Glass News January 2023

WHAT DO WE HAVE TO LOOK FORWARD TO FOR 2023?

Can we expect 2023 to be an improvement on 2022? For instance the supply chain? Interest rates? Taxation? Customer demand? How important will home improvement be for homeowners in 2023 and will commercial work grow or decline in comparison to 2022? Are you expecting to increase your workforce and/or invest in new premises or machinery? How positive are you about 2023 or are there threats that could make the year a disaster?

Are you planning on launching new products and which products do you think are going to be most in demand in the year?

"Talking to many people in the industry and reading the “Voice of the Industry” submissions that are published in this edition of Glass News, it seems that positivity and resourcefulness abounds tempered with a recognition that adapting to current conditions is essential."

How many Prime Minsters are we likely to have in the year? No, not really, but at least you are paying attention!

Talking to many people in the industry and reading the “Voice of the Industry” submissions that are published in this edition of Glass News, it seems that positivity and resourcefulness abounds tempered with a recognition that adapting to current conditions is essential. It goes without saying that we have been hit with pretty much every scourge you can think of: surely things must improve?

Turn to page 26 to see what the industry has to say about the thoughts and predictions, negatives and positives, for the year ahead.

THE RIGHT PEOPLE READ GLASS NEWS

REVOLUTIONARY FLUSH SASH

NFA New Product of the Year, the revolutionary double-rebated flush sash Resurgence window from Liniar offers all the charm of a traditional timber window with the benefits of exceptional modern energy efficiency.

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Stocked in range of modern colours, Liniar’s most recent addition to its window suite delivers patented perfection.

A UK first, with double co-extruded bubble gaskets and an external seal discreetly mounted out of sight, Resurgence looks as beautifully as it performs.

For more information visit: http://www.liniar.co.uk/upvc-windows/resurgence/

LINIAR’S OUTDOOR RANGE

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Liniar’s low maintenance PVCu decking and fencing ranges are designed, manufactured and stocked right here in the UK. Available in a range of styles, a variety of colours and a wide variety of accessories including foiled balustrades to match Liniar windows and doors, outdoor products are the idea opportunity to provide a fully matching finish with a single point of contact for guarantees.

As we progress through post-lockdown life, consumer enquiries for PVCu decking and fencing have skyrocketed – don’t miss out on the chance to provide homeowners with just what they want.

Find out more: https://www.liniar.co.uk/outdoor-range/.

Here we are welcoming in a New Year, full of hope for our future success and looking forward to the challenges that 2023 will bring us. Or possibly not. While not wishing to bring an instantaneous dampener to the endorphins generated by thoughts of new and exciting challenges ahead, I have that awful sense of déjà vu… Some of the more grey-coiffed of us in the industry can remember back to the days of coming home to a dark and cold house, rummaging around for candles and then remembering there was none left and that the shops had run out of supplies. If you were lucky, you had an open fire and, perhaps, some batteries for your torch. Yes, it was the early ‘70s and the time of fuel shortages and strikes – recognise any similarities to today? On the other hand, some people were more resourceful. I had started going out with the girl who was to become my wife and I was a regular visitor to her house where her Mum would feed me and we’d sit in the lounge to watch TV and chat (sic).

One bar of the electric fire would be allowed to create a modicum of warmth and the picture on the black and white television would shrink rapidly if someone dared to put the kettle on. What was that all about, you may well ask? My future father-in-law was what you might describe as a careful and prudent Lancashire man who wasted nothing. Some years before I was a visitor to his home, he had bought an old Perkins diesel generator that had powered a farmer’s milking machine which, as an electrical engineer, he had installed in the garage and insisted on using during the winter rather than paying large bills to the gas and electricity boards. We cursed it as power was severely restricted, hence the shrinking television picture! With the onset of the power cuts we changed our tune radically! Driving my girlfriend home after work we would travel through darkened and grim streets of unlit houses only to come across this haven of light, complete with outside lights on just to upset the neighbours! Yes, his resourcefulness made those days a lot more pleasant for us than it was for many. I wonder if 2023 is going to be a year when resourcefulness wins the day? Having had an email from British Gas informing me that my £300 monthly standing order for gas and electricity was being ‘adjusted’ to £672, I now wish I had been resourceful and kept that

generator after my wife’s family home was sold – and British Gas didn’t even wish me a Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year! I’m now not convinced that the rash of privatisations that has led to executives creaming off the profits but not investing sufficiently in their acquired businesses, was a wise move for our country.

Talking to many people in the industry and reading the “Voice of the Industry” submissions that are published in this edition of Glass News, it seems that positivity and resourcefulness abounds tempered with a recognition that adapting to current conditions is essential. It goes without saying that we have been hit with pretty much every scourge you can think of: surely things must improve. In fending off the pandemic, and probably better than most countries, we have put ourselves in the mire with vast amounts of wasted cash and, I daresay, an element of fraud, such that the country is pretty much bankrupt. But still, we have a host of public service employees, and those in former state-owned industries, holding us all to ransom, and while this continues so will our troubles. The government can’t stop strikes by throwing cash they haven’t got at workers who, it seems to me, already have pretty good salaries, working conditions and pensions. Regrettably, even a change of government would have little effect as they would face the same problems and, in all honesty, would you want to form a government and take over this bag of worms?

We, as an industry, are in a relatively good place. Housing is required desperately and there will always be the need for the refurbishment of properties. We have the products and skillset and, despite rising costs, we are needed. It seems that the supply chain is pretty much back in order and many companies are continuing to develop systems and products so it will be interesting to see what appears at the FIT Show in a few months’ time. That word ‘resourcefulness’ keeps cropping up and only today I heard how, rather than the number of fabricators diminishing, a new breed is coming to the fore. These are the small installers who are looking to increase their margins by becoming fabricator/installers, recognising that if they are buying in, say, 30 frames per week, just perhaps they could fabricate as well as installing them. It’s an interesting concept and although I have always recognised that fabricating aluminium frames from your garage was a way to start out, it seems that a two-head welder, twoheaded saw and cleaning by hand is a way to start out in low volume PVCu fabrication. An example of resourcefulness?

We wish everyone all the very best for 2023. Happy New Year!

Chris GOT SOMETHING TO SAY?

Email Chris at: chris@glassnews.co.uk

‘TIME OUT’ WINNERS – DECEMBER!

Sudoku: Mrs P Foster, Newquay, Cornwall Eye Spy: Brian Gleadhall, Cirencester, Gloucestershire

Spot the Difference: Mr G Webb, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire Crossword: R Kelham, Syston, Leicestershire Congratulations to all our winners! Good luck in this months Time Out pages!

CONTENTS

CONTACT DETAILS

Christina Shaw

Managing Director / Advertising Enquiries

M: 07805 051322

E: christina@glassnews.co.uk

Emma Champion Advertising Manager M: 07508 263262

E: emma@glassnews.co.uk

Justin Lazenby

Finance Director / Press Release Enquiries M: 07711 828710

E: justin@glassnews.co.uk

Chris Champion

Editor / Editorial Enquiries M: 07850 267223

E: chris@glassnews.co.uk

Kate Carnall Graphic Design

E: kate@glassnews.co.uk

Deadline for copy: 16th of each month Please recycle

AT WORK, REST AND PLAY

AT WORK...

Please give a brief resume of your career to date.

After graduating in Modern Languages from the University of Durham and working abroad as an interpreter, I returned to London where I made it to the position of one of the youngest directors at a global media and advertising agency, which I loved. But a country girl at heart, having grown up in the Pennines, my time in London came to a natural end and I moved to Gloucestershire to what was then a fenestration market research agency.

How did you get into this industry?

That agency was my introduction to the window and door industry. At that time, we were conducting lots of ‘brand awareness and understanding’ surveys and one of the common outcomes was that brands were not as well-known as they wanted to be. So, we launched a PR arm at the business, and I became Director and GM, a position I held for 10 years. Then sadly in 2006, my younger brother passed away suddenly, and I was literally overcome with the real understanding that life is short. Carpe diem became my mantra and I established Brouha. In November 2022, we celebrated 16 years and I’m so proud that we’re now well established as one of the UK’s specialist PR, marketing and communications agencies, in residential and commercial building materials products and services.

Do you believe your speciality (finance, sales, management, marketing etc.) is transferable to any industry?

Yes, completely. As well as supporting clients in the door, window and glass industry, Brouha represents businesses and associations across lots of other industries such as Housing, Retrofit and Green. The important thing across everything we do, is keeping communications fresh, relevant and on topic, which is applicable across all B2B markets. Of course, the added value

an

This series in Glass News highlights the hopes and aspirations of women in the windows, doors, glass, roofs and hardware industry and will hopefully inspire more to make this their career.

Have you a career path mapped out or is it more about opportunism?

Anyone who knows me, will know how important instinct and opportunism is to me. In a psychometric test, I was described as a rare type of female who is imaginative yet decisive, creative yet deadline driven and ambitious yet private, falling into a category representing just 0.2% of the population. Maybe if we wanted to be the biggest agency out there, there are certainly areas I would need to brush up on, but for what we do, it’s always been about my gut feeling and intuition as to whether it’s the right thing to do at the right time. Sometimes they are, sometimes they’re not. But every time, I learn and develop. I’m a big believer in not only doing things right, but in doing the right things.

Looking ahead, where would you like to be in a) 5 years’ time and b) 10 years’ time?

In five years’ time I see myself still doing this – that’s not because I lack ambition or enthusiasm, far from it - I love what I do. We’ve worked hard over the years to build our business on reputation, and I want to hit that 20 year milestone. That said, in ten years times I’d like to be retired, as although I love it, I don’t want to be working forever. Back to that cape diem.

AT REST...

Away from work, what is your focus?

I am lucky enough to have my own horse, five cats and a garden full of chickens. I love animals and nature, the outdoors, the insight and peace they can give us. They help us to just stop and enjoy the moment. I also love running and pushing myself outside of my comfort zone.

AT PLAY...

Do you achieve the work/life balance you would like to?

It’s one of those things I constantly strive for, but never quite achieve. When you run your own business, it becomes part of your life, not just a 9 to 5. It helps that I enjoy what I do and can have some flexibility and quality of life within that.

If money and leisure time were no object, what would you really like to do for yourself or your family?

One day, I’m going to travel the world, visit every continent and spend time enjoying the different architecture and cultures….but I can’t do that just yet, who would look after all of my animals?

agency can offer when they specialise in certain markets like housing, is the intimate knowledge of the sector, drivers and market trends.

THIS MONTH: Fiona Lund, Managing Director of Brouha Marketing

HAFFNER SCOOPS MACHINERY SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR AT THE G22 AWARDS

ANOTHER RECORD YEAR AS G-AWARDS SALUTE THE BEST OF THE BEST

The G22 Awards Ceremony and Gala Dinner proved to be yet another record night as nearly 600 gathered to celebrate the best of the best at the industry’s top event.

Two new awards for 2022 – for Rising Star and Machinery Supplier of the Year – meant there were 14 trophies, presented by actor and comedian Hugh Dennis to the companies and individuals who showed their mettle in some of the most challenging times the industry has seen.

“Once again, we have seen how the real leaders have come to the fore when they were put to the test,” said organiser Tony Higgin.

“The winners this year were the ones who excelled themselves in the face of all the challenges that 2022 has sent, and every one of them deserves these trophies more than ever.”

THE WINNERS WERE:

• Training & Development Initiative of the Year – Sternfenster

• Promotional Campaign of the Year – Kubu Smart

• Unsung Hero – Will Ruane, Saint-Gobain Glass

• Customer Care Initiative of the Year – AluK

• Component Supplier of the Year – DoorCo

• Rising Star Award – Bradley Foster, Lister’s

• Commercial Project of the Year – Alpine Homes Hayling Island, Rehau

• Sustainability Initiative of the Year – Deceuninck

• Machinery Supplier Award –Haffner

• New Product of the Year – Stellar Aluminium Systems Part L, Epwin Window Systems

• Installer of the Year – Clearview Home Improvements

• Fensa Installation of the Year –Magna Windows

• Glass Company of the Year –Saint-Gobain

• Fabricator of the Year –Quickslide Windows and Doors

During the event, at the InterContinental London Park Lane, a collection for GM Fundraising and Hope House raised £2,971.

Haffner Ltd, the industry’s go-to machinery supplier, has been named Machinery Supplier of the Year at the prestigious G22 Awards.

This year was the first year the category of Machinery Supplier was included. Matt Thomas, Haffner’s Managing Director, said: “Winning an award is always noteworthy but to be the first winner in a new category is even more special. It means a lot to everyone in the team and it’s a tribute to the years of hard work and commitment from our Chief Executive Officer, Dave Thomas.”

Founded in 1990, Haffner Ltd has the largest and most comprehensive machine portfolio in the industry.

AluK was rewarded for its extraordinary efforts to support customers through the changes to Part L of the Building Regs with a second win at the G-Awards for Customer Care Initiative of the Year.

AluK led the aluminium sector throughout 2022 in its response to Part L - making sure customers understood exactly what the changes would mean and giving them the tools they needed to comply across every market. Re-engineered products, dedicated customer Forums, a comprehensive communications campaign and a whole raft of useful support including training, downloadable guides, videos and website content were all part of a coherent and comprehensive package.

From a Round Table and Part L podcast in October 2021 to the launch of new HI products in June 2022, AluK rose to the challenge in a really impressive way.

Sales Director Wayne Heath who accepted the Award on behalf of the AluK team from G-Awards host Hugh Dennis said: “AluK’s focus from the moment the changes to Part L were announced was on ensuring our customers could make a success of them. We channelled significant resources into a product development programme which meant customers could achieve

compliance without having to use costly triple glazing and delivered user-friendly Part L guides which they could share with their installers.”

AluK picked up the same Customer Care Award in 2021 for its creation of an online Marketing Academy which provided free tools and advice to customers as they navigated their way out of the Covid lockdown.

Wayne added: “ As a supplier, we recognise just how important it is that we add value to our customers’ businesses – whether that comes in the form of sales and marketing support, technical advice, new product development or training. With two G-Awards in two years for Customer Care, we’re clearly getting lots of things right.”

The company has seen exponential growth in the past few years thanks to its outstanding machinery offer and experienced team who are committed to adding value to every customer’s business. In the past three years alone, the company has doubled the size of its Staffordshire headquarters and commissioned a new 37,000 sqm purpose-built factory in Istanbul, Turkey.

Haffner won the award for delivering the world’s first fully seamless window, something that was only possible thanks to its exclusive UK supply partnership with Graf Synergy. Launched at the FIT Show 2022, the machine demonstrates the next generation in fabrication automation and sets a new standard for the industry.

The judging panel commented: “The judges were impressed by this supplier’s innovative approach.”

The award was announced by actor, comedian and writer Hugh Dennis on 25 November at a Gala Dinner and Award ceremony at the InterContinental London Park Lane in London.

Haffner CEO Dave Thomas concluded: “This is a proud moment for everyone at Haffner. I’d like to thank everyone who’s part of the Haffner team – all our staff and our partners, especially our PR and marketing expert Jane Ward of Team 4 Marketing, who’s been part of the Haffner story for 20 years. We are all thrilled.”

Tel: 01785 222421 – www.haffnerltd.com

SO GOOD THEY WON IT TWICE!

STELLAR TAKES NEW PRODUCT OF THE YEAR AT THE G22 AWARDS

Epwin Window Systems has won New Product of the Year at the prestigious G22 Awards for its Stellar Aluminium window and door system (Part L). The newly designed aluminium window and door system won for its developments to future-proof the system for the new Part L of Building Regulations as well as the more stringent regulations that will come into force over the coming years as the government continues its push towards net zero.

Clare Bailey, Managing Director at Epwin Window Systems said the award reflects the dedication and design excellence of the inhouse product development and technical teams. “The strength of Stellar’s design is reflected in this award. One of the defining factors in the development of the original Stellar system was a refusal to compromise in search of excellence. It is a commitment that is still in evidence in the development of the new Stellar window and door system. It’s fantastic to see the efforts of the talented Epwin Window Systems’ teams recognised in this award. We are thrilled.”

The original Stellar aluminium system was launched in 2019. It took the market by storm and was acclaimed by fabricators and installers as setting a new benchmark for a retail aluminium system thanks to the system’s unique flush aesthetics and multiple patented design features.

As a business whose commitment to product excellence is front and centre, in March 2021, the development team made the bold decision to evaluate the system and consider where and how it could be made even better. Clare said: “The new Stellar aluminium system demonstrates a level of ingenuity and innovation that the fenestration industry can take pride in. There are few systems that are so comprehensively re-evaluated at any point in their lifespan, let alone just two years in. It reflects a desire to blaze a trail in the industry and set new standards for technical benefits and aesthetic advantages to give our customers a competitive edge.”

The original Stellar system took a ground-up approach to its design, questioning every element of traditional aluminium window construction and looking for ways to improve it. Such refusal to compromise is an impressive commitment and one in evidence in the new Stellar aluminium window and door system, qualities that impressed the G22 Awards judges who described this product as “innovative and forward thinking”. They commented “with 95% recycled aluminium, slim sightlines, reverse butt joint, and with compliance with current and possible future regulations, this really gives installers a viable option in a competitive market.”

The award was announced by actor, comedian and writer Hugh Dennis on 25 November at a Gala Dinner and Award ceremony at the InterContinental London Park Lane in London.

Clare concluded: “The G Awards are always a very special event and an opportunity to celebrate excellence in the industry. We are delighted to have won this award for Stellar.”

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

DOORCO

IS G-AWARD’S COMPONENT SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR

DoorCo is delighted to have been announced as Component Supplier of the Year at the G-Awards ceremony on Friday (25th November) night in London, with the judges’ comment ‘No wonder this company did so well despite the pandemic’ being a great endorsement too.

Dan Sullivan, DoorCo MD comments: “To be recognised as the Component Supplier of the Year at this year’s G-Awards is a great achievement for the business but the accolade must go to the team. It is them that has driven DoorCo forward through 2021/22 and one of the toughest trading periods any of us have ever faced, supporting brave decisions and our existing plans of investment and growth, despite the multitude of challenges faced. Throughout, everyone has remained focused on our core values, that we are a door component supplier that delivers what our customers need to keep the composite door market fresh and innovative, from products and services to marketing and business support.”

LISTERS’ RISING STAR

Listers’ Head of Customer Service and Order Processing Bradley Foster won the Rising Star of the Year Award at this year’s G-Awards, beating off stiff competition and demonstrating the strength of the trade fabricator’s customer support department.

“I was absolutely shocked when they called my name out,” Bradley said. “But I was absolutely over the moon –and privileged. It really means a lot to me.

“I enjoy working at Listers, and we’ve all been working hard – especially over these last two years. The philosophy I pass on to my staff is that if we think that something will make the customer service experience better, then we should do it.

“I try to put myself in my customers’ shoes, and ask myself what I would want from that relationship. That’s why I want Listers to be as proactive and as conclusive as possible across all our sites.

“It was a great night, and we had a whole team of us from Listers attend the G-Awards, so it was the icing on the cake to win the award – even if it was for doing my day job!”

Bradley started in the window industry 2017 when he was 18, and joined the GJB Group (now Listers) as an order processor, a role he did for a couple of years before moving into the IT side of the business.

Since then, Bradley has progressed rapidly through the business, becoming Head of Customer Service and Order Processing when he was just 23 years old.

Bradley quickly developed from being very handson and reactionary to having oversight of the whole operation. As a result, Bradley is currently developing a department that doesn’t just service customers, but one that interacts with them and gives them a full ‘customer experience’.

“We are thrilled for Bradley – no-one deserves that award more,” Roy Frost, Managing Director at Listers, said. “When I first met Bradley Foster shortly after

The judges commented on the award: “Bringing manufacturing in-house is one of the ways this company survived the restrictions over that last 2+ years. Investment in machinery, buildings and personnel are likely to help weather any future storms.

“DoorCo understand that with Composite Doors it is about durability, style, security and value for money. Combined with a great website and service mantra, it is no wonder the business has done so well despite the pandemic.”

Dan concludes: “We appreciate the judges’ comments. DoorCo is a more robust business than ever before with a restructured team that are shaping DoorCo with confidence for the future. Investment and growth are part of that future, and we have some exciting plans for next year.”

For more information call: 01625 428955 or visit: www.door-co.com.

acquiring GJB in 2017, he was working in the IT department, and he just stood out as a very capable and motivated young person. It was obvious that he was able to take on more responsibility, and that he should be given the opportunities to shine.

“Bradley puts the customer first, and it is just natural to him to sort out any problems the customer may have before working out how the problem occurred in the first place and putting in corrective, preventative action. So many people get this simple thing so wrong. But Bradley understands the importance of resolving the customer issue first and fast.”

Rob Waller, Sales Director at Listers, said: “Everyone at Listers is delighted with Bradley’s win – we all had a great night celebrating with him at the G-Awards.

“He has a very professional and positive work ethic, which is backed up with an impressive knowledge of the company and its processes. Being Head of Customer Services really plays to his strengths because he is efficient, approachable, and very customer focused.

“Another key strength of Bradley’s, and one which Listers really benefits from, is his ability to get things done – if a solution needs to be found for a particular problem or challenge, Bradley will work something out.”

Tel: 0330 175 5790 – www.listerwindows.co.uk

RECOGNISED LEADERS FOR SUSTAINABILITY

Deceuninck was crowned winner of the Sustainability Initiative of the Year Award at this year’s G-Awards, in recognition of all the impressive work the systems company is doing to lower the environmental impact of its operations, develop next-generation products, and encourage a similar mindset in other companies.

“We are very proud to have won this award, because we know that we are putting sustainability at the front and centre of everything we do,” Rob McGlennon, Managing Director at Deceuninck, said. “While this award recognises the achievements we’ve made within our own operations, we are absolutely committed to helping our customers and suppliers lower their greenhouse gas emissions and their impact on the environment.”

Just recently, Deceuninck developed a unique sales tool that leverages the current interest in energy efficiency and sustainability, and supports window companies as they sell modern thermally efficient products in a contracting market.

Hosted on Deceuninck UK’s home page, the Energy Calculator powerfully demonstrates how replacing old windows can save homeowners money while reducing their carbon footprint.

This is in addition to the multi-million-pound investment it has made in Europe’s most advanced recycling and compounding facilities.

The new site in Belgium gives Deceuninck the capability to reprocess up to 45,000 tonnes of post-consumer and post-manufacturing PVC-U per year, which is the equivalent of preventing three million windows from going to landfill annually. Use of recycled material also reduces CO2 emissions by 90,000 tonnes when compared to virgin feedstocks, as well as a 90% energy saving.

Deceuninck has also committed to cut CO2 emissions from its own operations 60% by 2030 from a 2021 baseline, and cut emissions from within its supply chain by 48% per tonne by 2030, as part of its wider journey to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

At the start of 2022, an independent survey commissioned by Deceuninck and conducted by YouGov, found that 63% of homeowners would be more likely to purchase home improvements, which they saw as being more ‘sustainable’.

Specifically, more than two-thirds of UK homeowners (68%) would choose windows and doors with a higher recycled content over and above products that don’t contain recycled content (or which did so at lower levels), and 38% would be prepared to pay more for home improvement products that had higher recycled content and reduced impact on the environment.

“Sustainability is fast becoming a prerequisite for growth and profitability,” Rob said. “And awards like the Sustainability Initiative of the Year Award are powerful indicators of the hard work companies like Deceuninck are doing to improve their environmental credentials.”

For more information call 01249 816 969, email deceuninck.ltd@deceuninck.com or visit www.deceuninck.co.uk.

SAINT-GOBAIN GLASS WINS TWO G22 AWARDS

Saint-Gobain Glass was named Glass Company of the Year and saw one of its key employees win the Unsung Hero category at the glass industry Oscars, the G22 Awards.

The awards took place in London on Friday 25th November, and was attended by more than 450 people from the fenestration industry.

Saint-Gobain Glass was recognised as the Glass Company of the Year for its commitment and investment in the industry. Last year it invested more than £30 million in its site in Eggborough, which included the installation of a new state-of the-art float glass furnace, and refurbishment and redevelopment of associated areas of its factory. The project was one of the fastest ‘cold-repair’ upgrades of a float-glass furnace – 117 days’ glass-to-glass.

The investment has secured the long-term supply of consistently high-quality, high-performance glass for the UK’s glazing and window industry, cementing the company’s position as a critically important supplier to the sector.

Production Specialist Will Ruane was named the winner in the Unsung Hero category. He joined the company as an intern in finance department, took an interest in glass production and is now on a development and training programme to achieve a senior management role in Float Glass manufacturing.

He played a vital role in the project to install the new furnace. His dedication, work-ethic and infectious positive attitude helped the team to deliver a hugely complicated project on time and on budget against the additional complication of tight COVID working restrictions.

He subsequently suffered a life-changing accident and is now wheelchair-bound but returned to work within six months and continues to be a valuable and proactive member of the team.

Steve Severs managing director at Saint-Gobain Glass said: “This is a fantastic achievement for the whole team and hugely rewarding for Will. The G22 Award comes immediately after winning two awards in the Glass Focus Awards where our project The Spark was awarded Design of the Year – Flat Glass, and we also won the Strengthening business through people award.

“These four awards have been won for our work and achievements during a couple of difficult years and demonstrate the commitment and resilience of the team – as well as the team’s continued passion for the industry.”

For more information about Saint-Gobain Glass, visit www.saint-gobain-glass.com.

Left to right Comedian Hugh Dennis, presents the Glass Company of the Year award to Rich Wall, Commercial Director, Steve Severs, Managing Director, and Mike Butterick, Marketing Director at Saint-Gobain Glass

“Sustainability is fast becoming a prerequisite for growth and profitability,”

There’s no shortage of depressing economic news at the moment. Rising inflation, rising prices, and soaring energy bills, exacerbated by the first real cold snap of the winter, have made for a series of grim headlines.

This comes on top of repeated predictions that the UK is about to, or has already entered, recession – something that’s prompted the government to introduce a range of economic measures aimed at limiting the damage.

There’s little doubt in anyone’s mind, then, that 2023 will be tougher for business than 2022. But I don’t think it will be as bad as many are claiming. The British media isn’t exactly known for its subtlety. It’s got a long track record of alarmism and exaggeration. Predictably, recent coverage has been full of suggestions that the economy is about to “slump”, and that the country will be “plunged” into the longest recession in British history.

In my view, that’s just scaremongering. It’s not accurate, and it’s certainly not helpful – it’s this kind of relentless negativity that risks scaring people into cutting their spending much more than necessary. It’s true that the Bank of England is predicting the longest recession since records began. But it’s also forecasting one that’s milder than many of the others we’ve experienced. Most economists, in fact, are predicting the current slowdown will fall on the milder end of the spectrum. And while it’s obvious to many, it’s still worth remembering –the definition of ‘recession’ is simply an economy that isn’t growing.

If it expands by 0.1% in a year, that’s growth. If it contracts by 0.1%, that’s classed as a recession. The difference between the two can be as little as a few decimal points of GDP. The CBI thinks we were already in recession in Q3 of 2022, during which time glazing and construction more generally was still experiencing strong demand. However, I’m not suggesting for a second that 2023 won’t be a hard year for our sector, and the economy more generally. It probably will.

The Construction Products Association predicts building industry output will be

down 3.9% in 2023, with housing output down 9% - while noting that this will represent a drop from historically high levels. They expect the repair, maintenance and improvement market to experience a similar-sized decline.

But there are also more positive signs. According to the Glenigan Construction Review, new project starts were up 28% on the previous month, and 19% on the same period last year.

Planning approvals virtually doubled in the three months to October, and were up 126% on the same period last year.

Approvals for major industrial projects worth £1.9bn were granted in the same period, almost double the amount granted in the previous quarter, and an almost fivefold increase on the same time last year.

So in short, it’s a mixed picture – undoubtedly harder times ahead, but not the enormous collapse some of the more hysterical press coverage would seem to suggest.

Recessions can also bring opportunities. After the extremely hectic period construction and fenestration has just experienced, it’s possible a mild slowdown might provide some much-needed breathing space – a chance to get supply chains back in order, and bring lead times closer to pre-COVID levels.

History shows that it’s the businesses that are willing to innovate and invest that weather recessions best. After adapting so quickly to the monumental challenges of the pandemic, I believe our sector is excellently placed to come out of the current crisis even stronger.

For more information, call 01242 233993 or visit www.cotswoldap.com.

HARDWARE

CARL F GROUPCO REPORTS BIGGEST EVER SALES MONTH UAP CONTINUES ACQUISITION TRAIL

Independent hardware distributor Carl F Groupco has just recorded its biggest ever month, with sales exceeding £2 million. The month caps a stunning quarter for the business, which was its highest on record. John Crittenden, Managing Director at Carl F Groupco, said: “If you read the headlines, it’s doom and gloom. But it’s a different picture on the ground. Feedback from our customers is that the market is still buoyant and it’s something that’s reflected in our sales.”

John reports there are highlights from every part of the business. He says: “The premium end of the market is still growing and looks likely to continue to do so in 2023. Even at the value end of the market, customers are still reporting full order books, perhaps in part driven by consumer concern over rising energy price. Fabricators in the commercial and social housing sectors are still securing contracts, albeit at slightly lower volumes due to increased budgetary pressures.”

Carl F Groupco is proving such a popular hardware distributor because its offer is very strong, especially in an uncertain economic climate.

It provides an extensive range of premium quality window and door hardware and has long-standing relationships with Europe’s most innovative manufacturers. It holds £5 million of stock, which means it can remain a reliable partner to its customers, offering short lead times and a high level of customer service.

For ease of ordering and an improved customer experience, the company recently launched My CFG, an online digital platform.

The company also offers a value-added consultancy service, testing and working with its customers’ fabrication teams and manufacturer partners to scope new hardware solutions and ensure smooth transitions to new ranges.

Perhaps most importantly, it has a decadeslong history, which gives it a stability and level of experience few can match.

John concludes: “We’re here to support our customers, no matter what the market conditions. But I think the lesson we can learn from this quarter’s results is simple. Let’s not talk ourselves into a downturn as the market is still holding up.”

Tel: 01733 393 330 – www.carlfgroupco.co.uk www.smartsecure.co.uk www.carlfdirect.co.uk

UAP, the specialist in locks and hardware for doors and windows, has acquired Security Hardware from Eurocell PLC.

Based in the West Midlands, Security Hardware specialises in domestic PVC-U door and windows hardware, which is supplied online and through more than 200 Eurocell branches across the UK.

Established 15 years ago, the company has forged a reputation for the quality of its portfolio, including products offered under the Schlosser Technik brand.

The acquisition will significantly expand UAP’s offer to customers, adding new products to its range and strengthening its geographical reach through Security Hardware’s distribution centre in Willenhall. The deal will also see UAP supply its entire portfolio to Eurocell’s branches.

David Jennings, CEO of UAP, said: “This strategic acquisition will provide our customers with even more choice, including a wide range of specialist products that we’ve never offered before. These include a high-quality Twin Cam window lock, different types of window handles and van and garage security hardware.

“Security Hardware customers can benefit in the same way, with access to UAP’s entire product range, providing them with a onestop-shop for all their needs.

“Adding a West Midlands based distribution centre to our network is another key development for our business, enabling us to serve customers in this region more quickly and effectively. Long term, we’re planning to employ more delivery drivers and warehouse operatives at this site to strengthen our logistics capabilities.”

Mitch Masters, Procurement Director of Security Hardware, added: “There were obvious synergies with UAP which made this acquisition a natural next step for our business. Combined, our product range is one of the most diverse on the market, enabling us to target a broader customer base right across the UK.

“Maintaining the partnership with Eurocell branches will also ensure that as a group, we can continue to support local businesses.”

Security Hardware joins UAP as part of a proactive acquisition strategy, which has seen the business acquire a further two companies within the last three years –Locking Systems and Intelligent Hardware. www.uapcorporate.com

REASONS TO BE CHEERFUL? RECESSION’S HERE, BUT IT’S NOT ALL DOOM AND GLOOM

Cotswold MD Tim Ferkin discusses the challenges and opportunities posed by the UK’s economic slowdown.

DHF – READY TO SUPPORT ITS MEMBERS

Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) is once again reflecting on a successful, productive and constructive 12 months, and despite continuing challenges ahead, the Tamworth-based trade association will continue to support its members and the industry, fulfilling its enduring promise of maintaining and raising quality standards throughout the sectors it serves. It remains the first port of call for those seeking guidance, technical support, and information.

2022 got off to a tremendous start for the federation with the announcement of new Chairman, Paul Browne. The former ASSA ABLOY UK Chief Technology Officer & Business Development Director has been involved with DHF since 2006 and on the board since 2007.

“Paul’s support and guidance over the past year have been invaluable and with a challenging year ahead, we’re facing 2023 with great positivity with Paul at the helm,” says DHF’s Head of Commercial Operations, Patricia Sowsbery-Stevens.

The beginning of the year also saw the launch of DHF’s garage door safety video for

members and consumers, the first time the federation has produced such a video, but it has enabled DHF to reach a much wider audience and educate the consumer as to what they should looking for as standard when selecting a new garage door, and about the safety feature known as hold-to-run.

The launch of a series of new Technical Specifications: DHF TS 013 parts one, two and three this year, has combined the information on the safety of industrial and domestic garage doors, as well as powered gates and traffic barriers, with parts one and two of the series replacing the separate guidance previously issued for gates (TS 011) and industrial & garage doors (TS 012) and part three being a guidance for owners and managers of these products.

Throughout the year, DHF has maintained its position as the go to centre of excellence for advice and training pertaining to raising the standards. For example, it was present once again at this year’s Fit Show and remains a long-standing supporter of its objectives.

Chair of the DHF Timber Doorset Group, Fiona Critchley, presented The presentation on Standards & Legislation Affecting Flat

Entrance Doorsets as part of the education programme. In addition, in April, DHF was on hand to offer much-needed guidance and clarity on the CSCS card scheme, how to obtain one, and its important role in promoting safety and best practice for those working with industrial doors, domestic garage doors, automated gates & traffic barriers and metal or timber doors.

In reacting to the White Paper on Construction Products Competence (CPC), DHF also welcomed the proposals in ensuring that the built environment is safe, and that the modern workforce can meet their duties relating to construction products by placing compliance and competence as priority.

As ever, training has been at the very heart of the trade association’s activity (both faceto-face and online), and this year, DHF has helped almost 1000 learners with training, 91% being members of the federation. In 2023, DHF will not only be filling other training gaps by expanding its training offering to include other door types (not just fire doors), but also by continuing to offer free training webinars and seminars

to members to help further the knowledge within the automated gate and industrial &garage door industries. Indeed, since July, DHF has held two free per month covering such subjects as Construction Products Regulation (CPR) Tests and certification, fall-back protection, force limitation, compliance assessments of vertical doors and horizontal doors & gates, UKCA Marking & System and AVCP 3 type testing under the CPR. In May, DHF announced it will be taking its training ‘international’, with two-day courses available to those in the Republic of Ireland.

DHF’s Head of Commercial Operations, Patricia Sowsbery-Stevens

NOT JUST A SMART TECH LOCK

GLASS NEWS REPORTS ON

ERA’S UNVEILING OF THE FUTURE OF KEYLESS ENTRY

This includes fingerprint access, the smart home app, geolocation technology, voice-activated entry, and manual key override.

Featuring advanced fingerprint technology, up to 50 different fingerprints can be stored directly within the handle to provide users with instant access to the property.

When used with the ERA smart home app, TouchKey can be unlocked with a single touch locally or remotely via the addition of an ERA alarm hub. Digital e-keys that have timed access can also be assigned to individuals, such as family and friends, via the app. Voice command can be utilised via the app to unlock the door on approach, without having to physically use a smartphone.

Smart tech, keyless entry and remote window locks. Glass News has seen a definite demand from homeowners looking at the growing number of smart tech options now available, to help increase security and asthetics to our doors and windows. Having recently visited ERA’s head quarters, we were introduced to a new launch in smart tech – TouchKey, a versatile door security solution……..

TouchKey has been independently tested to BSI’s new Smart Residential Locking Device standard, which was developed in conjunction with ERA and combines the BSI Internet of Things (IoT) Kitemark with TS 621 for mechanical security with smart locking.

A complete door security solution, TouchKey combines a smarter security door handle, an auto-firing multi-point lock, and an anti-bump security cylinder.

Suitable for fabrication with composite or timber entrance doors, TouchKey provides multi-factor authentication for residential door access and is the only system of its kind to combine five different entry methods into a single door handle.

With geolocation technology, the system can remotely unlock via Bluetooth as a trusted digital e-key grants access to the individual once they are within range of the property, without needing to physically use their smartphone.

For ultimate peace of mind, TouchKey also contains a hidden manual key override, with three keys supplied as standard.

Containing dynamic smart technology that is combined with mechanical hardware endurance, TouchKey delivers the ultimate standard for security and convenience. The first class mechanical hardware includes a two hook multi-point lock with a central deadbolt, that fires six locking points when engaged, to automatically secure the door on closing.

The anti-bump security cylinder works in conjunction with the TouchKey smarter handle and TouchKey multi-point lock to deliver ease of application, whilst simultaneously providing resistance against forced entry.

An ergonomically designed extended thumbturn with light torque also ensures the door is easy to operate, with a single turn simultaneously retracting all locking points for ease of egress. Upon leaving the property, the door closes automatically and locks securely behind the user for all important peace of mind.

The smarter handle is built for endurance and security, with the addition of a forged steel backplate and hardened plates that prevent potential attackers from removing the handle to access the lock.

The TouchKey handle also delivers on aesthetics, featuring a sleek, contemporary design that is available in Fab&Fix’s patented Hardex Chrome and Hardex Graphite finishes, complementing over 200 products within the Fab&Fix range, including hinges, letterplates and knockers.

Helen Downer, President of Tyman UK & Ireland (ERA’s parent company), explains: “TouchKey provides fabricators with the next generation in smarter door security, and because it integrates with the wider ERA Protect smart ecosystem, it presents door manufacturers with cross-selling

opportunities, whilst providing additional security for customers.

“For over 180 years, ERA has been designing, manufacturing and supplying traditional hardware that provides the highest possible standards of security.

TouchKey combines our extensive expertise in mechanical hardware with the very latest advances in smart technology to provide a revolutionary system that sets a new standard for keyless entry.”

ERA, one of the UK’s leading home security and fenestration component providers, is revolutionising the expectations and capabilities of keyless entry with the launch of its versatile door security solution, TouchKey.

For further information on ERA’s diverse portfolio of security products, including its smart security offering, visit www.eraeverywhere.com or contact the sales team on 01922 490 000 or email info@eraeverywhere.com.

Thanks to the whole team at ERA for inviting Glass News to the launch of TouchKey. Compliments to the chef’s and the welcoming hospitality!

The Prestige range of aluminium Bi-Folds is renowned for its stylish aesthetics, design flexibility and exceptional thermal performance. The background to the Prestige range development is just as impressive, especially the innovation partnership formed with Winkhaus UK.

When Sheerline initiated their development program, they invited the Winkhaus Technical Team to support from their Bifold profile design stage onwards.

Through the various phases of development the Winkhaus Technical Team supported system design, including optimum positioning for the lock and the development of a bespoke solution based on the Thunderbolt™ locking system, for the new Prestige Bi-folds.

With the design completed, Winkhaus further supported with a series of development days in conjunction with both the technical product and Winkhaus Laboratory teams, to prove the security requirements to PAS24. Winkhaus Senior Product and Technical Manager George

Smith advises; “Development days are an important part of the bespoke support we provide for our innovation partners. They often shorten development times by identifying areas of improvement or validating designs prior to testing, providing partners confidence to embark on what can be expensive and time consuming test programs”.

Mike Rushen – Winkhaus UK Sales Director; “Supporting our partners with their innovation programs is one of the added value services that differentiate Winkhaus. We take great pride when chosen to share an innovation journey, which is why we continue to invest in this key solution service expanding our technical and product teams further, building on the extensive experience already in place”.

To learn more about how we support partners with their innovation programs or the wider range of products and systems available from Winkhaus UK, please contact 01536 316 000, email enquiries@winkhaus. co.uk or visit www.winkhaus.co.uk

GLAZERITE EXTENDS

PORTFOLIO FURTHER WITH LAUNCH OF ALUMINIUM

The Glazerite UK Group is set to boost its product portfolio with the addition of an aluminium range. The move has been designed with its installers in mind as the leading trade fabricator seeks to expand its offering and support customers to leverage new opportunities.

From January 2023, Glazerite will offer installers access to the Senior Architectural Systems (SAS) aluminium product range of casement and Tilt & Turn windows, as well as bi-folding and patio doors.

Rob Brearley, Glazerite’s Group Managing Director explains: “Our uPVC product range is one of the broadest in the industry. We recognise though that the market for windows and doors is ever evolving and by adding aluminium to our portfolio, it gives our installers access to another solution that appeals to today’s trend-conscious consumer.”

GRANADA’S SECONDARY GLAZING HEALS LEAKY WINDOWS AT ARCHITECT’S PRACTICE

Architects at a Warwickshire practice were so impressed with Granada’s secondary glazing system that they decided to get it installed to improve thermal efficiency and reduce energy costs in their own premises.

Jonathan Holland Architects, based in a Grade II listed property in Kenilworth, serves clients throughout the UK and around the world for a wide range of commercial, public and private projects.

After inviting a Granada Glazing specialist to present a secondary glazing CPD session, they quickly recognised that their building’s original single-glazed and draughty windows were not up to the job and that their working environment could benefit from additional thermal insulation.

Single glazed windows are highly conductive, letting in unwanted cold air during the winter and too much heat in the summer. Studies have shown that up to 70% of the heat from buildings is lost through single-glazed windows, leading to higher energy bills to maintain a comfortable inside temperature.

Installing quality secondary glazing provides excellent thermal insulation that reduces heat loss by up to 65%. Low-E glass is often the best choice for this extra internal glazing panel as the special coating reflects heat back into the room. Secondary glazing is also far less expensive than full window replacement and frequently the only option to improve thermal efficiency in historic or listed properties.

Granada Glazing’s specialists fitted eight secondary glazing units in total: four Balanced Vertical Sliding Units, three threepanel Horizontal Sliding Units and one two-panel Horizontal Sliding Unit - all with 4mm toughened Low E glass to reflect heat back into the rooms.

Designed specifically for traditional box sash windows, Balanced Vertical Sliding Units blend in seamlessly with the internal décor and are undetectable from the outside, maintaining the character of a building’s external appearance.

Robert Cottam, Commercial Sales Manager at Granada Secondary Glazing, said: “We initially heard from the team at Jonathan Holland Architects back in February 2022

when they requested that a member of our team pay them a visit to deliver one of our secondary glazing CPD sessions.

“It became apparent as the session progressed that the company’s HQ may well require a secondary glazing install. Operating out of a listed building, the customer found themselves in the familiar position of being unable to complete a full window replacement due to planning restrictions. As heating bills continued to rise in line with the ongoing energy crisis, it had quickly become obvious that something had to be done to address the leaky windows.

“Our proposal comprised a mixture of our vertical sliding and horizontal sliding units designed to match the décor of the primary windows. Low E glazing was chosen to offer the team at Jonathan Holland Architects the best possible thermal performance and improved comfort.”

Suitable for all property types, Granada’s slimline aluminium secondary glazing frames can be powder coated in over 200 RAL colours. Virtually invisible, they blend in with any interior décor. The Granada

The addition of the SAS range of aluminium products enables the fabricator to test the market amongst its customer base with the assurance the profile is crafted with the same high-quality finish Glazerite’s customers expect while adding further options to its portfolio that will suit every customer budget.

Rob adds: “Aluminium is a high-growth market and one that we’ve wanted to explore for a while. By partnering with SAS on its supply, we can gauge the market initially across our existing customer base and better understand its potential.”

www.glazerite.co.uk

Glazing product range encompasses hinged, sliding, vertical sliders, including tilt back, and lift-out options.

Granada Glazing partners with architects and specifiers on the design, manufacture and supply of high quality commercial secondary glazing for all sectors and building types across the UK. For more information on the Granada Secondary Glazing range, please call 01909 499899, visit www.gsecg.com or email info@granadaglazing.com.

The AluK 77 window and door range re-engineered for future sustainability.

With the need for more energy efficiency from homes and buildings, here at AluK, we wanted to make sure we were playing our part. Especially when our products are key to letting natural light in, whilst keeping the elements out.

The 77 Range is our most high performing window and door range yet, outperforming the current A++ WER. And just as you’d expect from AluK, there’s no compromise when it comes to aesthetic design too.

The 77 window and door range from AluK, re-engineered for future sustainability.

400 INSTALLERS NOW SELL USING FRAMEPOINT®

Tommy Trinder are celebrating; the firm reports signing their 400th subscriber to the Framepoint® app in November.

“In a tightening market, it’s the desire to stand out from the competition which is fuelling growth,” says founder and CEO Chris Brunsdon. “Work isn’t just coming through the door anymore and installers are looking for an edge; something to impress customers and keep those conversion rates up. Framepoint® is built to help installers sell with wow – it’s the tool for the job!”

The value of work quoted by installers on Framepoint® is on the rise too; over £114 million of supply and fit work was quoted via the platform in the month of November, a new monthly high.

Rising average quote values are also a feature with quote values averaging £6965 over the last three months, compared to £5795 in the same period last year, says Chris; “Framepoint® subscribers have always been able get a bit more on every job because it’s so easy to show off premium features such as foils, dual colours, dummy vents, mechanical joints, flush casements, surface mounted bars in a very visual way. But clearly double-digit inflation and the impact of ongoing instability in the price of glass, resin, aluminium and steel are all filtering through to the price the homeowner is paying for their windows & doors.”

Tommy Trinder report that more than just under 19,000 homeowners have received a quote generated by Framepoint® in the last three months and, notably, around half of them were provided with visualisations to accompany their quote;

“The makeover tool, where installers provide a mockup to the homeowner of their new windows in situ, is definitely becoming a staple part of the quoting process,” Says Chris. “Nearly 50% of homeowners receive them, currently. When you consider the ease with which consumers are able to model other significant purchases like cars or kitchens, it feels inevitable that offering the client a visual of windows and doors will become the norm.”

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

WINDOWS

ALL SYSTEMS GO FOR TOUCH PORTAL AT COMP DOOR

Comp Door, already a G-22 Product of the Year finalist, is continuing to set the pace in the trade composite door market - becoming a key launch partner for Business Micros’ new TOUCH online software platform.

The Staffordshire-based fabricator is one of the first in the UK to have TOUCH fully integrated right across its operation, with design, quoting and ordering all now linked directly to its Evolution manufacturing and EvoNET business management software.

Customers who log in at: http://www.thecompstore.co.uk/ can access Comp Door’s TOUCH Portal system and quote and order their composite doors online via a simple, user-friendly interface, complete with accurate, high-res imagery. Crucially, because it’s an end-to-end Business Micros product, they can relax knowing that all the product, stock, pricing and discount data they are using is completely live and up to date.

Richie Thornton, Head of Operations for TOUCH, said: “Comp Door has become a perfect showcase for what the end-toend TOUCH platform can do. All the current features within the software are fully operational and they’re really helping Comp Door optimise their own and their customers’ efficiency. As well as the automated ordering linked to Comp Door’s internal sales processing, there is a Dealer Network lead generation function with a Home Visualiser tool which is already generating warm retail enquiries for installers.

“There is also shared access via TOUCH to the Comp Door resource centre, packed with downloadable sales and technical literature, videos and photos, and even an automated tool for sharing news online.

“For installers who set up an online account with Comp Door, there is the option to create personalised, professional looking paperwork which they can use to simply overbrand and uplift the quote generated from within TOUCH Portal and send direct to homeowners. This effectively works like a

mini-CRM system for them as well, because they can track, store and edit their quotes 24/7 from any mobile device.”

David Massey, Comp Door’s Head of IT, says that the timing of the TOUCH Portal roll out was perfect for the business, which only opened the doors of its brand new 46,000 sq ft factory back in March. He said: “We’re manufacturing what we think is the most advanced composite door on the market, so it makes sense that we would align with the newest and most advanced online pricing solution, and that is TOUCH.

“I have worked closely with all the companies within the Business Micros Group in the past – including with the team at The Consultancy on the creation of our impressive website at https://compdoor.co.uk/- and had no doubt that they could deliver a high-quality product and provide excellent customer service. TOUCH’s built-in integration with our existing Evolution/EvoNET platform and its compatibility with our own ERP system meant it was easy to plan out the implementation of the TOUCH customerfacing pricing portal and the whole project has gone very smoothly.”

He added: “We’ve getting great feedback from our trade customer base about how intuitive they find the Portal to use and especially the advantages of having a dynamic, interactive image of the door –something which other configurators don’t offer. This, along with the advanced Home Visualiser feature, allows them to give the homeowner a much truer representation of the final product which they can present on screen and in their personalised quote – and that is helping them to win business

“We’re ahead of the game on TOUCH but that doesn’t mean the project is finished –we’ve got lots more planned and plenty for customers still to get excited about.”

More details at: https://compdoor.co.uk/ and https://store.bm-touch.co.uk/

CONTEMPORARY APPEAL FOR HOME REFURB PROJECT

A 4-bedroom 1990’s detached home in Aberford, West Yorkshire has been transformed by experienced domestic and commercial fabricator and installer, Kingfisher Windows. The domestic project included the installation of fourteen flush casement windows, two sets of French doors with side panels and a new 3m x 3m conservatory all manufactured from Optima by Epwin Window Systems. The six-week installation was part of a total house renovation project.

Deborah Beeley, Sales and Marketing Manager at Kingfisher Windows explains: “The 1990’s-built property was fitted with first generation PVC-U windows and doors. The homeowner wanted to update their property with modern window and door aesthetics which included rebuilding their existing conservatory into a new, modern garden room. The windows and doors manufactured in anthracite grey on white perfectly matched the homeowner’s brief and delivered the modern transformation this family home required.”

Having constructed the property’s original conservatory twenty years ago, the homeowners returned to Kingfisher Windows for this new project. The homeowner said: “Having used Kingfisher Windows before, we knew we were in safe hands with our home refurbishment project. They took the time to understand our requirements and advised us at every level. Everything was meticulously planned from the onsite builders to the window and door fitting teams. Their attention to detail was faultless and all the trades cleaned

up afterwards with an end-to-end white glove service. We are delighted with the finished result which has transformed the look and feel of our home.”

Epwin Window Systems’ flush casement windows deliver the hallmark of a traditional timber window with all the modern PVC-U performance. The product integrates perfectly into new build and refurbishment projects and is designed to maximise thermal efficiency. The PVC-U system meets and exceeds all regulatory requirements and achieves a window U-value of 1.2W/m2K with 24mm double glazing.

With the rising cost of energy, thermally efficient products have never been more important to consumers. The homeowner said: “Whilst we looked at changing our windows and door for improved aesthetics, having better energy efficient products made good financial sense too. The Kingfisher team ensured we had the best energy efficiency products fitted which will make a big difference to the thermal efficiency of our home.”

Based in Drighlington, between Bradford and Leeds, Kingfisher Windows has been manufacturing and supplying a comprehensive range of window, door and conservatory products for over thirty years across the North and North West of England. The long-established familybased business has an excellent reputation thanks to its commitment to offering quality products and a reliable service – a commitment that’s in clear evidence in this extensive domestic installation.

Tel: 0845 340 3968

www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY

ARE WE

LOOKING FORWARD TO 2023?

Can we expect 2023 to be an improvement on 2022? For instance the supply chain? Interest rates? Taxation? Customer demand? How important will home improvement be for homeowners in 2023 and will commercial work grow or decline in comparison to 2022? Are you expecting to increase your workforce and/or invest in new premises or machinery? How positive are you about 2023 or are there threats that could make the year a disaster? Are you planning on launching new products and which products do you think are going to be most in demand in the year? How many Prime Minsters are we likely to have in the year? No, not really, but I wanted to see if you were still paying attention!

John Agnew Managing Director, GGF Group

At the time of writing this prediction there is so much to be decided that will affect the mood and performance of the country collectively, as well as individuals. But whatever happens the road will be bumpy. And that is where I believe that any industry’s representative body needs to step up to the plate because an organisation such as the GGF – and indeed its group brands such as FENSA, BFRC, Installsure and RISA – arguably has a more important role to play when business becomes challenging, than when sales are buoyant.

We are therefore focusing on providing leadership and support for GGF and group member companies, but also for the wider industry. We will continue to provide initiatives such as the Skilled Pathways training scheme, to provide technical support for members, liaison with the many government departments to ensure that the glass and glazing industry will be represented in any discussions relating to energy efficiency, and of course, within changes to the Building Regulations.

In short, the message is: ‘The GGF is here for you’.

Rhonda Ridge Managing Director Ab Initio Systems Ltd, creator of AdminBase

As a service provider the elements that shape the window and door industry affect us at AdminBase in quite different ways and not always as one might expect. During the initial lockdown period of the pandemic, for example, installers had the time to consider their business models, and many decided they would install AdminBase. Although they couldn’t have foreseen it, that helped them get through the sales rush that followed.

How the current toxic mix of influences will affect us, I cannot comfortably predict. However, I do believe that what is more important is that AdminBase will play a crucial part in supporting installers by streamlining everything they do, by making sure that leads are optimised, sales are processed efficiently, and installations completed without missing a beat. When sales are tough to come by, every opportunity counts.

Our role will be to provide the support that installers will undoubtedly need during what is bound to be a tough time, to make sure we all come out at the other end, fitter and leaner.

Adrian Barraclough Chairman, Quickslide

Crystal ball time… and another period that nobody could have predicted…but here goes: Supply chain problems have largely been resolved. But with the experience of the past two years much of our investment at Quickslide has been to ensure that the future impact of any such issues may be reduced for our customers, by increasing stock in components and materials across the board, and our ability to process most production requirements in house. Quickslide is more selfsufficient than ever before. This will help us to help our customers by being flexible to ensure that we can respond to what is certain to be even more complex and unpredictable demand from homeowners, with higher interest rates and energy costs obviously reducing disposable income for home improvements.

We must present exciting products that promise benefits to homeowners such as energy efficiency, breadth of range at all price points, and support measures such as appropriate marketing and technical advice, to help our customers face what will be an every-changing business landscape over the next two years.

Asa McGillian Managing Director, Apeer Doors and Windows

The hit of high energy costs together with interest rates that are sending mortgages spiralling, must hit sales. What we need more than anything is stability, for homeowners to understand that, for the moment at least, things have been brought under control and that this government is doing something to instil confidence.

When that has been achieved, those with disposable income will have the confidence to commit. Drivers will be energy efficiency of course, but as it becomes too expensive for many to move home, then the old cliché of improve not move will kick in again. Sales will undoubtedly be harder to secure, and we are prepared to have to work harder for everything.

To that end we will continue to invest in new processes to make us more efficient but also, to make us ever more selfsufficient, something that has worked well for us with the problems with logistics from the Far East. We will continue with our plans to launch new products and support for our customers.

Danny Williams Managing Director, Pioneer Trading (Essex) Ltd and Gerda Doors UK

The biggest threat to sales of high capital purchases such as home improvements, is always uncertainty. And that continues with no sign of economic instability abating, the result of global events beyond the control of any individual government but also the ability of the Conservative party to repeatedly shoot itself in the foot. We can only hope that the idiocy that has dominated British politics over the past few months has passed.

Whatever happens, sales must be negatively impacted as mortgage and energy costs will wipe out, let alone reduce, any disposable income that many homeowners may once have had available. Demand will be for higher quality, better performing windows and with an emphasis on energy efficiency, but also security – homeowners feeling vulnerable generally always seek the comfort of feeling safer in their homes too.

In summary however, the companies in our industry that will suffer most during the next few months will be the fabricators that make high volume, cheap, white plastic squares.

Guy Hubble Joint Managing Director, RegaLead

Are we looking forward to 2023?

Well, 2022 has certainly been a mixed bag for the glazing industry and I suspect 2023 will be very similar. Our first year of ‘normality’ has seen the market hold up reasonably well, despite the drop in demand and the excess cash that was available immediately following the pandemic. The cost of living crisis combined with much higher prices will continue to put pressure on discretionary spend through 2023.

With over 30 years in business we have seen and navigated our way through multiple recessions and this one will be no different. Good businesses will adapt, seize the opportunities and thrive.

With certain trends and shifts within the industry holding firm including the continued growth of high end composite doors, aluminium products and the increased use of colour, both RegaLead and our customers are well poised to take advantage of these trends and 2023 will see us increase our offering to the aluminium sector through our Urban division.

Paul Higgins Commercial Director, TuffX Processed Glass Ltd

TuffX serves a wide range of commercial and residential markets with every type of glass product including rooflights, balustrades, commercial entrances, internal glass partitioning….everything really. We also produce a substantial volume of processed glass including laminated, toughened, heat-soaked and of course, a great deal of conservatory glass in various specifications. We anticipate that commercial demand will remain strong: much of the work that we will carry out during the next 12 months or so will have been specified some time ago so we are confident that this will continue. In our residential market, there is no doubt that with homeowners facing often crippling increases in interest rates and energy costs, home improvements will be hit.

Much of TuffX’ focus continues to be on R&D and especially energy efficiency as even a casual look at our product portfolio will confirm. Sales of energy efficient products have already grown as homeowners focus on reducing their energy bills and that can only continue.

Stuart Stockley Managing Director, VEKA Recycling Ltd

The industry is at last embracing the positives not only of recycling post-consumer PVC-U frames but also of including recycled material in new frames, a crucial improvement in the UK supply chain for PVC-U framing. UK systems producers are now committed to include recycled material in their profiles and we would hope that is unlikely to change. However, the availability of recycled material for inclusion in new profiles depends upon the availability of feedstock. And with the likely reduction in installations that is being widely predicted, that creates some uncertainty. Our intention, however, is to emphasise to installers the clear benefits of proactively returning removed PVC-U frames into the system –reduced disposal costs, convenience, positive attitudes from homeowners – and to make it easier for them to return the material to us. That will swell the amount of material we can process for systems houses of all brands.

Also, more installers are using the positive messages about recycling to close sales with their homeowner customers, which again we hope will become the norm rather than the exception.

Sean Mackey Director, Jade Engineering Ltd

The uncertainty in the economy together with increasing interest rates, do not bode well for the window and door sector. However, from Jade’s point of view, our specialist single purpose machines are not usually financed, due to their low cost and become popular stopgaps to investing in expensive CNC machining centres. Also, demand for our machine tools is likely to remain strong as fabricators need to ensure the output and quality performance of their production equipment – neglecting such things are false economies and quickly become obvious as such.

We have a reputation for offering straight and dependable advice to fabricators and at this point in the year that advice will be: Do not cut corners in either the maintenance of your machinery or the key element of the machine tools. Whilst the temptation may will be to run tools past their optimum, and push machinery past their service cycles, such economies will quickly lead to tangibly reduced product quality and higher repair bills. Don’t do it!

Mike Derham, Managing Director, Mighton Products Ltd

Mighton Products, including our Avia Smart door locks and window hardware, cover the widest spectrum of the markets for windows and doors, from the most traditional to the very latest technology. That gives us interesting perspectives. Our conventional hardware products are chosen by timber window manufacturers and their customers and are popular for all refurbishment projects - residential and commercial - that require sympathetic renovation whilst bringing performance up to date. I am cautiously optimistic: my experience over many cycles is that residential refurbishment tends to increase as homeowners particularly are more inclined to improve their homes, rather than move, in times of market difficulty.

Interestingly, our Avia Smart products - Avia covers multi point doors, casement and uniquely, vertical sliding windows –serve the other end of the technological scale. Sales across the industry remain relatively low of course, but I believe that sales of smart products generally will continue to grow as the market develops and Avia will develop with the market, especially as they are Apple HomeKit approved.

Bryan Bultema Managing Director, ODL Europe

2023 is likely to be a challenging year for the industry. Notwithstanding the supply chain volatility, there are many unpredictable variables at play, including geopolitical and trade tensions, the economic environment and labour discord. Our immediate response to these challenges is to work toward bringing more of our manufacturing in-house and take further control over our product inventory to support our customers.

The TriSYS® cassette system has been a cornerstone of our business and we see it as a foundation of our future product offering too. We will invest in this offering to meet changing design and construction aesthetics without compromising on the performance, serviceability, and assembly convenience. Likewise, our composite door offering is compelling and provides a competitive edge for customers. It’s our priority to ensure we deliver reliably and manage the product offering to align with customers’ needs.

Despite the market backdrop, there is a lot to look forward to in 2023 and we are laser-focussed on supporting our customers by delivering the best in composite door innovation.

Gareth Jones Managing Director of Solar Fabrications Holdings Ltd

This time last year I talked about disposable income shrinking as a result of inflation, interest rates and tax. I was ‘mindful of the potential for a slowdown in the industry’. At that time, I might have been prematurely pessimistic for 2022 but, unfortunately, that was a premonition of things to come, as 2023 is looking pretty grim.

Cost prices will remain high although hopefully we might see a drop in inflation as the year unfolds, perhaps not enough to spur demand. All we can do is keep costs to a minimum, offer a range of products at both entry level and the high end of the market, and operate in several sectors to avoid having all our eggs in one basket. Sadly, I suspect some businesses will fail and others will withdraw from the market. The good businesses will potentially come out of these tough times stronger and able to benefit from a reduction in supply capacity. If this is you, it is the only glimpse of opportunism – and optimism – I can offer. Survival of the fittest.

Ash Pearson Sales Manager, Jack Aluminium

2022 was another fantastic year for us at Jack Aluminium. This was the year that we truly delved into the domestic market. Customers and the industry at large have always known us for our commercial aluminium systems, and we thought it was time to extend that same great supply and service to the domestic market with our TruEnergy range.

Record numbers of people joined the property ladder in 2021 and 2022, which I think will continue to spur demand for renovations and home

improvement. Savvy homeowners are looking to modernise their homes with systems that offer the best in efficiency and security, and TruEnergy truly offers the best of both worlds.

It’s sure to be a year of huge change for the industry, with competition becoming fiercer as the post-pandemic boom settles down, but we’ve developed systems based on the needs of our customers, so they can win more work in both the commercial and domestic markets.

Paul Atkinson Managing Director at Yale Door and Window Solutions

As we head into 2023, we continue to see strong interest in new product ranges, particularly our smart products, locking and sensors fitted in door locks ad window locks, as fabricators look to add the latest features into their products offerings.

In 2022 we commissioned a OnePoll survey and when asked if they would be willing to pay more to buy/ rent a home if it has better security measures, or a smart security system, than in their current home, 53% of respondents said yes.

I’m confident that the appetite for smart solutions amongst UK homeowners will continue to grow this year.

Yale were one of the first companies to achieve the Secured by Design (SBD) ‘Secure Connected Device’ accreditation for the Conexis L1 smart door lock and followed this in quick succession with the same seal of approval for SensCheck™ Door and Window Sensor range. When it comes to smart security, we pride ourselves on developing not only innovative hardware, but products which have been made safely for the UK market.

Heidi Sachs Managing Director Modplan

The beginning of a New Year always feels like a new start and a time for optimism. But we know that challenges lie ahead.

As always, we believe it’s vital to focus on getting the basics right: the products the market wants and a service and support that goes above and beyond.

When it comes to products, we manufacture the most comprehensive range of cutting-edge PVC-U windows, doors and conservatories including the popular Leka roofing range.

In the Leka Warm Roof, Orangery Roof, Xi modular conservatory base and Leka Carport, you have a suite of value-added products, incorporating glass units, that help consumers create stylish, thermally efficient rooms that extend living spaces and enhance lifestyles.

Our far-reaching portfolio delivers the products that today’s consumers want, giving you a complete, robust product solution all under one roof. You also get the reassurance of a business approaching 50 years in business that’s experienced in being a proactive, service-focused partner to our customers in every economic climate.

So, as we look forward, we’re preparing for challenging times – and supporting our customers throughout remains our priority.

Dan Sullivan MD, Doorco

It’s actually quite refreshing to report that normal service has resumed at DoorCo after the pressure of the last couple of years. We are still busy but it’s far easier to plan for the normal peaks and troughs. Although the year ahead looks uncertain, and at the time of writing we’re officially in a recession, there is still plenty of opportunity in the market.

For the time being, DoorCo is focusing on supporting our team through the cost of living crisis with enhanced pay and benefits. They are the most important cog in the wheel and are central to delivering our continued growth plans for the coming year, and beyond.

DoorCo enters 2023 high from our success at the G-Awards, with the win of Component Supplier of the Year. The business is robust, with a restructured and strengthened leadership team that are shaping DoorCo for the future with confidence. Whatever happens this coming year, we’ll be focused on remaining true to our core values and supporting our customers with everything they need to keep the composite door market durable, innovative and fresh.

Aaron Solomon Sales Executive, Insight Data

As we have seen in the last quarter of 2022, growth is becoming scarce, and the country is now officially in recession.

Despite the resolute nature of the fenestration industry, companies are having to make cuts and revaluate business plans to maintain success.

As we head into 2023, the markets are set to remain turbulent, which is why it is vital for companies to remain proactive by investigating classic methods of marketing.

Exploring progressive and active marketing techniques will be vital, as fewer potential customers will be reaching out.

I believe switching from passive to interruptive marketing techniques in the new year could generate new leads and sales much quicker for businesses.

Our research at Insight Data has shown how the number of fenestration companies has declined massively in 2022, which demonstrates the urgent need for strong marketing campaigns as we move into 2023.

That’s why using a company like Insight Data can be the difference between an upturn in the number of sales any business makes.

Chris Pell General Manager, Total Hardware

It’s fair to say that 2023 will be a challenging year for the industry, but we’ll continue to be the robust supply partner our customers need us to be. We have a far-reaching product range with hardware solutions designed to suit all project applications.

Our Quantum collection offers premium quality window and door hardware designed to help fabricators add value to their product portfolio.

And our Superior 25 door hardware is manufactured from high grade Stainless Steel for excellent corrosion resistance and comes with a 25-year surface guarantee as standard. We will be increasing the range we offer throughout 2023 with some exciting new products too.

To give our customers a competitive advantage in the marketplace, we’re also longstanding stockists of leading hardware brands including Yale and Fullex. We have a laser-focused commitment to efficient, effective service. Exceptional customer care was our focus when we started in 2004 and it remains our focus today. We also have a strong history and market longevity our customers can rely on.

The economic outlook is challenging, but this industry is strong, innovative and resilient. So, let’s look forward with confidence and belief.

Bradley Gaunt Managing Director, Made For Trade

Undoubtedly, 2023 will be a challenging year. With the UK remaining in recession for most of it and inflation at a 40 year high, you could be excused for feeling the blues. However, there can be a silver lining to this.

Companies shouldn’t lose sight of fundamental principles; supporting both customers and employees are two elements that can help underpin a business’ success. Additionally, improving internal systems should also be a focus to ensure companies are as lean as possible for when the markets bounce back.

Clearly there will be casualties in this and so ensuring robust supply chains are place, will be crucial.

In terms of consumer spending confidence, it will undoubtedly come down to which products are being considered. Although White PVC might be significantly impacted, the aspirational, ‘extension’ type products could still be popular with the more affluent type of customer, resulting in relatively stable sales.

There are few certainties in life at the moment. But knowing you can get your DoorCo slabs and cassettes when you need them, delivered next day*, is one of them.

Consistent stock levels for all our products, backed by a dedicated distribution service, means no matter what order comes through your door, our stock is always ready to come to you. Choose from ORiGINAL foam core slabs, GRiPCORE solid timber core slabs and FLiP cassette system, now available for any slab on the market from 44mm to 70mm thickness.

Martin Hitchin CEO, REHAU UK

It is no secret that the cost-of-living crisis affected consumer demand in 2022. The market, which had previously experienced growth over the pandemic and in its aftermath, stabilised as purchasing budgets shrunk and discretionary spending previously allocated to home improvements were allocated elsewhere.

“These fluctuations mean it is extremely difficult to predict levels of demand in 2023, but we do expect the current crises to potentially affect spending on larger projects in Q1 at least. However, we are still expecting big things for

REHAU this coming year – we are a strong brand and are planning multiple product launches, which we are very confident about.

“Alongside our continued investment in our product portfolio, we have a clear strategy of sustainable growth insofar as plant infrastructure and research and development is concerned. We continue to allocate significant sums in these areas and are most definitely on track with our business goals for this next year and beyond. Overall, we remain optimistic and very confident for 2023.

Andrew Scott Managing Director, Purplex

This year has certainly been another one for the records books, with companies managing the fallout from the pandemic, ongoing cost of living crisis as well as the increase in energy bills.

While the supply chain problems have calmed somewhat, the drop in demand since the lockdown home improvement boom has meant that many companies are having to rethink their approach to sales and marketing.

Many suppliers and installers haven’t had to actively sell their products for the last two years –‘selling’ has been more of an order-taking process – but companies are now having to get back out there and start winning business ahead of the competition.

Here at Purplex we’ve noticed a sharp increase in demand from companies keen to get their brand back out into the market, and my team is in the process of devising strategies for a host of new clients ready for the new year.

2023 will be very tough economically, but fortune favours the brave, and the companies that invest and put their foot on the accelerator will come out stronger on the other side.

Stuart Dantzic Managing Director, Caribbean Blinds

Despite the recession, 2023 promises to be an exciting year for the home improvement sector. The pandemic showed us that whilst consumers will be more prudent with spending, they will still invest in their homes.

The market will become more refined due to the likely closure of companies offering more sub-standard products and services, whilst those offering quality products and services will remain successful, and those with strong brand identities will see the greatest number of leads and sales.

Our recently completed 10,000 sq/ft factory extension has allowed us to hold much higher stocks, resulting in less price volatility and shorter lead times of two weeks across our range of quality external shading products.

We are also tapping into the DIY market with our new range of awnings that will provide customers with access to premium awnings without the fluffultimately helping to grow the industry and create further awareness.

Commercial projects will also be a large focus as many establishments look to capitalise on year-round solutions so they can profit from their available outdoor space 365 days a year.

Rob McGlennon Managing Director, Deceuninck

How your 2023 is going to pan out comes back to your choice of product and commercial partners. Premium products - flush casements, colour - will continue to sell, because that is what the people who will still have the cash in 2023 want. Energy efficiency gives them a reason to buy.

Our energy calculator shows how increased energy costs are reducing payback times on new windows and doors, with savings of up to £1,400 per year.

If you have cash to spare the figures for the first time add up. Energy efficiency will drive window and door sales in 2023 and into the medium term.

I don’t believe the economic situation is catastrophic either. Some cooling of the housing market, say 6-8% won’t cause homeowners too much pain and may in fact support increased activity later in the year.

We’re where we were prepandemic, and we need to return to disciplines that won us business thenidentifying opportunities and fulfilling them through the right product and service offer and a little hard work.

Roy Frost Managing Director, Listers

Energy efficiency is going to be a foundation for everything that we do this year, so being in a position to fit windows and doors which comfortably meet Part L - but more importantly are also effective in helping homeowners to lower their energy bills – is key.

That’s reflected in our own offer. R9, R7, our Timeless Flush Casement window, Sheerline. We’re also working with our other partners, Doorco, Eurocell, Veka, Reynaers and Kubu, to bring further innovations to our product range and greater stability to prices. This is dependent on our ability to develop and retain the right people. We introduced a £1,000 cost of living allowance for all nonmanagerial staff in May last year [2022]. We made that increase permanent at the end of 2022 and have also committed to move to the new higher national minimum wage ahead of time.

We do it because it directly translates into the service and support that we’re able to offer our customers.

Products will take us so far but it’s our people who will drive us and our customers forward in the months ahead.

Colin St John Commercial Director, Freefoam

Covid-19, war in Ukraine and lingering impacts of Brexit have pushed climate change and sustainability onto page two. But in 2023, they will inexorably move to the top of page one.

Most companies haven’t got their heads around sustainability and are responding inappropriately with incomprehensible gobbledegook and empty gestures. But today’s savvy consumers see that as deliberately misleading Greenwashing.

Freefoam is taking the challenge seriously to monitor and reduce the impact of our business activities on the environment. We’ve taken sustainability and continuous improvement to the root of our business. By applying Circular Economy thinking to our work and projects, in conjunction with ‘Lean Manufacturing’, we’re delivering sustainable solutions.

We accept the responsibility to demonstrate our credentials to customers as we transition from a linear to a Circular Economy company. What does that mean? It’s a call to action to reduce, reuse and recycle, enabling the re-use and circulation of resources, retaining economic value, and eliminating waste.

Elton Boocock Managing Director, Business Pilot

Things are going to be different this year but with a Fit Show on the horizon, lots of great new product developments – and in the case of Business Pilot, new features coming online - there are still lots of opportunities ahead. The market was down around 10% year-on-year at the end of 2022. That’s not unexpected. Post-pandemic we’re back to operating in a market which is essentially mature - but which is still delivering opportunity.

The big difference is that the fat that was in the system in 2020, 2021 and for much of 2022, is no longer there. You’re not going to be able to afford to let leads slip through the net; you’re going to need to work smarter and more effectively - maybe even on a reduced head count; and you’re definitely going to need to know where you’re making and where you’re losing money.

As a business management tool and CRM, that’s what we’re here to help you to do.

Jon Vanstone Chairman, Certass Trade Association

I foresee positive changes in 2023. I recently attended a meeting with the leaders of competence from industry, Government and Building Safety Regulator. It became evident that there is real hunger from the top for Government and industry to work together more closely moving forward so that we can accelerate the speed of change that needs to happen in the construction, retrofitting and improvement of our buildings in the UK.

Competence is a key word in the creation of the Building Safety Regulator and the plan is to not only create better and clearer guidance on sector standards but also give real clarification on how we as a sector can achieve it, developed by industry and supported by Government.

Too often consumers and residents look at our industry, fuelled by high profile failures, with huge scepticism. By collaborating in action as opposed to just words, 2023 is going be a time where visible and much-needed change and improvement is made.

Tracey Jackson Business Development Manager, Howells Patent Glazing

The short answer is yes!

2022 has been another turbulent year for the industry, with rocketing material and energy costs.  We must be proud of how we have maintained our businesses throughout. Even if there has been little actual growth in real terms, the fact we are still here shouting about our industry is testimony to our resilience and tenacity. This is what we will bring to 2023, along with a loyal and appreciated workforce.

Sadly, last year we were rocked by the sudden and unexpected loss of our contracts manager Dave Bennett, a longstanding key member of our team.  Well-liked and respected, Dave worked for Howells for nearly 30 years and was integral in growing and developing the business.

We are hoping for stability in 2023 - that price increases will start to slow down and return to or err toward more normal levels; there will be a stable and more harmonious government; inflation will settle down; and we can start to realise our stalled plans for innovation and growth.

John Park-Davies Managing Director, Vertik-Al and IKON Aluminium

Entering my thirty eighth year in the built environment sector, it’s hard not to reflect on past experiences to try and make sense of what’s occurred over the past few years, and how such events seem to repeat themselves over time.

Having worked through several recessions, various world conflicts, many industrial disputes, and countless other notable events, it’s our experience that enables us to focus on the future and tackle all the challenges we encounter.

Like each New Year, I am looking forward to welcoming 2023 with open arms. It’s going to be an exciting year on many fronts. We have a great deal of investment planned for new plant and equipment, and training and developing our people - we have a terrific team of 200 people supporting all our efforts across multiple sites.

We will continue our sensational journey providing best in class quality products and maintaining our market leading service across the architectural aluminium coating and fixed ventilation sectors. I wish you all a prosperous 2023.

Kurt Greatrex Sales Director, Dekko Window Systems

Innovation and investment have certainly been the themes for 2022, and at Dekko, we started off the year by selling a 70% stake of the business to leading European group Inwido, an investment which has facilitated significant product development.

Our year was dominated by the launch of the world’s first fully seamless window, thanks to an exclusivity agreement with machinery expert Haffner.

The new window is complete with transoms and mullions, as well as cruciforms and reverse butt welding, achievable only with Haffner’s new Graf Synergy machine.

We also teamed up with Kubu in order to offer the new window with smart security sensors, providing security smart alerts through the dedicated Kubu app.

With this significant addition to our product portfolio, we’re offering our customers something they can’t get elsewhere – a unique product that will help them succeed.

It’s investments like these, that if continued, as we at Dekko plan to do, will help the industry thrive into 2023 and beyond.

Michael Hewitt Sales Director, AT Precision

Having secured several key investments in the past 12 months, 2022 was certainly a success for AT Precision.

One of the most significant investments has been to add aluminium profile to our product offering, an addition that has transformed AT Precision into a one-stop shop –fabricators can now source everything they need to manufacture a bi-fold door directly from us, saving time, money, and hassle.

Following the pandemic, the industry is hungry for growth, and one sector in particular that’s seeing significant progress is aluminium.

I definitely see that trend continuing well into the new year, and at AT Precision, we’re more than ready to meet the demand, thanks to our new profile offering, and our recent relocation to a new 120,000 square foot manufacturing facility.

Despite an economic recession and a very challenging few months ahead for the UK economy as a whole, I do believe that by embracing innovation and investment as we have, the industry will thrive and see a prosperous 2023.

Sean Greenall Managing Director, Premier Arches

Looking ahead to 2023, the economy as a whole is facing a tough year, with the fenestration industry of course no exception.

But while a demand for home improvement products has certainly slowed, thanks to a widespread cost of living crisis, I believe there will continue to be higher earning households who would prefer to invest in premium products – such as the arched and angled frames supplied by Premier Arches.

Keeping up with demand is something we’ve always prided ourselves on, and by sticking to our business’s three core principles of exceptional manufacturing quality, excellent service, and a ‘make life easier’ offering, we can ensure our customers are well equipped with the premium products they need to get –and stay – ahead.

With this fresh approach to fabrication, we plan on re-shaping the future of profile bending, helping our customers deliver the premium, innovative products that are in demand, and being the reliable supplier they can trust during turbulent times.

Dave Thomas CEO, Haffner Ltd

As the market tightens, there’s an increasing focus on products that appeal to consumers who still have discretionary spending power. For this market, the answer is premium products that combine exceptional aesthetics with modern day technical, security and thermal efficiency benefits. These high-end products rightly attract a price premium because in part, they’re more complex to fabricate and outstanding quality has to be a given, so there’s less margin for error in manufacture.

The solution is always machine automation which delivers impressive efficiency and outstanding quality every time. And for fabricators looking to turbo-charge their quality in 2023, our exclusive Graf Synergy patented machines take manufacturing excellence to the next level with its seamless weld technology. The machines are suitable for fabricators manufacturing feature-rich products, but they are equally appropriate for high volume casement output because they deliver high levels of automation throughout the entire fabrication process.

In today’s fast-moving world, standing still is actually going backwards. Intelligent investment in machine automation now, puts you one step ahead today – and future proofs your business going forward too.

Angela Griffin Head of Marketing, Tyman UK and Ireland

With the private housing RMI market forecast to decline in 2023, we have planned for an initial decrease in consumer sales, however, we are not expecting this to continue for an extended period.

We will be utilising this time as an opportunity to continue to innovate and accelerate our expansive new product development programme, which includes both smart technology and traditional mechanical hardware.

Drawing on our 180 years of design and manufacturing experience, in addition to the support of Tyman UK and Ireland, we are in a strong

position to help accelerate window and door manufacturers’ growth throughout 2023. This includes supporting their entry into the smart home security market, as we continue to make significant investments in this area.

With the guidance of our inhouse engineering experts, in addition to the services of our UKAS accredited test house, we can continue to provide customers with high quality bespoke and standard products that set the standards for security, whilst meeting upcoming legal changes, such as the pending PAS 24:2022 updates.

John Crittenden Managing Director, Carl F Groupco

While the headlines look gloomy, when you look closely, the outlook for 2023 has some positive signs.

The premium end of the market is still growing and shouldn’t be as negatively impacted by the cost-ofliving crisis. Even at the value end of the market our customers are still reporting full order books, perhaps in part driven by energy price rises.

We are hearing reports that fabricators in the commercial and social housing sectors are still getting contracts, albeit at slightly lower volumes due to increased budgetary pressures.

However, if the past couple of years have taught us anything, it’s to expect the unexpected.

We’ve been in business for over 70 years, and we’ve thrived and survived through several economic peaks and troughs. Our inventory currently stands at £5 million so we can maintain on time in full deliveries and continue supplying our customers with an extensive range of premium quality window and door hardware from Europe’s most innovative manufacturers.

In turbulent times, it makes sense to seek stability wherever you can, and that stability is available with Carl F Groupco.

Victoria Brocklesby COO, Origin

We anticipate that next year will bring lots of twists and turns, just like any other! As homeowners continue to feel the impact of rising living costs, we expect to see larger-scale renovation projects taking more of a back seat in favour of smaller projects that can instantly make a cosmetic difference to a home whilst also improving thermal efficiency. We’re already seeing an increase in front door enquiries, for instance, so we’ll be focussing on how we can support our Partners through this shift in priorities for homeowners. Our other focus will be preparing for the Future Homes Standard. To maintain our position as a leading manufacturer, our in-house R&D department will be working hard to redesign parts of our products to ensure we continue to meet and exceed building regulations.

2022 has been a positive year for us as a business, and we’re up for the challenge that 2023 is sure to bring.

Pete Temprell Managing Director, Schüco UK & Ireland

2022 has been a year of uncertainty and we expect this to continue into 2023, not just in the UK but globally. The ongoing conflict in the Ukraine, energy prices impacting inflation and increasing interest rates continue to impact the construction sector and cause disruption to global supply chains.

The CPA’s November forecasts indicate a fall in construction output in 2023 which will impact the commercial sector and also public and private housing in particular. High construction costs and worsening economic prospects give cause for concern around the progress of new commercial tower projects that are reliant on up-front financial investment. However, the focus on refurbishment and change of use in the commercial sector is expected to continue.

Schüco will approach 2023 with caution, focusing on customer service and providing our customers with knowledge and expertise that enhances project tenders, management and delivery. Schüco are well known for product innovation and will continue to invest in new product development in 2023 to meet the changing demands of the sector.

Cath Wright Director of Operations, RoofWright

It is clear the economic, political, indeed global landscapes as we enter 2023 are challenging. But there is little any of us can do to influence those facts, all we can do is think about how to maximise business potential to not only sustain our companies but grow them.

At RoofWright our plan is clear, invest in technology and innovate great new products to satisfy consumer demand. In an increasingly high-tech world consumers buying conservatories, orangeries and garden rooms want their vision brought to life in front of their eyes before committing to an investment.

The launch of our Augmented Reality programme at the end of 2022 gave those using it a significant advantage over competitors doing things in a more ‘traditional way’. Augmented Reality is a demonstration of what our industry can do, and by leading innovation we can secure market share against other competing industries. 2023 is a time for us all to commit to what we believe in.

Mick Clayton CEO, GQA

I imagine most business leaders were glad to see the back of the political and economic upheaval of 2022. Throughout it all, the fenestration industry continued to experience skills shortages, and will continue to do so in the coming years.

While other industries prioritise training and qualifications in the knowledge that this promotes business growth and intelligent succession planning, the fenestration industry - I believe – is lagging behind. The good news is that more employers than ever are alive to the issue of the skills gap; but more still needs to be done to raise and maintain standards in the industry through the provision of training and the acquisition of qualifications.

At GQA, at the beginning of 2022, we celebrated twenty years of writing qualifications, and our network of training centres is going from strength to strength. I would like to see the fenestration industry get on the same footing as those industries which really value employee career development, and which can therefore attract talent more easily.

Mark Handley Partnerships Manager,

Building Our Skills

During 2022 it’s true that at times the British economy and political landscape felt surreal. We’ve had a year of multiple prime ministers and economic upheaval. However, nothing has changed a particular constant in the fenestration industry: its need for new talent. This industry’s need to keep on attracting new recruits has not changed. I do, however, believe that things are improving in this regard. More and more employers are joining us in communicating the fact that this industry is not just about installing windows, but that it offers over 50 career paths.

More are signing up to our ‘Inspiration Days’ programme, designed to open up industry factories for school visits. Others are coming forward for our ‘Inspiring the Future’ campaign, which sees them go into schools and talk to youngsters about what they could achieve in their future careers.

Whether it’s upskilling employers’ existing workforces or getting fresh talent into the industry, we can do it if we all pull together.

Nigel Levers Managing Director, Frame Fast

2022 was another funny old year wasn’t it. We celebrated our 25th anniversary in style, culminating in our summer Frame Fest event when we partied with the team, suppliers, customers and friends.

However, we ended the year with lots of economic uncertainty, with rising energy bills, interest rates and in the shadow of a recession. But as we have always done at Frame Fast we’re forgetting the negative picture and focusing on the positives. Is it as bad as they are making out? No, it’s not – not in my opinion.

I’m the kind of person that looks forward - I don’t tend to look backwards. As an industry, we have to concentrate on the gains that we can achieve, while also keeping a close eye on the situation. Even if the recession does

take hold, I’m confident that it won’t be as hard-hitting as the last one we experienced in 2008.

That one was a self-made banking issue, while this one is something that will only affect people’s spending habits for a short period of time. So I’m hopeful that it won’t hit businesses in the long-term.

As for Frame Fast, we’re motoring on with our expansion plans this year. Work on our new 10,000 sq.ft. roofing / aluminium facility is almost complete. We have some exciting innovations to shout about in the New Year – so we’re looking forward to a good year.

Mike Parczuk, Managing Director, Sternfenster

One of the biggest threats facing the window and door industry – and, in fact, many other industries – is the lack of skilled labour. And, as I write this, just before Christmas 2022, many industries and professions have either announced strike action, or are awaiting the results of ballots.

For an owner of a business which relies on a human workforce, such news is disconcerting.

But it needn’t be like this. We decided a few years ago that the best way to build, maintain and reward a happy and engaged workforce was to implement a framework devised by Investors in People. Consequently, we won a Silver Award, and then – in November 2022 –a Gold Award.

This isn’t about slapping ourselves on the back and celebrating pretty badges, this is about us choosing a path that not only benefits our colleagues, but makes us a stronger business as a result.

And, as a business leader, I cannot recommend it highly enough.

Nickie West Event Director, FIT Show

We’re entering a very exciting year for FIT Show as we celebrate a decade since our launch. FIT Show 2023 is already shaping up to be a very special installment with over 80% of space now allocated and a real buzz and excitement building for our return later this year.

There is no denying that we have weathered a very challenging period across the industry, but I am filled with excitement and optimism for the year ahead. If there’s one thing we can rely on this year, it’s that our industry will pull together, persevere and prosper no matter what challenges may lie ahead. I’d like to say a very happy New Year to each and every one of our FIT Show Family. I can’t wait to welcome the entire industry back to FIT Show in May when we come together to celebrate a decade of innovation, and ten years of being the UK’s number one event for the windows, doors, glass, glazing, hardware and components industry. Thank you to everyone within our community for your continued support.

Dave Broxton Managing Director, Bohle

Heading into 2023, we expect to see a dip in consumer spending. This is only concerning if you are not prepared for it, and a slowdown in 2023 shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone.

We know there will still be significant opportunities for home improvement companies, especially at the higher end of the market, and this is driving our product development plans.

We have decided to focus our attention on developing glass hardware that offers window installers new profitable opportunities inside the house as well as outside – allowing them to be less dependent on their traditional doors, windows and conservatories.

While we are best known for glass processing products, we now have exceptional ranges of hardware solutions that are easy to install and deliver profitable diversification. These include shower hardware, internal sliding door hardware, Juliet balconies, and balustrading systems.

You’ll be able to learn more at the FIT Show in May, where all forwardthinking companies will be meeting to discuss new opportunities.

Keeling-Heane Sales Director, Senior Architectural Systems

Over the last twelve months, we’ve been strengthening our position as the UK’s largest privately owned aluminium systems house.

Our established range of Part L compliant solutions have allowed our customers to hit the ground running, we have extended our manufacturing and storage capacity to better meet demand, and we are continuing to focus on reducing the environmental impact of our operations.

It’s been a challenging time for the industry but our commitment to our customers remains our key focus and looking ahead, we’ll be working closely with all members of our supply chain to share in the opportunities that the new year will bring.

As we take on bigger and more complex contracts, and make several investments into our inhouse services including our powder coating facility and delivery fleet, we have every reason to be optimistic for 2023 and after the industry-wide disruptions of recent years, that makes a refreshing change!

Faisal Hussain Chief Executive, Double Glazing & Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS)

As we embark on the new year, my focus for the next 12 months is clear: for DGCOS to continue to champion better mental health within our industry. In 2022, we learned a lot as an organisation and as a sector about just how widespread mental health issues are, and what huge gaps there are in wellbeing and emotional support mechanisms. It is however extremely positive that this important topic is coming to the fore.

DGCOS is never afraid to tackle what may sometimes seem like insurmountable challenges and we’re determined to continue our campaign with some real mental health solutions that we will be launching this year in partnership with leading mental health charities that work within the construction sector, like Mates In Mind, Band of Builders and Lighthouse.

Between them and with our industry specific input, we want to make mental health support accessible, stigmafree and industry-relevant with a bespoke package aimed at helping installers and fabricators improve mental wellbeing in their businesses and personal lives.

Steve Hacking Managing Director. SupaLite

At SupaLite, we feel we’ve risen to the challenges that 2022 has thrown our way and although the economic outlook for 2023 is uncertain, we will continue to maintain the highest standards for ourselves and our customers.

For example, we’ve seen our new customer base more than double over the past 12 months. At a time when price rises and supply issues are affecting businesses of all sizes, this is no small achievement.

We’ve also launched brand new products into the conservatory market and have made investments, like attending trade fairs and even producing a TV advert, to support the installers who are part of our Registered Installer Scheme.

In 2022 we celebrated a fantastic first decade in the industry, and as we look forward to the future. We’re still as determined as we were in 2012 to boost our profile and build on our reputation by investing in our products and people to drive our business to new heights in 2023.

James

Elevate

Why installers choose Elevate by Liniar

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Every lantern roof benefits from patented elements and the latest in thermally efficient technology.

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combinations to match the rest of the Liniar product range.

Dave Jackson Managing Director, Icotherm

While there’s an element of seasonality for the solid roof sector, we’re genuinely upbeat about the prospects for 2023 given the performance and technical capability of our range of roofing solutions. The business has grown strongly throughout 2022 and we expect this trend to continue throughout 2023 and beyond with several large retail partners now coming on board.

We’re fully focussed on providing roofing solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s legislative requirements and we’ve got a roof chassis that performs better than

ever, using proven, premium construction grade timbers. There’s no need for any undercladding to our system, making compliance easy along with the installation process, however complex the project.

But we’ll also be looking to invest further within the business in 2023 in terms of business operations, manufacturing and in marketing. We want to be the standout brand in the solid roof sector with expert resources on hand including a structural engineer to support our network of installation partners, so in 2023 we’ll look to excel in all business areas.

Martin Nettleton Euroglaze

As a mid-sized PVC-U trade fabricator, the accepted narrative for 2023 is that things are going to be tough. But I’m remarkably bullish. I think a competitive market will finally weed out some of those zombie PVC-U fabricators who have been coasting along in this market for far too long, providing inconsistent quality and less than efficient customer service - and with neither the resources nor the will to improve.

Installation businesses simply won’t be able to tolerate that anymore when they are under real pressure themselves and will instead have to look for fabrication partners like Euroglaze where they can take product quality and delivery reliability for granted and where they know they will always get a great customer experience. We’ve had customers tell us that since they switched to buying from Euroglaze, they’re saving upwards of 500 hours a year that they would have wasted trying to sort out issues with their previous supplier. In a tough market, those 500 hours will become even more significant than ever.

Managing Director, AluFold Direct

Realistically, I think we can expect 2023 to be a tough year for some. Demand amongst middle income earners is likely to be suppressed by a mix of rising inflation and uncertainty around the housing market, and that will have a disproportionate impact on the mainstream PVC-U sector.

By contrast, I think the aluminium sector will hold up much better – just because the kind of affluent, aspirational homeowners who tend to choose aluminium will inevitably be more sheltered from the cost-of-living crisis.

If anything, it might just be the tipping point that lots of PVC-U companies need to venture into aluminium for the first time – whether that’s fabricators looking to buy in from a reliable supplier rather than spending time and resources setting up for themselves, or installers finally adding aluminium windows, sliders and bifolds to their portfolio.

Now that our mission is complete at AluFold Direct to transform ourselves into the kind of fabricator that makes buying and fitting in aluminium as easy as it is in PVC-U, we’re excited about the opportunities ahead.

Daniel The Rooflight Company, Innovation Director

2023 will be an interesting year to navigate, for everyone, not just in the fenestration industry. Homeowners will continue to be impacted by the rising cost of living, and we anticipate they will look for ways to improve the energy efficiency of their homes without taking on full-scale, big-budget renovation projects. Instead, they will look for more ‘quick fixes’ such as upgrading an existing rooflight with a more thermally efficient version.

This will be particularly important for period properties which are synonymous with draughts. Conservation Officers will be busy advising periodhomeowners on the best heritage-style products available, that perform well but meet planning requirements.

Feeding further into this will be retrofitting projects, which we think will grow in importance. The Future Homes Standard will revolutionise new properties, but there are masses of existing buildings throughout the UK that have poor energy efficiency. Getting these up to scratch will be a significant undertaking but will pay dividends in the future.

Walker National Sales Manager, Barrier Components Ltd

Following the very hard trading conditions experienced during the Covid Pandemic and the depressing projected outlook provided by the Bank of England, looking ahead to 2023 is like gazing into a crystal ball. Having Traded profitably despite these challenges the future appears to be full of opportunities for Barrier Components Ltd with an established range already in stock covering wide ranging specifications.

During 2023 we will be launching new products which include our new Marine Grade Vista Elite Bi-folding hardware solution for timber and composite systems together with new Internal Sliding Door and Gate Hardware.

With investment in New products, a proactive approach to development and established partnerships with our suppliers and customers our expectations are very positive and we look forward to meeting the challenges of 2023.

Howard Trotter Business Manager, Shelforce

We didn’t see a big downturn in 2022 and political instability hasn’t really affected us with the business or our supply chain. We have seen the impact of the pound against the dollar but that’s a pricing issue and it hasn’t made people buy or order less.

2023 for us is going to be busy and I can see even more growth.

Fire doors is one thing, and that market has grown in the last two years enormously, and we’ve gone from manufacturing 40 doors a week to 200 and that is just set to continue.

We are currently having conversations with other Local Authorities to see if we can supply them with our Fireshel fire door. When it comes to fire protection Local Authorities want to buy certifiable doors from reputable organisations and our own personal integrity, reputation and the type of business is attractive.

Energy efficiency will also continue to be a big issue, not just for Local Authorities but within private homes. With energy prices set to rise again in April, people are going to continue to look at how they can keep their homes warm, and windows and doors are a big part of that.

Mark Haley Managing Director, HWL

2023 isn’t going to be without its challenges but we’re looking forward to it.

We’ve got some exciting products coming down the line. We’re already manufacturing the complete Sheerline range and will add the Prestige Inline Sliding Door to our offer in the early part of this year.

Aluminium has been important in supporting our growth this year, as has our decision to focus on premium products. The Residence Collection has been another big seller.

Sheerline and Residence Collection comfortably meet Part L requirements.

The Part L new build transition period will end in June, which means whatever you’re fitting has got to meet the regs. That makes energy efficiency important this year, even before you bring end-user demand into the equation.

Rising energy prices put a squeeze on household incomes but also generates opportunity. Our strategy to focus on a comparatively small range of premium products but to do them well is working and it’s a sector of the market that will continue to generate opportunity this year.

Graham

Peter

Russell Yates

Robert Thiroff Managing Director, profine UK

We have bold plans for 2023 and the hope is that raw material prices will stabilise as well as energy. From a group perspective, our profine Energy venture will also help mitigate fluctuating energy costs in the long-term and we are also looking towards a €1 billion commitment in Bulgaria.

Closer to home the site continues to benefit from investment by profine Group as does the product range and marketing with the launch of the new corporate identity. There will be a new range of literature that will be launched in 2023 to reflect the new branding, along with the opening of our new design centre.

It will also be a year in which our newly branded Greenline system will come to the fore as a sister brand to Kömmerling, with a distinctive green core, a similar strategy to Warmcore, that will also enjoy marketing investment. The market leading flush sash, 70mm and 76mm platforms, along with the vertical sliding sash window will also form an important part of our overall product strategy.

Stephen Nadin Managing Director, Endurance Doors

Political and economic uncertainties aside, Endurance Doors will again look to increase market share in 2023 as the preferred solid timber composite door partner for the trade. Our online reputation is excellent, as is the feedback from our Installer Partners and so customer care will as always be high on our agenda.

We’ll also be looking to invest more than ever in our marketing programme, with an expanded department and many new ideas to realise. At the same time our retail showroom in Brigg has proven to be hugely successful and will look to open other similar environments in strategic areas to support our customers.

From a product perspective we expect more installers to upsell to our ultra-premium Avantal door, which is a benchmark for style, finish and quality and is proving to be a focal point in retail environments across the UK. For the last two years we have seen a demand from homeowners for better products and that’s certainly good news for us and our Installer Partners.

Ryan Bromley Co-founder, Kubu Smart

The Kubu team are hugely excited about the prospects for 2023, where we’ll become part of the wider smart home market thanks to the launch of the retro-fit sensor. It means we can offer Kubu across all window and door types regardless of material, offering real-life smart security features.

Our manufacturing partners and Pro Installers are already finding new ways in which to market smart windows and doors and with an App that’s already enjoyed several years of on-going development, there’s complete reassurance that it operates effortlessly. As Kubu is part of an integrated business through Avantis International, there’s also none of the risk associated with outsourcing software, firmware or hardware development.

The market for smart sensor technology will come of age early in 2023 as we formally launch these retrofit and window sensors. With some of the industries biggest names already using Avantis Hardware, the ‘Works With’ platform will also be opened up to other hardware companies, as Kubu lays claim to be the most trusted and widely accepted smart standard for windows and doors.

Ron Crowl General Manager, Cyncly

There is going to be one key defining feature of successful companies in 2023: agility.

We have a fairly good idea where the opportunities are coming from over the next few months – households with the money to spend are choosing highend energy efficient products.

As a result, many window fabricators have adjusted their product ranges accordingly: moving from high volume products to niche specialist items, which demand a higher margin.

This approach is easy in theory, but actually requires a lot of investment, especially in stock, floorspace and workforce.

Get this wrong, and you could find yourself losing money, especially if you are moving into aluminium from PVC-U and taking on a lot of colour orders.

Window Designer from First Degree Systems can help you optimise your designs, reduce stock holding, and speed up your processes.

Together, we can make you more agile, and prepare you for the next opportunity.

Gary Morton CEO, Central Window Systems

After an incredible couple of years for fenestration, we’re now officially in recession.

Given the soaring cost of energy, sharply rising inflation, and the autumn currency crisis, this was inevitable.

It’s hardly ideal – but as an industry, I’m confident that we’re in a good position to weather it, and possibly come out stronger the other side.

I expect demand to decline, but that the impact will be softened by continued demand from the higher end of the market and the commercial sector.

However, that will make competition a lot tougher – meaning it will be more important than ever to offer outstanding products and service.

At Central, we’ve invested £890k in machinery this year, and expanded our 54,000 square foot factory to allow us to make up to 1,700 frames per week.

We’re already planning to spend another £212k in 2023, meaning we’ll be even better equipped to support our customers through whatever the coming year brings.

Jeremy Phillips CDW Systems Group Chairman

The expected downturn never arrived this year and we continue to be in a situation where it’s still quite difficult to predict what the year ahead holds.

I don’t think we are going to see vast increases in turnover, and we are working on it as being about the same as this year.

The challenge will be depending on things that are out of our control; if we have a really cold winter, for example, that will cost people money and that will reduce their disposable income on the retail side of things.

Commercially we’re still seeing a lot of projects that were stopped during Covid now coming to the fore, so if the retail side slows down then we’re expecting the commercial side to fill any gap.

Both domestic and commercial customers want the best U-values within their budget and we’re finding our trade customers are getting challenged more on what U-value they can provide.

So, the focus for us this year will be making sure our product range is as energy efficient as possible.

Sam Nuckey, Managing Director, Window Ware

Looking ahead, it’s fair to say our economic and political landscape remains uncertain and with forecasts of a UK recession, it’s difficult to predict what 2023 will bring.

Having said that, although the market softened in 2022, there wasn’t the decisive post-boom downturn that everyone was expecting. Indeed Window Ware has continued to see strong sales and even managed to hit some major sales milestones along the way.

Nevertheless, given the high inflation, rising interest rates and static wages in this country, it’s inevitable that household finances will be feeling the pinch over the coming year. And while this could help to dampen the property market, it may well encourage cautious homeowners to consider investing in home improvements instead of moving.

It's true there are still plenty of unknowns ahead, but I hope 2023 marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Window Ware. As one of the company’s proud new owners, I promise the senior leadership team and I are fully invested in its future and 100% committed to ensuring Window Ware is well placed to provide the agile, stable, and dependable hardware supply our customers need to face any challenge.

Andy Royle Leads 2 Trade, Co-Founder and Director

While the false boom during the pandemic was always going to slow down, it hasn’t been anywhere near as steep as we thought it might be. We have seen increases in search volume and enquiries for products around saving energy, such as double glazing, replacement conservatory roofs and solar panels in the latter part of 2022 and we see consumer interest remaining high for those items that will help homeowners reduce their energy bills in 2023 despite the cost-of-living crisis, so it’s far from doom and gloom.

Lower income earners might tighten their belts, but middle-high earners will still spend, and we expect more installers to diversify in 2023 and add different products to their portfolios to target those different age and income demographics.

Order books and quote books for installers are drying up and they are not getting as many leads from their self-generating efforts, and we expect to see some movement from our installer network, with two of our biggest accounts already back on board for 2023.

Yvette Kirk Project Director, MRA Research

Who could have guessed how 2022 turned out? What’s on the cards for 2023?

Should you dig in for recession, say bye-bye to marketing and research and wait for the green shoots of recovery in 2024?

Three things before you do:

1. There are two sectors in every home improvement market. The mass market is flatlining but premium is still busy.

2. Research over the last few recessions has shown that those who cut back risk permanent harm, while those who invest in marketing and research do well.

3. Home improvement supply chains are long and difficult to connect end-toend. Insightful research that connects the journey is key to effective marketing.

Before you go dark until recession ends, think what competitive advantage you want for your brand and ask what research will help you build it.

If you aim to grow profitably in recession and want insight to add boosters to your marketing, ask Yvette Kirk, Project Director, MRA Research, at yvette@mra-research.co.uk.

Greg Beachim Sales Manager, First Degree Systems

There is going to be one key defining feature of successful companies in 2023: agility.

We have a fairly good idea where the opportunities are coming from over the next few months – households with the money to spend are choosing high-end energy efficient products.

As a result, many window fabricators have adjusted their product ranges accordingly: moving from high volume products to niche specialist items, which demand a higher margin.

This approach is easy in theory, but actually requires a lot of investment, especially in stock, floorspace and workforce.

Get this wrong, and you could find yourself losing money, especially if you are moving into aluminium from PVC-U and taking on a lot of colour orders.

Window Designer from First Degree Systems can help you optimise your designs, reduce stock holding, and speed up your processes.

Together, we can make you more agile, and prepare you for the next opportunity.

Danny Jones Technical Director, Kall Kwik Machinery

We’re always looking toward the future at Kall Kwik. 2022 has been a year of massive change for all of us here at Kall Kwik. It’s been a year that kept us busy despite some changes within the industry and some even bigger changes handed down by Government. We’ve been steadfast on delivering our ACE guarantee of advice, care, and engineering expertise to our customers and growing our team to include even more incredible engineering talent. We have every reason to believe that 2023 will be another milestone year for Kall Kwik. We

know that for our customers, budgets have been tight and getting the most out of any new machinery is high on any company’s agenda. Our customers can save themselves money by purchasing our refurbished machinery. This allows you to beat the extended lead times from manufacturers and lets someone else absorb the costs of depreciation on your current machines. If you’re looking for brand new machinery, we’re partnered with Istanbul-based machinery supplier Schtec, bringing their much-desired range to the UK market, alongside our offerings from FOM and URBAN.

Michelle Wright Group Marketing Manager, Glazerite UK Group

This year, the cost-ofliving crisis will change the pace and volume of what we’ve come to expect of late. To combat this, we need to up the ante in marketing. At Glazerite, we’re getting back to basics with a combination of traditional and digital marketing tactics that will help our installers win new business.

When it comes to marketing support, we’ve always worked with our installers on a one-to-one basis, tailoring marketing strategies that will meet their individual needs. Our team is currently working with a number of installers on exciting initiatives that will take them through 2023 and beyond, including brand refreshes, updated social media content and dynamic website builds. We’re also supporting installers who have space for showrooms with design and fit out so they can showcase products at their very best to prospective customers.

Alongside our digital tactics, we recognise the importance of traditional marketing and support our installers with a range of printed collateral including brochures, direct marketing and point of sale materials, which they can brand as their own.

Martin Thurley Group Managing Director, Liniar Ltd

2023 is set to be a truly exciting year for Liniar. Not only will we be breaking ground on site expansion plans that will assure our single-site operation for the next 20+ years, we’re also launching a pioneering new window and door system with Passivhaus capabilities – Zero|90.

Zero|90 will enable fitters to meet stringent Future Homes Standard targets for both new build and retro-fit projects and is another UK-first!

In addition to significant investment in developing sustainable, innovative products and expanding our site, we place equal importance on ensuring our manufacturing processes and facilities are sustainable. Our parent Quanex recently approved a multimillion-pound investment in the installation of solar panels as we proudly continue our journey towards carbon neutrality.

2022 was not without its challenges across the industry once again, but we’re delighted to have delivered to our customers 99% On Time, In Full on every single day this year! We remain focused on the future and are optimistic and excited about what Liniar has to offer in 2023, starting with the Zero|90 launch in January – we look forward to seeing you there!

Jamie Munday Sales Director, Avantek Machinery

We’ve enjoyed another high growth year in 2022, with machinery, spares and consumables sales continuing to increase year on year. The company was also shortlisted as a finalist in the prestigious G Awards Machinery Supplier of the Year category, giving the whole team a boost.

Looking forward to 2023, we’re keen to spread the message that Avantek is much more than just a machinery supplier and can offer stand-alone service contracts to all UK fabricators. In a softening market, it’s more important than ever that manufacturers achieve seamless production with a high-quality finish, in order to maximise efficiencies and enhance customer satisfaction. My message to managers and directors in the fenestration industry is that product quality and customer satisfaction go hand in hand and will be essential in allowing businesses to differentiate themselves and navigate turbulent times. Central to this is well-serviced machinery functioning optimally. Avantek Machinery, supported by parent Quanex, invests heavily in both machinery and spares – and we look forward to working with a wide range of businesses across the industry in the New Year.

Mark Mitchell Chairman, Cornwall Group

The Energy Bill Relief Scheme was a lifeline for tougheners, glass processors, and IGU manufacturers in recent months, pegging electricity prices at 21.1p/ kWh and gas prices at 7.5p/kW, when we were quoted 60p/kWh and 18p/ kWh respectively. And they would have gone significantly higher than that.

But this comes to an end in March, and we need to plan early for the shock that this could cause the industry –some businesses are going to struggle to afford it.

This is compounded by an oversupply of glass and, to maintain volume and lead times, some companies are discounting.

I struggle to understand why anyone would want to start that race to the bottom after going through a period where margins were squeezed and further energy price rises are on the horizon.

Companies need to make a profit to have strong balances to invest for the future, and to see tough times through. Sadly, there are likely to be casualties in glass supply in the year ahead, particularly single process tougheners who are feeling the impact of energy prices most acutely, with little room for manoeuvre.

Nigel Headford Director, Deceuninck Aluminium

While I have been known to talk about ‘quality over quantity’, if you have the right suppliers behind you, you can have both in 2023.

Business is currently coming from homeowners who have the money to improve their properties, and are looking for highend products with the thermal performance to match. These decisions have sometimes been brought forward because saving money on energy bills ultimately reduces the payback time on investment. And those bills are expected to increase again in April 2023.

Also, many homeowners are not just looking for, say, a bi-folding door, but other complementary products –windows, an entrance door, balustrading, for example.

Not only do homeowners want a suited appearance, but companies need the products to sell across all elements, and this is driving our product development going into 2023.

Expect to see the thermal performance you’d expect from Deceuninck Aluminium, plus a flush design, time-saving elements such as pregasketed knock-in beads, and marine grade powder coating as standard.

Richard Gyde Mila

2023 is obviously going to be another challenging year given the cost-ofliving crisis, but that doesn’t mean there won’t still be opportunities. As always, I think we can expect the more premium end of the market to hold up relatively well and there will probably never be a better time to push the energy efficiency benefits of replacement windows and doors.

From a hardware perspective, that means we’re planning for more customers to make the switch to stainless steel as standard as they upgrade their door offerings and we’ve increased stock of our popular Heritage window handles, butt hinges and peg stays which are ideal for the growing flush sash and timber replacement market.

There will be some big news in the New Year from Mila when we unveil our plans for the Mila Test Centre. We’re investing in new facilities, a new testing programme and a new team under the leadership of the highly experienced Dave Vinyard, all designed to ensure that we deliver the most customer focused service in the industry.

The reports in the media aren’t necessarily reflective of the state of our current market. Many installers are still booked up well into the new year, showing that demand is remaining stable and is yet to drop off significantly. When it does inevitably decline, installers may need to fight harder for business, and at Pyramid we’re preparing for this by providing customers with the tools to continue winning business through this period, with increased levels of marketing support.

Having recently joined VEKA’s Independent Network, our customers can get direct access to one of the best installer support networks in the industry, which includes Insurance Backed Guarantees, homeowner lead generation and marketing support, all of which will be crucial once the market begins to become more competitive for installers.

Despite a lot of uncertainty about what the future holds, we’re still positive that our customers have everything they need to make the most out of 2023.

Bailey Pyramid Group

Ian Cocken Director of Sales and Marketing, aluplast

We are currently moving into our new factory in Poland, a new £26 million state-of-the-art extrusion facility on a 15-hectare site, which will include a production hall, a raw material mixing plant alongside technical and R&D facilities.

This could house up to 50 high-tech, high-speed twin extrusion lines – each able to extrude 6m of profile every minute – alongside foiling lines, which will double our already extensive manufacturing capacity.

We are also doubling in size our facility in Tewkesbury, and together these investments will secure the supply of high value products into the UK, such as our flush casement window, and our flush door, which is available as a French door, or as a single outwardopening door. This is also available to fabricators who want to offer the full flush appearance, but can’t access the doors from their current supplier.

aluplast is not owned by venture capitalists, it doesn’t owe millions to the bank, and it takes a measured approach to investment and expansion. As we head into 2023, seeking out stable suppliers like aluplast has never been more important.

Graeme Bailey Business Micros Group

2023 will undoubtedly be the year of TOUCH. It’s been two years since we gave the industry a glimpse of our market changing software and we’re now poised for the full scale roll out as promised.

The TOUCH platform brings together TOUCH Portal for fabricators, which is an online quoting and ordering system using fabricator specific product datasets and TOUCH Branded mode for installers which is a consumer facing quoting and lead generation tool – complete with window and door designer and Home Visualiser.

It’s different to all the other quoting and ordering software out there because it’s linked directly to our Evolution and EvoNET systems, providing a fully integrated, truly end to end system for the first time – all the way from retail enquiry to manufacture.

TOUCH is already live at both Endurance Doors and Comp Door and the list of fabricators who will be going live in 2023 reads like a list of who’s who in the industry. It’s a tough market, but arguably perfect timing for a system like this which focuses on both lead generation and efficiency.

Brunsdon Founder & CEO, Tommy Trinder

Some days it feels like Covid never happened.

But scratch the surface and you realise everything has changed; that the period of contagion, self-isolation, and economic uncertainty has totally altered the way we behave, and things will never be the same again.

We’ve covered “a decade in days” in the adoption of all things digital. 27% of retail purchases are now online (38% amongst the young), visits to an E-doctor have increased ten-fold, online fitness is growing by 42% per year, and twenty times more people use Zoom every day.

If you think double glazing can ignore this trend, you are wrong.

2023 is the year to reinvent; to bring the experience of buying from your business in line with the way consumers live.

So, three things:

1 Ditch the pad and pen

2 Chuck out boring software and replace it with kit that delivers an amazing buying experience.

3 Make selling via Zoom as normal as selling in the house or the showroom.

It’s 2023 – you snooze, you lose.

Sarah Ball Joint MD, Balls2 Marketing and PiGs Organiser

2022 was amazing for PiGs, we had record numbers in Manchester and Birmingham, the FIT Show afterparty with the band was definitely the place to be, and our first time in Bristol was a huge success.

PiGs events are special. The relaxed atmosphere means that the conversations flow and, on more than one occasion, I have seen business rivals chatting together. In fact, I would go further and say that more than just work connections, lasting friendships have been created through PiGs. 2023 looks like it’s going to be even better! The number of people engaging with us through socials is impressive. Sponsors pay only £200 per event, and all monies go towards event costs, including food and drink, which means tickets are FREE to guests. The dates are 23 February in Manchester; 24 May at the FIT Show late night; 15 June in Bristol; 21 September in Birmingham, and 31 October in Atlanta coinciding with Glassbuild America.

See you in 2023!

Tom Rigby Commercial Director, MRA Data Services

2022 was an ‘interesting’ year, as the Chinese say. And 2023 looks like being even more interesting and challenging for businesses and the industry.

It’s tempting to cut spending on marketing and research in recession. But serious research of past recessions has shown that companies who pull their heads in make it easier for other companies to do even better.

In marketing speak, those who zig when most zag, and market strongly using insightful research have done best in previous recessions.

Effective marketing strategy and marketing needs good research. And good research needs comprehensive, accurate, up-to-date, fit for purpose data.

Unfortunately, while some in-house databases and CRM data are very good, most fall well short.

MRA Data Services has provided accurate, reliable data for over 25 years, data to make your marketing work better, and increase your sales and long-term relationships.

If you want data for smart marketing, speak to Tom Rigby, MRA Data Services at tom@mra-data.co.uk.

Sarah Hitchings Sales and Marketing Director, Window

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As we look to 2023, it’s hard to ignore the challenges in our industry. Wider economic downturn, energy price pressures and raw material volatility, coupled with rising interest rates, means growth will be difficult.

Customer demand has remained strong as we end 2022. While the cost of living crisis has led to many consumers tightening their pursestrings, we are equally seeing many customers deciding to invest in their homes, as opposed to selling in an unpredictable property market.

Despite these pressures, there are always opportunities, with new product launches and the chance to spend more strategic time with our customers after the chaos of the past couple of years. We are invested in new tooling and launching a dedicated door system in 2023, which will take us into a new market of entrance doors and complete the full timber alternative suite for our collection. We have also developed a new concealed trickle vent along with further product enhancements to complement our systems, so 2023 will be an exciting time for us.

Chris

Paul

REFLECTIONS ON 2022 AND THE YEAR AHEAD

Bonnie Hodson, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at UAP, reflects on the trends that have shaped 2022 and what lies ahead.

In a year that has been dominated by economic and political upheaval, there have been inevitable challenges for all businesses. For manufacturers, supply chain disruption has also continued as have fluctuating material costs, creating further bumps in the road. But against this backdrop, there are also positive trends which are driving growth in our sector and creating new opportunities.

SMARTER STRATEGIES

We operate in a fast-paced market, where customers’ needs and expectations are constantly changing. This is accelerating new product development with a focus on door hardware that improves security, durability, ease of use and installation.

One of the biggest drivers of new innovation has been the shift towards smart technology. The pandemic, which caused people of all ages to more actively use online

devices, has meant that smart technology is no longer a nice to have. For many homeowners, it is expected and part of daily life.

This trend has seen more electronic door locks come to market in 2022, including the IONIC, which is the first in a series of smart products to be launched under UAP’s Fullex-ai brand. Although the product launched at the end of 2022, it follows five years of extensive research, planning and testing.

This saw us investigate customers’ priorities and the factors needed to provide the best possible experience. We learned that security, ease of use, speed, reliability and flexibility were all essential for end users.

The result is an ultra-secure electronic lock, enabling access via a smartphone App, a fob, push button on the inside, or a thumb turn. Security is enhanced through face recognition, which builds additional authentication into the App and the fobs have been manufactured in a way that prevents them from being cloned.

To continue to meet our customers’ changing needs, UAP has continued to carry out market and customer research over the past 12 months. This will result in the launch of several new products in 2023.

EVOLVING PROCESSES

Keeping pace with customer demands also requires manufacturers’ processes to evolve and that includes investment in new equipment and technology. Automation is a crucial element in this strategy to improve capacity, manufacturing speeds and quality.

At UAP, we have been working on plans to integrate more automated technology into our operations. Our focus is on equipment and processes that will deliver a better customer experience both in terms of delivery times and stock availability.

At the same time, we have to be mindful of our impact on the environment. The need to improve sustainability credentials is key for all businesses and manufacturing is no exception. In the hardware sector, we must take a more proactive approach to deliver positive and tangible change. That is why UAP has launched a new initiative named S.E.E. which aims to go above and beyond standard environmental policies and accreditations such as ISO:14001.

Considering the core pillars required to deliver sustainability improvements (social, economic, environmental), S.E.E has been

Bonnie Hodson

designed to engage staff at all levels. Each department has also been tasked with launching a sustainability initiative, led by a nominated sustainability champion.

As a long-term campaign with clear objectives, S.E.E. is driving new ideas that will deliver consistent environmental improvements and enable our business to share best practice and knowledge, both internally and externally.

A range of initiatives have been rolled out, including a competition to encourage our customers to upcycle crates or pallets, and a project aimed at introducing new manufacturing equipment that produces less waste and energy. Green customers are being identified to partner with us on new sustainability campaigns, and we’re working with suppliers in China to audit products and factories to stop the use of virgin plastic packaging.

BUILDING RESILIENCE

The hurdles of the past year have underlined the importance of resilience. Managing ongoing uncertainty is incredibly difficult, so all businesses must be in a strong position to respond quickly and effectively to change and challenge.

At UAP, we have strengthened our operations through an acquisition strategy. This strategically targets complementary companies that will bolster our expertise in providing locks and hardware for doors and windows. Since 2019, we have acquired two businesses, and set up two companies overseas. In 2023, we will be back

on the acquisition trail to secure further growth and provide our customers with a broader range of high-quality products.

To support our expansion plans, we have also restructured our finances this year and repaid our investors, providing us with more working capital to achieve our targets.

Of course, it is impossible to grow and strengthen a business without people and this has also led to new initiatives designed to support and develop staff.

Our growth share scheme means that every UAP employee now owns a share of the business and benefits from its future success. These shares are earned and can’t be purchased, with 20% of the

UAP share fund now owned by our employees.

In 2022, we also embedded the UAP Training Academy, which is now integral to the way we operate as a company. The evolving initiative combines multiple tools to deliver its objectives, providing employees with both job specific training as well as the chance to learn softer skills.

As all staff returned to officebased working, another key development in 2022 was the launch of our free doggy day care service. Located on site in our Whitefield office, the facility has encouraged our people to transition away from remote working while improving staff morale.

The IONIC’s design is based on the Fullex Crimebeater lock, which is engineered to provide long-term reliability and security

UNLOCKING POTENTIAL

Over the past year, one of the key lessons learned is that economic and political challenges should not be seen as a barrier to growth. As we look ahead to 2023, these challenges are unlikely to change, so we can’t stand still. Ongoing research, development and investment will ensure that our products, manufacturing processes and people can keep up with the pace of change and are fit for the future.

www.uapcorporate.com

The energy crisis will ‘significantly fuel’ growth for window and door foam sealant tapes in 2023, according to Andy Swift, sales and operations manager for ISO-Chemie. He sees the UK market remaining robust over the next 12 months with the need for more effective insulation and sealing solutions of windows and doors becoming a rapid priority in the design, specification, new build housing and wider commercial construction sectors.

Refurbishment of existing housing stock is also expected to support growth in 2023, says Andy Swift, as retrofitting sealing solutions can be a more effective way to achieve greater energy efficient homes rather than building new properties. Indeed, national housing associations such as Broadacres Housing Association and Gateshead Housing have been upgrading their current stock with new door and window installations sealed by foam tapes.

In the modular sector, house designers will continue to invest in new ways to deliver low carbon structures, which use sustainable technologies such as foam sealant tapes to secure measurable airtight, acoustic and thermal sealing benefits.

Andy Swift said with energy rated and conservation products at the forefront of design and building regulations, there has to be ‘discernible’ growth for air tightness and thermal sealing products.

“With 25% of the heat leaking from around windows will be paramount for all in the construction and building sectors to effectively seal around the window to wall gap,” he said. “Millions of people will struggle to heat their homes and stay warm, but through the use of modern foam sealants to create a thermal and airtight seal around the window, the amount of heat loss around frames is significantly reduced, helping to save energy costs.”

MMC (modern methods of construction) will gain further traction as 2023 unfolds, which will lead to the continued integration of foam tapes with the more traditional methods of building, enabling developers to bring forward projects more expediently, Andy Swift said.

He added: “Retrofitting properties with products like Winframer, Vario SD and BLOCO ONE becomes a direct focus for property developers and housing associations and

is a cost-effective way to insulate existing properties very quickly. As they say the greenest home is one already built. It just needs proper retrofit insulation.”

House building to higher air and thermal standards remains a priority, Andy Swift said - and is a message that will continued to be pushed in the coming months to architects and other property specifiers: “There are effective products out there to ensure that airtightness and thermal efficiency within buildings should never be overlooked or ignored - it’s a matter of designing in these products.”

Tel; 07837 337220

ENERGY CRISIS FUELS GROWTH FOR FOAM SEALANTS IN 2023, SAYS SECTOR LEADER REYNAERS EVENT SHOWS HOW INNOVATION DRIVES EFFICIENCY

Reynaers Aluminium

UK welcomed architects, fabricators and installers to a series of Innovation Days to showcase its products and plans for the future.

Held at Reynaers’ UK headquarters in Birmingham, the Innovation Days gave attendees an insight into key developments from Reynaers, including how it is embedding digitalisation across its operations to support the whole value chain and improve efficiencies.

One of the sessions led by Reynaers’ experts looked at the evolution of some of the company’s most popular products and systems in line with market and customer demand. There was also a focus on the company’s innovative approach to sustainability, providing an insight into its Reynaers Act strategy to reduce its environmental impact by signing up to the Science Based Target initiative (SBTi) and making a commitment to cut energy emissions ahead of net zero in 2050.

Visitors were also given a tour of the company’s newly opened warehouse extension which now brings its warehouse facility to a total of 95,000 sq. ft. This additional space will allow Reynaers UK to hold greater stock and minimise the impact of supply issues affecting the market.  It will

also enable the business to meet growing demand for its products and systems, providing a 46 per cent increase in capacity.

Customers were given an exclusive insight into some of the latest product developments introduced this year as well as looking ahead to future product innovations. There was also a tour of the newly updated state-of-the-art showroom giving visitors a first-hand view of some of Reynaers’ most innovative and popular products.

The event also highlighted the part that digital innovation will play in the future at Reynaers. Michel Van Put, Chief Product Officer at Reynaers, set out how the company intends to build upon its existing

software systems to further support clients by making real-time, cloud-based quotes available to support architects or sales representatives working in the field.

To make information more readily available to architects and fabricators, Reynaers also shared its plans to digitise its catalogue to feature comprehensive links to all elements of its products.

The topic of sustainability ran throughout the Innovation Days and included a dedicated session on the Roadmap to Net Zero 2050 led by Technical Services Director John McComb. He explained the steps Reynaers is already taking to cut energy emissions in the UK by designing doors, windows and curtain walling that meet and exceed energy requirements.

Managing Director of Reynaers UK, Richard Hall said “Customers are at the heart of Reynears’ approach and innovation allows us to meet and exceed expectations.

“We focus on identifying and meeting future trends along with enhancing the customer experience by upgrading products in line with our environmental targets, simplifying installation and making sure we offer cost-efficient products.

“The Innovation Days provided a great opportunity to allow our customers an insight into future developments and to share with them first-hand how improvements and upgrades can benefit their business.”

Energy crisis will fuel growth for foam sealants in 2023, says Andy Swift of ISO Chemie

Managing Director of Reynaers UK Richard Hall welcomes guests to the Innovation Day

“Customers are at the heart of Reynears’ approach and innovation allows us to meet and exceed expectations."

Join

Faisal

MORLEY GLASS HITS 1,000-TONNE GLASS RECYCLING MILESTONE

Uni-Blinds® integral blind manufacturer

Morley Glass has saved over 1,000 tonnes of post-consumer glass from going to landfill in just two years, and instead diverted it into the production of new glass in a scheme that has provided funding of more than £60,000 for environmental and community schemes in West Yorkshire.

Morley Glass is the UK’s largest manufacturers of double glazed units with ScreenLine® integral blind systems inside, offering installers a market-leading range of Venetian and pleated blind options.

In 2020, the company invested in reducing its process waste and providing a post-consumer glass recycling service to installers by commissioning machinery that could crush waste glass into what is known as cullet. This can be fed directly into the manufacture of new glass which not only reduces needless landfill waste, but it also cuts the volumes of virgin raw materials needed to make glass and saves energy as turning cullet into new glass requires less energy.

The scheme, which is run in conjunction with international glass manufacturer Saint-Gobain Glass, is continuously audited so Morley Glass can see exactly how much waste glass is being collected and the benefits it is delivering.

The data shows that in two years, the amount of glass cullet produced by Morley Glass is equivalent to the weight of 150 elephants, saving around 325,000kg of CO2, as every tonne of glass cullet prevents 300kg going into the atmosphere. Over 920,000kg of sand, the main raw material for glass, has also been saved and the overall energy saving to SaintGobain Glass is calculated at 541 ‘energy years’ – that is the energy used by an average UK household in 12 months.

In addition to saving resources and energy, the recycling scheme has another important benefit for communities in West Yorkshire. All the money raised by the sale of the

recycled glass cullet to Saint-Gobain Glass goes into a fund set up by Morley Glass called GreenVision.

This offers £500 one-off grants to charities, individuals and community groups who are located in West Yorkshire and dedicated to providing environmental or social improvements in their local area

Ian Short, Managing Director of Morley Glass said: “What started out as a simple business improvement idea has snowballed into an initiative that is delivering farreaching benefits at a time when environmental and social sustainability have become priorities. We are thrilled to reach our 1,000 tonne milestone in just two years, which clearly demonstrates how popular the recycling service is with our customers who can save money on waste disposal costs too.

“And of course, the more waste glass we are able to collect and process, the more support we can provide through GreenVision to local people and groups who are giving up their time to improve their local environment or deliver social benefits. Applying for a grant is quick and easy, so if this is you, please go to our website and submit a GreenVision application today!”

Morley Glass is also offering a free collection service to any window installer located in the Leeds area who would like them to turn their post-consumer waste glass into funds for the community. This can be arranged by calling 0113 277 8722.

Any eligible charity, group or individual interested in applying for a £500 GreenVision grant can do so at https://www.morleyglass.co.uk/greenvision-application-form/.

Communication with members continues to be a priority for the Double Glazing and Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS), with the launch of its winter newsletter highlighting the work the organisation has been doing to date, including their podcasts, campaign for better mental health, and plans to initiate a Fenestration Working Group to help define and shape the future of the industry.

Faisal Hussain, Chief Executive of DGCOS explains: “Creating a newsletter for our members is the perfect platform to not only keep them up to date with everything related to the scheme they are a part of but also discuss topics and the work we are doing in the wider industry. Having open lines of communication is of

upmost important to us and the launch of our newsletter adds a further means to do just that.

“The winter issue explores the impact of mental health issues within our industry – a matter very close to my heart – and we hear from Ideal Window Solutions, a founding member of DGCOS about what their membership means to them. We will also be keeping members up to date with the latest initiatives they can get involved in, which for our Winter issue kicks off with the launch of the Fenestration Working Group. We’re launching this group to help promote all the good things we do as a sector to external stakeholders, like Government, and welcome anyone to get involved.

Going forward the regular newsletter will showcase

the support on offer from DGCOS, include news directly from our members and will also cover what is topical within our industry.

“As a consumer protection organisation, we are proud of the support we offer and the topics we raise across the industry. Our newsletter will allow our members to see on a regular basis, exactly what we’re doing and how they can get involved.”

To view the Winter edition of the newsletter and find out more about becoming a member of DGCOS visit: https://www.dgcos.org.uk/ newsletter/issue-01/ www.dgcos.org.uk

The predicted fall off for RMI* work after the pandemic has failed to affect the order books of Steel Window Association (SWA) members, as customers from both the commercial and residential sectors have continued to seek expert help in refurbishing their steel window systems across properties of all ages.

According to the SWA, there are a number of factors at play, including the continued shift in work/life balance towards WFH, and the many perceived benefits of maintaining properties in a good state of repair; as well as those customers seeking to improve the energy performance or appearance of their buildings.

Heritage contracts – where traditional steel windows have to be retained to respect listing conditions – have continued apace, but many of the members have also been fielding inquiries from occupants seeking to upgrade their existing windows to address heat loss, in response to rapidly rising heating costs.

Options include basic maintenance, where older frames are realigned or ‘set’ and new draught-stripping installed to drastically reduce air leakage through the windows, while many steel frames can accept upgraded glazing. This includes switching to gas filled IG units and ones featuring warm edge spacer bars.

Most refurbishment contracts also include general overhaul of the fittings such as locks, handles and hinges, while corroded metal sections can be treated or cut out and replaced before new, high-performance paint systems are applied.

President of the SWA, Kris Bennell, confirmed, “The make-up of our membership ranges from those with the capacity to tackle very large-scale replacement programmes, as well as new-build contracts, to those who specialise in repair work.

Across the country and across the sectors, they are reporting renewed demand from commercial and domestic clients seeking to maintain and improve their buildings.”

For further information on the Steel Window Association or if you’re interested in becoming a member, please visit www.steel-window-association.co.uk.

* Repair Maintenance & Improvement

The

OBITUARY

U-VALUES THE FOCUS FOR CDW SYSTEMS IN 2023 OBITUARY ANNOUNCEMENT FROM GQA QUALIFICATIONS

Mike Morris, GQA’s Chairman since its inception in 2002 has passed away after a short illness.

With a background as a trained engineer working in industry and then for a large part of his career working in education, Mike was perfectly placed to understand the huge value of training and qualifications in raising standards to support both the personal and professional development of individual employees.

Having become Chairman, he oversaw the sustained growth of GQA from a small single sector awarding body to the organisation it is today, providing over two hundred industry-relevant qualifications delivered through over two hundred Approved Centres in sixteen sectors.

Commenting, Mick Clayton, CEO of GQA said: “Everyone here at GQA sends our condolences to Mike’s wife, Jane, his two sons and his two grandchildren. He will be sadly missed.”

For much of the time that Mike chaired the GQA board, Justin Ratcliffe also served as a GQA Director. Justin was elected as Chairman when Mike retired from his role earlier this year.

U-Values will be the focus for fabricators in 2023. That’s the view of CDW Systems Group Chairman Jeremy Phillips.

With energy efficiency set to play an even bigger role, the Gloucester based aluminium fabricator, part of the East Manor Group, is making sure it can provide customers with the right products.

“Customers, be they domestic or commercial, want to get the best U-values they can within their budget,” said Jeremy.

“Whereas previously customers just want to change windows, we’re now finding our trade customers are getting challenged more and more now on what U-value they can provide.

“We are expecting this to carry on in 2023, and our focus will be on making sure our product range is as energy efficient as possible and making any changes or improvements we need to so our customers can get what they need.”

After another busy year for the aluminium specialists, which celebrated its 30th year in 2022, Jeremy is also expecting things to be a bit more challenging in the retail market while continuing to see growth in commercial.

“The current financial climate means 2023 is going to be quite challenging and the industry will be depending on many things that are out of our control, for example if we have a really cold winter, for example, that will cost people a lot of money and that will reduce their disposable income on the retail side of things,” added Jeremy.

“On the commercial side of things, we are still seeing a lot of projects that were stopped during the pandemic now coming to the fore, so if the retail side slows down then we’re expecting the commercial side to fill any gap.”

Established in 1992, CDW Systems is one of the UK’s longest running aluminium specialists, and its expertise and extensive market knowledge has seen it grow into one of the most well-respected specialists in the trade supply of aluminium window, door and curtain wall products. For more information visit www.cdwsystems.co.uk or call 01452 414853.

RIDING HIGH IN THE SCOTTISH LOWLANDS

Specialising in home improvements, Aberdeen-based Affordable Windows & Doors LTD has the expertise and experience to take on projects large and small. The company’s outstanding performance in retail, manufacturing and installation has seen it shortlisted as a finalist in the Best New Business category at the 2022 Trades Awards.

Recently, Affordable Windows & Doors completely renovated a holiday home in the village of Cuminestown, rural Aberdeenshire for client Bounty Holiday Lets. The undertaking saw what was once a dated, one-bedroom single storey farmhouse transformed into a luxurious property with a stylishly contemporary interior, complete with a self-contained garden pod, leaving the site capable of comfortably sleeping 6-8 guests in total.

Discussing the client’s requirements, Affordable Windows & Doors director Ryan Hunter states, “Bounty wanted to greatly increase the functionality of the property and thoroughly modernise the interior to make it a comfortable, light and airy space that would provide a wow factor for guests.”

He continues, “To achieve this we chose an open-plan design for the main living area, as well as expanding up into the loft space to create an ensuite master bedroom, and out into the garden with a pod comprising its own bathroom and kitchenette. The scope of the project meant we would be using a wide range of PVCu products and knowing from experience the quality and depth of its ranges, we opted to use Liniar as our primary supplier.”

The main living area is now flooded with natural light using floor-to-ceiling glazing with Liniar profile’s ultra-slim sightlines, not only providing ample illumination but also impressive views of the idyllic surroundings. A Liniar sliding patio door brightens the

open-plan kitchen, consolidating the light, airy ambience indoors, while another patio door on the garden pod provides direct access to a stunning deck made with Liniar’s SwitchBoard composite decking. Both the main building and the pod have facades enhanced by Liniar’s Anthracite grey cladding, giving low-maintenance weather protection with a modern look that ties the whole project together.

Commenting on working with Liniar products Ryan says, “Besides the premium design and quality, I really like the benefit of a guaranteed colour match across the entire product range. It’s also easy to order as a job lot, since all the PVCu components are from a single supplier.”

He adds, “I was very impressed with the decking, and feel the narrower boards we chose give a neater look. Liniar decks arrive in kit form, which is so helpful and the product itself is easy to install. We had to change the bungalow’s roofline to accommodate a modern guttering system and add a timber framework to ensure a flush fit for the shiplap cladding – once we’d done that, the cladding was really easy to install too.”

The completed project looks spectacular, and Affordable Doors & Windows already has another Bounty Holiday Lets renovation in the pipeline, a testament to the company’s ability to deliver customer satisfaction.

On his plans for the future, Ryan tells us, “We’re currently manufacturing 4050 frames per week, and are carefully monitoring and growing our capacity. There is potential for us to begin 24-hour manufacturing operating a split shift in the near future, helping more home and business owners to install energy efficient windows and doors.”

To find out more about the full range of Liniar products visit https://www.liniar.co.uk/

FENTRADE BRINGS ITS CUSTOMER-FOCUSED APPROACH TO THE PVC-U SECTOR

Aluminium fabricator Fentrade has announced it is expanding into PVC-U and will be manufacturing the Residence Collection from January 2023. Chris Reeks, Fentrade’s Director, said: “The Residence Collection brings together a suite of premium window and door systems, designed and made in Great Britain. The range offers the premium aesthetics and quality today’s discerning consumers want. As such it offers significant market advantages for our customers.”

Fentrade will be manufacturing three suites in the Residence Collection.

Residence 9 is the original timber window alternative. It has been meticulously designed and has the traditionally elegant flush exterior and stylish decorative interior

CONSUMER DISPUTES ADD TO INSTALLER STRESS

The Double Glazing & Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS) recently published their Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) report as a Chartered Trading Standard Institute-approved ADR Competent Authority. The latest report illustrates that there is a strong correlation between customer complaints and the issues reported in the DGCOS Glass and Glazing Mental Health Survey 2022, and DGCOS recommends that tackling the big issues raised in both reports could not only make for a stronger supply chain but reduce stress and anxiety in the industry too.

Faisal Hussain, DGCOS Chief Executive, explains more: “When reviewing our latest ADR report, I found it particularly interesting that the type of complaints consumers are making reflect the issues that installers reported to us via our Glass and Glazing Mental Health Survey 2022. This raises the question of whether by implementing improvements to mental health management, we can reduce the number of consumer complaints that need dispute resolution? I believe the answer to that is ‘yes’.

“In the ADR report, problems with product were mentioned in 52.5% of consumer complaints that came through the DGCOS dispute resolution service between 1 August 2021 to 31 July 2022. Pair this with the 12.5% of consumer complaints that were about poor customer service and we’re looking at a huge number that could be overcome by better communication and more quality control higher up the supply chain. This strongly reflects the comments made in the DGCOS Mental Health Survey, where an unreliable supply chain, quality of products and lack of communication by suppliers were mentioned by respondents as being causes of increased stress and anxiety.

needed to authentically replicate 19th century timber designs.

Residence 7 windows are versatile without complication. Beautifully flush inside and out, the system is equally at home in heritage projects and modern homes.

Residence² offers an alternative to aluminium windows. Symmetrical and sleek, it’s perfect for modern interiors. All systems have a diverse colour offering covering a number of architectural styles. Hardware choices include bespoke butt hinges, dummy or working, and a choice of handles and stays, in a range of colour options.

All three systems are built to unquestionable market leading design standards and deliver effective and high-performance solutions.

Chris continues: “The Residence Collection demands expert fabrication with an eye for detail, two traits we pride ourselves on. We are looking forward to combining the expertise of Fentrade and Residence Collection to take our business to the next level.”

Alongside the Residence Collection, Fentrade will continue to manufacture a full range of aluminium windows, doors, bifolds, inline sliders, GFT commercial screens, shopfronts and curtain walling utilising products from renowned industry brands such as AluK, Reynaers and VBH Greenteq.

Fentrade is an award-winning fabricator committed to superior quality and results across every area of the business. Quotes are delivered within 24-48 hours, there’s a reliable delivery schedule with on time

in full deliveries and in-house technical support from industry experts.

Fentrade has rapidly gained a reputation in the aluminium sector for its total customer focus. Businesses in the PVC-U sector will soon be able to discover the benefits of working with the company too.

To find out more about Fentrade and the Residence Collection, visit www.fentraderesidence.co.uk.

ASWS SHINES IN SPECIALIST GLAZING

Associated Steel Window Services (ASWS) has a 60-year heritage in steel window refurbishment and replacement. now a leading figure in the steel window industry.

“If installers are not getting the right product to the right quality at the time it’s promised, this has a knock-on effect on the service they are able to provide. As the consumer-facing team, installers are being blamed for issues that are caused further up the supply chain which could be overcome by better communication and quality control from the start. For example, a QC process before dispatch would not only stop wrong or poor- quality product is reaching installers and it would also make the manufacturing process more efficient by reducing the number of call-backs and returns.

“It’s not a stretch to say that there are ways in which reducing pressure on installers and levels of stress can positively affect the way in which they work. This in turn engenders a smoother running of a project on-site and better relationships with the end customer, and could potentially mean a reduction in disputes.

“If our aim as an industry is to work efficiently, effectively and to safeguard our colleagues’ mental health, reports like the ADR report help us to identify areas that need to be addressed. To help combat these issues, I am inviting people to join my Fenestration Working Group so if you are motivated to help, please email me directly at f.hussain@schemes.org.uk.”

www.dgcos.org.uk

Established in 1960, the original company concentrated on the servicing of steel windows, general glazing and repairs to fire escapes. Today, the company is one of the leading figures in the industry concentrating on the replacement, refurbishment and redecoration of steel windows; encompassing a complete site package which has been employed on some of the UK’s most prestigious projects.

A specific area of growth in recent years is traditional, specialist glazing. Projects comprise stained glass leaded lights, traditional leaded lights, copper light glazing and large, flat and curved glazing.

Kris Bennell, ASWS’s Contracts Director, explains further, “We are rightly proud of our proven capability and expertise in specialist glazing. We operate a team of employed, skilled glaziers which is the key to our success. Some of our most noteworthy (or memorable) projects have included the composite stained-glass panel refurbishment for The Passage Charity in Victoria (pictured). The beautiful 3.5m by 1m stained glass external steel windows were, in fact, beyond refurbishment and were being reused and moved internally to the other end of the building as part of the refurbishment. ASWS was employed to remanufacture the windows as well as refurbish and rebuild the original stainedglass panels, which was all undertaken in one of our workshops by a specialist glazier with over 40 years of experience and expertise.”

He continues, “At the other end of the spectrum of our works was the reglazing works at the new ASOS headquarters. This project involved the logistical mapping of utilising a specialist 90m HGV Mounted

Bronco (access platform), one of the largest Broncos in the country, as well the use of a glazing mini-crane with a glass vacuum lifter attachment. This equipment was all needed to reglaze two 5m long by 2m high triple glazed units into an externally glazed curtain walling system. I think this is what is so interesting and what I love about what we do as a business; one day to be working on the detailed intricate refurbishment of 100-year-old panes of glass and then to switch to the ultra-modern systems utilising all available modern technology to facilitate our works. Working, training and learning about new techniques as well as valuing the trades or the past helps us keep our heritage industry at the forefront of construction.”

Associated Steel Window Services is a member of The Steel Window Association (www.steel-window-association.co.uk).

For further information on Associated Steel Window Services, please visit www.asws.co.uk or call 020 8665 5335.

The Passage Charity in Victoria

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TRADE AND ONLINE SALES BUILD A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS

Freefoam launch a new video with long standing customer Building Plastics Wales Ltd. The short film showcases the business and it’s customers and illustrates how Freefoam work with its trade suppliers to build long standing relationships leading to growth and success.

Colin St John, Commercial Director explains “We support all our customers and believe that their growth is our growth. Building strong and lasting relationships with our customers, such as Building Plastics Wales, is crucial to our business. Our roofline, cladding and interior products are an ideal addition to any PVC supplier and it’s fantastic to see this customer grow and flourish with the help of Freefoam.”

A family run business based in South Wales, with two branches in Blackwood and Newport, the company was started in 2014 by Vaughan Colley. Vaughan has many years experience selling PVC products and could see a gap in the market in South Wales for local supply, as well as the growing opportunity for online sales of building products.

Vaughan explains “We have grown the business over time, moving from the original single unit, to 3 units in Blackwood and the addition of our Newport branch to service the local area and our internet sales. We supply the full range of Freefoam building plastics throughout the UK, from the top end of Scotland to the bottom end of Cornwall, delivered by own vehicles and network of national couriers.”

Building Plastics Wales serve a wide range of customers from trade buyers, DIY customers and large housing associations.

Vaughan explained “We’ve seen our online sales grow year on year, and they now form around 40% of our total business. E-commerce business is made up of a mixture of purely online customers from all around the UK alongside our increasingly growing number of traditional local trade customers choosing to click and collect from branch or have products delivered to site. It’s a trend we can see continuing, and we’re pleased we’ve got the systems in place to make the most of this opportunity.”

THE BEST JUST GOT BETTER

PatioMaster from Epwin Window Systems –the most popular PVC-U sliding patio door on the market - has just got even better.

NEW sash profile increases glazing options to include triple glazing New PCE gasket design enhances weather seals for superior performance

New interlock sightline perfectly aligns with opposing sash for improved aesthetics 33% stronger by design due to improved reinforcing capability

New PAS 24 locking system in association with Yale for a step-change in hardware security.

Ready to discover the best in sliding patio doors?

Then you’re ready for PatioMaster.

Freefoam work closely with Building Plastics Wales, through the Area Sales Manager, Steve Shaw. Steve gives regular product and technical support and actively looks for new business for Building Plastics Wales. In conclusion Vaughan summarized “Our sales of Freefoam products has grown as Freefoam bring out new products. We have a good working relationship with the customer service team and Steve, our area manager. I can only see this relationship with Freefoam getting stronger as we build the company up.” www.freefoam.com

Experts in Hardware

Experts in Hardware

Experts in Hardware

Experts in Hardware

We’ve steadily

We’ve steadily increased the range of hardware we buy from Carl F Groupco over the last 16 years. Their product range, service level and support has proven them to be our preferred hardware supplier…”

from Carl F Groupco over the last 16 years. Their product range, service level and support has proven them to be our preferred hardware supplier…”

We’ve steadily increased the range of hardware we buy from Carl F Groupco over the last 16 years. Their product range, service level and support has proven them to be our preferred hardware supplier…”

We’ve steadily increased the range of hardware we buy from Carl F Groupco over the last 16 years. Their product range, service level and support has proven them to be our preferred hardware supplier…”

t. Peterborough: 01733 393330 t. Cumbernauld: 01236 721557 e. sales@carlfgroupco.co.uk w. www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

Peterborough: 01733 393330 t. Cumbernauld: 01236 721557 e. sales@carlfgroupco.co.uk w. www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

Peterborough: 01733 393330 t. Cumbernauld: 01236 721557 e. sales@carlfgroupco.co.uk w. www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

Scott Dowling Cairngorm Group

Scott Dowling Cairngorm Group

Scott Dowling Cairngorm Group

Scott Dowling Cairngorm Group

SUSTAINABILITY TAKES A BACK SEAT AMID THE COST-OF-LIVING CRISIS

In February 2022, a study of 2000 UK homeowners showed that although they cared about sustainable windows and doors, it wasn’t enough to pay more.

Nine months on, in the midst of an energy fuel crisis and imminent recession, the Double Glazing Blogger requested that VEKA repeated the OnePoll research to see if opinions had changed. The results show that price continues to supersede sustainability when it comes to homeowner decisions on home improvements.

Whilst 75% of respondents still consider sustainable windows and doors to be important, only 26% of homeowners are willing to pay more for recycled products

– which is a 5% drop since February.  This worrying insight could have an adverse effect on sustainability efforts to date, and we need to take action to ensure that more homeowners are choosing sustainable windows and doors.

Speaking at the Cop27 summit, UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres warned that the world is “on the highway to climate hell with our foot still on the accelerator”. He continued, “Today’s crises cannot be an excuse for backsliding or greenwashing.”

The UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak supports this view, which means that all UK businesses have a responsibility to get to net zero by 2050 – it is not something that we can ignore.

Interestingly, in terms of the product, installation process and/or removal of old products, more conversations are taking place between homeowners and installers. Back in February just 20% of those that had new windows and doors fitted discussed

sustainability, whilst in October, this increased to 37%. 76% of respondents said that sustainability is important when it comes to their homes in general, and 49% of those people are concerned about the impact on the environment.

Once again, the research showed that when it comes to decision making, price, quality, and looks, were all considered to be of higher importance than a product’s environmental credentials. VEKA Commercial Director, Tim Taylor said, “The results are not surprising to me, I totally agree and strongly believe that systems houses have a huge part to play when it comes to sustainability. It has always been a priority for VEKA to support our Fabricators and Installers getting these messages across to homeowners, which is why each year we publish a UK specific CSR report.”

Our research once again shows that homeowners believe that sustainability

should be a given, which is why they are reluctant to pay a premium for the privilege.  At VEKA we don’t believe in eco-ranges, we believe that every product we produce should be manufactured in as sustainable and ethical a manner as possible.

This ongoing commitment and partnership with sister company and Europe’s most advanced Recycling Centre, VEKA Recycling means that in September 2022, VEKA included the highest percentage of recycled content ever recorded – 33%. The average for 2021 was 19%, with the year-todate average for 2022 raising substantially to 29%.

Closing the loop on PVCu recycling is now necessary to build on this success. We need our installers to support us by ensuring that old windows and doors are returned to UK based recycling companies, so that they can be recycled, reprocessed, and returned to the UK market, protecting their supply, and strengthening their own sustainability story.

MEETING FIRST-CLASS SPECIFICATIONS

Founded in 2021, JB Glazing has swiftly established itself as a trusted installer to customers in the Scottish region, thanks to its emphasis on quality workmanship and customer satisfaction.

Central to this well-gained reputation is its product portfolio, which prominently features windows from polymer supplier REHAU. Engaged by developer S. Ewing & Sons to provide windows for a new luxury development in the rural village of Saline, the fenestration specialists needed high-quality frames to match the high-end properties under construction.

Though Jim Walker has been in the fenestration industry over 40 years, he is often taking on new challenges. It is this view that led him to found JB Glazing last year together with Managing Director James Boyce, using their combined experience to win a wide variety of projects, from small residential work to larger commercial contracts.

This included when, Jordan Ewing, Managing Director for S. Ewing & Sons, tasked JB Glazing with providing highquality frames for the Dunfermline-based developers’ latest build. Nestled on the western slopes of the Cleish Hills, the picturesque village of Saline had been earmarked for a suite of five luxury homes for homebuyers looking to escape to the country.

“When constructing a new development of this sort, our philosophy is simple – source the best suppliers, and you will build the best homes,” explains Jordan. “It was this desire for premium products that led us to use REHAU. I already knew Jim from previous projects, so I was confident he and his company could meet the exact specifications required to build these five luxury properties.”

LONG-STANDING SUPPLIER SUPPORT

Key to both JB Glazing’s reputation for first-class installations and its work on this project, was their leading window portfolio, which exclusively includes frames from REHAU. Jim had long been aware of the polymer provider’s array of solutions, having worked with the company for over 30 years. Most recently, this has seen JB Glazing join the REHAU Authorised Partner scheme, which identifies selected installers to customers as providers of both best practice and leading window solutions.

“As the saying goes, if it isn’t broke don’t fix it, and I’ve never had any reason to move away from REHAU as a supplier,” says Jim. “For me, their profile stands the test of time – I source it from a trade fabricator and you know it will be tried and tested to guarantee it is consistent and high-quality.

“I have been in this industry for a long time, and having the REHAU brand next to your name, whatever company you’re working for, lets specifiers and developers know you

will be fitting exceptional products. This was certainly the case when working on the Jim Hensman Place development – Jordan has certain standards on all of his build’s components, and he knows we’ll meet them.”

With work beginning on the project in January 2022, JB Glazing was tasked with providing frames that would meet high U-value and energy efficiency standards. Alongside this, any frames fitted needed to be long-lasting while also providing a modern appearance matching the high specification of the houses.

FINDING ADAPTABLE PROFILE

Following advice from REHAU, Jim sourced 60 TOTAL70 windows from REHAU’s TOTAL70 range in a smooth grey foil. Providing a contemporary look suitable for the Saline properties, the system’s high-performing uPVC polymer allows it to easily achieve A+ gradings – the highest possible rating for thermal efficiency.

According to Jim, the versatility of the TOTAL70 frames also stood out: “When you’re carrying out an installation, you have to be on the ball,” he explains. “For example, on

this specific project, the design of the houses meant that we needed to fit windows in a lot of different shapes.

“Having the peace of mind that the profile can be adapted to fit simply in multiple ways without a drop in performance cannot be underestimated. Additionally, feeling you can rely on your supplier as a one-stop-shop meant we could be similarly confident we would meet this project’s strict deadlines. Considering most of the homes at Jim Hensman Place sold quickly, knowing everything could be completed on time was of vital importance.”

FOLLOWING REGULATIONS

JB Glazing handed the project over to S. Ewing & Sons in March 2022 in advance of new residents moving into their new, high-standard homes. Considering the uplift of energy efficiency standards planned for the future in Scotland Jim believes meeting these specifications now is more important than ever.

“My advice to installers is that they should seek windows that exceed current building regulations, because these standards are only going to get stricter,” he says. “What might seem well above standard now – such as with the frames fitted at Jim Hensman Place – will become more commonplace over time.

“As such, those in the industry should take this opportunity to work closely with their supplier to ensure they are kept up-to-date on existing and upcoming legislation. The REHAU team were particularly helpful in this way on this project –our contacts were very knowledgeable on all matters relating window performance, from decibels to thermal efficiency. If I have a question, they’ll have an answer, and this sort of resource will be invaluable when securing future projects, especially if regulations continue to change.”

S. Ewing & Sons have been similarly impressed with JB Glazing’s work at Jim Hensman Place. “We engaged Jim and the company expecting a quality window installation, and quality is what we have received,” concludes Jordan. “We will continue to build further developments in the Fife area, and based on our history and their efforts on this project, we would not hesitate to request JB Glazing’s services again.”

For more information about REHAU’s TOTAL70 system, visit https://www.rehau.com/uk-en/casement-windows

TAP INTO SPEED OF INSTALLATION WITH OUR NEW QUICK GLAZE KNOCK-IN BEAD

The new REAL Visofold Slim 1000 bi-fold door system. Featuring new slimmer profiles with reduced sightlines, it transforms spaces into something special and a view to savour.

To enhance performance and improve installation time, it’s manufactured incorporating our Quick Glaze Knock-In Bead, so with just a few taps, it’s done. And because Visofold Slim 1000 is from REAL , you can confidently tap into a product that’s Part L compliant, as well as REAL quality, REAL service and REAL support.

To find out more about the REAL Visofold Slim 1000 bi-fold door system and our Quick Glaze Knock-In Bead, get your brochure at re-aluminium.co.uk/visofold or enquiries@real-aluminium.co.uk

*Quick Glaze Knock-In Bead is available on 28-28.8mm double glazed units. Triple glazed options are available with a wedge gasket.

INNOVATIVE NEW SASH WINDOW FEATURE

Specialist sash window manufacturer

Roseview Windows has launched a new feature that marks a significant step forward for timber-alternative window design.

The new sash horn uses a design common to original timber sash windows, but which previously couldn’t be achieved in uPVC. The curved profile of Roseview’s sash horn, dubbed Seahorse because of its shape, was made possible by their investment in the cutting-edge technology already in use on their awardwinning Ultimate Rose sash window.

Roseview director Mike Bygrave describes the new feature and what went into creating it: “At Roseview we’re constantly looking at ways that we can improve our classleading sash windows, both in terms of aesthetics and performance. By recreating an important detail often seen on period originals, Seahorse is another step on that journey towards making the perfect timberalternative sash window.

“Like all the best features, Seahorse seems simple.” Mike continues, “But creating it was anything but. A horn detail like this can’t go through a typical milling machine. It was made possible by the specialist CNC processes that we already use for our existing seamless run-through horns, and the different way of looking at product design these techniques open up.

“The hidden cap also provided a challenge because of the deep recesses that are fundamental to such a traditional horn design. Long-term temperature testing showed that traditional foiling techniques couldn’t handle the intricate design and deep recesses reliably. So we had to take a different approach to design and manufacture a textured cap that doesn’t rely on standard foiling.

“The result, however, was well worth the time, effort and investment that went into creating it. It may seem like a small detail but it makes a huge difference, and it’s another milestone in the development of timber-alternative sash windows. Pushing the boundaries of conservation-grade authenticity and leading the market for sash windows is what we do at Roseview; and this is yet another example.”

The new Seahorse sash horn is available immediately and is exclusive to Roseview’s market-leading Ultimate Rose sash window. For more information visit www.roseview.co.uk/seahorse or call 01234 712657.

Well JD, as well as manufacturing and supplying a wide range of PVC-U and aluminium windows and doors, I too have a small retail installation business in addition to a substantial commercial installation arm, that carries out a decent amount of work for NHS estates. I therefore fully understand the pressures imposed by regulations and operating costs.

The latest round of amendments to the Building Regulations brought about considerable regulatory change and with it, some ill thought out and contradictory amendments to Part F, which contradict the improvements made in Part L; I refer of course, to trickle vents. Other Building Regs changes have gone under the radar with

DANNY WILLIAMS ‘COLD CALLING’

the attention given to trickle vents but for many installers, the changes made to this fundamental operating manual for anything to do with constructing and improving and changing buildings of any kind, went completely unnoticed. Because according to figures issued by FENSA, failed inspections in July and August – immediately after the revised regs became mandatory in June – reached new records. Hundreds of window and door fitters had no idea at all that anything had changed, obviously untroubled, as you seem to be, by feeling the need to comply with anything at all.

I have even less sympathy after reading what installers have to contend with in the United States of America, and specifically in Texas, where new school safety standards have been proposed in the wake of what to date, was the third worst case of a high school shooting in the US, at a school in Uvalde, Texas. The shooting, which took place on May 24th last year, saw a former student at the school, 18-year-old Salvador Ramos, shoot to death 19 students and two teachers, leaving a further 17 others wounded, after shooting his grandmother in the face before setting off for the school.

Apparently, he fired shots for five minutes outside the school before entering unobstructed through an unlocked side door. Ramos then shut himself into two classrooms, remaining in the school for more than an hour before law enforcement officers shot him dead. There have been 139 such shootings since 2018. So, what has this got to do with anything? Whilst English and Welsh installers have struggled to contend with the installation of trickle vents and windows with improved U values, their Texan counterparts will have to amend their installation techniques and

products to improve safety standards in the wake of this horror story, including the reinforcement of easily accessible windows, for all similar schools in the state of Texas.

Under the new rules, Texas schools would have to reinforce ground level windows or windows that are adjacent to or near a door and are large enough to allow someone to enter if broken. Easily accessible groundlevel windows near exterior doors need to be constructed or modified so that the glass cannot be easily broken, and they must have functional locking mechanisms that can be locked from the inside. There are a number of additional proposals all designed to prevent mass shootings like this from happening again, at least so easily, with the US glass and glazing industries getting involved by developing technologies designed to, bluntly, prevent children being murdered when they attend school.

If you are struggling with Part F JD, then what would you make of ASTM International’s (an organisation similar to our BSI) Standard Test Method for Forced-Entry-Resistance of Fenestration Systems After Simulated Active Shooter Attack, which provides a method that sets the procedures to test forced-entryresistant building components, construction components and speciality security equipment.

Certainly puts PAS 24 into perspective…

JD, rules and regs are what we all have to deal with to be in business at all, and irrespective of the industry. And compared to the experience of installers operating in the US, fitting a few vents and filling in a few more forms, is hardly taxing, now is it?

If you can’t stand the heat, JD then get out of the kitchen.

“Easily accessible ground-level windows near exterior doors need to be constructed or modified so that the glass cannot be easily broken, and they must have functional locking mechanisms that can be locked from the inside.”

* 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.

Each month our special correspondent Danny Williams* replies to a reader’s letter...

“We are a retail and commercial installer in West Midlands. We and other installers face a constant barrage of new regulations that are often contradictory, and which have to be kept abreast of whilst adding to mounting operating costs. How can installers be expected to operate under such pressures?”

JD West Midlands

Dear Editor,

The UK is in recession. The Office of Budgetary Responsibility downgraded its’ forecasts for the economy sharply following the Autumn Statement in November. Prospects for growth in 2023 have evaporated, to be replaced with a predicted 2% drop in GDP.

Rising energy and food prices have according to the OBR, ‘taken the wind out of the sails’ of the global economic recovery.

The OBR report is pretty depressing stuff but while uncomfortable reading there are things that we need to note, because it gives us a sense of the direction of travel for the UK economy and the window and door industry within it.

The first are wholesale gas prices. These are currently four times higher than they normally would be and the OBR expects them to remain high for at least the medium term.

This is an over-riding reason for homeowners to invest in improving the energy efficiency of their properties.

Costing the economy £86.4bn, it is also unlikely that the energy price guarantee can be maintained (at least in its current form) beyond April 2023. The energy crisis is going to continue and the cost to the end-user is likely to increase.

Our energy calculator shows how increased energy costs are already reducing payback times on new windows and doors, with savings of up to £1,400 per year. That’s a step-change. New windows and doors will pay for themselves in a 5-10 year period.

Ask yourself what would you rather do? Burn cash – literally – or invest it in a home improvement, which will materially improve the comfort of your home, enhance its’ appearance and

security, and lower your carbon footprint?

Even if the energy price guarantee was retained in its current form, at £3,000 it still pushes average household energy bills to more than double where they were before April 2022.

Without it, energy analysts Cornwall Insights warns typical household energy bills would have topped £3,739 a year!

Energy efficiency will drive window and door sales in 2023 and into the medium term.

The flip side of rising energy prices is that along with food and other costs, it contributes to a squeeze on household incomes. This the OBR says will push the economy into a recession lasting around a year from Q3 2022.

The first point to draw out is that in this scenario, we’re already in recession and so far the market has held up. Things are perhaps marginally slower than they were but we need to remember that the baseline has been the two-years of exceptional demand, driven by COVID and numerous lockdowns.

The OBR also acknowledges that recession will be far shallower than previous downturns and significantly less severe than the lastthe 2008 Crash.

There is in my view another factor to consider here and that is household saving. It remains at historically high levels with UK households collectively making more than £140bn

of forced savings during the pandemic. That’s around 10% of household income.

The OBR has suggested separately that those who can afford to, will access savings to maintain spending.

And this is the underlying point. Those with cash to spend will continue to spend it. In the decade preceding the pandemic, the top fifth of wealthiest households accounted for more than half of all home improvements in the UK.

That is unlikely to change as we move forward.

It is also worth noting that the alarmist forecasts of a 15% or even 20% drop in house prices in 2023 in response to rising interest rates, are now being revised down to 6 to 8% Even in the dark days of 2008 and 2009 and the global banking crisis, house prices only fell by 15%.

The economic prospects that the UK faces in 2023 are nowhere near as severe as those we faced in 2008. A correction of the market

of around 6% would go some way to correcting the record house price inflation that we have seen since Covid which brough average house prices to a record high in August 2022 at £296,000.

Mortgage interest rates are also dropping from the October jump in response to the rise in the base rate and are forecast to come back to around 4% at the start of 2023. This will still be a shock to anyone coming to the end of their 1.8% fixed deal but compared to historical interest rate levels, they remain low.

If we take it that energy efficiency will be the foundation for window and door sales in 2023 and 2024, we should also assume that those with money still to spend, will want products which enhance and add value to their properties. Heritage, colour, flush casements, will continue to drive the market in the year ahead.

Having committed to the Science Based Targets

programme and a pledge to cut our carbon footprint by 60% by 2030 from a 2021 baseline, and as the winner of the G22 Sustainability Initiative of the year, it would also be remiss of me not to mention sustainability.

It needs to be part of our offer, your offer and a collective offer from the window and door industry. Energy efficiency, carbon footprint and wider sustainability go hand-in hand.

It is not ‘the’ reason to buy new windows and doors. Energy efficiency as we have said, and other evergreen drivers, appearance and security, will drive sales.

It is, however, a point of difference. And when the market is more challenging the ‘margins’ of your offer assume far greater importance.

Pre-pandemic in 2019 we were working hard. 2020 and 2021, and for much of 2022, new business has been served to us on a plate. Now we need to get back to working, marketing our products and our service offer, and start hustling again.

For more information about Deceuninck’s product and service offer please call 01249 816 969, email deceuninck.ltd@ deceuninck.com or visit www.deceuninck.co.uk.

Rob McGlennon, Managing Director,

Deceuninck

MADE FOR TRADE SCOOPS YET ANOTHER PRESTIGIOUS NATIONAL AWARD LINIAR TEAM MEMBERS STEP UP TO HELP THOSE IN NEED

Nine nominations, three runner-up spots and one overall victory at the National Fenestration Awards rounds out another a highly decorated year of recognition for the North East-based glazing systems manufacturer.

Topping off a barrage of nominations and awards in recent years, Made For Trade was thrilled to conclude 2022 not only with a trio of runner-up recognitions, but also an overall category win at the highly-regarded National Fenestration Awards last month; one that truly recognises the present-day manufacturing prowess of the Wynyard business. First conceived in 2013, the NFAs are the industry’s fastest-growing awards, and they come with one aim: to be the fairest and most inclusive of all fenestration events; rewarding the very best in the glazing sector.

As the first ‘open platform’ awards, what makes this celebration of fenestration unique is that the NFAs aim to recognise all areas of the industry by inviting everyone to not only nominate, but also cast votes themselves for businesses and individuals that they believe deserve recognition. Contrary to usual practice, there are no judges or panels; all nominations are whittled down to shortlists and the final list of winners is decided by votes from those very same industry personnel – without a doubt the most rewarding way to be recognised, for any company.

Of course, whilst the main aim of the National Fenestration Awards is to encourage as much of the sector as possible to take part in a democratic, transparent event that honestly rewards the best in the industry, it is also refreshing in its approach; aiming to make it an enjoyable day out to remember alongside.

Taking place once again with a fun-filled day at Doncaster Racecourse in November, the 2022 event proved as entertaining and eventful as ever, wherefollowing on from a joint category win in 2021 for the new Korniche Bi-Folding Door - this year Made For Trade was thrilled to be shortlisted for a huge tally of nine categories. The remarkable achievement gave a nod to everything from the team’s product innovation to in-house manufacturing capability at the expansive Northeast site, plus business, sales and marketing to highlight the progress and growth of this everexpanding family enterprise.

With nearly 30,000 votes cast across the 33 categories, the nine awards shortlists to keep MFT event attendees Ashley Gaunt (Technical Director), David Jones (Finance Director) and Chris Caley (Sales Executive) on the edge of their seats throughout the day included Aluminium Fabricator of the Year, Fabricator/ Manufacturer of the Year, as well as Bi-Folding Door Manufacturer of the Year to recognise the strides made with the game-changing new Korniche products.

Further nominations were for Door Component of the Year and New Product 2022 (both for the revolutionary Korniche Bi-Fold clip-in ‘Speedbead’), whilst Conservatory Product and Conservatory Fabricator categories recognised the engineering breakthrough and unparalleled sales success of the Korniche Lantern Roof. Away from the shop floor, the final nominations

were for Digital Marketing Campaign of the Year for the Korniche Roof Lantern, as well as a Business Development Manager / Sales Executive of the Year nomination for Chris Caley.

As the proceedings took place across the day, the runner-up spots recognised for Made For Trade were Bi-folding Door Manufacturer, Fabricator/Manufacturer and Door Component for the ‘Speedbead’, but the pinnacle of recognition at the event was MFT taking home the trophy for the Aluminium Fabricator of the Year Award.

In what has been a demanding 2022 across the whole industry as the country deals with numerous issues, Made For Trade remained as a force to be reckoned with in fenestration, continuing to develop new products, grow market share and invest heavily in both factory hardware and office software. The nominations and latest award win judged by those working within the industry further cement the progress of Korniche towards becoming a desirable brand name held in high regard to both trade partners and consumers alike, yet also recognise the increase in sales as an ever-expanding list of businesses choose to supply and install the multiaward-winning Lantern and Bi-folding Door.

Of all the awards for which MFT was shortlisted, being voted by industry peers as the NFA’s Aluminium Fabricator of the Year was one of the most satisfying and ultimately humbling to-date; summing up everything that the company has been striving to achieve by taking next-level, motorsport-derived precision manufacturing experience to fenestration. As the culmination of years of development work and bolstered by game-changing attributes such as MFT’s enviable new ISO9001 quality certification; the award highlights everything Made for Trade is pursuing with the Korniche product line, where engineering continues to underpin the quality and investment in offering the best products with the best service at the best price.

Speaking of the success, MFT Technical Director Ashley Gaunt said: “The NFAs are always a fun and enjoyable event, not to mention being judged in a more visible way to convention. Being shortlisted for so many awards was an honour as were the runner-up spots, but we are all delighted to receive the win for Aluminium Fabricator of the Year, especially knowing it is an achievement that has been recognised and voted from within.”

The team at industry-leading PVCu systems company

Liniar, a subsidiary of Quanex, have donated a staggering 593 non-perishable food items during November. The much-needed items will be distributed by charity Salcare to people needing support in the Heanor area this Christmas.

Liniar has a strong history of supporting both local and national causes, and the company’s annual Food Drive is an activity that has been running for a number of years. This year, despite the cost-of-living crisis, the collection has seen the most generous results to date.

In addition to the Food Drive, Liniar’s team members have been choosing, wrapping and donating Christmas gifts for adults and children currently being supported by Derbyshire WISH, a local charity that offers advice, support and refuge for people suffering the impact of domestic abuse.

Liniar’s Group Managing Director Martin Thurley commented, “Charities are under more pressure than ever as household budgets are squeezed and donations fall.

The cost-of-living crisis is being felt throughout our community, both physically and mentally. The sad fact is that families are having to choose between heating their homes and buying food and unfortunately, this kind of pressure can also result in a rise in domestic violence.”

Martin continued, “I’m always proud of the way the Liniar team pull together to assist the local community. The food they’ve collected will help people stretch their money just that little bit further and the gifts, which could be the only present some receive this Christmas, will offer a small respite to those facing an uncertain future through no fault of their own.”

In addition to the incredible amount of food given by the team, Liniar, via its parent company Quanex and the Quanex Foundation has also donated £1,000 to Salcare.

Martin concluded, “As we approach the festive season, we need to remember those in our community who aren’t so fortunate. It is a tough time for everyone; energy, fuel and food price rises have hit every part of our nation – and yet I never cease to be amazed at the generosity of everyone at Liniar. I feel truly privileged to be a part of this great team.”

The Liniar Giving Tree

Salcare Food Drive

Liniar Team

SPONSORED BY GQA AND BUILDING OUR SKILLS

NEW APPOINTMENTS

ANDY JONES JOINS APEER AND ASSOCIATED BRANDS AS UK MAINLAND SALES AND MARKETING DIRECTOR

Long serving and respected glass and glazing industry veteran Andy Jones has joined New World Developments Ltd, the Northern Ireland-based company behind market leading brands Apeer; Lumi and SILKA the all new, high performing aluminium window and door system.

The senior appointment, says New World Developments managing director Asa McGillian, has been made to develop the company’s sales and marketing operations in England and Wales in line with its growth strategy for the next five years: “We have added several exciting options to our Apeer door ranges to offer the UK’s

largest range of composite residential doors including a 70mm A++ door. We have a door for every aperture at every price level, a true one stop door shop. We are also launching a full range of SILKA innovative aluminium window and door products and have several other ambitious plans that will come to fruition during the next 12 months.

“So, we need to know that our retail installer network is supported sufficiently for them to drive sales to achieve their true potential, as well as ensuring that the network is sufficiently comprehensive, high performing and motivated to provide the best returns for our substantial investment in product. We have known and worked with Andy for nearly two decades and his experience is just what we need for this task,” explained Asa.

Andy, who has enjoyed senior positions with some of the UK’s leading glass and glazing brands, says that he is delighted to have the opportunity to join Asa and the existing team: “The products produced under these brands are some of the best available in the market and there is a huge opportunity for driving sales beyond their current levels, especially with the level of marketing support the company provides for its retailers. This is one of the most impressive door and window manufacturing operations in the UK industry and there is huge potential for growth. This is very exciting,” added Andy.

www.apeer.co.uk

CAREERS

EPWIN’S NIC ROSSANO RETIRES

Epwin Window Systems’ Nic Rossano, is calling time on his career after 25 years with the Telfordbased business. Currently Development Manager for Epwin Window Systems, Nic will retire at the end of December 2022.

Over the past 25 years, Nic has been at the forefront of system development and was central in overseeing customers with the introduction of the awardwinning Optima PVC-U window and door system and the multi-awardwinning Stellar Aluminium System. His technical credentials, product knowledge and strong customer focus have been fundamental to the success of his longstanding career, and he will be greatly missed by the company and customers alike.

Nic has enjoyed a broad career in the window and related industries, from designing window systems in the 1970’s for leading retail companies to technical sales, which has been his main focus since the mid-1980’s. Nic joined Profile 22 in 1997 as a Product Manager on an initial three-month contract and a quarter of a century later, Nic is a name synonymous with Epwin Window Systems.

Commenting on his retirement, Clare Bailey, Managing Director at Epwin Window Systems, said: "Nic has been a

popular member of our management team and I know I speak for everyone when I say how much he will be missed. His technical competencies have been invaluable across the business as we have continued to drive product innovation to support our customers. His knowledge and commitment to customers has been resolute. On behalf of our customers, support partners and the Epwin Window Systems’ team, we wish him the very best for his welldeserved retirement.”

With one eye on the future, Nic, aged 67, says it’s the right time to retire and will be handing over the reins to Mark Brown, Business Development Manager at Epwin Window Systems. Nic said: “Having a career in the window industry that has spanned five decades means I retire with some terrific memories and some proud personal achievements too. Our sector has undergone many changes during my time, but Epwin Windows Systems remains resolute, and I will continue to follow its success in the coming years.”

Nic who is a classic car and motorbike enthusiast is looking forward to spending time away from windows and doors and putting his technical skills to further use. Nic is the proud owner of a 1992 Ducati 888 SP4 that was originally owned by Gordon Murray (F1 McLaren Designer) and uses a BMW GS Adventure motorcycle for occasional touring with some of his old window industry friends.

Over the years he has become more focussed on the Classic-Hotrods than motorcyles and will be preparing his 1931 A Vintage Hotrod Ford Model ‘A’ Roadster for a speed trial at Pendine Sands in June 2023 with the Vintage Hotrod Association. He is also a grandad to two young grandchildren so like his career, his retirement looks set to be very busy.

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

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NEW APPOINTMENTS NEW APPOINTMENTS

With a background in business leadership within the building and construction products sector, Stuart Stockley has been appointed as the managing director of leading post-consumer frame recycler VEKA Recycling Ltd.

Stuart has a long history of heading manufacturing and merchanting operations for sector-leading brands, including wall and roofing components manufacturer Klöber Group, insulation distributors CCF and notably, as the head of sustainable products for the UK’s largest builders’ merchant, Travis Perkins.

With particular skills in manufacturing and distribution, business and brand development, Stuart has a personal and business commitment to the broader

issues of sustainability and how these may be applied commercially. These were key drivers for his interest in the role, said Stuart: “VEKA Recycling Ltd is the leading UK-based specialist PVC-U recycler and I was particularly attracted to the proposition of the commercial and social potential of collecting and returning this material for re-use over many cycles. We have an impressive facility here in Wellingborough and I am really looking forward to collaborating with our customers, colleagues and supply partners to help drive the business forward.”

VEKA Recycling’s Wellingborough plant is the most advanced of its kind in Europe. It was completed at the end of 2020 and can process PVC-U into highquality recycled PVC-U

pellet. This material is now used in the production of new window and door profiles, in addition to established high volume users including products for the electrical and HVAC industries.

The site was located within central England to reduce the carbon footprint of the recycling process by containing the material recycled and then remanufactured within the geographical borders of the UK. It is the third to be built by VEKA Group, the others being located in France and Germany.

With continued growth and sales success across the last 12 months, the new appointment is the next recruitment step for the pioneering Northeast firm.

Made for Trade are delighted to welcome Leigh Greenwood to the company as Head of Business Development.

As the family firm continues to expand and break new ground in the fenestration market, this new role focused on business expansion was introduced. MFT sought someone with a handson approach who could assist with plans aimed at new market sectors whilst further increasing sales and improving the already exceptional service offering to new and existing customers.

Thanks to significant experience in the industry, Leigh’s appointment will further bolster Made for Trade’s knowledgeable Sales and Marketing team and maintain the company’s enviable trajectory as the Korniche-branded range of innovative glazing products increase their market share.

Leigh joins the loyal and dedicated team at the Wynyard HQ where his expertise will allow him to assist with bringing in new accounts and trade partners, as well as ensuring the dependable support remains market-leading and second to none for existing customers.

Leigh’s commercially minded approach will help elevate the already enviable skillset of the MFT customer services department, whilst ensuring that sales and marketing offer the most efficient quotations via access to the Korniche KwikQuote online software. This market-leading tool enables MFT customers to produce quotations instantly – Leigh will look

to expand on the success of KwikQuote, which is proving to be the ideal solution for merchant and business branches for account and quotation management.

Leigh joins MFT at an exciting time in its growth journey; following a hugely successful period of sales across the last two years, he will look to build on every aspect of the business whilst developing new relationships and nurturing existing partnerships.

Alongside recent accolades covering everything from customer service to manufacturing, appointing dedicated Business Development personnel will ensure that MFT continues to increase their market share and further build their reputation of providing the best products with the best service at the best price.

Thanks to a proven track record of developing successful sales teams in his previous professional roles, it hasn’t taken long for Leigh to begin making an impact. He has started making new connections and establishing relationships with both existing customers and new trade partners looking to source the most innovatively engineered fenestration products in the UK.

Speaking of his appointment, Leigh said: “It’s been amazing to see the scale of the Made for Trade operation. As an established business with many years in aluminium fabrication that has developed a brand and product set, it clearly has great affinity with builders and installers.

MFT’s commitment to their customers shines through with product support, demand driving exhibitions, advertising, and continued investment in partner quoting software delivered to the highest standard. I’ve admired

the business for several years now and can’t tell you how excited I am to be part of the Family/Team. As the Market Leader for aluminium Bi-folding Doors and Lantern Roofs they are constantly driving innovation with their ‘inhouse’ Engineering Deportment. Working with our Sales Team, both internal and external, I’m really looking forward to introducing our awardwinning product range to a new range of Customers.”

Based from the company’s Wynyard HQ, Leigh’s ultimate objective is to further drive customer sales to trade partners, initially with MFT’s two key products from the Korniche brand: the multi-awardwinning Korniche Bifolding Door, and the gamechanging, highly innovative Roof Lantern system.

With a multitude of awards for business service and product in both the Trade and Homeowner sectors, the time for new trade partners and installers to take on the Korniche products and MFT fabrication has never been more optimal; something that Leigh hopes to capitalise on, in what is set to be a busy 2023.

If you would like to know more about MFT accounts, Korniche products, and trade partnership opportunities with a multiaward-winning operation in 2023, please get in touch with Leigh direct to see how we can further your business with Made for Trade products.

Tel: 01642 610799 www.madefortrade.co

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