Glass News May 2013 by Christina Shaw

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper FIT SHOW REVIEW – PAGE 40

Who reads us? Window, Door, Roof Fabricators & Installers, IGU Manufacturers & all who are associated with glass & glazing.

DOORS & HARDWARE – PAGE 63

Over three days, almost 6,000 people passed through the doors of The International Centre for the inaugural Fabricator Installer Trade (FIT) Show.

Issue 26 | May 2013

PRODUCT NEWS – PAGE 76

An intensive period of research and development at leading hardware manufacturer Kenrick has culminated in the company launching a brand new range of cylinders.

Mila has launched two new powder coated paint finishes which mimic anodised silver and anodised gold but which are in fact created using a highly durable and cost effective iridescent paint finish.

GGF Issue CE marking Overview I hope that when you read this you are thinking – what more on CE marking? The GGF is keen that our Members and the wider industry are fully aware of their responsibilities which will be mandatory from 1 July 2013.

Following recent concerns that many companies are unsure of their responsibility to comply with the incoming Construction Products Regulation (CPR) that will require companies who manufacture to a harmonised European Standard to CE mark - Giles Willson, GGF Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Technical Affairs provides an overview of CPR and CE Marking and outlines the GGF’s activity to help GGF Members and the wider industry comply with the new legislation from 1st July 2013.

The Construction Products Regulation (CPR) replaced the Construction Products Directive (CPD); if a product has a harmonised European Standard (a hEN) with an Annex ZA you will need to make a declaration of performance and CE mark your product.

In 2006, the GGF published a new leaflet, “Marking of Safety Glass” in time for the 1st September 2006 and the commencement of CE marking for certain “safety glasses”. In 2010, when the Construction Products Directive was changing to the Construction Product Regulation, the GGF were actively involved in lobbying the European

This is to enable the European Economic Area (EEA) to operate as a single market and to allow free trade between member states. Failure to comply with the CPR if within scope from 1 July 2013, could lead to a prosecution resulting in a fine and possibly even a custodial sentence.

The GGF Activity 2001-2013 In 2001, the GGF ran a series of road shows across the UK to explain the requirements of the Construction Products Directive and the then new EN 1279 for Insulating Glass Units. These events went into the background and detailed requirements for showing compliance with the standard. The speakers included members of the GGF who had been working for the previous 10 years (1991-2001) on the development of the actual standards. In September 2003, the GGF held a two-day technical seminar at Northampton University covering EN 14351-1 Windows and external pedestrian doorsets without resistance to fire and/or smoke leakage characteristics, when this was first published to explain how the standard works and the requirements.

GLASS NEW IS POSTED FREE TO WINDOW FABRICATORS & INSTALLERS!

Covering every aspect of... Windows, Doors, Conservatories & Glass!

ALSO AVAILABLE IN TRADE COUNTERS!

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Commission and Parliament to ensure the changes were satisfactory for the industry. The one key success the Federation were part of, was the inclusion of the use of web sites and electronic communication for providing the declaration of performance. Continued on page 4...

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May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

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Where to start?! In our biggest issue to date, this month we bring you more exclusive articles, extensive features and new products, as well as our special FIT Show Review. Glass News now has its very own Agony Uncle, with thanks to Jim Moody of Tradelink. ‘Ask Jim’ covers CE Marking in this edition. Ensure you get your questions across for next month! DoubleGlazingBlogger provides exclusive material for Glass News and its always a very popular read, though sometimes somewhat controversial! Our original veteran Daniel Basden still managed to get his article across: Thoughts of the Basman, even though he recently had a knee operation and is still recovering. Get well soon

April Winners! Sudoku: Len Rich, Waterlooville Crossword: Rose Arnold, Conservatory Outlet, Nantwich Spot The Difference: Adam West, Scunthorpe Eye Spy: Thomas Kellett, Bolton

Danny and thanks for your continued dedication!

additional depots, I’ll keep you informed!

Other news on the Glass News front is that we now stock the publication in trade counters. I have vast experience of this, as many years ago I stocked a previous publication into trade depots across the UK. Not only do we now post to 11,000 fabricators & installers, including sealed unit manufactuers, but we have a further 4,000 circulation in trade counters, giving Glass News the highest circulation within the industry, and allowing our advertisers to reach the ‘hard to reach’ smaller builder and installer, who may not neccesarily be found on a database. This bread and butter installer are mainly a few windows a week type of customer, but small is often powerful so I’m really pleased to be back in touch with my trade counter customer base.

Do you remember enquiry forms? All the mags used to carry them. Well, Glass News recently did a survey at the FIT Show, and one of the results was clear. Just about every single company said they would definitely increase their product portfolio if they had the time to research and gain information.

We’ll be increasing the circulation even further over the next few months as more deals are agreed with

Therefore, we’ve brought back our enquiry form. Each editorial and advertisement within Glass News now has a number attached to it. All a potential customer has to do is write the number in the boxes provided, on the enquiry sheet, found on the back of the address sheet. Up to 12 enquiries can be made from each edition. The rest is left up to us. We liase with the supplier to ensure they get their information out to the enquiry, in whichever way suits both parties. I’m currently in negoiation with an aluminium specialist,

CONTENTS: Please scan the QR code below to go to our website

who has promised me he’ll be writing a new monthly column, again, exclusive to Glass News. There is more exciting news on the agenda, but I can’t announce it just yet. All I can say, is watch this space!

Christina X Got Something To Say? Email us at: christina@glassnews.co.uk

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

Front Cover Story

Comment Piece

Trade News

Product News

CE Marking

78 Recruitment

Made In Great Britain

Monthly Horoscopes

Trade Counter Partnership

Time Out!

The Basman

FIT Show Review

Glass People

FIT Show “The Comments”

Find A Supplier

Doors & Hardware

Agony Uncle

Q&A – David Jennings – UAP TradeLocks

Contact details: Publisher & Owner: Christina Shaw E: christina@glassnews.co.uk Tel: 01302 246122 Mob: 07805 051322 Editorial & Press Release Enquiries: Christina Shaw E: christina@glassnews.co.uk Tel: 01302 246122 Mob: 07805 051322 Graphic Design: hook-a-duck

Last months crossword solution

With thanks to our contributors: Daniel Basden, Balls 2 Marketing

Sit down with a cuppa, relax & unwind with your very own industry newspaper!

Doubleglazing blogger, GGF, Deadline for copy: 28th of each month

The views contained herein are not necessarily those of glassnews™ and whilst every effort is made to ensure information throughout is correct, glassnews™ does not accept liability for errors. The views expressed by contributors and the content of letters, are not necessarily those of glassnews™ and therefore cannot take responsibility. The paper we use is 100% recycled. Please recycle this newspaper so we can continue to use recycling in our effort to help the environment.

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glassnews™ is a registered Trademark.

@GlassNewsmag

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FRONT COVER STORY

50% INCREASE IN COLOUR SALES FOR FREEFOAM

Continued from page 1... In 2012, to aid GGF Members, the Federation launched a Micro Site called “The Route to CE marking” with exclusive flow charts mapping out the different routes to CE marking. This is fully accessible for GGF Members on the GGF website www.ggf.org.uk/ce-marking but the landing page is open to all companies and has key information including:

Freefoam Building Products are pleased to announce that is has recorded a 50% increase in the sales of colour products for the first quarter. Demand for colour roofline products has been strong over the last few years and Freefoam is the leading provider of coloured roofline products offering ten colours as standard all with a unique 10 year guarantee.

• Frequently asked questions on CE marking - to assist all in the industry. • A list of harmonised European Standards. • A full glossary of terms found within the Construction Products Regulation. In the last 12 months the Federation has: • Issued several press releases on CE marking. • Contributed instructive magazine articles to the trade media on the subject. • Held numerous in depth discussions with Members at GGF Group meetings, on the impact and effect that the incoming legislation will have on products and companies. • Held four in-depth workshops and seminars with an open invitation to all in the industry to attend at The FIT Show, Telford (April 16-18). The GGF is currently preparing to run a series of seminars nationwide to fully explain the requirements. These events will continue for the rest of the year and will be available for all in the industry to attend. Details of venues and times will be publicized soon. We urge any companies interested in attending the CPR/CE Marking seminars/workshops to please contact the Federation info@ggf.org.uk. As you can see the GGF has been very busy on this huge issue and the Federation has now created the tools and measures to ensure GGF Members and the wider industry (including every relevant small/medium sized business), are furnished with accurate and factual information.

Key points It should be noted that if a company buys in a product which is CE marked, they do not change it (including re-branding) they do not have to do anything else. If a company buys a CE marked product in and changes it then they are responsible for the declaration of performance and CE marking. If a company buys unglazed frames and sources the IGU separately then they are responsible for the CE marking for the window under EN 143511. If a company fails to comply with the CPR they can be investigated by Trading Standards who can take the organisation to court. If found guilty there are fines (usually £5K per offence) and potential custodial sentences for the Company Directors.

The general industry feeling about CPR/CE Marking From my experiences from meetings with many industry figures over the last year or

TRADE NEWS

The range is manufactured using our patented

so, there seems to be mixed feelings on CE marking – some companies are fully ready with all their evidence sorted, others appears completely unaware that they need to comply with the CPR and CE mark their products. I do not feel that on 1 July the world will dramatically change however, but if you are not ready, what will you say if challenged by your customers, competitors or Trading Standards?

ColormaxTM technology. Using an advanced masterbatching process, a special blend of natural PVC compound is dosed on-line with specific concentrations of pigment for the required colour. This production process allows us to provide long lasting colourfast products. Freefoam provide an industry leading range of colours including white, black, leather brown, rustic green, regal blue, pale gold, sable, storm grey, anthracite grey and dark grey. We have broken down the barriers to sales by providing the majority of the colour range ‘off the shelf ’ available through a network of local stockists throughout the UK. Aidan Harte, Freefoam’s Managing Director comments “We’re delighted

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Future GGF Activity The GGF will continue with the seminars/ workshops and highlight case studies to show examples of companies and how they are complying. We will also be updating our CE marking micro site to reflect any clarifications or good practice. We will refrain from issuing printed matter as that form of communication can easily become out of date and confusing very quickly, so we have opted against this, however we will continue to get our message out to the wider industry with articles in the trade press.

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The GGF is primarily here for its Members and we will continue to help GGF Members in any way we can to ensure they full comply with CPR and CE mark their products if required. For non-Members, we are always keen to engage with them and hope they can attend our CE marking seminars or workshops in the near future.

The next move for companies and CE marking Check to see if you need to demonstrate compliance with the CPR; if you do need to comply and you have not done anything yet, contact the GGF as soon as possible info@ggf.org.uk or call 020 7939 9101 to get more information and provisionally book a seminar/workshop. The full schedule and locations of GGF CPR/CE marking seminars will be publicised soon.

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with these sales figures. Colour is a big market now, and growing. It gives homeowners and specifiers the chance to create individuality and match or contrast their roofline to windows, doors and conservatories. Most roofline manufacturers are limited to a standard range of white, or whites plus two or three woodgrains. But Freefoam decided some years ago to be a colour specialist and has developed the technology to produce colour easily and quickly.” Freefoam’s Colourmax range allows stockists and installers to feel confident in offering their customers colour and both can benefit from increased sales opportunities with extra margin built in to boost their profits. www.freefoam.com

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TRADE NEWS

frameXpress

Up Close & Personal At The Home Renovation Show With a focus on customer needs and reaching out further towards bigger target audiences, frameXpress recently linked up with Flight Timber Products Ltd at the Home Renovation Show in Birmingham at the NEC. With a massive footfall that captures both trade and consumer visitors, frameXpress sat alongside Flight Timber Products with a number of energy rated products on-stand for visitors to view at first hand. Alongside senior management, Ian Davis, Sales Manager at frameXpress attended the exhibition with an eye on evaluating the show for future business potential. Ian comments, “Being face to face with both new business prospects and the enthusiastic self-builder has proved to be a very positive platform for frameXpress. It was evident from those people we talked to that the show was considered one of the best ways to source the finest products on the market today.”

have a fair reach towards the consumer. Ian continues, “It seems that many companies perceive business exhibitions and fairs as being a key facet of their marketing strategy. Turning a sizeable investment into a positive benefit with serious lead generation however, is a tricky feat and sometimes you have to pull together with like minds who think outside of the box. The evident popularity of the exhibition was great, as notable headway was made in both trade and consumer camps.” The frameXpress team had evaluated exhibiting very carefully, believing that business exhibitions do provide the ideal platform to showcase a business in its entirety. Ian comments, “We all generated serious leads at the Home Renovation Show

and it was interesting to learn at what point potential investors begin to evaluate products. Visitors were at various stages of planning and development phases but the one thing they all had in common was the desire to source premium products.” He concludes, “Exhibitions provide the ideal opportunity to build contacts and network within a specific niche. Having met existing and now new customers, we have opened up the door to stronger business partnerships and made a positive impact with our Energy Efficient and Secured by Design ranges.” frameXpress is a leading fabricator of windows, doors and conservatory products, supplying to both the domestic and commercial sectors. For more information on the ranges please call 01952 581100.

Quanex Rings the NYSE Closing Bell on April 22 To celebrate five years of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), Quanex Building Products, the parent company of warm edge specialist Edgetech, rang the Closing Bell on April 22, 2013. President and CEO David Petratis did the honours on behalf of the company. Andy Jones, Managing Director of Edgetech comments: “While this PR event in New York may seem remote to many of us in the UK glazing industry, it does serve to underline the wealth of resources that Edgetech gained following our acquisition by Quanex last year. Although we were already ahead of the rest of the market in terms of WET with products tried and tested successfully across the globe for 25 years, the acquisition by the building materials giant means we can now also tap into a R+D

budget in excess of $1million with a chemistry lab that most Universities would be proud of! “The sharing of innovation and investment has also allowed us to bring to market new products and alliances quicker than most, something we showcased at the FIT show with our new Bostik offering and TruPlas rigid spacer. This support and the financial strength it provides is particularly important at the moment

as more new entrants come into the WET sector with superficially similar products. As a Quanex company, Edgetech not only has the resource to ensure our customers stay ahead of their competition, but also that we can continue to invest in the overall future of the industry.” For more information on Edgetech’s range of Warm Edge Technology, call 08700 56 6844 or visit www.edgetechig.co.uk.

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Looking for a new supplier or product, but don't have time to contact everyone?

With events and exhibitions being all about making an impact and building lasting relationships, the frameXpress team chose to opt for a show that would

Fill in the enquiry form, found on the back of the address sheet, in this newspaper, and contact up to 8 companies at a time.

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We contact the companies of interest on your behalf.

Finding a new supplier couldn’t be easier!

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TRADE NEWS

SCM CNC MACHINING CENTRE FREEFOAM SCHEDULING INCREASES COMPOSITE DOOR PRODUCTION AT TOTAL GLASS SERVICE HELPS WIN THE DEAL The SCM Group has installed a CNC Machining Centre in the Knowsley factory of leading manufacturer Total Glass for the production of composite doors.

Total Glass have seen the demand for their GRP composite door range increase considerably in 2012 since they invested in their new door products two years ago to add to their impressive range of products. Growth in composite doors is greater than any other product that Total Glass offers the market. Freefoam Building Products introduced a scheduling service last year as part of its support package for trade customers. It is pleased to report that over the last 12 months the service has generated significant business for Freefoam customers with an impressive 63% of schedules resulting in orders. The service provides an accurate product specification and quantity breakdown from drawings for all elements of the roofline product range including fascia, soffit, rainwater and cladding materials and with a quick ten day turn round it’s a service that an increasing number of customers are finding extremely valuable to their businesses. Central Plastics in Dundee have used the service on a regular basis over the last year. Scott Findlay, Branch

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Manager explained “We’ve submitted plans from various contractors and been very pleased with the results, winning 73% of schedules. We get a quick turn round with a full breakdown emailed back to us with all the components itemised. Accurate specification means that the customer can be confident they are ordering exactly what they need, eliminating wastage and saving money. We are a growing business so the service saves us time and is helping to secure valuable new business.”

Scheduling Service If you are interested in finding out more about the scheduling service contact: New-Build Manager Chris Fenney Tel: 07880 712774 chris.fenney@freefoam.com

The Total Glass factory, covering over 100,000 sq. feet is impressive, and in the composite door section are two CNC Machining Centres. The first CNC purchased was a second hand Morbidelli (a division of the SCM group) to "test the market." As the orders for composite doors increased dramatically, it became obvious a second CNC was required and installed as fast as possible. Total Glass's Operations Manager, David Ogilvie comments "We just had to invest in a new CNC, so we contacted Ian McCarthy, SCM's Area Sales Manager, to discuss our options. As SCM offer both single and double station machines, we opted for the double station machine, at little additional cost, that would allow us to increase production

immediately, as when one door is being machined on one station, another is being loaded on the second station immediately ready for when the first door is completed. This enables us to offer a 5 day delivery time to our customers from receipt of order."

The CNC Machining Centre, model Actionline Record 100 ALXL TVNP, was specified with a 6300mm long table divided into 2 areas. The table consists of a number of moveable support bars with position indicators upon which a series of vacuum hold-down pods are located that fixes the door securely to the table during machining operations. Included are two vertically moving location / door support bars in each area to assist in loading and unloading the doors, without surface damage, as well as a number of location stops to position the door accurately on the CNC’s table. A powerful, high speed Routing Head (produced in SCM's own Routing Head manufacturing plant), sizes the doors and machines glass apertures, letter box openings, etc. A 10-station automatic tool changer provides a number of tools to the routing head saving valuable production time. A separate, heavy duty Universal Horizontal Machining Unit is located adjacent to the Routing Head

for machining hinge, lock and multi-point locking system details using special cutters. The CNC is programmed in Total Glass's production office with programs hardlined to the CNC's PC so the operator can immediately call up a program for each door to be machined. Total Glass offers 20 different styles of composite doors in 7 colour options, so the CNC has to be fast and easy to set up to accommodate all possibilities. The slab is supplied by Distinction Doors and full door sets with frame are supplied. Total Glass offer a 10 year guarantee with all high quality glass and hardware options fitted plus many security options. David Ogilvie concludes "We have been very

New-Build Co-ordinator Mike Hawes Tel: 01604 683862 mike.hawes@freefoam.com

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impressed with the SCM CNC Machining Centre since it was installed and commissioned by SCM's engineers. If we have a rare problem, we have a link direct to SCM's service Division based in Nottingham. As orders and therefore production for our composite doors continues to grow, we may well be looking at another CNC in the near future which will mean further investment and reorganisation in our door production area to accommodate the new machine." Total Glass Tel: 0151 549 2339 www.totalglass.com SCM Group (UK) Ltd, Tel: 0115 9770044 www.scmgroup-uk.com

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TRADE NEWS

Whiteline First to Make the Sound Barrier Whiteline, the innovative fabricator, has become the first window maker in the UK to achieve certification under the new BM TRADA Q-Mark Acoustic Window scheme, allowing them to display BM TRADA’s Window Acoustic Rating label. The rating label has been introduced to give purchasers a clear and simple way to compare the acoustic performance of varying window specifications and make a better informed purchase decision accordingly. This provides a sales opportunity for window retailers to offer higher specified products that can deliver tangible improvements in noise reduction. Whiteline Managing Director Steve Milham (left in picture) was awarded with breakthrough certificate number 001 at the FIT Show by BM TRADA Product Certification Manager Simon Beer. “As an industry we have always sold the benefit of noise reduction to consumers but never measured it. BM TRADA’s new acoustic window scheme creates the first test of relative acoustic performance. So our customers can now offer consumers in noisy locations, such as near roads or railways, enhanced windows that really can create a quieter, more relaxed ambience in their home” explains Steve Milham. “Our range now includes 3 glazing

options in our effective window construction, to deliver a market leading spectrum of sound insulation levels. And because the scheme requires both accredited window testing and consistent manufacturing processes in our factory, the label is a sign of true performance and quality.” The Window Acoustic Rating label demonstrates performance on a familiar A-G scale and displays decibel noise reductions (based on measurement of the weighted sound reduction (Rw)) achieved by the specific window specification. For every 5 dB increment in the rating, noise is reduced by a factor of approximately one half. The certificated Whiteline windows can deliver up to a high “C” rating on the label, which has been set with demanding goals for “A” rating performance for industry innovators like Whiteline to aim for in the longer term, without redefining the measurement scale. Steve Milham is excited by the potential that his new, acoustic labelled product range will bring. “Modern life is so much noisier these days. We’re giving Whiteline customers something new to shout about for all the consumers who are looking for a quieter life.” Hear, hear to that. Tel: 01323 723724 www.whiteline.co.uk

EPWIN GROUP EXPANDS PRODUCT OFFERING WITH LATEST ACQUISITION Epwin Group would like to announce its purchase of the trade and assets from Crown Architectural Aluminium Limited. 16 former employees of Crown Architectural Aluminium Limited will be offered new employment by the Epwin Group. The business will operate from an Epwin Group unit on the Yalberton Industrial Estate in Paignton. The Group employs 650 staff across Devon. Brian Webb managing director of the Epwin Group

Building Products Trade Division said: “This is a successful acquisition for the Epwin Group; giving us the opportunity to expand our product range and enhance our service offer to existing and potential customers.” “As a building products specialist the skill-set and expertise of these employees is invaluable, and we’re pleased to be adding aluminium fabrication to our extensive portfolio.” Tel: 01242 243444 www.epwin.co.uk

SKIP COSTS INCREASED AGAIN ON APRIL 1st! Landfill tax has now risen by a staggering 200% over the past six years and will continue to increase at the same level for the foreseeable future. Understandably skip companies are reluctant to advise their customers on waste minimisation initiatives as the more collections they make the more money they make! Kenburn Waste Management Ltd established in 1987 are a UK market leader and specialise in advising the fenestration industry on the most cost effective ways of processing their waste providing solutions that are guaranteed to save money.

When architects set out to create the world’s tallest hotel, in the world’s most luxurious city, they knew it would be a global showpiece for the creative use of glass in contemporary architecture. Reaching 77 storeys and 355metres high on the Dubai skyline, with 684 rooms plus 120 suites and 27 meeting rooms, the twin-towered JW Marriott Marquis Hotel immediately became the most striking landmark in this city of superlatives, with its 80,000 sq m of curtain-wall facade and radical stepped design.

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Due to yet another 15% increase in landfill tax, skip costs increased again on April 1st.

SAINT-GOBAIN SCALES NEW HEIGHTS FOR THE WORLD’S TALLEST HOTEL

our advisory services are completely free of charge.

Saint-Gobain Commercial Market Manager Mark Harrison said: “Saint-Gobain glazing has been used in many of the world’s biggest and most prestigious building projects and this is one of the most notable so far. This hotel stands amid a vast collection

Not only have our suggestions significantly reduced skip costs they’ve also at the same time enabled our customers to become more “environmentally friendly”. In what still remains an uncertain market now may be the ideal time to look at reducing a cost that will only ever increase. To arrange a free of charge no obligation waste survey please contact Kenburn Waste Management on 01727 844988 or email us at info@kenburn.co.uk.

We can visit your site anywhere in the UK and 0513-0015

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of some of the most radical pieces of modern architecture in the world but still it holds its own and stands above the others in every sense. “It is without doubt a beautiful building but with such challenging extremities involved the contract was won on the strength of our specification and glass performance, and our products have a track record that speaks for itself.” Opened in December 2012, the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel not only beats Dubai’s Rose Rayhaan to the record of world’s tallest hotel, it also gives the Emirates state no fewer than five of the world’s tallest six, as recorded by the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat. For more information on Saint-Gobain visit www.saint-gobain.co.uk.

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TRADE NEWS

Independant Awards

for the industry, voted for by the industry

The National Fenestration Awards are the brand new awards scheme for the UK Glass and Glazing Industry. Are you involved in any form of glass and glazing, windows and doors, manufacture or installation, residential or commercial? Have you previously seen details of other awards and not taken part? Did you think they were not for you? The National Fenestration Awards, are brand new, completely different, open to all companies large and small. The first ever to be nominated and voted for online by companies like yours and not by a panel of judges. These are the only awards ever to represent all sectors of the glass and glazing industry. Products and materials such as aluminium, timber and steel will finally be recognised. Services such as industry magazines, systems companies, noteworthy products and people will also be awarded.

of the biggest names in our industry and the wider industry as a whole has been hugely positive with many positive comments and support. It promises to be a truly all inclusive awards scheme enabling the entire industry to take part from shop floor right up to the boardroom. The awards will be run online enabling participants to register and nominate as each awards category is released and then play an active part in the voting process. There has already been a fantastic response since the launch of the National Fenestration Awards earlier in the year. We want all companies no matter how large and small to take part. We want you to take part. Do you believe there is some part of our industry that is not represented or talked about enough?

The trophies to the winners will be stunning three dimensional glass and aluminium individually designed and created. The award nominations and voting process will take place throughout the year with huge activity on social networking sites, in the industry media and through active promotion.

We have awards for industry magazines, glass companies, systems companies for pvcu, aluminium, timber and steel, young people and much more. There will also be special awards to be put forward by you - another first in that the industry chooses who and what to reward in 2013.

How Do I take part?

The Independant Awards for the industry, voted only for by the industry The response to the launch of these awards from some

Taking part in the National Fenestration Awards is easy. Visit our website, complete the quick and easy registration process and you are ready to take part! Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all free. To learn more about the awards, please email: info@fenestrationawards.co.uk or visit www.fenestrationawards.co.uk.

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TRADE NEWS

Senior’s Poor SAGE awarded its 250th patent for dynamic glass Showroom Start to Support 2013 – Says FENSA SAGE recently received approval for its 250th global patent pertaining to its SageGlass® electrochromic glazing technology, achieving an important milestone and competitive edge in the hotgrowth market for dynamic glass. SageGlass is electronically tintable dynamic glass that tints or clears on-demand to modulate light, heat gain and glare.

The first quarter of 2013 has got off to a disappointing start with notifications of replacement window and door installations in domestic properties down by 5.4% over the same period in 2012. January installations were down 10.6% compared with 2012, with February following 1.5% down and March 3.9% down. “Installation number continue to disappoint,” commented FENSA Operation Director Chris Mayne.

SAGE’s patent portfolio covers a wide range of product and process technologies for manufacturing dynamic glass, giving SAGE a significant competitive advantage in intellectual property (IP) at a time when industry researchers like Nanomarkets and Pike Research say the market is poised for significant growth trajectory. Architects and building owners worldwide are increasingly using electrochromic technology in buildings as a better way to control the sunlight, save energy and maximise natural light, without blocking the outdoor view. In fact, hundreds of building projects have already incorporated SageGlass since the company began shipping product 10 years ago. SAGE’s 250th patent is for a new kind of laser device that will enable SageGlass to be

FENSA will be publishing Quarterly Window and Doors Installation figures during 2013 to allow the industry to accurately assess where the market is at any given time.

The first unit was launched this month in Yorkshire and the group aims to have at least three more running by the end of the year, with many more to follow. Each unit will collect post-consumer frames from businesses in the area before breaking them down for processing at its main recycling unit in Kent, ready to be turned back into new frame profile by VEKA.

They will also be used by FENSA’s sister company the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) to lobby government for support for our industry.

Norbert Bruns, MD of VEKA Recycling worldwide joined UK MD Tony Cattini to officially open the unit, in Barnsley. He said: “VEKA Recycling is Europe’s largest PVC-U recycler but with units like this, we will be able to work with even the smallest of installation companies.”

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Recently, SAGE was also awarded another important patent for its unique thin-film sputter coating process, which will help the company manufacture SageGlass in high volumes and lower costs at its new 320,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Faribault, Minn. SAGE has more than one-hundred additional patents pending to strengthen its market leadership in the years ahead. www.sageglass.com

VEKA Recycling goes nationwide for small installers VEKA Recycling has unveiled plans for a network of PVC-U collection stations to gather used frames from local installers around the UK.

* Calculated from the most up to date window and door installation figures - period January, February & March 2013.

“Receiving our 250th patent reinforces that SAGE develops the most advanced technologies to produce the most reliable dynamic glass on the market,” said John Van Dine, SAGE CEO and founder. “We have invested decades of research, sweat and resources into ground-breaking electrochromic technology. This milestone advances our mission to improve the way people save energy and experience daylight in buildings.”

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“It will be interesting to see how our industry’s figures compare with those applying to the whole construction sector.”

89% of all window installations are covered by FENSA according to DCLG.

repaired in the field without having to remove it from the window, skylight or curtain wall system. This is a unique breakthrough that will make it even easier to maintain highquality solar control on an ongoing basis.

loads from most parts of South and West Yorkshire, also free of charge. VEKA has always led the field in environmental innovation, in the UK as well as the rest of the world. It launched the world’s first purpose-built PVC-U recycling plant, at Behringen in Germany, it designed the UK’s first ‘A’ Rated window and its acclaimed Infinity recycled PVC-U system has achieved a number of milestones, including first social housing contract and first domestic retrofit. VEKA Recycling processes around 1,000 tonnes per month of post-consumer frames in the UK and that figure is continuing to grow as more and more in the industry discover the benefits of recycling their PVC-U waste.

‘Express Bi Folding Doors’ extensive showroom in Redhill was the first to be chosen and fitted out with Senior’s new Hybrid ‘Lift n Slide’ door finished in solid oak. The installation is complete with Hybrid Curtain wall consisting of 120mm deep solid oak mullions and transoms, and a Hybrid Series 1 casement window, also in solid oak. Express Bi Folding Doors MD, Steve Bromberg, is pleased to be backing ‘Homes by Senior’ and comments “We have recently extended our showroom to include a wide range of home improvement products; Senior’s Hybrid Systems are our latest addition and has proven very popular with visitors. The high quality finish of the aluminium on the outside and the solid oak on the inside fits in with our concept of offering high quality products at affordable prices. We’ve seen business increase of late as homeowners look to improving their properties rather than moving. “Customers confirm to us that they make their final decision on which product suits them on handling the product in the showroom. A

Tony Cattini added: “Because we are prepared to go out and collect the used frames from the installer, we have made recycling the easiest option of all. And, with landfill charges running at £100 a tonne or more, it’s also a massive cost saving for any installer.” The Barnsley unit will accept any de-glazed PVC-U frames –from any system, not just VEKA – at no charge and can collect van-

The demand for Senior’s Hybrid System in the home improvement sector continues to increase with the launch of ‘Homes by Senior; a range of products and services aimed directly at the homeowner. To help meet the demand to see installed products, Senior’s are providing fully working examples in showrooms across the country.

From left to right: VEKA Recycling Sales Manager Andrew Neal, Norbert Bruns, Tony Cattini and Business Development Manager Anthony Clifford at the new Barnsley depot.

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Hybrid showroom sample.

small sample shown in the home is not good enough anymore, consumers are becoming much more informed and demand a better service when it comes to their important project. With the interest shown so far in the Hybrid product ‘Homes by Senior should be a big success!” Over the last few years the ‘Grand Designs’ effect has certainly captured peoples imagination and more upmarket home improvement projects are being undertaken. Senior’s Hybrid Systems allow the home designer to complete any glazed structure safe in the knowledge that performance is built in. ‘Homes by Senior’s will be launched at the FIT Show in April. For further information online go to www.homesbysenior.co.uk.

TRADE NEWS

Emplas underpins customer service with six-figure investment in new fleet Emplas has continued its programme of infrastructure and customer service investment, with the purchase of a fleet of four new trucks and wagons. Representing a significant six-figure investment, it includes the purchase of a two-part split wagon, giving the Wellingborough-based trade fabricator increased access and flexibility to deliver to site. Kush Patel, Operations Director said: “Rising fuel prices are a problem across the industry. We have invested in a new and fuel efficient fleet now, so that we don’t have to pass those costs on to our customers going forward. “This sits as part of our wider strategy to keep down costs to our customers wherever we can. This focus on lean manufacturing is allowing us to maintain price points despite some significant challenges, nevermind rising material price increases too. “Fuel and energy costs in particular, are pushing up production overheads. But critically to date we have avoided having to pass those increases on to our trade customers by investing in technologies and streamlining our operations.” The wagons also feature a striking new livery, developed to build Emplas’ brand reputation within the trade buts also build increased consumer awareness. The investment in its fleet comes as part of a programme of product and service improvements, which has included the launch of a new in-house GRP composite door line. Combining a tried and tested GRP leaf with a wide choice of glass and quality hardware, Emplas unveiled its new high specification composite door offer at the end of last year. Available in five solid and 21 glazed styles plus four stable

door options, it features ‘cherry-picked’ hardware from Fab and Fix, Hoppe and Securistyle to create an affordable but high quality composite door range. The trade fabricator has made a corresponding investment in its range of colour options, plus an orangery/conservatory midmarket ‘cross-over’ offer, in addition to a programme of continuous investment in its vertical slider, tripleglazed and casement product ranges. Mike Crewdson, Sales and Marketing Director, said: “Our strategy has essentially been two-fold: to invest in our own operation to drive efficiencies in everything we do to insulate our customers for the worst of the increases that we’re seeing in manufacturing costs, while sustaining quality; but at the same time to maintain investment in our product offering and through it support our customers in winning business. “We underpin all of this with a full sales and marketing support offer and it is working. Our customers are standing their ground against the competition and while it’s hard work, we’re picking up new customers all the time, particularly where the quality and service they were getting from their previous supplier dropped off at a time when prices were increasing.”

For more information visit www.emplas.co.uk , email info@emplas.co.uk or call 01933 674880. 0513-0026

Tradelink does the dozen Tradelink, the trade fabricator with 20 years of experience in understanding installers’ needs is pleased to announce that it has received its 12th consecutive audit pass from the British Standards Institute (BSI). Every six months the Institute takes samples of Tradelink products away and assesses them against their procedures, and 2013 marks the 6th year since any non-conformity or observation was found. Jim Moody, Managing Director of Tradelink comments: “We are incredibly pleased to have reached the twelfth consecutive audit pass. It just goes to show that all the hard work put in under our World Class Philosophy is still paying off. We take our processes very seriously and strive to ensure our customers receive the highest quality products. Of course that’s not to say that this pass in any way means that we can rest on our laurels. Instead, we will continue to work hard to maintain and improve on this already high standard, identifying any problems immediately and correcting them before they have the chance to affect the customer. We look forward to the next sixth months when we will be aiming to make it to number 13.”

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For more information about Tradelink, call 01354 657650 or visit www.tradelinkdirect.co.uk.

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TRADE NEWS

For the “rekord”: The 1,500th piece of Easy-Lift handling equipment impresses Neuhausen-Hamberg (Germany), April 16, 2013. The rekord Fenster + Türen GmbH & Co. KG company is the proud and satisfied owner of the 1,500th piece of Easy-Lift handling equipment sold by Bystronic glass. Since 1998, the device has been impressing customers from the glass processing industry with its rigid guidance and its own low dead weight. Also the use of the Easy-Lift by window and door manufacturers has long since ceased to be an exception to the rule: In recent years, the handling equipment has gradually asserted itself due to the fact that it is extremely flexible in terms of frame design and therefore ideally meets the special requirements of this sector. The rekord company is an excellent example of this. The window and door manufacturer based in Dägeling, North Germany purchased its first EasyLift, which also happened to be the 1,500th device of this type manufactured by Bystronic glass, as well as a lightweight craneway – a good enough reason to pay both the customer and the milestone device a visit. Dirk Wiebensohn who, as Technical Manager, is responsible for the production processes at rekord was made aware of the Easy-Lift handling equipment by a supplier with the purpose to restructure window production with wood-aluminium frames

craneways. However, the hoists will not be used to lift insulating glass units into window frames on this occasion.

in Dägeling. Following the initial contact and individual consultancy with Weichsel GmbH, the company responsible for the sales and service of Bystronic glass handling equipment in North Germany, it quickly became apparent that the rigid guidance of the Easy-Lift provides the best solution for the rekord company.

Work ergonomically and economically This rigid load guidance is the great advantage of the Easy-Lift: “As a result, the insulating glass unit can always be suctioned in such a way that its lower edge is completely horizontal when hanging in the air, without manual intervention by the operator”, says rekord company’s Production Manager, Michael Bistram. During the subsequent insertion of the insulating glass unit into the window frame, the operator need not manually assist the fitting of the element into the frame. Previously, the rekord company worked with simple manual suction pads, track-mounted handling equipment and pure “physical strength”. Dirk Wiebensohn was quickly convinced that this old working style simply could

“We required hoists at our recently established quality station to insert window sashes and doors in frames”, says Dirk Wiebensohn.

not compare to the Easy-Lift as track-mounted equipment always tends to transport the hanging load unevenly at an angle. Thanks to the Easy-Lift, it is no longer necessary for the operator to perform time-consuming readjustments to the insulating glass units. “Consequently, we are able to work ergonomically and economically at the same time. The Easy-Lift is an investment in the company’s future as well as our employees who now have peace of mind thanks to the technology”, states Michael Bistram.

Flexibly adjustable, individually deployable However, the handling equipment not only had to be ergonomic and economical for rekord; it also had to be practical for everyday use. “When it comes to the daily routine, only items like Easy-Lift that provide a tangible relief are able to champion themselves. It represents a practicallyoriented solution with almost intuitive operation that provides both ourselves

and our employees with a true added value”, says the Production Manager based upon experience. Easy-Lift demonstrates flexibility regarding the adjustment of its suction pads. “During the production of window elements and doors, we often have to deal with 'disturbing' frame parts, external sash bars and different glass surface heights. The suction pads of the Easy-Lift are spring-mounted, therefore accommodating height compensation. Furthermore, they can be adjusted as required: The outer pads are equipped with extendable arms and the pads located in the central area can be quickly and individually adjusted in the X and Y axes in order to enable a safe suction at all times”, explains Dietmar Weichsel, Managing Director of Weichsel GmbH.

Special hoists for doors rekord was and remains so satisfied with this first EasyLift that the company wasted no time in purchasing six additional devices together with three lightweight

For this purpose, rekord obtained two Easy-Lift devices complete with flexible suction pads and four special versions without suction pads that are equipped with graspers and grippers instead. “We use these special devices without suction pads in order to safely and precisely transport heavy doors that due to their paintwork, cannot be moved with suction pads. The construction looks simple yet it is amazing and functions without any problems whatsoever”, reports Dirk Wiebensohn. The rigid lifting guidance principle is also advantageous here as the load on the Easy-Lift is always at a controlled inclination. Consequently, the doors that are positioned on lower graspers and are held in position from above using easily adjustable grippers, which do not have to be laterally secured. “To date, this design is unique and specially tailored to rekord”, says Dietmar Weichsel and Dirk Wiebensohn emphasises: “With regard to this special construction, Bystronic glass clearly profited from its decade-long experience with handling equipment in the glass processing industry.”

Investment rapidly recouped “Based upon our experience of using the various Easy-Lift equipment in our window and door production every day for a period of over 0513-0029

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one year, we can now say that we definitely made the correct decision”, say Michael Bistram and Dirk Wiebensohn in unison. “We are impressed by these ergonomic and reliable hoists that optimise our production processes.” The times when rekord had to work on a two-shift basis in order to deliver orders on time are a thing of the past. “Following the restructuring and thanks to the use of the Easy-Lift equipment, we now complete our work in a single shift. That saves both time and money, meaning that the investment was quickly recovered.” As a result, rekord has already ordered the next Easy-Lift complete with lightweight craneway which will be delivered in spring 2013. www.bystronic-glass.com www.weichsel-gmbh.de www.rekord-online.de

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TRADE NEWS

Whatever size your business, win big at the best awards in the UK construction industry Being up for these awards, offers much more than just an evening of entertainment in providing your business with an outstanding opportunity to generate more business. Previous participants regularly report that being shortlisted at this event, provided an invaluable confirmation of credentials to potential customers and resulted in them winning work from competitors. Designed to inspire industry to greater heights, the Energy Efficiency & Renewables Awards return this September. Previously known as the Renewables Awards, this year’s show

will spotlight the best small, medium & large firms in the energy efficiency & renewables sector. On the evening, guests numbering into the high hundreds, are guaranteed a genuinely exceptional evening at an event which has boasted high-quality entertainment from Michael Mcintyre & Gabby Logan in recent years. The hosts have yet to be confirmed for this September, but the event organisers promise a first class line-up once again this autumn. So whether you are a larger contractor or a smaller installer, there are only a few weeks remain to enter this years categories:

• Contribution to Energy Efficiency

• Insulation Installer NEW!

• Commercial Project

• Low-Energy Lighting Installer NEW!

• Residential New Build Project

• High Efficiency Boiler Installer NEW!

• Residential Retrofit Project

• Water Efficient Installer

• Energy Efficient Client • Energy Efficient Initiative • Training Initiative • Rising Star • Green Innovation • Glazing Installer NEW!

• Biomass Installer • Solar PV Installer • Solar Thermal Installer • Air Source Installer • Ground Source Installer • Commercial Installer • Energy Efficient Installer

Last year’s overall winners walked away with a cheque for £10,000 courtesy of Plumb Center.

Nomination packs are now available and the deadline for submissions will be Friday May 31st. To request a nomination pack today, email team@energyefficiencyexhibitions.co.uk.

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Back to school for System10 Aluminium from Bowater Bowater Projects has teamed up with Provizion First Architecture and Derwent Valley Construction Ltd to provide the energy-efficient windows and curtain walling required at a Derby school. West Park School in Spondon is a specialist Mathematics and Computing Academy which had two buildings that were in need of refurbishment. Howard Bentley Director of Provizion Architecture explains that System10 was chosen based on a combination of specification, style and price: “System10 Aluminium was chosen for

the re-cladding of West Park School's 'E' and 'T' Blocks as this system met all the heat retention and soundreduction requirements specified by the school, within the expected budget.” “Because the system was available with a white powder-coated finish, it also meant that the new installation would complement the alreadyrefurbished buildings on site, and retain the external aesthetic of the original building design.” The project comprised the complete replacement of all windows, aluminiumframed doors and curtain walling on these single and two-storey buildings. Double-glazing replaced largely single-glazed curtain

“Double-glazing replaced largely single-glazed curtain walling.”

walling in order to improve the thermal and acoustic insulation of the building and improve the internal environment. The school staff have been impressed with the improvement of these buildings. Robert Mousley, Bursar of West Park School explains: “We've seen a big difference in both buildings thanks to this refurbishment, with both blocks becoming significantly warmer and quieter - making for a much better learning environment.” Tel: 01282 716611 www.system10aluminium.co.uk

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NEW ACCREDITED REHAU ACRYL II

APPLICATOR IN ROCHDALE

Rochdale based New Look Windows has just been approved as an accredited REHAU Acryl II applicator, giving fabricators throughout the UK a new source of Acryl II coated frames.

stringent approval process set out by REHAU to spray in Acryl II and we’re delighted that we now have all the accreditations required to make the most of the new opportunities which exist.

New Look Windows has had a paint spraying facility at its factory for more than 10 years so its team has significant experience and specialist expertise. However, it has switched from its previous paint system to Acryl II because of the number of enquiries it is receiving from customers looking to meet commercial specifications for REHAU windows in Acryl II.

“We are targeting both REHAU and non REHAU fabricators and are providing a service for finished frames and bar lengths.”

Managing Director Walter Lopacki says: “More and more specifiers are deciding that the best way for them to guarantee the quality and traceability of colour applied to REHAU frames is to build Acryl II into their specifications. “As a result, we’ve put ourselves through the

New Look Windows has undergone all the necessary quality, process and safety audits required, as well as site inspections and staff training. The company says that the main difference between its previous paint system and Acryl II is the complete traceability which exists on every order.

even retain a small piece of plastic sprayed at the same time as every order so that we always have a control sample available.

Walter Lopacki adds: “Customers specifying in Acryl II have the reassurance, for example, that our paint is sampled monthly in order to maintain our accreditation, the paint batch used for every frame sprayed is recorded and we

New Look Windows has been a REHAU fabricator since 1992 and is an Authorised Partner.

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“Ours has always been an impressive paint spray set up but we have definitely gone up a notch with the new REHAU system.”

Further details are available at http://newlookwindows.com

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TRADE NEWS

The bottom line of effective PR

MPN Windows opens its sixth showroom Modplan installer, MPN Windows has just opened its sixth showroom. Located opposite Swansea’s Liberty Stadium, the showroom is targeted at residents of Swansea and the surrounding areas. Director Paul Webster, the “P” in MPN, says, “The showroom is in a prime location, which has certainly helped with footfall. But we’re also extremely busy handling orders and enquiries, which means all our hard work in designing an attractive and customerfriendly showroom seems to be paying off.” Like its other showrooms in Neath, Bridgend, Cardiff, Maesteg and Glyncorrwg, the Swansea showroom displays MPN Windows’ complete range of windows, doors and conservatories, all of which are supplied by fellow Wales-based business Modplan. It also highlights MPN’s membership of Network VEKA, which Paul says helps gives customers extra reassurance about the quality and service on offer. As the opening of a sixth showroom suggests, MPN Windows has been very successful since it was founded in 1994. Paul puts the company’s success down to dedication and market awareness, but is also quick to credit the support Modplan gives as being a

vital component. “Their support in helping us with the new showroom has been excellent – nothing is ever too much trouble. From supplying sample products to helping with technical issues and designing brochures and marketing literature, it really feels like they’re on our side. They work alongside us and their quality and service is everything we could want.” MPN Windows has been partnering with Modplan for the past seven years and is a perfect example of the strong relationships that Modplan likes to build with its customers. Heidi Sachs, Modplan’s Managing Director says, “We’re pleased to have once again helped MPN with the new showroom and I’m delighted that Paul is happy with the continued support he gets from us. We want our customers to see us as part of their business – a supplier who genuinely cares and is interested in their success.” Six showrooms across South Wales shows that MPN is doing something right. A quality offering is vital, but as Paul recognises, so is the support of suppliers.

Looking for a new supplier or product, but don't have time to contact everyone? Fill in the enquiry form, found on the back of the address sheet, in this newspaper, and contact up to 8 companies at a time. We contact the companies of interest on your behalf.

Modplan Ltd Tel: 01495 246844 www.modplan.co.uk MPN Windows Tel: 0800 803 0821 www.mpnwindows.com

Finding a new supplier couldn’t be easier!

David Gray PR is a specialist PR and communications agency for the construction and glazing sectors. We help our clients, large and small, meet corporate and commercial objectives. We deliver promotional and marketing solutions that cost-effectively work – whether in the UK or internationally.

In the past three years, we have worked with glass, glazing and doors companies in the UK, Europe, Australia and the USA. We have won prestigious business and environmental

awards for clients, promoted them within their sectors and the wider business community – and helped drive their bottom lines. David Gray PR is an agency that gets things done, on a budget, and which believes that investment in sensible

“David Gray PR is an agency which believes that investment in sensible PR should be an investment in corporate success.”

May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

In short, we develop and implement programmes where your company will be heard and respected – changing attitudes, building reputation or helping to convert sales.

Get in touch For an informal chat, contact Charlie Laidlaw on telephone: 01620 844736, email: charlie@davidgraypr.com or visit: www.davidgraypr.com.

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Recruitment in newspapers is still one of the most trusted & effective methods of advertising... If you are looking to recruit, contact us today for prices! WE ARE COST EFFECTIVE AND YOU PAY ONLY ONCE FOR YOUR AD - IF YOUR POSITION ISN'T FILLED THE FIRST TIME ROUND, WE WILL RUN YOUR AD UNTIL IT IS! Email Christina today: christina@glassnews.co.uk or call 07805 051322

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PR should be an investment in corporate success.

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TRADE NEWS

EPWIN MERGER AFFIRMS SPECTUS’ POSITION AS COMPLETE SYSTEMS HOUSE Merging with one of the largest and most successful groups in the PVC-U industry signals a new era for Spectus and its customers. Already recognised as a technical powerhouse when it comes to developing fabrication and site-friendly window systems, Spectus is now able to deliver better support, supply chain stability and a pipeline of product and service innovations.

Better together With a turnover of £275m, the Epwin Group provides Spectus with the financial capability to invest in the brand and accelerate product and service innovation, which will help to grow the Spectus business, capitalise on new sales and market opportunities, and support fabricators and installers in doing the same. Many customers will now be starting to see the benefits of the merger with the Epwin Group. Spectus’ main distribution hub has been centralised in Telford, where all high volume extrusion is also now located, with dedicated lines and tooling to enhance productivity. This is already delivering greater efficiencies and improved customer service. The group’s heritage and pedigree also provides peace of mind for fabricators and installers looking for stable and reliable supply chains. The Epwin Group’s 36year history as a leader in sustainable, low maintenance PVC-U building products is reassuringly strong, in a market that continues to be disrupted by transition and change. The Spectus brand and systems are in safe hands, with some exciting improvements already taking place.

“The Spectus offer has recently been strengthened with the launch of its Safeware range of hardware which comprises over 200 products, from window and door locks, cylinders and handles to hinges and trickle vents, from a host of market-leading hardware brands.” Product advances The backing of the Epwin Group is having a positive impact on product innovation. Spectus is already well-recognised as offering technically superior systems and with the market-leading Vertical Slider in its portfolio, Spectus has long provided customers with proven systems that deliver fabrication and installation benefits, alongside end-user appeal. The Spectus offer has recently been strengthened with the launch of its Safeware range of hardware which comprises over 200 products, from window and door locks, cylinders and handles to hinges and trickle vents, from a host of market-leading hardware brands. This enables fabricators to order Spectus profile, reinforcement and complementary hardware in just one phone call, making it an easy and effective option for customers.

Epwin Group. A good example would be the new Spectus CE marking guide, designed to provide fabricators with everything they need to know to comply with the introduction of mandatory CE marking from July this year. This new regulation will have a huge impact on the industry and Spectus is working to prepare customers for this change, as well as being on hand to help when the legislation comes into force.

Complete systems house Following the merger with the Epwin Group, Spectus represents a complete systems house in every sense. As well as providing a full suite of systems, reinforcement and hardware, Spectus has the financial backing, resources and stability to provide technical innovations, advanced customer service and tailored business support for each and every customer.

There is more product innovation to come as a direct result of the Epwin Group merger, in the shape of a brand new energy-efficient fully reversible window planned for launch this summer. This new addition will provide customers with greater opportunities in the high-rise sector, in a way that addresses market demand for sustainable window solutions.

Superior support Spectus fabricators are also benefitting from advances in customer support, driven by the resources and forward thinking of the

To find out more about Spectus Window Systems call 01952 283344 or visit www.spectussystems.co.uk. 0513-0038

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TRADE NEWS

SFS GROUP INTENDS TO GO PUBLIC

The SFS Group intends to go public within 12 to 24 months. The raised equity will enable the Group to capture additional growth opportunities. At the General Meeting of the SFS Holding AG held on April 19, 2013, the board of directors informed the shareholders about the plan to go public. The Initial Public Offering (IPO) and the emission of new shares will be carefully prepared over the next 12 to 24 months. The additional equity allows the Group to finance future growth projects, to strengthen the equity base and to secure the long term financing of last year's acquisition of Unisteel Technology. At the same time, approximately 650 employee shareholders representing some 20% of the share capital, gain access to an efficient trading platform. The founding families Huber and Stadler support the planned IPO. They are committed to retain a solid majority of the share capital of SFS Holding AG. The SFS Group is convinced that the IPO will support the sustainable development of SFS as an independent company for the benefit of all stakeholders.

- CHECK CREDENTIALS -

TRUSTMARK WARNS CONSUMERS TO BE VIGILANT OF HOME IMPROVEMENT FRAUDSTERS

TrustMark, the Government endorsed quality mark signposting consumers to tradesmen, has welcomed Action Fraud’s warning about doorstep fraudsters using the Green Deal to con homeowners, and is urging consumers to be wary of uninvited tradesmen and always check the credentials of any firm to ensure they are approved and reputable. Liz Male, Chairman of TrustMark said: “I would advise homeowners who are thinking of having any work carried out on their home to only use reputable firms they know or that can be properly checked out.” “We know that the Government’s Green Deal, which supports energy efficient improvements, can only be delivered by approved green deal advisors and installers so consumers need to be wary of people dropping in on them and offering special deals or telling them that their property is unsafe and needs urgent work.” “Doorstep selling and telephone cold calls need be handled particularly carefully. Never be pressurised into making a decision on the spot - there’s nothing that can’t wait until you have had time to do some checks.” “There will be many homes that will need essential repairs before any energy saving measures can be effectively installed so our advice to all customers is to check the ID of any Green Deal firm, don’t be tempted to ask an installer to do extra property repair work just because they are already in your home, and always insist on using a TrustMark-registered tradesman for any home repair, maintenance or improvement work.” For further information or if you have any queries about the Green Deal, call the Energy Saving Advice Service on 0300 123 1234. For information about TrustMark or to download the free advice leaflet go to www.trustmark.org.uk/green-deal/.

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New bridging loans initiative means better options for business Bury based Positive Bridging Finance are looking to attract many new clients with the launch of a new range of bridging loans options for businesses in the north west region, and that could mean the chance to build upon the slow but steady economic recovery. The economic toils of the last few years have been a huge problem for many businesses in the north west and across the country as a whole. Many have gone to the wall whilst others have had to make significant reductions to staff or put in place shorter working hours. A lot of these issues have been due to many different factors with cash flow being a major one. Bridging loans can offer smaller businesses some vital breathing space to keep them running in times when cash flow is tough, and for many businesses that has been almost every month. Positive Bridging Finance have been helping companies get through the stormy seas with their bridging loans services and are now able to offer even better options for businesses as the economic climate slowly starts to improve. ' Positive Bridging Finance are able to arrange quick and easy short term financing solutions that are suitable for any business owner or

individual', explained a representative of the company. 'We can offer highly competitive rates which are amongst the best in the industry. Most bridging loans are secured against property but amongst Positive Bridging Finance's panel of Funders are private lenders keen to lend against more specialist property assets which the mainstream lenders will not touch.'

At the end of 2012, industry leader VEKA ran a series of regional CE Marking roadshows, which were followed by the supply of guidance documents and templates in January, to help make life easier for VEKA and Halo fabricators and installers to get CE ready. As Sales and Marketing Director Colin Torley explains, The VEKA UK Group is proud to assist customers to CE the way to July 1st changes, and has now unveiled further documentation to help them do just that: “At these informative roadshows we made a promise to assist our customers even further with CE Marking requirements. We have now made further guidance documents available, and are pleased to release 'Cascaded test data available on Load Bearing Capacity of Safety Devices' information. “As most of us in the industry know, CE Marking will become mandatory on 1st July 2013, and The VEKA UK Group is committed to ensuring that users of our products have access to the data required to enable CE Marking of windows and external pedestrian doorsets. The documents 'VEKA EN 14351-1 Cascading ITT Agreement' and 'VEKA Load

Bridging loans can often be the difference between success and failure for business, so the availability of more options in this field is going to be welcomed by many small business owners who may have felt their bridging loans options have been very limited. And of course, Positive Bridging Finance are also able to provide bridging loans to private customers too, particularly property purchase is involved. Avoiding the risk of repossession is another area where bridging loans are often used. Positive Bridging Finance are hopeful that there new bridging loans options will be of particular interest to local business. Should you be interested in learning more about these and all other services provided by the company, why not call in at Warth Business Centre, Bury or visit their company website at http://www.positivebridgingfinance.co.uk today.

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VEKA makes it even easier to CE, with further documentation

Colin Torley.

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Bearing Capacity of Safety Devices Test Programme' are now available for our fabricators and installers, and should provide everything that they need from a documentation point of view to be CE Marking ready in time for 1st July.” A further requirement of CE Marking is that the manufacturer should make information available on the following: storage, handling, safety and installation, if not installing the product – operation, maintenance and care instructions, along with REACH Regulations. As Colin concludes: “With the exception of REACH, which is included in the statement on dangerous substances, The VEKA UK Group will be preparing one document that covers all of these requirements, which will be available soon. Other milestones that The VEKA UK Group is working towards in support of its customers for CE Marking, is a worst-case notified U-value data and CE Marking calculator, again which should be available in the next few weeks. “We are also happy to announce that we are planning more CE Marking Workshops – coming soon!” Tel: 01282 716611 www.vekauk.com

TRADE NEWS

NEW REHAU TOTAL70 PROFILES HELP

SHEFFIELD WINDOW CENTRE ACHIEVE AN A RATING Sheffield Window Centre has successfully upgraded its standard trade and retail window from a WER B to a WER A rating simply as a result of switching to one of the new REHAU TOTAL70 multi-chamber profiles.

simulations necessary to demonstrate the A rated performance and the company also used REHAU’s online thermal calculator at www. rehauanswers.com to generate the official WER A rating labels.

Ian Hunter adds: “Previously, our costs for upgrading a window from a B to an A were around £10 per square metre because we had to change the glass and the spacer bar. Using the new profile, it is only a tiny fraction of that and we’re actually now able to offer a

Using the same Planitherm Total+ glass and the same Swisspacer V spacer bar as previously, the successful REHAU fabricator has seen its standard window improve from a B rating using the REHAU TOTAL70 three chamber profile to an A rating using the new five chamber solution.

WER A rated window for the same price as a B. From our point of view, the new profiles have delivered exactly what REHAU promised and we are now using the fully reinforced five chamber option in white and foiled finishes for everything except our very largest frames.”

Director Ian Hunter says: “We were scoring a high B with our existing REHAU TOTAL70 profile and the additional thermal performance of the new five chamber profile was all that was needed to move us up to an A. For us, it’s a really cost effective way of achieving the A rating which we know our retail customers in particular are looking for, and it will give us a real marketing boost moving forward.”

Sheffield Window Centre has begun a major new consumer promotion campaign based around its A rating with new advertisements in the local press, new point of sale material in its two Sheffield showrooms and a newly designed website. Further information on the REHAU TOTAL70 profiles is available at www. rehautrade.co.uk and on Sheffield Window Centre at http://www.sheffield-windowcentre.co.uk/

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TRADE NEWS

Join Guardian in celebrating their Triple Anniversary at the UK plant It’s been 10 years since Guardian lit their UK float glass furnace and what a 10 years it’s been. After investing over £100 million in the UK plant, Guardian continued to develop its commitment to the UK market when 5 years later they invested a further 6 million in their laminating glass line, then just last year another £35 million in one of the world’s most technically advanced magnetron glass coaters. To celebrate these three land mark events and Guardian’s continued commitment to the UK market; Guardian would like to invite you – the glass and glazing industry to join them in their Triple Anniversary Celebration. Guardian Industries was originally started in 1932 and entered the UK market in the 1970’s when they used to ship 20-30 loads of toughened glass, for the booming patio market, into the UK on a monthly basis from the US. Since then Guardian have gone from strength to strength, the success of the float line prepared the market for the instillation of the Laminating line and finally last year the long awaited magnetron glass coater was installed which has given Guardian UK the independence and flexibility to ensure they can satisfy the needs of the industry now and for years to come. Mark Bristow Regional Manager for Guardian Glass UK & Ireland stated: “The road to our 10 year anniversary has been, at times, a bumpy one! We have successfully navigated a double dip recession and managed to achieve growth at a time when many well established companies have fallen short. We greatly attribute this success to our 0513-0046

“best in service” approach and our commitment to the independent glass & glazing industry. The independent businesses have shown the same strength and ability to adapt that we have. This mutual support and success is certainly something to be celebrated and we hope that you can all join us in our Triple Anniversary Celebration.” Scott Thomsen, President of Guardian’s Global Flat Glass Division will be leading the event with a keynote speech. This is an unprecedented opportunity to hear from one of the most influential businessman in the worldwide flat glass industry. The Triple Anniversary event will see the official opening of our magnetron glass coater, with Thomsen set to cut the ribbon. The event will take place at Guardian’s plant in Goole, East Yorkshire on Tuesday 11th June, starting at 10.30am and finishing after speeches, lunch and the opportunity to tour the plant, and see the float line, coater, and laminating line, as well as the interactive glass room and new product’s on display. Don’t miss this opportunity to join Guardian in their Triple Anniversary Celebrations, visit www. guardianglass.co.uk/industry to book your free place at the event; we look forward to seeing you all there.

FastframeUk & Deceuninck give new lease of life to University of Aberdeen student accommodation

New social enterprise customer for Halo 4D Enterprises CIC is a new social enterprise company, and the latest customer for pioneering systems supplier Halo.

In this market two things are important: proactive lead generation to secure contracts and high quality workmanship to ensure total customer satisfaction. A recent contract undertaken for the University of Aberdeen by Deceuninck and FastframeUk demonstrates the importance of these factors perfectly. John Duckworth, Commercial Manager at Deceuninck, supports Deceuninck customers by actively securing commercial opportunities for them and supporting them through the tender process. One new commercial marketing initiative – an e-marketing campaign to specific commercial markets – proved particularly fruitful One lead came from the University of Aberdeen. The University was looking for a contractor who could replace steel windows in student accommodation blocks as part of a wider refurbishment project. The job required a contractor who could handle a large scale contract – the first of the two phases of the contract required 270 windows to be replaced, some with folding openers to ensure the safety of residents. Expertise in colour was also needed: coloured PVC panels needed to be installed between the windows to improve aesthetics. Finally, efficiency was essential to minimise disruption to student residents. 0513-0047

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Deceuninck fabricator FastframeUk was awarded the contract and the company proved more than capable of completing the job successfully. Two teams of fitters installed 270 tilt and turn and casement windows in Deceuninck’s 2800 decorative series. PVC panels in anthracite grey were installed between each window to enhance the building’s aesthetics. Turnaround time from initial enquiry to completion of the first phase was remarkably rapid and demonstrated Deceuninck and Fastframe’s commitment to attention to detail and careful planning, especially important in a contract of this size and location. The transformation, especially given the short timescale, is remarkable. The accommodation blocks have been given a new lease of life aesthetically, not to mention the benefits of improved energy efficiency and security. Work on the second phase of the contract is due to start in May and finish in July and will give Deceuninck and Fastframe another opportunity to demonstrate their abilities.

4D Enterprises CIC was set up by three former Remploy Building Products managers, and will continue to manufacture quality windows and doors, using Halo's esteemed System10 profile, to provide sustainable employment, training and apprenticeships for disabled, disadvantaged, disaffected and disconnected groups from the borough of Oldham. Commercial Director Steve Bottomley explains: “As a Community Interest Company (CIC), 4D Enterprises intends to become a key social enterprise in the Oldham community, where the profits the company generates are used to benefit employees, the local community and a host of other worthy local causes. In order for us to achieve this, we need to be manufacturing first-class PVC-U products, therefore Halo's System10 was an obvious choice for us, due to its exceptional thermal performance and low U-values.”

Initially employing 21 people, the company envisages that at least 50% of those will have a disability, health condition or learning difficulties, Steve continues: “As the majority of our staff will be ex-employees of Remploy, they hold the relevant skills and experience to ensure we hit the ground running from day one.” The company has secured a loan from social enterprises lender, Key Fund, and hopes to use some of its funding towards developing an employability programme that can offer a range of work experience/placement activities that will lead to apprenticeships to support and tackle the issues of youth unemployment in the Oldham borough. The VEKA UK Group's Sales & Marketing Director, Colin Torley commented: “We are happy to support 4D Enterprises, and the values that it stands for. As a part of The VEKA UK Group, Halo is a firm supporter of local social enterprises and charities that offer a greater good for their surrounding communities.” Tel: 01282 716611 www.whshalo.com

Deceuninck Tel: 01249 816969 www.deceuninck.co.uk FastframeUk Ltd Tel: 01773 714777 www.fastframeuk.com L-R : Mike Braddock, Steve Wright, Steve Bottomley, Patrick Mellor. Photo credit: Oldham Evening Chronicle.

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TRADE NEWS

PLANITHERM SURVEY SHOWS

Glass Systems Ltd Going For HOMEOWNERS MORE AWARE OF GLASS Continued Growth Glass is glass is glass? Not recognised the Planitherm “Our TV campaign has With further “Our TV campaign any more, say consumers brand had become aware of obviously helped to position according to a Saint-Gobain it through the TV campaign Planitherm as a brand of has obviously significant Super Glass survey carried out for and 13% recalled seeing choice for these newly-aware helped to position its Planitherm brand that the ads, while 12% had homeowners and the survey Spacer Investment reveals a dramatic upturn also heard via a Planitherm has shown us an opportunity Planitherm as a in homeowners’ awareness of glass types as a factor in choosing windows.

In fact, the number of respondents recognising types of glass as important rose by one third in just two years, while those identifying the need for windows to keep in heat in has reached nearly 90%. However, two thirds of all those surveyed had no awareness of WERs until they were shown the rainbow label – even though 27% cited the need for more energy efficiency as the main factor in deciding to replace windows – and there was also widespread confusion over the Green Deal. The survey, based on over 1,000 online respondents as well as focus groups in the South East and North West of England in November, found that 73% in a quantitative study said

brand of choice for these newlyaware homeowners and the survey has shown us an opportunity for Network members to associate themselves and their product with the TV campaign.” type of glass was important, as against only 54% in 2010. Similarly, the 2012 focus groups showed active interest in energy-efficient windows and glass as part of their purchasing decision, while most in 2010 had thought that “glass is just glass.” It also showed that more than half the consumers who

Installer Network member and 39% were aware of the Network.

Residential Market Manager for Planitherm, Craig Dodsworth, said: “It is very encouraging to see consumers becoming so much more aware of the types of glass available and this is something we believe every domestic installer should take note of.”

for Network members to associate themselves and their product with the TV campaign.”

Elsewhere, the survey showed energy efficiency neck-and neck with security and almost level with price and life expectancy as the prime factor in consumers’ purchasing decision - closely followed by aesthetics. www.saint-gobain.co.uk

In the recent Planitherm survey carried out by SGGUK half the consumers who recognised the Planitherm brand had become aware of it through the TV campaign and 13% recalled seeing the ads.

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ECO FRAME WINDOWS FIRST

WITH NEW REHAU TOTAL70 PROFILES Eco Frame Windows in Bradford has become the first fabricator in West Yorkshire to start manufacturing in the new thermally efficient five chamber REHAU TOTAL70C profiles. The company, which produces around 140 frames per week, says that the opportunity to differentiate its product range from its competitors was key to its decision to switch. Eco Frame had fabricated in the original REHAU TOTAL70C three chamber profiles since it was set up in

2010 but the introduction of the five chamber alternative last year prompted the company to review its product offering. Managing Director James Shillingford says: “Using the new five chamber profiles, we can produce A rated windows more easily and cost effectively than previously and crucially we can offer our trade customers something new in REHAU. “We have been impressed by the ease of manufacturing and the performance of the new profiles and we’re starting our own marketing

campaign to gain the maximum benefit from being the first with this new energy efficient solution.” Eco Frame Windows has been approved to use the BFRC SEL licence scheme to produce its own Window Energy Ratings labels for customers via the REHAU online thermal calculator at www.rehauanswers.com. Using the calculator, the company can instantly work out the most cost effective combination of frame, glass and spacer bar for every contract.

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James Shillingford adds: “The new profiles have lots of advantages for our customers and I believe present us with lots of opportunities to win new business.” All of the ancillary profiles within the REHAU TOTAL70 system are compatible across the entire range which means Eco Frame can easily integrate the new profiles into its existing manufacturing set up whilst also minimising its stock holding requirements.

Glass Systems Ltd, a division of the UK’s largest independent IGU manufacturers, the Glass Systems Group, has continued its investment strategy and acquired the UK’s first twin head Super Spacer applicator. The applicator will enable Glass Systems Ltd to produce both warm edge triple and double glazed sealed units with increased efficiency, preparing the business for the expected increase in demand for this type of product. It is due to be installed in May, when Glass Systems Ltd will switch to Super Spacer as their standard warm edge offering. Alan Atkinson, managing director of the Glass Systems Group explains: “We’ve been using Edgetech at our conservatory roof division Climate for the past four years and last autumn successfully installed a fully automated Bystronic single head applicator at Glass Systems Direct, our sister company. Edgetech Super Spacer became our standard warm edge offering at Glass Systems Direct, and the next logical step was to continue the strategy at Glass Systems Ltd.” “The increasing demand for warm edge, combined with an anticipated increase in triple glazed resulted in us going down the twin head option from Bystronic. This is a major acquisition for Glass Systems Ltd, but there is no doubt both ourselves and our customers will benefit. It not only further automates production, increasing our efficiencies and quality, but also offers our customers that “something extra”. As well as ticking all the boxes in terms of WER requirements,

the brand awareness and marketing help available from Edgetech for our customers, and in turn their customers, is a major plus for all concerned.” The trend for more warm edge IGUs is one that Alan does not see slowing down. He continues: “Two years ago warm edge represented about 10% of our business, but this is now at the 50% mark. With the new Building Regulations due in October this year, we envisage more and more demand and are gearing up for 80% warm edge. Fulfilling this demand with Super Spacer is the natural choice and allows us to continue to be not only the largest independent IGU manufacturer in the UK, but also the most productive.” Andy Jones, Edgetech’s Managing Director comments: “We’re delighted to support Glass Systems as Super Spacer becomes an increasingly important part of their business. Alan’s comment about the increase in demand for warm edge and the requirement to fullfil this demand cost effectively and with the highest levels of productivity, is one being echoed by many companies. Always a front runner in market developments and direction, Glass Systems shares Edgetech’s philosophy of staying ahead by investment, and we look forward to supporting their future growth.” For more information on Edgetech’s range of Warm Edge Technology, call 08700 56 6844 or visit www.edgetechig.co.uk For more information on Glass Systems Ltd call 01792 773752 or visit www.glasssystemsltd.co.uk.

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TRADE NEWS

ISO-Chemie achieves ISO 14001 for environmental commitments One of Europe’s main producers of impregnated foam sealants, ISO-Chemie, has achieved the coveted ISO 14001 environmental certification. The move follows the implementation of an environmental management system which has been in place at ISO-Chemie for some time and was officially approved in March. It reflects the company’s commitment to continuously improving the environmental effect of its products. It also supports its corporate environmental activities. The internationally recognised environmental management system is based on voluntary actions by a company to protect the environment, which together contributes to a continuous improvement process. ISO-Chemie defined a set of measurable environmental objectives including waste disposal measures, the ongoing reduction of its power consumption, CO2 emissions and overall improvements to ensure better management of resources, to gain the accreditation. The company’s product range contains only CFCfree and climate-neutral foams that conform to

MERCURY RISING AFTER DECADE OF VERTICAL SLIDER SUCCESS

Vertical sliders specialist Mercury Glazing is marking 10 years in business, with yearon-year sales growth, record-breaking manufacturing levels and significant investment in new staff and machinery.

the latest environmental regulations and has also drawn up environmental product declarations (EPDs) for products made from polyethylene, polypropylene and polyurethane foams used in its range of sealing solutions – the first in their field to do so. These declarations disclose a comprehensive balance sheet of all the environmental effects associated with the manufacturing of these products. They also detail the input of energy and other resources, and the extent to which the products contribute, or not, to the greenhouse effect, acid rain, over fertilisation, destruction of the ozone layer and smog creation. The positive life cycle assessments demonstrated in the various environmental certifications are intended to be used as the basis for

further CO2 reductions – ISO-Chemie has already reduced its carbon footprint by installing a photovoltaic array on the roof of the company building. With this system the company produces around a fifth of its own power consumption needs on average every year. This paves the way for the company making its own contribution to achieving the climate goals resolved in the Kyoto Protocol and at the subsequent Bali and Copenhagen Summits. Peter Thompson, ISO Chemie’s UK general manager, said the company has long been committed to finding ways to improve the environment.

The Gloucester-based trade fabricator is reporting a 30% increase in sales, driven by a combination of high customer retention and satisfaction levels, plus new business success. Mercury Glazing is already fabricating over 180 windows a week from Spectus profile and capacity is set to increase further, with over £250,000 of investment in new machinery, production software and delivery vehicles. The workforce is also expanding by 20%, with Mercury Glazing recruiting for a number of new manufacturing roles. The company was established in 2003 after founders Martin Halford and Steve Cross identified a gap in the market for the fabrication of specialist windows, whose manufacture was often complex, labour intensive and disruptive to production lines. Growing numbers of window businesses are switching on to the benefits of buying in vertical sliders and many are recommended to Mercury Glazing for their high quality finished product. Chris Hughes, Sales Director for Mercury Glazing, said: “Our 10th year in business is already proving to be our best yet and with so

much investment planned, further expansion is in the pipeline. “The whole business is customer-focused. It sounds a cliché but the customer truly is king, which is why we have a dedicated customer services engineer. “We’re also able to offer an exceptional product in our vertical slider, which has always been well received by the market. Mercury Glazing adopted the Spectus system from the outset - it was technically advanced at that time and nothing has superseded it since. “2013 is shaping up to be a successful year and we’re keen to share this with both existing and new customers.” Mercury Glazing offers vertical sliders in a wide range of colour and woodgrain foil finishes, with nationwide delivery available. The vertical slider is one of Spectus Window Systems’ most popular products, combining the high performance of PVC-U with the appearance of a traditional timber sliding sash window. The window offers full ovolo detail throughout, a tilt-in facility for easy cleaning from the inside and the depth of the outerframe enables the vertical slider to suitably replace most timber box sashes. For further information on Mercury Glazing, visit www.mercuryglazing.co.uk or telephone 01452 383344.

He said: “We constantly look at smarter and more efficient ways of production, cutting waste and reducing carbon emissions, so gaining ISO 14001 is a natural progression for us. He added that the corporate environmental policy means ISO Chemie does not simply specify values, but also lives by them too. “It faces up to its responsibility for a future worth living – as mirrored by the company’s claim ‘ISO WORLD use the blue technology’,” he added.

ISO-Chemie’s European manufacturing facility has a photovoltaic array installed, helping the company achieve the coveted ISO14001.

More at www.iso-chemie. co.uk or email p.thompson@ iso-chemie.co.uk. Tel: 01207 566874.

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TRADE NEWS

NATIONAL PLASTICS

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS IN DISTRIBUTION

National Plastics, well known in the building industry for its outstanding service levels and enviable reputation for quality products at competitive prices, has reached an important milestone this year, celebrating 25 years of trading.

As the largest independent trade counter network in the UK, they are now distributing Glass News in all of their depots. So just what is it that has made this company thrive in arguably one of the toughest economic climates, and in an industry that has suffered greatly as a result? Positivity, belief and an unwavering commitment to service are just some of the words that spring to mind when Managing Director Geoff Foster responds: “We believe in what we do – ours is a simple business, so there’s no reason why we shouldn’t do it well. We have a great team in whom we’ve invested, and, in what was undoubtedly a challenging marketplace last year we pushed forward with ambitious plans, relocating some depots to larger units and even opening a brand new depot in Cheltenham. On top of this, we have sourced and launched a number of new products.” Marketing Manager Carrie Burton explains “We’re very aware that we work in a competitive market and that this marketplace is constantly evolving. As a result we are always looking for new ways to ensure our customers continue to get the very best

“We believe in what we do – ours is a simple business, so there’s no reason why we shouldn’t do it well. We have a great team in whom we’ve invested, and, in what was undoubtedly a challenging marketplace last year we pushed forward with ambitious plans, relocating some depots to larger units and even opening a brand new depot in Cheltenham. On top of this, we have sourced and launched a number of new products.” products, at the very best prices, whilst of course ensuring that our service always meets and exceeds their expectations.” “Our customers have and always will be the core of what we do, so we believe it’s very important to centre our business around them and their requirements. By engaging our customers and listening to them we’re able to provide the solutions they need to grow their own businesses – that is very important to us. A perfect example of this is the launch of garage doors: we took on board comments from our customers, and we looked at how we could help. The new Cardale range of garage doors is not only a superior quality garage door solution, but our group buying power ensures we can offer incredibly good value too.”

Carrie is keen to point out that the company ethos extends further still “A major thing our customers want is the ability to come in and buy what they need, when they need it. It sounds simple but having the right stock readily available is one of our key business objectives. Opening larger units enables us to carry more stock lines and is just another reason why tradespeople choose National Plastics.” Indeed, simplicity may well be the key to the company’s ongoing success. Having achieved their highest sales to date in 2012, this year the trend looks set to continue. Says Geoff “We are lucky to have a solid team of dedicated people working with us, as well as a great network of suppliers behind us.” With more ambitious plans in the pipeline for 2013 and beyond the company are certainly not sitting on their laurels. “We have grown exponentially over the past 25 years, from a small company into the largest independent trade counter in the UK. This hasn’t come about by accident. We all work very hard to drive the business forward and that has seen us enjoy unprecedented growth – even in the harsher times, we have achieved record sales. We constantly assess and evaluate what we do to ensure we get it right. It could be easy to get complacent, but we know there are many out there who would happily take our place so we are always striving to retain and increase our market share.” With passion like that it looks likely there will be more anniversaries to come...

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TRADE NEWS

Backstage World Champs KOMMERLING’S tour for members, from NEW MERLIN Network’s Steve Davis NETWORK

Four Network VEKA members were treated to a front and back stage tour of the Crucible Theatre at a lunch hosted by Steve Davis ahead of the World Championship, in association with their Network VEKA membership recently.

Paul Dumville and Helena Bent from AWC Windows and Home Improvements, Cherene Clare and Barry George from Rugby Double Glazing, Peter Mew and Phil Gray from Mews Windows and Ron and Colette Cox of Addison Ousebank were selected by a draw to win the fantastic prize day out. MD John Ogilvie explains: “The Crucible tour with our Brand Ambassador was an idea suggested by our Chairman, but due to the nature of the event, we anticipated that numbers would be restricted. After writing to our members inviting them to express an interest, we had to draw the names by ballot due to the high number of responses!”

commentary box, playing area and theatre, the press room and players area. They also got to interview players and commentate with Steve on the action of the day at the 'Garden Room', which is behind a rope barrier and open to the public to watch.

Steve also presented all his guests with an autographed cue as a memento of the day. Peter Mew, for one, enjoyed the intimate lunch, saying: “The small number of attendees was great as it meant that everyone at the table was able to participate in whatever the topic of conversation was. Along with great food, the company was fantastic and we also thoroughly enjoyed the tour afterwards.” Peter also donated his cue to a meningitis charity auction,

“They also got to interview players and commentate with Steve on the action of the day.”

that raised an impressive £2500. As part of their Network VEKA membership, companies can use the Steve Davis endorsement on their marketing materials and also benefit from his presence at special events or open days. Steve was chosen as the face of Network VEKA, due to their shared values of approachability, long term consistency, professionalism and integrity. Tel: 01282 473170 www.networkveka.co.uk

Merlin Network has considerable expertise in the fabrication of windows and doors from their 25,000 sq ft high-tech, manufacturing facility in Dalgety Bay, Fife. There’s a distinct quality-led feel to the business represented with the introduction of Kömmerling’s highly energy efficient, 5 chambered O70 Gold System alongside expert technical support and a wide range of recognised quality standards. In addition, The Merlin Network has become the first and only fabricator in Scotland to offer Kömmerling’s feature packed PremiLine patio door system, with deliveries within 5-7 days, alongside a dedicated support function. This patio door system boasts a number of colours and finishes, option for either welded or mechanical jointed outer frames and features an innovative 70mm deep frame which tapers out to 80mm to accommodate the sash. The frame can be easily coupled to any Kömmerling 70mm frame and also benefits from a large range of ancillaries. Thanks to Kömmerling’s highly energy efficient 5 chambered systems, companies such as The Merlin Network are able to harness more cost effective glass in achieving the requirements for the Window Energy Ratings (WERs). Other key reasons for change was the availability of 9 foil options including Chartwell Green, grey and cream from stock, along with a proven on time and in full delivery track record in excess of 98%.

For further information on The Merlin Network, their impressive product range and exceptional levels of service then visit www.merlinnetwork.co.uk, e-mail sales@merlinnetwork. co.uk, or call 01383 821182.

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With the July deadline for compulsory CE marking getting closer, REHAU demonstrated its own online solution at the FIT show which simplifies the whole process for all its customers, both fabricators and installers, who are supplying glazed or unglazed frames. The company has created a simple step by step CE marking guide on its website at www.rehauanswers.com alongside its hugely popular U-Value and WER quick check calculator. On the new home page, customers will be able to simply click either the thermal calculator or the CE marking button as required. Selecting the CE marking button will take them straight to a four step guide which shows exactly what is required for CE marking from Factory Production Control (FPC) right through to CE mark labelling of products. It provides customers with confirmation of the Declaration of Performance (DoP) requirements, together with a simple to use template with print function available, enabling individual DoPs for all REHAU systems and styles manufactured to be produced. REHAU’s technical team is demonstrating the online solution at the FIT show and answering questions on completion of FPC, DoP and the CE marking process in general.

From left to right: Mike Bryant, managing director of Merlin Network, Dave Reay, area sales manager of Kömmerling and Geoff Beck, business development manager of Merlin.

SIMPLIFIES CE MARKING FOR CUSTOMERS

Kömmerling continues to grow apace in the UK market and the addition of Merlin Network (Scotland) Ltd to their nationwide network of fabricators is an important one, in addressing the needs of the Scottish market for more energy efficient window systems and patio doors.

Mike Bryant, managing director of The Merlin Network comments: ‘This is an important investment for us and one that we believe will reap considerable rewards for both of us. The O70 Gold and PremiLine patio door systems are very much best of breed products, which fits our ethos as a business perfectly.’

Following a lunch, where Steve regaled the guests with stories and anecdotes, the eight Network VEKA members' representatives were taken to the theatre where he and Rachel Hadley from World Snooker showed them the practice room,

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CE MARKING

CENSational Take Up of CMS Quality Mark

CENSolutions, the leading consultancy and test facility for the window, door and glazing industries, last month hit the 100th new customer from other Certification Suppliers following last year’s launch of its ‘Olympic’ themed CMS Mark. Many defected from existing certification providers, as increasing numbers of companies recognise the benefits of moving to its CMS Quality Mark. The new customers switching to the BS EN 14351, BS EN 1279 and BS EN 12150 CMS schemes join around 800 fabricators, Glass tougheners and IGU manufacturers across the UK who now turn to CENSolutions for certification, on-going testing and legislative compliance, all delivered with a friendly, plain English approach. CENSolutions’ Joint Managing Director, Wayne Rogerson comments: “It is often assumed that the larger the company the better the service, but sometimes the opposite is true. We’ve seen it time and time again in our industry where market leading suppliers start to become arrogant and don’t pay customers the attention they deserve. They are so busy trying to win new business and maintain their market leader reputation, they forget to look after the customers they already have. A lot of businesses initially opt for the more familiar names in the market as their chosen third party certification providers but, as our recent milestone shows, an increasing number of companies are switching suppliers because they either find they are not getting the service they would like, or even worse are receiving inaccurate information about their compliance.’’

Customers that want to compete for contracts requiring Secured by Design can sign up for our Gold package which includes everything in the silver package with the addition of BS 7950, or BS EN 1627-30 and/or PAS 24 for enhanced security. Our gold scheme also benefits from a tri-party co-operation with ER Certification and Wintech, both of which have UKAS accreditation.’’

“It’s not in CENSolutions’ culture to boast or fabricate numbers to claim market leadership, so we will allow this recent 100 milestone of conversions over to our CMS Quality Mark to speak for itself.

Wayne Rogerson.

Bronze, Silver, Gold “CENSolutions was established for exactly this reason – to help companies meet standards, with added value that can really benefit their business as well as ensure they comply with legislation. With our more recently introduced BS EN 14351 CMS Quality Mark available in gold, silver and bronze packages we can service all legislative needs to ensure our customers don’t get caught out.” “The Bronze package is the basic entry level scheme which ensures customers are compliant with the minimum requirements of BS EN 14351 enabling them to be CE Marked. This is increasingly popular as CE Marking becomes law on the 1st July 2013. Companies are seeing this scheme as a comfort blanket as it ensures they are fully compliant with EN 14351. The Silver package which is recognised by the NHBC, ensures minimum compliance with BSEN 14351 as well as BS 6375, BS EN 12210, BSEN 1026 and BSEN 1027 for weather performance. Silver package customers also benefit from annual window / door testing and bi-annual auditing.

CENSolutions – Your Partner, Not The Police: Free Advice Available Now While it looks likely that from July 1st when CE Marking becomes mandatory, the policing of compliancy will lie under the responsibility of Trading Standards, rather than FENSA who are already managing the control of Building Regulations, that’s an issue for another day. What we want to do though is help the market get the grips with what exactly is required to be CE Marking compliant, and that’s why we’ve invested significant resources into offering a series of free manuals and checklists.

“The new customers switching to the BS EN 14351, BS EN 1279 and BS EN 12150 CMS schemes join around 800 fabricators, Glass tougheners and IGU manufacturers across the UK who now turn to CENSolutions for certification, on-going testing and legislative compliance, all delivered with a friendly, plain English approach.” the GGF to assist them, but for your copy, please visit our website where everything will be available once we have logged your company details and issued you with a password. For more information on CENSolutions, you can call us today on 01785 716625 or visit www.censolutions.com.

“Already being used and cascaded down the supply chain by some of the largest manufacturers in the UK, we can offer a selection of free guides including a ‘How To CE Mark’ manual for installers - also a useful tool for large trade fabricators and sealed unit manufacturers who supply unglazed or IGUs respectively. In addition, we have just made live for download on our website a series of simple check lists taking companies step by step to see if they are compliant or not with the various hEN standards. The checklists include information on EN1279 and IGUs, EN12150 and thermally toughened glass, and EN14351. We’ve also provided this sheet to

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MADE IN GREAT BRITAIN

Using Olympic legacy for better business With the London Anniversary Games approaching, Andy Ball, managing director at Balls2 Marketing, PR and marketing specialists for glazing and construction, considers what we can learn from the Olympic legacy.

When Bradley Wiggins crossed the finishing line to take Olympic gold within weeks of winning the Tour de France, the country saw top coach David Brailsford tick off his next goal. Last year’s Olympic Games was Team GB’s most successful since 1908. It was the British cycling team that stood head and shoulders over any other. The success kept coming with a level of consistency never experienced before. Looking at Brailsford’s model for incremental improvement, there is a lot we can learn. He didn’t throw the baby out with the bathwater and, although he suggested to the French differently, he didn’t reinvent the wheel. Brailsford started from a low point in cycling. Doping was rife, and few thought that winning was possible without drugs. But Brailsford saw something different. He wanted to get the most out of the human body without artificial stimulants. To do this he looked at the whole training and competing programme. He broke it down into its component parts, and then broke those down further, and then further still. He calculated that if he could get a one per cent increase in each area the athletes overall performance would improve. Everything was analysed and the results from all changes were measured. Keeping healthy is a big part of being an athlete. After all they can only train at capacity if they’re well. So part of the little things to do is keeping hands perfectly clean. There’s a way of hand washing that massively reduces bacteria and in turn that reduces the number of instances of illness. He calls this the aggregation of marginal gains. What makes this model so good is that it’s easy to see how it will convert into making anything better. While most of us don’t have time to look at everything in minute detail we can make improvements bit by bit. Start in one place. Look at the results from an advert. Are there any better ways to measure the results? Perhaps use a different phone number or a unique landing page to monitor more accurately the number of responses. When sending out direct mail, make it easy for prospects to respond by phone and email. Not everyone is ready to make that call so making the company website the hub of all marketing activity helps potential customers find out more first. With email marketing check the links are to relevant web pages and the contact us form is really easy to use. Look at the way sales leads are recorded and who’s responsible for following through. Fine tuning the process means companies can measure the results more accurately. At Balls2 Marketing we believe developing the strategy is top priority. Using a combination of marketing activities we work with customers to achieve their goals and continuously improve the return on investment. We use our expertise in PR and marketing combined with 48 years’ experience in glazing and construction to achieve the best results for customers. Tel: 01332 559 406 | Mobile: 07713 134987 Email: andy@balls2marketing.co.uk www.balls2marketing.co.uk

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British manufacturing

MADE IN GREAT BRITAIN

Stuga is a British engineering company building automated machinery for uPVC window and door manufacturers. The brand has been established for over thirty years and the company specializes in uPVC sawing and machining centers. Based in Gt Yarmouth, Norfolk, Stuga use only products purchased in the UK meaning parts are always readily available. With a fully established Service Center here in this country Stuga are able to offer the top quality service and response necessary for complicated equipment that is at the front line of production and needs to be running at all times, or got back into service with the minimum of delay in the event of a breakdown.

With trained technicians available by return phone call to talk through problems, or ‘dial-in’ by internet, to check diagnostics or on-board cameras numerous small issues can be resolved quickly and easily. Should a site visit be necessary one of six geographically based technicians can attend without undue delay.

Stuga feel sure that the resources they have put in place over many years provide peace of mind for their many customers throughout the UK and Ireland. Sadly not everyone checks out the technical resources of their machinery supplier or are too gullible about what they are told.

“With a fully established Service Center here in this country Stuga are able to offer the top quality service and response necessary for complicated equipment that is at the front line of production and needs to be running at all times, or got back into service with the minimum of delay in the event of a breakdown.”

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MADE IN GREAT BRITAIN

GREAT BRITISH

COMPOSITE DOORS

Back in March 2013, Solidor launched their ‘Made in Great Britain’ campaign, which was designed to raise the awareness of home improvements products that support British manufacturing. Several months on and this campaign is gathering momentum, claims the composite door pioneer. It’s not only the composite door sector that is awash with imports from the Far East, but also many other industry sectors and at a time when we should be supporting British manufacturing more than ever. It helps minimise the impact on the environment as does Solidor’s own ‘Green Promise’, supports and creates jobs and encourages innovation, something that the composite door forerunner is renowned for. The FIT Show was a perfect showcase for British manufacturing in the composite door sector for Solidor, who were able to show off an overwhelmingly impressive 17 colours inside and out.

The stand also included visuals of their Made in Great Britain logo and highlighting the reasons why we should support it, which was embraced by the many visitors to the stand during the show.

Solidor’s unique solid core composite door has been designed and engineered in the UK and is manufactured in their new extended premises in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire. As the company has grown, so too has their position as a major employer in the city with the company nominated in no fewer than three categories in the 2012 North Staffordshire Business Awards, with Gareth Mobley being awarded Entrepreneur of the Year. Gareth Mobley, managing director of Solidor Group comments: “We believe in supporting British manufacturing and that’s why our products are both designed, engineered and manufactured from our facility in Stoke-on-Trent. It also allows us to be far more adaptive and innovative as our unrivalled product range clearly shows.” For further information or to become a Recommended Installer, call 01782 847300, log on to their new website at www.solidor.co.uk or follow them on twitter @solidorltd.

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BEAUTY IN BRITISH TIMBER

Three months ago, Totali Timber Solutions launched a campaign to promote British manufacturing for timber windows, doors, conservatories and atriums.

The campaign has been a success with an increase in the order book, yet they can still offer an impressive 4-6 week lead time for their range of premium products. Totali believe that timber windows, doors, and conservatories and atriums should be manufactured in the UK with skilled and time served craftsmen, rather than sourced from overseas markets that are often used to reduce costs and in some cases quality suffers. Their product range extends to lipped and flush casements and their impressive Stormproof range of windows. There are both traditional and contemporary doors within their portfolio, showing that at Totali they can tailor their products to the most discerning of individuals.

In particular the company is renowned for their range of vertical sliding sashes that harness traditional weights and pulleys or more modern spiral balances. There are solutions for luxury new build properties and for even the most environmentally sensitive properties, including listed buildings.

For further information log on to www.totali. uk.com and view the product PDF’s, e-mail info@totali.uk.com or call 01977 608069.

You could also add to their growing following on Twitter @totalitimber.

Totali sources their materials from a number of selected key partners for timber and they also harness the very best in Scandinavian paints and stains, helping to extended the life span of their timber products considerably in comparison to some other products in the market. Jason Carey, managing director of Totali Timber Solutions comments: ‘We’re proud to be able to offer beautiful timber products that are hand crafted in our factory using time served joiners. We have considerable experience and expertise in timber that better meets the needs of the premium installation company, architect and specifier.’

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TRADE COUNTER PARTNERSHIP CALL INTO YOUR NEAREST TRADE COUNTER AND ASK FOR THE BRANCH MANAGER’S LATEST SPECIAL DEALS! Visit each branch online to view current special offers: www.connect2nationalplastics.com

You can pick up a copy of Glass News from all of these trade counters! ABERCARN ROOFLINE

MERTHYR TYDFIL

TAMWORTH

BOGNOR

Unit 25, Abercarn Industrial Estate, Abercarn, Gwent, NP11 5EY

Unit 2, Merthyr Industrial Estate, Pant, Mid Glamorgan, CF48 2SS

Unit 6, Viking Park, Tame Valley Industrial Estate, Wilnecote, Tamworth, B77 5DU

Unit 8, Lees Yard, Lidset Road, Woodgate, Nr Chichester, West Sussex, PO20 3SU

T: 01495 248030 | F: 01495 240661 E: abercarn@nationalplastics.co.uk

T: 01685 377725 | F: 01685 377765

T: 01827 261616 | F: 01827 286558 E: tamworth@nationalplastics.co.uk

T: 01243 545558 | F: 01243 545220 E: masterglazebognor@nationalplastics.co.uk

Branch Manager: Eugene Miller

Branch Manager: Stephen Groves Branch Manager: Kevin Seal (Frames)

Branch Manager: Glenn Collins

MERTHYR TYDFIL FRAMES

ABERCARN FRAMES

Unit 7, Pant Industrial Estate, Dowlals, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 2SR

Unit 23, Abercarn Industrial Estate, Abercarn, Gwent, NP11 5EY

T: 01685 383923 | F: 01685 373162 E: merthyr@nationalplastics.co.uk

Units 2 & 3, Riverside Park, Sheaf Gardens, Sheffield, S2 4BB

T: 01495 248469 | F: 01495 249611 E: masterglazeabercarn@nationalplastics.co.uk

Branch Manager: Martin Rogers

T: 0114 2700788 | F: 0114 2729072 E: sheffield@nationalplastics.co.uk

Branch Manager: Jason Bishop

NEWPORT

PYLE

1a Adelaide Street, Crindau, Newport, Gwent, NP20 5NF

Unit 6, Village Farm Industrial Estate, Pyle, Mid Glamorgan, CF33 6BJ

T: 01633 266004 | F: 01633 221663 E: newport@nationalplastics.co.uk

T: 01656 740444 | F: 01656 741111 E: pyle@nationalplastics.co.uk

Branch Manager: Andrew Parnell

SHEFFIELD

Branch Manager: Darryl Race

STAFFORD

TAUNTON Unit 10, Priority Way Industrial Estate, Taunton, TA1 2AL T: 01823 336762 | F: 01823 322625 E: taunton@nationalplastics.co.uk Branch Manager: Garry Sillet

Unit 4, Tollgate Court, Tollgate Drive, Tollgate Industrial Estate, Beaconside, Staffordshire, ST16 3HS

WESTON SUPER MARE

T: 01785 240298 | F: 01785 211747 E: stafford@nationalplastics.co.uk

T: 01934 415231 | F: 01934 635085 E: weston@nationalplastics.co.uk

SWANSEA

Unit 1, Enterprise Court, Geddington Road, Corby, NN18 8ET

Branch Manager: Claire Boden

Unit 2, Samlet Road, Llansamiet, Swansea, West Glamorgan, SA7 9AA

T: 01536 262640 | F: 01536 400610 E: corby@nationalplastics.co.uk

POOLE

Branch Manager: Colin Imms Branch Manager: Richard Bishop (frames)

T: 01792 790800 | F: 01792 790885 E: swansea@nationalplastics.co.uk

Branch Manager: Heather Bell

CORBY

Branch Manager: Jim Baitup

Branch Manager: Paul Barfoot Branch Manager: Ben Pritchard (frames)

NEWCASTLE Unit 8F, North Tyne Industrial Estate, Whitley Road, Longbenton, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE12 9SZ

Unit 5b Chalwyn Industrial Estate, St Clements Road, Poole, Dorset, BH12 4PE T: 01202 135478 | F: 01202 748367 E: poole@nationalplastics.co.uk

46 Gazelle Road, Weston-Super-Mare, Somerset, BS24 9ES

EXETER Unit 4, Apple Lane, Trade City, Exeter, EX2 5GL T: 01392 365061 | F: 01392 365062 E: exeter@nationalplastics.co.uk

Branch Manager: Ask for general manager

Branch Manager: Simon Long Branch Manager: Paul Sansom (frames)

SUNDERLAND

NATIONAL ROOFING

Unit 3, Inkerman Street, Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, SR5 2BN

Unit 19, Abercarn Industrial Estate, Abercarn, Gwent, NP11 5EY

T: 0191 5493311 | F: 0191 5498282 E: sunderland@nationalplastics.co.uk

T: 01495 245066 | F: 01495 248448 E: sales@nationalplastics.co.uk

Unit 2, Planetary Industrial Estate, Planetary Road, Willenhall, West Midlands, WV13 3XA

Branch Manager: Chris Devitt Branch Manager: John Humble (frames)

Branch Manager: Nick Meek

Unit 3, Ipswich Road, Penylan, South Glamorgan, CF23 9AQ

T: 01902 305937 | F: 01902 305802 E: westbromwich@nationalplastics.co.uk

PORTSMOUTH

Unit Y2, Kingsditch Trade Park, Kingsditch, Cheltenham, GL51 9PB

T: 029 20485055 | F: 029 20452353 E: cardiff@nationalplastics.co.uk

Branch Manager: Jaz Mand

PONTYPRIDD Units 6 & 7, Maritime Workshops, Maritime Industrial Estate, Pontypridd, Mid Glamorgan, CF37 1NY T: 01443 486511 | F: 01443 491631 E: pontypridd@nationalplastics.co.uk Branch Manager: Paul Newman

CARDIFF

T: 0191 2664100 | F: 0191 2159474 E: newcastle@nationalplastics.co.uk Branch Manager: Paul Worth

WOLVERHAMPTON

Branch Manager: Neil Baldwin

Unit B2, Mountbatten Business Park, Jackson Close, Farlington, Hampshire, PO6 1US T: 02392 386060 | F: 02392 206200 E: masterglazeportsmouth@nationalplastics.co.uk Branch Manager: Chris Northway

May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

CHELTENHAM – NEW BRANCH

T: 01242 269674 | F: 01242 256350 E: cheltenham@nationalplastics.co.uk Branch Manager: Graham Voyle

www.glassnews.co.uk

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NATIONAL PLASTICS STOCK: Window frames

COLUMNS

Door frames

INTERIOR DOORS

Conservatory roofs

WALL & CEILING PANELS

FASCIA BOARDS SOFFITS BOARDS EXTERNAL CLADDING ARCHITRAVES & TRIMS GUTTERING & FITTINGS DOWNPIPES & FITTINGS UNDERGROUND DRAINAGE

LOFT DOORS & LADDERS FIXINGS,TOOLS & ACCESSORIES EPDM RUBBER ROOFING

UPVC Maintenance stock: Door Hardware Window Hardware Patio Door Hardware Secuirty Items Consumables/ Gaskets Tools Lots of Brand Items In Stock

GARDEN PRODUCTS RUBBERLOK SAFETY TILES PVC SKIRTING BOARDS

SOIL,WASTE & PLUMBING DRY VERGE SYSTEMS DOOR CANOPIES &

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FIT SHOW REVIEW

The Telford International Centre | Telford 16 | 17 | 18 April 2013

‘EVERYONE WENT’

THE FIT SHOW DELIVERS ITS PROMISE TO TAKE OVER TELFORD Over three days, almost 6,000 people passed through the doors of The International Centre for the inaugural Fabricator Installer Trade (FIT) Show, as Telford became the epicentre of the UK window, door and conservatory industry. 170 exhibitors that backed The FIT Show so unanimously enjoyed the attentions of 5,810 visitors who were attracted by the ‘everyone’s going’ campaign that became a catchphrase within the industry. Not only was the event embraced but also the venue which also proved to be a popular choice even if the town’s car parking facilities were stretched (plans for a new multi storey car park will resolve this for the next event). All roads led to Telford from day one of the exhibition, right until its conclusion as visitors, including 4,078 pre-registered guests, an outstanding 59% of the total, flocked to the show from home and abroad keen to view hundreds of the latest industry innovations, bringing the town to near standstill. Such was the demand to get FIT that the large rush of visitors attending early quickly filled the main ICT car parks and then subsequently each overflow car park. Despite the larger than expected number of vehicles visitors were able to reach the event with the minimum of inconvenience despite the large numbers. It was a similar story inside the venue where footfall remained consistent in all four halls throughout, much to the delight of exhibiting companies. Several reported record levels of high quality leads from key decisionmakers: directors/owners/ chief executives/chairs

More than 5,800 visitors attended The FIT Show.

accounted for a fraction under 50% of the visitors.

Insight Data and Wintech Engineering and many more.

Dan Gill, Managing Director of Residence 9, said: “It’s been a corker of a show, really full on. On the first day alone our stand accounted for 7% of those scanned; we were three deep in people and working flat out to speak to them all.

As word of the success of The FIT Show has spread, booking enquiries for 2014’s event have also been received from a substantial number of non-exhibiting companies, with CR Lawrence moving swiftly to secure a large stand.

“We have received a huge number of confirmed and quality appointments which persuaded us to rebook for next year’s event. We regularly take out advertising space in the glass and glazing publications, but The FIT Show has enabled us to reach a totally different audience.”

The show also saw a grand total of £20,000 handed out at The FIT Show Gala Dinner, hosted by comedian Ed Byrne, to the winners of the Sales Professional of the Year, Adrian Phillips of Nolan UPVC, and Master Fitter Challenge, Arron Clegg of Eco-Sash.

Ultraframe, Marketing Manager, Mark Hanson commented: “It’s been a fantastic showcase and a real shot in the arm for the industry. The vibrancy and buzz of The FIT Show has energised everybody involved. The glass and glazing industry has a certain reputation about it. It’s great to show people just how professional an industry it is.”

Paul Godwin, Managing Director of The FIT Show commented: “Of course Matthew [Glover] and I always believed that the industry would embrace a new national event. But even we could not have anticipated just how enthusiastically the exhibitors would be in creating some of the most exciting displays we have ever seen. And then the visitors flocked in… It has been an exciting, nerve-wracking and now, an immensely satisfying experience. Our thanks go out to the industry for listening to our ideas and taking up the challenge so magnificently.”

As a result of the collective success of The FIT Show and their own individual accomplishments, such as those of Residence 9, a significant quantity of those who exhibited have already rebooked for next year’s event including Solidor, Door-Stop International, Deceuninck, Distinction Doors, Lister Trade Frames,

The Consultancy @ The FIT Show 2013 Industry web specialist The Consultancy is looking to build on a productive three days at the inaugural FIT Show in Telford after receiving over 70 enquiries from showcasing its products.

existing contacts and form new relationships, as well as launching new internet and mobile phone technology which enables customers to see digitally how their products could look.

The digital company, based in the North East, was delighted with the response from attending the event and is now looking at turning the enquiries, which came from a mix of small, medium and large companies, into new business.

Richie Thornton, Director, said: “Any casual visitor to this exhibition could not fail to have been impressed with the manner in which the glazing, fabrication and installation industry presented itself. Here were products and services covering every aspect of the industry, something to draw the interest and attention of anyone, no matter how

The Consultancy has also signed up for next year’s event and is in the process of expanding the team as they continue to flourish as digital specialists in the glazing industry. The show also gave the team at The Consultancy a chance to catch up with 0513-0071

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limited their involvement or knowledge of the industry and its products was. “It was such a great opportunity to meet with potential customers face-toface and we were so pleased at the interest our stand generated. To get 70 enquiries was better than we had hoped for and we’ll now be looking at turning these into potential new business. We would like to thank everyone who took the time out of their day to visit with us; we will be contacting them all over the coming weeks, to grow the relationships that started at the FIT Show.”

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FIT SHOW REVIEW

And the winners are...

The Telford International Centre | Telford 16 | 17 | 18 April 2013

We contact the companies of interest on your behalf. Christina Shaw of Glass News with Gary Gleeson of VBH GB, who pulled out the winning tickets for the Glass News prize Draw. The winners are: FIRST PRIZE – WINNER OF THE iPAD 2 Melanie Shepherd of R W Simon Ltd

THIRD PRIZE – WINNER OF A MAKITA DRILL Richard Bent of Selecta Systems

Trojan Group celebrates

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MILA LAUNCHES NEW HIGH SECURITY STEEL STRIKER At the FIT show, Mila is launched a new high security, profile-specific steel topped mushroom striker range for use with casement windows. Branded ‘NightSecure®’, it is the only striker on the market to pass the BS7950 enhanced security test in night vent mode giving fabricators and installers a significant competitive advantage in their sales to consumers. Mila is helping customers to maximise this advantage by illustrating just what the enhanced security test means at the FIT show - comparing the 3.5kN applied force to the thrusting force of a buffalo. The NightSecure® striker was successfully tested in conjunction with both a Prolinea twin cam and shootbolt espag and has been developed, fitted and tested by Mila on all of the relevant window profile systems.

team have invested many hours in ensuring that the new product is a perfect fit. “We’ve also ensured that fabricators can use the same striker for both twin cam and shootbolt espags, minimising their stockholding requirements and allowing them to improve their fabrication efficiency.” In addition to the BS7950 approval, the NightSecure® range has been successfully tested to BSEN 1670: grade 4, and is Secured by Design accredited. The new NightSecure® is just one of five significant new product launches by Mila at the FIT show. The company also launched the ProSecure multi-point door lock, a new ProSecure patio handle, a new TripleStay® friction stay for triple glazed frames and two new powder coated Heritage finishes.

Richard Gyde, Managing Director of Mila, explains: “All too often, new strikers are developed using just profile drawings which means they don’t always provide the perfect fit, function and compression which customers want. We’ve addressed that with this new NightSecure® and our product development 0513-0075

Finding a new supplier couldn’t be easier!

SECOND PRIZE – WINNER OF A MAKITA DRILL & £50 Richard Fogg, Tutbury

outstanding FIT Show

The Trojan Group’s sales team is going to have a busy few weeks following up on enquiries made at the FIT Show. The company’s stand was busy throughout all three days of the show and staff were inundated with enquiries. Tony Chadwick, Trojan’s Group Managing Director said, “Our existing customers were extremely interested in our newest products, the Stallion 3 Window Lock and the Sparta 3 Window Handle. But we also got a lot of interest from potential new customers. We are one of the biggest hardware names in the industry and we’ve got a reputation for quality and innovation. But sometimes, people need to see the products for themselves to understand just how much they have to offer. The FIT Show was the perfect opportunity for people to do that and we were overwhelmed with the interest we received.” As Tony says, Trojan’s two newest products attracted

a lot of attention from existing customers who already understand the value that Trojan can bring to a business. The Stallion 3 is suitable for all applications from zero to 1300mm and fits PVC-U profiles or profiles with standard Eurogroove applications. Apart from the minimised inventory, one of the advantages of this one size fits all applications approach is the drastically reduced supply lead time, which will help installers to fulfil urgent projects. Meanwhile, the new look Sparta 3 handle offers a wealth of new benefits without increasing costs or reducing quality and, as usual, has been designed to meet the needs of installers and homeowners alike. Trojan’s stainless steel range proved exceptionally popular with both existing and potential customers. All the products in the range come with a 25 year guarantee and offer superb corrosion resistance, something that’s becoming increasingly important with

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our changeable weather. The range, which comprises a handle, letter plate, door knocker, numerals, spyviewer and flag hinge, has been designed to suite perfectly and because it’s available in three price points, it suits every project budget, making it a great addition to any portfolio. Trade shows are a great opportunity for the industry to see what’s out there. And judging by the number of enquiries that Trojan received at the FIT Show, people liked what they saw when they got to the Trojan stand. Tel: 01922 713 933 www.trojan-hardware.com

FIT SHOW REVIEW

The Telford International Centre | Telford 16 | 17 | 18 April 2013

Carl F Groupco Launches PERFECT FIT FOR CUSTOMADE GROUP New Catalogue The recent FIT Show was hailed as a resounding success for the Customade Group. The Group, which includes Customade and Atlas Glazed Roof Solutions, welcomed dozens of visitors to the stand who were attracted by the range of products on show. Andy Thomas, Customade’s sales and marketing director, says: “The inaugural FIT Show really demonstrated the enthusiasm and commitment that so many companies have in our industry. We were very pleased to have been a part of it and to have had such a level of interest in the products that we had on show.” The Atlas roof drew crowds to the stand and the company is now busily following up hundreds of leads for it. The Atlas system utilises a 40mm rafter box profile to minimise the visible profile and maximise the amount of visible sky above. Tests carried out by the BBA have proven that the Atlas roof is the strongest and most thermally efficient aluminium roof available, offering a 33% greater windload and 25% greater snowload than its nearest competition. It is capable of achieving a U Value of 1.5 w/m2k.

slim sightlines and an attractive, sculptured profile, the Classic-al 70mm aluminium window has been designed with reliability and aesthetics firmly in mind. Customade was established in 1979 and fabricates the full Duraflex range of products to a consistently high standard. The company cleans and wraps every single PVCu window by hand and fully inspects it before it leaves the factory. Customade also uses a much heavier reinforcing section in its doors and windows to minimise problems after installation. The £20 million turnover Customade Group, which employs 230 people, also includes Atlas Glazed Roof Solutions, the Bi-Fold Shop, Fineline Aluminium, which supplies designer architectural aluminium products with very slim sight lines, and Hourglass Seal, which manufactures glass and sealed units. For further information, please contact Customade’s marketing hotline on 0800 0094 203 or visit www.customade.co.uk.

Gareth Thomas, sales and marketing director at Atlas, said: “The roof certainly was a crowd pleaser at the show. Visitors were drawn to the benefits of the structure which is slimmer, stronger and more thermally efficient than any other system. We are very excited about the future of this product after the interest it created at the show and are looking forward to a very busy few months ahead.” Customade’s suite of products included the Titan DS collection of windows, doors and composite doors and the Ascent VS - a softly curved vertical sliding window, which combines the visual appeal of a traditional timber product with the low maintenance benefits of PVCu. Customade’s Classic-al window was also on show. With its elegant,

Carl F Groupco launched a new, full colour catalogue at the FIT Show 2013.

for reliability, MACO is a key supplier to hardware distributor Carl F Groupco.

support the company’s position as providers of a one-stop-shop service.

With over 200 pages, the prestigious, hard-backed and bound product reference source contains 8,000 product lines which is double the size of the company’s previous directory. Leading brands featured include Cotswold Architectural, FUHR, Fullex, Greenwood, Hoppe, Kenrick, MACO, PN, Siegenia and Trojan.

The new catalogue and product additions confirm Carl F Groupco’s development in the UK hardware market and

Tel: 01733 393330 www.carlfgroupco.co.uk Follow Carl F Groupco on Twitter using the handle, @Carl_F_Groupco,

Product developments highlighted by Carl F Groupco at the FIT Show included the MSPAG Telescopic Shootbolt Espagnolette from MACO. Selected for its quality products, innovative developments and reputation 0513-0078

FIT Show Success

for Thermoseal Group Leading UK manufacturer of Thermobar and Thermoflex warm edge spacer bars and IG component supplier Thermoseal Group, announces its success in securing business at The FIT Show 16-18 April 2013, Telford International Exhibition Centre. Samantha Hill, Marketing Manager at Thermoseal Group, says: “The Fit Show proved to be a great success for Thermoseal Group as we managed to secure a deal for the long-term warm edge spacer business with two of the largest independent sealed unit manufacturers in the UK. Clayton Glass and Village Glass are now Thermobar Warm Edge Spacer Bar Customers. We also have a multitude of leads for both Thermobar and Thermoflex Warm Edge Spacers. Thermoflex, is our new foam spacer system which went into production just before the show.”

the organisers of the FIT Show and all of the networking opportunities that they set up in conjunction with the show.” As well as a manufacturer of warm edge products, injection moulded components, IG production machinery and Perma Led Adhesive Lead Strip, Thermoseal Group is the UK’s leading supplier of over 1,500 insulated glass components delivered nationwide from local depots in their own fleet of vehicles. To find out about Thermoseal Group Limited and its comprehensive range of insulated glass components and machinery for glazing manufacture, call + 44 (0)121 331 3950 or visit www.thermosealgroup.com for further information.

“The show itself was much busier than we expected and our position just by the main entrance of Hall 1 provided us with a constant flow of traffic in and out of the show. This gave us a great opportunity to show our highest performance spacer bar range to Fabricators and Installers, whilst ensuring that we met up with some of our key customers and contacts visiting the show. I’d personally like to say a big thank you to 0513-0077

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May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

www.glassnews.co.uk

FIT SHOW REVIEW

The Telford International Centre | Telford 16 | 17 | 18 April 2013

SOLIDOR FIRST TO SIGN ON THE LINE FOR THE FIT SHOW 2014 News of next year’s FIT Show has proved music to the ears of composite door specialists Solidor who instantly extended their unequivocal backing for the glass and glazing industry’s newest trade show by being the first company to reserve exhibition space for 2014. Since last week’s announcement confirming that The FIT Show would again take place in 2014 at The International Centre, Telford, followed by a further outing in 2016, reaction within the industry has been universally positive. But it was Solidor that was first to officially get FIT after shaking hands with FIT Show Sales Director, Jason Wootton. The company has re-signed for the same stand the company occupies at the launch event.

Solidor’s continued commitment to the show comes as no surprise. Managing Director, Gareth Mobley, signed up to this year’s event a full 18 months in advance and the firm is one of the key sponsors of the Master Fitter Challenge where they will supply the composite door sets used by each of the teams competing. They will also be sponsoring the Hope 66 Fun Casino, held at The FIT Show Gala Dinner, which aims to raise vital funds for GM Fundraising, a charity that assists terminally ill children and their families. Formed less than a decade ago, Solidor is widely recognised as being the developer of one of the finest composite doors in the UK. Solidor’s composite doors come in a variety of different

FIT Show Success for Senior’s ‘Homes by Senior’ was the main theme adopted at FIT by Senior’s, the UK’s leading systems company. With an island site near to the main entrance, there was no shortage of visitors to the busy stand.

Solidor was the first company to sign contracts for a stand at the 2014 FIT Show, taking the space the company occupies at the launch event. Solidor Managing Director Gareth Mobley is seen here signing contracts with Jason Wootton, Sales Director for The FIT Show.

styles, glazing options and eye-catching finishes and are created using solid timber as opposed to a conventional foam-filling. The 2013 FIT Show is being held at The International Centre Telford from 16th to 18th April 2013. The 2014 FIT Show will take place at The International Centre Telford on 10th, 11th, 12th June 2014. More information on the 2013 event can be found at www.fitshow.co.uk.

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Interest was firmly focused on the new Hybrid and aluminium products on display, including the slide & fold door and the all new lift and slide door, both products suitable for both the new build and home improvement markets. Sales Director, Steve Wightman comments on the show, “It’s good to see that we have a dedicated exhibition for the window industry once again and we are very pleased to have exhibited on such a prominent stand. The ‘FIT Team’s’ pre-show marketing has been first class and the show has certainly delivered providing excellent organisation. “Talking to stand visitors at the show there is no doubt that the industry continues to go through a

tough time, however many visitors were also upbeat about future work in 2013. We are confident with the interest shown in our new range of Hybrid products, now specifically aimed at the home improvement market, we can offer our customers a competitive edge in these tough times.” ‘Homes by Senior’s’ Hybrid range is now available in fabricated form for the first time; further enabling the smaller installers, who were very evident at the FIT Show, to purchase ‘ready to install’ doors at competitive rates. Available on short lead times and in a wide range of standard colours, ‘Homes by

Senior’ products are suitable for virtually any location. Hybrid combines the long life and low maintenance of aluminium on the outside with the high insulation, environmentally focused benefits, of 100% PEFC accredited timber to the inside. All materials used in the systems construction are fully recyclable. Senior’s have already confirmed that they will be exhibiting at the 2014 show and are promising further new product releases in the coming months. For further information on ‘Homes by Senior’ visit the companies dedicated website at www.homesbysenior.co.uk.

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THE FIT SHOW SERVES UP A GALA DINNER TO REMEMBER One of the showpiece events of The FIT Show, held at the midway point of the exhibition, inside the extravagant confines of the ICT’s Ironbridge Suite, was the FIT Show Gala Dinner, attended by more than 800 people. Expertly compered by The FIT Show’s very own Paul Godwin, guests were provided with the perfect opportunity to exchange the exhibition floors for the dance floor and treated to a night filled with entertainment. The Sales Professional of the Year and Master Fitter Challenge competitions also reached a dramatic conclusion with cash prizes totalling £20,000 handed out to the winners. At the beginning of the night, the 15 cyclists from the glazing, construction and related industries tackling the 2,616 mile long route from Chicago to Santa Monica later this year, in aid of Hope House Children’s Hospice, were invited up onto the stage and received a rapturous reception. Their impending efforts were further acknowledged by the audience as a charity

casino hosted later in the night raised a highly impressive £2,670 towards the cause. There then followed one of the highlights of the night, the prize-giving for both the Sales Professional of the Year and Master Fitter Challenge, as Adrian Phillips of Nolan UPVC and Arron Clegg of Eco-Sash were crowned respectively. Adrian walked away with a total cash prize of £10,000, to be shared between himself and his employer, whilst Arron pocketed £5,000 for his first-place finish ahead of runner-up Scott Higgs of Polar Windows who won £3,000 and third-placed Nigel Grant of Nigel Grant UPVC who took away £2,000. The FIT Sales Professional of the Year came to the most dramatic of conclusions as the final video of the competition was aired to the audience and the acting couple finally revealed who they felt had done enough to win their investment. Whilst huge congratulations go to Adrian, mention must also go to the other two finalists, Ed Burgess of Countryside Home

Improvements and Nick Trigg of Mid Wales Windows who both put in equally stellar performances, showing exactly how selling should be done. After performing a series of live installation tasks live at the show alongside the eight other finalists, event assessors GQA Qualifications, deemed that Arron Clegg should be crowned ‘Master Fitter’ for 2013. Not only did Arron take away a huge wad of cash, but he also has the honour of having the Master Fitter Challenge Winner logo emblazoned on van sides, in his company’s showroom and on all company literature. Arron commented: “It is such an honour to be recognised as the industry’s #1 Masterfitter. It was a tough competition, between some talented and competent installers who have a true dedication to their profession. “I feel that winning such a prestigious title is a real acknowledgement that installing to a high quality, having an attention to detail and most importantly having a passion for what I do, really pays off.”

The FIT Show Gala Dinner guests partied long into the night.

Belly laughs at the event were supplied by top stand-up comedian Ed Byrne with the music provided by Motown Gold. Guests also seized the chance to show off their driving abilities on the specially created giant Scalextric track sponsored by Fab ‘n’ Fix and ‘gamble’ in the Casino sponsored by Solidor on behalf of the HOPE66 ride, as partying went on long into the night.

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May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

www.glassnews.co.uk

FIT SHOW REVIEW

The Telford International Centre | Telford 16 | 17 | 18 April 2013

BARRIER COMPONENTS LTD

FIT SHOW SUCCESS

Specialist architectural hardware supplier, Barrier Components Ltd., have successfully launched a number of new products at the FIT Show this week. “We came to the FIT Show primarily to raise the awareness of Barrier Components Ltd, who have been supplying specialist architectural hardware solutions to the industry for 26 years. We have launched a number of new products at the show including folding sliding and stacking frameless glass systems, anti-finger trap systems and introduced EnduroShield, which is a new nano technology protective coating system for glass, tiles, and stainless steel surfaces.”

we will be able to follow up after the show." said Graham Walker, Jt Managing Director of Barrier Components Ltd.” “The event has certainly met our expectations and the Event organisers should be pleased that they have delivered what they promised.” Barrier Components Ltd specialise in the supply of quality architectural hardware components for Swing, Sliding and Folding

Doors, Swing and Sliding Gates, Shower Enclosures, Glass Facades and Baustrades plus consumables like Brush Strips and Seals, Door Handles, Glass Hardware, Locks and security products. For further information and advise on component supply contact the Barrier Components Technical Team on 01708 891515 or sales@ barrier-components.co.uk.

“Our stand has been constantly busy and I am delighted with the number of quality sales leads that

England legends kick off MAX6MUM SECURITY at FIT FIT Show visitors invaded UAP’s MAX6MUM SECURITY stand to see two England footballing legends kick off the brand and find out how it gives championship winning support to customers. UAP fielded its new UKwide sales team on the stand to show visitors the support MAX6MUM SECURITY, the high-security hardware brand for homeowners, gives to fabricators and installers. The MAX6MUM SECURITY brand has already reached millions of homeowners following major investment with the sponsorship of the South Stand at Leeds United, a huge radio advertising campaign and products on the shelves of ASDA stores. In addition to seeing the branding investment, visitors to the stand had fun

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taking on England Legends Norman Hunter and Paul Reaney at table football to celebrate the kick off of MAX6MUM SECURITY. The FIT Show was also the first chance to see innovative MAX6MUM SECURITY products such as the three star kinetica super cylinder and the unique i-Plate letterplate as well as trying out the free MAX6MUM SECURITY app which gives installers an additional sales tool.

different at FIT and show visitors how the investment in advertising, marketing tools and innovative products will help them sell more to customers. I think we’ve done that, and lots of people will be able to take away an unforgettable memory of meeting Norman and Paul that they maybe wouldn’t have expected at the start of the three days.” Tel: 0161 796 7268 www.uapcorporate.com

David Jennings, UAP Limited managing director says: “Norman and Paul had a great time and so many visitors gave them a run for their money at table football. The show was a great place to launch MAX6MUM SECURITY. People kept coming up and telling us how lively the stand was. We wanted to create something

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May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

www.glassnews.co.uk

FIT SHOW REVIEW

The Telford International Centre | Telford 16 | 17 | 18 April 2013

TALKING HEADS Carl F Groupco – ENDORSE MILA SERVICE FIT for the Future AT THE FIT SHOW Mila has pulled off something of a coup at the FIT show by persuading four of its largest and longest standing customers to appear on its stand. Nigel Smails from Ellbee, Gareth Mobley from Solidor, Mark Scaife from Safestyle and Steve Pinder from JELDWEN are all at the FIT show explaining in their own words what they value most about the service they receive from Mila. They’re not there in person however – they are on

interactive video screens which visitors can tap to hear them explain why they count on Mila as their hardware supplier. The responses include: “When our previous supplier went into administration just over two years ago, we turned to Mila for help. What a great decision that has turned out to be” from Nigel Smails and: “We believe Mila are the best in the UK at supplying hardware. Over the past 18 years, we’ve outperformed the market together,” from Mark Scaife.

Richard Gyde, Mila’s Managing Director, is delighted with such public support. He says: “It’s easy for us to tell visitors to the FIT show why we think Mila is the best supplier in the market, but it’s obviously much more meaningful for them to hear it from our customers. “We are delighted with the video stars on our stand and we’re proud and pleased with their enthusiastic endorsements of our service.” www.mila.co.uk

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FIT Show Success Pleases GGF The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) was pleased with the success of the FIT Show in Telford last week.

Throughout the show the GGF and its group of companies including GGFi, FENSA and BFRC (British Fenestration Ratings Council) had information stands, held seminars, one to one clinics and ran competitions. One feature that the GGF Members also benefited from, was the exclusive lounge area where GGF Members could relax, enjoy refreshments/lunch and network with other Members and GGF Staff. Giles Willson, Group Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Technical Affairs used The FIT Show as a launch platform for the GGF’s CPR (Construction Products Regulation) and CE marking seminars/workshops.

Giles commented, “It was good to see so many companies attend the Federation’s seminars and in particular those on CPR and CE marking. It’s so important that companies who manufacture products under a harmonised European standard (hEN) comply with this new EU directive by 1st July and the FIT Show provided a great platform to get our message and information across.” Nigel Rees concluded, “It’s been roughly five years since we had an industry exhibition like this one in the UK and I sincerely hope this is the first of many. Our industry needs the profile and the numerous business opportunities a show like this brings.” For further information go to: www.ggf.org.uk.

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As Glass News can confirm, Carl F Groupco’s stand was indeed extremely busy throughout the show. It was great planning on their behalf therefore, that they invited the press to the stand and we were lucky enough to receive further insight into the Company, the recent merger, and the impressive product range. Heavy investment had been made in the 80sq metre, purpose built stand which displayed individual lines and complete working systems. Main ranges from the company’s portfolio of distributed products were shown including Cotswold Architectural, FUHR, Fullex, Greenwood, Hoppe, Kenrick, MACO, PN, Siegenia and Trojan.

The Carl F Groupco team celebrate a successful show.

here with me today have been with us for many years and we all continue to develop and grow with the business. The merger has happened at probably the time of the worst trading conditions in our industry but we remain committed to offering a first class product portfolio and first class service to our customers– it was an essential move to give us the building blocks to retain our foothold and develop as a significant player.

Commenting, Managing Director John Crittenden said: “The industry got its MOJO back at the FIT Show. A buzz returned that was reminiscent of Glassex at its height and this has given a much needed confidence boost to the sector.

At Carl F Groupco we continue to prove them wrong. Through choice, people and partnerships, the brand and the Company continue to sustain and expand.”

“I am extremely proud of the team work and presence of our company at the event: approaching three years after Carl F Groupco was formed, we demonstrated that we are in a strengthened position offering one of the largest product portfolios in the industry.”

Since the merger Carl F Groupco have invested heavily in presenting the new company to the market and in enhancing communication – with three main initiatives to highlight:

Carl F Groupco has achieved its objectives of maintaining a strong service focus, incorporating leading brand hardware and introducing own brand products to address the price driven sector of the market. As a result, the company has established a firm footing on its development path towards its goal of becoming a leading player in the UK hardware market.

Nigel Rees, Group Chief Executive commented, “The organisers took a big risk with this new industry exhibition and it was pleasing to see their efforts proved successful. I was also pleased to see so many exhibitors promoting their products and services to great effect and they too were rewarded with thousands of visitors attending the show.” “From the GGF Group’s perspective, it was good to impart our knowledge and raise the profiles of the GGF companies and the Federation itself to our core audience.”

Carl F Groupco reports a highly successful FIT Show - throughout the three days the stand was consistently busy with visits from both existing and potential new customers.

John Crittenden gave his presentation at FIT to a receptive trade press, commenting: “This is our first opportunity to meet with the press since the merger of Carl F Petersen and Groupco and we are keen to highlight the changing role of the traditional distributor. The distributor has had to evolve, but there is still a role: we are not dinosaurs and we are alive and kicking.

Looking to the future

• New improved web site and upcoming customer portal. • Investment of £50k in a new 200 page catalogue, more than twice the size of its predecessor. • Investment of £45-50k in being at the FIT Show. After three years, Carl F Groupco is in a good place and FIT for the future. On track to move from a mid-sized to a major player in our industry and waiting for the much promised improvement in the UK economy. Tel: 01733 393330 – www.carlfgroupco.co.uk Follow Carl F Groupco on Twitter using the handle, @Carl_F_Groupco.

For over fifty years, Groupco had been a strong brand and Carl F had its own twenty year track record. In 2010, Groupco purchased Carl F Petersen and both management teams decided the best way forward was to merge the two organisations, take the best from each and make us stronger to grow and remain profitable in the difficult market conditions we all operate in recent times. We have always believed that it is people that have made us successful. Many of the people

Carl F Groupco Marketing Executive Clare Crockett who took the helm of the company’s stand design and build.

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May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

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FIT SHOW REVIEW

The Telford International Centre | Telford 16 | 17 | 18 April 2013

REHAU LAUNCHES CUSTOMER LOYALTY PROGRAMME AT FIT SHOW REHAU said a huge thank you to its loyal customers by launching a brand new reward programme at the FIT show which will offer REHAU fabricators and installers discounts on everything from their weekly shop to holidays, fashion, DIY, meals out and leisure activities. REHAU has teamed up with one of the UK’s biggest and most established reward scheme providers to launch REHAU RELATION which is an exclusive new reward card with a whole host of valuable benefits. Customers who can demonstrate that they buy REHAU profile simply register for the REHAU RELATION scheme online and, and as soon as they receive their personalised membership card, they can start saving money straightaway right across the high street and at more than 15,000 local shops and services throughout the UK. Wolfgang Gorner, Business Unit Director for the REHAU Window Division, expects the response to the new scheme to be really positive. He said: “We’ve deliberately chosen a scheme which gives discounts on the things customers and their families want to buy. There are no points to collect – they simply need to look out for retailers and leisure outlets who are signed up to the scheme and then show their card, or quote their membership number if they are buying on line, to enjoy the benefits. This could be anything from a discount at a big name store to a local restaurant offer or even an insurance or cashback deal. It’s simple and user friendly and it’s our way of saying thank you for buying REHAU and for being part of the REHAU family.” To find out more details about the scheme, REHAU customers can visit www.REHAUtrade. co.uk/relation, or they can contact REHAU’s marketing team on: 01989 762650 or by email: relation@rehau.co.uk.

Selecta Systems’ new sculptured suite is a hit at FIT Visitors to the FIT Show were so impressed with Selecta Systems’ new Advance 70 Sculptured suite, that Mark Richmond, Selecta Systems sales and marketing director, has come came away with a full diary of appointments for the next month. “Advance 70 Sculptured is cleverly designed to give fabricators the option to offer both a chamfered and sculptured suite by using shared components with the Advance 70 chamfered system,” says Mark. “Homeowners want choice but with many other systems offering both means fabricators have to carry two completely different ranges. The sculptured and chamfered suites are completely integrated sharing hardware, reinforcement, and ancillary profiles. And, like all Selecta PVCu profiles, Advance 70 Sculptured features a high gloss surface so windows and doors have a high quality finish and are easy to keep clean.

down is achieved with special design features to speed up fabrication including co-extruded gaskets throughout and fixed datum points on the sculpture designed for easy corner cleaning. The single leg knock-in bead makes glazing simple so installation is quicker too. “The rest of the stand featured Selecta System’s Ready-to-Fit range of bifold, patio and composite doors. “We went a bit wild with one door,” adds Mark. “We wanted a fun way to show the range of colours and designs we offer so we created the wacky door.

The complete Ready-to-Fit range is CE Mark ready so customers can add a full range of doors without worrying about the new legislation. We have also created an ‘Everything you need for CE Marking’ guide for fabricators. “The FIT Show has been successful. There’s a lot of interest in both the new suite and the Ready-to-Fit range. My diary’s filled with meetings and I’m looking forward to showing customers more about the new products we launched at the FIT Show.” Tel: 0121 325 2100 www.selectasystems.com

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FiT Show 2013

‘We thought it would be good. It was’ Expectations for the new FiT Show 2013 were high and it certainly seemed to meet those expectations according to feedback from the Sika Rood Assured team (Stand 2-104). Team members described the show as ‘relevant, rewarding, exploratory and refreshing’ with one team member stating “I thought it would be good. It was. We spoke to some good quality people each day and now time will tell when we start following up on leads”. Attendance at the Show was part of Roof Assured’s strategic plan to build relationships with home improvement companies and installers, to tell them more about the benefit of joining the Roof Assured professional installer network. This is why the company chose the Fit Show 2013 to launch their new brand identity to

communicate a fresher, more relevant and radical brand message along with the launch of their new B2B and B2C website. All agreed their presence at the show allowed them to make contacts they would not otherwise have made, was time very well spent and all were surprised at the quality and professionalism of the attendees and visitors to the stand. Final comments from the team on the stand: “What was good from my point of view was that it was an opportunity to talk directly to decision makers. An interesting and rare opportunity to meet companies that we may never have found through our regular marketing communications.” A good first report card for FiT Show 2013.

For more information on becoming a Roof Assured installer visit the new website www.roofassured.co.uk/installer.

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May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

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May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

www.glassnews.co.uk

May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

www.glassnews.co.uk

FIT SHOW REVIEW

The Telford International Centre | Telford 16 | 17 | 18 April 2013

TAKE UP STRONG

AT FIT SHOW FOR SYNSEAL REGISTERED INSTALLER SCHEME Although receiving one of the most thorough development programmes in the company’s history, launch exposure of the Synseal Registered Installer (SRI) scheme to installers at The FIT Show in April would be a major test of its validity in the real world. And presented to hundreds of installers during the three days of the event the feedback was entirely enthusiastic, the company reports, with numerous application forms signed there and then on the Synseal stand. The Synseal Registered Installer business support package, which is sponsored in behalf of its members by their local supplying fabricators, is one of the most comprehensive marketing and sales development schemes ever devised for professional installers of windows, doors and conservatories. It includes an eye-catching SRI branded logo and helpful marketing materials such as van siders, professional retail literature, online publicity and directory listings and a wide range of practical advertising materials all designed to attract the interest of the homeowner and stimulate sales. These selling tools will be supplemented by access to the Synseal photo library, technical downloads, product installation training events, special promotions and discounted offers from trade association “benefit partners” including a series

contemplating such a programme for some time: “We have carefully developed our Synseal Registered Installer business support programme, looking at what a few others have done quite well and also identifying some aspects that our rivals have poorly implemented in the past.” “We carried out online market research last year which confirmed that there was significant demand for Synseal to offer proactive support to installers.”

Over 60 installers have applied for Synseal Registered Installer business support less than a week after its roll out at The FIT Show.

of digital support options that are all designed to assist lead generation. The materials, features and benefits of this creative Synseal Registered Installer business support package are designed to allow members of the scheme to compete professionally, even against the resources of big directselling home improvement retailers. That the Synseal Registered Installer Scheme is delivered through the company’s fabricator network is a crucial element, as it is designed to strengthen relationships between installers and their principal local suppliers. To benefit, installers must have a current purchasing relationship with a sponsoring Synseal fabricator or wish to apply for a new trading account, subject to approval by a sponsoring fabricator.

As an exclusive option, Synseal has partnered with leading trade association FairTrades to offer a special discounted membership subscription and provide a number of quality benefits which are of specific interest to installers. These include HomePro insurance backed guarantees; the government-endorsed TrustMark accreditation which requires checking of installed workmanship by the British Board of Agrement to provide reassurance to homeowners; and cost-effecive BM Trada self-certification for compliance on refurbishment jobs to save installers time and money. The Scheme was officially launched at The FIT Show and response was very positive indeed, says Synseal’s Chief Executive David Leng, who has been

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“Using this feedback our aim was to put together the most comprehensive and effective installer scheme in the industry; at The FIT Show many visitors to our stand confirmed that is exactly what we have done.” Less than a week after the event David Leng confirmed that several large existing Synseal fabricators have fully embraced the SRI business support initiative and vowed to deliver it to thousands of installers. A number of sizeable fabricators currently using other systems are now said to be on the verge of switching across to Synseal, partly as a result of this new scheme which is quite rightly capturing their attention.

RegaLead sees double success at FIT RegaLead, the market leader in decorative products for the flat glass and composite door industries, is delighted to announce a successful inaugural FIT Show. With two spaces booked, there was double the excitement as visitors flocked to both stand 4-445 to find out more about what the Decorative Door Products division has to offer; and stand 1-310 to discover more about RegaLead’s core offering. New launches exhibited at FIT included Inox Glazing, and exciting European influenced glazing system specifically for composite doors and ColorSpray GRP, a cost effective solution for composite door spray-painting, which allows easy formulation of any colour, in-house. Guy Hubble, Joint Managing Director of RegaLead explains: “We were pleased to see a great deal of interest in the newly launched Inox Glazing, our stainless steel glazing system, manufactured using Grade 304. From a customer’s perspective, the system is easy to manufacture using a 44mm flush composite slab which is readily available from several suppliers. There is also a turnkey solution available which includes CNC programming information, glazing method and the stainless steel glazing frames themselves. “ColorSpray GRP also generated some good enquiries for us at the show. This is a uniquely formulated resin based paint system which can be used to create and RAL, Pantone, NCS or BS colour - ideal for the back painting of glass for a multitude of applications. It has been designed specifically for use on composite door slabs and visitors were pleased to discover that they can either purchase the entire system and mix colours in house, or select from our fully stocked base range of 22 standard colours.” Guy concludes: “The new products were launched because we felt that they would provide fabricators with a great opportunity to further differentiate their offering in a tough market, so we were extremely pleased with the response they received at the FIT Show. We have always fully supported the show, even investing in two stands to demonstrate fully both our Decorative Door Products division, and our core product range, so we’re glad to say that on balance, it was certainly worth doing.” For more information on decorative products for glass, windows and doors from RegaLead visit www.regalead.co.uk or call 0161 946 1164.

Synseal’s Head of Marketing Mark Schlotel said the scheme was the logical next step for Synseal: “We have great products and have always offered highly innovative support options for our fabricator customers, including digital marketing expertise. But the Synseal Registered Installer scheme now extends some valuable business support to our customers’ customers – loyal Synseal installers.”

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May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

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FIT SHOW REVIEW

The Telford International Centre | Telford 16 | 17 | 18 April 2013

Haffner looks ahead to a busy few months following the FIT Show If the chilly economic climate is making businesses more cautious about investing in plant and machinery, there was little sign of it on the Haffner stand at the FIT Show. The stand was bustling throughout and as Dave Thomas says, “It seems that people recognise the importance of sensible investment in their businesses. We had huge interest in our products and we are going to be very busy over the next few months dealing with new machinery installations.” Haffner’s offering proved compelling, with several people even signing off orders at the show itself. Gary Richards of Central RPL was the first person at the show to take advantage of Haffner’s part exchange scheme. He signed the contract to part exchange his Stuga machinery for a brand new SBA-220 machining centre and wrote the cheque there and then. Haffner also sold numerous machining packages including the new SMR4 welder. The SMR-4 welder is new to the UK market, so it was perhaps not surprising it attracted as much attention as it did. With features including automatic transom and cruciform alignment, the machine is being promoted as the fastest and most accurate in line welder on the market and has the capacity to add genuine value to a production facility.

Also on display was the latest SBA-2 machining centre, which the Haffner team was on hand to demonstrate. The centre shows engineering at its best, with new additions including a Beckhoff control system and a Windows XP operating system. There have been updates to the programs too: the SBA-2 now has an automatic profile measuring and correction system to ensure accurate arrow head and v notch cutting every time. Dave Thomas said, “Shows like the FIT Show are the perfect environment for us to show just what machinery can offer these days. We believe that sensible investment in the right technology can only add value to a business and we were delighted to see how popular our products were.” Tel: 01785 222421

Edgetech at FIT – As Good as it Gets Edgetech, a Quanex company, reports that the FIT show and the quantity and quality of visitors to its stand was ‘as good as it gets.’ The IGU solutions partner’s double decker stand was packed during the three days as customers and prospects came to find out more about the top performance Super Spacer range and be among the first to see Edgetech’s new product launches, including the new TruPlas rigid spacer. Andy Jones, Managing Director comments: “We took 190 leads during FIT, and when you consider that there are approximately 1000 IGU manufacturers in the UK, that represents just over 19% of our total market place on our stand. While shows can be great for lead generation and raising brand awareness, getting orders on the day is not necessarily

the way it works, so we were delighted to sell 8 new Super Shop manual application lines during the exhibition.” “We also had a lot of interest in Bostik’s sealant range with both new and existing customers placing orders, a further illustration that our strategy to become the one stop shop for IGU manufacturers is paying off. With more product launches planned over coming months, we are already in the unique position to be able to offer single seal (Duralite), Dual seal (TruPlas rigid and Super Spacer flexible) and Triple seal spacer systems (TriSeal and T-Spacer), as well as sealants. In addition to raising awareness of the cost effective and productivity benefits of our warm edge technology to new customers, we also officially signed the deal to supply one of the big names in glass unit manufacture: Global Glass and there will be more on this in coming weeks. All in all, the show for Edgetech could not have gone better, and for the industry as a whole, I think we’ve all done ourselves proud.” For more information on Edgetech’s range of Warm Edge Technology, call 08700 566844 or visit www.edgetechig.co.uk.

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Dex’s debut at the FIT Show Exhibitors and visitors to the FIT Show got a big surprise when they saw Dex, the mascot of the online trade directory the Insight Index, wandering around the halls. “Dex is all grown up now so we thought we’d take him to the FIT Show and introduce him to some of the famous faces of the industry,” says Sonia Punter, sales manager at Insight Data. Many amused onlookers grabbed photo opportunities with the cuddly character, with one spectator tweeting: “Hats off to the @InsightIndex guys for bringing this fella to #fitshow !” Dex was at the show to promote the launch of the new iPhone app for the Insight Index that lets users instantly find industry related information, products and suppliers. “Over 50% of all internet searches are carried out on mobile devices so it made sense for us to launch an Index app that lets you access all the information you need anytime, anywhere,” explains Sonia. Now suppliers can be connected to potential customers 24/7, offering them the ultimate sales and marketing opportunity.”

Since its launch in 2012 the Insight Index has gone from strength to strength, with some 600 companies now listed. Suppliers can sign up to the Index to create a profile, list their products, add downloads and news stories, and even upload video content. Potential buyers can then search the Index for information and products relevant to these companies. “The Index is a great way for businesses to engage with potential customers and we wanted to keep this fresh in people’s minds by bringing Dex to the FIT Show and encouraging visitors to download the app and find new suppliers today!,” Sonia concludes. To download the App, search the iPhone App store for ‘Insight Index’.

Dex with Andrew Scott (MD of Insight) and Matthew Glover.

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May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

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FIT SHOW REVIEW

The Telford International Centre | Telford 16 | 17 | 18 April 2013

INAUGURAL SHOW IS A GREAT FIT FOR GROUPHOMESAFE The FIT Show, recently held for the first time at the Telford International Centre, is a great addition to the door and window industry calendar, according Grouphomesafe, specialists in door and window hardware components. “Filling a vital gap in the market, the FIT Show has far exceeded its initial modest ambitions,” says Nick Moss, marketing director of Grouphomesafe. “Establishing an exhibition from scratch could have been risky within a still uncertain economy, but it was heartening to see the effort everyone put in to making the show a success. Each stand demonstrated a significant investment into

the show, with all four halls packed to capacity, and the quality of the leads we have generated was second to none. It was inspiring to see so many companies committing to this new show and securing its future.” Grouphomesafe’s stand featured a number of new products on show for the first time, including the Garrison Lock, a multi-point keyoperated locking system, and Fortress, the window lock to

utilise multi-point locking technology. At its own stand Fab & Fix, owned by Grouphomesafe, launched the stainless steel S Series, a range of contemporary matched hardware, as well as Hardex Graphite, a new hardwearing and elegant brushed chrome finish available across its core hardware ranges. For further information on Grouphomesafe products and companies, visit www.grouphomesafe.com.

CONSERVATORY OUTLET PROSPER IN SHROPSHIRE Conservatory Outlet will return to Telford next year to exhibit at the second instalment of FIT Show having been one of the many exhibitors to reap the benefits this year. Sales Director Greg Kane made the most of a rare quiet period during FIT Show 2013 to sit down with his FIT Events counterpart, Jason Wootton, and put pen to paper on the contract for another 48sqm stand at the 2014 sequel. For three days across 1618 April 2013 the Telford International Centre became the capital of the glazing industry as the organisers lived up to their welldocumented promises. Eighteen of Conservatory Outlet’s currently 21 dealers joined their supplier on stand 1-175; a new dealer joined the network; and the fabricator received five firm enquiries from installers interested in making the transition to Conservatory Outlet Dealer. The number of leads may seem underwhelming in comparison to other reports. That said, Conservatory Outlet grants its dealers exclusivity in their trading area and operates a onedealer-per-area policy. ‘With approximately two thirds of the UK covered already, and increasingly fewer opportunities for new

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dealers, one or two serious enquiries would have been great, let alone five,’ said Greg Kane. FIT 2013 was much more about our existing dealers getting them together once again at both the exhibition and the Gala Dinner, and properly displaying our new range of aluminium products which were very well received. But shortly after the doors opened on the first day it became clear that FIT Show was going to become a fruitful lead generation exercise for us.’ In between speaking to potential customers Conservatory Outlet showcased its new Slimframe aluminium windows and doors, incorporating the Slimfold door. Slimframe and Slimfold are manufactured using a system that is exclusive to fabricator Conservatory

The VEKA UK Group has plenty to FIT into next year’s Show the three-day event. The organisers are definitely to be congratulated on bringing a successful new exhibition platform to the industry.”

Colin Torley, Sales and Marketing Director of The VEKA UK Group explains: “The VEKA UK Group will be exhibiting on a much larger stand at next year's FIT Show in order to showcase all the innovative new products and services that are being launched by our brands this year.”

“We used this show as an opportunity to demonstrate the new services available from two of our brands to a targeted audience of industry professionals.”

“This year's FIT Show debut proved very successful, with almost 6000 people visiting

“The VEKA Recycling team promoted their extended national network of recycling depots, while Network VEKA showcased a wide range of brand new marketing support

services. Following this year's success, we're looking forward to taking a much larger stand next year and introducing people to the huge number of innovative, new products and services being unveiled across all our brands in the coming months - we'll certainly have plenty to talk about on the VEKA UK Group stand in 2014!” Tel: 01282 716611 – www.vekauk.com

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May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Operations Director, Michael Giscombe, added: ‘First and foremost our dealers unanimously praised the product itself - especially Slimfold, our take on the bi-fold door - but many also remarked on the logistical ease of sourcing their UPVC and aluminium products from the same place. Our stand at FIT Show and the general atmosphere throughout all four halls proved the perfect setting for launch of Slimframe.’ Tel: 01924 434416

Conservatory Outlet’s stand at FIT Show 2013.

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With a large variety of products and services due to be unveiled over the coming months, the next FIT Show will see The VEKA UK Group exhibiting in 'full force'.

Outlet and, in turn, exclusive to the Conservatory Outlet Network of Dealers. As well as being able to source a unique product from a supplier that they are accustomed to working with, Conservatory Outlet’s customers will be able to price and order aluminium products remotely, 24 hours a day.

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FIT SHOW REVIEW

The Telford International Centre | Telford 16 | 17 | 18 April 2013

TUFFX SHOW IS FIT FOR SUCCESS For leading specialist glass processor, TuffX, the FIT Show in Telford, proved a very positive showground with many leads generated and substantial interest shown in all products across the company’s portfolio. The revolutionary eco i-Panel took centre stage for the company at the Telford exhibition, with many visitors clearly impressed by the innovative insulated spandrel panel which combines aesthetics with exceptionally high performance, offering an insulation value as low as 0.17. Introduced primarily for commercial applications and residential developments, the niche product for curtain walling projects offers installers a unique alternative, with an overall thickness of just 28mm that can be produced in most RAL colours and which can be fitted directly into existing glazing systems. Using the full potential of the show as a presentation platform, the company demonstrated numerous market leading products including the AmbiMax superlength, high performance glass units from the Ambience range for conservatory glass roof applications. The TuffX team was kept busy throughout the exhibition with a steady

stream of existing and new customers visiting the stand daily, who considered the show a viable arena to place orders. With an established reputation for excellence and reliability within the processed glass market, TuffX management was pleased with the positive results achieved at the exhibition. Products across the TuffX and Ambience ranges proved popular with considerable interest also shown in the heat soaked, laminated-toughened glasses, available in varying thickness along with screen printed glass options. With a focus placed on helping customers to improve lead generation, TuffX also highlighted all coloured, high performance roof glass on its impressive stand. Graham Price, Managing Director at TuffX considers this exhibition had a crucial bearing on the market, enabling installers and specifiers to familiarise themselves with exceptionally high performance products that provide many business advantages and satisfy consumers who demand more energy efficient concepts. He comments, “It was evident from the enquiries at the show that demand continues to increase for

quality products that offer more dynamic design as well as cost efficient benefits.” “All our products are quickly and easily manufactured incorporating superior performance qualities that cannot be matched. Our ranges are made to the highest specification enabling us to qualify our statement of leading the market. This was evident by the interest shown at the FIT Show, with sales and enquiries far surpassing our expectations.” Over the last few years TuffX has established a leading market position through product development and innovation. Management considers that combining technical superiority with aesthetics that are unmatched in the industry, gives installers and specifiers huge potential, which was proven by the positive feedback received on-stand. Graham Price concludes, “There is no other company that can match the choice or superior performance levels we offer. We will continue to research and develop our portfolio to ensure that we provide complete solutions for installers, specifiers and consumers alike.” For more information on the products available in the TuffX range please visit either www. tuffxprocessedglass.co.uk or www.ambiglass.co.uk.

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A SHAPED SHOWING Universal Arches had an incredible FIT Show, helped by the fact that each visitor was given a key to attempt to open an arched Solidor composite door on the stand. Those succeeding were entered into a prize draw to win an iPad mini on the last day of the show. By the end of the show 2,087 people attempted to open the door with just a few succeeding and those that did were entered into a prize draw as the show closed. This figure was based on the number of visitor passes scanned, yet the actual figures were considerably higher. In the end, Barking Windows from London was drawn by Matthew Glover, director of the FIT Show and they will now receive their shinny new iPad mini.

have been developed in conjunction with blind and shutter market leaders, Thomas Sanderson. This latest venture shows off the considerable skills of Universal Arches in shaping and forming PVCu profiles from various sectors of the home improvement market. Leon Day, managing director of Universal Arches commented: ‘What a great show not only for Universal Arches, but for the industry as a whole. We’ve got some great leads, seen some of our customers and we’ll certainly be back for 2014!’ For further information log on to www.universalarches.com, phone 01744 612844 or add to their following on Twitter @universalarches.

Elsewhere on the stand visitors had the opportunity to meet the experienced team at the profile bending specialist and see some of their impressive product samples. This included the incredible fabricated Universal Arches logo which involved 5 bends, an incredible 67 welds and taking 35 man hours in total. Residence 9 also featured on the stand with circular pivot and arched head windows. There was also a sample window that featured an arched head and arched shutters, which

Matthew Glover drawing out the winning ticket alongside Gareth Mobley of Solidor (left) and Leon Day from Universal Arches (middle).

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CWG CHOICES ON SHOW CWG Choices packed their stand at the FIT Show, with a number of different and exciting products, including several Kömmerling window and door systems including the industry’s first preview of their new AluStar casement window. An impressive 6 metre lift and slide PremiDoor took pride of place on the stand with some visitors even assuming it was a full aluminium product. There were also the C70 and O70 Gold systems on display and several innovative acoustic windows with double and triple glazing, achieving up to a 43dB reduction. Also on the stand was the existing Passivhaus certified KBE System 88 AluStar system, which can achieve U-values as low as 0.6 W/m2k. Of particular interest and on display for the first time was the new AluStar 70mm casement system.

This exciting new product gives all the benefits of a PVCU window, but has the clip on aluminium external flashing which can be powder coated in a near limitless number of RAL finishes. This new outward opening casement window can be fabricated with either the C70 or O70 Gold System and it aimed at the style savvy homeowner and in all aspects of the commercials market. Jason Wilder and his team were on hand throughout the show and commented: “We

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May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

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had a great show picking up a number of good leads each day for a very wide range of products. It was great to experience a real buzz about our industry again and there seemed to be a real level of excitement and expectation throughout the show.’ For further information on the Kömmerling product range at CWG Choices log on to www.cwgchoices.co.uk, phone the sales office on 01536 271940 or add to their Twitter following @CWGChoices.

FIT SHOW REVIEW

The Telford International Centre | Telford 16 | 17 | 18 April 2013

SOLIDOR’S SPECTACULAR SHOWING Taking front of house at the FIT Show was Solidor, who by even their own lofty expectations were staggered by the number and quality of leads generated and the response by customers about their unique products and newly launched Recommended Installer Scheme. They also became the first company to sign up for 2014. Solidor took over 350 quality leads during the show from all points of the UK and Ireland. Their stand featured a wide variety of designs from their standard range and Italia Collection while displaying all 17 colours that are available inside and out, including the launch of Rich Aubergine at the show, yet another industry first. Elsewhere on the stand was their ‘Knock, Knock’ test so that visitors could physically appreciate the fact that Solidor products are based on a solid 48mm thick timber core, rather than a foam filled core. Given the number of doors on show, Solidor also displayed their impressive hardware range including their unique traditional ironmongery range, alongside their exclusive Avantis lock and Mila ProLinea and ProSecure hardware. Also on show was the unique Solidor 88 product, a 62mm

triple glazed door slab with a KBE System 88 outer frame that is designed to meet the requirements of Passivhaus. In addition there was also an impressive 74mm door slab for the Residence 9 suite. By the time the FIT Show comes round again, not only will Solidor be at very front of the show, but there will be more new product developments, as the company builds on it’s reputation as the true innovator in the composite door sector. Gareth Mobley, managing director of Solidor Group comments: ‘We had an exceptional show with people telling us that our stand was consistently the busiest. Our products and Recommended Installer Scheme generated a huge amount of interest at the show and hats off to the organisers, visitors and fellow exhibitors in making it happen. See you at the entrance in 2014!’ For further information on the Recommended Installer scheme or for a free copy of their latest 44 page brochure log on to www.solidor.co.uk, call 01782 847300 or e-mail enquiries@solidor.co.uk. To keep up to date with all of their developments follow them on Twitter @ solidorltd or look them up on Facebook.

Gareth Mobley of Solidor showing a visitor about the ‘Knock, Knock’ test.

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THREE DAYS ON THE TILES Both CWG Choices and Window Widgets displayed the latest Garden Room roof from Prefix Systems at the FIT Show, a clear indication of how the market for extended living space is starting to evolve. The conservatory is by no means dead and now more than ever their specification is being enhanced with new types of specialist glass, luxurious foiled finishes and product upgrades such as Livin Room, Cornice and Pilasters. However, the interest in the Garden Room roof has been impressive for both of these important partners of Prefix Systems. Prefix Systems have spent considerable time in developing the Garden Room roof with their installers, resulting in a product that not only excels technically, but is also designed to be quick and easy to install on site. The company also supplied a conservatory roof in a Painswick finish for the Eclectic Systems Residence 9 conservatory, a stunning double hipped design, with a Cornice gutter shroud and Pilaster posts. Chris Baron and Chris Cooke, directors of Prefix Systems commented: ‘There’s no doubting it was a great show and we were pleased to be able to show our Garden Room roof through our customers, CWG Choices and Window Widgets. The Eclectic Systems Residence 9 conservatory also showed that higher specification conservatories can look quite breathe taking too.’

If you didn’t get to see any of these impressive products at the FIT Show then contact Prefix Systems on 01254 871800, e-mail: enquiries@prefixsystems.co.uk, or add to their growing following on Twitter @prefixsystems.

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Windowlink introduce new owner at the FIT Show Windowlink, creators of market leading design, sales and pricing software, introduced well-known industry software expert Mark Dudley as its new owner at the FIT Show. Mark worked at Windowlink for 20 years before leaving to set up Whiteshill Systems, a specialist re-seller of Windowlink software. Mark recently acquired Windowlink from former owner Giles Hayhurst, taking over the company and its assets. The Whiteshill Systems brand will continue to service its existing customers, with the majority of customers being serviced by Windowlink. Mark comments: “I spent 20 years working directly for Windowlink and a further eight years running my own company, Whiteshill Systems, a specialist re-seller of Windowlink software. When the opportunity arose to acquire Windowlink I couldn’t turn it down. The knowledge and experience I have gained over the past 28 years working with Windowlink software will ensure a seamless transition into my new role, and I am very much looking forward to spearheading a new era at the company.”

Mark can certainly deem his first outing as Windowlink owner as a complete success. The FIT Show stand was a hive of activity, with fabricators and installers queuing up to see how Windowlink’s software innovations can help them improve conversion rates and quickly produce accurate quotations.

and conservatories at the sharp end every day. I have a lot of new plans for the future and look forward to implementing these over the coming weeks and months.” For more information visit www. windowlink.com or call 0844 8541560.

Windowlink offer two software programmes, Vector for conservatories and Focus for windows and doors; both designed to make quoting and selling quicker and easier. Windowlink gave demonstrations of both products from their stand and collected a large number of leads. Mark concludes: “Windowlink have always supported industry exhibitions; they are a great way of catching up with existing customers and meeting new prospects, and we had very high hopes for the FIT Show. The event didn’t disappoint. We had a fantastic response from the crowds and generated some excellent leads. High quality software can make a salesperson’s life so much easier and our products really struck a chord with the audience, many of whom are selling windows, doors

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May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

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FIT SHOW REVIEW

SWISSPACER raises

The Telford International Centre | Telford 16 | 17 | 18 April 2013

AZTEC PROVES IT’S

a glass to FIT FIT FOR THE JOB! Show heroes

SWISSPACER enjoyed a highly successful FIT Show this week. The UK and Ireland’s leading warm edge spacer bar chose the FIT Show as a platform to launch its ‘best in world’ new spacer bar, ULTIMATE. Visitors were keen to see ULTIMATE, which has been verified by ift Rosenheim as the best foiled warm edge spacer bar in the world. As a result, SWISSPACER’s eye-catching stand was busy throughout the show. SWISSPACER also hosted a VIP Champagne Reception at the end of each day. Customers, editors and guests all enjoyed canapés and Prosecco with the SWISSPACER team.

Vic De Costa, SWISSPACER Marketing & Sales Manager (UK & Ireland) said: “The FIT Show was a resounding success for SWISSPACER. The timing of the Show could not have been better, and getting so many installers there was brilliant. When you launch the best performing new warm edge spacer bar in the world, and ‘best in world’ is the result of official tests of all competitive products, you want to shout about it and reach as many people as possible. The FIT Show gave us the platform and audience to do that, and we have a number of excellent leads to follow up. So hats off to Matthew Glover and Paul Godwin, the heroes of the hour!” Tel: 0845 601 1265

The most fitter-friendly roof on the market proved its claims at FIT Show 2013. Aztec Conservatory Roof Systems, which has always claimed to be the most innovative, quickest and easiest to fabricate and install, put ‘its money where its mouth is’ by sponsoring the 2013 Master Fitter Challenge.

Entrants had just 90 minutes to build and fit the 3m x 3m Edwardian roof from scratch. Each of the teams completed the challenge- designed and set by assessors GQA- either within the tight time, or just minutes over, with one finalist achieving it single-handed! Commented Master Fitter Challenger Scott Higgs of Chesterfield-based Polar

“We’ve always said our roof is the most fitter-friendly on the market,” added Aztec managing director Tim Franks. “None of the teams had fitted an Aztec roof before; the fact they almost all achieved it within the time reinforces how easy and logical our system is.” The success of the Challenge helped make FIT Show 2013 a positive start to Aztec’s second decade as the leading independent conservatory roof system

company in the UK. The show also saw the company unveil its latest innovationa pre-stressed structural ring beam, which enables creation of a span up to 5.7m without the requirement for bulky, unsightly steel sections. The section has been developed specifically to facilitate the inclusion of bi-fold doors to conservatories, but is also capable of providing adequate support for veranda style roofs and gazebo structures. Tel: 0151 678 0691 www.aztecsystems.net

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A FLAIR-LY FIT SHOW! Kömmerling trade fabricator, Flair Plastic Products, came away from the FIT Show with a number of high quality leads and have already re-booked for 2014, such was their success. With a stand at the entrance to hall 3, passers by were enticed to take on the ‘buzz wire’, with those completing it within the time were entered into a prize draw to win a PremiLine patio door. The winner of the PremiLine patio door was Gemini

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Windows, “I was pleasantly surprised how simple to put together the Aztec roof was: I had never installed the system before and cannot believe how fitter-friendly the roof is. Manufacturers make all sorts of claims about their products, but Aztec’s roof certainly lives up to its reputation.”

Windows, Telford, who will be offered a bespoke patio door free of charge and delivered direct to site. The Flair stand was packed with Kömmerling products including a 3 metre PremiLine patio door, 4 metre bi-folding door, 4 metre PremiDoor lift and slide door and a foiled white O70 Gold casement window featuring run through sash horns and Georgian bars. On the stand throughout the duration of the show were Adrian Keegan, strategic

consultant for Flair, along with Sharon Lugg and Marie Heslington. Collectively they generated over many quality leads, far in excess of their expectations. Adrian commented: This is just what the industry has needed and credit to everyone who either came or exhibited, no one was disappointed.’ And that’s why we’ll be back next year bigger and bolder! Installers looking to switch to Flair are promised first class

The Flair team on show.

products, excellent customer service and a free showroom support package. For further information contact Flair on 0121 624 5001 or e- mail sales@flairwindows.com.

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Fabulous FIT Show for Total Glass Total Glass, one of the UK’s leading PVC-U and aluminium window and door fabricators, says the FIT Show was a great success, generating a great deal of enquiries from both existing and potential customers throughout the three days. Visitors thronged the purpose-built stand, which displayed the Total Glass in-house manufactured range of high-specification composite doors comprising 20 styles in seven colour options. Installers were also attracted by Total’s aluminium bi-folding doors, plus additional new products - such as triple glazing and Grey on White profile, as well as the company’s comprehensive customer support packages that help them gain more business. Phill Cresswell, Sales and Marketing Manager at Total Glass commented: “The FIT Show was brilliant for us and we

“Installers were also attracted by Total’s aluminium bi-folding doors, plus additional new products - such as triple glazing and Grey on White profile.” certainly gained more leads than we expected. It was also an excellent opportunity to catch up with customers and suppliers alike. Yes, it exceeded our expectations – and we’re planning to return next year!” For more information, contact Total Glass on 0151 549 2339 or visit the website at www.totalglass.com.

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May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

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FIT SHOW REVIEW

The Telford International Centre | Telford 16 | 17 | 18 April 2013

Insight Data wows the crowds at the FIT Show As everyone looks back on the FIT Show the general consensus was it proved a big success for everyone in attendance, particularly for data experts Insight Data who drew the crowds to their stand with the unveiling of their latest version of Salestracker. “The FIT Show was a huge success for Insight,” comments Sales Manager Sonia Punter. “It was a fantastic opportunity to catch up with existing customers and show them Salestracker Live. We also met a lot of new people in the industry who were interested to find out how Insight can help them generate thousands of pounds in new business.”

of, and we heavily promoted this in the run-up to, and at the show to let visitors know how easy it is for them find and win new business across a variety of industries using Salestracker Live,” comments Sonia. Salestracker Live combines all the best features of the current lead generating software enhanced with clever new technology to make it even easier for users to target new customers as well as manage existing ones:

“Salestracker is a powerful tool that can help your business generate leads and build relationships with the key decision makers across the trade, commercial and new build sectors. Simply log-in, create your list of new business opportunities and ensure your company is in front of these potential customers with the use of highly targeted email or direct mail campaigns,” Sonia concludes. Tel: 01934 808 293

Deceuninck’s Managing Director Roy Frost has hailed his company’s presence at the FIT Show as a huge success. “Our corner of Hall 3 was a hub of innovation that demonstrated the cutting edge solutions our industry can offer. It was buzzing with activity and excitement about what’s out there.”

need for reinforcing and means they are 30% more energy efficient and 40% lighter than the traditional alternatives. And last but not least, many people were attracted to Deceuninck’s stand by the sheer size of the 4.5 metre Monorail patio door in Anthracite Grey that was on display.

Sharing Deceuninck’s corner of Hall 3 was Dempsey Dyer, and its stand showcased its Beaumont window range. Developed in association with Deceuninck, the windows have been designed to bridge the gap between welded PVC-U and timber and attracted a great deal of attention. MB Frames, another Deceuninck fabricator, displayed its Royale range, with a particular focus on coloured products. Alongside these companies was Residence 9, whose new flush sash window “stole the show”, according to Roy. The window is being extruded by Deceuninck, and if the interest it received at the show is anything to go by, it is destined to be a market-leading product.

Roy concludes, “The FIT Show was a fantastic opportunity to show the innovation and quality that Deceuninck can offer and brought us lots of leads and prospects. But more importantly, the show pulled together the best of our industry and showed everyone the quality that’s available. I’m delighted that the show will return next year and we have already booked our stand.” Trade shows provide a platform for companies to display what they can offer. With their focus on innovation, Deceuninck, Dempsey Dyer, MB Frames and Residence 9 all demonstrated compelling reasons to partner with them. Tel: 01249 816969 | www.deceuninck.co.uk

Of course, Deceuninck’s stand displayed equally innovative products. The company is renowned for blazing a trail when it comes to colour technology and its solutions, which now include the world’s first fully coloured PVC-U profile, attracted a great deal of interest. There were also plenty of enquiries about the company’s new generation of energy efficient windows. The windows make use of a ground breaking composite PVC-U and fibre glass extrusion that eliminates the

Insight showcased their full range of trade, commercial and new build databases, and enticed people to the stand with their “We’ve found them” campaign. “We’ve found thousands of opportunities out there for companies to take advantage

Deceuninck’s Roy Frost hails innovation on display at the FIT Show

Insight FIT Show stand.

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PROMAC FIT for a successful Show As one of the industry’s leading suppliers of machinery, service, spares and tools with an enviable track record for exhibiting new and innovative products, Promac an official launch partner of the FIT Show, is delighted with the successful introduction of this new industry show.

Joe Hague, Promac’s Group Managing Director explains: “We have always strongly believed that our industry here in the UK deserves its own exhibition and considering the amount of visitors to the show we are not alone. Those who came and supported the event were treated to some of the best prepared stand displays the like of which we have not seen for many years and on our own we exhibited live machinery demos along with service and finance initiatives new to our range.” One such initiative, Promac Live Service, saw its official launch at the show. This enhanced service package allows customers to communicate via video link to one of our field service engineers based at our headquarters in Rugby. This communication platform is designed to assist onsite staff to quickly and efficiently diagnose faults and identify accurately spare part requirement without the need of an onsite visit from Promac. We issue our customers with a tablet device to use as part of the package which assists customers by saving time as well as money.

Joe continues: “Customers have shown a real interest in the Live Service package as an exciting new way of doing things to keep costs and downtime to a minimum, using every day technology with which they are already familiar, which coupled with our Out of Hours Service Hotline ensures the focus is on maximising productivity. The FIT Show was a great platform to showcase this and other innovations in our service offering, as well as the technology that the manufacturers we represent bring to the market.”

customer experience by providing the very best service and value which lies at the core of our business. My congratulations to the FIT Show team on a job well done and my thanks to the thousands of visitors that made everybody’s effort worthwhile.” For more information about Promac, their products and services, visit www.promac.co.uk or call 01788 577 577.

Visitors to Promac’s impressively busy stand were also able to find out more about the recently launched Spares and Consumables Catalogue, which has been fully revamped with new prices, products, tools as well as money saving promotional offers. Machinery rental options were also available along with preferential finance options via the capital equipment experts Ignition Credit. The show also saw the launch of Promac’s reward card ‘Xtra’, a corporate card which can be used to earn points against the purchase of goods and services from Promac. The client can then redeem accrued points against an existing account or use them to purchase items from a merchandise catalogue. Joe concludes: “The new initiatives that we have introduced during the FIT Show are all designed to improve our overall

Promac FIT for a successful show.

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May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

www.glassnews.co.uk

FIT SHOW REVIEW

The Telford International Centre | Telford 16 | 17 | 18 April 2013

MAY 2013

GQA at the FIT Show Alongside the Masterfitter stand, the Excellence in Qualifications partnership were on hand to discuss qualifications with exhibition delegates and with staff on show from the 3 centres (IPS, PM Training and The Vocational College), Lee Clarke from MyTradeTV, and GQA staff and External Verifiers, discussion was plentiful and there was a real interest in Apprenticeships and experienced installer recognition coming from not only the four corners of the UK, but Australia and India too.

GQA’s Mick Clayton and TVC’s Paul Gray delivered a FENSA seminar on the recently approved Minimum Technical Competencies on each of the 3 days, with the seminar room within the GGF Group Zone being packed on each occasion. With the June 2014 deadline for compliance looming, there is a real need for the industry to understand how installers can meet the requirements and Mick, Paul and Chris Mayne of FENSA, were involved in some very lively discussions. The organisers claimed everybody was going, and on the evidence of being there it did indeed seem

NLTG First GQA

e-portfolio Apprentice Matthew Duncombe, an employee of The Lockwood Window Company based in Lockwood, Huddersfield was congratulated recently on becoming North Lancs Training Groups first GQA e-portfolio full apprentice. Matthew completed his Fenestration level 2 NVQ, Level 2 Certificate in Glass Related Operations technical certificate and his key skills using the GQA / Quals Direct e-portfolio system. Matthew commented: “I found it easier to use the e-portfolio because I like to use computers and it also meant I didn’t have to carry my large portfolio to site for my assessments, it was easy enough to log in and use the system, even when I lost my password, I liked the fact that I could change the layout to suit me and I will be requesting the same system when I sign up for my Advanced Apprenticeship in a couple of weeks.” NLTG assessor Paul Fairhurst commented: “Matthew was the guinea pig for the new system

and it all seemed to work like a dream, I have used other e-portfolio in the past which can sometimes be quite complicated for both assessors and learners, however the GQA e-portfolio system is very effective and easy to use, it makes delivery more efficient and guarantees that the learner portfolio is available at all times, we are finding that more and more learners are now requesting e-portfolio as an alternative. The assessment and verification team at NLTG love it and the people at Quals Direct and GQA that run the system are also easy to deal with; any technical issues are dealt with efficiently, we are now offering the e-portfolio system to all GQA candidates through NLTG.”

that everybody had visited. So who did we meet? Everybody? No – despite being there for 4 days, it was so busy that we didn’t get round the four halls nevermind everyone that we wanted to speak to. It was great to catch up with (however briefly - and I’m not going to try to name everyone) John Ogilvie and Austin Greene (Network VEKA), Chris Mayne and the FENSA team, Giles Willson and Declan Moore of the GGF, The FiT Show’s very own Paul Godwin, Ian Miller and Paul Glover, Jason Clemmit (CERTASS), Faisal Hussain and the face of DGCOS,

Nick Ross, GlassNews’ Christina Shaw and Dr Steffan George of the MLA; I also got to meet a Barnsley FC legend in the form of Norman Hunter who was on UAP Tradelocks’ impressive stand. The Fenestration College had a great presence at the show, with their stand opposite Masterfitter, and it looked like they had had a great response over the 3 days too. We also managed to get ourselves involved in a FiT Show exhibitor’s game of football at AFC Telford with the fellers from Haffner and Business Micros; who’s up for a FiT Tournament in 2014?

And so here we are, the day after what was, in our opinion better than the Lord Mayors show. Huge praise has to go to the organisers, Paul Godwin and Matthew Glover for not only pulling this off, but having the vision in the first place.

Diploma for Darren through NLTG Darren Hoolickin of D&M windows Manchester has recently achieved GQA Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Fenestration Installation (QCF). Darren said that the way the qualification was delivered by Roy Pusey of North Lancs training Group suited his needs as he could not attend

college or evening classes. He went on to say: “I enjoyed the relaxed way the qualification was delivered and Roy helped me a lot when researching the building regulations, I even got a qualification in Maths and English. NLTG are a very professional outfit and I would recommend them to anyone.”

D&M Windows have asked Roy and NLTG to assist in taking an apprentice on in the near future.

Whitehurst Windows Achieve Qualification Through NLTG a Corey Whitehurst of Whitehurst Windows in Stoke is pictured with brothers Paul and Colin Bakewell with their level 2 certificates in Fenestration installation. Corey told Roy Pusey, Assessor at GQA Approved Centre, North Lancs Training Group, that he was made up to collect his certificate as it shows that all the work he has done over the years he now has something to show for it. Paul Bakewell explained that he has now also achieved English and Maths qualifications alongside his NVQ, after leaving school with nothing. He went on to say that Roy took out the extra time to support him with his English and Maths and was made to feel at ease on the visits. Colin explained that he enjoyed the assessments and observations and Roy would turn up on site regardless of the location (sometimes

even in the snow). Corey explained that he is looking forward to signing up for a level 3 and would like his staff to follow suit.

Tel: 0114 2720033 | Fax: 0114 2768466 Web: www.gqaqualifications.com | Email: marketing@gqaqualifications.com 0513-0117

GQA Qualifications Unit 1, 12 O'clock Court, Attercliffe Road, Sheffield S4 7WW May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

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FIT SHOW – “THE COMMENTS”

The Telford International Centre | Telford 16 | 17 | 18 April 2013

“THE COMMENTS” Christina Shaw, Owner & Publisher, Glass News “From the very first morning of the FIT Show, literally as soon as the doors opened, the Glass News stand was a hive of activity.” “We ran an industry survey throughout the event, of which the results will soon be published, and over the three days, just under 400 responses were received! This has given Glass News an insight into what companies are looking for in terms of new products.” “Our results also show that the majority of companies asked, would reach a wider audience if they could or knew how, and would almost certainly increase their product range.”

Wolfgang Gorner, Business Unit Director, REHAU Window Division “Any concerns which people might have had about the venue or the location beforehand were completely dispelled by lunchtime on day one.” “The industry demonstrated overwhelmingly that it wants its own show and that it is more than capable of delivering something very impressive – not just in terms of organisation but also in terms of the quality of the exhibits and the knowledge, enthusiasm and positivity of the visitors.”

Christina continues: “With so many new product launches at the show, visitors were not short of ideas! Glass News also ran a competition at the event, which was extremely popular. We gave away hundred’s of pounds worth of prizes.” “Not only was the show beneficial in terms of new business and our survey results, but it also gave me the chance to catch up with old acquaintances and meet some new ones.” “All in all a very good show, so much so infact, that I signed up for next year at this years show!”

Vicki Sanders, Head of Sales, Mila “From Mila’s perspective, the show delivered exactly what we had hoped.” “It gave us the perfect platform to launch five important new products and it allowed both existing and potential customers to compare us side by side with our competitors. Overall, we were pleased with the number of enquiries we received and with the feedback from visitors. There was a really positive vibe to the whole exhibition and we were delighted to have been part of it.”

Graeme Bailey, Managing Director, Business Micros “With two stands dedicated to PVC-U and one to aluminium in three different halls, we got a really good overview of the exhibition as a whole.” “Our team felt that it was a real success overall and financially we more than justified our investment with the number of enquiries we received.” “We were able to convert some of those enquiries into firm orders almost as soon as the show closed and we made some valuable new contacts with customers we haven’t worked with before.” “From a marketing point of view, it was obviously excellent exposure for the Business Micros brand and it was good to see that our brand remains strong, our name associated with positives and that we remain well respected within the industry.”

May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

www.glassnews.co.uk

DOORS & HARDWARE

FAST & EASY FIT WITH NEW HIGH-SECURITY WINDOW LOCK FROM ERA

Nigel Wood, Business Development Manager, SFS intec “The FiT Show is the first of its kind for a few years now, so naturallythere wasstrong curiosity across the industry and rather high expectations for the inaugural event.” “Through observations and discussions at the show, it’s clear that while the market isn’t necessarily growing, it has certainly developed and demands have changed, with significant new opportunities there for the taking. External wall insulation, The Green Deal and ECO were hot topics and this is where a large part of the demand is now coming from.” “Specifically, we received a lot of questions about how to securely install out-boarded

windows over insulation zones, where external wall insulation has been fixed. Many installers were facing difficulty and either had to cobble their own bracket solution to hold the window in place, or more frequently, they were being faced with dropped windows which had fallen into the wall cavity due to lack of support.” “We featured our JB-D bracket system on stand, to demonstrate to installers that there is a high performance solution which can solve the issues they regularly face in this area. The product certainly received a good response and we got some strong leads over the three days.”

Nigel Wood.

“Similarly, we welcomed many installer companies on stand who wanted a high performance hinge which would reduce or even remove the remedial work that they so often find themselves doing and that costs them the most time and money. Our unique timber hinge range and the multiple colour options of our Dynamic hinge system received high interest as a result.” "The status of our visitors was typically of a high level, which gives us great optimism for converting our numerous leads into new business. Now the hard but exciting work begins!"

Dean Hodges, Managing Director, Business Micros Aluminium “We had expected to get the majority of our enquiries from PVC-U fabricators looking to move into aluminium but in fact we saw an awful lot of established aluminium fabricators who had been attracted to the show by the systems and machinery companies who were exhibiting which was great news.” “It was definitely worthwhile attending and we certainly expect to see a return on our investment.”

Asa McGillian, Managing Director, Apeer

Door and window hardware specialist ERA has added to its portfolio of highsecurity products with the introduction of a high-security multi-point lock (MPL) for windows. Branded Fortress, for the fabricator and installer, its design ensures a fast and easy fit, while for the customer; there is the added peace of mind of support from the Saracen Guarantee Scheme. The MPL technology employed by Fortress ensures that fabricators can achieve ultimate PAS security while its modular construction enables fabricators to upgrade to shootbolts with minimal stock. The lock is designed with double locking hooks and extension shootbolts. The non-croppable bidirectional shootbolts minimise fabrication time, making it quick and easy to build a window using Fortress. Benefits for installers include a keep design that allows adjustment from inside the property, retractable hooks that give maximum clearance for ease and speed of installation, with improved clearance meaning that performance of the lock is less sensitive to the gap between the window and frame. Describing the design of Fortress, ERA’s Product Manager for window hardware Kerry Blackford says: “With growth in

consumer awareness, there is an increasing demand for high-security door and window hardware. The Fortress enables fabricators and installers to offer a highsecurity option with their windows without adding to the time or complexity of the build. For installers, the lock is designed so that on-site set up is fast and easy, with the adjustment on the keep on the outer frame, so there is no need to access the window from outside to make any fine adjustments. There are also features included in Fortress that can be demonstrated to customers to reinforce the high security message and an additional selling point is the support of the Saracen Guarantee Scheme.” Selling points for customers include fully retractable

hooks that complement the aesthetics of the window and ‘bear grip’ double hook locking points with hooks that give a greater locking point to maximise the security. The addition of the grouphomesafe Saracen Guarantee Scheme also means that should a breakin succeed through the failure of a Fortress lock, the installer can offer repair or replacement of the window to a cost of £500 and pay the householder up to £500 for any losses incurred during the break in. For more information on the Fortress window MPL contact ERA on 01922 490060. For more information on Grouphomesafe companies and products, visit http:// www.grouphomesafe.com/.

“This year’s FIT show at Telford has been a credit to the organisers – well organised, exactly what the trade needed and just when it needed it.” “We have been absolutely delighted at the level of interest shown in our new MODO composite door collection which we launched at the show. The stand was constantly very busy and the level of enquiries and new leads received has more than justified our attendance.” “We said the new, design-led MODO collection would be different to anything else out there, and feedback from visitors to our stand has confirmed exactly that. They were drawn on to the stand as soon as they saw the new doors.”

May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

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www.glassnews.co.uk

DOORS & HARDWARE

Doors, not just a first impression but part of a home’s defence For many years window installers have offered doors as part of their product portfolio but with most properties only requiring one or two they have often been secondary to the opportunities presented by replacement windows. However with fewer people moving house, an increasing awareness of how energy saving measures, including high quality doors and windows, save money and the fact that new doors and windows give a property a complete face-lift there is still considerable scope for the door and window industry, especially when that door can also form part of a property's flood defences. Flood mitigation has three different categories. Firstly avoidance, but if your house is in a flood plain there is little you can do to change that. Secondly resistance measures, ie those actions taken to prevent flood water either reaching or penetrating a property. This may include revised local drainage systems, flood resistant gates and nonreturn valves in waste pipes and outlets. Finally resilience measures ie those steps taken inside to minimise damage should the floodwater enter the building. Simple measures including plastic skirting boards, raised electrical and TV sockets and concrete floors are easily incorporated into new builds but adding resilience to existing properties is not always as simple. Responding to a gap in the market, both internal and external flood doors are being developed for both commercial and residential installation. However, even these doors have their limits

and homeowners must accept that in extreme cases they may have to allow floodwater into their home, in a controlled fashion, otherwise the pressure exerted by the water outside the building may cause more serious structural damage than that caused by the influx of water. One company, Aquobex, has recognised this with the development of its flood door range based around an innovative approach, known as ISIS Technology™, (integrated safety and inundation system). This patented system includes an inundation device which is fitted in the frame of door and can also be incorporated into windows and patio doors.

from either side that the door is a flood door. "The inundation system ensures the minimum of damage to a property regardless of the height and duration of the flood," commented John Alexander, Managing Director of Aquobex. Aquobex's doors are being manufactured on a bespoke basis by GRM Windows, South Wales. Richard Gambling, Managing Director comments; "This is a really exciting opportunity, not only for our company but for installers across the country. Every homeowner wants to look after their

UAP Ltd makes Sealco Scotland’s main distributor for MAX6MUM SECURITY. Sealco, Scotland’s number one independent distributor of specialised hardware products, is now offering the complete range of affordable high security hardware. The two companies have worked together for over 12 years and have seen many changes in the industry. Today’s consumers are looking for higher security products, but few are willing to pay higher prices. The new MAX6MUM SECURITY range is designed to bring top security to property owners at affordable prices.

family, property and possessions." There is no doubt that this winter's weather provides an opportunity for the enterprising installer. "Homeowners need educating about how to make their properties more flood resistant and a flood door as part of a considered response to a possible flooding situation can make a significant difference and provide peace of mind to those at risk. It may also help with insurance premiums;" comments Alexander. By Gavin George, Director, Aquobex.

Derek Malcolm, MD of Sealco, says: “We believe there are three things that make a difference to customers; wide range of options, high quality products and sensible cost. With the MAX6MUM SECURITY range we can offer them all and with the added benefit of a fast turnaround time. First reactions to the new products have been excellent. When we talked to home improvement giant CR Smith they immediately saw the benefit of the products and the branding. This is a superb endorsement for the new brand.”

The complete MAX6MUM SECURITY range of high security door handles, cylinders, cylinder guards and decorative door furniture is now available from Sealco. As well as developing an exciting range of door security products UAP has also created a complete MAX6MUM SECURITY marketing support package and a brand awareness campaign aimed at homeowners. The campaign includes a £250,000 radio advertising promotion starring our superhero character MAX and sponsorship of the south stand at Leeds United. David Jennings, MD of UAP, adds: “The relationship between our two companies has grown over many years. We share the same values of high quality products at affordable prices combined with excellent customer service. The new MAX6MUM SECURITY range has been designed to appeal to installers and homeowners who want top security and real value, making them the perfect products for Sealco to offer customers across Scotland.” Tel: 0161 796 7268 www.uapcorporate.com

The doors also have an integral warning and locking safety system that prevents the homeowner from inadvertently opening the door and letting in a rush of water. The ISIS™ flood doors are aesthetically pleasing and can be manufactured to compliment an extensive range of replacement windows making them viable for installation in properties of all styles and ages, and there is no indication

For more information on flood prevention, protection and resilience please contact Aquobex direct on tel: 01923 518 582 or visit the company’s website www.aquobex.com where you can find more guidance on flood protection.

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UAP makes Sealco Scotland’s main distributor for MAX6MUM SECURITY

David Jennings and Derek Malcolm on the UAP MAX6MUM SECURITY stand at the FIT Show.

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May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

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DOORS & HARDWARE

MILA LAUNCHES NEW KENRICK UNVEILS MOST EXTENSIVE PROSECURE MULTICYLINDER RANGE EVER POINT DOOR LOCK Mila launched its new ProSecure multi-point door lock at the FIT show. Designed and developed in house to sit perfectly alongside the popular Mila ProSecure door handle, the new door lock allows customers to differentiate their doors with a high quality, Mila branded solution. The key competitive advantage for Mila customers is that the ProSecure multi point door locks are super strong – the locking points can withstand an applied load of 7.5kN which is equivalent to the weight of a classic Mini Cooper. This strength is being demonstrated live on the stand on a specially constructed test rig. There are initially four new multi-point door locks in the ProSecure range with seven size variants. These are for use on standard sized residential doors, on short residential and French doors, and as slave door locks. They are all available with a normal or dual function gearbox and all can be ordered in split spindle versions if required which means they can be used in both normal and night latch mode ensuring that customers don’t have to stock or fit two different variants.

“We have brought the ProSecure multi-point door lock to market quickly and efficiently and, with the support and commitment of our supplier in Italy, we are already planning how we will expand the range in the future.” 0513-0121

An intensive period of research and development at leading hardware manufacturer Kenrick has culminated in the company launching a brand new range of cylinders. Mila has obtained a full raft of quality and performance accreditations for the ProSecure solution including successful cycle testing in excess of 50,000 cycles under load (PAS23), weather testing to BS6375-1 and full security testing to PAS24. The door lock is also Secured by Design accredited and has been successfully tested to 240 hours in a salt spray facility (BS EN1670 grade 4). The new ProSecure multi point door lock is being manufactured exclusively for Mila at a specialist production facility in Italy. Mila has deliberately chosen a proven European partner with the high levels of technical competence and engineering skill necessary for this significant new product launch. Managing Director Richard Gyde says: “We have brought the ProSecure multi-point door lock to market quickly and efficiently and, with the support and commitment of our supplier in Italy, we are already planning how we will expand the range in the future.” The ProSecure multi-point door lock is just one of five significant new product launches by Mila at the FIT show. The company also launched a patio handle in the ProSecure range, a new NightSecure® striker, a new TripleStay® friction stay for triple glazed frames and two new powder coated Heritage finishes.

The range, which has been designed to cater for all security requirements, includes more than 80 individual cylinder options, making it the most extensive collection ever launched by Kenrick. Steve Williams, Kenrick’s sales and marketing director, says: “We are delighted to unveil this exciting new range to the industry, which brings even more choice to fabricators and installers. It offers one of the widest ‘off the shelf ’ ranges of cylinders and also superb value for money. And the new range has clearly been greeted with great enthusiasm by customers too with many placing significant orders as soon as it was available.”

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The Kenrick range of cylinders spans three levels - Standard, Security and High Security. The collection of Standard six pin cylinders conforms to BS EN 1303 and is available in all popular sizes. Options include half cylinders, key-key and keythumb cylinders. The Security collection includes six pin anti-pick, anti-bump and anti-drill cylinders, which meet the standards of TS007 and KM 544418 and are SKG 2 star rated. Kenrick’s top of the range High Security six pin cylinders are anti-pick, anti-bump, anti-drill and anti-snap when used in conjunction with the Kenrick RASP Anti Snap system. The KM 544418 accredited cylinders have been designed to achieve a minimum SKG 2 star rating and are available in a number of sizes. Every cylinder in the range is available in a polished brass or nickel finish. The Kenrick RASP Anti Snap system has also been in house tested at Kenrick. It sustained a 14 minute attack using all the tools used for PAS 24 as well as additional tools which are available to any burglar but are not currently used in PAS 24 testing. Kitemarked against 'lock bumping' by BSi (BS3621) and successfully tested against physical cylinder attack by to BSi PAS024, the Excalibur RASP is also approved by Secured By Design. Kenrick is a leading supplier of hardware solutions for PVCu, aluminium and timber window and door systems. The company has a proud heritage spanning more than 200 years, having been established by Archibald Kenrick who manufactured buckles and livery fittings. Kenrick’s range of top quality products includes the market leading Excalibur multi-point window shootbolt are extremely cost effective and easy to install. www.kenricks.co.uk 0513-0122

May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

www.glassnews.co.uk

DOORS & HARDWARE

BARRIER COMPONENTS LTD LAUNCH NEW PRODUCTS Specialist architectural hardware supplier, Barrier Components Ltd., have launched a number of new products at the FIT (Fabricator Installer Trade) Show.

Barrier Components to offer this new protective coating system at a very competitive market prices. The product is designed to be applied to glass, tile and stainless steel surfaces. Together with a kit specifically designed for car windscreens. This product reduces cleaning time by 90% by repelling grime, dirt and soap scum making the surface easier to clean.

BarrierStack Glass Wall Systems

to be installed for the lowest possible cost.

BarrierStack, a GCC Taiwan manufactured product, created a lot of interest from installers at the FIT show. It comprises a number of different systems offering the installer complete flexibility for their chosen glass door installation. BarrierStack is a component supply only of the hardware to allow for the installation of folding, sliding and stacking glass systems. The components are manufactured from an anodised aluminium profile with a brushed stainless steel finish. The system includes a continually hinged door rail system, a patch mounted system and a moveable wall style independent panel system allowing for offset stacking and pass swing door at any position within the system. The product is designed to accommodate 10 or 12mm glass, purchased by the user allowing the system

New Anti Finger Trap Systems The new anti trap hinge protection flaps are manufactured in Italy to a high quality finish. The Digisafe product is manufactured in aluminum or transparent Perspex so as not to detract from the appearance of high quality doors. These systems

are provided with full installation instructions at a competitive price.

Enduroshield Protection EnduroShield launched at the show this week, allows

The company also exhibited their BarrierFold and VistaFold door gear at the show, relaunching the product to the installer market. Barrier Components e-commerce web site is live at www.barrier-components.co.uk. The site enables users to order a vast product range online, much quicker and easier than before, providing a one-stop-shop for high quality, great looking and effective architectural hardware products, all backed by adequate stock and an efficient service ethos. For further information or assistance please contact the Barrier Components Technical Team on 01708 891515 or sales@barriercomponents.co.uk.

STUNNING NEW

APEER-RANCE

One of the most exciting developments to happen to composite doors in a decade was unveiled at the Fabricator and Installer Trade (FIT) show with the launch by Apeer of 12 cutting edge new designs.

Stainless steel glazing trims not only give the new MODO collection a truly contemporary edge but further enhance already formidable levels of security. Other features of the MODO collection include:

The Modern Door (MODO) collection from Apeer is a design-led portfolio of contemporary new doors, developed and fully manufactured at Apeer’s state-of-the-art production facility at Ballymena in Northern Ireland.

• Toughened, 60mm thick warm edge, triple glazed units as standard

The launch comes 10 years on from production of the company’s first composite doorset in 2003. In the decade since then, Apeer has become widely regarded as the most advanced door entrance system on the market. Capitalising on the company’s comprehensive in-house manufacturing capability, including its own glass studio, the new MODO collection features all the security, durability and energy efficiency associated with Apeer Doors. Said Apeer md Asa McGillian: “What we are doing is different to anything out there and having our own manufacturing facility allows Apeer to be one of the most flexible and innovative brands in the business.” The new range will be made to the same high spec as all Apeer 70 doors and comes with the usual 10-year structural guarantee and full choice of standard, premium, heritage and bespoke colours.

• Double rebate system with inner fibreglass frame • Kitemark cylinder, multi-point locking system and steel dog bolts • Timber effect fibreglass door leaf for hassle-free maintenance • All designs are available in extra wide 1100mm size The understated and sleek designs of the doors themselves are enhanced by a choice of modern glass artwork with the fused tiles, bevels and sandblasted glass designs all created by hand at Apeer’s in-house glass studio. A further benefit is that all Apeer entrance system glass will carry the BSI Kitemark from May 1. As manufacturers of fully-bespoke entrance systems, Apeer’s advanced design-andorder software, Doorbuilder, has become an invaluable selling tool for fabricators and installers. In 2011 Apeer set a new standard in construction with the first ever all-glass reinforced plastic (GRP) composite doorset with an all-GRP inner sash, replacing the UPVC sash with fibre glass. Apeer 70 doors have also been officially recognised as ‘Energy A Rated’. www.apeer.co.uk

“The system includes a continually hinged door rail system.”

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May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

www.glassnews.co.uk

DOORS & HARDWARE

HOPPE (UK) TEAMS UP

WITH DISTINCTION DOORS HOPPE, the manufacturer synonymous with innovation, quality and performance in hardware for the architectural and window and door sectors, is delighted to announce a new partnership with Distinction Doors. With synergy between both companies’ brand values and a shared commitment to offering the market top quality products, this new agreement is the natural next step for HOPPE and Distinction as they aim to make the world of composite doors a lot more interesting – and add value for customers. Stewart Lamb, National Sales and Marketing Manager of HOPPE (UK) Ltd comments: “We were delighted when market leader Distinction Doors spotted the big potential for our premium Designer Door Handle Range to help add value and differentiate on behalf of their customers. Engineered with style and ergonomics as a priority, the top end brass handles are the epitome of elegance, and with handles and back plates supplied separately, there is always optimum flexibility to suite with a building’s interior. The hard wearing handles also come with the unique HOPPE Resista® hardware 10-year surface guarantee.”

plans: “We’ve previously looked at supplying hardware, but quite frankly never found anything special enough for our customer base. There are a lot of ‘me-too’ commodity products out there which don’t fit with what we want to offer the market. Then we discovered the Designer range which ticked all the boxes for us in terms of differentiation, quality, design and flexibility. Distinction has grown its business over the past eight years to now hold a UK GRP composite door market share in excess of 60% precisely by spotting new trends and products that keep us ahead of the competition.” “We believe the Designer range will continue to support us in maintaining this position and with HOPPE as a partner, Distinction’s tried, tested, trusted mantra will be in safe hands: Put simply, the Designer range is a top quality product from a top quality brand and although plans are still in their infancy, we have a lot of exciting roll outs planned over 2013 that will incorporate our partnership with HOPPE – watch this space!” For more information on HOPPE (UK) Ltd visit www.hoppe.co.uk or call 01902 484 400.

Dave Gomersall, Distinction Door’s Operations Director, explains why the HOPPE Designer range is a perfect and timely fit for the company’s

“The hard wearing handles also come with the unique HOPPE Resista® hardware 10-year surface guarantee.”

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May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

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DOORS & HARDWARE 0513-0129

‘Steel’ a march with Inox Glazing Inox Glazing, the brand new launch from Decorative Door Products, the division of RegaLead that specialises in the supply of decorative components for the composite door industry, has only recently been officially launched to the market, yet already demand is high. Guy Hubble, Joint Managing Director of RegaLead explains: “We have had a lot of enquiries from composite door fabricators who want to differentiate their offering from their competitors’, and with Inox Glazing they can be assured that’s exactly what they’ll do!” This is because the stainless steel glazing system is strongly influenced by European style and manufactured using Grade 304 to create a modern alternative to traditional composite glazing systems for a genuinely contemporary looking door. But that’s not all, the system has the added benefit of simplicity in terms of manufacture. Using any 44mm flush door blank and the company’s CNC programme files, customers can produce Inox doors as easily as they do cassette glazed doors. Plus, in addition to the glazing frame, RegaLead provides training and marketing support at every step of the way.

Guy continues: “It was great to see so much interest generated from Inox Glazing at the FIT Show, and this has only increased with time. A huge amount of work goes into developing a product which aims to give customers a competitive edge in a difficult market, and in an often me-too dominated industry, it is heartening to know that people are looking to stand out from the crowd. We’d love to hear from anybody who perhaps could not make it to see for themselves at the show and who’d like to find out more.” For more information on Inox Glazing from the Decorative Door Products Division of RegaLead visit www.decorativedoorproducts.co.uk or call 01450 377 527.

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DOORS & HARDWARE

Avantis formally launched their new brand to the whole industry at the FIT Show, and what a reception it got! our business is a great asset to us, and to our customers. They know that with Avantis there is a constant flow of

Mark Bromley, Chairman of Avantis believes attending the FIT show achieved exactly what he wanted for Avantis and sees a very bright future for the company now firmly established as a major hardware supplier in the UK. “Following the sale of our previous business Millenco Hardware to Paddock we have been working diligently to develop a new range of products specifically for the UK window and door market.” “The products on display at the FIT Show have been available for two years or more now and our objective in attending the event in Telford was for purpose of brand recognition and

product innovation, and that if they want to discuss bespoke projects we are not only willing, but very able

to do this. We believe that Avantis really is the complete supply chain solution for the Window and Door

industry in the UK and we are delighted that we have firmly established our brand within it.”

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positioning. Those people who visited our stand now know that Avantis is a truly global manufacturing and supply chain solution”. “Our manufacturing facilities in Malaysia are wholly under our control and ownership. From concept design to conclusion our products are manufactured in an extremely safe and controlled environment with consistently high quality standards at all stages.” “Full ownership and responsibility for all stages of

Mark Bromley, Chairman of Avantis.

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DOORS & HARDWARE

The history of door locking in the industry all under one roof – MPL’s roof! It might sound like an industry museum has just opened displaying every door lock ever produced since PVCu windows first came to the UK, but don’t be confused. MPL or to give them their full name Multi-point Locks, is proud to tell the industry of why they are the leading supplier of the widest range of door locking mechanisms for repairs and maintenance in the industry.

product; and for fabricators and installers with extended warranties to honour, it is also a great opportunity to enable them to meet their commitments to their customers without incurring unnecessary expense themselves.

Managing Director Graham Jones explains “When we started our business many years ago we had the foresight and perhaps the good fortune to be able to establish a business name which tells everyone immediately what we are about and what we supply – multipoint locks. What people don’t immediately realise is that our business is based on supplying multi-point locks for the repairs and maintenance market not for first generation installations” “With the first PVCu doors having been installed 30 years ago now the industry is reaching a mature phase and many thousands of locks each year need replacing in the millions of doors which have been installed during that period. We are one of the UK’s largest stockists of a complete range of multipoint locks, we are able to source and to stock just about every brand and model you can think of which has been installed over the lifetime of the industry”. It sounds as if the history of door locking mechanisms is encapsulated in one place, but this is not by chance. “One of our skills over the years has been working with lock manufacturers and being a partner to them to buy up and stock items which are becoming obsolete. In consequence we have the largest stock and widest range of door locking mechanisms there is. We will continue with this policy as the industry continues to mature” “For the thousands of fabricators and installers in the industry who are struggling

to replace locks under warranty with like for like products our business is ideal. We supply nationally on a 24 hour turnaround basis and have supplied replacement locks from the top of Scotland to the furthest reaches of the South West. We can supply one lock or batches of locks and provide a range of support services to help our customers with the identification of existing locks which require replacement”. In today’s world, one of the other skills is having a website name which equally reflects the nature of one’s business and makes it clear to the customer what it supplies. “Securing the multi-point locks website domain was a great asset, and given that the internet is where much of our business comes from it has been critical in our being able to grow the business as we have. It is also home to our extensive range of technical information which helps our customers be sure of what

lock they need when replacing an existing installation” Fabricators and installers who have not yet worked with MPL should take time to look at what they can offer. Graham summarises this way “What we say to fabricators and installers up and down the land is this – think of a door lock you have installed through the years and we will have it in stock or will be able to source it for you. It doesn’t matter how far back you want to go, we will be able to support you” MPL have built a significant business on supplying replacement door locks to the industry. It is a market they see growing daily as doors installed many years ago need replacement locks where homeowners don’t want to go to the expense of replacing the

Graham continues, “Sometimes people don’t always see the opportunities directly in front of them. Our business is a great support for the fabricator and installer network where they have extended warranties which they need to honour. We know we can help them out. We also believe that if one day someone asks you to supply them a replacement lock for a kitchen door, the next day they may come back and ask you to supply them with a complete brand new front door or a bi-fold door for a different part of their house. Supplying replacement locks is not contradictory to their overall business of installing new windows and doors, it is complimentary to it. Honouring warranties helps to protect a company’s brand image, and to reinforce it. This can lead to extra sales further down the line which definitely won’t come if a company is unable or unwilling to help customers it has previously sold to when there is a repair or maintenance issue to be addressed. We would urge fabricators and installers to take a more pro-active approach to repairs and maintenance, we can certainly support you, and in turn we think it will help you to sustain your business in the longer term”. Graham Jones is Managing Director of MPL and he and his team are happy to help fabricators and installers looking for information and support on replacement door locks. www.multipointlocks.co.uk

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DOORS & HARDWARE

AGONY UNCLE

Phoenix Door Panels reaches twin manufacturing door milestones Phoenix Door Panels Ltd, a division of Masco UK Window Group Ltd, has just celebrated two major manufacturing milestones in its 20-year history – the one millionth PVC-U door panel and the 50,000th composite door. The Cambridgeshire-based manufacturer reached the twin landmarks in April following a robust start to 2013, as Haydon Statham, National Sales Manager, explained: “We have experienced rising demand for our quality composite door and panels, mainly thanks to our simplified pricing structure and attention to really good customer service. “Since introducing a straightforward ordering system for any door from our extensive County Collection Composite Door range, we have encouraged more installers to come on board.” All Phoenix composite doors are priced with an outside colour and letter plate, plus a lever/lever handle. “So a Phoenix door is all complete and ready to fit when delivered. Our pricing is probably the simplest and easiest in the industry,” continued Haydon.

“Every door is ‘good to go’ – you just ‘build’ the door depending on the options required, such as glass, finish, or door furniture and then wait for the door to arrive.” As well as the composite doors, all PVC-U panels in the Cambridgeshire Door Panel Collection are manufactured to the highest quality standards at the Somersham factory to ensure consistency of supply and reliable delivery in four to five working days on Phoenix’s own transport, where possible. Haydon adds: “Where we score highly is our ability to deliver bespoke entrance doors and panels tailored to the most exacting customer requirements. With over 200 glass designs and 20 styles of composite doors, including Stable, Twin and hinged side panels, plus 121 panel designs and the flexibility to modify glass in both composite doors and panels, this gives us the edge in a very competitive market. There’s a door or panel to suit everyone. And that is reflected in our ‘milestones’ success.” Contact Phoenix Door Panels on 01487 740469, email info@phoenixdoorpanels.co.uk or visit the website at www.phoenixdoorpanels.co.uk.

In the first of a new series of advice columns for Glass News, Jim Moody, Managing Director of Tradelink, answers your questions and provides advice about the issues you need to know. Dear Jim, I run a small door and window installation business that I took over from my father. I’ve been reading about the new compulsory CE Marking and found out that, as an installer, I may still have to take steps to comply. Is this true, and where do I start? Mark, Basingstoke

Dear Mark, There has been a great deal of confusion surrounding compulsory CE Marking, so you are right to ask the question. Compulsory CE Marking will come into effect on the 1st July as part of the Construction Products Regulation (CPR). This regulation is designed to help remove any technical barriers in the trade of construction products in Europe. What it means for the trade is that, as of July, all products placed on the UK market must carry a CE Mark. The responsibility for this lies with manufacturers, including fabricators and also, if they buy their insulated glass units and frames from separate suppliers, installers. If this sounds like your business, then you will indeed need to take steps to comply. The first advisable step for you would be to read as much about the CPR as much as you can in order to find out which of the relevant harmonised product standards applies to you. Secondly, implement a documented Factory Production Control procedure (FPC) within your facility as early as possible to ensure it is water tight come July. Next you must submit the products you wish to declare to an Initial Type Testing (ITT) process, which must be undertaken in association with a notified body third party. They will test the products you wish to declare as part of the next step. This step may be cascaded down from your systems house, component or hardware supplier with permission, so check with them first.

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Now is the time for declaration via a Declaration of Performance (DoP). You will need to declare everything including the products you offer; their energy ratings and U-Values; and the load bearing capacity of any inclusive security hardware – again, you should be able to speak to your supplier about this. As a tip, by declaring the product with the lowest compliant or least efficient U-Value, everything above this will be automatically covered. The declaration must contain at least the manufacturer’s name and address; product details such as model, description and serial number, a list of CE Marking Directives and standards that have been applied; a statement declaring that the product complies, and a signature and date. Finally, you should be ready to attach the CE Mark to your product. There is additional and more in depth advice available from industry factions such as the Glass and Glazing Federation and many of the Notified bodies, but, and to return to the issue of whether or not CE Marking applies to you specifically, it depends on whether you buy your units and frames separately. If you do, I hope the advice I’ve offered is of help. However, for installers to truly ensure compliance, the most efficient way possible in terms of accuracy and cost, is to buy frames fully glazed from your fabricator partner and let them put this work in on your behalf. Tradelink is a World Class Manufacturing organisation and, as such we pre-qualify for CE Marking and can offer our installer customers our expertise of FPC and take the added pressure of CE Marking from them. If you’d like to talk to somebody about any concerns you have about CE Marking or any other industry legislation issues, please feel free to get in touch. Visit www.tradelinkdirect.co.uk, e-mail us at sales@tradelinkdirect.co.uk or call 01354 657650.

Send us your questions and we will always try and help: jim@tradelink.co.uk 70

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Q&A – DAVID JENNINGS – UAP TRADELOCKS

LOCKS

How have you seen the industry change over the years? In terms of how security conscious society is, the quality of products in the marketplace and the aesthetics of hardware, as well as the demands from consumers and installers alike?

The market has changed massively over the 17 years I’ve been involved. In 1996 there were very few demands for high security. Not because it wasn’t needed, or that people were trying to cut costs: it just wasn’t really considered. Since then, the growth of the internet has given the public easy access to information. Because of this, consumers are now demanding higher standards from products. This in turn brings about new challenges for us, and also opens up new market potential. The internet has made it very quick and easy for people to make comparisons between suppliers. It’s another incentive for us to be sure we’re always offering something better: superior quality, more responsive customer service, value for money etc. You can’t afford to stand still, because it is so easy for anyone to check if they are getting a good deal, or if the product they’re looking at is the best one for their needs. So I think a lot of the changes in the marketplace have been accelerated by the internet and free access to information, and this has had a very positive effect upon UAP’s business.

You sell certain products in Asda. Can you tell us more about this please? We have developed the Max6mum Security brand to drive consumer pull-through of our products. Ultimately, it becomes a lot easier to sell a product if consumers have heard of it, have positive associations with it and understand why it is superior. To help with that goal we’ve launched a selection of products into the consumer market. Asda have taken it up and are selling it in their online shop and in selected stores. This gives the consumer the chance to understand the difference between a high quality, high specification UAP product at a competitive price, and a comparatively run-of-the-mill product of the sort that has often been found in retail up to now. When people are well-informed, they tend to make the right choices.

17 years in the hardware industry - what’s the secret of UAP’s success? Customer service, product quality, attention to detail, value for money, and - very importantly - being honest. People deal with UAP because we they know we value their business and are in it

“As a company we agree: ethically, protecting the planet for the future is obviously the right thing to do. If we can do our small bit then we will. It makes our staff feel better about their work.” 72

In this months Q&A’s we talk to David Jennings of UAP TradeLocks.

for the long term. We are always happy to go out of our way to help clients when the need arises, because we know they’re going to be with us for years ahead.

There are a huge number of products to choose from. Do you have your own research and development team to source new products? We stay at the forefront of the market by looking at what changes are taking place now, and what is likely to be happening in the future. We never rest on our laurels, or fall into the trap of thinking our products can’t be improved. Every product in every market can be improved. I head the R&D function, assisted by our team in China and our in-house QA manager. We also liaise with our team of external consultants - that’s hugely important. We’re not serving the market from a distance - we’re an integrated part of it.

How are your products distributed? We supply both direct and via distributors.

We are all more environmentally aware these days but UAP seem particularly keen on preserving the environment. Where does this stem from and of what importance is it to business? I think it’s fair to say that most people care about the environment to some extent. Unless it involves huge cost or hardship, we all want to do our bit and see the value of conserving resources and not creating pollution if we can avoid it. As a company we agree: ethically, protecting the planet for the future is obviously the right thing to do. If we can do our small bit then we will. It makes our staff feel better about their work.

David Jennings, UAP TradeLocks

products, find out what they do, maybe watch a video, and then select items for their door. The components are then morphed onto the door, and a priced-up quotation is created. The app can be individually tailored to each retailer, with their own prices and the items they sell from the UAP product range featured. It’s a very interactive app, and helps the consumer feel they are getting the best for their home. In turn, the upsell and profit value is there for the supplier too. We’ve made sure versions are available for both Apple and Android devices. The reaction to it has been overwhelming – but then, the fact it is free and provides profit value makes it a bit of a no-brainer.

From a commercial point of view, there are advantages too. For example, we now use solar power to meet around 50% of our electrical needs. In 18 months I want that to be closer to 80%. Solar Power is FREE. Surely that has to make commercial sense? Using low CO2 vehicles means the cost per mile for us is lower, there is zero road tax and our employees save tax on the P11D value of running the vehicle. Surely that has to make sense as well? Some of these decisions are easy to make if you keep yourselves informed and are adaptable and open to change.

Last but not least David, what do you do to relax?

At the recent FIT Show, we had a little go on your new mobile app. Can you tell us more about this please - how receptive were people to it?

www.tradelocks.co.uk

I am a workaholic, but I do love it. So I spend most of my time involved in some aspect of the company. But there is one thing that will never fail to drag me away: a Leeds United game. I’m a die-hard, lifelong Leeds fan. You’ll find me at virtually every home fixture and quite a few of the away ones as well.

We wanted a way to help our trade customers sell more of our products, and also upsell to make more profit on their sales, easily and at the point of purchase. The app is powerful tool to help you do exactly that. The concept behind it is similar to the “configure your car” applications people are familiar with from motor manufacturer’s websites, except this is for your door. Our new app allows the consumer - who may be at home, on a train, in a showroom or even a trade counter - to see the

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COMMENT PIECE

FiT Review, Dire Q1, Something Cool & Why You NEED To Be Online! FiT Show Review I am sure many of you have read review after review about the FiT Show, so I will try and keep my summary a bit like me...short! To put it simply, the FiT Show was a great success! It was a very well organised, well planned event that was marketed perfectly to an apathetic audience who probably did need some convincing about the pros of having another attempt at an industry show. I think all that exhibited and all that visited are in agreement that as a first attempt, it couldn’t have gone any better. Halls were well spaced, well planned but I thought it could have done with just a few more directional hints. Importantly, all the halls were full. Well, when I say full, one of the halls was missing a particular conservatory roof company that I doubt I need to mention here! Bar that, it was great to see all the space filled and plenty of visitors doing the rounds. If memory serves me well, out of 8000+ pre-registered visitors (inc exhibitors) over 5500+ turned up! Excellent figures for an inaugural show. The only things I can say were negative was the car parking facilities and the Wi-Fi. Luckily me and my good pal turned up nice and early (two hours early!) so we didn’t have any problems. But there were many reports of people having to park miles away and walk a fair old distance to get to the TIC. Also, the Wi-Fi was POOR! Well it was for me! Internet is pretty important for me, so being repeatedly signed out and having a slow connection was annoying. Still, it didn’t spoil the day and I will be there in 2014. As will many others it seems. Companies are already signing up for another year, which a great sign and a clear signal that the industry thinks it needs the FiT Show.

Dire Q1

As if we didn’t need any more confirmation, quarter one was a stinking quarter! The latest FENSA figures report a 5.4% overall drop in window and door installations compared to the same period in 2012. January was 10.9% down, February was 1.5% down and March saw a 3.9% reduction too.

Two reasons for this a) worsening economic conditions b) one of the longest, coldest winters for a very long time! It would be fair to say that most of that 5.4% drop would be down to the weather. But whatever the reason, it is a stark reminder that our industry remains very vulnerable to external influences and that we are still very far away from being in a robust enough position to ride out bumps in the road like this without consequence. However, there is a very big silver lining in all of this. As in previous ‘proper’ winters, there has been somewhat of a bounce-back in the spring and summer. Consumers who have been stuck indoors and

put off home improvements tend to come out in their droves in a rush to make sure everything they want doing is done as soon as the sun comes out. What this does mean is some bumper, possibly recording breaking months for some businesses, when in the previous quarter they were struggling to fill the fitting schedules! It’s a topsy turvy old industry we work in!

Consumers who have been stuck indoors and put off home improvements tend to come out in their droves in a rush to make sure everything they want doing is done as soon as the sun comes out. What this does mean is some bumper, possibly recording breaking months for some businesses!”

Time for something positive again! For those of you that know, Nick Dardalis (@AlumTradeSupply and @GlazingGuru) and myself have launched the National Fenestration Awards.

April was the first month we trialled this and it was a great success with 20 fantastic images uploaded. It was nice to see such a wide ranging and varied group, with a mix of all material types and both commercial and residential installations.

You all probably know I’m a big advocate of the online facet of our industry. So this section is really going out to all the people reading this who have very little or no presence at all online: Why are you not online? What is your excuse for not having a low-cost, effective website? Why are you not on social media spreading the good word about your company’s products and services? These are questions which I believe do not have good enough answers. Take social media. Especially Twitter. It’s free – we all like something for free! The only thing it costs is a bit of your time. In my experience and many others’ on Twitter will confirm that this is time well spent. If you’re a manufacturer or supplier it is a fantastic, quick, FREE way to get in contact with your customers, run ad campaigns, answer questions etc. Same with Facebook and Google+ though these aren’t as popular with the business community. My tip would be to appoint someone in your head office who has frequent access to a computer and mobile device, and has good product knowledge, to run the account. Trust me, it’s productive, fun and in the 21st Century this is one of the best ways to connect with your B2B contacts! Websites. There is a perception here that you MUST spend ££££’s in order to have an all singing all dancing websites. There is a truth and falsehood to this. If your budgets are tight, there are the Blogger and WordPress platforms where you can go and create a nice, functional and informative website for free. If you have the money, then I would recommend paying a professional to do it for you. I have tried both the free and paying way. Trust me, the money you spend in getting a pro to do it is worth it. The internet, all facets of it, is just like your (excuse the pun) shop window. People of all ages and demographics are going online to search for products and services of all kinds, and are ditching traditional methods like the Yellow Pages and other business directories. Not having a good online presence at this time is terribly negligent, backward thinking and plain old slack. Since it began, internet usage and online advertising has rose year on year without fail. How can you afford to ignore such a massive swing in consumer behaviour?

Cool Wall

Within that, we have launched our own little bit of fun. The Cool Wall, very much like on Top Gear! People/companies can register for free and upload their images with a small description of the job. It is then for people to vote for what they think is the ‘Coolest’ installation, giving it a rating from 1-5 stars. Simple!

You NEED Online!

Email: info@doubleglazingblogger.com www.doubleglazingblogger.com Follow Double Glazing Blogger on Twitter: @glazingblogger

We announced the first Cool Wall winner on May 1st and it was Glazedale with this image: Some fantastic work getting some fantastic recognition. It’s what the whole of the National Fenestration Awards are about. But I’ll talk about that another time!

May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

DO YOU AGREE WITH THESE COMMENTS? Write to us: christina@glassnews.co.uk The views contained herein are not necessarily those of glassnews™ and whilst every effort is made to ensure information throughout is correct, glassnews™ does not accept liability for errors. The views expressed by contributors and the content of letters, are not necessarily those of glassnews™ and therefore cannot take responsibility.

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PRODUCT NEWS

TWO NEW POWDER COATED REHAU LAUNCHES RUN THROUGH PAINT FINISHES FROM MILA SASH HORN FOR REHAU HERITAGE Mila has launched two new powder coated paint finishes at the FIT show which mimic anodised silver and anodised gold but which are in fact created using a highly durable and cost effective iridescent paint finish. Branded ‘Heritage Gold’ and ‘Heritage Silver’, the new metallic paint finishes are available on Mila’s Kitemarked, TS007 2 star ProSecure security handles, coordinating ProStyle letter boxes and iDeal composite door hinges. At the FIT Show, the new finishes are on display on a composite door supplied by Solidor showcasing the opportunities for suited security furniture.

is more than double the requirement of BS EN1670: 2007 Grade 5 which already describes ‘exceptionally high’ corrosion resistance. Mila expects the finish to be particularly popular in the social housing sector because it combines style, durability and value.

The new Heritage finishes are just one of five significant new product launches by Mila at the FIT show. The company also launched the ProSecure multi-point door lock, a new ProSecure patio handle, a new NightSecure® striker and a new TripleStay® friction stay for triple glazed frames.

At the FIT show, REHAU launched its first ever run through sash horn in the market leading REHAU Heritage vertical slider system. The new sash horn is designed to make the REHAU Heritage window more authentic than ever and to help customers working on heritage properties and in conservation areas win more business from the timber box sash sector.

At the show, a REHAU Heritage vertical slider with the new horn was on display in REHAU’s Simply White laminate foil to show just how accurately the REHAU window can now replicate the look of a white painted timber box sash. Product Manager Sarah Hitchings, says: “Previously, we have only had a separate add on sash horn available which customers could use for traditional properties. Now, with the addition of the run through sash horn to our range, our customers can offer a wider choice to consumers and meet even the most exacting specifications.” The FIT show was a reminder to customers and to the market of how active REHAU has been in new product development over recent months. Alongside the new horn, the REHAU stand also featured new thermally efficient

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Alumen Adds Integral Blind Alumen Ltd, the specialist aluminium door and window sister company to long-established GRP Designs, is pleased to announce the addition of the Sunbell Venetian blind to its range of aluminium doors and windows. The integral blind is already proving very popular when used in conjunction with the company’s aluminium bi-folding or sliding doors for conservatory and garden room installations as they are operated by either a switch panel or a remote control, eliminating the need for unsightly battery packs or solar panels. These blinds are particularly ideal for bi-folding and sliding doors as they have no controls to interfere with the operation of the door, unlike some manual blinds which require magnets or pulleys that foul the meeting style when opening.

multi-chamber profiles in the REHAU TOTAL70C system, the new WER A rated fully reversible REHAU TOTAL70R and the flush fitting Nordic Design Plus system which is being exhibited for the first time in the UK.

Each blind can be activated independently, as every control box can operate up to 12 blinds individually. Additionally, the Venetian Blind provides you with the change to add further kerb appeal to a conservatory, as it is available in a wide range of colours and sizes, including large enough to suit any high end orangery. All wiring is installed within the glazed unit at Alumen’s factory, so there’s no need to employ an additional electrician, you can just plug and play as part of your offering. Like all products from Alumen, the integral blinds within aluminium bi-folds are fully guaranteed. Alan Robinson, director of specialist aluminium door and window fabricator, Alumen comments: “We are pleased to introduce the Sunbell to our customers as there are numerous benefits that they can sell on. For example, no messy cords or

knobs, and no need to dust. They also provide enhanced sound absorption and solar control, for minimal heat loss to your customer’s conservatory. But best of all, from an installation point of view, integral blinds are a great way to offer added value without having to learn any new skills, as all the hard work is done at the factory stage.”

If you are looking to offer added value products to your conservatory offering Alumen is keen to partner with proactive installation companies across the UK, so if you are interested in growing your sales with the support of the Alumen aluminium door and window brand, call us on: 01536 312939 or visit: www.alumen.co.uk.

We contact the companies of interest on your behalf.

Finding a new supplier couldn’t be easier!

Image shows the Venetian Blinds fitted to Alumen’s Slide 2000 sliding door, manufactured from SMART aluminium profile, which boasts a slim 35mm meeting style.

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PRODUCT NEWS PIONEER’S ‘NEW WAVE’ SLIDE & SWING FOLDING DOOR SYSTEM OFFERS A GREAT ALTERNATIVE TO BIFOLDS Pioneer Trading has again showed its commitment to introducing products that break the ‘me too’ mould with the launch of its new Slide & Swing folding door system. A direct alternative to the bifolding door, sales of which are sweeping the UK presently, the Pioneer Slide & Swing door, which is manufactured using the New Wave system, uses a series of individual door sashes that sit in special top and bottom rails. When closed the Pioneer Slide & Swing system has the appearance of a conventional bi-folding door. However, using clever Magnaline hardware that is concealed within the door and frame, the sashes can each individually slid and then swung open and and ‘stacked’ against each other to offer a full, unrestricted opening, or opened to suit the homeowners preference. When closed the Pioneer Slide & Swing Door system provides full security, weather protection and insulation using an aluminium interlock.

the time as for bi folds. The frames are mechanically jointed, thus reducing the possibility of damage. “The New Wave system is one of the cleverest ideas I have seen for a long time,” said Pioneer managing director Danny Williams. “Homeowners love it because it does everything that a bifold does, but is cleverer and more impressive to operate; it is also great to manufacture and for installers, so easy to handle, transport and install, none of which can be said for bifolds, as much as we love them.”

Gareth Mobley, managing director of Solidor Group comments: ‘The addition of French Grey was in response to demand from customers for new and more luxurious finishes. As a business we never stand still, as our new Recommended Installer Scheme also shows and this is something our customers really appreciate.’

ORANGERY SOLUTIONS

GUARANTEES WITHOUT DISCLAIMERS

“Companies are required by law to determine the level of product quality or in many cases to highlight weaknesses where appropriate. The use of fine print has become a common format to specify liability regarding product use particularly in the construction industry.

As the company takes complete responsibility for the side wall stability and roofing, installers can feel totally reassured with certification and product guarantees provided and absolutely no disclaimers used.

A warning message is often neutralized by more eye-catching positive images and pleasant catchphrases which detract from the seriousness of any warnings or exemption clauses that may be included. Generally these statements are intended to limit a company’s liability in the event of loss or damage leaving the installer or builder potentially vulnerable. While the terms maybe interchangeable, the responsibility, should an installation shift or crack after completion, lies firmly in the hands of the installer. At Orangery Solutions the team takes a more responsible approach to orangery installation, with professional structural calculations and quality guarantees provided for the entire structure and not just the flat roof. Installers gain total reassurance for any sized project undertaken, with the patented cassette system eliminating

The Orangery Solutions original, patented cassette system is manufactured with galvanised steel legs integrated at the core, providing a fortified final structure from below floor level upwards. Additionally working alongside architects and builders, the company provides a bespoke structural engineering service which results in professional calculations for each orangery project to ensure the completed installation is safe.

“At Orangery Solutions the team takes a more responsible approach to orangery installation, with professional structural calculations and quality guarantees.”

The vast majority of composite doors in the UK are manufactured from GRP door slabs imported from the Far East. These are not usually laminated, but stained and embossed in a limited range of colours, though rarely with the choice of different internal and external colours.

French Grey is the latest finish to be added by Solidor which was launched in December and with the new Mocha and Duck Egg Blue, this makes it 3 new colours during 2012. This new shade of grey is mixed with a little blue and red to create a softer and warmer classic finish, so it’s suitable for both traditional and more contemporary installations.

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concerns over common, longer term problems that can occur including wall cracks and subsidence.

Solidor continue to expand their colour range for composite doors with the introduction of French Grey, an incredible 16th internal and external option to their unprecedented collection.

The laminated composite doors from Solidor are manufactured with a window grade foil that’s designed to perfectly match the door frames in to which they sit. The 16 colours inside and out on the door slabs are complimented with the option of two outer frames, each boasting 9 colours and woodgrains inside and out.

Whilst offering the aesthetic and performance characteristics that have made Bifolding doors so popular the Pioneer Slide & Swing offers a number of advantages. They are considerably easier to transport and handle as they are individual panels and fitting time is considerably simpler, taking less than half

Paul Nellis, Managing Director at Orangery Solutions discusses the logic of product guarantees.

A TOUCH OF FRENCH GREY

For further information on the Recommended Installer scheme or for a free copy of their latest 44 page brochure log on to www.solidor.co.uk, call 01782 847300 or e-mail enquiries@solidor.co.uk. To keep up to date with all of their developments follow them on Twitter @solidorltd or look them up on Facebook.

There is a duty of care to act responsibly when evaluating any orangery project. It is vital to know that the end user will not suffer damage or loss as a result of installing one of our systems. We feel that certification and guarantees should be a pre-requisite otherwise we will be failing our customers and the end user. We simply do not put our customers in a position of liability, providing them with rock solid guarantees and complete confidence in our products.” The Orangery Solutions system is manufactured in-house to exacting industry standards and offers total reassurance, with no other product on the market offering the same resistance when a lateral force is applied. For more information on the Orangery Systems patented cassette system and the harmonized suite of products from the range please visit the website: www.orangery-solutions.com.

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May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

www.glassnews.co.uk

RECRUITMENT

Recruitment Helping you find & place positions.

Half of UK SMEs neglect staff development, breatheHR workplace study reveals

New research* released today from breatheHR (run by OnePoll) reveals that small to medium sized business owners in the UK are neglecting to provide staff with adequate training and development support, with almost half (47.6%) of those surveyed feeling that their boss doesn’t take their personal development seriously, and a quarter (27.90%) admitting to having never discussed training or personal development at all.

While the recession may have forced some SME owners to focus their priorities elsewhere, with the economy slowly improving employers need to place a renewed focus on providing structured personal development to avoid staff losing motivation and becoming unengaged, a scenario which directly impacts productivity, morale and ultimately the success of the business. The Personal Development in the Workplace study, also reveals that the majority of respondents (66%) haven’t been provided with any kind of personal development plan, so are essentially working day-to-day without any long term focus.

However, the research highlighted that process doesn’t necessarily equate to happiness, as despite staff in companies of between 51-250 being 16 per cent more likely to have a development plan, staff actually feel more engaged and discuss their personal development more frequently in small companies of 1-10 staff.

The regional picture also reveals some interesting trends. Notably, that respondents in Scotland feel the most engaged at work, with 62 per cent believing their employer takes their personal development seriously, which is 18 per cent higher than in East Anglia where less than half (44.62 %) felt their personal development was a serious focus for their boss. In addition, despite being the UK’s largest centre for employment and industry, London and the South East is actually one of the worst regions in terms staff development, lagging behind the majority of the UK (see report for breakdown). Reacting to the findings, Jonathan Richards, CEO & founder of breatheHR, said: “The results clearly show a fantastic opportunity for small to media sized businesses to gain competitive advantage by spending time developing employees. “The good news is that it nee’t cost a fortune and with relatively little effort they will increase productivity and reduce costs.” Tel: 01273 245460 * The research was commissioned by breatheHR and run by One Poll in March 2013, with respondents coming from small businesses (1-250 employees) across the UK

In a move to ease the introduction and management of compulsory workplace pensions, LEBC Group, the national IFA and employee benefits consultancy, has launched æComply, an online auto-enrolment tool that allows employers to manage an unlimited number of payroll and pension providers. Developed around Aviva’s Auto-enrolment Manager for Employers (AME) platform, æComply has been further augmented with LEBC’s advisory offering, including enhanced scenario modelling, internal systems assessments and pension audits. Companies with 500 employees or more are required to enrol eligible staff in a pension scheme by 1 November 2013, with smaller firms due to follow in quick succession. The failure to meet the relevant staging date deadline, followed by the implementation of a compliance framework, could see businesses face fines of up to £10,000 per day. Glynn Jones, Divisional Director of Group Savings & Investments with LEBC Group, said: “Employers recognise the need to minimise risk and cost relating to auto-enrolment compliance. However, many continue to grapple with reviews of existing arrangements, preparation for the staging date, as well as making and tracking contributions through the payroll. Supported by a dedicated in-house helpdesk team, this cloud-based solution to auto-enrolment removes the guesswork

“The rapidly changing nature and frequency of such payrolls, has added further pressures to data accuracy and the role of pre-payroll dummy runs.” faced by employers, by streamlining and formalising the process, for any number of payroll and pension providers.” According to Glynn Jones, auto-enrolment has posed particular operational challenges to payroll departments in companies with a higher number of transient or weekly-paid workers. “The rapidly changing nature and frequency of such payrolls, has added further pressures to data accuracy and the role of pre-payroll dummy runs. But employers have a legal and moral responsibility to safeguard the accurate processing of their payroll. So while payroll teams are acutely aware of this obligation, we are already seeing errors being made. “With the added complexity of autoenrolment, employers must ensure the processes and systems introduced as part of auto-enrolment have the long-term resilience to accommodate both day-to-day change in the workforce and significant strategic events, such as a switch in payroll or pension provider,” concluded Glynn Jones. Follow us on Twitter: @LEBCGroup

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Auto-enrolment tool eases operational complexities for employers

May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

www.glassnews.co.uk

RECRUITMENT

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May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

www.glassnews.co.uk

RECRUITMENT

Chase Taylor Recruitment You could be excused for associating the phrase “Team Building” with thoughts of highly paid executives running round in fields firing paint ball pellets at one another, or jumping out of imaginary hot air balloons as a part of developing trust. In the case of UAP and Chase Taylor Recruitment however “Team Building” meant exactly what it said. As with most recruitment companies Chase Taylor’s brief from a client is to find a suitable person to fill a specific role. When the call came to recruit a complete sales team the challenge became entirely different. Mat Gibson Managing Director of Chase Taylor continues “When Dave Jennings from UAP called me and asked if we could help him to build a complete sales team I knew that there would be challenges to face; not only would we have to recruit competent people to fill each of the four roles he outlined, but we would need to ensure that those four were not recruited in isolation, but very much as a part of a team. It was important in looking at candidates that we not only took into account their skills to ensure that they would be complimentary to one another, but equally that their personalities would be complimentary to one another in a team dynamic”. Being asked to fill a single role or even two roles for a company is not uncommon, but to be asked to build a complete team is very unusual. As recruitment company dedicated

“But if you want a company that thinks outside of the box, and does exactly what they say they will, then give Chase Taylor a call. Chase Taylor is a recruitment agency that instinctively knows what you want and is able to provide it for you.” solely to the window and door industry Chase Taylor was the natural choice for UAP to take on this task. Their extensive knowledge of the industry coupled to their renowned portfolio of high quality candidates put them in a unique position to help UAP build its team, and to play a major role in helping the company to shape its future. Dave Jennings Managing Director of UPA takes up the story “There are many recruitments agencies we have used who have talked the talk, and when it comes down to it all they want to do is foist on you their stock candidates with little regard as to whether there is a match, or whether it achieves both parties’ goals”. “Chase Taylor makes a refreshing change and has re-established my faith in the recruitment industry. They listened to what we thought we wanted, and then with joint discussions we developed a total strategy to what we wanted to achieve and why.” “They then presented candidates pre-screened against the strategy we had developed. The end result is that we have now taken on a National Sales Team, overhauled the internal team and have in place a strategy that will be our bedrock for the next 5 years. The team is

formidable. So if you want just a recruitment agency then there are loads of companies who will queue up to take your money”. “But if you want a company that thinks outside of the box, and does exactly what they say they will, then give Chase Taylor a call. Chase Taylor is a recruitment agency that instinctively knows what you want and is able to provide it for you.” First to be recruited was National Sales Manager Dee Chamberlain and her immediate involvement was to work with Chase Taylor to select the rest of the team. “Being national sales manager for the team I had a particular interest in not only the skills of the individual team members, but how they would work as a group. Chase Taylor carefully and skilfully put a series of candidates in front of me who were clearly committed to the sector, had shown long term commitment to previous companies, and who had a distinct background in hardware. These were the characteristics I wanted in the people we were going to bring in to form a team which would take UAP to the next level, and to help us achieve long term sustainable growth we were planning for. Chase Taylor’s professionalism, focus and most importantly openness and honesty from the start made dealing with them very easy, and it was this approach which enabled us to work together to get the team we have”

“Chase Taylor makes a refreshing change and has re-established my faith in the recruitment industry. They listened to what we thought we wanted, and then with joint discussions we developed a total strategy to what we wanted to achieve and why.” your time, money, and faith in. Recruitment has a cost attached to it, but not as much as the cost of employing somebody. Ensuring that you get the right person to fit into your company and who will deliver against your expectations from the outset is vital; using a dedicated industry resource should be the first step in helping you to achieve this. www.chasetaylor.co.uk

It is a significant commitment to ask a recruitment company to source a whole team, and underlines the importance in today’s market of choosing the right partner to invest 0513-0154

May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

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RECRUITMENT

Fusion people lend New MAX6MUM SECURITY a hand to young construction talent to sales team at UAP prevent skills shortage

Six new additions for UAP give customers dedicated support, reinforcing the MAX6MUM SECURITY brand as it rolls out into trade and retail.

Dee Chamberlain, Barry Halpin, Pat McGinn, Tony Hill, Andy Grosvenor and Paul Roberts have joined MAX6MUM SECURITY, the affordable highsecurity hardware brand for homeowners, to form the specialist teams leading both trade supply and retail counter sales. The trade team will provide strong support to fabricators and installers for the innovative MAX6MUM SECURITY product range including the three star kinetica super cylinder and two star security handle uniquely designed to stop advanced lock attacks.

Dee Chamberlain, new National Sales Manager says: “We’re here to help our customers sell more. This is an exciting time to join UAP as the MAX6MUM SECURITY brand continues to grow. It’s great to be part of an innovative brand like MAX6MUM SECURITY. The UK and Ireland are now covered with an experienced team that has a mix of skills developed while working in fabrication, technical and sales, so we can deliver products quickly and with expert support.”

Paul Roberts has joined Ben Jennings, retail manager to take the MAX6MUM SECURITY range to retail counters across the UK and Ireland, including the shelves of ASDA, which has nearly 600 branches, creating strong

brand recognition with householders.

Paul Roberts says: “The major investment in branding awareness at Leeds United and the radio campaign has already had an effect on the number of homeowners who know about MAX6MUM SECURITY. We’re here to make sure the awareness keeps on growing. The concept is totally different for retail products. Eye catching blister packs using the MAX6MUM SECURITY branding ensure the cylinders and door hardware sell themselves. Customers can already see products on the shelves at ASDA giving real credibility to the brand.” Tel: 0161 796 7268 www.uapcorporate.com

The new team has over 100 years of experience and expertise in the industry to help customers increase sales. This support backs up major investment in MAX6MUM SECURITY branding and product development as well as a range of marketing materials.

Fusion People are working to address the increasing shortage in young, skilled construction workers for large public projects. Construction took a worldwide hit during the financial crisis and for many countries it has been one of the slowest sectors to recover. The UK construction sector showed a resurgence in the final quarter of 2012, but declined by 2.5% by the end of Q1 2013. However, this could be attributed to a long and cold winter. On a more positive note, other research has suggested that the construction sector is 60% healthier than this time last year. Aside from the slow but notable improvements in the financial landscape, many new infrastructure projects such as Cross Rail are increasing the demand for skilled workers, further fuelling the sectors’ development. Global specialist recruiters, Fusion People, have shrewdly observed that with this surge in demand for candidates comes the inevitable ‘bottleneck effect’ and a shortfall in candidates is set to follow. Fusion People’s national network is enabling them to source positions for skilled construction workers throughout the UK, but one area which particularly seems to be lacking is young construction professionals with 2-5 years’ experience. Steve Harper, Managing Director of Fusion People, offered his insights into this recruitment predicament.

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REHAU STRENGTHENS PRODUCT

MANAGEMENT TEAM

REHAU has strengthened its product management team with the appointment of Harriet Johnson as a Marketing Assistant. Harriet will work alongside the team of Product Managers at REHAU providing valuable support in analysing market trends and assisting in the development of new and enhanced profiles.

“Despite the gloomy press around construction, there are pockets of the industry that are not only actively recruiting, but gearing themselves up to deal with demand in the medium and long term.” businesses that are discovering the paucity of young construction talent with the experience they are looking for.” Fusion People’s data showed that whilst there was no shortage of applications for these types of roles, shortlists for interviews were sometimes 25% smaller than for an equivalent role with more seniority – a comparison made even more stark when considering there are usually fewer senior people seeking new employment. The reduced numbers of young but experienced engineers could be attributed to a number of factors. Some have highlighted the falling popularity of apprenticeship schemes since the 1980’s, or more acutely the lack of funding for graduate training schemes in recent times. However, a more realistic perception may simply be that young construction graduates simply haven’t had the extended employment opportunities available to them since the financial recession of 2008. More importantly, the question of how the industry as a whole will address this problem remains at the forefront of concern.

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A Cardiff University graduate, 22 year old Harriet is actively involved with REHAU’s successful social media activity, keeping customers informed about the very latest developments via a range of digital platforms.

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Harriet has already been involved in the launch of the REHAU TOTAL70 profiles and is also now working with the engineers, planning departments and communications team at REHAU’s Ross on Wye HQ to support the extended roll out of the new products to customers. 0513-0156

May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

www.glassnews.co.uk

May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

www.glassnews.co.uk

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May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

www.glassnews.co.uk

MONTHLY HOROSCOPES

Russell Grant’s Horoscopes ARIES

LEO

SAGITTARIUS

Be careful of overspending in early May; if you’ve not got enough ready cash then this would be a good time to negotiate a pay rise or find a better paid job. Pouring your energy into a project that is near and dear to your heart will have an unexpected payback for you. It’s not something you expected or even looked for, but it will certainly help your future prospect and may very well have unanticipated consequences for your challenging financial position. As the month matures so you will learn to see the openings and opportunities that seem to be invisible for so many people around you. So that’s the time to launch a personal crusade, put your innermost feelings into words or take an unusual and unorthodox approach to someone who has been a thorn in your flesh for far too long. The end of May brings a slight setback but because you’re thinking positively you will see this as just another great opportunity!

Your star will be on the rise throughout early May. Your powerful sex appeal will open doors that were previously closed to you. What your rivals may not realise is there is more to you than physical allure. You possess tremendous creative talent, and will use it to develop luxury products and services that are incredibly successful. Even if you’re just working on a volunteer basis, you will create a respected name for yourself during this red-hot phase. Take care to always look your best this month, especially in the days surrounding the 10th, when you will be interviewed for a television show or magazine article. A romantic relationship experiences some bumps and bruises in the second half of the year. You will decide to make up or break up for good in the last days of May. Whatever choice you make, you’ll place greater emphasis on your friendships, understanding just how important platonic relationships are to your emotional health.

Work will be scarce at the beginning of May. Instead of worrying about the situation, abandon yourself to fun. Take this opportunity to meet with friends, spend more time with family, and develop creative projects. A plum assignment will arrive on or around the 10th; making you glad you took a break when you could. Your new job will involve art, music, or luxury goods. Don’t worry if you don’t have any experience in this field. Your energy and enthusiasm will make up for your lack of knowledge. Resist the urge to change your look toward the end of the month. This is not a good time to for a radical overhaul of image or style. Focus instead on developing a healthier self image. Embrace your most attractive qualities instead of despairing over your minor flaws. There’s no cosmetic in the world like confidence. Model your behaviour after an unconventional sex symbol you’ve always admired.

VIRGO

CAPRICORN

Apr 21st – May 21st

Take a gentler approach with loved ones in the opening days of May. Being too abrasive can cause a fragile alliance to fall apart at the seams. You have a chance to travel, write, and explore new vistas. Don’t screw things up by pushing your greatest supporter past the brink of endurance. Showing off your artistic talent on or around the 8th will yield impressive results. There’s a good chance you will earn money from your creative endeavours. Repaying a debt will be difficult in the days surrounding the 25th. Take this opportunity to assess what you owe, and devise a plan for repaying your creditors. The sooner you face the truth of this situation, be easier you will sleep. As the month comes to a close, you’ll be tempted to take a short trip out of town. Do it; a nearby relative will be happy to see you and catch up on old times.

Don’t worry if you’re turned away from an educational or cultural organisation in the beginning of May. An influential friend will reverse the decision, helping you draw on its considerable resources. There’s no reason you should be held back by a set of stuffy, outdated rules. Besides, you’re just as talented as the other members of group; you just lack the pedigree. That will come with time and experience. By the middle of May, you’ll be one of the most respected members of the group. You might even be offered a leadership position. The closing days of May will prompt you to rearrange your household. It’s even possible you will decide to move to a new home. A neighbour or relative will help you find a more suitable living situation. You’re better off moving to a bustling city that affords plenty of cultural diversions. That way, you won’t feel cut off from the things that make life meaningful.

You’ll have to choose between a lover and a friend in the earliest days of May. Don’t be so quick to cancel plans with an old chum for the sake of a hot date. Your friend has stood by you in good times and bad; it’s time to return their loyalty. A love affair or engagement will spice things up around the 10th; it will be impossible to keep your hands off your amour during this passionate time. By the middle of the month your daily life will undergo a radical change. You might be inspired to write a book or compose a song. Let your creativity run wild! An embarrassing secret could come to light in the days surrounding the 25th. Be careful about whom you trust with personal information. Keep your journals under lock and key, and strengthen your computer passwords. You don’t want any sensitive emails fall into the wrong hands.

GEMINI

LIBRA

You won’t get much cooperation from a bureaucratic institution in the opening days of May. Keep submitting paperwork and keep copies of everything you send. Eventually, the pencil pushers will realise you’re serious and give way to your demands. Treat this matter as an exercise in persistence. Trust your intuition around the 10th regarding a flirtation. The object of your affection returns your feelings, but is too shy to admit them. You’ll have to make the first move. Tiptoe around an authority figure at mid-month; this executive isn’t in the mood to entertain any of your bright ideas. A business or romantic partnership will undergo a critical change in the final days of May. You won’t be able to delude yourself about your partner’s shortcomings any longer. Facing the truth will be painful but therapeutic. Fortunately, a trusted friend will help heal your broken heart. There are plenty more fish in the sea.

Early May is sure to be a very fulfilling time, especially in the area of sex. If you’re single, you’ll meet a masterful lover at a gourmet restaurant, public garden, or fashionable store. Keep your ears open for someone with a throaty laugh. The two of you will feel an instant connection. If you’re already in a relationship, you and your lover will be spending lots more quality time together. Reduce your work schedule in favour of intimate dinners, long walks, and movie nights. A handsome inheritance, legal settlement, or insurance payment will help you buy some beautiful artwork, clothing, and furniture. Forgo fleeting fashions for elegant works that will afford a lifetime of pleasure. Distressing news about a relative’s health will arrive at the end of the month. Take this opportunity to band together with your kin, so that the patient gets optimal care. Recovery will be swift if you work together in a spirit of harmony.

CANCER

SCORPIO

More time for social pursuits makes early May one of the happiest times of 2013. Be sure to go out with friends as often as possible. You may even be inspired to throw a birthday party for your favourite Taurus. A close friendship takes a romantic turn on or around the 10th. It’s as if the two of you are looking at each other with new eyes. A writing project brings you great pleasure in midMay. This is the perfect time to write a short story, memoir, or screenplay. Words will flow from you like a mighty river. Breaking a bad habit will be difficult but rewarding in the final days of May. Steer clear of a well intentioned friend who doesn’t want you to change your ways. When you fall prey to temptation, write about it in your journal. This will help you exorcise any demons that threaten to drag you down.

Adopt a more open minded attitude toward a business or romantic partner’s plans in early May. You’re worried about making changes at this stage, but the real danger is standing still while everybody else is moving forward. Go ahead and give your friend the green light; this will make your bond stronger than ever before. A surprising love affair, engagement, or marriage will be revealed on or around the 10th. This exciting turn of events renews your faith in true love. You might even be inspired to make a serious commitment of your own. A source of income dries up quite suddenly at the end of the month. There won’t be much money available for leisurely pursuits. Fortunately, you’ve always been very resourceful. Finding inexpensive ways to amuse yourself will be relatively easy for you. In the meantime, tell your friends you are looking for work. Who you know is more important than what you know as May draws to a close.

Mar 21st – Apr 20th

TAURUS

Aug 24th – Sep 23rd

May 22nd – Jun 21st

Jun 22nd – Jul 23rd

Jul 24th – Aug 23rd

May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Dec 22nd – Jan 20th

AQUARIUS

Jan 21st – Feb 19th

Sep 24th – Oct 23rd

Oct 24th – Nov 22nd

Nov 23rd – Dec 21st

May gets off to an exciting start, when a vivid dream inspires a creative project. You’ll get lots of favourable publicity for your work. You have a knack for finding practical applications for revolutionary ideas. An exciting family reunion will take place on or around the 10th. A birth, marriage, or graduation causes everyone to gather together in a spirit of harmony. Take this opportunity to extend an olive branch to a relative with whom you’ve been quarrelling. This is your big chance to put all of your quarrels to rest. Mid-May will be a tremendously romantic time for you. If you’re single, you will meet someone special at a book club, writing class, or debate society. If you are already in a relationship, take up a hobby with your amour. Having a shared interest will reignite your passion for each other. Your social circle experiences some upheaval toward the end of May, when one of your friends moves away.

PISCES

Feb 20th – Mar 20th

Don’t contradict an expert at the beginning of May. Although their methods seem antiquated and silly, there is actually merit to these ways. Put your scepticism on hold and you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Going on a short trip for pleasure will be unexpectedly romantic around the 10th. If you’re single, you’ll meet someone special at a garden, gourmet restaurant, or art supply store. If you’re already in a relationship, your amour will surprise you with a beautiful piece of jewellery. Spend more time at home throughout the middle of May. Focusing on your family will ease some of your restless energy. The final days of the month will be stressful. It will feel as if everyone is blaming you for things beyond your control. Be ready to defend yourself. The more documentation you have of how you’ve dealt with this problem, the better off you’ll be. If you’re released from a position, take heart. This will give you more time for the creative projects you’ve been longing to launch.

www.glassnews.co.uk

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May 2013 – The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

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TIME OUT!

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Eye Spy WIN £20 CASH PRIZE!! PRIZE!

Prize Sudoku

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WIN £10 CASH PRIZE!! 7

Spot which page the image below appears on and be in with a chance of being a winner!

6 4

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1 7

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1 Noir owl oddly helps to meet Part L (3,4)

5 Factual evidence of alcoholic strength (5)

2 Know rewording re-orders miracle creation (67)

8 Censoring nowt turned out to create warship pilot houses (7,6)

Strands of hair for door security (5)

3 Linus your changes end desperately badly (9)

9 She makes a name for litigation (3)

4 The right time to be with the one you love? (5)

10 Europe ant reformed made Activ or similar (5,4)

5 Not an amateur but in favour (3)

12 Naked as an uncooked vegetable (3)

6 A bean curd oven turns out to be more than enough (4,9)

13 Workers branch, aft SF reorganised (5) 14 Consume like a drug taker (3) 15 Interplay oddly for shared phone system (& whip) (5,4)

7 Piscean organ makes wide angle lens (4.,3)

17 Using a shovel sounds like a nickname (3)

16 Flattens using the second word in 1 across (5)

19 Infighter icon turns out to be open & shut case for torque (8,5)

18 Estimate without certainty (5) 20 Small child makes spirited measure (3)

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Name:

11 Florist he reorganised to make gun fire (5-4) 12 Fops fir strangely make thefts (3-4)

Name: Tel: Address: Postcode: Email:

Just for fun! Below are 7 Trade Anagrams – can you solve them? Answers below.

Tel:

1) O Q U P A E Address:

21 View sounds like a building operation location (5)

2) Z G E D L A 3) E P A N

22 Test sir strangely baby watchers (7)

4) R T E F I L Name: Tel: Postcode:

Address: Postcode:

Email:

6) E E C R S N 7) R A F G E L I Answers: 1) OPAQUE, 2) GLAZED, 3) PANE, 4) FILTER, 5) FROSTED, 6) SCREEN, 7) FRAGILE.

Email:

5) F O D T R S E

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Recruitment in newspapers is still one of the most trusted & effective methods of advertising... If you are looking to recruit, contact us today for prices!

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THE BASMAN

The Thoughts of the Basman

Was April everything we Expected it to be? I was amongst the majority of industry people who waited with baited breath for the coming of the Fit-Show.

Follow The Basman on Twitter:

@TheBasMan

I am reliably informed from some very good sources that it was well worth the wait. As with all new things in any industry there were a few sceptics who in the words of one “I am sure it won’t be as good as Glassex”. Well it was and in many ways surpassed Glassex at its best.

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There are many reasons for the unprecedented success. With the progression of the internet and the use of digital marketing, live feeds to the web and better methods of measuring footfall. These all contributed to the overall results. Coupled with the number of exhibitors who have pre-booked for next year, all bodes well for the future. It was good to see the show moved out of Birmingham and London to a good well run, easy to manage conference centre. With the attendance figures published in excess of 5,200; it is easier to get a real reflection of the success of the show. It is estimated that a show of this size and magnitude, that each visitor will average 15 enquiries from the exhibitors. The resulting figure is 78,000 enquiries generated by the show. It has been a long time since our industry has enjoyed numbers like this. It is imperative to understand that any exhibition is a marketing exercise to generate enquiries, based on the products being exhibited. The real work starts when we start to speak to and visit the leads. Access was better, there was good parking and adequate facilities at reasonable prices. It was encouraging that hotel rooms were kept at advertised prices and exhibitors were not punished by the prices being pushed up for the week. Whilst all of this was going on, I faced my own challenges during the month. On Thursday 11th April, I went into hospital (Doncaster Royal Infirmary) to have a

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replacement knee fitted. Once I had overcome the obvious doubts, I awoke in considerable pain with my new knee in place. The recovery is about six weeks in total and this Thursday 2nd May I am half way there. The district nurse is coming to remove my stitches, I say that loosely, they are metal clips and it resembles a zip more than stitches. Having now spent three weeks in a stir-crazy environment, I am finding solace in my gadgets, namely being the Lap-Top, iPad and iPhone, all are purpose made for situations like this! The doctors give all of their patients a big incentive to fulfil the exercise regime. He, the Doctor that is, has to sign you off so that you can drive again at the end of six weeks. The gadgets I refer to and as previously described, all web based devices, which have helped me to remain so closely in contact with the Fit-Show. If only all things in life were that simple! Finally, I am pleased to see the Bank of England reiterate that some small growth is still there and whilst a long way off the recovery may now be sustainable. At the start of the new financial year, our industry is still talking about the new and vibrant Fit-Show, positive sound bites from the financial sector. Was April everything we expected it to be?

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GM FUNDRAISING’S

CASINO ROYALE

A charity fun casino, sponsored by Solidor, was held at the FIT Show Gala Dinner on Wednesday 17th April and managed to raise an impressive £2,670, thanks to the overwhelming generosity of the guests. After an unprecedented evening of awards, food and humour from Ed Byrne, guests were given the opportunity to purchase chips and carry out a little Casino Royale style gambling. By the end of the night, the casino had raised £2,670 directly for GM Fundraising, which will help the charity get ever closer to the magical £1million barrier, thanks to Solidor who sponsored the casino.

to thank all those happy gamblers, along with Gareth Mobley from Solidor who sponsored the casino.’ For further information, log on to www. gmfundraising.co.uk, follow them on Twitter @GMFundraising or become a friend on Facebook. You can also sponsor the Hope 66 Team at www.justgiving.co.uk/hope66.

Gary Morton and Mike Derham from GM Fundraising with the croupiers.

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WINNING WINDOWS BRING CASH SURPRISE FOR SALLY & RICHARD Sally and Richard Dunne got an extra warm feeling from their new energy-saving windows when the manufacturer of the high efficiency glass installed in the frames handed them a cheque for nearly £10,000. The couple had chosen windows using the highly energy-efficient Planitherm glass from Huddersfield-based Gardinia Windows for their home, highlighting the energy and cost savings of Planitherm as the reason behind their decision. They soon discovered they had saved even more though when they were given back the entire cost of the installation – £9,976 – in a draw run by Planitherm manufacturer Saint-Gobain Glass. Sally said: “We were delighted with our new windows but we’re obviously even happier now, especially as I didn’t even know Richard had put us in for the draw. Our existing ones were about 15 years old and well past their best so when Gardinia explained how much more we could save on our heating bills, it was an easy decision.” Allan Hinchliffe, General Manager of Gardinia added: “The Dunnes made the right

choice for saving on their energy bills so it’s great to see they are saving even more by getting their windows free of charge. Christina Birkenshaw, Managing Director of Dewsbury-based Oakland Glass which supplied the insulated glass units used in the windows, added: “More and more people are choosing green options for their homes and energy-efficient glass is an easy and effective way of cutting fuel bills. Saint-Gobain’s quarterly draw is a great way to get the message across to even more homeowners.”

Sally and Richard Dunne (left in picture) were handed a cheque for the refund of the cost of their windows – almost £10,000 - by Russ Cusworth of SaintGobain Glass and Gardinia’s Mark Wheelwright, the latest winners in the quarterly Planitherm draw.

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All those with tired feet after touring the FIT show should spare a thought for Richard Barlow, Gary Beech and Darren Larkin from REHAU fabricator UK Window Systems who carried a REHAU window around the show for the full three days. The three were raising awareness of their fundraising challenge in October when they will attempt to carry the window all the way to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro in aid of the FSID charity (Foundation for the Study of Infant Death).

GM Fundraising has already got their annual golf day in place for June, their Hope 66 cycling epic for September which is supported by Mighton Products and a Christmas Ball for December in their packed charity calendar. Most notable will be their Hope 66 cycling epic down the remnants of the iconic Route 66, in just 14 days from Chicago to Santa Monica and will be one of the biggest challenges yet faced by the charity. Gary Morton, chairman of GM Fundraising comments: ‘Not only was it an impressive evening on the back of a great, great show, but yet again the people in our industry showed their commitment to GM Fundraising. I’d like

UK WINDOW SYSTEMS GET IN TRAINING FOR MOUNT KILIMANJARO AT FIT SHOW raised by the raffle, they received new sponsorship for the challenge from exhibitors Mila and J Tools, who both pledged support in exchange for having their logos fixed to the glass in the window.

us the chance to explain our challenge to visitors and exhibitors as we walked around. We’ve set ourselves a target to raise £30,000 and so far we are on track to achieve that which is fantastic.”

Richard Barlow said: “The window was a great talking point at the show and gave

UK Window Systems last month hosted a charity ball at Port Vale FC, where it is one of the main sponsors, and raised £15,000 towards the total. Next month, Richard also plans to walk the Potters Half Marathon carrying the window, although whether the 13 mile course matches the number of miles he walked around the FIT show is still up for debate!

With a pop up banner on display in the REHAU sponsored café and bar areas and a raffle taking place during the show, the three walked almost continuously around all four halls to win the backing of the industry. Their efforts paid off because, as well as the £300

“We’ve set ourselves a target to raise £30,000.” Sponsorship for the challenge can be pledged via the Just Giving page at www.justgiving.com/Richard-Barlow2

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CLIMATEC & REHAU MARK 20 YEAR PARTNERSHIP AT FIT SHOW Essex based fabricators Climatec Windows Ltd had a very special reason to visit the FIT show in Telford – the company was celebrating its 20th birthday and the continuation of its 20 year partnership with REHAU. Directors Phil Bates and Steve Barker were welcomed on to the REHAU stand by REHAU Chief Executive Martin Hitchin and Regional Sales Manager Glyn Rogers and were presented with a certificate and an engraved trophy to mark the occasion. Steve Barker said: “To be presented with this award as recognition of our longstanding association with REHAU means a great deal to us. We have always worked well with REHAU and pride ourselves on the relationship that we have built over the years. We are sure this path will continue into the future and there are exciting times ahead for Climatec as we move into our 21st year of business.”

around inviting customers into the REHAU family and Climatec are of course one of the oldest members of that family. It was a great pleasure to be able to thank them for their loyalty over the last 20 years and at the same time to show the team some of the exciting innovations which REHAU was launching at the show.” Climatec’s Phil Bates added: “We wanted to be involved in this new industry show and to see how it compared with previous exhibitions designed for our type of business. We found the whole event interesting and rewarding. It was great to receive our trophy from REHAU and also of course to catch up with old faces and meet some new people.”

Martin Hitchin echoed these sentiments: “The FIT show proved the perfect setting for Climatec’s presentation. Our stand was very much focused 0513-0165

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GLASS PEOPLE

Everglade Windows meets Michael Gove Education Secretary Michael Gove and Skills Minister Matthew Hancock met Yogesh Gopal and Reena Gjoci from Everglade Windows at Uxbridge College to discuss the benefits of vocational training and the new Technical Baccalaureate measure. Laraine Smith OBE, Principal of Uxbridge College, said: “Uxbridge College is delighted its commitment to providing high quality vocational education was recognised with this visit from two of the most senior national figures in education and skills policy. Any measure which helps spread the word that vocational and technical qualifications are uniquely valuable to business and young people alike is extremely welcome. “The meeting with our guest employers, who represented the wide range of businesses we work with from small enterprises to major corporations, gave ministers an insight into the importance of vocational education to business. The employers talked about how working with Uxbridge College not only helps them get access to young people with skills, but also helps them shape those skills in the way that works for them.” Yogesh Gopal, Operations Director at Everglade Windows added: “It was a real honour to be a guest employer. Over the years, we have continued to invest in training and the development 0513-0166

of staff many of whom didn’t have any formal training or qualifications before joining Everglade. We empower our staff to perform better in their roles and as a result, they take immense pride in the work they do. We are extremely proud of our Apprentice, William Carrigan who was shortlisted in the G12 Apprentice of the Year category. “Last year 13 Everglade Windows’ fabrication team members successfully completed QCF Apprenticeship within a range of specialist courses for the glass and glazing industry through Uxbridge College.” Tel: 020 8998 8775 www.evergladetrade.co.uk

“Over the years, we have continued to invest in training and the development of staff many of whom didn’t have any formal training or qualifications before joining Everglade.”

The VEKA UK Group’s in the frame for Comic Relief When The VEKA UK Group put out a request for installation photographs to add to their image database, the team provided a charitable incentive; installer customers were asked to send in any installation shots of which they were particularly proud, and for every image that the VEKA team selected to use in their marketing materials, £100 would be sent to Comic Relief. Colin Torley, Sales and Marketing Director of the VEKA UK Group explains: “We know that VEKA and Halo customers do some of the best installations in the business - they certainly use the best materials! But we hadn't received any new images for a while and we wanted to update our image library to reflect our current products. We thought that £100 for charity for every image we use was a good incentive. We had a fantastic response and received a large number of pictures within just a few days and the quality of the images has been very high.”

Ashbrook Windows, Ashford Commercial Ltd and Force 8. This means £500 has gone to Comic Relief already, which is the equivalent of: 1000 feeding tubes to help save the lives of critically-ill newborn babies in Tanzania, plus four therapy sessions for a child in the UK who has suffered neglect and abuse, a braille kit to enable a blind child in Kenya to have a proper education, vaccines for 12 children in Malawi to protect against deadly diseases such as tetanus and hepititis B and malaria tests for 20 children in Uganda! ...Not a bad shopping list, in return for a few photographs. Tel: 01282 716611 www.vekauk.com 0513-0168

Five favourites have already been chosen from the collection, thanks to image submissions from Sash Windows, Malvern Glass,

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USEFUL NUMBERS: British Plastics Federation (BPF) Tel: 0207 457 5000

BBSA (British Blind & Shutter Association) Tel: 01449 780444

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