Glass News March 2014

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Masonite acquires

Door-Stop International in

IN £30 miLlion deal

Martin Dickie takes the helm at Door-Stop Glass News meets with Martin Dickie and Nick Dutton just 24 hours after the acquisition. See the full interview on Page 14.

Masonite International Corporation is a leading global designer and manufacturer of interior and exterior doors for the residential new construction; the residential repair, renovation and remodelling; and the nonresidential building construction markets.

Since 1925, Masonite has, in its own words, provided its customers with innovative products and superior service at compelling values. Masonite currently serves more than 7,000 customers in 70 countries and from over 70 locations worldwide.

In a comment by Robin Baker, General Manager for Masonite UK, based at the UK division HQ at its 400,000 ft2 factory on the M1 in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, he says: “The UK composite door market is an exciting place to be.”

“Acquiring Door-Stop and its impressive online business model places Masonite into this market and positions us for further growth.

Not yet six years old, Door-Stop is a young company with noteworthy potential. It’s a significant addition to Masonite’s portfolio.”

Nick Dutton comments: “Masonite’s acquisition is an exciting new chapter.

Door-Stop customers will benefit from Masonite’s immense knowledge, resources and experience, particularly in product development and innovation. Masonite is a company that has doors at the heart of its

“The UK composite door market is an exciting place to be. Acquiring Door-Stop and its impressive online business model places Masonite into this market and positions us for further growth. Not yet six years old, Door-Stop is a young company with noteworthy potential. It’s a significant addition to Masonite’s portfolio.” culture, so I am delighted that Door-Stop is joining the Masonite family and becoming a part its future. This should be reassuring to customers and potential customers who want long term supply relationships with a progressive organisation.”

In a well orchestrated move which quite obviously has the blessing of both Masonite and Door-Stop, Martin Dickie has been named as Business Unit Director and took charge of the management of Door-Stop and its team of almost 200 employees at its Nottinghamshire facility, at the precise time that the acquisition announcement was made.

Martin Dickie is well placed to deliver on Door-Stop’s promises to both current and future customers. He has been involved in the composite door industry for almost 20 years and brings with him a wealth of experience and a longstanding working knowledge of Door-Stop.

Continued on page 4...

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Issue 36 | March 2014

COUNTDOWN TO FIT

PAGE 66

With just three months to go before we all descend on Telford for FIT 2014, Glass News’ Editor, Chris Champion, gets an update from the FIT Show’s Paul Godwin.

KENRICK & CARL F GROUPCO GO BESPOKE

A breath of fresh aїr

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March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

MARCH 2014

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Triple glazing? Energy efficiency & aesthetics, but what about life expectancy?

With the Triple Glazing Question event scheduled for 10 April at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry, and places being booked up by a trade that’s keen to explore the possibilities that this could be the next driver to stimulate the replacement window market, it’s interesting to see comments from system companies, on the one hand, and architects on another.

Deceuninck’s Roy Frost has written in with comments on triple glazing (see Letters to the Editor Page 83) Roy argues that, while we in the trade are focussed on energy efficiency, the buying public want a balance between that efficiency and something that looks nice. Aesthetics are important when it comes to shelling out your hard earned cash and windows that are attractive are a must if triple glazing is going to increase above its 10% of the market, currently, to that of Germany with a 50% share.

However, another angle needs to be considered and that’s the longevity of a product. If a homeowner spends £000s on new windows, what life expectancy can they presume their windows will have? 10 years, 20 years? A letter sent in to our sister publication, the online Fenestra Build, that has just been launched and targets the specifiers, builders and architects, raises an interesting point: Dear Sir, The life expectancy of glass compared with that of the seals in multiple glazed windows are incompatible. Glass has a life expectancy of at least 1000 years. If you achieve 20 years from sealed glazing you are very lucky. I have two windows (Velux) where the seals collapsed after 11 years and the other two now require replacing and, at a cost well in excess of that of the original windows even allowing for inflation.

20 years is far too short a time for the lifespan of a building component unless it is machinery. I hate to think what will occur when the large windows featured in such programmes as Grand Designs encounter the same situation. In the ‘60s, at the outset of my career and before the advent

CONSERVATORY ROOF OPTIONS! See page 26

of sealed units, double glazing, free from condensation, was achieved by using very slender stiles and rails manufactured in Denmark to provide an additional opening sash hung from the outside the principal sash. It was not expensive - our clients would have baulked had this been so. I should appreciate your comments.

4 Front Cover Story

Publisher & Owner: Christina Shaw The Flat (Office 2), 6 Sunderland Street, Tickhill DN11 9QJ M: 07805 051322 T: 01302 759096 E: christina@glassnews.co.uk

18 Installer Focus 19 Genesis Sliding Sash

So while we look at the next ‘big thing’ for our industry, is there a basic problem that should rectified?

It’s back to what is a reasonable lifespan.

Surely, 20 years is not unreasonable? After all, the other windows in my house are still going strong - albeit single glazed - after 77 years. It would be interesting to hear comments from others in our industry as to the lifespan of units, both double and triple glazed.

CONTACT DETAILS

4 Doors

Regards Anthony Collins, Architect

I certainly have some sympathy with Mr Collins. Having had an expensive oak orangery built some 7 years ago, I have one very large glass unit that has obviously failed and will, in certain conditions, fog. This is certainly nothing to do with the construction of the orangery but has everything to do with those who made the double glazed unit. I’m certainly not suggesting that there is anything wrong with any of the components that go to make up the unit: it’s probably a matter of how it has been made.

CONTENTS

20 Windows 26 Conservatory Roof Options 32 Glass

‘TIME OUT’ Winners

– FEBRUARY!

Crossword: Deby Crittall, Crowborough Eye Spy: Sharon Cottingham, Insulation Services, East Sussex Spot The Difference: Mrs Whitelaw, Ramage Windows, Killingworth Sudoku: K. Baxter, Credit Solution Group, Lancashire Congratulations to all our winners! Good Luck in this months Time Out pages!

32 Hardware 35 Software 36 In Profile 38 Triple Glazing Question 40 Machinery 46 Trade News 64 Finance 66 Glass News Interview 68 Glass News Interview 70 New Products 72 Aluminium 74 Fensterbau Preview 76 Recruitment 82 GQA Newsletter 83 Calendar Of Events 83 Letters 84 Time Out! 85 Glass People 86 Monthly Horoscopes 87 Find A Supplier

Last months crossword solution:

Advertising Enquiries: Christina Shaw M: 07805 051322 T: 01302 759096 E: christina@glassnews.co.uk Editor: Chris Champion T: 07850 267223 E: chris@glassnews.co.uk Features Editor: Sheilah Reed M: 07880 990144 E: sheilah@glassnews.co.uk Trade Counter Distribution Department: Roz Worgan E: roz@glassnews.co.uk Graphic Design: hook-a-duck Deadline for copy: 28th of each month glassnews™ is a registered Trademark.

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

The paper we use is 100% recycled.

@GlassnewsMag

Chris

Christina Shaw

Got Something To Say? Email Chris at: chris@glassnews.co.uk

/GlassNews

Please recycle this newspaper so we can continue to use recycling in our effort to help the environment.

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FRONT PAGE

DOORS

“We believe the acquisition of DoorStop positions Masonite as a leader in the manufacturing and distribution of residential doors and door sets for the UK market.”

Sheerframe’s bi-fold doors remain a strong seller thanks to quality control

...Continued from page 1 In an announcement on the NASDAQ website it states that Door-Stop’s 2013 revenue exceeded US $38 million. The purchase price for 100% of the outstanding shares was approximately US $50 million, net of cash acquired.

“We believe the acquisition of Door-Stop positions Masonite as a leader in the manufacturing and distribution of residential doors and door sets for the UK market,” said Chris Virostek, Masonite’s Senior Vice President, Corporate Development. “We are excited about the capabilities that this acquisition adds to Masonite.”

“Door-Stop’s products and service model are a natural complement to Masonite’s business,” said Gary Dutton, Chairman and founder of Door-Stop. “We are pleased to see this transaction completed and are excited about the opportunities it will bring our employees and customers.”

“Door-Stop’s products and service model are a natural complement to Masonite’s business,” said Gary Dutton, Chairman and founder of Door-Stop. “We are pleased to see this transaction completed and are excited about the opportunities it will bring our employees and customers.”

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0004

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Sheerframe, part of the Litchfield Group, launched its 8000 system bi-fold door four years ago and the company is delighted that sales have remained buoyant ever since.

Gary Doxey, Sheerframe’s Marketing Manager, said, “Feedback from the market tells us that our bi-fold offers industryleading performance and that’s certainly something that’s being reflected in our sales.”

The Sheerframe bi-fold is manufactured in the company’s Derbyshire factory, something that Gary says is vital to the door’s standing in the marketplace. “By manufacturing in-house we can maintain the highest qualities and ensure the highest standards are maintained.”

The quality of the bi-fold door is in evident in its mechanisms. The

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latest generation hardware and folding hinge combination provide smooth and easy operation, while the frame sections incorporate a specially designed frame interlock to optimise weather performance, which is further enhanced by its four seal design.

As standard it comes as outward opening and bottom hung although other options such as inward opening and top hung are possible. It is available in a smooth surface finish in white and a wide range of woodgrain foils and can also be finished in any standard RAL colour. With two panel to seven panel options, it opens up a world of opportunities for installers looking to add a valueadded product to their portfolio.

Homeowners will appreciate the environmental advantages of the door too – the profile is extruded from calcium organic lead-free

Sheerblend impact modified PVC complying with BS EN 12608 and U values as low as 0.8 W/m2K can be achieved, easily beating Building Regulations' standards.

The bi-fold door is an increasingly popular choice amongst homeowners thanks to its modern, stylish looks and it’s therefore an important product to have in your portfolio. But as with every product, it’s vital to ensure you’re choosing the best-in-class to maximise the value it can add to your business. A combination of high quality British engineering, flexibility and energy efficiency means that Sheerframe’s bi-fold offers exactly that, something that’s reflected in its buoyant sales.

Tel: 01773 852311 www.sheerframe.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0005

Deceuninck launches the Deceuninck

Slide & Swing New Wave Door Deceuninck has partnered with New Wave Doors to launch its own enhanced Slide & Swing multi-pane patio door. The new door is available in April.

Since its launch last year, New Wave Door’s innovative Slide & Swing has impressed all who’ve seen it. Its ‘Doors that do what Bi-folds don’t’ claim has gained an installer following of committed enthusiasts. How do you enhance a next-generation door, and what makes a Deceuninck Slide & Swing door special? Design and aesthetics. Firstly, clean lines, uncluttered sightlines and symmetry by design make ‘pretty’ windows a Deceuninck trademark.

So it’s no surprise the Deceuninck Slide & Swing looks stunning in Deceuninck’s chamfered Traditional 2500 or pencil-round Contemporary 3000 profiles to suit most properties.

Secondly, it comes in Deceuninck’s new, ground breaking Omniral® Colour 360. The finish is unique, bringing the end consumer the look and feel of aluminium with the insulation values of high quality PVC. Deceuninck’s proprietary coating process produces profiles with a powder coated look on all four sides, resulting in a frame without any

visible plastic. So, no disconcerting white flashes to clash with the colour when the door is open.

That’s another first.

The Slide & Swing is a next generation multi-pane patio door that operates in a uniquely different way. The secret is in the name. Each frame locates and slides independently so the door can be opened at any point. Then, one at a time the frames swing to stack neatly outside, at the side.

The opening can be configured to suit, and it takes up no internal room space. Users appreciate its versatility. For example, a number of individual frames can be separated to provide gaps for ventilation. Top-to-bottom concealed locking of each frame to the next makes it much more secure than a bi-fold. And with built-in symmetry and minimal visible hardware – much less than bi-folds – it looks fantastic.

Fabricating is easy, as simple as making a square, so it doesn’t need much factory space.

Transportation and handling are easy as each frame is stacked one on top of the other, fitting comfortably in the back of a transit van or estate car. Because of its unique patented operation, installation is fast and uncomplicated. With

minimal hardware there’s very little to go wrong, so customer satisfaction is high.

“Deceuninck’s New Wave Slide & Swing door is a big leap forward for the industry,” says Deceuninck Managing Director Roy Frost.

“It’s hard to grasp how much of an advance it is on a bi-fold until you see homeowners and installers respond to it. They can’t leave it alone. Seeing how homeowners and installers then react to the aluminium look and feel of its Colour360 finish, knowing it has the high insulation values of PVC is an extra attraction.

“We aim to give Deceuninck fabricators and installers innovative, aspirational products that open doors, and help them stand out and sell more. That’s why we’ve partnered with New Wave to introduce the Deceuninck New Wave Slide & Swing door.”

If you’d like a door that makes homeowners smile and helps you stand out and sell more call the MD Roy Frost on 07808 365234 and visit www.AskRoyFrost.com.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0006

Deceuninck on display at National Self Build & Renovation Centre Deceuninck has taken a permanent display at the National Self Build and Renovation Centre (NSBRC), Swindon, it was revealed at the NSBRC Show in February.

Attracting more than 200,000 visitors since it opened, the NSBRC is designed specifically to meet the needs of self-builders, renovators and home improvers. It puts Deceuninck’s products firmly in the view of homeowners and the industry, building professionals, construction students, media and trades people alike.

Roy Frost, Deceuninck’s MD explains: “The NSBRC Show and permanent display is a perfect place to show our aspirational products. We’ve recently partnered with New Wave Doors to introduce the innovative Deceuninck New Wave ‘Slide & Swing’ door, which was a big hit with exhibition visitors over the weekend. The door operates in a uniquely different way - the secret is in the name - each frame locates and slides independently so the door can be opened at any point, and then one at a time all the frames swing to stack neatly at the side.

Homeowners can configure the opening to suit, and it takes up no internal room space.”

“We also have our deluxe Monorail door on show,” continues Roy. “Visitors really appreciate the size of the sliding frames with their slim profile and the promise of panoramic views. The sliders glide smoothly and let lots of light into the home. We’re planting the seed with renovators and selfbuilders to choose Deceuninck when they’re planning their projects. It’s another way we’re helping fabricators and installers grow by making sure that Deceuninck’s quality products are top of mind for quality conscious homeowners.”

Call Roy Frost on 07808 365234 to ask how Deceuninck’s patio doors can open more opportunities for your business.

Deceuninck permanent display at NSBRC. READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0007

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DOORS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Prepare to be inspired:

Dempsey Dyer launch new lifestyle brochures to help installers win more sales Innovative trade fabricator Dempsey Dyer has strengthened their installer marketing support and launched a new PVCu window and door brochure.

The stunning 36 page brochure contains high impact photography and showcases the companies Inspire range of PVCu windows and doors in impressive fashion, helping Dempsey Dyer trade customers capture the interest of their target market.

Peter Dyer comments: “Working with our marketing partners Purplex, we wanted to create an original piece of marketing literature that would not only appeal to the modern consumer, but help our trade customers stand out from other retail window companies. We’re delighted with the result - the brochure looks fantastic and really captures the benefits of our Inspire range and shows some brilliant installations.”

The brochure has no mention of Dempsey Dyer, simply a space where installers can include their own logo and branding. “As far as the end user is concerned, it will be the installers own brochure” Peter explains. “This will avoid any confusion and help the installer portray a more professional corporate image.”

The Inspire range is manufactured using the Deceuninck 2500 chamfered, 2800 decorative and 3000 profile systems. Inspire PVCu windows and doors are available in a range of finishes including Colour 360, the all-over colour available exclusively from Deceuninck.

Dempsey Dyer will be launching two more brochures, one for their timber range and one for their timber-look Beaumont range, later in the year. “We want our customers to grow and succeed which is why we’re investing to create high quality marketing literature that installers can use as part of their

MI Products predicts

positive 2014

Recent positive economic data and rising orders have led hardware specialist MI Products to issue an upbeat business forecast for 2014.

The Coventry-based firm is optimistic for the year ahead following increased demand across its product portfolio, including its Low Threshold systems for residential and sliding patio doors whose ergonomic designs satisfy the diverse needs of installers, fabricators and end-users alike.

“Activity levels are definitely higher and there’s a lot of interest from the industry, particularly for our wellreceived low patio thresholds where orders have been particularly strong in January.”

With many parts of the country being severely affected by bouts of extreme weather, UK homeowners are acutely aware of the need to protect their properties from the elements.

Many are in the process of weather proofing their homes and products

“Activity levels are definitely higher and there’s a lot of interest from the industry, particularly for our well-received low patio thresholds where orders have been particularly strong in January,” commented Ian Searle, MI Products’ Director.

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that can withstand harsh conditions have seen a surge in sales. One such product is XtremeDoor, the new high performance composite door from Vista.

XtremeDoor has been designed to withstand extreme weather conditions and, as the UK is hit with major floods and 100mph

winds, Vista has reported a surge in demand for this high performance composite door.

Managing director Keith Sadler commented: "Many UK homes have been affected by the terrible weather, particularly in areas such as the Somerset levels where there has been terrible flooding, and consumers are more aware than ever of the need to weather proof their homes. With this in mind it's no surprise products such as XtremeDoor are proving more popular than ever. With its triple sealed outerframe and uPVC edgeband, XtremeDoor is very effective at keeping the worst of the British weather at bay.”

XtremeDoor can achieve a U-value of 0.8 W/m²K in some styles, but premium weather proofing is just the tip of the iceberg. The product has a five point lock, consisting of two hooks and three deadbolts, and has exceeded standards set by Secured by Design.

It also has stainless steel hardware that comes with a 25 year guarantee, a three way adjustable hinge and is available in a host of colours.

With a number of potential customers due to come on board and new products due to be launched in the spring, Ian is confident for the future.

He added: “Feedback has been very encouraging on the low patio thresholds with customers recognising the new market opportunities that these products create for their businesses. The overall outlook is promising.”

Call 0151 608 1423 or visit www.vistapanels.co.uk for more information.

For more information, contact MI Products on 02476 305 943, email info@miproducts.co.uk or visit the website at www.miproducts.co.uk.

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For more information on Dempsey Dyer call 01977 649641 or visit www.dempseydyer.co.uk.

An XtremeDoor for extreme weather conditions

Low thresholds are increasingly specified for residential and commercial applications, providing a major benefit for those needing easy access to dwellings or public buildings.

With performance to match, they can deliver the practical and aesthetic benefits preferred by so many homeowners and specifiers.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0010

sales pitch. Our new brochure is freely available to our trade customers so make sure you contact Dempsey Dyer to order your copy” Peter concluded.

The XtremeDoor.

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DOORS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

greenteQ Pulling Power from VBH Hardware distributer VBH has added stainless steel pull handles to the greenteQ hardware range.

The series was developed by VBH in Germany, where doors are commonly fitted with key operated (wind-up) locks and pull handles have long been used in place of a lever handle set.

The range consists of 9 basic designs, many of which are available with options of 90° or 45° projection, and with standard or extended legs. All greenteQ Pull Handles are manufactured from hard wearing 1.4301 austenitic stainless steel (grade 304-A2), which provides good resistance to weather- and pollution-associated corrosion.

VBH advise that, depending on the design selected, the handles are available from 300mm–1800mm high and can

be used either singularly or in pairs on many door materials including composite, PVCu, timber, aluminium and glass.

More door manufacturers than ever are offering their customers more choice in terms of door style and operation in a bid to differentiate their products from the norm, thus achieving a higher value sale. This in turn leads to further options of locking system and furniture. Where pull handles were once the preserve of commercial doors they are now being specified on many domestic installations in the UK and Ireland.

A full range of greenteQ cylinder rosettes, including rectangular, circular and security versions, is also available from VBH. The greenteQ Pull Handle series features in the latest greenteQ catalogue which can be requested by calling VBH Sales on 01634 263300. Alternatively, the catalogue can be downloaded from www.vbhgb.com.

As easy as DDP for APC Decorative Door Products by RegaLead is happy to welcome Barry based composite supplier APC Panels as the latest company to offer DoorColour to its customers.

Those purchasing from APC’s successful Abbey Collection of composite doors can now benefit from the specially formulated paint system, which is designed specifically for colouring GRP composite doors. By purchasing the entire system APC can produce in house, any colour from RAL, Pantone, BS or Dulux and Farrow and Ball, with the option of matching PVC frames

Mike Brown, Director of APC Panels comments: “We have seen a real uplift in demand for composite doors, but the majority are only made in the standard four colours – red, green, blue and black, whereas we were increasingly being asked for something different, with Anthracite Grey and Cotswold Blue both popular options. We also have had increased demands for matching frames and for this reason in-house spraying was the obvious route forward.

“To us it was an obvious move to purchase the DoorColour system because it is easy to use and competitively priced. We were already very happy with our existing relationship with RegaLead, having used their decorative glass units for some time now.

In the market there are a number of colour solutions now available but we chose the DoorColour system from RegaLead as it as a turnkey package with everything we needed including a leading marketing support package and was competitively priced. They have a large expertise in decorative glass, colour and everything else you need to set your door apart, and we know they are a company that we can trust.”

Guy Hubble, Joint Managing Director at RegaLead comments: “We’re pleased to see that APC Panels is already having such success with DoorColour. The huge range of colour effects are made possible by our ColorSpray GRP technology. Based on the existing ColorSpray Glass system, ColorSpray GRP uses the same colorant system, but incorporates a specially produced base material for use on GRP, ABS and PVC surfaces. We’d be glad to speak to anybody else looking to bring the same levels of colour choice in house about how DoorColour could help, and we offer full support at every step of the way.”

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DOES YOUR WARRANTY

MEASURE UP?

Solidor and sister company Nice Door Panels believe that product warranties instil confidence in consumers and represent the quality of products offered.

Yet some companies have recently slashed their own guarantees for composite doors and door panels.

As a pioneer in the composite door market, Solidor have been able to continually test their products both in controlled laboratory conditions and in real life installations over the last 10 years. The result is that all Solidor products now carry a comprehensive 12 year warranty that covers the Kömmerling door frame, all foiled components, hardware, door skin and slab.

Nice Door Panels, thanks to their use of CoolSkin ™ technology, offer an impressive 10 year warranty on all aspects of performance at a time when other door panel manufacturers have looked to reduce theirs to just 5 years. While Solidor is widely regarded as the best composite door in the market, there is also room for the more price sensitive panel door solutions. These offer a great range of foils and life like woodgrains and perfectly

match the foiled door frames and sashes into which they are installed.

With a product range boasting 17 colours inside and out Solidor are very much a product focused company and the same philosophy extended to Nice Door Panels who offer 14 colours with an impressive 3 day delivery. To be able to offer such warranties, Solidor have carefully chosen their respective partners for all materials including foils, substrates, hardwoods and even bonding agents.

Lee Williams, sales director of Solidor Group comments: ‘Warranties are about product performance and confidence, something we have in abundance at Solidor and Nice Door Panels. Take a look at the vast majority of other consumer goods and we’re seeing the companies that excel, extending theirs.’

For further information about Solidor, log on to www.solidor.co.uk, e-mail enquiries@ solidor.co.uk, phone 01782 847300 or add to their Twitter following @SolidorLtd. For more information on Nice Door Panels log on to www.nicedoorpanels.co.uk or e-mail enquiries@nicedoorpanels.co.uk.

For more information Decorative Door Products Division by RegaLead visit www.decorativedoorproducts.co.uk or call 0161 946 1164.

APC Panels takes DoorColour from DDP.

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‘Demo 1’ and ‘Demo 2’ are available to book for a visit to your premises, so if you’d like to see how the PVC-U or new aluminium door look and work call Kevin today on 07896 152433 or visit www.newwavedoors.co.uk.

Network VEKA package works for AWC

2013 was a very good year for Oldhambased AWC Home Improvements. Not only did the Network VEKA installer celebrate its 35th anniversary, but they were also double award winners at the organisation’s AGM, where they picked up the trophy for Embracing and Promotion of the Network VEKA brand, as well as being voted top for Customer Satisfaction in the North West.

As Managing Director Michael Griffiths explains, the company has fully embraced the complete Network VEKA package.

“We’ve always placed enormous emphasis on our Network VEKA membership to our customers, and from heavily branding our showroom with the Network VEKA story, to the comprehensive package of IBGs, we make full use of it all. Anyone can offer an Insurance-Backed Guarantee, but Network VEKA’s is legislated within the industry, with safeguarding the customer at the heart of what they do.”

A second generation, family-run business that was set up by Robert Griffiths and David Smith in 1978, AWC is now run by Robert’s son Michael, and joined Network VEKA in 2005.

The elite local installation company also has a fabrication side to the business - Gemini UPVC, which is run by Michael’s brother Paul. Michael explains: “Gemini was our main focus for a long time, and it’s only over the last couple of years that we have pushed AWC to the domestic market. In this time we have really taken advantage of what is on offer from Network VEKA, including the web enhancement tools and the Steve Davis endorsement.

“Being able to use Steve Davis in our marketing materials is a fantastic benefit – and something our customers really relate to. Steve joined us for our 35th anniversary celebrations at our local Saddleworth Show and helped us secure more than £42k worth of business in one day.

Tel: 01282 473170 – www.networkveka.co.uk

Kevin Harvey arrives in demo van.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0016

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s

Fabricators and installers can get ‘hands on’ the ‘Slide & Swing’ and see exactly what they do that bi-folds don’t. Kevin Harvey, Managing Director of New Wave Doors, is so enthusiastic about the mobile showrooms he takes them on the road himself. “We’ve had a great reaction from our customers,” says Kevin. “They love to try the doors, examine the hardware and see just how easy fabrication and fitting can be. They also appreciate how robust and reliable the ‘Slide & Swing’ is. As well as spending 37,000 miles on the road, the one in the first mobile showroom was at the FiT Show and has operated around 10,000 times – all without the need for maintenance. The van draws up, I open the doors and I show installers how it operates. All without any set-up or adjustment! If I was taking a Bi-fold around in the back of a van I’d need time to spend setting it up and adjusting it to make sure I could demonstrate without it jamming or something.”

as EWgl N

Now the second one, ‘Demo 2’, is on the road.

And this one is fitted with a fully working version of the latest addition to the range, the aluminium ‘Slide & Swing’, as well as the original PVC-U model.

a en d o m

New Wave’s 2nd mobile showroom hits the road The full New Wave’s first mobile showroom ‘Demo 1’, has been a great success, visiting fabricators and installers around the country to show them how the revolutionary ‘Slide & Swing’ multi-pane doors work.

DOORS

Modena Half Page Vert - Glass News_Layout 1 11/03/2014 17:32 Page 1

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WANT A COMBINATION OF STUNNING GOOD LOOKS AND HIGH PERFORMANCE? THE PERFORMANCE • P1A certified laminated glass for ‘Secure by Design’ specification • Low-E and Gas-filled units as standard using Warm Edge technology THE LOOK • Stunning polished zinc cameing • Encapsulated Fusion tiles • Triple-glazed construction

with you every y! step of the wa RegaLead Limited I Columbus House Altrincham Road I Sharston I Manchester M22 9AF Telephone 0161 946 1164 I Email sales@regalead.co.uk www.regalead.co.uk

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DOORS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

MILA LAUNCHES NEW RANGE OF DOOR KNOCKERS Mila is giving its customers the chance to supply doors with a full suite of Mila branded hardware, thanks to the launch of a new range of door knockers.

Manufactured in either sand cast or forged brass depending on the design, the range includes a choice of 10 contemporary and traditional designs which suit any door type or style. They are all produced to the renowned Mila quality standards including salt spray and acid testing to guarantee the durability of the finish, and are all available with free next day delivery.

The knockers are available in three different sizes (4in, 6in and 8in) and in Mila’s six quality finishes: black, white, gold, polished, smokey and satin chrome, to coordinate perfectly with the popular ProSecure, ProLinea and ProStyle door furniture ranges.

The knockers launch means that fabricators can now produce a door with a full suite of Mila hardware, giving themselves a competitive advantage not just because of the proven quality and durability of the products but because of the power of the Mila brand in both the trade and retail markets.

“They are all produced to the renowned Mila quality standards including salt spray and acid testing to guarantee the durability of the finish, and are all available with free next day delivery.”

SOLIDOR PARTNER UP WITH JET Composite door pioneers, Solidor, have partnered up with JET Business to help get the unemployed in North Staffordshire trained and back to work. In the last 6 months the company has taken 10 people on board full time, through the innovative scheme.

the ceramics and pottery trades, the JET programme is fundamental in helping to get the unemployed retrained and back to work.

Solidor have embraced the project right from the outset, offering both a number of placements and indeed full time positions as they continue to grow rapidly.

JET stands for Jobs, Employment and Training and is run by North Staffordshire Regeneration Partnership, which is aimed at regenerating the local economy by finding suitable employment for people who are out of work and claiming benefits. JET has also adopted the SPEAR (Supporting People Back Into Employment with the Army Reserve) campaign.

The intensive four week SPEAR course is designed to increase skills, confidence and ultimately to boost the chances of finding work for the unemployed of North Staffordshire. While they are encouraged to join the army reserve, it is not compulsory.

Weeks one and two took them to Army Reserve units across the region to learn work place skills, such as team building and health and safety, in a military environment. This was followed by a two-week work placement at Solidor, arranged by JET.

Given the loss of key industries from the North Staffordshire region, including

Vicki Sanders, Head of Sales at Mila, said: “Door knockers have a really significant impact on how a door looks and of course sounds, and a cheap or flimsy knocker can undermine the quality of even the best door. By choosing one of these new quality options from Mila, our customers have a great opportunity to really impress retail buyers with a knocker which has a reassuringly weighty feel and produces a really solid and robust sound.”

She joked: “There are lots of knockers knocking around the door market, but these new Mila ones knock spots off the competition. We’re confident our customers will be knocked out by the quality but won’t be knocked sideways by the price!”

“...these new Mila ones knock spots off the competition.”

Literature showing the full range of knockers including suited numerals can be downloaded from the Mila website at www.mila.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0019

How Dortech changed the game The recession hit the sub-contractor construction industry very hard, with many large and well-known companies calling it a day. With most construction projects suffering as a result, in a number of instances quality issues, not identified at the time have come to light, particularly when buildings have been hit with extreme weather conditions.

Recognising the likely longevity of the recession and the impact it would have on volumes and margins Dortech set about devising a strategy which would utilise core skills developed over 20 years of trading, but lessen the reliance on the new build construction market.

Dortech Maintenance was born in 2012 working directly with building owners, property managers, builders and refurbishment contractors to provide the very best commercial glazing maintenance service in the region.

The new team has been incredibly busy, involved in projects ranging in location from Edinburgh to Swindon with values from £250 to £250,000. Customer feedback has been exceptionally good and the amount of repeat business the division has secured is growing on a daily basis.

Dortech has made further investments in its Maintenance division to provide; new vehicles, uniforms, tools, training and

employment opportunities. Four additional positions have recently been created in the company for Maintenance Engineers, which include Huddersfield Giants Rugby League star Paul Reilly Jnr who is due to start with the company this month.

Dortechs Maintenance Manager, Mark Weavill who has been largely responsible for its success states; “It’s very much about people and having the right attitude. We have spent a lot of time selecting and training the very best individuals for this venture. People who care about what they are doing, communicate well and put the needs of our customers first.”

Dortech Maintenance recorded a turnover of over £750,000 in 2013 and expects this to double during 2014. Further plans for growth and investment are being developed by the management team which will inevitably lead to further employment opportunities for local people during the year.

Further growth is also expected from Dortech’s online retail business, Dortech Direct which has now grown to be one of the largest online glazing consumables suppliers in the UK. Incredibly competitive prices and brilliant service has led to this division becoming a very exciting facet of the company. Plans are already underway to significantly grow and develop the company’s online presence further.

Paul Adlington, Solidor’s production manager commented: ‘This has been a hugely rewarding programme for both us as a responsible employer and for the people that we have offered full time positions to. We will continue to work closely with JET to help get the local labour force trained and re-skilled.’

For further information about Solidor, log on to www.solidor.co.uk, e-mail enquiries@ solidor.co.uk or phone 01782847300.

From left to right: Craig Taylor and Shaun Tabbinor, the Army Reservists now working for Solidor.

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READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0020

Dortech Maintenance Team.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0021

March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

DOORS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

A door system that combines

strength & performance

AluK is proud to announce the launch of the GT55 TB aluminium commercial door system which is one of the most robust thermally broken commercial door systems available on the market. The system has been fully tested and can be integrated with AluK’s GT55 ground floor treatment system or installed as a standalone door.

This robust and low maintenance door provides complete flexibility in entrance solutions and is available in a wide range of colours and finishes to suit any project.

The inherent strength of aluminium construction combined with AluK’s unique thermally broken profile ensures maximum performance and robustness, making the GT55 TB Door System one of the most robust fully glazed swing doors available on the market.

It is ideal for a range of heavy duty commercial and public sector applications including offices, hospitals, schools, warehouses and other industrial applications.

• U-value performance of 2.0 W/m²K (Based upon 1.2 CP 28mm unit) • Green Guide Rating C

• Single and double door configurations, with standard or Anti-finger trap hinge options • Max leaf weight of 90 kg

0314/00023

• 110mm x 55mm profiles for thermally broken door and screening options • Can accommodate glazing sizes between 24mm – 40mm (Door) & 8mm – 32mm (Screen) • Internally glazed for added security • Available with thermally broken ancillary profiles i.e. sub cills, drainage trays etc • Single point and multi point locking options • Anti-finger trap panic bar profiles also available • DDA compliant closer to control opening forces • Currently being added to our market leading Secured By Design Certification Tel: 01633 81 04 40 Email: sales@aluk.co.uk

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0022

www.glassnews.co.uk | March 2014

11

DOORS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Winkhaus unlocks new markets with expanding Autolock range Hardware specialist Winkhaus UK is opening up new opportunities for door fabricators with its ever growing range of AV2 Auto locks.

AV2 Deco, AV2 Heritage, autoLock AV2+, bluematic AV2E and the recently launched AV2-B are designed for a variety of applications, from fire doors to top end home entrance doors, helping fabricators and installers target lucrative new business in the domestic, commercial and new build markets.

The AV2 family of locks all automatically engage the hook locking points of a door when it’s closed providing instant security without further need to lift a handle or use a key to turn a cylinder.

The features of the complete range mean that the need to understand multipoint door locks is lessened and problems often associated with need to lift handles are eradicated therefore providing smoother and more suitable solutions for the elderly and people with infirmities associated with arthritis and other conditions.

Justin Harris, commercial director at Winkhaus UK comments: “ Door fabricators operating in the Social Housing market have been confidently using our original autoLock AV2 and bluematic AV2E lock for a number of years especially for Fire Doors, communal doors and adaptations and that market continues to grow.

We are now seeing however a more confident economy which means a stronger retail and trade market and we have further developed our AV2 range to accommodate the consumers changing taste and thirst for something new. Many people have waited maybe five or six years before changing their front door but now they feel more confident about their jobs and the like, they want to make a statement with their large purchases!

Newly designed contemporary composite doors for the retail market are taking on a European edge, with modern long bar handles.

As a result there is a need for a contemporary lock that fits in with these sleeker designs such as our AV2 Deco and AV2 Heritage locks.”

Justin goes on to explain how this style of lock also works for the replacement of traditional style doors: “The euro profile locking cylinder of AV2 Heritage is at a similar height to a traditional round cylinder or night latch but provides higher levels of security and weather performance than door locks commonly found on Georgian / Edwardian doors. As such suppliers can offer a modern auto locking solution for a traditional styled door especially when coupled with our New Heritage Pull handle.”

Winkhaus UK are prepared for future growth markets too. One of these is keyless locking, and the AV2 range accommodates for this as well.

AV2-B is battery operated and key fob activated like modern cars. It requires no further access control specialist and the door when leaving the factory can be fitted in a normal way by an installer. The product is again aimed at the top end retail market and Winkhaus believe its simplicity to understand will appeal to both the fabricator and homeowner.

“Our aim is to not only help fabricators stand out in their respective markets, we also want to provide opportunities for them to enter new ones. Our AV2 range is one way companies can get their foot in the door through offering an ideal solution for every need,” Justin concludes.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0024

LEGEND DOORS RESIST THE FLOODS Whilst large parts of the UK have been devastated by the floods Limerick in the Republic of Ireland was amongst many places to be overwhelmed when the River Shannon burst its banks in the City following high tides and driving rain.

However, whilst hundreds of families have had their homes ruined as the flood waters reached several feet deep in some streets, one

resident found that the Legend PVC-U French doors that he bought from local Synseal fabricator and installer Walsh Windows did far more than keep out the rain and wind, as an extraordinary photograph proves.

The floods, the worst the country has ever seen, brought a torrent of water racing through the streets to reach the home of the Walsh customer which the Legend Doors resisted manfully, despite the murky water giving the doors the appearance of a fish tank rather than the main entrance to the house.

In fact so extraordinary is the photograph that it was featured on Channel 4 comedy show The Last Leg when even the show’s presenters were in awe commenting that the only

water coming in was through the keyhole.

Walsh Windows owner John Walsh commented: “The last thing the homeowner specified his door for was to hold back flood water!

But this is a fantastic though perhaps unwanted demonstration of just how well designed Synseal Legend doors are. Sadly other part of the homeowners’ house did not prove as resilient and they also experienced flood damage; it will take some time for the area to get back to normal.”

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0025

NEXT MONTH!!

WINDOWS & PATIO DOORS!

To be part of this feature, contact Sheilah today! sheilah@glassnews.co.uk

0314/0026

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March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

DOORS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Choosing the right composite door to take advantages of the opportunities The composite door market is the fastest growing sector of the industry so to make the most of the opportunities available, it makes sense to choose your door supplier wisely.

Distinction Doors was one of the first to enter the composite door market when it was founded in 2004 and it remains one of the leading names today. As Drew Wright, Distinction Door’s Managing Director, says, it’s a market leader for good reason too. “Our composite door is a premium product designed to appeal to discerning homeowners.”

For Drew, there are five reasons why his company’s doors offer something more than a standard PVC-U, timber or solid core composite door: security, maintenance, energy efficiency, personalisation options, structural and surface warranties, culminating

in its proven pedigree with over 2 million sold into the UK to date.

When it comes to security, Distinction’s door offers superb benefits. While a standard PVC-U door can be kicked down in seconds, a Distinction composite door cannot be broken down quickly, even with the aid of police battering ram. Drew says, “Security is a priority for homeowners and knowing that our composite door offers this level of strength and security is a very big selling point for the installer.”

Low maintenance is an attractive point too: the GRP skin does not crack or require painting. Plus the cassettes are manufactured to match the colour of the door and will weather at the same rate, meaning it will stay looking good for longer.

With heating costs on the rise, the energy efficiency of a door is crucial and the Distinction door measures up here too: its thermal properties are significantly better than typical PVC-U infill panelled doors and traditional timber doors thanks to its

“Security is a priority for homeowners and knowing that our composite door offers this level of strength and security is a very big selling point for the installer.”

insulated core and triple glazed glass options.

Other features such as a water resistant composite rail to all four edges helps to keep warmth in and weather out.

But perhaps the most important feature for many homeowners is the level of personalisation on offer. The elegant, timber appearance of composite doors is well known.

Distinction Doors also offer a wealth of personalisation options to allow homeowners to create their perfect door. Door colour, decorative glazing and designer door furniture can all be used to create a unique statement.

Of course, most installers will also be looking for features that will help them. Distinction doors are genuinely fit and forget due to their superior technical excellence and quality.

Also of interest will be the wide product range that makes it easy to expand a portfolio, plus a strong marketing support package to enable installers to take advantage of the opportunities out there.

Drew Wright concludes, “We’re very proud of our composite doors and think the range of features make them the best on the market.”

And with sales in excess of 7,000 doors per week, it seems that the market agrees with him!

Tel: 0845 2000 816 www.distinctiondoors.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0027

0314/00028

www.glassnews.co.uk | March 2014

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DOORS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Door-Stop’s Business Unit Director,

Martin Dickie, talks with Nick Dutton & Glass News’ Chris Champion As far as acquisitions go, this purchase of Door-Stop International by the Masonite Corporation, must be one of the smoothest ever. As anyone who has experienced buying or selling a company knows, it can be stressful and fraught. Equally, when the dust has settled, there is the issue of running the company, learning the ropes and integrating with a new culture.

“Meeting with Martin Dickie and Nick Dutton just 24 hours after the announcement was made of Masonite’s acquisition of Door-Stop, one would expect some signs of relief, stress or even over excitement. Not in this case. It can only be described as business as usual.”

Martin Dickie: Nick couldn’t even tell me who the company was, so it was a strange situation.

Chris Champion: Strange it might have been, and certainly a shock to the system, but one that makes enormous sense.

So often with a purchase of a company, new management is parachuted in and, usually, people who have to learn what the business is all about...

In the case of Door-Stop, none of this appears to be an issue.

Meeting with Martin Dickie and Nick Dutton just 24 hours after the announcement was made of Masonite’s acquisition of Door-Stop, one would expect some signs of relief, stress or even over excitement. Not in this case. It can only be described as business as usual.

Nick Dutton: ...Martin has known Door-Stop since day one. In fact you were there when we came up with the name.

Martin Dickie: That’s right. I worked on Sales for the first three years of Door-Stop’s life and then a couple of years of advising on various subjects.

Nick Dutton: When we were considering who could run the company, I ‘phoned Martin as he was driving home one night before Christmas and asked if he would like mine and Malcolm’s (Malcolm Le Masurier) jobs? He had to pull over to the side of the road in shock, but he said yes!

Chris Champion: That was as a contractor or consultant wasn’t it? I seem to remember you always worked as a consultant even back in the days when I knew you at Nationwide.

Nick Dutton: We’ve joked about that. Martin now has a ‘proper job’!

Chris Champion: Let’s talk a bit about your background. It’s 20 years , if not more, in doors.

Martin Dickie.

Martin Dickie: Yes. From Homesafe, Leaderflush, Nationwide to Door-Stop. With a few more in between. I do know the door business and what makes it tick. I shared Nick’s aspiration of getting the door I wanted, when I wanted it, and at the right price. It had always been a frustration that I was reliant, wherever I was, on stock holding, the vagaries of shipping from the Far East...even to the problems of Chinese New Year.

Nick and I wanted the control to be able to supply on time and in full, every time.

Nick Dutton.

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March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

DOORS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Nick Dutton: And in a timeframe that the customer demanded. That’s where the three days came in. On time, in full and in three days.

Chris Champion: And what of the future, Martin? Do you look at Europe?

Nick Dutton: There is plenty for us to do in the UK. We currently have capacity to grow, and joining Premdor/ Masonite only adds to our capabilities.

Chris Champion: In the statements put out by Masonite your online presence and way to market has been key to their interest in Door-Stop. What do they bring to Door-Stop?

Martin Dickie: I think Nick would agree that Masonite’s size

and knowledge of administrative and reporting systems will help streamline Door-Stop. They also have the resource to back us in our growth over the foreseeable future.

Chris Champion: On that point of ‘reassurance’, the fact that Masonite has appointed you to head up Door-Stop has to be reassuring for the staff and the Door-Stop customers. It’s business as usual with someone who has been with company since its inception. Although Nick will retire there is still continuity through yourself...

Martin Dickie: I’m delighted that both Nick and Malcolm will be around for some time.

Chris Champion: So is that part of a contractual lock in, as part of the deal?

Martin Dickie: Absolutely not. There is no lock in. It simply signifies a determination by everyone involved that Door-Stop will continue to offer great products, on time and in full every time... and in three days! Where you will see some changes is the visibility of what I believe to be the best management team in the UK. Four of the five that make up the management team

www.glassnews.co.uk | March 2014

have known each other for a long time, having been at Synseal.

Our fifth member was headhunted for his sales expertise. It’s a young, dynamic but very experienced team. Nick has very much been the front man but I would now like to bring others to the fore and give them credit for what they’ve achieved.

And with that, the very harmonious melding of the Masonite Corporation with Door-Stop International Ltd moves into the next era. An era which will see Door-Stop continue to grow under Martin’s guidance and that of Masonite UK’s General Manager, Robin Baker. Robin Baker has his own long experience of doors having been at Premdor for some 17 years.

What makes it exciting for the company is that as Nick Dutton says, “It’s an embryonic business in an embryonic market.”

Some may argue that the market is further along its life cycle than that... perhaps entering its awkward teens, but the fact is that there are a great deal more composite doors to be sold in the coming years.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0029

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DOORS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

SENATOR WINDOWS ENJOYS SUCCESS WITH MILA PROSECURE HANDLE Senator Windows, the leading retail window company in Ireland, began using Mila’s ProSecure handle as standard on all of its doors soon after it was launched in 2012; and says that it has helped to increase sales in a market where security remains the most important consideration for retail buyers.

Senator is delighted with the performance of the handle, which was designed and developed in house by Mila’s UK team, and has been particularly impressed with the fact that it has not had one report of forced entry on any of its doors since it made the decision to switch to the TS007 two star compliant product.

Kevin Richards, the Managing Director of Senator Windows, says that consumers have come to expect the very highest standards from Senator and that the ProSecure handle fits well with its uncompromising approach of supplying high specification, high quality products.

With features such as an integral steel reinforcement plate, a deep drawn pocket

Andrew Wright hasn’t stopped protecting customers since 1937!

Scottish VEKA fabricator Andrew Wright has been awarded the coveted EC Certificate of Achievement to produce Escape Doors fitted with emergency exit panic hardware. feature with protects the cylinder from attack and an anti-drill disk in front of the cylinder, the Kitemarked ProSecure handle is Secured by Design accredited and has been fully tested by Mila in line with EN1906: 2010 to 200,000 cycles. It also comes with the added reassurance of a 10 year mechanical guarantee.

Kevin Richards says: “The market in Ireland is certainly starting to recover but customers remain as discerning as ever and are only prepared to invest in new windows and doors which give them the peace of mind they are seeking.”

“They tell us that they like the Mila ProSecure handle because its design represents a visual deterrent for opportunistic thieves and they are reassured by the fact that it has the Secured by Design logo etched into the backplate. When combined with a one star cylinder, it also of course provides full three star compliance with TS007.”

“Andrew Wright has always been at the forefront of industry innovations, and we’ve been proud to fabricate VEKA products since 1986 as this has allowed us to gain a host of quality and security accreditations.

“The quality of the VEKA product and our commitment to high standards means we are well-placed to manufacture for and supply the trade and commercial sectors, as well as domestic. Andrew Wright products

“All our manufactured products are CE marked as per BS EN 14351 and Andrew Wright is a manufacturer of BS 7421 and PAS 24 Kitemark licensed windows and doors. We also hold a Secured by Design licence, which recognises that we are providers of high quality security products.

“The company was originally established way back in 1937 and after WWII Andrew Wright Glass won the contract to re-glaze blitz-damaged Belfast.

“Our heritage and our sterling reputation mean the world to us, which is why we will only provide the highest quality systems.

Our customers know they can come to us for the most safe and secure products, and having the EC Certificate for escape doors is an important part of this.

“Andrew Wright remains family owned and employs more than 100 skilled workers.

We’re certainly proud to be one of the most important employers in the area.”

Tel: 01282 716611 – www.vekauk.com

Senator Windows supplies its windows and doors via a network of dealers across Ireland and provides them with sales and marketing support to help them communicate the benefits of the upgraded security which it now offers as standard.

It also carries out high profile consumer advertising focusing on the style, quality and security of all its products and enjoys a reputation for leading the market in terms of innovation and customer service.

Senator Windows has been a customer of Mila Ireland for more than 25 years and Mila continues to supply Senator with a complete range of window and door hardware products via its headquarters in Kilbarrack, Dublin.

Tel: 01327 312400 – www.mila.co.uk

“The market in Ireland is certainly starting to recover but customers remain as discerning as ever and are only prepared to invest in new windows and doors which give them the peace of mind they are seeking.”

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0030

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MD Charlie Berry explains: “we were audited by BSI and we’re delighted to have achieved compliance to gain this certificate, especially when very few other manufacturers have been able to meet the stringent requirements.

meet or exceed all the accreditations required for Local Authority and Education projects.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0031

SELL TO LOCAL BUILDERS 50,000 EMAIL DISTRIBUTION WITH !

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0314/0032

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March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0314/0033

www.glassnews.co.uk | March 2014

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INSTALLER FOCUS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

www.residence9-living.co.uk

brings in leads for Dekko installers Dekko Window Systems has launched a new consumer facing website to bring in leads for installers. www.residence9-living.co.uk showcases timber effect uPVC window system Residence 9 and is designed to generate enquiries from homeowners, which are then passed onto Dekko’s network of installers.

The site promotes the features and benefits of Residence 9, along with an inspiration gallery and section where homeowners can find an installer in their area. For installers wanting to start selling this luxury product there’s also a section where you can fill in your details to apply to become a Dekko R9 installer.

Kurt Greatrex, sales director at Dekko, comments: “Residence 9 is a high-end product that’s perfect for homeowners who want the look of timber but don’t want the maintenance hassles.

Our new consumer facing website advertises R9 to homeowners and pulls in quality leads for our network of installers, making it even easier for them to win new R9 jobs.”

“Not only will you enjoy better margins selling R9, because it has been accepted in conservation areas, you’ll also have the opportunity to win business in the profitable heritage market,” comments Kurt.

Dekko’s Residence 9 windows and doors are available in 12 heritage colours and 35 mixed combinations. Matching composite and

www.residence9-living.co.uk screen shot.

French doors are also available and there is a choice of traditional and modern hardware.

The window can accommodate a 44mm triple glazed sealed unit and can achieve a U-value of just 0.8 W/m2K. For more information visit www.residence9living.co.uk or visit Dekko’s trade website www.dekkowindows.com.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0034

Pro-active marketing helps installers grow Northern trade counter Truemans is helping installers grow through its pro-active marketing support.

Truemans offers free sales and marketing support to all trade customers who want it to help them promote their business and increase sales in the retail market.

This includes: • Bespoke dropcards, brochures, flyers and posters • Free sample frames and showroom support • Artwork design for van signage, ‘A’ boards, t-shirts and stationary • Free retail leads in your local area

All printed marketing materials are designed and printed in-house by Truemans marketing team, meaning any amendments or extra copies can be made instantly. They’re fully customisable too, with the design and content tailored to the customer rather than rubberstumped with a logo. Every order sent by Truemans includes free dropcards and a brochure promoting the benefits of their product range to homeowners.

The 32 page glossy brochure is packed with information and always kept up to date. On top of this, homeowner maintenance guides, product guarantees and energy certificates are sent out with every order to give the end user complete peace of mind.

“It’s not enough to offer quality products; we like to go the extra mile for our customers, helping them get their name out there and win more jobs through real marketing support,” says Joe Trueman, managing director of Truemans. “We take a pro-active approach and can offer the whole package, from sales support and leads to designed and printed marketing materials.”

In addition to their marketing packages, Truemans offers free fixings and packers with every order and free use of their on-site skip. Very few trade suppliers offer so many free added value benefits, and Joe believes it’s this unique service that’s helping Truemans customers stand out in their field: “A combination of

quality products, great service and sales and marketing support is helping our customers make more profits hassle free. It’s one of Truemans strongest points and we’re happy to help our customers anyway we can to promote and advertise their business.”

For more information on how Truemans can help you grow call your local branch or visit www.truemanswindows.co.uk or call, Burnley: 01282 455500, Doncaster: 01302 322 223 or Sheffield: 0114 247 5513.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0035

Tradelink Followers First for Offers Tradelink, world class manufacturer of one of the widest ranges of windows, doors, sealed units and conservatories in the UK, has launched an online programme of offers and competitions to run alongside its existing marketing.

Bruce Morley, Business Development Director at Tradelink explains: “We run customer offers on a regular basis to encourage sales of existing products or incentivise trials of newly launched items, but existing and potential customers can now be the first to hear about the latest promotions by following us on Twitter @ TradelinkDirect. Followers will in some cases even have access to exclusive deals available for a limited time only. We have over 20 years of partnering with installers and understanding their needs, and they tell us that they appreciate any support we can give over and above our world class manufactured products and excellent service, to provide them with an additional competitive edge. Offers will include sales competitions to win mini ipads as well as money off deals – all available in real time to our @TradelinkDirect followers.”

For more information call Tradelink now on 01354 657650, visit www.tradelinkdirect.co.uk or follow us @TradelinkDirect.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0036

A Rewarding Future For Whiteline’s Installation Partners Innovative fabricator Whiteline has introduced an exciting new initiative to its exclusive partner marketing package.

The PlatinumNRG Rewards Scheme incentivises and rewards Whiteline installer sales teams that specify, sell and order from the Whiteline product range.

Whiteline is a long established Sussex based fabricator that has been developing PlatinumNRG as a retail brand of windows, doors and conservatories, solely for the use and benefit of its customers. It enables them to promote and deliver a unique offering and competitive edge in their local markets. The range combines innovation – like FlushSASH, SlimSASH and A+ energy efficiency, security, engineering and quality - all designed, developed, manufactured and backed up here in Britain.

Whiteline launched their new www.PlatinumNRG.co.uk website recently which actively generates quality sales

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leads for their retail installer partners. The great consumer premium offering backed by a successful SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) campaign has delivered increasing numbers of high quality sales leads that are passed straight on to Whiteline’s customers.

The new PlatinumNRG rewards scheme focuses on converting retail leads into firm orders, by offering installers

a powerful incentive scheme for their sales people. Every qualifying sale of PlatinumNRG products earns Rewards Points, based on the value, which can be collected and saved. These points can then be converted into rewards, ranging from Top Store Vouchers through to a 40” smart TV, from an attractive selection available. Each sales person who enrols receives their own membership card to help them access the web-based scheme and keep up to date with prizes they have earned.

Whiteline Director of Operations Peter Hand comments “The PlatinumNRG Reward Scheme means that our traditional fabricator role is now complemented with a strong end-to-end customer support package. We actually help to generate leads and cement the sale, as well as fulfil the ultimate orders with high quality products. We believe this is the ideal business model for independent companies, such as us and our customers, which we shall utilise and strengthen for the future.”

Tel: 01323 723724 www.PlatinumNRG.co.uk / www.whiteline.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0037

March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

GENESIS SLIDING SASH

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Bison Frames invests to sustain strong sales growth Trade fabricator Bison Frames has seen impressive sales growth year on year.

Mark Tetley and Martyn Haworth, Directors of Bison Frames, feel that while this is news worth celebrating, they are always looking at ways to maintain their strong sales, commenting: “We’ve seen excellent growth in the past few years. We want to sustain that growth, so we have just made considerable investment in new production machinery.”

Bison has recently invested in several pieces of machinery which includes a four-headed welder and automatic bead saw from Wegoma and another CNC main profile saw from Promac. Martyn says: “Our business is built on supplying quality products at the right price on a good turnaround with excellent customer service. We want to maintain our reputation as we grow and this investment gives us the ability to do that.”

Bison Frames has become one of the industry’s go-to companies for window and door products, particularly specialist products that help to create a value-added portfolio.

Alongside casement windows and French and patio doors, its portfolio also includes vertical

sliders, reversible windows, bi-fold doors and conservatories. The jewel in Bison’s crown at the moment is its new Genesis Vertical Slider, a window that is so authentic that its use has been allowed in Grade II listed buildings. Mark says: “The Genesis VS is a quantum leap in design terms because rather than being welded, it uses traditional timber jointing methods.

It means you have a window that has all the thermal efficiency benefits of a modern PVCU window but the traditional looks of an original period window, with very little maintenance.”

Design innovations such as the Genesis VS are one of the reasons that Bison has seen such strong growth in the past year, but apart from that, Bison’s customers benefit from a high level of support to enable them to run their businesses more easily, making Bison a reliable partner. As Martyn comments: “Maintaining the levels of service and support is vital if the company is to continue to grow and investment in new machinery is a key part of our long term plan at Bison to maintain our healthy growth”.

Tel: 0800 321 7284 – www.bisonframes.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0038

gives you the re-birth of the sliding sash window Introducing the New GENESIS VS with traditional jointing methods taking aesthetics to the heart of the design process.

Traditional Genesis recreates the timeless beautiful styling of a traditional timber sliding sash window like no other. With its authentically jointed frame and sash it replicates the windows of yesteryear that are found in period cottages, older properties and conservation areas.

Unique joint design to both sash and outer frame replicates a timber window for a truly authentic appearance, setting your windows apart from the rest. Combined with period hardware and a complete range of heritage finishes, the Genesis VS pushes the boundaries of modern PVC-U sliding sash windows.

Tel: 0800 321 7284 Fax: 01226 707 947

Email: sales@bisonframes.co.uk www.glassnews.co.uk | March 2014

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Modern With its elegant styling and precision design, the Genesis vertical sliding sash will enhance any modern home as well as a traditional property. Designed for modern living, Genesis combines cuttingedge technology with the traditional character of a box sash window.

Precision-engineered for smooth, simple operation, Genesis effortlessly complements your modern lifestyle.

Visit our website: www.bisonframes.co.uk 19

WINDOWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Roseview deliver on customer service

GT Window Products & Arden Windows join forces to beat the burglar

Following an increase in production, uPVC vertical sliding sash window fabricator Roseview Windows is altering its delivery schedule to streamline the delivery process and improve customer service.

As of February 10th delivery dates depend on postcode, with each area broken up into zones and allocated a set day to receive deliveries.

Monday will be the North; Tuesday, West; Wednesday, South; Thursday, South East; Friday, East and home zones will receive daily deliveries.

Roseview still deliver on a nationwide basis and if you’re outside of the zones you’ll still receive deliveries on an agreed set day.

Roseview’s production manager, Byron Field, comments on the changes: “An incredibly busy 2013, which has continued into 2014, means we can’t continue with the current delivery schedule. Breaking it down into zones means our customers know exactly when they’ll get their

When a determined burglar attempted to break through the timber windows at a house in London, he didn’t expect the frame to include a Dummy Sash Lok from GT Window Products.

windows and can plan their deliveries better.”

Roseview currently fabricate between four hundred and five hundred sash windows per week and its excellence in manufacturing and product development was recently recognised at the 2013 G – Awards, where its high performance uPVC sliding sash window system Ultimate Rose won New Product of the Year.

Since their success, Byron says the company is planning on spending more time focussing on improving customer service further: “With the Charisma Rose, Heritage Rose and Ultimate Rose we feel we can offer a strong portfolio of products that suit all projects and budgets. Combine this

with an improved delivery service and our customers have a recipe for success in 2014. Looking forward we want to maintain high levels of customer service to run alongside our fantastic product range and new more efficient delivery schedule.”

Byron also asks customers to note due to rising fuel prices Roseview will also be adding a £30 delivery charge to orders of less than £1000 (+vat). Roseview are in the process of contacting all of their customers informing them of the changes, and letting them know what day they’ll be getting their deliveries. They’ve also put the information up on their website at www.roseview. co.uk/deliveries.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0040

The Dummy Sash Lok is a high security component that locks together the outerframe and sash on a casement window and despite a sustained attack, the burglar was forced to give up and leave empty handed. The windows were manufactured and installed

by Arden Windows, a Coventry based fabricator and installer of bespoke timber products. Arden use components from GT Window Products to speed up fabrication and installation time and improve the overall security of their windows and doors.

Arden Windows technical manager Phil Harding commented: “While it’s unfortunate our customer was on the receiving end of an attempted burglary, it’s pleasing to see our windows were able to withstand such a prolonged attack. It was clearly a concerted effort by the burglar and the fact

The damaged window frame.

he didn’t succeed just goes to show how effective the Dummy Sash Lok from GT Window Products really is.”

The Dummy Sash Lok helps fabricators and installers quickly and simply fit dummy sashes into a window frame. It can be used on PVC-u, aluminium or timber frames and has been designed and developed so that factory glazed or site glazed windows can have even sightlines fitted with minimum fuss. The clip set comprises of a plastic profile related moulding, a steel locking plate and a reinforced top plate for the outerframe and a plastic moulding and key plate for the sash.

GT Window Products managing director Carl Taylor commented: “At GT Window Products we specialise in designing and manufacturing components that speed up fabrication time, provide cost savings, improve security, enable compliance with BS7950, improve weather performance and are easy to fit. I’m delighted that a window with our Dummy Sash Lok passed a real life

security test with flying colours and the attempted burglary was foiled.”

The Dummy Sash Lok is just one of many high security components manufactured

by GT Window Products.

The company also produces the Securi-Clip, the only recognised solution on the market today that can prevent sealed units from being forcibly removed. The Securi-Clip comprises of a baseplate, a clip to suit the sealed unit size, a profile related packer and a buffer to prevent contact between glass and clip. GT Window Products also manufacture the GT Stay Guard Elite (hinge protector), a simple yet effective method of enhancing window security.

It is manufactured from a high tensile steel and when fitted in conjunction with a friction stay will meet all relevant testing standards.

For more information visit www.gtwindowproducts.co.uk or call 01684 290944.

For more information visit www.ardenwindows.net or call 02476 632423.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0041

NEW VISAGE WEBSITE GENERATES SALES LEADS FOR INSTALLERS Leading trade fabricator Shepley has invested further in the comprehensive marketing support it offers to installers through its nationally recognised retail brand Visage, including a new website and free sales lead generation.

Visage has launched the new retail website to show the benefits of its REHAU products and offer useful advice to consumers. Homeowners

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can also search www.visageonline.co.uk to find a local installer, which will generate even more quality sales leads for installers.

Visage was one of the first retail brands established to support installers. Since then it has worked with customers nationwide to help them market their businesses locally and regionally and deliver Visage windows, doors and conservatories to homeowners. Visage showroom support and marketing materials including brochures and downloads are available to installers.

As well as the new Visage website and marketing support, Shepley also offers customers a comprehensive online information resource. www.Shepley.com features a composite door

designer and Customer Centre giving installers access to useful technical downloads, up to date Building Regulations and CE marking compliance. The Composite Door designer contains the complete Visage collection with 31 door styles and a huge range of glass including the popular Inox Glazing Options.

“We’ve designed the new Visage website to make it easy for homeowners to get information quickly and find local installers easily,” says Ian Griffiths, sales and marketing director for Shepley. “As well as offering marketing support to installers with the new Visage website and marketing tools, we’ll be keeping customers up to date with changing regulations, technical advice and new products through the new Shepley website.”

www.visageonline.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0042

March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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www.glassnews.co.uk | March 2014

21

WINDOWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

A sash window

for every budget

Recent winners of G-13 New Product of the Year award for their innovation the Ultimate Rose, Roseview Windows is a name associated with high-end sash windows. But there’s more to this specialist uPVC VS fabricator than meets the eye, says business development manager Richard Burrells. Glass News catches up with Richard to find out more!

Hi Richard, most people see Roseview as a highend VS fabricator, is this an accurate description?

Richard: Yes and no. Our work in designing and manufacturing uPVC windows suitable for heritage projects is a huge part of what we do, and we’re working hard to promote the benefits of high-end uPVC sash windows as an alternative

to timber to planning and conservation officers. However, the fact is, our Rose Collection has a window for any project, from top of the range sash windows to more cost-conscious, modern alternatives.

Can you tell us some more about the options available in the Rose Collection?

Richard: The Rose collection is made up of three windows, the Charisma Rose, Heritage Rose, and Ultimate Rose. The Heritage and Ultimate Rose and manufactured using the REHAU system and feature details such as a deep bottom rail, run-through horns, and mechanical joints to replicate the look of a traditional timber sash window. We truly believe the Ultimate Rose is the pinnacle of uPVC sash window design and it has gained industry recognition as the G-13 New Product of the Year.

The Charisma Rose is a simpler version of this, designed to offer the classic VS look but with all the features of modern uPVC. In this way it's more comparable to the windows offered by many other VS manufacturers and competes with those windows on an equal footing.

What are the features and benefits of the Charisma Rose?

Richard: Charisma Rose is fabricated using Eurocell profile and features a tilt in facility for easy cleaning. It’s available in a range of colours and foils including cream, white woodgrain and oak, and has decorative features such as astragal bars to enhance the classic sliding sash window appearance.

Importantly, it's available with our in-house run-through horn option.

It’s also 'A' rated as standard and has Secured by Design accreditation; both big selling points to today’s energy and security conscious consumers, and major factors when specifying windows for new-build applications.

What kind of markets is the Charisma Rose suited to?

Richard: The modern style of Charisma Rose makes it perfect for installation in newer properties. It can be used in the domestic market as a replacement for older timber windows or for commercial and new-build applications such as blocks of flats.

Business development manager Richard Burrells.

to are surprised to learn that we do offer a cost effective alternative.

It’s important to remember that although it’s a cheaper product, quality is never sacrificed. We take pride in what we do, regardless of if that’s getting the details just right on a Heritage or Ultimate Rose, or manufacturing a Charisma Rose to the highest level of quality.

It also means we can offer a range of products that appeal to variety of consumer tastes and budgets, providing even more opportunities for installers to win new business whether it’s through large scale new-build contacts or higher margin heritage sector installations.

For more information call Roseview on 01234 712 657 or visit www.roseview.co.uk.

With prices starting from £165, Charisma Rose is ideal if you’re tendering for jobs against vertical sliders from other profile companies, such as Spectus, Synseal, Halo and others.

Are people aware you offer the Charisma Rose?

The Charisma Rose.

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Richard: Roseview is a name associated with high-end quality products and it is fair say some potential customers we speak

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0044

March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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www.glassnews.co.uk | March 2014

23

WINDOWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

FRAME MAKER LEICESTER ADDS REHAU TO PRODUCT RANGE Frame Maker Leicester is the newest fabricator in the REHAU TOTAL70 system in Leicestershire and is targeting trade buyers who want a quality product combined with friendly, efficient service.

The company has taken the decision to start fabricating in REHAU in a move designed to win business from installers who appreciate the benefits of the REHAU brand.

Director John Buxton said: “There is always demand for frames in REHAU because of the renowned quality of the system and the power of the brand. We feel that it will give us access to a broader section of the market and provide the perfect platform for us to expand.

For customers in and around Leicester, we’re offering all the benefits of a REHAU window with the reassurance of local, friendly service.”

Frame Maker Leicester is fabricating in both the REHAU TOTAL70C chamfered including the five chamber profile options and REHAU TOTAL70S sculptured profiles, and offering a full range of coloured and foiled profiles. It is also supplying vertical sliders in the REHAU Heritage system. The company has invested in a new Stuga cutting and machining centre to enable it to increase its manufacturing volumes whilst also improving efficiency and it now has capacity for up to 200 frames per week with a fast turnaround.

Frame Maker Leicester has been established for more than 10 years, supplying trade customers around Leicestershire. John Buxton runs the business alongside his three sons and is reconnecting with REHAU after a long career fabricating and selling the profile.

He adds: “I know all the benefits of working with REHAU as a fabricator and I’m delighted to be working with them again. REHAU are providing us with valuable sales and marketing support and helping us to reach the trade customers in our area.” www.framemakerleicester.com

Rapid turnaround on coloured profiles helps Sheerframe achieve a record January Sheerframe, part of the Litchfield Group, is celebrating an excellent start to 2014.

Gary Doxey, Sheerframe’s Marketing Manager, says, “Our customers are seeing enquiries pick up and we’re finding that our rapid turnaround times are helping them close sales and manage their businesses better.”

A perfect example of this is in Sheerframe’s coloured profiles. While many in the industry have long lead times for coloured profiles, innovative internal management processes mean that Sheerframe’s coloured profiles are available on a rapid turnaround. Standard

coloured profiles, which include white woodgrain, rosewood, light oak, black, anthracite grey and cream, are available from stock. A 24 hour shift pattern helps get foiled orders out on a rapid turnaround and a similar commitment means that any colour from the Renolit spectrum is available on a competitive lead time too.

Gary Doxey says that the turnaround time on coloured profiles is simply common sense. “Colour has been big news in the industry for some time, but it’s only recently that homeowners have realised what it has to offer. If fabricators and installers are going to capitalise on this interest, it’s vital that they can install within a reasonable timeframe. Having coloured

profiles available from stock or on a short lead time helps them to do this.”

Sheerframe is a company that is renowned for its innovative approach, something that started when it became the first UK company to extrude PVC-U profiles in the 1980s. While it has blazed a trail in product innovation ever since, it’s clear that its innovative approach extends to customer care too. By creating internal processes that speed up the turnaround time on an increasingly popular product line, it’s helping its customers to grow their businesses. So it’s perhaps hardly surprising that it’s experienced such a strong start to 2014.

Tel: 01773 852311 www.sheerframe.co.uk

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0046

Dekko Window Systems

grow 40% in January Dekko Window Systems, the leading Cheshire based fabricator, has made a storming start to 2014 and recorded a 40% increase in sales this January compared to January 2013.

Sales of Dekko’s Residence 9 (R9), Deceuninck and Kömmerling windows and doors have all surged throughout January, continuing the company’s impressive growth trajectory.

Sales director Kurt Greatrex comments: “We had an extremely busy run up to Christmas and 2014 has started in a similar fashion.

We’ve had an influx of new business and at the same time existing customers have been ordering in greater quantities, all of which has contributed to our 40% growth.”

Sales of Dekko’s Deceuninck and Kömmerling windows have provided the bulk of the orders, but their fastest growing product is the

24

Residence 9 window. Dekko introduced the timber-look flush casement window from Eclectic Systems earlier in the year and demand for the product has rocketed in recent months.

“Consumers in the top end of the market are investing more than ever on home improvements and installers are moving towards higher value products like R9 as a result” Kurt comments.

“R9 looks exactly like a 19th century timber flush casement

but is made with a modern composite material. This means there’s no maintenance issues, it’s highly energy efficient and the cost is lower than timber – a powerful sales pitch for any retail window company. Momentum for R9 is growing and we are keen to team up with more likeminded installers and help them sell this product to the retail market.”

For more information contact Dekko on 01614060055 or visit www.dekkowindows.com.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0048

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www.glassnews.co.uk | March 2014

25

CONSERVATORY ROOF OPTIONS

TUFFX GAINS CLEAR CUT ADVANTAGES THROUGH 3RD BOTTERO INVESTMENT TuffX Processed Glass one of the UK’s leading specialist glass processors has recently invested in a new state-of-theart Bottero cutting line to cope with the increasing demand for products in the Ambience & Processed Glass range.

This is the third cutting line installed at TuffX during the last 2 years and has been integrated into the company’s modern 50,000 sq ft facility at Knowsley to further streamline production methods. The installation has already helped to increase output of the ever more popular AmbiMax Oversize units and will enable the company to further diversify its already well recognised specialist glass range.

Streamlining production and modernising the facility enables TuffX to have complete control over quality standards, increasing output levels and improving manufacturing methods where necessary to ensure customers receive a faster, improved service.

Substantial investment in Bottero equipment has been made since an initial cutting line was installed by TuffX in 1997. Since then a good relationship has been built up between the two companies over the years, as the reliability of the Bottero brand has proved excellent, helping to both improve output and maintain the highest production standards.

to the latest industry regulations. The installation enables TuffX to design stronger, more energy-efficient products that will complement the existing range of specialist glasses and will allow the company to set new standards for both the architectural and domestic markets.

Graham Price, comments, “This company has developed a reputation for excellence throughout the UK and with this installation we intend to further raise our standards.

We believe that as a market leader we must continuously evaluate the market and adapt production methods accordingly. This investment has been important in order to further establish the TuffX brand and substantiates our long standing business partnership with Bottero with further investment confirmed for 2014.

He concludes, “TuffX continues to lead the market in the glass processing sector and we expect to increase our range substantially over the next few months.”

For more information on the TuffX range of specialist glasses then please visit the websites www.tuffxprocessedglass.co.uk, www.ambiglass.co.uk or call 0845 3 400 200 to discuss your product needs.

With this latest installation, the TuffX team can now process a wider variety of products for more complicated projects, with a priority placed on supplying customers with only the best in terms of quality and product performance.

All products manufactured using the new Bottero system are guaranteed and conform

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0051

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Modplan prepares for the launch of a retro-fit conservatory roof with a

u value of just 0.18

Leading VEKA trade fabricator Modplan is preparing to launch its new Supa tiled roof. The roof has a host of benefits.

Homeowners will love the u value of 0.18, which will help make a conservatory much more thermally efficient.

Installers will love how easy it is to install and the fact there is no need to call in outside trades, avoiding project management headaches.

Heidi Sachs, Modplan’s Managing Director, said, “Our customers were telling us that more and more homeowners were becoming aware of the benefits of retro-fitting a solid conservatory roof. They were telling us that the key point for most homeowners was

how much more thermally efficient their conservatory would become. For us, it seemed obvious that the key to a best-selling roofing system would be one that offered exceptional levels of thermal efficiency that would help keep energy bills down.”

The Supa roof has been developed in-house at Modplan, drawing on the expertise of its research and development department.

The result is a roof that combines stunning technological advances with an elegant and sophisticated appearance.

The development of the roof is a perfect example of Modplan’s customer-facing ethos. The Supa roof has obvious appeal to homeowners, making it an attractive addition to any portfolio. Not only that, the fact that it is easy to fit and doesn’t need any outside trades will make it an excellent product that will add genuine value to installers’ bottom line.

For details of the new Supa roof, contact Modplan on 01495 246844.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0052

Pyramid open dedicated Guardian Roof factory Norwich-based trade fabricator Pyramid Windows has opened a new factory to manufacture their popular new product, the Guardian Warm Roof.

“This means we can easily meet both current demands and be prepared for future growth.”

Measuring 6,000 sq ft, the new factory is situated on the same trading estate as Pyramid’s main factory which continues to produce Synseal Shield and Synerjy windows and doors and Global conservatory and orangery roofs. Pyramid has invested in state-of-the-art machinery for the new factory to help keep up with demand for the Guardian Roof.

Importantly, the Guardian Warm Roof is the only solid tiled roof on the market that has full Local Authority Building Control Approval. Ian explains: “By working with our local authority, CNC Norfolk Local Authority, we’ve created a footpath to make it quick and easy for installers to gain approval on all Guardian projects. If the installation takes place in the Norfolk area we will notify CNC Norfolk Local Authority, who will sign it off once the installer has paid the £150 approval charge. If the installation takes place in another area, CNC will liaise with the relevant local authority on behalf of the installer, simplifying the approval process. Ultimately

“There’s a real buzz surrounding the Guardian Roof and to capitalise on this we took the initiative to acquire a factory dedicated solely to the production of this product,” comments Sales Director Ian Cowling.

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Pyramid is one of the first few fabricators to offer the Guardian Roof, a solid tiled roof designed for both the new-build and retrofit markets that removes common conservatory roof problems such as extremes of temperature and solar glare.

this means installers can spend more time concentrating on making money and less time dealing with red tape.”

This recent addition of Guardian follows a string of new products added to the Pyramid range in order to help installers adapt to an ever-changing market.

“We’re dedicated to helping installers win new business through ‘added-value’ products and have introduced the Global Summer Orangery and K2 Rio and Venetian Orangery Systems to our offering as part of this commitment.”

“The Guardian Warm Roof is an extension of this and we anticipate it’s going to be a big seller, particularly as we’re moving into the colder, winter months,” concludes Ian. For more information on the Guardian Roof call Pyramid Windows on 01603 615674 or visit www.pyramidwindows.co.uk.

Ian Cowling outside the original Pyramid factory.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0053

March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

CONSERVATORY ROOF OPTIONS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

STEVE’S ON CUE WITH GLAZERITE FOR FRAMES

CONSERVATORIES SHOWROOM LAUNCH

There was plenty to celebrate when Frames Conservatories Direct launched its new 150sqm showroom. The Bury St Edmunds installer was not only unveiling a bigger and fully refurbished facility but also marking its new membership of Network VEKA and the changeover to the VEKA range from leading fabricator Glazerite Windows Limited.

Network VEKA brand ambassador Steve Davis was on hand to play a few frames of pool with visitors and also dropped in to oversee an installation for surprised homeowners before going on to visit Bury St Edmunds Rugby Club, which the installer sponsors.

“The day was a great success,” said Managing Director Adrian Lewis, who officially opened the new showroom. “The visitors were very impressed with what they saw and we even took a number of orders on the day. We now have a much wider range of products on offer since making the change to VEKA and Glazerite, and this much bigger showroom has proved to be the ideal way to show them all in the best light.

“Steve Davis did a superb job, adding a touch of celebrity to the occasion and also emphasising to customers the importance of Network VEKA and what our membership means to them. For those who wanted more detail about its purpose and principles, Network VEKA’s Karen Lund was also on hand. VEKA and Network VEKA work hand-in-hand for us to give customers a quality product across the range along with insurance backed guarantees straight from the manufacturer.”

Chris Thompson of Glazerite Windows added: “Frames Conservatories Direct is an excellent operation and will do great things not only with our VEKA products but also the customer reassurance of Network VEKA. Adrian and his team have made the right choice in making the move and we will do all we can to support them in getting the very best out of it.”

The new showroom has three new conservatories, making ten in total; 45 doors and a wide range of window styles and finishes.

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www.glazeritewindows.co.uk

(From left to right) Karen Lund, Steve Davis, Adrian Lewis, and Glazerite's Chris Thompson at the Frames Conservatories Showroom launch.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0054

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27

CONSERVATORY ROOF OPTIONS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

FREEFOAM ANNOUNCE Under one

86% INCREASE IN WEB TRAFFIC roof with Freefoam, a leading manufacturer of a wide range of innovative products for the building industry in Ireland, the UK and Mainland Europe announce an 86% increase in traffic to its website. Following the development of a completely new site visitors to www. freefoam.com have increased significantly year on year from 2012 to 2013.

Freefoam has harnessed the power of a strong online presence, building a site that offers visitors a detailed breakdown of the full Freefoam product range alongside target audience focussed support material.

Architects, specifiers and house-builders are able to source a comprehensive range of literature, CAD drawings and technical support from the site whilst homeowners can easily research style and colour roofline options to make an informed decision.

Freefoam is a leading manufacturer of PVC-U and PVC-UE building products for roofline and rainwater applications including a wide range of fascias, soffits, rainwater systems, external cladding and interior decorative panelling.

Freefoam’s PVC products offer house builders, local authorities, developers and installers a low-maintenance alternative to conventional timber fascia and soffit.

In addition, Freefoam’s products are stylish, versatile and come in a large range of colours and designs to add style and definition to domestic and commercial buildings.

Louise Sanderson, UK Marketing Executive, explained “We made a strategic decision to increase our visibility online, and these figures show that our site is certainly raising our digital profile and bringing Freefoam to a wider audience. The site allows us to showcase our core range of fascia, soffit and rainwater systems, but we have also seen an increasing number of leads for our Fortex cladding and Geopanel interior panelling range.”

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ONLIN

OTHER: 3%

PUBLICAT E ION!

ARCHITECTS & SPECIFIERS: 34% (WE MAIL TO 17,000)

Tenders & Planning Approvals Construction & Building Projects

FABRICATORS & INSTALLERS: 28% (WE MAIL TO 14,000)

All Material Window, Door & Conservatory

Email for more information: christina@fenestrabuild.co.uk

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The conservatory glass roofing sector continues to attract consumer investments, as does replacement roofing for older conservatory roofs. Homeowners have grasped that problems previously associated with every day use can be eradicated thanks to high performance roof glass options.

Leading processed glass manufacturers, TuffX, believes that it has never been more important to consider the weather when Major Building Companies looking at conservatory design, as it has previously brought negative slants to the industry regarding noise disruption, leaks and Fabricators & Installers temperature control.

Evaluating the possibilities regarding climate Builders & Contractors change is an important part of research Public Sector and development for the TuffX team, as Retail Developments Architects & Specifiers extremes brought by violent storms and summers of drought will undoubtedly, over time, affect product design and standards.

Renovation and new build projects are BUILDERS & CONTRACTORS: 26% (WE MAIL TO 13,000) escalating as design concepts specifying New Build varying coloured glass tints are growing and (Commercial & Residential Developments) becoming widespread, with skylights as well Extensions as glass roofed orangeries and conservatories Renovation & Refurbs frequently included.

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By manufacturing all roofing systems inhouse, Modplan has complete control over the quality of the roof and the dedicated service they can offer customers.

If this was not enough, Modplan is preparing to launch its new Supa tiled roof. The roof has a host of benefits. Homeowners will love the 0.18 u-value, which will help make a conservatory much more thermally efficient. Installers will love how easy it is to install and the fact there is no need to call in outside trades, avoiding project management headaches.

Managing Director of Modplan, Heidi Sachs said of the comprehensive roof range, “We have dedicated an entire factory to fabricating our roofs. This helps us streamline our operations and give us manufacturing efficiencies that helps us keep our prices competitive. We listen to our customers and realise that giving them a wide choice of conservatory roof systems allows them to compete at any level.”

Tel: 01495 246844 www.modplan.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0058

TUFFX TACKLES THE STORMS

Other

Property Developers Major Property Maintenance

Their ever popular Vertex roofing system together with the Vertex tiled effect roof has outstripped sales targets since before Christmas, a trend that is set to continue due to the host of benefits the roof can offer. The tile effect roof is perfect for homeowners who want the benefits of a traditional extension without the associated cost or upheaval. And because it can be retro-fitted, it is also perfect for homeowners struggling with a conservatory that’s too difficult to heat or impossible to keep cool.

The company’s Wendland roof offering is just as popular as ever with its highly configurable roofing system suitable for use on all of Modplan’s conservatories.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0057

MAJOR BUILDING COMPANIES: 9% House Builders

Leading VEKA trade fabricator, Modplan, offers one of the widest range of quality window and door products in the industry.

Their impressive portfoilio of fenestration products also extends to conservatory roofs where the company manufactures four roofing systems from their dedicated roofing plant in Newport, Gwent.

For a lot of their customers the K2 conservatory roof has fast become popular due to its range of options making it appealing to homeowners.

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Social Housing

Andrew Hayes, Sales Manager at TuffX believes the popularity of triple glazing will also increase significantly due to thermal insulation and sound reduction benefits it offers. Payback for high performance triple glazed units will be fast and this will be a major selling point for installers. The TuffX

team also feels that for triple glazed roofing, then design and engineering aspects will have to be brought even more into focus.

Andrew Hayes comments, “Designers and installers could become restricted, as not all manufacturers can produce oversized glazed units which could lead to problems regarding the choice of triple glazing. Ambi-Max is one of our most popular glass roofing options due to the eradication of muntin bar problems and the stunning affect that supersize units have on a finished project.

Our customers can rest assured, that our capability to produce triple glazed Ambi-Max units in any colour will help boost business potential and not restrict design concepts.”

For more information on the range of high performance roof glass options available in the Ambience range from TuffX please visit the website, www.ambiglass.co.uk or call 0845 3 400 200.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0060

March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

CONSERVATORY ROOF OPTIONS

Roof Assured by Sarnafil joins the team

at Sika National Sales Conference 2014 Roof Assured team members joined sales, marketing and technical personnel across the whole of the Sika UK business at the National Sales Conference, 2014.

The event was hosted by Ivo Schaedler, General Manager, Sika UK and this year the Group’s new acquisition, Everbuild, the UK’s leading sealant, adhesive and building chemical brand, was also in attendance.

The entire Sika UK team is widely spread geographically so the Conference is an opportunity to bring individuals together to see the plans for the year and learn more about the different products in the business’ other target markets.

Some soundbites from the Roof Assured

by Sarnafil team: Bob Newall, Business Development Executive; “The annual conference is very rewarding. Apart from the learning and updates on other Sika brands the atmosphere is always electric. It’s a great chance to catch up with rarely seen colleagues

and swap info. Superb conference, best yet in my 11 years’ service!”

Tony Poole, Business Development Executive: “Professionally and personally it was a great

opportunity to meet other people from within the Sika Group and get an an idea of how vast and diverse the product mix is. It was also nice to catch up with our own business unit colleagues.”

“The entire Sika UK team is widely spread geographically so the Conference is an opportunity to bring individuals together to see the plans for the year and learn more about the different products in the business’ other target markets.”

Roof Assured Sarnafil is part of the market leading Sika Sarnafil brand, a single ply roofing membrane business owned by Sika.

Renowned for leading the field in speciality chemicals for construction and industry, Sika is present in 76 countries worldwide.

Besides roofing the company provides a whole range of products from the basement to the roof, including solutions for flooring, refurbishment, and concrete admixtures.

Read more about Roof Assured by Sarnafil www.roofassured.co.uk. @Roof Assured READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0061

0314/0062

www.glassnews.co.uk | March 2014

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CONSERVATORY ROOF OPTIONS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Liniar Zoom to launch in March

Liniar Zoom, the innovative conservatory roof from Liniar, is preparing for its official launch in March at the Liniar customer open day. Customers will have the chance to see the roof and exciting new developments in a handson demo at Liniar’s impressive showroom in Derbyshire.

Liniar Zoom will also reveal its new thermally-efficient twin wall Top Cap along with a new Box Gutter and a host of other innovative concepts. Liniar’s dedicated Design and Development team are finalising even more new products to launch later this year.

Roger Hartshorn, Liniar Managing Director says: “We’re looking forward to Liniar Zoom’s launch in March. From the number of customers registered we already know it will be a big event. We have exciting new products and we’ll be telling Liniar customers about future developments. It’s been a busy few months at Liniar Zoom – we have a new factory, new staff, new products, new marketing materials and new delivery vehicles

We’re sure once our customers see it, they will want to sell it. Liniar Zoom is now part of the Liniar family and fully integrates with Liniar’s range of thermally-efficient windows, doors and bi-fold doors.

so everything’s in place for the launch. Liniar Zoom is a fantastic conservatory roof – it’s easy to install with patented solutions to problems like leaks and glazing slip. We’re sure once our customers see it, they will want to sell it. Liniar Zoom is now part of the Liniar family and fully integrates with Liniar’s range of thermally-efficient windows, doors and bi-fold doors.”

“We’ve colour-matched our conservatory too, so Liniar colours are available across our whole range, making Liniar a one-stop-shop for windows, doors, bi-folds and conservatories.”

Liniar customers should respond to their open day invitation as soon as possible as places are filling up fast.

Find out more about the roof by visiting www.zoomroom.co.uk and follow Liniar Zoom on Twitter @liniarzoom.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0063

0314/0064

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March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0314/0065

www.glassnews.co.uk | March 2014

31

GLASS

HARDWARE

Inagas

launches the Interfill range Inagas, the industry leaders in the supply of gas filling machinery and testing equipment, is pleased to announce the launch of a brand new range of machinery to provide IGU manufacturers with the very latest in gas filling solutions: Interfill and Interfill KX.

New high performance

warm edge spacer

available to UK market Technoform Glass Insulation, global leaders in warm edge technology, has announced their new bendable warm edge spacer, the TGI®-Spacer M, is available to the UK market in all sizes (from 8mm to 24mm) and colours.

Utilising the latest touch screen technology which allows the operator complete control over the gas filling process, the range also has a visual indication of the gas filling process, an overfill timer function, adjustable gas fill percentages, a unit counter, a low gas supply alert, a help menu and a remote foot pedal control.

The product is already popular with many of the leading European IGU manufacturers, who choose the product because of its excellent thermal performance and easy processing. Companies in the UK are now able to enjoy these same benefits.

Inagas Director Chris Kemp provides some more information: “We have been working very hard over the last year to develop our new Interfill range of gas filling machinery.

The Interfill is a compact, 30 litre a minute machine which is capable of either one or two-hole Argon gas filling. It offers the majority of the benefits provided by our popular Smartfill range, but at a price which places it as the most affordable 30-minute machine on the market.

The TGI®-Spacer M is a truly cutting edge warm edge system and offers numerous benefits to manufacturers and end users alike. It was created following intensive product development at our project place in Germany and offers a number of significant improvements including:

“The Interfill KX model provides the additional advantage of variable vacuum and flow rate control, which means it is also ideal for gas filling with Krypton, Xenon or even mixed gases. Machinery in the Interfill range is also small and light for maximum portability, should you require it.

It’s easier to process: The new TGI®-Spacer M incorporates wires for extra rigidity, making it less likely to bend out of shape when being handled. As well as the added wires, the profile itself has been re-developed to offer greater stability. The spacer can be processed on all standard bending machines, meaning there is no need for investment in new machinery.

“We will continue to invest time and effort into ensuring we offer the market the very latest technology and next generation solutions. With a gas filling solution to satisfy every level of production, we can offer a healthy balance of cost effectiveness with the kind of operational and energy efficiency the market demands. For a reasonable initial investment, you can be assured that you have a solution that will not only meet today’s requirement, but which can also be adapted to meet future market requirements, leaving you ready for whatever the industry may throw at you in the future.”

It’s more suited to triple glazing: With triple glazing, it is sometimes hard to guarantee an even sightline, i.e. to ensure there is no silver coloured metal showing between the butyl and the coloured top of a spacer. The new TGI®- Spacer M has a better sightline, meaning it is easier to align the two spacers and achieve the desired aesthetic.

For more information on gas filling machinery or any other products from Inagas, visit www.inagas.co.uk or call 01442 832764.

It offers lower material costs for the IGU manufacturer: Thanks to the dimensions of the TGI®-M Spacer there is no need to use as much secondary sealant, saving material costs.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0066

32

KENRICK & CARL F GROUPCO GO BESPOKE Leading hardware supplier Kenrick has joined forces with Carl F Groupco, one of the UK’s largest distributors of quality window fittings, to create a bespoke hardware solution for the Peder Nielsen reversible window system.

The special version of Kenrick’s Interceptor high security locking system is the result of six months intensive work to develop a system that would suit the unique profile of the Peder Nielsen window and achieve PAS 24:2012 to meet Secured by Design requirements.

The new product incorporates a specially developed 11.5mm high mushroom cam to fit the profile and provide optimal performance on the window, which is particularly popular in social housing and multi-storey buildings.

Richard Duncan, Director at Carl F Groupco, said: “We have been working with Kenrick for more than a decade now and have a great deal of confidence in the quality of their products and service. We had no hesitation in approaching them to develop this tailor made solution which comfortably passed all the required security tests both in-house at Kenrick and at an accredited UK test house.”

Steve Jones, Managing Director at Kenrick, said: “We were very pleased to collaborate with Carl F Groupco and develop this bespoke version of Interceptor. Its launch underlines our commitment to develop new and innovative hardware solutions for the market, which provide the very best in performance, security and convenience for the end user.”

Secured by Design approved, Interceptor comes with a 10 year mechanical guarantee and has been successfully tested to more than 100,000 operations of opening and closing the window. It also provides more than 240 hours of intense salt based corrosion testing to exceed the requirements of BS7412.

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 multipoint window shootbolt are extremely cost effective and easy to install.

Glass units have a longer life: The new dimensions also allow for increased desiccant fill. This means more moisture will be absorbed and the glass unit will perform better for longer.

For more information call Technoform Glass Insulation on 0121 506 9740.

Multi Point Locks

The Interfill from Inagas.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0067

What's the connection between Torvill and Dean, Ginger Rodgers and Fred Astaire or Simon and Garfunkel. They all worked in perfect harmony with each other. The strength of each one re-inforced and complimented the strength of the other to create an unbeatable and mesmerising combination.

After 17 years in the business, UAP have partnered with MPL specialist Fullex to distribute the Fullex range of locks and accessories under UAP's TL brand.

David Jennings of UAP explains, "we offer almost the complete door solution at UAP, but we have always stayed away from the door lock. But as our business has grown we wanted to offer our customers more of a complete package, and so we have been looking at various MPL options. In the end we decided on the Fullex range due to their superb quality, excellent performance, ease of fit and technical back up."

The Fullex range of locks ties in beautifully with UAP's range of door hardware, cylinder locks, and handles. David says "it is almost the perfect marriage. We bring to the table a fantastic range of hardware, and it is now almost completed with the Fullex range of locks for either uPVC or Composite doors."

Over the last 12 months UAP have been expanding its field sales support and now have Regional Managers in Scotland, The North, Ireland, The South and the Midlands and they are back up by a strong internal sales team at Head Office.

"Now we can offer our customers face to face support on all our products, including on the Fullex locks using our technical team.

The team can arrange demonstrations, fit ups and advice on any aspect of the locks and products we sell".

So the UAP Fullex combination is another perfect partnership and one that will give all our customers the day to day support they need, and the technical back up and quality product they demand.

For more information on the MPL locks we now supply, contact a member of our sales team on 0161 796 7268, or email us at sales@ uapcorporate.com.

Tel: 0121 553 2741 – www.kenricks.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0068

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0069

March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0314/0070

0314/0071

Fit Lift Lock Repeat ProSecure multipoint door lock & keep Over 25,000 UK installations with zero failures

Reliability & simplicity | It’s in our DNA

Email prosecure@mila.co.uk for a brochure

www.glassnews.co.uk | March 2014

33

HARDWARE

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

MPL joins forces

with Anvil Locksmiths to deliver City & Guilds MPL has joined forces with Anvil Locksmiths to enable it to provide City and Guilds level 3 locksmith training.

It is a major coup for the company, adding to its growing reputation as a leading training provider to the locksmithing sector.

Managing Director Graham Jones takes up the story “It is a great boost for us in our aim of becoming the leading supplier of locksmith training throughout the UK.”

Four levels of protection with new Brisant D Cylinder The latest addition to MPL’s industry leading range of products is the new Brisant D cylinder offering four great levels of security. The new cylinder offers anti snap, anti pick, anti drill, and anti bump protection making it amongst the highest security products on the market.

It is the latest product to be added to the MPL range which includes over 250 types of multi point locks for the replacement and repair market available throughout the UK on a next day delivery service.

“There is no more recognisable brand than that of City and Guilds. It is recognised the world over, in fact the training course we are providing is accepted in over 120 countries as a part of entry requirements.”

“It is a great opportunity for anybody interested in the art of becoming a locksmith to gain such a prestigious qualification.”

“Candidates need not have any previous experience, we will take them through everything from lock recognition, an understanding of the tools they need to carry out the work, and of course all the entry techniques they need to learn.”

“At the end of the course as well as having a fantastic qualification they also benefit from the support of our 24/7 helpline and each of them gets a locksmith’s ‘bible’ worth over £150.”

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Interest in MPL Approved Stockist model continues to grow The interest in becoming an MPL Approved Stockist continues to grow and the company is still actively looking to recruit interested parties. Becoming an MPL stockist is the most exciting, the most cost effective, and the most profitable opportunity in the market at the minute.

The replacement lock market is one of the fastest growing sectors in the industry The replacement lock market is one of the fastest growing sectors in the industry. At their existing trade counters and via their internet sales MPL continues to see a rapidly rising trend towards people needing to replace their door and window hardware due to failure and breakdown of the original components. This shouldn’t surprise us, the industry is

now in a mature phase, and door and window hardware was never designed to have a lifetime guarantee.

The big thing for MPL is to have as many locally based outlets as possible It is for these reasons that MPL has developed its Approved Stockist model.

If you are the owner of existing premises and want to increase your profitability then you should be talking to them. Your only investment is in stock, and they will

do the rest. The market is already created, it is the natural next phase of an industry which has been going for 30+ years, and becoming an MPL Approved

Stockist will give you a profitable business stream for many years to come.

For a prospectus get in touch!

Tel: 01924 360444 Email: graham@multipointlocks.co.uk www.multipointlocks.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0072

March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

A.T.B. Systems take on

SOFTWARE

FocusPro Software

Giles Hayhurst created Bradley Giles Ltd when he sold Windowlink nearly a year ago.

The new company specialises in setting up and maintaining Windowlink software – the main products being Focus for windows and doors, and Vector for conservatories.

In addition to the popular sales presentation software, over the last year or so, FocusPRO has been developed to cater for manufacturers as well. “Any small to medium company manufacturing PVCu, aluminium or timber should take a good look at FocusPRO”, commented Giles, “I’ve set up the program at A.T.B. Systems who are a large company manufacturing commercial aluminium products for a variety of applications.

Their program covers over twenty different products including eight different door systems – this clearly demonstrates the flexibility of FocusPRO”. At the other end of the spectrum, Giles has supplied FocusPRO to small PVCu manufacturers through Selecta and Duraflex and is keen to do business with other systems companies.

The company very much concentrates on personal service and strives to keep customer numbers down to a level where service isn’t compromised.

“As an approved distributor we service existing Windowlink customers as well as supplying new ones”, said Giles, “and the size of our customers can be anything from a one-man band to larger companies with six or seven sales representatives”.

With the new FocusPRO manufacturing capability, it now means that all company activity from sale, survey and manufacture can be dealt with by one program and thus reducing the likelihood of mistakes.

The factory at A.T.B. Systems.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0073 0314/0074

www.glassnews.co.uk | March 2014

35

IN PROFILE

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Mr D’Arcy

comes to Ross-on-Wye

Chatsworth Windows is the 2013 REHAU Authorised Partner Scheme Fabricator and Installer of the Year.

Like Wilmslow Glass, the Northallerton based business has made much of its winner’s status, displaying the logo on its vans, website and all its paperwork.

Mark Griffiths, Sales and Marketing Manager says that, four years on from the launch, the value of the scheme is actually increasing as more consumers turn to the internet to research windows and doors before they make a purchase.

“Visiting the impressive REHAU headquarters at Hill Court Manor, Ross on Wye, is a treat all by itself ”, says Glass News’ Editor, Chris Champion.

He says: “The www.rehauhome.co.uk website scores well in terms of SEO and our experience shows that online home improvement forums often direct consumers towards REHAU because they have such a strong brand and reputation.”

“As a large regional business, we have a strong brand of our own, but the growth in online browsing means that we still benefit considerably from our association with REHAU. Our presence on www. rehauhome.co.uk complements our own website and marketing activity and it’s good to see REHAU investing in things like the mobile website to continually improve the scheme.”

Dating from 1700, this delightful pile makes you want to arrive in a coach and four, ready for a country weekend of hunting, shooting and fishing. Personally, I think I’d make a great Mr D’Arcy. This thought may, however, be peculiar to me alone.

Purchased in 1994 and renovated to be a magnificent head office for the UK, the REHAU team moved in 1995 and it’s no surprise that either the REHAU staff join and leave very quickly, finding they are not in the REHAU mould, or stay with the company for ever. There are lots of 10 and 15 year services and many of 25 years and more. And it can’t be just Hill Court that persuades them to stay.

It’s clear in talking to the staff that the REHAU way of ‘doing things right’ has a lot to do with it. There are no half measures with this company: it has to be meticulously researched, designed, manufactured and tested... and even that is an over simplification. Just to go into the workshop and testing centre next door to the showroom, (perhaps a show hall would be a better description), tells you all you need to know about how REHAU thinks. Quite simply,

TESTIMONIAL: CHATSWORTH WINDOWS

any fabricator would be delighted with what this workshop and test centre offers.

All this is of great benefit to REHAU’s customers because quality products continue to be designed, manufactured and tested and brought to market with quality print and advertising. And the advertising in the quality ‘coffee table’ magazines has increased the awareness of the REHAU brand during a sustained 3 year campaign, helping REHAU’s fabricators and their installers increase their sales to the consumer. What is even more significant for the fabricator customers is the impressive partner scheme that is available to them. In line with the maxim of ‘REHAU do things right’, this partner scheme is

“It’s clear in talking to the staff that the REHAU way of ‘doing things right’ has a lot to do with it. There are no half measures with this company: it has to be meticulously researched, designed, manufactured and tested... and even that is an over simplification.” completely free of charge. There’s no being allowed a certain number of brochures if you buy x amount of product....this is a partner scheme that’s designed to help the fabricator and their installers to sell and to encourage them in every way possible.

With more and more use of mobile phones, as opposed to desk bound computers, REHAU’s mobile app for their website is excellent providing ease of access for homeowners, and generating record numbers of visits.

Add to this a new customer video that is cleverly designed to promote product, while providing a reassurance to the homeowner that installation is efficient and unobtrusive, and REHAU is providing all the tools to help their customers sell. There’s none of this awkwardness about listing your installers on your website in case your competitors see who they are.

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March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

IN PROFILE

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

TESTIMONIAL: WILMSLOW GLASS

Wilmslow Glass is the 2013 REHAU Authorised Partner scheme Installer of the Year, having scored the highest customer satisfaction ratings.

The company also won the award in 2010 and 2011, so there can be no doubt that Wilmslow Glass is a huge supporter of the scheme.

Managing Director Warren Thompson says: “The great attraction for us in the REHAU scheme is that it levels the playing field for smaller businesses. We all have our own listings on the www. rehauhome.co.uk website and all of the benefits of the scheme are available free to every member – regardless of their size or marketing budget.”

“When we sell to consumers and increasingly to developers and property management companies, we are able to promote all the advantages we can offer as a small, family business but with the backing of a huge global brand. We make sure that we use the Authorised Partner logo on all of our quotations and customer communications and of course our Installer of the Year award has pride of place on our website and in our new showroom.”

Wilmslow Glass does all it can to maximise the benefits of the Authorised Partner scheme and Warren believes that this proactive approach pays dividends.

He adds: “The scheme has great potential but only if you make the most of it. We keep our listing up to date on www. rehauhome.co.uk and we stay closely in touch with REHAU so that we always know what new features are being added to the scheme.”

Window Business Team Manager, Chris Tudgay’s reaction is...

“Why would we worry about that? We’re far more concerned that homeowners can find a suitable installer.

The homeowner wants to find the REHAU installer closest to them and our website allows them to do just that.”

It displays a confidence, but not an arrogance.

Quite simply it says that REHAU is confident that its products and positioning in the marketplace is right and they’re content that their customers will stay with them despite efforts from competitors.

Warren Thompson.

www.glassnews.co.uk | March 2014

It’s easy to forget just how big REHAU is. As a leading systems and service provider for polymer based solutions in so many walks of life, it’s very likely that your car boasts a bumper made by REHAU!

With 17,000 employees in 170 locations around the world, this 60 year old, and family owned company, could easily be just another faceless multi-national. This is most definitely not the case. The Wagner family are still very much in control of the company’s direction and ethos. It feels like a very successful family owned company... which, of course, it is. But you could be forgiven for thinking that you are the only customer, or the only journalist, that is important to them and it is this that shines through from their employees.

Everything the company does is meticulous in its execution but in a friendly and pleasant way. It’s hard to describe, but spending some time at REHAU lets you understand why they have longstanding staff and customers.

They’re nice people to deal with.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0075

37

TRIPLE GLAZING QUESTION

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Trojan Group to provide expertise at

Everest Home Improvements Joins The Triple Glazing Question

Triple Glazing Question

The Trojan Group has announced it will be one of the exhibitors in the Expert Arena at the Triple Glazing Question to be held at Coventry’s Ricoh Arena on 10 April 2014.

Those from the industry who have registered for the event can visit the Arena to ask advice on how they may be affected by the various issues raised by triple glazing; discuss ways that they might meet the challenges and how they can make the most of the opportunities it could bring.

Tony Chadwick, Trojan’s Group Managing Director said, “Triple glazing is gaining increasing traction as a concept, but fully embracing it will require fundamental changes for everyone in the industry. The Triple Glazing Question is the perfect opportunity to look at triple glazing and what it means for us as an industry.” He adds, “Here at Trojan, we’ve been developing products that are triple-glazing compatible for a number

of years now and I’m delighted that we’ll be taking part in the Triple Glazing Question and sharing our expertise.”

Andy Jones, Managing Director of Edgetech (UK) Ltd, the company organising the Triple Glazing Question added, “We are delighted that Trojan will be joining the debate. Companies like Trojan bringing their expertise and products to the event will make the day worthwhile for fabricators and installers alike.”

Products on the Trojan stand at the debate will include its Mega Egress hinge. One of the impacts of triple glazing is the need for heavier duty hardware able to cope with the additional weight of the units.

The hinge can be used on all side hung applications up to a maximum sash width of 900mm but more importantly it can carry up to 40kg, making it ideal for all heavy duty applications, including triple glazed windows.

Its unique patented design means it is a true egress hinge with unrestricted full 90 degree opening and also achieves high security (PAS 24 as part of a window system) and excellent compression characteristics.

It is intelligently-designed multi-purpose products such as the Mega Egress that cater for both double and triple glazed units without tying up excessive capital in stock that demonstrate why Trojan has been invited to be part of the Expert Arena.

To book your free place at the debate and hear from experts including Trojan go to www. tripleglazingq.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0076

The Consultancy opens debate on triple glazing question Web specialist The Consultancy is helping to further the debate around triple glazing after teaming up with leading component supplier Edgetech UK.

Richie Thornton, Director at The Consultancy, said: “The triple glazing question is a hot issue within the industry and it’s not something that is not going away.”

The Consultancy has helped to develop an online forum called ‘The Triple Glazing Question’ to encourage discussion and address issues around triple glazing from within the windows and doors industry.

“We are delighted to be working with Edgetech again having redesigned their website in 2012. We have had a strong working relationship with the company over many years and it’s exciting to be part of something that could change the face of the industry for many years to come.”

The site has been launched ahead of Edgetech UK’s Triple Glazing Question conference which takes place at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry on April 10.

“Edgetech UK want to further the debate and asked us to design and develop a website which will help individuals and companies get involved with the triple glazing question.”

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“Edgetech UK want to further the debate and asked us to design and develop a website which will help individuals and companies get involved with the triple glazing question.”

The Consultancy, which has more than 10 years’ experience developing websites and design software for window and doors manufacturers, launched www.tripleglazingq.co.uk on behalf of Edgetech UK at the start of the year.

The website highlights the latest news and developments around triple glazing, provides information about April’s event and includes an online forum for discussion and debate.

Charlotte Davies, Marketing Coordinator with Edgetech UK, said: “The whole idea behind The Triple Glazing Question is to give people within the industry a chance to have their say in an open forum and further the debate. The more we talk about triple glazing, the more questions are asked about the implications for the industry.

One of the UK’s largest retailers of windows, doors and conservatories – Everest Home Improvements – will be taking part in the industry debate, The Triple Glazing Question, on 10 April at the Ricoh Arena.

Hosted by Andy Jones, managing Director of Edgetech UK, the company was invited to participate following the launch of their triple glazing marketing campaign.

Andy comments: “The Triple Glazing Question is about bringing the industry together to discuss the issues around triple glazing.”

“As the first major player in the market to introduce it we are really looking forward to hearing what Everest brings to the debate.”

Chris Carter, Head of Product Marketing at Everest, says: “There's an appetite for triple glazing and it's important to us to bring consumer led innovation to this market place.”

“We are already seeing what benefits triple glazing can bring for our customers – including better thermal performance – and we think it is crucial that the industry unites and works together on this issue. Customers are worried about heating bills as energy prices continue to rise and this is where triple glazing comes to the fore.”

“It has been great to be working with The Consultancy again– they are a website specialist that understands the windows and doors industry inside out and I’m delighted to have them as a key partner on this project.”

For more information, visit www.theconsultancy.co.uk or call 01429 239689.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0077

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0078

March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

TRIPLE GLAZING QUESTION

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Synseal joins Triple Glazing Question as a stakeholder

Build Check enters THE

Expert Arena

Build Check, industry experts for testing and certification services in the construction and fenestration industries, is a stakeholder and joins the ‘Expert Arena’ at The Triple Glazing Question.

Stakeholders are an important part of the Triple Glazing Question Live debate at the Ricoh Arena on 10 April 2014.

As part of the event at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry on Thursday 10 April, Triple Glazing Question stakeholders and press partners will have exhibition booths in the Expert Arena where guests will have a chance to continue the debate and get further one-toone advice from the industry.

Guests visiting Build Check in the Expert Arena can ask for advice on CE Marking and energy rating simulations for Windows and Doors. They can also calculate the U-Value performance of both double glazing and triple glazing using Build Check Publication’s online fenestration resource, The Oracle.

Richard Bate, Technical Director at Build Check says: “Both installers and consumers need the right thermal performance information to make a decision on whether to choose triple glazing or double glazing so we’ll be available to speak with customers and Triple Glazing Question guests at the event. We’re already seeing that more subscribers are using The Oracle to calculate U-Values for triple glazing which shows there is a growing demand for information. It will be interesting to hear what the industry has to say on the day.”

The Triple Glazing Question, hosted by Edgetech UK, is an open discussion about what it means to systems companies, fabricators, installers, glass manufacturers and hardware companies. To be part of the debate and meet Build Check in the Expert Arena, log onto www.tripleglazingq.co.uk to book free places at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry on Thursday 10 April.

Tel: 01494 452713 – www.buildcheck.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0079

The debate is strengthened by companies with high levels of expertise. Synseal will be on hand to answer questions in the Expert Arena during day and here Head of Marketing Mark Schlotel talks about why it’s important for Synseal to be involved: “At Synseal, we were very happy to get involved to support the Triple Glazing Question as a stakeholder because it is clear that as a general trend specifiers are increasingly evaluating triple glazing design options. The principal driver is of course energy efficiency but a key consideration is return on investment over a product’s lifespan – how many times will the energy savings gained deliver payback to offset the greater installed cost?

“The anticipated rise of triple glazing in part reflects glass industry marketing activity in continental Europe and now thanks to a TV ad campaign from a major UK retailer, consumer awareness in our own back yard is growing too. Some of our Synseal customers successfully market triple glazing directly to

British homeowners on the “3 is better than 2” platform. Our approach at Synseal is to de-mystify the whole debate and offer effective triple glazing solutions capable of delivering A+ WER performance with U-values as low as 0.7W/m2K, whatever the 70mm PVC-U system. Our SynerJy sculptured system can be bead glazed with 36mm triple glass, whilst our Shield and Legend systems can accommodate 40mm triple glass units. With insulated glass units manufactured in-house by Global Glass, our own in-house sealed glass making division, we aim to provide comprehensive customer support with a turnkey solution.”

To join the debate and meet with experts including Synseal go to www.tripleglazingq. co.uk to book a FREE place at the Triple Glazing Question live debate.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0080

0314/0081

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Email: sales@bisonframes.co.uk www.glassnews.co.uk | March 2014

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Open up a whole new world New Wave Slide & Swing Doors maufactured by BISON Visit our website: www.bisonframes.co.uk

39

MACHINERY

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Promac Partners with FOM Haffner & Murat: looking Promac, the industry’s leading supplier of machinery, service, spares and tools can now announce its exclusive partnership with established manufacturer FOM, to extend its range of aluminium machinery. Joe Hague, Group Managing Director of Promac comments: “Promac has exclusive rights to sell FOM’s entire range of aluminium machinery.

“FOM’s high end machinery for windows, doors and curtain walling provides an excellent synergy with the Promac ethos of supplying competitively priced, reliable machinery that makes a tangible difference to productivity and therefore the bottom line.

“Promac has always had a strong presence in the aluminium sector when it comes to CNC and mitre saws, but partnering with FOM truly gives us one of the widest ranges of machinery in the sector. So from manual routing and crimping, right up to hyper accurate multi axis CNC, we can offer fabricators precision engineering capabilities.

“FOM is an established machinery manufacturer with a background in the aerospace industry, so it understands the importance of high accuracy and reliability. It has built a reputation for quality and value for money, which Promac is proud to pass on to its customers.”

For more information about the range of FOM machinery now available from Promac visit www.promac.co.uk or call 01788 577 577.

forward to the FIT Show

Last year’s inaugural FIT Show was an industry triumph and we are already looking forward to this year’s show. One company beginning to make plans for this year’s show is Haffner and Murat.

Dave Thomas, the company’s Managing Director, said, “The FIT Show is a great place to showcase bestsellers and launch new products and that’s exactly what we’ll be doing once again.”

Dave is promising that the Haffner and Murat stand will have plenty to attract visitors to the show. The centrepieces of the stand will be

the SBA-2 machining centre and the SMR-4 welder. The SBA-2 has seen unprecedented sales in the past year while the SMR-4 has exceeded all sales expectations since its launch in 2013. Dave says, “Both machines offer fabricators quantum leap improvements in terms of efficiency and quality and we’re looking forward to demonstrating this.”

Alongside these best sellers will be a new range of aluminium fabrication machinery that Haffner and Murat is just about to launch.

Dave says, “I’m very excited about showing the range at the FIT Show. I can’t say too much more at the moment, but the new range has the same reputation for reliability and quality as we do and the machines will be a perfect complement to the Haffner and Murat ranges.”

Finally, no show would be complete without a special offer and Haffner and Murat’s stand will be no different. Selected machines ordered at the show will come with interest free credit, subject to status, over two years, a great incentive to invest in a machine that has the capacity to revolutionise a business.

Haffner and Murat will be on Stand 272 at the FIT Show where a warm welcome is guaranteed.

“It has built a reputation for quality and value for money.”

Tel: 01785 222421 READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0082

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0083

Join the best Technical Surveyors - Windows, Doors and Conservatories Salary: £55,000 OTE per annum • Locations throughout the UK Everest is renowned for having the finest products, delivering the highest standard of customer service, and rewarding our Surveyors with the highest productivity bonus rates in the market.

As you would expect the above factors have seen our business grow from strength to strength, therefore an exciting career opportunities have opened for Technical Surveyors to join our high performing windows, doors and conservatories team.

The desired candidates must have relevant previous experience, having come ideally from a windows, doors or conservatories background.

We are looking for:• Candidates with a high attention to detail • Ability to make the sometimes detailed information easy for others to understand • Similar surveying experience with an excellent knowledge of construction processes In return you will receive:• A fully supported professional development programme • A fully expensed company vehicle with fuel card • OTE that will see you match your income aspirations

Interested? Please email your CV to holly.richards@everest.co.uk. All applicants will be treated in strict confidence. No agencies please.

0314/0084

0314/0085

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March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

Spares, parts & Consumables

Need a replacement part in a hurry?

Looking for 24/7 support ensuring downtime is kept to a minimum?

Need a supplier with a ‘can do’ flexible approach that you can trust?

Productive and profitable manufacturing relies on machinery that is running. Promac go the extra mile to make sure customers receive genuine approved replacement parts - all backed by manufacturer guarantee - quickly and efficiently to ensure downtime is kept to a minimum. Promac is focused on giving customers what they need.

As a key partner in the supply chain, Promac bridges the style, language and cultural gap between international and UK manufacturers and their fabricator and IGU customers, consistently adding reliability and value through expert advice and technical support.

For more information call Promac today on 01788 577577.

PROMAC, where good just got better

WE’VE BEEN AND WE’RE GOING AGAIN THE INTERNATIONAL CENTRE TELFORD

10-12 June 2014 | www.fitshow.co.uk

Hall 1 Stand 144

www.promac.co.uk

3c Hadrians Way, Glebe Farm Industrial Estate, Rugby, Warwickshire CV21 1ST

T: 01788 577577 F: 01788 567938 E: sales@promac.co.uk

www.glassnews.co.uk | March 2014

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41

MACHINERY

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Perfect Glazing purchase

top of the range Stuga ZX4

Glasgow uPVC fabricator Perfect Glazing has recently taken delivery of a brand new Stuga ZX4-MK2 sawing & machining center. The new machine replaces a German model that apparently suffered from accuracy issues and poor support.

With a capacity of around 1,000 windows per week the ZX4 is able to produce twice as many windows as the machine it has replaced and comes with many inbuilt benefits to make operation easier and more straightforward.

Perfect Glazing is one of the fastest growing fabricators in Scotland and has a strong determination to do even better. The company is family owned with two generations fully involved in the business including mother and father Rose and John, son David and daughter Kerry. This family commitment helps drive the company forward at all levels. On a recent visit to check out the installation John stated his determination to grow enough during the next two years to be able to purchase a second Stuga ZX4.

Following their disappointment with the previous sawing & machining center Perfect Glazing looked around the market and checked a lot of suppliers as well as asking opinions before choosing Stuga. When pressed for reasons why Stuga was chosen it seemed to come down to a combination of the formidable reputation of both the ZX4 and the Stuga back-up. John found previously that dealing with a foreign manufacturer through a British dealer meant there were always delays in spares and back-up even though it was claimed this wouldn’t be the case. With Stuga John talks directly to the service center in Norfolk where he gets first class and fast back-up. Apart from their own seven technicians Stuga can also draw on the resources of The Saw Center in Glasgow for fast response where there are two fully Stuga trained engineers that are able to deal with most day to day issues that may occur.

The ZX4-MK2 is the latest version of this popular machine that has sold well in the last year and can easily and accurately produce 800 to 1,000 windows in a normal week. This machine can produce all required saw cuts and preps having the benefit of the Stuga rotary tooling system that creates incredible flexibility for prepping, profile by profile and operation by operation. Preps can be placed

42

anywhere within three hundred and sixty degrees and this is controlled by the software.

The graphic interface makes adjustment of the position accurate and simple. The ZX4 measures each length of profile and instantly

re-optimizes the batch if random offcuts are added meaning that offcuts are always tightly controlled. Management software also communicates every detail concerning the performance and efficiency of the machine

“This family commitment helps drive the company forward at all levels. On a recent visit to check out the installation John stated his determination to grow enough during the next two years to be able to purchase a second Stuga ZX4.” including running and downtime details.

The multi-bar lateral buffer station is a significant factor in making the ZX4 so fast because sawing and machining functions are separated to minimize delays between the two sides of the machine, therefore idle time while sawing waits for prepping to complete or vice versa are very infrequent.

The Perfect ZX4 is number 17 of 18 Stuga sawing & machining centers installed in Scotland.

For further information on the ZX4 MK2 or any other Stuga machine please call Steve Haines on 01493 742348 or visit www.stuga.co.uk.

Machiner y READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0087

March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0314/0088

www.glassnews.co.uk | March 2014

43

MACHINERY

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

SEVENTH SCM CNC & EDGE BANDER ORDERED BY SOLIDOR SCM Group UK have just received their seventh order for an SCM CNC Machining Centre from leading composite door manufacturer Solidor, along with an order for a Stefani Solution HD SingleSided Edge Bander with PUR gluing.

Having installed an SCM model Accord 20FX machine last November alongside five SCM Record / Actionline CNC machines, Solidor realised they required even more machining capacity as weekly production of 1000 doors was soon to become a reality.

Solidor’s Operations Director, Pierre Mifsud, called in SCM UK’s Area Sales Manager, Ian McCarthy, and comments “Production of our solid timber core doors is continually growing so we realised last September that we required even more capacity for 2014 just as the sixth CNC was being delivered and installed, so we contacted Ian to take an order for another Accord 20FX for delivery in February 2014.”

The Accord 20FX is a new generation modular machining centre designed for machining operations requiring heavy duty stock removal along with high precision and provide a top quality finish over the entire machining area. This is due to the rigid mobile portal structure and safety systems designed to exploit the maximum production capacity of the machine without any movement limitations.

With a 3680 x 1380mm table size to accommodate any size of door, there are 6 mobile aluminium bars, each fitted with vacuum suction cups which securely fix

“Production of our solid timber core doors is continually growing so we realised last September that we required even more capacity for 2014 just as the sixth CNC was being delivered and installed, so we contacted Ian to take an order for another Accord 20FX for delivery in February 2014.” the door blanks to the table for subsequent machining via a 250 cu. met. / hour vacuum pump. Rows of front and rear stops enable the operator to easily position the door blanks on the table and is also assisted by 2 lifting supports that descend when the vacuum is activated and the machining cycle commences.

A powerful 8.5KW, 24,000RPM routing head, necessary for Solidor's 48mm thick core construction, trims the outside of the door blank to the required dimensions and machines any face profiles or apertures for varying sizes and shapes for glazing cassettes.

After edge banding the four sides of the door with highly durable materials, application of thermo plastics skins of Solidor's wide range of colours to both sides of the door follows. Further machining is then carried out for various door locking systems using an independent horizontal routing head with 2 outputs for the heavy duty tools necessary for machining the lock and recesses. Then machining for letter plates, handles, etc is carried out by the vertical routing head.

The Accord has a TR10 side tool magazine that accepts up to 10 tools to enable fast tool changing of the vertical routing tools. With the very latest "Pro-Space" safety system fitted and the machine running at 25 metres / min., the Accord does not require safety mats or light cells, so the operator is able to remove trim off-cuts and aperture waste material during the machining cycle, thus saving valuable production time.

All of the machine's electrics, pneumatic and electronic equipment is located in the Accord's base saving valuable floor space.

The operator has the latest "Tecpad" mobile control console with a 7 inch touch screen that enables full control of the Accord while the operator can view all the machining operations through the front safety guard window.

Solidor are fully utilising all of their 6 SCM Machining Centres, all day, every day, with the first machine delivered and installed over 6 years ago still working very well. They make an impressive sight in the factory.

Pierre Mifsud concludes "We are very pleased with our latest SCM Accord Machining Centre and all the SCM CNC's we have installed and that is why we go back to SCM for more machines as the Solidor business continues to grow. It is very important that all our machines are continuously working on production so the installation, commissioning, training and service back-up is critical to our business as we cannot let our customers down. Who knows, more machines could well be in the pipeline as Solidor continues to be the leading supplier of quality and secure timber core composite doors to the UK market."

Tel: 0845 508 3829 www.solidor.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0089

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FLYING START

TO 2014 FOR APEER

Apeer Doors has added a further CNC machine to its rapidly expanding Ballymena production facility, making a total of seven milling machines available for the manufacture of its technologically advanced composite doors.

Representing a five figure investment, the new machine is the latest move to support Apeer’s booming order books: the company experienced a phenomenal surge in sales during the second half of 2013 and has enjoyed a flying start to 2014.

“The January to March period is traditionally a fairly steady time but the New Year got off to an incredibly busy start,” said Apeer marketing manager Linda Tomb. “We wouldn’t normally expect to be this busy until nearer Easter so our production managers have been working hard on our lead times and a lot of IT-based procedures have been put in place to further improve our efficiencies.”

The growth in business follows the launch last year of Apeer’s latest Diamond Doors and all-new MODO collection. It led to a major recruitment drive with new staff taken on at all levels to support a doubling of production capacity.

Said Linda: “Our investment in production capacity remains ongoing. There is an incredibly upbeat feel to the business at the moment and we have a number of exciting new initiatives in the pipeline for 2014.” www.apeer.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0090

March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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www.glassnews.co.uk | March 2014

45

TRADE NEWS

New Credit Profile

service from Insight Data

Insight Data has introduced a new credit profile service for the glass and glazing industry, providing suppliers with key financial and credit information free of charge.

Accountant Helen Costeloe-Hughes, commercial director of Insight Data said; “companies can waste a great deal of time and money chasing new customers who are potential bad payers. To have a financial snapshot of a prospective customer in advance is a real benefit to suppliers, and keeping an eye on existing customers is good commercial sense.”

Credit Profile is available in Salestracker, Insight Data’s online business database of 15,000 window, door and conservatory companies. Salestracker is updated in realtime by a team of researchers and provides in-depth information on fabricators and installers including products, volume and even preferred supplier brands. The system is available on any PC, Mac, laptop or tablet with an internet connection.

Credit Profile integrates directly with Salestracker via a credit reference agency and provides key data in a simple, easy to use format. “There is a lot of complexity surrounding credit information, so we have made it really simple. Credit Profile has a ‘traffic light’ system of green, amber and red, along with a credit score.

Where available the system also displays company status, turnover, net worth and details of any County Court Judgements.”

Credit Profile is available on all Limited Companies on the Insight fabricator and installer database, along with over 6,000 sole trader/non-limited firms on the database. The system will also be rolled out to other databases on Salestracker, including general builders, housebuilders and main contractors.

For a free online demo of Salestracker call 01934 808293 or email hello@ insightdata.co.uk.

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

MORE

Glazpart launches new catalogue for Trickle vents at - www.glazpart.com

ANSWERS

FROM REHAU

REHAU has added a guide to the new Minimum Technical Competence (MTC) rules to its award winning website at www.rehauanswers.co.uk With the rules scheduled to come into force on June 6 for anyone who is a member of a Competent Persons Scheme, REHAU has put together a useful guide so that customers can take any action they need to well in advance of the deadline date.

The online guide explains the new rules and what is required for both surveyors and installers and provides useful links to the websites of the relevant Competent Persons Scheme bodies.

There is also information on the Competent Persons Register for anyone who is not already a member and wants to review and compare the offerings from each of the bodies.

Dean Franklin, REHAU’s Technical Applications Engineer who is responsible for the content on www.rehauanswers.co.uk, says that the MTC guide perfectly fits with REHAU’s strategy for the website which is to provide a useful and practical information resource for customers.

Visitors to the website can now choose from three options on the home page – U-Value/ WER calculations, CE Marking compliance and Minimum Technical Competencies and simply click through to the information they need.

The website at www.rehauanswers.co.uk was named Customer Care Initiative of the Year at the G-13 awards.

“The online guide explains the new rules and what is required for both surveyors and installers.”

THIS YEAR’S FIT SHOW SEES A NEW RESTAURANT ON THE MENU Brand new for 2014, the FIT Show is introducing a new and innovative addition to the show, the FIT Restaurant.

A chic and contemporary restaurant and lounge bar with a modern British twist, this light-filled restaurant provides a perfect dining option for a business lunch. Whether you want to entertain clients, meet with friends or just enjoy a great lunch, the FIT Restaurant will supply you with delicious food and a calming retreat from the bustling halls.

“The FIT Show is an incredibly busy day out so we decided this year we wanted to offer some fine dining in a relaxed and convivial restaurant for visitors and exhibitors,” says FIT Show Managing Director Paul Godwin.

“With a delicious menu and a good service, guests are sure to enjoy themselves when their feet need a seat and their bellies start rumbling.”

Registration for this year’s FIT Show has now gone live allowing visitors to pre-plan their visit and to receive regular updates on what they can expect to see at the show. Visit the trade show’s website at www.fitshow.co.uk/ get-your-free-ticket to register for your ticket and fast entry.

“Whether you want to entertain clients, meet with friends or just enjoy a great lunch, the FIT Restaurant will supply you with delicious food and a calming retreat from the bustling halls.”

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0092

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READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0093

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0094

Banburybased Glazpart, is a specialist injection moulding company with extensive experience in the fenestration industry, employing 80 staff at its ISO 9001:2008 certified site, producing millions of mouldings each month.

Glazpart has launched a new catalogue covering its extensive range of trickle vents for the provision of back ground ventilation in buildings and to meet the requirements for approved document F1.

Easily down loadable online at http://www. glazpart.com/products/trickle-ventilation/ or read online as a “flip file” as though reading a paper copy all with instant access, the catalogue provides detailed summaries of all of its key products features and benefits.

We attempt to answer key questions such as: • Why do we have to fit trickle vents?

• What do trickle vents do?

What is EQA? As the traditional 2,000 mm2 and 4000 mm2 no longer applies under the prevailing building regulations. Guidance is offered on the complex building regulations which vary across the UK and how to meet them.

New to the catalogue is detail of the extensive range of over 3,500 colour options, whether a moulded colour, vacuum foiled, printed wood grain or paint sprayed tricklevent. Also, covered are our extensive packaging options such as colour combinations E.g. White internal vents with a colour matched external canopy.

New applications are also detailed including combustion air provision, sash window options and products to provide ventilation in Bi fold or patio door systems.

According to Dean Bradley – Sales and Marketing Manager: “This is a key document for Glazpart and our customers as we try to improve market knowledge and understanding of ventilation requirements.

This document supports our customers to access the right technical data easily whilst providing useful background information to improve regulatory understanding and compliance whilst raising standards across one of our key markets.”

Whilst downloading the catalogue there is the option to keep in touch through social media or you can add your details to our electronic mailing list to find out the latest developments in trickle ventilation at Glazpart as they happen.

Tel: 01295 222400 – www.glazpart.com READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0095

March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

The Best Aluminium

Machinery in the World Promac and FOM Industries have over 30 years experience in providing precision engineered but cost effective machinery for the processing of aluminium extruded profile.

Our competitively priced CNC’s are tooled for routing, milling, tapping and drilling and our full range of electronic saws, for variable mitre and compound cuts, are all ideally suited for light and heavy gauge aluminium.

The interface with third party order entry software is seamless and the front end operating system is simple, intuitive which makes all of the machines extremely user friendly.

At Promac, we are proud to be FOM’s partner in the UK for sales, service and technical support. Please refer to our website www.promac.co.uk

PROMAC, where good just got better

WE’VE BEEN AND WE’RE GOING AGAIN THE INTERNATIONAL CENTRE TELFORD

Hall 3A Stand 305

10-12 June 2014 | www.fitshow.co.uk

Hall 1 Stand 144

www.promac.co.uk

3c Hadrians Way, Glebe Farm Industrial Estate, Rugby, Warwickshire CV21 1ST

T: 01788 577577 F: 01788 567938 E: sales@promac.co.uk

www.glassnews.co.uk | March 2014

0314/0096

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0314/0097

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March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

www.glassnews.co.uk | March 2014

49

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

The Trojan Group promises an exciting FIT Show stand Plans for Trojan’s stand at this year’s FIT Show are well underway according to the Group Managing Director, Tony Chadwick.

PIGS is back and on tour. In its tenth year, the first event for 2014 is in Birmingham on 10 April at the Pitcher and Piano.

“I can strongly recommend a visit to our stand. Not only will visitors get to see a brand new and genuinely revolutionary window and door hardware range, they’ll also be able to see highlights from our best-selling products.

Tony won’t say anything more about the new hardware range, but given that Trojan is renowned for its innovation, it promises to be exciting.

While the new range might take centre stage, there’s no doubt the other products on the stand will be attracting attention too. Trojan will be showcasing its three latest products, the Sparta 3 handle, the Patriot Plus HD door hinge and Pegasus high security window lock.

All three products have been designed to help you tie up less capital in stock, releasing cash into your business.

In the Sparta 3 handle Trojan has improved aesthetics and functionality without increasing cost, sacrificing material quality or reducing handle size. The intelligently designed, stylish handle offers ergonomic design features for a more substantial look and feel with a new improved action button.

The Patriot Plus HD Hinge offers PAS 24 performance at a significantly reduced cost and is suitable for projects where both the Patriot HD Hinge and Midi Hinges are used.

It also uses screw fixings to cater for the trend of reduced reinforcing in profiles.

PIGS on tour

The Pegasus high security window lock is suitable for PVC-U or profiles with a standard Eurogroove application and offers rapid installation with a stylish design and ultimate security. Also on display will be the leading stainless steel range which has taken the market by storm since its launch. Comprising t-hinges, handles, letterplates, door knockers, door numbers and numerals, every item in the range comes with a 25 year anti-corrosion guarantee.

Trojan will be on stand 252 at the FIT Show.

Tel: 01922 713 933 www.trojangroup.com READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0098

Originally launched in May 2004 as the Publicity In Glazing Society, a networking event for PR, marketing, editorial and advertising people within the glazing industry, PIGS has attracted some big names outside marketing in the past and therefore there are no exclusions on who may attend. There’s no need for a ticket to PIGS just as long as

you have a link to glass and glazing you’re in!

Main sponsors for the night include the Triple Glazing Question and PIGS gives delegates to the live debate at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry an opportunity to continue networking into the evening.

With the promise of free beer all sorts of journalists and glazing people come together and it’s the generosity of sponsors that means the industry can network for free. So in the spirit of celebrating 10 years of PIGS, the organisers have thanked the sponsors: • Triple Glazing Question • Balls2 Marketing • Bohle Ltd • Brouha Marketing

• Edgetech UK

• FIT Events Ltd • Glass News • The Glazine • Jack Aluminium • Promac • Solidor • Universal Arches

PIGS on tour – details Date - Thursday 10 April Venue - Pitcher and Piano, The Water's Edge, Brindley Place, Birmingham, B1 2HP Time - 6pm until the money runs out For information about how to find the venue and how to get there, please click this link: http://www. pitcherandpiano.com/whereare-we/birmingham For anyone who is travelling to Birmingham and needs overnight accommodation, there are lots of hotels nearby on Broad Street that are within walking distance from Pitcher and Piano.

Any potential sponsors of this or future events should email claire@oneshilling.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0099

DOUBLE STANDARDS OR NO STANDARDS?

There are a large number of manufacturing companies involved in the glazing industry from extrusion companies, glass processors to window and door frame manufacturers. But at the window production level, not all seem to be working to the same standards.

While the majority of the companies at the top of the supply chain carry the necessary and international recognisable quality standards, as you move further towards the consumer and end customer this becomes ever more diluted and rare. Universal Arches

50

“Do customers really know who they are buying from?” is the only bending and arching company to carry ISO:9001:2008 and has in it’s last 5 audits had zero non-conformities, an incredible achievement.

More recently at Universal Arches both the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the local Fire Officer have come in unannounced, both parties reporting an impressive and safe manufacturing environment with impeccable reporting procedures and processes. The fact is, do customers really know who they are buying from in terms of operational procedures and safety, perhaps not, yet they should be.

Not only does Universal Arches operate an impressive and robust quality management

and health and safety system, but the company is now embarking on an NVQ training programme for both production personnel and office staff. It’s fundamentally important for them as a business to have not only the right skills in terms of employees, but also to adopt a learning environment.

Leon Day, managing director of Universal Arches comments: ‘As an industry we should all be working to the same standards, yet this is often not the case. While start up costs are very modest for fabricators, the time, cost and effort to adopt world class processes and procedures are considerable, yet they help separate the good from the bad and the ugly.’

For further information Universal Arches log on to www.universalarches.com, call the sales office on 01744 612844 or follow them on Twitter @universalarches.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0100

March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0314/0101

www.glassnews.co.uk | March 2014

51

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

FIT SHOW 2014 VISITOR Distinction Doors announces FIT Show plans REGISTRATION GOES LIVE Distinction Doors has announced its plans for this year’s FIT Show.

Drew Wright, Distinction’s Managing Director, said, “Despite only being in its second year, the FIT Show is already a fixture in the industry calendar. We had a stand at last year’s inaugural show and we had no hesitation in re-booking for this year because it proved incredibly successful for us.”

The Distinction Doors stand will showcase a wide range

of the company’s portfolio so visitors can get an idea of everything it has to offer. New to the stand for this year will be Distinction’s range of fire doors. Alongside this will be its contemporary composite doors, back door stable doors, bi fold doors and French doors, all in a range of colours on display to help visitors to see the available options. This wide product range means that installers can easily expand their door portfolio while benefiting from Distinction’s industryleading technical excellence and marketing support package.

One of Distinction’s key selling points is its decorative glass range, which helps homeowners to personalise their choice of composite door, and the 12 options in the range will be on display at the show. All units are manufactured to EN1279 standard and when glazed in the Distinction door, comply with building regulations so that door sets are within the 1.8 w/mtr2/k for England and Wales and 1.6 w/mtr2/k in Scotland.

Drew concludes, “We are already looking forward to this year’s show and plans are already well underway.

We hope to welcome many existing customers to our stand to show them what’s new as well introducing many new potential customers to the Distinction difference.”

Distinction Doors will be on stand 246.

Tel: 0845 2000 816 www.distinctiondoors.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0102

Driving home the Network VEKA message Network VEKA members are encouraging their customers to ‘get behind’ the organisation and its Brand Ambassador Steve Davis, by employing the latest van livery from Network VEKA. John Ogilvie, Network VEKA MD, explains: “We’re currently rolling out a new initiative to encourage more members to utilise the back of their vans to promote the Network VEKA message. The livery on the back of a vehicle is

one of the most useful advertising mediums that companies can make use of, as potential customers will be exposed to the message for sustained periods of time while travelling behind the van, or queuing at traffic lights etc.

Unlike a stationary advert or poster, the message will seen as the vehicle travels throughout the areas in which the company works.”

“We’ve created a stylish template that we think reflects the professionalism and quality that customers can expect from a Network VEKA member. To ensure that member companies don’t miss out on this opportunity, we’re offering it as a subsidised service: we would provide the designed artwork - which will be personalised to contain the company logo, business colours and email address.”

“Once the company has had the livery printed and applied, members simply need to send us a photograph of the completed van to receive a rewarding £100 cash back.”

Tel: 01282 473170 – www.networkveka.co.uk

Registration for this year’s FIT Show has now gone live allowing visitors to pre-plan their visit and to receive regular updates on what they can expect to see at the show. Visit the trade show’s website at www. fitshow.co.uk and at the top of the homepage click on the ‘get your free ticket here’ banner to register for your ticket.

Although hailed as a great success in its first outing last year the organisers have listened to comments from visitors and exhibitors alike and made a number of improvements for this year’s event, which takes place on the 10th, 11th and 12th June.

Hundreds of additional car parking spaces are being provided, through the construction of a brand new multi storey facility close to the main door, in addition to a further provision behind The International Centre at Telford, which proved so popular last year.

Entry for all visitors will be free of charge, with free, upgraded Wi-Fi

available in all halls. The FIT for Business seminar programme has been refined, with daily presentations by sales guru Paul Clifton and others designed to allow delegates to benefit from real world ideas immediately.

Additional registration facilities and entrances to the halls will ensure fast entry for all visitors, with preregistration providing even faster access to the halls and more than 150 exhibitors.

Exhibition stands will have advanced smartphone apps that will enable detailed information to be collected and appointments to be made, ensuring visitors receive the greatest benefit from their visit.

Restaurant facilities have also been improved: service and seating at the Rehausponsored FIT Show Café/ Bars will allow faster service for more visitors, whilst The FIT Restaurant in the Gallery will provide fine dining for those wishing for up-market dining and table service.

“Although The FIT Show was a great success last year we have not rested on our laurels and we have made improvements wherever necessary,” said FIT Show Managing Director Paul Godwin. “Visitors can expect to see dozens of new exhibitors and hundreds of new products, with new and upgraded facilities to allow better exchange of information and greater comfort whilst at the show.”

Register now for your free ticket to The FIT Show for fast entry and regular updates at: http://www.fitshow.co.uk/ get-your-free-ticket.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0103

NEW COLOUR CODED PRODUCTS ON THE BUSINESS MICROS WEBSITE Software specialist Business Micros has updated its website at www.businessmicros.co.uk with a contemporary new look and a simpler, easier to use layout.

All of Business Micros’ software programmes are now colour coded on the home page

and throughout the site, so that visitors can navigate directly to the information or demo they choose. There is also a new Twitter feed incorporated alongside an improved news section, keeping visitors up to date with all the latest product and service updates.

Graeme Bailey, Managing Director of Business Micros said: “We are adding new products to our range all the time as we respond to customer and market demand. As well as our established Evolution family of products, we now have four online design and ordering portals in our range for different door types, and we have just launched a new Track-IT product specifically for installers. The new website clearly defines each of these products with its own colour and makes it easier to customers to use and browse the site.”

As well as product information, Business Micros customers can access technical support via the website and it is also the place to keep up with the company’s plans for this June’s FIT show.

Tel: 01925 422955 – www.businessmicros.co.uk

Goliath Homeworld was the first member to snap up this opportunity.

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READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0104

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Helping Companies Grow – The Video!

Helping Companies Grow – The Video!

Full service agency MRA Marketing has released its latest video, a minute-long animated feature on the problems facing businesses that want to grow, and how MRA Marketing can help.

“We branched out into video three years ago,” explains Lucia, “for clients including Saint-Gobain, Deceuninck, Consumer Credit Solutions, and the Worshipful Company of Builders Merchants but animation is a new direction.

This video tackles a serious subject in a light hearted way. It is a bit of fun promoting MRA and shows how we help companies grow. You might even recognise a couple of the faces in it too!”

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0108

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“No.1 in the organisation’s Agency League.”

MRA Marketing specialises in helping companies in construction, building products and home improvements achieve ambitious growth and stretching objectives.

Its two recent wins, for composite door market leader Door-Stop and leading independent builders’ merchant E H Smith, at CIMCIG’s prestigious Construction Marketing Awards (CMA) in December, moved it up to No.1 in the organisation’s Agency League.

CIMCIG ranks 50 agencies in the industry on their performance in recent years in the annual awards.

Direct Trade always delivers

Following an increase in customer demand, Doncaster based trade fabricator Direct Trade has expanded their delivery fleet and invested in an additional 10 ton and 3.5 ton vehicles.

They join Direct Trade’s existing fleet of 25 vehicles, preparing the company for future growth and enabling them to better service their nationwide customer base.

Managing director Steve Green commented: “Our customers depend on us to deliver goods on time and in full and the new vehicles means we can meet their needs even as we grow. The 10 ton lorry is ideal for longer trips with multiple drop-offs while the smaller vehicle will be better suited to on-site deliveries. Not all installers can cater for the larger delivery trucks, meaning receiving their frames can be a bit of a challenge, which is why we have a number of smaller vehicles to make life much easier for our customers.”

The new vehicles will transport goods from Direct Trade’s three manufacturing facilities to the company’s nationwide customer base. Direct Trade’s main 40,000 sq ft manufacturing facility produces windows in the System 10 (chamfered) and Rustique (ovolo) WHS Halo profile systems. A separate factory nearby produces doors, including single and dual rebate composites, while a third factory produces conservatory roofs and coat frames in any RAL colour using Kolorbond.

For more information call 0800 288 8828 or visit www.directtradeltd.co.uk.

Watch the video at mra-marketing. com/blog or contact Lucia Di Stazio on 01453 521621 or lucia@mramarketing.com for help with achieving your big audacious goals.

Meet the Timber £100 MILLION

CE Marking SALES are experts

JUST THE TICKET AT SYNSEAL

Sealco, one of the UK’s largest independent hardware distributors, is joining forces with CE Marking experts, UKAS accredited laboratory and Notified Body for CE Marking, Build Check to host a seminar for timber window and door manufacturers.

“CE Marking has been a hot topic for joinery companies since changes to the laws were announced,” says Alan Malcolm, Sales Director at Sealco Scotland. “Despite the 1 July 2013 deadline coming and going almost seven months ago, there is still some confusion around the topic and what needs to be done to comply with CE Marking law.

“With this in mind, we are working with Build Check to present a seminar on Thursday 27 March specially created for timber window and door manufacturers to offer practical advice how to comply with the new CE Mark Regulation.”

After a presentation from CE Marking expert Richard Bate, there will be an afternoon break-out session where visitors will have the opportunity to ask us questions about CE Marking for timber products one-to-one.

They will have the opportunity to see The Oracle, Build Check’s online fenestration resource, working and look at Sealco’s range of CE Marked ready hardware for timber products.

“The seminar will also give us a chance to get together with customers and they can meet with people in the industry over lunch,” adds Alan.

Delivery vehicles.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0109

The Sealco CE Marking for Timber seminar takes place in Falkirk on Thursday 27 March.

Companies wanting to register for a place at the seminar should contact Alan Malcolm at Sealco on 01324 610710.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0110

Synseal are issuing £140,000 worth of special “Golden Tickets” to their network of fabricator partners and Synseal Registered Installers, to celebrate an important milestone in the company’s dynamic 30-year history.

“We are delighted to announce that Synseal has achieved £100 million sales turnover on a rolling year basis for the very first time since our formation back in 1980!” says Chief Executive David Leng. “To say thank you and give a little something back as we celebrate this £100m milestone, we have presented a “Golden Ticket” worth £100 to each of our approved fabricator partners and verified Synseal Registered Installers based in the UK and Ireland. That’s a total of 1,400 companies. This special discount offer applies to an order for a Synseal or K2 orangery with Celsius roof glass – our impressive range now includes Global Summer, Capella, Integra, Venetian, Rio or Modena orangery solutions.”

In true Willy Wonka fashion, the “Golden Ticket” can be redeemed just once and will be valid up to the end of April 2014. Newly verified Synseal Registered Installers who successfully apply to join Synseal’s approved network will also receive a “Golden Ticket” worth £100.

David concludes, “We warmly thank our fabricator partners and Synseal Registered Installers for choosing to fit our products on an ongoing basis, which has enabled Synseal to grow in a highly competitive marketplace.”

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0111

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ENTER THE FENSA MASTER FITTER CHALLENGE TO WIN £5000!

More space, more sales & more staff for VEKA customer NE&C Sunderland-based VEKA fabricator NE&C (North East & Cumbria) Windows and Doors has created a number of new jobs and is growing its product range after moving into a larger factory with support from Sunderland City Council.

This family-owned company manufactures a range of PVC-U and aluminium windows, doors and conservatories for the commercial and residential sectors. To meet demand and bring its design and manufacturing operations under one roof, the business has expanded into a 16,000 sq ft unit at Glover Industrial Estate in Washington from two smaller units on the city’s Pattinson Industrial Estate. Five new jobs have been created as a result of the move.

Since the business was started a decade ago by Managing Director Ed Ramshaw and wife Heather, the company’s Financial Director, NE&C has grown from a turnover of £250,000 to over £1.3m and a staff of four has increased to 21.

Heather Ramshaw said: “That figure will continue to grow. We’re not looking at a cap on how many people we employ now that we have a factory to grow into in the future.

“In the last 18 months, we have created a glass production unit and introduced new designs.

We are trying to build our portfolio with it all under one roof. We started with PVC-U frames and now the production of bi-fold doors. We are also looking at conservatory roofs in the future. We pride ourselves on the quality of our design, manufacture and service which means we produce everything in-house and can offer a more competitive price to our customers.”

NE&C Managing Director Ed Ramshaw said: “We have a great management structure in place. All of our Managers are experts in their fields, ensuring the best advice and service.

You are only as good as the people you work with and we are proud of all of our staff who have assisted us with the move into a far bigger facility.

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“We are confident about the future and we have a marketing strategy to continue to grow in 2014/15.”

The business has just won a tender with Sunderland City Council and is also part of the Buy Sunderland First scheme, run by the council to ensure local companies have the opportunity to bid for Local Authority work, keeping money generated in Sunderland within the local economy.

In addition to its North East and Cumbrian heartland, NE&C supplies to construction companies, the private and public sectors, trade and residential customers across the UK. The company is now launching a new website, HYPERLINK "http://www.neandcltd. co.uk/"www.neandcltd.co.uk, to reflect the additional services it provides.

Sunderland City Council provided support and advice to NE&C throughout the relocation.

Heather said: “Sunderland City Council was fantastic. We've worked with the Business Investment team on previous projects and we have a great relationship: they are easy to get on with and very helpful.

“I have, in the past, worked in other areas and with other councils but Sunderland is the easiest to deal with.”

Colin Torley, VEKA's Sales and Marketing Director added: “We are delighted to have seen NE&C grow so significantly and move to an impressive new factory. VEKA shares the company's confidence that it will grow even further and create more jobs in the near future, and we look forward to continuing to work with NE&C for many years to come.

Their expansion will undoubtedly be a boost to the local economy and they should be very proud of themselves.”

Tel: 01282 716611 – www.vekauk.com

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0113

FENSA is urging its registered businesses to enter the Master Fitter Challenge before the competition deadline of 31 March 2014.

Run in association with the FIT Show and sponsored by FENSA, the Master Fitter Challenge tests installation skills. Winners have the opportunity to win prizes of £5,000, £3,000 or £2,000 which will be presented live during the FIT Show Gala dinner in Telford in June 2014.

Show to deliver a range of seminars and provide guidance to help installers comply with the Government requirements of meeting the industry’s Minimum Technical Competencies (MTC), and transitioning to ‘Certified Installer’ status – both with a deadline of June 2014.

Enter the Master Fitter Challenge for free now at http://www.fitshow.co.uk/masterfitter-challenge before the deadline of 31 March 2014!

The competition is free to enter and is open to individuals or teams of two. All installers must have a minimum of two years of industry experience and be competent in the installation of domestic doors and windows.

To enter the competition, entrants will be required to submit an application online.

Aside from sponsoring the Master Fitter Challenge, FENSA will be at the FIT

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0114

Website to showcase major new initiative Following the roll out of its new initiative – CPA FastTrack – the Consumer Protection Association has launched a brand new website to showcase how the organisation can help installers grow their business.

At the beginning of 2014 the CPA rolled out FastTrack, which is designed to help their members find out more about the support organisations’ services and identify what elements they want to use to help them add value to their sales presentations. The service contains FastTrack sales; FastTrack legislation; FastTrack knowledge and FastTack Insurance Backed Guarantees.

The new website will give more information about the service and how installers can access information to speed up the upcoming MTC accreditation; boost sales and get information on the latest trends affecting their industry.

John Travers, Director at the CPA, comments: “We recognise the world is changing, our country is changing and most importantly our industry is changing. The economy is improving but the context is different now – selling to the consumer has changed; the way information is consumed has changed. This

is why we invested heavily to launch a new website showing how we can help installer’s fast track themselves to success. It’s functional, informative and will provide a resource for information about the home improvement market, as well as downloads, survey results, sales training guides and videos.”

As part of its core business the CPA equip installers with Insurance Backed Guarantees, promotional literature, finance and insurance, deposit protection and training and reports to help them stand out when they present themselves to potential customers.

The new CPA website can be viewed here: http://www.thecpa.co.uk/ For more information call The Consumer Protection Association on: 01462 850062.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0115

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Roy Saunders, Chief Executive Officer of Everest,

talks exclusively to Glass News

Glass News Editor, Chris Champion, asks Everest CEO, Roy Saunders about a change in customer profile and, indeed, their expectations...

“The reasons why I joined Everest in August 2012 are as true today as they have ever been.

Everest is an iconic brand with almost 50 years of heritage. Add to that the secure backing of Better Capital, one of the UK’s leading investors and the opportunity to re-write the rule book for this sector couldn’t be bigger.

One of my very first observations was that the customer was changing and changing fast, but at the time, Everest was struggling to keep up. The internet has changed everything forever, customers are more informed than ever before, they quite rightly demand higher levels of service and they expect more choice.

All our plans at Everest recognise these facts, a great example being the new products that we launched to our sales team just before Christmas. The new Everest Elite window reflects the trend towards the aesthetic appearance of a window being just as important to a customer as its performance.

Where customers are interested in performance, our new triple glazing removes the need for guesswork – 3 panes of glass are

better than 2 right? New products are one of our top priorities and we already have the next series of launches lined up for later in the year.

Our research tells us customers are spending much more time researching products too, which is why launching our award winning new website was so important. Feedback from customers has been fantastic, in particular because we know almost 50% of our customers are viewing our website on their smartphone or tablet and the new site is built with that in mind. We’ve recently

launched live chat functionality and more exciting digital initiatives will be unveiled in the months ahead.

So as the customer changes, we will too and perhaps no other area of our business is changing more than our sales organisation.

I was delighted to welcome Tom Devine as our new Sales Director in January, Tom having joined us from the Sales Director role at BskyB. Tom leads an entirely employed sales management team, something which we think sets us apart in the sector. Right now our team has its hands full recruiting new consultants as we grow our network to keep pace with demand!

I look back on the last 18 months with a huge amount of pride at the turnaround that’s been achieved at Everest and the solid platform for growth that we have created. But I look forward with even more excitement as we realise our vision to be recognised as the home improvement experts.”

See also Page 79, Tom Devine joins Everest.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0117

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The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

On the run up to the FIT Show we will run a series of articles on the USPs of the Liniar product aimed at the installer. One of the most simple but ingenious items to talk about is the Liniar glazing platform in conjunction with the glazing bead.

Designed with the installer in mind, the Liniar system has not only simplified the glazing process but also built in time-saving features way ahead of its time.

No need for glazing clips The Liniar glazing bead is available in 28mm for chamfered and sculptured profiles, as well as 36mm in sculptured, and enables a simple knock-in operation – achieving ‘Secured

by Design’ accreditation without the need for glazing clips. With Liniar’s advanced technology, you can therefore rest assured you’ll be fitting a product for your customers with the highest security and performance.

The Liniar glazing bead also incorporates a soft, forgiving bubble gasket to accommodate glass tolerances, making the fitter’s job that bit easier – and the 28mm bead replicates the rebate – ideal for internal glazing.

Furthermore, the window’s aesthetics are improved, as the glass sits centrally within the frame with Liniar profile.

Industry-leading glazing platform In conjunction with the glazing bead, and for speed and ease of glazing, Liniar has also developed an industry-first glazing platform.

The Liniar platform clips neatly into the profile, and fully supports a 28mm glazed unit.

Uniquely, the design means you won’t need to use additional glazing packers to achieve a perfect sightline – and, even better, you’ll eliminate any remedials caused by units slipping behind packers – we know how inconvenient (and costly) this can be for installers.

With a built-in drainage channel, the Liniar glazing platform is 100mm long – the same as

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TRADE NEWS

glazing packers – and is designed not to block drainage slots.

Factory fitted to help installers To make the Liniar system even easier for fitters and give Trade, Retail and DIY installers a helping hand, Pearl Window Systems have factory fitted the Liniar glazing platform. In doing so, we’ve saved you the hassle and expense of using silicone for toe and heeling – as well as saving you precious time. Customers are delighted with this concept, which not only saves time and money but also ensures the glass units are fitted on the correct packers every time – giving you the confidence to know your units will be able to perform as intended.

Trade and DIY customers especially love this single application: “Glazing beads out, glass in, beads back in, job done!”

And with the Liniar system, even toe and heeling doors and french doors has never been easier, with installers only having to use 1mm green packers for these applications.

Find out more For more information on these and many other product innovations, including the exclusive and market-leading Liniar bi-folding door system, please call Pearl Window Systems on 01942 843586 or email sales@pearlwindows.co.uk.

“With Liniar’s advanced technology, you can therefore rest assured you’ll be fitting a product for your customers with the highest security and performance.”

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0118

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Installers - You are invited to take a look at the big picture!

The UK’s biggest manufacturer of composite doors has entered the trade market for the first time, and has already begun opening doors for installers. You are invited to take a look at the big picture...

With a marketing focus designed specifically to assist the consumer, the company behind the new British designed and manufactured composite door is set to irreversibly change the way the market works. It is a marketing focus designed to drive opportunities from the consumer’s door directly to yours.

The sales focus will be directly at the consumer It is a refreshingly committed approach, and with the resources to do it the new company is now focussed on finding additional installers who want to be a part of the big picture. For those installation companies looking to grow their sales, having opportunities created for them directly from the consumer market is the ideal platform to do so.

Understanding today’s consumer This new consumer supporting approach is being driven from an understanding that consumers in general have changed the way they buy their products, and from a recognition that the expectations they have from their suppliers are very different to how they have been before. A consumer with more knowledge than ever before is looking for suppliers who can fully meet their needs for flexibility and variety by offering bespoke products and services and who can offer an

unmatched level of service. Research has shown that the homeowner and the installer both want a strong customer service ethos, supported by a fast turnaround from point of purchase.

Outstanding support available for installers Understanding that today’s consumer is steeped in a home improvement and home makeover mind-set, installers will be given the support to address all of their requirements using the highest quality of marketing support. Installers looking to take advantage of this truly amazing opportunity will benefit from a vast array of bespoke consumer focussed support items including internet based design tools, brochures, consumer advice service.

For installers this is a truly game changing opportunity This truly is a game changing opportunity for installers and definitely one not to be missed, and the support doesn’t stop with just the consumer. As an installer you can expect a comprehensive range of 27 outstanding new door designs with over 50 decorative glass options all as standard. You can expect a priority lead time of just five days; 24/7 telephone customer care; and text messaging to tell you your orders are on the way.

So to see the big picture ….get in on the secret So who is the new player who has just joined the trade sector for composite doors and why the secret? Well, all will be revealed very soon, but if you are a trade installer and you want to see the big picture, now is the time to get in on the secret.

To find out more about this truly amazing opportunity for trade installers, go to www.inonthesecret.com.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0120

SHAPING UP

WITH A RECORD YEAR For leading profile bending specialist, Universal Arches, 2013 proved to be their most impressive yet with sales up 32% on the previous year, along with considerable success at the FIT Show and with several other joint ventures with key industry players.

Sales were buoyed in 2013 by increased demand for fully welded, arched and shaped window and door frames and also by the offer for a fully glazed product within 7-10 days, a first for the bending sector. The inaugural FIT Show also cemented relationships with existing customers and also presented opportunities for several new ones, along with the launch of new ventures with Eclectic Systems for their Residence 9 product and Solidor for an arched composite door.

Over 100 shaped frames have now been manufactured exclusively in the Residence 9 system and similarly sales have started to come through for an arched composite door solution with Solidor, with Universal being the only approved bending specialist for both products. Other ventures also included what is believed to be the UK’s largest ever project for arched windows with Dempsey Dyer, which will see the renovation of an old mill with over 700 bespoke frames.

While 2013 was the most impressive yet for Universal Arches, 2014 looks set to continue the upward trend, with sales for January up an impressive 37% year on year. The company will yet again be representing the bending sector at the FIT Show at the Telford International Centre from 10-12th June 2014 and it will also prove to be the platform to celebrate the company’s 20th anniversary, an impressive statistic from a niche sector and one that clearly represents their excellence in product, service and support.

Leon Day, managing director of Universal Arches comments: ‘While 2013 may have been our most impressive yet, 2014 is set to continue our continued drive to raise standards in the sector. The FIT Show will be a focal point of our marketing activities in 2014, along with the important platinum celebration of the birth of Universal Arches.’

For further information Universal Arches log on to www.universalarches.com, call the sales office on 01744 612844 or follow them on Twitter @universalarches.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0121

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Join the best Following our multi-million pound advertising campaign in January and February, our customers demand for our ‘Free Upgrade to Triple Glazing’ has resulted in a huge amount of customer leads and the requirement that we engage more field Sales Consultants to present our products and more Installers to fit our products.

This is a limited opportunity for the very best Sales Consultants and experienced Installers.

Field Sales Consultants Location: Home based Everest regional office support and sales visits within your area £35,000 to £55,000 OTE (realistic earning opportunity) As one of the UK’s most recognised brands, our wide range of windows, doors, conservatories, driveways, flat roofs, roofline and patios are market leading and highly desirable. Our recent advertising campaign offering ‘Free Upgrade to Triple Glazing’ has resulted in a surge of customers requesting a product presentation.

As well as visiting new customers, you will also receive specialist training in how to develop your own customer base to produce a lucrative earning platform.

Installers/Fitters Location: South East/London Industry leading rates and benefits As the premium company in the sector we can offer benefits that no-one can. These include: • • • •

Immediate sign on bonus Loyalty bonus paid twice yearly A fully expensed company vehicle with fuel card Fully paid training to help you qualify for Minimal Technical Competence (MTC). This qualification will be a compulsory requirement for any installer working in the sector from June 2014.

• Industry leading rates with London weighting (up to 45%)

Interested? Please email your CV to holly.richards@everest.co.uk. All applicants will be treated in strict confidence.

No agencies please.

0314/0123

everest.co.uk

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FINANCE

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

You get on with fabricating and... let the experts sort the funding In talking to Pearl Window Systems’, Jeff Walsh, and seeing the impressive fabricating facility at their headquarters at Westhoughton, Bolton, the conversation turned very quickly to the issue of financing the machinery and systems required to produce 2,500 frames per week... and rapidly growing towards 3,000.

“Leave it to the experts”, was Jeff ’s advice.

“We want to manufacture and not be running round trying to source finance,” he said. The obvious question was how do you do it, then?

“We’ve used Dave Parkinson for years,” was the reply. So the next task was to track Dave down and find out what makes him different.

Parkinson Business Finance is based in Bolton and was created in 1998 to provide small and medium sized businesses with truly independent advice and choice in asset finance, through a professional brokerage service built on a deep and detailed understanding of the different financial products and services available.

To preserve its independence and ability to meet a wide range of needs, Parkinson Business Finance offers its clients access to a wide range of lending institutions able to meet their specific, unique needs.

Some 15 years later, and with many thousands of successful transactions completed, with a total value in excess of £100,000,000, Parkinson Business Finance's role is even more valid today.”

“Dave Parkinson says, “Our reputation with lending institutions for bringing applications that meet their criteria, and with all the necessary information to support it, means that we are able to get our clients a decision that is usually positive and that is always prompt.”

“PBF was created to provide asset finance solutions that allow our clients to fund the capital investment needed to replace or update the equipment needed for their business to function and grow. It is our business to stay ahead of this increasingly complex market so that we can provide our clients with a range of flexible asset finance options that can help their businesses to conserve capital whilst giving them access to equipment and by helping them to budget more effectively with fixed monthly payments.”

Jeff Walsh of Pearl Window Systems with David Parkinson from Parkinson Business Finance - shaking hands on another successful growth strategy, with David helping Pearl finance their latest fleet of vehicles.

So I asked Jeff Walsh whether Dave Parkinson looks after their full plant register? “More than that,” said Jeff, “he also looks after our transport needs for our 18 tonners, 7.5 tonners and van fleet.”

“PBF has become recognized as experts in the area of commercial vehicles and plant finance, which gives our clients and funders the confidence that the deals we arrange are the best solution for all concerned,” commented Dave. “We are experienced in advising and obtaining appropriate financing packages for new and used plant, too. It really doesn’t matter whether it’s a single fork lift truck, a fleet of heavy duty commercial vehicles or a brand new cutting centre.”

Interestingly, in these times of stringency, PBF can source lenders to underwrite for individuals and organisations with adverse credit ratings, negotiate low deposit deals, arrange new equipment discounts or arrange credit lines to accommodate ongoing investment.

Dave Parkinson: “PBF was created to provide asset finance solutions that allow our clients to fund the capital investment needed to replace or update the equipment needed for their business to function and grow. It is our business to stay ahead of this increasingly

complex market so that we can provide our clients with a range of flexible asset finance options that can help their businesses to conserve capital whilst giving them access to equipment and by helping them to budget more effectively with fixed monthly payments.”

“Our independence means that we have excellent working relationships with a wide range of mainstream funders, each of whom has their own area of expertise or specialised lending criteria. One of the consequences of this is that we are often able to find a funder for non-standard requirements when the usual funding sources such as the High Street Banks have declined.”

It’s interesting that the one thing that affects everyone fabricating in the fenestration industry, the funding of machinery and vehicles, is talked about in trade journals, infrequently. It’s also refreshing to listen to someone who so obviously knows his business and relishes getting the right deal for his customers. Letting an expert take care of the whole funding issue seems to make a lot of sense.

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GLASS NEWS INTERVIEW

Countdown

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

to FIT...

With just three months to go before we all descend on Telford for FIT 2014, Glass News’ Editor, Chris Champion, gets an update from the FIT Show’s Paul Godwin.

It’s amazing to think FIT is just three months away.

Are you happy that the build up to the event is all going to schedule?

No of course not! I am never happy….I am a worrier by nature but I have learned after many years that you can never be sure of anything with trade shows until after an event has finished.

But as last year we are doing everything we can think of to ensure everything is in place for a great second show.

Where are you in terms of space booked? Is it a matter of ‘always room for more’ or are you pretty much at capacity?

We sold every metre of available exhibition space last year and we are on track to do the same for June. We are now promoting

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Hall 1a within which we have added some smaller stands that we have tagged ‘First FIT’ to allow first time exhibitors to feel ‘the FIT effect’. A significant number of exhibitors increased the size of their stands when rebooking for this year so we believe First Fit will work in the same way for new exhibitors.

The Exhibitors Day at Telford was, understandably, not quite as well attended as last year but were you happy at the turn out and that the new exhibitors were there?

Last year was incredible wasn’t it? We have to put things in perspective: we had 158 people at this year’s first exhibitor day in February.

When exhibitions organise events like this for their exhibitors they are lucky to get a third of that. When Glassex was at its peak we got 30!

Although the content was all new this year there were many that thought they had heard it already, and that’s who we lost.

But this is not promotion for us, the organisers: this is part of our commitment to train and support exhibitors and we will have another day nearer the show, for stand staff, to train and motivate them. Everyone should be there!

It’s interesting in talking to various companies that, having been visitors last year, some have taken the plunge and become exhibitors...and some quite notable names...

With a brand new show there are always fence sitters of course, although there were relatively few and certainly we had a full show as you know. But one of the key reasons that we have gone for the second FIT Show a little over a year later is because of the demand from those new companies, and from exhibitors that did so well in 2013.

March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

GLASS NEWS INTERVIEW

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Peter Dyer of Dempsey Dyer enjoys a coffee with Solidor's Gareth Mobley.

Edgetech’s Andy Jones with FIT’s Matthew Glover.

There will always be some churn for a variety of reasons. Are you happy with the level of repeat exhibitors for 2014?

Yes we are….of course we have asked those that are not returning why they are not exhibiting with us in 2014. I cannot think of one that has expressed dissatisfaction with the event, always that they have compelling internal reasons why it is not appropriate for them this year. I would hope to get them all back in 2016.

As always, it’s the quantity, and quality, of visitors that counts. It appears that you have upped the marketing budget over last year, so do you feel that the attendance will be greater in 2014?

We expect to spend around the same actually, which was significantly greater than any other previous event of its type.

But after analysis we are of course spending more money where we received the best results – print magazines for example – to ensure we achieve maximum impact.

Always difficult to follow a successful event... and make it better. What factors do you think will make the improvement this year?

A significant number of new exhibitors of course, but actually most of what visitors enjoyed last year proved to be successful so, if it ain’t broke…It is more about refinement: We have a new seminar programme, again learning from what was popular last year – we have Paul Clifton coming back this year to tell people how to convert 8 out of 10 leads for conservatory sales for example, and an update on CE marking – and all sessions will focus on giving delegates information and knowledge that they can put to work immediately.

The Master Fitter Challenge has attracted more entrants so that should be great fun though with a serious purpose; and when something like the Gala Dinner sells out as it did last year, we must be careful to not change too much!

As far as logistics are concerned, the car parking was probably the only significant hitch last year.

It has certainly been mentioned by a number of visitors. So do you think the new multi storey car park will solve any issues?

The car parking of course was an issue – and this year we have hundreds more parking spaces provided by a brand new multi storey a couple of hundred metres from the front door, plus additional facilities to the rear of the Centre. And the Centre and town staff will be better trained – Telford really had not seen anything like it before!

You have always set great store in the efforts of exhibitors to aid your own marketing efforts and swell the numbers of visitors. Are you happy with everyone’s efforts or is there a fall off in enthusiasm, being the second year?

Last year more than 80% of exhibitors ran the FIT banners on their web site, on their email footers, in their ads, everywhere!

Or put another way, less than 20% didn’t….We continuously

www.glassnews.co.uk | March 2014

audit our exhibitors to see if they need any support, to provide them with the materials that they need to attract their own customers or prospects and we believe that having stoked the fire everyone is now committed with an effort equal to last year. If you need evidence open Glass News or any other industry title and check the number of companies telling us ‘They’re going’!

I’m your fairy godmother, and I grant you three wishes that will make FIT 2014 a success....what are your wishes?

I think that’s simple: Firstly: Good weather – though it will be relatively good whatever happens as we are open on 10th to 12th June this year.

Secondly: A continued improvement in the economy, though that might have mixed blessings if installers think they’re too busy to leave site.

Thirdly: As you’re my fairy godmother - a concept that I find rather disturbing by the way – I would like a sort of magical hypnotic suggestion that makes every installer and fabricator in Britain feel compelled to come to Telford, equally split over the three days of course. But then we would have that problem with the car parks again…

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0127

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GLASS NEWS INTERVIEW

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Vic de Costa, Marketing & Sales Manager in the UK & Ireland for Saint-Gobain’s SWISSPACER, talks with Glass News I really can’t think of many companies that have just a one man presence in a territory. Is it good to have that freedom or daunting to be on your own?

To be fair, it’s more impressive than it sounds! I have all the support of our Swiss headquarters, the testing facilities in Paris and MRA Marketing as our marketing arm in the UK. With modern day communications no one need feel isolated in anyway.

prevents gas leaking out and moisture getting in to the sealed unit for long-lasting results.

Well-made windows with SWISSPACER inside will save energy year after year for decades.

Nevertheless, you have a large territory to cover single-handedly...

existing machinery – there’s no need to make any additional investments. SWISSPACER can also be processed by hand, or for largescale production, with a range of automated welders and benders.

You’re right, I do. But do you know, I’ve never been happier during my working life? I know many people say that as it sounds like the right thing to say, but I really do mean it.

So a key USP is the fact that investment in plant is unnecessary?

You’ve had a career in glass from your joining Solaglas in 1987, and covered production, general management and sales. Normally you’d expect the General Management part would be the culmination of a career...

Yes, it’s all a bit back to front! My early experience in production has been very valuable, as has the running of companies. As a ‘one man band’ representing SWISSPACER, both disciplines play an important part in what I do now as I’m not just selling....I understand the issues of manufacturing and finance and I believe that gives me an advantage when I talk with customers.

With SWISSPACER launched onto the UK market in 2008, its rapid rise has been impressive...

SWISSPACER enjoys year on year increases in sales and became No.1 in the UK in 2011.

We grew fast because SWISSPACER is tried and tested to give the best results. Most large UK sealed unit makers use SWISSPACER. A strong marketing campaign has been important to our success, and we are also fortunate in having excellent distribution outlets through the DGS Group and Magden.

Between them they provide 15 outlets around the country.

So, what has differentiated the product from others in the market?

SWISSPACER is a rigid warm edge spacer bar made of a plastic composite material.

It has the same external dimensions as traditional aluminium spacers so sealed unit makers can process SWISSPACER on

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Yes. It’s easy to start off manually and invest in automated welders and benders when volume dictates.

You have a variety of spacer bars...

SWISSPACER A is the company’s entry-level spacer bar and a cost-effective option. In April 2013 SWISSPACER launched ULTIMATE, its next-generation warm edge spacer bar which is the result of extensive research and development. ULTIMATE can improve thermal performance (U-Values) by as much as 20%. Independent tests by ift Rosenheim confirmed ULTIMATE has the best thermal performance of all other warm edge brands.

It’s No. 1 in the world for energy performance.

Does the use of a warm edge spacer bar actually save energy because it seems to be a relatively small part of a complete double glazed unit?

All SWISSPACER spacer bars have High Tech Gas Barrier backings to prevent gas and moisture getting through the spacer bar. This

And what about triple glazing?

We have the Triple Glazing debate coming up and it seems that everyone is looking to triple glazing for the future.

SWISSPACER is tried and tested in triple glazing.... we can satisfy the market for 36mm and 44mm units. According to the Passivhaus institute in Germany, around 60% of all certified Passivhaus windows and 90% of Passivhaus curtain wall constructions are made with SWISSPACER.

And so to the tricky one... the European Warm Edge Working Party.

There seems much debate about the whole essence of testing and who should police the scheme.

It would be wrong of me to comment on the position of other companies. What I can say is that SWISSPACER is a founding member of the European Warm Edge Working Party, and yes, the warm edge market can be confusing.

SWISSPACER has long campaigned for a fair and consistent method of testing to create a level playing field.

We’re pleased that BFRC has recently agreed on one test standard. From 1st June 2014 all spacer bars will need to be tested to WA-17/1, and SWISSPACER has already been certified.

SWISSPACER ULTIMATE is currently the only warm edge spacer bar that can be substituted for any other spacer bar, contrary to claims by other suppliers. The current substitution rules are that the product should be the same or better, and SWISSPACER ULTIMATE is the best.

Finally, I take it that legislation has really been the driver in the expansion in warm edge spacer bar.

Is price a key driver in maintaining your position in the market?

Legislation certainly drove the expansion in the market for warm edge spacer bars but the whole issue of price is a difficult one. As in all things, you get what you pay for. Should you pay to have the best? In the spacer bar market the answer is probably, yes. When you think of it, the spacer bar is a small percentage of the price of a unit and if you want that unit to perform, and go on performing, surely it’s worth buying the best?

SWISSPACER Customer testimonials “We began using SWISSPACER in 2009 to improve energy efficiency. With SWISSPACER, we don’t have to change anything else about the window to get the energy ratings our customers need. We’ve always been very happy with its performance and the fact sales of SWISSPACER have grown by 300% speaks volumes!”

Peter Dyer, Director, Dempsey Dyer “We use SWISSPACER as standard for its excellent thermal properties and proven track record. In today’s market there are ever-increasing demands for energy efficiency, and SWISSPACER is the natural partner for Howarth. It’s recognised as the market leader and we’ve always been very happy with the performance and service.”

Alan Shearer, General Manager, Howarth Windows and Doors “We specify SWISSPACER for all our A rated windows. SWISSPACER helps us achieve the best energy ratings and it has an attractive semi-matt finish which gives a subtle effect inside the windows.”

Kurt Greatrex, Sales Director, Dekko Windows “At CWG Choices we use SWISSPACER as standard in all our products and we’re very happy with the performance it gives.

SWISSPACER’s wide colour range gives us another advantage as we can cater to the customer’s exact requirements. We’ve been using SWISSPACER for nearly five years now and we’re more than happy with the results. We didn’t consider anything but SWISSPACER in our Choices Acoustic Window Solution range. SWISSPACER is much less conductive than traditional aluminium spacer bars, both in terms of heat and sound transmission.”

Jason Wilder, Managing Director, CWG Choices

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0128

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NEW PRODUCTS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

A breath of

fresh aїr “The world of sliding and folding doors can all seem very bland and rather boring. aїr is different. aїr doors are not only extreme with regards to performance values, but are also impressive, refined and captivating in terms of design, technology and aesthetic appeal. Constructed to endure and sustain the daily rigours of modern living, and climate change. What we offer here is the dedication of countless hours of testing and retesting, cutting edge engineering, delivering the ultimate performance.” So says the introduction in Everglade’s new brochure on their aїr sliding and folding doors.

Seeing the finished products on display in Everglade’s impressive showroom and being able to touch and operate them at a recent

trade and press launch, one couldn’t help but be impressed. More importantly, it was interesting to hear the positive comments from experienced fabricators that put aїr in the top echelons of folding and sliding doors.

Apart from the look that is clean and contemporary, the 500LS and 600LS sliding doors moved effortlessly. This is where the aїrglide technology comes in with the strong stainless steel rollers allowing the moving of huge panes of glass weighing up to 300Kgs, with just two fingers. It’s not a matter of tugging or pushing. It is definitely a quality product with high grade materials and hardware to match. Interestingly, a ‘floating corner’ providing seamless, captivating views with no ugly posts is a great addition.

Whether its Teflon coated weather seals, dirt resistant textured paint in any RAL colour, or the aїrglide rollers: quality exudes. And that’s not to mention the industry leading 25 year guarantee.

The quality of the folding doors matches that of the sliders. The aїr 800 is described as ‘the Rolls Royce of folding doors’. Panels can be as large as 3m tall and withstand wind speeds of 100mph. The super slim sightline, from only 108mm, is also impressive, making these some of the slimmest doors available. With over 200 door configurations and a choice of thousands of colours, the design possibilities are literally boundless. aїrcoat textured paint is available as an option, providing a scratch and dirt resistant finish. All this and tested to the extreme, the aїr 800 meets the demands of Secured by Design.

“Whether its Teflon coated weather seals, dirt resistant textured paint in any RAL colour, or the aїrglide rollers: quality exudes. And that’s not to mention the industry leading 25 year guarantee.”

Everglade has gone to great lengths to produce quality information to match their aїr products. Excellent and very informative literature combines with a self standing website www.discoveraїr.co.uk to provide all the information that an architect, fabricator or homeowner could want. Quite simply, if you want large panes of glass and slimline frames, the aїr products fit the bill. Both aїr500LS and 600LS sliding doors can take panes up to 2200mm x 2700mm and aїr 800 Bi-fold can take 1200m x 300mm.

Benchmark Windows team with Reena Gjoci, Everglade (centre) and Chris Champion, Glass News.

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It has taken over two years to develop the aїr products and testing has been exhaustive. The aїr brand that is being promoted is slick and contemporary and should appeal to a general public who will see that the products match the promotion, perfectly.

And a final word from Jay Patel, Sales Director of Everglade, talking about the ‘Private Viewing’ of the aїr products to fabricators and trade press: “It was a fantastically well received event and attendees are still reeling with excitement. We believe that almost every company that attended will become an Accredited Retailer. When you consider that we had around 20 companies attend, most of whom who are multi-million pound businesses in their own right, and almost all of them were prospects, not existing customers, this is a huge achievement and is proof that aїr is absolutely what the best retailers are looking for now. We are looking forward to signing up the next batch of Accredited Retailers over the next few weeks, and the next big milestone is our aїr stand in partnership with Britelite Windows at the Ideal Home Show.

Feedback on aїr has been better than we dreamed of, and if there are any potential retailers out there who aren’t already talking to us, now is the time to pick up the phone… it won’t be long before we fill our quota!”

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0130

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ALUMINIUM

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Jack Door Goes Back to School Leading aluminium specialist dines out on latest projects

Kent-based Sealtite Group chose Jack Aluminium’s thermally enhanced Jack Door TD68 for a new build project at Branfil Primary School in Essex.

across the country with the Jack Door TD68 installed is really impressive and were really pleased that customers are choosing the product for themselves as well.”

As well as choosing Jack Aluminium as its system supplier for the school project, Sealtite has also installed the door as the main entrance at its own new factory premises in Dartford.

Tel: 024 7646 7449 www.jackaluminium.co.uk

“The TD68 meets the standards needed for installing in school buildings and busy public areas where footfall is high,” says Rob Cherry, Sales Director at Sealtite Group. “We recently moved our own factory to new premises and used the Jack Door for our main entrance. It seemed fitting to use the TD68 when there are so many Jack Doors going through our new factory every day.”

CDW Systems supplied a number of its doors to two very high end restaurants on the island of Guernsey, at the tail end of 2013.

One of the projects was an extension at the Auberge restaurant. CDW Systems worked together with Guernsey Glass to supply and install highperformance ST commercial doors that were marine grade powder coated.

Jack Door TD68 is designed to give excellent thermal performance and includes a thermally broken threshold to help achieve a U-value of 1.7. It can take electric strike opening as standard and there’s an optional automatic door header bar making it ideal for high throughput doors. And high security comes as standard with a heavy duty external bead and PAS023 & 024 accreditation.

Jeff Pearson, sales director of Jack Aluminium said: “The number of schools and universities

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0132

Tradelink Aluminium Sales Soar Tradelink, world class manufacturer of one of the widest ranges of windows, doors, sealed units and conservatories in the UK, has announced soaring sales of its aluminium products with a reported 568% increase in January sales compared to January 2013.

Aluminium’s culture of experience. Many of the aluminium products we make end up in specified commercial projects which require a completely different approach to the retail sector, but we have adapted our operations so we can offer a tailored lean solution across all sectors.”

Jim Moody, Managing Director expands on the announcement: “Tradelink began manufacturing aluminium alongside its PVC-U offering just over two years ago when we acquired the well-established company, Lee Aluminium, but we quickly grew the production of windows, entrance and bi-fold doors and in January, already have orders booked in for July.”

“The growth in aluminium sales that we have seen is only part of the picture, with overall sales for our financial year coming in ahead of budget before our year end. We believe this upward trend is largely due to the fact that we listen to what our installer customers tell us they need and react quickly to their demands. We employ world class manufacturing principles throughout the business and as a result continuously improve our offering and with more investment in the business planned for 2014, we don’t see any reason why Tradelink and its customers shouldn’t continue to grow.”

“Acquiring 25 years of experience also allowed us to confidently offer all of Smart’s aluminium systems – at last count, 14. We have utilised Smart’s training facility as well as providing our own in-house training to ensure the people working in aluminium production continue Lee

One of the UK’s leading manufacturers and suppliers of specialist aluminium windows and doors has seen its products specified in two prestigious restaurant projects.

For more information call Tradelink now on 01354 657650 or visit www.tradelinkdirect.co.uk.

Also completed at the tail-end of 2013 was the building of Vistas restaurant. CDW Systems supplied SAPA Dualframe, Stormframe and Beaufort aluminium bi-folding doors that were marine grade powder coated and included specialised laminated glass to stop rocking.

Both projects were completed on -time and

on-budget and Jerry Webb, CDW Systems’ Managing Director, believes they highlight a growing trend.

Jerry comments: “We’ve been saying for a long time now that aluminium is a huge growth market and these two projects represent this trend. And as the UK economy returns to growth this year we expect more speculative developments, extensions and renovations to take place both in the commercial and domestics sector.

“This provides installers with a huge opportunity as aluminium windows and doors are in demand, especially at the middle to higher end where property owners are looking to add value and create wow factor.”

Chris Wrench, who is Managing Director of Guernsey Glass, comments on another successful collaboration with CDW Systems.

He said: “We’ve been working with CDW Systems for a number of

years now. They know the commercial aluminium sector inside out and the whole process of design, installation, planning and completion is effortless “A lot of PVC-u fabricators are moving into aluminium but experience is everything as manufacturing aluminium products is nothing like PVC-u. CDW Systems have been specialists for over twenty years in this sector and as a quality firm ourselves, we only want the best.”

CDW Systems have been in business for twenty-one years and manufacture and supply a wide range of windows, doors, shop fronts and curtain walling, using some of the leading aluminium profile systems on the market today, including Sapa, ALUK and Smarts.

The specialist aluminium fabricator brings to market new products yearly; and this year rolling out its new PassivHaus approved patio door that can accommodate up to 400kg of glass.

In February this year experienced a record month of trading – with turnover reaching £600k during this period alone.

For more information call CDW Systems on 01452 414853or visit www. cdwsystems.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0134

SOCIAL HOUSING SECTOR?

WE HAVE THE CONTACTS! 50,000 EMAIL DISTRIBUTION !

WITH 0314/0135

Email for more information: christina@fenestrabuild.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0133

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M: 07805 051 322 | WWW.FENESTRABUILD.CO.UK

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ALUMINIUM

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Huge opportunities in booming aluminium sector,

says MD of specialist fabricator

Following the announcement by a major body that investment in Britain’s aluminium sector is ‘lagging’, CDW Systems’ Managing Director Jerry Webb says that installers should also focus on the positives and take advantage of the opportunities in the booming aluminium sector.

Members of the Aluminium Federation (ALFED) recently told government ministers that the sector is being held back by high energy costs. Representatives told Michael Fallon MP, Business and Energy Minister, that soaring green taxes were preventing investment led growth.

ALFED also told Mr Fallon that world demand for aluminium is forecast to double from 40m tonnes per annum to 80m tonnes by 2025; stressing that should the UK and Europe remain committed to high taxes, manufacturers and suppliers may look to other economies to invest in.

CDW Systems have been in business for twenty two years and are one of the UK’s leading specialist aluminium suppliers.

Its Managing Director Jerry Webb said that emphasis also needs to be placed on the sectors achievements: “CDW Systems is a national supplier across the UK and we take a great deal of interest in how our sector is represented in the UK and globally. With global demand for aluminium set to double by 2025 there are huge opportunities to grasp.

“In the UK the aluminium sector is booming, with domestic demand rising and many installers finding lucrative business opportunities in this sector. We’ve experienced record trading periods over the last couple of years and we have worked with many installers to help them grow their business. So whilst there may be international concerns over regulation, it’s also important for installers in the UK to have the information and products required to take advantage of the booming aluminium market.”

Closer to home Jerry recently called on government to consider a reduction in VAT charged on all domestic and commercial building work, to help further boost manufacturing output and increase demand in the commercial and domestic glazing sector.

He comments: “The commercial property sector is growing again and niche projects are generating growth which is good; and domestic demand for aluminium is still rising. Overall the signs going forward are positive, despite government cutbacks, and we’re seeing more and more new customers coming to us and specifying our whole product portfolio.”

CDW Systems have been in business for twenty-one years and manufacture and supply a wide range of windows, doors, shop fronts and curtain walling using some of the leading aluminium profile systems on the market today including Smarts and SAPA. The specialist aluminium fabricator brings to market new products yearly; and most recently brought its new PassivHaus approved patio door, that can accommodate up to 4000 kg of glass, to market.

The company ended 2014 on a positive note - posting record figures for turnover in the final quarter of the calendar

year. Demand for the company’s products is so high CDW Systems has recently employed new personnel in logistics and fabrication.

For more information call CDW Systems on 01452 414853or visit www.cdwsystems.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0136

0314/0137

Tradelink’s Aluminium Bi-Fold Doors.

www.glassnews.co.uk | March 2014

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FENSTERBAU PREVIEW | 26-29 MARCH

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Sheerframe to exhibit at

Fensterbau 2014

Leading systems supplier Sheerframe, part of the Litchfield Group, will be exhibiting at this year’s Fensterbau exhibition in conjunction with its German manufacturing business LB Profile.

Fensterbau Frontale is one of the world’s largest trade shows and attracts around

100,000 visitors from 115 countries. This year’s event will be held in Nuremburg, Germany from 26th to 29th March, 2014.

The Litchfield Group and LB Profile stand will showcase the Group’s impressive product portfolio that allows it to offer total fenestration solutions. The highlight of the stand will be the launch of its revolutionary new 82mm window system. The new window system features a unique multi chamber design, with an optional centre seal and a full range of accessories and hardware. It has great aesthetic appeal as well with a contour and bevel option and a wide colour

“It has great aesthetic appeal as well with a contour and bevel option and a wide colour choice. The latest window system from the Litchfield Group has been designed around 44mm glazing to ensure it’s fully Passivhaus compliant.” choice. The latest window system from the Litchfield Group has been designed around 44mm glazing to ensure it’s fully Passivhaus compliant. Alongside the exciting new window, the Litchfield Group will also be showing its new concept composite door range, which has the potential to revolutionise the composite door market place.

Gary Doxey, Marketing Manager of Sheerframe, said, “Fensterbau, in our opinion, is the best window and door exhibition in the world.

This is not the first time the Group has exhibited at the show and we are confident we can exceed the success we achieved at the 2012 exhibition. We have some fabulous products on the stand and with our genuine commitment to thermal efficiency and sustainability, we feel sure that visitors to our stand will be impressed.”

Sheerframe and LB Profile will be in Hall 6 stand 6-318 and looks set to be one of the ‘must-visits’ of the show.

Tel: 01773 852311 READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0138

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GGF LOOKS FORWARD TO BRITISH RECEPTION AT FENSTERBAU With the GGF joining forces with NürnbergMesse to exhibit at fensterbau/ frontale for the first time, the Federation is looking forward to working with the organisers to provide support and hospitality for GGF Members at the show.

In addition, all companies are invited to join the GGF for the British Reception, to be held at the end of fensterbau day 2 (Thursday, 27th March) on the UK Pavilion stand to discuss industry issues and network with colleagues and friends from around the world.

Nigel Rees, GGF Group Executive commented, “As well as supporting GGF Members throughout the show and welcoming guests to the British Reception, our broad objectives for this event will be to impart our technical knowledge, create awareness of the Federation to an international audience and perhaps recruit new Members to the Federation. If previous years are anything to go by, fensterbau/ frontale 2014 promises to be a great success.”

March 2014 will offer one of the world’s leading trade shows for the glass and glazing industry: fensterbau/frontale in Nuremberg, Germany and with this new GGF collaboration with the organisers NürnbergMesse it promises to increase the profile of the GGF and the UK at the show.

The GGF will be in the UK Pavilion stand number 4A.431 at fensterbau/frontale, which takes place at Nuremberg Exhibition Centre

on 26-29 March and promises to be one of the highlights of the glazing industry calendar.

Though many Members and staff at the GGF have visited fensterbau/frontale in the past, for 2014 the Federation will be exhibiting for the first time at the show. The trade show is one of the world’s leading trade fairs for windows, doors and facades. As the desire for more sustainability and comfort continues to drive innovation in the window, door and facade construction sector, architects, installers, manufacturers and the trade in general meet at fensterbau/frontale to discuss how aesthetics and design trends can be reconciled with energy-efficient building. A main focus at the show will be on solutions for the automation of windows and facades.

The bi-annual show attracts almost 100,000 visitors and over 1200 exhibitors from all over the world. This year, the new hall 3A, will provide even more display space.

Elke Harreiß, Project Manager of fensterbau/ frontale 2014 at NürnbergMesse added, “We welcome the GGF to the UK pavilion at fensterbau frontale. I am pleased the GGF has decided to exhibit this year. It is fitting that the leading trade federation in the UK has a strong presence at the highest profile trade show for the fenestration industry.”

For further information go to: www.ggf.org.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0139

March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

FENSTERBAU PREVIEW | 26-29 MARCH

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Glazpart announces showcase at Fensterbau Frontale 2014 Banbury-based Glazpart, is a specialist injection moulding company with extensive experience in the fenestration industry, employing 87 staff at its ISO 9001:2008 certified site, producing millions of mouldings each month.

Glazpart has confirmed it will be exhibiting at Fensterbau Frontale 2014 in Nuremburg from the 26th to 29th of March 2014. The show is one of the largest fenestration exhibitions in Europe.

The exhibition reflects the worldwide innovations in windows, doors and facades. Held every two years, architects, carpenters, window and facade

manufacturers, and the specialist trade update on the latest profile systems, glass in architecture, fixing equipment, safety equipment, machines, installations and many more products are shown.

Glazpart will be showcasing their ventilation, glazing accessories and surface finishing products and services.

These include the vacuum foiling and aqua printing capabilities to add value to fenestration and conservatory components.

Our vacuum foiling capability is one of the largest capacity production lines in Europe foiling cill joint, end caps and components as well as conservatory and plastic decking products.

The Glazpart aqua printing expertise then allows the surface finishing of deep draw and very complex geometry products accurately.

According to Dean Bradley – Sales and Marketing Manager: “This is a key development for Glazpart and our customers as we look to market our products and services across Europe and overseas.”

All are welcome to visit the Glazpart stand, located on the UK Pavilion in Hall 4a – stand number 4A / 431, if you have time call us to plan a meeting with our team.

Promac Out in Force at Fensterbau Promac, the industry’s leading supplier of machinery, service, spares and tools, has revealed its plans for Fensterbau.

“The Fensterbau exhibition is a great platform for us to show existing and potential customers the wide range of machinery we can offer through our global partners,” says Joe Hague, Group Managing Director of Promac.

“All of our major window machinery supply partners will be at this important show including U-RB-A-N, Graf Synergy, BDM, Pertici, Rapid Maschinenbau and our latest exclusive partner for aluminium machinery FOM. The Promac team will be based within the U-R-B-A-N stand (117 Hall 3) where they have a dedicated, private area to offer information and advice on all of the new developments at the show.”

“Some highlights to look out for at the show will be the global unveiling of the innovative SL4 FF from Graf Synergy which is a combination cleaning and welding platform that

“A great platform for us to show existing and potential customers the wide range of machinery we can offer.” produces high quality seamless corner joints; new and improved sawing concepts from Rapid Maschinenbau; BDM’s state of the art 8-axis controlled cutting and machining centre; Pertici’s new CNC machining centre and the new and upgraded models of welding, corner cleaning and cutting range of machinery from U-R-BA-N.” “The team from Promac will be attending the show to demonstrate to customers each of the new developments available from our partners and how they translate into real productivity benefits for their businesses. We are delighted to support all of our suppliers in front of the 100,000 visitors expected over the four day show.”

For more information about the range of machinery now available from Promac visit www.promac.co.uk or call 01788 577 577.

Tel: 01295 222400 www.glazpart.com

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0140

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0141

www.glassnews.co.uk | March 2014

KOMMERLING’S

FENSTERBAU LAUNCHPAD profine GmbH will be the largest exhibitor at Fensterbau/Frontale 2014, promoting the KBE, Kömmerling, and Trocal brands with a number of new pan-European product innovations, with many destined for the UK. Over the past few years, Kömmerling has built an incredible reputation for product excellence in the UK, thanks to the C70 and O70 Gold® systems, lift and slide PremiDoor and the KBE System 88. Further developments to System 76 will be launched at the show, following the main launch in January this year and will form part of the future platform for all window and doors systems for profine. This has been one of the undeniably, largest development programmes in recent history from the German Group.

In addition to System 76, the new PremiDoor 88 will be launched offering near unparalled levels of energy efficiency with a typical U-value of 1.2 W/m2K, with a Passivhaus option of 0.8 W/m2K also available.

Sash heights of 2.9m can be readily achieved with an opening width of 6.5m with just two sashes. This new door system is typical of profine’s product engineering philosophy.

One of the most striking new products on show at the German trade fair will

be the new proCoverTec surface finish, which has been developed with a new liquid synthetic material, which is applied to the surface finish of profiles.

Particularly outstanding are the protective properties in the form of heat reflection, colour fastness, and mechanical resistance to stresses and strains. The tightly sealed proCoverTec surface provides no hold for dirt and can be easily washed clean and will be made available in 22 colours for System 76, a selection of which will be on show at Fensterbau. The innovative proCoverTec finish will also be available for PremiDoor 70 and PremiDoor 88.

Kevin Warner of Kömmerling comments: ‘Arguably this is the most important product demonstration for profine in a decade, given the huge investment in these new developments. Collectively this will further set our customers apart from some of the dated systems will still see in the UK market.’

For information on Kömmerling, call 01543 444900, e-mail enquiries@ profine-group.com, log on to www.kommerling.co.uk or follow them on Twitter @ kommerling_uk. Also visit them at Fensterbau/Frontale 2014 in Nuremburg 26-29th March 2014.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0142

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RECRUITMENT

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Recruitment

See more positions online at: www.glassnews.co.uk

Helping you find & place positions.

If you are looking to recruit, contact us today for prices!

Email: christina@glassnews.co.uk or Tel: 07805 051322 NEW APPOINTMENT

NEW APPOINTMENT

Mark Walks in to Selecta Marketing Support Role

NEW SOUTH WEST AREA SALES MANAGER AT REHAU Twenty five years after he started work on the shop floor at one of REHAU’s best known fabricators, Martin McCabe has joined REHAU as Area Sales Manager for the south west.

Martin is already working closely with fabricators throughout the southern counties to provide the very best combination of practical support and intelligent customer service.

He is also looking to build relationships with as many of REHAU’s Authorised Partners in the region as possible, strengthening the links between REHAU and its installer network.

Did you know?

Selecta Systems continue to invest in providing customers with that ‘extra’ added service and support with the appointment of Mark Walker within the Marketing & Design Department.

Martin says that his early experience on the shop floor and his long career since then in trade and commercial sales has given him the perfect grounding for his new role.

He says: “I know what fabricators want and expect from their systems company and I understand how the right support from a company like REHAU in terms of product development and market intelligence can give customers a competitive edge.”

“I am certainly very excited to have reconnected with REHAU and to have joined a great team committed to delivering the very best customer service.”

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0143

Did you know?

Did you know?

We can email your We offer recruitment You can advertise vacancy to our 8500 banners on our your vacancy in this contacts for just weekly News Shot, publication from as £250! from just £50 per little as £150! week!

For print and online recruitment marketing and an effective media mix, email Christina for further details: christina@glassnews.co.uk 76

Mark has over 20 years experience with Selecta and brings a wealth of knowledge and skills to the Marketing & Design Department. Starting at the company as a young ambitious 18 year old within the warehouse, Mark’s enthusiasm and keenness has seen him flourish and develop key areas within the business.

Over the last 10 years or so, Mark has been instrumental in managing and maintaining all of Selecta’s certifications and accreditations – ensuring ISO9001, ISO14001, BS EN 12608, PAS24 and Secure by Design compliance. His supporting role to the Marketing & Design Department has developed over the last few years to the point where it has been seen necessary to reward his progress within the area whilst also offering an opportunity to expand on Selecta’s customer supporting role.

Mark’s new role will see him offering a marketing support service to Selecta’s customer base by providing editorials, marketing literature, website and social media advice and knowledge to all whom require the service.

Mark will also be ensuring that Selecta’s presence within the industry is maintained and continuing the success of previous years.

getting my teeth in to! We here at Selecta have always been proud of our customer service and support and we very often go that ‘extra mile’ where it other suppliers would fail. This is why we see my appointment as another benefit that is available to customers and one which I am sure will become invaluable to those whom take up the offer”.

Mark Richmond, Sales & Marketing Director, commented “Mark’s broad range of design and marketing skills have been duly recognised and combined with his meticulous working methods, we see Mark blossoming within the role. We see this appointment as Selecta demonstrating to our customers that it’s not just about providing a quality product and service, but it is also about supporting and helping customers develop their business; their success is duly our success!”

Selecta Systems are already looking forward to an exciting start to 2014 with two new product launches, three new Ready-2-Fit Composite Door Ranges and further investment in new machinery. A fresh new Selecta Systems website is also under development which will improve the customer experience. Also, look out for a new Online Ordering System for the Ready-2-Fit Range of Composite Doors which is due very soon and again will aid the customer ordering process.

An eager Mark Walker stated “This is an opportunity to develop working relationships between our customers and ourselves and a role of which I am really looking forward to

As you can see, 2014 really is an exciting time to be a Selecta Systems customer...

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0144

March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

RECRUITMENT

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Sealtite Group

Sealtite Group has been in the glazing & fenestration industry since 1986 and its commitment to continuously provide superior architectural glazing systems and quality installations has made it a preferred installer and supplier throughout London and the South to many construction companies and local authorities.

Sealtite Group is made up of 4 individual trading outlets; Sealtite Commercial, Sealtite Home, Sealtite Trade and Sealtite Glass.

• Sealtite Commercial manufacture and install windows, doors, heavy duty doors, curtain & window walling for main contractors, architects and local authorities.

• Sealtite Glass works for the same client base as above carrying out structural glazing contracts.

• Sealtite Home is also a respectable company on its own catering to all residential properties within the South East.

• Sealtite Trade has been set up to service the aluminium and PVCu supply only market.

The Group manufacture SAPA building systems products and also Jack aluminium doors from our factory in Dartford, Kent.

With the high standards of quality Sealtite Group demands, coupled with a driving desire to deliver a reliable service all outlets are busy and looking forward to growth in the coming years.

Awarded its ISO 9001:2008 rating in 1994, Sealtite has maintained this status over the years as a testament to its commitment to quality. Registered with FENSA, ConstuctionLine and accreditations with CHAS and EXOR, rest assured our clients and employees are in good hands.

Sealtite Group’s New Factory, Kennet Road.

In 2013, Sealtite Group expanded to a refurbished factory and offices in Dartford Kent, allowing us to grow as a business nearly doubling our manufacturing space.

Sealtite Group has since welcomed many new employees and still has some vacancies and a unique business opportunity to fill. Please see our recruitment adverts below and contact us via the details provided.

If you require additional information on the Sealtite Group, please don’t hesitate to contact Sales & Marketing Director, Rob Cherry on r.cherry@sealtitewindows.co.uk or 01322 550760.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY We are looking for a dynamic person to head up our retail division Sealtite Home. Based in Dartford, Kent.

The right person will be highly experienced in the retail sector and be responsible for the complete running of the company including the marketing strategy.

The infrastructure is in place including showroom space and website. An equity directorship will be offered to the right person after a trial period. We are looking for someone to take the company in the right direction.

Please contact Rob Cherry on r.cherry@sealtitewindows.co.uk or 01322 550760 for more information. www.sealtitewindows.co.uk

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0145

0314/0146

www.glassnews.co.uk | March 2014

77

RECRUITMENT

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Importance of succession planning

highlighted by big name struggles

The importance to all businesses of succession planning has been highlighted graphically in recent times by the impact on the respective performances of big names such as Sainsbury and Manchester United to name but two following the loss of their leaders. Mat Gibson Managing Director of Chase Taylor Recruitment explains how the window industry should take heed.

“It might seem a leap to reference Sainsbury and Manchester United in an article for our own industry. But the fact is that these two businesses, for years the strongest in their sector, within just a few months of

“The stark reality is that there is every chance that the strong company you have built up is likely to fall away, and if your hope is that the 25 years you have worked is going to provide you with a pension as others continue in your footsteps you may well be disappointed.” their leaders moving on are in a noticeable and potentially irreversible decline. There is a lesson for us all in these two examples; the loss of the leader in a business can seriously damage its performance, and more importantly its value”.

so many of the businesses in our industry succession planning is an area which has gone unaddressed; the reality is that the heartbeat of most of the successful companies in our sector is still the same person who founded the business”.

The high profile examples demonstrate only too clearly the damage that can occur to a business when succession planning is not thought through properly, or there is not a natural successor in the business who has been groomed specifically to take over the reigns.

Chase Taylor can help you to address the issue of succession planning through its free company review process. Don’t be the next Sainsbury or Manchester United, continue to be who you are.

Tel: 01543 404646 – www.chasetaylor.co.uk

Sainsbury, Manchester United, Your Business “Why are we referring to Sainsbury and to Manchester United? For both of these businesses insert the name of your own company. What would happen to your business if you as the leader were no longer there”?

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“The stark reality is that there is every chance that the strong company you have built up is likely to fall away, and if your hope is that the 25 years you have worked is going to provide you with a pension as others continue in your footsteps you may well be disappointed.

Equally, if your hope is to have a saleable business as you exit the same applies. For

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0148

March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

RECRUITMENT

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

NEW APPOINTMENT

NEW APPOINTMENT

EVEREST for Sliders UK APPOINTS NEW SALES DIRECTOR

PROMOTIONS AT SUN TRADE Sun Trade Windows, the premier REHAU fabricator across the South, has recently announced further expansion plans resulting in the promotion of two of its external sales team. Lee Thomas has been promoted from Wales Regional Manager to National Sales Manager and Richard Lane has been promoted from Southern Regional Manager to National Depot Manager.

For both, the change of title reflects how their new roles will see them influence not just one region, but all twelve depots nationally.

Both Lee and Richard have spent several years with Sun Trade as part of the external Sales team and have played a pivotal role in the company’s success since they joined, with back-to-back record sales years having been achieved.

Staying true to Sun’s reputation for promotion from within, Lee and Richard were quickly identified as the perfect choice for the new positions as soon as they became available.

Reflecting on his time so far with Sun Trade, Lee Thomas commented: “Since my very first day, I have felt like a valued and important member of a progressive and friendly team. From starting out as an area sales representative I am now the proud manager of a team of nine with several regions under my guidance. The dedication I have to the company has really paid off and for me this promotion has really cemented my future with Sun Trade.”

Technical appointment

need for experienced regional managers to take on more responsibility was a necessity.

With our customer retention rate increasing significantly and a massive upsurge in new business, of which Lee and Richard have no doubt played a significant part, they were both the clear choices for the new roles. With these new appointments I firmly believe that not only will Sun continue to be a formidable name in the industry but we have never been in a better position to service and look after customers new or old.”

Sun Trade supplies 60mm & 70mm products along with specialist products such as conservatories, vertical-sliding windows, bi-folding doors & patio doors via a series of trade counters located throughout the South of the UK. If you would like to know more about Sun contact Ryan White on: 0800 285 1665 or visit the website at: www.suntradewindows.com.

Sliders UK has strengthened its product development team with the appointment of hardware specialist and industry veteran, Steve Weaver as Technical Manager.

Steve, who has over 30 years experience, joined the Lancashire-based manufacturer of Secured

by Design patio, bi-fold and composite doors in January. Steve’s appointment is part of Sliders’ ongoing commitment to driving innovation and security across its expanding range of UPVC and aluminium doors, many of which were the first to be accredited by the UK Police’s Secured by Design initiative.

Ian Longbottom, Joint Managing Director of Sliders UK, says: “We’re thrilled to have Steve on board. He not only brings with him a wealth of technical expertise, but is also very well known and respected within the industry.

He has quickly proved to be an asset to the company and will play a key role in assisting with an unprecedented year of product development at Sliders, which will see some fantastic new initiatives coming to market.”

Everest Home Improvements has demonstrated its confidence in the market by further strengthening its senior management team and has recently appointed Tom Devine as Sales Director to oversee its national sales function.

Tom joins Everest from the Sales Director role at BSkyB, having previously been Managing Director of GAME Northern Europe and Director of Consumer Sales at Vodafone.

Roy Saunders, Everest Chief Executive Officer, commented: ‘’I’m very excited about our recent growth and plans. We are delighted to have Tom on board. He has a wealth of sales management experience and we will undoubtedly benefit from his expertise as we continue to deliver market leading products to an ever-changing customer. This will catapult us into our next phase of development.’’

On his appointment Tom commented: ‘’I’m very excited to be joining the leading home improvement company in the UK. Everest is an iconic brand with an enviable reputation in the industry and I’m looking forward to the challenges ahead as Everest look to rewrite the rule book for this sector.’’ www.everest.co.uk

Steve has an impressive resume, which includes time served as Technical Manager for two leading hardware companies within the windows and doors industry. Steve’s new role sees him take charge of the technical development, testing and purchasing of hardware within Sliders UK. He comments: “Before my appointment, I had worked with Sliders on a number of projects in my previous capacity as an external hardware specialist. I’m happy to have joined the team officially this year and look forward to building on the company’s optional Secured by Design hardware solutions.”

Richard also took into account his time spent with the company so far: “What is great about working for Sun Trade is the feeling that I can put ideas forward about what I believe is best for growing the business and implement them throughout all 12 depots. I am supported by an organisation that values its staff and has a ‘sky is the limit’ mentality.”

Steve Graves, Head of Business & Development, also commented: “With Sun’s continued growth and expansion, as well as at least one new depot scheduled in 2014, the

NEW APPOINTMENT

www.sliders-uk.com READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0149

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0150

Join the best

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0151

0314/0152

Conservatory Sales Designers Attractive sales package and commission scheme • Locations throughout the UK Everest is renowned for having the finest products, delivering the highest standard of customer service, and rewarding our sales professionals with the highest commission rates in the market.

As you would expect the above factors have seen our business grow from strength to strength, and we now find ourselves in the position of needing to increase our self-employed Conservatory Division Sales team to meet demand.

You do not need to bring specific product experience but previous sales experience is preferred.

We’ll provide the training and on-going support to enable you to excel in this role.

We are looking for:• Exceptional communication skills that allow you to build rapport quickly • Ability to make the sometimes detailed information easy for others to understand • Willingness to do what it takes to help our customer to buy In return you will receive:• A fully supported professional development programme • Access to what are recognised as the finest product range on the market • OTE that will see you match your income aspirations

Interested? Please email your CV to holly.richards@everest.co.uk. All applicants will be treated in strict confidence. No agencies please.

www.glassnews.co.uk | March 2014

79

RECRUITMENT

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Glass News Interviews

Ten Human Resources

Ten was set up specifically for the Fenestration Industry, so what was the driver that made you think there was a specific need for a specialist recruitment agency?

I was employed in various senior management positions in the Window industry where I needed to recruit, and found it difficult to source an agency that understood my employers needs, and that understood the Fenestration Industry as a whole, having worked in recruitment before, I could see the need for a specialist.

Why Ten? I’ve scoured the website but can’t find a reason... is it a scoring mechanism 10/10?

No, it was simply that we wanted to develop a company that had a reputation for understanding a client’s needs now and as the market evolved over the next decade, hence Ten. No more than that really.

The industry must have looked very different in 2001 to 2014. Big question I know, but how has it changed from a recruitment point of view?

The changes are positive in the main, clients spend more time thinking about their needs now, which leads to greater success in staff retention and employee expectations. This I hope is a sign of the market maturing.

I would prefer a potential client to take the time to listen to advice and discuss their thoughts relating to recruitment and get it right, than rush, or panic recruit and get it wrong.

If the need is immediate, then fine. Simply be certain that who you are dealing with know what you want and be prepared to listen to their advice also. There are a number of agencies dedicated to the needs of our industry not just us.

Somehow the pool is smaller now, with amalgamations, takeovers and companies going out of business.

Does that make targeting the individual harder to fill a specific role?

The pool is smaller, to a degree, but it is cleaner than it was. I think that if the client takes the time to understand that you are

80

looking to develop a long term business partnership then targeting the right individual for a specific role can be easier. Having an open mind is essential; do not be blinkered in your approach.

Has the trend moved towards recruiting from outside the industry to find new blood?

We have worked extremely hard at trying to introduce new blood to the industry, however, in sales in particular the expectations are very high, sometimes unrealistic. The “has to have experience” of this industry is very often the norm. We have clients that have taken the time and invested in people from other industries and it has paid dividends. We have a sales manager who was account manager with B&Q who is an outstanding success with a hardware supplier, principally because of his training. This is a good example, and one in which we hope we can build upon.

It’s assumed that there is a high cost in using a recruitment agency but, presumably, the process means you are more likely to get the right person...

can you describe how your methods make it economic to use you?

Interesting question – Where does the assumption of high cost come from? The most important investment a company is going to make is in the people it employs. They are the company, they are the future. If a potential client takes the time to see or talk to me I can explain easily how the cost of using a specialist agency makes economic sense. I have clients that have reduced their external sales teams through our advice and saved money, does a company really look at the cost of a person failing and continually recruit replacements without a thought as to why? An example of insanity is “doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results” Asking our opinion will cost nothing!

And what about the individual looking for a new position? Can you really help them or is it all about satisfying the employer, your client?

Our business is about satisfying both parties, getting the right fit from a candidates and clients point of view. If a candidate’s expectations are realistic then we will find

them the right opportunity, no question, however we cannot put a timescale on this.

In contrast to this if someone is desperate to leave an employer, then we will do all we can to help and strive to find the right thing for them. Rushing a job move invariably has complications though in our experience. We will always satisfy a Client’s needs, if they work with us.

It seems that sales is Ten’s forte... is that correct or do you handle recruitment in other areas, too?

In the main it is sales, however we do a lot of work in middle to senior management, and up to MD level, covering all aspects of the business.

A lot of this is office (location) based and will include relocation. We also get involved with developing internal administration teams.

I’m a hard bitten FD and the Sales Department need new recruits and want to use Ten... how are you going to persuade me that you’ll save me money in the recruitment process?

Perhaps listen to my conversation with or be present in my meeting with the MD /Director / Manager in question six.

You are probably in one of the best positions to understand the industry and its future... so what does your crystal ball say about 2014 and onwards?

Amazing that you say that, as I spend a great deal of time trying to get this through to potential clients.This could be said for most service providers. I know a bit of what is going on out there, so to speak, and without divulging too much information it is always interesting to see the most successful operators at any given time of year. So much could be learnt by taking the blinkers off and seeing what the industry is doing and how it is changing and I encourage clients to do this, however never be consumed with what others do, simply make sure you do what you do well, and evolve?

Contact Bill Pratt at Ten Human Resources Tel: 01454 418855, Email: bill@tenhr.co.uk or Visit: www.tenhr.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0153

March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

NEW APPOINTMENT

RECRUITMENT 0314/0155

New CEO of the Bystronic glass Group With effect from February 2014 Dr. Burghard Schneider succeeded André Brütsch as Head of the Bystronic glass Group. In his position as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), he will automatically become a member of the Conzzeta AG Management Group.

Burghard Schneider studied at Munich Technical University where he gained his doctorate in the field of machine construction, which focused on process optimization. His experience in the glass industry sector was gained through scientific cooperation projects.

Subsequently, during a ten year period, he then held a number of senior posts at the German specialist glass manufacturer Schott AG. Whilst there, both technologically and regionally, he opened up new markets for the company. Most recently, Burghard Schneider worked for the international Felss Group, which is actively involved in machinery and systems engineering. „For me glass is a fascinating material that offers numerous processing possibilities“, says Schneider. „ I believe there are further

sustainable options for manufacturing flat glass products that will yield many customer benefits. All of these can be achieved even more efficiently whilst still being of the highest quality, with Bystronic glass offering viable solutions to customers in the future.

From concept and subsequent machine or plant manufacture through to after sales services and on-site consultancy, we will prove to be the right partner for discerning international customers. We will demonstrate to those who have a progressive approach that they can discuss their requirements and future aspirations with us.“ www.bystronic-glass.com READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0154

0314/0156

www.glassnews.co.uk | March 2014

81

GQA NEWSLETTER

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

MARCH 2014 MTC’s – Do you know enough about them? We are working with Fensa & Assure on the schemes. Contact GQA to discuss on 0114 2720033

FiT Show Landing Page GQA GQA the Awarding Organisation with over 25 years’ experience of developing, writing and offering quality work based qualifications for the Fenestration, Glass and Glazing industry. GQA have teamed up with its approved Centres, IPS, PM Training, The Vocational College and West Suffolk College. The “Excellence in Qualifications” partnership offers GQA’s Fenestration and Fabrication qualifications and Q-cards.

With the new Minimum Technical Competence criteria for Green Deal and Competent Person Schemes, in addition to GQA’s qualification linking into the CSCS scheme, the need for qualifications has never been greater.

IPS IPS International is a leading provider of training and consultancy, operating across the UK and overseas.

They deliver a wide range of programmes. IPS have been working with GQA since 2003.

PM Training PM Training is leading social enterprise operating in the private and public sector. Their aim is to deliver excellent training and employment services, by creating enterprising futures for all the people, companies and communities they work with.

PM Training has been offering GQA qualifications for over 10 years.

The Vocational College The Vocational College is an award winning provider with substantial National SFA contracts. They also hold the Matrix Kite mark for outstanding work towards information, Advice and Guidance to learners and clients. The vocational college have been working with GQA since 1998 offering both QCF and SVQ Qualifications.

West Suffolk College West Suffolk College is a further education college with a reputation for delivering high quality training to provide the range of skills todays employers need. The college offers a host of qualifications, from school link programmes to degrees. They have been offering GQA qualifications since 2003.

The Qualifications

Window, Doors, Conservatory Installation 601/0392/9 – GQA Level 1 Certificate in the Principles of Window & Door Installation 500/7825/2 – GQA Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Fenestration Installation (QCF) 501/1688/5 – GQA Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Fenestration Installation (QCF) 601/0715/7 – GQA Level 2 Award in Fenestration Installation Competency Update (QCF) 501/2109/1 – GQA Level 3 NVQ Certificate in Fenestration Surveying (QCF)

601/1897/0 – GQA Level 3 Diploma in the Combined Surveying and Installation of Windows and Doors or Conservatories

Manufacture of Windows & Doors 500/7767/3 – GQA Level 2 NVQ Certificate in Fabrication of Glass Supporting Structures (QCF) 500/7821/5 – GQA Level 3 NVQ Certificate in Fabrication of Glass Supporting Structures (QCF) Curtain Wall/Façade 500/7843/4 – GQA Level 2 NVQ Certificate in Curtain Wall Installation (QCF) 601/0495/8 – GQA Level 2 Diploma for the preparation and use of compact cranes in a glass or glass related working environment (QCF) 600/1458/1 – GQA Level 4 Diploma in Façade Technology (QCF) Glazing 500/8803/8 – GQA Level 3 NVQ Certificate in Glazing (QCF) 500/8802/6 – GQA Level 2 NVQ Certificate in Glazing (QCF) 600/1431/3 – GQA Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Fire Resistant Glazing (QCF) 600/4280/1 – GQA Level 2 Diploma in Fire Resistant Glazing (QCF) Photovoltaic Panel Installation 600/1373/4 – GQA Level 2 NVQ Diploma for the Installation of Photovoltaic Panels (QCF)

Fascia’s Soffits and Bargeboards (Roofline Products) Installation

500/7770/3 – GQA Level 2 NVQ Certificate in Flat Glass Manufacture (QCF)

500/7826/4 – GQA Level 2 NVQ Certificate in Domestic Fascia, Soffit and Bargeboard Installation (QCF)

600/6496/1 – GQA Level 3 Diploma in Glass Manufacturing (QCF)

Glass Manufacturing and Processing Industries

500/7822/7 – GQA Level 2 NVQ Certificate in Glass Processing (QCF)

500/7766/1 – GQA Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Glass Container Manufacture (QCF)

501/2393/2 – GQA Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Glass Processing (QCF)

500/7823/9 – GQA Level 2 NVQ Certificate in Glass Container Processing (QCF)

Knowledge Only Qualifications across all aspects of the Glass Sector

500/7769/7 – GQA Level 3 Certificate in Glass Related Operations (QCF) 500/7768/5 – GQA Level 2 Certificate in Glass Related Operations (QCF) 600/5216/8 – GQA Level 2 Award in Knowledge of the Principles of the Glass Related Working Environment (QCF) 600/5217/X – GQA Level 3 Certificate in Knowledge of the Principles of the Glass Related Working Environment (QCF)

CITB grants for GQA

construction NVQ qualifications I have been asked on a number occasions with reference to GQA Qualifications current construction qualifications and eligibility for CITB grants.

Firstly you should never assume grants are automatically available as there are certain factors to take into consideration, such as ‘is my company registered and in scope to CITB?’ If so is your levy return completed and up to date?

I contacted CITB for clarification and was told: “As the majority of GQA’s qualifications are currently NVQ these grants will be

relevant. The following is a link to our pages on the citb. co.uk website explaining what is and what isn’t grant aided.”

In the next few months GQA will be offering a number of Construction technical certificates which, in conjunction with the relevant QCF NVQ plus functional skills, will contribute to full apprenticeship frameworks, so I asked if they would be eligible for CITB grant.

Iif you are in anyway in doubt you would be well advised to contact your regional CITB office or contact your local Company Development officer (CDA) who will be able to give you specific advice.

Phil Douglas GQA EQA/Technical Officer

CITB responded with: “When you have established the GQA apprenticeships – the apprenticeship grants will apply”.

Traineeship to Apprenticeship Success Peter Redsell is 19 years old and an example of someone who was desperately keen to secure fulltime employment.

Having worked on a casual basis in the construction industry as a labourer, Peter gained some experience working with window and door installers, yet found he was unable to secure a permanent position or an

Apprenticeship. Peter therefore pursued the option of a Traineeship, which were introduced from August 2013 as part of the government initiative for young people aged 16-24 who are not in education, employment or training. Traineeships aim to support young people to develop the skills they need to secure and succeed in employment, which could include access to an apprenticeship.

Peter commenced his Traineeship at IPS International in Rochester, learning Employability Skills, on 29th October 2013. Having applied himself well on the programme, Peter’s ideal was to obtain a Traineeship work-placement within the fenestration industry and IPS International were able to secure Peter onto a workplacement on 11th November 2013 with an existing client, Windows For Construction based in Strood, Kent.

Tel: 0114 2720033 | Fax: 0114 2768466 Web: www.gqaqualifications.com | Email: marketing@gqaqualifications.com GQA Qualifications Unit 1, Twelve O'clock Court, Attercliffe Road, Sheffield S4 7WW 82

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0157

March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

The Events Calendar will be a permanent feature and we are happy to consider details of any events relevant to our industry, that you would like to promote. With this feature visible to all our readers, events should be those which you are happy for everyone to see or take part in. Got an Open Day? Promoting a Charity Golf Day? A Networking event for the industry?

Send your details to events@glassnews.co.uk.

March 2014

JUNE 2014

26-29 March 2014

10-12 June 2014

fensterbau/frontale 2014 Nürnberg, Germany www.frontale.de/en/

FIT Show 2014 Telford International Centre www.fitshow.co.uk

27-30 March 2014

29-30 June 2014

The National Homebuilding & Renovating Show NEC, Birmingham www.homebuildingshow.co.uk

The SOUTHERN Homebuilding & Renovating Show Sandown Park, Surrey www.homebuildingshow.co.uk

31 March - 3 April 2014 ECOBUILD CHINA Shanghai New International Expo Centre www.ecobuildchina.com

MAY 2014

SEPTEMBER 2014 17-19 September 2014 ECOBUILD SOUTH EAST ASIA PWTC Kuala Lumpur www.ecobuildsea.com

9-10 May 2014

26-28 September 2014

ECOBUILD INDIA Nehru Centre, Worli, Mumbai www.ecobuild-india.com

The LONDON Homebuilding & Renovating Show Olympia, London www.homebuildingshow.co.uk

17-18 May 2014 The SCOTTISH Homebuilding & Renovating Show SECC, Glasgow www.homebuildingshow.co.uk

OCTOBER 2014

Your Letters

Calendar of events

LETTERS

21-24 October 2014 glasstec 2014 Düsseldorf Exhibition Centre www.glasstec-online.com

IMPORTANT DIARY DATE!!!

MARCH

26 FENSTERBAU BEGINS

The NORTHERN Homebuilding & Renovating Show HIC, Harrogate www.homebuildingshow.co.uk 22-23 November 2014 The SOUTH-WEST Homebuilding & Renovating Show Bath & West Showground, Somerset www.homebuildingshow.co.uk

I am writing to you to find out if any of your readers have had problems with the notified bodies that provide them with their quality certificates?

I have spent months trying to obtain a copy of my EN1279 Part 2 Initial Type Test Report from BSI, to no avail. I have been given all sorts of excuses that range from ‘the person that signed your certificate previously has left so we can’t issue you a copy’ to ‘we can’t find it’. On another occasion I was asked if I had changed my company name since the certificate was issued – which I have not.

It’s a problem for me because I need the information to comply with the new CE Marking legislation and I feel BSI – a company that assesses others on their internal systems – are severely lacking in their own.

I’m frustrated because Key West Glass is a quality company that likes to stay ahead of legislation and do the right thing and yet an organisation whose job it is to ensure quality in other companies, is holding us back. It makes me wonder if there are other companies out there in a similar position?

Yours sincerely Tony Montieth, Key West Glass

Dear Chris, Already, around 10% of UK market volume is triple glazed, and it’s growing. If we follow Germany’s example - and the UK usually does – in a few years over half the market will be triple glazed.

Much of the current debate is focused on energy efficiency, the technicalities and what needs changing in the profile and other components to achieve it, as well as how to transport and install it safely. But we should not forget homeowners: how they buy, what they look for, and why they choose one window, and one company over another. They want to save energy and cut their heating bills, and think three panes are better than two. But they also want good looking windows and care deeply how those windows and doors will look in their home. And that’s a problem, because most triple glazed windows I’ve seen fall short of what consumers expect. Many are downright ugly, with glazing beads that stick out because they haven’t been designed for triple. Most of your readers wouldn’t have them in their own homes.

Designing windows that delight homeowners in looks and energy efficiency is not something we should compromise on.

Consumers don’t expect to have to choose between energy efficiency and aesthetics. Why should they? They expect neat looking, flush beads that make triple glazed windows look slim while saving them money.

We’re passionate about energy performance and design in Deceuninck. So much so that ‘pretty’ windows are a Deceuninck trademark. If the industry is to satisfy the homeowner’s need for triple glazed windows and doors that save energy and look good, that’s a trademark the industry will need to adopt.

NOVEMBER 2014 7-9 November 2014

Dear Editor,

What’s your opinion?

Feel free to get in touch with your views on the industry, legislation, government, or even the newspaper.

Contact Chris: chris@glassnews.co.uk

Roy Frost, Managing Director, Deceuninck UK

@GlassnewsMag

Christina Shaw

/GlassNews

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1 Ale cap reformed became home for a king (6)

1 We drop unusual pulverized substance (6)

4 Ginger group sounds like Cactus without Tea, you added! (6)

2 Oddly an URL for moonlike (5)

9 Swine Mo strangely is childishly charming (7)

3 Gets from one side to the other with wooden Xs (7)

10 A sun a strange steam bath (5)

5 Idiots provided milk for Cleopatra’s bath (5)

11 Currency that got the Greeks in trouble (5) 12 Vile Sib when shaken up is clearly seen (7)

6 Curb elm oddly describe deterioration of cookie! (7)

13 Scarlets gut strange window tool (or worker) (5-6)

7 Keeps a sealed unit apart (6)

18 Grin now unlikely change when toenail retreats (7)

8 Recent never reformed creates control hub (5,6)

20 Cow’s mammary sounds like other with nose blocked (5)

14 Joke, the other one has bells? (3-4)

22 Defeats disorderly crowds of people (5)

15 Herd nut oddly sounded like electrical storm (7)

23 Geld RAF in weird way to make Labour anthem (3,4)

17 Dig fir shaken up becomes cold (6)

24 Counselling organisation tell story (6) 25 Star of US sitcom you know well (6)

16 Reflective British newspaper? (6) 19 Early stages, atop to start but ends with sun going down (5) 21 Dig ends in mischievous fairy (5)

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March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

GLASS PEOPLE

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Further investment at Insight Data Major investment at specialist data supplier Insight Data has seen a recent expansion of its research team.

New appointments include Alex Tremlett, Michaela Cooke, Emma Piper and Joss Stephens, with Emma Johnson heading up the department as Head of Research.

The Insight research team make over 20,000 telephone calls every month to update and verify detailed information on the Insight database to ensure users have the most accurate, relevant marketing data.

Helen Costeloe-Hughes, commercial director said; “The Insight database has evolved, and we now have eight different methods of continuously updating the information, however, the human element of personally

talking to contacts over the phone and finding out about their business and products is the cornerstone of quality data.”

The Insight database now has some 60,000 records across the fenestration and building industry including fabricators, installers, general builders, architects, main contractors and house builders, all of which include detailed information.

The data is available live in real-time via Salestracker, Insight Data’s online database portal. “Salestracker is so advanced that if we add a new record at 9:05am, Salestracker users can be targeting them at 9:10am” says Helen.

Salestracker now has over 700 users including systems companies, fabricators, component suppliers, glass companies and an increasing number of professional organisations.

Instead of mass marketing, Salestracker enables users to log-in, identify their exact audience and target them precisely – for example Rehau installers buying-in 25 – 50 frames per week within a 10 mile radius of Leeds, or architects operating in social housing in London.

“As the industry picks up companies are once again investing in marketing, and the Insight database is the most effective way of targeting new customers,” Helen concludes.

For more info on Insight’s full range of databases or a free online demo of Salestracker call 01934 808 293 or visit www.insightdata.co.uk.

New members of research team.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0159

NEW BUILD OR COMMERCIAL SECTOR?

WE HAVE THE CONTACTS! 50,000 EMAIL DISTRIBUTION !

WITH 0314/0161

Email for more information: christina@fenestrabuild.co.uk M: 07805 051 322 | WWW.FENESTRABUILD.CO.UK

Modplan’s team celebrates longevity Leading VEKA fabricator Modplan prides itself on its low staff turnover levels and the recent realisation that Modplan’s board had been with the company for a collective 274 years was a cause for celebration.

Purplex celebrates 10 years of marketing excellence

Heidi Sachs, Modplan’s Managing Director, said, “Having a low staff turnover is an excellent indication of how happy a team is, which is why we were so delighted when we realised how long our board members had been with the company.”

Purplex Marketing, the specialist window industry marketing agency, is celebrating its ten year anniversary.

Alongside longstanding board members Heidi Sachs and David Burles, Modplan’s team from shop floor to management has three members who have been with the company 20 years, three members who have been with the company for 24 years, one at 25 years and one member who has been with the company for 27 years.

Set up by Andrew Scott in 2004, Purplex has grown from a one-man marketing consultancy to the industry’s largest specialist marketing and PR agency.

Andrew has a strong background in the industry, having acquired, built and sold companies including fabricators, glass companies, trade counter outlets and installation companies. He trained at Cranfield Business School, is a fellow of the Institute of Sales & Marketing and a member of the Institute of Direct and Digital Marketing. Andrew also sits on the GGF Marketing Communications Committee and a number of charitable and not-for-profit organisations.

“I launched Purplex ten years ago because I recognised the need for professional marketing in the fenestration industry and there were no quality agencies that specialised in it,” says Andrew.

As an integrated full-service agency, Purplex employs 30 dynamic people – with expert teams in PR, digital marketing, design and

www.glassnews.co.uk | March 2014

direct marketing – working together to deliver measurably better results. All members of the team are extensively trained in the window, door, conservatory and glazing industry.

Sam Cross, head of PR, has been with the company for over five years: “The results speak for themselves. Purplex clients continue to see record growth and brand recognition, and we’ve grown 40% year on year, even in recession. We expect to double our team in the next five years and we always invest in the latest technologies and talented people.”

Heidi says, “The experience of the company at all levels, gives us incredible strength and continuity and we decided it was something we needed to celebrate.” Each member of the team received an inscribed tankard or

“The experience of the company at all levels, gives us incredible strength and continuity.” an inscribed vase. There was also a day of outdoor pursuit activities including archery and quad biking and a pub lunch. Great fun was had by all.

The celebration is a perfect illustration of Modplan’s people-centred approach. The company is uniquely focused on the needs of its customers and their businesses. And as Heidi says, having members of staff that have been with the company for over 20 years suggests a stable team that is happy to go the extra mile.”

“It is also true to say that by celebrating the milestones, Modplan is showing how much it values the ongoing contribution that its staff make, thereby proving why the staff are so longstanding.

Heidi concludes, “We look forward to celebrating more milestones like these and with seven other members of the team with between 15 and 20 years’ experience, it won’t be too long!”

Tel: 01495 246844 READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0162

The company is already embracing new technologies such as mobile and proximity marketing as a joint venture with a leading University. “Business doesn’t stand still, and neither will Purplex” concludes Andrew.

To find out more about how Purplex can help your business grow call 01934 808 132 or visit www.purplexmarketing.com.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0314/0160

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MONTHLY HOROSCOPES

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Celebrity Astrologer...

RUSSELL GRANT ARIES

Mar 21st – Apr 20th

The opening days of March give you a welcome opportunity to rest, relax and rejuvenate. An old love could make their way back into your life on or around the 1st. You may have to rearrange your household to accommodate an unexpected but pleasant guest. Your best friend, lover, or business partner can help you realise a cherished dream near mid-month. The Full Moon on the 16th finds you finishing up a demanding work assignment; you’ll get a handsome reward for your efforts. You’ll get plenty of fame and acclaim starting the third week of the month. This is a great time to show off your creative work. A friendship could turn to romance with very little effort as March turns to April. The final day of the month is ideal for adopting a new look. Change your look, buy some fashionable clothes, or get a cosmetic procedure. You’ll be thrilled with the results.

LEO

Jul 24th – Aug 23rd

An intimate relationship provides lots of pleasure throughout early March. You may want to keep this affair a secret until next month. Use this time to get to know each other without any interference from the outside world. If you’re already in a relationship, your partner could get a raise, making it easier for you both to afford luxuries. You’ll be able to make improvements to your workplace in the first half of the month.

Being able to operate in a colourful, comfortable environment will boost your productivity. A paycheque will arrive on or around the 16th, when the Full Moon rises in your second house of earned income. Go ahead and buy some beautiful furniture or artwork. You’ve earned a splurge.

Word will spread of your expertise in late March, attracting some exciting job opportunities. Don’t be surprised if someone asks you to teach a class or write an article at the end of the month.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov 23rd – Dec 21st

The chance to buy a home or move to a bigger place will arrive in the opening days of March.

Luckily, you’re getting lots of work, so you’ll have no trouble buying furniture and making improvements to your abode. If you’re dissatisfied with your job, you could open your own business during the first half of the month. Operating out of your home will provide lots of satisfaction. You could cultivate a lucrative clientele from old work contacts. The 16th brings a raise, promotion, or award. This attention will further your business prospects and make you something of a local celebrity. Take a relative’s health advice in the second half of the month. Exercise that increases flexibility will be best for you. A passionate love affair could burst into flower as March turns to April. If you’re single, you could meet someone special when you least expect it. Take pains to look your best whenever you go out.

86

TAURUS

Apr 21st – May 21st

Who you know will be much more important than what you know in early March. Be sure to attend a festive party and push yourself to meet new people. You may be out of your depth with a work assignment; ask an expert to show you the ropes. Dress for success throughout the first half of the month. It’s critical to make a good impression on the powers that be. Take an older person’s advice about a love affair in mid-March.

The Full Moon on the 16th is great for finishing a creative project or taking a romantic relationship to the next level. Working behind the scenes will earn the admiration of a powerful ally during the second half of the month. If you’re looking for work, spread the word among friends. Someone will hear of a great position that seems tailor made for you. You will be left to your own devices at the end of March. Escaping a micromanager will be a relief.

VIRGO

Aug 24th – Sep 23rd

Two heads are better than one in the opening days of March. This is a great time to enter into a romantic or business partnership. Your other half will help you to become more creative, while you’ll give their life structure and meaning. Make time for sensual pleasure in the first half of the month. Getting a massage or spa treatment will cause tension to vanish into thin air. Resist the urge to argue with an older relative or neighbour who is set in their ways. The Full Moon on the 16th will prompt you to do something nice for yourself, like take an engrossing class or send a piece of written work for publication. Collaborate on a creative project with your best friend, lover, or business partner during the second half of March; you’ll be thrilled with the results. Money from an inheritance, dividend, or refund will enrich your bank account as the month draws to a close.

CAPRICORN

Dec 22nd – Jan 20th

An interesting class will become available in the opening days of March; seize this opportunity to sign up, before all the spaces are taken. You’ll feel an immediate kinship with your instructor, who is funny, wise and creative. An old friend will reconnect with you during the first week of the month. It’s possible this will prove a good career contact for you. It may be necessary to swap roles with your best friend or lover near the 6th.

A writing project or speaking engagement will garner lots of favourable publicity mid-month.

The Full Moon on the 16th prompts you to take a leap of faith. This risk will pay off handsomely.

Be sure to stand up for your beliefs. You’ll be the hero on the home front during the second half of the month. Buying a piece of real estate or launching a decorating project is an ideal endeavour as March melts into April.

GEMINI

May 22nd – Jun 21st

Early March brings a host of exciting career opportunities. Choose the position that affords the greatest creative satisfaction. You won’t have to sacrifice a good salary for emotional fulfilment. This job will have great benefits, too.

A nagging health problem will make it hard to concentrate during the first half of the month.

Adopting a more active lifestyle will provide relief. The Full Moon on the 16th prompts you to spend more time at home. Let your family shower you with affection. You’re long overdue for some pampering. If you’re single, let a friend set you up on a blind date in late March. You’ll get lots of favourable attention for your artistic contributions as the month draws to a close.

Don’t be surprised if a newcomer steps forward to champion your work. Your vision strikes a chord with this pioneer. You’re both eager to explore uncharted territory.

LIBRA

Sep 24th – Oct 23rd

The beginning of March is the best time of the entire year to start a health regimen. You’ll see results almost immediately, which will give you extra incentive to stick to your routine. You may want to return to a sport or athletic activity you enjoyed as a youngster. Resist the urge to push a relative into a decision during the first half of the month. You’ll get better results by making a strategic retreat. Romance abounds mid-month.

If you’re single, you’ll have your choice of several admirers. Paperwork from a bureaucracy arrives on or around the 16th, allowing you to get paid for work you did some time ago. News of an engagement or marriage will reach your ears in the second half of March. Get ready for a glamorous party. You’ll have to play the aggressor with an attractive newcomer as the month draws to a close. Experiment with new lovemaking techniques.

AQUARIUS

Jan 21st – Feb 19th

An exciting moneymaking opportunity will arrive in early March. It will involve lots of work, but you’re willing to put in long hours because the pay is excellent. An authority figure will reverse their decision about a job, which will be annoying but lucrative. The first week of the month is ideal for getting a salon treatment, cosmetic procedure, or makeover. Don’t discuss career prospects with your boss on the 11th; you will fare much better if you broach the subject mid-month. The Full Moon on the 16th is perfect for meeting an obligation or paying off a debt. Listen to a sibling or neighbour’s advice in the second half of the month regarding your appearance. You’ll make a great impression on a dynamic civic leader during the final week of the month. Don’t be surprised if you’re asked to teach a class as March turns into April.

CANCER

Jun 22nd – Jul 23rd

The chance to study, travel, or write could fall into your lap in early March. This is a great time to take a leap of faith. You have to admit, you’ve grown tired of the old routine. Visiting a favourite relative is a possibility. You’ll feel especially nostalgic throughout the first half of the month, going through old photos and listening to cherished music from childhood. You’ll find a use for newly acquired skills on the 16th, when the Full Moon rises in your third house of intellect.

Show off your leadership ability during the second half of March; you’ll impress an executive who is looking for help. Let a loved one talk you into taking a risk as the month draws to a close.

The 30th finds you competing for an exciting new job. This is an opportune time to move into a highly technical field that has plenty of growth potential.

SCORPIO

Oct 24th – Nov 22nd

March opens on a joyous note. This is a great time to embark on a love affair, launch a creative project, or start a family. You’ll be able to delegate some responsibilities to relatives, colleagues and neighbours. This will come as a tremendous relief, as you’ve been working your fingers to the bone. Sexy exchanges with a newcomer make the first half of the month sizzle with excitement.

Just don’t send any confidential photos or messages while you’re at work. Your confidence and expertise proves irresistible mid-month. A cherished dream will be realised on or around the 16th, when the Full Moon makes a supportive angle to ambitious Saturn. Let an influential neighbour or relative promote your creative work throughout the second half of March. This will attract lots of favourable attention. An exciting job opportunity fall into your lap as March turns into April. This position will afford a welcome measure of independence.

PISCES

Feb 20th – Mar 20th

A makeover, wardrobe revamp, or new hairstyle will give you a new lease on life on or around the 1st. Prepare to turn heads wherever you go.

Friends in high places can help you find a high powered job during the first week of March.

Listen to an established artist’s advice in midMarch; it will help you with your own creative endeavours. The Full Moon on the 16th brings great news regarding a relationship. Prepare to hear news of an engagement, marriage, or commitment ceremony. Spend more time on a relationship or social issue that speaks to your heart during the second half of the month. It’s especially important to voice your romantic needs in the days surrounding the 22nd. A fantastic job offer will arrive in the final days of March. Accept this position as soon as possible, or a rival will move in and steal your thunder. Chances like this come only once in a Blue Moon.

March 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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Useful Numbers British Plastics Federation (BPF) Tel: 0207 457 5000

Glass & Glazing Federation (GGF) Tel: 0207 939 9101

British Standards Institution (BSI) – Standards & Publications Tel: 0208 996 9001

GQA Qualifications (formerly Glass Qualifications Authority) Tel: 0114 2720033

BSI – Assessment & Certification Tel: 0845 080 9000

Health & Safety Executive (HSE) – Glass & Related Industries Phil Smith, HM Principal Inspector Tel: 01782 602300 David Appleton, HM Inspector Tel: 0115 9712800

BSI – Product Certification & Testing Tel: 08450 765600 BBSA (British Blind & Shutter Association) Tel: 01449 780444 Building Research Establishment (BRE) Tel: 01923 664000 Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB) Tel: 01453 828851 Dekura Tel: 01952 201631 Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) Tel: 01827 52337 Double Glazing & Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS) Tel: 0845 053 8975 Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme (FENSA) Tel: 0207 645 3700 Get Britain Building (GBB) Tel: 0870 162 0936

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Proskills – Head Office Tel: 01235 833844 Proskills – Glass & Related Industries Neil Robinson – Tel: 07917 015 322 Recovinyl (via Axion Consulting) Tel: 0161 355 7618 The Glazing Ombudsman (TGO) Tel: 020 7397 7200 UK Green Building Council Tel: 0207 580 0623 Veka Recycling Tel: 01322 38721 Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP) Tel: 01295 819 900 Wood Window Alliance (WWA) Tel: 0844 209 261

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