is only able to convey a fraction of what the company invests in internally – and it’s almost impossible to illustrate the culture of the company itself.

“We know the team are keen to return to work as soon as the government relaxes the restrictions and we are already planning how to ensure we do that safely – which is the most important focus for us.” “In the meantime, it’s always great to be recognised for our achievements, and being shortlisted for the Made in the Midlands 2020 Manufacturer of the Year is an honour for us.”

MORE INFORMATION The Made in the Midlands Awards ceremony is set to take place on 3 September. View the full shortlist and details about the award by visiting www.insidermedia.com/news/midlands/ shortlists-for-made-in-the-midlands-2020-revealed. For more information about Liniar’s award-winning manufacturing facility, visit https://www.liniar.co.uk/ about/company-information/.

Amongst all the negativity there are still good news stories to be found, one of which came last week for industry-leading systems company Liniar - a shortlist spot in the Made in the Midlands Awards for the coveted Manufacturer of the Year award. This follows on from the announcement in March that Liniar had also won the Midlands Business Award for Manufacturer of the Year for the second year running! Liniar has been a beacon of innovation for the Midlands for decades – and having been shortlisted for this award last year, the PVCu extrusion company is even more keen to bring this award back to its Derbyshire HQ.

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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CUSTOMADE GROUP SIGNS

INNOVATIVE SOFTWARE HELPS HOMEWORKERS EARN INCOME AS CORONAVIRUS MOVES SALES ONLINE

WIDEST RANGING SBD AGREEMENT Customade Group has further underlined its commitment to supply an unequaled range of products and services with news that it has signed the widest ranging Secured by Design agreement ever.

Innovative software is being used to help homeworkers source profitable products to sell on Amazon, as the number of people looking for alternative means to make money from home rockets. A leading app by UK-based developer SourceMogul is enabling anyone selfisolating or looking after children to explore Amazon arbitrage as an alternative means of generating a primary or secondary income. SourceMogul’s tool is suitable for everyone, from experienced traders to those who are completely new to online arbitrage, and is aimed at UK and US households looking for new income streams. It suits those with an entrepreneurial appetite and time and a relatively small amount of money to invest in a new business. Founder Ed Brooks said: “Amazon arbitrage is a great option for those entrepreneurial individuals looking to start a business from home. With online sales forecast to skyrocket during these times, setting up an Amazon seller account gives new sellers instant access to the largest marketplace in the world. “Our software has been created to help people make a profit after the fees. The tool compares products from a wide range of online stores against their Amazon retail price and also checks to see if they are fast selling. “In practice, this means that we search at scale for products such as a pair of headphones, which can be purchased for £12 then sold on Amazon for £30. We help people find good, tradable items fast and what really appeals to sellers is how easy it is to trade on Amazon.” Uncertain times are ahead for the global economy as Coronavirus makes its impact,

The group has announced that 31 of its aluminium and PVCu windows and door systems have recently achieved an SBD licence in a move that will help Customade Group installers to realise the full potential of the UK’s most prominent crime prevention initiative. with the reality of living in a self-isolating world resulting in a significant impact to household incomes, with a number of key industries struggling financially. To reflect this, SourceMogul has a special offer for beginners, including access to discounted training and guides on how to get started. With all stores but those selling essential items now closed, spend is moving online, with Amazon alone recruiting 100,000 extra people to cope with the increase in demand. Ed added: “Our goal is to make online arbitrage more accessible to those looking for alternatives to traditional income streams. Automating and simplifying the process of sourcing products saves our customers hours, compared to scouring physical or online stores, and our easyto-use software is ideal for those with no previous experience.” Ed and the team, based near Cardiff, have been developing the software for a number of years, first under the name Profit Sourcery and then rebranding as SourceMogul in 2018. Named ‘Global Start-Up of the Year’ at the Natwest-sponsored Wales Start-Up Awards in 2016, they have automated the analysis of 20m products every month to identify where price gaps exist. To find out more about SourceMogul’s discounted offer for beginners or for a free trial, visit http://www.sourcemogul.com/startup

It is also a major advance for British homeowners, giving them total reassurance that their doors and windows are fully accredited and guaranteed to provide the very highest levels of protection. Customade Group is the only fabricator in the industry to offer such a comprehensive package, which spans 17 aluminium and PVCu window profile suites – including vertical sliders, reversible, tilt and turn and casement windows – and 14 aluminium and PVCu door profile suites – including bifolding doors and patio doors. Gareth Thomas, sales and marketing director at Customade Group, explains: “We’re very excited to unveil yet another industry first from Customade Group. This development is all about delivering increased sales opportunities across a complete range of products for customers, whilst offering complete confidence to the end user when choosing accredited products. “The Secured by Design Police Preferred Specification is the only police accreditation for security related products in the UK and it is only awarded to businesses that meet rigorous police security requirements. In an era where security plays a greater part in the decision-making process, installers can stand out from their competitors by offering a wide range of independently accredited products that give the homeowner total peace of mind.

“And, as you’d expect from Customade Group, we’ve also made it really easy for installers to quote and sell these policeendorsed products, so they can win more new customers and grow their businesses.” To gain Secured by Design accreditation, windows and doors must achieve PAS24 the enhanced security requirement for the UK. This involves passing several attack tests to ensure that products are resilient against intrusion. Rigorous testing is performed on any products seeking Secured by Design approval to ensure that they are resistant to forced impact and damage. Customade Group installers have reported a rise in orders and repeat business since the introduction of PAS24 accredited products. Set up in 1989 to combat a UK-wide rise in burglaries, Secured by Design is a policebacked scheme that aims to ‘design out’ crime and create secure environments for the public. It focuses on crime prevention of homes and commercial premises and promotes the use of security standards for a wide range of applications and products. SBD recognises manufacturers who design security into their products and endorses products which are designed to be fully secure against theft and burglaries. For further information about Customade Group’s Secured by Design range of products, call 01453 707272 or email info@customade.co.uk.

AWARD WIN DEMONSTRATES STRENGTH & LONG-TERM GROWTH FOR LINIAR With so many excellent manufacturers in the region, industry-leading systems company Liniar is delighted to announce it has been named ‘Manufacturer of the Year’ at the Midlands Business Awards for the second year running.

class – and that we’re passionate about what we do.”

“For Liniar to be named as the best manufacturer in the region is an incredible honour,” states Group Managing Director Martin Thurley. “The Midlands region is rich with a wide range of worldwide manufacturers and to be sitting up there with the best is exciting for Liniar.”

The award entry for the Midlands Business Awards touches upon everything from the manufacturing process and sustainability to the investment that is put back into the business each year – and that’s something Liniar is an expert on. Investment into innovation, manufacturing processes, machinery and plant are part of the reason the company is has seen consistent growth, both in sales and profitability, for more than a decade.

“With companies in the area like Rolls Royce and Toyota, winning the award for Manufacturer of the Year is not only a great accolade from a business perspective, it also shows potential employees that what we’re doing here at Liniar is world

Martin continues, “Awards are important in demonstrating to the outside world that we’re a successful, solid business, which is even more critical in tough times such as the worldwide pandemic we’re all dealing with right now.

“As a company, we’re known for doing the right thing, and are currently looking after our 500+ workforce whilst ensuring customer service remains at our usual high levels while ever we can. It’s a challenging time for everyone, but we’re convinced that those businesses with strong operating practices and a focus on the wellbeing of their workforce will emerge even stronger once this is over. “We’d like to thank our whole team for their continued efforts in working together – not only in winning this award, but to ensure the success and long-term future of our business.” The 2020 Midlands Business Awards nominations are now open – and we’re sure that Liniar will be entering this one to try and hold their title for the third year running.

Liniar Group Finance Director Monika Bailey and Financial Controller Andrea O’Donnell receive the award from Emma

Find out what makes Liniar one of the best manufacturers in the country by viewing their wide range of windows, doors, conservatories, roofline, building products, decking, fencing and piling on their website www.liniar.co.uk.

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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SENIOR STANDS BY ITS

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It is far from business as usual for anyone in the construction industry at the moment but Senior Architectural Systems has pledged to support its network of fabricators and installers in every way it can. Like most companies, the aluminium fenestration systems manufacturer has had to quickly adapt to the evolving challenges of the current COVID-19 outbreak to protect both its staff and customers. After putting a number of safety procedures in place, Senior remains operational and is utilising a core team of experienced and essential staff to continue to support its supply chain and provide fenestration systems for use on a number of vital construction projects in the healthcare and education sectors. Although many departments are temporarily working remotely in line with government advice, Senior is still able to offer its trade customers access to a wide range of services including detailed technical support, sales advice and help

with both estimating and the use of Logikal. The company is also offering its fabricator base a number of online resources including product guide and access to detailed technical information via a dedicated part of its website, Fab Tools. Commenting Senior’s sales director James Keeling-Heane said: “These are challenging and unprecedented times and we know that many of our supply chain partners have temporarily closed their doors. Many others have remained operational, and we are proud to be working with them to

deliver a number of important contracts including healthcare buildings. It is our aim to assist all our customers, whether that

means providing them with the products and information they need right now or helping them win new business when the time is right. Throughout this difficult period, the safety and wellbeing of our staff and customers has been, and will remain, our number one priority and we hope that by continuing to offer products and support we can help lessen the load that many of fabricators and installers are currently having to bear.” Contact details for Senior’s core service team can be found on Senior’s website and further announcements will be posted on Senior’s social media channels. Please visit www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk or search for Senior Architectural Systems on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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MODPLAN DONATES ITS STOCK OF PPE TO LOCAL DOCTORS’ SURGERY

DEFINING DESIGN WITH THE RESIDENCE COLLECTION

Trade fabricator Modplan has just donated its stock of personal protective equipment (PPE) to its local doctors’ surgery to help protect NHS staff as they tackle the Covid-19 outbreak.

Most PVCu systems houses are defined by profile shape and colour and while that’s also true for The Residence Collection, they are also expressed through premium hardware, exclusive finishes and a consumer facing brand that delivers value, enquiries and strong commercial returns for the trade. The launch of The Residence Collection has re-defined the way in which systems houses are viewed and indeed in the way that windows and doors are sold. Historically it was only the big national and vertically integrated brands that could build brand awareness on a national scale. But they’ve proven that with three pioneering window and door systems in the form of R2, R7 and R9, that they can do the same, particularly with social media where they are now a recognised and trusted brand by consumers with a similar reach to the likes of AGA and Wren Kitchens. But their way of thinking is new too, very much in the form of a design house and so that’s why they’ve developed their own premium hardware with unique finishes including monkey tail and pear drop handles, along with traditional pegs and stays. There’s also the Radlington deep nose cill, an industry first back in 2016 and traditional butt hinges for both windows and doors, along with a range of ancillaries from sister-brand Window Widgets. Sarah Hitchings, sales and marketing director of The Residence Collection commented: ‘There are several reasons why hundreds of different installation companies

trust, promote and install our products and it’s ultimately about the way in which we innovate in terms of product development and creating the ultimate consumer brand. She continued: ‘As consumers we all wear brands and for leading installation companies, they too wear various brands. But we are arguably the only systems house that develops a complete hardware and ancillary range, so whatever the manufacturing partner, each window and door that carries our name looks the same and that’s ultimately what defines us as a business.’ For further information please visit www. residencecollection.co.uk and www. residencecollectiontrade.co.uk. You can request a free brochure pack including the new My Residence Magazine via e-mail at journey@residencecollection.co.uk or by calling 01452 348650. You can also add to their following on Twitter @residence9 and engage with them on other social media platforms including Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Pinterest and Houzz.

FRAMEXPRESS TO DONATE 5% OF 2020 PROFITS TO NHS Framexpress has pledged to donate 5% of its 2020 profits to the NHS Charities Together COVID-19 Urgent Appeal. The appeal has been launched to raise £100 million to support the amazing NHS staff and volunteers caring for COVID-19 patients. Stuart Green, Director at Framexpress, says: “The whole nation is doing their bit to protect our NHS and save lives by staying at home. We wanted to show our gratitude to the key workers within the NHS who are putting themselves at risk every day to help people affected by this awful virus. So, we are donating 5% of our 2020 profits to NHS Charities Together COVID-19 Appeal.” The NHS appeal is funding wellbeing packs and gifts for NHS staff and volunteers, including food deliveries, snacks, refreshments, wash kits and overnight stay

kits, travel, parking and accommodation costs and other items to aid their wellbeing. For the remainder of the year, Framexpress is also offering a 10% discount off its window and door products that are fitted into the homes of NHS employees, so installers fitting Framexpress products can pass this extra discount onto their customers. Stuart adds: “As the Clap for our Carers campaign is proving, there is a massive appreciation for the work being done by NHS and carers during this incredibly challenging time, it only felt right for us to offer our support too.” Anyone can donate to the NHS Charities Together COVID-19 Appeal – visit https:// www.nhscharitiestogether.co.uk/

Heidi Sachs from Modplan, said: “All our manufacturing facilities and paint plant are temporarily shut to protect our workers and their families in line with government guidance. As such, we had PPE stock that we weren’t using and we knew the NHS could make use of it at this critical time.” The stock of items donated by Modplan includes full protective body suits, masks, goggles, gloves, hand sanitiser, disinfectant,

paper rolls and toilet paper. They will be used to enable the surgery to carry out face-to-face consultations safely.

heroes of this crisis and this small gesture from Modplan was the very least we could do.”

Heidi commented: “Like everyone in the country, here at Modplan we are grateful for the amazing work all NHS staff and frontline carers are doing. I’m pleased we were able to do something to support their efforts. They are the

Modplan is renowned in the industry for its partnership approach. And as this donation shows, its ‘Building perfect partnerships’ ethos includes the local community too. Tel: 01495 246844 www.modplan.co.uk

QUICKSLIDE CONTINUES ITS MULTI-MILLION POUND COMMITMENT TO GROWTH Quickslide’s £2m staged investment continues to gather pace with the award-winning fabricator recently commissioning and installing a state-ofthe-art Schirmer CNC machine, as part of its ongoing commitment to company growth and overall enhancement of its Brighouse factory, systems and processes. The new Schirmer cutting and prepping centre – which has been over a year in the making – has been intelligently engineered by supplier Promac to meet Quickslide’s precise needs. At almost 100ft long it is set to take centre stage inside Quickslide’s cutting-edge factory, with its speed and precision designed to streamline production, increase efficiencies and boost capacity. The introduction of the new CNC is just one example of Quickslide’s recent factory improvements, as it follows another significant investment in two corner cleaners and two quad welders since the investment programme began 18 months ago. This has also been complemented by a further £280,000 outlay to expand the Quickslide vehicle fleet. In addition to investment in premises and equipment, Quickslide has been busy recruiting thirty-eight new employees. These additions include expert heads for its marketing, quality assurance, HR and customer service departments, as well as Quickslide welcoming new engineers, fabricators, drivers and members of the sales team.

Supporting the business expansion, there has been further investment in-house, with a new online HR and health and safety system implemented, along with site improvements (for parking and loading) and the introduction of a BUPA Employee Assistance Programme to help maintain the welfare of all staff. “We’re committed to continually improving all areas of our business, and we’re thrilled to be installing more specialist machinery which will enable us to increase our capacity while improving our quality and efficiency,” said Quickslide’s Managing Director Ben Weber. “We pride ourselves on being at the forefront of product innovation and owed to continuing demand for our market leading products, such as the new generation Legacy VS, we’re keen to future-proof our business for the next five to ten years.” “Our ongoing multi-million pound investment means we’re now set to increase our manufacturing capacity significantly over the next few years, helping us to keep up with demand from our installer partners whilst maintaining the level of quality and service they have come to expect from Quickslide.” https://www.quickslide.co.uk

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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WHAT DOES COVID-19 MEAN FOR UK INDUSTRY? With the Coronavirus pandemic escalating day by day and businesses being forced to suspend operations a new industrial revolution may be upon us. David Leng, group chief executive at Customade Group, gives his thoughts on how the industry can react. No one could have predicted the speed and intensity with which Covid-19 would spread. The pandemic has forced every business to change how they operate, with home-working now a necessity for most people. It is a tremendously difficult time for the nation and the disruption to many industries has been huge. With most companies having to close their doors for the foreseeable future, we must find ways to keep in touch with fellow colleagues and customers and be ready to resume business when this crisis is over. Internet usage has accelerated at a phenomenal rate with Virgin Media reporting that the Coronavirus lockdown doubled the UK’s daytime internet usage. WhatsApp revealed that the number of video calls recorded across the platform has also doubled during the crisis. Additionally, use of video conferencing tools and apps like Skype, Facetime, Zoom and Houseparty, have also surged as people turn to them to stay in touch with work colleagues, separated family members and friendship groups. One thing that we can be sure of is that this pattern of usage will continue as people spend more time in isolation to try to slow the spread of the virus. With the online landscape transforming in front of our eyes, this industry has to be prepared to adapt to a new future and a new digital age.

such as Teachable and Udemy are spawning a plethora of online courses in garden design, yoga, photography and social media management. The e-learning market is booming. The value of the sector is estimated to jump to $300bn (£252bn) by 2025, up from $190bn in 2018, according to the research firm Global Market Insights. It’s time for the home improvement industry to catch up. Mike Cherry, the national chair of the Federation of Small Businesses, says many companies are finding new ways to be resilient and generate income to help them survive. “Small businesses are at the forefront of adapting and are keen new-to-firm innovators. Whether it be offering increased or new delivery or collection services or offering virtual guides to products or stores when premises aren’t accessible to customers, small businesses are trying to make this work,” he says. Installers must step up their online presence and embrace all the digital tools that are out there to help them through this challenging time. With social distancing set to continue for many months it will be some time before they can visit customers’ homes to sell and price windows, so they’ll need to think about alternative ways to connect with prospects, nurture those leads, and win business. We know from our research that on average consumers need to have around seven touch points with a home improvement provider before the consumer gains enough

Exhibitions and trade fairs now seem almost prehistoric. Improvements in home delivery driven by the likes of Amazon and Deliveroo have changed the expectation of the consumer. It currently seems inconceivable that the British public will want to return to having “direct sell strangers” visiting their homes to sell them solar panels, double glazing or kitchens. Other once traditional sectors, like estate agency for instance, have already largely moved away from conventional offline strategies and transformed the way they operate with the help of digital technology. Platforms

confidence for the job to go ahead. We believe we can harness AI to digitise and improve the first five contacts leaving only the final detailed survey and the install as actual site visits, thus minimising unnecessary time in the customers house. At Customade Group, we’ve spent the last two years investing in and developing technology with our partners Winsoc Digital to help installers boost their digital fitness to engage with new customers and secure more business. While it was never created for an emergency such as this, our digital support package and lead management app does give installers a vital lifeline to promote themselves, generate and nurture leads and even price and order windows remotely during the outbreak. We will come through this crisis and when we do, the world will be a different place. Online usage will be ingrained in many more people – from the young to the elderly – and remote working, shopping and buying will be widespread. telephone canvassing is already dead and foot canvassing will now go the same way. Those installers that are ready for this new era, will be the ones to succeed when things return to the new “normal”. We strongly recommend that home improvement companies use these weeks to improve their digital fitness so they are ready for the pent-up demand that will surely follow. Customade Group is supporting customers through this crisis. For further information, call 01453 707272 or visit www.customade.co.uk. If you are involved in home renovation or construction but not in fenestration, email me if you would like to discuss some of these insights david.leng@customade.co.uk. Customade Group operates nationwide and employs 1100 people in multiple manufacturing sites across the UK. The group includes REAL Aluminium (aluminium), Atlas Glazed Roof Solutions (glazed roofs), Virtuoso Doors (composite and PVCu door panels), Polyframe (PVC-u), Hourglass Seal (sealed glass units), Stevenswood Trade Centre (trade counters) and Fineline Aluminium (specialist glazing).

GARNALEX INVESTS IN COMBILIFTS TO ACHIEVE MAXIMUM MANUFACTURING EFFICIENCY Garnalex has invested in three Combilift multidirectional forklift trucks to achieve maximum efficiency in its state-of-the-art aluminium extrusion factory in Nether Heage, Derbyshire. The factory is now fully operational and extruding for trade extrusion customers. Its next major milestone is producing components for the launch of the breakthrough Sheerline window and door systems at the end of this month. The three Combilifts support the integration of the factory with seamless synchronisation enabled by GarnerSys. Developed by Garnalex’ in-house software team, this bespoke management and tracking system is designed to seamlessly integrate all elements of the extrusion and manufacturing process, and the Garnalex back-end ERP system

www.glassnews.co.uk | May 2020

(SAP). The Combilifts are universal trucks that can be used both inside and outside to provide a high level of operational flexibility in all areas of this advanced factory. Garnalex ordered two C4000 C-Series models, with four-ton lift capacities, and one Combi-CB model, with 2,500Kg capacity, in late 2018. Painted in the special Garnalex livery colour and logo, the two C4000 models are fitted with a 5.5m triplex mast enabling them to pass under low doorways, and lift goods to high storage bays when extended. All three Combilifts have multidirectional capability, enabling safe, space-saving handling and storage for long loads. Roger Hartshorn, Garnalex CEO, comments on the latest investment: “I’ve been using

Combilifts for over 20 years, and they’re instrumental in the smooth running of a factory. “Our factory is 100,000 sq ft, so ensuring it’s designed to supply a full end-to-end service at all points of the process requires a co-ordinated approach. It’s important for us to know exactly where our products are at all times, and with our new Combilifts and GarnerSys to integrate them into the operation of the factory we do!” Combilift CEO and co-founder, Martin McVicar, adds: “Roger was one of the first customers in the UK to recognise the qualities and benefits of our Combilift handling solutions when we launched our initial C-Series. We are very pleased that he has once again chosen products from our now much extended range. We wish him

Garnalex invests in Combilifts to achieve maximum manufacturing efficiency

all the best for this new venture, which, knowing Roger, will no doubt be a great success.” Find out more about Garnalex, visit www.garnalex.com and follow @GarnalexSystems.

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THE ESSENTIAL KIT FOR SELLING WITHOUT A HOME VISIT Tommy Trinder’s Chris Brunsdon tells Glass News about using his Framepoint® software as your virtual showroom, and keeping your business running during the Covid-19 lockdown. Selling our Framepoint® technology face-to-face to installers, nearly 100% of companies we visited signed up as subscribers. But with Covid-19 installers didn’t want face to face meetings, so we had to get good at selling remotely. Our remote selling kit worked so well with installers that they started using it to sell to homeowners. Turns out it works brilliantly with homeowners too. So, here it is – The essential kit for selling without a home visit.

FRAMEPOINT® AS YOUR VIRTUAL SHOWROOM www.tommytrinder.com Our platform is designed for collaboration and works equally well remotely. Share screens and sketch your PVCu, aluminum and timber products in real time and instantly see them in full photo-realistic quality. The detail of the graphics, ease of use and depth of options make it a proper virtual showroom. For homeowners it’s like visiting a real showroom - but more fun and with more on show! Touch, tap and see the results of colour changes, hardware choices, bar selections, well everything really. Then overlay your designs onto your client’s home to envisage your products in situ. When you’re done, transfer beautiful quotes by email in a click. See some design ideas from our virtual showroom over... Show all these options (and many more) in situ with a click.

Bevel? Ovolo? Square?

CALENDLY FOR SCHEDULING CUSTOMER CHATS www.calendly.com Seamlessly allows homeowners to put time on sales reps diaries without the usual back and forth of scheduling. Send a link (and/or embed it in your website) and allow homeowners to choose and book a remote consultation at their convenience. Setup confirmations by email and text SMS, and include meeting links and reference documents, or pre-instructions to help the client prepare for the meeting. Setup a team and have Calendly distribute remote appointments in a ‘round robin’; optimised for equitable lead distribution. What? No more turf wars?!

Dummy Vents? Aluminium? Steel?

Handle direction – are you in, or out?

Astragals, or leads? Stormproof, or flush?

JOIN ME FOR SALES DEMOS www.joinme.com Join Me is a ridiculously easy screen sharing tool where everyone gets connected, every time, with one click. Share screens and collaborate with homeowners as you model designs and options. Even pass the presenter role to the client and let them play. With no downloads, hassles or weird tech stuff to deal with you can really focus on selling windows, not tap dancing.

Clip on, or run through?

After

Flat? Raised & Fielded? Square? Tongued & Grooved?

Autumn? Arctic? Everglade? Mayflower?

Before

Mechanical, or Welded?

READER ENQUIRY NO: 0520/0000

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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INNOVATION & ENERGY EFFICIENCY PremiFold is the latest in a long line of product innovations from Kömmerling. It’s quite simply a revelation in the way in which you can open windows and doors, helping to maximise ventilation, without compromising on security. It’s a slide and swing window and door system that is simple and easy to operate for consumers. Kömmerling and parent company, profine Group, also lead the way across Europe with their lead-free Greenline compound that was developed over 12 years ago. In the UK some Systems Companies still use lead as a stabiliser in their PVCu compound. At profine, we understand the importance of the environment in terms of harmful materials, recycling and energy efficiency.

A trading name of Thermal Window & Conservatory Roof Systems Ltd.

01226 294555 or email: paul@therm AVAILABLE IN A RANGE OF COLOURS!

A trading name of Thermal Window & Conservatory Roof Systems Ltd.

Please call: 01226 294555 or email: paul@thermaltradeframes.co.uk T C www.thermaltra 94777 E R I D L A DE

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www.thermaltradeframes.co.uk Unit 17 Redbrook Business Park, W Unit 17 Redbrook Business Park, Wilthorpe Road, Barnsley S75 1JN

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WINDOW AND FACADE ACOUSTICS

Wojciech Brozyna, Aluprof UK Managing Director

Most of us will be working from home at this time and communicating through meeting apps in order to progress what business we can. It is at these times we notice the sensitivities of the microphones on our devises and hear the sounds that we filter out during our normal home life. When specifiers design facades for new or refurbished properties in our towns and cities, there are a number of factors to put into the design mix and acoustics are becoming crucial both in workplace and residential properties. Different types of noise can raise stress levels in the body, releasing a number of different stress hormones and, as the amount of stress hormones in the body increases, the heart rate, blood pressure and blood sugar levels increase. Excessive levels of these stress hormones in the body are harmful, and should the noise be sustained, or repeated day after day, this exposure will be seriously affecting health and wellbeing of building occupants. Cities are becoming noisier with increasing traffic and in many building locations close to railway lines, noisy pubs, clubs, noisy neighbours and/or flight paths. There are street designs which include special street furniture and planting to help reduce airborne noise but eventually, the noise

will try to penetrate the building structure through the building facade. Windows or areas of glazing are the most susceptible parts of the facade as they are generally the ‘lightest’ of materials used. Sound attenuation is best achieved by utilising unbroken ‘mass’ of material, such as a brick wall. The greater the mass, the greater the sound attenuation. Depending on the time of day, noise levels of road traffic can vary between 45-70+ decibels and this is just over the sound level that is seen to be 'healthy'. Old, draughty single glazed windows with poor or non-existent weather seals are the poorest performing windows when it comes to sound attenuation. Even the smallest of

gaps which allows a flow of air through the window will allow noise to penetrate the facade. So, the more airtight the window, the greater the sound reduction. Typically a well sealed single glazed window will offer a -30dB reduction in sound transmission, or what is known as ‘attenuation’. In busy built up areas single glazing is now seen as inadequate. For every 10dB reduction in the noise level achieved, the human ear perceives this as halving the volume. Glazing plays the biggest part in sound attenuation, double glazing helps, especially if the glass used is of differing thickness. Most materials at a given thickness will ‘resonate’ at certain

frequencies and allow some of those frequencies through, using a different thickness ensures what passes through one will not pass through the other. A well designed triple glazed unit with differing air spaces and glass thickness, will perform even better. Acoustic laminates used in laminated glass are specially designed to minimise sound transmission and a well designed unit can achieve up to -45dB sound attenuation. The use of triple seals further improve sound reduction and high thermal performance systems with wide high performance centre seals with further attenuate sound around a high performance glazed unit.

Premier Inn, Gatwick Airport

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Regarding specification, Building Regulations, Part E, ‘Resistance to the passage of sound’ should be consulted as well as a number of standards that are currently in place. Depending on the building there are also specific and differing requirements laid down for the likes schools, hospitals and offices, to name a few. Some company chains, such as Premier Inn, have their own acoustic requirements. When specifying BREEAM rated projects, there are points than can also be awarded for compliance in certain circumstances. Sound attenuation is also a little more complex in application and specifiers need to be aware that a change in window size can have an impact on ‘expected’ attenuation levels. Furthermore, attenuation is not linear, transmission of frequencies may mean that at one level of frequency, in a given window specification, sound is well attenuated whilst at another frequency, sound attenuation will be less. Knowing what frequencies to specify too is crucial in getting the installation best specified for the client.

Where prime windows need to remain in place, for example in listed facades, then the

option to install a secondary window system will offer a good solution. Using spacings of 100mm to 150mm between these windows including the inside reveal lined with acoustic absorbing material will offer very high levels of sound attenuation. Flanking sound transmission is quite a talking point at the moment in the industry. On almost every acoustic assessment when there is a continuous curtain wall, sound can travel through the facade to other floors, the reason for this is that the box will allow sound to travel unless it is broken per floor. Provisions can be incorporated such as an acoustic insert, multiple transoms can also be used to allow the sound to dissipate. Careful design is required to allow movement of the curtain wall system whilst ensuring that sound does not travel between compartments or floors of the building. Curtain wall also has the ability to transmit impact sound across compartments as well as airborne sound and selecting suitable methods of construction will improve attenuation. Whilst there is no one fix for all conditions, our design team in London and at our head office here in Altrincham can offer advice on how to tackle sound attenuation in both new and existing buildings. With one of the widest ranges of aluminium systems available in the UK we can offer you a bespoke design to meet both thermal and sound attenuation requirements. Since setting up the Aluprof Project Office at the Business Design Centre in London, the company has rapidly grown their specification influence in the UK with their high performance architectural aluminium systems. Further expansion of the companies headquarters in Altrincham now provides specifiers with meeting facilities and an extensive showroom of commercial systems to view. With overseas growth across Europe spreading into the Middle East and firm roots already in the East of the USA, the company is becoming a global player in facade supply. Further information is available on the companies website at aluprof.co.uk or direct from their UK office in Altrincham on 0161 941 4005. by Wojciech Brozyna - MD of Aluprof UK

www.glassnews.co.uk | May 2020

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Whilst ensuring airtight window systems to increase sound attenuation, these can be provided with ‘glazed-in’ or ‘in-frame’ acoustic ventilators which consist of baffles and acoustic absorbing materials to allow ventilation but with attenuated noise transmission. Acoustic ventilators may not offer the level of attenuation required and this is where an alternative mechanical ventilation provision should be considered. Depending of the configuration and specification of the design of windows or curtain wall required, our Aluprof design team can assist in the best options to be specified.

"Careful design is required to allow movement of the curtain wall system whilst ensuring that sound does not travel between compartments or floors of the building."

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FREEFOAM BUILDING PRODUCTS.

GROWING WITH THEIR CUSTOMERS. Visiting Freefoam Building Products in Northampton, Chris Champion, Glass News’ Editor learns about roofline and rainwater systems and gets a guided tour of the extrusion and production facility. It’s a terrible admission to make but, well here goes – I’m a roofline virgin. Or perhaps I should say, was. A visit to Freefoam Building Products in Northampton relieved me of this burden and I now understand much more about this important sector of our industry. It had never occurred to me that production of roofline products was so similar to the extrusion of PVCu profile and I simply took for granted that guttering, fascia and so on, existed. All my pre-conceived ideas, or indeed no ideas, were dispelled pretty much instantly once a guided tour of Freefoam’s manufacturing facility commenced and, I must say, it was one of the best guided tours I have ever enjoyed. Fitted up with ear pieces that made us look not unlike the secret service close protection squad that surrounds a US President, we very quickly understood the advantage of being able to hear every word from Geoff Barnett, Freefoam’s Technical Operations Manager, as he took us through the manufacturing process. It’s a guided tour I would highly recommend: informative and highly amusing and done at a pace such that you couldn’t be bored. I’ve experienced guided tours where you are struggling to hear what’s being said and are desperately trying to stand in front of the tour guide to try and lip read to give you an idea of what he might be saying. I’ve also

Part of the extrusion hall

Cork base services manufacturing and sales for the Irish and Continental markets with 14 extrusion lines supplying markets in Ireland, France, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, Sweden and Spain. While its UK manufacturing base in Northampton has 16 extrusion lines and manages the manufacturing, distribution and sales activities for the UK market. Interestingly, the UK is now the backbone of the business supplying PVC-U and PVC-UE building products for roofline and rainwater applications including a wide range of fascias, soffits, rainwater systems, external cladding and interior decorative panelling. Aidan Harte, Freefoam’s Managing Director

experienced ear bud technology that just doesn’t work that well. This was spot on and made the visit that much more enjoyable and useful. 2020 marks 30 years of Freefoam’s existence having been founded in Cork in 1990. The

It’s easy to forget the importance of these products to our industry as it offers an important additional sales opportunity to an installer. Indeed, the installation of these products may well be the prime business of an installer with windows and doors a secondary item for them. After all, every house has guttering, downpipes, fascias and soffits and replacement or upgrading

“Now turning over €72.5 million in 2019, nearly 70% of our business is conducted through Northampton. The main issue emanating from that growth is expansion!” is necessary from time to time. Add to that the vast programme of new build that is taking place nationwide and the market for rainwater products is huge, after all there is little sign of cast iron products being used in large quantities leaving PVCu and PVCue products as the only game in town. Although timber fascia and soffits are still very much in evidence the plastic alternative is an attractive option with rot and painting a thing of the past. Indeed, a lifetime guarantee is a strong incentive to buy and this is an industry leading offer, available to house builders, local authorities, developers and installers. Freefoam’s products are versatile and come in a large range of colours and designs to add style and definition to residential and commercial buildings. The roofline industry has changed dramatically over the years with some 15 players in the market back in 1998, whereas now that has dwindled to around 5. However, as manufacturers have left the market the remaining companies have taken up the slack and grown accordingly. Freefoam ranked 11th out of the 15 players in 1998 but are now at number 2 out of the 5 manufacturers.

Our guide for the day. Geoff Barnett, Freefoam’s Technical Operations Manager, describes the process right from the arrival of raw materials

Picking the customers’ product

Colin St. John, Commercial Director of Freefoam commented on the trends that

Just one of the warehouses on the Freefoam site

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Just one of the 16 extrusion lines at Freefoam’s Northampton site

Colin St. John with PVC compound powder

Large quantities of roofline and rainwater system products are readily available

Colour matched Plastops® fixings are packed for despatch

have shaped the market: “Climate change, demographics, housing wealth, colour, and market concentration are the five trends.

Freefoam, we took a different approach, selling through independent stockists and helping them grow their business. We believe that up to 75% of roofline product is now sold through supplier-owned outlets which, of course, means that installers often have to travel quite long distances to find their favoured brand. Independent stockists who like to offer installers a choice of brands will often find that they are competing with their supplier and through price the supplier is always going to win at the expense of the independent stockist. Freefoam entered the UK market over 20 years ago with a simple long-term strategy of selling through independent stockists and merchants and helping customers grow, because if they grow, we grow.

options before committing to one product. Freefoam’s fascia quote request process is straightforward, hassle-free and easy so customers can provide reliable and accurate information to homeowners.

manufacturing space and we are constantly trying to find more land. But that is not easy in this busy industrial estate. Are we going to tread water and remain at our current size? Certainly not. We have expanded our product range and our colour options along with the guarantees and this has proved very popular. Cladding too, both external and the internal decorative panelling, are both growing sales.

“In the case of climate change, both heat and wetter weather both have an impact. Extreme weather puts pressure on our buildings which will need to be bettermaintained to keep the wind and rain out. Leaks cause damage and Freefoam’s Freeflow® rainwater with its long-life compressible seals and watertight joints provide an answer to the problem. Being compressible, the seals also allow gutters to move silently when they expand in the heat without noisy creaking. The co-extruding, with white inside – another Freefoam innovation - minimises heat absorption so they expand less and avoid creating gaps that cause leaks. “If we look at demographics and housing wealth together, we see a rising population and the need for value for money products for the younger people struggling with mortgages and general living. We then have the mortgage free over 55s who can afford to invest in their homes and want quality and style and that’s where colour options come in together with the quality and the 50-year, lifetime guarantee on white profile. People no longer want shiny white rainwater products; they want colour to match their windows and doors! And our 16 attractive colours in fascias and soffits and six colours in rainwater guttering with a 10-year guarantee is important in this market. “The 2008 recession and the competition for shelf space to sell products drove some manufacturers to acquire stockists and set up trade counters to sell their products. So their model is to have their own outlets but also sell through independents. At

Ancillary products are sprayed to match

www.glassnews.co.uk | May 2020

“#HelpingCustomersGrow is Freefoam’s official policy. Our service and support goes beyond product to marketing packages and generating quality leads through our consumer facing sites: www. myrooflinematters.co.uk and www. mycladding.co.uk. We also offer strategic advice and support for stockists looking to expand and acquire new branches, or for those looking to be acquired.” This policy of supporting the customer is key to Freefoam Building Product’s strategy and is backed up with a whole range of marketing packages, POS, brochures and samples to help stockists sell more. The websites are also very important as the two consumer-facing websites (one for roofline and one for cladding) direct homeowners to their nearest stockist and Freefoam’s network of registered installers, generating quality leads for customers. There is also a visualiser tool which helps homeowners picture how different colours will look on their property, so they can explore the

In 2019 Freefoam formalised this in a marketing campaign, #HelpingCustomersGrow. The campaign is fully integrated to cover PR, advertising, social media, videos and direct marketing. #HelpingCustomersGrow gives Freefoam customers (stockists, and their housebuilder and installer customers) a mouthpiece to explain how Freefoam helps their business. The campaign has had a very positive impact in a relatively short space of time, growing sales, enquiries and the number of registered installers. It was shortlisted for a Construction Marketing Award in the ‘Strategic Planning and Management’ category. I asked Aidan Harte, Freefoam’s Managing Director about the growth of the company, both in monetary and product terms and the issues that that growth has had on the company’s philosophy. “Our attitude to selling has not varied and we weren’t tempted down the road of setting up our own stockist network. We were determined to remain a supplier to the independents and to grow our business alongside growing theirs. The company has developed from its roots in Cork in 1990 to coming into the UK in 1993 and establishing a manufacturing unit in Northampton in 1999.

There is little doubt that the consumer facing websites for rainwater products and cladding are important in supporting our customers. Our customers know that we will not sell direct to the public and that we are here to support them. Many companies would use consumer websites to set up direct sales – not Freefoam, and that gives our customers confidence in us. We are an independent supplier and a supplier that is constantly investing in helping their customers and investing in our manufacturing facility. One of the most important things is listening to our customers and what the market needs - the trends. A good example is the Swedish market where cladding is popular. While we offer colours here in the UK, Sweden only wants white! Without listening to the market we could have made an expensive mistake by pushing coloured cladding into that country.

“Now turning over €72.5 million in 2019, nearly 70% of our business is conducted through Northampton. The main issue emanating from that growth is expansion! We have a 5 acre site with 120,000 sq ft of

“We have 1,600 registered installers and 10 sales people on the road servicing them, and 150 staff are based at Northampton. Employment is never easy. We want the right people in the right job and people who share our ideals. Generally speaking, it takes interviewing five people to gain one new employee! Basically, we have to get people with the right attitude and train them in our ways and philosophy.”

Wheeled cutter cutting profile to width

Protective wrapping is applied on line

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SWA SPECIFICATIONS ENSURE

WE SHOULD ALL LEARN FROM A BRITISH SUPPLY CHAIN APERTURE TRADING’S DEMISE SAYS BARRACLOUGH

Britain’s long and well regarded engineering heritage continues to flourish across a number of sectors; and can be seen fully represented by the businesses, of different sizes, which belong to the Steel Window Association.

The SWA membership undertakes a wide range of work, from replica refurbishment, and even in-situ repair, to the fabrication and installation of new, high performance fenestration and doorsets, which are fully compliant with current building regulations. All of them, however, manufacture their products here in the UK using a mainly British-based supply chain. Covering the whole country, they enable clients from individual homeowners to large corporations to, in effect, ‘minimise their window miles’. SWA members manufacture their windows and doors in UK factories and therefore can help specifiers cut their carbon footprint. In addition, the SWA’s home-grown expertise offers a variety of benefits with special skillsets being passed down, primarily through in-house training initiatives, though some of the larger companies do offer college linked apprenticeships in trades such as welding. Another dimension to the Steel Window Association’s strong heritage is that the manufacturers’ design and technical personnel are fully familiar with most of the window

types common to the UK’s often unique backdrop of buildings. Members can help to conserve properties varying in architectural style from old warehouses and factories to the very distinctive buildings of the Art Deco and 1950s periods. They are also in big demand to supply fenestration for retro-style minimalist dwellings that revisit the work of the Modern Movement with rectilinear walls and large windows beneath flat roofs. The President of the SWA, Govette Windows’ Darren Lloyd, comments, “All of the manufacturing processes, including the hot dip galvanising and powder coating, are carried out in the UK and are normally local to the individual manufacturer.” “Our members offer a very comprehensive range of services as well as ranges stepping up in performance from the classic W20 to W30 and W40, as well as the new thermally broken system. The SWA is very active in terms of product development: having just achieved a half hour fire certification for both single and double doorsets.” Whatever type of steel window which consultants, contractors or owner clients are seeking, they can ensure they achieve a ‘home grown’ solution by contacting a member of the SWA.

Following the announcement of the failure of systems manufacturer Aperture Trading Ltd, Quickslide chairman Adrian Barraclough says we can learn much for the current times from the demise of the company.

everyone - although initially this was a significant factor - but over time the company grew and took a significant share of the UK window and door business for itself by showing a number of admirable qualities.

“Quickslide was a business partner of Aperture Trading both as a supplier and customer so we were well acquainted with the business and the issues that it faced,” says Adrian. “However, we were also a trading partner of Synseal, the business from which Aperture was formed and it’s worth bearing in mind the qualities that company was based upon and which made it such a success in the early days: and why in due course it went so wrong.”

“For any business to survive, let alone prosper, in normal trading conditions these qualities include good cash reserves, sound financial control, continuous investment, innovative and imaginative thinking, a dynamic, structured management, great products, a dedicated workforce from the cleaners to the senior managers; and crucially, shareholders that care passionately about and who are involved with the business on a day to day basis.

Synseal is widely credited as being an industry ‘disrupter’ when it brought its first products to market. Says Adrian: “In the hands of the company’s founder Gary Dutton and his team, Synseal disrupted the market not simply by undercutting

“Sadly, as Synseal in recent years and then finally as Aperture, these key qualities diminished until all that remained at the end was the dedication of the workforce, many of whom I had come to know personally and to whom my deepest sympathies are extended. “My point is that during the extraordinary circumstances being imposed on all of us during the coronavirus emergency, companies that show the qualities upon which Synseal was based will be the ones that get us through this crisis. I believe passionately in those strengths and they remain at the core of everything that we believe in and do at Quickslide.

Members of the Steel Window Association offer a UK wide service for the repair and replacement of various types of old metal windows, doors and screens, as well as being able to manufacture new fenestration which fully meets the requirements of the building regulations. Choosing an SWA member to manufacture and install your steel windows and doors ensures that you are receiving the highest standard of fabrication, installation and customer service.

“We will continue to seek partnerships with companies – suppliers and customers – that also share those attributes because they are the qualities that will not only help to sustain each of us in the short term, they will also enable us to flourish when things return to normal, as they certainly will.”

For further information on the Steel Window Association, please visit www.steel-window-association.co.uk or call 020 8543 2841.

www.quickslide.co.uk

RADICAL, TRAD, NEW-BUILD OR RETROFIT? ...ONE SITE SHOWS IT ALL FOR LUMI It’s well known that the revolutionary Lumi window and door system looks equally at home in contemporary or traditional surroundings, in new-build or retrofit – but now manufacturer Apeer has had the unique opportunity to showcase all four of these on one single site. When Michael and Emma Leliveld began working with TW-2 Architects to add a contemporary extension to their traditional Hertfordshire home, they had seen the Lumi system at one of the Grand Designs events and immediately saw it as a natural choice. But when they decided to upgrade all their windows and doors at the same time, they thought the same system would add extra kerb appeal as well

as giving a perfect match for old and new. Now, with 17 windows, two doors and an expansive pair of patio doors all from Lumi in its striking Anthracite Grey, the entire house not only looks stunningly different but has also seen fuel bills cut dramatically, largely due to Lumi’s exceptional U-Values with its argon-filled triple glazed units, low-E glass and warm edge Superspacers in its radical ‘frameless’ bonded glass fibre construction. Michael said “We are extremely pleased with our Lumi windows and slider, and all who see them comment very favourably on them. They have added an extra wow factor to the build that we hadn’t originally anticipated.”

Apeer MD Asa McGillian added: “When we originally designed the Lumi concept, we first pictured it in contemporary newbuild settings but so many installations since then have shown it to be just as much at home in all styles of classical and traditional homes, both retrofit and newbuild. “Now with the Lelivelds’ home, anyone can see all those facets of its versatility in this one property – in short, the best single showcase for the potential of Lumi that we could hope for.” Lumi proved to be a show-stopper from day one when the radically different window system was unveiled at Grand

Designs London in 2015. Demand has grown exponentially since then and the system has been extended with the addition of patio and bi-fold doors as well as entrance doors, so now there is no installation, retrofit or new-build, that could not be completely fulfilled with Lumi. www.apeer.co.uk

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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MILA OFFERS A FINANCIAL PERSPECTIVE ON THE RESTART Mila’s core operations have been largely closed during the lockdown, with only a limited weekly delivery service which started on 20 April. However, during that time, a ‘heartbeat’ team has been busy making sure that the business is alive and well and ready to reopen in stages as soon as it is safe and sensible to do so. Alongside MD Richard Gyde, Mila has kept key people in place in its supply chain, technical, sales, marketing, product development, operations and finance departments. Their focus has been on ensuring that the company is prepared for life after the restrictions are eased and, most importantly, that it is in a position to help its customers as well. Regular communication with customers and colleagues across the industry throughout the lockdown has meant that Mila has been able to respond to their most pressing concerns. That was evident when the company announced it would partially reopen with a skeleton team to meet demand from companies still working on public sector and other

commercial contracts. Then, it issued guidance to companies who were looking at their own partial restarts on how to implement a new gold standard safe working protocol under the acronym ERIC. Now, Mila’s Finance Director James Kiernan is offering some guidance to customers on the other key issue which is causing them the greatest concern – finances. He says: “The main thing for customers at this stage is to make sure that they have accessed all of the government support available – from the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme to business interruption loans and business rate relief grants. These can preserve much needed working capital to help them get through the lockdown and eventually ease their way back into production. Anyone who is struggling with that can contact the finance team at Mila and we can signpost them to the most useful sources of funding. “Companies that have already furloughed their staff under the government’s scheme have been able to cut costs and retain capacity and skills of course, but the challenge for them now is how and when to bring those people back into the business and balance safety, resources and demand. “With furloughing only possible in three week

blocks, businesses have to be able to accurately predict demand, which will mean talking to customers well in advance to understand the scale of that. They also need to consider un-furloughing non-production staff in areas such as sales, marketing and finance who can make an immediate impact on the bottom line. “In fact, the most important thing that all businesses can do is open a dialogue with staff, customers and suppliers at an early stage in exactly the way that Mila has done. Businesses need to understand what the demand will be, but also whether they will be able to get the components they need to be able to meet that. “And of course, they need to talk to both customers and suppliers about payment terms. The industry will only be able to get back on its feet if cash keeps flowing and, agreeing in advance when you will get paid and when you will make payment will be crucial. “There are currently only small pockets of the industry operating and Mila only has a skeleton team in our warehouse. However, with the latest lockdown restrictions set to be reviewed shortly and the government’s Job Retention Scheme only running until the end of June, planning and decisions have to be made now about how the wider industry will eventually get back to work. “The emphasis of course will be on reducing costs, maximising margins and building up reserves, and Mila will be standing alongside our customers to help them to achieve that.” Mila’s Customer Accounts team is headed up by Lorraine Spokes. The team are currently working remotely but customers can talk to them directly on: 07801 456677. More at: www.mila.co.uk.

www.glassnews.co.uk | May 2020

GUARDIAN GLASS CANCELS PARTICIPATION IN GLASSTEC 2020 In light of the current Coronavirus pandemic, and consistent with its focus on the health and safety of its employees and preferred partners, Guardian Glass has decided not to participate at glasstec 2020, scheduled to take place in Dusseldorf, Germany from 20-23 October 2020. The company will instead prioritize a swift and successful resumption of business, as well as the acceleration of its own digital transformation. “Our decision not to participate at this year’s event was not taken lightly, but was done with the health and safety of our employees and customers in mind, being respectful of the current business environment,” says Kevin Baird, president and CEO of Guardian Glass.

“These are challenging times for everyone, and it has required all of us to think differently about how we do business. We want to build on this momentum of necessary innovation and develop new ways of supporting our customers and other preferred partners through enhanced digital tools and collaboration.” Recent digital initiatives by Guardian Glass include online architectural glass workshops currently running across Europe, with similar digital events slated for the U.S. and other regions in the coming weeks. The company will continue to build out its digital content and product portfolio to inspire new thinking in the use of glass in commercial architecture, as well as helping to deliver more comfortable and

energy-efficient living environments. Guardian Glass Guardian Glass, a major business unit of Guardian Industries, is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of float, coated and fabricated glass products. At its 25 float plants around the globe, Guardian Glass produces high performance glass for use in exterior (both commercial and residential) and interior architectural applications, as well as transportation and technical products. Guardian glass can be found in homes, offices, cars and some of the world’s most iconic architectural landmarks. The Guardian Glass Science & Technology Center continuously works to create new glass products and solutions using the most advanced technology to help customers see what’s possible®. Visit guardianglass.com.

BI-FOLDING DOOR COMPANY TEAMS UP WITH PURPLEX IN MIDST OF CRISIS The Bi-folding Door Company has demonstrated its longterm vision amid the coronavirus crisis by teaming up with Purplex during the current lockdown to develop a new website. The Bury-based company, specialists in the manufacturing of a range of aluminium products, turned to the leading fullservice marketing agency for a new online platform. Terry Gallagher, Managing Director at The Bi-folding Door Company, said: “The current lockdown provided us with the perfect opportunity to look

at our current website and it became apparent that it needed an overhaul. “We have a reputation for delivering the best products and a professional service and we wanted a website that reflected those values. We’re excited to be working with Purplex to make that happen.” Andrew Scott, Purplex’s MD, commented: “With more business set to move online after the current crisis is over, your website has never been more important. “Many businesses will be using this down-time to look at their assets, and

their website should be at the top of that list. “The Bi-folding Door Company are clearly showing their ambition and our experienced web team will work with them to create a website that delivers a great resource for both existing and potential customers.” Purplex Marketing was founded in 2004 by Andrew Scott, one of Britain’s leading marketing experts. Andrew has acquired, built and sold several successful businesses in the industry, including manufacturers, distributors and retail businesses. Since its establishment, Purplex has grown by at least 34% every year and now boasts a large clientele of customers located throughout the UK and Europe. For more information, visit www.purplexmarketing. com or call 01934 808132.

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FENTRADE’S NEW FLUSH CASEMENT WINDOW WILL OPEN OPPORTUNITIES FOR INSTALLERS WHEN THE MARKET RETURNS

STEEL WINDOW ASSOCIATION MEMBER INTRODUCES THE BRAND NEW B393150 SILENT CABIN HOOK AND EYE

Aluminium trade fabricator Fentrade Aluminium Building Products has announced it will start manufacturing the Optio 58BW Flush window from AluK when the industry reopens. Chris Reeks, Director of Fentrade Aluminium Building Products, said: “We know our installing customers will want to maximise every opportunity when the market returns. The Optio 58BW Flush window taps into the growing aluminium market and is perfect for contemporary new build and traditional refurbishment projects alike.”

The Steel Window Association comprises a wide variety of nationwide members who design and manufacture steel windows and doors; which include the necessary fittings and fixtures. Steel Window Association member, Steel Window Fittings Ltd. has announced the introduction of the brand new B393150 traditional Silent Cabin Hook and Eye to the exceptional product collection of fittings for steel window and door frames.

The Optio 58BW Flush window offers a powerful combination of performance, versatility and security. Key features include impressive U values as low as 1.5W/m2K

as well as a double rebate that offers greater protection against the elements. The design features slim 45mm sashes for a minimal contemporary look and a 70mm outer frame for a more seamless installation. There is a wide choice of handle colours that will suite with the other aluminium products such as doors, bifold doors and inline sliders within the Fentrade manufacturing portfolio. And as with all Fentrade products, there’s a rapid and reliable turnaround from order to delivery, including a quote within 24 hours. Fentrade Ltd is based in Newport, South Wales. The award-winning aluminium fabricator works with trade and retail customers throughout Wales and the West and along the M4, M5 and M6 corridors. It partners with renowned industry brands such as AluK and VBH Greenteq and manufactures a full range of aluminium windows, doors, bifolds, inline sliders, GFT commercial screens, shopfronts and curtain walling products from its modern manufacturing facilities. The company is a member of the Council for Aluminium in Building and prides itself on maintaining the highest standards in every area of its business. It’s also well-known for its knowledgeable and friendly team that’s always ready to assist with enquiries and orders. By adding the Optio 58BW Flush window, Fentrade is already looking ahead, making sure its customers have everything they need to maximise the market opportunities when the time is right. Tel: 01633 547787 fentradealuminium.co.uk

The Steel Window Association’s members have long been providing all the tools for the repair, maintenance and manufacture of steel windows and doors. This new product addition is in keeping with the members’ reliable reputation.

design makes this hook and eye an ideal choice regardless of whether the existing frame has a traditional or a slim-line profile. Regardless of the width of the frame, the fixture can be fixed to the door frame leg in a way to complement this. A wide choice is also available for the customer in terms of the finish. The B393150 traditional Silent Cabin Hook and Eye is available to order now in several finishes allowing it to be matched to existing door and window furniture for ideal integration. Members of the Steel Window Association offer a UK wide service for the repair and replacement of existing metal windows, doors and screens. Association members also manufacture brand new fenestration which fully meets building regulations. Choosing an SWA member to manufacture and install your steel windows and doors ensures that you are receiving the highest standard of fabrication, installation and customer service. For further information on the Steel Window Association, please visit www.steel-window-association.co.uk or call 020 8543 2841.

The B393150 boasts elegant design and versatility; it allows for either vertical or horizontal fixing of the eye. Intelligent

"Members of the Steel Window Association offer a UK wide service for the repair and replacement of existing metal windows, doors and screens."

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

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Taking the flush sash window to the next level… Taking the flush sash window to the next level… • The only double-rebated flush sash on the market • Hidden external seals, no unsightly brush piles • The double-rebated flush sash on the market Fullyonly foiled glazing areas to outer frame and transom profiles • Available Hidden external seals, no of unsightly brush piles in a wide range solid and foiled colours from stock • Triple Fully foiled glazing to outer as frame transom profiles glazing readyareas with U-values low and as 0.9W/m2K • Available inQ a and wideSecured range ofby solid and foiled colours from stock PAS24, Part Design accredited • Triple glazing ready with U-values low as 0.9W/m2K Four fabrication options includingas Timberweld® • PAS24, Q and Secured by Design accredited 10-yearPart guarantee • Four fabrication options including Timberweld® Full marketing support • 10-year guarantee • Full marketing support

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ENERGY EFFICIENCY

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

FORWARD-THINKING

IS PRUDENT PLANNING

The world around us is changing and along with it, consumer behaviour. Property owners are more aware of the impacts that the fenestration products they purchase have on the environment – whether that’s through their manufacturing process or the environmental benefits they provide once installed. Because of this, more homeowners are requesting products that are manufactured in environmentally-friendly facilities who use safe practices when it comes to carbon emissions and environmental impacts – as well as products that provide acoustic protection and thermal efficiency, helping to lower the carbon footprint of their own homes.

In 2017, one PVCu systems company sought to be the first in the UK with a PVCu window system accredited with a PassivHaus rating. Liniar’s EnergyPlus90 system was designed to meet all the requirements of this stringent testing and more.

One Liniar customer recently commented, “EnergyPlus90 is one of the only systems that meets these strict requirements – and the only one that can be delivered in the short time frames required by developers.”

The launch of this is UK-first 90mm window system has been well received - and with new building regulations set to require even more stringent ratings, Liniar is well ahead of the curve.

EnergyPlus90 does more than dampen noise pollution – its PassivHaus rating means it offers some of the lowest U-values on the market for excellent energy efficiency. Boasting a potential U-value as low as 0.7 W/m²K, (0.5 with quad glazing!) the system is capable of helping to keep temperatures inside properties at an ambient 19°C through winter and summer alike.

ACOUSTICS One of the main features of the EnergyPlus90 system is its 42 decibel acoustic rating. “Noise pollution is a real concern for developers looking to build on brownfield sites, near airports or railways and those in heavy urban areas,” comments Liniar’s Charlotte Curtis. “We’ve already seen a rise in development projects up for tender which require windows meeting the WHO’s guidelines for acoustic ratings – and EnergyPlus90 has been there to fill the requirements for Liniar fabricators.” From dogs barking and neighbours mowing their lawns to car alarms, planes taking off and trains going by on their daily routes, noise can be a serious issue. With EP90’s 42 dcB rating, it becomes much less of a nuisance. Shared buildings such as care homes, student accommodation and social housing also benefit from building products which dampen that noise – including windows, doors and insulation.

THERMAL PERFORMANCE

Liniar’s EnergyPlus90 window system features a 9-chamber PVCu profile and includes Liniar’s patented bubble gasket and glazing flipper. Installed with either 48mm or 56mm triple glazing, it offers exceptional airtightness and weather resistance without the need for additional steel reinforcement. “Fabricators are asking for products which help to lower energy bills in their customers’ homes – and our entire range is designed to do just that. But EnergyPlus90 goes one step further with its PassivHaus accreditation,” comments Charlotte. “The World Health Organisation is asking for homes to no longer be linked to the natural gas system after 2050, meaning that we will need other methods of controlling the temperature – and this is where EnergyPlus90 makes the leap.”

DELIVERING ON EVERY LEVEL Looking exactly the same as a standard 70mm system, EnergyPlus90 is also easy to fit. It’s installed in exactly the same way as other Liniar windows, using the same bespoke glazing platforms, so installers can get to grips with it quickly and easily. And because it’s designed, manufactured, foiled, stocked and delivered from Liniar’s cutting-edge facility in the East Midlands to fabricators all over Britain, customers can rest assured that stocks aren’t impacted from any changes that may take place when the transition period is over from Brexit. With 3,330 colour combinations available on just a 7-day lead time, customers can choose to have the right product for their home in the style that suits them best. For more information about the Liniar EnergyPlus90 range, including its PassivHaus accreditation please visit www.liniar.co.uk/upvc-windows/passivhaus.

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May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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TRADE NEWS

CHOICE SERVICE SUPPORT QUALITY RESPONSE FLEXIBLE When you partner with Roseview you’re not just buying industry-leading sash windows, you’re getting a lot more. You’re getting what 40 years experience has taught us—that installers want products, service and support they can rely on. That’s why partnering with Roseview for sash windows is the smart choice.

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SOFTWARE & IT

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

DOORCO REVOLUTIONISES PRODUCTION

WITH INTEGRATED BARCODING

Ben Aspinall, DOORCO’s IT & Projects Manager talks to Glass News about the new project that sees the company integrate universal customer barcoding into its production, taking them another step closer to offering the UK’s first JIT composite door supply chain.

Using barcodes in manufacturing is nothing new but using a customer’s barcode in our facility is a revolutionary upgrade, delivering seamless integration between IT systems to increase speed and reduce delivery failure. Over recent months we have been trialling a project with our customers to allow us to link to their own internal manufacturing IT systems to produce the customer’s own unique barcodes. This basically means that when an order is received via electronic ordering, our system produces a customer specific barcode. It is applied to the packaging for manufacturing orders or to

the slabs for distribution orders. Once the order arrives in the customer’s facility, it’s simply scanned-in at goods in and moves on through manufacturing, or if preprepped by DOORCO, on to join the rest of the customers’ order.

MOVING FORWARDS The project has resulted in various upgrades to the DOORCO ordering system. Moving away from the traditional boundaries of ‘distribution’ and ‘manufacturing’, our service has evolved into delivering a mix – for example, we support distribution only customers with colour, painting single doors or pallet loads and matching cassettes to order. We also support with prepping – oneoff ’s or volume management - and glass and glazing supply, whether that is packaged up glass and glazing cassettes, or glazing the doors for them, again assisting with volume, or more complex/bespoke orders such as Inox.

MAKING IT HAPPEN The key to all of this is stock: DOORCO invests in and manages stock effectively to ensure we have what our customers need, available and ready when they need it. The team that manages our warehouse and distribution has redesigned and invested all their skill into managing our resources on customer’s behalf, resulting on customers now having the confidence to reduce their own stockholding and rely on DOORCO for the complete and seamless supply of everything they need for their composite doors. Not only does this free up valuable space in their own facility, they can also take advantage of our entire offering, be that

slabs, colour, glass and glazing cassettes, without having to make huge investment. This initiative has transformed the supply chain for the customers we’ve trialled it with so we’re delighted to now be able to roll this out to our wider customer base (subject to software integration) – taking DOORCO one step closer to offering the UK’s first JIT composite door supply chain. For more information call: 01625 428955 or visit: www.door-co.com.

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

WHICH DOOR?

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

CUSTOMER SERVICE EXCELLENCE FROM ENDURANCE Over the last 18 months, Endurance Doors have invested considerably in the way in which they communicate and interact with their customers, with the mantra of ‘Customer Service Excellence’ reverberating across all business disciplines, at the solid and secure composite door manufacturer. Now customers can enjoy a dedicated internal account handler, working directly with their respective Area Sales Manager, along with access to service engineers for training and technical product back up with a short timescale. This latter service has been made more accessible after the introduction of the Moisture Barrier System and wet glazing process, collectively helping to nearly eliminate any product concerns.

"We’ve introduced new processes, expanded existing customer facing roles and have invested in IT across the business to facilitate Customer Service Excellence, whatever the enquiry or request may be."

The marketing department has also been re-structured under the stewardship of Group Marketing Manager, Scott Foster, with two marketing executives dedicated to B2B and B2C marketing respectively, with a new CRM system due for launch in the coming months. There’s also a new Marketing Administrator to ensure that brochures, samples, POS materials and marketing support can be given in a reliable and timely fashion. Since 2002, Endurance Doors have been investing considerably in the business and in the product and now believe that they can offer the very finest solid and secure composite door. Each door is a bespoke order and with the finest materials and skilled workforce, it’s a finished product that’s been adopted by more and more installers every month, that can now also enjoy a wonderful customer experience each and every time they make an order. ‘It’s no longer good enough to just satisfy the basic needs of the customer, we have to give them a cherished experience and its why companies such as John Lewis have thrived over the years,’ explained Stephen Nadin, Managing Director of Endurance Doors. He continued: ‘We’ve introduced new processes, expanded existing customer facing roles and have invested in IT across the business to facilitate Customer Service Excellence, whatever the enquiry or request may be.’ For further information on the Endurance Solid and Secure composite door range please visit endurancedoors.co.uk, e-mail marketing@endurancedoors.co.uk or call the sales office on 01652 659259. You can also add to the Twitter following @EnduranceDoors.

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WHICH DOOR?

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

GLAZERITE:

OPENING DOORS

FOR OUR INSTALLERS Doors are the focal point of every home, so it pays to offer consumers a wide range to choose from. Glazerite UK Group’s Sales & Marketing Director, Jeff Dunn, tells Glass News how the fabricator matches up to customer demand. Keeping our customers’ customers happy is what drives us as a fabricator, and meeting their needs with leading brand doors in a wide range of colours and styles is as important to our business as our window range. Add to that, consumer desire for attractive door furniture, the importance of security and durability, and the increasing popularity of smart technology; fabricators and suppliers need to be on top of trends to service their installer partners the best they can. We’ve been in the business for 20 years, and we’ve seen our range of doors completely transform in that time. As a leading trade fabricator, we offer a comprehensive range of composite, residential, French, patio and bi-folds from the likes of Doorco, Palladio, Solidor and Imagine. Composite doors are more popular than ever, and as such we offer over 100 styles across our ranges from Solidor, Palladio and Doorco. The premium colour choices available are immense and display a plethora of choice, in keeping with the latest consumer trends and tastes. Our sales show a rise in demand for colour and contemporary composite styles, and just under a third of the doors we sell are grey – outstripping red and green - which shows just how popular a colour it has become. Doorco continues to review their range, the most recent results of which has seen the introduction of the classic Merion Farmhouse, plus more colours for the everpopular Monza II door, including Forest Grey, Slate and Mocha woodgrain styles; tapping into the continued popularity of grey and neutrals. That’s some choice! Security is often a concern for homeowners, and for years we’ve fitted the Ultion threestar cylinder as standard, which has been designed to outwit even the most forceful of burglars. Brisant Secure, the company

Jeff Dunn, Group Sales & Marketing Director, Glazerite UK Group

behind Ultion, are leaders in smart technology too, and last year launched the innovative Ultion Smart product, which our installers are able to offer their customers as a simple upgrade. Ultion Smart maintains that high level of security, albeit with a smart solution and clever features like ‘on approach’ auto unlocking. In addition, all of our doors are now supplied with the high performance Avantis multipoint locking system, which, with a simple upgrade, can be transformed into the Kubu lock with smart door technology. The Kubu module slots into the Avantis lock, and once paired with the Kubu home hub and an app, homeowners can access innovative lock monitoring to remotely check the status of their door and receive notifications at every turn of the key. The final touches on any door comes in the form of furniture, and both the Fab&Fix range, which we offer as standard on all of our doors, and the optional upgrade of Ultion Sweet, offer style and functionality for all tastes. Fab&Fix is available in a range of styles and colours, and comes covered with our 10 year mechanical and surface finish warranty. Likewise Sweet is available in a range of colours, including the latest addition of the stunning Rose Gold, and comes with a 20 year surface finish warranty. When it comes to doors, we are fortunate to work with suppliers who can meet consumer demand, whether that’s colour, style, security or technology. To better support our installers, we’ve also reduced lead times across our portfolio, with most doors now delivered in just 10 days. Being able to flex and shape our offering now and in years to come - means we’re in the best possible place to help our customers stand out from the crowd.

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

WHICH DOOR?

ENDURANCE SURGE AHEAD WITH RECORD NUMBER OF NEW ACCOUNTS

Over the last 18 months, Endurance Doors have been praised for their outstanding levels of customer care, enhanced product quality and a marketing programme designed to both generate leads and to help close out more sales. With composite doors still enjoying a period of sustained growth, companies across the UK have made the switch to Endurance after a highly successful and rewarding trial period. There are both smaller companies operating on a local basis, along with several large, regional players boasting multiple showrooms. The fact is an increasing number of companies now want to be associated with the Endurance brand and there’re winning more composite door business on the back of it. In recent years the unique Moisture Barrier System, along with the recent move to a wet

glazing process, has nearly eliminated call back issues, while the front-end investment in new marketing materials both on and offline have too made a difference. As part of Rocal Group, Endurance Doors also offer a level of customer care from a business that has true family values behind it and a cando attitude across all business operations. Stephen Nadin, Managing Director of Endurance Doors enthused: ‘We’ve had a phenomenal start to the year in terms of the number of new accounts that we have set up, as it’s felt like one an hour at times. The market for composite doors is evolving and we’re investing more than ever across the business, to make us the solid and secure composite door brand of choice. He continued: ‘Given over one hundred new accounts in just three months, it shows that the investment in people, product and processes is now bearing fruit. Despite the devastating current circumstances, we hope to be back as soon as it is safe to do so, when we’ll be carefully supporting all of our customers back into work.’ For further information on the Endurance Solid and Secure composite door range please call the sales office on 01652 659259, visit https://endurancedoors.co.uk, or e-mail marketing@endurancedoors.co.uk. You can also add to the Twitter following @ EnduranceDoors.

Co So min on g

Endurance Doors brought on a record one hundred and twenty-three new accounts in quarter 1 2020, as installers across the UK made the change to the highly regarded, solid and secure composite door manufacturer.

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BMBI

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

BUILDERS MERCHANT BUILDING INDEX

LACKLUSTRE FEBRUARY

– BEFORE COVID-19 HIT

Having endured three and a half years of Brexit turmoil, the country now faces a far bigger challenge and greater uncertainty. February pre-dated social distancing (which started on 19 March) and the lockdown (which took effect on 24 March), hence merchants’ February trading will not have been much affected by the emerging Coronavirus pandemic.

For the full report, including comments from the BMBI’s panel of leading industry Experts, please visit www.bmbi.co.uk.

“Ten of the twelve categories exceeded 100, led by Workwear & Safetywear and seasonal category Plumbing, Heating & Electrical.”

YEAR-ON-YEAR Total Builders’ Merchant sales in February were down 1.3% compared with February 2019. Three categories were weaker: Timber & Joinery Products (-6.9%); Tools (-4.0%) and Heavy Building Materials (-1.9%). Among the seven categories that sold more this year, Workwear & Safetywear showed strong growth (+30.8%) driven by higher demand for protective equipment (including masks, goggles and gloves). Landscaping sold 7.4% more and Kitchens & Bathrooms grew by 3.5%.

MONTH-ON-MONTH Compared with January, sales in February were 2.2% higher despite having two less trading days. Eight categories sold more, led by Landscaping (+16.5%) – despite it being the wettest February on record. Kitchens & Bathrooms (+7.8%) and

Workwear & Safetywear (+6.8%) also did well. Four categories sold less, including Timber & Joinery Products (-2.2%) and Plumbing Heating & Electrical (-1.5%). Average sales a day (which takes trading day differences into account) were 12.4% higher than in January and all categories increased.

OTHER PERIODS Sales in the three months December 2019 to February 2020 were 1.2% lower than in the same period a year earlier. Nine categories did better, including Workwear & Safetywear (+14.1%)

and Landscaping (+5.3%). However Timber & Joinery Products (-6.0%) and Tools (-4.8%) were weaker. The 12 months March 2019 to February 2020 were down 0.9% on the same period a year earlier, with one less trading day. Average sales a day in the last 12 months were down 0.5%.

INDEX February’s BMBI index was 107.6. Ten of the twelve categories exceeded 100, led by Workwear & Safetywear (128.0) and seasonal category Plumbing, Heating & Electrical (126.9).

GfK’s Builders Merchant Panel GfK’s Merchant Panel includes national, multi-regional and regional merchants such as Buildbase, Jewson, Travis Perkins, EH Smith, Gibbs & Dandy, MKM, Bradfords, Covers and Ridgeons. GfK’s Builders’ Merchant Point of Sale Tracking Data represents more than 80% of the value of the builders’ merchant market. GfK insights can trace product group performance and track relevant features. GfK can also produce robust like-for-like market comparability, tailored to the requirements of an individual business. The Builders Merchant Building Index Builders Merchant Building Index (BMBI) appears every month, in print and online. A full quarterly report is published every three months. The BMBI is a brand of the Builders Merchant Federation. Launched and produced by MRA Marketing, it uses sales-out data from GfK’s Builders Merchant Panel. BMBI includes a panel of leading industry Experts, who speak exclusively for their markets.

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

CONSERVATORIES & ORANGERIES

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

PREFIX LAUNCH #100%WARM CAMPAIGN Prefix Systems have just launched a #100%WARM campaign, to help communicate to the trade and consumers the fact that their WARMroof has been designed and engineered throughout to be a true ‘warm roof.’ While there are a number of solid, insulated warm roofs in the marketplace, not all of these products are of a 100% warm construction and so the risk over time is that roofs manufactured using a cold roof construction can suffer from cold spots and condensation. This is particularly apparent the late autumn, throughout winter and in the early spring. With these roofs being sold

as a long-term investment, the worry is that an increasing number of these roofs may fail to varying degrees. With WARMroof, the insulation sits above the roof deck and so all aspects of the roof including the glazing bars are fully insulated. With some competitor systems, the insulation sits in between the glazing bars and so this forms part of a cold roof construction. WARMroof from Prefix Systems has been proven over a number of years with installations right across the UK, including Scotland and Wales. Unlike several competitor systems WARMroof has a fully insulated eaves and as the most configurable roof of its kind in the sector offers options for valleys, a full choice of roofing tile and can accommodate pitches from 50 - 450, among other unique product features.

to communicate the benefits of WARMroof which is fully insulated throughout, regardless of roof type or design. To be 100%WARM, the insulation needs to sit above the roof deck as our product has been designed to do so, helping to eliminate the potential for cold bridging, something that we are seeing on site with other systems.

Chris Baron of Prefix Systems commented: ‘Our #100%WARM campaign is designed

He continued: ‘The risk for installers is considerable, particularly where 10-year

warranties are the norm and so installations today, may become liabilities for tomorrow and for years to come.’ For further information please visit www.prefixsystems.co.uk or contact the head office for a free brochure pack on 01254 871800, alternatively you can e-mail marketing@prefixsystems.co.uk. You can also add to their following on Twitter @prefixsystems.

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INSTALLER FOCUS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

RESIDENCE

INSPIRES

INSTALLERS THROUGH LOCKDOWN While the industry may well be in the latter stages of lockdown, The Residence Collection has continued to inspire installers with several educational e-mail bulletins designed to help installers with their marketing. As a business that’s renowned for its marketing presence, brand platform on social media and for the sumptuous photography, these handy e-mails are reminders for installation partners about best practice and have been carefully presented in an informal way. For the many on lockdown, it’s a unique opportunity to review and analyse their respective businesses and marketing is something that will be pivotal as the nation starts back to work, albeit slowly, in the coming weeks. It’s been a hugely saddening and unparalleled event that

"As we come out of this position, it’s critical that businesses are fully visible to consumers and a little investment in marketing now will pay dividends in the weeks and months to come."

will no doubt dominate the media for the remainder of the year. However, for those with greater spare time on their hands, it’s an opportunity to audit their business and re-evaluate what they are doing with product and marketing. The first two bulletins focused on social media and photography tips, something that The Residence Collections unquestionably excels at. Sarah Hitchings, sales and marketing director of The Residence Collection commented: ‘It is an unprecedented time for the nation as a whole, yet for our industry to thrive, we need to get back to doing what we do best in terms of sales, marketing and manufacture. These e-mails that have been carefully collated and have been presented in an informal way to help installation businesses, as they look to return to work.’ She continued: ‘As we come out of this position, it’s critical that businesses are fully visible to consumers and a little investment in marketing now will pay dividends in the weeks and months to come.’ For further information please visit www. residencecollection.co.uk and www. residencecollectiontrade.co.uk. You can request a free brochure pack including the new My Residence Magazine via e-mail at journey@residencecollection. co.uk or by calling 01452 348650. You can also add to their following on Twitter @residence9 and engage with them on other social media platforms including Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Pinterest and Houzz.

UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO RESTRUCTURE YOUR RETAIL BUSINESS Business Pilot, the cloudbased business management tool for installers, has launched a new business ‘firstaid kit’ which allows installers to restructure their operations remotely and get ready for what it describes as a ‘radically changed commercial landscape’. Business Pilot is designed to give installers beginningto-end visibility of each and every aspect of their operation from wherever they, or their teams are, through cloud-based technology. With ‘lockdown’ impacting retail since the end of last month [March], Elton Boocok, Managing Director, Business Pilot, said many installers had struggled to manage key elements of their businesses remotely. In response, he said that Business Pilot was offering dedicated grant support to installers to implement remote working schemes, as well as support to do so.

He said: “There are installers who had systems in place and were able to reduce the impact of March’s lockdown on their businesses – and others who were completely caught off guard. “If you are one of that group (and there are lots, so don’t think you’re alone) there is a real opportunity to address gaps in your business infrastructure and to put in the ‘fixes’ now, to immediately reduce that exposure, ensuring that you’re set up to adapt to a radically changed commercial landscape.” The impact COVID-19 and the ensuing ‘lockdown’ has had on window and door retail sales was also tracked by Business Pilot. Its’ industry barometer charted a positive start to the year with a postelection return of consumer confidence. It was clear, however, that COVID-19 was hanging menacingly over the industry by the end of February. This led to a drop in leads of 39% month-on-month by March. “We need to be positive. We are going to come through this. We simply need to recognise that things will be different – and not to assume that that is necessarily a negative”, said Elton. “We’re in a period where you have a unique opportunity to drive change throughout your business. You can do it now, remotely

and come back to a better business.” Designed for installers by installers and a FENSA partner, Business Pilot is a Cloud native solution. This means that it has been designed to be accessed from anywhere anytime. This means that your teams can access fully synced systems from the office, onsite or at home with features including dragand-drop capability, links to drawings, specifications and images, and site video. It also allows you to manage supplier orders, gives you the cost of each installation, helicopter and detailed analysis of your profitability. Every change is tracked and duplicated throughout the system making day to day management of your operation simpler but also delivering new insight. “We’re offering a grant and support to get installers live on Business Pilot now. We’ve brought a number of customers on board since the lockdown and they’re set up and fully operational. You drive change now”, said Elton. “It’s also about helping installers to understand the other platforms available to them and how they can be used together to make their businesses more effective. “It may feel like an exercise in business continuity right now – but actually it’s not. It’s about making your business more adaptable, more efficient, and ultimately, more profitable. It’s not about surviving today. It’s about building for tomorrow.” To find out more please visit www.businesspilot.co.uk, email info@businesspilot. co.uk or call 0333 050 7560.

www.glassnews.co.uk | May 2020

HARDWARE & SECURITY

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

MILA ANNOUNCES LIMITED SERVICE TO HELP CUSTOMERS WORKING ON ESSENTIAL CONTRACTS While Mila remains closed in line with the government lockdown restrictions, the company is now offering a limited service to support the small number of customers who are continuing to operate on essential contracts. Customers with urgent requests can now place hardware orders via the dedicated sales@mila.co.uk email address. Orders can be placed at any point during the week and, as long as they are received by 3pm on a Thursday, they will be picked, packed and despatched by a skeleton warehouse team at Mila ready for delivery to those customers the following Monday. Orders placed after 3pm on a Thursday will be despatched the following Friday. There is no minimum order value and Mila is providing contactless delivery so that there is no risk to either customers or delivery couriers.

Richard Gyde, Mila’s Managing Director, says that Mila has been receiving requests for help throughout the lockdown from customers who are working on urgent projects across the public sector in particular. He says: “While we continue to stand in absolute solidarity with the rest of the industry in shutting down our operation to try to minimise the spread of the virus, we do recognise that we still have a responsibility to support those customers who are required to work on essential contracts. “Obviously, our priority remains the wellbeing of our team, so we have reviewed our entire warehouse operation and implemented new safe working practices which ensure that we can fulfil these orders in line with all the social distancing guidelines.” More at: www.mila.co.uk.

A SWEET WEATHER TEST – ONE YEAR, 28 DAYS ON… In 2018, Brisant-Secure surprised the industry by announcing that one of their Sweet door handles had managed survive in a salt spray chamber for 8,056 hours. The surprise was because the standard is only 240 hours. Twelve months on, Brisant put a Sweet letterplate into the same accredited test chamber and waited. And waited. Even though the letterbox had not failed it was taken out of the salt spray chamber as it has been there for one year and 28 days. A standard requirement is for only 10 days and enhanced is twice that at 20 days. Nick Dutton, CEO of Brisant-Secure commented: ‘We kept the test quiet because there wasn’t anything to really talk about until we passed the previous benchmark. When we passed our previous of 8,000 hours, we felt we may as well see if it manages a whole year before announcing it. Even though it was still going strong at this point, we thought it timely to bring something out of isolation! Underneath the salt it still looks amazing.’ Sweet achieves this unprecedented performance in two ways. Firstly, its shape is completely rounded and without edges and so water runs off it quickly. Secondly,

there is the bathroom grade coating and the same six coat plating process is used on Sweet as you will find on bathroom products. These are designed from the outset to be submerged in water yet never pit or corrode. This improved performance is what drove Brisant to double the direct-to-homeowner corrosion guarantee to 20 years, on all of the colours including the latest Rose Gold offering. It’s also a guarantee that’s fully reflected on the product testing programme. For all enquiries on the Brisant-Secure product range visit brisant-secure.com, e-mail sales@brisant-secure.com or call 01924 410200. You can also follow them on Twitter @BrisantSecure, @UltionLock @sweethardware and @LockLockSecure.

WINKHAUS LABORATORIES OFFER LATEST SMOKE CONTROL TEST FOR COMPOSITE AND TIMBER DOORSETS Hardware specialist Winkhaus has expanded its already comprehensive testing services to now include the latest BS EN 1634-part 3 smoke control test for door and shutter assemblies. This new service is available at Winkhaus Laboratories, within the company’s Kettering site, which offers independent and confidential UKASaccredited assessments for doors and windows. Ambient air temperatures are tested to determine the leakage of smoke from one side of a door assembly to the other under strict specified test conditions. This is a requirement for door assemblies intended for use in controlling the passage of smoke in case of fire. The test service can be offered individually within a PAS24: 2016 enhanced security performance full product assessment, saving fabricators time and money

on ensuring regulation compliance. Government guidance highlights the importance of third-party certification by a UKAS-accredited body for suppliers of FD30 and FD60 fire and security composite doorsets. Suppliers must comply with the latest June 2019 MHCLG Dual Certification: Q Mark Fire & Smoke BS EN 1634 and Q Mark Security PAS24. Al external fire door sets must be fire and smoke-tested to ensure they are compliant, providing building owners and landlords with additional assurance of performance. Winkhaus has invested significantly in fire and security test evidence to achieve both ‘Q Mark Fire’

and ‘Q Mark Security’ for third-party dual certification scheme compliance on the same door. The company says their ‘competitively-priced’ testing service offers shorter waiting times for customers who can save money and time by achieving compliance with the latest security and smoke regulations in the same test house. Commenting on the benefits for fabricators, Mike Rushen, Winkhaus UK Sales Director says: “Fabricators can also expand their market offering by demonstrating full compliance with upto-date and critical safety regulations. Not only does our additional test service save them time and money, they can be confident that the doorsets they supply provide full compliance with all MHCLG guidelines.” For more information, please visit www.winkhaus.co.uk.

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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YOUR LETTERS

LETTERS

WHAT’S YOUR OPINION? Feel free to get in touch with your views on the industry, legislation, government, or even the newspaper. Contact Chris: chris@glassnews.co.uk

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Dear Editor, As an industry that relies on selling to people in their homes, Covid-19 and a nationwide lockdown threatens installers everywhere. And because it threatens installers, it threatens the industry that supplies them. The situation is changing day by day, and we’re all trying to adapt as quickly as we can. But if installers stop selling completely, the industry will grind to a halt very quickly. Many small firms and companies who supply them will go out of business. However, not being able to physically visit a customer at home doesn’t mean they can’t sell, and it doesn’t mean business has to stop. Modern presentation technology allows installers to continue to contact and sell to homeowners remotely, and those that do so now will set their companies up to succeed when the lockdown is over. Homeowners (or installers) can take photos of the house and – remote from each other design the windows and doors together, discussing the details via email, over the phone or even video calls, screen-sharing photorealistic images and quotes. Most industry visualisers fall well short of this capability, but most of us carry an intuitive, very smart phone in our pockets and take that level of sophistication for granted. Software shouldn’t dictate how you sell or inhibit you because it’s slow or clunky – it should enhance the way you want to sell. I loved selling in the home for our family business, and selling quality windows and doors to homeowners underpinned the success we had at TimberWindows.com and at Jack Brunsdon Ltd. But I also love tech and being able to inspire homeowners with visions of how their property could look, wherever they are. I believe remotely-enabled installers will soon take it for granted that they can also sell without leaving their showrooms, and homeowners will take that benefit for granted too. For more on remote selling – and my experience in adapting my own business to sell this way – visit www.tommytrinder.com/ remote-selling. Chris Brunsdon CEO of TommyTrinder.com Ltd

GOVERNMENT UPDATES

Dear Editor,

I know statements about ‘talking to Government’ can be met with scepticism from the industry. It’s not just about listening to what Government has to say, but also feeding back what we, as an industry are thinking. Over the last few days, I feel good progress has been made and there are results that are worth reporting. This week I was invited to the ‘Working in People’s Homes (tradespersons)’ Group by Alok Sharma, Secretary of State for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, where I have been able to voice concerns from the glazing industry directly to him. This included the fact that a lot of advice given is only relevant to large businesses, and not the SMEs that make up 95 percent of our industry. We also discussed how we can make guidance easier to understand by using simplified terms, graphic content and pointed out the fact that any liability is a two-way street between installers and consumers. Through other discussions with Government ministers, we have now gained real clarity on the difference between ‘construction’ and ‘tradespeople working in people’s homes’ which is outlined on gov.uk. Note the wording in this statement – ‘essential repairs and maintenance’ – this is in line with the advice that Certass has given to members, to protect themselves and their customers. We have tabled further specific questions to Government so we can advise installers who are still working as

"We don’t expect our members to interpret what Government is saying, that’s our job and a key part of the Certass Trade Association pledge to represent the local tradesperson's view at Government level." to what is acceptable during lockdown and most importantly, we are working with Government on guidelines we can make available to installers as we start to return to work. When we come out of lockdown, life is likely to be disrupted for a long period of time and as a Nation, we are going to need to adapt to this ‘new normal’. In preparation for members to return to installing windows and doors, a pack of practical advice has been created to support members to protect themselves and their customers. This will be checked by Government before release, so installers can rely on the best practice guidance we give. We don’t expect our members to interpret what Government is saying, that’s our job and a key part of the Certass Trade Association pledge to represent the local tradesperson's view at Government level. The real value is being proven at the moment, as this feedback offered from industry is driving action and Government guidance. Yours faithfully, Jon Vanstone Chair, Certass Trade Association

Dear Editor, What are the long-term implications of Covid-19 for the industry? When we emerge from this crisis, the world will be different. When things ‘get back to normal’, it will be a new normal. The crisis will accelerate polarisation between the top and bottom, the added-value premium and the rest of the market, because those buying premium will be less affected by economic downturn. Younger, lower income households will be hit harder. You can only spend, save or borrow if you have some disposable income. Short of a full financial meltdown, the ‘Haves’ will still have money and the inclination to spend on their properties - and despite everything, their numbers will continue to grow. Even if house prices fall in the short term they are falling from a very high base. The Haves already HAVE their money, and will have when the crisis is over. And they want to continue upgrading their homes and enjoying them. That’s good news for fabricators and installers selling premium product in the upper third of the market, but competition will be a lot tougher everywhere. Fabricators and installers will need a sharper competitive edge and they’ll have to adapt to survive – some are already doing so. They’re moving to remote selling, and selling more professionally. Those who haven’t embraced colour will have to, quickly. The trend to colour has been very strong, but after the coronavirus people will want their spirits lifting, and a brighter Britain. They’ll have to choose their suppliers carefully. If we learned one thing from the coronavirus crisis: it’s the importance of supply chains. In a recent FMB survey of small builders and tradesmen 80% of those who stopped work said they had to because their supplier couldn’t provide them with products or materials. Every link in the chain has to work. That recognition has been key to our own thinking. Deceuninck’s foundations are built on giving customers beautiful windows and doors and the service and support to sell at the top end of the market. They’ll be in a strong position when normal business resumes. Our vast warehouse is kept stocked to the brim with profile and colour because ‘A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush’, as the old saying goes. That’s something the NHS and people in the front line have learned in this crisis: product made in Britain, and safely in a warehouse in Britain, is worth two products made to order or supplied from far-away places! This ‘make for stock, not make to order’ policy underpins our strategy of helping customers sell more. I believe it’s the edge fabricators and installers need in a more competitive post-Covid market - see our latest video here. The industry will face a tough few years but the UK economy has a track record of strong recovery after recessions. I’m confident if we work together, there will be better times. Rob McGlennon Managing Director, Deceuninck

May 2020 | www.glassnews.co.uk

CHARITY NEWS

COLD CALLING

GM FUNDRAISING MOVES PEAK, PADDLE, PEDAL TO 2021

GM Fundraising has announced its 2020 Peak, Paddle, Pedal charity event to raise money for Hope House Children’s Hospices has been postponed until a similar date in 2021. Gary Morton, founder of GM Fundraising, said: “In view of the current unprecedented situation that we all find ourselves in, we have had to make the difficult decision to postpone Peak, Paddle, Pedal until 2021. "We have not taken this decision lightly but with the intense business pressures now faced by all team members and the ability to raise funds in a reducing economy, we feel it was the sensible and responsible thing to do.”

"We have not taken this decision lightly but with the intense business pressures now faced by all team members and the ability to raise funds in a reducing economy, we feel it was the sensible and responsible thing to do.” for Hope House Children’s Hospices, which provides palliative care for children with terminal conditions and support for their families, both on site and in their homes.

The 12 members of the Peak, Paddle, Pedal team were due to climb Snowdon, canoe 150 miles down the length of the River Severn and cycle 150 miles back to Hope House in Oswestry – all over eight days in August.

Gary concluded: “Never before has support been so vital to Hope House with various 2020 charity and fundraising events being postponed or cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Over 95% of Hope House’s £5 million annual operating costs are met through charitable donations and GM Fundraising is actively looking at new ways to continue fundraising and supporting the charity for 2020.”

Since it was established in 1995, GM Fundraising has raised almost £2 million

Tel: 0845 302 1966 www.gmfundraising.co.uk

www.glassnews.co.uk | May 2020

DANNY WILLIAMS

‘COLD CALLING’ Each month our special correspondent Danny Williams* replies to a reader’s letter... “When it came the lockdown happened with very little warning and I found myself with a number of unfinished installs that I could have sorted for customers, including a couple for which we have had to use tarps and shuttering as temporary fixes which of course, are still in place. I offered to collect but whilst a couple of suppliers sorted me out, others just locked the doors and refused to help. Were they justified?” AB, Staffordshire I faced similar situations AB. We had orders in for customers of ours that were still trading, for which we know the products had been completed and were waiting in despatch. A couple of suppliers refused to let us collect despite all they needed to do was unlock the gate, stand back and let us load up. Similarly, on a few of our last delivery runs to installer customers, we arrived to be greeted by locked gates, with not a word to us to save us wasting the journey; that was especially disappointing in terms of wasted time, fuel and cost and actually, the health and safety risk to our drivers. A further issue that we are all facing is cancellation of orders by homeowners, something that is creating a great deal of angst on all sides. How many windows and doors sitting in my despatch area as I type, will be cancelled by our customers, after their homeowner customers are unable to complete their orders, due to financial difficulties or, Heaven forbid, worse? There are so many imponderables AB and, despite all of us having a great deal of time

to dwell upon such things, we can only guess what the answers might be. But of course, we will all shortly find out. Whatever the answers might be there will be a lot of judgments made on the behaviour and integrity of suppliers and customers at every stage of the supply chain, as we entered into the greatest crisis that any one of us, Captain Tom included, has ever experienced. Whilst this has brought out the best in people, when the dust settles so will be scores. I firmly believe that the true performance of companies should be assessed not on how they conduct their day-to-day business, but how they respond when there is a cock up, when the chips are down. And the chips hit rock bottom in the early days of the coronavirus shutdown. We will not forget, therefore, the people that shut the gates in our faces when they could have gone the extra mile; nor will we forget those that did what they could to help us out whether it was to finish making an order, to open the gates just for us to collect or deliver, or to pay a bill perhaps, before the lockdown and safety considerations became absolute. As we come out of this there will be a mad rush to pick up where we left off, to see what orders still stand, to clear the despatch areas and get things back to some sort of normality. And then we will decide who we really want to continue doing business with. There will be a great many changes in the months to come.

* Danny Williams is managing director of Chelmsford based Pioneer Trading and has been involved with all aspects of the windows and doors industry for 30 years. His activities include manufacturing a full range of windows and doors in PVC-U and aluminium, an IGU facility, retailing and commercial contracting.

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